Curtis Wambach, M.S.

Senior Biologist & President

 


 

Consulting Experience

Table of Contents
Biological Evaluations
Endangered Species Act Compliance
Wetlands
Company Resume

 

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Wetlands


 

 

Table of Contents

 

Wetland Projects

Pacific Environmental

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

Talasaea Consultants, LLC

 

Endangered Species ACT (ESA) Compliance (Corps Permit) Projects

Pacific Environmental

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

Talasaea Consultants, LLC

 

 


 

Expanded Table of Contents

 

Wetland Projects

Pacific Environmental

Residential Development on Lake Samish, Whatcom County

City of Lake Stevens Sewer Main Project, City of Lake Steven, Snohomish County

Residential or Commercial Development, City of Lake Stevens, Snohomish County

Multi-use Development, City of Marysville, Snohomish County

Residential Subdivision Development, Skagit County

Steamboat Island Residential Subdivision, Steamboat Island, Thurston County

Connard Property Boundary Line Adjustment, City of Shelton, Mason County

South Hill Park Trail Project, Pierce County

Grotjan Property Wetland Violation, Hoodsport, Mason County

 

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)

WDFW Grandy Creek Steelhead Acclimation Facility, Community of Birdsview, Skagit County

WDFW North Bay Shellfish Access Site Wetland Report and Mitigation Plan, Mason County

WDFW Lake Kapowsin Boat Launch Facility Wetland Report and Mitigation Plan, Pierce County

WDFW City of Kenmore Boat Launch Improvement Project Wetland Report and Mitigation Plan, City of Kenmore, King County

WDFW ADA Compliant Fishing facility, White Salmon, Klickitat County

WDFW Wallace River Hatchery Pollution Abatement Pond, Snohomish County

WDFW Boat Launch Facility, Pleasant Harbor, Jefferson County

 

Talasaea Consultants, LLC

Phase 3 Building Expansion, Snohomish County

Mill Creek Town Center, City of Mill Creek, Snohomish County

Mill Creek Plaza, Parcel C, City of Mill Creek, Snohomish County

Thrasher’s West Business Park, City of Bothell, Snohomish County

Arlington School District, City of Arlington, Snohomish County

Orcas Moon Condominiums, King County

Redmond 74 (Cosmos) Condominiums, City of Redmond, King County

Hemstreet Multi-family Development, City of Mill Creek, Snohomish County

Mendel Lake Sensitive Areas Evaluation, Near Granite Falls, Snohomish County

Sumner Office Park, City of Sumner, King County

Weyerhaeuser Property & Quadrant Homes, City of Federal Way, King County

Devco Property, City of Mill Creek, Snohomish County

Condominium Project, City of Shoreline, King County

Microsoft Road Widening Project, City of Redmond, King County

Subdivision, City of College Place, Walla Walla County

Green River Community College, King County

Mallard Bay Senior Housing Development, City of Issaquah, King County

Mallard Bay Condominiums, City of Issaquah, King County

Sunnybrook Estates, City of Renton, King County

Buttar Subdivision, City of Renton, King County

Meredith Property Warehouse Development, City of Auburn, King County

Dr Tracey Property for Property Sale, Snohomish County

Heatherwood Apartments, City of Mill Creek, King County

Calvary Chapel Eastside, City of Bellevue, King County

Foundation House at Bothell, City of Bothell, King County


Endangered Species ACT (ESA) Compliance (Corps Permit)

 

Pacific Environmental

Birch Bay Water and Sewer District Water Main Extension, Whatcom County

City of Edmonds Meter A Sewer Line Project, Snohomish County

Wray Condominium Development, City of Hoquiam, Gray’s Harbor County

Harder Subdivision Project, Whatcom County

City of Lake Stevens Sewer Main Project, City of Lake Stevens, Snohomish County

 

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

WDFW Grandy Creek Hatchery Construction, Community of Birdsview, Skagit County

WDFW Proposed Boat Launch Facility at Pleasant Harbor, Jefferson County

WDFW Skagit Headquarters Boat Launch Maintenance Project, Skagit County

WDFW Riverfront Park Project, Skagit County

WDFW Boat Launch Improvement Project, Kenmore, King County

 

Talasaea Consultants, LLC

Phase 3 Building Expansion, Snohomish County

Preston Industrial Park, City of Preston

Mill Creek Town Center, City of Mill Creek

Thrasher’s West Business Park, City of Bothell

Avondale Park Multi-family Development, City of Redmond

Arlington School District, City of Arlington

Arden Court Condominiums, King County

Schnitzer Business Park Development, City of Bothell

Proposed single and multi-family Residential Community, City of Bothell

Redmond 74 Condominiums, City of Redmond

Hemstreet Multi-family Development, City of Mill Creek

 


 


 

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Curtis Wambach, MS

 

 

PROJECT RESUME

 

WETLANDS

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pacific Environmental

 

Wetland Delineation, Mitigation Plan, Stream Study for Residential Development

Residential Development on Lake Samish, Whatcom County

Performed wetland delineation and stream study on 2-acre parcel located on the shoreline of Lake Samish in Whatcom County.  Prepared Wetland and Stream Study Report and Mitigation Report.  Mitigation involved the removal of invasive weeds and the planting of native vegetation. 

