HomeMy WebLinkAboutSHENANDOAH PUD - PRELIMINARY - 47-95 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - WETLANDS DOCUMENTSDATA FORM
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ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION
// (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual)
ProjecVSite: Z. z/ n�/Jooaii Date: %J Z•
Applicant/Owner. ri%» 4- r'' �' County:r-
Investigator:1acq Gc.State:
Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? eP No Community ID: L— e- nn �
Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes 1-1;157- Transect ID:
Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes dgFo,; Plot ID: !—
(If needed, explain on reverse.)
Dominant Plant Soecies Stratum Indicator
2,fS= -r .-�.na..S: e4l �� 10.
3. 11.
4. 12.
5. 13.
6. 14.
7. 15.
8. 16.
Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator
Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC O O
(excluding FAC-).
Remarks: �r-ca G✓�S /fc�•�. z��
Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks):
— Stream, lake, or Tide Gauge
_ Aerial Photographs
— Other
No Recorded Data Available
Feld Observations:
Depth of Surface Water. (in.)
Depth to Free Water in Pit Z�G. (n.)
Depth to Saturated Soil: 7 1Z (n.)
Wetland Hydrology indicators:
Primary Indicators:
_ Inundated
_ Saturated in Upper 12 Inches
_ Water Marks
Drift Unes
_ Sediment Deposits
_ Drainage Patterns in Wetlands
Secondary Indicators (2 or more required):
-iZOxidized Root Channels In Upper 12 Inches
— Water -Stained Leaves
_ Local Soil Survey Data
— FAC-Neutral Test
— Other (Explain in Remarks)
DATA FORM
ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION
(1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual)
Project/Site: -� ii�nan .mod r/i Date: R[1t%1/ 5 4 f
Applicant/Ownerc.-County:
Investigator- %orr,z Vic, rc//7e h State: ors o
Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? No Community ID: 0 -SwF
Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes 61Z' Transact ID:
Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes yl Plot ID:
(If needed, explain on reverse.) I
_
Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator
to.
3,/�/�i �G-�iCwic.nr�hct�w ff.E, 1 it.
4. 12.
5. 13.
6. 14.
7. 15.
8. 16.
Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator
Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC
(excluding FAG).
Remarks• te c wrc� L✓c- �ca..u. r�-Zcd' 3 Cv`�''E•
/1��s
f�el✓Gl��� �7i/cK �JG.c.. a.,Su�/zG//�nJ'c. "°'^e�+�+1�' e7' �w:..« o.iso�
SC Ss�/Jc +�-oS /`G,/".a^-. %�. .: ` �e. �+.-ylc �e-n1` �•.�� ..f �i a R,�. e..,f
HYDROLOGY
— Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): Welland Hydrology Indicators-
- Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Primary Indicators:
— Aerial Photographs _ Inundated
_ Other _K- Saturated in Upper 12 Inches
No Recorded Data Available — Water Marks
— Drift Lanes
— Sediment Deposits
Feld Observations: — Drainage Patterns in Wetlands
Secondary Indicators (2 or more required):
Depth of Surface Water. (in.) c Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 Inches
— Water -Stained Leaves
Depth to Free Water in Pit _ (in.) — Local Soil Survey Data
— FAC-Neutral Test
Depth to Saturated Soil: (in.) — Other (Explain in Remarks)
fl@markS:T�G SowrcG �� % W�fcr s-��<drs ^01
�r ,�.n� i'i•r.�o,.f�o LLi,�� t%/1/cr•^i'� Gec.u4��n t^a-no.-/>
//.' e/S
DATA FORM
ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION
(1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual)
Project/Site: -aa% I���do — Date:
Applicant/Owner: r7_212 /22� � County: � �-
Investigator: _T1�c; C5-' V /iv,t State: e o/X G o%
Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? e No Community ID: 2
.Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes Transact ID:
Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes o Plot ID:
(If needed, explain on reverse.)
9I
Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator I Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator
9.
10.
4. 12.
5. 13.
6. 14.
7. 15.
