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I wHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL AGENDA BILL NO. 2000 -169 CLEARANCES Indent Date Date Rereard in Council O ice A enda Date Assi nedlo: dginanr: Elizabeth K. Olsen M/00 l APR 11 2000 WHAiCOF.k COUN COUNCIL 4118100 Planning & Development Comm. 4/18/00 Council Division Head: Sl' Goodwin Z Dept Head: J. E time, Interim dl Prosecutor DaviA(urent PurchasiniMudgeu ,( 7 E cudw; Peter Krewen % l— SUBJECT: A Resolution adopting recommendations for Open Space/Open Space and Open Space Timber Applications. ATTACHMENTS: Draft Resolution Agency Report with attached Staff Report, ratings sheet and maps Excerpts from Drat Planning Commission Minutes, March 3, 2000 SEPA review required? ( ) Yes ( X ) No SEPA review completed? ( ) Yes ( N/A ) No Should Clerk schedule a hearing ? ( ) Yes ( X ) No Requested Date: SUMMARYSTATEMENT: le the five OPEN SPACEITIMBER applications received, staff recommends approval to all five applications. Of the OPENSPACE/OPENSPACE application received, staff recommends approval. Distribution Request Indicate those who should receive a copy oiler Cannes action. Dsupecy7c name, to the fight. ADS Facilities Management ADS Finance ADSHUm an Resourua ADS Info Services Assessor Jean Eastman Auditor Cooperative Earensim District Coun Ezecuave Health Hearing Examiner ru COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: 2000 -169 4/1812000: Approved 7 -0. Res. #2000 -021 dated County Contract #: Juvenile Parks Planning Elizabeth Olsen Prosecutor Public Works Sheriff Superior Court Treasurer Other Related File Numbers: OS2000 Ordinance or Resoly{ioa NumberM (this item): �FFF VVGG Openspaceres2000 Page 1 INTRODUCED BY: Elizabeth K. Olsen PROPOSED BY: PLANNING DATE: March 3. 2000 RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -021 A RESOLUTION ADOPTING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR OPEN SPACE /OPEN SPACE AND OPEN SPACErrIMBER 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 24, 2000, and a copy of said notice was sent in a timely manner to all applicants; and WHEREAS, on March 9, 2000, the Planning Commission opened the public hearing on the applications and received testimony from the Planning Division staff regarding the proposed Open Space/Open Space and Open Space Timber applications; and WHEREAS, Open Space/Timber is evaluated upon conformance with RCW 84.34.041; and WHEREAS, Open Space/Open Space evaluations are based on the Public Benefit Rating System; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Open Spacerrimber applications from Warren and Sharon Aller, Pippa Breakspear (Blackburn), Thomas Chambers, Zender Logging and Bruce and Lynne Shelton; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Open Space/Open Space application from Paul and Sandra Gomez; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has forwarded its recommendations to the Whatcom County Council; and WHEREAS, Council held a public meeting on April 18, 2000, to consider the Planning Commission's recommendations, and WHEREAS, Council adopted Planning Commission recommendations on April 18, 2000; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL: 1. The Whatcom County Council approves the Open Spacerrimber applications from: Warren and Sharon Aller, Pippa Breakspear (Blackburn), Thomas Chambers, Zander Logging and Bruce and Lynne Shelton. 2. The Whatcom County Council approves the application for Open Space /Open Space from Paul and Sandra Gomez. openspaceres2000 Page 2 3. The County Council directs the Assessor to place the parcels in the appropriate Open Space status category. 4. 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. PASSED this 18 day of April , 2000. Dana Brown -Davis Clerk of the Council APPROVED as to form: David nt Civil Deputy Prosecutor WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL W'H�ATTCCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON / Marlene Dawson, Council Chairperson ()Q AP ED ) VETOED i Petey�Krerfien, County Executive Date °l� d AGENCY REPORT March 3, 2000 File Ref.. OS2000 Page 1 WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT AGENCY REPORT PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTIONS IN THE ) FINDINGS, MATTER OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 1999/2000 ) REASONS OPEN SPACE /OPEN SPACE AND OPEN SPACE ) AND MOTIONS TIMBER APPLICATIONS 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 WAG 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 24, 2000, and a copy of said notice was sent in a timely manner to all applicants; and WHEREAS, on March 9, 2000, the Planning Commission opened the public hearing on the applications and received testimony from the Planning Division staff regarding the proposed Open Space/Timber and Open Space /Open Space parcels; and WHEREAS, Open Space/Timber is evaluated upon conformance with RCW 84.34.041 and Open Space /Open Space evaluations are based on the Public Benefit Rating System; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission concurs with the Planning Division's recommendations for: approval of Open Spacerrimber for Warren and Sharon Alter, Pippa Breakspear (Blackburn), Thomas Chambers, Zender Logging and Bruce and Lynne Shelton; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission concurs with the Planning Division's recommendation for Open Space /Open Space for Paul and Sandra Gomez, WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has concluded its hearings on current applications. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: FINDINGS OF FACT AND REASONS FOR ACTION A quorum of Commission members was present during the hearing. 2. The statutory requirement was met regarding legal notice. AGENCYREPORT File Re/' OS2000 March 3, 2000 Page 2 3. The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval for the Open Space/Timber applications from Warren and Sharon Aller, Pippa Breakspear (Blackbum), Thomas Chambers, Zender Logging and Bruce and Lynne Shelton. 4. The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval for Open Space /Open Space from Paul and Sandra Gomez. WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Danna Beech, Acting Chairperson �J. E. Rya Secretary Date: Commissioners present at March 9 2000 Hearing: Danna Beech, Richard Gilda, David Pros, Ron Roosma, Greg Rustand and Robert Wiesen. Attachment: Staff Report Prepared by: Elizabeth K. Olsen Staff Report File OS 2000 March 3, 2000 WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT STAFF REPORT OPEN SPACE APPLICATIONS 1999 - ALLER Open Space Timber 1999 - BREAKSPEAR (BLACKBURN) Open Space Timber (transfer from Des. Forest) 1999 - CHAMBERS Open Space Timber 1999 - ZENDER Open Space Timber (transfer from Des. Forest) 1999 - SHELTON Open Space Timber (transfer from OSAG and Des. Forest) 1999 - GOMEZ Open Space/Open Space This report summarizes the Planning and Development Department's recommendations on open space applications received in 1999. 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 SPACE/OPEN 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 on whether to grant the applicant assessment at current use after receiving a recommendation from the Planning Commission. Open Space Timber is no longer subject to Planning Commission review under the Public Benefit Rating System. One OPEN SPACE /OPEN SPACE application has been received and reviewed for open space tax status, five are applications to OPEN SPACE TIMBER. The recommendations are based on the information gathered in accordance with the adopted Whatcom County Public Benefit Rating System and Timber Management Plan criteria. Staff evaluations and recommendations with maps and aerials showing location of each individual application are attached. Also attached is a locational map and Exhibit 1 which describes the Whatcom County Open Space Policy and Criteria and Public Benefit Rating System. REQUIREMENTS For the OPEN SPACEI OPEN SPACE category, approval is contingent upon three matters (1) The applicant consents to a degree of public access to the site, to be specified in the formal signed agreement. Such access is to be commensurate with site characteristics and generally subject to users obtaining the owner's permission. (2) The applicant posts a sign indicating open space status and public access. (3) The applicant signs and returns a °Hold Harmless Agreement" together with the signed formal agreement. For the OPEN SPACErrIMBER 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 Staff Report File OS 2000 March 3, 2000 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 an option to update their Timber Management Plan. All Timber applications must be approved or denied within 6 months of their receipt. RECOMMENDATION Of the OPEN SPACEIOPEN SPACE application received, staff recommends the following: 1) Approval of application: Gomez. Of the five OPEN SPACE TIMBER applications received, staff recommends the following: 2) Approval of applications: Aller, Breakspear (Blackburn), Chambers, Zander and Shelton. ATTACHMENTS Ratings for all applications with maps and aerials, overall locational maps and Exhibit 1, Whatcom County Open Space Policy and Criteria and Public Benefit Rating System. EXHIBIT '1' (pages 1/14) n.n i It .1 YY Y1. Y u AUGUST. 1995 • ORDINANCE 95 -040 Page I SUMMARY OF WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE POLICIES Public Benefit Rgfing Sydpm- All applications for open space-open space and open space - farm and agriculture conservation will be rated according to the Whatcom County Public Benefit Rating Syystem described in the following pages. A Public Benefit Rating of at least 45rmust be attained in order to be recommended for approval. In addition, the amount of tax reduction to be granted to open space applications will be based on the Public Benefit Rating. The greater the public benefit provided by keeping the property in open space use, the greater the tax reduction. II. R,hlie neeen- As a condition of approval, owners of open space parcels must agree to provide a certain degree of public access according to the Whatcom County Public Access Policy listed on Page 12. All applications shall be accompanied by the owner's proposed rules of conduct and a description of how public access is to be managed, within the limitations outlined in the Whatcom County Public Access Policy. Note. On parcels where there is a documented occurrence of a State or Federal Endangered or Threatened species; Pederal Proposed Endangered or Threatened Species; and State Sensitive or Monitor Species; or where there is a known or potentially significant archaeological site; or when the purpose of the open space is for wetland conservation, the public access requirement may be waived by the Council. jII, Open Spare Sign* As a condition of approval, owners of open space parcels must agree to post a sign in a location visible to passing motorists, in accordance with the Whatcom County Open Space Sign Policy on Page 13 indicating the parcel's open space status and the availability of public access. As with the public access requirement, the requirement for posting of a sign may be waived in some instances. IV. IfnTd Harmless AZmement- All open space property owners must sign a hold harmless agreement, freeing Whatcom County of any liability which may arise as a result of open space approval. A copy of the hold harmless agreement is included on Page 14. Page 2 I. APPROVAL CRITERIA: OPEN SPACRIOPEN SPACE AND OPEN SPACEfFARM & AGRICULTURE CONSERVATION Washington State law specifies that: In determining whether an application made for open space current use taxation status should be approved or disapproved, pursuant to RCW 84.34.020, subsection (l)(b) (Open Space/Open Space) or subsection (c) (Open Space/Farm & Agriculture Conservation), the Whatoom County Planning Commission will consider in its recommendations to the County Council whether or not preservation of the current use of the land, when balanced against the resulting revenue loss or tax shift from granting the application will: 1. Conserve or enhance natural, cultural or scenic resources, or 2. Protect streams, stream corridors, wetlands, natural shorelines and aquifers, or 3. Protect soil resources and unique or critical wildlife and native plant habitat, or 4. Promote conservation principles by example or by offering educational opportunities, or 51 Enhance the value of abutting or neighboring parks, forests, wildlife preserves, nature reservations or sanctuaries or other open spaces, or 6. Enhance recreation opportunities, or 7. Preserve historic and archaeological sites, or 8. Affect any other factors relevant in weighing benefits to the general welfare of preserving the current use of the property. H. PUBLIC BENEFIT RATING SYSTEM A. Based on the first seven (7) approval criteria listed above in conjunction with number eight (8) above, the Planning Department staff will assign each application for Open Spa e/ Open .Spare and Opro Snarr /Farm & Agriculture Cancervatinn a PUBLIC BENEFIT RATING using the method described below. B. A parcel must receive a PUBLIC BENEFIT RATING of at least forty five (45) to be recommended for approval. C. The PUBLIC BENEFIT RATING will be used by the County Assessor's office in determining the amount of tax reduction for Open Spare ftcn Sparc and Open Spare/Farin & Agriculture � Cnnservation parcels. P"`q° 3 III. PUBLIC BENEFIT RATING CALCULATION A. BASIC VALUE The Planning and Development Services Department will review each Qpen SpaceNOpen Space and Open SpnreMmw Rr_ Agdmlftur Conwraation application and will assign to each a BASIC VALUE that represents the degree of conformance with the BASIC VALUE CRITERIA listed in Section IV below. B. PUBLIC BENEFIT VALUE The BASIC VALUE will be increased (or decreased) by a percentage (PUBLIC BENEFIT VALUE) representing the benefit to the general welfare of preserving the current use of the property, based on conformance with the factors listed in section V below. C. PUBLIC BENEFIT RATING FORMULA The PiTRI'.Tt` RRNRFIT RATNNf: will be calculated using the following formula: PBR =BV +(BV %PBV), where: r • :auan• :. I l: : au a• t IV. BASIC VALUE CRITERIA: A. Oamen Sp ra el Men .Spare A maximum of ten points for open- Spare .tnpen spar r applications may be assigned for earn of the 7 items based upon conformance with the criteria listed below. Conserve or enhance natural, cultural or scenic resources. rbmyr iFiYT'iTirTi'lT a. lands which possess unique scenic vistas available to the public or are within the visual corridor of scenic roads or highways; b. lands which, when left in their natural state, would serve as buffers between areas of commercial or industrial activity and areas of human habitations; C. lands which can serve to prevent the spread of high density residential development into less developed areas; d, lands located adjacent to airports. �>OA� 4 2. Protect streams, stream corridors, wetlands, natural shorelines and aquifers. C 't ria f approval• a. lands within a 100-year floodplain; b. lands within or adjacent to areas of domestic water supply; C. lands near or adjacent to streams or rivers where, if alterations were to occur, a insulting loss of quality would also occur in the conditions of water and the general functioning of the regime; d. lands which provide for preservation of bogs or swamps; e. lands adjacent to bodies of water, both marine and fresh; f. lands including and adjacent to wetlands and tidal areas (these lands would not necessarily be approved contingent upon public access agreement due to biological sensitivities). 3. Protect soil resources and unique or critical wildlife and native plant habitat. Criteria for az prnval' a. lands where slopes exceed 25% or areas where underlying geology and soils are known to produce unstable conditions; b. lands where, if alterations were to occur, a resulting high risk of soil erosion would follow; C. lands which represent habitats for unique or critical wildlife or native plants, or where there is a documented occurrence of a State or Federal Endangered Species; State or Federal Threatened Species; Federal Proposed Endangered or Threatened Species; or State Sensitive or Monitor Species as listed in the Washington Department of Wildlife Nongame Data System. On parcels where there this documentation, Department shall automatically recommend approval with a recommendation that a sign and public access shall not be required. 4. Promote conservation principles by example or by offering educational opportunities. IVEMMI VI 1 11 1 a. lands which are an example of application of conservation principles; b. lands which offer opportunities for conservation education such as interpretive centers or trails. Enhance the value to the public of abutting or neighboring parks, forests, wildlife preserves, nature reservations or sanctuaries or other open spaces; f' 'tpria far approval, C" m' 5 a. land that the local County Park Board has identified for possible future park acquisition; b. land designated in County Parks, Recreation and Open Space Study and other documents as significant park land, open space or conservation areas; C. lands which, as open space, may help to provide for successful imple- mentation of County Trail Plan; d. lands which are near or adjacent to existing public parks, forests, wildlife preserves, nature reservations, sanctuaries, schools or other open space lands classified under RCW 84.33 or RCW 84.34; 6. Enhance recreation opportunities. criteria far-approval: a, lands possessing private recreational facilities which are available to the public without charge; b. lands which provide opportunities for passive recreational activities such as, but not limited to, biking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, bird watching, and nature observation; Preserve historic and archaeological sites. Criteria for approvah a. areas or sites which have been identified as significant on local, state or national Historic Registers; b. areas or sites of known or potential archaeological significance. On parcels where there is a known or potentially significant archaeological site, the Department shall automatically recommend approval with a recommendation that a sign and public access shall not be required. Only parcels consistent with RCW 84.34.020(8)(a)(b) may be considered for Open Space/Farm & Agriculture Conservation. A maximum of fiftrrn (15) points for 0pmSpAc&_FAnn_&Agr:imlInrc C ervation applications may be assigned for h Of the first t (21 items listed below, and a maximum of rive (S) points may be assigned far th mumbihig right (8) Itein c listed below based upon conformance with the criteria listed. Pa'j`' fo I. Traditional or potential farmland. Criteria f z, royal• lands which have historically been used for agriculture; and/or lands that have not been devoted to a use inconsistent with agricultural uses. 2. Soil Value C 't for-approval:. a. lands which contain prime farmland as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture; or b. lands which contain capability classification I -IV according to tilt US Department of Agriculture Land Capability Classification system. 3. Comprehensive Plan Designation C1if r:a for ai proval: Lands which are designated Agriculture or Incentive Agriculture in the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan. 4. Conserve or enhance natural, cultural or scenic resources. Crite.rin for approval• a. lands which possess unique scenic vistas available to the public or are within the visual corridor of scenic roads or highways; b. lands which, when left in their natural state, would serve as buffers between areas of commercial or industrial activity and areas of human habitations; C. lands which can serve to prevent the spread of high density residential development into less developed areas; d. lands located adjacent to airports. S. Protect streams, stream corridors, wetlands, naive A shorelines and aquifers. (` 't r f approval• a. lands within a 100 -year floodplain; b. lands within or adjacent to areas of domestic water supply; C. lands near or adjacent to streams or rivers where, if I alterations were to occur, a resulting loss of quality would also occur in the conditions of water and the general functioning of the regime•, d. lands which provide for preservation of bogs or swamps; C. lands adjacent to bodies of water, both marine and fresh; f. lands including and adjacent to wetlands and tidal areas (these lands would not necessarily be approved contingent upon public access agreement due to biological sensitivi- ties). 