 

Wetland Delineation and buffer mitigation plan for City of Lake Stevens Sewer Main Project

City of Lake Stevens Sewer Main Project, City of Lake Steven, Snohomish County

Delineated wetland in path of proposed City of Lake Stevens sewer main.  Sewer main was re-routed through wetland buffer.  Developed wetland buffer mitigation plan to offset temporary buffer impacts caused by trenching.  Subcontracted through Cantrell and Associates. 

 

Wetland Reconnaissance and Delineation for Feasibility Study on Catherine Creek Parcel

Residential or Commercial Development, City of Lake Stevens, Snohomish County

Delineated Palustrine scrub-shrub wetland associated with Catherine Creek and located in the City of Lake Stevens.  The project was part of a feasibility study for appropriate site construction within the urban growth area of incorporated Lake Stevens.  Subcontracted through Cantrell and Associates. 

 

Wetland Reconnaissance and Delineation on 180 acres of Agricultural Land for Sale of Property

Multi-use Development, City of Marysville, Snohomish County

Performed wetland reconnaissance and delineation to inventory and categorize wetlands located on 180 acres of agricultural lands within the Marysville Urban Growth Area.  Dug hundreds of test pits in historically plowed and tiled fields to determine hydrology in historically drained and altered hydric soils.  Determined wetland categories and wetland buffer widths on delineated wetlands.  Subcontracted through Cantrell and Associates. 

 

Wetland Reconnaissance and Delineation on 70-acre Heavily-forested Property for Proposed Subdivision

Residential Subdivision Development, Skagit County

Wetland reconnaissance and delineation on 70-acre property proposed for subdivision.  Performed hydrology study to analyze atypical hydrological conditions caused by shallow perched water table under mostly upland plant species.  Delineated a patchy mosaic of wetland and upland islands based on hydrology and reduced soil conditions during the wet season.  Subcontracted through Cantrell and Associates.

 

Wetland Reconnaissance and Delineation on 70-acre Heavily-forested Property for Proposed Subdivision

Steamboat Island Residential Subdivision, Steamboat Island, Thurston County

Performed wetland reconnaissance and delineation on property heavily-forested with Oregon ash, western red cedar, red alder, and Douglas fir located on Steamboat Island.  Wetland delineation included large terrestrial and estuarine wetlands interconnected by hillside seeps and groundwater interflow.  Mosaic wetlands formed in skid rows, tire ruts, and roadside drainage ditches from historical and recent logging activities, which compressed the soils and created shallow depressions.  Subcontracted through Land-tek.

 

Wetland Reconnaissance, Delineation, and Wetland Report on 30-acre Parcel for Boundary-line Adjustment

Connard Property Boundary Line Adjustment, City of Shelton, Mason County

Performed wetland delineation on seasonal wetland associated with Winter Creek.  Wetland vegetation was dominated by water stressed pacific ninebark, Douglas spirea, and clustered rose during the August site reconnaissance.  Unusually vegetated buffers are dominated by Oregon oak and lodgepole pine with an understory of serviceberry and too Oregon grape.  Prepared wetland report to satisfy Mason County requirements.  Mapped the delineated wetland using compass and tape method.  Subcontracted through Land-tek.

 

Wetland Reconnaissance, Delineation, and Wetland Report for Trail Through South Hill Park

South Hill Park Trail Project, Pierce County

Performed wetland reconnaissance and delineation on two large palustrine forested and scrub-shrub wetlands for a trail project in South Hill Park.  Completed a wetland report illustrating wetland boundaries and describing wetland characteristics.  Performed atypical methodology on Wetland A because of its historically disturbed nature, patchy hydrology, and FAC dominant vegetation.  Subcontracted through Land-tek.

 

Wetland Restoration Plan for Unauthorized Fill of 10-acre Category II Wetland near Hoodsport

Grotjan Property Wetland Violation, Hoodsport, Mason County

Prepared a Wetland Restoration Plan requested by Mason County for unauthorized fill of a 10-acre Category II Wetland containing forested, scrub/shrub, and emergent plant communities.  Developed a mitigation plan to improve the wetland functions.  Performed a functional values assessment of the altered wetland areas to determine the baseline values.  Calculated wetland functional values for assumed pre-wetland disturbance conditions.  Created mitigation plan that would exceed pre-alteration values for wetland functions.  Mitigation plan called for the removal of fill from over peat soils, landscaping of existing excavated ponds to better suit amphibian and wildlife utilization, placement of down logs (large woody debris) in strategic positions to enhance habitat features, and to replant the disturbed wetland and buffer areas with a variety of native vegetation that would benefit local wildlife populations.  Subcontracted under Agua Tierra.

 


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Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

 

Sensitive Areas Reconnaissance at proposed Grandy Creek Hatchery on Skagit River

WDFW Grandy Creek Steelhead Acclimation Facility, Community of Birdsview, Skagit County

Project involved complex impacts and issues associated with the construction of a new hatchery on the Skagit River, WA.  Analysis involved ecology impacts, financial impacts, and political involvement, as well as terrestrial stream/river buffer impacts.  Mitigation involved the elimination of Himalayan blackberry and Japanese knotweed to the specification that I have developed through experimentation at other project sites.  After invasive weeds have been eliminated, a variety of native plant species will be installed within the 10 acre mitigation area.  Plant species chosen will be fast growing and compete with invasive plant species.  Functional values assessment was performed on sensitive areas buffer to determine baseline conditions and to compare projected mitigated values. 

