Wildlife Discipline Report

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Environmental Assessment

Prepared by: Terri Hawke Snohomish County Public Works December 2015

Title VI and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Information: It is Snohomish County’s policy to assure that no person shall on the grounds of race, color, national origin, or sex as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be discriminated against under any County sponsored program or activity. For questions regarding Snohomish County Public Works’ Title VI Program, or for interpreter or translation services for non-English speakers, or otherwise making materials available in an alternate format, contact the Department Title VI Coordinator via e-mail at [email protected] or phone 425-388-6660. Hearing/speech impaired may call 711.

Table of Contents 1 Introduction ...... 9 2 Project Description ...... 11 2.1 Proposed design standards ...... 12 2.2 Design Features ...... 13 3. Methodology ...... 16 3.1 Methods of Analysis ...... 16 4 Affected Environment ...... 18 4.1 General Habitat Characteristics ...... 18 4.2 Wildlife Study Area Habitats and Species ...... 19 4.2.1 Riparian Zone ...... 19 4.2.2 Wetlands ...... 20 4.2.3 Upland Forest ...... 21 4.2.4 Wildlife Corridors and Connectivity ...... 22 4.3 Special Status Wildlife Species in Study Area ...... 24 4.3.1 Presence of Species and Use of Wildlife Habitats in Study Area ...... 24 5 Environmental Consequences ...... 43 5.1 Summary ...... 43 5.2 Build Alternative ...... 45 5.2.1 Temporary Effects from Construction ...... 45 5.2.2 Permanent Effects of Project ...... 47 6 Unavoidable Adverse Impacts ...... 53 7 References ...... 54 Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 1

Attachment A Photos of Project Area and Wildlife Sign

Attachment B Area Impact Plan Sheets

Attachment C Species List

Attachment D U.S. Forest Service Aquatic Conservation Strategy

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Executive Summary Project Description Snohomish County proposes to relocate approximately one mile of Index-Galena Road from milepost 6.4-6.9. The road is located in T28N R10E in sections 35 and 36. Index-Galena Road parallels the North Fork Skykomish River and a portion of it damaged by high river flows is presently located within the river channel. The proposed project would shift the project area roadway alignment out of the river channel to the south and establish a relocated roadway upslope from the existing damaged roadway. The alignment would transition from the existing Index Galena Road approximately 200 feet east from Trout Creek Bridge #494 (near Milepost 6.1). The relocation would enable the roadway to be elevated above the 100-year flood elevation and channel migration zone for most of the project length and would be landward of the river channel that has formed in the existing roadway alignment. Culverts would be constructed where the roadway crosses non-fish bearing streams and drainage areas. A concrete box culvert vented ford crossing (culvert like structure with potentially a removable top to allow for removal of deposited materials) would be installed in proximity to Station 29+00. The culverts would be sized to convey the 100-year flow and associated debris. A bridge would be constructed over the fish-bearing stream and associated wetland near the north end of the project. Asphalt and other debris would be removed from the river and adjacent riparian areas where the damaged existing roadway is presently located. The decommissioned roadway would then be restored with duff soils salvaged from the project site and planted with ecologically appropriate native species to provide a forested riparian corridor adjacent to the North Fork Skykomish River. In areas where the river flows over the old roadway, roadway debris will be removed where feasible to allow for natural stream channel processes. Methodology Prior to undertaking the field investigation for this report, several sources of existing information were checked for information on potential and known wildlife species and habitats that may be found in the study area. Several site visits to assess wildlife habitat and wildlife presence, and impacts to the habitat were conducted during 2011, 2012, and 2013. Affected Environment The study area is part of the North Cascades physiographic region. The North Cascades mountain range extends from British Columbia south to the Snoqualmie Pass area. The North Cascades consist of jagged peaks with numerous glaciers. This area was formed through a variety of geomorphologic processes including, glacially-carved valleys, colliding terranes, and volcanic activity. Mountain peaks over 10,000 feet steeply plunge to lower elevations of 500

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feet. The major river valleys include the Snoqualmie, Skykomish, Snohomish, Stillaguamish, Skagit, and Nooksack, which all flow into Puget Sound. The project lies within the North Fork Skykomish River drainage. Environmental Consequences Temporary and permanent impacts would occur throughout the riparian area, mature upland forest, streams, and wetlands. Parts of two wetlands would be permanently filled. The proposed bridge would also shade a small section of wetland. Seven seasonal non-fish bearing streams would be conveyed in culverts and one perennial non-fish bearing stream would flow through a culvert at an armored crossing. Mature trees would be removed to accommodate the relocated road and construction related access to construct walls and rock-filled slopes. Approximately 12.2 acres of mature mixed forest would be cleared. Of this, total approximately 3.3 acres would be permanently impacted for the relocated road alignment roadway prism. Construction related impacts would result in approximately 8.9 acres of long-term temporary buffer impact that would be restored after construction is completed. The entire project area is within U.S. Forest Service designated riparian reserves that are located in the North Fork Skykomish River valley. In addition to trees and understory shrubs, habitat elements within the forest that would be removed include stumps, logs, snags, and boulders. The primary wildlife species that may be affected by this change would be amphibians (including western toads), reptiles, Pacific wrens, bats, pine martens, other small to medium mammals (e.g. bobcat), and several neotropical migrant species and resident birds. Nesting and/or foraging habitat for forest interior birds such as tanagers, thrushes, spotted owls, and Pacific wrens would be lost by clearing. Their nests in adjacent areas would also be more susceptible to predators, such as Stellar’s jays, due to the increased edge effect created by clearing. Short-term temporary loss of nesting areas for neotropical birds and thermal cover for a variety of species would be replaced by the planting of native trees and shrubs in the cleared areas adjacent to the roadway and in the riparian areas along the river. Planting areas in the riparian corridor along the river would provide some protection from predators and shelter in the long term. The loss of snags associated with clearing would affect primary cavity excavators and bats, while the loss of downed logs would affect amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. Both the loss of snags and logs would impact food sources through the loss of invertebrates. It is expected that some species would shift to use of snags along the river. Where feasible, salvaged trees would be placed as blown-down habitat logs, standing tree snags and brush piles where the old road is removed from along the river. Potential Adverse Effects The project would clear approximately 12.2 acres of wildlife habitat. This area is part of the larger North Fork Skykomish watershed, which encompasses an estimated 93,960 acres. It is expected that the impacts from the relocated roadway alignment would be locally substantial for

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the project area but minimal within the context of the entire watershed. Adverse effects within the project area from construction of the relocated alignment include: • loss of spotted owl dispersal habitat • loss of amphibian habitat- one seep wetland and alteration of fast-flowing perennial streams in culverts • loss of foraging, shelter, and nesting habitat for interior forest bird species, including neotropical bird species • loss of habitat elements such as logs, snags, stumps, and boulder piles. The proposed mitigation and the potential for species to relocate to adjacent areas would partially offset project impacts.

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Acronyms and Abbreviations

AADT average annual daily traffic BMPs best management practices Dbh diameter at breast height EA environmental assessment EIS environmental impact statement ER emergency relief funding ESA Endangered Species Act FHWA Federal Highways Administration GAP Gap analysis program GIS Geographic Information Systems HUC Hydrological unit code MBS Mount-Baker Snoqualmie National Forest MP milepost Mph miles per hour NEPA National Environmental Policy Act OHWM ordinary high water mark PHS priority habitats and species ROW right of way SCPW Snohomish County Public Works SEPA State Environmental Policy Act USDA Untied States Department of Agriculture USDI Untied States Department of Interior USDOT Untied States Department of Transportation USFS United States Forest Service USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service WDFW Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife WDNR Washington Department of Natural Resources WRIA Water resource inventory area WSDOT Washington Department of Transportation

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Glossary of Technical Terms

Best management practices (BMPs) BMPs are generally accepted techniques that, when used alone or in combination, prevent or reduce adverse effects from project construction.

Category 2 wetlands high functioning wetlands based on Washington State ratings

Category 3 wetlands moderate functioning wetlands based on Washington State ratings

Channel migration zone the land adjacent to an existing stream/river channel into which a stream/river channel may move over time

Coniferous forest dominated by evergreen trees that bear cones

Deciduous forest dominated by trees that lose their leaves in fall

Edge the boundary between two habitats

Herbaceous plants with little or no woody structure that usually die back each year.

Home range primary area for an animal’s normal activities

Late successional reserve mature forests, containing mixed ages of trees and habitats that are retained in their natural condition and allowed to grow to old growth ages and conditions.

Mature upland forest forests less than 200 years old on the west side of the Cascades that has fewer snags and logs and a more open canopy than old growth

Minor collector generally a 2-lane road. Rural minor collectors have ADTs of 500- 3,000. This road classification has the highest collision rate per traffic volume. Often these roads are in undeveloped private land and public lands.

Neotropical migrant a migratory bird species that breeds in Canada and the United States and winters in Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, and Central and South America

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Noxious plant damaging aggressive non-native plants that compete with native plants

Old growth old growth forests are ecosystems distinguished by old trees and related structural attributes such as snags and downed wood. Characteristics include tree size, accumulations of large dead woody material, number of canopy layers, species composition, and ecosystem function.

Overstory the layer of trees in a forest canopy

Palustrine scrub-shrub wetlands dominated by woody shrubs less than 20 feet tall

Perennial stream a stream that flows year-round

Rain on snow events increased runoff from rain that falls on large amounts of snow causing a sudden melt and landslides and flooding

Riparian reserve geographic area containing an aquatic ecosystem and adjacent upland areas that directly affect it

Seasonal stream stream that flows during part of the year

Seep a wetland fed by groundwater

Snag a standing dead tree

Suitable habitat habitat that includes a species’ foraging, shelter, nesting, and dispersal areas

Understory the layer of shrubs in the forest

Wildlife corridor a link of wildlife habitat, generally native vegetation, which joins two or more larger areas of similar wildlife habitat

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Index-Galena MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report

1 Introduction Snohomish County proposes to relocate an approximately half-mile section of Index-Galena road from milepost (MP) 6.4 to MP 6.9. The road is located in T28N R10E in sections 35 and 36. Index-Galena Road parallels the North Fork Skykomish River and a portion of it is presently in the river channel. In November 2006, a major flood event caused major damage to Index-Galena Road. High flows from the North Fork Skykomish River washed out multiple sections of the roadway between MP 6.4 and MP 6.9. A side channel of the river now occupies extensive sections of the existing Index-Galena Road roadway alignment. The 2006 flood damage event resulted in Index Galena Road being closed at MP 6.4, just east and upstream of the Snohomish County Trout Creek Bridge #494 over Trout Creek. The sole remaining vehicular access to the area east of this point is via the Beckler River Road (a U.S. Forest Service Road) located east of the town of Skykomish in northeast King County. The Beckler River Road gains nearly 1,000 feet in elevation in order to cross Jack Pass (also known as Jack’s Pass). Vehicles descend from Jack’s Pass on U.S. Forest Service Road #65 to gain access to the North Fork Skykomish valley and intersect with Index-Galena Road at MP 14.3. This approximate 40-mile detour route to arrive at the upper end of the Index-Galena Road washout at Milepost 6.9 is typically available seasonally for five months (usually late May to early November) and provides the only vehicular access for property owners, emergency service providers, recreational users to campsites and trailheads, and U.S. Forest Service personnel. After the 2006 flood damage, Snohomish County determined that the Index Galena Road should be repaired or relocated in order to re-establish roadway network connectivity. Snohomish County Public Works (SCPW) has coordinated with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to secure Emergency Relief (ER) funding to determine the best method of repairing the road and avoid further flood damage. Additional coordination has also involved the U.S. Forest Service, on whose lands any relocated roadway would need to be constructed. The following factors have been identified that contribute to the need for road repair and relocating the damaged road out of the floodplain: • The Index-Galena Road is a direct and vital transportation link to the higher elevations in the upper North Fork Skykomish River area, both for National Forest administrative and public recreational access. Forest recreationists and recreational property owners who live west of Index now must drive approximately 42.5 miles (10.5 miles on gravel road)

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to reach the Galena area at the Silver Creek/North Fork Skykomish confluence, via US 2 and the Beckler River Road (Forest Road 65) over Jack’s Pass. Aside from the inconvenience and additional fuel consumption and emissions, this extended detour presents a safety risk to the public due to the increased drive time exposure and potential hazards of traffic and road conditions. • Forest Road 65 over Jack’s Pass is a single-lane gravel road with turnouts, and has steep mountain grades and switchbacks. Although the U.S. Forest Service appreciates that Snohomish County Public Works has collaborated with the U.S Forest Service to perform road maintenance to address additional wear and tear, this road is not designed to safely accommodate increased passenger car traffic that was displaced from Index-Galena Road. This access route provides additional challenges for horse recreationist use in the upper North Fork Skykomish valley. • The Forest Service’s Troublesome Creek and San Juan Creek campgrounds cannot be fully utilized by campers who drive motor homes or pull trailers, due to the inconvenience and hazard of driving the steep narrow grade over Jack’s Pass. • The Forest Service’s timber sale planning and administration is hampered due to adverse log haul conditions over Jack’s Pass from the North Fork Skykomish drainage. Recent planned timber harvest units and timber sales were dropped because of poor access. In addition, watershed restoration projects, and road maintenance or decommissioning contracts are more expensive to implement due to the detour. • Since the washout, response times have increased for emergency services, such as vehicle accidents, search and rescues, and fire suppression, due to the long detour. • Reestablishing the connectivity of the Index-Galena Road is important for providing an alternate access route into the North Fork Skykomish and upper Beckler River watersheds in case a major flood event were to wash out the Beckler River Road. Project construction is scheduled to take place between April and October due to the remote location of the project and the short construction season dependent on weather (snow and heavy rain). Construction will take approximately three construction seasons. Work will start 2 hours after sunrise and stop 2 hours before sunset between April 1 and September 23 to minimize potential impacts to marbled murrelet and spotted owl.

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2 Project Description The proposed project would shift the project area roadway alignment to the south and establish a relocated roadway upslope from the existing damaged roadway. The alignment would shift from the existing Index Galena Road approximately 200 feet east from Snohomish County Trout Creek Bridge #494 (near Milepost 6.1, at approximately 841 feet in elevation). The relocated roadway would extend for 0.95 mile and match into the existing roadway approximately 400 feet east of the Milepost 6.9 washout. At the project start, the roadway would ascend the sideslopes at a 9 percent grade in order to raise the roadway out of the 100-year floodplain and channel migration zone. The relocation would enable the roadway to be elevated above the 100-year flood elevation and channel migration zone for most of the project length and to be located landward of the river side channel stream that has formed in the existing roadway alignment.

This initial climb would use approximately 700 feet of the existing Trout Creek Road, a gravel road maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. It will be necessary to excavate (cut) into the adjacent upslope areas to accommodate the roadway relocation, and fill would be placed on the downslope area. This type of cut and fill construction would be present for much of the proposed alignment, except where retaining walls, reinforced soil slopes, or other stabilization measures are installed instead of cut and fill slopes. A new Index-Galena Road/Trout Creek Road intersection would be constructed near Station 19+50 to allow for future continued use of Trout Creek Road by the U.S. Forest Service to carry out its long-term land management plans in the Trout Creek sub-basin. Trout Creek Road is presently closed to motor vehicle use until the U.S. Forest Service re-opens it for future use.

After the initial climb from the existing roadway, the roadway grades would be more moderate for the remainder of the project length. The relocated roadway would cross the side slopes and parallel the existing roadway. With slight curves in the alignment, the distance from the relocated roadway to the existing roadway would range from 40-100 feet for most of the project length. At the upper end of the project, extending from Station 39+50 the relocated roadway would more closely parallel the existing road. The highest elevation achieved by the project, 920 feet, would be near Station 35+00. The roadway would begin its descent to the existing roadway near Station 36+00 and would tie back into the existing roadway at Station 59+93, near milepost 7.0 (at approximately 884 feet in elevation).

All culverts would be sized to convey the 100-year flow and associated debris flows and would be constructed where the roadway crosses non-fish bearing slope streams. A concrete box culvert vented ford structure would be installed in proximity to Station 29+00 where there is a debris chute with evidence of historic debris flows. The concrete box culvert vented ford may have a

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removable top that would facilitate culvert clean out and debris removal by road maintenance crews in the future. Specific design features would be determined during final design.

A 180-foot bridge would be constructed near the project’s east end near Station 54+00 to provide for unimpeded flow of a seasonal stream flowing through the large wetland located in this area. The proposed bridge would be a steel girder single span structure with a concrete slab deck and concrete parapet. The bridge would be supported by a deep foundation and concrete abutments. There will also be concrete cheek walls at the sides of the abutment. Steel girders would be galvanized and then top coated with paint in accordance with U.S. Forest Service visual quality requirements for structures constructed near recommended wild and scenic rivers. The bridge would maintain existing water levels in the wetland that provides important habitat for wildlife and winter/spring seasonal use by juvenile salmon. The bridge would also help to prevent future blockages that would be anticipated from seasonal high flows and extensive beaver activity in the project area, and prevent blockages that could potentially occur from landslide debris near Station 53+00. Where the relocated roadway is located adjacent to or within the channel migration zone, from approximately Station 35+00 to 45+00, a buried rock revetment would be placed adjacent to the toe of the roadway embankment slope. Subsurface areas located within the existing undamaged roadway would be over excavated to remove materials subject to scour erosion and replaced with large rock material. This buried rock revetment is intended to prevent future scour erosion damage to the roadway. In the absence of further migration of the river prior to roadway construction, this would not require in-water work. The trench would also be filled with large woody debris on the river side so that in the event of channel migration large woody debris would be launched in place and exposed. A two foot layer of salvaged forest duff and other organic materials would be placed on top of the over excavated revetment in preparation for riparian restoration planting.

