HomeMy WebLinkAboutres1999-013WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL AGENDA BILL
NO. 1999 -118A
CLEARANCES
Initial
Date
Date Received in Council Office
Agenda Date
Assigned to:
.✓riginator:
Elizabeth K Olsen
3126199
v
� V E C E
MAR 219 1999
WHATCOM COUNTY
COUNCIL
rU 6,99
Division Head:
Sylvia Goodwin
Dept Head:
Micheal Knapp
Prosecutor
David Grant
PurchasingBudgel:
_
Executive:
Peter Kremen
SUBJECT.
A Resolution amending Resolution #99 -007 adopting recommendations for Open Space/Open
Space, Open Space Farm & Agriculture Conservation and Open Space Timber Applications.
ATTACHMENTS:
Amended Resolution
SEPA review required? ( ) Yes ( X ) No
SEPA review completed? ( ) Yes ( N/A ) No
Should Clerk schedule a hearing ? ( ) Yes ( X ) No
Requested Date:
SUMMARYSTATEMENT.
.ie Planning & Development Services received ten Open Space
applications, three of which were Open Space /Open Space
applications, five were transfers from OSAG to Open Space Farm
& Agriculture Conservation, and two were applications to Open
Space Farm & Agriculture Conservation status.
Planning Commission recommendations were to approve the three
Open Space10pen Space applications and four transfer applications
from OSAG to Open Space Farm & Agriculture Conservation.
Planning Commission recommended to deny three applications for
Open Space Farm & Agriculture Conservation.
County Council reconsidered the Planning Commission
recommendations on March 23, 1999, and passed a motion
recommending approval of the Burke application and accepting the
Planning Commission recommendation of the others.
Distribution Request
Indicate those who should receive a copy after Council action.
List specific names to the right.
ADS Facilities Management
ADS Finance
ADS Human Resources
ADS Info Services
Assessor
Jean Eastman
Auditor
Cooperative Extension
District Court
Executive
Health
Hearing Examiner
Jail
COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN.
3/23/99: Approved 7 -0, Res. 499 -013
Juvenile
Parks
Planning
Prosecutor
Public Works
Sheriff
Superior Court
elated County Contract #:
Treasurer
Other
[Related File Numbers:
Ordinance or Resolution Number
(this item)):
r1%•iap• - — W-1 qw • —
openspa ceamendedres. 2.9 999. doc
Page 9
INTRODUCED BY. CONSENT
PROPOSED BY. PLANNING
DATE. 3/23/99
RESOLUTION NO. 99 -013
A RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION #99 -007 REGARDING
1998 OPEN SPACE APPLICATIONS -
WHEREAS, The Planning Commission received ten (10) 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
October 24, 1998 and January 4, 1999; and
WHEREAS, on November 5, 1998, 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 /Farm & Agriculture Conservation; and
WHEREAS, Planning Commission continued the testimony on the proposed Open Space
applications on December 10, 1998 and on January 14,1999; and
WHEREAS, Open Space /Open Space and Open Space /Farm & Agriculture Conservation
evaluations are based on the Public Benefit Rating System; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Open Space /Open Space
applications from David and Kay Syre, Pamela Foster, and the Lummi Indian Nation; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Open Space /Farm &
Agriculture Conservation transfer applications from Hoby Acres Association, Robert and Lora
Hoffman, Marvin and Geraldine Maddux, and Douglas and Shirley Maddux; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends denial of the transfer from OSAG to Open
Space /Farm & Agriculture Conservation from Muriel Simmons and the two applications to Open
Space /Farm & Agriculture Conservation from Tom and Veronica Burke, and Richard and Mary Jellum;
and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission further recommends that, as the Open Space /Open
Space application from the Lummi Indian Nation is in an area of known archaeological and cultural
significance to the Lummi Nation, that public access and a sign be automatically waived; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has forwarded its recommendations to the Whatcom
County Council; and
WHEREAS, Council held a public meeting on February 9,1999, to consider the Planning
Commission's recommendations, and
WHEREAS, Council adopted Planning Commission recommendations on February-9,1999;
openspaceamendedres.2.9999. doc
Page 2
and
WHEREAS, Council reconsidered and revised the recommendation regarding the Burke
application on March 23, 1999.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL:
1. The Whatcom County Council approves the Public Benefit Ratings of the Open Space /Open
Space applications for: David and Kay Syre (PBR 75.28), Pamela Foster (PBR 71.04), and the
Lummi Indian Nation (81.09).
2. The Whatcom County Council approves the Public Benefit Ratings of the Open Space /Farm
& Agriculture Conservation applications for: Hoby Acres Association (88.6), Robert and Lora
Hoffman (53.82), Marvin and Geraldine Maddux (51.8), Douglas and Shirley Maddux
(4&.24),Tom and Veronica Burke (53.96).
3. The Whatcom County Council denies the Public Benefit Ratings of the Open Space /Farm &
Agriculture Conservation applications for Muriel Simmons (43.71), Richard and Mary Jellum
(34.20).
4. Conditions of approval require from the owner a Public Access Policy statement, the posting
of an Open Space sign, and the signing of the Hold Harmless agreement in accordance with
the revised Whatcom County Open Space Policy and Criteria and Public Benefit Rating
System, Council Resolution No. 89 -38.
5. The County Council directs the Assessor to place the parcels in the appropriate Open Space
status category.
6. 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 23 day of MARCH 7 1999_
ATTEST:
lerk of the Council
APPR VED AS TO FORM:
Dave Grant
Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Marlene Dawson, . Chairperson
() APPROVED () VETOED
Pete Kremen \CXunty Executive
�Ceu,&,o-v d"4.1 1i,�
GENCY REPORT
We Ref.- OST99
February 26, 1999
Page 1
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT
AGENCY REPORT
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTIONS IN THE ) FINDINGS, REASONS
MATTER OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 1998 OPEN ) AN-D MOTIONS
SPACEITIMBER APPLICATIONS )
WHEREAS, The Whatcom County Planning Commission received seven (7) new
applications for Open Space land tax assessment for review and recommendations pursuant
to RCW 84.34; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to WAC section 197- 11- 800(6)(c), matters relating to Open
Space taxation are determined not to be major actions and are exempt from the threshold
determination and environmental impact requirements of the State Environmental Policy Act;
and
WHEREAS, pursuant to RCW 36.70.390, legal notice was published in the Bellingham
Herald on January 30, 1999, and a copy of said notice was sent in a timely manner to all
applicants; and
WHEREAS, on February 11, 1999, 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 concurred with the Planning Division's
recommendations for: approval of Open Space/Timber for Gene Kinsey, Robert Jamesson and
Sweet Gravel LLC (2 parcels); and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission disagrees with the Planning Department's
recommendation for approval and recommends denial of the Open Space/Timber application
from Donna MacDonald; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has tabled the Open Space/Timber application
from Paul Vander Pol; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission concurs with the Planning Division's
recommendation for transfer from Open Space Agriculture to Open Space /Open Space for
Shuksan Investments LLC,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has concluded its hearings on current applications.
AGENCY REPORT February 26, 1999
File Ref- OST99 Page 2
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
FINDINGS OF FACT AND REASONS FOR ACTION
1. A quorum of Commission members was present during the hearing.
2. The statutory requirement was met regarding legal notice.
3. The Planning Commission voted to recommend the Open Space/Timber
applications for Gene Kinsey, Robert Jamesson and Sweet Gravel LLC; to deny
the Open Space/Timber application from Donna MacDonald; and to table the
Open Space/Timber application from Paul Vander Pol.
4. The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval for the transfer from
Open Space Agriculture to Open Space /Open Space for Shuksan Investments
LLC.
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Rob Ney, Acting Chairperson
Date:
Michael Knapp, Secretary
Commissioners present at February 11. 1999 hearing: Robert Wiesen, Danna Beech, Sam
Crawford, Cheryl Ferrier, Rob Ney, Dick Gilda, Dave Pros, John Steensma and Greg Rustand.
Attachment: Staff Report
Prepared by: Elizabeth K. Olsen
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting February 11, 1999 Page 1
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 1:30 P.M. in the County Council Chambers,
311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham.
ROLL CALL: Cheryl Ferrier, Greg Rustand, Rob Ney, Danna Beech, Richard Gilda, Sam
Crawford, John Steensma, Dave Pros, Bob Wiesen
STAFF PRESENT: Sylvia Goodwin, Elizabeth Olsen, Amy deVera, Jane Doughty, Michael Knapp
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Ney: On the January 14 and the January 28 minutes the dates should be
corrected to read 1999. Crawford: Correction on page 5 of January 14, paragraph 5, strike "He
looks" and add °I look"... In the next sentence, strike "He" and add °I Rustand Moved to approve the
minutes as corrected. Ferrier Second. Motion Carried, with Beech Abstaining.
Ney: Asked if any commissioners have a conflict of interest or appearance of fairness issue with any
of the matters before the commission today. Beech noted that she should refrain from discussion on
Small Town Commercial text because she owns commercial property in Maple Falls.
PUBLIC HEARING - OPEN SPACE APPLICATIONS
Shuksan Investments, LLC Application
Elizabeth Olsen presented the open space staff reports. The land is currently in Open Space Ag and
there is an application to transfer 165 acres from Open Space Ag to Open Space -Open Space for the
Shuksan Golf Course. It is a new and now fully developed golf course. Staff recommends approval.
Steensma: Is he being forced to do this? Olsen: Yes, they are being required to change by the
Assessor's office.
Beech: Needs a further explanation of.why he is being forced to do this.
The public testimony portion opened.
Rick Dvorak, representing Shuksan Investments. He has prepared documents that support their
application, which he passed out to commissioners. This golf course is a public golf course, it does
charge fees for play although we have areas where no charges apply such as putting greens, the
clubhouse facility, etc. We work closely with schools and fees are not charged for that. We donate
free golf to various charities and fundraisers. For security and safety reasons staff would question
you and be concerned for your safety if you just wandered onto the property.
Beech: How many acres is the golf course. Dvorak: The total acreage is 160 acres, the golf course
is 120 acres but we manage the other 40 acres. When we bought the property in 1990, the land was
in Open Space Ag. The Open Space Ag carried through construction until our opening. We were
made aware that this year it appeared that we no longer qualify for Open Space Ag and may want to
apply for Open Space Open Space.
Steensma: How long have you been open? Dvorak: We opened in late 1994. We were made
aware this year that we didn't qualify for the classification we are in.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting February 11, 1999 Page 2
Wiesen: If we approve this, will you incur a tax liability? Dvorak: Yes, that is correct, it would not be
taxes, but the interest and penalties would be significant.
The public testimony portion closed.
Work Session on Shuksan Investments
Crawford: Could you go over item by item the values that.
Olsen: Noted the changes on the form; the points changed for 30 to 46 and the percentages from
35% to 41 %.
Crawford: Did we approve Open Space Open Space for Dakota Creek Golf Course? Olsen: Yes.
Gilda: Asked Dvorak if he uses commercial fertilizers and herbicides in the wetlands and aquifer
recharge area.
Dvorak: We went through quite a bit of work with county, state and federal agencies on the practice
and use of chemicals and fertilizers. We have a supervisor who does this work. Our drainage and
runoff go into detention ponds. We recycle most of our runoff back onto the course.
Wiesen: Do you have a water right to use that water for irrigation.
Dvorak: We have applications in with DOE and have a determination from DOE that works. Water
applications were filed in the 1970s. We are in a holding pattern and can use current practices until
adjudication takes place.
Wiesen: Are you profitable at this point. Dvorak: We are working on it.
Crawford: Moved to accept the staff recommendation with the new scoring. Ferrier Second.
Gilda: Proposed a friendly amendment to change to 5 Recreational Opportunities and reduce to 13
Water Resources. Ok with Originator and Second.
Amended Motion Carried with Steensma Abstaining.
Vander Pol Application
Olsen: This property is in the Birch Bay - Blaine subarea, up by H Street Road. The property is
comprised of two parcels containing about 18 acres. Thirteen acres can be put into Open Space in
this application. There are two mobile homes on the property. The timber management plan is what
makes the ratings low. The plan is barely adequate. The'oniy plan turned in is the letter from Boyd
Norton. The stand is in poor vigor. Mr. Vander Pol has done reforestation on his own, and is here to
answer questions. Staff recommends denial.
The public testimony portion opened.
Paul Vander Pol, 909 Grover Street, Lynden. He doesn't understand several things. You take the
stand description. It was logged 1.5 years ago and the usable timber was taken off and the rest was
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting February 11, 1999 Page 3
left. There was alder, birch and fir started about 20 years ago. They are being blown down since the
large trees were taken. There isn't much left there. He planted 1000 Douglas fir trees last year.
Some have grown as much as eight inches. He can't find many of the newly planted trees. He would
call the soils leaf mold turned to mulch. When the land was logged he left the trash lay since he
thought it would turn to fertilizer. There is very little to the harvest plan. Nothing will be harvested
except that which is blown down. There are deer there. There are no fences there_
Gilda: When you had this logged, did you have a forest plan and a reforestation plan? Did you go
through a permitting process.
Vander Pol: Had a timber company log the land. Gilda: Did you see the forest practice permit?
Vander Pol: He did read it, and it said that it needed to leave some trees standing. They would have
been alder, cottonwood, etc. That's why he planted the fir trees.
Steensma: Were you given this sheet when you hired the logging company. Vander Pol: He followed
the hand written sheet given to him.
Ney: Did you receive a forest practice permit. Vander Pol: The timber company did.
The public testimony portion closed.
Work Session on the Vander Pol Application
Ney: Asked Olsen if she had received a proper timber management plan, based on your knowledge,
of the site, would it qualify for Open Space Timber. Olsen: Yes.
Steensma: Can I do a timber management plan? It sounds like Vander Pol is interested if he is out
planting trees. Olsen: She has to go by the letter of the law, and cannot fill out timber management
plans for applicants.
Gilda: Regarding the wildlife habitat enhancement section, he has difficulty accepting a zero mark for
this. Did you see any snags or rotted trees? Part of the forestry program is to leave as many
standing dead trees as possible.
Olsen: Her information comes from the timber management plan. It is not a matter of her going out
there.
Crawford: Moved to table this application until a proper timber management plan is prepared. Ferrier
Second.
Gilda: Proposed a friendly amendment to give him "six months ". OK with Crawford. OK with Second.
Motion Carried.
Kinsey Application
Olsen: This piece of land is on Valley View Road in the Blaine area. It has a tributary to Dakota
Creek and is located north of Nicole Lane. The property consists of four parcels with a house. Since
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting February 11, 1999 Page 4
it is contiguous, there are 12 acres being planted with trees. The stand is beautiful. There is clean
undergrowth, solid, large trees and it has a very good timber management plan. Staff recommends
approval.
The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion
closed. _
Work Session on the Kinsey Application
Crawford: Moved to agree with staffs recommendation to approve the application. Ferrier Second.
Motion Carried.