 

Wetland delineation and Mitigation plan for Construction within Marine Buffer at North Bay on Case Inlet

WDFW North Bay Shellfish Access Site, Mason County

Palustrine scrub-shrub wetland was identified on the site.  Site plans were altered to avoid this wetland and its buffer.  A parking area would be built in 200-foot marine shoreline buffer.  Developed mitigation plan for buffer intrusion consisting of intensive weed removal and native plant installation.  Conducted study on four study plots to develop specifications for the successful removal of Japanese knotweed and Himalayan blackberry.  Developed and implemented monitoring and maintenance plan to insure long-term success of project.

 

Wetland Reconnaissance and Delineation for a boat launch facility renovation at Lake Kapowsin

WDFW Lake Kapowsin Boat Launch Facility, Pierce County

Project involved the delineation of six wetlands disturbed by unauthorized 4-wheel drive recreation.  Two of the wetlands are located at the shoreline contain extensive aquatic beds and extend for a distance along the water’s edge.   

 

Wetland Delineation and Mitigation Report for boat launch facility improvements on the Sammamish River

WDFW City of Kenmore Boat Launch Improvement Project, City of Kenmore, King County

Delineated off-site wetlands immediately west of the subject property to determine buffer overlap onto project site.  Project involved the improvement of a highly capacity urban boat launch facility on the Sammamish River by doubling the width of the boat ramp, adding new pavement, and installing vault toilets.  Created mitigation plan that involved shoreline restoration by installing 2-inch diameter gravels to enhance salmonid habitat and by establishing a willow forest at the water’s edge to improve structural diversity of salmonid rearing habitat. 

 

Wetland Delineation and Mitigation Plan on a site located in the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area

WDFW ADA Compliant Fishing facility, White Salmon, Klickitat County

Delineated palustrine Scrub-Shrub wetlands at shoreline of Rowland Lake, a lake cut off from the Columbia River by railroad tracks and the highway.  Created mitigation plan to offset wetland and shoreline impacts. Mitigation involved the restoration of a wetland buffer area within an oak woodland ecosystem, considering visual aesthetics within the federally-regulated scenic area and habitat improvements for western gray squirrel.  Sensitive areas report was written to obtain a permit from the Columbia River Gorge Commission, a pseudo-agency appointed by the Federal Government to protect the resources within the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area.  Project involved the construction of a ADA compliant fishing float and ramp located within the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area.

 

Wetland Reconnaissance, Delineation, and Wetland Report on Hatchery Site

WDFW Wallace River Hatchery Pollution Abatement Pond, Snohomish County

Delineated three Snohomish County Category 4 wetlands in disturbed area adjacent to the Wallace River and May Creek.  The installation of a pollution abatement pond would offset any impacts to stormwater functions as the result of filling of a small Category 4 wetland. 

 

Sensitive Areas Reconnaissance to Assess Effects of Boat Launch Facility at Pleasant Harbor

WDFW Boat Launch Facility, Pleasant Harbor, Jefferson County

Performed sensitive areas reconnaissance on 30-acre parcel nestled in the cove that is Pleasant Harbor.  Project involved the installation of a boat launch, parking, and culverts, as well as road widening, at a WDFW access site in the shorelines of Pleasant Harbor, an inlet located on Hood Canal.  Developed mitigation plan that involved removal of an existing 83-foot long creosote pier, restoration of a potential chum spawning stream, restoration of saltwater habitat through restored gravel recruitment and reconstituting the shoreline.  Effects analysis involved the evaluation of impacts on Hood Canal summer run chum salmon (T), Puget Sound Chinook salmon (T), bull trout (T), coho salmon (C), Marbled Murrelet (T), and Bald Eagle (T). 


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Talasaea Consultants

 

Wetland Delineation/Wetland Report for Building Expansion in North Creek Shoreline Management Zone

Phase 3 Building Expansion, Snohomish County

Delineated wetlands surrounding the fill-elevated project site within the North Creek corridor.  Delineated wetland within and outside of the North Creek levee that had buffers extend onto the project site.  Buffer averaging avoided intensive mitigation.  Project involved a building expansion on a 5-acre site adjacent to North Creek in Snohomish County.  Conducted drainage analysis to discover that previous development activities diverted on-site stormwater away from North Creek through a series of stormwater wetlands to the Sammamish River.  Prepared wetland report and accompanying Biological Evaluation for review by the regulatory agencies. 

 

Wetland Delineation and Wetland Report/Mitigation Plan for 23-acre Mill Creek Town Center Development

Mill Creek Town Center, City of Mill Creek, Snohomish County

Delineated wetlands within the North Creek corridor in the City of Mill Creek.  Project involved the construction of the 23-acre Mill Creek Town Center, which would contain retail space, internal roads, and associated parking.  Prepared wetland report and mitigation plan to off-set impacts of wetland fill.  Prepared Biological Evaluation to address possible impacts to Federally-Listed Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook salmon, Critical Habitat, and Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) that occur in the North Creek corridor. 

