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HomeMy WebLinkAboutR04-091 Purchase Wetland Mitigation Credits Authorizationa1�- 1?4 Commissioner / 1,711,k moved adoption of the ollowing Resolution: BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COUNTY OF EAGLE, STATE OF COLORADO RESOLUTION NO. 2004- C I 1 AUTHORIZING CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO ENTER INTO AGREEMENT WITH FINGER ROCK PRESERVE, LLC TO PURCHASE WETLAND MITIGATION CREDITS FOR WETLAND IMPACTS TO THE EAGLE COUNTY AIRPORT AND TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR THE CLOSING OF TRANSACTION WHEREAS, Eagle County, Colorado (hereinafter referred to as the County) is a political subdivision of the State of Colorado; and WHEREAS, Eagle County is desirous of improving the Eagle County Regional Airport (hereinafter referred to as the "Airport"); and WHEREAS, the Federal Aviation Administration (hereinafter referred to as the "FAA") has grant funds available to assist organizations, such as the County, in helping to improve the infrastructure at the Airport; and WHEREAS, the County will apply for funds to assist with matters relating to improvements to the Airport, such as extending Runway 25; and WHEREAS, these funds will not be obligated before a FAA grant contract is fully executed between the County and the FAA; and WHEREAS, there are wetland impacts associated with the construction of the expanded runway consisting of 0.60 acres of permanent impact to wetlands associated with Alkali Creek; and WHEREAS, it has been determined that onsite wetland mitigation on the airport property is discouraged, and under certain circumstances, prohibited by the FAA Advisory Circular 150/5200 -33, as natural areas present potential hazards to aviation because they often attract hazardous wildlife; and WHEREAS, the FAA stipulates that there should be specific distances between aircraft movement areas and wildlife attractants ranging between 5,000 feet and five miles; and WHEREAS, it has been determined that the only suitable location for wetland creation ATTEST: C!!�6t Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners COUNTY OF EAGLE, STATE OF COLORADO By and Through its BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS E� itE cam, 4� Commissioner. ( ;Oe econded adoption of the foregoing Resolution. having been called, the vote wa as follows: Commissioner Stone Commissioner Gallagher Commissioner Menconi The roll This Resolution passed by vote of the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Eagle, State of Colorado. G: \WM\Reso for Authorization for Chairmen, Wetland Mitigation for Rehabilitation of Taxiway.DOC BACKUP FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES Credit Request Form Finger Mock Preserve LLC Submit the completed form to: Ken Jacobson, ATTN: Mitigation Bank Application, Army Corps of Engineers, 402 Rood Avenuc., Grand Junction, CO 81501. Section 1: Applicant's Information 1 a. Applicant's Name 1 b. Phone Number(s) Ea le County, Colorado 970 - 328 -8880 lc. Mailing Address Id. City, State, Zip — P.O. Box 850 Eagle, CO 81631 le. Email Address rich.cunningham @eaglecounty.us Section 2: Authorized Agent (if any) Contact 2a. AAdTA1 s , ame Rich Cunningham 2b. Phone Number(s) 970 - 328 -8880 2c. Mailing Address 2d. City, State, Zip P.O. Box 850 Eagle, CO 81631 12e. Email Address ric h. cunningham. eag e county. us Section 3: Project Location Information 3a. Street address of wetland impact 3b. City, State, Zip 0219 Eldon Wilson Road Gypsum, CO 81631 3c. Map and Lot Number(s) of wetland impact see attached map 3d. Project name: Eagle County Airport Runway Extension Section 4: Wetland Mitigation Credit Request 4a. Acres of wetlands to be impacted by project: acres 4b. How many credits do you want to purchase from Finger Rock Preserve Wetlands Mitigation Bank? * credits * equavalent to .4 x 1.5 = .6AC 41. By what date4do you want to purchase the credits (month/day /year)? / / 0 Section 5: Required Documentation Submit photocopies of the following documentation: Wetland delineation report U.S. Army Corps of Engineers letter of concurrence for the wetland delineation report Joint (Fill - Removal) Permit Application Section 6: Application Verification 1 certify that I am familiar with the infon-nation contai _,ied in the application, and that to the best of my knowledge and belief, such information is true, complete, and accurate. I understand that if credits are available from the Bank to service this request, the Bank will reserve those credits for up to 45 calendar days from the date I am notified of their availability. I understand that if I do not purchase the credits within that 45 -clay period, the credits will no longer be reserved for me. Signature of Applicant or Authorized Agent Da Signature of Applicant or Authorized Agent Date FOR OTFICL+' U5E ONLY Date application received (montli /day /year): Is this project located: within the Finger Rock Preserve Wetlands Plan Boundary I Wetland type(s) affected* wet prairie' shrub /scrub; emergent] forest: agricultaral, crop land,'. pasture, old ' field, fill Habitat quality. *: high fair low. Mitigation bank "sale ratio —: 1.75 1.50' 1.25 1.0. Other -write in. Credits needed: x = Sale ratio impact acres credits needed' Credits available to service request:. yes no Date Applicant or Authorized Agent notified of credit status (month/day /year): Submit the completed form to: Army Corps of Engineers ATTN: Ken Jacobson Mitigation Bank Application Finger Rock Preserve 402 Rood Avenue Grand Junction, CO 81501 Submit copy of the completed form to: Finger Rock Preserve ATTN: Ren Marlyn Mitigation Bank Application PO Box 883400 Steamboat Springs, CO 80488 rn si. It W m N 0 C, cn U J J j DO L w a, L d n 0 ry L E, r• 0 I- 0 0 -4 C 7 7 mfp 11 X�j (`.- i Ali'4 Finger Rock ]Preserve, LLC 1RREVOCA 8LE CERTIFICATE CP COMPENSATORY MITIGATION Certificate No. Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Federal Guidance for the Establishment, Use and Operation of Wetland Mitigation Banks [60 Federal Register 58602 -58614 (1995)] and the Banking Instrument for the Finger Rock Preserve, LLC, Wetland Mitigation Bank (dated ), this certifies that the wetland mitigation requirement of Finger Rock Preserve, LLC for the Project, located in Sections violation # and new US Army Corp of Engineers Permit # ,Township Range g . Routt County, Colorado, has been met. This Certificate evidences and represents acres of compensatory mitigation credit as described in the Compensator Mitigation Summary Worksheet, attached hereto as Exhibit A, and made a part hereof by this reference. Neither this y Certificate nor the compensatory mitigation described herein is transferable or assignable, except with the trarisier or assignment of the subject site, underlying permit and mitigation plan, as authorized in writing by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Ren Martyn, By. Date Finger Rock Preserve, LLC Ken Jacobson, Chief Date Southwestern Colorado Regulatory Sacramento District USACOE = Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC an ecology and environment company a November 5, 2003 Qa Mr. Mark Gilfallan U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Western Colorado Regulatory Office 402 Rood Avenue, Room 142 Grand Junction, CO 81501 -2563 Re: Request for Verification of Jurisdictional Delineation Eagle County Airport, Eagle County, Colorado Corps File No. 200075444 Dear Mr. Gilfallan: On behalf of the Eagle County Airport, Walsh Environmental Sci, LLC (WALSH) is formally requesting verification of a juiisdictia delineation conducted on the airport property. The enclosed infor results of WALSH's wetland delineation conducted on September information for the applicant is provided below: j 1 oc APPLICANT AGENT Mr. Ovid Siefers, Operations Manager Janetta Shepard, P.W.S. Eagle County Regional Airport Wetland Scientist P.O. Box 850 Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, Inc. Eagle, CO 81631 -0850 4888 Pearl East Circle, Suite 108 Phone: 970.524.0850 Boulder, Colorado 80301 -2475 Phone: (303) 443 -3282 FAX: (303) 443 -0367 INTRODUCTION Identification of wetlands on the Eagle County Regional Airport property is one of the components in a series of environmental assessments that are being conducted for inclusion in an Environmental Assessment (EA) that is being prepared for proposed expansion of the existing runway and airport facilities. In a previous study conducted in 2000, wetlands and waters of the U.S. were delineated on the reach of Alkali Creek that lies south of the existing runway. This reach extends between Cooley Mesa Road to the south and a culvert to the north where the creek is piped under the airport grounds. Verification of the delineation was issued on 4888 Pearl East Circle . Suite 108 . Boulder, Colorado . 