2.1 Proposed design standards The proposed roadway design is based on design standards contained in the 2001 AASHTO Guidelines for Geometric Design of Very Low-Volume Roadways (ADT < 400). The use of these design standards responds to comments made during the NEPA scoping period to consider use of design standards that would help to reduce the footprint of the proposed roadway relocation repair. These design standards enable the project to match the character of the existing roadway and fit in with the forested natural environment in the project area. The proposed design would include a pavement width of 22 feet that would feature 10-foot travel lanes and 1-foot shoulders. Additional land area would be required to install guardrail where warranted. The roadway posted speed limit would be 35 MPH. Based on these lane width design standards and other design criteria, including laying back of cut slopes, the project would require an estimated 12.2 acres of land disturbance. The project’s design report estimated 9.5 acres of

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disturbance. The additional 3.7 acres of disturbance is associated with design changes, including additional excavation of potentially unstable soils from Station 44+00 to Station 48+00. The increase in area also assumes an additional 10 feet offset beyond the cuts and fills to account for accommodation of equipment access. It was determined based on further geotechnical soil analysis that removal and laying back of slopes could be more feasible and pose less risk than constructing retaining walls in this area of the project, but the final determination would be made in final design. Of the 12.2 acres, approximately 3.3 acres would be permanently impacted for the roadway prism footprint and 8.9 acres would be cleared to accommodate roadway cuts and fills. These 8.9 acres would be restored after construction is completed. The use of low-volume roadway design standards enables the roadway width to be reduced by 26 percent from the 30-foot width standard identified previously in the design report. The proposed project would require a new right-of-way easement from the U.S. Forest Service due to the newly aligned roadway’s location on U.S. Forest Service lands in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The existing damaged roadway would be decommissioned and restored where feasible to natural riparian habitat once the new roadway has been constructed. The restored areas and adjacent areas downslope from the roadway that would be used for roadway stormwater runoff dispersion would be included in the new roadway easement and would be permanently protected from future development.

2.2 Design Features Areas that would be disturbed by clearing and grading in addition to the roadway travel lanes would include cut and fill side slopes, and retaining walls and reinforced soil slopes where necessary, to support the roadway. Reinforced soil slopes in fill sections would typically be 0.5 Horizontal (H):1: Vertical (V), approximately 63 degree slopes, in most areas. Along the cut side of the alignment, slopes would range from 1.5 (H) to 2 (H):1(V) depending on whether the cuts are made through colluvium (landslide) and lacustrine (former glacial lake) deposit areas. Soldier pile retaining walls would be constructed in areas based on geotechnical recommendations, and are currently proposed from Station 42+75 to 44+75, 45+20 to 46+25 and 49+80 to 52+55, subject to change as the design progresses. These would be installed by driving piles. The remaining retaining walls would be structural earth walls (SEWs). The linear extent of these features may change during final design based on further analysis of detailed survey, geotechnical, seismic, hydrologic, and hydraulic information and construction considerations. The current estimates for the linear extent (linear feet) of the various types of retaining walls or reinforced slopes includes the following: • Reinforced Soil Slopes (RSS): 1,500 Linear Feet • Structural Earth Walls (SEW): 200 Linear Feet • Soldier Pile: 700 Linear Feet • Rock Fill Slopes: 1,800 Linear Feet

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Near Station 53+00, a diversion berm would be constructed in the upslope area and would tie into the roadway fill. The berm would prevent debris slide deposition onto the roadway in an area where geotechnical investigations have identified a risk for future debris flows. Asphalt, concrete, and other debris from the decommissioned section of the damaged existing roadway would be removed. Roadway debris would be removed from the river channel to the extent that it would be safe and practicable. The decommissioned roadway would then be restored with soil preparation and plantings where feasible to provide a forested riparian corridor adjacent to the North Fork Skykomish River. Natural stream channel conditions would be restored with the asphalt removal where plantings do not occur. Large woody material would be placed in areas adjacent to the side channel to enhance riparian habitat. Roadway stormwater runoff quality treatment and flow control would be provided through natural dispersion in accordance with Highway Runoff Manual provisions and U.S. Forest Service standards and guidelines. Accordingly, the relocated roadway would be “outsloped” to the areas downslope from the roadway to maintain sheet flow throughout the project length. Natural dispersion treats stormwater by infiltration into the existing soils and through vegetation root zones; evaporation; and uptake and transpiration by the vegetation. Sheet flow (not concentrated or otherwise channelized) runoff is intercepted without containment or conveyance and uses the infiltration capacity of the roadside soils to effectively infiltrate the stormwater. Those areas that maintain 100 linear feet of flow path through established native vegetation provide both runoff flow control and quality treatment per the state drainage standards. The existing forested slopes downslope from the project, and the area where the existing damaged roadway would be removed and enhanced with riparian restoration, would be preserved to provide the needed area for dispersion. These areas would be protected with permanent protection in the project’s right-of-way easement.

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3. Methodology

3.1 Methods of Analysis Prior to undertaking the field investigation for this report, the following sources of existing information were checked for information on potential and known wildlife species and habitats that may be found in the study area: • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website • Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Priority Habitat and Species maps and website • U.S. Forest Service documents and site visits with the wildlife biologist • Washington Naturemapping program and GAP Analysis maps • Scientific literature search • Field surveys • Aerial photos • Snohomish County GIS See the Reference section for a comprehensive list of sources used for research. Field investigations to the project area were conducted during all seasons to confirm background research. Information gleaned from various sources was used to assess presence and absence of species and their habitats and impacts from the proposed project. The U.S. Forest Service biologist conducted mollusk surveys on September 29 and October 28, 2011 (Sonny Paz 2013). County biologist site visits were conducted on the following dates: • December 2, 2011- Raining/40°F. Hiked the proposed alignment through the forest from MP 6.4 to MP 6.9. Looked for signs of wildlife (e.g. tracks, scat), listened for, and observed birds. Identified habitat elements in the project area such as, snags, downed logs, rocky outcrops, wetlands. • April 26, 2012- Raining/52°F. Hiked the proposed alignment through the forest from MP 6.4 to MP 6.9. Looked for signs of wildlife (e.g. tracks, scat), listened for, and observed birds. • June 8, 2012- Partly sunny/60°F. Drove over Jack’s Pass to MP 6.9 and walked into the forest along the proposed alignment to the first patch of remnant pavement in the riparian area. Both sides of the pavement were surveyed for mammal scat and listening and observing birds. Wetland B was surveyed for bird species.

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• August 10, 2012- Sunny/75°F. Drove over Jack’s Pass to MP 6.9. Met with Mount Baker-Snoqualmie biologist and discussed potential issues with a culvert versus bridge over Wetland B. Also discussed species that might use the area, reviewed the current design, and discussed options to minimize impacts to the wetland. We found stranded salmonid fingerlings and an amphibian egg mass out of the water, in the wetland. • November 16, 2012- Overcast/42°F. Environmental Services (ENVS) staff walked sections of the revised alignment and took notes and photos at the new stations about plants and wildlife sign, and identified any new impacts to the habitats and wildlife. • April 3, 2013- Sunny/55°F. ENVS staff walked the new revised alignment and took notes and photos of wildlife sign, recorded bird species heard and/or seen, and assessed potential impacts to vegetation. • April 15, 2013- Overcast with intermittent light rain /52°F. ENVS and Engineering Services staff conducted a site visit with Edmonds Community College LEAF School instructor and students to place wildlife monitoring cameras, record bird species heard and/or seen, and look for wildlife sign. We found old bear scrapings on trees, a goshawk feeding area, beaver den and feeding sign, and deer tracks and scat.

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4 Affected Environment

4.1 General Habitat Characteristics The study area is part of the North Cascades physiographic region. The North Cascades mountain range extends from British Columbia south to the Snoqualmie Pass area. The North Cascades consist of jagged peaks with numerous glaciers (WDNR 2013). This area was formed through a variety of geomorphologic processes including, glacially-carved valleys, colliding terranes, and volcanic activity. Mountain peaks over 10,000 feet steeply plunge to lower elevations of 500 feet. The major river valleys include the Snoqualmie, Skykomish, Snohomish, Stillaguamish, Skagit, and Nooksack, which all flow into Puget Sound. The project lies within the North Fork Skykomish River drainage (WRIA 07.0982, HUC #171100090203) near RM 7.0. The North Fork Skykomish River originates north of Skykomish Peak approximately 18 miles from the project area. The riparian corridor of the upper North Fork Skykomish River watershed has a narrow floodplain and steep sideslopes with many interspersed wetlands and tributary streams that help to regulate the river’s flow and maintain water quality. The river and its riparian corridor provide fish and wildlife habitat for a variety of species including threatened and endangered species. The North Fork Skykomish River watershed drains an estimated 93,960 acres, most of which is located in the Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest (USFS 1997). The project area is located in T28N R10E in Sections 35 and 36 paralleling the edge of the Wild Sky wilderness boundary to the east. Riparian habitat is largely mature second growth deciduous and conifer forest along the North Fork Skykomish River. While there is generally good riparian habitat along much of the river, roads that parallel the river have somewhat reduced floodplain and riparian functions. Old growth forests are abundant in the watershed, primarily at higher and more remote locations. (USFS 1997). The upper 10 miles (RM 20-30) of the North Fork Skykomish River flows in a relatively confined, incised channel heavily armored with cobbles and boulders. Between RM 18.5 and 15, the mainstem North Fork Skykomish broadens somewhat with steep side slopes. From RM 15 to 10 the valley narrows again with very steep side slopes (USFS 1997). The valley broadens in the last few miles as it approaches the town of Index (USFS 1997). The river’s flows are subject to recurrent rain-on-snow and other high flow events that promote channel meandering and pose risks for roads located near the channel migration zone. An increase in rain-on-snow events and an increased frequency of high flow events are anticipated effects of climate change that could pose greater risk to infrastructure located within flood hazard areas and channel migration zones (USFS 1997).

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The land area in proximity to the damaged Index-Galena Road corridor has a variety of environmental resources that need to be considered in the roadway design process. These resources include but are not limited to the North Fork Skykomish River and its floodway, several small debris torrent streams, a perennial stream, several wetlands, and the forested riparian corridor. The river in the project area flows in a broad floodplain. The river’s main channel avulsed and created a side channel in proximity to MP 6.9. The avulsion created an island of existing conifer and deciduous trees between the main channel and the new channel. The new side channel flows in the existing road alignment. Endangered Species Act (ESA)-listed terrestrial species occurring in the study area include marbled murrelets and northern spotted owls. Designated critical habitat for the owls and murrelets is located 3 and 0.5 miles (respectively) from the project site. Gray wolves may occur as their populations are increasing in Washington State. Historically, grizzly bears have been seen in the higher elevations nearby and could occur, although their population level is extremely low and do not appear to be increasing. Although not an ESA-listed species, bald eagles are still protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. There are wintering populations of bald eagle present in the river corridor.

4.2 Wildlife Study Area Habitats and Species The project study area for wildlife and their habitats includes the project site, plus an area extending one-half mile from the site for noise impacts from potential blasting and one-quarter mile from the site for potential impacts to the surrounding habitat. Habitats found in this area include riparian, streams, wetlands, mature upland forest, and wildlife corridors. Detailed wildlife assessments have not been conducted in the study area. Based on the types of habitats present, wildlife known to be found in similar habitats, and a literature search, a table was developed to identify these species and species known to be in the study area. See Attachment B for details.

4.2.1 Riparian Zone Riparian zones provide vital corridors for wildlife movement and dispersal (Johnson 2001) as well as all the major elements (food, water, and shelter) needed for survival. Eighty-five percent (85%) of Washington’s terrestrial vertebrate species use riparian zones for essential life activities with the density of wildlife in riparian areas being comparatively high (Knutson and Naef 1997). Fifty-two percent (52%) of species found in Washington and Oregon use these areas for different parts of their life history (Johnson 2001). Riparian areas provide breeding habitat for more species of birds than any other habitat in Oregon and Washington. Amphibians and reptiles are widespread throughout these areas. Westside Oregon and Washington riparian areas have greater mammal species richness than upland areas due to the diverse vegetation, providing a disproportionate importance to mammals (Johnson 2001).

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Amphibians and reptiles are sensitive to the loss of habitat such as downed wood, logs, and leaf litter found in riparian areas. Bats, some species of voles, Pacific jumping mouse (Zapus trinotatus), Pacific water shrew (Sorex bendirii), shrew mole (Neurotrichus gibbsii), mink (Neovison vison), river otter (Lontra canadensis), and beaver (Castor canadensis) rely heavily on riparian areas for meeting their life history requirements. Raccoon (Procyon lotor) populations are more abundant in riparian areas. Fragmentation of riparian zones is extremely detrimental to these species (Johnson 2001). The riparian area along the North Fork Skykomish River corridor connects the mainstem Skykomish River downstream of the study area with the higher elevations of the north Cascade mountains; providing a corridor pathway for wildlife. The river provides a movement corridor for species such as marbled murrelets and harlequin ducks to nesting areas outside of the project area. The smaller riparian zones along the streams provide movement corridors for small species such as amphibians and invertebrates and larger species such as bobcats. These streams flow down steep slopes to their confluence with the North Fork Skykomish River. The streambeds are generally rocky with downed wood debris of varying sizes. Some of the streams flow through large debris flow ravines. The entire project area is within the USFS North Fork Skykomish River designated riparian reserve (Attachment D). There are seven streams flowing down Iron Mountain through the project site. Another stream has its origin above the large wetland (Wetland B) at the east end of the project. The stream flows through the wetland to its confluence with the North Fork Skykomish River approximately 500 feet to the northwest near Milepost 6.9 of the existing roadway. Most of the intact riparian area lies along the North Fork Skykomish River paralleling the existing road. Vegetation in the riparian area along the North Fork Skykomish River includes black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera var. trichocarpa), red alder (Alnus rubra), bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum), and western redcedar (Thuja plicata), with an understory composed of salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis), thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus), and red elderberry (Sambucus racemosa). The seven smaller streams are bordered by large sword ferns (Polystichum munitum), sparse areas of salmonberry and vine maple (Acer circinatum), and a thick layer of forest duff and leaves. The streams are shaded by downed wood and a large tree canopy overhead and are full of varying boulder sizes. Vegetation around the stream flowing into and through Wetland B includes red alder, western redcedar, willows (Salix sp.), devil’s club (Oplopanax horridus), lady fern (Athyrium filix-femina), and salmonberry.

4.2.2 Wetlands Critical factors maintaining a high diversity of wetland bird communities are the size of the wetland and the surrounding habitat diversity (Azous and Horner 1997). Seep wetlands support a high diversity of amphibians (Johnson 2001). Wetlands that are adjacent to larger areas of forests are more likely to have greater native amphibian species diversity (WDFW 2009). Like riparian Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 20

areas, the larger and more diverse vegetation found in a wetland, the more variety of wildlife it would support. Many species such as amphibians are dependent upon wetlands for at least part of their life cycle. There are four wetlands in the area. Wetland A is a Category 3 palustrine scrub-shrub wetland approximately 2,975 square feet in size. It is dominated by red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea), salmonberry, sword fern, and lady fern. The overstory includes western redcedar, big-leaf maple, and western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) (SCPW 2013b). Wetland B is a Category 2 palustrine scrub-shrub wetland approximately 49,218 square feet. It is dominated by devils club, Pacific willow (Salix lasiandra), salmonberry, youth-on-age (Tolmiea menziesii), violet (Viola sp.), Cooley’s hedge nettle (Stachys cooleyae), and lady fern. The overstory includes red alder, western redcedar, and big-leaf maple. The wetland supports at least one beaver, a variety of resident and neotropical songbirds, amphibians, and salmonids. It is bordered by upland forest and a narrow band of shrubs along the existing road (SCPW 2013b). Wetland B drains via a stream to the North Fork Skykomish River approximately 500 feet away. On an August site visit, unidentified amphibian egg masses were found and several salmonid fingerlings were stranded in the drying wetland (SCPW 2013b). Wetland C and D are lightly vegetated, Category 3 seep wetlands located on the steep slopes traversed by the proposed new roadway. Wetland C is approximately 4,645 square feet. Wetland D is approximately 1000 square feet (SCPW 2013b). Wetlands A, B, and C would be directly impacted by the project and are discussed further in this report.

4.2.3 Upland Forest Forested areas provide habitat for more specialized species such as shelter for ungulates. Habitat elements within these forests such as logs, snags, and stumps provide nesting areas and shelter for birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals of all sizes. These forest elements provide dens, foraging, and travelways for many species including pacific wren, pine marten, bobcat, woodpeckers, swifts, owls, bats, squirrels, frogs, toads, western red back salamander, cavity- nesting birds, some species of mice, porcupine, and kinglets (Johnson 2001). In addition, according to Johnson, et al (2001) species use these elements as follows: • Trowbridge’s shrew burrows inside downed wood. • Snowshoe hare use logs for thermal cover and to hide from predators. • Salamanders and frogs use the spaces between wood and loose bark for foraging and hiding. • Bats use the spaces between wood and loose bark for roosting. • Birds nest in root wads of fallen trees and forage around stumps and logs.

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• Boulder piles provide habitat for garter snakes, wood rats, bats, and short-tailed weasel and hunting platforms for cougar. The mixed coniferous deciduous mature forest in the study area is part of the larger westside lowland coniferous-deciduous forest complex that lies west of the Cascade Mountains (Johnson 2001) and is characterized by the USFS as a western hemlock-sword fern-foamflower (Tiarella trifoliata) plant association (Henderson 1992). It is part of the moist western hemlock/sword fern plant association group bordered by a mesic western hemlock/sword fern mosaic (USFS 1997). The forested habitat in the project area is primarily second growth mixed conifer-deciduous on rugged, northwest-facing steep slopes. The closest U.S. Forest Service designated late- successional reserve is approximately one-half mile to the southeast where old growth forested areas begin at higher elevations. Areas of coniferous forest are a mix of western hemlock, Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), and scattered western redcedar and bigleaf maple. The understory is composed mostly of sword fern with open canopy areas supporting scattered areas of salmonberry, gooseberry (Ribes sp.), vine maple, thimbleberry, devils club, and red huckleberry (Vaccinium parvifolium). The lower slopes are forested with deciduous trees including red alder, vine maple, and bigleaf maple with a sword fern and scattered shrub understory. The forest in the project area has a variety of habitat elements that provide wildlife habitat. These include large boulder piles, rocky outcrops, abundant downed logs, stumps, and snags.