MacDonald Application
Olsen: This property is on the Brown Road, east of North Star Road, in the Cherry Point area. This is
a relic pasture that was half treed and has not been used for pasture for several years. Red alder is
growing there. The property is about 13 acres. It is a nice piece of ground. The timber management
plan covered most of the points. Staff recommends approval.
Ney: Was information provided relating to the thinning program. Olsen: No.
Steensma: There is no mention of a timber management plan or the caliber of the forest in this report,
yet you gave them one point. Can you explain that.
Olsen: Mr. Hitchcock talked with Olsen. His letter came after the packet was mailed.
Steensma: Forest health should have a zero. Olsen: Hitchcock phoned and got upset when she
queried whether the forest was diseased. He stated that he would note in the report if the trees were
diseased.
The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion
closed.
Work Session on MacDonald Application
Beech: The property doesn't look like anything is being done to make this a forest. There is no
mention of a timber management plan.
Crawford: Agrees with Beech. Mark Hitchcock's response letter, in item 2, concluding the first
paragraph allows natural regeneration to continue.
Ferrier: If we would take forest health to zero, it would be grounds for denial.
Beech: Moved to change forest health to zero and deny the application. Ferrier Second. Motion
Carried with Gilda Abstaining.
Jamesson Application
Olsen: This property is south of H Street Road. This is a nice piece of land, good forest with a very
good timber management plan. The legal is correct. The owners will build to the north of the stand,
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting February 11, 1999 Page 5
by the pond. They will replant in the cropped area. They are very enthusiastic. Staff recommends
approval.
Crawford: Is that the area that on the management time table they will convert to Douglas Fir in the
year 2002 or 2006? Olsen: Yes.
The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion
closed.
Work Session on Jamesson Application
Rustand: Moved to approve staff's recommendation. Ferrier Second. Motion Carried.
Sweet #1 Application
Olsen: This property is owned by the Sweet Gravel Company on Sweet Road located just east of
Blaine. Aubrey Stargell prepared the timber management plan, which is complete. The first piece of
land is a nominal ten acres running from Sweet Road to the 40 acre site where the gravel pit is
located. This ten acres has the road running through the center of it. The application is for that piece
of land. An applicant must have no less than five acres of trees. A forest practice application was
made last year. And logging was done last year. Staff recommends approval.
The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony portion
closed.
Work Session on Sweet Application #1
Rustand: Moved to accept the staff recommendation. Ferrier Second. Motion Carried.
Sweet Application #2
Olsen: There is a gravel working area. The forest application took in the top and right hand side of
the property. The topography is fairly steep because of the gravel removal. What Sweet Gravel
wishes to do is keep a smaller working gravel pit, but enhance the tree buffer on the north and east
sides. The timber management plan covers both applications.
Wiesen: Will future gravel removal intrude into this forested area? Olsen: No. The operation would
have to apply with DNR to expand into that area. She is in contact with Garth Anderson, DNR, Sedro
Woolley regarding the application. Although this area is in the MRL overlay, it is fairly easy to keep
track of, because DNR will demand that the planting is done when logging happens.
Beech: How much are they permitted to mine now in acres. It looks to her about seven acres.
Olsen: There is a five acre parcel that is not touched by the mine.
Wiesen: How deep are they operating the pit? Olsen: It's aggregate, so it is hard to judge. Thinks
more than 25 feet. They are working into a hillside. She goes by the forest practice application to
delineate the area that will be in timber. We have to go by the goodwill of the applicants. Nielsen
Brothers are required by law to reforest land they have logged. In this case, the area is fairly well
regulated.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting February 11, 1999 Page 6
Ferrier: Say we grant this, and in three years, there is a significant change, what would you do?
Olsen: She would ask for the new extents of the pit, and in moving the pit, she would ask for
reclamation permits and a new tree planting program. We have been given a plan and the applicant
will need to be honest about how they manage the land. If they mine more gravelLthey need to give
us an amended plan. She would have to check with Jean. Eastman to see if they need a new
application.
Ney: We need to assume that this application is being made in good faith and good will.
The public testimony portion opened. There was no public testimony. The public testimony, portion
closed.
Work Session on Sweet Application #2
Ney: Believes we have to weigh these applications based on the information provided. The total
exceeds the minimum allowed and it qualifies.
Ferrier. Moved to accept staffs recommendation for approval. Rustand Second. Motion Carried
with Wiesen and Steensma Abstaining.
Burke Application
Olsen: There is one more application, not in your packet. On Tuesday evening, the Burke Application
was remanded to you by the County Council. They saw inconsistencies in your decision. Council
would like you to review the points and the decisions you made. If you would like to send it back as it
is, then you need to give me the reasons in writing. The inconsistency was brought up in looking at
the other Farm and Ag Open Space applications. This area is prime farmland, and the ten points were
questioned. The parcel size points were also questioned.
Crawford: Does not want to change anything. We made a judgment based on the material
presented. That discussion was a matter of the public record. If someone is protesting this
application, they need to plead with the Council.
Knapp: Thinks what the Council wants you to do is to justify your points. To tell them how you got to
the new numbers.
Ney: The record speaks for itself. Everyone felt uneasy with this application and felt it did not meet
the criteria. It is the intent of the planning commission to not reconsider this application.
Ferrier. Moved to reaffirm the denial of January 14, 1999, pending review of the legal counsel.
Rustand Second. Motion Carried.
A short break was taken.
WORK SESSION ON FILE #23- 98:CZMT - Amending the Official Title 20 text and the Official Title 20
zoning map to apply a new Small Town Commercial Zoning District that would allow additional
Staff Report
File OS 199911
February 5, 1999
WHATCOM COUNTY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
STAFF REPORT
OPEN SPACE APPLICATIONS
1999 - KINSEY Open Space Timber
1999 - MACDONALD Open Space Timber
1999 - JAMESSON Open Space Timber
1999 - SWEET (2 Applications) Open Space Timber
1999 - VANDER POL Open Space Timber
1998 - SHUKSAN INVESTMENTS, LLC Open Space /Open Space (transfer from OSAG)
This report summarizes the Planning and Development Department's recommendations on
open space applications received 1997/1998. 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 SPACEITIMBER. 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.
Six Open Space applications have been received and reviewed for OPEN SPACE/TIMBER and
one for OPEN SPACE/OPEN SPACE, it being a transfer from OPEN SPACE FARM &
AGRICULTURE. The recommendations are based on the information gathered in accordance
with adopted Whatcom County Public Benefit Rating System and Criteria. Staff evaluations and
recommendations with maps and aerials showing location of each individual application are
attached. Also attached is an overall map. .
REQUIREMENTS
For the OPEN SPACE/TIMBER category, approval is contingent upon conformance with RCW
84.34.041. This places an emphasis on approval or denial according to the completeness of the
Timber Management Plan. The Timber Management Plans are rated by staff on how complete
they are in 7 categories and may receive up to 2 points for each category. Approval is
recommended for those properties receiving a score of 7 or more and denial is recommended
for those properties receiving a score of less than 7. If a property receives a score of less than 7
points, the property owner has the option to update their Timber Management Plan. All Timber
applications must be approved or denied within 6 months of receipt.
For the OPEN SPACE/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.
Staff Report
File OS 999919
February 5, 9999
(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.
Staff recommends approval or denial according to the Public Benefit Rating System. Approval is
recommended for those properties receiving a score of 45 or more and denial is recommended
for those receiving a score of less than 45.
RECOMMENDATION
Of the six OPEN SPACE/TIMBER and one OPEN SPACE/OPEN SPACE transfer applications
received, staff recommends the following:
1) Approval of applications: Kinsey, MacDonald, Jamesson and Sweet Gravel Co. (2
applications)
2) Denial of applications: Vander Pol and Shuksan Investments, LLC.
ATTACHMENTS
Ratings for all applications with maps and aerials
Overall locational map
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KINSEY OST99
WHA TCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner: Gene D. Kinsey Designation: Open Space Timber
4904 W. Canal Drive Parcel No.: 400115 - 434360, 434390, 490390
Kennewick, WA. 99336 -1407 & 490360
Subarea: Birch Bay - Blaine Subarea
Parcel Acreage: 18.92 acres
Acreage in OST: 12 acres +/-
Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural
Road Access: Valley View Road
Zoning Desig: R5A
Land Use: Forest, pasture, creek and residence
Shorelines: N/A
Soil Type/Capabilities:
Land use history: Old homestead w /pasture and forestland
11 - Bellingham silty clay loans, 0 -2% slopes (25 %)
103 - Lynnwood sandy loam, 5 -20% slopes (50 %)
Site Index *: 85 (red alder)
Site Index *: 115 (Douglas fir)
Limitations /Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal
Limitations /Coneem: Seedling establishment and competing
wetness; seedling establislunent, seedling mortality,
vegetation. Muddiness caused by
windthrow hazard
seasonal wetness.
99 - Lynden sandy loam, 0 -3% slopes (10 %)
148 - Skipopa silt loam, 0 - 8% slopes (IS %)
Site Index *: 122 (Douglas fir)
Site Index *: 116 (Douglas fir)
Limitations /Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal
Limitations /Concern Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness;
wetness, seedling establishment, invasion of competing plants.
seedling establishment, windthrow hazard.
Timber Management Plan
Completeness
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2= thorough)
Information Included :- Points Max.
Current Stand Description 2 2
Mixed stand with birch, red alder, bigleaf maple, wild cherry, Douglas fir and western redcedar.
Understory consisting of vine maple, elderberry, oceanspray, Indian plum and thimbleberry.
Several clumps ofyoung western redcedar and Doug fir seedlings (to be used as transplant stock.)
Soils Description 2 2
All jour soils are Prime Forestland type soils.
Forest Health 1 2
Overall stand condition is good with a tight canopy.
Thinning Program 2 2
Remove poorly formed, limby, badly injured and diseased trees: competing or overcrowded trees using D +5 rule.
Harvest Plan 1 2
Harvest selected trees beginning in 1999, establishment of thinning program for later harvest of mature Doug .fir
from 2000 to 2010, start implementing harvest schedule 2010 to 2040.
Planting/Restocking Program 2 2
Selectively harvest the older hardwoods and transplant existing Doug. Fir and western redcedar seedlings.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 2 2
Harvest selectively & in small areas to alleviate effects on wildlife: retain and maintain soft and hard snags. Haynie
Creek riperian forest and vegetative buffer to provide instream conditions for resident fish 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.
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FOREST STEWARDSHIP PLAN
GENE KINSEY
WHATCOM COUNTY
Landowner: Gene D. Kinsey
4904 W. Canal Drive
Kennewick, WA 99336 -9099
(509) 783 -6883
Plan Preparers: Jerry Smith, NW Team Forester
Gale Mayer, Soil Conservationist
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
6975 Hannegan Road
Lynden, WA 98264 -9696
(360) 354 -2035 -
Date Prepared: December 1997
FA
TABLE of CONTENTS
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION 3
LANDOWNER'S OBJECTIVES 3
EXISTING CONDITIONS
4
SOILS INVENTORY
4
VEGETATION INVENTORY
7
WATER RESOURCES
8
WILDLIFE RESOURCES
9
MANAGEMENT OPTIONS and RECOMMENDATIONS
11
FOREST IMPROVEMENTS
11
WETLAND & RIPARIAN IMPROVEMENTS
11
PASTURE IMPROVEMENTS
12
HOMESTEAD IMPROVEMENTS
12
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
12
OVERVIEW of MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
16
MANAGEMENT TIMETABLE
17
MAPS and ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 18
LOCATION MAP 19
PLAN MAP 20
SOILS MAP 21
WETLANDS MAP 22
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Your 20 acre parcel is located in Section 15, all in T40N, R1E, W.M., Whatcom- County
Washington. It is located at 8787 Valley View Road, which is approximately 11 miles
northwest of Lynden, Washington.
Access to the property is off of Valley View Road and the driveway is situated along the north
property line. The original homestead is situated in the center of the property towards the east
property line with a semi - circle driveway.
Your property can be divided into four units: 1) Pasture - 2.0 acres, 2) Home Stead - 1.0
acres, 3) Pasture - 3.0 acres, & 4) Woodland - 13.0 acres.
LANDOWNER'S OBJECTIVES
1. Restore property to a forested condition
2. Establish a variety of hardwood trees
3. Harvest trees for firewood
4. Convert 5 acres of pasture to trees
5. Maintain buffer along property lines
6. Increase riparian habitat along stream corridors
7. Utilize property for Boy Scout activities
This plan is written to fulfill the criteria for a property tax status under the "Open Space- Timber"
classification. This classification requires an approved timber management plan for the property.
This plan is predicated upon the owner's desire to generate short term and long term income from the
property without sacrificing the aesthetic beauty, species diversity and other intrinsic values that are a
part of the property.
This Forest Stewardship Plan is intended -_ proyide an inventory of all natural resources on the property,
with specific resource enhancement practice recommendations. The plan contains recommendations for
management that endeavor to match the landowner's objectives with the conditions that exist on the;
property. Following the approval of plan's, cost -share moneys may be available to assist the landowner
in implementing recommended management practices.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
SOILS ViVENTORY
4
The soils information in this Forest Stewardship Plan is based upon the Soil Survey of Whatcom
County Area, Washington published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil_ Conservation Service
in 1985.
The approximate locations of the four soils that underlie your property are shown on the "Soils Map"
attached to this report. -These soils are: 11 - Bellingham silty clay loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, 99 -
Lynden sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes, 103 - Lynnwood sandy loam, 5 to 20 percent slopes, and
148 - Skipopa silt loam, 0 - 8 percent slopes. Three of the four soil types are listed as Prime Farmland,
the exception being Lynnwood sandy loam. All four soil types are listed as Prime Forestland. A
description of the relevant characteristics of each of these soils is included below.
SOIL NUMBER SOIL NAME
11
Bellingham silty clay loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes
Bellingham silty clay loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes is a very deep, poorly drained soil located in
depressions on terraces. The soil was formed in a mixture of wind and water deposited soils, such as
alluvium, loess, and glaciolacustrine deposits. Glaciolacustrine deposits is material ranging from fine
clay to sand derived from glaciers and deposited in glacial lakes mainly by glacial meltwater.
The soil permeability by water is slow. Water available for plant growth in the soil is high. A seasonal
high water table is at or near the surface from November through April. This water table restricts the
downward development of tree roots in the soil. Runoff of surface water is very slow on this soil and
there is no hazard of water erosion.
Red alder is the principal tree species grown on this soil type. The soil has a site index of 85 feet in 50
years for dominant red -alder trees in a fully- stocked natural stand. The highest average growth rate is
about 92 cubic feet of wood per acre per year at age 40.
Other trees that occur on this soil, to a limited extent, are bigleaf maple, western hemlock, and western
redcedar. Common understory plants include vine maple, western swordfern, western brackenfern,
Oregongrape, salmonberry, and trailing blackberry.
The soil is susceptible to compaction from the operation of heavy equipment used in logging. A
productive forest soil is a mixture of mineral particles, plant and animal matter, air, water and nutrient
elements. Over 50% of the volume of an undisturbed soil is usually made up of pore space containing
varying amounts of water and air. Large pore space, macropores, provide opportunities for unrestricted
movement of air and water in soils, and good environments for plant root growth.