6. Protect soil resources and unique or critical wildlife and native plant habitat. Criteria for approval- a. lands where slopes exceed 25 % or areas where underlying geology and soils are known to produce unstable conditions; b. lands where, if alterations were to occur, a resulting high risk of soil erosion would follow; C. lands which represent habitats for unique or critical wildlife or native plants, or where there is a documented occurrence of a State or Federal Endangered Species; State or Federal Threatened Species; Federal Proposed Endangered or Threatened Species; or State Sensitive -or Monitor Species as listed in the Washington Department of Wildlife Nongame Data System. On these parcels the Department shall automatically recommend approval with a recommendation that a sign and public access shall not be required. 7. Promote conservation principles by example or by offering educational opportunities. C 't f approval a. lands which are an example of application of conservation principles; b. lands which offer opportunities for conservation education such as interpretive centers or trails. Enhance the value to the public of abutting or neighboring parks, forests, agricultural lands, wildlife preserves, nature reservations or sanctuaries or other open spaces. r 't ria for anpraMah a. land that the local County Park Board has identified for possible future park acquisition; b. land designated in County Parks, Recreation and Open Space Studies and other documents as significant park land, open space or conservation areas; C. lands which, as open space, may help to provide for successful implementation of County Trail Plan; d. lands which are near or adjacent to existing public parks, forests, wildlife preserves, nature reservations, sanctuaries, schools or other open space lands classified under RCW 84.33 or RCW 84.34; 9. Enhance recreation opportunities. e 'teria fnr aP1)MOah a. lands.possessing private recreational facilities which are available to the public without charge, b. lands which provide opportunities for passive recreational activities such as but not limited to hiking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, bird watching, and nature observation; 10. Preserve historic and archaeological sites. C&Pria for approval: a. areas or sites which have been identified as significant on local, state or national Historic Registers; b. areas or sites of known or potential archaeological signift- canoe. On parcels where there is a known or potentially significant archaeological site, the Department shai automatically recommend approval with a recommendation that a sign and public access shall not be required. V. PUBLIC BENEFIT VALUE CRITERIA The following list of open space characteristics have been determined to have a high priority in providing (or detracting from) benefit to the general welfare will be used to determine the PITRT iC; BFTIF.FIT VALI for each Open Sp afe^ =Spare and Open gpareMrm R AgricultureCousemLion application. The total PUBLIC BFNFFIT VALUE will increase (or decrease) the BASIC V ALIIF. by a certain percentage. It is possible to attain a PURT IC HENEM VAT IIF of up to 140%, resulting in a maximum possible increase of 140 %. A. PUBLIC ACCESS (Maximum 40% increase) 1. Shoreline access 2. Recreation access 3. Public road frontage 4. Availability of off -street parking 5. Quality of access in terms of accessibility and owner's Proposed rules of conduct and access management B. WATER RESOURCE PROTECTION(Maxinmm 2f1% increase) 1. Watershed of domestic water supply 2. Aquifer . recharge area 3. Preservation of hydrologic. processes: - streams and natural drainage courses - wetlands, swamps, bogs -lakes C. WH DLIFE HABITAT (Maximum 20%4 increase) 1. - State or Federal Endangered Species; State or Federal Threatened Species; Federal Proposed Endangered or Threatened Species; or State Sensitive or Monitor Species. 2. Abundance and diversity of wildlife (associated with "edge" type habitat and areas of vegetative and topographic diversity). D. PARCEL SIZE 1. Twenty (20) acres or larger (Maximum 111% increase) 2. Smaller than five (5) nominal acres (Maximum 10% decrease for OS Open Space applications; Required 40% decrease for OS Farm and Agriculture Conservation applications) E. LINKAGE WITH OTHER OPEN SPACES (Maximum 5% increase) ?0-�e 10 Adjacent to other Open Space, parks, or open areas associated with Planned Unit Developments, Cluster Subdivisions, or Binding Site Plans. F. NATURAL AREAS (Maxinmun 5% increase) Based on how much of parcel is in natural cover and not developed with homesite, outbuildings, and clearings. G. FINANCIAL ADVANTAGE (Maximum 4➢ %n decmngr) The use to which the land is put derives a financial advantage for it owners. H. DISCRETIONARY VALUE (Maximum 4M increase) (Minimum 40.%a tl rm2cr) Discretionary value may be added or subtracted where land provides or detracts from public benefits other than those specifically listed above. If discretionary value is added or subtracted, the provision of or detraction from public benefits shall be set forth in detail on the supplemental application form and on the scoring sheet. ea 2 k\ PUBLIC ACCESS All applications for Open Space/Open Space and Open Space Farm & Agriculture Conservation shall be accompanied by the owners' proposed rules of conduct and a description of how public access is to be managed, within the limitations outlined below. The term "Public Access" is limited and defined as the right of any individual to request permission to enter and visit the premises on foot for legitimate recreational purposes such as bird watching, scenic observation, scientific investigation, picnicking during daylight hours, and strolling and general relaxation on the premises. This right is subject to the execution by the visitor of 1. An agreement to abide by any reasonable rules of personal conduct required by the owners while on the premises, and 2. A general release of the owner from liability for any injury suffered by the visitor while on the premises. Permission will be granted without discrimination, EXCEPT in the case of a person in disorderly or apparently intoxicated condition in which case permission will be denied. Any permission previously granted shall become automatically revoked, and the visitor deemed to be a trespasser upon the premises. Owners retain and reserve the power to officially post and enforce rules not inconsistent with the foregoing provisions and conditions for public entry upon the premises. DATED this day of , 2000 SIGNED: owner owner F, 141 HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT owner owner In consideration for Whatcom County's approval of the attached Open Space Application, with any conditions that may be imposed, hereby agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Whatcom County, its officers and employees from any claim that may arise against Whatcom County as a result of the approval of the attached application with conditions. This agreement shall become binding only after the attached application has been approved by the Whatcom County Council. DATED this day of , 2000 SIGNED: owner owner �� -r5 Whatcom County Council AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING OF OPEN SPACE SIGN PURSUANT TO WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE SIGN POLICY AND SPECIFICATION being first duly sworn upon oath, deposes and says: That I have posted a two foot by two foot Open Space Sign in accordance with the Whatcom County Open Space Sign Policy and the Whatcom County Open Space Sign Specification, in a conspicuous location, visible to passing motorists, indicating the Open Space status of the following Open Space parcel(s): Assessor's Parcel Number(s): I understand that it is the property owner's responsibility to assure that the sign(s) remains in place during the period of the Open Space Agreement; that posting of the Open Space sign is subject to verification by County personnel; and that failure to maintain the sign is a violation of the Open Space Agreement and may result in withdrawal of Open Space status with attendant taxes and penalties payable pursuant to RCW 84.34. Signature of Property Owner or other person posting property I certify that I know or have satisfactory evidence that signed this instrument and acknowledged it to be his/her free and voluntary act for the uses and purposes mentioned in this instrument. Signature of Notary Publi Title Seal My Appointment Current Stand Description Hue[r[AIVJI WHATCOM CO UNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION Property Owner: Warren and Sharon Aller Designation: Open Space Timber 3335 Sweet Road Transfer from: NIA Blaine Parcel No.: 400110- 476466 WA, 98230 Parcel Acreage: 9.78 acres Subarea: Birch Bay /Blaine Acreage in OST: 7.50 acres Camp. Plan Desig.: Rural Road Access: Sweet Road Zoning Desig: R10A Land Use: Residential and forest Shorelines: N/A Land use history: Residential and forest Snit Type /Capabilities•. 2 (Revised)Unds #s 3 and 4 - hardwoods between 2 and 20 years, Doug. Fir in 3050 years. 49 - Everett very gravelly sandy loam, 8%-15% slopes, 10 % of lot coverage Planting /Restocking Program 50 - Everett very gravelly sandy loam, 15%.35% slopes, 40% of lot coverage 2 Site Index': 106 (Douglas fir) Limilations/Concems: Seedling mortality and competing vegetation 2 Seedling mortality, competing vegetation Diversity of habitats for all wildlile described 179 - Whatcom silt loam, 3%-8% slopes, 30%of lot coverage TOTAL: 181 - Whatcom silt loam, 30%.60% slopes, 20% of lot coverage 13 14 Site Index*: 116(Douglasfir) Limitations/Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness, seedling mortality, competing vegetation. Timber Management Plan — Completeness Information Included :- (0-incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2--thorough) Current Stand Description Detailed description of 4 links, suked units #1 and #4 and portion of #3 to be In OST. Each o /there until has been adequately described and organized Soils Description 1 2 Although not serious, slight discrepancy in on -sire soils between TMP and SCS. Forest Health 2 2 Well antagonized with in-depth discussion of concerns and forest health needs Thinning Program 2 2 (Revised) Unit #1 is sell-thinning. units #s 3 and 4 - precommemial thinning as maturing. Harvest Plan 2 2 (Revised)Unds #s 3 and 4 - hardwoods between 2 and 20 years, Doug. Fir in 3050 years. Planting /Restocking Program 2 2 Begin refomsfafion with evergreen and most producing species in year 2000 /01, continuing over next three years. Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 2 2 Diversity of habitats for all wildlile described TOTAL: 13 14 Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL Added information re. Thinning Program and Harvest Plan, 3/9100. 'Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years. Aller Family Forest Stewardship Management Plan Landowners: Warren and Sharon Aller Address: 3335 Sweet Road Blaine, Washington 98230 Phone Number: (360) 332 -5669 Property Description: The west 71/2 acres of the East half of the Northeast quarter of the Northeast quarter and the East 82.5 feet of the West half of the Northeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section l O,Township 40 North, Range I East, W.M., EXCEPT County Road No-18 (Sweet Road) thereof in Whatcom County, State of Washington. Plan Prepared By: Warren and Sharon Aller Date of Preparation: November 16, 1999 Table of Contents General Property Description- ................. - _..... ............................... 4 SiteHistory ........................................... ............................... 4 Weather............................................... ............................... 4 Topography, Elevation and Aspect ............... ............................... 5 Adjacent Land Use .................................. ............................... 5 Description by Unit ................................. ............................... 5 Landowner Objectives ..................................... ............................... 6 Long Term Object ives ............................. ............................... 6 Short Term Objectives ............................. ............................... 6 Resource Description and Recommendations ........ ............................... 7 Category I: Forest Health ........................ ............................... 7 UnitOne ...................................... ............................... 7 UnitTwo ..................................... ............................... 8 UnitThree ................................... ............................... 8 UnitFour ..................................... ............................... 8 Category H: Timber and Wood Products ..... ............................... 9 Plant Species Present on Property ........ ............................... 9 Trees................................. ............................... 9 Shrubs............................... ............................... 9 Herbs, Ferns and Grasses ......... ............................... 9 UnitOne ...................................... ............................... 10 UnitTwo ..................................... ............................... 10 UnitThree ................................... ............................... 10 UnitFour ..................... ............... ............................... I I CategoryIH: Soils ................................. ............................... 11 UnitOne ..................................... ............................... I 1 UnitTwo .................................... ............................... 12 UnitThree ................................... ............................... 12 UnitFour .................................... ............................... 13 Category IV: Water Quality, Riparian and Welland Areas ............. 13 UnitOne ..................................... ............................... 13 UnitTwo ..................................... ............................... 14 UnitThree ..................... .............. ............................... 14 UnitFour ........................... _......... ............................... 14 Category V: Fish and Wildlife Habitat ........ ............................... 14 Non -bird Species Present on Property ... ..........:..:................. 15 Bird Species that Inhabit or Visit Property ............................. 15 2 Understory Vegetation ...................... ............................... 15 Snags.......................................... ............................... 16 Coarse Woody Debri s ....................... ............................... 16 Openings....... ..................- ... ..... . -- _ ... ......... ...... 17 Category VI: Threatened and Endangered Species._ ..................... 17 Category VII: Aesthetics and Recreation ...... ............................... 17 UnitOne. . . ................................. — ....... ............ ......... 17 UnitTwo ...................................... ............................... 18 UnitThree .................................... ............................... 18 UnitFour ..................................... ............................... 18 Category VIII: Special Forest Products ....... ............................... 18 Management Timetable .................................... ............................... 20 Summary Checklist ......................................... ............................... 21 SignaturePage. ....... .......................................... ...................... — 22 Appendix Appendix A: Topographical and Water Map ..... ............................... 23 Appendix B: Property Pl ot .......................... ............................... 24 Appendix C: Soils Map ............................. ............................... 25 Appendix D: Aerial Photo .......................... ............................... 26 3 MEMORANDUM TO: Whatcom County Planning Commissioners FROM: Warren and Sharon Aller DATE: March 9, 2000 RE: Aller Open Space Timber Application( (11K RS C-tc) t�eb \10.1 ct� �ICEt."{,L)L, cat-, "10 IVL ctdect tk,v`v<,vlojl-�'n/esh� In response to Elizabeth Olsen's recommendation for denial in her February 18, 2000 memorandum relative to the Aller Open Space Timber Application, we respectfully'"' v- offer the following clarifications and explanations in defense of our application: We have spent considerable time and energy to be educated about the latest information on silviculture and forest practices and the legal aspects of filing a Timber Management Plan. Our plan is of high quality and is quite thorough as evidenced by a letter of commendation received from Amy K. Barg, coordinator for DNR Forest Stewardship Coached Planning Workshops. Possibly, because of the thorough nature of the plan and the inclusion of stewardship concepts, the reviewer initially overlooked commercial harvest components. Forest stewardship and commercial timber production are not mutually exclusive. Advances in silviculture techniques in recent years have had a dramatic effect on forest practices, and the traditional silvicultural prescription of harvest, site preparation, and planting do not always apply. We do understand that the intent of the Open Space Timber designation is to preserve small -scale commercial timber lots. We submit that according to RCW 84.33, our action plan is consistent with commercial production and harvest of timber. It has been and continues to be our full intention to manage our property as forestland and we fully plan to commercially produce and harvest timber. In addition, it is important to note that we are restocking our property with species that have excellent commercial harvest value for future generations, if not our own. We believe the recommendation by Elizabeth Olsen to deny our application should be reconsidered, based on the following points: Soil Description: Olsen refers to a discrepancy in on -site soil descriptions between our TMP and SCS and deducts one point. We conducted on -site sampling and checked the soil profile in each unit to provide a more accurate description of soil types than was available on the DNR soil map provided by the county. Referring to pages 220 -221 in Soil Survey ofWharcom County, published by the USDA in 19857 the soil designations we have provided are merely more detailed clarifications of those provided by the DNR soil map and are consistent with soil types common in our immediate location. We believe we should be awarded an additional point in this category. Thinning Program: Although we have mention of specific thinning on pages 7 and 10 of the submitted plan, the plan is vague as written and we have offered clarifications on pages 10 and I1 (please refer to bolded italics on the attached sheets). Our TNT differs considerably from those offered by private timber companies where large commercial thinning is scheduled. Because we have divided unit four (the predominance of our property) into one -acre parcels and are restocking on a rotation, thinning of that unit will be manageable by the owners and will not require large -scale thinning operations. We have the ability to micro - manage these units, replanting where mortality has occurred, allowing us to plant at ultimately desirable spacing, reducing the need for large -scale thinning operations. Consequently, it is unlikely that there will be sizable harvest of wood fiber from commercial thinning operations. Harvest Plan: We believe that Olsen