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Home My WebLink AboutPacket Water Work Session Apr 16 2024Whatcom County COUNTY COURTHOUSE 311 Grand Avenue, Ste #105 Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 (360) 778-5010 Meeting Agenda HYBRID MEETING - (PARTICIPATE IN-PERSON, SEE REMOTE JOIN INSTRUCTIONS AT www.whatcomcounty.us/joinvirtualcouncil, OR CALL 360.778.5010) COUNCILMEMBERS Barry Buchanan Tyler Byrd Todd Donovan Ben Elenbaas Kaylee Galloway Jon Scanlon Mark Stremler CLERK OF THE COUNCIL Dana Brown-Davis, C.M.C. Council Water Work Session Tuesday, April 16, 2024 10:30 AM Civic Center Building Conference Room / Hybrid Meeting April 16, 2024Council Water Work Session Meeting Agenda Call To Order Roll Call Announcements Individuals who require special assistance to participate in the Council's meetings are asked to contact the Council Office at 360.778.5010 at least 96 hours in advance. This committee meeting is also noticed as a meeting of the Whatcom County Council, with the agenda limited to committee business. Meeting Materials AB2024-014 Meeting Materials for Water Work Session April 16, 2024 Water Issues Update Marine Resources Committee Annual Report Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District Recovery Plan Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) Program Agricultural Cost Share Adjustment Recommendation WRIA 1 Planning Unit update Other Business Adjournment Page 2 Printed on 4/21/2025Whatcom County Whatcom County COUNTY COURTHOUSE 311 Grand Avenue, Ste #105 Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 (360) 778-5010 Meeting Agenda HYBRID MEETING - (PARTICIPATE IN-PERSON, SEE REMOTE JOIN INSTRUCTIONS AT www.whatcomcounty.us/joinvirtualcouncil, OR CALL 360.778.5010) COUNCILMEMBERS Barry Buchanan Tyler Byrd Todd Donovan Ben Elenbaas Kaylee Galloway Jon Scanlon Mark Stremler CLERK OF THE COUNCIL Dana Brown-Davis, C.M.C. Council Water Work Session Tuesday, April 16, 2024 10:30 AM Civic Center Building Conference Room / Hybrid Meeting April 16, 2024Council Water Work Session Meeting Agenda Call To Order Roll Call Announcements Individuals who require special assistance to participate in the Council's meetings are asked to contact the Council Office at 360.778.5010 at least 96 hours in advance. This committee meeting is also noticed as a meeting of the Whatcom County Council, with the agenda limited to committee business. Meeting Materials AB2024-014 Meeting Materials for Water Work Session April 16, 2024 Agenda Packet for 4.16.2024 Marine Resources Committee Presentation for 4.16.2024.pdf Drayton Harbor Shellfish Presentation for 4.16.2024 PIC Program Presentation for 4.16.2024 Attachments: Water Issues Update Marine Resources Committee Annual Report Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District Recovery Plan Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) Program Agricultural Cost Share Adjustment Recommendation WRIA 1 Planning Unit update Other Business Adjournment Page 2 Printed on 4/16/2024Whatcom County Agenda Bill Master Report Whatcom County COUNTY COURTHOUSE 311 Grand Avenue, Ste #105 Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 (360) 778-5010 File Number: AB2024-014 1AB2024-014 Status:Agenda ReadyFile ID:Version: KFelbing@co.whatcom.wa.us12/12/2023File Created:Entered by: Receipt of Document(s)Council OfficeDepartment:File Type: Assigned to:Council Water Work Session Final Action:04/16/2024 Agenda Date:04/16/2024 Enactment #: Primary Contact Email: kfelbing@co.whatcom.wa.us TITLE FOR AGENDA ITEM: Meeting Materials for Water Work Session April 16, 2024 SUMMARY STATEMENT OR LEGAL NOTICE LANGUAGE: None HISTORY OF LEGISLATIVE FILE Action: Sent To: Date: Acting Body: RECEIVED04/16/2024 Council Water Work Session Attachments:Agenda Packet for 4.16.2024, Marine Resources Committee Presentation for 4.16.2024.pdf, Drayton Harbor Shellfish Presentation for 4.16.2024, PIC Program Presentation for 4.16.2024 Page 1Whatcom County Printed on 4/21/2025 TO: The Honorable Satpal Singh Sidhu, Whatcom County Executive, and Honorable Members of the Whatcom County Council THROUGH: Elizabeth Kosa, Director FROM: Gary S. Stoyka, Natural Resources Program Manager DATE: April 10, 2024 RE: April 16, 2024 Council Water Work Session Please refer to the proposed agenda below for the next Water Work Session. Additional supporting documents may be distributed at or before the meeting. AGENDA Date: Tuesday, April 16, 2024 Time: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Place: Hybrid Meeting: In Person: Civic Center Garden Level Conference Room (322 N. Commercial St., Street Level) Virtual: For instructions on how to watch or participate in this meeting, please visit us at www.whatcomcounty.us/joinvirtualcouncil or contact the Council Office at 360.778.5010. View meeting schedules, agendas, minutes, videos, and archives at www.whatcom.legistar.com. Time Topic Council Action Requested Background Information Attached 10:30 AM – 10:45 AM Water Issues Update Informational None 10:45 AM – 11:15 AM Marine Resources Committee Annual Report Informational None 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District Recovery Plan Feedback Final Draft Recovery Plan 12:00 PM – 12:15 PM Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) Program Agricultural Cost Share Adjustment Recommendation Feedback None 12:15 PM – 12:30 PM WRIA 1 Planning Unit update Informational None If you have questions, please feel free to call me at (360) 778-6218. WHATCOM COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 322 N. Commercial Street, Suite 110 Bellingham, WA 