 

Wetland Delineation and Wetland Mitigation Plan for Mill Creek Plaza, Parcel C

Mill Creek Plaza, Parcel C, City of Mill Creek, Snohomish County

Prepared wetland mitigation plan to describe the wetland/stream impacts and proposed mitigation for the Mill Creek Plaza, Parcel C development project located in the City of Mill Creek, Washington.  Under the proposed office building/self-storage development, 3,616 square feet (sf) of wetland would be considered impacted due to lack of providing the required buffer (unbuffered wetland).  Additionally, a portion of the on-site wetland/stream buffer would be reduced and averaged.  Buffer averaging will be utilized, therefore maintaining the same area as required for the standard buffer.

 

Wetland Delineation, Wetland Study Report, Functions analysis & Mitigation Plan for Business Park Thrasher’s West Business Park, City of Bothell, Snohomish County

Delineated two wetlands on the subject property.  One large wetland is contiguous with the North Creek wetland complex.  A smaller bowl-shaped wetland is isolated.  Construction involved the filling of the small bowl-shaped wetland.  Prepared a Wetland Study Report and Mitigation Plan as part of a package to obtain permits for the construction of several commercial buildings on a 20-acre parcel.  The wetland was located in the flood plain of North Creek, a stream containing Federally-listed Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook Salmon.  The Biological Evaluation examined the impact of construction on Chinook, Critical Habitat, and Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) that occurs within the Action Area. 

 

Wetland Mitigation Plan for Construction of New High School on Portage Creek

Arlington School District, City of Arlington, Snohomish County

Project required the filling of several wetlands on a 55-acre parcel adjacent to waters containing Federally-listed Coastal/Puget Sound bull trout and Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook salmon.  Wetland mitigation involved the replacement of low value wetlands with wetlands that have a greater functional value to salmonids. 

 

Wetland Delineation, Drainage Evaluation, and Wetland Study Report for Condominium Development

Orcas Moon Condominiums, King County

Delineated the larger of two wetlands located on the subject property.  Conducted shallow groundwater monitoring study to determine extent of wetland boundaries and to determine of on-site wetland were hydrologically connected through subsurface flow.  Performed a functional values assessment to determine baseline values in comparison to projected mitigation values.   The project involved the construction of condominiums on a 4.31-acre parcel.  More than one-tenth of an acre of wetland fill triggered a Corps permit.  One of the on-site wetlands is hydrologically connected to Juanita Creek through 3,000 linear feet of stormwater piping.  Prepared Biological Evaluation to assess potential impacts to Federally-listed Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook salmon occurring more than 3,500 feet downstream from the project site in Juanita Creek. 

 

Wetland Reconnaissance and Delineation on proposed 74-acre Multi-family Development

Redmond 74 (Cosmos) Condominiums, City of Redmond, King County

Wetland delineation on 74-acre site within the Sammamish River valley.  A 300-foot buffer was placed around an active red-tailed hawk nest.  Addressed the management of a barn owl roost and a red fox den as part of the project.  Wetland mitigation was proposed for the fill of greater than one-tenth of an acre of wetlands.  Prepared Biological Evaluation that evaluated and addressed possible impacts to Federally-listed salmonids and the bald eagle. 

 

Wetland Delineation, Functional Values assessment, wetland Report on 55-acre Multifamily Development Hemstreet Multi-family Development, City of Mill Creek, Snohomish County

Delineated palustrine forested wetlands on a 55-acre site.  The hydrology criterion was determined through shallow groundwater monitoring wells.  On-site wetland drains to North Creek through forested portions of residential lots.  Prepared wetland report to address wetland impacts and provide mitigation to offset these impacts.  Performed functional values assessment to assist in the creation of the mitigation plan.  A sewer line was to cross the wetland in a disturbed area.  The Corps atypical methodology was used to determine the precise wetland boundary in this location. 

 

Sensitive Areas Evaluation on a 180-acre Property in Rural Snohomish County

Mendel Lake Sensitive Areas Evaluation, Near Granite Falls, Snohomish County

Performed a wetland reconnaissance on a 180-acre property for environmental regulatory considerations as part of a feasibility study for site development.  Two small lakes, associated wetlands, and 5 streams were identified on the property.  Regulatory setbacks were determined and drawn on a field sketch.  Fishery resources analysis discovered the potential for on-site occurrence of Federally-listed Bull trout.  A portion of the lake contained a bog-like wetland, priority habitat.  Prepared a Habitat Management Plan that was required for site development under Snohomish County Code. 

 

Sensitive Areas Evaluation Report on Two Turf Farms Located Adjacent to the White River

Sumner Office Park, City of Sumner, King County

Prepared Habitat Management Plan to evaluate sensitive habitats and species for the development of two sod farms that contained wetlands situated on the bank of the White River. 