withheld points in this category due to an oversight. Further, we believe that the plan is complete as initially submitted based on RCW 84.33 and The Open Space Taxation Act: Current Use Assessment Information brochure, published by Washington State Department of Revenue, January, 1993 which reads "A commitment of particular harvest dates is NOT required as the benefits of older forests are becoming better understood, accepted, and are often desirable". If Whatcom County has decided to enforce the Open Space Taxation Act excluding that provision, we suggest that the brochure be altered to fit with Whatcom County's current enforcement strategy. However, because it is our full intention to harvest timber, we offer the following supplement to our plan in order to clarify any misunderstandings of our intentions. Please note that one of our long -term objectives (on page 6) is to "Selectively harvest timber ... to maintain and enhance forest health while providing income to defray costs of forest management and property taxes ". In addition, we have added approximate harvest dates and board footage for each of the harvests we projected in the original plan submitted to E. Olsen (please refer to attached pages with additional information in bold italics). This will result in timber tax revenue for the county. We request that the Planning Commission review and reconsider designation of only 7.0 acres of the 9.78 parcel to Open Space Timber designation. We are currently. zoned R -10, but have our primary residence and a mother -in -law cottage on approximately one acre. The cottage, occupied by Sharon's mother, is within 50 feet of the primary dwelling. The rest of our property is given entirely to timber management and production. As such, our property does not fit the standard R -10 designation. To arbitrarily exclude 2.78 acres for a building site that is in reality approximately one acre is inherently unfair. We request that the commission reconsider the acreage allowed in the Open Space Timber designation and change it to 9 acres, which more accurately represents the current usage. In addition, we respectfully request that the Whatcom County Planning Commission grant us the Open Space Timber designation based on our initial plan and the clarifications we have provided. We urge the Planning Commission to avoid underestimating the benefit provided for our county by landowners such as ourselves who forgo the potential for economic gain associated with clearing and establishment of subdivisions, and elect to employ sound forest practices. We believe that small landowners such as ourselves should not only be allowed such designations, but also encouraged to pursue ecologically and commercially sound forest practices. Our small parcel, in all likelihood, will be managed more effectively than many of the larger timber production sites because of its proximity to our residence and the value we place on well managed forest lands. Foxglove Piggyback plant Sword fern Coastal wood fern Common daisy Common rush Broadleaf starflower False lily Bracken fern Pacific maidenhair fern Rusty woodsia fern Trillium Linnaea borealis The above lists are by no means exhaustive, and contain a combination of common and botanical names. Unit One Unit one is a mixed species forestland. It is predominantly stocked with Douglas fir. Western red cedar of varying ages is present throughout the stand. There is a scattering of bigleaf maple, cascara, vine maple and red alder. The stand is approximately 100 years old and is in the understory re- initiation phase. The understory is comprised primarily of coastal red huckleberry, salmon berry, common snowbeiry, low growing Oregon grape, wild blackberry vines, sword ferns and various wildflower varieties. This unit is currently operating effectively as a forest ecosystem, and considering our objectives, little will be done to manage this unit. Areas of the canopy that are beginning to open will be micromanaged to promote the growth of more shade tolerant species such as western red cedar or hemlock. Any reforestation efforts will have to address the challenge of competing vegetation with seedlings. Encroachment of surrounding vegetation will be controlled by hand slashing to ensure seedling establishment. The potential for overgrazing by coastal blacktail deer is of concern in this unit. Deer repellent will be placed on each seedling. As outlined in theforest health section, this unit is operating effectively as a forest ecosystem and is self - thinning. We have no plans for harvest in this unit since a mature stand of timber is essential to provide a bufferfrom the prevailing northeast winds. In addition, it offers property enhancement value and holds historical significance According to the January, 1993 Open Space Taxation Act., Current Use Assessment Information brochure, "commitment to particular harvest dates is NOT required as the benefits of older forests are becoming better understood, accepted, and are often more desirable ". Unit Two Unit two has a band of mature western red cedar bordering the pond and wet season springs. In addition there is a patch of bigleaf maple and Douglas fir that are part of the buffer area between the neighboring property. Pruning of dead branches in the bigleaf maple must be done sporadically to prevent damage to storage buildings. Some thinning in the Douglas fir patch will reduce overstocking, and increase vigor in the 10 existing stand. The butler area will be replanted with a mixture of western red cedar in the lower area, red -osier dogwood, vine maple and western hazelnut. Encroachment of vegetation will be controlled mechanically to promote seedling establishment. Unit Three Unit three is approximately one half acre of young Douglas fir, resprouted bigleaf maple with a scattering of red alder. Hardwoods on this site need to be harvested and controlled to encourage the existing Douglas fir. (This harvest will occur within five years and will yield approximately 1,500 board feet of mixed hardwood wood fiber). As the existing fir grows, pruning of the lower branches will retain the scenic view. Those that become too intrusive may be harvested when they reach economic maturity. (This harvest is projected to occur in approximately 30 to SO years and will yield approximately 6,000 to 8, 000 board feet of high quality wood fiber). This area will be replanted with a mixture of Douglas 5r in the peripheral area, blue elderberry, red -osier dogwood, vine maple and western hazelnut. (All newly planted conifer species will be planted on 8foot centers with pre - commercial and commercial thinning at appropriate stages of maturity to insure merchantable quality of wood fiber). Encroachment of vegetation will be controlled mechanically to promote seedling establishment. Unit Four Unit four encompasses approximately four and one half acres of relatively mature hardwood forest. Red alder and bigleaf maple dominate the stand. There is a scattering of western red cedar and Sitka spruce in addition to western white birch, black cottonwood and vine maple. Since the stand is approaching maturity, a shelterwood approach to reforestation will be implemented with afrnal harvest of most of the hardwoods within 20 years. The unit will be divided into one -acre sections and reforestation will begin to maintain existing forest health and longevity and promote a mixed age and species stand. A mix of western red cedar, hemlock, Sitka spruce, red alder and Douglas fir will be planted depending on the soil conditions and topography. (All newly planted conifer species will be planted on 8 foot centers with pre - commercial and commercial thinning at appropriate stages of maturity to insure merchantable quality of wood fiber). Since this unit hosts a population of coastal blacktail deer, repellent will be used to protect the seedlings. In addition, as openings in the canopy appear, control of the understory vegetation, especially salmonbeny, will be important to allow the establishment of the seedlings. A small number of the mature bigleaf maple saw logs will be harvested and milled with an onsite sawmill to provide finish lumber for the basement of the primary residence. (This will be harvested in 2002 and will yield approximately 3,000 board feet of wood fiber). Once the existing red alder reach economic maturity, they will be selectively removed for sale to defray costs of reforestation and property taxes (11 is projected that this harvest will occur within 15 years and will yield approximately 1 5,000 board feet of mixed hardwood wood fiber). The primary limitation to harvest in this unit is the wet soil conditions. Harvesting most be limited to the dry months between July and September. Even during 2000 Oct. 3 Plant vegetation to control erosion on road cut. 2000 Feb -Apr. 3 Begin reforestation with evergreen and mast producing species and continue over next three years. 2001 Aug -Oct. 2 Excavation and install lining of pond, create riparian zones around the pond adding plant and tree species yearly over the next two years. 2001 Aug -Oct. 4 Install amphibian pools 2001 Aug -Oct. 4 Enhance present campsite 2002 Aug -Oct 4 Harvest approximately 11500 boardjeel of maple 2002 Feb -Apr. 3 Plant shade tolerant species in openings in canopy and control competing vegetation. 2003 -2012 Feb. -Apr. 4 Divide unit into one -half acre sections and plant appropriate species. Manage for competing vegetation and plant one section annually. 2004 Jan. Review and update Forest Stewardship Plan making necessary revisions. Repeat at five year intervals. Between 2000 -2020 4 Harvest approximately15,000 board feet of mixed hardwood wood fiber Between 2070 -2090 3 Harvest approximately 8,000 board feet of high quality fir wood fiber 21 General Property Description The Aller family purchased this property in 1978. It consists of a ten -acre parcel of land located approximately four miles east of Blaine and within two miles of the Canadian border. A preponderance of the parcel is wooded with nearly one and half acres cleared. Our residence and a smaller residence for Sharon's mother are located in the clearing that opens to a panoramic view of the Bellingham area, Orcas Island and the Canadian San Juan Islands. In addition there is a small pasture and barn and an orchard comprised of soft fruits and a variety of fruit bearing trees. A pond is located to the north of the residences. Site History: It is likely that the old growth Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar was logged at the turn of the century. There are a few remaining remnants of the old growth forest on the property. A cedar mill was operated in Blaine from 1880 to approximately 1910 when it was destroyed by fire. It was during this period that most of the Blaine old growth forests were harvested. It appears that the Alter property remained undisturbed by further logging operations until the existing clear cut was harvested in 1975. There is evidence of fire in existing old growth cedar stumps, indicating the presence of fire around the turn of the century. Such fires were common after the initial logging of old growth forests. When the Aller family purchased the property in 1978 the clearing consisted of a few cedar trees, slash and a vigorous cover of shrubby vegetation. Further scarification and excavation for the home site began in the summer of 1978. A large damp area was excavated to secure topsoil for the building site in the late 1970s, creating a pond approximately 50 feet by 25 feet still existing today. Weather: The average annual precipitation is about 41 inches per year and the average annual air temperature is 49 degrees. The site has approximately 180 frost free days. Topography, Elevation and Aspect: The Alter ten -acre parcel has 330 feet of road frontage on Sweet Road and extends 1,320 feet to the southwest. Southwestern slopes of varying degree characterize this property. The elevation of the northern section of the property is approximately 500 feet above sea level, dropping in the southern section to nearly 250 feet above sea level. A three to five percent slope represents the northern section of the parcel and a six to eight degree slope characterizes the cleared area. The southern portion of the property drops off sharply with an approximate 30 percent grade characterizing the first 150 feet. The remainder of the parcel gently slopes to the southwest. The southwestern exposure creates the potential for windthrow especially during the equinox winds of the fall and early winter seasons. In the past 20 years, much of the timber downed as the result of such winds has been harvested for firewood. (See topographical map Appendix A) Adjacent Land Use: The Aller property is bordered on the south, east and west by ten acre wooded parcels, the property to the west containing a residence. The county road is located to the north and pastureland lies to the north of the road. A largely abandoned Whatcom County aggregate mine is located to the northeast, within 1,500 feet of this parcel. This site was used during the construction of interstate five, and currently supports a young, severely overstocked stand of Red Alder.. Generally, the property is situated in an area characterized by predominately ten -acre parcels of forestland, many with single family dwellings, and pasturelands. Description by Unit For purposes of further description and discussion, the parcel has been divided into four units (see property plot, Appendix B). Unit one (approximately 3.5 acres) is a mixed species and mixed age stand predominated by Douglas Fir, Westem Red Cedar, and Big Leaf Maple. This forested area provides a natural buffer from the northeast winter winds. Unit two (approximately .78 acres) is the site of two residences, the primary residence occupied by Warren and Sharon Aller and a smaller residence located approximately forty feet to the east, occupied by Sharon's mother. Most of the 1975 clearcut has remained cleared and developed into farmland and gardens. Vegetable gardens, an orchard, pastureland and a barn which has housed beef cattle, goats and . . llamas over the years occupies the area to the south and west of the residences. The orchard contains Summer Transparent, Chehalis, Gravenstein, Golden, Spartan, Jonagold and Melrose apple trees, Montmorency sour pie cherries, and two Van cherry trees. In addition, Jonagold apple trees on M -26 root stock are espaliered along a split -rail cedar fence, and several varieties of soft fruits are being cultivated including rhubarb, blueberries, raspberries, Marion berries, goolberry, red currant, and June - bearing and everbearing strawberries. Unit three (approximately one acre) incorporates a steeply graded (30 percent slope) band of property approximately 200 feet deep across the width of the parcel. This portion of the property was originally cleared to secure the panoramic view discovered y . during construction of the primary residence. This area incorporates a switch - backed access road to the lower portion of the property and a previously cleared area with young Douglas Fir, Big Leaf Maple, much that has resprouted, other hardwood varieties and a variety of shrubby vegetation. Unit four (approximately 4.5 acres) consists of gently sloping terrain with mature, 41 A, predominately hardwood forestland including White Paper Birch, Black Cottonwood, Red Alder, Sitka spruce, Douglas fir and an occasional Western Red Cedar. This unit has a vigorous understory of mixed woody vegetation. Landowner's Objectives Long Term Objectives • Maintain the forestlands in as "natural" a state as possible while ensuring forest health and productivity. • Maintain forestlands in such a way that recreational use of the property is enjoyed while respecting the forest ecosystem and wildlife habitat. • Maintain diverse forest stands, both in terms of age and species mix. • Maintain and enhance the wildlife habitat that currently exists on this property. • Selectively harvest timber and special forest products to maintain and enhance forest health white providing income to defray costs of forest management and property taxes. • Protect and enhance the scenic view enjoyed from the residences. • Pass along the property and heritage of healthy and productive forestlands for the enjoyment of our children and generations to follow. • Share the information received throughout the DNR/WSU Forest Stewardship Coached Planning Workshop and support and encourage surrounding landowners to maintain healthy forestlands. Short Term Objectives • Micro - manage sections of Unit 1 where openings in the canopy have created a microclimate favorable to promoting seedling growth. • Create riparian areas around the existing pond in Unit 2 and naturalize the pond into the surrounding forest area. • Improve forested buffer between our property and neighboring property to the west, especially in Unit 2. • Selectively cut trees in Unit 3 and replant species to restore scenic view. • Regain stability of the slope adjacent to the access road in unit 3, using some of the aggregate to improve the road surface . • Using a shelterwood approach in Unit 4, begin to reforest the understory with shade tolerant species. • File Forest Stewardship Plan with the county assessor and take the necessary steps to secure reduction in property taxes. Resource Description and Recommendations Since there are significant variations in resources represented by the units, each unit will be discussed separately. Category I: Forest Health General Forest Health The forests on this parcel of land are generally healthy. However, there are conditions typical of the various stands that will be discussed separately by unit. Where appropriate, the presence of insect and disease damage, fire hazard, animal damage potential and environmental factors will be discussed. Unit One While the trees in this stand are generally healthy, overstocking has been prevalent. Too many trees have lend to reduced tree vigor resulting in a variety of conditions that cause them to compete for nutrients, water and light for many of the codominant species. Several of the trees, both hardwood and conifer in the existing stand are very tall and lack the fiber to keep them upright. Noodling and broken trees are common- In addition, there are some Douglas fir trees that show evidence of suppressed growth. There are some dead and dying trees that pose a threat of injury along the existing driveway. These trees will be removed for firewood. This unit of timber buffers the property from the northeast winter winds so great care must be exercised in maintaining the vigor of this unit of forestland. Considering our objectives to preserve the forestlands in a "natural" state and to maintain diverse forest stands, this area is functioning quite effectively as a forest ecosystem. Much of the overstocked species are dead or in the process of dying, so the forest stand is already self- thinning. The spacing is sufficient to promote healthy growth of the overstory as well as the established understory vegetation. A health concern in this area is ivy that has overtaken several of the mature Douglas fir. This needs to be cut and managed immediately, to prevent permanent damage to this and surrounding timber. Of greater concern is a pocket of dead and dying red cedar of various sizes and ages. In addition, the mature Douglas fir in this area show evidence of suppressed growth in the crown area, and have toppled or are leaning, unable to endure the prevailing southwest winds. This may be resulting from dense glacial substratum causing them to be more susceptible to windthrow. However, it may also indicate the presence of toxicity in the soil or presence of disease that is weakening the trees. Examination of the root mass of a recently downed mature Douglas fir failed to reveal the telltale signs of laminated root rot. Source of disease and damage needs to be determined and steps taken to control the spread of disease. We will consult with Dan Omdal, Forest Pathologist to discern the nature of the problem and take the