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Home My WebLink AboutPOUDRE RIVER WHITEWATER PARK FORMERLY DOWNTOWN PARK - PDP160039 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTEXISTING HEADGATE EXISTING WETLANDS & RIVER WALL TO REMAIN HISTORIC QUONSET WAVE FEATURE - EXCEL NINE DRIVE• 41- F moo 9 uj > UPLAND GRASSES EXISTING WETLANDS PARKING/DROP OFF POTENTIAL (35 SPACES) FUTURE PARKING - DETENTION pal EXISTINGTREETYP � RIVER ACCESS PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE OVERLOOK W/ SHELTER TERRACESTONE OLD HERITAGE SEATING AREA PARK POWER HOUSE ENERGY INSTITUTE GUSTAV SWANSON NATURAL AREA United States Department of the Interior ,w¢,wK6¢ 1 a QP ftYltV ICN FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE s , Colorado Ecological Services Field Office cH , %s`° P.O. BOX 25486, Denver Federal Center, Mail Stop 65412 Denver, Colorado 80225-0486 " IN REPLY REFER TO TAILS: 06E24000-2016-TA-0805 Ms. Susan K. Sherrod Certified Ecologist Biohabitats JUN 2 7 2016 Denver, Colorado 80202 Dear Ms. Susan K. Sherrod: Thank you for your letter of June 16, 2016 to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) regarding the Udall Natural Area Ecological Enhancement project (Project) located in Larimer County in Colorado. Based on the information presented in your letter, it was identified that the Project involves a request to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to receive a Conditional I ester of Map Res isi c i C I (AIR.). Section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act as amended (16 USC 1531 et seq., [Act]) requires Federal agencies to insure that any action they authorize, fund or carry out is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened species ("listed species") or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. In fulfilling these requirements (50 CFR §402), the federal action agency must use the best scientific and commercial data available to review their actions and determine whether the action may affect listed species or critical habitat. In this case, FEMA as the potential federal action agency would have that responsibility. Since FEMA is not making an effects determination under section 7(a)(2), our comments are related to the non-federal parry's responsibilities under the Act. The non-federal party must avoid any actions that would be likely to result in "take" of a listed species (take is defined by the Act as to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound kill, trap, capture, or collect or attempt to engage in any such conduct of a listed species). We appreciate the inclusion of an assessment of the Project, and we interpret your request to be for technical assistance from the Service regarding the likelihood of the described project resulting in take of listed species. Based on the information presented in the assessment, it seems unlikely that the action will result in take of listed species. The Service appreciates your request for assistance and encourages you to contact us again if the scope of the project changes or new information indicates that the project may result in take of listed species. Sincerely, 21J �NG.TCR Drue L. DeBerry —� A Acting Colorado Field Supervisor Biohabitats MN'1 W N\ W M Kl' E01,11w, wbal61U3 4u..q.vrtrd 1732 Wazee Street H Suite 209 Denver, C080202 303 477,0660- 303 4774648 fax 6&abitats Coln November 20, 2012 Adam Misztal United States Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service Ecological Services Colorado Field Office PO Box 25486. DFC (65412) Denver, Colorado 80225-0486 U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE aNO CONCERNS ❑ CONCUR NOT LIKELY TO ADVERSELY AFFECT ❑ N COMMENT J�� L r,„„ ,NOV 2 7 2012 SUSAN C. LINNER DATE COLORADO FIELD SUPERVISOR SUBJECT: McMurry Natural Area Restoration Phase 2 Dear Mr. Misztal, On behalf of the City of Fort Collins, Natural Areas Department, Biohabitats is requesting the Service's concurrence that a population of Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei) as well as Ute-ladies'-tresses orchid (Spiranthes diluvilalis) is not likely to be present within the McMurry Natural Area Restoration Phase 2 project area. The project entails excavating materials from upland areas within the McMurry Natural Area (a closed sand/gravel pit) and placing those materials in the existing open water area to create various types of,,vetlands (emergent, wet meadow, and scrub/shrub). The project also involves bank stabilization along the Poudre River. Biohabitats requested the Colorado Natural Heritage Program to search their Biodiversity Tracking and Conservation System (BIOTICS) for occurrences of significant natural communities and rare, threatened, or endangered plants and animals. Their search within a two mile radius of the project area revealed no occurrences for Prebles or Spiranthes. Crystal Strouse, Natural Areas Botanist, surveyed the project area for Spiranthes on three separate occasions in July, August, and September 2012 and did not find any Spiranthes. Additionally. Matthew Montgomery, USAGE, reported that USFWS declined to attend a site meeting at McMurry Natural Area because the project will likely result in no adverse affect to Prebles. Please find enclosed a vicinity map, a copy of the CNhIP letter, and a map of the project area showing the Spiranthes survey area performed by the City of Fort Collins. If you have questions or need more information. please call me at 303-477-0660. Sincerely, Vincent L. Sortman Senior Fluvial Gcomorphologist cc: Rick Bachand, City of Fort Collins, Natural Areas Department (letter and enclosure sent via e-mail) Ecological and Habitat Evaluation