98225 ELIZABETH KOSA Telephone: (360) 778-6230 Director FAX: (360) 778-6231 www.whatcomcounty.us MEMORANDUM cc: Dana Brown-Davis Kristi Felbinger Jill Nixon Jennifer Schneider Bennett Knox Erika Douglas John Thompson Paula Harris Kraig Olason Chris Elder Cathy Craver Doug Ranney Melissa Donnelly Roland Middleton Erin Page Josh Fleischmann Mark Personius Tyler Schroeder Sue Sullivan Brandy Reed Whatcom County Marine Resources Committee 2023 Annual Report Prepared by: Austin Rose, Natural Resources Specialist II Dana Flerchinger, Natural Resource Specialist I Whatcom MRC Coordinators Whatcom County Public Works –Natural Resources PUGETSOUND PART NERSHIP 7 county-based Marine Resource Committees ++ Northwest • Straits INITIATIVE Northwest 1 I,. ra·ts V Northwest • ~ .. ..., FOUNDATION The Committee Member Representation Glen (Alex) Alexander Citizen-at-Large Rick Beauregard Scientific Expertise Jim Boyle Conservation/Environmental Elma Burnham Economic Bob Cecile Citizen-at-Large Jackie Dexter Economic Andrew Gamble Economic Kathy Ketteridge Citizen-at-Large Elizabeth Lorence Conservation/Environmental Mike MacKay Scientific Expertise Heather Spore Scientific Expertise Dan Sulak Recreational Paul Troutman Recreational Colin Wahl Conservation/Environmental Alternates, Ex-Officio*, and Staff** Kurt Baumgarten*Port of Bellingham Kaylee Galloway*Whatcom County Council Austin Rose**Whatcom County Public Works- Natural Resources Dana Flerchinger**Whatcom County Public Works- Natural Resources In 2023, Whatcom MRC members and community volunteers contributed 605 volunteer hours. *Estimated value of each volunteer hour in 2023 was $31.80 (independentsector.org). *Value of volunteer hours $19,239 Puget Sound Partnership/EPA $29,000 Washington State $65,000 NOAA $75,846 Whatcom County $21,071 Beach Seine with Kids “It’s important to know that the intertidal habitat is being utilized. Here, in Boulevard Park, in the middle of the city, we have beaches that are being utilized by small salmon.” Mike MacKay, Whatcom MRC Member Lummi Nation School April 14, 2023 Happy Valley Elementary April 28, 2023 Roosevelt Elementary May 15, 2023 Students: 22 (1 class) Catch: 18 chum, 2 sculpin Students: 68 (3 classes) Catch: 2 chinook, 1 coho, 16 chum, 31 shiner perch Students: 68 (3 classes) Catch: 42 chum, 1 chinook Forage Fish Surveys Forage fish intern, Hannah Pittman, collecting sediment samples along a transect at Little Squalicum Beach. Vortex method for separation of eggs from beach sediment. Condensed sediment sample in preservative, ready for analysis. 1 surf smelt egg detected in 2023 3 surf smelt eggs detected in 2023 183 surf smelt eggs detected in 2023 Since this project began in 1972: •The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife have conducted 33,000 forage fish surveys. •MRCs and partners have conducted over 11,000 more. Combined efforts have identified over: •714.57 miles of surf smelt spawning habitat. •135.25 miles of sand lance spawning habitat. “A dataset this large that goes back 50 years is rare and incredibly valuable. This project is part of one of the longest running, continuous datasets in the state and is used daily by regulators and environmental planners.”-Kate Olson, Forage Fish Biologist, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Photo of the proposed nearshore restoration site. Clayton Beach Restoration Fi:g;ure 1. Clayton Beac h, 2023. Phot ograph taken from Larrabee Slate Park, looking Soulh .. Photo : Pacific Marine and E:s1uari:ne Fish Habitat Parmersh ip. ~ • I 2016 2018 2017 2021 2020 2019 2022 2023 3.8 acres 2 beds surveyed 31.9 acres 2 beds surveyed 45.8 acres 4 beds surveyed 55.5 acres 5 beds surveyed 97.6 acres 5 beds surveyed 21.6 acres 4 beds surveyed 37.7 acres 3 beds surveyed 26.89 acres 4 beds surveyed Bull Kelp Surveys .... ······o ...... . ----------- ~------------: ---C _ _....~---- -----___ _____,__ -= Legend 0 .,.. Cherry Po in UG u lf Rd P ·meter Al!l!J Usl 3 , 2023 -(20 .8 ac res) Cherry Po in UG 1.1 lf Rd P ·meter September 10 , 2022 -(27 .31 acres } Cherry Po in UG LJJ lf Rd P ·meter ALJJgust 11 , 2022 (34 .7 ac res -m,a.J( e.J(lent) --Ch erry Po in t Segme nts cneny Pol nl Aq1.1anc Reserve Serv ice Layer Credi1s : Sources: Esr ,. GEBC O. NOAA. National Geo g rap hi c, Garmin .HER E. Geona mes.org . an d other c ontribu to rs Esri, Ga rrTll n . GEBCO. NOAA NGDC . and other <:on tribu1ors Olympia Oyster Restoration 60 50 -40 C :, 0 ::'. 30 ~ > 0 ?O 10 0 2019 Average LIVE Olympia Oyster 2020 2021 2022 202~ \1\.'hatoom MRC Olympi a OysterT@SI Plots -N. Chuckanut Bay Chuckanut Pollution Identification and Correction Th e cre e ks and dit ches in your neighborhood/low d o wnstre am to Chuckanu t Cr:eek and the n into Chuckanut Bay. • • North Chuckanut Bay Cli ud@11 ut Vi lllage In the freshwa ter that flows into North Chuckanut Bay over the past year ... 7 water qu a lity sites are test ed on a routine basis for fecal ba cteria pollutio n 63 water samples were co llect e d and t ested for feca l bacteria pollu ti on •• ••• 2 out of 7 sites met water quality standards In the marine water n Nort h Chuckan ut Bay aver the past year_. 7 water quality sites are test e d on a routine bas is for feca l bacteria pollution 84 wa te r samples were coll ected and t ested for feca l bacte ri a pollution • • I out of 7 s i tes met water quality standards Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring (HABs) Program Phytoplankton samples and environmental conditions are collected from Semiahmoo Marina and Birch Bay Village Marina biweekly from November through February and weekly from March through October. Concurrently, mussel samples are collected and sent to the WA DOH for biotoxin analysis. Phytoplankton samples are analyzed microscopically for HABs species. All environmental and HABs data are reported to SoundToxins. The biotoxin analysis conducted by the WA DOH is used to inform shellfish closure maps. Together, these programs help to ensure safe and effective management of shellfish resources in the Salish Sea. ::-.