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Home My WebLink AboutAgenda 07_SP-21-042_705 Spear_UVM Gravel Wetland#SP-21-042 Staff Comments 1 CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD SP-21-042_705 Spear_UVM Gravel Wetland_2021-10-19 DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ZONING Report preparation date: October 5, 2021 Application received: September 27, 2021 705 Spear Street Site Plan Application #SP-21-042 Meeting date: January 20, 2021 Owner/Applicant The University of Vermont & State Agricultural College 16 Colchester Avenue Burlington, VT 0505 Engineer Krebs & Lansing Consulting Engineers 164 Main Street, Suite 201 Colchester, VT 05446 Property Information Tax Parcel ID 1640-00699 Institutional & Agricultural South Zoning District Project Location #SP-21-42 Staff Comments 2 PROJECT DESCRPTION Site plan application #SP-21-042 of University of Vermont & State Agricultural College to add stormwater treatment to a previously approved plan for a research and educational facility. The plan includes encroachment into a class II wetland and wetland buffer, 705 Spear Street. PERMIT HISTORY & CONTEXT The Project most recently received approval in 1971 for a US Dept of Agriculture research lab. That use has continued. This application seeks to establish an updated site plan and to permit construction of a gravel wetland. The project is located in It is located in the Institutional and Agricultural South Zoning District. COMMENTS Planning Director Paul Conner and Development Review Planner Marla Keene (“Staff”) have reviewed the plans submitted on 12/8/2020 and offer the following comments. Numbered items for the Board’s attention are in red. A) ZONING DISTRICT & DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS Setbacks, Coverages & Lot Dimensions No new building or impervious surfaces are proposed, therefore no change in compliance with dimensional standards will occur. Zoning District Requirements No changes affecting compliance with the zoning district standards apply. Zoning district standards pertain to buffers between structures and non-residential zoning districts, and to educational support facilities. B) 12.02 WETLAND PROTECTION As noted above, there is an existing Class II wetland and associated 50-foot wetland buffer located on the site. There are 60 sf of direct wetland impacts and 760 sf of wetland buffer impacts, both associated with the outlet of the proposed gravel wetland. E. Standards for Wetlands Protection (2) Encroachment into Class II wetlands is permitted by the City only in conjunction with issuance of a Conditional Use Determination (CUD) by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation and positive findings by the DRB pursuant to the criteria in (3) below. The applicant has obtained coverage under wetlands general permit 3-9026 for water quality improvement projects in significant wetlands and buffers. Staff considers this criterion met. (3) Encroachment into Class II wetland buffers, Class III wetlands and Class III wetland buffers, may be permitted by the DRB upon finding that the proposed project’s overall development, erosion control, stormwater treatment system, provisions for stream buffering, and landscaping plan achieve the following standards for wetland protection: (a) The encroachment(s) will not adversely affect the ability of the property to carry or store flood waters adequately; #SP-21-42 Staff Comments 3 The purpose of the encroachment is to allow discharge of a gravel wetland. While the purpose of a gravel wetland is primarily to provide stormwater treatment and not detention, some moderate reduction of runoff may occur during smaller storm events. Staff considers the limited size of the encroachment relative to the size of the impacted wetland, combined with the purpose of the impact, to be adequately protective of flood storage and conveyance capacity. Staff considers this criterion met. (b) The encroachment(s) will not adversely affect the ability of the proposed stormwater treatment system to reduce sedimentation according to state standards; Staff interprets this criterion to mean that the encroachment shall not adversely impact the erosion of sediment. Staff considers that since the stormwater system is designed to improve water quality, this criterion is met. (c) The impact of the encroachment(s) on the specific wetland functions and values identified in the field delineation and wetland report is minimized and/or offset by appropriate landscaping, stormwater treatment, stream buffering, and/or other mitigation measures. Of the ten wetland functions and values, the provided wetland evaluation form indicates the impacted wetland exhibits high values for 1) water storage for flood water and storm runoff, 2) surface & ground water protection, and 3) wildlife habitat. Functions are present for fish habitat and erosion control. The proposed gravel wetland will improve water quality runoff into the wetland. An appropriate erosion prevention and sediment control plan has been prepared to minimize sedimentation during construction. Staff considers the project will result in a net benefit to the watershed and the wetland and considers this criterion met. C) SITE PLAN REVIEW STANDARDS Section 14.06 of the South Burlington Land Development Regulations establishes the following general