5
These macropores are easily reduced by activities that cause soil compaction. Soil compaction is the
reduction of pore space in a soil and is influenced by several variables. Ground pressure caused by the
weight and movement of log skidding equipment is a significant cause of compaction on forest soils.
The extent of compaction is also influenced by the number of trips over the same site, soil moisture, and
soil particle size. The risk of compaction on forest soils is much higher when logging operations take
place during wet soil conditions.
Soil compaction increases the strength of the soil, which limits porosity, aeration, drainage, and the
penetration and growth of plant roots. These changes are reflected in reduced plant growth, reduced
water infiltration, and increased water runoff. Tree growth on compacted soils can be 40% less than
similar trees grown in uncompacted soil on the same site.
Seedling establishment, seedling mortality, and the hazard of windthrow are the main concerns affecting
timber production. Natural reforestation by red alder occurs readily on this soil. Trees on this soil are
subject to windthrow. This susceptibility is influenced by shallow rooting patterns caused by the winter
high water table.
SOUL NUMBER SOUL NAME
99
Lynden sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes
Lynden sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes is a very deep, well drained soil that is located on outwash
terraces. The native vegetation is mainly conifers and shrubs.
The soil permeability by water is moderately rapid in the upper part of part of the soil profile and very
rapid in the substratum. Water available for plant growth in the soil is moderate with an effective
rooting depth of 60 inches. Runoff of surface water is very slow on this soil and there is no hazard of
water erosion.
Douglas-fir is the principal tree species grown on this soil type. The soil has a site index of 112 feet in
50 years for dominant Douglas-fir trees in a fully- stocked natural stand. The highest average growth
rate is about 153 cubic feet of wood per acre per year at age 60.
Other trees that occur on this soil, to a. limited extent, are western hemlock and red alder. Common
understory plants include vine maple, western swordfern, western brackenfern, Oregongrape,
salmonberry, and trailing blackberry.
The soil is susceptible to muddiness caused by seasonal wetness and moderate degree of compaction.
The use of wheeled and tracked equipment during periods when the soil is wet causes excessive rutting.
Using low- pressure ground equipment can minimize damage to the soil.
6
Seedling establishment is the main concern affecting timber production. A low content of moisture in
the surface layer during the growing season hinders the survival of planted and naturally established
seedlings. Reforestation can be accomplished by planting Douglas -fir or red alder seedlings. Natural
reforestation by red alder occurs readily on this soil.
SOIL NUMBER SOIL NAME -
103
Lynnwood sandy loam, 5 to 20 percent slopes
Lynnwood sandy loam, 5 to 20 percent slopes is a very deep, somewhat excessively drained soil located
on ridges of glacial drift. The soil was formed in material moved by glaciers and deposited by streams
flowing from glacial meltwater, mixed with loess and volcanic ash.
The soil permeability is rapid. Water available for plant growth in the soil is moderate with an effective
rooting depth of 60 inches. Runoff of surface water is slow on this soil, and the hazard of water erosion
is slight.
Douglas -fir is the principal tree species grown on this soil type. The soil has a site index of 115 feet in
50 years for dominant Douglas -fir trees in a fully- stocked natural stand. The highest average growth
rate is about 159 cubic feet of wood per acre per year at age 60.
Other trees that occur on this soil include western hemlock, red alder, western redcedar, and bigleaf
maple. Common understory plants include vine maple, red huckleberry, salal, western swordfern,
western brackenfern, Oregongrape, salmonberry, and trailing blackberry.
The soil is susceptible to muddiness caused by seasonal wetness and moderate degree of compaction.
The use of wheeled and tracked equipment during periods when the soil is wet causes excessive rutting.
Using low- pressure ground equipment can minimize damage to the soil.
Seedling establishment is the main concern affecting timber production. A low content of moisture in
the surface layer during the growing season hinders the survival of planted and naturally established
seedlings. Reforestation can be accomplished by planting Douglas -fir or red alder seedlings. Natural
reforestation by red alder occurs readily on this soil.
SOIL NUMBER SOIL NAME
148
Skipopa silt loam, 0 to 8 percent slopes
Skipopa silt loam is a very deep, somewhat poorly drained soil located on terraces. The soil was formed
in a mixture of wind and water deposited soils, such as alluvium, loess, and glaciolacustrine deposits.
Glaciolacustrine deposits is material ranging from fine clay to sand derived from glaciers and deposited
in glacial lakes mainly by glacial meltwater.
The soil permeability by water is slow. Water available for plant growth in the soil is high. The
effective rooting depth is limited by a seasonal high water table, which is at a depth of 1 to 2 feet from
October through June. Runoff of surface water is slow on this soil and the hazard of water erosion is
slight.
Douglas -fir and red alder are the principal tree species grown on this soil type. The soil has a site index
of 116 feet in 50 years for dominant Douglas -fir trees and 97 for red alder. The highest average growth
rate is about 159 cubic feet of wood per acre per year at age 60, for Douglas -fir. For red alder, it is 113
cubic feet per acre per year at age 40.
Other trees that occur on this soil, to a limited extent, are bigleaf maple, western hemlock, and western
redcedar. Common understory plants include vine maple, western swordfern, western brackenfern, red
huckleberry, Oregongrape, salmonberry, and trailing blackberry.
The soil is susceptible to muddiness caused by seasonal wetness and moderate degree of compaction.
The use of wheeled and tracked equipment during periods when the soil is wet causes excessive rutting.
Using low- pressure ground equipment can minimize damage to the soil.
Seedling establishment is the chief concern affecting timber production. Natural reforestation by red
alder occurs readily on this soil. Trees on this soil are subject to windthrow. This susceptibility is
influenced by shallow rooting patterns caused by the winter high water table.
VEGETATION INVENTORY
HOMESTEAD:
The homestead includes the house and garage, and garden area on approximately 1.0 acres.
The house was built in 1950 utilizing timber harvested from the property and milled locally.
You resided on the property from 1943 through 1956. Since then the house has been
maintained and utilized as a rental. The original log home no longer exists.
PASTURE:
This unit is approximately 5 acres in size and has been idle for several years. This area is
slowly being overtaken by blackberries. Remnants of the old barn are located in the north
pasture. Initially, approximately 8 acres of timber land was cleared in the late 1940's and
converted to pasture land. The pasture sustained a small herd of Jersey and Guernsey milk
cows.
WOODLAND:
Prior to 1943 the stand of very large western redcedar was harvested. The evidence of the harvest is
documented by the huge hollow stumps that are found throughout the western half of the property. In
1950 the stand of second growth was harvested. The timber from this harvest was milled locally and
used to construct the existing house. Bark from the cascara trees was stripped and sold in Bellingham.
The bark was utilized in a medicinal application for making the pill fondly referred to as the "Brown
Bomber ".
Trees on the property had been logged without replacement plantings for a period of 39 years. The
existing stand is compiled of several trees that were not harvested in 1950. In 1989 close to 1000
seedlings were planted to initiate the process of restoring the property to a fully stocked stand of timber.
However, due to site conditions the overall success of the planting was poor. Consequently the current.
stand of trees and underbrush consists of whatever species produced an abundant seed crop in a year
when favorable weather and soil conditions existed. This establishment pattern has resulted in the
current diverse mixture of trees, and undergrowth species that are not distinctly defined. Small groves
of cedar trees are found in some locations, with individual trees of Douglas -fir and western hemlocks
second growth are scattered throughout the timbered portion of the property. Stands of paper birch and
red alder are found on areas that have been cleared enough in the recent-past to allow these particular
species to flourish in full sunlight.
This mixed stand of trees consists of western redcedar, Douglas -fir, bigleaf maple, western
hemlock, red alder, birch, and wild cherry. The Douglas -fir, western redcedar, western
hemlock are approximately 80 -100 years old and have a dbh (diameter at breast height) of 26-
40 inches. The larger conifers are found scattered throughout the stand and along the stream
corridor (Haney Creek). The red alder is 40 -50 years old and 18 -20 inches dbh. The paper
birch is also 40 -50 years old and 18 -20 inches dbh. The a large stand of predominantly red
alder and birch is located in the southwest corner of the property. There are several very large
bigleaf maple trees scattered throughout the property and range from 30-40 inches dbh.
The understory vegetation consist of vine maple, sword fern, bracken fern, salmonberry,
thimbleberry, Oregon grape, Indian plum, huckleberry, elderberry, blackberry, - and
oceanspray. Several clumps of young western redcedar and Douglas -fir seedlings are found
throughout the understory. These young seedlings can be utilized as transplant stock.
WATER RESOURCES
WETLANDS:
Wetlands are integral watershed components and ingredients of a larger system, although they
often appear to be isolated entities. Wetlands play a critical role in the hydrologic cycle of a
watershed. These areas regulate the quantity of.water moving through a watershed, provide
water storage, supply summer base flow to streams and help remove pollutants from waters
that pass through them. Wetlands provide valuable, unique habitat to a wide variety of plant
and animal species.
The wetland map included in this management plan is based upon wetland inventory by the
U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service ( USFWS). Wetland boundaries are
approximate and the designations are those assigned by the USFWS and delineated on U.S.
Geological Survey Topographic Maps. There are two types identified on the National
Wetland Inventory map. The two types listed are PFOC (Palustrine Forested Seasonally
Flooded) and PEMAd (Palustrine Emergent Temporarily Flooded Partially Drained /
Ditched). The PFOC is a well established tributary to Dakota Creek referred to as Haney
Creek. Haney Creek meanders north to south through the west half of the property. The
PEMAd is located in the south east corner of property and connects with an existing drainage
ditch located along Valley View Road. This map is not a comprehensive survey of all the
wetlands located on the property.
RIPARIAN HABITAT.-
Riparian areas, margins adjacent to flowing waters, provide food, cover, water and travel
corridors to a multitude of wildlife species. These areas are used by at least one life -phase of
more than 85% of the wildlife species in western Washington. Forested riparian buffers
supply shade that helps keep water temperatures cool enough to be used by desirable species
of fish. Forest buffers also supply large organic debris (LOD) which falls into streams and
provides favorable instream conditions for fish rearing. Vegetative riparian buffers also act as
surface water filters, trapping pollutants that may be carried in surface waters that flow across
the buffers before entering a stream course. Trees within the riparian corridor include bigleaf
maple, red alder, birch, and western redcedar, and several snags.
The riparian area that encompasses Haney Creek is well vegetated. The small wetland
located in the south east corner of the property consists mainly of blackberries.
WILDLIFE RESOURCES:
Wildlife require food, water, cover and travel corridors. To support the greatest number of
species and the highest number of individual-animals in an area, maximum habitat diversity
needs to be created and maintained. Habitat diversity can be provided by assuring the
presence of a variety of plant species, a mix of tree ages and sizes, and a selection of
structural features, such as bird nesting boxes. By maximizing habitat diversity, the potential
to support a diverse wildlife population is increased.
10 .
Approximately 20% of the wildlife species in the State of Washington, about 100 individual
species, use dead and defective tree habitat. On the western side of the Cascade Mountains,
67 species require cavities in snags for successful reproduction. Trees in all stages of decay
and decomposition are utilized by different wildlife species. Wildlife management strategies
usually focus on meeting the needs of a subgroup call "primary excavators." There are 16
primary excavators species found in western Washington. Of these 16 excavator species, 10
use soft snags that are at least 17 inches in diameter and at least 30 feet tall. Five primary
excavator species use hard snags that are at least 25 inches in diameter and at least 31 feet
tall. Wildlife managers assume that by meeting the needs of this subgroup, the needs of all
species within the larger group will also be met.
This property provides a diverse habitat that can be utilized by a wide variety of bird and
animal species. The existing stand of trees in combination with the creek provides both
seasonal and year -round habitats. Species that might be found in these areas include
songbirds (wrens, chickadees, sparrows), woodpeckers (hairy, downy, pileated and
sapsuckers), plus grouse, hawks, bats, deer, coyotes, raccoons and beavers. Wetland areas
also provide habitat for frogs, salamanders, snakes, fish, voles, shrews and mice.
Establishment and retention of vegetation along wetland boundaries will help protect wildlife
habitat. By establishing a variety of plants that produce berries and nuts, wildlife diversity
can be enhanced. These plants can be located along edges of openings in irregular patterns to
maximize the edge effect. Species that would be suitable for your property include: woods
rose, snowberry, elderberry, cascara, dogwood, huckleberry, serviceberry, crabapple,
Oregongrape, salal and red flowering current. Publications suggesting a more comprehensive
list of plants and where to acquire them are available from Conservation Districts. Nesting
boxes could be installed to provide additional cavity nesting habitat on the property.
The following types of wildlife have been utilizing the present habitat: black tail deer, coyote,
red -tail hawk, Bald eagle, pileated woodpecker, grouse, raccoon, Chinese pheasants, rabbits,
and mice.
The Washington Department of Natural Resources.TRAX data base in the Sedro- Woolley
regional office was checked for the presence of threatened or endangered species, plus other
environmental concerns. No listed species or special environmental concerns were revealed
by the check of that data. However, Haney Creek is considered a tributary of Dakota Creek
and any recommended practices need to be closely monitored to ensure that Dakota Creek is
not negatively impacted.
[!1
MANAGEMENT OPTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The most feasible option to match the landowner's objectives with the characteristics of the
property is to continue implementing management practices to increase wood production and
enhance wildlife habitat. -
By leaving the riparian area in it's current condition, water quality resources and values will
be protected and enhanced. Wildlife species that use this portion of the property will have
their habitats maintained and improved. Each of these steps will continue to protect and
enhance species diversity on the property.
Another alternate use for the property is to work closely with the Boy Scouts of America and
establish this land as a site for scout activities.
FOREST IMPROVEMENTS
• Manage Douglas -fir & western redcedar on a 100 year rotation
• Manage alder & birch on a 50 year rotation
• Harvest red alder & birch trees that are starting to deteriorate
• Convert.stand of alder & birch to Douglas -fir & Western redcedar
• Selectively harvest poorer quality trees (i.e. disease, rot, or multiple tops)
• Trees selected for removal can be utilized for firewood, or piled for
wildlife habitat
Harvest the older Douglas -fir & Western redcedar within the next 30 years
• Replant the harvested areas to Douglas -fir & Western redcedar
• Reestablish a stand of Cascara
• Plant higher value shrub species for wildlife, i.e. blue elderberry
WETLAND & RIPARIAN IMPROVEMENTS
• Maintain and enhance seasonal and permanent habitat for wildlife
• Increase bird habitat - hang bird boxes throughout the riparian area
• Determine feasibility of projects to enhance stream corridor
• Increase & maintain both soft & hard snags
• Remove blackberries & encourage or plant native wetland species
12
PASTURE IMPROVEMENTS
• Convert 5 acres of pasture to trees
• Prior to converting to trees disc and treat with herbicides to reduce grass species
• Plant Douglas-fir or a variety of conifers the following late winter or early spring
• Plant 435 trees per acre on a l Oft by IOft spacing
• Trees will need to be protected from rodents
• Replant areas of high mortality the following year
• Remove competing vegetation until the trees overtop the competition
• Remove remnants of old barn as it continues to fall down
HOMESTEAD IMPROVEMENTS
• Maintain house as a rental
Please refer to the attached specification sheets in the "Additional Information" section for
guidance on thinning, tree planting, and cultivating snags.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
This property has potential for stand improvement and restocking. Open areas can be cleared
and replanted. The overall stand condition is good with a tight canopy. The existing stand is
close to maturity and could be harvested within the next 30 years. The exception being the
stand of red alder and birch. This stand should be harvested once the crowns of the trees
begin to break up and deteriorate to salvage any commercial value.