--·~· .. , ___ , _,... __ ::· :·"' ... :::- , ..... ·-- Eelgrass Surveys at Wildcat Cove, Larrabee State Park Color imagery for Wildcat Cove at ~10:15 on July 14, the day before the opening of crabbing season. Note denuded area through eelgrass created by boat launch activity. Color imagery for Wildcat Cove at ~noon on July 17, two days after the opening of crabbing season. Note wider denuded track through eelgrass created by boat launch activity as well as tracks through the subtidal eelgrass. Color imagery for Wildcat Cove at ~10:00 on July 31. Note wider denuded track through eelgrass created by boat launch activity. Eelgrass Preservation at Wildcat Cove, Larrabee State Park , ; . : • i nath •,.a\e r as, .. ,. ne use esst att th• to \aun i,er• boat about \irnit are\ul ,r~ to acts to sec d•i"•: le ,rn~ -4ou "eh\C. 0 ,e ~out all••·:ie area , ~~agea Derelict Boat Removal Wander Lust 40 ft. fiberglass vessel (1979) History:The United States Coast Guard documented a vessel that washed up on the beach of private property during the winter storms of 2018. Location: The vessel was sitting upright on shoreline vegetation on the Nooksack River Delta, Bellingham Bay in Whatcom County, Aquatic/Conservancy shoreline jurisdiction. It was reported that the vessel was not leaking fluids. Vessel Removal:A land based removal plan was submitted by the contractor. •The area was covered with 20 mil pond liner and geo textile for small debris and was cordoned off 50’ in all directions for safety. •The staging area was provided by Smith gardens. •The vessel was dismantled and removed from the beach via an excavator and tracked dump truck. •The tracked removal vehicle traveled to and from the vessel site to the staging area for removal with dumpsters for disposal. •The engine and all other hazardous fluids or materials found were separated and disposed of in separate containers. •All Best Management Practices (BMPs) were observed and followed. Thank You •Whatcom County Marine Resources Committee members and community volunteers •Whatcom County Council •Whatcom County Executive Sidhu •Port of Bellingham •City of Bellingham •Lummi Nation •Taylor Shellfish •Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife •RE Sources •Bellingham Technical College, •Whatcom Watershed Information Network •Smith Gardens, and many others. The MRC is also grateful for funding and support from the Northwest Straits Commission, Northwest Straits Foundation, Puget Sound Partnership, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Birch Bay , ....... il,.11 ... INGHAM Drayton Harbor Shellfish Recovery and Protection Plan Water Work Session April 16, 2024 Boundary/ Semiahmoo Bay :, ·~ -+-- Birch Bay Legend Drayton Harbor Watershed c:::::J City Limits 0 1.25 2.5 5 ••••c::::====::::J Miles -153 J ....,. N '''""' , .. G, ""'' NPS I A Shellfish Growing Area •Tribal (commercial, ceremonial, subsistence) •Commercial •Recreational •Current status as of April 2022 C3 Drayton Harbor 0 0.75 1.5 Mile s 5 R A • H A R B O R 3 • Classification -Approved -Conditional -Prohibited -Restricted -Unclassified 428 • Sampling Stations • lf1 lI;;rn; Date Updated : 8/4/2022 s • Somes ampling stations are hisj,lighted w ith gr ey box fOf ease of reading . Shellfish Growing Area Classification Changes UPGRADES DOWNGRADES Shellfish Protection District (SPD) •RCW Chapter 90.72 requires county to create a shellfish protection district when shellfish growing areas closed or downgraded •SPD Advisory Committee provides advice on actions to restore water quality •SPD Recovery Plan outlines actions to restore water quality and restore shellfish growing areas Drayton Harbor SPD History 1995 •Shellfish Protection District & Advisory Committee established •Initial closure response plan developed •Work begins to implement program, restore water quality 2007 •Updated shellfish recovery plan adopted •Work continues 2024 •Updated shellfish recovery plan for adoption •Work continues 2024 Shellfish Recovery & Protection Plan Drayto Harbor SHELLFISH RECOVERY AND PROTECTION PLA Wllatcom County Pu b l ic Works-Nat ral Resources Reco m end a ions from Drayton Harbor She II fish Protection Distr' ct Advi so ry Co mmittee I FINAL DRAFT March 2024 I Plan Elements •Background •2024 Recommendations •Program Coordination •Water Quality Monitoring •On-Site Sewage Systems and Human Waste •Urban Areas •Agriculture •Boats and Marinas •Land Development, Protection and Restoration •Community Outreach and Engagement •Progress and Status Report Appendix A: Summary of 2024 Recommendations SECTION Emergin _g Iss ues& O,.,erall P'r ioritii es CATIGORY 1n/a RECOM:MiENJilA TION i;top111'1aticm Growth-Recogn ·z.e tl1 e p.es.sur e ofa grow in g comm unity an cl n e w cle ,,.