4.2.4 Wildlife Corridors and Connectivity Wildlife corridors and habitat connectivity allow species to move safely across the landscape. Corridors can be wide, narrow, straight, or curved (Forman, et. al. 2003). They connect the habitats used by wildlife and plants. Habitat connectivity facilitates animal movement through the landscape and other ecological flows, such as plant dispersal. Roads are recognized as one of the primary impacts to wildlife corridors and habitat connectivity that are associated with modification of the natural environment (USFWS 2010). Roads can become a barrier or a population sink (more individuals die than are born) to certain individual animals that avoid crossing or approaching the road (Bennett et. al. 2011). The diversity of wildlife in a given area can be impacted by these behavioral changes because different species tolerate roads differently (Forman 2003, USFWS 2010). The three main road characteristics that create a barrier to species are traffic volume, road width, and road surface. Roads can potentially be a complete barrier to daily and seasonal movement of wildlife. When roads present barriers, they affect dispersal movements and genetic interchange of a variety of wildlife species (USFWS 2010). Daily or seasonal movements can be impacted when wildlife avoid an area where a road is located. Movements may also be affected by removal of habitat, temporal changes to the vegetation community, and fragmentation of wildlife corridors. Intrusions such as increased noise levels and artificial light can also cause wildlife to

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be wary. Increased stormwater runoff can pollute nearby wetlands and streams (Forsman et. al. 2003, Bennett et. al. 2011). For example, noise from vehicle traffic can affect songbird’s ability to hear courtship and territorial songs and calls (Forman et. al. 2003). Artificial light can both attract and repel different species resulting in behavioral changes (Bennett et. al. 2011). Stormwater runoff can cause an increase in amphibian mortality through increased levels of pollutants into wetlands and ponds (Bennett et. al. 2011). Collisions with vehicles present the highest risk for wildlife mortality. Species at greatest risk from collisions with vehicles are wide-ranging species and slow or immobilizing species (species that stop on the roadway). Wide-ranging species include deer, bear, wolves, and wolverine. Slow or immobilizing species include porcupine, skunks, amphibians, rabbits, small mammals, and snakes (USFWS 2010). Wide-ranging species often avoid roads and areas around roads for ¼ mile or more depending on the species. Average Annual Daily Traffic counts (AADTs) of 500 or more vehicles on minor collectors can create a barrier for some species. Slow or wary species can be affected at an AADT of 300- 400 or less on local roads through avoidance or outright killing (USFWS 2010). Roads fragment intact habitat creating an edge effect reducing interior forest species habitat and increasing competition between edge–adapted species and interior species. Forest interior dependent species are more vulnerable to habitat loss than other species and generally avoid edge habitats. This fragmentation also enables egg and nestling predators, such as Stellar’s jays and crows, to gain easier access to bird nests. Constructing roads opens up the forest canopy letting in more light and increasing the temperatures, which reduces the diversity of native interior plant species. Non-native invasive species hitchhike in on vehicles allowing them to encroach into the forest (Forman et. al. 2003, Bennett et. al. 2011, USFS 2010). Increasing roadway access into wildlife habitats may increase human presence and disturbance, and provides the potential for increased poaching. In addition, the increased access can deter wildlife from using the habitat area (Forsman et. al. 2003). The higher elevations in the upper North Fork Skykomish watershed provide high quality connectivity between large areas of core habitats due to large areas of remnant late successional forest. The upper North Fork Skykomish watershed is located beyond the area of the County- maintained road, which ends at MP 14.1. The large patches of late successional forest in the Trout Creek drainage are also considered an important area of intact wildlife habitat (USFS 1997). Nearby Jack’s Pass is considered a crucial area for connectivity and dispersal although it is a very narrow connection (USFS 1997). Many of these areas now lie within the boundaries of the Wild Sky Wilderness that was designated in 2008. Much of the lower North Fork Skykomish watershed, where the project is located, is fragmented by roads and development providing low quality or no connectivity between core habitats (USFS 1997).

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The existing Index-Galena Road was a dispersal barrier to some species (USFS 1997). Since the road washed out in 2006, wildlife has had an increased ability to travel the riparian corridor along the North Fork Skykomish River in proximity to the washout. The existing Index-Galena Road is in the riparian area providing an east-west corridor for wildlife movement. The lack of vehicular traffic has reduced the threat from collisions with vehicles, poaching, or other human- caused disturbances. The current use, during most of the year, from MP 6.4 to MP 6.9 is as an unofficial trail used by upstream property owners, County employees, and dispersed recreationists. During summer, after the snow melts, recreationists and cabin owners can access the areas upstream of MP 6.9 via the Forest Service’s Beckler River Road and Jack’s Pass. Trout Creek Road runs parallel to the west end upslope of the project area bisecting a section of the forest. The forested area in the study area provides connectivity to upper elevations of intact habitat, including the recently created Wild Sky Wilderness.

4.3 Special Status Wildlife Species in Study Area

4.3.1 Presence of Species and Use of Wildlife Habitats in Study Area Based on the review of the previously listed sources and habitat surveys, the table below lists Special Status species documented as occurring in the study area, species not found or expected to be found in the study area, and species that may be present in the study area. Special status species include federally listed wildlife species, U.S. Forest Service listed wildlife species, and Washington State listed wildlife species. See Attachment C for a complete list of species. A discussion of each species follows this table. Table 1 Special Status Species Species Status Occurrence in Study Area INVERTEBRATES Beller’s ground beetle Federal species of concern Found in sphagnum bogs. Agonum belleri No suitable habitat in study area Johnson’s hairstreak USFS sensitive Old growth obligate Callophyrs johnsoni species; not documented in study area Puget Oregonian USFS sensitive Not found in study area Cryptomastix devia USFS Survey and manage Shiny tightcoil USFS sensitive Found only in Eastern Pristiloma wascoense USFS Survey and manage Washington. Warty jumping slug USFS sensitive Not found in study area Hemiphillia glandulosa USFS Survey and manage Evening field slug USFS sensitive Not found in study area Deroceras hesperium USFS Survey and manage

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Oregon megophix USFS sensitive Not found in study area Megophix hemphilli USFS Survey and manage AMPHIBIANS/REPTILES Western toad Federal species of concern Not documented; may occur Bufo boreas State candidate in wetlands and upland area Cascades frog Federal species of concern Not documented; not Rana cascadae expected to occur in study area Coastal tailed frog Federal species of concern Not documented, not Ascaphus truei expected to occur in study area; may be in Trout Creek Oregon spotted frog Federal threatened No habitat in study area State endangered Van Dyke’s salamander USFS sensitive Not known to be found Plethodon vandykei State candidate north of Highway 2 Larch Mountain USFS sensitive Not known to be found salamander State sensitive north of Highway 2 Plethodon larselli Western pond turtle Federal species of concern Found in ponds and lakes; Clemmys marmorata State endangered no suitable habitat in study area. BIRDS Harlequin duck* USFS sensitive Occurs on river Histrionicus histrionicus Bald eagle* Federal species of concern Does not nest in Skykomish Haliaeetus leucocephalus USFS sensitive Ranger District; mid-winter USFS management visitor to area indicator State sensitive Golden eagle State candidate May occur seasonally in Aquila chrysaetos open areas along river Northern goshawk Federal species of concern Nest within 2.5 miles of Accipiter gentilis State candidate project site; juveniles may disperse into study area Peregrine falcon Federal species of concern Nests on nearby Index Falco peregrinus USFS sensitive Town Wall, approximately USFS management 4 miles from the project indicator area. May hunt in State sensitive floodplain adjacent to

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project area. Marbled murrelet Federal threatened Closest sighting 3 miles Brachyramphus State threatened from project site; closest marmoratus designated critical and suitable habitat 0.5 miles from site. Likely use river as flyway. Yellow-billed cuckoo Federal threatened Not documented; likely Coccyzus americanus State candidate extirpated in state. No suitable habitat. Northern spotted owl Federal threatened Closest nest 3.5 miles from Strix occidentalis USFS management project site; closest indicator designated critical habitat 3 State endangered miles from project site. Study area provides dispersal habitat. Vaux’s swift* State candidate Observed feeding over river Chaetura vauxi in summer Pileated woodpecker* USFS management Signs on snags found; Dryocopus pileatus indicator occurs in forest and riparian State candidate areas Black-backed woodpecker State candidate Found in high elevation old Picoides articus growth and burned area; no suitable habitat in study area Olive-sided flycatcher* Federal species of concern Occurs in riparian areas Contopus cooperi

MAMMALS Keen’s myotis State candidate Not documented in Myotis keenii Snohomish County; unlikely to occur in study area Western long-eared myotis Federal species of concern Not documented; may occur Myotis evotis pacificus in study area Long-legged myotis Federal species of concern Not documented; may occur Myotis volans longricus in study area Townsend’s big-eared bat Federal species of concern Not documented; may occur

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Corynorhinus townsendii USFS sensitive in study area townsendii State candidate Grizzly bear Federal threatened Very rare and irregular on Ursus arctos USFS management Skykomish Ranger District indicator State endangered Canada lynx Federal threatened Not known to occur west of Lynx canadensis State threatened the Cascade Crest Gray wolf Federal endangered No known reports or Canis lupus USFS management evidence on Skykomish indicator Ranger District. State endangered Fisher Federal candidate Extirpated from County Peknia pennanti USFS sensitive State endangered American pine marten USFS management Not documented; may occur Martes caurina indicator in forested areas California wolverine Federal species of concern Not documented; generally Gulo gulo USFS sensitive found at higher elevations State candidate but may use unplowed road for winter travel corridor. Columbian black-tailed USFS management A few have been deer* prescription documented in the project site Elk USFS management Occasionally seen in South Cervus elaphus prescription Fork valley. No large herds present. Mountain goat USFS management Mapped goat range within Oreamnos americanus indicator ½ mile of the study area. No steep slopes or bluffs are found within the project site. May use area as winter travel corridor. *- species heard or seen in project area. Invertebrates Johnson’s hairstreak The Johnson’s hairstreak butterfly is an old growth obligate species, found from sea level to 2,000 feet elevation. The caterpillars feed on dwarf mistletoe growing on western hemlock and possibly Douglas-fir in western Washington (Pyle 2002). Due to the loss of old growth forests, they have been extirpated from much of their former range. The nearest sighting was found in Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 27

the Garland Mineral Springs area in 1961 (Parametrix 2008). There is no old growth or dwarf mistletoe in the project area. No surveys have been conducted in the study area. They may be within the study area upslope of the project area. Puget oregonian The Puget oregonian snail is found associated with bigleaf maples in moist conifer forests, often in riparian areas. These snails can be found on or under leaf litter, hardwood logs, or in the litter under sword ferns that are growing near or under mature bigleaf maple trees. Rocks may also be used. Juveniles can be found among or under mosses growing on bigleaf maple tree trunks (Burke 1999). U. S. Forest Service surveys conducted in the study area did not find this species. Shiny tightcoil Information on the shiny tightcoil regarding habitat, ecology, population numbers, and range is lacking. The species is not known to occur west of the Cascade Mountains. U. S. Forest Service surveys conducted did not find this species in the project area. Warty jumping slug The warty jumping slug is most commonly found in low to mid elevation, moist undisturbed conifer forests, and riparian areas on or under rotting logs, woody debris, and forest floor leaf litter (Burke 1999). The closest recent documented sites have been in second growth forests approximately 52 miles to the south in the South Fork Snoqualmie River area (Wainwright 2005). U. S. Forest Service surveys conducted did not find this species in the project area. Evening field slug The evening field slug has been found to associate with low vegetation, leaf litter, debris, and rocks, often in riparian areas (Burke 1999). Little is known about this species or its habitat. It has not been reported in the Cascades. U.S. Forest Service surveys conducted did not find this species in the project area. Oregon megophix The Oregon megophix snail is most commonly found in moist, low elevation, relatively undisturbed forests. They are found under the decaying vegetation beneath sword ferns and bigleaf maple trees and rotten logs near streams. They prefer well-shaded slopes and terraced areas within the forest. Due to their preference for low elevations, they are not known to be found in any Washington national forest (Burke 1999). U. S. Forest Service surveys conducted did not find this species in the project area. Amphibians and Reptiles Western toad Adult western toads tend to be terrestrial but occur near water during the breeding season. The adults breed in wetlands, ponds, and off-channel still water areas in April to May. Eggs hatch in Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 28

one to two weeks depending on the temperature. Adults and toadlets can be found in duff underneath sword ferns (Herp Atlas 2012). Western toads have not been documented in the study area. The numerous sword ferns in the study area and the wetland at the east end of the project site could provide habitat for the toads. Cascades frog The Cascades frog typically occurs at higher elevations (above 2,000 feet) (Herp Atlas 2012). Cascades frogs have not been documented in the study area. They are not expected to be found in the study area due to the low elevation. Coastal tailed frog Coastal tailed frogs are found in permanent fast-flowing streams in mature forest. They need streams that are cold and clear with a rocky substrate (Herp Atlas 2012). There are no permanent small streams in the project area. The coastal tailed frog has not been documented in the study area, although they may be found in nearby Trout Creek. Oregon spotted frog Oregon spotted frogs are known to exist in only six Washington river drainages (Hallock 2013). The closest population to the study area is located in the Samish River drainage in Skagit County. This frog species is the most aquatic-dependent frog in Washington State. They generally require warm water habitats of large wetland complexes, which include emergent marsh (Hallock 2013, USFWS 2013b). According to Hallock (2013), “Washington’s remaining populations of Oregon spotted frogs occupy palustrine wetlands connected to riverine systems. The perennial creeks and associated network of intermittent tributaries provide aquatic connectivity between breeding sites, active season habitat, and overwintering habitat. Additionally, perennially flowing waters may provide the only suitable habitat during extreme summer drought or during winter when still waters become hypoxic (low dissolved oxygen levels that are detrimental to aerobic organisms). Associated wetlands have a mix of dominance types including aquatic bed, emergent, scrub-shrub, and forested wetlands.” Due to the small size of the wetland, lack of a perennial stream, and lack of diverse wetland types, Oregon spotted frogs are not expected to be found in the study area. Van Dyke’s salamander Van dyke’s salamanders are found near small streams and seep areas under woody debris, in association with rock outcrops, near waterfalls, in large decaying conifer logs near streams, and splash zones of rocky streams (Herp Atlas 2011, Naturemapping 2012) and associated with moist talus on north facing slopes (Amphibiaweb 2012).They do not fare well in intensively managed forests. They are found in the Olympic Mountains, Willapa Hills, and Cascade Mountains of southern Washington (Burke Museum 2012). The closest occurrence to the study area is in

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Pierce County (Amphibiaweb 2012). Van dyke’s salamanders are not expected to be found in the study area. Larch Mountain salamander Larch Mountain salamanders are found in shady moss-covered talus slopes, steep partially forested talus slopes, in interstitial spaces in rocky areas, and gravelly areas. They are generally found in old growth forests (Burke Museum 2012, Herp Atlas 2011, Naturemapping 2012, Amphibiaweb 2012). They occur in the Cascade Mountains of southern Washington and northern Oregon. In Washington, they occur from the Columbia River Gorge to just north of Snoqualmie Pass (Burke Museum 2012). Larch Mountain salamanders are not expected to be found in the study area. Western pond turtle Western pond turtles are found in ponds and lakes in Washington State. They have been extirpated from much of Washington. They are found in the Columbia River Gorge and have been reintroduced to areas in southwest Washington (Herp Atlas 2012). There is no suitable habitat in the study area. Birds Harlequin duck Harlequin ducks nest near fast-moving streams below 4,000 feet elevation (SAS 2012). The nests can be found on densely covered stream banks, in tree cavities, in rock crevices and on ledges. The nests are usually found in a closed canopy forest (Smith et. al. 1997). They prefer mature and large conifer or mixed forest stands with riparian zones (USFS 1997). They move up large rivers and streams from saltwater wintering areas to the nesting areas between March and August. The ducks roost on gravel bars in rivers (SAS 2012). They are also found in rivers during the summer with young as they move down river to the Puget Sound salt water wintering areas. (SAS 2012). Harlequin ducks feed on aquatic insects in the river environment. Harlequins are found year-round in western Washington. Nesting harlequin ducks have not been documented in the study area. Female harlequins and juveniles have been seen feeding in the river in the study area. They use the river during the spring and summer months as a travel corridor. Bald eagle Bald eagles are common year-round throughout most of western Washington in a variety of habitats. They nest in large cottonwoods near water. They winter near rivers and saltwater, feeding on ducks and spawned salmon carcasses.

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No known nests are within the study area. Bald eagles use the area during winter to feed on spawned salmon carcasses (Sonny Paz pers. comm. 2012). They have been observed in trees near the river during site visits. Golden eagle Golden eagles nest in open areas in large trees or on large rocky cliffs. They are generally found at mid-elevations in clear cuts, alpine areas, shrub-steppe, and open forests (SAS 2012). They are not known to nest in the Puget Sound area. They nest east of the Cascades in the preferred habitats where they are found year round. They are seen in open areas very rarely west of the Cascades in winter (SAS 2012). During summer, they can be found in alpine meadows and rocky areas at high elevations on the west side of the Cascades (Smith et. al. 1997). Golden eagles primarily eat small mammals such as rabbits and marmots. They have been seen preying on mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus), bobcats (Lynx rufus), coyotes (Canis latrans), and deer (Cornell 2012). No golden eagles are known to nest or winter in the study area. It is possible they would come down from the higher elevations to forage in summer or winter in the study area. Northern goshawk Northern goshawks prefer to nest in temperate forests of mixed conifers at mid to high elevations from early April to mid-June (Watson et. al. 1999). They prefer north facing slopes in wetter sites (USFS 1997). Goshawks forage in a variety of forest types and move to lower elevation forests in winter to forage (WDFW 2003). Northern goshawks feed on pika (Ochotona princeps), Douglas squirrels (Tamiasciurus douglasii), flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus), band-tailed pigeons (Patagioenas fasciata), ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus), Stellar’s jays (Cyanocitta stelleri), snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus), American robins (Turdus migratorius), flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus), thrushes, and woodpeckers (Watson et. al. 1998, WDFW 2003). On a site visit in 2013 a potential plucking post (perch used to pluck captured prey) was discovered with the remains of a varied thrush. Juveniles disperse from early August to early September into all ages and classes of forests (Watson et. al. 1998). Northern goshawks are found year-round in Washington. The forest stand in the study area is of marginal suitability as nesting habitat for goshawks, however, due to its size they could nest in the study area, above the project site (P. Marczin pers. comm. 2011). According to WDFW PHS maps, there is an occurrence point approximately 2.5 miles from the study area. Both adult and juvenile goshawks may hunt within the study area at any time of the year. Peregrine falcon Peregrine falcons nest on cliff ledges and buildings. They have also been found nesting in abandoned eagle, raven, osprey, and red-tail hawk nests (Cornell 2012). Nesting can begin in

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early March and end as late as September. They hunt in open areas and over water for ducks, shorebirds, and other bird species. They also eat rock doves (Columba livia), songbirds, thrushes, and bats (Cornell 2012). Peregrine falcons are found year-round in Washington. There is no suitable nesting habitat within the study area. According to the WDFW PHS maps, there is a nest approximately 4.2 miles from the study area. Peregrine falcons may forage in the study area in the floodplain at any time of year. Marbled murrelet Marbled murrelets nest in mature and old growth forests within 50 miles of marine areas. They also nest in younger mature forests that include an old-growth component of large trees (at least 32-inch diameter), a multi-storied canopy, larger contiguous blocks of habitat, and a moderate to high canopy closure. They require a platform or deformity on large tree branches such as large or forked limbs, dwarf mistletoe infections, witches’ brooms, or other formations that would support an adult bird and egg. The platform requires a cover of moss or detritus, providing a cushion and area to hold the egg, as marbled murrelets do not build their nest (USDOI 1996). The nest platform needs overhead cover for protection from weather and predators. The nests are generally found in Douglas-fir, coastal redwood, western hemlock, western redcedar, or Sitka spruce (USDOI 1996). Nesting generally begins in April and ends in September. Marbled murrelets follow rivers from marine areas to their nesting site twice a day to feed their young during the hours of dawn and dusk. They winter in marine areas in Puget Sound. They feed primarily on small fish and marine invertebrates. Marbled murrelets are found year-round in western Washington. A five year study of predation on artificial marbled murrelet nests in Washington and Oregon showed jays as the primary predator of eggs and flying squirrels (and other rodents) as major predators of chicks (Burger et al 2004). Burger et al (2004) states, “Stellar’s jays and common ravens had higher occurrence and relative abundance at stations where the forest had been disturbed by clearcuts or roads, but other predators showed no consistent effects of such disturbances. This study suggests that predation risk to marbled murrelets and other birds is likely to be higher near forest edges bordering recent clear cuts and roads.” According to Raphael (2002) nest failure from predation was highest within 50m (164 feet) of an edge compared with >50m. Over 50m from an edge, nests were either successful or failed from reasons other than predation. The effects of predation have been shown to extend up to 2,000 feet into a stand (Wilcove et al. 1986). Much of the forest in the study area has been extensively logged and roaded in the past. Forest cover is approximately 100 years old based on historic mining and associated timber harvest in the study area. The Index-Galena Road and several U.S. Forest Service roads are found throughout the area. Observations in the project area found no suitable nesting platforms. The project is approximately 40 miles from marine water.