Poudre River Downtown Project, Fort Collins, CO September 18, 2015 must be monitored to prevent unauthorized destruction of nests and young under the protections of the MBTA. It may also be important to monitor beaver damage and take appropriate measures to protect trees and shrubs in accordance with local and state regulations. At GSNA, consider retaining the two ponds if the source of current groundwater is identified and can be used for filling the basins. The current ponds and surrounding trees and shrubs provide nesting and foraging habitat for wildlife species. Also noted was significant regeneration of native cottonwood and willow saplings along the southern pond margins, presumably from the flood event of 2013. Such self - regenerating cottonwood stands in urban areas are difficult to achieve, although it is frequently listed as a management objective. As such, it is somewhat of a special resource. If the filling and removal of ponds continues as the primary plan, the cattails, trees, and shrubs that would be removed during the grading process will also require MBTA monitoring. To the extent possible minimize impacts and enhance existing wildlife corridors especially along rhP s! developed north bank. This includes protection of bankside vegetation from construction activity, as we a -minimization of social trail impacs (vegetation trampling/soil compaction) that may result from the creation o a wa er park and resulting spectator use on both banks. Concentration of human activity on the south bank as much as possible leaves portions of the north bank available for migratory movements and hiding cover of terrestrial species. Sincerely, Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC FOARdApAy Scott Severs Wildlife Biologist References Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). 2015. Threatened and Endangered List. Available: http://cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/SOC-ThreatenedEndangeredList.aspx Accessed: August 2015. eBird. 2015. eBird: An online database of bird distribution and abundance. eBird, Ithaca, New York. Available: http://www.ebird.org. Accessed: August 2015. U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2015a. IPaC Information for Planning and Conservation. Available: https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/ Accessed: August 2015. U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2015b. Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zopus hudsonius preblei) trapping database for scientific collection activities conducted under section 10 of the Endangered Species Act. Colorado Ecological Services Field Office. Denver. 4949 Pearl Fast Circle Suite 100 Boulder, Colorado 80301 Phone (303) 443-3282 FAX (303) 44 3-0367 3 Ecological and Habitat Evaluation Poudre River Downtown Project, Fort Collins, CO September 18, 2015 which they can capture fish. However, winter activity by bald eagles is severely limited in the Project area by pedestrian traffic along the bike path and surrounding urbanization, as eagles avoid areas of concentrated human activity. In summary, although potential habitat is present, these three species of special concern are not anticipated to be present, or at most would be infrequent visitors Current trapping data (USFWS 2015b) indicated the absence of Preble's meadow jumping mouse within the Project area. The degree of urbanization, lack of adequate or extensive suitable habitat, and no captures within 5.5 miles greatly limits the potential of Preble's mouse to occur within the Project. The site visit confirmed an abundance of riparian trees and shrubs that provide nesting and foraging habitat for many avian species including many protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). A review of eBird data (eBird 2015) indicated 190 documented species within or adjacent to the Project area. Common nesting species to be expected include northern flicker, black -capped chickadee, American robin, yellow warbler, and Bullock's oriole. These riparian habitats were also noted as important stopovers for migratory birds transitioning between the mountains and the plains, and between wintering and breeding habitats. A cattail marsh, also suitable for nesting and foraging birds, was observed in the western pond at GSNA. The fishery in the Poudre River within the Project is a resource for piscivorous (fish eating) bird species such as herons, kingfishers, and mergansers. During the site visit, a mink was seen swimming in the river, a mammal that primarily consumes fish. Although the diversion on the Poudre that supplies water to the Coy Ditch ponds at GSNA has been closed, standing water was found in the eastern pond. Bullfrogs were observed inhabiting this pond. Three -square bulrush was found in a vacant lot northwest of the ponds, indicating wet soils and possible groundwater. Although the Project is in an urban matrix, stretches of habitat along the Project area provide corridors for movements of large mammals such as mule deer, black bear, and mountain lion. These same corridors are also regularly used by smaller mammals such as red fox, raccoon, and many rodent species. Habitat for commonly occurring reptiles and amphibians is also present. No raptor nests were observed, although the site visit occurred outside the nesting season for raptors. Potential nesting habitat was recognized within the Project for Cooper's hawk, an urban -adapted species. Due to the limited adjacent foraging habitat (pasture, meadows), the Project is an unlikely nesting area for large soaring hawks such as red-tailed and Swainson's hawks. Recommendations Overall the Project area has value to urban