·e •pment. Enc ourage new developm e m: to oocur outside .semi,t iiVe a r e\3!5 .. Policy Oimat:e Ohaililge -Dei,elop c,•m m:u ity resiliency to d im ate c · ange to protect w a ter q ua ity. Consii cle r mar·e ,e:rt, .. e e weathe r patterns . Pali(¥ llrn adequ at.e llilfrastHJtt,ure -Adcl r ess ,,ul ner,a1b ili,ti'es at agi n g and/or in a clequate, 51!:ormwa ,e r a ncl se\v e. infrasb1Jlctu:re. Policy Comnnuni,ty Engag:ement -lntegrat,e com un ity outreach and engagement into a ll ,elements o ·· .sh.e lltii!S h recovery a n d pr otection p a n. Policy Program N:ev, P'ri:cr ity Ll Combine ind'iv idual shel lfi sh protection d istricts. Polrcy Coordinatiion Continu e cl Prio:rity 1.2 Enc our age broad! r,ep:resentatk1111 ctr stakeholders i lie Ad :\<isary C.omm ittee. Water Quali:ty N:ev, P'ri:cr ity Molilitoring 2 .1 Con.cl ct enh a nc ed monitoring at m ou h of Dra,yto:n Ha rbor. 2 .2 Con.cl . ct oni torin,gwithin e B'laine 11-farl:J or and Semi a h:moo Marin as . Conti nu e cl Prio:rity 2 .3 Contin e to sup;p ort W a shingt•n State Department o f Heal . h vlitil7 am b ient arine m onitoring. :2. Contin e to o•nduct: long-term amb:ient freish w ater monitoring .. 2 .5 Con.tin e to o•n d uct:shol1:-term am b:ient man it ng in fres mwt :er foc i.JS a r e,a!S w it h el:e11ated fecal baa e l'ia c.oncemratio ns. Add it iona l .2 .'6 Con.cl ct w e t season mon· or in g at lceyfr·estiwater a d Rec:ommendaiti•n mar i11 e .sit.es. 2 .7 Contin e to o•ordinate mo ili•r in g and da a sha rin g w it B:ri,t ish Ca u a p a rtne,r;.. 2 .8 C.ond . ct w il dl ife ::1u 111e v.s at ma r i11as. 2 .9 Expa n d opp• un ities or com un ity s.cienoe an cl pa nershi ps witlh a c a d e ic instit ·ans. On-Si:te New Priority 3 .1 Pr iori 'iz.e OSS Ope.atio n a n d Mairaenance PrD§ram in Sh oreline Ma n agement Ar eas and (r iit i:c a l Ar'ee!S to increa!Se c.omp li a nce. Policy Sewage Systems fOSSJ1 &Human Waste llrba n Ar,es,s AgrocuLwre 3..2 Reiii e wregul!a ·an s a:n d re!SO rces: a,,.a, a b le to ene ure adeq ate tre atment ctr h man sie wage i Share me Management Areas an cl Criti cal Areas. Su pport conn ection to sewer w here teasrb e and a pp:ro¥e d by service pr ovider .. Poficy 3 .3 Res oorces fo r unsheltere d o•m m nity members to red e impacts · o w at:er·qua lityin sen::i:t:iv e areas . Ad<'l itkmal 3 . Contin e to ·m p lement OSS Operatio n a d Mai ntenance Recommen dation Program t h:roug;hou t th.e Dray ton Hcarl:Jor 11-taJt:ershed (Ma ri e Rero!/e lf"/ Area). New Priority 3 .5 ln rre:atS e confi rmed OSS evaluatio ns w it h p:ropertv t r ansfer s . 3 .6 En h a ce aoc:ess to OSS h omeow ne:rtra "ni ngs a n d pr ogram assimnoe. 3 .7 Con.tin e to p ro,,.ide fin a ci al assistance pni@rams f o:rOSS evalu a ions, mai nten a oce, and r epai'rs:. 3 .8 Bui ldl oo m u nity resi lienoe to climat e cbange a nd sea, lleitel ris e 'i , pare · ,o OSS in .sens iti ve a r eas.. Policy 4.1 Explore options to r ed c:e the s · el ffis h ha r\fes.tiing d oou re iiooe arot.1nd t e Li ght ho use Po'int W ater Reclcamat io Faci lity outfall on, the, outside o Sem ia h mao Spi . C.ont i nu e cl Priority 4L2 Support City o f Bla ine ollnl!ii ued eiful"l:s to e-.,alua. ,e :an d mak.e improv ements. to m un i:cip a l sewer .syste mc Ad 'd itio n a l 4.3 Retrofit stormwater s vs e ms a n d outfa ll s. Rec:ommen dl.ati•n Co nt i n e el Prio:rity c.t wi t h agric I ure operation!S in foci.JS are.as t · ro. gh .a c o,l lab orative p rooess to support acfo ption o Best Ma n age e nt Pr actices IBMf's). 5 .2 Contin e to p ro,,.idetectm ·ca11 assistan ce a n d in cen,fores for non,..,da ·ry agr ic u , r al op at ion!S hrough W h:a,to•m Con.se r,,a ·on Di!Strictfa r-m p'l a n ner5. 5 .3 C.onti'n e to p ro,,.ide fin a ci al as sistance prog;rams f or ag ri oult u ra I BM Ps . 5 . Con.tin e to ·m p lement · iered process o gain co:mplilance with Critical Areas Ordinan ce for agi'c. lt ura l operati:cns . Advisory Committee Recommendations 2021-2022 •Staff updates on work completed since 2007 •Status updates for 2007 plan objectives & recommendations 2021-2022 •Meetings to hear detailed updates on programs, challenges, gaps •Brainstorming sessions: what’s working, new ideas to fill gaps •Developed new plan sections, draft recommendations 2023-2024 •Refined and prioritized draft recommendations Emerging Issues & Overarching Priorities •Population Growth -Recognize the pressure of a growing community and new development. Encourage new development to occur outside sensitive areas. •Climate Change -Develop community resiliency to climate change to protect water quality. Consider more extreme weather patterns. •Inadequate Infrastructure -Address vulnerabilities of aging and/or inadequate stormwater and sewer infrastructure. •Community Engagement -Integrate community outreach and engagement into all elements of shellfish recovery and protection plan. Program Coordination –New Priority •Joint Shellfish Protection District: Combine individual shellfish protection districts. Water Quality Monitoring –New Priorities •Enhanced Monitoring at Mouth of Harbor:Conduct enhanced monitoring at mouth of Drayton Harbor. •Marina Monitoring:Conduct monitoring within the Blaine Harbor and Semiahmoo Marinas. On-Site Sewage Systems & Human Waste – New Priorities •OSS in Sensitive Areas within Drayton Harbor Watershed: Prioritize OSS Operation and Maintenance Program in Shoreline Management Areas and Critical Areas. •Sewage Management in Sensitive Areas: Review regulations and resources available to ensure adequate treatment of human sewage in Shoreline Management Areas and Critical Areas. Support connection to sewer where feasible and approved by service provider. •Unmanaged Human Waste:Resources for unsheltered community members to reduce impacts to water quality in sensitive areas. Urban Areas –New Priority •Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility Outfall: Explore options to reduce the shellfish harvesting closure zone around the Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility outfall on the outside of