HomeMy WebLinkAboutres2000-009WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL AGENDA BILL NO. As2000 -120
CLEARANCES
hnine/
Date
Date Received in Council Office
Agenda Date
Assi nedto:
uriginmor:
EDtabethKOlsen
O
21//00
FEB 2 9 2000
WHATCOM COUNTY
COUNCIL
317100
Planning & DevelopmentSub-
committee Council
Division Head:
S AaGoodwin
Dept Head:
A E. Avon, Interim Di renor
pl f
Prosecutor
David Grow
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PurchasingZadgeG
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PrbrNremen
SUBJECT.-
A Resolution adopting recommendations for Open Space Timber Applications.
ATTACHMENTS.
Draft Resolution
Agency Report with attached Staff Report, ratings sheets and maps
Exeer is rom Draft Planning Commission Minutes, February 10, 2000
SEPA review required? ( ) Yes ( X ) NO
SEPA review completed? ( ) Yes ( N /A) NO
l
Should Clerk schedule a hearing ? ( ) Yes ( X) NO j
Requested Date:
7MMARYSTATEMENT:
Of the six OPEN SPA CEITIMBER applications received, staff
recommends approval to all six applications.
Distribution Request
Indicate those who should receive a ropy after Council
action. List specific names to the right l
ADSFaMiaes Management
ADS Finance
ADSlluman Resource
ADSIafo Services
As9P4SO1
Jean Eastman
Auditor
Cooperative Eriension
District Court
Executive
Heath
Hearing Esamhmr
JaJ
COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN:
2000 - 120 3(712000: Approved 51, Nelson absent. Hoag opposed, Res.
#2000 -009
Relateu uounry contract #:
Juvenile
Parks
Planning
Elizabeth K Olsen
Prosecutor
Public Works
sheriff
superior court
Treasurer
Other
Related File Numbers: OSTI Y2K
Ordinance or Resalu Numb
(this item):
OpenSpaceTimber f Y2K
Page 1
INTRODUCED BY: Planning
PROPOSED BY: PDS Department
DATE., February 1. 2000
RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -009
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR
1999 OPEN SPACE TIMBER APPLICATIONS
WHEREAS, The Planning Commission received six (6) applications for Open Space land tax
assessment for review and recommendations pursuant to RCW 84.34; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to WAC Section 197- 11- 800(6)(c), matters relating to Open Space taxation
are determined not to be major actions and are exempt from threshold determination and environmental
impact statement requirements of the State Environmental Policy Act; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to RCW 36.70.390, legal notice was published in the Bellingham Herald on
February 1, 2000; and
WHEREAS, on February 10, 2000, the Planning Commission opened the public hearing on
the applications and considered all testimony regarding the proposed six Open Spaoe/Timber
applications; and
WHEREAS, Open Spacerfimber is evaluated upon conformance with RCW 84.34.041; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Open Space/Timber
applications from Beryl Breakey (Unger) and the Farinha family (4 parcels); and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Open Space/Timber re-
application from Donna MacDonald; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has forwarded its recommendations to the Whatcom
County Council; and -
WHEREAS, Council held a public meeting on March 7, 2000, to consider the Planning
Commission's recommendations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL:
1. The Whatcom County Council approves the Open Space/Timber applications for:
Breakey (Unger), Macdonald, and the Farinha family (4 parcels).
2. The County Council directs the Assessor to place the parcels in the appropriate Open Space
status category.
1 Adjudication of invalidity of any of the sections, clauses or provisions of this Resolution shall
not affect or impair the validity of the Resolution as a whole or any part thereof other than the
part so declared to be invalid.
OpenSpaceTimber 1 Y2K
PASSED this 7 day of March , 2000.
Page 2
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Marlene Dawson, Chairperson
Council Peter Kremen, County Executive
AP OVED AS TO FORM: IN
Date
Dave Gm
Civil De pu y Prosecuting Attorney
AGENCY REPORT
Fife Re/.' OSTf Y2K
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT
AGENCY REPORT
February 1, 2000
Page 1
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTIONS IN THE ) FINDINGS,
MATTER OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 1999 OPEN ) REASONS
SPACE/TIMBER APPLICATIONS ) AND MOTIONS
WHEREAS, The Whatcom County Planning Commission received six (6) new
applications for Open Space land tax assessment for review and recommendations pursuant to
RCW 84.34; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to WAC section 197- 11- 800(6)(c), matters relating to Open Space
taxation are determined not to be major actions and are exempt from the threshold determination
and environmental impact requirements of the State Environmental Policy Act; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to RCW 36.70.390, legal notice was published in the Bellingham
Herald on February 1, 2000, and a copy of said notice was sent in a timely manner to all applicants;
and
WHEREAS, on February 10, 2000, the Planning Commission opened the public hearing on
the applications and considered testimony regarding the proposed Open SpaceTmber parcels; and
WHEREAS, Open Space/Timber is evaluated upon conformance with RCW 84.34.041; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission concurred with the Planning Division's
recommendations for: approval of Open Space/Timber for Beryl Breakey (Unger) and the Farinha
family (4 parcels); and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission concurs with the Planning Department's
recommendation for approval of the Open SpacerTimber re- application from Donna MacDonald; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has concluded its hearings on current applications.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
FINDINGS OF FACT AND REASONS FOR ACTION
1. A quorum of Commission members was present during the hearing.
2. The statutory requirement was met regarding legal notice.
3. The Planning Commission voted to recommend the Open Space/Timber applications
for Breakey, MacDonald and the Farinha family (4 parcels).
AGENCY REPORT
File Ref.' OST1 Y2K
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
4+p
Rob Ney, Uhairperson
Date:
February 1, 2000
Page 2
J. E. "Sam" Ryan, Secretary
Commissioners Present at February 10. 2000 hearing: Beech, Ferrier, Gilda, Ney, Pros, Roosma,
Rustand, Steensma and Wiesen.
Attachment: Staff Report
Prepared by: Elizabeth K. Olsen
Staff Report
File OST
February 1, 2000
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
STAFF REPORT
OPEN SPACE APPLICATIONS
1999 — MACDONALD Transfer from OSAG
1999— BREAKEY (UNGER) Transfer from Designated Forest
1999 — FARINHA 1 (Connie) Transfer from OSAG
1999 — FARINHA 2 (Michael) Transfer from OSAG
1999 — FARINHA 3 (Michael, Connie, Tonna) Transfer from OSAG
1999 — FARINHA 4 (Michael, Tonna, Mikel) Transfer from OSAG
This report summarizes the Planning and Development Department's recommendations on a
portion of the open space applications received through to 2000. The Open Space Taxation Act
(RCW 84.34) was enacted in 1970 for two primary reasons: to create a tax climate that was
equitable to the open space landowner and to decrease the rate at which open space lands
were being converted to non -rural uses. These were accomplished by providing property tax
relief to land that qualifies under one of the four open space classifications: OPEN SPACE
AGRICULTURE, OPEN SPACE FARM AND AGRICULTURE CONSERVATION, OPEN
SPACEIOPEN SPACE and OPEN SPACE TIMBER. The agricultural designation is
administered by the County Assessor whilst the Open Space, Timber, and Farm & Agriculture
Conservation applications fall under the authority of the County Council. The process is handled
in the same manner as an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan. The Council decides
whether to grant the applicant assessment at current use after receiving a recommendation
from the Planning Commission. OPEN SPACErrIMBER is no longer subject to Planning
Commission review under the Public Benefit Rating System, but is evaluated using criteria
similar to Classified /Designated Forest within Chapter 84.34 RCW.
Six Open Space applications have been received and reviewed for OPEN SPACETfIMBER.
The recommendations are based on the information gathered in accordance with adopted Open
Space procedures. Staff evaluations and recommendations with maps and aerials showing the
location of each individual application are attached. Also attached is an overall location map.
For the OPEN SPACEITIMBER category, approval is contingent upon conformance with RCW
84.34.041. This places an emphasis on approval or denial according to the completeness of the
Timber Management Plan. The Timber Management Plans are rated by staff on how complete
they are in 7 categories and may receive up to 2 points for each category. Approval is
recommended for those properties receiving a score of 7 or more and denial is recommended
for those properties receiving a score of less than 7. If a property receives a score of less than 7
points, the property owner has the option to update their Timber Management Plan. All Timber
applications must be approved or denied within 6 months of their receipt.
Of the six OPEN SPACE/TIMBER applications received, staff recommends the following:
1) Approval of applications: Macdonald, Breakey (Unger), Farinha 1, Farinha 2, Farinha 3
and Farinha 4.
Staff Report
ATTACHMENTS
File OST
February 1, 2000
Staff evaluations and recommendations with maps showing the location of each property are
attached, along with the individual Timber Management Plan. Also included is Attachment 1, an
overall map showing all parcels.
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Timber Management Plan
Information Included :-
Current Stand Description
Completeness
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2--thorough)
Points Max.
Predominately Douglasfir, some western redcedar and regenerating red alder in theformerpanure areas 2 2
Malaita, western swordf n, Sala( trailing blackberry, Douglas sla rea and western bracken fern.
Soils Description
Woodlandmanagensent covernsforthesestuds show slight seed/ ingmaria lity. severeplantrompetition. 2 2
Possible wi,Wthrow in wet mndittmss.
Forest Health
No signtscant insect or disease problems, no significant numbers ofwinfogs. 2 2
Thinning Program
Pre- commercialperiodic thinning (f mbelow) to increase stand vigorpriar to commercial thinning as
2
1V(HIiUVIVHLU rev a YYVJI
WHATCOM CO UNTY OPEN SPA CE
CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner: Donna MacDonald
Designation:
Open Space Timber (tmns.from OSAG)
444 S. State Street, 0407
Parcel No.:
390110 - 508199
Bellingham, WA. 98225
shall be placed on she centers ofecining hummocky landjeatures and in small evenagedg oups.