adapted and transitory terrestrial wildlife species in a highly developed area. The current setting provides foraging, resting, and nesting places for many bird species, and movement corridors for large and small mammals. Best Management Practices and minimization of construction impacts will be useful in maintaining these qualities while providing recreational value, including wildlife observation in an urban setting. From the desktop analysis and site visit, three recommendations follow for consideration in regards to terrestrial wildlife values in the Project area. Minimize the removal of trees and shrubs when possible to maintain nesting, foraging, and roosting habi a or avian spectes. on na ive or azard trees, if scheduled for removal, should be replaced with native cottonwoods, willows, and shrubs to provide a_diversity of vertical structure favorable to the widest variety o birds ecie ny tree remova uring the nesting season (March through mid -lull -- 1) 4949 Pearl East Circle Suite 300 Boulder. Colorado 80301 Phone (303) 443-1282 FAX (303) 443-0367 ` =Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers. LLC an ecology and environment company September 18, 2015 Gregory J. Koch, P.E. Submitted via e-mail to greg.kochOacewater.com Vice President Anderson Consulting Engineers, Inc. 375 East Horsetooth Road, #5101 Fort Collins, CO 80525 Re: Ecological and Habitat Evaluation for Poudre River Downtown Project, Phase 1, Reach 3. Dear Greg: Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC (Walsh) prepared this report for Anderson Consulting Engineers, Inc. (ACE) to provide an ecological and habitat review for the Poudre River Downtown Project, Phase I, Reach 3 (Project) in Fort Collins, Colorado. The site lies along Poudre River between College Avenue to the west and the Burlington Northern/Santa Fe (BNSF) Railroad Bridge to the east. Portions of the Project are within the boundaries of the Gustav Swanson Natural Area (GSNA). Methods Prior to the site inspection a desktop review was conducted to determine current status of species of concern, including federal and state threatened and endangered species, and state species of special concern (non -statutory). Sources included databases maintained by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS 2015a) and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW; CPW 2015), and the trapping database for Preble's meadow jumping mouse (USFWS 2015b). Walsh conducted a site visit to the Project area on August 26, 2015, after attending a meeting at the Project site with ACE, United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), City of Fort Collins, and CPW. The purpose of the meeting was to familiarize the agency representatives with the Project, to hear any concerns they raised, and to elicit their input on the ecological conditions of the site and wildlife concerns. At the conclusion of the meeting Walsh conducted a field reconnaissance of the Project to review current ecological and habitat conditions. The onsite evaluation reviewed the potential of the Project to harbor species of concern, terrestrial wildlife, and raptor nests and habitat. Results The Project occurs in the overall range of the following species of special concern: northern leopard frog, common garter snake, and the winter range of the bald eagle. The Project also is within the overall range of Preble's meadow jumping mouse, listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. No species of special concern were observed during the site visit. Appropriate habitat was observed onsite for northern leopard frog and common garter snake in the ponds, streams, and riparian habitats that occur within the Project area. These species, however, are limited by an abundance of predators in the urban setting (bullfrogs, raccoons, skunks, and feral cats). Winter foraging habitat for the bald eagle was also noted along the river in the form of cottonwood and willow perch sites over the river, from 4949 Pearl East Circle Suite 300 Boulder, Colorado 80 10 1 Phone (303) 443-3282 FAX (303I443-0367 m�00m0 w�. PpWp .pA I RJ. P.,u0e101INi•A �,IE.p.pwW e xP� IN ,p RE P PPR,�d,vl.iPOW WWdtle3plp ,pp tlA „ f1Y lP .O R = P POu(RaE II OM i M 10nYP9wpMom w �„EYwv/OY�W a..P rwwrlPePp ,• O.teOP.•WIIENOW6 eaY®INO •,I•bw,Pi IPW! �wR/1� 1. anR IWfIM IIYEWflW nnw,4 � Tl�S4POIDaux !!•fY,n.epllpl®4. p:W,PIMtiLLw RO,YiPn.u®Prfx®OTIw I a,.Tni In,eCDt wYw Dt OIINM,.IW1O.¢PPpw 1RP211A W tlN.nnu W IOE AAYm. MT,ONPa.,wM91®. T.PPnYI PO A W OI[F[ W 1la.I,Pv„YY. qJR,• wW , I1M,IM awfYPO,a®,�P( f aaF. ,iswW IEN,legp aN,•wwmP al iS GENERAL MITIOATION NOTES i�.l ��,.w, a r� w.pvur vew. mw xo ppu w aererE.tl w cm FORESTER SKMATURE BLOCK uiPEIEV NN,>1QCYMmWO NORTH a a u a MITIGATION PLAN PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN POUDRE RIVER DOWNTOWN -- _ SEPTEMBER 1, 2016 SHEET 3 Of 3 1 1 1 1 i �I , 1 , - - ------------------------------------------- // NORTH MITIGATION PLAN PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN POUDRE RIVER DOWNTOWN SEPTEMBER 1. 2016 SHEET OF Tm NlOTicnoN mom W/tT9n�mYend,PYMIwe, Y,U�YPnNII[,RUrRm � ®Y,Re.RI�®PNwmMm,sN wMaUMYlP �m1M,Y,mmW tlMw,om,R,m PPVI� • tl YAmA SY.mi,MdxFwi[�YMRNe IPiw,�MipntM i¢onmm�M�riO mwoYR� tlt4WYo a plm Yi � f r�m,o, M,! fwnn n W v �qn u q�M N'r 1M0 RWICnWnY muYP�YMYaB[Rn PM�v.