recommended steps to return this portion of our forestlands to health. Unit Two The residence, gardens, pasture and orchard dominate this unit. However, there are several western red cedar surrounding the pond that appear to have experienced mechanical damage during the excavation, and soil compaction also resulting from excavation of the pond and previous logging and road construction. In addition, most of the cedars have suffered a fair amount of wind damage over the decades as evidenced by double or triple tops. In one case, two of the tops were removed and the remaining leader thinned to reduce wind resistance. There is evidence of heart rot in this cedar. The central leader of one of the cedars surrounding the pond will be removed to promote snag recruitment and the log that is removed may be used for coarse woody debris in the naturalization of the existing pond. Another health concern in this area is the encroachment of Himalayan blackberries and reed canary grass along the roadside. The reed canary grass will be cut and covered with black plastic in order to kill the roots. With the southwest exposure, this method is likely to be effective. The blackberry vines will be removed and new shoots will be removed mechanically. Unit Three Due to lack of management following timber harvest blackberries, shrubby vegetation and several resprouted maples have led to an unproductive and rather unsightly area. In addition, use of the unit as a browse area for llamas has resulted in damage to the bark of several trees resulting in injury or death. The llamas have also contributed to the erosion of the road cut. Restricting the use of the area by the llamas will prevent further damage to the area and allow reforestation to occur. Besides some clean up, planting shrubs and low trees will also help to rehabilitate the eroding cut -bank of the road. Unit Four The general health of the trees in this stand is good. However, since relatively mature hardwoods dominate this stand of timber, reforestation involving the underplanting of shade tolerant conifer seedlings will be implemented in this unit to enhance the stand and insure ongoing forest health. Windthrow is common in this area due to the southwestern exposure and wet soil condition. Storm damage should be assessed at least once yearly. Portions will be removed for use as firewood, and portions of the stump and sections of the fallen tree that me not conducive to firewood use will remain to increase the amount of coarse woody debris in this unit. Reed canary grass, a non - native aggressive species is currently growing along the existing access roads. It is not vigorous and spreading due to minimal light on the forest floor. However, this will be monitored and controlled as necessary to prevent spreading to other areas. Category It: Timber and Wood Products Three distinct forest stands, as shown on the maps in addition to the primarily cleared home site unit exist on this parcel of land. Plant species that are present on the property are identified below and may be found in all four stands in varying quantities. We will discuss inventories, evaluation and recommendations for timber management by unit. Plant Species Present on Property Trees Douglas fir Western hemlock Bigleaf maple Wild cherry Western paper birch Shrubs Low Oregon grape Ocean Spray Orange honeysuckle Common snowberry Coastal red huckleberry Salmonberry Wild blackberry Evergreen blackberry Ivy Western red cedar Red alder Vine maple Black cottonwood Sitka spruce Salal Red flowering currant Scotchbroom Coastal red elderberry Thimbleberry Coastal black raspberry Himalaya blackberry Holly Herbs, Ferns and Grasses Stinging nettle Horsetail Canadian thistle Foxglove Piggyback plant Sword fern Coastal wood fern Common daisy Common rush Broadleaf starflower Vetch Bull thistle Wild strawberry False lily Bracken fern Pacific maidenhair fern Rusty woodsia fern Trillium Linnaea borealis The above lists are by no means exhaustive, and contain a combination of common and botanical names_ Unit One Unit one is a mixed species forestland. It is predominantly stocked with Douglas fir. Western red cedar of varying ages is present throughout the stand. There is a scattering of bigleaf maple, cascara, vine maple and red alder. The stand is approximately 100 years old and is predominately in the understory re- initiation phase. Some areas do exist that are still moving from the stem exclusion stage toward understory re- initiation. The understory is comprised primarily of coastal red huckleberry, salmon berry, common snowbeny, low growing Oregon grape, wild blackberry vines, sword ferns and various wildflower varieties. This unit is currently operating effectively as a forest ecosystem, and considering our objectives, little will be done to manage this unit, other than the removal of hazard trees. Areas of the canopy that are beginning to open will be micromanaged to promote the growth of more shade tolerant species such as western red cedar or hemlock, and possibly some grand fir. Any reforestation efforts will have to address the challenge of competing vegetation with seedlings. Encroachment of surrounding vegetation will be controlled by hand slashing to ensure seedling establishment. The potential for overgrazing by coastal blacktail deer is of concern in this unit. Deer repellent will be placed on each seedling. Unit Two Unit two has a band of mature western red cedar bordering the pond and wet season springs. In addition there is a patch of bigleaf maple and Douglas fir that are part of the buffer area between the neighboring property. Pruning of dead branches in the bigleaf maple must be done sporadically to prevent damage to storage buildings. Some thinning in the Douglas fir patch will reduce overstocking, and increase vigor in the existing stand. The buffer area will be replanted with a mixture of western red cedar in 10 the lower area, re"sier dogwood, vine maple and western hazelnut. Encroachment of vegetation will be controlled mechanically to promote seedling establishment. Unit Three Unit three is approximately one half acre of young Douglas fir, resprouted bigleaf maple with a scattering of red alder. Hardwoods on this site need to be harvested and controlled to encourage the existing Douglas fir. As the existing fir grows, pruning of the lower branches will retain the scenic view. Those that become too intrusive may be harvested when they reach economic maturity. This area will be replanted with a mixture of Douglas fir in the peripheral area, blue elderberry, red -osier dogwood, vine maple and western hazelnut. Encroachment of vegetation will be controlled mechanically to promote seedling establishment. Unit Four Unit four encompasses approximately four and one half acres of relatively mature hardwood forest. Red alder and bigleaf maple dominate the stand. There is a scattering of western red cedar and Sitka spruce in addition to western white birch, black cottonwood and vine maple. Since the stand is approaching maturity, an underplanting of shade tolerant conifers will be initiated with a final harvest of most of the hardwoods planned in 10 to 20 years. The unit will be divided into onc-acre sections and underplanting will be implemented to help maintain existing forest health and longevity and promote a mixed age and species stand. A mix of western red cedar, hemlock, Sitka spruce and grand fu will be planted depending on the soil conditions and topography. It is expected that red alder will regenerate after harvest of the overstory hardwoods is completed. Since this unit hosts a population of coastal blacktail deer, repellent will be used to protect the seedlings. In addition, as openings in the canopy appear, control of the understory vegetation, especially salmonberry, will be important to allow the establishment of the seedlings. A small number of the mature bigleaf maple saw logs will be harvested and milled with an onsite sawmill to provide finish lumber for the basement of the primary residence. Once the existing red alder reach economic maturity, they will be removed for sale to defray costs of understory planting and property taxes. The primary limitation to harvest in this unit is the wet soil conditions. Harvesting must be limited to the dry months between July and September. Even during those months, equipment that will affect the least amount of soil compaction should be used, and the equipment should be limited to the existing roads as much as possible. Any logs being removed will be cable -yarded to the existing roads. Category III: Soils Refer to soils map, Appendix D 11 C/-�+E V��J c -vw4c sa�cl Unit One: CGS Sow\ Vw lS ;) -� The soil in this unit is Everett gravelly sandy loam with hard substratum, and is `g� 67 C characterized by a two to eight percent slope. Everett soil is deep, often excessively drained soil new the surface, with dense glacial till similar to a cemented pan beginning at a 40 to 60 inch depth. This soil is typically found on outwash terraces and moraines. It is formed in a mixture of volcanic ash and alluvium over glacial outwash and glacial till. This soil is well suited to Douglas fir, and to a limited extent, red alder, western hemlock, and western red cedar. On the basis of a 100 -year site curve, the mean site index for Douglas fir is 138. On the basis of a 50 -year site curve it is 106. The highest average growth rate in unmanaged, even -aged stands of Douglas fir is 142 cubic feet per acre per year, occurring at age 70. Windthrow in this unit is moderate, due to the presence of the dense glacial till. There are two main concerns relative to forest health and timber production on this unit: soil compaction or displacement and seedling mortality and establishment. First, moderate soil compaction may occur when the soil is moist, and a moderate degree of soil displacement occurs under dry conditions. Two of the existing roads in this unit are roads established during previous harvesting operations and are currently surfaced with pit -run aggregate, making them suitable to year around harvesting except under extreme conditions. One access trail is unsurfaced and use on that road should be limited to drier conditions. Only light equipment or horses should be used for yarding logs toward the main trails and roads. The second concern is seedling mortality and establishment. Douglas fir and red alder are suggested for reforestation. However, low moisture content in the surface layer during the growing season hinders the survival of planted and naturally established seedlings. In addition, if there are openings in the canopy, competing vegetation also contributes to seedling mortality. The timber in this area is nearing maturity but the canopy still remains fairly complete. There is evidence of beginning understory reinitiation and shade tolerant trees, such as western red cedar that seem to establish themselves with minimal care. Since one of our main objectives is to keep the area "natural", it may be practical at this time to micro- manage and plant shade tolerant seedlings, while the shade from the canopy helps to retain moisture in the area and limits competition from understory vegetation. Unit Two ,ti a' trr� The soil in unit two 4Everett soil similar to unit one. i However, the use of this unit as a home site and for pasture, orchard and gardens, the soil concerns change somewhat. Erosion is a concern on any recently disturbed soil. Cover crops are currently present in the pasture area and the orchard. The area to the west has been newly worked and a cover crop will be sewn immediately to prevent erosion along the existing road. 12 The existing roads in this unit are all surfaced with pit -run aggregate, making them usable year around. Unit Three The soil in unit three is Everett soil as well, but lacks the dense glacial substratum, and is characterized by a 30 percent slope. This introduces increased potential for erosion. The existing access road is a combination of unsurfaced areas and areas which have been surfaced with available aggregate. This unit was partially harvested in the late 1980s, and has been used for browse area for two llamas. These two factors have contributed to increased erosion along the existing road. Immediate steps need to be taken to prevent further erosion in this unit. Wildlife or pasture mix will be planted along the road in areas receiving enough sunlight. In addition, planting shrubs and low trees as outlined below, will help to address erosion concerns in this area. Unit Four The soil in unit four is Whatcom silt loam, with three to eight percent slopes. This soil is very deep, moderately well drained soil and is found in higher areas of glaciomarine drift plains and is formed in a mixture of loess and volcanic ash over glaciomarine drift. This unit exhibits some characteristics not often associated with Whatcom soils. There are several areas that are forested wetlands, remaining wet approximately eight months of the year. This may be due in part to the close proximity to Everett soil with dense substratum that is located directly north of the Whatcom soil. It appears that water from the Everett soils at the higher elevations is transported along the substratum to the property below, resulting in the increased moisture. In addition, the high moisture - holding capacity of this area may have resulted in part from compaction by past logging practices. While Douglas fir is the usual main woodland species, red alder, bigleaf maple and an occasional western red cedar dominate this area. It does not appear that the 100 - year site curve for Douglas fir applies to this particular area of Whatcom soil. The main limitation affecting timber harvesting in this area is the muddiness caused by prolonged seasonal wetness. The existing roads are unsurfaced, and use must be carefully monitored. This limits the use of equipment to the dry season between July and September. The use of wheeled and tracked equipment when the soil is wet causes compaction and deep rutting, resulting in puddling. The use of horses or low- pressure ground equipment will limit soil compaction, however the timing of harvest is critical. Mother factor affecting timber production in this unit is seedling establishment. When openings are made in the canopy, the vigorous growth of competing vegetation prevents the establishment of seedlings. Planting sites will be prepared by scalping back competing vegetation such as salmonberry and reed canary grass before planting. Competing vegetation will be controlled by handslashing until the tree seedlings are above such vegetation. 13 Category IV: Water Quality, Riparian and Wetland Areas None of the Aller property contains declared wetlands. However, there are several water - related considerations that are discussed below since this property is located within the Dakota Creek seep area, which is a salmon - bearing stream. Unit One Unit one is part of the recharge area for the deep well that provides water for the two residences on the Aller property in addition to providing the source for irrigation water for Unit 2. This well was drilled in 1978 to a depth of 120 feet. It contains 21 feet of water and pumps 24 gallons of water per minute. After continual pumping for four hours the water level was lowered eight inches. While there is the presence of ample water for use on this property every effort will be made to maintain the recharge capabilities of this stand by keeping it forested and by avoiding soil compaction. Unit Two An excavated pond, 12 feet deep, is located in unit two and holds at least six feet of water year around. The source of the water is groundwater and a wet season spring. At the present time the pond is steep -sided which poses danger to children and wildlife visiting the property and precludes the presence of riparian areas surrounding the pond. While the bottom area of the pond is located in dense glacial substratum, the pond loses a great deal of water through a layer of gravel. Previously attempts have been made to seal the pond basin, but hydrostatic pressure of entering groundwater expose the gravel band, resulting in water loss. It is our goal to naturalize the pond and make it a more productive fish and wildlife habitat. This will be accomplished by taking further measures to seal the pond, including the possibility of lining the pond with a man -made liner system. Initially, we will excavate around the periphery of the pond to create gently sloping sides and habitat for shallow water plants. A variety of native plants will be used to naturalize the pond into the existing forestland edge. This will include the introduction of cattails, grasses and lily pads as water plants. Understory vegetation will be promoted around the pond, including blue elderberry, red flowering currant, red coastal huckleberry, Oregon grape, salal, and nootka rose. Red oser dogwood will be added for color and habitat value. The existing western red cedar seedlings will be encouraged. This will increase the value of this area both aesthetically and for wildlife habitat. Unit Three Unit three is comprised of a 30 percent slope so has no wetlands or riparian areas. However, controlling erosion in units two and three will be critical to avoid erosion that would affect unit four. 14 Unit Four Unit four contains a band of marshy areas that support standing water or very boggy conditions approximately eight months a year. These areas are functioning quite effectively as a wetland area. We will exercise our current practices of limiting use of the access roads to the dry season to protect the wetland areas. In addition, we will construct two or three small -scale amphibian pools in currently depressed areas, taking care to plant the edges with water plants and ferns to prevent the initiation of canary grass. These pools will be monitored for canary grass biennially, and all such grass will be removed mechanically. Category V: Fish and Wildlife Habitat The Aller forestlands provide a rich wildlife habitat. With the exclusion of the three - quarter acre homesite, the forestlands are in the understory re-initiation phase. These are generally mixed age and mixed species stands characterized by multiple canopy layers, snags and logs offering a wide diversity of structure for wildlife. The conditions are present in this forestland to promote occupation by birds and animals called specialists. Unlike generalist species that can adapt to a wide range of conditions, these specialists require specific forest structures or compositions, some of which exist on this property. Overall, there forestland attracts a wide variety of bird and mammal species. Non -bird species present on this property Coastal blacktail deer Northwest garter snake Little brown bat Cottontail rabbits Pacific tree frogs Water frogs (need to discern species) Mink Raccoon Opossum _ Weasel Various rodents Coyotes Salamanders Flying squirrels Pine squirrels Chipmunk Porcupine Newts Bird species that inhabit or visit this property Golden eagle Bald eagle Short-eared owl Cooper's hawk Red - tailed hawk Winter Wren Band - tailed pigeon Mourning dove Rufous hummingbird Red - breasted sapsucker Pileated woodpecker Northern flicker Tree swallow Violet -green swallow House wren Western bluebird American robin Starling 15 Varied thrush Western tanager (many more that we need to identify) Mallard ducks Great Blue Heron Understory Vegetation Since these forestlands are in the understory re- initiation phase there is a substantial amount of understory vegetation in units one, three and four. Even within the homesite, unit two, there are large areas which offer a variety of understory, including the orchard, areas of cultivated soft fruits and berries, and landscaped areas inhabited largely by bird species and amphibians. The understory in the forested areas is comprised of thimbleberry, salmon berry, coastal red elderberry, oceanspray, western hazelnut, cascara, stinging nettles, sword ferns, bracken ferns, Oregon grape, snow berry, red flowering currant, wild blackberries, and a variety of wild flowers. Most of the understory vegetation provides a good assortment of seeds and berries for birds. It also provides shelter and cover for a wide variety of forest mammals. Our objective to improve the buffer between our property and neighboring parcels for aesthetic reasons will help to enhance the understory type of vegetation in unit two. It will also improve the interior to edge ratio with neighboring properties, since the neighbor to the west prefers forested areas which have been cleared of understory vegetation. This will help to limit the size of the openings in the greater forest area in our region. In addition, naturalizing the pond into the forest area will reduce the open space currently existing on our property, expanding the wildlife habitat significantly. Snags There is a good component of snags throughout stands one, three and four at both the lower and higher levels of the canopy. Many of these snags are large diameter (greater than 12 inches). Scattered throughout the forested areas are numerous dead and dying bigleaf maple, red alder, Douglas fir, hemlock, and western red cedar snags. Several species of birds use these snags for feeding, nesting and perches. There are many cavities in excess of three inches in diameter left by the pileated woodpeckers excavating for ants. These are used by several bud species for nesting. In addition, there is a large component of wood bats that use these snags as well. There are consistently more than two snags (15 to 17 inches in diameter and over 15 to 30 feet high) per acre throughout all the stands. In Unit one, the large number of suppressed trees that are dead and dying partially compensates for a lack of large diameter snags. There is ample evidence of cavity borers and nesters in this unit. There is a plentiful supply of replacement snag trees available in the forested units. In addition, in unit two (homesite) recruitment of a large cedar snag and protection of the currently existing snags provides sufficient perch trees in and around the forest margins for use by raptors such as red - tailed hawks. Since learning of the value of such snags for wildlife habitat, in future firewood gathering, care will be taken to leave sufficient snag trees. 