Subarea: Chesty Point / Ferndale Subarea
Parcel Acreage:
19.0 acres
Acreage in OST:
19 acres
Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural
Road Access:
Brown Road
Zoning Desig: R5A
Land Use:
Forest and relic winter pasture
Shorelines:
N/A
Soil Type/Capabilities:
Land use history:
Pasture and forestland
192- Whateam- Labounty silt loam, 0 - 8% slopes (80
Site Index *: 90 (red alder), 116 (Douglas fu).
Limmitions/Concems: Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness; seedling establishment, seedling mortality, possible windthrow hazard.
183 - Whateom- Labounty silt foams, 0 -15% slopes (20%)
Site Index *: 90 (red alder), 116 (Douglas fu).
Limmitions/Concems: Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness,
seedling establishmenS invasion of competing plants.
Timber Management Plan
Information Included :-
Current Stand Description
Completeness
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2--thorough)
Points Max.
Predominately Douglasfir, some western redcedar and regenerating red alder in theformerpanure areas 2 2
Malaita, western swordf n, Sala( trailing blackberry, Douglas sla rea and western bracken fern.
Soils Description
Woodlandmanagensent covernsforthesestuds show slight seed/ ingmaria lity. severeplantrompetition. 2 2
Possible wi,Wthrow in wet mndittmss.
Forest Health
No signtscant insect or disease problems, no significant numbers ofwinfogs. 2 2
Thinning Program
Pre- commercialperiodic thinning (f mbelow) to increase stand vigorpriar to commercial thinning as
2
2
small even-agedstands.
Harvest Plan
Harvesting robe based on an uneven aged silviculture management system Initial harvesting emphasis
2
2
shall be placed on she centers ofecining hummocky landjeatures and in small evenagedg oups.
Planting/Restocking Program
Natural regeneration augmentM with planting within 5 years fharvetl to ensure distribution f300 seedlings
2
2
per acre throughout harvest area.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement
Retain and maintain soft and hard snags, place downed vee.t and slash on the ground where possible
2
2
to decompose and enhance the soil and to provide refugefor wildlife specie
TOTAL, 14 14
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL
*Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
TIMBER MANAGEMENT PLAN
I
LANDOWNER
Donna MacDonald
MAY L
4 1999!!
444 S. State Street #407
Bellingham, WA 98225�Cur�Cv.Pianttt
(360) 671 -4121
PROPERTY
E'/ NEY. SE' /. Section10, T39N,
R1E, W.M.
Parcel Number:
390110- 508199
Total Acreage:
19 acres
Open Space Timber:
19 acres
General Location:
North end of Holman hill, lying south of Brown
Road
Topography:
Gentle slopes with hummocks
Date of Acquisition:
October 1996
Current Land Use:
Timberland
Land Use History:
Winter cattle grazing
Surrounding Land Use: Agriculture, timberland, rural residential
INTRODUCTION
This timber management plan has been prepared as part of an application to reclassify
19 acres of property from Open Space Farm & Agriculture to Timberland. The property
was transferred to Donna MacDonald from her parents in October of 1996. The land
had previously been used for winter cattle grazing, but will no longer be so used. With
the exception of some currently under - stocked meadows, the property is otherwise in
compliance with the restocking, forest management, fire protection, insect and disease
control, weed control, and forest debris provisions of Title 76 RCW. Apart from removing
dead trees for firewood, the owner has no experience managing this land for timber.
Instead of experience, a forestry consultant has been engaged to prepare this plan and
to provide management advice and assistance.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 119
Mark Hitchcock, Professional Forester 360- 766 -6500
LANDOWNER'S OBJECTIVES
The primary management objective for this property is the production of income from
the sale of timber. Secondary objectives are to maintain or improve wildlife habitat and
aesthetic appeal.
CURRENT STAND DESCRIPTION
The property currently supports three identifiable timber stands as listed in the following
table (See Figure 1. Timber Type Map).
Stand Acres Primary Species Size Gass Stockina Secondary Snecina
1
10.6
Douglas Fir
12 "-36"
Full
Cedar
2
5.1
.."J.3
Alder
0 "E"
ci /3
grass
3
Douglas Fir
0 "E"
<1/3
grass
10131 Wu
Stand 1 (DF3,4 = rc) consists of mature Douglas fir timber situated on hummocks.
Under -story vegetation includes red huckleberry, salal, western sword fern, Oregon
grape, western bracken fern, salmonberry, Douglas spirea, sweet - scented bedstraw,
trailing blackberry, and skunk cabbage. No noxious weeds are present.
Stand 2 (RAI 2 -) is a meadow, formerly maintained by grazing activity, which is now
becoming stocked with naturally - regenerated red alder seedlings. Under -story
vegetation consists of various grasses and common rush. No noxious weeds are
present. During the next five years, natural regeneration of red alder should be
complete.
Stand 3 (DF1 -) is a meadow, formerly maintained by grazing activity, which is now
becoming stocked with naturally- regenerated Douglas fir seedlings. Under -story
consists of various grasses. No noxious weeds are present. During the next five years,
natural regeneration of Douglas fir should be complete.
SOIL DESCRIPTION
Soil type determines which tree species are suitable for the property, as well as other
management considerations. The following soil information for the property is derived
from the Soil Survey of Whatcom County Area, Washington (1992) published by the
USDA Soil Conservation Service.
The property is located on the northern end of Holman Hill and is situated on a
hummocky glacial drift plain where the native vegetation is mainly trees and shrubs.
The primary soil type is Whatcom silt loam occurring on slopes ranging from zero to 15
percent. Labounty silt loam is intricately intermingled on slopes ranging from zero to 2
percent. Characteristics of these two soil types are as follows.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 219
Mark Hitchcock, Professional Forester 360 - 766 -6500
FIGURE 1. TIMBER TYPE MAP
TIMBER TYPES
DFI -
E 1/2 NE 114 SE 114 S10. T39N, RIE
NORTH
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 319
Mark Hitchcock, Professional Forester 360- 7666500
Whatcom silt loam: This very deep, moderately well drained soil was formed in a
mixture of loess and volcanic ash over glaciomarine deposits. Permeability is moderate
in the upper part of the soil and slow in the lower part. Available water capacity is high.
The 50 -year site index for Douglas fir is estimated to be 116 feet, or Site Class 2. Stand
1 is coincident with this soil type.
Labounty silt loam: This very deep, poorly drained soil was formed in glaciomarine drift
with an admixture of loess and volcanic ash. Permeability is moderately slow.
Available water capacity is high. The 50 -year site index for Red alder is estimated to be
90 feet. Stand 2 and Stand 3 are coincident with this soil type.
Seedling establishment, seedling mortality, and the hazard of wind throw are the main
concerns affecting timber production. The high water table hinders root respiration and
thus results in poor seedling survival on the Labounty soil. Reforestation can be
accomplished by planting Douglas fir, western red cedar, or red alder seedlings. If seed
trees are present, natural reforestation of cut over areas by red alder occurs readily.
When openings are made in the canopy, the uncontrolled invasion and growth of
competing plants can prevent the establishment of seedlings. Competing vegetation
can be controlled by mechanical or chemical means. Because the rooting depth is
restricted by the high water table, trees are occasionally subject to wind throw when the
soils are wet and winds are strong.
FORESTHEALTH
Because this parcel is adjacent to Brown Road, fire protection is an important
consideration. All future logging slash must be removed from within 100 feet of Brown
Road. Block unused logging roads to prevent unauthorized access.
Under -story grasses are currently competing with naturally regenerated seedlings in
Stand 2 and Stand 3. Chemical treatment of grasses is not feasible in Stand 2 because
of the presence of surface water during the spring and dormant seasons. Shade, cast
by the growing red alder seedlings, will eventually eliminate the grass under -story.
Similarly, the Douglas fir seedlings growing in Stand 3 will eventually eliminate the grass
under -story of Stand 3. However, it is also possible to hand spray the grass in Stand 3
to increase seedling survival and growth rates.
Dormant season treatment: Apply Atrazine® at a per -acre rate of 5lbs in 10
gallons of water (very good effect on annual grasses and a fair effect on
perennial grasses).
Spring treatment: Apply VelparG, at a per -acre rate of 1 -2lbs in 10 gallons of
water (very good effect on annual grasses and a good effect on perennial
grasses).
To control shrubs and alder seedlings in areas where Douglas fir regeneration is
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 4/9
Mark Hitchcock, Professional Forester 360- 766 -6500
impacted, vegetation management should rely on a fall application of Roundup® at a
per -acre rate of 1 -1'/: quarts in 10 gallons of water.
There are no significant numbers of windfalls in any of the stands. However, the
potential for wind throw is an important harvest consideration. See the Harvest Plan
section for further discussion.
There are no significant insect or disease problems on this parcel. See the Harvest Plan
section for considerations minimizing harvest impacts on insect/disease potential.
THINNING PROGRAM
Two types of thinning, pre - commercial and commercial, are appropriate for this parcel.
A thinning is termed pre - commercial whenever the cut trees are not merchantable. Pre -
commercial thinning may be necessary wherever natural regeneration is abundant.
Douglas fir stands should be thinned to 300 trees per acre (12 -foot by 12 -foot spacing)
by age 15 (or by age 5, in the case of red alder). Timing of subsequent commercial
thinning is based on a size /density relationship.