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According to the Skyforks Watershed analysis, there were approximately 700 acres of suitable habitat in the Lower North Fork Skykomish drainage in 1997 (USFS 1997). The project is located on a steep slope with the NF Skykomish River at the toe of the slope. The topography in the project area is rugged with steep slopes, high gradient streams, debris flow channels, and forest vegetation that climbs several thousand feet above the river. The topographic features of the site will minimize the noise impacts. The project area is not in Federally-designated critical habitat. The nearest critical habitat is approximately 0.5 miles away and 1,000 feet higher in elevation than the project site. Primary suitable habitat is found higher up in elevation in the Trout Creek drainage and more than one- half mile from the project area. (USFS 1997). The nearest recent detection points for marbled murrelet are more than three miles east and south of the project site (Sonny Paz pers. comm.). It is likely that marbled murrelets fly up the North Fork Skykomish River corridor during breeding season to access nesting sites upstream of the study area. The project area does not contain suitable nesting habitat for marbled murrelets. There is no suitable or designated critical habitat within the ½ mile study area. No suitable habitat will be removed. The likelihood of marbled murrelets being present in the study area during construction is low. Yellow-billed cuckoo Yellow-billed cuckoos are found in intact lowland riparian areas dominated by a mix of cottonwood and willow. These areas are generally a minimum of 50-acre patches connected to other contiguous large riparian areas (USFWS 2013). The cuckoos primarily nest in willows but will also use alders and cottonwood (USFWS 2013). They are a neotropical migrant that spends the summer breeding season in northern areas and then moves south for the winter (SAS 2012). Yellow-billed cuckoos are considered extirpated as a breeder from Washington State. The last confirmed breeding in the state was in the 1930s (USFWS 2013). Single sightings occur periodically throughout the state but no nesting or regular sightings have been reported (SAS 2012). If the cuckoo still nests in Washington State, the number of pairs would be less than 10 (USFWS 2013). The only willow in the study area is in the wetland. There are scattered black cottonwood trees, mostly along the river, throughout the study area. A small area of mixed forest will be removed near the river. Habitat could improve and support cuckoos in the long term by moving the road out of the riparian area closest to the river, planting deciduous trees, and allowing natural regeneration of the cottonwood. Due to the lack of suitable habitat, it is unlikely there are any cuckoos in the study area.

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Northern spotted owl Northern spotted owls nest in dense canopied mature and old growth coniferous forests at low to mid elevations (SAS 2012). The forests inhabited by the owls generally have a multi-layered, multi-species canopy with large diameter (>30-inches dbh) overstory trees (USFWS 1990). Adult spotted owls preferentially choose old growth forests for roosting, foraging, and nesting, avoiding young forests within their home range if enough old growth is available (USFWS 1990). Nesting pairs are often found in Douglas-fir forests near streams. However, they also nest in western redcedar and western hemlock forests (USFWS 1990). Spotted owls nest from March through July in large contiguous blocks of unfragmented old growth forests. The juveniles disperse from August through September into a variety of habitats looking for prey and shelter. Spotted owls feed primarily on flying squirrels in the Pacific Northwest (Glaucomys sabrinus) (e.g., Forsman et al. 1984, 2001). They will also eat bats, mice, voles, and rabbits (SAS 2012). During winter, their home range expands to an average of 2,000-5,000 acres of forest (USFWS 1990, SAS 2012). During spring and summer, they have a smaller home range (USFWS 1990). The median home range circle is a radius of 1.8 miles around a documented observation of the species (WAC 222-10-041). Northern spotted owls are found year-round in Washington. Great horned owls (Bubo virginianus), northern goshawk, red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), and barred owls predate spotted owls. The project is located on a steep slope with the NF Skykomish River at the toe of the slope. The topography in the project area is rugged with steep slopes, high gradient streams, debris flow channels, and forest vegetation that climb several thousand feet above the river. The topographic features of the site will minimize the noise impacts. The closest documented nest to the project area is approximately 3.5 miles away. There is a spotted owl site center approximately 1.7 miles from the project site and designated critical habitat mapped approximately 3 miles from the project site at higher elevations. Suitable spotted owl habitat is approximately ½ mile from the project site in upper areas of the Trout Creek drainage (Paz 2012). Dispersing juvenile owls and wintering pairs may use the study area for shelter. The project site is second growth mixed coniferous and deciduous forest. The closest old growth forest is approximately 1,900 feet above the project site at higher elevations. There is no suitable nesting habitat within the project area; however there is dispersal habitat available. No suitable habitat will be removed. Noise between the project area and critical habitat would be attenuated by the area’s topography. The likelihood of spotted owls being present in the study area during construction is low.

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Vaux’s swift Vaux’s swifts nest in large hollow trees and snags, primarily in coniferous or mixed old growth forests (Altman 1999). They use early seral and small tree habitats for foraging (USFS 1997). Snags are required for nesting and roosting. Broken-top snags are the preferred place to roost (Altman 1999). Due to the loss of large hollow snags they would also nest and roost in chimneys in urban areas. They feed on flying insects over the forest canopy, lakes, and rivers (SAS 2012). There are no known nests or suitable nesting habitat in the project area due to the lack of large snags. Vaux’s swifts are a neotropical migrant that forage within the study area from May through September. There may be suitable habitat just outside of the study area in the old growth forest in the Trout Creek drainage. Pileated woodpecker In Western Washington, pileated woodpeckers are typically found in mature or old-growth western hemlock and western redcedar forests. They are also found in suburban areas where snags are available for nesting (SAS 2012). The key habitat requirement of pileated woodpeckers is large snags for nesting as they excavate a new nest cavity each year. They primarily feed on carpenter ants and bark beetles found in snags, downed woody material, and stumps (Cornell 2012). They also eat some fruits. They stay in their territory year-round (SAS 2012, Cornell 2012). There are no known nests within the study area. The area provides foraging habitat based on the rectangular holes in some of the snags in the project area. It is likely that they utilize the dead trees standing in the island between the existing road and the main channel for foraging and possibly nesting. Black-backed woodpecker Black-backed woodpeckers are found in mature and old-growth forests at moderate to high elevations. They are generally found in larch, pine, spruce, fir, and hemlock forests after a fire (SAS 2012). They feed on wood-boring beetle larva. Black-backed woodpeckers are a resident bird of parts of eastern Washington and the mountains (SAS 2012). There are no known nests in the study area. There is no suitable habitat in the study area to support black-backed woodpeckers. Olive-sided flycatcher Olive-sided flycatchers prefer mature forests and forest edges with tall trees and snags for singing and foraging perches (Altman 1999). They can also be found in open areas and along the edges of younger forests. They prefer large tree patches adjacent to fields, cleared areas, burns, or water bodies (Smith 1997). They nest on conifer branches, especially western hemlock (Altman 1999). They feed on large flying insects, especially bees (SAS 2012).

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There are no known nests in the study area. Olive-sided flycatchers are a neotropical migrant and may nest in the study area from May through August. They have been heard calling in the project area during summer site visits by County staff. They may start utilizing the riparian corridor once the road is removed and the area is brought back to a more natural state. Primary Cavity Excavators Primary cavity excavators are primarily woodpeckers. Woodpecker species known to occur in the study area include pileated woodpecker, downy woodpecker, and red-breasted sapsucker. Hairy woodpeckers and Northern flickers are also expected to occur in the study area. The U.S. Forest Service also considers chickadees and nuthatches to be primary cavity excavators. Woodpeckers are found in a variety of forested habitats containing both live conifer and hardwood trees with snags and downed logs in a variety of decayed conditions. In the early decay process snags and logs are used for foraging; and in the later stages of decay snags are used for nesting (Bevis 2002). Primary cavity nesters are important for creating nesting and shelter areas for secondary cavity users, such as other birds, bats, raccoons, squirrels, butterflies, and tree frogs. According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website, west of the Cascade Mountains, 39 species of birds and 14 species of mammals depend on tree cavities for their survival. Construction clearing will remove snags that primary excavators would utilize. It is likely that they use, and will continue to use, the dead trees standing in the island between the existing road and the main channel for foraging and possibly nesting. Snags will also be installed in the riparian area. Migratory Birds Migratory birds include neotropical migrants that fly between Mexico, Central and South America and Canada, and some bird species that fly short distances. The term can also include resident birds as protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Migratory bird habitats vary between species. In the study area, most of the migratory birds would be found within the riparian area closer to the river and the wetland area. They would also be found at smaller numbers and less diversity in the forested area. They use these areas as nesting, foraging, and shelter (e.g. snags). Some species may use the area as a stopover on the way to preferred nesting habitat in higher elevations. Removing trees and shrubs will remove migratory bird habitat. It is likely there are existing nests in the study area. It is expected that the birds will leave the area during construction and return when it is complete. It is anticipated the new understory planted closer to the river will provide insects and seeds for food and new nesting habitat.

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Mammals Keen’s myotis Keen’s myotis bats are closely related to Western long-eared myotis and are difficult to identify without genetic testing. They roost in tree cavities, small caves, and rock crevices in mature low elevation moist coastal forests. They forage over shrubs, hot spring pools, ponds and clearings, and possibly in the forest canopy and along forest edges (Williams et. al. 2002, WBWG 2005, Hayes 2013). Small study samples have found they feed on spiders, moths, and flies. They are considered a rare bat in Western Washington (WDFW 2012a). Not much is known about their life history. There are no reports of Keen’s myotis in Snohomish County (Hayes 2013). It is unlikely they occur in the study area. Western long-eared myotis Western long-eared myotis bats roost under tree bark, in hollow trees, stumps, downed logs, caves, mines, cliff crevices, and rocky outcrops on the ground generally in coniferous forests (Williams et. al. 2002, WBWG 2005). They also roost under bridges and in buildings. Small ponds in forest clearings or riparian habitat appear to be important habitat elements (USFS 1997, Hayes 2013). Females give birth in mid-July in maternity roosts and juveniles generally leave four-six weeks later (Hayes 2013). They forage at the edges of mature forests (USFS 1997). They eat moths, small beetles, flies, lacewings, wasps, true bugs, and other insects (Bats NW 2012, WDFW 2012a). They feed by eating prey off foliage (Williams et. al. 2002). Long-eared myotis may migrate short distances to winter hibernation roosts such as mines and caves (Williams et. al. 2002, WBWG 2005). The Sunset Mine is approximately 1.1 miles from the project site. According to a May 2002 survey of the area, no bats were found in the mines (WDNR 2002). They may be roosting during the summer in the coniferous forest, under nearby bridges, or in the rocky outcrops in proximity to the proposed relocated roadway alignment and adjacent areas. They may also forage in the study area during summer. They may migrate to the Sunset Mine to hibernate although nothing is known about their seasonal movements in Washington State. Long-legged myotis Long-legged myotis bats are found primarily in coniferous forests but also seasonally in riparian areas (WBWG 2005). Roost habitats include cracks along streambanks, long cracks or hollows in trees, bridges, abandoned buildings, cracks in the ground, cliff crevices, loose tree bark, and hollow trees (WBWG 005, Bats NW 2012, Hayes 2013). Maternity roosts are generally found in snags, live trees, caves, mines, and rock crevices (Hayes 2013). Females give birth from late June to mid-August. They primarily eat moths but also termites, flies, small beetles, and spiders (WBWG 2005). They migrate in winter to hibernate in caves and mines. The Sunset Mine is

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approximately 1.1 miles from the project site. According to a May 2002 survey of the area, no bats were found in the mines (WDNR 2002). They may be present in the coniferous forest, in rocky outcrops, under the tree bark or in hollow trees in the study area both roosting and foraging during summer. They may also migrate to the Sunset Mine to hibernate. Townsend’s big-eared bat Townsend’s big-eared bats are found in lowland conifer-hardwood forests, mixed forests, riparian areas, deserts, prairies, agricultural areas, and coastal areas (WDFW 2012a). They return to the same roost site annually (Bats NW 2012). They roost in caves, buildings, bridges, rock crevices, hollow trees, and abandoned mines (Williams et. al. 2002). Most maternity colonies are thought to be found near late successional conifer forests (Hayes, et. al. 2013). Maternity colonies form from April to early September (Hayes 2013). They travel long distances between their roost sites and foraging area. They tend to forage in edge habitats, along streams, and adjacent to and within a variety of wooded habitats. They primarily eat moths (Williams et. al. 2002, WBWG 2005). Pacific Townsend’s big-eared bats are not known to migrate long distances (WBWG 2005). They spend winters hibernating in caves and mines (Williams 2002, WDFW 2012a). The Sunset Mine is approximately 1.1 miles from the project site. According to a May 2002 survey of the area, no bats were found in the mines (WDNR 2002). They may be present in the study area in the coniferous forest or under nearby bridges roosting and foraging during summer. They may move to the Sunset Mine to hibernate. Grizzly bear Grizzly bears were once found throughout the western states. Between 1800 and 1975 their population decreased from 50,000 to 1,000 due to a variety of factors including westward expansion, habitat loss, livestock depredation control, and unregulated hunting (USFWS 1993). It is estimated that there are fewer than 20 grizzlies in the entire 9,500 square acre North Cascades Ecosystem Recovery Zone (WWO 2012). Grizzly bears can be found from alpine areas to lowland valleys (Johnson and O’Neil 2001). Grizzly bears are generally found at lower elevations during the early spring to feed on the bulbs of early wildflowers and winter-killed ungulates. During the summer, they are found on higher elevation slopes and avalanche chutes. They feed on thistle, cow parsnip, mushrooms, roots, berries, carrion, ground squirrels, and insects including ants. During fall, they include spawned fish in their diet. They den in the snow at moderate elevations and avoid areas with ongoing disturbance, including roads. Grizzly bears tend to avoid areas with more than 1 mile of road per square mile. In 1997, the Skykomish forks watersheds have an average of 1.3 miles of road per square mile (USFS 1997).The study area lies between Bear Management Unit (BMU) 4-Index and BMU 5-Beckler.

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Grizzly bears are considered extremely rare and irregular in the Skykomish Ranger District. The primary food supply in the study area would be spawned salmon in the fall. The study area is outside of the Grizzly Bear Recovery Core Habitat Zone. Historically, a grizzly female with two cubs was reported approximately five miles from the project site. It is not expected that grizzly bears would be found in the study area. Since the old road would be decommissioned, there would be no net loss of grizzly core habitat. Canada lynx Historically, lynx distribution was found to be generally restricted to areas east of the Cascade Crest. Current and historical records from the west side of the Cascade Mountains are extremely rare (Ruediger et al 2000, Stinson 2001). Lynx are primarily found in high-elevation (above 4,000 feet) forests of north central and northeast Washington, including areas in Okanogan, Chelan, Ferry, Stevens, and Pend Oreille counties (Stinson 2001). In the Cascade Range, they prefer subalpine forests interspersed with a variety of other native conifers as secondary vegetation (Ruediger et al 2000). They mainly eat snowshoe hare but also eat squirrels, mice, voles, beaver, muskrat, and grouse (Stinson 2001). It is not expected that lynx would be found within the study area due to the density of vegetation, wet snowpack, and rarity of west side sightings. Gray wolf Gray wolves were common throughout most of Washington before 1800. By the early 1900s, they had been virtually eliminated by settlers. In the early 1990s, they began returning to the state and by the early 2000s, their presence was confirmed in the eastern and northeastern part of the state. There are now at least 16 confirmed packs and at least 68 confirmed wolves in the state, found primarily in the Eastern Washington Wolf Recovery Area. There are at least three packs in the Northern Cascades Wolf Recovery Region (Becker et. al. 2015, WDFW 2015, Wiles et. al. 2011). A vehicle hit a gray wolf in April 2015 near North Bend on the west side of the Cascades and a wolf was photographed near Stevens Pass in February 2015. Gray wolves can be found in any environment including forests, prairie, deserts, swamps, tundra, and coastal areas. They primarily eat ungulates, although they also feed on small mammals, beaver, carrion, fish, and vegetation (WDFW 2011, Wiles et. al. 2011). They den underground, in abandoned beaver lodges, at the base of hollow trees, and shallow rock caves. Dens are commonly located on hillsides or in other elevated dry areas with loose soils near freshwater and greater vegetation cover (Wiles et. al.). Young disperse when they reach sexual maturity. They have been known to travel hundreds of miles in search of a new territory or mate (Wiles et. al. 2011, WDFW 2011). They require limited human disturbance and an abundance of ungulates for food. They generally need a prey density of 10 deer per square mile (USDOT 2012).