Access to the property for harvesting will need to be addressed. Access to the west end of the
property is cutoff by Haney Creek. An alternate route into this portion of the property would
rely on the cooperation of the neighbors to the south. There is a well established driveway that
could provide access if the landowners would permit a temporary easement.
13
MANAGING for FIARDWOODS: Unlike coniferous trees, which are frequently managed
through benign neglect, management of hardwood trees in the Pacific northwest is a more
complex issue. The payoff for intensive management of these hardwood species will be
increased wood production, increased wood quality and shortened rotation lengths between
crops.
The production of hardwood logs for high quality lumber and specialty products necessitates
an individual tree management regime. The management of hardwood trees that are not
native to the northwest will require additional attention to the condition of these species. The
requirement of these non - native trees for unimpeded sunlight must be carefully monitored,
with competing vegetation quickly removed if it inhibits the growth of the hardwood trees.
Non - native hardwood species will very likely be susceptible to more insect and disease
attacks than native species, which have developed resistance to many of these pests.
Height growth in hardwood trees is very fast when the trees are young, with a slowing in
growth occurring at a relatively young age. These trees achieve their maximum height in 50
-to 100 years of growth. In contrast, conifer trees grow in height over many decades, often into
their second century of existence.
Tree height is a major determining factor in tree volume, with taller trees containing greater
volumes. The limiting height growth of hardwoods trees is a major reason hardwood stands
contain less volume than stands of mature conifer trees.
As hardwood trees grow rapidly in height, they have a 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.
The development of mature tree crowns can be delayed in. some hardwood species by keeping
stand density (number of trees/acre) at a high level. This practice increases the merchantable
height of trees in the stand, but results in small - diameter stems. Stands with reduced numbers
of trees usually have diameters that are larger than those of trees in dense stands.
A compromise in managing for height or diameter can be achieved in a two-part rotation. This
compromise can be implemented by maintaining a high density young stand while the trees
are growing rapidly in height. When a predefined merchantable height has been achieved by
the majority of trees in a stand, a program of regular thinning can be implemented. These
thinnings should focus on maintaining rapid and continuous crown expansion in the
remaining crop trees, increasing stem diameter growth on these crop trees.
14
Selection of the crop trees for final harvest is a very important part of the management
process. Because crop 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 crop trees should 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 should be carefully
examined before harvesting is undertaken. Incentive prices for particular log lengths and
minimum log diameters should be investigated before harvesting begins. By closely
examining the market one should be able to utilize a majority of the tree species found on the
property. This will help reduce the risk of financial surprises associated with timber
management and provide additional options for achieving the management objectives.
Alternate markets for wood products may include items such as: firewood, wood pellets,
wood toys, or specialty furniture.
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, 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. Selected crop trees
should be the larger, robust trees that appear to be growing vigorously and display a good
growth form. In thinning, it is important to remain focused on the crop trees that have been
selected to carry to final harvest. Crop trees should be clearly marked to ensure they are not
removed or damaged-
Trees with the following characteristics should be removed in thinning operations:
(1) Poorly formed, badly injured, or diseased trees
(2) Rough, limby trees
(3) Competing species of lesser value
(4) Overcrowded, smaller trees
Crop.trees should be protected as less desirable trees are cut out of a stand. In precommercial
operations, cut trees should not overtop nor-'be, left to hang in the crop trees. If the cut trees
are removed, the stems of the crop trees should be protected as the cut materials are removed.
is
PASTURE CONVERSION: To convert five acres of the existing pasture to a condition of moderate
timber productivity without severely damaging the character of the property will be a challenge that can
be addressed.in several alternative options.
The higher & drier spots in the pasture are best suited to long -term timber management of Douglas -fir or
Douglas-fir / western redcedar mixes. The lower, more moist sites, are better suifed for long term
management for western redcedar or redcedar / red alder mixes.
To establish healthy, viable stands of trees in existing grassy areas, two severe hazard conditions must
be overcome. The most severe of these hazards will be the competition for moisture between
established grasses and the newly planted seedlings. Three possible alternatives are available to get tree
seedlings established on the open grassy areas:
(1) Competing grasses can be removed by using hand tools to scalp the sod
layer away from an area about three feet in diameter where individual trees
are to be planted;
(2) Plow and turn over the sod in planting strips that are about 12 feet apart;
(3) To avoid the use of herbicides allow the planting locations lie idle for at
east a year prior to planting.
All of these treatments will require yearly follow -up grass cutting around the planted trees for about five
years after tree planting. This follow -up will be needed to keep the grasses from crowding out the
planted seedlings.
The other hazardous condition jeopardizing seedling survival will be the threat of gnawing and girdling
of the tree stems by mice and other small rodents. If the cambian layer under the bark is totally cut
through, the trees will die quickly. Rodent protection for seedlings can be accomplished by wrapping
the stems of the seedlings with tin foil before the trees are planted. This wrap should extend from the
root collar 3 or 4 inches up the stem. .A wrap of steel wool may also be effective in providing protection
against rodent gnawing.
Another tool in the battle against rodents would be the installation of perching poles for birds of prey.
Hopefully, these raptors will use the poles to rest and scan for rodents in the newly planted areas.
BLACKBERRY CONTROL: To slow the intrusion of blackberries and eventually
eradicate them, it is recommended that the pastures be planted to either Douglas-fir, western
redcedar, or a variety of tree species. After the trees are established they will begin shading
out the blackberry plants. Several seedling, less than two feet in height, found throughout the
property, are good candidates for transplanting. into this area.
m
OVERVIEW of FOREST MANAGEMENT CRITERIA
WOODLAND - Establish a thinning program that will allow removal of any dead and dying
material or blowdown for firewood. Remove competing vegetation and dead trees to increase
the vigor of the stand. Utilize the D+5 rule to determine spacing between leave trees. The
D +5 rule takes the diameter of the tree and adds 5. If a tree is 12 inches in diameter add 5 to
the diameter then use the total of 17 for the distance in feet to leave between trees. This rule
can also be applied to the larger trees. Also, 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. These trees may be left as wildlife
trees or future snags.
Douglas-fir trees can usually be harvested at age 60 or later. However, red alder naturally
starts to break -up and deteriorate around age 40 and it is best to harvest near this time to
provide good quality sale logs or firewood. Should you decide to do either it is highly
recommended that you contact a consulting forester to develop a harvest schedule, sale
agreement and to ensure that it is harvested and replanted in accordance with the Washington
Forest Practices Act.
Implement tree planting in areas of the woodland that are predominantly brush and alder.
Remove the vegetation to create pockets of open areas and replant with a mixture of western
redcedar and Douglas-fir at a l.0' by 10' spacing.. In areas where it tends to be wetter plant
more western redcedar.
It is critical to control competing vegetation for the first 5 years after the seedlings have been
planted. The Douglas-fir seedlings need full sunlight to do well and it is important to keep the
brush and alder cut down until the seedlings are well established. Once the trees are 5 to 6
feet in height they will out compete the brush and alder. Competing vegetation can be
controlled by using herbicides or mechanical treatment. Herbicides can be applied either to
the foliage, stem or growing tissue (the layer just beneath the bark). Mechanical treatment is
done by using a small hand ax or chainsaw to cut down the brush and alder.
WILDLIFE - For enhancing wildlife habitat you may consider creating snags, a wildlife
pond, and/or putting up boxes for nesting birds. Wildlife like open areas in conjunction with
a stand of trees that will provide adequate shelter.
17
MANAGEMENT TIMETABLE
Time Table for Implementation
Year Action
1998-2002 Improve forest stand through an intensive thinning regime
to enhance stand dynamics & increase forest health
1999-2003 Convert 5 acres of pasture to Douglas -fir & western redcedar
2000-2010 Control competing vegetation until desired trees until competing
vegetation is overtopped
1999-2010 Select alder and birch trees for harvest - replant opening
created to both Douglas -fir & western redcedar. Select sites for
establishing cascara & schedule planting season for late
December to late March
2010-2040 Continue to remove dead & dying trees. Determine number of
Douglas-fir & western redcedar trees to be removed & start
implementing a harvest schedule
MACDONALDOST99
WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner: Donna MacDonald
Designation:
Open Space Timber (trans. from OSAG)
444 S. State Street, #407
Parcel No.:
390110 - 508199
Bellingham, WA. 98225
Subarea: Cherry Point / Ferndale Subarea
Parcel Acreage:
19.0 acres
Acreage in OST:
13 acres +/-
Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural
Road Access:
Brown Road
Zoning Desig: R5A
Land Use:
Forest and relic winter pasture
Shorelines:
N/A
Soil Type /Capabilities:
Land use history:
Pasture and forestland
182 - Whatcom - Labounty silt loam, 0 - 8% slopes (80
Site Index *: 90 (red alder), 116 (Douglas fir).
Limitations /Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness; seedling establishment, seedling mortality, possible
windthrow hazard -
183 - Whatcom- Labounty silt loams, 0 -I5% slopes (20 %)
Site Index *: 90 (red alder), 116 (Douglas fir)
Limitations /Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness, seedling establishment, invasion of competing plants.
Timber Management Plan Completeness
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2= thorough)
Information Included :- Points Max.
Current Stand Description 1 2
Predominately Douglas fir, some western redcedar and regenerating red alder in the former pasture areas.
No description of understory.
Soils Description 2 2
Woodland management concerns for these soils show slight seedling mortality, severe plant competition.
Forest Health rev. 0 2
No mention in IMP, backup letter from Mark Hitchcock addresses forest health.
Thinning Program 0 2
No adequate description.
Harvest Plan 1 2
Harvesting to be based on an uneven -aged silviculture management system. Initial harvesting emphasis
shall be placed on the centers of existing hummocky land features.
Planting/Restocking Program 0 2
No mention.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 2 2
Retain and maintain soft and hard snags, place downed trees and slash on the ground where possible
to decompose and enhance the soil and to provide refuge for wildlife species.
TOTAL: 6 14
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: DENIAL ev.l
*Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
MACDONALDOST99
WHA TCOM CO UNTY OPEN SPA CE CLASSIFICA TION
Property Owner: Donna MacDonald
Designation:
Onen Space Timber (trans. From OSAG;
444 S. State Street, #407
Parcel No.:
390110 - 508199
Bellingham, WA.98225
Subarea: Cherry Point / Ferndale Subarea
Parcel Acreage:
19.0 acres
Acreage in OST:
13 acres +/-
Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural
Road Access:
Brown Road
Zoning Desig: R5A
Land Use:
Forest and relic winter pasture
Shorelines:
N/A
Soil Type /Capabilities:
Land use history: Pasture and forestland
182 - Whatcom- Labounty silt loam, 0 - 8% slopes (80
Site Index *: 90 (red alder), 116 (Douglas fir).
Limitations /Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness; seedling establishment, seedling mortality, possible
windthrow hazard -
183 - Whatcom-Labounty silt loams, 0 -15% slopes (20 916)
Site Index *: 90 (red alder), 116 (Douglas fir)
Limitations/Concerns: Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness, seedling establishment, invasion of competing plants.
Timber Management Plan Completeness
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2= thorough)
Information Included :- Points Max.
Current Stand Description 1 2
Predominately Douglas fir, some western redcedar and regenerating red alder in the former pasture areas.
No description of understory.
Soils Description 2 2
Woodland management concerns for these soils show slight seedling mortality, severe plant competition.
Forest Health 1 2
No mention in TMP, back -up letter from Mark Hitchcock addresses forest health.
Thinning Program 0 2
No adequate description.
Harvest Plan 1 2
Harvesting to be based on an uneven -aged silviculture management system. Initial harvesting emphasis
shall be placed on the centers of existing hummocky land features.
Planting/Restocking Program 0 2
No mention.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 2 2
Retain and maintain soft and hard snags, place downed trees and slash on the ground where possible
to decompose and enhance the soil and to provide refuge for wildlife species.
TOTAL, 7 14
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL
*Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
TIMBER MANAGEMENT PLAN
Donna MacDonald
444 S. State Street #407
Bellingham, WA 98225
(360) 671 -4121
LOCATION
E'/ NE% SE% Sec. 10, T39N, R1 E, W.M.
Parcel Number. 390110 508199 0000
PREPARER
Mark Hitchcock
Professional Forester
2347 Old Day Creek Road
Sedro - Woolley, WA 98284
(360) 856 -5728
INTRODUCTION
-N - 300
This timber management plan has been prepared as part of an application to reclassify
19 acres of property from Open Space Farm & Agriculture to Timber Land. The
property was transferred to Donna MacDonald from her parents in October of 1996.
The land had previously been used for winter cattle grazing, but will no longer be so
used. With the exception of some currently understocked meadows, the property is
otherwise in compliance with the restocking, forest management, fire protection, insect
and disease control, weed control, and forest debris provisions of Title 76 RCW.
The primary management goal for this property is the production of income from the
sale of timber. Apart from removing dead trees for firewood, the owner has no
experience managing this land for timber. In lieu of experience, a forestry consultant
has been engaged to prepare this plan and to provide management advice and
assistance.
SOIL TYPES
Soil type determines which tree species are suitable for the property, as well as other
management considerations. The following soil information for the property is derived
from the Soil Survey of Whatcom County Area, Washington (1992) published by the
USDA Soil Conservation Service.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page IN
The property is located on the northern end of Holman Hill and is situated on a
hummocky glacial drift plain where the native vegetation is mainly trees and shrubs.
The primary soil type is Whatcom silt loam occurring on slopes ranging from 0 to 15
percent. Labounty silt loam is intricately intermingled and occurs on slopes ranging
from 0 to 2 percent. Characteristics of these two soil types are as follows.
Whatcom silt loam: This very deep, moderately well drained soil was formed in a
mixture of loess and volcanic ash over glaciomarine deposits. Permeability is moderate
in the upper part of the soil and slow in the lower part. Available water capacity is high.
The 50 -year site index for Douglas fir is estimated to be 116 feet, or Site Class 2.
Labounty silt loam: This very deep, poorly drained soil was formed in glaciomarine drift
with an admixture of loess and volcanic ash. Permeability is moderately slow.
Available water capacity is high. The 50 -year site index for Red alder is estimated to
be 90 feet.