[. Wf iTM,B,M//aMo�vri tlYnW �O0 mxo Tx660,.iBm mF nM ,tlnMB Yi0 dIN/eT NORTH MITIGATION PLAN PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN POUDRE RIVER DOWNTOWN YRdYY, A1Y SEPTEMBER 1, 2016 SHEET OF Attachments a Storrnwater Detention Pond LEGEND Project Area a Natural Communities � Forest Herbaceous Subcanopy Subcanopy-Cottonwood regeneration ME Cobble/gravel Developed Disturbed Wetland 0 Aquatic habitat Ditch our¢e: vi•i IPI•• c eu• d, - EX, ,et �pping ogri•,IPN,IPP, y�jlrt . swisSt. o. and f P I • serf • u O Feet o ss ,so sso Poudre River Downtown Project 1 inch = 185 feet Figure 4 - Natural Communities and Habitat owl • Coy Ditch West East Pond Pond ache �a po�dre River i m Project Area Top of bank Estimated annual highwaterInlet Oft Outlet:� - • P%lam Stormwater Basin Coy Ditch /� OI u u et t Fe o ,00 zoo aoo Poudre River Downtown Project 1 inch = 200 feet Figure 2 - Soils of the Property • • 4• • Y ` MCMURRY sea NATURALAREA as J SALYER • • NATURAL � AREA • / .40 \ • • i • _ vaster • e t♦ --•.� ' ` ♦ ��` ntir� 1 • 9M� •. . . Ponds 4± •� • • i SON GUSTAV SWANS NATURAL z: w _ tar ;t-� • NATIylRAL d i H R , f. t � ` �. LEGEND I Project Area O Feet o 430 aso t 720 1 inch = 833 feet r t; '40• • a 49-etc Paris ,,� U )ALL ~ . NATURALAREA Society=ewbed�S. uric, : E--sri DigitalGlobe .GeoF e i-cubed. sy�i��topothe GIS Usu Connr inity Poudre River Downtown Project Figurel Project Location area, College Avenue, passing trains on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad, and some industrial operations to the north. Noise within the development will be increased during daylight hours by recreational activity at the river (water levels will restrict kayaking to approximately 45 days/yr). Some noise sources will be removed due to the acquisition and conversion of industrial properties along Vine Drive. • Lighting. New lighting will be focused on the parking lot, the upper terrace of the south bank (ground -level and low -intensity), along the staircase, and leading to the pedestrian bridge on either side of the river. Pole lights will not be installed along the river. Lighting may be directional or use dimmers and/or timers to ensure user safety without ongoing and continuous impacts to wildlife. Further, designT ers wisTi to use low -temperature ig - s1 as empei=atures from lighting have been suggested as having measurable impacts on wildlife. (g) The project shall be designed to enhance the natural ecological characteristics of the site. If existing landscaping within the buffer zone is determined by the decision maker to be incompatible with the purposes of the buffer zone, then the applicant shall undertake restoration and mitigation measures such as regrading and/or the replanting of native vegetation. The design of the Poudre River Whitewater Park project calls for the protection, enhancement, and mitigation measures outlined in (a) above. Given that the present character of the project area reflects 150 years of modification due to the Coy Ditch and past uses, a major objective of the construction is to better approximate native conditions prior to settlement. The planting of hundreds of n native trees and understory p an s, en ancement of the riparian zone, enhancement of diverse upland habitat, preservation of existing native components, and removal of select non-native plant species are anticipated to not only mitigate for the disturbance of construction but ultimately benefit the ecological communities within the project area. 25 November 18, 2016 While the south bank of the Poudre does draw high concentrations of users, this is one of the few places along the river corridor where this opportunity exists. The park was designed with the intention of accommodating recreational opportunities along this south bank, consistent with the Poudre River Downtown Master Plan,' with plantings of shrubs and trees intended to soften the effect and user impacts. Indeed, the current reach is characterized by a vertical wall, so a combination of hardscaping (trail, overlook, staircase) and strategic plantings will improve both the ecological function and aesthetic of this area. From the standpoint of river management between Shields and Mulberry, providing a concentrated area such as this as a community gathering place should reduce similar demands in other reaches throughout theaowntown corridor. • Quality of runoff water. The primary sources of stormwater through the site will be from Vine Drive and properties north of Vine Drive. All runoff will be treated with the following features. o A BMP feature called a SNOUT (http://www.bmpinc.com), a hooded outlet cover, will pre -treat storm runoff from Vine Drive and the parking lot in the northeast corner of the property by removing floating debris and pollutant - carrying sediment. Two will be installed on Vine Drive and one in the parking lot. Note that the parking lot will occupy a very small proportional area of the park and be a minimal contributor of storm runoff relative to off -site sources. o The existing stormwater retention pond in the northeast corner of the site (adjacent to Vine Drive) will be modified to act as a standard water quality pond. As such, it will treat local storm runoff from Vine Drive and several properties north of Vine between Jerome and Redwood Streets. A grass -lined swale between Vine Drive and the western wetland (adjacent to the Quonset but on the east side) will treat local storm runoff from Vine Drive and properties north of Vine Drive between College Avenue and Jerome Street. o The existing wetland along Coy Ditch south of the parking lot (discussed on p.23) will be used as secondary bioswale treatment for water quality before release to the Poudre. o The existing wetland south of the Quonset but will continue to receive on -site runoff, formalizing its current water treatment function. • Noise. All sources of noise will be attenuated by the planting of over 200 trees throughout the construction period. Existing sources of noise are the