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There are no known active wolf packs on the Skykomish Ranger District. Gray wolves tend to avoid roads, especially areas with more than 1 mile of road per square mile. The Skykomish forks watersheds have an average of 1.3 miles of road per square mile (USFS 1997). Gray wolves are not known to be within the study area. According to the USFS (1997), there is not an abundant ungulate population in the study area that would provide food for a pack nor is there available security habitat for wolves in the study area. Fisher Through over-trapping and habitat loss, fishers have been extirpated in all of Washington except where they were reintroduced in 2008 into the Olympic Mountains. There is no known viable population in Washington State except in the Olympics (Lewis and Stinson 1998). Fishers are found in low to mid-elevation old growth forests. They require the unique structural diversity found in these forests for denning, foraging, and resting. They den in large live trees, snags, and logs. They are found under the dense canopy of late-successional forest traveling between den, resting, and foraging sites and avoid large openings in the forest. They would also travel, forage, and rest in riparian areas (Lewis and Stinson 1998).They feed on snowshoe hare, porcupine, mountain beaver, squirrels, berries, carrion, birds, reptiles, insects, and various small mammals (Lewis and Stinson 1998). Fishers tend to avoid areas with more than 1 mile of road per square mile. The Skykomish forks watersheds have an average of 1.3 miles of road per square mile (USFS 1997). No known sightings of fisher have occurred in the study area. It is unlikely they would be in the study area due to the young forests and fragmented nature of the area. American pine marten Pine marten are found at mid to high elevations in coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests dominated by western hemlock, pacific silver fir, mountain hemlock, lodgepole pine, Engelmann spruce-subalpine fir, and/or Douglas-fir (Stone 2010). They prefer late-successional stands of mesic coniferous forests with a complex structure on the ground, including plenty of fallen logs. They may use younger forests, including riparian areas, if the complex structure is present (USFS 1997). They spend time resting on tree platforms of horizontal branches or structures associated with broom rust, dwarf mistletoe or clumps of lichen, which they prefer (Stone 2010). They would also use tree cavities. The females use a variety of structures for natal and maternal denning, including the branches, cavities or broken tops of live trees, snags, stumps, logs, woody debris piles, witch's brooms, rock piles and squirrel nests or middens (Stone 2010). They feed on Douglas squirrels, tree voles, deer mice, snowshoe hares, fruit, other vegetation, and insects (Stone 2010). There are no known confirmed sightings of pine marten in the study area. The study area is at a lower elevation in a second growth forest, which is not their preferred habitat. However, there is

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a significant amount of downed woody material in the forest, which could provide foraging habitat. There is also mature forest nearby in the Trout Creek drainage at a higher elevation. California wolverine California wolverines are found in alpine and subalpine areas. They den in caves, rock crevices, under fallen trees or tree roots, in thickets, or similar sites at high elevations on concave slopes (USFS 1997). Wolverines feed opportunistically on a wide variety of roots, fruits, small mammals, birds' eggs, fledglings, and fish. Sometimes they kill deer or other large mammals hampered by deep snow. They also feed on small and medium size rodents and carrion. Prey may be cached in tree branches or under snow. Wolverines tend to avoid areas with more than 1 mile of road per square mile. The Skykomish forks watersheds have an average of 1.3 miles of road per square mile (USFS 1997).Wolverines are not known to be in the study area; the study area does not have alpine or sub-alpine habitat available for wolverines. A wildlife monitoring camera project confirmed a wolverine south of Glacier Peak in 2008 (USDOT 2012). The closest unconfirmed sighting occurred in the Skykomish Ranger District in 1982. Habitat in the study area is considered to be of low quality (USFS 1997). They may wander through the study area during winter. Columbian black-tailed deer Columbian black-tailed deer are found from the crest of the Cascades west to the ocean. They prefer brushy, logged lands and coniferous forests (Link 2004). They generally reside in a ½ to 3 square mile area (Link 2004). They feed on a variety of plants and also fruits, lichen, mushrooms. They prefer to browse on the new growth of trees and shrubs. Columbian black- tailed deer prefer open areas between cover that allows them to easily escape predators while feeding. They migrate during spring and fall to avoid snow. A small number of Columbian black-tailed deer are known to use the study area for foraging and possibly for winter thermal cover. The deer populations are limited in the study area by the sporadic forage in the North Fork Skykomish valley (Paz pers. comm.). It is anticipated that they will move out of the area during construction and return when construction is complete. Keeping the AADT below 200 vehicles a day and the speed limit to less than 45mph may minimize Deer- vehicle accident (USFWS 2010). Elk Elk are found in all ages of coniferous and deciduous forests, meadows, open woodlands, clear cuts, wetlands, wet areas such as alluvial floodplains of major rivers, estuaries, riparian areas, and open, brushy stands of deciduous and conifer habitats with abundant water. They eat grasses, forbs, tender twigs and the leaves of shrubs and trees, fungi, and aquatic vegetation. Calving occurs in areas with available water and brushy vegetation, which provides dense cover near openings, and seclusion from human impacts (Brunt 1990).

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A small, but growing population of elk is found in the valleys of the Skykomish River (WDFW 2002). Washington populations are expanding and a section of the study area lies in a mapped WDFW PHS deer and elk winter range (WDFWb 2012). The Skykomish herd is managed as part of the larger North Rainier elk herd. The North Fork Skykomish River is within the Snoqualmie Big Game Management Unit #460 (WDFW 2002). They are not known to inhabit the study area however, individuals may occasionally be found in the floodplain areas near the study area. Mountain goat Mountain goats prefer steep rocky areas with cliffs and bluffs in alpine or subalpine areas where they feed on a variety of vegetation, including lichens, mosses, and conifers. They spend summers above 5,000’ elevation. Mountain goats move to lower elevations in winter to avoid the harsh winter weather. These areas may or may not provide enough forage and are used more as shelter and travel corridors (NOCA 2012). There are no steep cliffs or bluffs in the study area. There is a mapped WDFW PHS mountain goat range approximately one-half mile from the study area (WDFWb 2012). Mountain goats may use the area as a travel corridor in harsh winters. They have been seen on Index-Galena Road near MP 10 after a heavy snowfall in the higher elevations.

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5 Environmental Consequences

5.1 Summary The proposed roadway relocation would include both temporary and permanent impacts. Impacts would occur in U.S. Forest Service designated Riparian Reserves, mature upland forest, streams, and wetlands (Attachment D). Parts of two wetlands would be permanently impacted by filling. In addition, Wetland B would be shaded by the new bridge. Seven seasonal non-fish bearing streams would be conveyed in culverts and one perennial stream would flow through a 10-foot box culvert/ vented ford crossing. In addition, six drainage culverts would be constructed. Mature trees would be removed to accommodate the new roadway. A bridge is proposed for the one fish-bearing stream/wetland crossing near Station 54+00. Approximately 12.2 acres of mature mixed forest would be cleared for the new road alignment. Of this total, approximately 3.3 acres would be permanently impacted by establishing the relocated roadway prism. Approximately 8.9 acres would be cleared to provide construction access and otherwise accommodate construction and would result in long-term temporary impacts. To the extent possible, these areas would be restored after construction is completed. The entire area is within U.S. Forest Service designated Riparian Reserves (Attachment D). Habitat elements within the forest that would be removed from the road prism include stumps, logs, snags, and boulders. The primary wildlife species affected by this change would be amphibians (including western toads), reptiles, Pacific wrens, bats, pine martens, other small to medium mammals (e.g. bobcat), and several neotropical migrants. Some nesting and/or foraging habitat for forest interior birds such as tanagers, thrushes, and Pacific wrens would be lost associated with clearing temporarily and permanently. It is expected that these species would disperse into suitable habitat in adjacent areas, if available. Their nests would be potentially more susceptible to predators, such as Stellar’s jays, due to the increased edge effect created by vegetation clearing. Planting areas in the riparian corridor closer to the river would provide some protection from predators and provide shelter in the long term. Loss of snags during site clearing and grading would affect primary cavity excavators and bats while loss of downed logs would affect amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. Both the loss of snags and logs would impact food sources (primarily invertebrates) for species such as salamanders and birds. Removing the logs, trees, and stumps from the forest would simplify the habitat structure. Simplifying habitat structure typically affects habitat by reducing the diversity of plants that in turn, reduces the diversity of species using the habitat. Species such as owls, woodpeckers, wrens, and salamanders would lose some foraging area and be more susceptible to predation. It is expected that woodpeckers and bats would rely more on the snags along the river or in adjacent upland areas. Where feasible, salvaged trees would be placed as habitat logs and snags throughout the project area (primarily where the old roadway is removed). Brush piles would provide habitat for amphibians and birds.

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Constructing the relocated road alignment through the forest would bisect the habitat used by species that move between the upland forest and the riparian area along the North Fork Skykomish River. The relocated road would also cross several seasonal and perennial streams that may be used as travelways. By constructing the road between habitats and over streams, there is the potential for genetic isolation and local extinction of species, primarily amphibians. Although the existing road has been in place for over 100 years in the riparian area next to the river, relocating the road farther up the slope in the upland forest may have a localized adverse effect on wildlife. It is expected that the relocated road would minimize these impacts by installing several 36-inch diameter culverts and large arch culverts, and a bridge over the wetland that would promote retaining habitat connectivity. The project is not expected to decrease the viability of any species population that would move it towards extinction. By reopening the Index-Galena Road, the traffic volumes currently traveling over U.S. Forest Service Road #65 (Beckler River Road) and over Jack’s Pass would be reduced. Jack’s Pass is an important wildlife corridor (USFS 1997) and FS Road #65 closely follows the Beckler River riparian corridor. Reducing the traffic volume is expected to reduce potential impacts to dispersing wildlife. These impacts include reducing the likelihood of animal-vehicle collisions and avoidance of the road. The project is not expected to increase the AADT on Index-Galena Road. It is unlikely that road mortality or human access to forested areas would change compared to previous road conditions. The new road may present a partial barrier for amphibians, reptiles, and slow-moving species, such as porcupines, but not for wide-ranging species, such as deer. The 35mph design speed may reduce some of the impact. Including large culverts in the design and constructing a bridge over Wetland B may preserve connectivity between the upland areas and the lower riparian and river corridor thus minimizing the potential barrier effect. Rock scour protection would be installed where Wetland A is located to protect the roadway from erosion. Approximately 400 square feet would be filled and approximately 600 square feet of the wetland would be temporarily impacted by construction equipment. This area lies in the North Fork Skykomish River riparian corridor. It is not expected to have a significant impact to wildlife since it is a small impact and much of the wetland consists of the same shrubs that will be planted in the abandoned road after construction. A 180-foot long bridge would be built to cross Wetland B, reducing impacts to the wetland and wildlife habitat. Approximately 10 square feet of Wetland B would be filled and approximately 4,320 square feet would be shaded. Approximately 130 square feet would be temporarily disturbed from construction equipment access. The existing movement corridor between the uplands, wetland, and river would be minimally impacted. Wide-ranging as well as slow-moving wildlife, amphibians, and reptiles would be able to cross safely underneath the bridge. Wetland C is a seep wetland; a lobe of which approximately 530 square feet would be filled and approximately 320 square feet would be temporarily disturbed by construction equipment access. Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 44

It is not expected to have a significant impact to wildlife since most of the seep is below the affected area and is expected to continue flowing. Wetland D will not be impacted by the project. A portion of the trees to be removed from the construction footprint will be retained and used as in-stream and upland habitat features where the existing road is removed.

5.2 Build Alternative

5.2.1 Temporary Effects from Construction

Direct Effects The use of heavy equipment and potential blasting will result in an increase in noise during construction. Snohomish County Public Works has minimized the need for blasting by shifting the relocated road alignment. However, there may be areas of unseen boulders within the construction area that would need to be broken up. Construction and blasting noise levels will go below the injury threshold 100 feet from construction. It is anticipated that noise could be detectable by marbled murrelets and spotted owls but not disturb them by the time it reaches suitable habitat. Temporary impacts in the project area include the temporary loss of nesting, shelter, and dispersal habitat, travel corridors, and foraging habitat for migratory and resident birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. It is expected that most species would avoid the construction area except amphibians and reptiles. Direct mortality to amphibians and possibly reptiles, from construction and construction vehicles could occur throughout much of the project area if they have not dispersed prior to the beginning of construction. Spotted owls would likely disperse into adjacent areas. There is a potential for erosion, sedimentation, and fuel and other chemical and hazardous material spills such as asphalt, concrete, paint, and petroleum products that could kill amphibians. Impact Minimization Measures In order to minimize impacts from noise to marbled murrelets flying along the river corridor and spotted owls that might be in the area, work would begin two hours after sunrise and stop two hours before sunset throughout the project area between April 1 and September 23. Although tree removal would be required, no trees removed are suitable for murrelet nesting platforms or spotted owl nests. All logging and grading would stay within the right of way footprint. This would minimize impacts to vegetation and amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals located within the right of way. Walls and reinforced slopes would be constructed to minimize impacts to wetlands, streams, and surrounding forest. Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 45

Instead of constructing a separate access road to remove asphalt from the river, already cleared areas needed for rock slopes and walls will be used to gain access to the existing damaged roadway remnants. Equipment will also use the river to access areas of asphalt, avoiding additional impacts to riparian areas. To minimize impacts from construction, best management practices (BMPs) would be used throughout construction. Best Management Practices include but are not limited to: • Installing silt fencing and high visibility fencing at outside edges of the project to protect adjacent land and delineate clearing limits. • Using temporary sediment control devices, such as sediment mats, filter bags, erosion blankets, sediment traps, staked sediment barriers, and/or water bladder dams. • Monitoring of erosion and sediment control measures would take place weekly. Monitoring would also occur during major storm events (during active construction periods only). • Temporarily disturbed areas would be revegetated upon project completion. • Staging areas would be located in areas that would minimize the potential of contamination of any wetland or waterbody or removal of any vegetation. • To the extent practicable, servicing and refueling of vehicles would not occur within 150 feet of the streams and wetlands to reduce potential spills of petroleum and hydraulic fluids in sensitive areas. Because only limited portions of the project area are greater than 150 feet away, other BMPs would be used where necessary. These include using drip pans or other containment fitted with absorbent pads and placed under all equipment being fueled. • Spill control and emergency response plans would be implemented for fueling, concrete activity, and staging areas. The spill control/prevention plan would include the following items: notification procedures; specific cleanup and disposal instructions for different products; quick response containment and cleanup measures that would be available on site; and employee training for spill containment. These plans would satisfy all pertinent requirements set forth by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. • Staging and minimizing the clearing and grading at five acres of the new alignment at a time to minimize erosion.

Mitigation All temporarily disturbed vegetated areas along the relocated road would be replanted with native shrubs and trees. All of the existing road would be removed and most of the area where it Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 46

is removed planted with native shrubs and trees. Habitat structures such as standing tree snags, blown-down habitat logs, rock piles and brush piles would also be placed in these areas (See Attachment B). Restoring riparian areas closer to the river would restore wildlife habitat connectivity and the movement corridor between the higher elevations of the upper North Fork Skykomish and the lower drainage. It is expected that wildlife movement along the river corridor would be enhanced by removing the damaged road and planting the riparian corridor. Noxious plants would be controlled as necessary. Forest duff salvaged during construction and saved on site would be placed back into replanted areas in the project area. Compensatory mitigation for permanent impacts to wetlands, streams, and associated buffers would be provided by securing credits from the Skykomish Habitat Mitigation Bank.

5.2.2 Permanent Effects of Project

Direct Effects Seven seasonal streams would be placed in culverts and one perennial stream would flow through a culvert in the armored crossing. These changes to the stream would eliminate the natural substrate within the stream segment conveyed by the culverted portion and may harden and channelize the small streams. This may impact movement and dispersal of amphibians and reptiles that live near the streams. Amphibians and reptiles prefer natural substrates with vegetated cover for protection to move between habitats. If they choose to use the road for passage, there would be an increased likelihood of being hit by vehicles, especially during daylight hours and during the recreational season when more traffic is using the road. Approximately 12.2 acres of mature upland forest and understory would be removed for the relocated road and associated cut and fill slopes. Of this total, approximately 3.3 acres would be permanently impacted by establishment of the roadway prism. Approximately 8.9 acres would result in long-term temporary impacts that would be restored after construction is completed. Removal of the forest, understory vegetation, and habitat elements would cause temporary disturbances to birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. These impacts include a temporary loss of a nesting season, disruptions to dispersal and seasonal movements, loss of foraging areas, and loss of shelter. Species such as neotropical birds and most mammals would leave the area during construction and return when construction is complete. Other species could potentially move to adjacent habitats or out of the project area until the newly planted areas have matured to support their life history needs. Permanent impacts to the habitat include modifying the existing forested cover such that loss of thermal cover and nesting areas would result. Openings created by vegetation clearing and grading would increase edges that allow predators easier access to adjacent forest-dwelling species. Modifications to the topography from the construction of roadway cut and fill prisms would create potential dispersal

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blockages for small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that could reduce dispersal and foraging habitat. Simplification of the habitat structure would affect species such as Pacific wrens and pine martens that favor structural complexity. Due to the small area of impacts in comparison to the size of adjacent forested areas, it is expected that any permanent impacts to the species would be insignificant. Approximately 940 square feet of wetlands would be filled, approximately 1,050 square feet would be temporarily disturbed, and approximately 4,320 square feet would be shaded. Loss of the wetland area may temporarily fragment local amphibian populations. Fragmenting populations can cause dispersal blockage and genetic isolation. Considering the size of the impacts compared to the size of the entire project impacts, it is expected that after construction amphibian populations would recover to pre-construction levels. Increased impervious surfaces in the forested area could change the hydrology of the seep wetlands that amphibians and other species rely on, as could increased sedimentation to streams, wetlands, and seeps. Dispersing the stormwater and allowing it to infiltrate is expected to minimize sedimentation. Since the road washed out in 2006, there has been no traffic noise. Once the new alignment is complete, there would be an increase in noise levels from vehicle traffic closer to marbled murrelets and spotted owl suitable habitat. This increase is not expected to be above the ambient level of the previous road. It is expected that restoring the riparian area along the North Fork Skykomish River would improve the movement and dispersal corridor for large and wide-ranging wildlife and restore connectivity for a variety of other species. Keeping the AADT below 200 vehicles a day and the speed limit to less than 45mph may protect many species from becoming road kill (USFWS 2010). It is expected that there would be no change in human access to the surrounding area due to the new road alignment. There is a higher probability of amphibians being killed trying to cross the road if the AADT of the road exceeds 200. The potential impacts to U.S. Forest Service species are addressed in the following table. See species discussions for details. Species USFS Listing Affect to Species Johnson’s hairstreak USFS Sensitive No impact Puget Oregonian USFS Sensitive No impact USFS Survey and Manage Shiny tightcoil USFS Sensitive No impact USFS Survey and Manage Warty jumping slug USFS Sensitive No impact USFS Survey and Manage

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Evening field slug USFS Sensitive No impact USFS Survey and Manage Oregon megophix USFS Sensitive No impact USFS Survey and Manage Van Dyke’s salamander USFS Sensitive No impact Larch mountain salamander USFS Sensitive No impact Harlequin duck USFS Sensitive No impact Bald eagle USFS Sensitive No impact USFS management indicator Peregrine falcon USFS Sensitive No impact USFS management indicator Northern spotted owl USFS Management indicator **May impact Pileated woodpecker USFS Management indicator **May impact Townsend’s big-eared bat USFS Sensitive **May impact Grizzly bear USFS Management indicator No impact Gray wolf USFS Management indicator No impact Fisher USFS Sensitive No impact American pine marten USFS management indicator **May impact California wolverine USFS Sensitive No impact Columbian black-tailed deer Management prescription **May impact Elk Management prescription No impact Mountain goat USFS management indicator No impact Primary cavity excavators USFS Management indicator **May impact Migratory birds Species of concern **May impact **No impacts that would trend a species towards Federal listing under the Endangered Species Act.