S. 16.
Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC
Remarks: �J /�Ca- G✓ds /�Co-i. /./ .�.rZ/Co! /T� a ie v� / .S'G.��' �-n �`
®vr�o•u �/3' �7 /Gf.��t a...a/ ,�cc �/J v+a�J-. rG �+c ii�c� 7/y �'yv�c
HYDROLOGY
— Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks):
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
_ Stream, Lake, or.Tide Gauge
Primary Indicators: - -
- Aerial Photographs
,}i Inundated
— Other
Saturated inVpper 12 Inches
�/
.L No Recorded Data Available
— Water Marks
— Drift Lines
— Sediment Deposits
— Drainage Patterns In wetlands
Feld Observations:
Secondary Indicators (2 or more required):
Depth of Surface Water. (n.)
— Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 Inches
O
— Water -Stained Leaves
Depth to Free Water in Pit (in.)
— Local Soil Survey Data
_ FAC-Neutral Test
Depth to Saturated Sol: (n.)
— Other (Explain in Remarks)
Remarks:,��c_..
DATA FORM
ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION
(1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual)
Project/Site:.S-Irs ti Date:
Applicant/Owner: 77/ z& C� i/ County: La
Investigator: T ��i <<� sc/.^ao State _Co% I- o"
Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? (?Cs> No Community ID: - r c-
Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes 10 Transect ID:
Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes 19-d Plot ID: 1-7 A
(If needed, explain on reverse.)
Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator
1�4_ 9.
242r ,t r iner,,NS 410.
3. 11.
4. 12.
5. 13.
6. 14.
7. 15.
8. 16.
Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC
Remarks: & ,- -
HYDROLOGY
Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator
C/? — O XO
Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks):
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
— Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge
Primary Indicators: _
— Aerial Photographs
_ Inundated
— Other
— Saturated inUpper 12 Inches
4CNo Recorded Data Available
— Water Marks
— Drift Lines
— Sediment Deposits
— Drainage Patterns in Wetlands
Field'Observations:
Secondary Indicators (2 or more required):
Depth of Surface Water. O (in.)
— Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 Inches
— Water -Stained Leaves
Depth to Free Water in Pit Z J9: (in.)
— Local Soil Survey Data
— FAC-Neutral Test
Depth to Saturated Soil: > /L (n.)
— Other (Explain in Remarks)
Remarks:
APPENDIX B
Jurisdictional Wetlands Field Notes
3342.I
WETLANDS EXHIBIT
A PORTION OF THE E 1 /2 OF THE SE 1 /4 OF
SECTION 14 T-6-N R-69-W OF THE 6TH P.M.
LARIMER COUNTY, COLORADO
DETAIL
SCALE: 1" =300'
n
DRNER
ON 14
NOTE. THIS DRAWING IS NOT A "LAND SURVEY PLAT" AS DEFINED SY COLORADO REVISED STATUTES
38-51-107 AND SURVEY f ONUMENTS WERE NOT SET FOR THIS PROJECT TO ESTABLISH ANY
OF THE RIGHT-OF-WAY POINTS.
1'>1000' I 09/01/95 1 RB I A9290 I A 1 1 of 1
APPENDIX A
USGS Topographic Map and
Shenandoah Site Location Map
7.0 LIST OF PREPARERS
Riverside Technology, inc.
2821 Remington Street
Fort Collins, Colorado 80525
970/223-2944 — FAX 970/223-2955
• Stephen W. Johnson, Water Quality Hydrologist/Wetlands Delineator
• Terry Geiselman, Geologist/Wetlands Delineator
A341 09.95 TEXT.DOC 13
6.0 REFERENCES
Cowardin, L.W., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T.
Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S.
Program: FWS/OBS-79/31.
LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and
Fish and Wildlife Service, Biological Services
Northern Engineering. 1995. Map of the site boundaries. Fort Collins, Colorado.
Reed, P.B., Jr. 1988. National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: Central Plains
(Region 5). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Report 88(26.5).
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers
Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways
Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil Conservation Service. 1993. Larimer County Area,
Colorado: Comprehensive Hydric Soils List.
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil Conservation Service and Forest Service, in
cooperation with Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station. 1980. Soil Survey of Larimer County
Area, Colorado.
U.S. Department of the Interior, Geological Survey (USGS). 1982. 7.5-Minute Series Topographic
Map for Loveland, Colorado, Quadrangle.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1975. National Wetlands Inventory -Map_ for_ the
Wellington, Colorado, Quadrangle.