80301 -2475 . Phone (303) 443 -3282 . FAX (303) 443 -0367 A Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC an ecology and environment company November 5, 2003 Mr. Mark Gilfallan U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Western Colorado Regulatory Office 402 Rood Avenue, Room 142 Grand Junction, CO 81501 -2563 Re: Request for Verification of Jurisdictional Delineation Eagle County Airport, Eagle County, Colorado Corps File No. 200075444 Dear Mr. Gilfallan: On behalf of the Eagle County Airport, Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC (WALSH) is formally requesting verification of a jurisdictional wetland boundary delineation conducted on the airport property. The enclosed information summarizes the results of WALSH's wetland delineation conducted on September 25, 2003. The contact information for the applicant is provided below: APPLICANT AGENT Mr. Ovid Siefers, Operations Manager Janetta Shepard, P.W.S. Eagle County Regional Airport Wetland Scientist P.O. Box 850 Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, Inc. Eagle, CO 81631 -0850 4888 Pearl East Circle, Suite 108 Phone: 970.524.0850 Boulder, Colorado 80301 -2475 Phone: (303) 443 -3282 FAX: (303) 443 -0367 INTRODUCTION Identification of wetlands on the Eagle County Regional Airport property is one of the components in a series of environmental assessments that are being conducted for inclusion in an Environmental Assessment (EA) that is being prepared for proposed expansion of the existing runway and airport facilities. In a previous study conducted in 2000, wetlands and waters of the U.S. were delineated on the reach of Alkali Creek that lies south of the existing runway. This reach extends between Cooley Mesa Road to the south and a culvert to the north where the creek is piped under the airport grounds. Verification of the delineation was issued on 4888 Pearl East Circle . Suite 108 . Boulder, Colorado . 80301 -2475 . Phone (303) 443 -3282 . FAX (303) 443 -0367 Eagle County Regional Airport JD November 5, 2003 Page 2 October 31, 2000 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Sacramento District, and File No. 200075444 was assigned to the project. The current study extends the delineation conducted on Alkali Creek to include the remaining stream reaches that occur on airport property. LOCATION The Eagle County Regional Airport Property is located in the NW %4, SW Y4 of Section 2, Township 5 South, Range 85 West (Average Latitude 39° 38' 05 ", Average Longitude 106° 53' 15 "), in Eagle County, Colorado (refer to the attached Site Location Map). To access the northern reach of Alkali Creek from Interstate 70, take the Eagle exit and follow Highway 6 west approximately %2 mile from the turnoff to the main entrance of the Regional airport, which is located on Cooley Mesa Road. The study reach is located on airport property on the south side of the highway and is bridged with a box culvert (refer to Photo #1). A distinguishing landscape feature is a raised, beige pipeline with a catwalk that spans the Alkali Creek channel and floodplain and runs directly parallel with the highway. SITE CONDITIONS The site is situated at an average elevation of approximately 6500 feet above mean sea level. The property is bordered by the airport terminal to the west, Cooley Mesa Road to the south, Highway 6 and the Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad to the north and undeveloped land to the east. Alkali Creek flows from south to north through the eastern side of the property and is the only jurisdictional waterbody on the property. The south reach of the creek flows openly in a steeply - sloped ravine. The north reach of the channel is less confined and contains a crescent - shaped floodplain bench on the eastern side of the channel. The middle reach of the creek is piped under existing airport facilities through a four -foot diameter culvert. Overall, the airport property consists of a typical west - slope, upland, prairie /scrub vegetative community with a narrow, well - defined drainage situated at the base of steep - sided slopes. The composition of vegetative habitat along the drainage consists of palustrine emergent persistent (PEP) and scrub /shrub (SS) communities interspersed with upland grasses and forbs. Hydrophytic vegetation is confined to the channel of the creek and adjacent riparian corridor fringe. Vegetation within the channel is dominated by mountain and coyote willows (Salix monticola, S. exigua) and cattails (Typha latifolia). In the floodplain bench vegetation is dominated by upland species including fringed sage (Artemisia frigida), smooth brome (Bromus inermis), kochia (Kochia scoparia), western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), and bluegrass (Poa spp.). Sporadically spaced small clusters of coyote willow are interspersed across the floodplain with no discernable Eagle County Regional Airport JD November 5, 2003 Page 3 pattern. Side slopes that define the eastern and western site boundaries are rocky and sparsely vegetated with rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus). Water was flowing in the channel at the time of the site visit. Flows were nominal at the upstream end where the channel was choked with cattails, but visibly increased at the downstream end where boulder riprap has been installed, and channel vegetation less dense and mixed with willows. Refer to the attached photos for views of the site conditions. Based upon the quantity of vegetation that has established in the channel bed, lack of visible sediment deposition, and the absence of signs of erosion on the sides of the banks it appears that, with the exception of spring runoff and storm events, flows rarely exceed the volume and velocity observed at the time of the site visit. METHODOLOGY The Jurisdictional Delineation was conducted following the methodology enumerated in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory, 1987). During the field inspection, representative soil borings were taken, dominant vegetation was recorded, and representative hydrologic indicators were noted in order to identify the presence of jurisdictional waters of the U.S., including wetlands, on the property. Soils, vegetation, and hydrology were used in determining jurisdictional boundaries. Soils Representative soil borings were taken along the riparian corridor and in the adjacent floodplain bench to determine the presence or absence of hydric soils (refer to attached Data Sheets). The hue, value, and chroma of the sampled soils were compared to the Munsell Soil Color Charts (Kollmorgen, 1990), and a visual inspection of the soil profile analyzed for the presence of hydric soil characteristics (e.g., mottling, oxidized roots, concretions and/or gleying). The soil types occurring within the property boundary are consistent with those mapped by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service (Soil Survey of Aspen - Gypsum Area, Colorado, 1971). Following is a list of the soil types mapped for the study area: Dahlquist - Southace complex, 25 to 50 percent slopes - Occurs on alluvial fans, terraces and terrace side slopes. Deep and well - drained with a stony, sandy loam texture these soils are most suitable for use as rangeland and wildlife habitat. Typical vegetation consists of sagebrush, rabbitbrush, fringed sage, wheatgrasses, junegrass, serviceberry, mountain mahogany, and cheatgrass (in deteriorated conditions) Eagle County Regional Airport JD November 5, 2003 Page 4 