Impact Minimization Measures Based on extensive geotechnical investigations, the relocated roadway alignment was located to avoid geologically unstable areas and reduce impacts to wetlands. By constructing walls through much of the project area and narrowing the road width with use of Low Volume Roadway design standards, permanent roadway prism impacts to the forest and wetland areas were reduced 26 percent from the 30-foot width standard identified previously in the design report. The bridge spanning the large wetland would be long enough to provide a dry Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 49

passage for wildlife passing beneath it during high water and have enough clearance (6’ minimum) to allow large animals to pass underneath. Amphibians are expected to continue to lay eggs in the wetland after initial construction. The bridge would promote habitat connectivity as compared to the culvert that was identified for this location in the Design Report. The Index-Galena Road is a low volume road. Stormwater would sheet flow and disperse from the road and the ridge onto adjacent vegetation and into the forest duff. Seven of the fourteen culverts were upsized to 36-inch diameter to allow passage of small and medium-sized wildlife to cross beneath the road. The culverts include seven 36 inch diameter circular culverts, four 48 inch diameter circular, one 49 inch by 33 inch pipe arch culvert, and one 64 inch by 43 inch culvert. The culvert at the armored crossing would be a 10-foot box. Culverts are spaced an average of 270 feet apart along the new alignment; the closest is 86 feet and the farthest is 894 feet. Mitigation Short term temporary loss of nesting areas for neotropical birds and thermal cover for a variety of species would be replaced through the planting of native trees and shrubs near the road and along the river. The riparian area along the North Fork Skykomish River would be restored by removing the existing road out of the river and planting the area with native trees and shrubs in as many areas as feasible. Restoration would provide a wider vegetated riparian corridor along the rivers left bank in the project area. Restoring the riparian area would improve the microclimate and vegetative structure, and water quality, and reduce disturbance to wildlife that travel riparian corridors (Brown 1985). Forest duff salvaged during project construction would be placed back into areas temporarily impacted by construction that are proposed for replanting. Habitat elements such as rock and brush piles, logs, standing tree snags, coarse woody debris, boulders, and stumps would be placed where the old road is removed from along the river where temporary impacts to vegetation are expected would be planted with native trees and shrubs. Permanent impacts to the forest, streams, and seep wetlands would be mitigated for by securing credits at the Skykomish Habitat Mitigation Bank. The project includes salvaging logs, trees, and stumps and placing them in the riparian zone adjacent to the river, where appropriate. Sword ferns would potentially be planted in all appropriate areas to replace lost fern habitat.

Indirect Effects Indirect effects are those effects caused by the action that occur later in time (generally after project construction is completed), but are still reasonably certain to occur. The project is not expected to encourage development. Most of the land surrounding the area is owned by the U.S. Forest Service, including the Wild Sky Wilderness upslope of the alignment. There is one parcel

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of private property that is currently used to launch river rafts. There is a small area near MP 6.9 that has been used for dispersed camping and river access in the past. It is not expected that human behavior along the new alignment would change from previous behaviors. Over time, invasive plant species may become established along the relocated roadway alignment. Predatory birds such as Stellar’s jays may increase in numbers impacting nesting forest birds. These changes may cause amphibians, reptiles, and birds to change their behavior by nesting in different areas or moving via different corridors.

Cumulative Effects The proposed project would not contribute to cumulative impacts to adjacent land areas and planned land uses. When considered together with the Index-Galena project, the following projects would be expected to contribute noise, dust, and traffic congestion to the greater project area during their respective construction periods, which would add to temporary construction impacts with no measurable adverse impacts to wildlife. Re-establishing Index-Galena Road in combination with other planned improvements is not expected to indirectly stimulate land use changes in Index and unincorporated communities. Restoring and maintaining long established year-round access to the upper North Fork Skykomish valley is likely to encourage future land uses that focus on services to recreation through traffic. These may become more prominent than at present once historic recreation use levels are restored after the roadway is constructed. These changes are not expected to result in significant effects that would exceed recreation use levels already contemplated and addressed by Snohomish County and the U.S. Forest Service as part of their respective adopted plans. The proposed project represents one of multiple planned roadway capital improvements located on Index-Galena Road identified in the adopted 2013-2018 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP). None of the planned improvements would increase roadway capacity. Other improvements that are currently being evaluated include the following from the adopted TIP: • TIP # 41.16 Flood Repair Index-Galena (Milepost 5.8) This FHWA Emergency Relief (ER) funded project would excavate unstable soils and construct a rock buttress to stabilize the roadway embankment. The majority of the work would occur 100 feet or further landward of the river. • TIP # F. 41 Howard Creek Bridge #496 Replacement (Milepost 9.014) This planned project with FHWA bridge replacement funds would replace a structurally deficient timber stringer bridge. • TIP # F. 50 Trout Creek Bridge #494 (Milepost 6.057)

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This more long-term planned and currently unfunded bridge replacement project would replace a scour critical concrete span with a longer span with a deep foundation to resist scour. The proposed project is not likely to have substantial, if any, influences on growth and development factors, and therefore is not expected to be a major catalyst to future growth. Cumulatively, impacts from the Index-Galena Milepost 6.4-Milepost 6.9 project would not be expected to contribute to impacts associated with other proposed and future changes that may occur in the upper North Fork Skykomish River valley area. The Index-Galena Milepost 6.4- Milepost 6.9 project has been integrated into planning efforts for this area. Efforts on the part of recreation users to promote recreation access would likely have a greater influence on the future of this area than would the proposed project alone.

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6 Unavoidable Adverse Impacts The project as proposed is not expected to have significant unavoidable impacts. Approximately 12.2 acres of impacts to the forested area will occur. Of this total, establishment of the roadway prism would permanently impact approximately 3.3 acres. Approximately 8.9 acres would result in long-term temporary impacts that would be restored after construction is completed. This area is part of the larger North Fork Skykomish watershed, which encompasses an estimated 93,960 acres. It is expected that the impacts from the new alignment would be substantial for the project area but minimal within the context of the entire watershed. Many of these impacts would be offset by proposed mitigation efforts throughout the project area. Adverse effects from construction of the new alignment include the following: • Loss of spotted owl dispersal habitat Approximately 12.2 acres of dispersal habitat would be removed for construction of the relocated road alignment. Approximately 3.3 acres would be permanently impacted by establishing the roadway prism. The remainder would be affected by long-term temporary impacts but would be restored after construction is completed with smaller trees and shrubs in the long term. The spotted owl may potentially use the riparian area closest to the river instead, once it is restored. • Loss of amphibian habitat- seep wetland and fast-flowing ephemeral stream Amphibian species such as red-backed salamanders would lose shelter and foraging habitat. Fragmenting the forest, altering stream and seep wetland patterns, and removing habitat elements such as logs would impact a variety of species but especially amphibians. Logs and other habitat elements will be placed where the old road is removed from along the river to provide habitat. • Loss of foraging, shelter, and nesting habitat for interior forest bird species and neotropical bird species Forest interior birds such as Pacific Slope flycatchers would lose habitat through fragmentation of the forest, increasing the edge habitat allowing predators easier access, and the loss of vegetative cover. Over time, the planted areas will provide this habitat. • Loss of habitat elements such as logs, snags, rock and boulder piles The loss of these habitat elements would impact a variety of species in the forest that depend on them for foraging and shelter. Mitigation includes creating some elements where the old road is removed from along the river.

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Altman, Bob. 2000. Conservation Strategy for Landbirds in Lowlands and Valleys of Western Oregon and Washington. Version 1. March 2000. Prepared for Oregon-Washington Partners in Flight.

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Forsman, E.D., R.G. Anthony, J.A. Reid, P.J. Loschl, S.G. Sovern, M. Taylor, B.L. Biswell, A. Ellingson, E.C. Meslow, G.S. Miller, K.A. Swindle, J.A. Thrailkill, F.F. Wagner, and D.E. Seaman. 2002. Natal and breeding dispersal of northern spotted owls. Wildlife Monographs 149.

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(SCPW) Snohomish County Public Works. 2013a. Index-Galena Road relocation between MP 6.4-6.9 Biological Assessment. July 2013. Irene Sato.

(SCPW) Snohomish County Public Works. 2013b. Wetland report and habitat management plan for Index-Galena MP 6.4-6.9 (RC1532). July 2013. Beth Larsen.

Spencer, Rocky. 2002. Washington State Elk Herd Plan: North Rainier Elk Herd. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. March 2002.

Stinson, D. W. 2001. Washington State recovery plan for the lynx. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Olympia, Washington. 78 pp. + 5 maps.

Stone, Katharine. 2010. Martes americana. In: Fire Effects Information System, [Online]. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory (Producer). Accessed 2012. Available: http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/

(USDOT) United State Department of Transportation. Federal Highway Administration. Western Federal Lands Highway Division. 2012. Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Road Project environmental assessment. WA PFH 29-1(1)

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2014. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Threatened Status for the Western Distinct Population Segment of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus); Final Rule. October 3, 2014. Federal Register 79(192): 59991-60038.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2013a. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed Threatened Status for the Western Distinct Population Segment of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus); Proposed Rule. October 3, 2013. Federal Register 78(192): 61622-61666.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2013b. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for the Oregon Spotted Frog; Proposed Rule. August 29, 2013. Federal Register 78(168): 53538-53579.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 57

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2012a. Birds Protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act; List of migratory birds. Accessed 2012. http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/RegulationsPolicies/mbta/mbtandx.html

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office. Endangered Species Fact Sheet – Spotted Owl. Accessed 2012b. http://www.fws.gov/oregonfwo/Species/Data/NorthernSpottedOwl/default.asp

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service Mountain-Prairie Region; Endangered Species Program. Grizzly Bear Recovery. Accessed 2012c. http://www.fws.gov/mountain- prairie/species/mammals/grizzly/

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2011a. USFWS Critical habitat Portal. Available at: http://criticalhabitat.fws.gov/.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2011b. Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species Listed Species in Snohomish County. Available at: http://www.fws.gov/westwafwo/speciesmap/SNOHOMIS.html.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2011c. Revised recovery plan for the Northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina). June 28, 2011. Region 1 Portland OR.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2010. Innovative approaches to wildlife/highway interactions. Summer 2010. USFWS National Training Center. Portland OR.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2006. Endangered and Threatened wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for the Marbled Murrelet. Proposed Rule September 12, 2006. Federal Register 71(176): 53838-53886.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2005. Spotted owl species ecology and life history information. http://ecos.fws.gov/speciesProfile/profile/speciesProfile.action?spcode=B08B

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2004. Marbled Murrelet Five Year Review. Portland, OR. Available at: http://ecos.fws.gov/docs/five_year_review/doc732.pdf

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1996. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Designation of Critical Habitat for the Marbled Murrelet. Final Rule May 25, 1996. Federal Register 61(102): 26256-26320.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1993. Grizzly bear recovery plan. Missoula, MT.

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1992. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Critical Habitat for Northern Spotted Owl. Final Rule January 15, 1992. Federal Register 57(10): 1796-1838. Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 58

(USFWS) United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. Determination of Threatened Status for the Northern Spotted Owl. Final Rule June 26, 1990. Federal Register 55(123): 26114- 26194.

(USFS) United States Forest Service. 1997. Skykomish Forks watershed assessment.

(USFS) United States Forest Service. 1990. Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan.

University of Michigan animal Diversity Web. Accessed 2012. http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html

Wainwright, Mitch and Nancy Duncan. 2005. Conservation Assessment for Four Species of the Genus Hemphillia. Revised October 2005. USDA Forest Service Region 6.

(WDFW) Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2015. Gray wolf conservation and management web site. Accessed spring 2015.

(WDFW) Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2012a. Threatened and Endangered Wildlife in Washington: 2011 Annual Report. Endangered Species Section, Wildlife Program. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Olympia.

(WDFW) Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Priority Habitats and Species database. Accessed online 2012b.

(WDFW) Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Washington State species of concern Lists. Accessed online 2012c. http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/endangered/All/

(WDFW) Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2011. Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan for Washington. July 28, 2011.

(WDFW) Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2009. Landscape Planning for Washington’s Wildlife: Managing in Developing Areas. Olympia, WA.

(WDFW) Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2003. Management recommendations for Washington’s priority species- volume IV: birds.

(WDNR) Washington Department of Natural Resources. 2002. Inactive and Abandoned Mine Lands- Sunset Mine, Snohomish County, Washington. Washington Division of Geology and Earth Resources. Open file report 2002-4. September 2002.

(WDNR) Washington Department of Natural Resources. Geology of Washington. http://www.dnr.wa.gov/ResearchScience/Topics/GeologyofWashington/Pages/ ncascade.aspx Accessed 2013.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 59

(WSDOT) Washington Department of Transportation. 2009. Recommended Protocol for Evaluating Wildlife Habitat for Washington Department of Transportation Projects. Herrera Environmental Consultants. February 12, 2009.

(WGA) Washington Gap Analysis. Accessed 2012.

Washington Herp Atlas. http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/herp/index.html. Accessed 2012.

Washington Nature Mapping Program. Washington Wildlife and Plant Species List by County. Accessed 2012. http://naturemappingfoundation.org/natmap/maps/county/species/Species_by_County _Snohomish.pdf

Watson, W. James, David W. Hays, D. John Pierce. 1999. Efficacy of Northern Goshawk Broadcast Surveys in Washington State. Journal of Wildlife Management 63(1): 98-106.

Watson, James W., David W. Hays, Sean P. Finn, Paul Meehan-Martin. 1998. Prey of Breeding Northern Goshawks in Washington. Journal of Raptor Research.

(WBWG) Western Bats Working Group. Accessed 2012. http://www.wbwg.org/speciesinfo/species_accounts/species_accounts.html

Wilcove, D.S., C.H. McClellan, and A.P. Dobson. 1986. Habitat Fragmentation in the Temperate Zone. Pp 237-256 in M.E. Soule, ed. Conservation Biology: the Science of Scarcity and Diversity. Sinauer Associates, Sunderland, MA.

Wiles, G. J., H. L. Allen, and G. E. Hayes. 2011. Wolf conservation and management plan for Washington. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Olympia WA.

Williams, Kim, Rob Mies, Donald and Lillian Stokes. 2002. Stokes Beginner’s Guide to Bats. Little, Brown and Company.

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Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 61

Attachment A: Photos of Habitat and Wildlife Sign

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Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 63

Project Area

MP 6.9 looking east up valley at Index-Galena Road. December 2, 2012

This is a mitigation site for prior work at Index-Galena Road Milepost 10.9. Asphalt was removed and plantings installed.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 64 Project Area

Looking west down valley at existing undamaged Index-Galena Road at MP 6.4. Trout Creek Rd intersection is near cars. This area would be restored.

Looking down slope toward the river at an undamaged remnant of the existing road. This area would be restored.

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Study Area

Trout Creek at bridge looking upstream

Trout Creek looking downstream from bridge to the North Fork Skykomish River.

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Project Area

Near the mouth of Wetland B stream. December 2, 2012. This area typically dries up in late summer.

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Wetland B – proposed to be bridged near MP 6.9

Wetland B pond December 2, 2012. This area would be bridged.

Lobe of wetland that would be filled.

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Wetland B – Area proposed to be bridged by a 180-foot span.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 69

Wetland B to be bridged at MP 6.9

Habitat upslope from Wetland B pond December 2, 2012

Looking east at Wetland B seasonal ponding. December 2, 2012

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 70 Wetland B to be bridged at MP 6.9

Looking north at Wetland B. December 2, 2012

Upland forest above wetland B.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 71

Wetland B to be bridged at MP 6.9

Middle of wetland B in August 2012. Note that water level has dropped compared to winter/spring levels.

Southwest end of wetland B August 2012. Extensive beaver activity has been observed in this area.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 72

Signs of wildlife in the project area

Stranded dead fish in Wetland B August Northwestern salamander egg mass in 2012. Wetland B August 2012.

Recent beaver activity along river.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 73

Signs of wildlife in the project area

Various woodpecker sign

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 74

Signs of wildlife in the project area

Deer track near river Coyote scat near river

Deer scat above new alignment.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 75 Habitat in the study area and project area

North Fork Skykomish River looking downstream from MP 6.9.

North Fork Skykomish River looking upstream from MP 6.9 from dispersed recreation site used for river recreation access.

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Project Area

Existing roadway pavement to be removed, and riparian restoration would occur.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 77 Project Area

Habitat along new alignment.

Perennial stream where box culvert vented ford crossing would be constructed.

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Project Area

Riparian area upslope from Typical upland forested habitat in project existing road. area.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 79 Project Area

Looking toward Trout Creek Rd intersection with Index-Galena Road, where relocated road would tie in to existing road.

One of several seasonal streams along the proposed relocated roadway alignment.

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Project Area

N Fk Skykomish

Aerial view at MP 6.9 showing earlier mitigation site for MP 10.9.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 81

Examples of habitat elements in and along new alignment.