Seedling establishment, seedling mortality, and the hazard of windthrow are the main
concerns affecting timber production. The high water table hinders root respiration and
thus results in a low seedling survival rate on the Labounty soil. Reforestation can be
accomplished by planting Douglas fir, western red cedar, or red alder seedlings. If
seed trees are present, natural reforestation of cutover areas by red alder occurs
readily. When openings are made in the canopy, the uncontrolled invasion and growth
of competing plants can prevent the establishment of seedlings. Competing vegetation
can be controlled by mechanical or chemical means. Because the rooting depth is
restricted by the high water table, trees are occasionally subject to windthrow,when the
soils are wet and winds are strong.
TIMBER TYPES
The property currently supports 3 identifiable timber stands (See Timber Type Map) as
listed in the following table.
Stand Acres Primary Species Size Class Stocking Secondary Species
1
10.6
Douglas Fir
12 %36"
Full
Cedar
2
5.1
Alder
0--.6-.
<1/3
grass
3
3.3
Douglas Fir
0 "-6"
<1/3
grass
Total 19:0
Stand 1 consists of mature Douglas fir timber situated on hummocks. To minimize
visual impacts and to provide wildlife habitat, timber harvests should be based on a
uneven -aged silvicultural management system. This approach can be designed to
cause little disruption to the forest canopy, thereby minimizing loss of trees to
windthrow. The goal of uneven -aged management is to create stands with multiple
canopy layers. The forest stand is managed on a regular cutting cycle to promote the
growth of trees in all size classes. Trees are grown to some maximum size, while
stocking levels and stocking distribution are controlled to attain the desired structure.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 217
The type of uneven -aged management best suited for this property is group selection,
where the forest stand is managed in small patches and trees are regenerated and
managed as small even -aged groups. Douglas fir seedlings are not tolerant of much
shade and will respond to the light regimes produced in the harvest groups. Initial
harvesting emphasis should be placed on the centers of existing hummocks. Trees
growing at the edge of the hummocks are currently exposed to winter winds and should
be less vulnerable to post - harvesting windthrow. In addition, these edge trees cast
seeds into the meadows and provide important wildlife habitat in this ecotone between
the mature forest and the open areas.
Other harvest considerations:
(1) Skid trails should be kept to minimum to avoid unnecessary soil compaction.
(2) Trails should be placed away from trees designated for retention to avoid soil com-
paction on existing root systems and avoid subsequent loss of vigor.
(3) Rub trees should be maintained near trees near the skid trails to protect the resid-
ual trees from damage as logs are pulled by. The nab trees can be removed, from back
to front, after all the other logs have been removed.
(4) Skid trails should avoid areas of established conifer reproduction. Such pockets of
advanced reproduction will respond well to higher light levels created by harvesting
provided they are not damaged.
(5) Harvesting should be restricted to dry seasons. No skidding should be done when
the soil is wet and vulnerable to compaction. Compacted soil may take up to sixty
years to rebuild good structure.
(6) To minimize bark slippage on residual trees, harvests should not be conducted
during periods of sap flow (i.e. from March 15th to June 15th).
Stand 2 and Stand 3 are.meadows formerly maintained by grazing activity. Some
portions are naturally regenerating red alder trees and other portions are naturally
regenerating with Douglas fir. Over time these areas can be expected to become fully
stocked with a mixture of red alder, Douglas fir, and western red cedar.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 3R
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MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 417
WILDLIFE HABITAT CONSIDERATIONS
Under an uneven -aged management approach, the property can be expected to
support at least one -half of the vertebrate wildlife species found in western
Washington. However, two important wildlife habitat features, snags and downed logs,
could be supplemented to improve the overall structural diversity of the property.
Snags -
Standing dead or dying trees, or snags, provide places to feed, hide, build nests or
dens, and rest to many species of birds and mammals. Snags in various stages of
decay and size classes supply habitat for more than 100 species of birds and mammals
in western Washington. More than 60 of those species are cavity nesters and need
dead and dying trees to either construct their cavities or utilize cavities created by other
birds. Snags are one of the most important habitat. features in Washington forests of all
age classes. An estimate of the minimum number of snags per 10 acres that must be
maintained through time to assure that cavity using species will persist is:
Snags
Diameter
Height
2
11
21
23
15
21
5
17
40
1
24
60
In unmanaged Douglas fir forests with high wildlife diversity, an average of 16 snags
per acre has been recorded. These included snags of all size and decay classes, and
both hardwoods and conifers.
A minimum of 3 snags per acre must be maintained. These snags must be 10 or more
feet in height and 12 or more inches in diameter. In addition, a minimum of 2 green
trees must be maintained to become future snags. These green recruitment trees must
be 10 or more inches in diameter and 30 or more feet in"height (at least one third of
which must be live crown). Some ways of maintaining the snag component over time
are:
1) Leave all existing standing dead or dying trees where safely possible. However,
trees killed by root rot probably will not remain standing long enough to become good
quality snags.
Allowing trees that are dying through natural phenomena to remain standing helps to
assure that the forest has a healthy snag component. On average, depending on tree
species and other conditions, it may take 5 years or more from time of death for a snag
to decay sufficiently for primary cavity nesting habitat to be provided. However, a large
diameter snag may be used by wildlife for well over 50 years, depending on its species
and the kinds of decay and other factors to which it is subjected.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 5R
2) Identify and mark live trees that can be left to become snags in the future (green re-
cruitment trees). These can be trees that are defective in some way, such as having a
crooked bole or heavy, low growing limbs.
Topping trees to create snags (with a chain saw or by blasting) is the preferred method
because topped trees tend to rot from the top down and from the inside out. Girdled
trees tend to rot from the bottom up, and thus are more likely to fall over in a relatively
short period of time. However, girdling trees at the desired point of bFeakage can be
utilized in lieu of cutting or blasting tops and will produce similar results. Snags and
green recruitment trees.will be most useful to wildlife if they are generally grouped to-
gether in clumps, rather than evenly distributed throughout the landscape.
3) Tall stumps will also be used by some species. Do not remove any existing tall
stumps. During harvest, leaving stumps at least 3 feet tall, and preferably 5 feet or
more Will enhance the stand for cavity nesting wildlife. Trees with obvious butt rot or
damage, excessive butt swell, or sweep are excellent candidates for leaving high
stumps.
4) Cavity availability can be enhanced by placing nest boxes in appropriate locations.
Generally, no more than one nest box per one quarter acre should be installed.
Woodpeckers will not use nest boxes and must have snags. Nest boxes are best
placed in young plantations or young stands with a low number of snags. Boxes are
usually not necessary in older diverse stands that contain existing snags or defective
trees. Boxes are a short -term enhancement feature but do not replace snags. Snags
are also used for foraging and perch sites - features that cannot be supplied by nest
boxes.
Downed Wood
Wood left on the forest floor is beneficial in many ways. Small diameter materials will
decay fairly quickly, contributing nutrients to the forest system. Large diameter logs
decompose more slowly and are used as perches, look -outs, foraging sites, hiding
places, den and nest sites, and other functions by many species:including some am-
phibians and reptiles. Like snags, downed wood is host to more than 100 wildlife
species in western Washington. It is a very important wildlife habitat component of
stands of all age. and size classes. Also like snags, the largest pieces are the most
beneficial and will last the longest. However, small pieces are also helpful and should
not be ignored. A diverse western Washington forest should have at least 2 downed
logs per acre with small end diameters greater than 12 inches and lengths greater than
20 feet. Smaller diameter trees left on the forest floor will also contribute to the
structure of the forest.
1) Place downed trees and slash on the ground where possible.
2) Leave all existing large diameter logs.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 617
3) If-stands are thinned, leave some or all of the larger poles on the ground. Leave
branches and other small diameter materials on the ground to decompose and enhance
the soil nutrients. If heavy amounts of slash remain after thinning, lop and scatter or
gather and stack trees removed in the thinning process to provide access for deer.
MacDonald Timber Management Plan Page 717
MARK HITCHCOCK
..
February 3, 1899
Donna MacDonald
444 S. State Street #407
Bellingham, WA 88225
Dear Donna,
Regarding your timber management plan, I was unable to make contact with Elizabeth Olsen and
discuss her concems. My flight to New Zealand leaves this morning so I will be unable to attend the
hearing about your reclassification request 1 will use this opportunityy to address ft issues raised in
your telephone conversation yesterday with Elizabeth.
1. Your plan Mows ft guidelines published by the Washington StMe Department of Revenue as
supplied to you by the Whatcvm County Planning Department. Those guidelines make no mention
of a requirement to describe forest heatfh. However, my reason for not discussing Rx ed heatth is
that there Is no significant evidence of disease in any of the timber types found on the parcel.
The plan supplies a list of harvest considerations aimed at minimizing damage to residual trees
from logging activity. Included in that list are techniques for avoiding unnecessary sop compaction
and bark slippage: both Important disease vectors. The plan also provides a strategy for
minimizing windthrow.
Lastly, under wildrife habitat considerations, the plan provides strategles for managing snags and
downed logs. Those strategies are prefaced by an indication that addition of these habitat features
could be supplemented to Improve overall structural diversity of the property. Implicit in that
statement Is recognition of the lack of snags and downed logs on the parcel. I cannot understand
why Elizabeth would want further information about downed logs and snags.
2. Contrary to what Elizabeth has told you, the plan does contain strategies for restocking. Stand 2
and Stand 3 are regenerating naturally. Alder seedlings predominate In the sea=mlly wet
portions, along with dense stands of grass. Survival of oonifer seadtings,kythis environment would
be questionable even with total eradication grass. The presenae'ofwaWdesing the seedling
dormant season prohibits the use of chemicals and any mechanical means would unnecessarily
enad We existing seedlings. Allowing natural regeneration to oordinue is a senslble strategy.
The plan sped8es an uneven -aged silvloultural group-selection system for Stand 1. impre in this
system Is natural regeneration, as new openings in the canopy are sunnunding by mature trees.
The need for controlling competing vegetation Is indicated In desc r ions of loll types. More
knportaMty, harvest of this stand will require reforestation under Washington State Forest Practice
Rules and Regulations. Those rules spec 4 the requirements for natural regene ration plans and
replanting in the event of regeneration fal lure. Including those requirements in your plan does not
seem necessary in the interest of brevity.
3. Contrary to what Elizabeth has told you, there Is no thinning program in the plan. I cannot better
describe what does not exist However, the group-selection strategy can be elaborated. This
strategy divides the forest Into small (0.1 -2 acres) patches where trees are regenerated and
managed as small even -aged `groups ". Each group or patch is managed In much the same
mann*r as larger stands in even -aged management, A major advantage of group selection Is that
• page 2 February 3. 1999
d species, regardless of shade toteranoe, can be accommodated. Less shade - tolerant species
such as Douglasfir can be man&ged by creating larger groups.
Your plan employs this strategy by proposing harvest In the venter of the hummocks. The trees
left around the openings wM provide seeds for regenerating the harvest areas and will continue to
provide seeds for regenerating Stand 2 and Stand 3. These edge trees are the best candidates for
seed trees because their current exposure to wind renders them It" to resist post - harvest
windthrow.
Since aft of this addressed by your plan, I must admit to some perplexity In trying to understand
Elizabeth's concerns. In particular, I am greatly concerned about her suggestion that uneven -aged
management Is unsuitable for cmvTwcW production of umber species. Any standard slMoulture
textbook would readay refute that contention. It Is kon{c that your interest In harvesting timber
conwwdally has been interpreted otherwise.
AO uawl—'
Sincerely,
Mark Hifchoock
WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner: Robert and Sherri Jamesson
1809 Pine Circle
Lynden, WA. 98264
Subarea: Lynden- Nooksack Valley Subarea
Comp. Plan Desig.: Agriculture
Zoning Desig: Agriculture
JAMESSON OST99
Designation: Open Space Timber
Parcel No.:
400203 - 100200
Parcel Acreage:
19.35 acres
Acreage in OST:
8.5 acres +/-
Road Access:
Barnhart Road
Land Use:
Forest w/ trails
Shorelines:
N/A
Soil Type /Capabilities Land use history: Seg'd ptn. of dairy farm
178 Whatcom Silt Loam, 0 -3% slopes (25%)
Site Index *: 116 (Douglas fir)
Limitations /Concerns: muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness; seedling establishment, seedling mortality,
windthrow hazard -
179 Whatcom Silt Loam, 3 -8% slopes (50%) 180 Whatcom Silt Loam, 8 -15% slopes (25%)
Site Index *: 116 (Douglas fir) Site Index *: 116 (Douglas fir)
Limitations /Concerns: muddiness caused by seasonal Limitations /Concern: muddiness caused by seasonal wetness;
wetness; seedling establishment,windthrow hazard. seedling establishment, windthrow hazard.
Completeness
(0= incomplete; l= satisfactory; 2= thorough)
Information Included :- Points Max.
Current Stand Description 2 2
Mired stand with paper birch, red alder, bigleaf maple. Douglas fir and western red cedar
Understory consisting of vine maple, elderberry, oceanspray, Indian plum and thimbleberry.
Soils Description 2 2
Soils are very deep, moderately well- drained in the higher areas of glaciomarine drift plains.
Forest Health 2 2
Overall stand condition is fair; paper birch (35- 40yrs.old) has heart rot, some multiple tops.
Thinning Program 2 2
Remove poorly formed, limby, badly injured and diseased trees; competing or overcrowded trees.
Harvest Plan 1 2
Harvest selected frees beginning in 2000; establishment of thinning program for later harvest of manure Dougfrr.
Planting/Restocking Program 2 2
Selectively harvest the older alders and replant to Doug. Fir and western redcedar.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 1 2
Harvest selectively & in small areas to alleviate effects on wildlife: retain and maintain soft and hard snags.
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.
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FOREST STEWARDSHIP PLAN
BOB & SHERRI JAMESSON
WHATCOM COUNTY
Landowner: Bob & Sherri Jamesson
1809 Pine Circle
Lynden, WA 98264
Plan Preparers: Jerry Smith, NW Team Forester
Gale Mayer, Soil Conservationist
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
6975 Hannegan Road
Lynden, WA 98264 -9696
(360) 354 -2035
Date Prepared: July 1997
TABLE of CONTENTS
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
LANDOWNER'S OBJECTIVES
EXISTING CONDITIONS
SOILS -INVENTORY
VEGETATION INVENTORY
WATER RESOURCES
FISH & WILDLIFE RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT OPTIONS and RECOAI gENDATIONS
FOREST MIPROVEMENTS
WETLAND & RIPARIAN IlMTROVEMENTS
PASTURE / HAYLAND IMPROVEMENTS
FUTURE HOME SITE IMPROVEMENTS
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
OVERVIEW of MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
MANAGEMENT TIMETABLE
MAPS and ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
CONSERVATION PLAN MAP
SOILS MAP
WETLANDS MAP
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PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Your 20 acre parcel is located in Section 3, all in T40N, R2E, W.M., Whatcom County
Washington. It is situated approximately 6 miles northwest of Lynden, Washington.