review standards for all site plan applications. Staff has not completed a review of the existing site’s compliance with these site plan review standards and has instead focused solely on those elements which are proposed to change. This should not be taken to imply that the site is in full compliance with existing site plan standards. Any nonconforming structures or uses may continue as described in LDR 3.11. A. Relationship of Proposed Development to the City of South Burlington Comprehensive Plan. Due attention by the applicant should be given to the goals and objectives and the stated land use policies for the City of South Burlington as set forth in the Comprehensive Plan. The project is located in the Southwest Quadrant in the Comprehensive Plan. Staff considers the proposed gravel wetland consistent with the established uses in the area. B. Relationship of Proposed Structures to the Site. (1) The site shall be planned to accomplish a desirable transition from structure to site, from structure to structure, and to provide for adequate planting, safe pedestrian movement, and adequate parking areas. Planting is discussed below. Staff considers the remainder of this criterion met. (2) Parking: (a) Parking shall be located to the rear or sides of buildings. Any side of a building facing #SP-21-42 Staff Comments 4 a public street shall be considered a front side of a building for the purposes of this subsection. No changes to parking are proposed. While there appear to be non-compliant parking spaces, Staff considers the proposed site modifications to not warrant rectifying this non- compliance. (3) Without restricting the permissible limits of the applicable zoning district, the height and scale of each building shall be compatible with its site and existing or anticipated adjoining buildings. No changes to the building are proposed. Staff considers this criterion met. C. Relationship of Structures and Site to Adjoining Area. (1) The Development Review Board shall encourage the use of a combination of common materials and architectural characteristics (e.g., rhythm, color, texture, form or detailing), landscaping, buffers, screens and visual interruptions to create attractive transitions between buildings of different architectural styles. (2) Proposed structures shall be related harmoniously to themselves, the terrain and to existing buildings and roads in the vicinity that have a visual relationship to the proposed structures. No changes to the building are proposed. Staff considers the proposed gravel wetland does not detract from compliance with these criteria. In addition to the above general review standards, site plan applications shall meet the following specific standards as set forth in Section 14.07 of the Land Development Regulations: A. Access to Abutting Properties. The reservation of land may be required on any lot for provision of access to abutting properties whenever such access is deemed necessary to reduce curb cuts onto an arterial or collector street, to provide additional access for emergency or other purposes, or to improve general access and circulation in the area. No changes to access are proposed. Staff considers the proposed gravel wetland does not detract from compliance with this criterion. B. Utility Services. Electric, telephone and other wire-served utility lines and service connections shall be underground. Any utility installations remaining above ground shall be located so as to have a harmonious relation to neighboring properties and to the site. No changes are proposed to the existing wire served utilities. Staff considers the proposed gravel wetland does not detract from compliance with this criterion. C. Disposal of Wastes. All dumpsters and other facilities to handle solid waste, including compliance with any recycling or other requirements, shall be accessible, secure and properly screened with opaque fencing to ensure that trash and debris do not escape the enclosure(s). Screening and enclosure of dumpsters is required under this section and Section 13.06C(1) of the LDR. As site amenities, they are subject to review and meeting current standards of the LDR and are not exempted as pre-existing non-conformities. Waste enclosures, lighting fixtures, and bicycle racks are required to be added to a site plan and installed as part of a site plan application. #SP-21-42 Staff Comments 5 1. Staff recommends the Board require the plans be revised to show enclosure / screening of dumpsters pursuant to this subsection and Section 13.06(C)(1) as a condition of approval. D. Landscaping and Screening Requirements. (See Article 13, Section 13.06) Pursuant to Section 13.06(A) of the proposed Land Development Regulations, landscaping and screening shall be required for all projects subject to site plan review. The applicant is not proposing any building improvements therefore no additional landscaping is required. They are proposing to remove one existing 16-inch walnut tree and potentially impact an existing 24-inch maple. Since these trees were not on a previously approved site plan, there is no requirement they be retained. 2. However, Staff recommends the Board discuss with the applicant potentially rerouting the outfall of the proposed gravel wetland in order to preserve these two mature trees. 