As discussed under the HARVEST PLAN, the property will be managed as small even -
aged groups. These even -aged groups will require periodic thinning to improve stand
vigor and resistance to disease and insect attack. Harvest operations should "thin from
below" by targeting the smallest trees with the least foliage and leave large, well - formed
residuals. Defective trees (i.e. poorly formed, diseased, or infested) should also be
targeted for removal. The amount of space to be left between residual trees increases
with tree size and can be calculated with Relative Density (RD), a stand measure based
upon the number and size of trees in a stand. Empirical observations indicate that the
best growth, and hence vigor, occurs when Douglas fir RD is maintained between 40
and 60 (or between 20 and 36, in the case of red alder).
RD is calculated by dividing the basal area in square feet (BA) by the square root of the
quadratic mean diameter in inches (Dbh). Consider the following data from one acre as
an example calculation of RD. To thin this acre, from below, to a RD of 40 it is
necessary to remove all but 20 trees from the 12 -inch diameter class and to remove all
smaller trees. The residual stand would have 107 trees per acre, approximately 20 feet
apart.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 5/9
Mark Hitchcock, Professional Forester 360 - 766-6500
Dbh # Trees BA/Tree BA Dbh'/Tree Dbh'
18
25
1.77
44.18
324
8100
16 _
35
1.40
48.87
256
8960
14
45
1.07
48.11
196
8820
12
55
0.79
43.20
1 144
7920
10
45
0.55
24.54
1 100
4500
8
35
0.35
12.22
1 64
2240
6
25
0.20
4.91
1 36
900
rotal 265 226.02 41440
Quadratic Mean Diameter (41440/265)4% = 12.51
Relative Density (226.02/12.51r/2 = 64
To minimize visual impacts and to provide wildlife habitat, timber harvests should be
based on an uneven -aged silvicultural management system. This approach can be
designed to cause little disruption to the forest canopy, thereby minimizing loss of trees
to wind throw as well. The goal of uneven -aged management is to create stands with
multiple canopy layers. The forest stand is managed on a regular cutting cycle to
promote the growth of trees in all size classes. Trees are grown to some maximum
size, while stocking levels and stocking distribution are controlled to attain the desired
structure.
The type of uneven -aged management best suited for this property is group selection,
where the forest stand is managed in small patches and trees are regenerated and
managed as small even -aged groups. Douglas fir and red alder seedlings will not
tolerate much shade and will respond to the light regimes produced in the harvest
groups. Initial harvesting emphasis will be placed on the centers of existing hummocks
in Stand 1. Trees growing at the edge of the hummocks are currently exposed to winter
winds and should be less vulnerable to post- harvesting wind throw. In addition, these
edge trees cast seeds into the meadows and provide important wildlife habitat in this
ecotone between the mature forest and the open areas.
Initial harvests, targeting the centers of existing hummocks, will be completed over the
next five years. These harvests will remove mature Douglas fir and western red cedar
trees. Harvest of trees growing at the edge of the hummocks will be delayed until post-
harvest regeneration reaches a minimum 30 -feet height (approximately ten years).
Harvesting in Stand 2 and Stand 3 must be delayed until trees reach merchantable size
relative to commercial- thinning costs (approximately 30 years for Douglas fir, or 20
years in the case of red alder).
Other considerations to minimize harvest impacts on insect/disease potential:
1) Skid trails should be kept to minimum to avoid unnecessary soil compaction
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 619
Mark Hitchcock Professional Forester 360- 766 -6500
2) Trails should be placed away from trees designated for retention to avoid soil com-
paction on existing root systems and avoid subsequent loss of vigor.
3) Rub trees should be maintained near trees near the skid trails to protect the residual
trees from damage as logs are pulled by. The rub trees can be removed, from back
to front, after all the other logs have been removed.
4) Skid trails should avoid areas of established conifer reproduction. Such pockets of
advanced reproduction will respond well to higher light levels created by harvesting
provided they are not damaged.
5) Harvesting should be restricted to dry seasons. No skidding should be done when
the soil is wet and vulnerable to compaction. Compacted soil may take up to sixty
years to rebuild good structure.
6) To minimize bark slippage on residual trees, harvests should not be conducted
during periods of sap flow (i.e. from March 15 to June 15).
PLANTING /RESTOCKING PROGRAM
Post- harvest planting of logged hummocks will rely initially on natural regeneration of
Douglas fir and western red cedar, augmented with planting within 5 years of harvest to
ensure distribution of 300 seedlings per acre throughout the harvest areas. The
FOREST HEALTH section contains information for control of competing vegetation in
areas of conifer regeneration.
WILDLIFE HABITAT ENHANCEMENT
Under an uneven -aged management approach, the property can be expected to
support at least one -half of the vertebrate wildlife species found in western Washington.
Currently, the property lacks significant numbers of two important wildlife habitat
features: snags and downed logs. The following discussion gives suggestions to
supplement existing snags and downed Jogs to improve the overall structural diversity of
this property.
SNAGS: Standing dead or dying trees, or snags, provide places to feed, hide, build
nests or dens, and rest to many species of birds and mammals. Snags in various
stages of decay and size classes supply habitat for more than 100 species of birds and
mammals in western Washington. More than 60 of those species are cavity nesters
and need dead and dying trees to either construct their cavities or use cavities created
by other birds. Snags are one of the most important habitat features in Washington
forests of all age classes. An estimate of the minimum number of snags per 10 acres
that must be maintained through time to assure that cavity-using species will persist is:
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 7/9
Mark Hitchcock Professional Forester 360-766-6500
Snags
Diameter
Height
2
11
21
23
15
21
5
17
40
1
24
60
In unmanaged Douglas fir forests with high wildlife diversity, an average of 16 snags per
acre has been recorded. These included snags of all size and decay classes, and both
hardwoods and conifers.
A minimum of three snags per acre must be maintained. These snags must be 10 or
more feet in height and 12 or more inches in diameter. In addition, a minimum of two
green trees must be maintained to become future snags. These green recruitment
trees must be 10 or more inches in diameter and 30 or more feet in height (at least one
third of which must be live crown). Some ways of maintaining the snag component over
time are:
1) Leave all existing standing dead or dying trees where safely possible. However,
trees killed by root rot probably will not remain standing long enough to become
good quality snags.
Allowing trees that are dying through natural phenomena to remain standing helps to
assure that the forest has a healthy snag component. On average, depending on
tree species and other conditions, it may take five years or more from time of death
for a snag to decay sufficiently for primary cavity nesting habitat to be provided.
However, a large diameter snag may be used by wildlife for well over 50 years,
depending on its species and the kinds of decay and other factors to which it is
subjected.
2) Identify and mark live trees that can be left to become snags in the future (green re-
cruitment trees). These can be trees that are defective in some way, such as having
a crooked bole or heavy, low growing limbs.
Topping trees to create snags (with a chain saw or by blasting) is the preferred
method because topped trees tend to rot from the top down and from the inside out.
Girdled trees tend to rot from the bottom up, and thus are more likely to fall over in a
relatively short period. However, girdling trees at the desired point of breakage can
be utilized instead of cutting or blasting tops and will produce similar results. Snags
and green recruitment trees will be most useful to wildlife if they are generally
grouped together in clumps, rather than evenly distributed throughout the landscape.
3) Tall stumps will also be used by some species. Do not remove any existing tall
stumps. During harvest, leaving stumps at least three feet tall and preferably five
feet or more will enhance the stand for cavity nesting wildlife. Trees with obvious
butt rot or damage, excessive butt swell, or sweep are excellent candidates for
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 3/9
Mark Hitchcock, Professional Forester 360- 766 -6500
leaving high stumps
4) Cavity availability can be enhanced by placing nest boxes in appropriate locations.
Generally, no more than one nest box per' /. acre should be installed. Woodpeckers
will not use nest boxes and must have snags. Nest boxes are best placed in young
plantations or young stands with a low number of snags. Boxes are usually not
necessary in older diverse stands that contain existing snags or defective trees.
Boxes are a short-term enhancement feature but do not replace snags. Snags are
also used for foraging and perch sites - features that cannot be supplied by nest
boxes.
DOWNED WOOD: Wood left on the forest floor is beneficial in many ways. Small
diameter materials will decay quickly, contributing nutrients to the forest system. Large
diameter logs decompose more slowly and are used as perches, lookouts, foraging
sites, hiding places, den and nest sites, and other functions by many species including
some amphibians and reptiles. Like snags, downed wood is host to more than 100
wildlife species in western Washington. It is a very important wildlife habitat component
of stands of all age and size classes. Also like snags, the largest pieces are the most
beneficial and will last the longest. However, small pieces are also helpful and should
not be ignored. A diverse western Washington forest should have at least two downed
logs per acre with small end diameters greater than 12 inches and lengths greater than
20 feet. Smaller diameter trees left on the forest floor will also contribute to the
structure of the forest.
1. Place downed trees and slash on the ground where possible.
2. Leave existing large diameter logs.
3. If stands are thinned, leave some or all of the larger poles on the ground. Leave
branches and other small diameter materials on the ground to decompose and
enhance the soil nutrients. If heavy amounts of slash remain after thinning, lop and
scatter or gather and stack trees removed in the thinning process to provide access
for deer.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 9/9
Mark Hitchcock, Professional Forester 360 - 766-6500
meaneytuuyer/ vor rcn
WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner: Beryl M. Breakey (Unger)
1202 Telegraph Road
Bellingham, WA. 98226
Subarea: Lake Whatcom Subarea
Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural
Zoning Desig: R5A
Soil Type/Capabilities:
156 - Squalicum gravelly loam, 5 % -15% slope;
30% lot coverage
Site Index *:
Limitations/Concems:
157 - Squalicum grave
Site Index *:
Limitations/Concems:
Designation:
Open Space Timber
Transferred from
Designated Forest
Parcel No.:
380417 - 079468
Parcel Acreage:
31.14 acres
Acreage in OST:
31.14 acres
Road Access:
Henderson Road, "Y" Road
Land Use:
Forested land
Shorelines:
N/A
Land use history:
Previously harvested in 1956
132 (Douglas fir)
Muddiness and compaction caused by seasonal wetness
Seedling establishment, controlling invasive vegetation.
lly loam, 15 %- 30% slopes, 70% lot coverage
132 (Douglas fir)
Muddiness and compaction caused by seasonal wetness
Seedling establishment, controlling invasive vegetation.