 

Multiple Wetland Delineations on the Weyerhaeuser Headquarters Property for the Quadrant Corporation

Weyerhaeuser Property & Quadrant Homes, City of Federal Way, King County

Delineated wetlands on multiple areas of the Campus.  Prepared a Wetland Study Report and Mitigation Plan for the South Campus project.  This project involved the development of an office park on a 100-acre site containing forested wetlands.  All wetlands on the south campus property were of relatively high quality and were preserved with maximum buffers intact.  An active bald eagle nest was discovered on the property.  A 400-foot buffer was placed around the nest.  Delineated wetlands on the North Lake Campus that contained palustrine forested wetlands connected to the North Lake bog. 

 

Wetland Study near McCullum Park on the North Creek Corridor Wetlands

Devco Property, City of Mill Creek, Snohomish County

Conducted a wetland delineation, fish and wildlife study on an 80-acre site near McCullum Park, Mill Creek, WA.  Prepared Wetland Study Report and mitigation plan that would offset impacts to the northern portion of the on-site North Creek wetlands. 

 

Wetland and Stream Study in the City of Shoreline near Tidal Waters of Puget Sound

Condominium Project, City of Shoreline, King County

Determined construction constraints on steeply sloped property between Richmond Beach Drive and seaside railroad tracks.  Determined buffer on wetland and stream originating from a smashed hillside culvert and flowing along a railroad ditch to the Sound. 

 

Wetland Delineation and Mitigation Plan for Street Widening at 148th Street in Redmond

Microsoft Road Widening Project, City of Redmond, King County

Determined the size and extent of wetlands lost through unauthorized fill mid-way through the widening of 148th Street at the Microsoft Campus.  Developed a cost estimate for mitigation based on a square foot estimate for a presumed out-of-kind mitigation settlement involving the City of Redmond.     

 

Wetland Study on a Wheat Farm in Walla Walla

Subdivision, City of College Place, Walla Walla County

Delineated wetlands in an agriculturally irrigated wheat farm on a 65-acre site.  Some wetlands were originally irrigated trenches and ponds from waters diverted from the nearby creek.  Evaluated the presence of sage grouse, pigmy rabbit, burrowing owl, or other Federally-listed and State priority species. 

 

Wetland Delineation and Wetland Report for Green River Community College Student Housing Project

Green River Community College, King County

Identified and delineated wetlands and streams at the 186-acre Green Giver Community College campus as a part of a feasibility study for the design and construction of their student housing project.  Prepared a wetland report that presented all possible alternatives and scenarios for construction that would avoid and minimize wetland and stream impacts while considering utility hook-ups, student accessibility, and a limited budget. 

 

Wetland Study and Report on 23-acre Senior Housing Development On Lake Sammamish in Issaquah

Mallard Bay Senior Housing Development, City of Issaquah, King County

Delineated wetlands and streams on two parcels totaling 23 acres in size on a hillside facing Lake Sammamish.  Five wetlands totaling approximately 7 acres were delineation.  Delineated two streams, Laughing Jacobs Creek and Many Springs Creek that both extended through the property.  Performed Functions and Values Assessment to compare existing wetland conditions to projected vales of mitigated wetlands.  The proposed project consists of a multi-housing and/or senior housing development with proposed buildings, parking and access roads.

 

Wetland delineation, shallow groundwater study, Functional Values Assessment, Mitigation Plan and Wetland Report

Mallard Bay Condominiums, City of Issaquah, King County

Performed shallow groundwater monitoring as part of the COE Atypical Methodology to delineate the boundaries of 5 wetlands on a 5-acre parcel.  Prepared a Wetland Report and Mitigation Plan.  The proposed project consists of a multi-family residential, condominium development with a proposed building, parking, and access roads on a property bordering Lake Sammamish on East Lake Sammamish Parkway SE.  Performed a Functional Values Assessment on the five delineated wetlands to compare with projected post-mitigation values.  Mitigation consisted of the creation of wetlands associated with the highest value wetland and the enhancement of lower value, reed canarygrass wetlands.  Mitigated wetlands would step down in small pools to Lake Sammamish, creating an aesthetic water feature.  Snags and other habitat features were installed to enhance habitat functions in mitigated wetlands. 

 

Wetland Study Report and mitigation plan for a single-family/multi-family 36-acre subdivision on old coalmine area

Sunnybrook Estates, City of Renton, King County

Delineated 5 wetlands totaling a combined size of 6 acres on a property historically used for coalmining, farming, and timber.  Delineated streams and altered drainage systems that were created through prior land uses.  Wetlands extended through Oregon ash and western red cedar forests, old mining areas, old logging roads, and recently abandoned farm pastures.  Participated in project design and specifications to avoid and minimize impacts to regulated wetlands and streams.  Prepared wetlands report, including functions and values assessment, mitigation plan, and stormwater design. 

 

Wetland Study Report and Mitigation Plan for a Single-family 10-acre subdivision on old coalmine area

Buttar Subdivision, City of Renton, King County

Used COE Atypical Methodology to delineate three odd-ball wetlands on a highly disturbed 10-acre parcel located in a historical coalmining area within the City of Renton.  All soils on the site were highly disturbed (graded and turned over) and blackened by coal tailings and thereby were unreliable as a wetland indicator.  Plant species were dominated by FAC European pasture grasses, and the hydrology was not consistent with topography due to coal tailing and altered soils.  Performed a shallow groundwater monitoring study, advanced reduced soils analysis, and a FAC neutral test to identify and delineate the boundary of three atypical wetlands.  One of the wetlands was located on top of an elongated, parabolic mound of coal tailings mixed into the soils.  Another wetland formed in an area scalped of topsoil and was probably a capped mineshaft. 