13.06B(6) Snow storage areas must be specified and located in an area that minimizes the potential for erosion and contaminated runoff into any adjacent or nearby surface waters. 3. Snow storage has not been indicated on the plan. Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to identify snow storage areas prior to closing the hearing, but considers the plan may be amended as a condition of approval. E. Modification of Standards Staff considers no modification of standards is necessary. F. Low Impact Development. The use of low impact site design strategies that minimize site disturbance, and that integrate structures, landscaping, natural hydrologic functions, and various other techniques to minimize runoff from impervious surfaces and to infiltrate precipitation into underlying soils and groundwater as close as is reasonable practicable to where it hits the ground, is required pursuant to the standards contained within Article 12. The City stormwater section reviewed the plans on 10/12/2021 and had no comments on the application. The purpose of the project is to capture and treat existing impervious surfaces from Spear Street, the adjacent recreation path, and the impervious driveways of the facility. 4. The gravel wetland is proposed to be lined with an impervious liner. Staff recommends the Board ask the applicant why the gravel wetland is not allowed to infiltrate. G. Standards for Roadways, Parking and Circulation. Standards of Section 15.12 Standards for Roadways, Parking, and Circulation shall be met. No changes to roadways, parking and circulation are proposed. Staff considers the proposed gravel wetland does not detract from compliance with this criterion. D) OTHER Lighting Section 13.07 of the Land Development Regulations addresses exterior lighting as follows. A. General Requirements. All exterior lighting for all uses in all districts except for one-family and two-family uses shall be of such a type and location and shall have such shielding as will direct the light downward and will prevent the source of light from being visible from #SP-21-42 Staff Comments 6 any adjacent residential property or street. Light fixtures that are generally acceptable are illustrated in Appendix D. “Source of light” shall be deemed to include any transparent or translucent lighting that is an integral part of the lighting fixture(s). Site illumination for uncovered areas shall be evenly distributed. Where feasible, energy efficient lighting is encouraged. The lighting must meet the downcast and shielded requirement prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the project. Bicycle Parking Pursuant to 13.14, existing facilities must provide at least 50% of the required number of short term bicycle parking spaces at the time of the first site plan for the property after the effective date of the bicycle parking requirements being adopted. 5. Educational facilities are required to provide one space per 20 students. Staff recommends the Board ask the applicant to calculate the number of required bicycle parking spaces and demonstrate that number has been provided. Existing racks may only be applied towards the requirement if they are of certain types. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Board work with the applicant to address the issues identified herein. Respectfully submitted, Marla Keene, Development Review Planner DEPARTMENT of PLANNING, DESIGN and CONSTRUCTION Planning ɇ16 Colchester Avenue ɇ Burlington, VT 05405 ɇ (802) 656-3208 ɇ plan@uvm.edu Design and Construction ɇ31 Spear Street ɇ Marsh Hall Suite 10 ɇ Burlington, VT 05405 ɇ (802) 656-3291 ɇ arch@uvm.edu To: Marla Keene, PE Development Review Planner City of South Burlington Planning & Zoning Department 575 Dorset Street South Burlington VT, 05403 September 3, 2021 Re: Application for Site Plan Review for Constructed Gravel Wetland at 705 Spear Street Dear Marla, As part of the University's obligations in the 2016 Potash Brook Flow Restoration Plan (FRP), the University of Vermont is planning to construct a gravel wetland to improve stormwater treatment within the watershed. This will be sited in a lawn area northwest of the facility buildings and parking areas. The design impacts small portions of the wetland buffers and about 60 s.f. of actual wetland for the new outfall pipe. This qualifies as a storm water retro fit under GP 3-9026, and has been registered with the State Wetlands Program under permit 2020-472. This project is a result of collaboration between the City and the University of Vermont, to improve the overall water quality in the Potash Brook watershed, and within the City of South Burlington. The stormwater outfall pipe extends into the woods area and will subsequently require some minor clearing of a single mature tree and some woody brush. This project has already received Low Risk Construction General Permit 7212-9020.5 for the earth disturbance activities. This constructed gravel wetland will accept storm water from the nearby parking lot as well as from about 7,500 s.f. of public ROW on Spear Street and the shared use path before flowing into the nearby tributary of Potash Brook. There will be no other changes at 705 Spear Street, as part of this project. There will be no change in impervious area of roads, parking lots or buildings. There will be no changes to utilities or any other development presently existing on this parcel. We request a waiver for the list of adjoining landowners, similar to what was previously accepted for a recent Act 250 permit application, as follows: 1. I-189 is a significant barrier, so we would like to include the adjoining landowners that are north of the interstate highway, where 705 Spear Street is located, and exclude the landowners south of I-189. 