Timber Management Plan (Completeness
Information Included :- (0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2= thorough)
Points
Max.
Current Stand Description
2
2
Fully shocked stand comprising or 40 year dared alder with scattered a0 year old Douglas fir
and "stem red cedar.
Soils Description
2
2
Detailed accurate description.
Forest Health
t
2
Assumption is that the rarest health is relatively good..
Thinning Program
-
2
No mention.
Harvest Plan
2
2
Begin harvesting 5 - 10 acre clear cuts in 10 to 15 years (2010 - 2015). Allow 5 to 10 years between harvests.
Planting /Restocking Program
2
2
Reforest during the first planting season following harvest by planting 300 Douglas fir 2 roof seedlings par acre.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement
-
2
Ab mention.
TOTAL- 9 14
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL
*Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
FORESTMANAGEMENTPLAN
JUf 2 J ;009
for
WHATCOM COUNTY PARCEL
or Tax Account Numbe
380418 - 448496 -0000 13.62
380418 - 533459 -0000 5.26
380418 - 521432 -0000 4.77
380418 - 450429-0000 5.00
380417- 079468 -0000 31.14
NUMBERS
s
Acres
Acres
Acres
Acres
Acres
Portion NEl /4 NEl /4 Section 18
Portion NWIA NWI /4 Section 17
Township 38 North,
Range 4 East of the Willamette Meridian
consisting of
59.79 Acres of Forest Land
Located along
Henderson Road & Y Road
LANDOWNER
BERYL UNGER BREAKEY
1202 Telegraph Road
Bellingham, WA. 98226
360- 676 -9225
/% Y prc ed
by
�- car-/
Anderson Forestry Consultants, Inc.
20105 Gina Marie Luc
Burlington, WA. 98233 -5207
360 - 757 -6389
January 20, 1999
FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN
Tax Account N
380418 - 448496 -0000
380418 - 533459 -0000
380418 - 521432 -0000
380418- 450429 -0000
380417- 079468 -0000
not
13
5
4
5
31
ers
62 Acres
26 Acres
77 Acres
00 Acres
14 Acres
Beryl M. Unger Breakey is the owner of 59.79 acres of land described as follows:
Portion NEI /4 NEl /4 of Section 18: Portion NW I/4 NW 1/4 of Section 17: all in
Township 38 North, Range 4 East of the Willamette Meridian, Whatcom County. This
property has been in the family since 1914. This 59.79 acres is forested. 5 acres is a
forested wetland. 3.65 acres is an old field that is being taken over by Red Alder. The
balance of the acreage, 51.14 acres, has commercial timber that is 40 years or older. All
of the land except for the 3.65 acre type has always been managed as forest land.
This Forest Management Plan is prepared for the Transfer of Tax Account Numbers
380418 - 448496 -0000 (13.62 Acres) and 380418 - 533459- 0000.(5.26 Acres) from the
Open Space-Farm and Agricultural program (RCW 38.34) to Designated Forest (RCW
84.33). This plan will also update the land that is currently classified Designated Forest
under Tax Account Numbers; 380418 - 521432 -0000 (4.77 Acres), 380418- 450429 -0000
(5.00 Acres), & 380417- 079468 -0000 (31.14 Acres).
The property is located along Henderson Road and Y Road.
The current zoning is R5A (5 acre minimum lot size, or 1 homesite per 5 acres).
The goal of the owner is to retain the integrity of the property by maintaining a
stand of trees. This will provide for wildlife habitat, watershed management and
recreational activities. The object is to provide for a future return on the investment
through good forest management.
The forested area is made up of 4 types, or stands, of timber as follows;
Stand # 1, 3.65 acres in size, consists of native Red Alder that is invading the old
fields. The stand is 20 % stocked. The age of the stand is 2 to 5 years
Stand 42, 5 acres in size, consists of merchantable stand of Red Alder with
scattered Cottonwood. The stand is fully stocked. The age of the stand is 50+ years.
This stand is a forested wetland as defined in WAC 222 -16 -035.
Paga
Stand # 3, 20 acres in size, consists of merchantable Red Cedar (10 -16" diameter)
with Maple (16 -20" diameter) and scattered Douglas Fir (20 -30" diameter). This stand is
80% stocked. The age of the stand is 50+ years.
Stand #4, 31.14 acres in size, consists of 40 year old Red Alder with scattered !
Douglas and Red Cedar. This stand is fully stocked. The age of the Red Alder is 40'
years. The age of the scattered Douglas Fir and Red Cedar is 80 +/- years.
There are three (3) soil types on the property. Soil data is from the USDA SCS and
Washington State DNR Soil Survey of Whatcom County Area, Washington.
1. WHATCOM - LABOUNTY SILT LOAM, 0 to 8% slopes. The DNR soil
number is 9094. The SCS soil number is 182. The 50 year site index for Douglas Fir is
116 for the Whatcom soils. These soils are moderately drained. This means that the
average Douglas fir will grow to a height of 116 feet in 50 years. The 50 year site index
for Red Alder is 90 for the Labounty soils. These soils will be poorly drained. This
means the average Red Alder will grow to a height of 90 feet in 50 years. This soil is
stable in both a natural and a distributed state. There are 9.65 acres in this soil type, all
in Section 18.
2. SQUALICUM GRAVELLY LOAM, 5 to 15% slopes. The DNR soil number is
7500. The SCS soil number is 156. The 50 year site index for Douglas Fir is 132. This
means the average Douglas Fir will grow to a height of 132 feet in 50 years. This soil is
stable in both a natural and a disturbed state. There are 24.14 acres in this soil type. 14
acres are.in Section 18 and 10.14 acres are in Section 17.
3. SQUALICUM GRAVELLY LOAM, 15 to 30% slopes. The DNR soil number
is 7501. The SCS soil number is 157. The 50 year site index for Douglas Fir is 132.
This means that the average Douglas fir will grow to a height of 132 feet in 50 years. The
soil is.stable in both a natural and a disturbed state. There are 26 acres in this soil type.
5 acres are in Section 18. 21 acres are in Section 17.
The site is accessed via Henderson Road and Y Road.
The owner harvested approximately 31 acres in Section 17 in 1956. This area
reforested naturally to Red Alder.
Approximately 20 acres were partially cut in 1995 in Section 18. This area is still
adequately stocked with Red Cedar and Maple.
Forest Management Recommendations are as follows:
Stand # I is an area of 3.65 acres that are old fields. Red Alder is gradually taking
over these fields. It is recommended that the owner complete the reforesting of these old
fields by planting about 800 Douglas fir 2 -1 seedlings within the next 2 -5 years. Spacing
of the planting will be about 12' by 12'. Plant away from the natural Red Alder
:Y
seedlings. The existing grass will have to be controlled prior to planting the Douglas Fir
seedlings and for the first two years after planting. The County Extension Service will be
able to advise the owner regarding chemicals to use for grass control. It is recommended
that one hand treat only a 2 -3' area around the planted seedling.
Stand #2 is a mature stand of Red Alder. This stand is a forested wetland. This
stand should be harvested using a Cable System during the next 5 -10 years. Do Not
harvest this area with Ground Base equipment. Excessive soil damage will most likely
occur using Ground Based harvest equipment. Reforest during the first planting season
after harvest. Plant the harvested area with Red Cedar and Cottonwood seedlings.
Planting at a rate of 300 seedlings per acre. This is a spacing of 12' by 12'.
Stand #3 is a mature stand of Red Cedar and Maple with scattered large Douglas
Fir and Red Alder and Birch. This area had a partial cut harvest in 1995. It is
recommended that one harvest four (4) five (5) acre clear cuts in the future. The Maple is
mature and should be harvested during the next 5 -10 years. Ground Based harvest
equipment can be used without soil damage in this type. The first 5 acre clear cut should
be in the southeast portion of Section 18. Reforest during the first planting season
following harvest by planting 300 Douglas fir 2 -0 seedlings per acre. Allow about 5
years between these 5 acre clearcuts before harvesting again.
Stand #4 is an immature stand of Red Alder with scattered older Douglas Fir and
Red Cedar. This area was harvested in 1956. Begin harvesting 5 -10 acre clear cut units
in 10-15 years. Allow 5 -10 years between harvests. Reforest during the first planting
season following harvest by planting 300 Douglas Fir 2 -0 seedlings per acre.
When the landowner chooses to do a timber harvest, it will be necessary to obtain
an approved Forest Practice Application (EPA) m required by RC W 76.09 Forest
Practices. This can be obtained from the Washington State Department of Natural
Resources (DNR).
Creation of logging debris, or slash, within 100 feet of a public road or 500 feet
from a home, barn, garage, etc. is classed as an Extreme Hazard w defined by RC W
76.04.660 and WAC 332 -24 -650. Any Extreme Hazard must be reduced, abated, or
eliminated.
The Northwest Region of the DNR is currently located on Highway 9 in Sedro-
Woolley.
The owner is allowed to harvest up to 5,000 board feet per year for his own use (not
to be sold) without obtaining an approved EPA.
Any timber harvested within the State of Washington pays a 5% Yield Tax at time
of harvest. The Forest Excise Tax is collected by the Department of Revenue.