 

Wetland Study Report and Mitigation Plan on 13-acre Proposed 77,400 square foot Warehouse Facility

Meredith Property Warehouse Development, City of Auburn, King County

Delineated one large, 7.65-acre wetland using the COE Atypical and Comprehensive Methodologies on the 13-acre subject property located in the City of Auburn.  Prepared Wetland Study Report and Mitigation Plan.  Performed Shallow Groundwater Monitoring Study and Advanced Reduced Soils Analysis to determined precise wetland boundaries in disturbed farmland.  The abandoned farm field contained drainage tiles and many small drainage ditches.  Tiles and ditches lead to one large drainage ditch that extended off site.  In portions of the site hydric soils appeared historically drained for farming.  The chemical a-a’-dipyridyl was used in the Advanced Reduced Soils Analysis to determine whether presumed drained hydric soils were under reduced conditions during the growing season.  The project planning and mitigation followed the guidelines of the COE Mill Creek Special Area Management Plan (SAMP).  Methodologies followed the

 

Wetland Delineation and Wetland Study Report on a 4-Acre Property in Snohomish County.

Dr Tracey Property for Property Sale, Snohomish County

Delineated two forested wetlands on 4-acre property using the COE Routine Onsite Determination Methodology.  The project involved an appraisal of the land for sale.  The wetlands were adjacent to a small bowl-shaped lake that was a historical bog and more recent peat mining facility.  The onsite wetlands did not contain peat soils and probably were not part of the peat mining operation as evidenced by the relatively large Douglas fir and western red cedar growing on the site.  Prepared a Wetland Study Report for Snohomish County records. 

 

Delineated 13 Acres of Forested Wetlands on the 27-acre Proposed Heatherwood Apartment Development

Heatherwood Apartments, City of Mill Creek, King County

Delineated 13 acres of forested wetlands on the 27-acre site located in the City of Mill Creek.  The development infrastructure includes a system of asphalt-paved roads, cul-de-sacs, driveways, and underground stormwater facilities.  The development will occupy land that is currently undeveloped.  The proposed action involves clearing and grading of approximately 9.5 acres. Prepared a Wetland Report and Mitigation Plan

 

Delineated Wetlands using COE Atypical and Comprehensive Methodologies on 5-acre Church Property

Calvary Chapel Eastside, City of Bellevue, King County

Delineated two human-altered and highly disturbed wetlands using the COE Atypical and Comprehensive Methodologies, which included a shallow groundwater study, hundreds of test pits along grid-like transects, an advanced reduced soils analysis, the FAC Neutral Test, and historical research.  Abandoned stormwater conveyance structures from previous land use, such as installed French drains and a primitive treatment pond, had disturbed the soils and altered the hydrology through the site.  A recently installed sewer main acted as a conduit for water seeping from the ground at the hub.  And, a leaky City Sprinkler system contributed to wet conditions on the site.  Determined that wetlands were recently formed through human activities on site and in the vicinity of the site. 

 

Wetland delineation, Shallow Groundwater Study, and Wetland Report on 16-acre Proposed Senior Housing Foundation House at Bothell, City of Bothell, King County

Delineated 4 wetlands totaling one acre in size and three streams that derived from hillside seeps.  Performed shallow groundwater analysis and reduced soils analysis during the growing season to determine wetland boundary in old homestead, pasture, and orchard area.  The upper portion of the site was forested hillside where seeps eventually formed streams near the toe of slope.  Performed a Functional Values Assessment and significant tree survey, and prepared a Wetland Study Report and Mitigation plan.  The project involved a senior housing development on the lower relatively flat portion of the site.  The senior housing development was to compliment the neighboring senior center. 

 


 

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Curtis Wambach, M.S.

 

Pacific Environmental

 

 

BIOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS/ASSESSMENTS

 

 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Water Main Installation on Drayton Harbor

Birch Bay Water and Sewer District Water Main Extension, Whatcom County

Replacement of existing water main 2,800 feet along Drayton Harbor Road and 2,400 feet along Harbor View Road on Drayton Harbor, near the City of Blaine, Whatcom County.  The installation of the water main is located within 50 feet of juvenile Chinook (T) rearing habitat in Drayton Harbor.  Nine culverts convey water from the construction area to the Harbor.  Best Management Practices (BMPs) and a maintenance & contingency plan were employed to prevent turbid runoff from entering the harbor, allowing a ‘no effect’ determination and quick turnaround time on the Corps Permit.  