Weber, W.A. 1976. Rocky Mountain Flora. Colorado Associated University Press. Boulder,
Colorado.
A341 09.95 TEXT.DOC 12
5.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
The wetlands delineation described in this report has been submitted to the COE, Omaha District,
Tri-Lakes Project Office, in Littleton, Colorado. Acceptance will be conveyed in the form of a letter.
If accepted, the COE will recommend that this wetlands delineation be considered valid for 3 years
from the date of the letter unless new information warrants revision before the 3 years expire. A
COE Section 404 permit may be required based on the Area of disturbance to jurisdictional wetlands
as a result of the development.
A341 09.95 TEXT.DOC 11
4.3 Hvdrolwy
The wetlands areas appear to be primarily the result of seepage of water from the North Lauden
canal which borders the wetland area on the north and west sides. The canal is designed to pass 10 to
15 cubic feet per second (CFS) of water. The canal is earthen lined and primarily conveys water for
irrigation use. The presence of headgates in the vicinity of the wetland indicates that this area may
occasionally be flood irrigated. It is not anticipated that use of the canal will. be discontinued;
therefore the source of wetland hydrology for the site is considered to be permanent.
A341 09.95 TEXT.DOC 10
4.0 RESULTS
Table 3 summarizes the results of the multi -parameter approach to wetlands determinations for each
sampling location. The delineated wetlands areas are shown on the site map in Appendix A. A total
of 4.3 acres of jurisdictional wetlands were identified during the survey. The National Wetlands
Inventory (NWI) Map for the Loveland quadrangle (USFWS 1975) identified a narrow wetland zone
along the southern property line of the project site. According to the Cowardin system (Cowardin
1979), this area of jurisdictional wetlands identified were classified as palustrine wetlands type.
Palustrine wetlands include areas commonly called marshes, wet meadows, swamps, bogs, or
riparian zones where water depths in the deepest part of the basin are less than 6.6 feet during low
water periods. The majority of wetlands delineated near the North Lauden irrigation ditch, which are
also palustrine wetlands, were not listed on the Loveland NWI Map.
TABLE 3
Wetlands Determinations for the Shenandoah Site
Site ID*
Delineation
Date
Wetlands Determination
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
Wetlands
Hydrology
Present?
Hydrcc
Soils
Present?
Is this
Sampling
Point within a
Wetlands?
112A
8/8/95
no
no
no
no
1-213
8/8/95
yes
yes
yes
ves
22-BA
8/8/95
1 no
I no
I no
I no
22-BB
8/8/95
1 yes
I yes
I yes
I yes
*The site map in Appendix A shows the location of each sampling site. Field notes are in Appendix B.
4.1 Veeetation
The jurisdictional wetlands area identified consisted of a consistent herbaceous layer of hydrophytic
vegetation. Overstory vegetation was not present at the site. The most common vegetation types in
the wet meadow consisted of Reed Canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) Foxtail barley (Hordeum
jubatum), and Olney's three -square (Scirpus americanus). Upland areas throughout the site were
generally a consistent vegetation cover of western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii), smooth brome
(Bromus inermus), and Japanese brome (Bromus japanicus).
4.2 Soils
The Shenandoah site was comprised of seven soil series as mapped by the Soil Conservation Service
(USDA 1980). The jurisdictional wetlands areas were mostly contained in swales of Longmont
Clay. The wetlands soils sampled generally contained low-chroma colors and mottles, and were
considered hydric based on the local hydric soils list (USDA 1993).
The upland areas consisted of Longmont clay (0-3% slopes), Heldt clay loam (3-6%D slopes), Fort
Collins loam (5-9%D slopes), Renohill clay loam (3-9% slopes), Satanta loam (3-5%D slopes) and
Wiley silt loan (1-3 and 35% slopes). The texture of these soil groups ranged from clay loam to silty
clay loam. All but the Satanta loam were listed as being hydric when occurring in a swale. The only
soil unit that occurred in a swale was the Longmont clay.
A341 09.95 TEXT.DOC 9
Hydric soils are assumed to be present in any plant community type for which the
following statements are true:
a. All dominant species have an indicator status of OBL.
b. All dominant species have an indicator status of OBL or FACW, and the wetlands
boundary (when present) is abrupt.