16 Coarse woody debris In units one, three and four there appear to be an ample supply of doomed logs and large branches in various stages of decay. Brush piles remaining from previous clearing of roads and the two homesites, containing large stumps and woody debris currently exist in each of the units providing feeding sites and shelter for the smaller birds and mammals. Recruitment of a snag tree near the pond will involve the removal of a large central leader, providing coarse woody debris to enhance that area. Other naturalizing and landscaping endeavors will incorporate the use of large woody debris to promote wildlife habitat in the homesite unit. Openings The major opening in our forestlands was created by the clear-cut that is now used as the homesite in unit two. In addition, major openings are beginning to appear in the canopy in unit four, providing more browse for the coastal blacktail deer. These will be managed in such a way to retain the proper balance of forest edge to interior. It will be important to cooperate with neighbors to continue to provide forest interior that promotes the preservation of wildlife travel corridors and shelter. The transitional edges between the pasture, homesites and foresdands are an especially productive component of our wildlife habitat, providing food and shelter for birds, rabbits and other forest mammals. The improvement of the visual buffer between neighboring properties will improve this component by adding more diversity in the structure, and will help to curtail the spread of non - native invasive species such as blackberry and reed canary and reduce the size of large and extended openings in this area. Category VI: Threatened and Endangered Species There are no known threatened or endangered species on this property. However, our objectives as forest landowners to preserve the forest in as "natural' state as possible will promote habitat that would promote and ensure their protection. Category VII: Aesthetics and Recreation This category of our forest stewardship plan involves one of our most predominant objectives as forest owners. This forestland has become a peaceful retreat for us personally, as well as for family and friends. We encourage the use of our property for large family and community gatherings including summer picnics, graduation parties, weddings and Christmas celebrations incorporating such recreational use as gathering greens, walking, lawn games, berry picking and rest and relaxation. In addition, we encourage the use of our property by community groups including Boys Scouts and community and church youth groups for overnights, picnics and forest - related activities. 17 Access roads and unsurfaced trails currently exist throughout the property (see Appendix B). These trails will be kept open and groomed for continued use while taking care to respect the forestlands and wildlife habitat. Unit One In unit one Himalayan blackberries have invaded along the roadside. These will be removed and replaced with fems and appropriate shrubs to maintain the county roadside easement. This will improve the view seen by the passing public and eliminate the need for county weed control measures. In addition, it will help to restrict tree growth under the powerlines to appropriate species. Unit Two Unit two currently provides opportunity for various recreational activities including lawn games, gardening, animal husbandry and various settings for quiet picnics and rest and relaxation. A wildlife viewing area will be established at a respectful distance from the existing pond. The forest buffer between this unit and the neighboring property to the west will be reestablished to preserve the privacy for both landowners and improve the forest edge. Replanting has been initiated, but some species are planted too close and need to be moved during the present dormant season. Overgrazing by coastal blacktail deer is a potential hazard in the buffer areas, so deer repellent may need to be used. Construction of a waddle in areas that are extremely open will improve the aesthetics of the area during buffer initiation. Hybrid evergreens will be planted in a few areas to provide immediate visual buffer. In addition, a mixture of western red cedar, Douglas fir, red -osier dogwood, cascara, vine maple and western hazelnut will be planted in appropriate areas of the buffer zone. Unit Three Unit three must be managed carefully to retain the panoramic scenic view while striving to restore the area to productive forestland and wildlife habitat. Some of the hardwood species are now beginning to obscure the scenic view. These will be removed and replaced with low- growing species. The existing Douglas fir will remain and will be pruned to preserve the view. Douglas fir will also be planted at the periphery as mature bigleaf maple and alder die out. The remainder of the unit will be planted with a mix of blue elderberry, red-osier dogwood, cascara, western hazelnut and vine maple to provide fall color and increased wildlife habitat while preserving the view. 18 Unit Four Unit four currently includes several unsurfaced access roads and trails. These roads are routinely groomed to insure use during the dry season for removal of windthrow for firewood and recreational activities. A small campsite will be established in an existing clearing to provide the opportunity for overnight camping. Category VIII: Special Forest Products Use of special forest products has been an integral part of our experience as forest owners. This parcel of land hosts a wealth of products that are currently being used and many that need to be explored and developed. In the past, the forestland and its products have provided a backdrop for mentoring relationships with young people, friends and neighbors interested in developing a lifestyle that promotes simplicity, sustainability and respectful use and enjoyment of the forestlands. These forest products have been primarily used for personal enjoyment and gifts. However some of the products gathered from the forestlands have been processed and wholesale marketed to specialty shops and florists. Products which are currently being used are red cedar and Douglas fir boughs, red coastal huckleberry brush, dried seed pods and branches, mosses and lichens, fir and cedar cones, young alder branches for twig baskets and small furniture. These products are primarily used for dried floral arrangements, potpourri and Christmas ornaments. In addition, wild blackberries, Oregon grape and red coastal huckleberry are gathered and processed to make jams, jellies and fruit syrups, for personal use and gifts. Nature photography has been used extensively for greeting cards and picture arrangements. Skills garnered throughout the years from various experiences as forest landowners have been a basis for sharing and education in the past. Combined with the wealth of information gained from the Forest Stewardship Planning short course, we have accrued a base of information to share with neighbors interested in protecting and enhancing our forestland neighborhood. We have an interest in taking an inventory of mushroom species and medicinal herbs on the property to use for our own enjoyment. We will contact the local micological society and use plant books to begin the inventory. In order to promote times for reflection, refreshment and integration of education on mentoring Sharon will take a nature photography course and begin to combine pictures with reflective writings. This may become the basis for a book on cooperation and mentoring, using lessons from the forestland ecosystem. We would like to begin to explore the concept of marketing forestland "experiences ". Such experiences could include a combination of information, skills development, relaxation and a tangible product for the participants. They could include a seasonal focus such as Christmas ornaments and decorations or an alder twig basket 19 planter for spring flowers. In addition, berries could be picked and harvested for participants' consumption or gifts. We are located in close proximity to large metropolitan areas (Surrey, B.C. - 15 minutes, Vancouver, B.C. - 40 minutes and Bellingham, WA - 30 minutes) that would provide potential clientele. We will begin consideration of this opportunity by taking an inventory of the renewable forest products on and around our property. We will consider ways to enhance the forest environment to protect and sustain these resources. In addition, we will contact Jim Freed regarding the marketing of such products and "experiences ". 20 °Z4�9b r+ vt inn w c, c Aa. 1\ t ~ h � ✓s_.`� .. t� `,a(y S tt I s i r st♦ . + ����++++yyyyt t f yy,�F.l,.iti CIO li. y R 1 `j't i� . J x •.. ;�.'` { ♦\ t r } f I1 t. ty7h .fw \yam + d T r i s s ./ y. 'i+ • } Io ` I to • • t yS tI iw Z' - -,,,cam ♦ 4,� ri � ♦ n i xt ty"e to �I�'• � fj. Ys �v�t V .i $ • t y� e� h j.f M1 A AT ♦�f, \ s� ' lw -''r �(' .4Z y /�!JS`a +M��jij � A{� �� iI'� ��1� �.Y a� �f ` . t o qt to. VL it,M`Y]d- C ,yam• t Ja� 4 � • ,' � \ � �'� Y i 1 �' IJ` ; �, rs,X'4a� \ r)'t i )p j Yri. II IF j IF P. [ „ I ^, PY c i 11 ! - i'i• 'k. ,'• L •.. 1 R��w. yj�' \� j 1 j nx •. : +y: } } _ Management Timetable The beginning date of projects is noted below. This plan will cover the years from 1999 to 2012 Year Month Unit # Management Activity 1999 Nov. File Forest Stewardship Plan with County Assessor 1999 Nov. I Diagnose and treat disease in western red cedar 2000 Feb -Apr. 2 Begin reforestation of buffer zone, beginning on the west side adding tree and shrub species yearly over a five year period. 2000 Feb -Apr. 2 Gather information regarding pond liners 2000 Feb -Apr. 4 Select appropriate areas for amphibian pools based on areas of standing water. 2000 Aug. 3 Selectively cut hardwoods to restore view, and chemically treat the maple stumps to prevent resprouting. 2000 Oct. 3 Plant vegetation to control erosion on road cut. 2000 -2001 Feb -Apr. 3, 41 1 Begin reforestation with evergreen and mast producing species and continue over next three years. 2001 Aug -Oct. 2 Excavation and install lining of pond, create riparian zones around the pond adding plant and tree species yearly over the next two years. 2001 Aug -Oct. 4 Install amphibian pools 2001 Aug -Oct, 4 Enhance present campsite 21 2002 Feb -Apr. 314, 1 Plant shade tolerant species in openings in canopy and control competing vegetation. 2003 -2012 Feb. -Apr. 4 Divide unit into one -half acre sections and plant appropriate species. Manage for competing vegetation and plant one section annually. 2004 Jan. Review and update Forest Stewardship Plan making necessary revisions. Repeat at five year intervals. 22 PLAN PREPARED BY (Primary author, if more than one): Signature Date Warren and Sharon Aller Print Name Landowners Title Agency /Company - 3335 Sweet Road Address Blaine, WA 98230 3( 6o ) 332 -5669 Phone ❑ Private Natural Resource Professional ❑ Agency Representative id Landowner Who Completed Coached Stewardship Planning Course ❑ Landowner Who Is a Natural Resource Professional List other professionals, and their affiliations, who contributed to this plan. If this was a "Coached Plan" list natural resource professionals who serve as "coaches." c1tM. E.L *01-J- LANDOWNER SIGNATURE: The contents of this plan are acceptable to me/us. Vwe intend to manage this property in a manner consistent with the objectives of the Forest Stewardship Pr= to un ment this p to the best of my /our ability. Mdowner signature(s) Date Warren and Sharon Aller Print Landowner Name(s) APPROVAL SIGNATURE: I havr�eviewed this plan and approve it as meeting the standards for a Forest Stewardship Plan. I a�lt� Print Name of Designated Service Representative Natural Resource Program Coordinator, WA Dept. of Natural Resources Title Agency c/o WSO Cooperative Extension, 306 South First St., Mt. Vernon, WA 98977 Address (360 )428 -4270 (office), 800 - 898 -3631 (volcemall) Phone Wmc and &aWe s...,w ' ro"Ss r4MOIC SP.(.'I W 10 I wch -[MW IN29fl9 Triwr. 23 va ,,... utcwvsa.r Sweet Road Onit 2j.� Site for proposed i — riparian zones Ln- Unit Unit 4 , Proposed , Amphibian � ----- -� - -�- Pools 0 Q 0, It Gravel Key Proposed surfaced road Pond • Campsite Unsurfaced road _____ Unit division House A111 Pfowt i wa;F / Ix 3. i i L yyTgp �NOpo V;r q. A f 9KF PA/111" 20 19 i ;'y t ..., TROMP Soils plot with State Wide Code Text and Soil Name TOWNSHIP: T40ROIE Unstable soils in disturbed state SECTION: 10 1 inch = 1000 ft. very unstable in disturbed state 09/29/99 I� tow erosion potential Medium erosion potential High erasion potential Variable erosion potential data Due to changing ownersnip status and reliance an outside information. the Department of Natural Resources cannot accept responsibility for errors and omissions. Therefore. no warranties accompany this material. 7S WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION Property Owner: Pippa Breakspear /Robert Knott Designation: Open Space Timber for: J. & T. Blackburn Transfer from: Designated Forest 4600 Anderson Way Parcel No.: 380303 - 167223 and 186142 Bellingham, WA. 98226 Parcel Acreage: 14.62 ac ±1.45 ac ?16.07 acres Subarea: Urban Fringe Acreage in OST: 13.5 acres Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural Road Access: Esmt. 3/8 mile north Van Wyck Rd, Zoning Desig: R5A Land Use: Residential, forest Shorelines: N/A Land use history: Timber Soil Type /Capabilities: 179 - Whatcom silt loam, 3%-8% slopes 100% of lot coverage Site Index`: 116(Douglas fir) Limitations /Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness, seedling establishment and competing vegetation. Site Index': Limitations/Concems: Timber Management Plan Information Included :- Completeness (0=incumplete; 1= satisfactory; 2yhorough) Current Stand Description 2 Previously clearcut 60 yrs. ago, 14 acres Wader, M'rch, maple, ro0onwood nuf cedar, Douglas fir, grand firand hemlock. Unders ory c lean o /invasive species, w /salol. oiegon grape. sword /ern, rpirea. Indian plum and wild currans. Soils Description - No seek i l rmation. staff has inserted SCS information. Forest Health All diseased trees have been removed, no invasive species problem. Thinning Program 5%- 10% of hardwoods to be thinned out over next five years to prevent overcrowding. Thinning operations include poorly farmed, injured limby or diseased trees, overcrowded, competing or smaller frees. Harvest Plan Starting with mature hardwood in 5 years, then selective mature conifers over next 10 to 15 years. Planting /Restocking Program Replant with mixture of "stem led cedar and Douglas fir, predominantly in areas of alder. Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Retention and creation of snags, small brush piles and shelter trees. TDTAI< 12 14 Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval `Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years. TIMBER MANAGEMENT PLAN 4600 Anderson Way, Bellingham, WA Name of applicants: James &Terri Blackburn Date of Proposal: November 24, 1999 Assessors Parcel Nos: 380303 167223 186142 LAND DESCRIPTION This 16 acre parcel is located in the West half of the Northeast quarter of the Southwest quarter of Section 3, Township 38 North, Range 3 East of W.M. situated in Whatcom County, State of Washington. Of the sixteen acres, approximately two acres have been cleared for the house site and shop and the remaining fourteen acres are forested. In 1998 a short plat was completed that divided a twenty-acre parcel that was purchased by the Knott family in December 1992. The cluster short plat was established according to the terms mandated by the Growth Management Act. Three lots were created, each 1.3 acres in size, leaving a reserve tract of 16 acres. At this time the land was in Designated Timber. As a result of the short plat a request is being made to transfer the remaining fourteen acres (discounting 2 acres for the house and shop) into an Open Timber Classification. (All appropriate taxes have already been paid upon sale and close of escrow for the three lots as a result of removing them from the Designated Forest Land classification). The buildings on the land comprise one single family residence of 3024 square feet, a shop which is 60' x 40' and a garden shed, 6' x 8'. The property is changing hands on December 15, 1999 and has been purchased by the Blackburns. They wish to manage the land as outlined below and will be hiring professional foresters to help implement the plan. HISTORY AND SURROUNDING LAND USE: The land was clear -cut approximately sixty years ago. It was not re- stocked and re- seeding took place naturally. The Knott family purchased the then 20 -acre parcel in December 1992 and a two -acre area was cleared for a single - family residence, a shop and garden. Over the following seven years no more than 2% of the timber was harvested, which was mainly to remove diseased and windfall trees. Weed control has not been an issue due to sufficient density and canopy coverage and a diversity of native plants on the forest floor. Attempts to maintain diversity and a healthy forest have been successful. An adequate number of snags remain to provide habitat for insect eating birds which naturally control any damage that otherwise might be caused by insects. The forest floor is comprised of salal, oregon grape, sword ferns, spirea, indian plum and wild currant which makes weeds and brush control unnecessary, and which also provides habitat and food for wildlife. The existing ground cover also eliminates any potential soil erosion. Surrounding acreage on the east side is a 20 -acre parcel that is forested and remains undeveloped. To the north is approximately 100 acres, that is undeveloped and managed for timber. On the west side is a 20 -acre parcel, which houses one single family residence and outbuildings, with significant re- forestation over the last ten years. LANDOWNER'S OBJECTIVES: Increase forest production. Harvest hardwood. Replant with fir and cedar. Increase wildlife habitat. Allow conifers to mature. Begin select cutting of conifers. Continue reforestation and brush management. Maintain buffers along property lines. Protect riparian areas and seasonal streams. CURRENT STAND DESCRIPTION: This timber management plan provides a description of all natural resources on the property, with resource enhancement practices. The plan attempts to match the landowners objectives with the conditions that exist on the property. The fourteen acres are mostly timbered in alder, birch, maple and cottonwood. There are approximately one hundred stems per acre of hardwood which are close to maturity. In addition to the hardwood are red cedar, Douglas fir, grand fir and hemlock. There are approximately one hundred stems per acre of these, which are about ten years younger than the hardwood. (Describe the canopy). The soils information in this plan is based upon the Soil Survey of Whatcom County Area, Washington, published by the US Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service in 1985. (Photocopies of the appropriate maps are attached). FOREST HEALTH: In the extremely unlikely event of fire (absence of brush, tinder, thick canopy etc.) the property lies within Fire Station 2, District 4. There is no problem with competing vegetation due to a dense canopy, mature trees and sufficient ground cover. The stand is essentially in very good health as the diseased trees which comprised less than 3% of the stand have already been removed. 