Access to the property is from the driveway located along the east property line that comes
off the north side of Barnhart Road. Barnhart Road is situated between Markworth Road to
the west and Weidkamp Road to the east. There is a powerline easement that cuts across
the south property line.
o•6 Au7.
Your property can be divided into five units: 1) Powerline Easement - 4-.5- acres, 2)
Woodland - 9.0 acres, 3) Future Homesite - 1.0 acres, 4) Wildlife Pond - 0sracres, & 5)
Pasture - 8.0 acres. L,35Rch• 1�pMfcSITFi C,0 YYY
Pas-ro LANDOWNER'S OBJECTIVES
1. Increase wildlife habitat
2. Increase forest production
3. Harvest trees for firewood
4. Convert pasture land to forest land
5. Construct home
6. Maintain buffer along east property line
7. Increase riparian habitat around pond
This Forest Stewardship Plan is intended to provide an inventory of all natural resources
on the property, with specific resource enhancement practice recommendations. The plan
contains recommendations for management that endeavor.to match the landowner's
objectives with the conditions that exist on the property. Following the approval of plan's,
cost -share moneys may be available to assist the landowner in implementing
recommended management practices.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
SOILS INVENTORY
The soils information in this Stewardship Plan is based upon the Soil Survey of Whatcom
County Area, Washington published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil
Conservation Service in 1985.
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The individual soil types found on your property and their approximate locations have
been indicated on the Soils Map which is a part of this management plan The names of
the soils and their primary soil characteristics are as follows:
SOIL NUMBER SOIL NAME
178
Whatcom silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes
This very deep, moderately well drained soil is in the higher areas of glacial drift
consisting of clay, silt, sand, and rock fragments. It formed in a mixture of material
deposited by wind and volcanic ash.
Typically, the surface layer is dark brown silt loam 9 inches thick. The upper 7 inches of
the subsoil is dark brown silt loam. The lower 10 inches is light olive brown, mottled .
loam. The upper 9 inches of the substratum is olive gray, mottled loam. The lower part to
60 inches is dark gray loam. In some areas the surface layer is loam or gravelly silt loam.
In other areas the substratum has lenses of sandy material.
Permeability is moderate in the upper part of the soil profile and slow in the lower part.
Available water capacity is high. The effective rooting depth is limited by seasonal high
water table, which is at a depth of 1.5 to 3.0 feet December through April. Runoff is very
slow, and there is no hazard of erosion. Water moves rapidly through this soil. Because of
the nearly level slope, this soil remains saturated for longer periods of time.
Whatcom silt loam is suited for hay, pasture, and timber production and Douglas -fir is the
main woodland tree species. Other, tree species are western hemlock, western redcedar,
bigleaf maple, and red alder. The common understory plants are vine maple, red
huckleberry, western swordfern, salmonberry, Oregongrape, western brackenfern,
sweetscented bedstraw, and trailing blackberry.
On the basis of a 50 -year site curve, the mean site index for Douglas -fir is 116. Site index
is a measure of soil's ability to grow trees. It is the height in feet that the fastest growing
trees will reach at 50 years of age. The higher the site index for a given tree the greater
the productive potential of the soil.
The main limitation affecting the timber harvesting is the muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness. This limits the use of equipment to dry periods. Equipment and logs on the
surface result in a high degree of compaction when the soil is moist and a high degree of
puddling when the soil is wet. Carefully laying out roads and skid trails, properly timing
their use, and using low- pressure ground equipment can minimize damage to the soil.
Seedling mortality and establishment are the main concerns affecting timber production.
The seedling survival rate is reduced by droughtiness in the surface layer and may be low
in areas where flooding occurs. Reforestation can be accomplished by planting Douglas -
fir or red alder seedlings. If seed trees are available, natural reforestation of cutover areas
by red alder, bigleaf maple, and black cottonwood occurs readily. When openings are
made in the canopy, the uncontrolled invasion and growth of competing plants can prevent
the establishment of seedlings. Competing vegetation can be controlled by mechanical or
chemical means. Because the rooting depth is restricted by the seasonal high water table,
trees are occasionally subject to windthrow when the soil is wet and winds are strong.
The main limitations in the areas used for hay and pasture are the seasonal high water table
and the slow permeability. Proper stocking rates, pasture rotation, and restricted grazing
during wet periods help to keep the pasture in good-condition. Grazing when the soil is
wet results in compaction of the surface layer and poor soil tilth.
The main limitation affecting homesite development is the seasonal high water table. The
wetness can be reduced by building the house on a pad and by installing drainage tile
around footings if a suitable outlet is available.
The other two soil types identified on your property are 179 - Whatcom silt loam , 3 to 8
percent slopes and 180 - Whatcom silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes. Both types are very
similar to 178 - Whatcom silt loam with the differences being percent of slope, slight
increase in erosion hazard, increase in runoff, and increase in site index.
VEGETATION INVENTORY
FUTURE HOMESITE:
The future homesite will. be approximately 1 acre and located towards the center of the
property near the north edge of the woodland. A new access road may be put in to provide
a wider buffer along the east property line.
The area surrounding the house will be kept open to reduce the risk of damage to the house
from windthrown trees.
PASTURE /HA YLAND:
The pasture/hayland is situated in the northeast corner of the property and the west edge
borders the large wildlife pond. This unit is approximately 8 acres in size and is being
used for hay production by the neighboring landowner. This pasture is well established
and is producing approximately 6 tons per acre.
WOODLAND:
The woodland portion of your parcel totals approximately 9 acres. This mixed stand of
trees consists of western redcedar, Douglas -fir, bigleaf maple, western hemlock, red alder,
and the dominant species being paper birch. The Douglas -fir and western redcedar are
approximately 60 -70 years old and have a dbh (diameter at breast height) of 12 -20 inches.
The red alder is 35-40 years old and 10 -20 inches dbh. The paper birch is also 35-40 yrs
old and 6 -12 inches dbh with heart rot.
The understory vegetation consist of vinemaple, sword fern. bracken fern, salmonberry,
thimbleberry, Indian plum, huckleberry, elderberry, blackberry, and oceanspray.
WATER RESOURCES
WILDLIFE POND:
Approximately 0.5 acres of your property is a portion of a man -made wildlife pond. This
pond was constructed prior to 1985. The wildlife pond is located on the west of the
property on the north edge of the woodland. Currently the pasture/hayland is being farmed
within 30 feet of the shoreline with little or no woody vegetation present.
WETLANDS:
Wetlands are integral watershed components and ingredients of a larger system, although
they often appear to be isolated entities. Wetlands play a critical role in the hydrologic
cycle of a watershed. These areas regulate the quantity of water moving through a
watershed, provide water storage, supply summer base flow to streams and help remove
pollutants from waters that pass through them. Wetlands provide valuable, unique habitat
to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
The wetland map included in this management plan is based upon wetland inventory by
the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Wetland boundaries are approximate and the
designations are those assigned by the USGS. The wetland designation on this property is:
PUBK The palustrine wetland (P) indicates a non -tidal wetland with an unconsolidated
bottom (UB). The water regime modifier (H) indicates permanently flooded. This map is
not a comprehensive survey of all the wetlands located on the property.
RIPARIAN HABITAT.•
Riparian areas, margins adjacent to flowing waters, provide food, cover, water and travel
corridors to a multitude of wildlife species. These areas are used by at least one life -phase
of more than 85% of the wildlife species in western Washington. Forested riparian buffers
supply shade that helps keep water temperatures cool enough to be used by desirable
species offish. Forest buffers also supply large organic debris (WD) which falls into
streams and provides favorable instream conditions for fish rearing. Vegetative riparian
buffers also act as surface water filters, trapping pollutants that may be carried in surface
waters that flow across the buffers before entering a stream course. Trees within the
riparian corridor include cottonwood, willows, bigleaf maple, and western and
several snags.
FISH & WILDLIFE RESOURCES:
Wildlife require food, water, cover and travel corridors. To support the greatest number of
species and the highest number of individual animals'in an area, maximum habitat
diversity needs to be created and maintained Habitat diversity can be provided by
assuring the presence of a variety of plant species, a mix of tree ages and sizes, and a
selection of structural features, such as bird nesting boxes. By maximizing habitat
diversity, the potential to support a diverse wildlife population is increased.
Approximately. 20% of the wildlife species in the State of Washington, about 100
individual species, use dead and defective tree habitat. On the western side of the Cascade
Mountains, 67 species require cavities in snags for successful reproduction. Trees in all
stages of decay and decomposition are utilized by different wildlife species. Wildlife
management strategies usually focus on meeting the needs of a subgroup call "primary
excavators." There are 16 primary excavators species found in western Washington. Of
these 16 excavator species, 10 use soft snags that are at least 17 inches in diameter and at
least 30 feet tall. Five primary excavator species use hard snags that are at least 25 inches
in diameter and at least 31 feet tall. Wildlife managers assume that by meeting the needs
of this subgroup, the needs of all species within the larger group will also be met.
This property provides a diverse habitat that can be utilized by a wide variety of bird and
animal species. The existing stand of trees in combination with the pasture%rchard and
creek provides both seasonal and year -round habitats. Species that might be found in these
areas include songbirds (wrens, chickadees, sparrows), woodpeckers (hairy, downy,
pileated and sapsuckers), plus grouse, hawks, bats, deer, coyotes, raccoons and beavers.
Wetland areas also provide habitat for frogs, salamanders, snakes, fish, voles, shrews and
mice.
Establishment and retention of vegetation along wetland boundaries will help protect
wildlife habitat. By establishing a variety of plants that produce berries and nuts, wildlife
diversity can be enhanced. These plants can be located along edges of openings in
irregular patterns to maximize the edge effect. Species that would be suitable for your
property include: woods rose, snowberry, elderberry, cascara, dogwood, huckleberry,
serviceberry, crabapple, Oregongrape, salal and red flowering current. Publications
suggesting a more comprehensive list of plants and where to acquire them are available
from Conservation Districts. Nesting boxes could be installed to provide additional cavity
nesting habitat on the property.
The following types of wildlife have been utilizing the present habitat: black tail deer,
coyote, red -tail hawk, Bald eagle, pileated woodpecker, grouse, raccoon, and mice.
The Washington Department of Natural Resources TRAX data base in the Sedro- Wool ley
regional office was checked for the presence of threatened or endangered species, plus
other environmental concerns. No listed species or special environmental concerns were
revealed by the check of that data.
MANAGEMENT OPTIONS AND RECOMAMNDATIONS
The most feasible option to match the landowner's objectives with the characteristics of
the property is to continue implementing management practices to increase wood
production and enhance wildlife habitat.
By leaving the riparian area in it's current condition, water quality resources and values
will be protected and enhanced. Wildlife species that use this portion of the property will
have their habitats maintained and improved. Each of these steps will continue to protect
and enhance species diversity on the property.
FOREST IMPROVEMENTS
• Reduce the number of red alder trees
• Trees selected for removal can be utilized for firewood, or piled for
wildlife habitat
• Selectively harvest poorer quality trees (i.e. disease, rot, or multiple tops)
• Selectively harvest the older alders trees & replant to Douglas-fir & Western
redcedar
• Establish windbreak along east property line
• Plant higher value shrub species for wildlife, i.e. blue elderberry
WETLAND & RIPARIAN IMPROVEMENTS
• Maintain and enhance seasonal and permanent habitat for wildlife
• Increase bird habitat - hang bird boxes throughout the riparian area
• Plant a variety of woody vegetation around wildlife pond
• Increase & maintain both soft & hard snags
We
PASTURE / HAYLAND ""ROVEMENTS
• Maintain pasture / hayland until ready to convert to trees
• Determine number of acres to convert to trees
• Prior to converting to trees heavily graze - pasture then disc
• After discing follow -up with herbicides in the fall
• Plant Douglas-fir the following late winter or early spring
• Plant 435 trees per acre on a l Oft by lOff spacing
• Trees will need to be protected from rodents
• Replant areas of high mortality the following year
• Remove competing vegetation until the trees overtop the competition
• Do not plant trees that will eventually block the neighbor's view of Mt. Baker
FUTURE HOMESITE IMPROVEMENTS
Maintain open area around house to reduce risk of damage from windthow
Establish a new access road
• Maintain wide buffer between homesite & neighbors
Please refer to the attached specification sheets in the "Additional Information"
section for guidance on thinning, tree planting, and cultivating snags.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
This property has potential for stand improvement and restocking. Open areas can
be cleared and replanted. The overall stand condition is fair with a tight canopy.
MANAGING for HARDWOODS: Unlike coniferous trees, which are frequently
managed through benign neglect, management of hardwood trees in the Pacific
northwest is a more complex issue. The payoff for intensive management of these
hardwood species will be increased wood production, increased wood quality and
shortened rotation lengths between crops.
The production of hardwood logs for high quality lumber and specialty products
necessitates an individual tree management regime. The management of hardwood
trees that are not native to the northwest will require additional attention to the
condition of these species. The requirement of these non - native trees for
unimpeded sunlight must be carefully monitored, with competing vegetation
quickly removed if it inhibits the growth of the hardwood trees. Non - native
hardwood species will very likely be susceptible to more insect and disease attacks
than native species, which have developed resistance to many of these pests.
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Height growth in hardwood trees is very fast when the trees are young, with a
slowing in growth occurring at a relatively young age. These trees achieve their
maximum height in 50 to 100 years of growth. In contrast, conifer trees grow in
height over many decades, often into their second century of existence.
Tree height is a major determining factor in tree volume, with taller trees
containing greater volumes. The limiting height growth of hardwoods trees is a
major reason hardwood stands contain less volume than stands of mature conifer
trees.
As hardwood trees grow rapidly in height, they have a 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.
The development of mature tree crowns can be delayed in some hardwood species
by keeping stand density (number of trees/acre) at a high level. This practice
increases the merchantable height of trees in the stand, but results in small -
diameter stems. Stands with reduced numbers of trees usually have diameters that
are larger than those of trees in dense stands.
A compromise in managing for height or diameter can be achieved in a two -part
rotation. This compromise can be implemented by maintaining a high density
young stand while the trees are growing rapidly in height. When a predefined
merchantable height has been achieved by the majority of trees in a stand, a
program of regular thinning can be implemented. These thinnings should focus on
maintaining rapid and continuous crown expansion in the remaining crop trees,
increasing stem diameter growth on these crop trees.
Selection of the crop trees for final harvest'is a very important part of the
management process. Because crop 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 crop trees
should 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
should be carefully examined before harvesting is undertaken. Incentive prices for
particular log lengths and minimum log diameters should be investigated before
harvesting begins.
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TEn KING: 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, 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.
Selected crop trees should be the larger, robust trees that appear to be growing
vigorously and display a good growth form. In thinning; it is important to remain
focused on the crop trees that have been selected to carry to final harvest. Crop
trees should be clearly marked to ensure they are not removed or damaged.
Trees with the following characteristics should be removed in thinning operations:
(1) Poorly formed, badly injured, or diseased trees
(2) Rough, limby trees
(3) Competing species of lesser value
(4) Overcrowded, smaller trees
Crop trees should be protected as less desirable trees are cut out of a stand. In
precommercial operations, cut trees should not overtop nor be left to hang in the
crop trees. If the cut trees are removed, the stems of the crop trees should be
protected as the cut materials are removed.