When either a or b is true and wetlands hydrology is present, check the hydric soils blank
as positive on Data Form / and proceed to Step 16. (At the Shenandoah site, a soil pit was
dug at every selected observation point in each community type, even when a and/or b were
true.) If neither a nor b applies, proceed to Step 12.
Step 12: Dig a soil pit.
Using a soil auger or spade, dig a soil pit at the representative location in each community
type. The procedure for digging a soil pit is described in Appendix D, Section 1, of the
Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (COE 1987). When the soil pit is
properly completed, approximately 18 inches of the soil profile will be available for
examination. (At the Shenandoah site, a soil pit was dug with a spade to 18 inches at each
observation point for a total of 4 documented pits.) Proceed to Step 13.
• Step 13: Apply hydric soil indicators.
Examine the soil at each location and compare its characteristics immediately below the A -
horizon or at a 10-inch depth (whichever is shallower) with the hydric soil indicators
described in Part III, paragraphs 44 and/or 45 of the Corps of Engineers Wetlands
Delineation Manual (COE 1987). (For the Shenandoah site, soil samples were collected in
the A horizon at depths of 10 inches.) Record findings on the Data Form 1 for each
location. Proceed to Step 14.
Step 14: Determine whether hydric soils are present.
Examine each Data Form 1 and determine whether a positive hydric soil indicator was
found. If so, the area at that location has hydric soil. If soils at all sampling locations have
positive hydric soil indicators, the entire area has hydric soils. If soils at all sampling
locations lack positive hydric soil indicators, none of the area is a wetlands. Complete the
soil section of each Data Form 1. (Completed data forms for the Shenandoah site are in
Appendix B and results are presented in Section 4.0, Table 3.) Proceed to Step 15.
Step 15: Make wetlands determination.
Examine Data Form 1. (Completed data forms for the Shenandoah site are in Appendix B
and results are presented in Section 4.0, Table 3.) If the entire area presently or normally
has wetlands indicators for all three parameters (Steps 8, 10, and 14), the entire area is a
wetlands. If the entire area presently or normally lacks wetlands indicators of one or more
parameters, the entire area is a non -wetlands.
A341 0995 TEX7:DOC 8
(herbaceous understory), and/or greatest number of stems (woody vines). (The observation
points at the Shenandoah site were characterized by one vegetation layer and a consistent
herbaceous layer. Completed data forms are in Appendix B.) Proceed to Step 7.
• Step 7: Record indicator status of dominant plant species.
Record on Data Form I the indicator status of each dominant plant species in each
community type. (Completed data forms for the Shenandoah site are in Appendix B and
results are presented in Section 4, Table 3.) Proceed to Step 8.
• Step 8: Determine whether hydrophytic vegetation is, present.
Examine each Data Form 1. When more than 50 percent of the dominant species in a
community type have an indicator status of OBL, FACW, and/or FAC, hydrophytic
vegetation is present. Portions of the area failing this test are not wetlands. (At the
Shenandoah site, the "50/20 Rule" was applied.) The "50/20 Rule" is a procedure that
entails the following:
For each stratum in the plant community, dominant species are the most abundant
plant species (when ranked in descending order of abundance and cumulatively
totaled) that immediately exceed 50 percent of the total dominance measure for the
stratum, plus any additional species comprising 20 percent or more of the total
dominance measure for the stratum.
Complete the vegetation section of each Data Form 1. (Completed data forms for the
Shenandoah site are in Appendix B and results are presented in Section 4.0, Table 3.)
Proceed to Step 9.
Step 9: Apply wetlands hydrologic indicators.
Examine the portion of the area occupied by each plant community type for positive
indicators of wetlands hydrology. Record findings on the appropriate Data Form 1.
(Information for determining hydrology was also obtained from USDA 1980.) Proceed to
Step 10.
Step 10: Determine whether wetlands hydrology is present.
Examine the hydrologic information on Data Form 1 for each plant community type. Any
portion of the area having a positive wetlands hydrology indicator has wetlands hydrology.
If positive wetlands hydrology indicators are present in all community types, the entire area
has wetlands hydrology. If no plant community type has a wetlands hydrology indicator,
none of the area has wetlands hydrology. Complete the hydrology portion of each Data
Form 1. (Completed data forms for the Shenandoah site are in Appendix B and results are
presented in Section 4.0, Table 3.) Proceed to Step 11.