At the completion of a timber harvest it will be necessary to reforest the laud as
required by RCW 76.09 and WAC 222 -34 Reforestation. It is recommended that the
owner plant any harvested area during the first planting season following harvest. Plant
300 Douglas fir 2 -0 seedlings per acre on hillsides. Plant 300 Cottonwood whips or Red
Cedar seedlings per acre on forested wetlands. The planting season is normally January
Page
through April. Tree seedlings we available from the Webster Nursery of the DNR that is
located south of Olympia. The DNR at Sedro - Woolley will have current information
regarding the purchase of tree seedlings.
The planted seedlings will require monitoring for brush encroachment during the
first 5 years, or until the planted seedlings are growing above any competition such as
Salmonberry. Brush species can be controlled either by hand slashing (or cutting) or by
the use of approved chemicals. If one uses chemicals, obtain information from the DNR
or the County Extension Service for correct usage and dosage. If one uses the hand
slashing method, then it is recommended that this practice be done only during the
months of July and August to prevent the sprouting of the cut stamps.
It is recommended that the owner consider hand fertilizing of any planted Douglas
Fir seedlings after the first growing season. Consider applying about 1 teaspoon (or
about 0.01+ pounds per tree) of Urea fertilizer scattered around the base (4 to 8 inches
from the seedling stem) of each planted seedling. The forest soils in Western Washington
are Nitrogen deficient. This type of fertilizer application will last for 5 or more years.
It is highly recommended that the owner obtain the services of a professional
forestry consultant prior to any timber harvest and reforestation activity. The DNR office
at Sedro- Woolley can supply the owner with a list of professional forestry consultants.
The consultant can assist the owner in obtaining an approved Forest Practice Application,
finding a timber harvester, and reforesting the harvested area.
It is also recommended that the owner have a professional forestry consultant do a
detailed timber cruise and timber appraisal prior to any planned timber harvest.
The current zoning of this property indicates that the potential exists for
homesites in the future. If any portion of the property is converted to a single family
resident, then the owner of record will withdraw the homesite acreage from the
Designated Forest Timber Tax Program. The owner of record will transfer the
balance of the acreage to the Open Space - Timber Tax Program if the ownership
falls below 20 acres. The landowner understands that one MUST have 20.0 acres or
more of forest land to be classed as Designated Forest. The owner also understands
that one must have 5.0 or more acres of forest land for the property to be classed as
Open Space - Timber. The owner of record will pay any back taxes and/or penalties
for any acreage withdrawn from the Designated Forest Timber Tax Program.
It is the owner's responsibility to protect the area from fire. This
property is assessed for the State Forest Fire Patrol. The owner's
responsibility is accomplished by paying the State Forest Fire Patrol
assessment each year.
Page
PLANIMETRIC MAP
showing
Current Tax Account Numbers
S.
I
380418448496-0000 I 380418 - 513459-0000
(13.62 Acres) I ( 5.26 A=s)
t
38NI84504294M 1 3804)8-521432-WW
( 5.00 Acses) i ( 4.77 Accts)
Map Data From
Whatcom County Assessors Maps
17
FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN
BERYL M. UNGER BREAKEY
1202 Telegraph Road
Bellingham, WA 98226
360 -676 -9225
Tax Account Numbers:
380418- 448496 - 0000(13.62 Acres)
380418 - 533459 -0000 ( 5.26 Acres)
380418-521432 -0000( 4.77 Acres)
380418450429 -0000( 5.00 Acres)
380417 - 079468 -0000 (31.14 Acres)
Forest Land Description:
Portion NEI74 NE114 of Section 18
Portion N W 114 N W I!4 of Section 17
Township 38 North
Range 4 East, W.M.,
Whatcom County
Containing 59.79 Acres
Scale V'= 400'
j804114194614000
X114 Acttsf
prepared by
Anderson Forestry Consallanss$ Ina
20105 Gina Marie lane
Burlington, WA 98233 -5202
360 - 757 -6389
SOIL TYPE MAP
Soil Data & Soil Map Data is from
USDA SCS and Washington State DNR
Soil Survey of Whatcom County Area
aF
T
i
9-2
DNR q 9094 N
SCS q 182
silt loam — a
I Whatco Slope$unry o o
0 to 8 % Slopes n.„
9.65 Acres a a
Site Index DF 116 (Whatcom Soils) K \
RA 90 (Labounty Soils) I Q ti
I
1
1 /
DNR 9 7500 f
SCS 9 156 veil loam
Squalicum gm y
5 to 150/0 Slopes
14 Acres
Site Index DF 132
S.18 J �S. 17
FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN
BERYL K UNGER 13REAKFY
1202 Telegraph Road
Bellingham, WA 98226
360 - 676 -9225
Tax Account Numben :
380418-448496 -000 0 (13.62 Acres)
380418- 533459 -0000( 5.26 Acres)
380418-521432-0000 ( 4.77 Acres)
380418 -050429 -0000 ( 5.00 Acres)
3 8 04 17 -07 9468 -0000 (31.14 Acres)
97501
a 157 gravelly loam
Squalicum g
15 to 30 °/a Slopes
5 Acres
Site Index DF 132
Forest Land Description:
Portion NEI /4 NEI /4 of Section 18
Portion NW I/4 NW 114 of Section 17
Township 38 North
Range 4 East, W.M.,
Whatcom County
Containing 59.79 Acres
Scale C' - 400'
4k
`Pobe4O /
/ r
DNR q 75uu ^�
SCS q 1 SSqualicmn gravelly to
5 to 150/0 Slopes
10.14 Acres
Site Index DF 132
prepared 6y
Anderson Forestry Consultant
20105 Gina Marie lane
Burlington. WA 99233-5202
360 - 757-6389
Type
RA I1(old Fields)
(20%s ockcd stand)
Site III F 116
Site Index D
Age 2 -5 yeas
3.65 Acres
TIMBER TYPE MAP
S1�I
<rL I Type 3 ma3 df4
RC 213 stand)
I -C 1 stroked
I Site tl D F 132
site index
J i pge 50 + Yeats
20 Acres
Type ��� Wetlundsi
(fully stockcd stand)
Site III
Site Index RA 90
Age 50+ yews
5 Acres
17
FOREST MANAGEMET�T PLAN
BERYL M•DNGER BREAKEY
/202 Telegraph Road
Bellingbam, W A 98226
360 -676 -9225
Tax A<couut Numbers:
3SO418A48496 -0000 (13 62 Acres)
5.26 Acres)
380418 -53 }459 -0000 ( 4,77 Acres)
_OW 32 0 (500 Acres)
S 0418A504
380411- 019468 -0000 (31.14 Acres)
Forest Land DesertptrW
POM1ionNEl14 NE114 of Scctio on8 7
POrti0aNW 114 NW 114 of Sw
Township 38 Norlb
w9c 4 East, WM
Whatwm County
Containing 59.79 Acres
Scale I^ ° 400'
-type, wbb Scat' " St FjC3
Vp kcdstar
(fall, stw
Site 11 tyv
S.Itz Index
Age 40 years
132
31.14 Acre
Prepared by
Anderson Forestry Co'
20105 Gina M "ie -Z
Burlington• W A 98233
360- 751 -6389
farinha 1 OST Y2K
WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE
CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner:
Connie Farinha
Designation:
Open Space Timber
On site walkover daerridion with detailed catenate,
P.O. Box 28722
Transfer from:
Open Space Farm & Ag.
No mention of forest health, assumption is that health is relatively good.
Bellingham, WA. 98228
Parcel No.:
380424 -464382
Subarea:
South Fork Valley Subarea
Parcel Acreage:
9.77 acres
Future harvesting starting year 2013 thereabouts.
2
Acreage in OST:
8.5 acres
Comp. Plan Desig.:
Rural
Road Access:
Hillside Road
Zoning Desig:
R10A
Land Use:
Pole bam, pasture, forest
Shorelines:
N/A
Land use history:
Relic pasture, fore st
Soil Type /Capabilities:
6 - Barneston very gravelly loam, 8% - 15% slopes
40% of lot coverage
Site Index`:
Limitations /Concerns
24 - Chuckanut loan
25% lot coverage
Site Index*:
Limitations /Concerns
118 (Douglas fir)
Seedling mortality and establishment
3% 8% slopes
130 (Douglas fir)
Muddiness caused by seasonal
Barneston very gravelly loam, 15 %- 30% slopes
of lot coverage
Index': 118 (Douglas fir)
aitations/Concems: Seedling mortality and establishment
Timber Management Plan Completeness
Information Included :- (tkinwmpletc; 1= satisfactory; 2-=lhorough
Points Me
Current Stand Description
2
Detailed and thorough.
Soils Description
2
On site walkover daerridion with detailed catenate,
Forest Health
O
No mention of forest health, assumption is that health is relatively good.
Thinning Program
1
Thinning program control for invasive red alder fringe area during Douglas fir planting and growth.
Harvest Plan
Future harvesting starting year 2013 thereabouts.
2
Planting /Restocking Program
2
Ordering and planting of Douglas fir and western redcedar by Spring 2000 for pasture conversion.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement
2
Recommendation is to retain variety and diversity in plant groups and communities, encouraging native plants.
TOTAL: 11 11
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL
`Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
Soils Description 1
2
on rue walkover description with derailed additions.
farinha 2 OST Y21K
WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE
CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner:
Michael Farinha
Designation:
Open Space Timber
lining program confrol for invasive red alder fringe area during Douglas fir planting and growth.
P.O. Box 28722
Transfer from:
Open Space Farm &Ag.
Future harvesting starting year 2013 thereabouts.
Bellingham, WA. 98228
Parcel No.:
380424 - 465348
Subarea:
South Fork Valley Subarea
Parcel Acreage:
9.77 acres
Recommendation is to retain variety and diversify in plant gmups and communities, encouraging native plants.