Mussel loam, 12 to 25 percent slopes - Deep, well drained soil formed in alluvium and occurring on fans and foot slopes, with a loam to sandy clay loam texture. These soils are most suitable for use as rangeland or for urban development. The potential plant community is primarily western wheatgrass, bluegrasses, needlegrass, and big sagebrush. These soil types do not appear on the Colorado List of Hydric Soils (October 12, 1990). However, hydric soils were identified within wetland habitat at the site. Vegetation Vegetation was identified to the species level. The National List of Plant Species That Occur in Wetlands, Regions 4, 5 and 8 (Cowardin et. al., 1979) was referenced to determine the wetland indicator status for each plant. A composite list of the dominant species associated with the north reach of Alkali Creek and adjacent floodplain bench are contained in the attached table (Table 1: Wetland Area Plant Species List). Hydrology Primary hydrology to onsite wetland habitat is supplied by a combination of Alkali Creek base -flows and surface runoff from the surrounding steep side - slopes. Secondary sources of hydrology are provided by precipitation events and snow melt. JURISDICTIONAL DETERNIINATION Waters of the U.S., including wetlands, were identified at the Alkali Creek drainage. Alkali Creek is a perennial drainage and riparian habitat is persistently flooded. Wetlands are characterized as Palustrine emergent persistent (PEP) accompanied by Palustrine shrub -scrub (PSS) vegetative communities. Classification of wetlands and waters of the U.S. as described below is in accordance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Classification System for Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats (Cowardin et. al., 1979). The limits of the jurisdictional areas were marked with pink fluorescent pin flags (numbers 1 — 55) in the field and concurrently surveyed using a GPS system. Jurisdictional waters and wetlands on the property are restricted to an approximate 400 foot linear stretch of the Alkali Creek channel and adjacent east bank riparian corridor. On the west bank the creek closely follows the toe of the steep sided bank, whereas on the east side of the creek wetlands extend into the adjacent floodplain meadow. The total acreage of jurisdictional waters of the U.S., including wetlands, within the Alkali Creek reach currently under study, is 0.30 -acre (13,068 sq. ft.). Eagle County Regional Airport JD November 5, 2003 Page 5 WALSH is herein formally requesting a written verification of the wetland boundaries as identified in the field. Please call me if you have any questions or if I can provide additional information on this delineation. If you feel that a site visit is necessary and would like a WALSH field scientist to meet with you, please feel free to contact us to arrange a meeting time. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience. Sincerely, WALSH ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTISTS AND ENGINEERS, LLC. Janetta Shepard, PWS Restoration Ecologist Cc: Ovid Siefers, Eagle County Regional Airport, Operations Manager Attachments: Figure 1: Site Location Map Figurre 2: Alkali Creek Wetland Map Table 1: Composite Plant Species List Field Data Sheets (3) Photographs of Existing Site Conditions (3 photo sheets) Eagle County Regional Airport JD November 5, 2003 Page 6 LITERATURE CITED Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, & E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States (FWS✓OBS- 79131). Office of Biological Services, Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. Environmental Laboratory. 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical Report Y -87 -1, U.S. Army Corps of Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. Vicksburg, MS. Kollmorgen Instruments Corp. 1990. Munsell Soil Color Charts. Baltimore, MD U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, 1994. National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands (Region 8), published by Resource Management Group, Inc., Grand Haven, MI. U.S. Soil Conservation Service. March 1971. Soil Survey ofAspen- Gypsum Area, (including parts of Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin Counties), Colorado, Sheet 10. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Washington, D.C. U.S. Soil Conservation Service. 1990. Colorado List ofHydric Soils. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Washington, D.C. r r ;, 0- BM -Gvr, 64iot , 7 7� t % 0 00, V-W TH 0 f w S O/Y E AM JMW N DQVVER A/ At IT—H ..... 4 AIRPORT N. .... .. ... . P r 4.. + fisso PIC" . ..... ......... ...... ..... V. t4 JI a IM 7 CP 3L Y Q .4T 10 Source: USGS 7.45 Minute Quadrangle GYPSUM, CO 60 Photorevised 1987 Scale: I= 2,000' Average Latitude: N39-39-05• Average Longitude: W106*53'15" & Z—WMsh Engineers, Inc. Site Location Map Eagle County Regional Airport (Alkali Creek) t LEGEND Q Test Points PA W etland- ELTSpecles \Engle o iio f&4 1 I .rraUura WAIR Expansion .4uwf&vh Sndronmental scientists and tndineers. LW Alkali Creek Wetland Map Eagle County Regional Airport Job: 5144 -010 Date: 11/03 1 Figure: 2 Use.dwg Wals vironmental, Inc. - Jurisdictional Determinatio to Sheet Project/Site: Alkali Creek at Eagle County Regional Airport Project No: 5158 -100 Date: September 25. 2003 Applicant/Owner: Eagle County Regional Airport County: Eagle Investigator: Janetta Shepard, ;Maureen O'Shea Stone State: CO Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes X No Plot ID: TP -1 - Fla is 12 Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes No X Field Location: Outer edge of east bank riparian corridor closer to southern site bound Is the area a potential Problem Area Yes No X Vegetation Community: palustrine emergent persistent (PEP), and } , Dominant Plant Species: Stratum Indicator Dominant Plant Species: 1 Stratum Indicator Salix exi a 35% Shrub 013E No H —dric Soils Present? Yes X Juncus balticus (40% ) Herb FACW Larks: Species diversity good in this area where hydrophytic vegetation has established well away from the active channel. Regeneration of the rushes and willows is high and the upland species do not appear to be encroaching into the anaerobic soil zones. i Secondary Indicators• 0 Inundated Agrostis stoloni era 15% Herb FACW X Saturated in upper 12 inches 0 Sediment Deposits Hordeum 'ubatum 5% Herb FAC• Remarks: Hydrology provided from Alkali Creek. Melilotus alba ON Herb FACU is UZ U-11WIMI& avcwc3 ulat atc MUM, rf%%. n 4t7W Vt rill, kcAtauuulg rFk% - -J: YJTo Remarks: Test pit sampled close to upland/wetland interface where a fringe of sweetclover has established on floodplain bench. Wetland species are dense and in good condition. Coyote willow regeneration is occurring in this area Soils Profile Description: Depth inches Matrix Color Mottle Color /Abundance Texture 0-4 10YR 42 10YR 3/4 — moderate Sandy loamy clay w /cobbles 4 -12 l OYR 4/1 10YR 4/4 — abundant Sandy clay 2+ Rock H dric Soils Indicators: 0 Low - Chroma Colors X Low - Chroma and Mottles 0 Sulfidic Odor 0 Gle ed or Low - Chroma Colors 0 Histic E i edon 0 Concretions 0 High Organic Content sand 0 Organic Streaking sand X Alluvial Sands, Gravel or Cobble Remarks: Sand content and mottling increased with depth. Is the ground surface inundated? Yes X Yes 0 No X Surface water depth: no visible surface water Is the soil saturated? Hydrophytic Vegetation Dominant? Yes X No 0 Depth to Saturation: surface Depth to free-standing water in it: No H —dric Soils Present? Yes X Wetland HydroloLry Indicators: Primary Indicators: No Larks: Species diversity good in this area where hydrophytic vegetation has established well away from the active channel. Regeneration of the rushes and willows is high and the upland species do not appear to be encroaching into the anaerobic soil zones. i Secondary Indicators• 0 Inundated 0 Drift Lines 0 Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 inches X Saturated in upper 12 inches 0 Sediment Deposits 0 Water - stained Leaves 0 Water Marks O Drainage Patterns Remarks: Hydrology provided from Alkali Creek. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes X No Hydrophytic Vegetation Dominant? Yes X No Is the plant community a weuand? Yes X No H —dric Soils Present? Yes X No Is the area a Water of the U.S.? Yes i( No Larks: Species diversity good in this area where hydrophytic vegetation has established well away from the active channel. Regeneration of the rushes and willows is high and the upland species do not appear to be encroaching into the anaerobic soil zones. P• \Wetland- E &TSpecies\Eagle County Airport EA 5158\Environmental AssessmemsM Datasheets.doc Vegetation Wedand/Wetland Datasheet.doc Wa ;nvironmental, Inc. - Jurisdictional Determinati- ...)ata Sheet I Project/Site: Alkali Creek at Eagle County Regional Airport Project Rio: 5158 -100 Date: September 25, 2003 F pplicant/Owner: Eagle County Regional Airport County: Eagle vestigator: Janetta Shepard, Maureen O'Shea Stone State: CO Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes X No Plot ID: TP -2 -Flag #30 Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes No X Field Location: North end of floodplain bench wetland near south end of Juncus balricus 40% Herb FACW gabian rock wall. Is the area a potential Problem Area Yes No X Vegetation Community: palustrine emergent persistent (PEP), and t T ypha loll olio 10% Herb OBL scrub -shrub SS Vegetation uommant Ylant Species: Stratum I Indicator Dominant Plant Species: Stratum ' Indicator Salix exi a IS %) Shrub I OBL IOYR 4/3 — moderate Sand cla Juncus balricus 40% Herb FACW No ` Schoenoplectus lacustris ssp. validut r /1.0% Herb FAC W Is the area a Water of the U.S.? t T ypha loll olio 10% Herb OBL 1 Phalaris arundinacea 15% Herb OBL ..... gyp..... ...... —. --" a -tea " auui v, rr►�, tcAtauumS !'l11.. -J: 1vvle Remarks: Test pit sampled in a depressional area in a wetland backwash of the creek that is dominated by herbaceous wetland plants. Hydrophytic vegetation is dense and diverse and in very good condition and the area is relatively weed -free. Soils Profile Description: Primary Indicators: Depth inches Matrix Color Mottle Color /Abundance Texture 0 -13 IOYR 4/1 IOYR 4/3 — moderate Sand cla 13+ 0 Water Marks Rock No Remarks: Soils saturated throughout profile. Yes X No Is the area a Water of the U.S.? Yes X Is the ground surface inundated? Yes O No X Surface water depth: No visible standing water Is the soil saturated? Yes X No 13 Depth to Saturation: surface Depth to free-standing water in it: Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators: Secondary Indicators• 13 Inundated 0 Drift Lines 13 Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 inches X Saturated in upper 12 inches O Sediment Deposits 0 Water - stained Leaves 0 Water Marks 0 Drainage Patterns No Remarks: Soils saturated throughout profile. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes X No Hydrophytic Vegetation Dominant? Yes X No Is the plant community a wetland? Yes X No Hydric Soils Present? Yes X No Is the area a Water of the U.S.? Yes X No Expansion of the wetland vegetation in this section of the floodplain is restricted due to topography and channel riprap. P: \Wetland- E &TSpecies\Eagle County Airport EA 5158\Environmental Assessments\JD Datasheets.doc Vegetation Wetland/Wetland Datasheet.doc Wa nvironmental, Inc. - Jurisdictional Determinati ata Sheet Project/Site Aikalt Creek at Eagle County Regional Airport Project Vo: 5158 -100 Date: September 25. 2003 Applicant/Owner- Eagle County Regional Airport County: Eagle Investigator: lanetta Shepard, Maureen O'Shea Stone State: CO Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes X No Plot ID: TP -3 - Flag #10 — Upland sam le Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes No X Field Location: Middle of isolated willow cluster on east side of flood lain bench Is the area a potential Problem Area Yes No X Ve elation Community: scrub -shrub (SS) Dominant Plant Species: Dominant Plant Salix exi a 40% Poa 'unci olio 10% MHerb TNL A ro ron cristatum (10% Carduus nutans (S%) % of dominant species that are OBL, FACW and/or FAC (excluding FAC -): 400% Remarks: Test pit sampled approximately 20 feet out from toe of side slopes. Average vegetative cover ranges between 30%70°/a in vicinity. No discernable pattern for willow clusters and no supporting herbaceous wetland species in the understory. Soils Profile Depth 0 -12 12+ IM-101 visible X Low- Chrorna Colors ❑ Low -Chroma and Mottles • ,• ❑ Sulfidic Odor ❑ Gle ed or Low- Chroma Colors #10 Histic E i on ❑ Concretions O Hi Organic Content sand ❑ Or anic Streakin sand ❑ Alluvial Sands, Gravel or Remarks: Soils dry to the surface with very low clay content in profile. Is the ground surface inundated? Yes 13J No X Surface water depth: N/A Is the soil saturated? Yes ❑ No X De th to Saturation: N/A Depth to free - standing water in nit: Primary Indicators: Secondary •Indicators• D Inundated ❑ Drift Lines ❑ Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 inches D Saturated in upper 12 inches ❑ Sediment De osits ❑ Water - stained Leaves D Water Marks ❑ Drain a Patterns Remarks: Source of hydrology is not evident. The shrub cluster is too far removed from toe of slope to benefit significantly from normal runoff. Jurisdictional Determination Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No X Hydrophytic Vegetation Dominant? Yes No X Is the plant community a wetland? Yes No X Hydric Soils Present? Yes X No Is the area a Water of the U.S.? Yes No X iarks: Vegetation is dominated by crested wheatgrass (appears to be introduced), kochia, fringed sage, and several species of bluegrass. Clusters of coyote I willows have established sporadically within the floodplain but insufficient support factors are in place to designate these clusters as wetland habitat. P:IWedand- E &TSpecieslEagle County Airport EA 5158\Environmental AssessmentsVD Datasheets.doc Vegetation Wetland/Wetland Datasheet.doc i Page 1 I Composite Plant Species List Eagle Country Regional Airport Scientific Binomial Achnatherum hymenoides Common Name Indian ricegrass Family Origin Season *Indicator Acosta maculosa Spotted kna weed Poaceae -Grass Family N C Agropyron cristatum p Crested wheatgrass Asteraceae - Sunflower Family Poaceae I NA Agrostis stolonifera Redto p - Grass Family 1 C Anisantha tectorum Cheatgrass Poaceae -Grass Family I C FACW Aster laevis Smooth aster Poaceae - Grass Family 1 C UPL Aster lanceolatus subsp. hesperius Panicled aster Asteraceae - S Sunflower Family N NA 13 sieversiana Kochia Asteraceae - Sunflower Family N NA A UPL Breea arvensis Canada thistle Chenopodiaceae - Goosefoot Family I NA NI, iaba Smooth bromegrass Asteraceae - Sunflower Family Poaceae 1 NA FACU Carla is Cardaria draba Ho cress - Grass Family I C UPL Carduus nutans Musk thistle Brassicaceae - Mustard Family I NA Carex aquatilis Water sed e Asteraceae - Sunflower Family I NA UPL Carex nebrascensis g Nebraska sedge Cyperaceae - Sedge Family Cyperaceae N NA OBL Chrysothamnus nauseosus subsp. graveolens Rubber rabbitbrush - Sedge Family N NA OBL Cicuta douglasii Water hemlock Asteraceae - Sunflower Family N NA Convolvulus arvensis Field bindweed Apiaceae - Parsley Family N NA OBL Conyza canadensis Convolvulaceae - Morning Glory Family I NA Cynoglossum ocinale Horseweed Houndstongue Asteraceae - Sunflower Family N NA UPL Distegia involucrata Bush honeysuckle Boraginaceae - Borage Family I NA Eleocharis macrostachya y Spikerush Caprifoliaceae - Honeysuckle Family N NA FAC Elymus elymoides Elymus Bottletail squirreltail Cyperaceae - Sedge Family Poaceae - Grass Family N NA OBI, trachy caulus subsp. trachycaulus Epilobium Slender wheatgrass Poaceae - Grass Family N cilatum Juncus arcticus Willow herb Onagraceae - Evening- primrose Family N N C NA FACU Juncus tenuis Rush Rush Juncaceae - Rush Family N NA FAC FACW Pascopyrum smithii Phalaroides arundinacea Western wheatgrass Juncaceae - Rush Family Poaceae - Grass Family N NA FAC Poa juncifolia Reed can toss �'g Poaceae - Grass Family N I C C FACU Poa pratensis Alkali bluegrass Poaceae - Grass Family N C OBL UPL Populus angustifolia Kentucky bluegrass Narrowleaf cottonwood Poaceae -Grass Family I FACU Salicaceae - Willow Family y N NA FAC* Page 1 Page 2 Origin Season *Indicator N NA __E 1 N Composite Plant Species List FACU