2. Neighbors on Joy Drive, to the west of 705 Spear Street, have a condominium association, and Beth Nichols, of BAM Property Management, is the property management agent. She has told me that she will distribute the material sent to her, to all the condominium owners, aside from the five that are included in the list of adjoining property owners, who have expressed their desire to get the material directly. 3. With the above exceptions, please see the attached list of adjoining landowners. This property is owned by the University of Vermont. There are no easements or restrictions on the lot. The Aiken Forestry Research Complex, at 705 Spear Street, abuts further University property to the north. We request that only the property at 705 Spear Street be a part of this application. We have noted the UVM boundaries to the east, south and west of this property, and the boundary of 705 Spear Street to the north, even though the property to the north of this line is also owned by the University of Vermont. Outdoor storage: There are dumpsters to the west of the garage building. These are screened from all public right of ways by existing vegetation and existing buildings. There is a small storage shed on the property. There are some research related items stored to the north of the research field. None of these will be changed or impacted as a result of this proposed project. Bike racks are located under an overhang of the Forestry Research Headhouse. Utilities: Solar panels are visible on the site plan, as are existing light poles. Equipment for the solar panels is located indoors, in the main building. There is no dedicated snow storage site. Snow is just pushed to the side of the parking lots, as necessary. There will be no changes to existing utilities as a result of this project. This project will not create any change in existing traffic. Estimated cost of all site improvements: $95,000. We would like to complete this work in the Fall of 2021. Earthwork: There will be 1000 yards of material hauled out. 444 tons or 635 yards of stone will be imported in with also 65 tons or 43 yards of gravel. The top soil will be rototilled and stockpiled and reused on site. This project will not change any of the existing facilities at 705 Spear Street. These facilities have been in existence for many years. The University requests waivers for the following items, since they are not part of the proposed project and will have no effect on the proposed stormwater improvement: x Lot area and lot coverage, since there will be no change to existing. x Utility plans that are not related to the proposed constructed gravel wetland. x Lighting plan; there is no change to existing lighting. x Detailed listing of existing vegetation that is not in the project vicinity; existing vegetation that will be impacted is detailed. x Submittal requirements regarding buildings: this project will not impact or change any buildings on site. x Existing and proposed water and wastewater usage; no change is planned to existing systems. x Location and design of all utility distribution facilities; these will not be affected by project. Please let me know if you would like any further information about this project. I can be reached at (802) 656-3217 or via email, at Lani.Ravin@uvm.edu. Thank you, Lani Ravin, AICP Associate Planner Attachments: x Site Plan Application x Wetlands Non-Reporting General Permit 3-9026 x 2020-472 Wetland Registration Approval x Permit # 7212-9020.5 x List of Adjoining Landowners x HydroCad model x Gravel Wetland Worksheet x Standards Compliance Workbook x SP-F1 Overall Site Plan x SP-F2 Stormwater Site Plan x SP-F3 Overall Stormwater Plan x SP-F4 Existing Conditions x CD-1 Civil Details x CD-2 Civil Details Thank you, Lani Ravin AICP ,17(567$7(63($5675((7 86'$)25(676(59,&(6&,(1&(/$%63($56786'$)25(676(59,&(+($'+286(63($5676RXWK%XUOLQJWRQ9HUPRQW14199\DWGS\UVM-Potash WS.dwg)RUHVW6HUYLFHV2YHUDOO6LWH3ODQ63)81,9(56,7<RI9(502173RWDVK%URRN:DWHUVKHG0DLQ6WUHHW6XLWH 3&ROFKHVWHU9HUPRQW ZZZNUHEVDQGODQVLQJFRP&,9,/(1*,1((58QLYHUVLW\RI9HUPRQW($67$9(18(%85/,1*7219(502173URMHFW0DQDJHU6FRWW*RRGZLQ3K\VLFDO3ODQW'HSDUWPHQW &ODVV,O:HWODQGEXIIHU3URSRVHG*UDYHO:HWODQG6,7( [[[[[[[[[3URSRVHG*UDYHO:HWODQG ORQJ[ 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ZZZNUHEVDQGODQVLQJFRP&,9,/(1*,1((58QLYHUVLW\RI9HUPRQW($67$9(18(%85/,1*7219(502173URMHFW0DQDJHU6FRWW*RRGZLQ3K\VLFDO3ODQW'HSDUWPHQW6RXWK%XUOLQJWRQ9HUPRQW81,9(56,7<RI9(502173RWDVK%URRN:DWHUVKHG(URVLRQ3UHYHQWLRQDQG6HGLPHQW&RQWURO1RWHV:LQWHU&RQVWUXFWLRQ5HTXLUHPHQWV2FWREHUWK$SULOWK '(37+2)7<3(,6721(3(59763(&0,5$),1)$%5,&81'(5$1'726,'(62)6721('((37<3(,6721(3(59763(&67250:$7(5)/2:3/$1&52666(&7,2167250:$7(5287)$//'(7$,/176+'3((1'6(&7,21 0,1 0,13529,'(/,3/(9(/635($'(5$7(1'2)287)$// MEMORANDUM To: Derick Read, P.E. Date: 10/12/21 From: Dori Barton, Wetland Ecologist Re: UVM Forestry Research Facility Wetland Delineation A wetland assessment was conducted at the UVM Forestry Research Facility (705 Spear