PRUNING: The natural pruning of lower limbs in a stand of Douglas-fir appears
to take between 75 and 100 years after stand establishment. Manually pruning
lower branches from the bole of a tree is a practice that likely will improve the
value of forest products at final harvest time. After the lower branches are
removed, the new radial growth added by the tree will be clear, rather than knotty.
Clear wood is considered to have greater strength than knotty wood and generally
has a more pleasing appearance.
Final Crop Trees selected for pruning should meet several criteria:
(1) Trees should be small- about 6 inches in diameter
(2) The trees are growing rapidly
(3) Trees should be pruned before they are 20 years old
(4) Seventy to 100 pruned crop trees should be left per acre
(5) Pruned trees will not be harvested for at least 20 years following pruning
(6) Trees scheduled to be removed in intermediate thinnings and trees likely
to be sold for pulp should not be pruned.
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Pruning Criteria should be geared to accomplish:
(1) Leave at least 2/3 of the live crown of a tree
(2) Cut limbs off flush with the main stem, taking extreme care not to damage
the trunk
(3) Prune during any time of year, except in areas where insects may multiply
in the slash. In those areas, avoid summer pruning
(4) Prune up to about 18 feet above ground level.
OVERVIEW of FOREST MANAGEMENT CRITERIA
WOODLAND - Establish a thinning program that .will allow removal of any dead
and dying material or blowdown for firewood. Remove competing vegetation and
dead trees to increase the vigor of the stand. Utilize the D+5 rule to determine
spacing between leave trees. The D +5 rule takes the diameter of the tree and adds
5. If a tree is 12 inches in diameter add 5 to the diameter then use the total of 17
for the distance in feet to leave between trees. This rule can also be applied to the
larger trees. Also, 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. These trees may be left as wildlife trees
or future snags.
Douglas -fir trees can usually be harvested at age 60 or later. However, red alder
naturally starts to break -up and deteriorate around age 40 and it is best to harvest
near this time to provide good quality sale logs or firewood. Should you decide to
do either it is highly recommended that you contact a consulting forester to develop
a harvest schedule, sale agreement and to ensure that it is harvested and replanted
in accordance with the Washington Forest Practices Act.
Implement tree planting in areas of the woodland that are predominantly brush and
alder. Remove the vegetation to create pockets of open areas and replant with a
mixture of western redcedar and Douglas -fir at a 10' by 10' spacing. In areas where
it tends to be wetter plant more western redcedar.
It is critical to control competing vegetation for the first 5 years after the seedlings
have been planted. The Douglas -fir seedlings need full sunlight to do well and it is
important to keep the brush and alder cut down until the seedlings are well
established. Once the trees are 5 to 6 feet in height they will out compete the brush
and alder. Competing vegetation can be controlled by using herbicides or
mechanical treatment. Herbicides can -be applied either to the foliage, stem or
growing tissue (the layer just beneath the bark). Mechanical treatment is done by
using a small hand ax or chainsaw to cut down the brush and alder.
WILDLIFE - For enhancing wildlife habitat you may consider creating snags, a
wildlife pond, and/or putting up boxes for nesting birds. Wildlife like open areas in
conjunction with a stand of trees that will provide adequate shelter.
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MANAGEMENT TIMETABLE
Time Table for Implementation
Year
Action
1998-2002 Improve forest stand
1999-2000 Improve riparian area & increase wildlife habitat
2002-2006 Convert 5 acs. of pasture to Douglas -fir
Establish a windbreak along the east property line
by planting western redcedar without obstructing the
neighbor's view of Mt Baker
2002 Start development of home site
Build new access road to the pasture
2003 Construct new home
SWEETGRIOST99
WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner:
Subarea:
Comp. Plan Desig.:
Zoning Desig:
Sweet Gravel Co. LLC
Box 2789,
Bellingham, 98227
Birch Bay/ Blaine Subarea
Rural
RIOA
Soil Type /Capabilities:
51 - Everett conipler, 2 - 8% slopes (5%)
Site Index *: 106 - Douglas fir
Limitations/Concerns: Seedling mortality and
establishment. Invasion and growth of competing plants.
181 - Whatcont silt loam, 30 - 60% slopes (75%)
Site Index *: 116 - Douglas fir
Limitations /Concerns: The slope and hazard of erosion
affect timber harvest. Seedling mortality and plant competition.
Timber Management Plan
Designation: Open Space Timber
Parcel No.: 400103 - 163077
Parcel Acreage: 9.80 acres
Acreage in OST: S acres
Road Access: Sweet Road
Land Use: Access easement to existing gravel pit.
Shorelines: N/A
Land use history: Access easement to existing gravel pit.
178 - Whatcom silt loans, 0 - 3% slopes (209/6)
Site Index *: 116 - Douglas fir
Limitations /Concern. Muddiness caused by seasonal wetness.
Seedling establishment and occasional windthrow hazard.
Completeness
(0= incomplete; l= satisfactory; 2= thorough)
Information Included :-
Points
Max.
Current Stand Description
2
2
Current tree species include: Douglas fir, red alder, western hemlock, western redcedar and
black cottonwood. Timber age class is approx. 1- 10 yrs. w / some residual trees approx. 50 yrs.
Soils Description
0
2
Not complete, missing soil type 181, which predominates this acreage.
Forest Health
2
2
Currently no significant forest health problems and none anticipated.
Thinning Program
1
2
Brush control management of reforestation, interplanting as necessary.
Harvest Plan 2 2
Yrs. / - 20: Management and monitoring of reforestation, interplanting and reclamation of gravel removal
areas. Yrs. 10 - 30: Pre - commercial as necessary and appropriate. Yr. 30+ commercial thinning as appropriate.
Planting/Restocking Program 1 2
As above, with commercial tree species ie. Douglas fir and red alder.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 2 2
Required buffers and leave trees, together with on -going reclamation and reforestation, will provide
ample habitat.
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.
:.;q a
40010
50 �A A i r. ro r
4 �`l
Ej-
Forest Management Plan for Sweet Gravel Co.
for Property Located in
Portions of the NE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 S3 T40N ROIE W.M. in Whatcom County, WA
and
Portions of the W 1/2 of the W 1/2 of the SE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 S3 T40N RO1 E W.M. in Whatcom Co. WA
Tax Parcel #'s 400103- 216 -207 an 400103 - 163 -077
Landowner: Sweet Gravel Co.
P.O. Box 2789 .
Bellingham, WA 98227
(360) 671 -9078
Plan Prepared by: Aubrey J. Stargell
Forester
Nielsen Bros. Inc.
P.O. Box 2789
Bellingham, WA 98227
(360) 671 -9078
Plan Prepared: 12 -31 -98
1. Landowners Goals and Objectives: Sweet Gravel Co. (landowner) intends to maintain the subject area as
Open Space Timberland for the purpose of future commercial timber harvests, gravel production on
portions of the property, and the provision of wildlife habitat.
11. Open Space - Timber Requirements Checklist
a: Legal Description: Portions of the NE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 S3 T40N RO1 E W.M. in Whatcom County, WA
and
Portions of the W 1/2 of the W 1/2 of the SE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 S3 T40N RO1 E W.M. in Whatcom Co. WA
Tax Parcel #'s 400103 - 216 -207 and 400103 -163 -077
b. Date of Property Acquisition: The subject property was acquired by Sweet Gravel in 1997.
c. Description of the timber land: The subject area is approximately 45 acres and is currently a mixture of 3
year old douglas fir seedlings, 5 -10 year old alder and cottonwood trees, and a gravel production area.
Hydrologic features include a type -5 seasonal swale running east to west in the southern ten acres of the
property. Portions of the area have been operated in the past and is currently being operated for gravel
production with reclamation taking place on a progressive basis. The reclamation includes the
reforestation of the property with commercial timber species. The property was originally logged
approximately 80 years ago and was harvested again in 1997. Portions of the harvest unit have been
reforested with douglas fir seedlings.
d. This document constitutes the Forest Management Plan for the property.
e. This Forest Management Plan is a comprehensive plan for near future and long term forest management.
f. Non - forested portions of the landowner's property have been used for gravel production and pasture.
g. The portion of the property for which this Forest Management Plan applies has not been subdivided and
the landowner has no plans for any subdivision.
h. The land and applicant are currently in compliance with restocking, forest management, fire protection,
insect, and disease control requirements.
i. The land is not subject to forest fire protection assessments pursuant to RCW 76.04.610.
j. The land is not subject to any leases, options, or other rights that permits it to be used for a purpose other
than gravel production and growing and harvesting timber.
k. The subject area was a naturally established mixed forest of hardwood and conifer trees when the
.applicant acquired the property. Since acquisition, the property has been harvested and reforestation is
under way.
1. The applicant has plans for continued management to promote regrowth of harvested areas. Plans also
include continued gravel production on portions of the property with reclamation taking place on an
ongoing and progressive basis. Reclamation will include reforestation with commercial tree species.
111. Forest Health - There are currently no significant forest health problems (insect damage, high fire risk,
fungal rots etc..). Landowner anticipates no future forest health problems with the property.
IV. Timber and Wood Products - Current tree species include: douglas fir, red alder, western hemlock,
western redcedar, and black cottonwood. Timber age class is approximately 2 -10 years with residual trees
of approximately 50 years remaining from previous harvests. Merchantable timber volume is negligible at
this time due to recent timber harvest with reforestation currently taking place. Any future harvesting will
likely be ground based as property is mostly flat in topography. Future harvesting will include a mix of
conifer (primarily douglas fir) and hardwood (primarily red alder).
V. Soils - All soils information is taken from the Soil Survey of Whatcom County published by USDA Soil
Conservation Service, 1983.
Soils within the property include primarily "Everett Complex 2 -8% slopes ".
Everett Complex soils were formed in a mixture of volcanic ash and alluvium over glacial outwash and
glacial till. The native vegetation is mainly conifers and shrubs. Elevation is 100 -500' and average annual
precipitation is about 40 ". This soil is 50% Everett very gravelly sandy loam and 35% Everett gravelly
sandy loam. Effective rooting depth is limited by a seasonally high water table. Runoff is slow and the
hazard of water erosion is slight. This unit is mainly used as woodland. it is also used as a source of
aggregate. Douglas fir is the main woodland species. Among the trees of a more limited extent are red
alder, western hemlock, western redcedar, bigleaf maple, and grand fir. 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 curve the site index 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. The kind of equipment that can be used and the time of year that it can be
used are normally not restricted in this soil. Seedling - mortality and establishment are the main concerns
affecting timber production due to low moisture content in the surface layer of soil during the growing
season and the invasion of competing vegetation. Reforestation can be accomplished by planting douglas
fir or red alder seedlings. If seed trees are available, natural reforestation of cutover areas occurs readily
with red alder.
see attached "Woodland Management and Productivity" table
VI. Water Quality, Riparian - There is a type -5 seasonal non -fish bearing stream on the south ten acres of
the property that was protected with a 75' partial cut buffer during the last harvest. There is also a type -4
stream along the eastern edge of the property that is mostly out of the property but was also protected with
a buffer during the last harvest. Various drainage infrastructure (settling ponds etc.) are associated with
gravel operations for the purpose of water quality maintenance. There are no fish bearing waters within the
property.
Vii. Fish and Wildlife Habitat - It is anticipated that any future timber harvests will have enough riparian
and wildlife reserve habitat provided by buffers on critical areas, leave tree requirements, and ongoing
reclamation /reforestation that fish and wildlife will not be significantly adversely impacted.
Vlll. There are no known threatened or endangered species present on the property.
!X. Aesthetics and Recreation - The subject area is surrounded by forest and /or pasture land. Any future
timber harvests wil I have some impact on the appearance of the property. However, by virtue of buffer,
reclamation, leave tree requirements and reforestation efforts, the general character of the property should
remain intact.
With regard to recreation, the subject area is private property and public recreation is not a relevant issue in
this case.
X. Management Timetable:
* Years 1 -20: Continue management of reforestation. Stocking and regeneration monitoring.
Reclamation of gravel removal areas with commercial tree species. Brush control and
interplanting as necessary and appropriate.
* Years 20 -30: Pre - commercial thinning as necessary and appropriate.
* Year 30 and beyond: Commercial thinning(s) as appropriate and as markets dictate, with
potential for final harvest to be followed by additional reforestation efforts.
see attached maps and aerial photo representing subject property
,Vhatcom County Area, Washington
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WHA TCOM COUNTY OPEN SPA CE CLASSIFICA TION
Property Owner:
Sweet Gravel Co. LLC
Box 2789,
Bellingham, 98227
Subarea: Birch Bay / Blaine Subarea
Comp. Plan Desig.: Rural - Mineral Resource Land
Zoning Desig: R10A - MRL
Soil Type /Capabilities:
51- Everett complex, 2 - 8% slopes (80 %)
Site Index *: 106 - Douglas fir
Limitations/Concerns: Seedling mortality and
establishment. Invasion and growth of competing plants.
120 -Gravel Pits (20916)
Site Index *: N/A
Limitations /Concerns: N/A
Timber Management Plan
Designation:
Parcel No.:
Parcel Acreage:
Parcel in OST:
Road Access:
SWEETGR20ST99
Open Space Timber
400103 - 216207
35 acres
28 acres
Quarter mile private access easement
north off Sweet Road
Land Use: Access easement to existing gravel pit.
Shorelines: N/A
Land use history: Access easement to existing gravel pit.
Completeness
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2= thorough)
Information Included :- Points Max.
Current Stand Description 2 2
Current tree species include: Douglas fir, red alder, western hemlock, western redcedar and
black cottonwood. Timber age class is approx. 2 - 10 yrs. w/ some residual trees approx. 50 yrs.
Soils Description 2 2
This unit is mainly used as woodland or as a source of aggravate.
Forest Health 2 2
Currently no significant forest health problems and none anticipated.
Thinning Program 1 2
Brush control management of reforestation, interplanting as necessary.
Harvest Plan 2 2
Yrs. l - 20: Management and monitoring of reforestation, interplanting and reclamation ofgravel removal
areas. Yrs. 20 - 30: Pre - commercial as necessary and appropriate. Yr. 30+ commercial thinning as appropriate.
Planting/Restocking Program 1 2
As above, with commercial tree species ie. Douglas fir and red alder.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement 1 2
Required buffers and leave trees, together with on -going reclamation and reforestation, will provide
ample habitat.
TOTAL: 11 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.
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Forest Management Plan for Sweet Gravel Co.
for Property Located in
Portions of the NE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 S3 T40N ROIE W.M. in Whatcom County, WA
and
Portions of the W 1/2 of the W 1/2 of the SE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 S1 T40N ROIE W.M. in Whatcom Co. WA
Tax Parcel Ws 400103- 216 -207 an 400103 - 163 -077
Landowner: Sweet Gravel Co.