5 % -10% of the hardwood may need to be thinned over the next five years to prevent over - crowding. MANAGEMENT OPTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Our intent is to establish the most feasible option to match our objectives while respecting the characteristics of the property. We will continue implementing management practices to increase wood production, prevent overcrowding, harvest timber and enhance wildlife habitat. FOREST IMPROVEMENTS: Begin harvesting the mature hardwood over the next five to ten years. Replant with conifers Increase and maintain both soft and hard snags for wildlife. Keep brush and weeds controlled Maintain buffers for the benefit of neighbors along property lines. GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS: MANAGING THE HARDWOOD: Unlike coniferous trees which are frequently managed through benign neglect, management of hardwood trees in the Pacific Northwest is a more complex issue. However, the majority of the hardwood is reaching maturity and will be ready to be harvested over the next five to ten years. Hardwood grows very fast when young with a slowing in growth occurring at a relatively young age. Hardwood typically achieves a maximum height in 50 to 100 years. It is estimated that this piece of land was clear -cut approximately 60 years ago. The forest has relied on natural seeding for re- stocking purposes. Tree height is a major determining factor in tree volume, with taller trees containing greater volumes. The limiting height growth of hardwood trees is a major reason hardwood stands contain less volume than stands of mature conifer trees. As hardwood trees grow rapidly in height, they haven crown form similar to that of many conifers. In most hardwood trees, crown width increases as height growth slows. A shift in the way the crown develops, weakens or eliminates the dominance of the main stem of the tree. As tree crowns grow wider, the number of trees per acre drops, lowering total volumes per acre. The wide crown development constrains the height growth of the main stem of the tree, limiting the height of merchantable logs in the tree. In most species of hardwood trees, the effective merchantable height is the bottom of the crown. Selection of trees for the final harvest is a very important part of the management process. These trees will have the greatest value as they increase in diameter, healthy trees with straight stems, minimal defects and desired merchantable heights should be selected to grow to maturity. These trees will be a part of the main forest canopy, not an understory component of the canopy. Harvest decisions for merchantable trees tend to be based more on economic factors than biological considerations. Current markets for individual tree species will be carefully examined before harvesting is undertaken. Incentive prices for particular log lengths and minimum log diameters will be investigated before harvesting begins, in addition to an awareness of an ever - fluctuating market. THINNING: As densely spaced trees grow, branches of individual trees become intertwined with those of adjacent trees. Root patterns generally mirror branching patterns, therefore roots of adjacent trees can be presumed to intertwine if their branches are. In this condition, trees compete for soil nutrients, water and sunlight with adjacent trees. Eventually the bigger, healthier more robust trees overtop and crowd out the weaker trees. Until the weaker trees die or are selectively cut, growth on the area will be distributed to both robust and weak trees. The competition between trees in a stand can be dramatically reduced by selecting the trees that will be carried to a final harvest, and thinning out the other trees. We will select the larger, mop robust trees that appear to be growing vigorously and display good growth form. In thinning, we will remain focused on the crop trees that have been selected to carry to final harvest, and take care not to damage or remove these trees prematurely. grouse, pheasant, woodpecker, hawk, geese, ducks, heron, king fisher, many song birds, squirrel, mice and shrew. HARVEST PLAN: We propose to begin harvesting the mature hardwood in about five years. Then we will begin selecting the more mature conifers, starting the harvest on a small scale and increasing over the next ten to fifteen years. It is our goal to maintain the integrity of a healthy forest, while maximizing the harvest potential for the future. We aim to maintain a diversity of species to enable us to harvest timber consistently over a.period of time. TIMETABLE: 1999 -2004: Improve the forest stand by thinning, removing any diseased trees or windfall. Leave snags for wildlife. 20042012: Harvest the hardwood. Replant with red cedar and Douglas fir. Keep new areas clear of brush and weeds. 2009 -2025 Begin harvesting the mature conifers. Replant with red cedar and Douglas fir. Ensure brush is controlled until trees reach approximately 6 feet. This timber management plan was prepared with the help of Osborne Horse Logging, Bellingham, WA (360 398 1115) professional forest managers for the past twelve years. Trees with the following characteristics will be removed during our thinning operations: 1. Poorly formed, badly injured or diseased trees. 2. Rough, limby trees. 3. Competing species of lesser value. 4. Overcrowded, smaller trees. OVERVIEW OF FOREST MANAGEMENT: We will establish a thinning program that will allow removal of any dead and dying material or blowdown for firewood. We will remove competing vegetation and dead trees as needed, to increase the vigor of the stand. We will select trees to remove that have disease or insects (woodpecker holes), less than one third live crown, double -top or no top, scars, excessive pitch on bark or cones, or obvious root damage. However, some of these trees may be left as wildlife trees or future snags. Tree planting will be implemented in areas that are predominantly alder. We will create pockets of open areas as we harvest the hardwood and replant with a mixture of western red cedar and Douglas fir. In wetter areas more western red cedar will be planted. The Douglas fir seedlings need some sunlight to do well and we will keep the brush and alder cut down until the seedlings are well established. Once the trees are five to six feet in height they will out compete the brush. Alders will need to be continually thinned so as not to create over crowding or competition with the douglas fir and cedar. WILDLIFE: Snags will be left and more created as time passes. Plenty of deer paths already exist, some small brush piles and stands of trees for shelter. The following types of wildlife are currently utilizing the habitat: deer, coyote, raccoon, mink, otter, skunk, opossum, rabbit, muskrat, great homed owl, rrnnL l "Irl 1 "VIrl A "A vi "A! 1. IJI ""lI l fill l A111r Property Owner: Pippa Breakspear /Robert Knott Designation: for: J. & T. Blackburn Transfer from: 4600 Anderson Way Parcel No.: Bellingham, WA. 98226 Parcel Acreage: .iubarea: Urban Fringe Acreage in OST: Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural Road Access: Zoning Desig: R5A Land Use: Shorelines: N/A Land use history: Soil Type /Capabilities: 179. Whatcom sllf loam, 3% -8% slopes 100% of lot coverage Site Index*: 116(Douglas fir) Lunitations/Concems: Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness, seedling establishment and competing vegetation. Site Index`: Limitations/Concems: Open Space Timber Designated Forest 380303- 167223 and 186142 14.62 ac. +1.45 ac. 16.07 acres 13.5 acres Esmt. 3/8 mile north Van Wyck Rd. Residential, forest Timber Timber Management Plan Comoletenes Information Included:- (0=incomplete; l= sa(isfaclory; 2= thorough) Points Max. Current Stand Description Previously clit rcut 60 yes. ago, 14 acres w /alder, binch, maple, collonwoogred cedar, Douglas fir, grand fir and hemlock. UMnstory clean of invasive species, w1 alal, oregon grape, swordfem, quires. indian plum and wild currant. Soils Description No soils information, staff hat inserted SC information. Forest Health All diseased frees have been removed, no invasive species problem. Thinning Program 5% - 10% of the hardwoods to be thinned out over next five years to prevent overcrowding. thinning operations include poorly farmed, injured,limby or diseased trees, overcrowded, compering or smaller areas. Harvest Plan _ starting side mature hardwood in 5 years, then selective mature conifers over next 10 to 15 years. PlantinglRestocking Program Replant with mixture of western red cedar and Douglas fir, predominantly in areas of alder. Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Retention and creation of snags, small brush piles and shelter trees. TOTAL- 12 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. Name of applicants: Pippa Breakspear & Robert Knott Date of Proposal: November 6, 1999 Assessors Parcel Nos: 380303 167223 186142 S�wt� ^P�caE � zz3 3 X \53 131A © x 153 ,( 1 S 4 5L�� �61 _ .4Sq chambersOSI Y2K WHATCOM CO UNTY OPEN SPA CE CLASSIFICATION Property Owner: Thomas H. Chambers 3060 Mosquito Lake Road Deming WA 98244 -9749 Subarea: South Fork Valley Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural Zoning Desig: R10A Shorelines: N/A Soil Type /Capabilitiesi 7 - Barneslon very gravelly loam, 8 % -15% slopes. 30% or lot coverage Road Access: Site Index*: 118 (Douglas fit Limitations /Concerns: Seedling mortality, competing vegetation 144- Shaliar and Fishtrap soils, 0%-2% slopes 20% lot coverage Site Index': None Limitations/Concems: Seasonal high water table, used for wildlife habitat. Information Included :- Designation: Open Space Timber Transfer from: NIA Parcel No.: 380526 - 254194, 264235 Parcel Acreage: 9.49 +2.30 acres, Total 11.79 acres Acreage in OST: 8.0 acres Road Access: Mosquito Lake Road Land Use: Residential, pasture and timber Land use history: As above Labounry silt loam, 0 % -2% slopes 10% brief coverage Site Index`: 90 (red alder) Linotations/Concems: Muddiness, seedling establishmenOmonalin 185 - Wickersham channery silt loam, 0 % -8% slopes 40% of lot coverage Site Index*: 130 (Douglas fu) Limitations/Conceres: Seedling establishment, competing Current Stand Description Mature stand of Douglas fir, "stem red cedar, "stem hemlock, Sitka spruce and red alder Soils Description Described adequately Forest Health Mature stand described as healthy Thinning Program No mention. Harvest Plan The present stand is nonvolatile at any time. Planting /Restocking Program ReJOrest by planting 200- 28.Douglas fir per acre, 100 -2d. Western red cedar per acre, black catlonwood whips along bog and/or wetland Wildlife Habitat Enhancement No mention. Completenes (0= inwmplc1e; 1= satisfactory; 2= thorough) 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 TOTAL: 10 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 for WHATCOM COUNTY TAX ACCOUNT NUMBERS Apply For Open Space Timber Land Classification (RCW 84.34) Portion of 380526- 264235 (0.4 Acres) Portion of 380526- 254194 (7.6 Acres) Homesite Portion of 380526- 264235 (1.9 Acres) Portion of 380526- 254194 (1.89 Acres) Portion EI12 NEI /4 SW1 /4 & Portion W1/2 NW1 /4 SEIA Section 26 Township 38 North, Range 5 East of the Willamette Meridian Whatcom County consisting of 8 Acres of Forest Lands Located At 3060 Mosquito Lake Road LANDOWNER THOMAS H. CHAMBERS 3060 Mosquito Lake Road Deming, WA 98244 -9749 360 -592 -5428 Anderson Forestry Consultants, Inc. 20105 Gina Marie Lane Burlington, WA. 98233 -5207 360- 757 -6389 December 15, 1999 FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN Whatcom County Tax Account Numbers Portion of 380526- 264235 (0.4 Acres) Portion of 380526- 254194 (7.6 Acres) Thomas H. Chambers is the owner of 11.79 acres located along Mosquito Lake Road. The ownership is listed as two (2) Tax Account Numbers with Whatcom County. Tax Account Number 380526 - 264235 contains 2.30 acres of which 1.9 acres is a portion of the Homesite and the balance of the acreage, 0.7 acres, is a Bog or Welland as defined by the State Forest Practice Rules & Regulations. Tax Account Number 380526- 254194 contains 9.49 acres of which 1.89 acres is a portion of the Homesite and the balance of the acreage, 7.6 acres, is forest and Bog or Wetland. The forest and Bog, or Wetland, hw been managed as forest land. All of the property is contiguous. The property is located at 3060 Mosquito Lake Road. The current zoning in R10A with a 10 acre minimum lot size (or 1 homesite per 10 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 2 types, or stands, of timber as follows. Acreage was determined using a dot grid. Type I is 6 acres of a 80 year old size class 4 (over 20" Diameter) stand of Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, Sitka Spruce, Western Red Cedar stand with scattered Red Alder. The stand is fully stocked. Type 2 is 2 acres of Bog, and/or Wetland, as defined in the Forest Practices Rules & Regulations under WAC 222 -16 -010. Scattered through the Bog is Willow, Crabapple & Elderberry with some open water.. There are four (4) soil types on the property. Soil data is from the USDA SCS and Washington State DNR Soil Survey of Whatcom County Area, Washington. Acreage for each soil was determined by the use of a dot grid. 1. BARNESTON VERY GRAVELLY LOAM, 8 to 15% slopes. The SCS soil number is 7. The DNR soil number is 0419. The 50 year site index is DF 121. This means that the average Douglas Fir will grow to a height of 121 feet in 50 years. This Page soil is stable in a natural state and in a distributed state. There are 2.75 acres in this soil type. 2. LABOUNTY SILT LOAM, 0 to 2% slopes. The SCS soil number is 93. The DNR soil number is 4200. The 50 yew site index is RA 90. This means that the average Red Alder will grow to a height of 90 feet in 50 years. This soil is stable in a natural state and in a distributed state. There are 1.25 acres in this soil type. 3. SHALAR and FISHTRAP SOILS, 0 to 2% slopes. The SCS soil number is 144. The DNR soil number is unknown. The site index is not listed or known. The soil is stable in a natural state and in a distributed state. There are 3.04 acres in this soil type. 4. WICKERSHAM CHANNERY SILT LOAM, 0 to 8 %. The SCS soil number is 185. The DNR soil number is 9104. The site index is DF 132. This means that the average Douglas Fir will grow to a height of 132 feet in 50 years. The soil is stable in a natural state and in a distributed state. There are 4.75 acres in this soil type. However, 3.79 acres of this soil type is the Homesite. Leaving only 0.96 acres within the forested area. Forest Management Recommendations are as follows: Timber Type 1 - The 6 acre mature stand of Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, Sitka Spruce, Western Red Cedar with scattered Red Alder is healthy. The owner cats harvest this stand at any time there is a need for additional revenue. When a harvest is completed, it will be necessary to reforest the harvest area. Reforest by planting 200 2 -0 Douglas Fir seedlings per acre and 100 2 -1 Western Red Cedar seedling per acre. Consider planting some Black Cottonwood whips along the Bog and/or Wetland area. Timber Type 2 - The 2 acres of Bog and/or Wetland as defined by the Forest Practices Rules & Regulations should be left as is. Nothing should be done to this area except ensure that any water entering this area from the Homesite area or Timber Type 1 be clean. At some future date when the landowner chooses to do a timber harvest, it will be necessary to obtain an approved Forest Practice Application (FPA) as required by RC W 76.09 Forest Practices. This can be obtained from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 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 FPA. Harvest activity creates logging debris, or slash. One must be aware that creating logging debris, or slash, within 100 feet of the running surface of a public road, or within 500 feet of homes, and/or businesses, requires abatement or elimination. Refer to State Law RCW 76.04.650 and WAC 332 -24 -650. Any timber harvested within the State of Washington pays a Yield Tax at time of harvest. The Forest Excise Tax is collected by the Department of Revenue. Page At the completion of a timber harvest it will be necessary to reforest the land as required by RCW 76.09 and WAC 222 -34 Reforestation. It is recommended that the owner plant 200 Douglas fir 2 -0 seedlings per acre and 100 2 -1 Western Red Cedar seedlings per acre during the first planting season following any timber harvest. The planting season is normally January through April. Tree seedlings are 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 Salmonbeny. 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 stumps. It is recommended that the owner consider hand fertilizing of any planted Douglas Fir seedlings after the first growing season. Consider applying about l 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 owner 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 Open Space - Timber Tax Program. It is the owners 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 with TAX ACCOUNT NUMBERS a 0 rG X a THOMAS H. CHAMBERS 3060 Mosquito Lake Road Deming, WA 98244 -9749 360 -592 -5458 Tax Account Numbers 380526- 264235 (2.3 acre: 380526- 254194 (9.49 acre Portion of E12 NEl /4 S W I/4 Portion of W112 NW I/4 SEIA Section 26 Township 38 North Range 5 East, W.M., Whatcom County Containing 11.79 acres Scale: I"=400' 14 Si prepared by Anderson Forestry Consultants, Inc. 20105 Gina Marc lane Burlington, WA 98233 -5207 360- 757 -6389 TIMBER TYPE MAP a 0 a Y .9 I)Nwh4n4rc4 Site 11 Age 80+ years Origin 1920 6 acres — Homesite x-3.79 acres %,.- THOMAS H. CHAMBERS 3060 Mosquito Lake Road Deming, WA 98244 -9749 360 -592 -5458 Tax Account Numbers 380526- 264235 (2.3 acres) 380526- 254194 (9.49 acres Portion of E12 NEI /4 SWl /4 Portion of W112 NW 1/4 SEl /4 Section 26 Township 38 North Range 5 East, W.M., Whatcom County Containing 11.79 acres Scale: V=400' Wetland (Bog) _ 4;z- 2 acres .. 14 E t'S 1; prepared by Anderson Forestry Consultants, Inc. 20105 Gina Marie We Burlington, WA 98233 -5207 360 - 757 -6389 SOIL TYPE MAP a 0 a Y J Wickersham channery_ silt loam SCS # 185 DNR # 9104 5 acres Slope 4.7 4.75 Site Index DF 132 Barneston very gravelly loam SCS #7 DNR # 0419 8 -15 %Slopes 2.75 acres Site Index DF 121 THOMAS H. CHAMBERS 3060 Mosquito Lake Road Deming, WA 98244 -9749 360 -592 -5458 Tax Account Numbers 380526- 264235 (2.3 acre 380526- 254194 (9.49 acn Portion of E 12 NE1 /4 S W I A Portion of W1/2 NW I/4 SE I/4 Section 26 Township 38 North Range 5 East, W.M., Whatcom County Containing 11.79 acres Scale: I"=400' Shalcar and Fishtrap soils SCS #144 DNR #? 