Pacific wren

Large boulder above perennial stream at box culvert vented ford crossing location. No impact to boulder.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 82 Signs of wildlife in the project area

Probable Northern goshawk plucking post. Varied thrush feathers.

Bear stripped cedar tree.

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 83 Signs of wildlife through tracking and

monitoring cameras

Two deer along new alignment Bear track at Wetland B.

Coyote near wetland B

Bear near wetland B

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 84 Wetland C (seep slope wetland) would be partially filled.

Head of Wetland C at base of large boulder.

Looking down Wetland C toward the river.

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Attachment B Project: Area Impact Plan Sheets

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Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 87

Attachment C: Species List Species Predicted or Known to Occur in the Index-Galena MP6.4-6.9 Study Area

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Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 89

Species Predicted or Known to Occur in the Index-Galena MP6.4-6.9 Study Area

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii INVERTEBRATES Beller’s ground Agonum belleri SoC N/A No No acidic bogs in beetle study area Johnson’s Callophyrs SS/SM N/A No Old growth hairstreak johnsoni obligate butterfly associated with mistletoe Puget oregonian Cryptomastix SS/SM N/A No Not documented devia on the MBSNF Shiny tightcoil Pristiloma SS/SM N/A No Not documented wascoense on the MBSNF Warty jumping Hemiphillia SS/SM N/A No Not documented slug glandulosa on the MBSNF Evening fieldslug Deroceras SS/SM N/A No Not documented hesperium on the MBSNF Oregon megophix Megophix SS/SM N/A No Not documented hemphilli on the MBSNF

AMPHIBIANS Pacific giant Dicamptodon N/A H Terrestrial form salamander tenebrosus may be present in perennial streams

Long-toed Ambystoma N/A H Forest, seasonal salamander macrodacty- pools without fish, lum interstitial spaces of rocks

Northwestern Ambystoma N/A H Terrestrial form salamander* gracile may be present; possible egg masses found in August 2012 Rough- skinned Trisha N/A H Terrestrial form newt granulosa may be present

Ensatina Ensatina N/A U Terrestrial eschscholtzii Western red- Plethodon N/A U Terrestrial backed cinereus salamander Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 90

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Van dyke’s Plethodon C SS N/A No No known Salamander vandykei sightings north of Highway 2

Larch Mountain Plethodon S SS N/A No No known salamander larselli sightings north of Highway 2 Western toad Bufo boreas C SoC N/A H Possibly, although wetland pond dries up in summer Pacific chorus Pseudacris N/A U All habitats frog regilla Cascades frog Rana cascadae SoC N/A No High elevation

Coastal tailed Ascaphus truei SoC N/A No Need fast flowing frog water Red-legged frog Rana aurora N/A H Terrestrial Oregon spotted Rana pretiosa E T Need matrix of frog wetland habitats Bullfrog Rana N/A No Need permanent catesbeiana water REPTILES Common garter Thamnopsis N/A H Near wetlands; eat snake sirtalis newts Northwestern Thamnophis N/A H Edge areas, love garter snake ordinoides slugs & snails Western Thamnophis N/A H Near water; winter terrestrial garter elegans in rock piles not snake necessarily near water Rubber boa Charina bottae N/A H Uncommon but may be present in study area Western pond Clemmys E SoC N/A No No permanent turtle marmorata ponds Northern Elgaria N/A O Has been observed alligator lizard coerulea nearby. BIRDS

Harlequin duck* Histrionicus SS yes U On river summer histrionicus

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 91

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Common Mergus yes C Seen on river merganser* merganser

Ruffed grouse* Bonasa no U Forest and umbellus riparian areas. Found grouse scat throughout project area. Common loon Gavia immer S yes No No lakes in study area Great blue heron Ardea herodius yes U River & wetland Green heron Butorides yes H Possibly at large virescens wetland Turkey vulture* Cathartes aura yes U Summer Osprey* Pandion yes U Summer/river; no haliaetus known nests in study area Bald eagle* Haliaeetus S SoC SS/MIS yes U Mid-winter visitor leucocephalus along river. No known nests in study area Sharp-shinned Accipiter yes U Forest, riparian hawk striatus Cooper's hawk Accipiter yes U Forest, riparian cooperii Northern Accipiter C SoC yes O Forest. Nest within goshawk* gentilis 2.5 miles. Found probable plucking post with varied thrush feathers. Red-tailed hawk* Buteo yes U Open areas near jamacensis river Golden eagle* Aquila C yes R Open areas near chrysaetos river American kestrel Falco yes H Open areas near sparverius river Merlin Falco yes H Forest columbarius Peregrine falcon Falco S SoC SS/MIS yes O Nests Town Wall peregrinus Killdeer Charadrius yes U Open areas near vociferus river

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 92

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Spotted Actitis yes U Summer/river sandpiper* macularia Marbled murrelet Brachyramphus T T yes U Found 3 miles marmoratus away; uses river as flyway. No nesting habitat in study area. Band-tailed Columba yes U Riparian pigeon* fasciata Mourning dove Zenaida yes H Open areas around macroura river Yellow-billed Coccyzus C T yes U Nesting extirpated cuckoo americanus in Snohomish County Western screech- Megascops yes U Forest owl kennicotti Great horned owl Bubo yes U Forest virginianus Northern pygmy- Glaucidium yes O Forest owl gnoma Barred owl* Strix varia yes U Forest; seen nearby

Northern saw- Aegolius yes O Forested areas whet owl acadicus

Northern spotted Strix E T MIS yes U Closest nest 3.5 owl occidentalis miles: suitable habitat ½ mile away Great gray owl Strix nebulosa yes R Mature conifer forests adjacent to open meadows Common Chordeiles yes O Summer feeding nighthawk minor over river Black swift Cypseloides yes O Summer feeding niger over river Vaux's swift* Chaetura vauxi C yes U Summer feeding over river Anna's Calypte anna yes H Riparian hummingbird

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 93

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Rufous Selasphorus yes C Summer/riparian hummingbird* rufus & wetland

Belted kingfisher Ceryle alcyon yes C River/maybe wetland when juvenile fish present Red-breasted Sphyrapicus yes U Forest, riparian sapsucker* ruber Downy Picoides yes U Forest, riparian woodpecker* pubescens Hairy woodpecker Picoides yes U Forest, riparian villosus Northern flicker Colaptes yes U Riparian auratus Pileated Dryocopus C MIS yes U Forest woodpecker* pileatus Black-backed Picoides articus C yes No No habitat in the woodpecker study area American dipper* Cinclus yes C River mexicanus Olive-sided Contopus SoC yes U Summer/riparian; flycatcher* cooperi forest edges Western wood- Contopus yes U Summer/riparian; pewee sordidulus forest Willow flycatcher Empidonax yes H Summer/riparian traillii Hammond's Empidonax yes H Summer/riparian- flycatcher* hammondii prefer Douglas-fir Pacific slope Empidonax yes U Summer/ riparian flycatcher* difficilis Say’s phoebe Sayornis saya Yes H May briefly use area during spring migration. Cassin's vireo Vireo cassinii yes H Summer/riparian Hutton's vireo Vireo huttoni yes O Riparian Warbling vireo* Vireo gilvus yes U Riparian Red-eyed vireo Vireo olivaceus yes O Summer Steller's jay Cyanocitta yes U Forest, riparian stelleri

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Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii American crow Corvus yes O Open areas along brachyrhyn- river chos Common raven* Corvus corax yes U Most areas. Gray jay Perisoreus yes O Forest canadensis

Clark's nutcracker Nucifraga yes H Very unlikely to be columbiana in study area during winter Tree swallow Tachycineta yes C Summer over river bicolor Barn swallow Petrochelidon yes U Summer over river pyrrhonota Violet-green Tachycineta yes C Summer over river swallow thalassina Cliff swallow Petrochelidon yes U Summer over river pyrrhunota Northern rough- Stelgidopteryx yes U Summer over river winged swallow serripennis Black-capped Poecile yes U Riparian chickadee* atricapillus Chestnut-backed Poecile yes C Forest chickadee rufescens Mountain Poecile gambeli yes O May come down in chickadee winter Bushtit Psaltriparus yes C Riparian minimus Red-breasted Sitta yes C Forest, riparian nuthatch canadensis Brown creeper Certhia yes U Forest americana Bewick's wren Thryomanes yes C Riparian, wetland bewickii Pacific wren* Troglodytes yes C Forest pacificus Golden-crowned Regulus yes C Forest, riparian kinglet* satrapa Ruby-crowned Regulus yes C Forest, riparian kinglet calendula except summer

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 95

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Townsend's Myadestes yes R Riparian in solitaire townsendi migration; seen nearby Swainson's Myadestes yes U Summer/wetland, thrush* townsendi riparian Hermit thrush Catharus yes H Winter/forest guttatus American robin* Turdus yes C Riparian migratorius Varied thrush* Ixoreus naevius yes C Riparian, forest Cedar waxwing Bombycilla yes O Riparian cedrorum

Orange-crowned Vermivora yes H Riparian; nest in warbler celata sword fern Yellow warbler* Dendroica yes H Summer/riparian petechia Yellow-rumped Dendroica yes U Forest, riparian warbler* coronata Black-throated Dendroica yes U Summer/riparian gray warbler* nigrescens Townsend's Dendroica yes H Forest interior warbler townsendi Hermit warbler Dendroica Yes H Summer/forest occidentalis interior; prefer Douglas-fir Macgillivray's Oporornis yes H Summer/wetland, warbler tolmiei riparian Common Geothylpis yes H Wetland yellowthroat trichas Wilson's warbler Wilsonia pusilla yes U Summer/wetland, riparian Western tanager* Piranga yes U Summer/riparian ludoviciana Spotted towhee Pipilo yes C Forest, riparian maculates Fox sparrow Passerella yes U Riparian iliaca Song sparrow* Melospiza yes C Riparian, wetland melodia

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 96

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Lincoln's sparrow Melospiza yes H Migration/Nest lincolnii high elevation

White-crowned Zonotrichia yes U Riparian, wetland sparrow leucophrys Golden-crowned Zonotrichia yes O Riparian, wetland sparrow atricapilla Dark-eyed junco* Junco hyemalis yes C Riparian, wetland, forest Black-headed Pheucticus yes C Summer/riparian grosbeak melanoce- phalus Brown-headed Molothrus ater yes O Riparian, wetland cowbird Gray-crowned Leucosticte yes H May come down in rosy finch tephrocotis winter Purple finch Carpodacus yes O Riparian, forest purpureus American Carduelis tristis yes O May use open goldfinch areas across from project area. Red crossbill* Loxia yes R Depends on annual curvirostra cone production; have been seen after burns Pine siskin* Carduelis pinus yes R Riparian, forest Pine grosbeak Pinicola yes H May come down in enucleator winter Evening Coccothraustes yes R Riparian, wetland grosbeak* vespertinus MAMMALS Virginia opossum Dedelphis N/A H Riparian virginiana Mountain beaver Aplodontia rufa N/A H Forest, riparian Townsend's Tamias N/A U Riparian, wetland chipmunk townsendii Douglas' squirrel* Tamiasciurus N/A C Forest douglasii Northern flying Glaucomys N/A U Forest, snags squirrel sabrinus

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 97

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Beaver* Castor N/A U Active in Wetland canadensis B, M/P 6.9 and at M/P 6.4 Northern pocket Thomomys N/A H Possibly in gopher* talpoides riparian areas Creeping vole Microtus N/A H Forest oregoni Long-tailed vole Microtus N/A H Forest, riparian longicaudus Western red- Clethrionomys N/A H Wetland, forest, backed vole gapperi needs stumps, logs roots Townsend's vole Microtus N/A H Wetlands w/dense townsendii grass cover, forest Muskrat Ondatra N/A H Riparian zibethicus Northern bog Synaptomys N/A H Wetland lemming borealis Black rat Rattus rattus N/A H Unknown Bushy-tailed Neotoma N/A H Riparian, forest, woodrat cinerea rocky areas Deer mouse Peromyscus N/A U Forest maniculatus Pacific jumping Zapus N/A H Forest, wetland, mouse trinotatus riparian Porcupine Erethizon N/A H Riparian, forest dorsatum Snowshoe hare Lepus N/A H Forest, riparian americanus Pika Ochotona N/A O Found in boulder princeps piles near MP 10 Trowbridge's Sorex N/A H Forest, prefer logs shrew trowbridgii Vagrant shrew Sorex vagrans N/A H Forest, wetland, riparian Pacific water Sorex bendirii N/A H Forest, wetland, shrew riparian, esp. red alder forests & skunk cabbage Masked shrew Sorex cinerius N/A H Forests, wetlands

Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 98

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Shrew-mole Neurtriches N/A H Forest, wetland, gibbsii riparian, lots of leaf litter Coast mole Scapanus N/A H Forest orarius Big brown bat Eptesicus N/A H Forest fuscus California myotis Myotis N/A H Summer, forest californicus

Hoary bat Lasiurus N/A H Forest cinereus Keen's myotis Myotis keenii C N/A H Rare in Snohomish County Little brown Myotis N/A U River and riparian myotis lucifugus Long-eared Myotis evotis SoC N/A No Alpine/subalpine, myotis scrub/shrub & brushland, grasslands Long-legged Myotis volans SoC N/A H Forest myotis Silver-haired bat Lasionycteris N/A H Forest noctivagans Pacific Corynorhinus C SoC SS N/A H Forest Townsend's big- townsendii eared bat townsendii Yuma myotis Myotis N/A H Riparian yumanensis Black bear, Ursus N/A U All habitats. Found American* americanus sign of feeding on cedars. Grizzly bear Ursus arctos E T MIS N/A H Riparian but rare in the state Bobcat* Lynx rufus N/A U Forest/riparian, documented at site Canada lynx Lynx T T N/A No Not known to canadensis occur on the MBS National Forest Mountain lion Puma concolor N/A O All over, hunt from big boulders; tracks seen in valley Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 99

Scientific USFWS WDFWi USFSiii MBTAiv Presencev Comments Common Name Name ii Gray wolf Canus lupus E E MIS N/A H Rare in the state Coyote* Canis latrans N/A U Riparian/wetland Red fox Vulpes vulpes N/A H Open areas along river Spotted skunk Spilogale N/A H Riparian gracilis Striped skunk Mephitis N/A H Riparian mephitis Fisher Pekania E C SS N/A No Extirpated from pennanti County Long-tailed Mustela N/A H All habitats weasel frenata Mink Mustela vison N/A H Near river Pine Marten, Martes caurina MIS N/A H Forest with lots of American downed wood Raccoon Procyon lotor N/A H Riparian/wetland River otter Lutra N/A U River; seen in river canadensis at MP 10 Short-tailed Mustela N/A H All habitats, weasel (Ermine) erminea especially boulder fields Wolverine, Gulo gulo C SoC SS N/A No Elevation too low. California May use unplowed roads as winter travel corridor.

Elk Cervus elaphus Mgmt. N/A H Uncommon in Prescrip County; population tion expanding. Occasionally seen in South Fork Skykomish valley but no herds. Mountain goat Oreamnos MIS N/A U Goat range ½ mile americanus north. May use area as winter travel corridor. Have used road near MP 10 after heavy snow. Columbian black- Odocoileus Mgmt. N/A U Found in all tailed deer* hemionus prescrip habitats columbianus tion

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i E-endangered, T-threatened, C-candidate ii E-endangered, T-threatened, C-candidate, SoC-species of concern iii SS-sensitive species, MIS-management indicator species, SM-survey and manage species iv Bird species protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act v C-common means certain to be seen in suitable habitat

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Attachment D: U.S. Forest Service Aquatic Conservation Strategy

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VI. Consistency with U.S. Forest Service Mt. Baker Snoqualmie-National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan, as amended

Outlined below are preliminary findings of how the proposed Index-Galena Road Milepost 6.4- 6.9 project would be consistent with adopted U.S. Forest Service plans, policies, standards and guidelines. Final findings of consistency and conditions that would be applied to the proposed project would be determined during the reviews that would occur as part of applications for development approval.

Consistency with Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest Plan - Aquatic Conservation Strategies (ACS)

The project as proposed would be consistent with Aquatic Conservation Strategies as provided in the Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National forest Plan, as amended. The following discussion outlines how the proposed Index-Galena Milepost 6.4-6.9 project would potentially prevent, retard, or contribute significantly to the achievement of the Aquatic Conservation Strategy Objectives at the scale the ACS Objectives were described. It is expected that the project as proposed at a minimum would not prevent achievement of ACS Objectives and would help to contribute significantly to achievement of some of the ACS Objectives. A brief description of how the proposed project relates to each objective is provided below in italics:

• Objective 1: Maintain and restore the distribution, diversity, and complexity of watershed and landscape-scale features to ensure protection of the aquatic systems to which species, populations and communities are uniquely adapted. The project would relocate the roadway from the river and its floodplain to restore roadway connectivity. Relocation would contribute to maintaining diversity and complexity of watershed features by relocating the roadway out of the floodplain and restoring free flow of the North Fork Skykomish River. Portions of the roadway would also be located out of the channel migration zone. Relocation enables the existing damaged roadway asphalt to be removed and natural riparian site conditions to be restored. This promotes aquatic restoration including benefits to in-stream habitat, and the adjacent riparian habitat that would provide greater habitat diversity and promote enhanced wildlife habitat conditions in proximity to the river. River flow conditions would also be restored to more natural conditions without the existing roadway’s constrictions to channel migration. Removal of the failing, eroded roadway is expected to maintain the distribution, diversity, and complexity of watershed and landscape scale features by preventing future roadway failure. Incorporation of habitat restoration plantings and LWD placement would add habitat complexity and roughness elements in the channel.

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Approximately 1.5 acres of riparian buffer would be enhanced by abandoning the existing roadway. This area would be replanted with native shrubs and trees. This would occur in the area near Milepost 6.1, upstream from Milepost 6.4 and extend to Milepost 6.7, and in some of the area upstream from Milepost 6.9. All temporarily disturbed areas associated with asphalt removal and access to this area would be treated with salvaged duff and mulch and planted with native trees and shrubs above the ordinary high water mark, out of the most flood susceptible zone.

• Objective 2: Maintain and restore spatial and temporal connectivity within and between watersheds, Lateral, longitudinal, and drainage network connections include floodplains, wetlands, upslope areas, headwater tributaries, and intact refugia. These network connections must provide chemically and physically unobstructed routes to critical areas for fulfilling life history requirements of aquatic and riparian-dependent species.