Street, South Burlington) by Dori Barton of Arrowwood Environmental (AE). The wetland assessment involved both a remote review of available maps (including Vermont Significant Wetland Inventory Maps and the NRCS Soil Survey) and a field inventory component conducted on May 20, 2020. The protocols put forth in the USACE’s Corp of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (2009 Regional Supplement for the Northcentral and Northeast Region) were employed for delineating wetlands as is the standard practice in Vermont. Field review confirmed the presence of Class 2 wetlands adjacent to the Project area. Per the wetland survey protocol, wetland boundaries were flagged in the field and subsequently located with a GPS unit capable of sub-meter accuracy. A Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form is included as an attachment. VERMONT WETLAND EVALUATION FORM :HWODQG,':___________________________ Project #:____________________ Date: ____________________ Investigator:_______________________________ SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION: Each function gets a score of 0= not present; L = Low; P = Present; or H = High. 1. WaterStorageforFloodWaterand StormRunoff 6. Rare,Threatened,andEndangered SpeciesHabitat 2. Surface&GroundWaterProtection 7. EducationandResearchinNatural Sciences 3. FishHabitat 4. WildlifeHabitat 8. RecreationalValueandEconomic Benefits 9. OpenSpaceandAesthetics 5. ExemplaryWetlandNatural Community 10. ErosionControlthroughBindingand StabilizingtheSoil Note: o When to use this form: This is a field form to help you compile data needed to evaluate the 10 possible functions and values of a wetland as described in the Vermont Wetland Rules. All information in this form is replicated in the applications for both wetland determinations and wetland permits. o Both a desktop review and field examination should be employed to accurately determine surrounding land use, hydrology, hydroperiod, vegetation, position in the landscape, and physical attributes. o The entire wetland or wetland complex in question must be evaluated to determine the level of function in all ten (10) categories for accurate classification. A wetland complex can be defined as a series of interconnected wetland types. o The surrounding upland and outflow area of the wetland should be examined to determine land use, development, nearby natural resources, and hydrology. The surrounding land use, previous development, and cumulative impacts may play a role in the current function of the wetland. For best results please read all descriptions prior to scoring activity. o Evaluation: The first portion in each section determines whether the wetland does or does not provide the function. If none of the conditions listed in the first section are met, proceed Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 1 Wetland C/D UVM Forest Services SW Project 5/20/2020 Dori Barton H H P H 0 0 0 0 0 P to the next section. If any of these conditions are met, determine if the wetland provides this function at a higher or lower level based on the information listed in the subsequent sections. o Presumptions: Please note that many wetlands are already presumed to be significant under the Vermont Wetland Rules. A wetland is presumed to be significant if: o The wetland is mapped on the VSWI map o The wetland is contiguous to a VSWI mapped wetland o The wetland meets the presumptions of significance under Section 4.6 o The wetland has a preliminary determination that it is Class II Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 2 1.Water Storage for Flood Water and Storm Runoff Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following physical and vegetative characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Constricted outlet or no outlet and an unconstricted inlet. Physical space for floodwater expansion and dense, persistent, emergent vegetation or dense woody vegetation that slows down flood waters or stormwater runoff during peak flows and facilitates water removal by evaporation and transpiration. If a stream is present, its course is sinuous and there is sufficient woody vegetation to intercept surface flows in the portion of the wetland that floods. Physical evidence of seasonal flooding or ponding such as water stained leaves, water marks on trees, drift rows, debris deposits, or standing water. Hydrologic or hydraulic study indicates wetland attenuates flooding. If any of the above boxes are checked, the wetland provides this function. Complete the following to determine if the wetland provides this function above or below a moderate level: Check box if any of the following conditions apply that may indicate the wetland provides this function at a lower level. Significant flood storage capacity upstream of the wetland, and the wetland in question provides this function at a negligible level in comparison to upstream storage (unless the upstream storage is temporary such as a beaver impoundment). Wetland is contiguous to a major lake or pond that provides storage benefits independently of the wetland. Wetland's storage capacity is created primarily by recent beaver dams or other temporary structures. Wetland is very small in size, not contiguous to a stream, and not part of a collection of small wetlands in the landscape that provide this function cumulatively. Check box if any of the following conditions apply that may indicate the wetland provides this function at a higher level. History of downstream flood damage to public or private property. Any of the following conditions present downstream of the wetland, but upstream of a major lake or pond, could be impacted by a loss or reduction of the water storage function. 