Semiahmoo Spit. Boats & Marinas –New Priorities •Voluntary No-Anchor Zone:Research and evaluate options for a voluntary no-anchor zone in portions of Drayton Harbor adjacent to shellfish growing areas. •Trespass Anchoring:Monitor and report illegal anchoring in Drayton Harbor. •Maximize Available Resources: Maximize available resources to implement existing programs and regulations that promote safe and sustainable marina traffic. Land Development, Restoration, & Protection –New Priorities •Protect and Restore Riparian Areas:Protect and restore riparian areas (stream and marine). •Preserve and Conserve Eelgrass Meadows: Preserve and conserve eelgrass meadows in Drayton Harbor Community Outreach & Engagement – New Priorities •Maximize Existing Partnerships: Maximize community partnerships in work to protect shared natural and water resources. Questions & Comments Pollution Identification & Correction (PIC) Program Agricultural Cost Share Program Update Water Work Session April 16, 2024 •Identify sources of fecal bacteria pollution in shellfish growing areas •Address or “correct” those sources •Improve water quality to allow safe shellfish harvest in our community PIC Program Overview Ag Cost Share Program Overview •Started 2014 •Managed by Whatcom Conservation District (WCD) •Helps landowners take action to keep agricultural sources of bacteria out of waterways •Available in watersheds draining to shellfish growing areas •Fills a gap between small federal grant-funded rebates ($300) and larger state-federal grants •Whatcom County funded ($21,000/year from flood fund) Shellfish Growing Area Watersheds Ag Cost Share Program Requirements •Work with WCD farm planners and develop a farm plan required •Approved best management practice (BMP) •Landowners completes work, applies for cost share reimbursement •Landowners pay 25%+ (labor, materials) •Maximum cost share $3,000 Types of Projects •Manure storage facilities •Fencing •Heavy Use Area •Rainwater management •Other as recommended by farm planners Exclusion Fencing Before Before After Roof Water Management and Underground Outlet Before After Heavy Use Area Before After After Program Change –Cost Share Increase •$3,000 to $4,500 maximum cost share •Same 25% match •Same $21,000/year budget •Same $3,000 maximum since 2014 •Significant increased cost to install: labor & materials •Consistent with grant-funded small farm rebate increase $200 →$300 •Reduced interest in participation •Projects installed to lower standard Questions & Comments Whatcom County Marine Resources Committee 2023 Annual Report 2 About The Whatcom Marine Resources Committee (MRC) In 2023, Whatcom MRC members and community volunteers contributed 605 volunteer hours. *Estimated value of each volunteer hour in 2023 was $31.80 (independentsector.org). NOAA $75,846 *Value of volunteer hours $19,239 The Whatcom Marine Resources Committee (MRC) is one of seven citizen-based committees in the Northwest Straits Region that exist to protect, preserve, and restore the marine environment. The MRC’s purpose is to utilize up-to-date information and scientific expertise to guide local communities in achieving important goals for marine habitat protection within the Northwest Straits. The Whatcom MRC’s mission is to revitalize and preserve Whatcom County’s marine resources for future generations. In 2023, the Whatcom MRC received funding from Washington State, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through grants administered by the Northwest Straits Commission. Whatcom County supplemented funding to support administrative duties and lab analysis of water quality samples. Puget Sound Partnership/EPA $29,000 Washington State $65,000 Whatcom County $21,071 3 The Committee Member Representation Glen (Alex) Alexander Citizen-at-Large Rick Beauregard Scientific Expertise Jim Boyle Conservation/Environmental Elma Burnham Economic Bob Cecile Citizen-at-Large Jackie Dexter Economic Andrew Gamble Economic Kathy Ketteridge Citizen-at-Large Elizabeth Lorence Conservation/Environmental Mike MacKay Scientific Expertise Heather Spore Scientific Expertise Dan Sulak Recreational Paul Troutman Recreational Colin Wahl Conservation/Environmental Alternates, Ex-Officio*, and Staff** Kurt Baumgarten* Port of Bellingham Kaylee Galloway* Whatcom County Council Austin Rose** Whatcom County Public Works- Natural Resources Dana Flerchinger** Whatcom County Public Works- Natural Resources 4 Beach Seine with Kids The MRC continued the Beach Seine with Kids program that provides elementary students with an opportunity to observe juvenile salmon utilizing intertidal habitat along the shoreline, improving students’ understanding of the importance of these migratory corridors. MAIN ACTIVITIES Applications were sent to 4th grade classrooms in the Bellingham School District and in the Lummi Nation School. Three schools, including Lummi Nation School, Happy Valley Elementary, and Roosevelt Elementary, were chosen to participate based on the program’s relevance to the existing educational goals for the students. 