• Step 11: Determine whether soils must be characterized.
Examine the vegetation section of each Data Form 1. (Completed data forms for the
Shenandoah site are in Appendix B and results are presented in Section 4.0, Table 3.)
A341 09,95 TUTDOC 7
cannot be found because of effects of recent human activities or natural events. Using
Section F, determine whether there is sufficient evidence that hydrophytic vegetation,
hydric soils, and/or wetlands hydrology were present prior to this alteration. (No atypical
situations existed at the Shenandoah site.)
• Step 3: Identify the plant community type(s).
Traverse the area and determine the number and locations of plant community types.
Sketch the location of each on the base map, and give each community type a name. (The
Shenandoah site was determined to consist of two plant communities: an upland prairie
grasses community and a wetlands community --communities 1 and 2 respectively. The
determined communities were not mapped but were identified on each Data Form 1.)
Proceed to Step 4.
• Step 4: Determine whether normal environmental conditions are present.
Determine whether normal environmental conditions are present by considering the
following:
a. Is the area presently lacking hydrophytic vegetation or hydrologic indicators because of
annual or seasonal fluctuations in precipitation or ground water levels?
b. Are hydrophytic vegetation indicators lacking because of seasonal fluctuations in
temperature?
If the answer to either question a or b is thought to be yes, proceed to Section G of the
Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (COE 1987), which outlines methods for
dealing with problem areas. Problem areas are defined as areas in which wetlands
indicators of one or more parameters are periodically lacking because of normal seasonal or
annual variations in environmental conditions that result from causes other than human
activities or catastrophic natural events. If the answer to both a and b is no, proceed to Step
5. (There were no problem areas identified at the Shenandoah site.)
• Step 5: Select representative observation points.
Select a representative observation point in each community type. A representative
observation point is one in which the apparent characteristics (determine visually) best
represent characteristics of the entire community. Mark on the base map the approximate
location of the observation point. (This was done for each observation point selected at the
Shenandoah site. Observation points are identified on the site map in Appendix A.
Between observation points, the boundary lines were visually determined and staked based
on observed vegetation changes.) Proceed to Step 6.
• Step 6: Characterize each plant community type.
Visually determine the dominant plant species in each vegetation layer of each community
type and record them on Data Form I (use a separate Data Form I for each community
type). Dominant species are those having the greatest relative basal area (woody
overstory), greatest height (woody understory), greatest percentage of area cover
asn 09.95rrxrooC 6
TABLE 1
Plant Indicator Status
Obligate Wetlands Plants
OBL Plants that occur almost always (estimated probability >99%)
in wetlands under natural conditions but that may also occur
rarely (estimated probability <I%) in non -wetlands.
Example: Scirpus americanus (Olney's three -square)
Facultative Wetlands Plants
FACW Plants that occur usually (estimated probability >67% to 99%)
in wetlands but also occur (estimated probability 1% to 33%)
in non -wetlands.
Example: Hordeum jubarum (Foxtail barley)
Facultative Plants
FAC Plants with a similar likelihood (estimated probability 33% to
67%) of occurring in both wetlands and non -wetlands.
Example: Sporobolus airoides (Alkali sacaton)
Facultative Upland Plants
FACU Plants that occur sometimes (estimated probability 1% to
<33%) in wetlands but occur more often (estimated probability
>67% to 99%) in non -wetlands.
Example: Bromus inermas (Smooth brome)
Obligate Upland Plants
UPL Plants that occur rarely (estimated probability <1%) in
wetlands but occur almost always (estimated probability
>99%) in non -wetlands under natural conditions.
Example: Medicago sativa (Alfalfa)
Source: COE 1987 and Reed 1988
TABLE 2
Dominant Plant Soecies Occurrine at the Shenandoah Site
Scientific Name
Common Name
Indicator Category*
Typha latifolia
Broadleaf Cattail
OBL
Scirpus americanus
Olney's Three -square
OBL
Phalaris arundindcea
Reed Canary grass
FACW
Hordeum jubarum
Foxtail Barley
FACW
Agropyron smithii
Western Wheatgrass
FACU
Bromus inermas
Smooth Brome
FACU
Bromus iaoanicus
Jaoanese Brome
FACU
Source: Reed 1988 and Weber 1976.