Xcel regulation station, the Power House Energy Institute to the south of the project 24 November 18, 2016 milkweeds) will bring enhanced grassland and pollinator habitat opportunities to the site. • Significant trees and existing wetlands. Existing significant native trees, wetlands, and other native vegetation will be preserved to the extent possible in order to protect old growth, character, and habitat. Design was influenced by currently significant trees; one example is the staircase on the south bank (see rendering), which was diverted around a grove of willows. Similarly, pedestrian trails were designed to go around trees instead of removing the trees to accommodate trails. Last, the layout and size of the parking lot and the trail around it were designed to avoid removal of existing spruce, silver maple, chokecherry, and Rocky Mountain juniper, as well as the nearby existing wetlands. Mitigation for the necessary removal of certain individual trees will exceed city requirements (BHA Design, Inc., pers. comm.). • Coy Ditch BMP. The eastern portion of the former Coy Ditch will be modified to create a Low -Impact Development BMP. Re -grading will reduce the side slopes of the ditch, thus encouraging a wider variety of native vegetation and improving the passive treatment of waters that drain from Vine Drive and the parking lot. (e) The project shall be designed so that the character of the proposed development in terms of use, density, traffic generation, quality of runoff water, noise, lighting, and similar potential development impacts shall minimize the degradation of the ecological character or wildlife use of the affected natural habitats or features. The Poudre River Whitewater Park is designed to minimize the degradation of the ecological character and wildlife use of its natural habitat and features via: • Use and density. Of the eleven (11) total acres across the project area, 1.5 acres will support higher than current activity levels. These higher activity levels will be at the parking lot and at the river between whitewater features. Recreational users including kayakers will be restricted to relatively small areas on -site. Kayakers and others accessing the river will have well-defined access areas that will protect riparian areas not intended for access. Trails are designed to protect existing trees, to minimize the potential for creation of social trails, and also to allow for a substantial riparian margin, i.e., they are not directly adjacent to the river. An exception to this is an ADA path on the north bank that allows direct access to the water. The trail near the Xcel regulator station will be very close to the station's fencing to restrict fragmentation and the overall area of disturbance, and all uses around the pond in the northern part of the project area will be passive. 2; November 18. 2016 The Poudre River Whitewater Park project is designed to preserve and enhance the ecological character and function and wildlife use of its natural habitat and features, and to minimize and mitigate for development impacts by addressing the features below. • Fish passage Removal of the Coy Ditch diversion and existing concrete flume will improve fish habitat connectivity. While one objective of the project is to provide whitewater kayaking opportunities, an equivalent focus of the kayak course design is fish passage and how aquatic species may benefit from channel modification. Currently fish migration is restricted through this reach; channel modifications will allow fish to resume active migration. • Aquatic habitat. Enhancement of aquatic habitat will be achieved by a system of pools, riffles, and runs within the Poudre River channel, and enhanced fish passage in the "north bay" (between the northernmost piers on the north bank) beneath College Avenue. • Streambank protection. Increased native woody plantings along the river and retention of some large non-native crack willow will provide streambank protection and improve aquatic habitat (e.g., via moderation of ambient and water temperatures, and leaf litter input). In addition, designated visitor access points will minimize trampling and divert pedestrians from forested areas that may be used by wildlife. • Riparian and upland habitat. The riparian zone within the currently overwide channel will be enhanced by terracing the riverbank and reducing the artificially wide channel to allow for more natural riparian habitat. Additionally, numerous non-native species will be removed from the riparian zone and replaced with native riparian trees6. This focus on woody species will create an abundance of habitat opportunities for birds, insects, and small mammals in the form of forage, pollination, nesting, protection, and migration opportunities. Note that willow stakes and riparian seeding and plugs will complement the canopy plantings. Currently the upland areas north of the Poudre River are in a degraded condition, dominated by non-native species and featuring little structural or compositional diversity. A diverse assemblage of native trees, fruit -bearing shrubs and herbaceous species including graminoids and showy forbs (e.g., " Over 200 native trees will be planted site -wide in upland and riparian areas. 