P.O. Box 2789
Bellingham, WA 98227
(360) 671 -9078
Plan Prepared by:Aubrey J. Stargell
Forester
Nielsen Bros. Inc.
P.O. Box 2789
Bellingham, WA 98227
(360) 671 -9078
Plan Prepared: 12 -31 -98
[. Landowners Goals and Objectives: Sweet Gravel Co. (landowner) intends to maintain the subject area as
Open Space Timberland for the purpose of future commercial timber harvests, gravel production on
portions of the property, and the provision of wildlife habitat.
11. Open Space - Timber Requirements Checklist
a: Legal Description: Portions of the NE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 S3 T40N RO 1 E W.M. in Whatcom County, WA
and
Portions of the W 1/2 of the W 1/2 of the SE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 S3 T40N ROIE W.M. in Whatcom Co. WA
Tax Parcel #'s 400103 - 216 -207 and 400103 - 163 -077
b. Date of Property Acquisition: The subject property was acquired by Sweet Gravel in 1997.
c. Description of the timber land: The subject area is approximately 45,acres and is currently a mixture of 3
year old douglas fir seedlings, 5 -10 year old alder and cottonwood trees, and a gravel production area.
Hydrologic features include a.type -5 seasonal swale running east to west in the southern ten acres of the
property. Portions of the area have been operated in the past and is currently being operated for gravel
production with reclamation taking place on a progressive basis. The reclamation includes the
reforestation of the property with commercial timber species. The property was originally logged
approximately 80 years ago and was harvested again in 1997. Portions of the harvest unit have been
reforested with douglas fir seedlings.
d. This document constitutes the Forest Management Plan for the property.
e. This Forest Management Plan is a comprehensive plan for near future and long term forest management.
f. Non - forested portions of the landowner's property have been used for gravel production and pasture.
g. The portion of the property for which this Forest Management Plan applies has not been subdivided and
the landowner has no plans for any subdivision.
h. The land and applicant are currently in compliance with restocking, forest management, fire protection,
insect, and disease control requirements.
i. The land is not subject to forest fire protection assessments pursuant to RCW 76.04.610.
j. The land is not subject to any leases, options, or other rights that permits it to be used for a purpose other
than gravel production and growing and harvesting timber.
k. The subject area was a naturally established mixed forest of hardwood and conifer trees when the
applicant acquired the property. Since acquisition, the property has been harvested and reforestation is
under way.
1. The applicant has plans for continued management to promote regrowth of harvested areas. Plans also
include continued gravel production on portions of the property with reclamation taking place on an
ongoing and progressive basis. Reclamation will include reforestation with commercial tree species.
III. Forest Health - There are currently no significant forest health problems (insect damage, high fire risk,
fungal rots etc..). Landowner anticipates no future forest health problems with the property.
IV. Timber and Wood Products - Current tree species include: douglas fir, red alder, western hemlock,
western redcedar, and black cottonwood. Timber age class is approximately 2 -10 years with residual trees
of approximately 50 years remaining from previous harvests. Merchantable timber volume is negligible at
this time due to recent timber harvest with reforestation currently taking place. Any future harvesting will
likely be ground based as property is mostly flat in topography. Future harvesting will include a mix pf
conifer (primarily douglas fir) and hardwood (primarily red alder):
V. Soils - All soils information is taken from the Soil Survey of Whatcom County published by USDA Soil
Conservation Service, 1983.
Soils within the property include primarily "Everett Complex 2 -8% slopes"
Everett Complex soils were formed in a mixture of volcanic ash and alluvium over glacial out"vash and
glacial till. The native vegetation is mainly conifers and shrubs. Elevation is 100 -500' and average annual
precipitation is about 40 ". This soil is 50% Everett very gravelly sandy loam and 35% Everett gravelly
sandy loam. Effective rooting depth is limited by a seasonally high water table. Runoff is slow and the
hazard of water erosion is slight. This unit is mainly used as woodland. It is also used as a source of
aggregate. Douglas fir is the main woodland species. Among the trees of a more limited extent are red
alder, western hemlock, western redcedar, bigleaf maple, and grand fir. 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 curve the site index 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. The kind of equipment that can be used and the time of year that it can be
used are normally not restricted in this soil. Seedling mortality and establishment are the main concerns
affecting timber production due to low moisture content in the surface layer of soil during the growing
season and the invasion of competing vegetation. Reforestation can be accomplished by planting douglas
fir or red alder seedlings. If seed trees are available, natural reforestation of cutover areas occurs readily
with red alder.
see attached "Woodland Management and Productivity" table.
VI. Water Quality, Riparian - There is a type -5 seasonal non -fish bearing stream on the south ten acres of
the property that was protected with a 75' partial cut buffer during the last harvest. There is also a type -4
stream along the eastem edge of the property that is mostly out of the property but was also protected with
a buffer during the last harvest. Various drainage infrastructure (settling ponds etc.) are associated with
gravel operations for the purpose of water quality maintenance. There are no fish bearing waters within the
property.
Vll. Fish and Wildlife Habitat - It is anticipated that any future timber harvests will have enough riparian
and wildlife reserve habitat provided by buffers on critical areas, leave tree requirements, and ongoing
rec lam ationlre fore station that fish and wildlife will not be significantly adversely impacted.
Vill. There are no known threatened or endangered species present on the property.
IX. Aesthetics and Recreation - The subject area is surrounded by forest and /or pasture land. Any future
timber harvests will have some impact on the appearance of the property. However, by virtue of buffer,
reclamation, leave tree requirements and reforestation efforts, the general character of the property should
remain intact.
With regard to recreation, the subject area is private property and public recreation is not a relevant issue in
this case.
X. Management Timetable:
* Years 1 -20: Continue management of reforestation. Stocking and regeneration monitoring.
Reclamation of gravel removal areas with commercial tree species. Brush control and
interplanting as necessary and appropriate.
* Years 20 -30: Pre - commercial thinning as necessary and appropriate.
* Year 30 and beyond: Commercial thinning(s) as appropriate and as markets dictate, with
potential for final harvest to be followed by additional reforestation efforts.
see attached maps and aerial photo representing subject property
%Vhatcorn County Area, Washington
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WHATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner: Paul and Wilma Vander Pol
909 Grover Street, Apt. A
Lynden, WA. 98264
Subarea: Lynden / Nooksack Valley Subarea
Comp. Plan Desig.: Agriculture
Zoning Desig: Agriculture
Soil Type /Capabilities:
182 - "atcom- Labounty silt loam, 0 - 8% slopes (90
Site Index *: 90 (red alder), 116 (Douglas fir).
Limitations /Concems: Muddiness caused by seasonal
wetness; seedling establishment, seedling mortality, possible
VAIVDERPOLOST99
Designation: Open Space Timber
Parcel No.: 400204 - 435492 and 434430
Parcel Acreage:
Acreage in OST:
Road Access:
Land Use:
Shorelines:
Land use history
18.16 acres
13 acres +/-
H St. Road
Forestland and two mobibhome rentals
N/A
Forestland
TABLED FOR SIX MONTHS
Need TMP, resubmit in July
windthrow hazard
94 Labounty silt loam, drained, 0 -2% slopes (10%)
Site Index *: 90 (red alder)
Limitations /Concems: Severe seedling mortality, plant competition,
windthrow hazard and eauinment limitations.
Timber Management Plan
Information Included :-
Current Stand Description
No explicit description of types of timber growing, except hardwoods and conifers. No age of stand.
No description of understory.
Soils Description
No soils description submitted with TMP.
Forest Health
Stand is in poor condition, some pruning and cutting of weed plants done.
Thinning Program
No adequate description, very general directions. Pamphlet on Douglas f r pruning enclosed.
Harvest Plan
Harvesting to commence when hardwoods are merchantable or the conifer are a size usable for
corral poles or chip and saw logs.
Planting/Restocking Program
1000 8" Douglas fir trees planted December 1997, 500 Western Red cedar trees to be planted
Spring 1999. Trees to be spaced no more than 10 feet apart.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement
No wildlife enhancement plan submitted with TMP.
Completeness
(0= incomplete; 1= satisfactory; 2--thorough)
Points Max.
1 2
0 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
2 2
0 2
TOTAL: 6 14
Must receive at least 7 points for a staff recommendation of approval
RECOMMENDATION: DENIAL
*Site index indicates how tall (in feet) an average tree will grow in 50 years.
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WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENTOF
Natural Resources
October 20, 1998
Paul Vanderpoi
909 Grover
Lynden WA 98264
Dear Paul:
JENNIFER M. BELCHER
Commissioner of Public Lands
Thank you for taking the time to walk your property on H Sued with me. I would like to recap the items
we talked about.
A. The remaining stand is of poor vigor, the trees will continue to grow but they will not fully utilize the
growing potential of the site. When the hardwoods are merchantable or the conifer are a size usable for
corral poles or chip and saw logs the stand should be harvested.
B. Reforestation can be accomplished using Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar. Trees should be spaced
no more than IV apart.
C. The seedlings planted two years abo look real good. Some of the openings in the harvested area could
be planted with cedar.
D. For approximately three years you will need to keep the blackberries and brush from over taking the
conifer seedlings. Usually cutting of alder and other brush species works best in late July and August.
If you have any more questions or need any help please contact me.
Sincerely,
47Xf(ic1L`Va, J
Boyd Norton
Stewardship/Prevention Forester
NORTHWEST REGION 1 919 N TOWNSHIP ST I SEDRO- WOOLLEY, WA 982849395
FAX (360) 856 -2150 1 TTY: (360) 856 -1371 1 TEL: (360) 856 -3500
Equal Opportunity /Affirmative Action Employer RECYCLED PAPER
SHUKSANTNVESTMENTS RATE OS 199<
T 4 TCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner:
Shuksan Investments, LLC
Designation:
Open Space /Open Space
Score
1500 E. Axton Rd.
Parcel No:
390322 & 27
10.00
Bellingham, WA 98226
Acreage:
165+ acres less 5 for club house
From Noon Road
& parking = 60acres +-
Subarea:
Lynden- Nooksack Valley
Road Access:
Axton Rd.,Starry Rd.
Comp Plan Designation:
Rural
Land Use:
Golf Course & facilities
Zoning Designation:
R5A
Shorelines:
N/A
Soil Type /Capabilities:
Protect Soils and Wildlife
7.00
10.00
#11 - Bellingham silty clay loam, 0 -2 %, not prime, hydric, 40%
15.00%
20.00%
#108 - Nati loam, 5 -15 %, not prime, not hydric, 20%
#178 — Whatcom silt loam,
0 -3 %, prime, not hydric, 5%
Promote Conservation Principles
7.00
#179 - Whatcom silt loam,
3 -8 %, not prime, not hydric, 5%
10.00%
10.00%
#181 - Whatcom silt loam,
30 -60 %, not prime, not hydric, 15%
160 acres
#182 - Whatcom- Labounty
silt loam, 0 -8 %, not prime, complex hydric, 15%
Enhance abutting Open Space
Comments: These soils are used generally in hay, pasture or woodland, in part due to the possible high water table and
slow permeability.
Abutting Open Space
4.00%
5.00%
Basic Value
Score
Max
Public Benefit Value:
Score
Max
L ince scenic resources
7.00
10.00
Public Access
20.00%
40.00%
From Noon Road
Noon Rd., Starry Rd.
Protect Streams /Shorelines
9.00
10.00
Water Resource Protection
1;5 15-A .
20.00%
Preservation of upland ponds of Ten
Mile Creek
Ten Mile Creek Aquifer Recharge Area
Protect Soils and Wildlife
7.00
10.00
Wildlife Habitat
15.00%
20.00%
Anadromous fish habitat
Edge type habitat, riparian areas
Promote Conservation Principles
7.00
10.00
Parcel Size
10.00%
10.00%
Detention ponds
160 acres
- 40.00%
Enhance abutting Open Space
6.00
10.00
Abutting Open Space
4.00%
5.00%
OS abutting 25%
40%
Recreation Opportunities
5
10.00
Natural Areas
2.00%
5.00%
Public passive rec.
Mostly open space greens,some riperian areas,woods
Historic /Arch. Significance
0.00
10.00
Financial Advantage
- 25.00%
- 40.00%
NM
Discretionary Value
0.00%
40 + / -%
Additional information submitted by FAX 2/8/99
(see Exhibit "A" attached)
TOTAL 46.00. 70.00 41.00% 140.00%
1y4q r2 N
Conditions: Must receive at least 45 points for approval
P 'ic Access Action:
S--1 Commission
Hold Harmless Council
SHUKSAN INVESTMENTS RATE OS 199
I ATCOM COUNTY OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATION
Property Owner: Shuksan Investments, LLC Designation: Open Space /Open Space
1500 E. Axton Rd. Parcel No: 390322 & 27
Bellingham, WA 98226 Acreage: 165+ acres less 5 for club house
& parking - 60acres +-
Subarea: Lynden - Nooksack Valley Road Access: Axton Rd;, Starry Rd.
Comp Plan Designation: Rural Land Use: Golf Course & facilities
Zoning Designation: R5A Shorelines: N/A
Soil Type /Capabilities:
#11 - Bellingham silty clay loam, 0 -2 %, not prime, hydric, 40%
#108 - Nati loam, 5 -15 %, not prime, not hydric, 20%
#178 — Whatcom silt loam, 0 -3 %, prime, not hydric, 5%
#179 - Whatcom silt loam, 3 -8 %, not prime, not hydric,.5%
#181 - Whatcom silt loam, 30 -60 %, not prime, not hydric, 15%
#182 - Whatcom - Labounty silt loam, 0 -8 %, not prime, complex hydric, 15%
Comments: These soils are used generally in hay, pasture or woodland, in part due to the possible high water table and
slow permeability.
Basic Value
Score
Max
Public Benefit Value:
Score
Max
1 once scenic resources
7.00
10.00
Public Access
20.00%
40.00%
From Noon Road
Noon Rd., Starry Rd.
Protect Streams /Shorelines
9.00
10.00
Water Resource Protection rv.13.00%
20.00%
Preservation of upland ponds of Ten Mile Creek
Ten Mile Creek Aquifer Recharge
Area
Protect Soils and Wildlife
7.00
10.00
Wildlife Habitat
15.00%
20.00%
Anadromous fish habitat
Edge type habitat, riparian areas
Promote Conservation Principles
7.00
10.00
Parcel Size
10.00%
10.00%
Detention ponds
160 acres
- 40.00%
Enhance abutting Open Space
6.00
10.00
Abutting Open Space
4.00%
5.00%
OS abutting 25%
40%
Recreation Opportunities
rev. 5.00
10.00
Natural Areas
2.00%
5.00%
Public passive rec.
Mostly open space greens, some riparian areas, woods
Historic /Arch. Significance
0.00
10.00
Financial Advantage
- 25.00%
- 40.00%
N/A
Discretionary Value
0.00%
40 + / -%
TOTAL
36.00 70.00
26.00% 140.00%
C-- ditions:
i is Access
Sign
Hold Harmless
Must receive at least 45 points for approval
Action:
Commission approved 2/11/99
Council
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