Eagle Country Regional Airport Scientific Binomial Ribes aureum Common Name Family Rosa woodsii Golden currant Grossulariaceae - Current Family Rumex crispus Woods rose Rosaceae - Rose Family Salix exigua Curly dock Polygonaceae - Buckwheat Family Salix planifolia Sandbar willow Salicaceae - Willow Family Salsola australis Plane -leaf willow Salicaceae - Willow Family Shoenoplectus lacus[ris subs p. acutus Russian- thistle Chenopodiaceae - Goosefoot Family Seriphidium tridentatum Hardstem bulrush Cyperaceae - Sedge Family Solidago sp. Big Sagebrush g Asteraceae - Sunflower Family Thinopyrum ponticum Goldenrod Tall wheat ass Asteraceae - Sunflower Family Typha latifolia gr Common cattail Poaceae -Grass Family Typhaceae - Cattail Family KEY: Origin: N = Native Species I = Introduced Species Season: C = Cold Season Species W = Warm Season Species *Indicator = USFWS Region 8 Wetland Indicator Status Page 2 Origin Season *Indicator N NA FACW N NA FACU N NA FACW N NA OBL N NA OLB I NA FACU N NA OBL N NA N NA UPI, I C N NA OBL _.sh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC EAGLE COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT September 2003 Photo 1 — From western bluff looking across floodplain towards Alkali Creek and Highway 6 (taken in winter, 2000) 1-11ULU /- — �,iose -up or nprapped reach of Alkali Creek looking upstream from base of gabian basket rock wall Or` - '� �� >� _ * : �..*� -.t# h'e'r '�. i" j-t' i w+✓ i a. r r t 2 a .yam.• �'�5 J�!i, r i j - x 4t. #����r� {•��ftL' i�4� i� ^s���X.11� s 1 ; ;fi-�� #;��4�`�i'.� �� � } �� � ,,1 # ``" . a 7 a `r t �• A S � ... � . vt < - h E+ i Ur f1• 'Y. ,r 1. _ � r rf �:_ �' 7+.� ,i ,� xY x '� -. yY -xi `• }; •a' _ r`.. -_7�. rc ♦_� : a ' c -tom ,,.s:' ki w�; �.1 .: i �Y�•3z ;r t Ix� t ,.s his ` +,�; tt 2 �*' - , 3 � � � �3` � w f� I � � x.1 � ,t f -, � it - Y`!d T� ��� j � ��� a �t r y, •�� �� ���t� J ���+ 7 # : � 5 ,t -=Y� �Cf Y� x•-�. �[,y' {:s + Y -'{4 { ;'`1 r �� f ', � a �' , ! ''�; • - .. s .t�Y�.'�,� r'fi� � ��` ! i� �� ! � � SY a r ,r � t {�� E *h♦ �ir t /.s ,f t� f q+�;�'� *FI' + - 5' S # r T�.1y. `��* R 3Y M '�.{ ♦_ ,� w'. 1 4',..f � Z t ti t. -' ' X r ".�- t -!'k `�_' -.r4. ST -.. �• �"`. s _s.,�4i'�i` DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY U.S. ARMY ENGINEER DISTRICT, SACRAM CORPS OF ENGINEERS 1325 J STREET SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95814 -2922 October 31, 2000 Regulatory Branch (200075444) Ms. Janetta Shepard Aquatic and Wetland Company 1830 17th Street, Suite 100 Boulder, Colorado 80302 Dear Ms. Shepard: We are responding to your written request, on behalf of Eagle County Airport, for a jurisdictional determination on the eastern end of the runway along Alkali Creek. The property is located on Alkali Creek within Section 2, Township 5 South, Range 85 West, Eagle County, Colorado. Based on a review of-the report submitted, we have determined that your wetland boundary delineation is accurate. The plan referenced below is an accurate depiction of the limits of Federal jurisdiction under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. The plans are labeled: Eagle County Runway Extension 1, .Jurisdictional "Del ienatiori,' Surveyor: High Country Engineering, Scale 1" =30", Date:5 /23/00, Project No. 472 -001. This verification is valid for a period of five years from the date of this letter and is based on information supplied by You. If that information proves to be false or incorrect, we will adjust our determination accordingly. We have assigned number 200075444 to this determination. Please contact Mr. Michael Claffey and refer to this number if you have any questions regarding this matter and for permit requirements at (970) 243 -1199, extension 13 -or the address below. S -nb ely, ady IL. cNure "hie %1Vo thwestern Colorado / egulat ry Office 2 Rood Avenue, Room 142 rand Sanction, Colorado 81501 -2563 Copy Furnished: Eagle County, Post Office Box 850, Eagle, Colorado 81631 June 20, 2002 Mr. Mike Claffey U.S: Army Corps of Engineers 402 Rood Avenue, Room 142 Grand Junction, CO 881501 -2563 Re: Request for Verification of Jurisdictional Delineation - Eagle County Runway Extension, Eagle County, Colorado Dear Mr. Claffey: The purpose of this letter is to request that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) review the jurisdictional delineation conducted on the Eagle County Airport Property (refer to attached Site Location Map) to verify the wetland boundaries completed by Aquatic and Wetland Company (AWC) on April 19, 2000. The following letter report summarizes the results of the field delineation. The contact information for this project is given below: Property Owner: Eagle County Regional Airport P.O. Box 850 0219 Eldon Wilson Eagle, CO 81631 -0850 Phone: (970) 524 -8246 Fax: (970) 524 -8247 Contact: James P. Elwood, A.A.E. Airport Manager INTRODUCTION The Eagle County Regional Airport Property is located in the NW %4, S W %a of Section 2, Township 5 South, Range 85 West (39° 38' 05" Latitude, 106° 53' 15" Longitude), Eagle County, Colorado. To access the property from Interstate 70, take the Eagle exit and follow the signs to the Regional airport, which is located on Cooley Mesa Road. The proposed runway extension site is situated on the eastern side of the airport approximately 400 feet east of the airport fence. Eagle County Runway 1D June 20, 2002 Page 2 SITE CONDITIONS The site is situated at an average elevation of approximately 6500 feet. The property is bordered by the airport terminals to the west, Cooley Mesa Road to the south, the Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad to the north and undeveloped land to the east. Alkali Creek runs through the proposed site in a roughly east to west direction. The reach of the creek that flows through the proposed runway extension site is bounded by a six -foot diameter culvert at the upstream boundary. At the western, downstream end the creek flows under an existing runway through a four -foot diameter culvert. Although the delineation was conducted early in the season, there was no snow present and the soils were thoroughly thawed. Dominant vegetative species were identifiable and presence of hydrologic indicators was evident. The property is a typical upland prairie /scrub community with a narrow, well - defined drainage situated at the base of steep -sided banks. Hydrophytic vegetation is restricted to the channel and an adjacent narrow, intermittent fringe along the riparian corridc Vegetation within the channel wag dominated by mountain and coyote willows (Salix monticola and Salix exigua), creeping spikerush (Eleocharis palustris), sedges (Carex sp.), cattails (Typha latifolia), and a species of water cress (Nasturtium sp.). The dominant upland vegetation onsite is comprised of sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus), woods rose (Rosa woodsii), smooth brome (Bromus inermis), kochia ( Kochia scoparia), western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii) and an unidentified bunch grass. Smaller quantities of Russian thistle (Salsola iberica), musk thistle (Carduus nutans) and clover (Trifolium sp.) are interspersed across the side slopes. The slopes are rocky, sparsely vegetated and exhibit large expanses of barren ground. Several disturbed areas exhibit piles of displaced soil containing remnant willows (including the root systems) and cattails. Although the disturbances appear to be man -made, the plant material is dead and there are no indications that the fill was placed recently. During the site visit the creek was flowing with a trickle flow. Based upon the quantity of vegetation that has established in the channel bed, lack of visible sediment deposition, and the absence of signs of erosion on the sides of the banks it appears that flows rarely exceed the velocity observed. Flows also appear to be further impeded due to an abundance of bank side willow shrubs which were planted by the upstream owners, and which have spread and established in the bed of the channel. No additional natural or man-made water features were observed within the target area boundaries. METHODOLOGY Eagle County Runway JD June 20, 2002 Page 3 