Acreage in DST:
7.75 acres
Comp. Plan Desig.:
Rural
Road Access:
Hillside Road
Zoning Desig:
R10A
Land Use:
Residence, pasture, forest
Shorelines:
N/A
Land use history:
Relic pasture, fore st
Soil Type /Capabilities:
8 - Bameston very gravelly
loam, 15 %. 30% slopes
75% of lot coverage
Site Index ":
118 (Douglas fir)
Limitations/Concerns:
Seedling mortality and establishment.
24. Chuckanut loam, 3% 8% slopes
25% lot coverage
Site Index*:
130 (Douglas fir)
Limitations/Concems:
Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness.
Plan
Completeness
Timber Management
Information Included :-
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfadory; 2yhorougl
Points Me
Current Stand Description
2
Detailed and thoreugh.
Soils Description 1
2
on rue walkover description with derailed additions.
Forest Health
O
No mention of krest health, assumption is that health is relatively good.
Thinning Program
1
lining program confrol for invasive red alder fringe area during Douglas fir planting and growth.
Harvest Plan
Future harvesting starting year 2013 thereabouts.
2
Planting /Restocking Program
2
Ordering and planting of Douglas fir and "stem redcedar by Spring 2000 for pasture conversion.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement
2
Recommendation is to retain variety and diversify in plant gmups and communities, encouraging native plants.
TOTAIII
11
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL
'Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
Shorelines:. N/A
Land use history: Relic pasture, fore at
Soil Type/Capabilities:
8 - Barneston very gravelly loam, 15%.30% slopes
farinha 3 OST Y2K
WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE
CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner:
Michael, Connie, Tonna Farinha Designation:
Open Space Timber
P.O. Box 28722
Transferred from:
Open Space Farm & Ag.
Bellingham, WA. 98228
Parcel No.:
380424 -465311
Subarea:
South Fork Valley Subarea
Parcel Acreage:
9.77 acres
Completeness
Timber ManaggLnent Plan
Information Included :-
Acreage in OST:
8.75 acres
Comp. Plan Desig.:
Rural
Road Access:
Hillside Road
Zoning Desig:
R10A
Land Use:
Pasture, forest
Shorelines:. N/A
Land use history: Relic pasture, fore at
Soil Type/Capabilities:
8 - Barneston very gravelly loam, 15%.30% slopes
-
75% of /of coverage
Site Index`: 118 (Douglas fir)
Limitations/Concems: Seedling mortality and establishment.
24 - Chuckanuf loam, 3% 8% slopes
25% lot coverage
Site Index': 130 (Douglas fir)
Limitations/Concents: Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness.
Completeness
Timber ManaggLnent Plan
Information Included :-
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2= thorougl
Points Me
Current Stand Description
2
Detailed and thorough.
Soils Description
2
On -site walkover description with detailed additions.
Forest Health
O
No mention of forest health, assumption is that health is relatively good
Thinning Program
1
Thinnirg program control for invasive red alder fringe area during Douglas firplanting and growth.
Harvest Plan
Future harvesting starting year 2013 thereabouts.
2
Planting /Restocking Program
2
Ordering and planting of Douglas fir and westem redcedar by Spring 2000 forpaslure conversion.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement
2
Recommendation is to retain variety and diversity in plant groups and communities, encouraging native
plants.
TOTAL,
11 1
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL
`Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
Shorelines: N/A
Land use history: Relic pasture, fore st
Soil Type /Capabilities:
8 - Barneston very gravelly loam, 15%-30% slopes
farinha 4 DST Y2K
WHATCOM COUNTY OPENSPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner:
Michael, Terms, Mikel Farmina
Designation:
Open Space Timber
P.O. Box 28722
Transfer from:
Open Space Farm & Ag.
Bellingham, WA. 96228
Parcel No.:
380424465282
Subarea:
South Fork Valley Subarea
Parcel Acreage:
9.77 acres
Completeness
Timber Management Plan
Information Included :- (0-incomplete;
Acreage in OST:
8.75 acres
Comp. Plan Desig.:
Rural
Road Access:
Hillside Road
Zoning Desig:
R10A
Land Use:
Pasture, forest
Shorelines: N/A
Land use history: Relic pasture, fore st
Soil Type /Capabilities:
8 - Barneston very gravelly loam, 15%-30% slopes
75% of lot coverage
Site Index *: 118 (Douglas fir)
Limitations / Concems: Seedling mortality and establishment.
24 - Chuckanut loam, 3% 8% slopes
25% lot coverage
Site Index *: 130 (Douglas fir)
Limitations /Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness.
Completeness
Timber Management Plan
Information Included :- (0-incomplete;
I=satisfactory; 2= thorougb
Points Me
Current Stand Description
2
Detailed and thorough.
Soils Description
2
On site walkover description with damned additions.
Forest Health
O
No mention of latest health, assumption is that health is relatively good.
Thinning Program
1
Thinning program control for invasive red alder fringe area during Douglas 5r planting and growth.
Harvest Plan
Future harvesting starting year 2013 thereabouts.
2
Planting /Restocking Program
2
Ordering and planting of Douglas ter and "stem redcodar by Spring 2000 for pasture conversion.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement
2
Recommendation is to moon variety and diversity in plant groups and communities, encouraging native plants.
TOTAL-
11
1
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL
*Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
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STEWARDSHIP INCENTIVE PLAN
J_ 6_• _ :_LIUa:
WHATCOM COUNTY
Landowner: Michael A. Farinha
P.O. Boa 28722
Bellingham, WA 98228 -0722
(360) 380 -2648
Plan Preparers: Jerry Smith, NW Team Forester
Gale Mayer, Soil Conservationist
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
6975 Hannegan Road
Lynden, WA 98264 -9696
(360) 354 -2035
Date Prepared: March 1999
z
LANDOWNER'S GOALS and OBJECTIVES
3
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
3
INVENTORY of EXISTING CONDITIONS
3
SOILS
3
WATER
4
ANIMALS
5
Threatened and Endangered Species
5
Habitat Elements
5
Sheller r
5
Food
6
Water
6
Space
6
Habitat Oualifies
6
Diversity
6
Layering
6
Edges
Native Plants
7
VEGETATION
7
Trees
7
Shrubs
7
Ground Cove r
8
RECOMMENDATIONS 8
SOILS 8
WATER 9
VEGETATION 11
MANAGEMENT TIMETABLE 1 I
MAPS and ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 18
Mr. Farinha wants to convert a 15 -acre pasture to a stand of Douglas -fir trees. He wants the seedlings to
be planted at a close enough spacing that a portion of the trees can be cultivated and harvested for
Christmas trees. The remainder of the trees will be managed for long -term timber production.
Mike wants to retain the presently stocked, steeper, western portion of his property in timber. The map
with this report outlines the two areas described here.
't1' I_ Bmej .1'. I\
The 40 acre parcel is located in Section 24, all in T38N, R4E, W.M., Whatcom County Washington. It is
located at 3565 Hillside Road, which is approximately 7 miles northwest of Acme, Washington.
Access to the property is off of Hillside Road and the logging road winds through the property to the east
and northeast. A new workshop has been constructed and is located along the east property line. In close
proximity to the workshop is the proposed home site.
The property can be divided into four units: 1) Pasture - 15.0 acres, 2) Home Site - 2.0 acres, 3) Alder
Fringe - 6.0 acres, & 4) Hillside Timber - 18.0 acres.
SOILS
Chuckanut loam, 3 to 8% slopes, is the soil underlying the majority of the pasture on the property. (The
soils map at the end of this.report indicates the approximate locations of this and the other soils on your
property.) Chuckanut loam is a very deep, well- drained soil that was formed in a mixture of volcanic ash
and colluvium derived from glacial drift and sandstone. Colluvium is soil material and rock fragments
moved by creep, slide or local washing, that is deposited at the base of steep slopes. Available water
capacity for plant growth is high in this soil. Permeability of the soil is moderate. Surface runoff of water
is slow and the hazard of soil erosion is slight.
Douglas -fir the principal woodland species on this soil. Using a fifty -year site index curve for Douglas -
fir, dominant and co- dominant trees in a fully stocked natural stand will reach the height of 130 feet at age
50 years. Stands of Douglas -fir will grow about 184 cubic feet of wood per acre per year at age 60.
These,soils are prone to compaction from heavy equipment operations when the soils are wet. Soil
compaction restricts root function, decreases soil temperature and retards plant growth.
Bameston gravelly loam, 0 to 8% slopes is mapped as the soil on the north end of your pasture. This is a
very deep, somewhat excessively drained soil found on glacial outwash terraces. Available water capacity
for plant growth is low in this soil. Permeability of the soil is moderately rapid in the upper part of the
soil, and very rapid in the substratum. Surface runoff is slow and the hazard of soil erosion is slight.
Douglas -fir is the principal woodland species on this soil. Using a fifty -year site index curve for Douglas -
fir, dominant and co- dominant trees in a fully stocked natural stand will reach the height of 1 18 feet at age
50 years. Stands of Douglas -fir will grow about 158 cubic feet of wood per acre per year at age 60.
These soils are only moderately prone to compaction from heavy equipment operations when the soils are
wet. Soil compaction restricts root function, decreases soil temperature and retards plant growth.
The soils on the steeper portion of your property are mapped as Barneston very gravelly loam, 15 to 30%
slopes. The description of Andic Xerochrepts soils immediately upslope from your property appears to
better fit the conditions that we observed when we walked up the switchback skid trail to your west
property line.
Andic Xerochrepts are moderately deep to very deep, well- drained soils found on mountainsides. They
were formed in volcanic ash, and colluvium derived from glacial till, and sandstone. Water availability for
plant growth is moderate to high, while permeability is moderate to moderately rapid. Surface water
runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is severe.