1. Developed public or private property. 2. Stream banks susceptible to scouring and erosion. 3. Important habitat for aquatic life. The wetland is large in size and naturally vegetated. Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 3 Any of the following conditions present upstream of the wetland may indicate a large volume of runoff may reach the wetland. 1. A large amount of impervious surface in urbanized areas. 2. Relatively impervious soils. 3. Steep slopes in the adjacent areas. 2. Surface and Ground Water Protection Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following physical and vegetative characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Constricted or no outlets. Low water velocity through dense, persistent vegetation. Hydroperiod permanently flooded or saturated. Wetlands in depositional environments with persistent vegetation wider than 20 feet. Wetlands with persistent vegetation comprising a defined delta, island, bar or peninsula. Presence of seeps or springs. Wetland contains a high amount of microtopography that helps slow and filter surface water. Position in the landscape indicates the wetland is a headwaters area. Wetland is adjacent to surface waters. Wetland recharges a drinking water source. Water sampling indicates removal of pollutants or nutrients. Water sampling indicates retention of sediments or organic matter. Fine mineral soils and alkalinity not low. The wetland provides an obvious filter between surface water or ground water and land uses that may contribute point or nonpoint sources of sediments, toxic substances or nutrients to the wetland, such as: steep erodible slopes; row crops; dumps; areas of pesticide, herbicide or fertilizer application; feed lots; parking lots or heavily traveled road; and septic systems. If any of the above boxes are checked, the wetland provides this function. Complete the following to determine if the wetland provides this function above or below a moderate level. Check box if any of the following conditions apply that may indicate the wetland provides this function at a lower level. Presence of dead forest or shrub areas in sufficient amounts to result in diminished Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 4 nutrient uptake. Presence of ditches or channels that confine water and restrict contact of water with vegetation. Wetland is very small in size, not contiguous to a stream, and not part of a collection of small wetlands in the landscape that provide this function cumulatively. Current use in the wetland results in disturbance that compromises this function. Check box if any of the following conditions apply that may indicate the wetland provides this function at a higher level. The wetland is adjacent to a well head or source protection area, and provides ground water recharge. The wetland provides flows to Class A surface waters. The wetland contributes to the protection or improvement of water quality of any impaired waters. The wetland is large in size and naturally vegetated. 3. Fish Habitat Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following physical and vegetative characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Contains woody vegetation that overhangs the banks of a stream or river and provides any of the following: shading that controls summer water temperature; cover including refuges created by overhanging branches or undercut banks; source of terrestrial insects as fish food; or streambank stability. Provides spawning, nursery, feeding or cover habitat for fish (documented or professionally judged). Common habitat includes deep marsh and shallow marsh associates with lakes and streams, and seasonally flooded wetlands associated with streams and rivers. Documented or professionally judged spawning habitat for northern pike. Provides cold spring discharge that lowers the temperature of receiving waters and creates summer habitat for salmonoid species. The wetland is located along a tributary that does not support fish, but contributes to a larger body of water that does support fish. The tributary supports downstream fish by providing cooler water, and food sources. Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 5 4.Wildlife Habitat Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following physical and vegetative characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Provides resting, feeding staging or roosting habitat to support waterfowl migration, and feeding habitat for wading birds. Good habitats for these species include open water wetlands. Habitat to support one or more breeding pairs or broods of waterfowl including all species of ducks, geese, and swans. Good habitats for these species include open water habitats adjacent shallow marsh, deep marsh, shrub wetland, forested wetland, or naturally vegetated buffer zone. Provides a nest site, a buffer for a nest site or feeding habitat for wading birds including but not limited to: great blue heron, black-crowned