158 students participated! Each field event was preceded by a short talk by a Tribal Elder or marine scientist, who discussed the ecological and cultural importance of salmon. Prior to and following each field event, an MRC member visited the classrooms of participating students to provide information on beach seining, the Bellingham shoreline, and the importance of intertidal habitats. Because of the large class sizes, the groups at each field event were split into two teams. Half of the group played an educational activity led by Salish Sea Conservation Corps (SSCC) interns, while the other half observed the beach seine. The groups then switched activities. Catch data were shared with the Lummi Tribe and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at the end of the project period. “It’s important to know that the intertidal habitat is being utilized. Here, in Boulevard Park, in the middle of the city, we have beaches that are being utilized by small salmon.” Mike MacKay, Whatcom MRC Member Lummi Nation School April 14, 2023 Happy Valley Elementary April 28, 2023 Roosevelt Elementary May 15, 2023 Students: 22 (1 class) Catch: 18 chum, 2 sculpin Students: 68 (3 classes) Catch: 2 chinook, 1 coho, 16 chum, 31 shiner perch Students: 68 (3 classes) Catch: 42 chum, 1 chinook Photo: Google Earth. Boulevard Park, Bellingham: Beach Seine Sites 5 Forage Fish Surveys The MRC participates in a regional effort to characterize populations of two species of forage fish that spawn on beaches in the Salish Sea: Pacific sand lance and surf smelt. Since this project began in 1972: The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife have conducted 33,000 forage fish surveys. MRCs and partners have conducted over 11,000 more. Combined efforts have identified over: 714.57 miles of surf smelt spawning habitat. 135.25 miles of sand lance spawning habitat. “A dataset this large that goes back 50 years is rare and incredibly valuable. This project is part of one of the longest running, continuous datasets in the state and is used daily by regulators and environmental planners.” MAIN ACTIVITIES Following protocols developed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), surveys are conducted monthly when the tide is below 5 ft. A bulk sediment sample is collected and condensed to concentrate the fish eggs. WDFW conducts lab analysis and egg identification. The MRC hires and trains an intern annually to lead the surveys. The intern coordinates volunteers, processes samples, and communicates with WDFW. - Kate Olson, Forage Fish Biologist, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Forage fish intern, Hannah Pittman, collecting sediment samples along a transect at Little Squalicum Beach. Condensed sediment sample in preservative, ready for analysis. Vortex method for separation of eggs from beach sediment. 3 surf smelt eggs detected in 2023 183 surf smelt eggs detected in 2023 1 surf smelt egg detected in 2023 6 Clayton Beach Restoration In partnership with the Northwest Straits Foundation (NWSF), the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Washington State Parks, and the Skagit MRC, the Whatcom MRC is working to improve the nearshore environment at Clayton Beach for marine species and the public. Project Description In 2023, DNR and the NWSF conducted a feasibility study to assess the potential of removing 1,300 linear feet of armoring rock and remnant wood pilings from the nearshore at Clayton Beach. During this study, a large unvegetated offshore dredge hole was also assessed for restoration potential. Much of the nearshore debris and the dredge hole resulted from construction of an interurban electric trolley that has since been removed. The goals of this proposed restoration are to restore native eelgrass vegetation and the nearshore environment, contributing to more suitable habitat for marine and shoreline species as well as improved public accessibility. In August of 2023, a site visit to Clayton Beach was conducted with Congressman Rick Larsen, Skagit and Whatcom MRC members, NW Straits staff, State Parks staff, Herrera consultants, WA Department of Fish and Wildlife staff, and Sinclair representatives to discuss the scope of the proposed restoration project. In preparation for the proposed restoration, the Whatcom and Skagit MRCs have partnered to conduct pre restoration forage fish surveys at the site. The forage fish surveys began in October of 2023. Photo of the proposed nearshore restoration site. Figure from DNR’s 2023 Clayton Beach Eelgrass and Dredge Hole Investigation report showing bathymetry of the offshore dredge hole (gray), eelgrass presence (green), and the location of the nearshore restoration zone (orange) at Clayton Beach. August 2023 Clayton Beach Site Visit. 7 Bull Kelp Surveys The MRC supports a regional kelp monitoring program to provide a better understanding of kelp distribution, bed sizes, speciation, and health within the Salish Sea. 2016 2022 2017 2021 2020 2019 3.8 acres 2 beds surveyed 31.9 acres 2 beds surveyed 45.8 acres 4 beds surveyed 55.5 acres 5 beds surveyed 97.6 acres 5 beds surveyed 37.7 acres 3 beds surveyed 21.6 acres 4 beds surveyed MAIN ACTIVITIES Kelp beds are monitored at least once annually during the July-September growing season at four locations throughout Whatcom County including Aiston Preserve, Southwest Lummi Island, Cherry Point/Gulf Rd, and Point Whitehorn. Volunteers use GPS units to track the perimeter of the beds, the start/end points, and the outer/shoreline edge points. Volunteers also collect temperature and depth data. Data are collected within specific spatial locations that are returned to each year for the surveys. RESULTS/IMPACTS In 2023, the kelp beds surveyed appeared healthy, but were slightly narrower in perimeter as compared to previous survey years. Kelp data collected during these surveys are a key part of the Washington State floating kelp indicator and synthesis of floating kelp in our region. 