22 November 18, 2016 viewing and recreation. Examples of ecological functions provided by the site are listed below. • Regulating functions such as stormwater quality management, some degree of flood protection, and shade that moderates water temperatures. Riparian trees and shrubs also provide organic matter inputs to the river and bank stabilization. • Natural process support include pollinator habitat, groundwater recharge, and base flows through surface and subsurface flows. • Cultural benefits include the natural experience opportunities such as bird watching. The mosaic of the natural communities --forest, subcanopy, herbaceous, wetland, and aquatic habitat-- support terrestrial, avian, aquatic, and amphibious wildlife and provide a buffer between the river and nearby urbanization. As noted earlier, numerous on -site trees provide diverse structure for habitat cover, nesting and foraging/prey opportunities for insects, birds, and small mammals. 4 Development -Related Activities and Considerations 4.1 Timing Considerations The proposed development and enhancement of the Poudre River Whitewater Park, which includes river channel modifications, is tentatively planned to begin in the late summer or early fall of 2017. This timing is preferred due to the seasonal low flows that typically occur at that time of year, easing the mechanics of construction but also minimizing impacts on river -dependent species such as fish and insects. Similarly, any necessary tree removal should occur in the late fall and before early spring (approximately 9/1-4/1) to comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act; this is subject to nest surveys and recommendations by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The anticipated window of construction is 8-12 months, unavoidably affecting some species during at least the early part of the growing season. 4.2 Measures to Mitigate Projected Adverse Habitat Impacts The mitigation measures described below are based on select Buffer Zone Performance Standards outlined in Fort Collins Land Use Code 3.4.1(E)l . Specifically, standards (a), (e), and (g) are addressed in the section below. (a) The project shall be designed to preserve or enhance the ecological character or function and wildlife use of the natural habitat or feature and to minimize or adequately mitigate the foreseeable impacts of development. 21 November 18, 2016 • Migratory wading bird and/or shorebird production, wintering, or feeding areas • Nesting wading bird and/or shorebird production, wintering, or feeding areas • Key nesting areas for grassland birds • Positive trapping results for Preble's meadow jumping mouse • Fox, badger, and/or coyote dens • Mule deer winter concentration areas • Prairie dog colonies >50 acres • Locations of rare, threatened, or endangered plant species • Key areas for rare, migrant, or resident butterflies • Areas of high terrestrial or aquatic insect diversity • Remnant native prairie habitat • Mixed foothill shrubland • Foothill ponderosa pine forest • Locations of geological or paleontological sites of special interest 2.3.4 Wildlife Movement Corridors The Poudre River and its adjacent lands provide opportunities for wildlife movement for a range of species "including a wide variety of birds, a moderate diversity of amphibians and reptiles, and small to medium sized mammals and deer... Elements that help define habitat health are diversity of vegetation structure and species, and dominance by native species. Connectivity of habitat patches (or vegetation communities) is another critical component for enhancing opportunities and utilization by wildlife. Connectivity refers to the distance between common habitat types, analysis of barriers, and patch size. "' Mink has been observed in this reach, indicating that small mammals use the area. Other small mammals using the site for movement include red fox, raccoon, squirrels, and rodents (see 2015 Walsh memo). Colorado Parks & Wildlife data indicate that the project area is in the overall ranges of mule deer, black bear, and mountain lion, but the concentrated urbanization around the project area limits its potential use by these species (see 2015 Walsh memo). In the river itself, connectivity is impaired by the Coy structure and the steep armored banks. Vertical concrete walls further diminish potential wildlife use. 3 General ecological functions provided by the site Ecological functions can be described in terms of ecosystem services, which are typically categorized as regulating environmental conditions, �visianing of food and water, supporting natural processes like pollination; and cultural benefits such as wildlife 20 November 18, 2016 The City of Fort Collins has received concurrence from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service that Preble's meadow jumping mouse, Ute ladies' -tresses orchid, and Colorado butterfly plant are not likely to be present within Udall or McMurry Natural Areas. Udall is approximately 2/3 mi downstream and McMurry is approximately 1.5 mi upstream from the Poudre River Whitewater Park project area. Concurrence for McMurry was secured in 2012 and for Udall was earlier this year (2016). See attached concurrence letters for these projects. No sensitive or specially valued plant species were observed during site visits. The City Natural Area Department's rare plant data files did not indicate any known species of concern on the site. 2.3.3 Special Habitat Features The project area was assessed for special habitat features as identified in the Fort Collins Land Use Code 3.4.1(E). Of the special habitat features itemized, the following observations were made: • The project area contains riparian cottonwood and willow perch sites, which could serve as winter foraging habitat for the bald eagle. Wildlife biologists consider that actual use by the bald eagle would be curtailed by heavy pedestrian traffic along the bike path and surrounding urbanization. • The project area contains potential nesting habitat for Cooper's hawk, although available foraging habitat for Cooper's