The Jurisdictional Delineation was conducted following the methodology enumerated in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory, 1987). During the field inspection, representative soil borings were taken, dominant vegetation was recorded, and representative.hydrologic indicators were noted in order to identify the presence of jurisdictional waters of the 11)'.S., including wetlands, on the property. Soils, vegetation, and hydrology were used in determining jurisdictional boundaries. Soils Representative soil borings were taken throughout the site using a hand auger. Soil hue, value, and chroma were compared to the Munsell Soil Color Charts (Kollmorgen, 1990) to determine the presence of hydric soils. The soil types occurring within the property boundary are consistent with those mapped by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service (Soil Conservation Service, 1971) which include: Dahlquist- Southace complex, and Mussel loams. These sandy, clay loam soils are typically formed on alluvium and terrace side slopes. Neither of these soil types appear on the Colorado List of Hydric Soils (October 12, 1990). However, hydric soils were identified within wetland habitat at the site. Vegetation Vegetation was identified to the species level wherever possible. The National List of Plant Species That Occur in Wetlands, Regions 4, S and 8 (Cowardin et. al., 1979) was referenced to determine the wetland indicator status for each plant. The dominant species associated with the jurisdictional and adjacent upland communities are listed below: Scientific Name Common Name Indicator Status Herbs: Bromus inermis smooth brome UPL Carduus nutans musk thistle NI Carex spp. sedge species OBL Eleocharis palustris creeping spikerush OBL Kochia kochia scoparia FACU Nasturtium sp. water cress OBL Pascopyrum smithii western wheatgrass FACU Rumex crispus curly dock FACW Salsola iberica Russian thistle FACU Trifolium sp. Clover species FACU Typha latifolia broad -leaf cattail OBL Shrubs: Artemisia tridentata sagebrush NI Chrysothamnus nauseosus rabbitbrush NI Eagle County Runway JD June 20, 2002 Page 4 Rosa woodsii Salix exigua Salix monticola Hydrology woods rose FAC- coyote willow OBL mountain willow OBL Sustaining hydrology to wetland habitat onsite appears to be supplied by a combination of base - flow and runoff from the steep side slopes. JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION AWC identified and delineated waters of the U.S., including wetlands, at one location on the property. Classification of wetlands and waters of the U.S. as described below is in accordance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Classification System for Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats (Cowardin et. al., 1979). The limits of the jurisdictional area were marked with pin flags (Al — A -61) in the field and surveyed in -house by the Eagle County Regional Airport. Refer to the enclosed Eagle County Runway Extension, Jurisdictional Delineation Map, dated 5/23/00, for details on the jurisdictional limits. Jurisdictional waters and wetlands on the property are restricted an approximate 700 foot linear strip of the channel and associated riparian corridor of Alkali Creek as it flows through the property. The channel is confined by steep banks that are sparsely vegetated by shrub -scrub (SS) habitat and prairie grasses. The Palustrine emergent (PEM) and Palustrine SS wetland vegetation adjacent to the Creek is dominated by mountain and coyote willows, spikerush, sedges and cattails. Soils tested in the riparian corridor exhibited hydric characteristics (7.5YR 4/2 and I OYR 2/1 with IOYR 4/3 matrix colors and slight mottling). Soils were saturated to the surface and pools of standing water were scattered throughout the test pit areas. The total acreage of jurisdictional waters of the U.S., including wetlands, is 0.26 acre (11,503.53 SF). The majority of the wetlands present on the property are characterized as seasonally flooded Palustrine emergent and wetland habitat accompanied by Palustrine shrub - scrub wetland habitat, which is confined to the drainage bottom. AWC is requesting a site visit with the Corps to verify the jurisdictional boundaries described in this report. Please call if you have any questions or require additional information regarding this jurisdictional delineation. Sincerely, AQUATIC AND WETLAND COMPANY Eagle County Runway JD June 20, 2002 Page 5 Janetta Shepard, PWS Wetland Ecologist Cc: Ms. Janell Bergman, R.F. Weston, Inc. Enclosures: Field Data Sheets (3) Site Location Map Wetlands Location Map (Sheet 1) DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY U.S. ARMY ENGINEER DISTRICT, SACRAMENTO CORPS OF ENGINEERS 1325 J STREET REPLY TO SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95814 -2922 ATTENTION OF December 19, 2003 Regulatory Branch (200375478) Ms. Janetta Shepard, Walsh Environmental 4888 Pearl East Circle, Suite 108 Boulder, Colorado 80301 Dear Ms. Shepard: We are responding to your written request dated November 12, 2003, on behalf of the Eagle County Regional Airport, for a jurisdictional determination /wetland delineation on an area of land east of the existing airport runway. The property site is located at Alkali Creek within the NW1 /4, SW1 /4 of Section 2, Township 5 South, Range 85 West, Eagle County, Colorado. Based on a review of the report submitted, we have determined that your wetland boundary delineation is accurate. The plan referenced below is an accurate depiction of the limits of Federal jurisdiction under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. The plans are labeled: Alkali Creek Wetland Map, Eagle County Regional Airport, Job: 5144 -010, Date: 11/03, Figure 2 This verification is valid for a period of five years from the date of this letter unless new information warrants revision of the determination before the expiration date. A notice of appeals options is enclosed. You should provide a copy of this to all other affected parties. We have assigned number 200375478 to this determination. Please contact Mr. Mark Gilfillan of this office and refer to this number if you have any questions regarding this matter and for permit requirements at (970) 243 -1199, extension 15 or by email at mark .a.gilfillan @usac(�.army.mil. SirXerely, Chi f, C lorado /Gunnison Basin Re atory Office 400 Rood Avenue, Room 142 Grand Junction, Colorado 81501 -2563 Enclosures Copies Furnished: Mr. Ovid Siefers, Operations Manager, Eagle County Regional Airport, Post Office Box 850, Eagle, Colorado 81631 -0850 Eagle County, Post Office Bdx 850, Eagle, Colorado 81631 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY U.S. ARMY ENGINEER DISTRICT, SACRAMENTO CORPS OF ENGINEERS 1325 J STREET REPLYTO SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95814 -2922 ATTENTION OF June 10, 2004 Regulatory Branch (200475238) Mr. Richard J. Cunningham Director of Facilities Management Eagle County Post Office Box 850, 590 Broadway Eagle, Colorado 81631 Dear Mr. Cunningham: We are responding to your May 12, 2004, request for a Department of the Army permit for the Eagle County Airport Runway Expansion project. This project involves activities, including discharges of dredged or fill material, in waters of the United States to expand the east airport runway over Alkali Creek. This project site is located at Alkali Creek within the NW1 /4, SW1 /4 of Section 2, Township 5 South, Range 85 West, Latitude 390 38, 45.811, Longitude 1060 53' 55.811, Eagle County, Colorado. Based on the information you provided, the proposed activity in approximately 0.40 acres of jurisdictional waters of the United States and wetlands is authorized by Nationwide General permit number 14. Your work must comply with the general terms and conditions listed on the enclosed Nationwide Permit information sheets and the following special conditions: Special Conditions: 1. To document pre and post - project construction conditions, you shall submit pre and post - construction photos of the project site within 30 days after project completion. 