2023 26.89 acres 4 beds surveyed 2018 8 Pilot Olympia Oyster Restoration The MRC is working to establish a self-sustaining population of Olympia oysters to enhance habitat complexity and diversity. Physical and biological data are gathered annually to determine the status of restoration potential in North Chuckanut Bay. HISTORY In 2016, staff from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife identified seven pilot plots (including one reference plot) as suitable to plant seeded cultch in North Chuckanut Bay. In 2018, approximately 95,000 Olympia oyster cultch on Pacific oyster shell were spread within the identified test plots. MAIN ACTIVITIES Annual monitoring events take place in May to evaluate oyster retention and habitat changes. Monitoring is conducted with help from Bellingham Technical College (BTC) Fisheries and Aquaculture Program students. Each year, the MRC places two bags of seasoned Pacific oyster shell (approximately 50 shells/ plot), donated by Taylor Shellfish, within the test plots to monitor natural recruitment of larvae against shell substrate. The MRC also monitors monthly larval settlement during the summer using ceramic tiles. There is a clear decline in Olympia oyster population growth and retention within the established pilot restoration plots. The fine sediments that comprise North Chuckanut Bay may not provide ideal Olympia oyster habitat. However, the MRC will continue to find adequate substrate and pile shells more densely to increase retention and survival. 9 Chuckanut Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) Program In partnership with local and state agencies, the MRC continued their PIC project in North Chuckanut Bay by participating in education and outreach to promote healthy water quality and by conducting water quality monitoring and data reporting on a monthly basis. HISTORY North Chuckanut Bay is a recreational shellfish harvesting area that supports many species of clams. Due to concerns about bacterial contamination, the bay has been closed to shellfish harvest for 30 years. In 2014, the MRC began working with Whatcom County Public Works, Whatcom County Health and Community Services, and the Washington Department of Health (DOH) to begin a PIC project in the area. To protect water quality, WA state has criteria for bacteria levels in both fresh and marine waters. The MRC conducts monthly water quality monitoring in the marine water and in the freshwater systems flowing into the bay. RESULTS/IMPACTS For the shellfish standard in marine waters, two water quality criteria must be met; A geometric mean of less than 14 fecal coliform (FC) organisms per 100 mL and an estimated 90th percentile of less than 43 FC organisms per 100 mL. The geomean demonstrates the central tendency of the water quality distribution while the 90th percentile demonstrates variability within the water quality distribution. The graphs show that the majority of marine sites meet the geomean standard, but do not meet 90th percentile standard. Based on sampling and analysis from 2023, the MRC plans to focus efforts on reopening the northwest shoreline of the bay for shellfish harvest. Water quality in this area continues to show improvements and provides more suitable substrate for shellfish than other areas of the bay. 10 Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring (HABs) Program The MRC began supporting a new project that involves monitoring for harmful algal blooms (HABs) in north Whatcom County. This data provides important information to management agencies and scientists to effectively manage shellfish closures for public safety. HISTORY Harmful algae threaten water quality, shellfish, and fisheries throughout Washington State. Damaging effects have been seen on local communities, ecosystems, and economies, with impacts occurring earlier and extending later into the year. In 2006, an organization called SoundToxins was created to monitor phytoplankton throughout the Salish Sea to better predict HABs events and to provide early detection alerts to the Washington State Department of Heath (WA DOH) to better manage marine resources. The SoundToxins monitoring network, managed by Washington Sea Grant, monitors over 3 dozen sites for HABs throughout the Salish Sea, but lacked data for north Whatcom County where high levels of paralytic shellfish toxin have been observed in the past. This project fills that data gap by providing HABs monitoring data to more effectively manage shellfish resources in north Whatcom County. Main Activities Phytoplankton samples and environmental conditions are collected from Semiahmoo Marina and Birch Bay Village Marina biweekly from November through February and weekly from March through October. Concurrently, mussel samples are collected and sent to the WA DOH for biotoxin analysis. Phytoplankton samples are analyzed microscopically for HABs species. All environmental and HABs data are reported to SoundToxins. The biotoxin analysis conducted by the WA DOH is used to inform shellfish closure maps. Together, these programs help to ensure safe and effective management of shellfish resources in the Salish Sea. 11 Eelgrass Surveys The MRC led an assessment of eelgrass extent and condition to inform subsequent potential actions to protect the eelgrass in Wildcat Cove. The Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conducted boat-based surveys to determine eelgrass extent and bathymetry within Wildcat Cove. Data were collected at 10 m transects within the cove, with a focus zone of 3 m transects near the boat launch to better determine eelgrass extent surrounding the most heavily utilized portion of the cove. Western Washington University conducted four drone flights from July-August to capture aerial imagery of eelgrass extent throughout