■Indicator categories for plants are abbreviated as follows
OBL
= obligate wetlands plant
FACW
= facultative wetlands plant
FAC
= facultative plant
FACU
= facultative upland plant
UPL
= obligate upland plant
Refer to Table I for
a definition of each category.
A341 09.95 T=..DOC 5
The growing season is defined in the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (COE 1987)
as the portion of the year when soil temperatures at 19.7 inches below the soil surface are higher than
biological zero (5°C). However, for ease of determination, the COE manual allows for an
approximation of the growing season by the number of frost -free days. In the Fort Collins/Loveland
area, there are, on average, 144 frost -free days per year. The average first frost -free day occurs the
first week of May, and the average last frost -free day occurs at the end of September/beginning of
October. Five percent of 144 days is 7.2 days, or approximately I week.
3.5 Routine Procedures
The routine procedure selected for identifying and delineating wetlands is a multi -parameter
approach requiring positive evidence of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetlands
hydrology. If these parameters are met, the area is determined to be a jurisdictional wetlands. The
following routine procedure is adapted from the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual
(COE 1987), which provides a logical, defensible, and technical basis for wetlands delineation. This
routine procedure stresses on -site inspection together with preliminary data gathering and synthesis
of available information. Procedures for making routine wetlands determinations when insufficient
information is available for one or more parameters are described in this section.
At each sampling point, the vegetation present was categorized using the National List of Plant
Species that Occur in Wetlands: Central Plains (Region 5) (Reed 1988) and Rocky Mountain Flora
(Weber 1976). Table 1, Plant Indicator Status Categories, was taken from the Corps of Engineers
Wetlands Delineation Manual (COE 1987) and provides definitions and information concerning the
indicator symbols. Table 2 lists the dominant plant species that occur at the Shenandoah site and
provides the indicator status of each.
An on -site inspection was determined to be required at the Shenandoah site and was conducted as
outlined below. All procedures are adapted from the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation
Manual (COE 1987). A Data Form 1 was completed for each of the sampling sites. Copies of all
data sheets are included in Appendix B.
Steps taken during the on -site inspection are described below:
• Step 1: Locate the project area.
Determine the spatial boundaries of the project area using information from a USGS
quadrangle map or other appropriate map, aerial photography, and/or the project survey
plan (Northern Engineering 1995, USFWS 1975, and USGS 1984). Proceed to Step 2.
• Step 2: Determine whether an atypical situation exists.
Examine the area and determine whether there is evidence of sufficient natural or human -
induced alteration to significantly alter the area vegetation, soils, and/or hydrology. Include
possible off -site modifications that may affect the area hydrology. If there is no such
evidence, proceed to Step 3. If one or more parameters have been significantly altered by
an activity that would normally require a permit, proceed to Section F of the Corps of
Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (COE 1987), which describes methods to be used
when positive indicators of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and/or wetlands hydrology
A341 09.95 =..Doc 4
3.0 METHODS OF ANALYSIS
3.1 Agency Contacts
The following individual and agency were contacted as part of this wetlands delineation:
• Terry McKee, Environmental Resource Specialist, COE - Tri-Lakes Project Office,
Littleton, Colorado
3.2 Site Reconnaissance
Mr. Johnson and Mr. Geiselman conducted a general initial reconnaissance of the Shenandoah site
on July 14, 1995. The final wetlands delineation, documented on field notes in Appendix B was
conducted by Mr. Geiselman on July 8, 1995.
3.3 Eauiament and Materials
The following equipment and materials were used in this wetlands delineation study:
• Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (COE 1987)
• Munsell Soil Color Chart
• Copies of 1987 COE Data Form 1
• Soil Survey of Larimer County Area, Colorado (USDA 1980)
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wetlands Inventory Map for the Loveland,
Colorado, Quadrangle (USFWS 1975)
• Soil Conservation Service's Larimer County Area, Colorado: Comprehensive Hydric Soils
List -(USDA 1993)
• National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: Central Plains (Region 5) (Reed
1988)
Blueprint of the site boundaries (Northern Engineering 1995)
• Book entitled Rocky Mountain Flora (Weber 1976)
• Book entitled Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States
(Cowardin 1979)
• Weatherproof field book
• Wooden boundary stakes
• Permanent ink pens
• Soil spade
3.4 Growing Season Information
Wetlands delineations are best conducted during or shortly after the growing season to facilitate
identification of vegetation parts, such as flowers and leaf structure. The wetlands delineation
described in this document was conducted during the growing season. The growing season is also
important in determining whether the wetlands hydrology criterion is met. Areas that are at least
intermittently inundated or saturated for 5 percent or more of the growing season are considered
evidence of hydrologic characteristics that can support wetlands. In addition to wetlands hydrology
information collected in the field, information on the hydrology of soils in the area during the
growing season was obtained from U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Survey maps to
support a wetlands hydrology determination.