2. You shall design and construct all crossings of waters of the United States to retain a natural substrate, and to accommodate all reasonably foreseeable wildlife passage and expected high flows. 3. To mitigate for the loss of 0.4 acres of waters of the United States, you shall purchase 0.6 acre credits of emergent and shrub scrub wetlands at the Finger Rock Preserve (a Corps approved wetland mitigation bank). Evidence, in the form of a signed Irrevocable Certificate of Compensatory Mitigation and Exhibit A- Compensatory Mitigation Summary Worksheet, of this purchase shall be provided to this office prior to proceeding with any activity otherwise authorized by this permit. 4. You must sign and return the enclosed Compliance Certification to this office within 30 days after completion of the work. This verification is valid for two years from the date of this letter, or until the Nationwide General permit is modified or expires, whichever comes first. The Nationwide General permit is scheduled to expire on March 18, 2007. It is incumbent upon you to remain informed about changes to the Nationwide Permit Program and to ensure that all construction and contract personnel are familiar with the terms and conditions of this permit. Please refer to identification number 200475238 in correspondence concerning this project. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Mark Gilfillan of this office, email Mark. A. Gilfillan@usace.army.mil or telephone 970 - 243 -1199, extension 15. You may also use the Regulatory Permits link on our website: www.spk.usace.army.mil. Sinc ely, Ken Jacobson Chief, of ado /Gunnison Basin Regulatory Office 400 Rood Avenue, Room 142 Grand Junction, Colorado 81501 -2563 Enclosures Copies furnished without enclosures: Ms. Janetta Shephard, Walsh Environmental Scientist and Engineers, LLC, 4888 Pearl East Circle, Boulder, Colorado 80301 -2475 Eagle County, Post Office Box 850, Eagle, Colorado 81631 LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL -Widsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC A Subsidiary of Ecology and Environment, Inc. 4888 Pearl E. Circle, Suite 108 Boulder, CO 80301 (303) 443 -3282 (303) 443 -0367 (fax) To: Rich Cunningham We are sendin Job No: 5158 -100 Date: May 7, 2004 MAY 11 2004 These Transmission are: ❑ For your approval X For your use ❑ As per your request ❑ For your review and comment(s) ❑ FOR BIDS DUE LJ Approved as submitted ❑ Approved as noted ❑ Corrections noted (_J Resubmit with copies for approval ❑ Submit copies for distribution ❑ Return corrected prints ❑ PRINTS RETURNED AFTER LOAN TO US Original mailed 5/7/04 to Mr. Mark Gilfallan with the USACE. IF ENCLOSURES ARE NOT AS DESCRIBED, PLEASE NOTIFY US IMMEDIATELY P , Wed,ut:l F.&TSPe,1- Fagle Couut� Airport kA i I ix 1k ctlan(I Ixuc, I ctter of Transmittal dog, i 7 ?Ut) 1 Amwmw W151i Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC an ecology and environment company May 7, 2004 Mr. Mark Gilfallan U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Colorado /Gunnison Regulatory Office 400 Rood Avenue, Room 142 Grand Junction, CO 81501 -2563 Re: Nationwide Permit #14 (Linear Transportation Crossing) Application Eagle County Regional Airport Runway Expansion Project Eagle County, CO Dear Mr. Gilfallan: On behalf of the applicant, Eagle County, Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC (WALSH) is formally requesting issuance of Nationwide Permit #14 for construction of an extension to the existing runway at the Eagle County Airport to support increasing airport demand. We have enclosed the application information required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) under the provisions of Nationwide Permit #14 for your review. The contact information is provided below: APPLICANT Mr. Richard J. Cunningham Director of Facilities Management Eagle County, Colorado P.O. Box 850, 590 Broadway Eagle, CO 81631 Phone: (970) 328 -8881 Fax: (970) 328 -8899 AGENT Janetta Shepard, P.W.S. Restoration Ecologist Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC 4888 Pearl East Circle, Suite 108 Boulder, Colorado 80301 -2475 Phone: (303) 443 -3282 Fax: (303) 443 -0367 BACKGROUND AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Eagle County Airport (EGE) is a publicly owned /public use airport and serves as a commercial service and general a%,iatton facility. The EGE has been owned and operated by Eagle County since 1961 and is the only major air traffic facility in Eagle County and a significant connector for visitor traffic to surrounding Summit, Garfield, and Pitkin Counties. .1931'A*,,..,K�,. -, - 488ti Pearl F::a,,t ('u-cic Suite 108 Bouldcr. Ct,lorado 80301 -2475 Phone (303) 443 -3282 FAX (303) 443 -03f,7 The airlines using EGE are currently forced to take weight restriction penalties due to the high altitude and limited runway length. Because of this they cannot meet desired stage length and load factor goals, which affects the traveling public, and does not meet the existing and future demand for air transportation facilities. The county's goal is to better accommodate future demand on a year -round basis. This can be accomplished by lengthening the runway so as to allow the aircraft to operate at the airport without such burdensome stage length restrictions and load factor penalties. The proposed project will extend Runway 07/25 1,000 feet to the east. In addition to the runway extension, the parallel taxiway along the south side of the runway will also be extended, and the approach lighting system will be relocated to the eastern end of the runway. The end result will be a 9,000 -foot runway to accommodate landings and departures from both directions. The project will require routing sections of Alkali Creek through a culvert beneath the eastern end of the runway, and filling the channel area to attain grade consistency with the existing runway. As the current topography east of the runway slopes severely to the creek bed, this modification will allow for extension of the runway and achievement of the required safety area. SITE LOCATION The Eagle County Airport Property is located in the NW '/4, SW '/4 of Section 2, Township 5 South, Range 85 West (Average Latitude 39° 38' 05 ", Average Longitude 106° 53' 15 "), in Eagle County, Colorado (refer to the attached Site Location Map). The site is situated at an approximate elevation of 6500 feet above mean sea level. To access the northern reach of Alkali Creek from Interstate 70, take the Eagle exit and follow US Highway 6 west approximately % mile from the turnoff to the main entrance of the airport, which is located on Cooley Mesa Road. The creek flows from south to north and the two open water sections of the channel are located between Cooley Mesa Road (bridged with a 6 -foot diameter culvert) and US Highway 6 (bridged with a box culvert). The middle section of the creek is already piped underground through a 4 -foot diameter culvert pipe. JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION Jurisdictional waters and wetlands on the property are relegated to the Alkali Creek channel and associated narrow, riparian corridors in two channel reaches on the EGE property. Wetlands in the direct vicinity of Alkali Creek are predominantly vegetated by native plant species, although the adjacent floodplain and stream banks are dominated by introduced species, including invasive weedy species. Jurisdictional waters of the U.S., including wetlands, were delineated in two separate studies (2000 and 2003) on the sections of Alkali Creek occurring within the airport boundaries. In the study conducted in 2000 the south reach was delineated beginning at Cooley Mesa Road and continuing approximately 700 feet north to the underground culvert. Verification of this delineation was issued by the USACE on October 31, 2000 (File No. 200075444). In 2003, approximately 400 feet of the north reach of the creek was delineated. Verification of this delineation was issued by the USACE on December 9, 2003 (File No. 200375478). The total acreage of jurisdictional waters of the U.S., including wetlands on the open water sections of Alkali Creek occurring on EGE property is 0.56 -acre (24,572 s.f.), as follows: The southern reach of Alkali Creek contains 0.26 -acre (11,504 s.f.) of wetlands; and the northern reach of Alkali Creek (including the adjacent east bank, floodplain bench) contains 0.30 -acre (12,962 s.f.). JURISDICTIONAL IMPACTS Permanent wetland impacts associated with construction of the expanded runway total 0.40 -acre (17,256 s.f.) of the Alkali Creek channel and riparian corridor. Interruptions to the flow regime of the creek will be temporary and limited to the duration of time required to extend and install culvert piping to the end of the proposed fill pad. A natural resources inventory and evaluation of wetland areas was completed to provide a basis for mitigation planning to compensate for anticipated wetland impacts. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION Onsite wetland mitigation for impacts associated with Alkali Creek will be prohibited by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pursuant to Advisory Circular (AC No: 150/5200 -33) as the potential increase of wildlife in the vicinity of the runway would be hazardous to air traffic and increase altercations with wildlife. As Alkali Creek is the only suitable location for wetland creation on the airport property, unavoidable impacts to jurisdictional waters of the U.S., including wetlands, will be compensated at an offsite location that provides suitable mitigation opportunities for in -kind wetland creation to compensate for permanently impacted onsite wetlands. Wetland impacts will be avoided during onsite construction whenever possible when determining construction access points and staging areas. There will be no fill or cut in wetland areas other than those where impacts have been identified, and any excess material generated from the project (cut) will be stockpiled in upland areas away from Alkali Creek. To discourage the establishment of exotic or noxious plant species on the property, all wetland or upland areas temporarily disturbed by onsite construction activities will be seeded immediately following construction with a native grass m►Xture, and covered with a biodegradable coir mat or similar erosion control blanket. The applicant will mitigate for pennanent impacts to wetlands either through the creation of in -kind wetland habitat conducted at an offsite location at a 1:1.5 to 1:1 (mitigation to impact) ratio as stipulated by the USACE, or through the purchase of credits from an approved wetland mitigation bank. Working in conjunction with airport officials, regulatory agencies, and independent water authorities, WALSH conducted an investigation for suitable mitigation opportunities at offsite locations within the Eagle River watershed. Several potential locations in the Gypsum/Eagle area were identified for further investigation because they each contain the necessary components to re- create in -kind, wetland replacement for habitat losses associated with the project. These components include a close proximity to the project, a source of sustaining hydrology, and a good potential for viable partnerships with the property owners. Additionally, these projects are currently in the early planning stages and therefore provide an opportunity to coordinate wetland creation with project mitigation requirements in a timely manner. An alternative mitigation option being considered by the applicant is the purchase of mitigation credits from the Finger Rock Preserve wetland mitigation bank located just south of Yampa, Colorado, which has been approved for use in the Eagle River Watershed by USACE. At this time the USACE is requiring a 1.5:1.0 ratio (mitigation credits to impacts) for bank credits as sustainable hydrology at the bank has not yet received final approval. Details of the permit conditions will define and mandate final compensatory mitigation requirements that are required under the provisions of Section 404 of the CWA. If wetland bank credits are not purchased through the Finger Rock Preserve, final mitigation design plans for offsite wetland creation will be developed in coordination with the USACE, with input from other regulatory agencies regarding wildlife issues on the airport property. SUMMARY WALSH is herein formally requesting issuance of a Nationwide Permit #14 for construction of the airport runway extension across Alkali Creek. The proposed project will result in nominal impacts to wetland habitat and waters of the U.S. as total impacts will remain under 0.50 -acre. The project will not cause more than minimal degradation to water quality, and will not result in changes to the flow characteristics of the creek or increase the potential for flooding. Opportunities for wildlife habitat are limited in this area due to natural and man -made physical limitations (e.g., steep, rocky side slopes, confined band of monotypic riparian vegetation, and security chain -link fencing), and fragmentation of the channel habitat resulting from underground channeling that creates travel barriers and further limits diversity of vegetative communities and habitat niches. This project is not expected to impact any federal endangered or threatened species or state listed species of concern, or their habitat. 4 Please contact me if you have any questions or if I can provide additional information to expedite issuance of the permit. If you feel that a site visit is necessary and would like a WALSH field scientist to meet with you, please call me to arrange a convenient meeting time. Thank you for your time and consideration. Regards, WALSH ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTISTS AND ENGINEERS, LLC. 4-1- S�Lryd J et Shepard, PWS Restoration Ecologist Cc: Richard J. Cunningham, Eagle County Attachments: Figure 1 - Site Location Map Figure 2 - Site Vicinity Map Figure 3 — Wetland /Impact Map Figure 4 — Wetland/Impact Plan & Profile 1, 1A cd-wi l L& I Ea` Ie c cunt. ;1IIPvit I:.1 � l �?� �\'c tal3�il I +xi 5 NkVP 14 Applican,)) 5 ALM ,.Wa]Sh Figure 1 Envitontnental Scientists and Engineers, LL C an ecoloev and envi'onment COITIVtnv Eagle County Airport Location Map 7' Z� kW1 w �q 1K _71 Z. WA U_ MR , 4rj Al N OW"4 % L IVsI A ; ........... 'In qa i All Jm 7— 4 X: e + + + m _m W ■a 4 o m " .7- .;JAL A OOJNV AIWO IF- SIM,— '3 71 MW A S_w 411 Ink-= *1111t" A ■ ERT. q v 'A / I J •.j•.' . OW, tZ z4l C, ,7 -71 yt� - AN 4� V 1: U 0 If ;Ir Z fe m f ti-: f -X j 0.' Y. 1D TW@Qm■b CxlrrWd 0 LIP DdAFm Ymnm& ME IM Wme Dmic USCS mb kar 1: 37 AI D*a 13 6 Dttm vxm Environmental Scientists and Engineers, I JC Figure 2 Eagle County Airport Vicinity Map �- ' -\� 79 7 i I I �,,,` •ri fps.\ �. GRAPHIC SCALE 0 100 200 ( IN FEET ) ---- -- - - -- =- Q / 44.7 - -_ - - - �`� - •�`: 434 `4�9 I� -. t E - 3;o .� ,... - - -- T_'----- � - - - - -- - -- _ - - -_ - - -� •�` `� == =x,17 - �� 347 � ? ` -� it u � I i ' � r i ; r 2!q I V-- EAGLE COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT EAGLE, COLORADO LEGEND: EXISTING WETLANDS 0.56 AC ® WETLAND IMPACTS 0.40 AC r ' j' Sr.3 Carter.= Burgess ISSUE RECORD t _ 4/08/04 %I - - J V ALOD 13 PROJECTS \ECE -100 RW -725 Ed '•, 179 , _` - , r ' \OEDLCAD\... � ; I , I 1 � I i \ r I `V R 7/25 EXTENSION 96 ESTIMATED FILL AREA ! �;' ' �— - �``� -, �9• _. _��- �__ WETLAND /IMPACT MAP = I 1 ff -,' f iqure 3 J26 Jam, _ l F- I y o. 1+ N 12 +00 1 14400 AkST PAD ---- LASING (UIVERI 13+m 14.00 GRAPHIC SCALE 100 0 100 200 IN FEET &1150 6500 54.50 23 1- -1 6400 +DO EAGLE COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT EAGLE, COLORADO LEGEND: EXISTING WETLANDS 0.56 AC WETLAND IMPACTS 0.40 AC CartemBurgess ISSUE RECORD 4/08/04 J\ \LDD-r3 PRojEcrs\EGE -ioo RW- 725 EA I J-.\ \DEN-CA[)\ RW -//'25 1 XIENSION ALKALI !-R[,FK WL f [ANf--)/IMPAC I PLAN y IDIROF lt-F Figure 4 6S' _-- - L'j C-) M>- 6550 - ------- &5w 6450 EXI"NG CULVERT CULVERT 6400 0 +0a 1100 it 00 12 +00 1 14400 AkST PAD ---- LASING (UIVERI 13+m 14.00 GRAPHIC SCALE 100 0 100 200 IN FEET &1150 6500 54.50 23 1- -1 6400 +DO EAGLE COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT EAGLE, COLORADO LEGEND: EXISTING WETLANDS 0.56 AC WETLAND IMPACTS 0.40 AC CartemBurgess ISSUE RECORD 4/08/04 J\ \LDD-r3 PRojEcrs\EGE -ioo RW- 725 EA I J-.\ \DEN-CA[)\ RW -//'25 1 XIENSION ALKALI !-R[,FK WL f [ANf--)/IMPAC I PLAN y IDIROF lt-F Figure 4