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Sewer Line Meter Installation on Lake Ballinger

City of Edmonds Meter A Sewer Line Project, Snohomish County

Installation of sewer line meter station within 50-feet of Lake Ballinger, which contains Chinook Salmon (T), bull trout (T), and foraging bald eagles (T).  The construction of a new access road required the fill of forested wetlands.  Wetland mitigation off-set wetland impacts. 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Condominium Development in Channel of Hoquiam River

Wray Condominium Development, City of Hoquiam, Gray’s Harbor County

Project involved the construction of a stilt foundation condominium located in the tidally-influenced channel of the Hoquiam River, Grays Harbor County.  The BE addressed impacts to Federally-listed humpback whale (E), leatherback sea turtle (E), bull trout (T), bald eagle (T), marbled murrelet (T), steller sea lion (T), and lower Columbia/SW WA coho (C). 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Subdivision on Drayton Harbor

Harder Subdivision Project, Whatcom County

Project involved the subdivision and construction of access roads, building lots, and installation of utilities, and the filling of over one-tenth of an acre of wetlands adjacent to Drayton Harbor, Whatcom County Washington.  Mitigation involved the enhancement of an existing deciduous forested wetland through the planting of conifers.  The BE addressed impacts to Federally-listed humpback whale (E), leatherback sea turtle (E), Chinook salmon (T), bull trout (T), bald eagle (T), marbled murrelet (T), steller sea lion (T), and lower Columbia/SW WA coho (C). 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Sewer main Crossing for the City of Lake Stevens

City of Lake Stevens Sewer Main Project, City of Lake Stevens, Snohomish County

Project involved the installation of a sewer main within the City of Lake Stevens.  The proposed City sewer main was bored under Catherine Creek to avoid direct impacts to the riparian environment.  However, some trenching occurred in riparian wetlands adjacent to the Creek.  Because of adequate Best Management Practices (BMPs) a ‘no effect’ determination on Puget Sound Chinook salmon (T), bull trout (T), coho salmon (C), and Bald Eagle (T), allowed the Corps permitting to turn around in two weeks.   

 

 


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Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

 

Biological Evaluation for boat launch improvements on the Sammamish River

WDFW Boat Launch Facility, City of Kenmore, King County

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Boat Launch Facility Improvements on the Sammamish River

WDFW Boat Launch Improvement Project, Kenmore, King County

Project involved the improvement of an urban boat launch facility in the City of Kenmore, King County, Washington.  Improvements included the replacement and widening of a boat ramp, installation of boarding floats, the repaving of the parking area, and mitigation.  Mitigation involved the restoration of the degraded shoreline area through the installation of spawning gravels, large woody debris, and native vegetation. 

 

 

Biological Evaluation for Cedar River Sockeye Collection Rack (Fish Trap) Installation and Removal

WDFW Cedar River Sockeye Collection Rack, City of Renton, King County

 

Biological Evaluation for boat launch Improvements on Columbia River

WDFW Boat Launch Facility, Community of Sunland Estates, Grant County

 

Biological Assessment and Habitat Management Plan for Grandy Creek Hatchery on Skagit River

WDFW Grandy Creek Hatchery Construction, Community of Birdsview, Skagit County

Project involved complex impacts and issues associated with the construction of a new hatchery on the Skagit River, WA.  Analysis involved genetic impacts, run-timing impacts, predatory impacts, ecology impacts, financial impacts, and political involvement, as well as terrestrial stream/river buffer impacts.  Mitigation involved the elimination of Himalayan blackberry and Japanese knotweed to the specification that I have developed through an experiment conducted at the North Bay mitigation project on Case Inlet, Mason County, WA.  After invasive weeds are eliminated, a variety of native plant species will be installed within the 10 acre mitigation area according to my specifications.  Plant species chosen will be fast growing and compete with invasive plant species.  Effects analysis involved the evaluation of impacts on Puget Sound Chinook salmon (T), bull trout (T), marbled murrelet (T), coho salmon (C), and Bald Eagle (T). 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Boat Launch Facility at Pleasant Harbor on Hood Canal

WDFW Boat Launch Facility at pleasant Harbor, Jefferson County

Project involved the installation of a boat launch, parking, and culverts, as well as road widening, at a WDFW access site in the shorelines of Pleasant Harbor, an inlet located on Hood Canal.  Mitigation involved removal of an existing 83-foot long creosote pier, restoration of a potential chum spawning stream, restoration of saltwater habitat through restored gravel recruitment and reconstituting the shoreline.  Effects analysis involved the evaluation of impacts on Hood Canal summer run chum salmon (T), Puget Sound Chinook salmon (T), bull trout (T), coho salmon (C), Marbled Murrelet (T), and Bald Eagle (T). 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Dredging River Silt from Skagit Wildlife Area Boat Ramp

WDFW Boat Launch Maintenance Project, Skagit County

This project involved the dredging of silt from a boat launch located on the 13,000-acre Skagit Wildlife Area, located 2 miles southwest of Conway in Skagit County.  This launch facility is the primary access to Skagit Bay and the Skagit River for Fire District 3 marine rescue unit, located in Conway Washington.  This study evaluated project impacts on Federally-listed species that occur in the Action Area.  These species include Chinook salmon (T), bull trout (T), coho salmon (C), and the bald eagle (T). 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Boat Launch Improvements & Bank Stabilization on Skagit River

WDFW Riverfront Park Project, Skagit County

Project involved the replacement and armoring of an existing boat launch and the stabilization of a failing bank.  The bank was stabilized through the installation of soft armoring.  Bank stabilization was an important aspect of the project because bank erosion was allowing garbage to wash into the Skagit River from an old land fill.  The study evaluated impacts to Chinook salmon (T), bull trout (T), coho salmon (C), Oregon spotted frog (C), and the bald eagle (T). 