hawk is very limited. • The project area contains potential habitat for migrant songbirds. One hundred ninety avian species including the northern flicker, black -capped chickadee, American robin, yellow warbler, and Bullock's oriole are documented within or adjacent to the project area. The riparian habitat on -site may serve as important temporary habitat for birds migrating between the mountains and plains and between winter and breeding habitat. • Riparian woodlands that include plains cottonwood occur along the Poudre River. • Wetlands in the project area are comprised of the west pond (0.703 acres), the east pond (0.128 acres), and Coy Ditch (0.104 acres). See detailed descriptions above in Section 2 (Wetlands). The project area does not have the following: • Raptor nest sites • Bald eagle communal feeding or roost sites • Great blue heron colonial nest sites • Migratory waterfowl production, wintering, or feeding areas • Nesting waterfowl production, wintering, or feeding areas I Q November 18, 2016 • Appropriate habitat for northern leopard frog and garter snake • Winter foraging habitat for bald eagle (cottonwood and willow perch sites) • Nesting and foraging habitat (riparian trees and shrubs and cattail marsh) for avian species including those protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act • Potential nesting habitat for Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperii) • Poudre River fishery for piscivorous birds • Corridors that could be used by large mammals such as mule deer, black bear, and mountain lion and small mammals such as red fox, raccoon, and rodents • Habitat for commonly occurring reptiles and amphibians • Mink • Bullfrogs Walsh did not observe any species of special concern or raptor nests on the project site. — See attached wildlife memo (Walsh -- ;�Oi5 for greater detail on the above summary. Although the ponds identified as potentially appropriate for northern leopard frog, it is noted that the urban context of the project area supports an abundance of predators such as bullfrogs, raccoons, skunks, and feral cats, which would tend to limit the abundance of species of special concern such as the northern leopard frog. The same urbanized development, including a much -used bike/pedestrian path through the project area, would discourage heavy use by bald eagle, which avoid areas of concentrated human activity. The City of Fort Collins has conducted bird surveys in the project area as recently as 2013. Observations were made between the two ponds north of the Poudre River, noting 90 birds representing 13 species. Other Natural Areas average 15 bird species, and the highest observed at a single Fort Collins Natural Area was 25 species. 2.3.2 Sensitive and Specially Valued Species As detailed in the attached memo by Walsh, the project area occurs in the overall range of Preble's meadow jumping mouse, northern leopard frog, and common garter snake, and the winter range of the bald eagle. Potential habitat for the northern leopard frog, common garter snake, and bald eagle occurs on -site, but predator abundance is assumed to limit the occurrences of the frog and snake, and pedestrian use and urban environment are assumed to limit use of the site by the bald eagle. Trapping data indicate no reble's meadow jumping mouse on -site nor within 5.5 miles of the project area. 18 November 18, 2016 Photo 10. Northeast corner of the west parcel facing southwest. Most of the parcel is developed and unvegetated. 2.2 Aquatic Habitat Photo 11. Residence on the west parcel of the Vine Drive properties at Reach 3. Photo faces west. Largest tree on the right is Siberian elm; others on the left are aspen and juniper. The two on -site ponds have historically provided aquatic habitat on the property (as described further in Sections 2.3 and 2.4). However, as discussed in Section 1.3.4, the hydrology of the property is changing due to the prior abandonment of the Coy Ditch and planned lowering of the river bed. As a result, the ponds are showing a trend tgww .d_ la}ing. Therefore, aquatic habitat in the ponds is not in good condition and is expected to continue to degrade. Aquatic habitat in the Poudre River has been described in previous studies and was not evaluated in detail as part of this ECS. As noted in the Master Plan, river habitat is impaired by the diversion structure that restricts fish passage. 2.3 Wildlife Habitat As documented in the Poudre River Natural Area Management Plan,' a variety of wildlife species including small mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and insects are known to use the city properties along the Poudre River, including the Gustav Swanson property and other parks and natural areas. 2.3.1 General Wildlife Habitat For the current ECS, Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC (Walsh) conducted field reconnaissance on August 26, 2015 to review wildlife habitat conditions. Key features observed by Walsh in the project area included: 17 November 18. 