Wildcat Cove prior to and throughout the crabbing season. Comparison of eelgrass extent throughout the survey period demonstrated that boat launch activities within Wildcat Cove reduced eelgrass cover in and around the boat launch. Eelgrass Surveys at Wildcat Cove, Larrabee State Park Wildcat Cove is located in Larrabee State Park and includes a popular public boat launch that is heavily used during the open crabbing season. When boaters utilize the boat launch at low tide, their vehicles and boat trailers drive over eelgrass beds within the cove, damaging the fragile habitat. Eelgrass is a sensitive and important keystone species in the Salish Sea that provides habitat for important fishery species and helps prevent shoreline erosion by stabilizing sediments with its roots. Color imagery for Wildcat Cove at ~10:15 on July 14, the day before the opening of crabbing season. Note denuded area through eelgrass created by boat launch activity. Color imagery for Wildcat Cove at ~noon on July 17, two days after the opening of crabbing season. Note wider denuded track through eelgrass created by boat launch activity as well as tracks through the subtidal eelgrass. Color imagery for Wildcat Cove at ~10:00 on July 31. Note wider denuded track through eelgrass created by boat launch activity. 12 Main Activities Through observations of, interviews with, and surveys of boat launch users, Peak Sustainability determined key messaging strategies that could foster a voluntary reduction of boat launch users driving onto eelgrass beds within Wildcat Cove. The data collected by Peak Sustainability demonstrated that “messages centered around an actionable step, in this case, checking tide charts, supplemented by appeals to conserving eelgrass and thereby local wildlife (like herring, salmon, and crab), is a compelling campaign that resonates with boaters.” These messages were utilized by a subcontractor, Shew Design, to construct simple, accessible, and visually engaging messages to encourage boaters to make choices to benefit themselves and the habitat. The social marketing materials, including those shown below, will be implemented in Wildcat Cove during 2024. Eelgrass Preservation at Wildcat Cove, Larrabee State Park The MRC worked with the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission and Peak Sustainability, a social marketing consultant, to develop a social marketing campaign to help boaters reduce and avoid damage caused to eelgrass beds during boat launching activities. Education about the importance of eelgrass to the local ecosystem was used to frame the development of the social marketing campaign. 13 Derelict Boat Removal In 2023, the Northwest Straits Commission formed a working group made up of MRC members and tribal partners to guide a collaborative effort to prioritize the removal of abandoned and/or derelict vessels of concern within MRC counties. This workgroup partnered with the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Derelict Vessel Removal Program (DVRP) to target derelict vessels impacting the nearshore environment, cultural and treaty rights, and recreational resources. Wander Lust 40 ft. fiberglass vessel (1979) History: The United States Coast Guard documented a vessel that washed up on the beach of private property during the winter storms of 2018. Location: The vessel was sitting upright on shoreline vegetation on the Nooksack River Delta, Bellingham Bay in Whatcom County, Aquatic/ Conservancy shoreline jurisdiction. It was reported that the vessel was not leaking fluids. Vessel Removal: A land based removal plan was submitted by the contractor. The area was covered with 20 mil pond liner and geo textile for small debris and was cordoned off 50’ in all directions for safety. The staging area was provided by Smith gardens. The vessel was dismantled and removed from the beach via an excavator and tracked dump truck. The tracked removal vehicle traveled to and from the vessel site to the staging area for removal with dumpsters for disposal. The engine and all other hazardous fluids or materials found were separated and disposed of in separate containers. All Best Management Practices (BMPs) were observed and followed. 14 Thank You Thank you to our Whatcom County Marine Resources Committee members and community volunteers—your dedication to protecting and restoring the marine and nearshore environment is making a difference in Whatcom County. We would also like to recognize the ongoing support from our partners, including Whatcom County Council and Whatcom County Executive Sidhu, Port of Bellingham, City of Bellingham, Lummi Nation, Taylor Shellfish, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, RE Sources, Bellingham Technical College, the Whatcom Watershed Information Network, Smith Gardens, and many others. These contributions include staff time, guidance, materials, and general support for MRC projects. The MRC is also grateful for funding and support from the Northwest Straits Commission, Northwest Straits Foundation, Puget Sound Partnership, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). How you can get involved: Attend monthly MRC meetings. Volunteer on local projects. Sign up for the Northwest Straits Commission newsletter. When/where are meetings held: Regular meetings are open to the public and are currently being held virtually (hybrid format quarterly), 5:00-7:00PM the first Thursday of each month. Visit the website to find the most up-to-date details: www.whatcomcountymrc.org How to reach us: Contact Austin Rose arose@co.whatcom.wa.us Map created by: Peter Gill, Whatcom County