0 -2% Slopes 3.04 acres Site Index? Labounry silt loam SCS # 93 DNR # 4200 0 -2% Slopes 1.25 acres Site Index RA 90 ii 6 S prepared by Anderson Forestry Consultants, Inc. 20105 Gina Marie Lane Burlington, WA 98233 -5207 360 - 757 -6389 WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION V V Property Owner: Z Zender Logging Co., Inc. Designation: O Open Space Timber 2181 Central Road Transfer from: C Classified Forest Everson, WA. 98247 Parcel No.: 3 390410 - 338238 Subarea: L Lynden /Nooksack Valley Parcel Acreage: 1 19.61 acres Acreage in OST: 1 19.61 acres Comp. Plan Desig.: R Rural Forest Road Access: N None, 1/4 mile east of Ocean Road Zoning Desig: R Rural Forest Land Use: F Forestry Shorelines: N N/A Land use history: F Forestry Soil Type/Capabilities: 141 - Sehome gravelly loam, l5 % -30 %slopes; 156. Squalicum gravelly loam, 5 %.15 %slopes 38% of lot coverage, westerly portion 2% lot coverage, westerly portion Site Index *: 1 135 (Douglas fir) Site Index *: 132 (Douglas fir) Limitations/Concems: M Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness, seedling establishment, c competing vegetation. 18 - Blethen gravelly loam, 1 15 %- 30% slopes 60'/. lot coverage Site Index *: 1 115 (Douglas fir) Limitations/Concerns-. M Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness, seedling establishment, c competing vegetation. Completeness Information Included :- (0—incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2= thorough) Points Max. Current Stand Description 2 2 FPA #1921254 (95), replanted at 300 Douglas it per acre in the fall of 1996 for 1 L6 acres. Wildlife and green up items on north and sou h properry lines, seasonal stream through 1.5 acre wildute riperinn management zone in west. Soils Description 2 2 Thorough and accurate. Forest Health 2 2 M current indicators of forest health problems or high fire risk on property Thinning Program 2 2 Thinning and brush control, manual slashing of competing vegetation. Precommmr ial thinning if trees became too crowded Harvest Plan 2 2 selective harvest possible within ten to Been years subject to market conditions another owners needs, complete harvest in ffry to siro years, subject to marker and /a, owner's needs. Planting /Restocking Program - 2 No mention possibly due to longevity of harvest timetable. Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 2 2 Riparian management zone, green -up trees and existing wildlife property line frees, together with increasing reproduction ch retdand is espeaM to attract and provide quality wildlife habitat. TOTAL: 12 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. 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. Management Plan For Hopewell Property landowner Zender Logging Co., Inc. 2181 Central Rd Everson, WA 98247 Prospective Buyer: Plan Prepared By: Kevin Zender, Owner Zender Logging Co., Inc. (360) 966 -5693 1: 1 Landowner Objectives At this time landowner intends to continue long -term management of the reforestation of Douglas Fir seedlings that Pwere planted on the site in the fall of 1996 after timber harvest had ended. Maintain existing wildlife habitat, wildlife trees and riparian management zone. General Property Description • Property is approximately 19.6 acres • Topography is varied, with slopes and benches throughout the property. Slopes are approximately five to thirty-five percent. • The property currently is replanted in Douglas Fir seedlings, three hundred per acres, which was planted in the fall of 1996. There is approximately 1.5 acres of riparian management zone Utat is forested and located on the western portion of the property. Wildlife and green -up trees are on the north and south property lines. The property was harvested in the spring of 19%. • The property has a small stream that rang only during the wet winter months. The stream begins at the easterly portion of the riparian management zone, and urns westerly through it and onto the neighboring property. • The property is not used for grazing. Adjacent Properties Property is bounded on the west, north and south by private ownership and state forest land on the east. The property to the west is partially wooded and pasture with a home site to be constructed in the near future. The driveway and well are already in. The property to the north is privately owned forestland in a reproductive stage of fir, hemlock, cedar and hardwoods approx rely twenty years of age. The property to the south is also privately owned forestland with a mixed stand of fir, hemlock, cedar and hardwoods approximately fifty years of age and includes a private residence. The property to the east is state foresdand of mature second growth fir, hemlock and cedar. Forest Health There are currently no indicators of forest health problems such as insect damage, fungal rot, or high fire risk on subject property and adjacent property. Timber and Wood Products There is currently 17.6 acres of reproduction forest. There are two acres of wildlife and green -up trees and riparian management zone. The trees in this area consist of fir, hemlock, cedar, and hardwoods of approximately fifty years of age. Water Quality and Weiland Area There is one small seasonal stream that runs through the property and runs only during the wet winter months. This stream begins in the westerly portion and runs through the riparian management zone. Wildlife Habitat Existing wildlife trees, green -up trees, riparian management zone and reproduction forest area are providing quality habitat for a variety of wildlife. It is anticipated that the habitat will increase as the reproduction forestland progresses as indicated in management plan. Threatened and Endangered Species and Cultural Resources There are no (mown threatened or endangered species present on or relying on the subject property. There are no known cultural issues regarding this property. Soils information is taken from the Whatcom County Soil Survey published by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, 1998. There are three types of soil on the subject property. These soils include: Squalicum gravely loam on 5-15% slopes, with a fifty year site index of 132 feet for Douglas Fir. Scheme gravelly Ioam15 -300/6 slopes with a fifty -year site index of 135 feet for Douglas Fir. Blethen gravelly loam 15-30% slopes with a fifty -year site index of 115 feel for Douglas Fir. Reforestation on these types of soils is best suited for Douglas Fir seedlings or Red Alder seedlings. Douglas Fir has been planted at three hundred seedlings per acres at a twelve by twelve spacing Seedling mortality and windthrow hazards are moderate. Competing vegetation can be controlled by either mechanical or chemical means. On this site the vegetation will be controlled by hand slashing. Management Plan and Timetable Management of reproduction areas will consist of thinning and brush control. Brash control will consist of manual slashing of competing vegetation and will be left on site to dray. Pre-commercial thinning may take place if space between trees becomes too crowded. If this needs to be done, it will take place in ten to fifteen years. A selective harvest could occur m thirty to forty years subject to landowner's needs and the log market A complete harvest of the site could occur in fifty to sixty years subject to landowner's needs and log market. f.?J- Z 'W.v N� EXHIBIT A NO. 81984 THE LAND REFERRED TO IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, COUNTY OF WHATCOM AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL A: THE NORTH HALF OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER AND THE NORTH HALF OF THE NORTHWEST. QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER ALL IN SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 4 EAST, EXCEPT THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED TRACT: A PORTION OF THE NORTH ONE HALF OF THE NORTH ONE RALF OF THE SOUTH ONE HALF OF SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 4 EAST, MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE CENTER OF SECTION 10 OF SAID TOWNSHIP AND RANGE AS SHOWN ON RECORD OF SURVEY FILED UNDER AUDITOR'S FILE NO. 960402129; THENCE SOUTH 87 945'06" WEST, 208.72 FEE TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 87 045'06" WEST, 1142.38 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 02 920054^ EAST, 663.98 FEET; THENCE NORTH 87 054'29" EAST, 1438.13 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 940'17" WEST, 459.22 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 67 045106" WEST, 303.63 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 °40.17" WEST, 208.72 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING. ALSO EXCEPT THE EAST 4.39 FEET OF THE WEST 99.30 FEET OF THE SOUTH 459.22 FEET OF THE NORTH ONE -RALF OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE. 4 EAST OF W.M. ALSO EXCEPT THE NORTH 24.26 FEET OF THE EAST 208.72 FEET OF THE NORTH ONE -HALF OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 4 EAST OF W.M.; SITUATE IN COUNTY OF WHATCOM, STATE OF WASHINGTON (CONTINUED) WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION Property Owner: Bruce and Lynne Shelton Current Stand Description dba Shelton Tree Farm 2 5523 Maple Way Blaine, WA. 98230 Subarea: Birch Bay /Blaine Comp. Plan Desig.: Birch Bay UGA Zoning Desig: UR4 Shorelines: N/A Snit Type /Caoahilitim 96 - Laxton loam, 0 % -3% slopes 80% of lot coverage Site Index *: 120 (Douglas fir) Limitations/Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness, seedling establishment and competing vegetation. 45- Edmonds - Woodlyn loams, drained, 0 % -2% slopes 10% lot coverage The thinning will continue until Spring 2004. Site Index`: 90(red alder) Limitations/Concems: Hiah water table. as above. Designation: Transfer from: Parcel No.: Parcel Acreage: Acreage in OST Road Access: Land Use: Open Space Timber pin. in OSAG, pin. in Des. Forest 400119 - 389349, 333380, 458380 39.30 acres wly. 25 acres Blaine Road Forest and pasture Land use history: Forest and pasture Lenten loam, 8 % -15% slopes of lot coverage Index*: 120 (Douglas fir) utanons/Concems: Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness, cling establishment and competing vegetation. Hale silt loam, 0 % -2% slopes of lot coverage Index': 90 (red alder), 90(Douglas fir) Timber Management Plan Information Included :- Completeness. (O=incomplele; ]-satisfactory; 2- thorough) Points Max. Current Stand Description 2 2 Divided into 4 sections, each section thoroughly described. Soils Description 2 2 ldequmely covered. Forest Health 2 2 None noted. Thinning Program 2 2 Each section has specific thinning needs and are adequately described The thinning will continue until Spring 2004. Harvest Plan 2 2 Year 2006 - start seleclively harvesting the "stem red cedars, dependent upon market paces and owners financial needs. Mature hardwoods will be harvesred staring year 2000. Planting /Restocking Program 2 2 Spring 2001 and onward, begin the planting of "stem red cedar and Douglas fir in the thinned andloggedareas. Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 2 2 Adequate variety of vade ile habitat 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. v a hik FA WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENTOF Natural Resources JENNIFER M. BELCHER Commissioner of Public Lands December 13, 1999 Bruce Shelton 5523 Maple Way Blaine, WA 98230 RE: APPROVED FOREST STEWARDSHIP PLAN Dear Bruce: Congratulations! Your Forest Stewardship Plan was been reviewed and approved today. As we discussed, I am returning the signed original, but will keep a copy for my records. Would you consider allowing me to use your Plan as an example for future Forest Stewardship Coached Planning workshops? Also, I've included a brochure for the Washington Tree Farm Program. It is similar to the Forest Stewardship Program except it especially emphasizes timber production and is sponsored by the American Forest Foundation, a private organization. I have included a brochure for you to review the benefits of the Tree Farm Program. If you are interested in becoming a member, let me know and I'll take care of the rest! Please feel free to contact me at (360) 856 -3491 f you think I can be of further assistance in any way. Sincerely, ohn Keller Forest Stewardship Coordinator cc: File NORTHWEST REGION 1 919 N TOWNSHIP ST I SEDRO- WOOLLEY, WA 98284 -9395 PAX: (360) 8562150 1 TTy (360) 856 1321 1 TEL: (360) 856 -3500 o,x'j• „s Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Ravam PAPER CJ PRIUMM �— December 41 1999 WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING Bruce and Lynne Shelton Shelton Tree Farm Forest Stewardship Management Plan Landowners Bruce and Lynne Shelton 5523 Maple Way 1 Blaine, WA 98230 360 -371 -2507 Property Location: 8317 Blaine Road Blaine, WA 98230 40O11'J- 3, 33k2eDC OV42 5.-0e i� lCac2s 40 Acres - 25 Forested 013. 0"• 440a an ..•b.I) A. N %: of the N'' /2 of the S '/, of the NE' /. of Sec 19, Township 40 N, Range 1 E of W.M., except the right of way for Blaine Road lying along easterly line thereof. B. S % of the following described tract: the N'' /2 of the S'' /2 of the NE' /. of Sec 19, Township 40 N, Range I of W.M. except for the right of way for Blaine Road lying along easterly line therof. C. Both legals are 20 acres each and situated in Whatcom County. Landowner Goals and Objectives Goals and Objectives can be divided into two categories: 1) Forest Management Objectives 2) Long Term Goals Forest Management Objectives 1) Improve quality of forest by thinning, pruning, planting or transplanting. 2) Manage to grow forest value by 12 to 15% annually. 3) Harvest on a selective basis to be determined by maturity of tree species and market price. Landowner Goals 1) Residual source of income. 2) Provide estate value for heirs. 3) Create and develop additional 10 acres into timber. Property Description: This is a 40 acres parcel on the west side of Blaine Road between Anderson and Lincoln Roads. About 6/10' of a mile north of Birch Bay - Lynden Road. Property is approximately 3 miles south of Blaine and 3 miles west of I -5 freeway. Property has been surveyed, with all property comers marked by surveying stakes, pines, and I" steel 6' rebar rods. Flat describes the 40 acres, except for one 2 acre low land in the NE comer of the property which is lower than the other 38 acres. No lakes, streams, or riparian areas; however, soil conditions are such that during Winter months property has a high water table resulting in scattered puddles. Approximately 25 acres of property is timbered. Balance is open fields, except for 1 acre of buildings (house, garage, shop, chicken house, and woodshed). Surrounding land uses include: South - a 10 acre horse stable and 5 acre home sites; West - property that is currently being developed into home sites; North - 75 acre parcel that has recently sold and is being developed into 5 acre tracts; East - 2'/: and 5 acre home sites. Property History A family of coal miners from the Isle of Man, homesteaded this property in the late 1890's. The home was built in 1902 and added onto in 1912. Timber from the property was cut and milled for the home and farm buildings. This family operated as a small family farm, with milk cows and chickens as the primary source of income. Property stayed in the original family until about 1975 when it was sold to a partnership from Canada, who did nothing with the property except rent out the house. The Shelton's purchased the North 20 acres in January of 1997 and the South 20 acres in February of 1998. Forest Health No insect or disease problems of concern were noted. The greatest risk of fire starting will be from human activities in the nearby residential areas, such as debris bunting. Fire propection is provided by the Department of Natural Resources and the Fire District. The topography of the land as well as the access and local water sources should assist in controlling any wildfires that may start on or near the property. High water tables and ground flooding, especially in the western portion of the property, may make some trees susceptible to blowdown. The tight stocking of the cedar stand in the west part of the property may eventually lead to higher stem breakage rates from wind. Seedlings established in any afforestation efforts in the field can have a high potential for vole damage. Timber Production (Timber 25 acres) Stand #1 (Approximately 10 to 11 acres): This stand consists of sawing and pulp Red Alder, pole -sized and some sawing Western Red Cedar, pulp Birch and Grand Fir. Size runs anywhere from 4' DBH to 24" DBH, with most of the smaller trees being Western Red Cedar. Most Alder and Birch are mature trees and should be removed before they lose their monetary value. Areas of the Red Cedar should be thinned to promote faster growth of the stronger trees. Stocking varies with some areas stocked under 25% and other patches are overstocked. Careful directional felling and yarding of overstory hardwoods during timber harvest will be necessary to control damage to understory cedar. Some areas have poor stocking (under 25 %) and using a "patch cut" method to regenerate these areas is advised. Areas of at least 1 to 2 acres in size should have all but a few trees removed to allow ample sunlight to penetrate and give seedlings the light they need to grow vigorously. Site preparation by removing salmonberry and other competing brush species will be necessary, and possibly follow up brush control. Stand #2 (Approximately 4 to 5 acres): This area consists of large sawlog Doug Fir and larger Western Red Cedar. DBH ranging from 14" to 30 ". A few Red Alder, but not many. A beautiful stand, which will be enjoyed for the aesthetic value, and be considered an economic reserve. This stand has some developing old growth characteristics. It has a high commercial value, and is well - stocked. Management options include 1) leaving it alone, 2) careful, light commercial thinnings concentrating on removing the smaller trees, or 3) regeneration harvesting and starting a new stand if the landowner's economic situation so requires. Stand #3 (Approximately 3 to 4 acres): Mostly Western Red Cedar averaging about 8" DBH. This area needs to be thinned to 16' spacing, and limbed appropriately. Some of the seedlings in this area can be moved to other stands that experience void areas. Over stocked - possible 300-400 trees per acre. Commercial thinning may need to be performed at several time intervals to allow trees to gradually adjust to reduced protection. This may be challenging from an economic/marketing standpoint. Stand 94 (Approximately 7 to 8 acres): Area that has been "selectively" logged, but not replanted. Twenty foot Red alder and Western Red Cedar are the dominant species with a few cottonwood. This area needs the most work; cutting back the salmonberry bushes and vine maple. This area needs mare trees, which can be moved in from Stand #1. It also has a significant component of scattered and clumped sawlog cedar. Stand #5: Afforestation of portions of the field east of the present timber stand and west of the homesite is also being considered. The southern portion of this stand presently has Red Alder saplings established. To successfully establish a mix of conifer species, the present layer of grass will need to be killed, probably using an herbicide such as "Accord" or "Oust" in the fall, and the sod will need to be broken up by plowing or discing. This will reduce grass competition and degrade habitat for stem girdling root nibbling voles. Additional herbicide treatments may be necessary for several years to inhibit grass competition. SOILS There are three types of soils on the property according to the Soil Survey of Whatcom County. See the enclosed map that shows the location of each type of soil. The surface layer is dark brown silt loam approximately 14 inches deep. Below the surface