A341 09.95 TEU.DOC 3
2.0 PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
The jurisdictional wetlands identifications and delineations were conducted by Stephen W. Johnson
and Terry Geiselman of Riverside Technology, inc. (RTi).
Mr. Johnson has 9 years of experience as a Water Quality Hydrologist and 5 years of experience in
conducting jurisdictional wetlands studies in Colorado, Wyoming, and California. He is recognized
by the COE under Regulatory IV to identify and delineate wetlands as part of the Section 404
process of the Clean Water Act. Mr. Johnson also has experience in conducting surveys along the
Front Range of Colorado for the federally -threatened Ute ladies' -tresses orchid (Spiranthes
diluvialis). Mr. Johnson's educational background includes a B.S. in Biology with a minor in
Chemistry, an M.S. in Plant Ecology, and an M.S. in Water Quality Hydrology. He is a member of
the Society of Wetlands Scientists, Rocky Mountain Chapter. Mr. Johnson is also the program
manager of the State Wetlands Protection Program for the Campo Band of Kumeyaay Indians in
southern California.
Mr. Geiselman is a Registered Geologist who is currently training under Mr. Johnson on several
jurisdictional wetlands delineation projects and endangered species surveys. He also assists in
writing and preparing the technical reports documenting the results of these activities. As part of his
training, Mr. Geiselman has participated in jurisdictional wetlands surveys in Colorado and
Wyoming and has prepared final documentation on the results of several surveys. Mr. Geiselman's
qualifications include a B.S. in Geology, studies in hydrogeology and environmental science, and
over 5 years of water resources related work.
AM] 09.95rsxrnoc 2
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Colorado Land Source is currently working to develop approximately 95.7 acres of land (known as
the Shenandoah site) in south Fort Collins, Colorado, for residential real estate. The City of Fort
Collins requires a letter from an individual who is qualified to delineate jurisdictional wetlands
regarding the presence or absence of wetlands on lands proposed for development. Jurisdictional
wetlands are wetlands areas that fall into the domain of regulatory oversight. This report is written
to satisfy this requirement for proposed land development. The wetlands delineation described in
this report identified 4.3 acres of jurisdictional wetlands within the proposed development area. The
wetlands consists of 4.3 acres of wet meadow in the south east corner of the site. The wetlands areas
appear to be the result of ground water seepage from the north Lauden Irrigation Ditch. Storm water
runoff may also supplement water to the wetlands areas.
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this report is to document a study to identify and delineate jurisdictional wetlands
within the 95.7-acre parcel of the Shenandoah site in Fort Collins, Colorado, to satisfy Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act. Section 404 authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) to issue
permits for the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the U.S., including wetlands.
1.2 Site Location
The study site consists of a proposed filing called the Shenandoah site. The Shenandoah site is
currently slated for proposed mixed -use real estate development; if the site is developed, it will
contain commercial developments as well as single- and multi -resident housing developments. A
map showing the general location of the Shenandoah site is provided in Appendix A. The
Shenandoah site is located in the southeast corner of Section 14, Township 6 North, Range 69 West
of the 6th P.M. in the City of Fort Collins, County of Larimer, State of Colorado. Coordinates for
the site were estimated from a U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-minute Loveland quadrangle map
(USGS 1984) and are 105' 04', 50" west longitude and 40°, 08', 50" north latitude.