The project would maintain and restore hydrologic connectivity within the watershed. The damaged roadway would be removed and the roadway relocated further landward of the North Fork Skykomish River outside of the floodplain and substantial portions out of the channel migration zone. Effects from vegetation clearing and road construction would be offset in part by removing the damaged roadway in the river side channel and adjacent riparian areas that would restore hydrologic connectivity by restoring floodplain connectivity. The project would restore existing connectivity within the watershed and would not affect connectivity between watersheds. The proposed action would maintain and enhance the integrity of the riparian buffer over the long term. Removal of the existing roadway and relocation further landward is expected to enhance aquatic refugia as side channel development over time has a positive effect on riparian connectivity. Similarly, the project is not expected to obstruct the movement of terrestrial species, dependent upon riparian corridors for their habitat needs or movement between habitat areas. The long-term improvement in the riparian buffer in the project area would ultimately result in increased LWD recruitment, which could contribute to an increase of complex in-stream wood features that, in turn, would enhance the connectivity of productive rearing and foraging habitats for native fish and aquatic macroinvertebrates.

• Objective 3: Maintain and restore the physical integrity of the aquatic system, including shorelines, banks, and bottom configurations.

The project would maintain and restore the physical integrity of the river aquatic system, including shorelines, banks, and bottom configurations with relocation of the damaged roadway landward from the river. During construction, the physical integrity of the aquatic system would be maintained with limiting all in-water work associated with the Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 105

project to the dry season and containment systems and other measures would be installed to separate construction activity from the active flow of the river. After construction is completed, riparian mitigation in proximity to the river would include removing existing roadway asphalt located both from the channel and adjacent to the river. Restoration plantings would aid in restoring the overall integrity of the aquatic system. Large woody debris would be placed as part of the riparian restoration efforts. Restoring this area to a more natural channel and riparian buffer corridor would maintain and restore the physical integrity of the streambed configuration and would have a positive effect on sediment transport and deposition processes within the North Fork Skykomish River.

• Objective 4: Maintain and restore water quality necessary to support healthy riparian, aquatic, and wetland ecosystems. Water quality must remain within the range that maintains the biological, physical, and chemical integrity of the system and benefits survival, growth, reproduction, and migration of individuals composing aquatic and riparian communities.

The project’s relocation of Index-Galena Road would aid in prevention of catastrophic failure of the roadway for the long term, eliminating a source of material that could be potentially introduced to the river that does not promote healthy riparian, aquatic ecosystems. Short term water quality impacts associated with construction would be managed by implementing project sedimentation control best management practices. All stormwater runoff on the completed roadway would be dispersed on the downslope adjacent areas, before sheet flowing and infiltrating through vegetated buffer areas. This process would filter and infiltrate the runoff. Thus, no measurable increases in the concentration or loading of stormwater contaminants would be expected to enter the North Fork Skykomish River, and indirect effects to aquatic species would be nonexistent or insignificant.

Although water quality would be maintained over the long term, construction activities may cause minor, short-term increases in sedimentation and turbidity in the river and in sideslope streams crossed by the relocated roadway. However, sediment would be minimized or eliminated because construction will be limited to the dry season and appropriate sediment and erosion control construction best management practices (BMPs) would be employed; and all water quality standards imposed by state and federal laws (e.g., Clean Water Act 404/401) will be met. Temporarily disturbed areas would be mulched and planted to reduce sediment mobilization after construction.

Likewise, the proposed riparian buffer restoration along the damaged portion of Index- Galena Road to be removed would provide improvement in long-term water quality in the river by removing existing impervious surface area adjacent to the river, and replacing it Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 106

with a vegetated riparian buffer. Short-term effects from asphalt removal could occur. BMPs would be in place to reduce sedimentation levels while conducting in-water work. Therefore, no measurable adverse effects to water quality are expected.

• Objective 5: Maintain and restore the sediment regime under which aquatic ecosystems evolved. Elements of the sediment regime include the timing, volume, rate, and character of sediment input, storage and transport.

The project would not adversely affect the sediment regime in the North Fork Skykomish River, which is greatly influenced by recessional glacial material deposition and subsequent alluvial transport and deposition. The project design would prevent catastrophic failure of the road for the long term and is anticipated to meet Objective 5 at the project and reach scale, and promote restoration at the watershed scale by improving the long-term sediment filtration process, and by relocating the damaged roadway and converting the existing damaged roadway into native riparian vegetated buffer habitat. An area where debris torrents could be expected will be designed so that debris slide deposition would still occur. Culverts would be designed to maintain current sediment transport processes. Use of appropriate BMPs, management requirements, and mitigation measures would minimize and mitigate potential short-term increases in sediment mobility associated with any soil disturbance from construction activities. At both the reach and watershed scale, changes in the overall sedimentation rates attributable to the project would likely be non-detectable given the high variability in natural rates of sediment input along the river.

• Objective 6: Maintain and restore in-stream flows sufficient to create and sustain riparian, aquatic, and wetland habitats and to retain patterns of sediment, nutrient and wood routing. The timing, magnitude, duration, and spatial distribution of peak, high, and low flows must be protected.

No effect to in-stream flows for the North Fork Skykomish River is expected from the Index-Galena Milepost 6.4-6.9 project. The project would contribute to maintaining stream flows because stormwater associated with the project is not expected to alter the hydrologic cycle, including low or peak river flows. Relocating the roadway further landward out of the floodplain would reduce the potential for floodwaters to overtop roadway surfaces, erode roadway prisms and associated roadway embankments. There would be a net decrease in impervious surface compared to the pre-damage roadway conditions, and stormwater would be intercepted and filtered by the existing native vegetation buffers as part of the project’s stormwater runoff dispersion with sheet flow. In addition, approximately 1.5 acres of impervious surface would be removed in

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proximity to the project as part of project mitigation. Therefore, any changes would be negligible and unmeasurable.

• Objective 7: Maintain and restore the timing, variability, and duration of floodplain inundation and water table elevation in meadows and wetlands.

The current floodplain function would be maintained and conveyance improved with the project due to the removal of the damaged roadway from the floodplain, relocation of the roadway above the floodplain, and restoration of more natural vegetated buffer floodplain conditions. The project would enable more extensive floodplain inundation than currently exists with the existing roadway and would help to restore water table conditions at both the project and the watershed scales. Floodplain connectivity would be enhanced with removal of obstacles and constructions presented by the existing roadway and its roadway prism. This would improve flood conveyance in the project area and not contribute to elevated flood flows. The hydrology of the wetland located near the project’s upstream terminus would be maintained by spanning the wetland with a bridge that maintains hydrological connectivity at the roadway crossing of the wetland. The project has minimized wetland impacts.

• Objective 8: Maintain and restore the species composition and structural diversity of plant communities in riparian areas and wetlands to provide adequate summer and winter thermal regulation, nutrient filtering, appropriate rates of surface erosion, bank erosion, and channel migration and to supply amounts and distributions of coarse woody debris sufficient to sustain physical complexity and stability.

The project would maintain and restore the current plant communities in the riparian areas located where the existing roadway would be removed and restored to natural riparian conditions. The project would contribute to the restoration of Objective 8 over the long term at both the project and watershed scales. While the project would disturb and remove riparian trees and shrubs further landward of and upslope from the river as part of the road relocation, the disturbance and removal would be offset by riparian restoration. The mitigation would contribute to long-term improvement of riparian vegetation that would provide shade, nutrient and sediment filtering, and a source of woody debris and other organic matter.

• Objective 9: Maintain and restore habitat to support well-distributed populations of native plant, invertebrate and vertebrate riparian dependent species.

The project would maintain and restore the composition and diversity of plant communities in the riparian areas adjacent to the river. The project would contribute to Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 108

the restoration of Objective 9 over the long term at both the project and watershed scales. While the project would disturb and remove riparian trees and shrubs further landward from the river, restoration in the riparian zone that extends from Milepost 6.4- 6.7 would contribute to a long-term improvement of riparian vegetation that would provide shade, nutrient and sediment filtering, and a source of woody debris and other organic matter that promotes beneficial riparian habitat for riparian dependent invertebrate and vertebrate species. Salvage of native duff during construction for placement on disturbed soils after construction is anticipated to promote re- establishment of native plant species and help to restore conditions suitable for invertebrate and vertebrate riparian dependent species.

VI. Consistency with Riparian Reserves Standards and Guidelines for Roads Management

The following describes how the proposed Index-Galena Milepost 6.4-6.9 project would be consistent with Riparian Reserves standards and guidelines that apply to the Index-Galena Road project. A brief description of how the proposed project relates to each objective is provided below in italics:

RF-1 - Federal, state, and county agencies should cooperate to achieve consistency in road design, operation, and maintenance necessary to attain Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives.

The Snohomish County project team has coordinated with U.S. Forest Service, the Washington State Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration and other agencies to ensure that road design and operation and maintenance will promote attainment of Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives. Specific measures are discussed further below.

RF-2 - For each existing or planned road, meet Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives by:

a. minimizing road and landing locations in Riparian Reserves.

The project proposes to use the AASHTO Low Volume Roadway Design Standards to minimize the project footprint of the relocated roadway. The use of these design standards enables the proposed project design to match the character of the existing roadway. Use of these standards and incorporation of design features such as retaining walls, structural earth walls (SEW walls), and reinforced slopes have reduced the clearing required for construction. With the proposed design, approximately 3.3 acres would be converted to a new roadway prism footprint, while 8.9 acres would be long term temporary impacts associated with grading cuts and fills that would be restored with placement of native duff and native vegetation planting after construction is completed. The existing damaged roadway would be removed from the river’s side channel and floodplain and natural conditions restored through asphalt removal and Index-Galena Road MP 6.4-6.9 Wildlife Discipline Report Snohomish County Public Works December 2015 109

revegetation where site conditions are favorable outside of the wetted river channel. When the roadway is relocated, there will be a net reduction of impervious surface compared to the pre-damage roadway prism footprint, and approximately 1.2 acres would be restored that is located within the channel migration zone and 100-year floodplain.

b. completing watershed analyses (including appropriate geotechnical analyses) prior to construction of new roads or landings in Riparian Reserves. The U.S. Forest Service has completed a watershed analysis for the North Fork Skykomish watershed. The project has completed a channel migration zone analysis that was prepared as part of the project’s early feasibility analysis. Roadway design efforts have been closely integrated and coordinated with extensive geotechnical analysis to determine the best location for the relocated roadway. The proposed design relocates the roadway out of the floodplain, moves most of the relocated roadway out of the channel migration zone, and has been located to minimize disturbance to the slopes located above the floodplain.

c. preparing road design criteria, elements, and standards that govern construction and reconstruction.

The project’s design criteria, project elements, and standards have been closely coordinated with U.S. Forest Service oversight to ensure consistency with the MBSNF Plan.

d. preparing operation and maintenance criteria that govern road operation, maintenance, and management.

Snohomish County will coordinate with the U.S. Forest Service to ensure that long term road operation, maintenance and management are consistent with USFS standards and guidelines as established in roadway right-of-way easement and special use permit requirements.

e. minimizing disruption of natural hydrologic flow paths, including diversion of streamflow and interception of surface and subsurface flow.

The project design has been developed to maintain natural hydrologic flow paths and minimize disruption of natural flow patterns. Removing the damaged roadway from the river, dispersing roadway stormwater flow, maintaining surface flow channels, constructing a bridge to span the wetland and seasonal stream near Milepost 6.9, and minimizing net new impervious surface area as compared to the existing roadway, help to achieve these objectives.

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f. restricting sidecasting as necessary to prevent the introduction of sediment to streams.

The project proposes no sidecasting. Excavated spoils would either be incorporated into the roadway prism as part of constructed roadway embankments or exported from the project site to approved disposal sites. Native duff that is salvaged during construction would be placed both upslope and downslope from the finished roadway to help stabilize exposed soils and to provide a good source of organic debris that would promote revegetation and site restoration post construction.

g. avoiding wetlands entirely when constructing new roads.

The relocated road would avoid impacts to most of the wetland areas with the roadway design but roadway geometric constraints would require that wetland impacts occur. The project would compensate for unavoidable wetland impacts (0.02 acre current estimate) in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

RF-3 - Determine the influence of each road on the Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives through watershed analysis. Meet Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives by: a. reconstructing roads and associated drainage features that pose a substantial risk.

Relocating the damaged section of Index-Galena Road would reduce risk for catastrophic damage that poses a substantial risk to in-stream and riparian habitat. Reconstructing the roadway above the floodplain would promote better floodplain connectivity by removing asphalt and the roadway prism fill that constrict flood flows. The relocated roadway would be constructed and operated in accordance with U.S. Forest Service standards and guidelines and consistent with management recommendations developed as part of the U.S. Forest Service watershed analysis prepared for the North Fork Skykomish River as part of its Two Forks Watershed Analysis.

b. prioritizing reconstruction based on current and potential impact to riparian resources and the ecological value of the riparian resources affected.

The proposed Index-Galena Road reconstruction would provide beneficial impacts and enhance riparian resources by restoring natural floodplain and riparian habitat where the damaged roadway would be removed from the river side channel and adjacent riparian areas. Its reconstruction has been prioritized because reconstructing the roadway in its current alignment would continue to have adverse effects to riparian resources and the ecological value they provide.

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c. closing and stabilizing, or obliterating and stabilizing roads based on the ongoing and potential effects to Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives and considering short-term and long-term transportation needs.

Relocating the existing damaged roadway and obliterating the asphalt pavement to restore natural riparian conditions would promote Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives as described above and will promote long-term transportation needs by restoring roadway connectivity that provides access for residents, recreation users, emergency service providers, and U.S. Forest Service personnel.

RF-4 - New culverts, bridges and other stream crossings shall be constructed, and existing culverts, bridges and other stream crossings determined to pose a substantial risk to riparian conditions will be improved, to accommodate at least the 100-year flood, including associated bedload and debris. Priority for upgrading will be based on the potential impact and the ecological value of the riparian resources affected. Crossings will be constructed and maintained to prevent diversion of streamflow out of the channel and down the road in the event of crossing failure.

Proposed roadway culverts and the bridge crossing of the wetland near Milepost 6.9 would be designed to accommodate the 100-year flood including the associated bedload and debris. The box culvert vented ford near Station 29+00 would be designed to withstand flow events greater than the 100-year event and associated debris. In more extreme events greater than the 100-year flow, debris would be conveyed through the ford over the top of the roadway. Road maintenance crews would then remove deposited debris as necessary to restore traffic.

RF-5 - Minimize sediment delivery to streams from roads. Outsloping of the roadway surface is preferred, except in cases where outsloping would increase sediment delivery to streams or where outsloping is unfeasible or unsafe. Route road drainage away from potentially unstable channels, fills, and hillslopes.

Outsloping the roadway surface is proposed to promote natural dispersion of roadway stormwater runoff. The project design would minimize sediment delivery to project area streams by dispersing stormwater runoff and providing conveyance at roadway culverts and the proposed bridge to route roadway drainage from unstable channels, fills and hillslopes. A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan would be developed and implemented during construction to address construction-related sediment and erosion control.

RF-6 - Provide and maintain fish passage at all road crossings of existing and potential fish- bearing streams.

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The one road crossing that has a fish-bearing stream, located at the proposed bridge crossing near Milepost 6.9, has been designed to maintain fish passage. All proposed cross-culverts are located at non-fish bearing streams located on steep slopes.

RF-7 - Develop and implement a Road Management Plan or a Transportation Management Plan that will meet the Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives. As a minimum, this plan shall include provisions for the following activities:

Snohomish County will inspect and maintain Index-Galena Road in accordance with the Regional Road Maintenance ESA Guidelines at or near wetlands and streams, and the following standards and guidelines:

a. inspections and maintenance during storm events.

b. inspections and maintenance after storm events.

c. road operation and maintenance, giving high priority to identifying and correcting road drainage problems that contribute to degrading riparian resources.

d. traffic regulation during wet periods to prevent damage to riparian resources.

e. establish the purpose of each road by developing the Road Management Objective.

Consistency with Recommended Wild and Scenic River allocation

The project’s proposed relocation of Index-Galena Road, including roadway pavement removal from the riverside channel and restoration of riparian areas to natural conditions, would promote protection from degradation the outstanding remarkable values and wild, scenic, and recreation characteristics of the North Fork Skykomish River. The proposed project would include maintaining natural conditions in streamside bank areas so that water quality can be maintained to keep rivers fishable and swimmable.

The proposed Index-Galena Road relocation would protect and enhance the free-flowing condition, water quality, and outstandingly remarkable values of the North Fork Skykomish River. The relocation is designed to prevent repeated roadway washouts (and resultant effects) that Index-Galena Road has experienced in past events.

With the river channel’s 2006 migration and resultant erosion of the Index-Galena Road pavement, the proposed roadway relocation above the active flood plain would enhance free- flowing conditions by accommodating lateral channel migration that would not adversely affect the road. By relocating the road and enabling river migration to the extent practical (within the project area), there is decreased constriction of the floodplain.

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The effects on water quality associated with the relocation construction would be of short duration and minimal when compared to background sedimentation rates that would occur with future roadway washout damage. Long term effects are beneficial for water quality with the roadway located further landward from the active channel flow.

The effects of construction on fisheries would be short-term to accommodate roadway removal, related to short-term increases in roadway construction related noise and sediment. Long term effects are beneficial and in-stream spawning and side channel refugia habitat is expected to be enhanced by roadway removal and restoration of natural riparian conditions.

Changes in wildlife habitat and wildlife populations would be slight due to the relatively small amount of habitat change, and this change occurring in very small areas separated by relatively large distances. There are no substantial effects to wildlife beyond a temporary increase in noise during construction.

The roadway and views would be improved relative to the pre-damage condition and the scenery would be enhanced in areas in proximity to the river. Areas upslope from the river would have bare soils resulting from construction activities. These would be stabilized and revegetated to minimize erosion potential. At the expected effectiveness for these mitigation measures, impacts to scenery would likely be short term.

Impacts to visual quality would be addressed with aesthetics as a consideration. Techniques such as colored and/or textured concrete or rock gabion walls would be considered. Guardrail color would be a muted earth tone color, specifically a guard rail that has been painted with Natina that provides a weathered appearance. Restoration plantings in critical visually sensitive area would also consider placement of earth berming and rock boulders to promote a naturalized appearance for the proposed relocated road. For more discussion of visual quality considerations, see the Visual Quality Technical Report.

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