The Douglas -fir site index for the Bameston very gravelly loam soil is 118 feet at age 50. This site index
appears to more accurately describe the conditions that we observed, than the Andic Xerochrepts site
index of 107 feet at age 50. '
The limitations affecting timber harvest include steepness of slope, the hazard of erosion, and occasional
snowpack. Unsurfaced roads are slippery when wet and subject to deep rotting during rainy periods. Cut
and fill slopes tend to slump when wet. Following road construction and clearcutting, road failures and
landslides are likely. Soil creep is common in this unit. Roads, steep yarding paths, skid trails and
firebreaks are all subject to rilling and gullying unless adequate water bars and protective plant cover are
established.
lYWIX1S
Natural water drainage from the property drains to Sygitowicz Creek and the South Fork of the Nooksack
River. Much of thu ;atural flow pattern on the hillside has been disturbed by the activities that supported
the generation of electricity dram waterpower on an adjoining property. The road that was constructed for
the power generation has intercepted and concentrated many of the natural water now patterns on the
hillside. These disturbances have created conditions that we extremely vulnerable to accelerated surface
erosion, and mass soil movements. As we observed when we walked the steeper portions of your
property, there are substantial surface and subsurface Flows of water on that portion of the property. In a
conversation with another resident of the valley, he related that Sygitowicz Creek had shot a debris torrent
down to the valley floor in the decade of the 1980s. Obviously there is a history and a predisposition to
unstable land conditions near your property.
ANIMALS
Threatened and Endangered Species
The DNR TRAX data base search done on February 9, 1999, indicated that no threatened or endangered
species of plants or animals have been reported on your property nor properties adjacent to it. No reported
archeological findings were reported by the data base search.
Habitat Elements
Wildlife requires shelter, food, water, and space. To support the greatest number of species and the
highest number of individual animals in an area, maximum habitat diversity needs to be created and
maintained. The first three elements we often capable of being manipulated, but space is more difficult to
alter. By maximizing habitat diversity, the potential to support a diverse wildlife population is increased.
Forest stands with less than optimal conditions for wildlife frequently lack snags to provide opportunities
for cavity nesting birds and mammals, and have iminial woody material on the forest floor. Dense stands
entering a stem exclusion stage frequently shade out understory plant species that are useful for wildlife
cover and forage. Planted, single - species stands of trees (monoculture) generally lack diversity in both
species and sizes of vegetation.
Shelter
All species of wildlife must have safe places where they can rest, escape danger, find shelter from adverse
weather and raise offspring. Many animals find shelter in trees or shrubs, while leaf litter and dead wood
provide shelter for amphibians and insects.
Snags we dead trees that are still standing. They provide both food and cover and are very important in
the distribution and abundance of many wildlife species. Approximately 20% of the wildlife species in the
State of Washington, about 100 individual species, use dead and defective tree habitat On the western
side of the Cascade Mountains, 67 species require cavities in snags for successful reproduction. Trees in
all stages of decay and decomposition are utilized by different wildlife species. Wildlife management
strategies usually focus on meeting the needs of a subgroup called "primary excavator." There are 16
"primary excavator" species found in western Waslu%lon. Of these 16 excavator species, 10 use soft
snags that are at least 17 inches in diameter and at least 30 feet tall. Five "primary excavator" species use
hard snags that are at least 25 inches in diameter and at least 31 feet tall. It is assumed that by meeting the
needs of this subgroup, the needs of all species within the larger group will also be met.
Food
A mixture of plants that produce fruits or seeds at different times of the year provides a good source of
wildlife food. Plant -eating insects are an important component of most song birds. Insecticides used to
kill these insects may cause a reduction in the number of songbirds in an area. To be utilized by wildlife,
food must be adjacent or near areas this provide travel lanes or cover.
Water
Animals will walk, fly, or crawl long distances for a drink because some form of water is essential for all
wildlife. Small impoundments will attract resident and migratory waterfowl. Adequate protective/escape
shelter adjacent to water will result in greater utilization of that water by wildlife,
Space
Protected travel lanes, such as brushy fence rows or riparian zones, can provide crucial linkages between
habitat "islands." As these connecting linkages disappear through development, stresses are placed on
animals. Fragmentation is the breakup of formerly large habitat spaces into smaller areas on animal
breeding grounds, migration routes or wintering areas. Fragmentation of habitat creates more "edges" and
reduces the area of "interior" habitat. Fragmentation creates habitats in isolation, which are "islands" that
may have fewer species of wildlife than non - isolated habitats in the same area.
Habitat Qualities
Diversity
Retaining variety in vegetation creates conditions that are attractive to many species of wildlife.
Evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs, young and old trees, and different seed - bearing, fruit- bearing
and nectar producing shrubs and flowers attract many species of wildlife.
Layering
Height differences between various species of vegetation create vertical layering in habitats. This layering
is accomplished by having tall trees, understory trees, tall and short shrubs and ground covers such as
grasses and forbs for wildlife to utilize.
Edges
The meeting zones between different plant groups or communities are edges. Edges are found where trees
and shrubs meet a meadow, or where tall trees abut an area of brush mud low growing vegetation. These
edges are important because they provide animals with simultaneous access to more than one
environment, a greater variety of vegetative cover and more abundant food sources. Edges can be traps
where animals can be picked off by waiting predators, particularly when an edge has insuffic.r ! rover or
is not wide enough for protection.
Native Plants
The best habitat for native wildlife is one with native plants that have evolved and occur naturally in an
area. These plants are more closely matched to local soil and weather conditions, and wildlife. They will
be better than non- native plants at providing the right source of food, shelter and diversity needed by
wildlife. Native plants often need less care and maintenance than non - native plants.
VEGETATION
Trees
The trees growing on the property today exhibit the logging and farming history of the property. The
entire property was probably clearcut wound the turn of the century. The areas of gentle topography were
cleared and the stumps removed so that the area was useable for fanning. Fire was the likely method of
clearing and the steeper slopes above the cleared areas were doubtless burned more than once. it appears
that intensive famting mound the western and northern edges of the cleared field was halted in the decade
of 1950s. Those areas were taken over by red alder seedlings, which need full sunlight and disturbed
ground to flourish. A few western hemlock and western redcedar seedlings later became established in
the shade of the alder stand. The red alder trees in these areas are now 35 to 40 years old and 10 to 16
inches in diameter at 4 '/2 feet above ground level. A low- volume, selective logging of these gentle
topography areas occurred in the summer of 1998. Slash from that operation was skidded to the fringe
area between the pasture and the alder stand.
Following clear cutting, the steep ground above the farmed area probably had a recurrent series of
relatively small land movements and debris slides during winter stones. Land movements probably
reached a peak about 15 to 20 years after the original logging. This would be the time span in which the
roots of the harvested trees would have rotted to a point where their soil holding capacity was severely
diminished. As areas of disturbed soil and full sunlight were available on this slope, both Douglas -fir and
red alder trees became established and flourished. Western redcedar, western hemlock, and big leaf maple
trees began to grow in the more shaded and undisturbed areas of the hillside. Eventually this stand of trees
created a more stable slope as roots from these trees provided soil support to the unstable areas.
The alder trees on the hillside are now nearing mature age and size. These trees are more than forty years
old, and measure in excess of 12 inches in diameter at 4'/: feet above ground level. Within the next 10 to
15 years these red alder trees will be crowded out of the stand as their vigor decreases and shade tolerant
trees encroach upon their growing space.
Shrubs
Shrub species found on the site include vine maple, elderberry, Oregon grape, and huckleberry
Ground Cover
Sword fern, bracken fern, and salal are comrnnn native ground cover vegetation.
SOILS
To preserve soil capability and productivity log skidding and other heavy equipment use should be carried
out when the soil is at alow moisture content. In most years, this period encompasses the months of July
through mid - October for the hillside area. The pasture area will be at a low moisture content earlier in the
spring and later in the fall of most years. Soil information brochures are included as a part of this report.
Those areas that are going to be converted from pasture to forest should have soil tests performed. Soil
testing information is included in the information with this report. Recommendations of the testing results
should be followed.
J%YYaRi
The proximity of the property to the South Fork of the Nooksack River requires that care be exercised
during logging operations and pasture conversion operations. Surface water runoff from logging roads can
erode soils and carry eroded sediments to fish bearing streams. Roads and skid trails should be built with
adequate ditches to carry runoff to non - erosive surfaces. Water bars should be built across steep pitches
on roads to get water off the road surface and onto non - erosive surfaces. Umocked roads should be seeded
with a grass forage mixture after they are not needed in logging operations.
In dealing with the water along the switchback road on the steep hillside, a number of options are
plausible. Culverts should be inspected and cleaned every summer. As a backup system, water bars
should be installed across the road about 20 feet downgrade from every culvert. Road ditches should be
cleaned out on a yearly basis, using a hand shovel. Non - erosive surfaces, such as half -round culverts,
rotten logs, and large rocks should be positioned so that water discharging from culverts hits these surfaces
instead of erosive surfaces.
Water gains erosive power as it makes long, uninterrupted flows. To control that erosive power, blocks
and diversions need to be in place to break up long overland water flows. These diversions may be as
simple as limbs and tree.stems placed across water pathways. Hand -dug waterbars can also be used to
shorten the length of water flows and redirect those .flows onto non - erosive surfaces.
Waterba s or woody diversion breaks should not be further than 50 feet apart on the road that crosses your
hillside ground. When placing these breaks, special attention needs to be paid to where the water will
di-rhargc and the quantity of water being diverted by the break or waterbar.
Pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers should all be used in accordance with the manufacturers' labe!
instructions. Care in mixing and cleanup of these products should be taken to ensure that the products do
not contaminate ground waters nor surface waters.