night heron, green- backed heron, cattle egret, or snowy egret. Good habitats for these species include open water or deep marsh adjacent to forested wetlands, or standing dead trees. Supports or has the habitat to support one or more breeding pairs of any migratory bird that requires wetland habitat for breeding, nesting, rearing of young, feeding, staging roosting, or migration, including: Virginia rail, common snipe, marsh wren, American bittern, northern water thrush, northern harrier, spruce grouse, Cerulean warbler, and common loon. Supports winter habitat for white-tailed deer. Good habitats for these species include softwood swamps. Evidence of use includes deer browsing, bark stripping, worn trails, or pellet piles. Provides important feeding habitat for black bear, bobcat, or moose based on an assessment of use. Good habitat for these types of species includes wetlands located in a forested mosaic. Has the habitat to support muskrat, otter or mink. Good habitats for these species include deep marshes, wetlands adjacent to bodies of water including lakes, ponds, rivers and streams. Supports an active beaver dam, one or more lodges, or evidence of use in two or more consecutive years by an adult beaver population. Provides the following habitats that support the reproduction of Uncommon Vermont amphibian species including: 1. Wood Frog, Jefferson Salamander, Blue-spotted Salamander, or Spotted Salamander. Breeding habitat for these species includes vernal pools and small ponds. 2. Northern Dusky Salamander and the Spring Salamander. Habitat for these species includes headwater seeps, springs, and streams. 3. The Four-toed salamander; Fowler’s Toad; Western or Boreal Chorus frog, or other amphibians found in Vermont of similar significance. Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 6 Supports or has the habitat to support significant populations of Vermont amphibian species including, but not limited to Pickerel Frog, Northern Leopard Frog, Mink Frog, and others found in Vermont of similar significance. Good habitat for these types of species includes large marsh systems with open water components. Supports or has the habitat to support populations of uncommon Vermont reptile species including: Wood Turtle, Northern Map Turtle, Eastern Musk Turtle, Spotted Turtle, Spiny Softshell, Eastern Ribbonsnake, Northern Watersnake, and others found in Vermont of similar significance. Supports or has the habitat to support significant populations of Vermont reptile species, including Smooth Greensnake, DeKay’s Brownsnake, or other more common wetland-associated species. Meets four or more of the following conditions indicative of wildlife habitat diversity: 1. Three or more wetland vegetation classes (greater than 1/2 acre) present including but not limited to: open water contiguous to, but not necessarily part of, the wetland, deep marsh, shallow marsh, shrub swamp, forested swamp, fen, or bog; 2. The dominant vegetation class is one of the following types: deep marsh, shallow marsh, shrub swamp or, forested swamp; 3. Located adjacent to a lake, pond, river or stream; 4. Fifty percent or more of surrounding habitat type is one or more of the following: forest, agricultural land, old field or open land; 5. Emergent or woody vegetation occupies 26 to 75 percent of wetland, the rest is open water; 6. One of the following: i. hydrologically connected to other wetlands of different dominant classes or open water within 1 mile; ii. hydrologically connected to other wetlands of same dominant class within 1/2 mile; iii. within 1/4 mile of other wetlands of different dominant classes or open water, but not hydrologically connected; Wetland or wetland complex is owned in whole or in part by state or federal government and managed for wildlife and habitat conservation; and Contains evidence that it is used by wetland dependent wildlife species. If any of the above boxes are checked, the wetland provides this function. Complete the following to determine if the wetland provides this function above or below a moderate level. Check box if any of the following conditions apply that may indicate the wetland provides this function at a lower level. The wetland is small in size for its type and does not represent fugitive habitat in Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 7 developed areas (vernal pools and seeps are generally small in size, so this does not apply). The surrounding land use is densely developed enough to limit use by wildlife species (with the exception of wetlands with open water habitat). Can be negated by evidence of use. The current use in the wetland results in frequent cutting, mowing or other disturbance. The wetland hydrology and character is at a drier end of the scale and does not support wetland dependent species. Check box if any of the following conditions apply that may indicate the wetland provides this function at a higher level. The wetland complex is large in size and high in quality. The habitat has the potential to support several species based on the assessment above. Wetland is associated with an important wildlife corridor. The wetland has been identified by ANR-F&W as important habitat. 