 

 


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Talasaea Consultants

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Effects of Building Expansion in North Creek Shoreline Management Zone

Phase 3 Building Expansion, Snohomish County

Project involved a building expansion on a 5-acre site adjacent to North Creek in Snohomish County.  The Biological Evaluation involved the appraisal of effects on Chinook salmon in North Creek as a result of the project.  The Bald eagle, which occurs in the North Creek corridor, was also addressed in the BE.

 

Biological Assessment to Obtain Corps Permit for Construction

Preston Industrial Park, City of Preston

Project involved the construction of an industrial park on 4.8 acres that included a warehouse, roads, associated parking, and stormwater facilities.  The Biological Assessment addressed the filling of wetlands in proximity to intermittent streams that drained into salmon-bearing waters. 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess the Impact of Construction on Federally-Listed Fish Stocks in North Creek

Mill Creek Town Center, City of Mill Creek

Project involved the construction of the 23-acre Mill Creek Town Center, which contains retail space, internal roads, and associated parking.  The Biological Evaluation addressed possible impacts to Federally-Listed Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook salmon, Critical Habitat, and Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) that occur in the North Creek corridor.  The project site is located within the North Creek flood plain.  A small tributary runs through the site. 

 

Biological Evaluation, Wetland Delineation, and Wetland Study Report

Thrasher’s West Business Park, City of Bothell

A Biological Evaluation and Wetland Study Report were part of a package to obtain permits for the construction of several commercial buildings on a 20-acre parcel.  Construction involved the filling of a small bowl-shaped wetland.  The wetland was located in the flood plain of North Creek, a stream containing Federally-listed Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook Salmon.  The Biological Evaluation examined the impact of construction on Chinook, Critical Habitat, and Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) that occurs within the Action Area. 

 

Biological Evaluation and Wetland Report on 10-acre Multifamily Development on Bear Creek

Avondale Park Multi-family Development, City of Redmond

Project involved the redevelopment of a multi-family residence on a tributary of Bear Creek.  Federal funding obtained through King County triggered the need for a Biological Evaluation to evaluate effects on two Federally-listed species, Chinook salmon and bald eagle. 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Fishery Resources in Construction of New High School on Portage Creek

Arlington School District, City of Arlington

Project required the filling of several wetlands on a 55-acre parcel adjacent to waters containing Federally-listed Coastal/Puget Sound bull trout and Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook salmon.  Wetland mitigation involved the replacement of low value wetlands with wetlands that have a greater functional value to salmonids. 

 

Biological Evaluation, Wetland Delineation, Drainage Evaluation, Wetland Study Report, JARPA

Arden Court Condominiums, King County

The project involved the construction of condominiums on a 4.31-acre parcel.  More than one-tenth of an acre of wetland fill triggered a Corps permit.  On-site wetlands are hydrologically connected to Juanita Creek through 3000 linear feet of stormwater piping.  The Biological Evaluation assesses potential impacts to Federally-listed Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook salmon occurring more than 3,500 feet downstream from the project site in Juanita Creek. 

 

Biological Evaluation to Assess Construction Impacts on Federally-Listed Salmon in North Creek

Schnitzer Business Park Development, City of Bothell

Project involved the construction of tree buildings as part of a larger 140-acre business park development.  Several buildings were planned for construction in the shoreline setback of North Creek.  Site runoff was isolated from North Creek.  Stormwater conveyance was routed to the Sammamish River, which contains Federally-listed Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook salmon.  Three Biological Evaluations were required to address concerns with fishery resources in the construction of the four buildings.  The bald eagle was also addressed in the Biological Evaluation.

 

Biological Evaluation on an Old 15-acre Gravel Mine to Assess development impact on Listed Salmon

Proposed single and multi-family Residential Community, City of Bothell

Project involved the development of a 15-acre multifamily residential community near Canyon Park on a tributary of North Creek.  Coastal/Puget Sound Chinook occur several hundred feet from the project site.  Biological Evaluation was a necessary component to obtain a permit to fill on-site wetlands and involved the assessment of possible impacts to Chinook salmon and the bald eagle from the project development. 

 

Biological Evaluation on 74-acre multiple use Development on Sammamish River

Redmond 74 Condominiums, City of Redmond

Project involved the development of a 74-acre site within the shoreline zone of the Chinook-bearing Sammamish River.  A 300-foot buffer was placed around an active red-tailed hawk nest.  Management of a barn owl roost and a red fox den was also addressed as part of the project.  Wetland mitigation was proposed for the fill of greater than one-tenth of an acre of wetlands.  The Biological Evaluation evaluated and addressed possible impacts to Federally-listed salmonids and the bald eagle. 

 

Biological Evaluation on 55-acre Multifamily Development to assess impacts on Federally-listed species

Hemstreet Multi-family Development, City of Mill Creek

Evaluated project impacts to fishery resources and the bald eagle on a 55-acre site.  No documented occurrences of bald eagles occur in the vicinity of the project site.  Chinook salmon occur in North Creek located in the vicinity of the site.  A tributary of North Creek flows through the project site.