VEGETATION
Pasture Conversion: The establishment of a stand of Douglas -fir trees on an old pasture is a difficult
undertaking that requires considerable persistence. The young seedlings will face competition from the
roots of the grasses that formerly occupied the pasture. Alder seedlings will also invade the newly planted
area, threatening to cut off the light supply for the newly planted Douglas -fir seedlings. The seedlings will
be exposed to hungry wildlife ranging from mice and voles, to deer and elk. However, the ground you
plan to plant to Douglas -fir is the most productive ground on your property, the payoff should be worth it.
Pasture conversion will require three separate steps that must be undertaken before the seedlings can be
planted. Step one will require that the existing grass stand be killed with an herbicide application. This
application should occur before the grass seed heads mature. Step two is the summer process of
subsoiling to break up any compacted layers that may exist below the soil surface. Step three is tilling the
soil following subsoiling. This step breaks the clods and large chunks of soil into an arable texture. Steps
two and three need to occur after the ground has dried enough to be workable with machinery.
In the fall of the year after you have prepared the pasture for planting, you will want to order Douglas -fir
seedlings to plant the following spring. It will be important that the planting stock is from the seed wne in
which your property is located. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources' Webster Nursery
in Tumwater is an excellent source of seedlings identified by seed zone. Their order form is usually
available in September for orders to be filled the following spring.
Step four in this process is the care and nurturing of the planted seedlings until they are large and vigorous
enough to be "free -to- grow." The seedlings will face competition from the grasses that formerly occupied
the pasture. These grasses should be kept at bay by either applying herbicides that are specific to grasses,
or by keeping a grass -free circle of about 3 feet around each seedling.
A prolific stand of young alder saplings will probably spring up around the edges of the former pasture. It
will be important to keep these saplings from over - topping the Donglas -fir seedlings and cutting off the
sunlight. Alder removal can be accomplished by pulling the alder out of the ground, or by using a
backpack sprayer to apply an herbicide that is specific to broad leafed trees.
The other problem You will probably encounter is from animals attacking your seedlings. Mice and voles
may chew the bark from around the stems and girdle the trees, causing a slow death to the girdled trees.
Deer may nibble the succulent nrry growth in the spring, not killing the trees, but distorting their growth
form.
Adequate site preparation is the most important step you can take to limit predation of the seedlings by
mice and voles. The site preparation should severely limit the grass cover for these rodents, and eliminate
nesting and hiding places. Planting enough seedlings to ensure the survival of an adequate stand of trees
even after loses to animals, is also a precautionary step that can be taken.
10
Damage from mice and voles can be limited by several actions. The creation of a grass -free area mound
the newly planted trees provides a zone of exposure to mice and voles. When they me in this zone, they
are vulnerable to attack from hawks and owls. Perches in the field to encourage hawks tray increase the
number of these birds that feed in the area, and decrease the number of rodent that can damage your
seedlings.
Another action for a severe girdling problem is to wrap the stems of the seedlings with a material that will
discourage rodent gnawing. This might be tin foil or steel wool, or a commercial product designed for
stem protection.
Damage from deer browse will diminish as the seedlings grow out of reach of the deer. While the
seedlings are being browsed, you can use pruning shears to eliminate multiple tops in trees that have been
browsed severely. The bushy appearance of browsed side limbs will disappear as the trees grow older.
Alder Fringe: Recommended management practices for the alder fringe'area that was partially cut during
1998 are as follows. Reseed the skid trails with an erosion control . planting mix to reduce the amount of
exposed bare ground. An understory of western redcedar seedlings can be planted both in the skid trails
and under the red alder overstory.
Even though redcedar does fairly well in the shade, it does need some direct sunlight to thrive. I would
suggest walking through the area and finding planting sites no closer thanl2 feet from each other. If you
envision an inverted cone with the redcedar tree at the bottom of it, that cone shape will show you how
much brush and tree foliage need to be removed for the newly planted seedling to survive. The planting
sites should be into mineral soil, and not old rotten wood, or duff on the forest floor. Avoid extremely wet
spots as planting sites.
You might hang flagging at your chosen planting sites, cut the shading brush and leaves away from the
sites this winter and be ready to plant in either March or early April. In most of western Washington,
planting western redcedar is akin to setting the table with a feast for blacktail deer. You should look after
the newly planted cedar seedlings for two-or three years following plantingjust to ensure that they are
surviving. After the third year, you may need to cut back brush that is shading the trees. If you can get
85% of the cedar trees to still be living by the time they have been in the ground for 5 years, you should be
well on the way to hands -free growth.
Hillside Timber: As we discussed when we walked this portion of your property, the stability of the area
is dependent upon managing the water, and leavire the trees in place. The fragility of the area indicates
that the recommended best management practices for tn: ?>ep ground is minimal disturbance.
I
April
1999
Spray pasture area with herbicide selective to grasses
Check hillside to ensure water courses are in good shape
July
1999
Subsoil sprayed pasture area
August
1999
Till previously subsoiled pasture area
October
1999
Order Douglas -fir seedlings for spring planting of pasture
Order western redcedar seedlings for underplanting alder fringe
November
1999
Check hillside to ensure water courses are in good shape
March
2000
Plant Douglas -fir and western redcedar seedlings
July
2000
Check grass competition around newly planted seedlings
Check newly planted seedlings for animal damage
April
2003
Check grass competition around newly planted seedlings
Control grass that is crowding out trees
Use wild seedling to replace dead trees in pasture area
April
2012
Examine pasture stand for precommerical thinning
April
2013
Carry out precommercial thinning if needed
June
2013
Harvest mature overstory from alder fringe which now has a
western redcedar understory fully established.
Annually
Monitor water runoff from steep hillside, direct and control
concentrated flows
12
LOCATION NIAP
MICHAEL FARINIIA
3,505 HILLSIDE ROAD
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LOCATION NIAP
MICHAEL FARINIIA
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14
MICHAEL FAR VELA
3565 HILLSIDE ROAD
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SEC 24, T 38N, R4E, W.M.
WHATCv,M COUNTY
APPROXIMATE SCALE: 1 " + 780'
N
16
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting February 10, 2000 Page 8
The meeting recessed for dinner.
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting reconvened in the Planning Department Library, 5280 Northwest
Drive, Suite A, Bellingham at 6:34 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Rob Ney, Cheryl Ferrier, Greg Rustand, John Steensma, Ron Roosma, Richard
Gilda, Bob Wiesen, Danna Beech, Dave Pros.
STAFF PRESENT: Elizabeth Olsen, Sylvia Goodwin, Matt Aamot, Dave Grant, Jane Doughty.
Housekeeping Item - Planning Association Dues
Goodwin: We have the money in the budget to fund memberships for Planning Commissioners.
Gilda: The only real thing you get is the short course and the magazine. The cost is $30.
Rustand: I think that since we have money in the budget, it would be better to use the money for more
conferences.
Open Space Applications
Elizabeth Olsen presented the staff reports. There are six applications tonight.
The MacDonald Application
The MacDonald application was reviewed last year and the timber management plan was marginal.
Mrs. MacDonald had the plan redone by the forester. The land is a relic meadow. It only needed a
good timber plan, which the forester has done. Land in open space limber has to be a minimum of five
acres.
The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion
closed.
WORK SESSION
Rustand: Moved to accept the staff recommendation. Ferrier Second. Motion Carried.
The Farinha Applications
Olsen: These are all in the same family; husband, wife and two children. The top parcel has a pasture
and a large barn, parcel three has a house and a small pasture. The remaining two parcels are
pasture. The timber management plan is good and has a commercial forester's comments. That is
one reason they didn't go into forest health or the thinning program. The stands are in excellent health.
The recommendation is for all to be placed in open space timber with the acreages mentioned.
The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony
portion closed. .
WORK SESSION
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting February 10, 2000 Page 9
WORK SESSION
Beech: Moved to accept the staff recommendation for approval of the Farinha applications. Ferrier
Second. Motion Carried.
The Beryl Breakey (Unger) Application
Olsen: This is a large amount of acreage. It was logged in 1956. The timber management plan was
done well, except for the wildlife habitat and the thinning program. Staff recommends approval for the
change from designated forest to open space timber.
Wiesen: If they build on those tracts, can they take out an acre for a house?
Beech: Designated forest is not a zoning term?
Olsen: Designated forest is a tax tens for commercial timber. I do not know what the tax break is at all.
The public testimony portion opened.
Terry Unger, 4059 Y Road, Bellingham. I don't believe there is a tax break. The property was to be
divided for three siblings. The attempt was for inheritance purposes.
Olsen: designated forestry has to have a minimum of 20 acres. What they have done is to change tax
classifications so they can break the land into 10 acre parcels. Doing it this way takes it all out and
transfers it into a similar tax assessment designation.
Beech: Would Terry like to explain how this got this way?
Unger: there is an open field of one acre, threw this into open space and locked us out for five years.
We could subdivide and create one 20% size parcel. The family intended to divide the land equally but
it could not be done. Mr. Stoner said it could not be done because of the AG protection overlay. The
piece across the street I live on is still locked out. We are still trying to understand this.
Olsen: This has nothing to do with the AG. We are dealing with one 31 acre parcel.
Wiesen: It makes sense to have this in AG.
Unger: The soils are gravelly loam. The field was placed in Open Space Ag. Two acres were in Ag
open space and 32 acres were in timber. We removed the two acres, paid the penalties and tried to
gel the oveday lifted, but it is still locked for five years. Now we are just dealing with the forestry and
not the two acres.
The public testimony portion closed.
Beech: Moved to approve the recommendation for the Breakey Unger application. Ferrier Second.
Motion Carried.
PUBLIC HEARING
Continuation of File #ZON99 -00023 - Title 21 Land Development Regulations. The new
regulations would replace the existing Whatcom County Subdivision Regulations and address