5. Exemplary Wetland Natural Community Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following physical and vegetative characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Wetlands that are identified as high quality examples of Vermont’s natural community types recognized by the Natural Heritage Information Project of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, including rare types such as dwarf shrub bogs, rich fens, alpine peatlands, red maple-black gum swamps and the more common types including deep bulrush marshes, cattail marshes, northern white cedar swamps, spruce-fir-tamarack swamps, and red maple-black ash seepage swamps are automatically significant for this function. The wetland is also likely to be significant if any of the following conditions are met: Is an example of a wetland natural community type that has been identified and mapped by, or meets the ranking and mapping standards of, the Natural Heritage Information Project of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. Contains ecological features that contribute to Vermont’s natural heritage, including, but not limited to: Deep peat accumulation reflecting a long history of wetland formation; Forested wetlands displaying very old trees and other old growth characteristics; A wetland natural community that is at the edge of the normal range for that type; Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 8 A wetland mosaic containing examples of several to many wetland community types; or A large wetland complex with examples of several wetland community types. 6. Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species Habitat Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following physical and vegetative characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Wetlands that contain one or more species on the federal or state threatened or endangered lists, as well as species that are rare in Vermont, are automatically significant for this function. The wetland is also likely to be significant if any of the following apply: There is creditable documentation that the wetland provides important habitat for any species on the federal or state threatened or endangered species lists; There is creditable documentation that threatened or endangered species have been present in past 10 years; There is creditable documentation that the wetland provides important habitat for any species listed as rare in Vermont (S1 or S2 ranks), state historic (SH rank), or rare to uncommon globally (G1, G2, or G3 ranks) by the Natural Heritage Information Project of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department; There is creditable documentation that the wetland provides habitat for multiple uncommon species of plants or animals (S3 rank). List name of species and ranking: 7. Education and Research in Natural Sciences Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Owned by or leased to a public entity dedicated to education or research. History of use for education or research. Has one or more characteristics making it valuable for education or research. Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 9 8. Recreational Value and Economic Benefits Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Used for, or contributes to, recreational activities. Provides economic benefits. Provides important habitat for fish or wildlife which can be fished, hunted or trapped under applicable state law. Used for harvesting of wild foods. Comments: 9. Open Space and Aesthetics Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following physical and vegetative characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Can be readily observed by the public; and Possesses special or unique aesthetic qualities; or Has prominence as a distinct feature in the surrounding landscape; Has been identified as important open space in a municipal, regional or state plan. 10. Erosion Control through Binding and Stabilizing the Soil Function is present and likely to be significant: Any of the following physical and vegetative characteristics indicate the wetland provides this function. Erosive forces such as wave or current energy are present and any of the following are present as well: Dense, persistent vegetation along a shoreline or stream bank that reduces an adjacent erosive force. Good interspersion of persistent emergent vegetation and water along course of water flow. Studies show that wetlands of similar size, vegetation type, and hydrology are important for erosion control. Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 10 What type of erosive forces are present? Lake fetch and waves High current velocities Water level influenced by upstream impoundment If any of the above boxes are checked, the wetland provides this function. Complete the following to determine if the wetland provides this function above or below a moderate level. Check box if any of the following conditions apply that may indicate the wetland provides this function at a lower level. The stream is artificially channelized and/or lacks vegetation that contributes to controlling the erosive force. Check box if any of the following conditions apply that may indicate the wetland provides this function at a higher level. The stream contains high sinuosity. Has been identified through fluvial geomorphic assessment to be important in maintaining the natural condition of the stream or river corridor. Vermont Wetland Evaluation Form Jan. 2019 11