1.3 Site Description
The majority of the Shenandoah survey area consists of an upland prairie. Upland vegetation
includes smooth brome (Bromus inermis) and wheatgrasses (Agropyron spp.). The general slope and
drainage pattern of the site is to the west towards Robert Benson Lake. The site contains a naturally
occurring topographic low area or swale that has developed into a wet meadow. Vegetation in the
wet meadow wetland area consists primarily of Canary grass (Phalaris arundinacca) and Foxtail
barley (Hendeum jubatam). The North Lauden irrigation ditch borders the wetland on the west and
north sides. Seepage from the irrigation ditch appears to be the main source of water for the wetland.
Cattle were observed at the site grazing in both the upland and wetlands areas.
A301 09.95 TFXT.DOC I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Purpose....................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Site Location................................................................................................................ 1
1.3 Site Description........................................................................................................... 1
2.0 PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS............................................................................. 2
3.0 METHODS OF ANALYSIS................................................................................................ 3
3.1 Agency Contacts......................................................................................................... 3
3.2 Site Reconnaissance.................................................................................................... 3
3.3 Equipment and Materials.......................................................................................... 3
3.4 Growing Season Information.................................................................................... 3
3.5 Routine Procedures.................................................................................................... 4
4.0 RESULTS.............................................................................................................................. 9
4.1 Vegetation.................................................................................................................... 9
4.2 Soils.............................................................................................................................. 9
4.3 Hydrology................................................................................................................... 10
5.0 RECOMMENDATIONS..................................................................................................... 11
6.0 REFERENCES ....................... :............................................................................................... 12
7.0 LIST OF PREPARERS......................................................................................................... 13
APPENDICES
A Hoffman P.U.D. Site Map
B Jurisdictional Wetlands Field Notes
TABLES
Table
Page
1 Plant Indicator Status Categories...................................................................................... 5
2 Dominant Plant Species Occurring at the Hoffman Site ............................................... 5
3 Wetland Determinations for the Hoffman Site............................................................... 9
AMI 09.95Wetlands ii
Jurisdictional Wetlands Delineation Survey
for the Shenandoah P.U.D. Site
Larimer County, Colorado
prepared by
' Riversid`e Technology; inc.
2821 Remington Street
Fort Collins, Colorado 80525
prepared for
Jim McCort'
Colorado Land Source
8101 E. Prentice Avenue, Suite M-180
Englewood, Colorado 80111
September 1995
2PRiverside Technology, inc.
Water Resources Engineering and Consulting
September 9, 1995
Mr. Terry McKee
Environmental Resource Specialist
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
9307 State Highway 121
Littleton, Colorado 80123-6901
Dear Mr. McKee:
This letter is to request that you review and consider for approval the jurisdictional wetlands delineation
described below.
The study area consists of a proposed filing called the Shenandoah P.U.D. site. A U.S. Geological
Survey (USGS) topographic map (Loveland quadrangle) showing the general location of the Shenandoah
P.U.D. site is provided. In addition, a more detailed site map has been provided. The site is currently
slated for proposed real estate development; if the site is developed, it will contain commercial as well as
single and multi -family residential home developments. The 95.7-acre parcel is located west of Highway
287, just south of Trilby Road in Fort Collins. The Shenandoah site is in the southeast quarter of Section
14, Township 6 North, Range 69 West, of the 6th P.M. in the County of Larimer, State of Colorado.
Coordinates for the site were estimated from a USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle map (Loveland quadrangle)
and are 105' 04' 50" west longitude and 40' 28' 50" north latitude.
The jurisdictional wetland delineation studies of this site were conducted by Riverside Technology, inc.
(RTi) on August 3, and August 8, 1995. The jurisdictional wetland delineations were performed using
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers document entitled Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual
(January 1987). The jurisdictional wetlands delineation identified a wetland area consisting of 4.3 acres.
The following information has been enclosed for your review:
• The wetland delineation map
• Vicinity project location map (Loveland quadrangle)
• Data Form 1 sheets
Thank you for taking the time to review this material. If you have any questions regarding this letter or
the enclosures, please call me.
Sincerely,
Riverside Technology, inc.
Terry Geiselman
Geologist
enclosures
xc: Jim McCory, Colorado Land Source (w/attachments)
Bud Curtis, Northern Engineering (w/attachments)
Stephen W. Johnson, RTi
Richard Spotts, RTi
2821 Remington Street Fort Collins, Colorado 80525 (303) 223-2944 FAX: (303) 223-2955