layer (substratum) the soil is more mottled, brown loamy sand, and below that, anywhere from 5 to 10 feet is brownish gray sand. The entire property experiences a high water table during the Winter months which limits tree rooting depth. Water table between November and April is usually about 3 feet. Species suitable for this soil type include Red Alder, Western Red Cedar, Grand Fir, Western Hemloch and Douglas Fir on the high elevations. The three types of soils include: Laxton loamy 0 to 3 %, dominate nearly all of the presently forested areas. These soils are stable and have a low erosion potential. On these soils, Douglas Fir can grow up to 120 feet in 50 years, and produce 170 cubic feet/acre at age 65. Timber harvesting is limited by seasonal wetness from the high seasonal water table. When wet, a high degree of excessive rutting and compaction is likely, so ground - based yarding equipment should be carefully controlled during the rainy season. Hale silt loamy, 0 to 2 %, exist primarily where the afforestation project in Stand #5 is proposed. Soil stability, productivity, and limitations are similar to the Laxton loamy. Only an acre or two of the Edmonds soils are mapped on the property, in the northwest comer. Their presence indicates a very high water table, and probably forested wetlands, so ground based equipment must be carefully controlled in this area. Red Alder is the primary woodland species on Edmonds soils, growing 90 feet in 50 years, with a top productivity at age 40 of 101 cubic feet/acre/year. Water Ouality. Riparian and Wetland Areas No wetlands were specifically delineated during field visits. However, the soils handbook does indicate some especially high water tables in the extreme northwest comer of the property. A farmed wetland may be found in the northeast comer of the property. Wildlife Habitat This is a wildlife paradise. Deer, Raccoon, Coyote, Rabbit and various other critters have been spotted on the property quite regularly. Plus all types of birds - Owls, Woodpeckers, Snipe and others. There is thermal cover and hiding cover throughout the property. There are snags and a number of perch branches for the predator birds. The wildlife habitat should not be adversely affected by any thinning or pruning operations. The Shelton Tree Farm contains an excellent variety of wildlife habitats. When referencing the Wildlife successional stages of the Douglas fir type presented in Table 3 of the Woodland Fish and Wildlife publication Coastal Douglas Fir Forests and Wildlife with the five stands found on the property, the following can be found: Stand 1: Pole and Red Alder Stand 2: Sawlog and some components of Old- Growth Stand 3: Pole and sawlog stand Stand 4: Shrub, sapling, and sawing stand Stand 5: Grass -forb stand By referencing these successional stages with Table 3, an incredibly long list of wildlife species which use such habitats is presented. The primary limiting factors to wildlife on the property are probably external: domestic predators from nearby residences, and the relatively small size of the property in an area of rapid development. No threatened or endangered species or cultural resources were identified on the property following a DNR TRAX run. Aesthetics and Recreation Use Stand 2 especially for recreation. Manaeement Time Table Year Season Stand # Activity 2000 Winter All -Start cutting of salmon berries Spring All - Continue cutting brush & mark mature hardwoods for logging Summer All -Build road from farm driveway to timber area. Begin logging hardwoods. Fall All -Clean up of logging debris 2001 Spring All - Replant cedar & fir in logged areas and thinning Summer All - Control new plantings with deer control Fall #5 -Spray grass areas and work up for Spring plantings (5 acres) 2002 Spring #5 -Plant (5 acres) Summer All - Control brush & other unwanted vegitation Fall #5 -Spray another 5 acre parcel & work up sod 2003 Spring #5 -Plant (5 acres) Summer All - Spraying & cutting unwanted vegitation Fall 95 -Spray and work up balance of grass area 2004 Spring #5 -Plant balance of grass land 1 -4 - Continue thinning 2005 All All -Brush control and thinning 2006 All 1-4 - Selective log cedars & replant 2007 All 1-4 - Selective log cedars & replant 2008 All 1 -4 - Selective log cedars & replant The three years logging will depend upon retirement financial needs and price of cedar. 2009 Spring & 1 -4 - Control brush around new plantings Summer 2010 Spring & 1 -4 - Control brush around new plantings Summer Forest Stewardship Plan Signature Page Landowner: We plan to manage this property in a manner consistent with the objectives of the Forest Stewardship Program and intend to implement this plan to the best of our abilities. Approval: I have reviewed this plan and approve it as meeting the standards for a Forest Stewardship Plan. zu k A/L i 2/l3/9 J hn Keller Date orest Stewardship Coordinator - NW Region Washington State Dept of Natural Resources 919 Township Street Sedro Woolley, WA 98284 360 - 856 -3500 Bruce S telton Date Lynne Shelton Date Approval: I have reviewed this plan and approve it as meeting the standards for a Forest Stewardship Plan. zu k A/L i 2/l3/9 J hn Keller Date orest Stewardship Coordinator - NW Region Washington State Dept of Natural Resources 919 Township Street Sedro Woolley, WA 98284 360 - 856 -3500 2016... 59- -- `�4253' ew� -- 2019 42531 EOMONDS LA%TQN B173 x265 - TROMP LA %TON { I � i' BDMDHDS 1 r SN�1'& .... 4253 , / ._. -. LA %TON - 5 TREE 2019" 2a07 t7.YM EOMONOS `.q0 PC/ 425-3 F_ 3599 I 2'. 8173 HALE CAGEY - TAOMP MALE CAGEY 4200 ......._? LABOUNTY _. -_ -___- 2807 - HALE_ _ -_ 7399 SKIPOPA �_.._. 0 90 \B RCH 4200 '- 399 LABOUNTY KIP' 2807 MALE 1 06 0 399 -_. __._. -- _.__ -.. - 3599 CHB KIPOPA -� - -- .. _... 9094 _. WHATCOM - 0690 I '. LABOUN 1r - - - - -- - - -- BIRCH9_AYLABOUNTY4 : I'L 4200% fff 7399 L.80UN SKIPOPA Soils plot with State Wide Cade Text and Soil Name TOWNSHIP: T40R01E Unstable soils in tlis turbetl state SECTION: 19 ffj 1 inch = 1000 ft. Very unstable in disturbed state I1 09/30/99 = Low erosion potential E—I Medium erasion potential -' High erosion potential Variable erosion potential data Due to changing ownership status and reliance on outside information, the Department of Natural Resources cannot accept responsibility for errors and dmfssions. Therefore. no warranties accompany this material. Wa"m Ru 1 viii 111 1'il(1 ter SlIC1lON: 19 loch =10Wh Coomni Ml ft. W/1699 rr 9.w.m •. •mw ryv.�wr �,� ryv.lww „..wr euw..way.n_ wwr N0),rD ✓ RAe�.e>s� i ,574vp #y STAND :&.;I T kkw it ' srAND � a <.� f7eRFS� w PA i 7 . arm I W. JFI M + �.. 'aqmI' ,p t L �e. pal:; 1 4,7! 4'. r is =e 1. mm H' � g WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION -operty Owner: Subarea: Comp Plan Designation: Zoning Designation: Shorelines: Paul and Sandra Gomez 7976 Kickerville Road Blaine, WA. 98230 Birch Bay / Blaine Rural R10A N/A Designation: Transfer from Parcel No: Acreage: Road Access: Land Use: GOMEZOS2000 Open Space /Open Space N/A 400128- 070384 9.70 acres Kickerville Road Residential and forest Soil Type/Capabilities: Soil Type/Capabilities: #11 — Bellingham silty clay loam, 0 % -2% slopes #149 — Spipopa- Blainegate complex, 0 % -8% slopes Lot coverage: 55% Lot coverage: 45% Soil Rating: LESA 2, prime when drained Soil Rating: Not prime Soil Limitations: High water table, slow permeability Soil Limitations: High water table , very slow perm. Hydric: Very slow rate of water transmission Hydric: Very slow rate of water transmission. Comments: None Comments: None Basic Value Score Max Public Benefit Value: Score Max Enhance scenic resources 5.00 Ext'ns'n of 7 +/- ac. to sly. 40ac.in OSOS Protect Streams /Shorelines 5.00 iadwaters of Califonia Creek Protect Soils and Wildlife 8.00 Protect hydric soils Water Resource Protect'n Promote Cons'v't'n Principles 6.00 Enlarge timber /wetland area Enhance abutting Open Space 10.00 Abutting /enlarging OS timbered wetland Recreation Opportunities 2.00 Only thru to east end of property HistoriclArch. Significance - N/A 36.00 10.00 Public Access 30.00% 40.00% With discretion 10.00 Water Resource Protect'n 15.00% 20.00% Protection of California Cr. h'dwaters 10.00 Wildlife Habitat 18.00% 20.00% Timber, thicket & wetland habitat 10.00 Parcel Size 2.00% 10.00% <20 ac.,>5 ac. - 40.00% 10.00 Abutting Open Space 5.00% 5.00% Adjacent to 40 ac. OS to east 10.00 Natural Areas 3.00% 5.00% 7 +1- acres natural 10.00 Financial Advantage 0.00% -40.00% Discretionary Value 0.00% 40 +1-% 70.00 73.00% 140.00% Publ c Beneftf Rif• ng_j fBV•PBVI 62 "28 4�0 %M— `3P' ' AL': ,��" { ;' Conditions: Must receive at least 45 points for approval Public Access Action: Sign Commission Hold Harmless Council t �° L[1 o 14 t �° L[1 X:/ d 1 RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE LL J WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION " '�" 1 Regular Meeting March 9, 2000 Page 1 CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order in the Planning Department Library, 5280 Northwest Drive, Suite A, Bellingham at 1:40 p.m. ROLL CALL: Danna Beech, Ron Roosma, Greg Rustand, Bob Wiesen, Dick Gilda, Dave Pros, STAFF PRESENT: Sylvia Goodwin, Elizabeth Olsen, Matt Aamot, Dave Grant, Jane Doughty. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Rustand moved to approve the minutes of the February 24, 2000 meeting. Wiesen Second. Motion Carried. Vice Chair Beech polled the commissioners for appearance of fairness issues or conflicts of interest. None were noted by commissioners present. PUBLIC HEARINGS d I Open Space — Timber Applications Elizabeth Olsen presented the staff reports for the following Open Space applications. The Warren and Sharon Alter Application Together with the revisions that came in today, staff recommends approval. There is a slight problem with the term "forest crops' as meaning commercially viable standing timber and sometimes that is not well put as far as a description. In this case, there is commercial timber for harvesting. There is a revision in acreage from 9.78 to 7.5 acres. Pros: You originally had the points at nine? Why did they change? Olsen: That was because I felt that the timber management plan which was put as a stewardship plan based on classes put on by the DNR gave more of an idea of using the undercover products of the forest as being part of the monetary value. Whereas with our timber management plan we have to go according to the Revenue Department's classification in the RCWs, specifically RCW 84.33 which is Forest and Timber Land and also goes into the Open Space Tax Status evaluations, RCW 84.34. So I had to inquire for more information as to what their harvesting program would be, which they brought in this morning and we were able to revise the points. The public testimony portion opened. Sharon Aller, 3335 Sweet Road, Blaine. I think I can clarify the questions. After taking the forest stewardship class, I used this brochure which is the Open Space Taxation Act Current Use Assessment Information provided by the Washington State Department of Revenue. In the action plan it says that specific harvest dates are not required. As I was making out the original plan, I did not use specific harvest dates. We are harvesting a small amount of maple within the next two years. We are doing an understory planting. The alder will be removed within 15 -20 years, and are doing the understory planting which will have more commercial value. If Whatcom County is not going to enforce according to the DNR class, then you need to let us know. The discrepancy on soil descriptions between DNR map and what is in my management play came by doing soil profiles in each unit. I have cited the soils book that I used. I would urge you as a planning commission not to underestimate the benefits of very small plots of land that are committed to stewardship principles and to management in that way. There is a benefit to very small parcels of land. I would like to mention the 7.5 acres. If you take a look at this map, which is about 15 years old and which we got in the class. The whole third unit is reforested and we are replanting. We basically only have three quarters of an acre that is a garden, an orchard and our home site. We are asking that you consider that we are not a regular R10. We have a mother -in- RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Regular Meeting March 9, 2000 Page 2 law cottage right next to our home, and if we have one acre that is not forested, that would be a liberal estimate. This whole lower area and the buffers on the side are moving in. We have more coverage that what this estimates. The public testimony portion closed. WORK SESSION Gilda: The slate says that two acres is their policy for a home site. It is hard to get it all in. Pros: Moved to approve the recommendation. Rustand Second. Motion Carried The Pippa Breakspear (Blackburn) Application This application is in two names because Ms. Breakspear is in the process of selling the property to the Blackbum's. They plan to go forward with the timber management plan as proposed. The plan was prepared by a forester. Before it was replanted, the land was in designated timber. This is a commercial timber application. Staff recommends approval. The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion closed. WORK SESSION Rustand moved to approve the staff recommendation. Wiesen Second. Motion Carried. The Bruce & Lynne Shelton Application The timber management plan was prepared by a forester. A portion of the land was in open space Ag, a portion was in designated forestry. They also attended the DNR class. They are doing business as the Shelton Tree Farm. The recommendation is for approval. The public testimony portion opened. Bruce Shelton, 5523 Maple Way, Blaine. The subject property is at 8317 Blaine Road. It is a 40 acre piece of property. The Shelton Tree Farm has been in business in Skagit County for about 20 years, before we bought this piece of property. We are not new at this stuff. We got a lot out of the class put on by DNR and WSU. We had site visits to different tree farms and it was beneficial. In my plan of operation, I have talked with representatives from Coast Pacific, who have handled timber operations for me in the past. We have put plan in process to lake mature hardwoods starting this summer, and plan to build roads to it. What is on the paper is really going to be done. The public testimony portion closed. WORK SESSION Rustand moved to approve the staff recommendation. Roosma Second. Motion Carried. The Thomas Chambers Application The Chambers land is on the old Mosquito Lake Road. The map might make you wonder. There is lowland marsh to the east. The property is on the upland side. There is a house on the property. The RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Regular Meeting March 9, 2000 Page 3 timber management plan is a good one. The thinning program is for the young and replanted area. There is no wildlife enhancement listed in the program. Rustand: We need to address the wildlife issues. Goodwin: The application meets the criteria and is for a commercial timber operation rather than a wildlife enhancement application. The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion closed. WORK SESSION Wiesen: Moved to accept the staff recommendation. Rustand Second. Motion Carried. Rustand: I think the effort should be made by the people who make the application to provide some information on wildlife habitat. Roosma: It might be that they are scared, or they have a specific reason to not put this information in. Olsen: This is in a relatively uninhabited are with much untouched forest land; there are wildlife and birds there, but this is a small commercial timber application, which will not greatly affect wildlife habitat. The Zender Logging Co., Inc. Application Olsen: He was in designated timber but unfortunately due to a re -survey boundary lines, it took him from 20 acres to 19.61 acres. The neighbors would not sell him enough property to make up the 20 acres. Because it cannot be left in classified forest or designated timber, he is asking for open space timber. The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion closed. WORK SESSION Wiesen: Moved to adopt the open space consideration. Rustand Second. Motion Carried. Open Space -Open Space Application The Paul & Sandra Gomez Application Olsen: This application is a conversion of land to open space -open space tax status. There is a home on it, on Kickerville Road. One of the reasons that this makes a good selection for open space -open space is that to the east of it is a 40 acre parcel already in open space -open space. That is the headwaters of California Creek. This piece of land also drains into California Creek. There will have to be some form of open space public access, which has not been turned in as yet. There is no reason for no admittance, only through as far as the east end of the property. Beech: Why is there a hold harmless agreement and what does it consist of? Olsen: The hold harmless agreement is signed by each applicant into the opens space program so the county does not get sued. The open space timber was taken off the hold harmless agreement because RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Regular Meeting March 9, 2000 Page 4 it is a commercial timber operation. They cannot hold the county liable. The landowner has to take their chances for having open space tax status. The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion closed. WORK SESSION Rustand: Moved to approve the staff recommendation. Wiesen Second. Gilda: I am concerned about the access. Olsen: There has to be a sign posted, an open space taxation agreement signed and if the owner has second thoughts about access to the public, then this does not go through. This is step number one, then if you approve it, then he makes the arrangements with the county. Motion Carried with Gilda Abstaining. WORK SESSION The final work session on File #ZON99 -00023 — Title 21 Land Development Regulations. Matt Aamot presented the staff report. In your packet you have the latest draft of Title 21. The underlined parts are the parts that the Technical Advisory Committee has recommended in response to the Pat Jones comments and I'd like to talk about the highlights of the remaining issues. The first one is the boundary discrepancy issue on page 6. 1 would like Dave Grant to comment on this one. Grant: This test is a refined compromise which takes care of the issues as best we can. This will take care of the developers needs as well as the aggrieved neighbors needs. It embodies what we have been doing on a policy basis for a long time. The additional language is noted in bold type. Whenever a discrepancy is noted in state law, the discrepancy must be noted on the face of the final long or short plat in accordance with RCW 58.17.255. What this means is that the project proponent may think the area disputed is one thing, but the plat can go forward with the houses being sited a bit differently when the dispute is finally resolved. We are adding in additional protections. Beech: How can we final a long or short plat with a discrepancy in it? Shouldn't it be resolved before the plat is finalized? Aamot: State law says that whenever a survey of a proposed subdivision or short subdivision reveals a discrepancy, the discrepancy shall be noted on the face of the final plat or short plat. State law is allowing it to go forward with the discrepancy. Gilda: I would suggest wording in accordance with RCW and also have it on the deed. Aamot: State law says that any discrepancy shall be noted on the title report. Grant: Developers may run into a situation where there is a discrepancy but it doesn't impact the neighborhood at all and it would not be appropriate to hold back the development on the basis of what may be an insignificant discrepancy or one which the developer could make accommodations for and move forward. We are adding additional protections. We were taking straw votes all along, so someone needs to make a motion on the bold print part.