2016 • Siberian elm and Russian -olive growing along the Coy Ditch that leads from the east pond. • Russian -olive and Siberian elm north of the ditch and ponds. The canopy extent of significant native trees can be interpreted from Figure 4 and Photo 3 in conjunction with the tree survey (BHA, 2016). Figure 4, which used a minimum mapping unit of % acre, depicts the approximate drip line of the forest and subcanopy habitats but does not distinguish between native and non-native species. Photo 3 was taken in early September 2016, so depicts full canopy, i.e., before leaf drop in the fall. The forest and understory tree canopy across the site appears generally vigorous and healthy. One dead elm is noted in the survey, but such biomass can serve an ecological benefit in the form of habitat for small mammals, birds, and insects, as well as organic matter. The vast majority of trees on -site are robust and show no signs of stress or decline. The habitat values provided by the numerous trees on -site includes structure, nesting U habitat, and foraging/prey opportunities for insects, birds, and small mammals. In the riparian zone the trees provide organic matter inputs to the river, shade from the south bank that moderates _water temperatures, and structure to stabilize the banks in event of high water or other stress. - 2-1.5 Other A parcel along Vine Drive on the northern side of the property is developed industrial (Photo 10). This parcel has no surface water nor wetlands, and little vegetation except for trees including a single large cottonwood (Populus deltoides) and several non-native Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) around the perimeter. There is also one residence on the property (Photo 11) on a small lot with both native (aspen [Populus tremuloides], juniper [Juniperus communis]) and Siberian elm trees. Summary of Plant Communities Overall, the greatest diversity of plant communities and vegetation structure is around tttpgtlds, and more so around the east pond with its mature trees, substantial subcanopy and cottonwood regeneration, herbaceous understory, wetlands, and open water. The quality of the riparian forest and subcanopy communities around the ponds is better than that of the non -native -dominated wetlands or herbaceous communities, and might be considered in relatively good condition were it not for the numerous Russian olives growing in the northeast section. 16 November 18, 2016 410 individual trees in the tree survey. Of these 410 trees, 386 were significant.' Of these 386 significant trees, 244 are native and 142 are non- native. Locations and types of significant native trees include: • Box -elder and plains cottonwood on the south bank of the Poudre River. Nearly all the trees on the south bank are native._ • Cottonwood, box -elder, and peachleaf willow between College Avenue and the Coy Ditch diversion, and cottonwood and box -elder downstream of the drop structure on the north side of the river. • Box -elder, cottonwood, river Photo 9. Cottonwoods on the north bank. birch, peachleaf willow, and Rocky Mountain juniper growing around the west pond. • Box -elder, ash, peachleaf willow, and cottonwood growing around the east pond. • Clusters of narrowleaf and lanceleaf cottonwoods, aspen and juniper, box -elder, American elm, choke cherry, spruce and apricot, and catalpa north of the ponds. Locations of significant non-native trees are as follows: • Two crack willow west of College Avenue and 17 Siberian elm near the railroad crossing on the south bank of the river. • Seven crack willow west of College Avenue and numerous Russian -olive, Siberian elm, and crack willow on the north bank of the river between College Avenue and the railroad crossing. • Siberian elm and crack willow along Coy Ditch leading to the west pond. • Crack willow clumps and Russian -olive and Siberian elm stems growing around the west pond. • Russian -olive surrounding the east pond. 5 Note: where there was a range of diameters spanning the 6" threshold we counted the group as significant. For example, all trees were counted as significant for an entry stating "22 boxelders 4-14" " 15 November 18, 2016 2.1.3 Subcanopy (and Shrubland) Most subcanopy areas occur around the fringes of the ponds and along the east ditch (Figure 4). Native subcanopy species include byx.eM r (Acer negundo), coyote willow (Salix exigua), green ash (Fraxinus pensylvanica), and saplings of plains cottonwoosi(Populus deltoides; Photo 8). We also observed a single pin cherry (Prunus pensylvanica) and a single American .plum.(Prunus virginiana) close to the east pond. Russian olive (Elaeagnus angistifolia) is the most common non-native subcanopy species at Reach 3, primarily growing along the north side of the east ditch. east side of east pond. 2.1.4 Riparian Forest and Significant Trees The riparian forest within Reach 3 includes mature canopy trees occurring along both banks of the Poudre River. The non-native species crack willow (Salix fragilis) is most common, although plains cottonwood is also typical (Photo 9). Other observed species include American elm (Ulmus americanus), silver maple (Acer saccharinum), and blue spruce (Picea pungens). Non-native canopy species are often in a complex with a native species in the subcanopy. Significant Trees The City of Fort Collins conducted a recent tree survey of the project area which was used by BHA Design Inc. to develop the attached mitigation plan provided by BHA Design, Inc. (attached). The survey focused on identifying significant trees, i.e., those >_6" dbh. (Practicalities of conducting the survey precluded identification of all trees on - site; therefore, numerous trees less than 6" dbh are not included.) Trees were surveyed individually3 and in groves,4 the latter method was used when stems were too numerous to georeference individually. Briefly, the survey documented A total of 60 individual trees were surveyed, 54 of which are significant. Of these 54 significant trees, 44 are native and 12 are non-native. 4 Twenty-two (22) groves were described in the tree survey. Three hundred -fifty (350) individual trees were tallied within the groves, 332 of which were significant. Among the 332 significant trees counted in groves, 202 are native and 130 are non-native. 14 November 18, 2016 2.1.2. Upland Herbaceous (Non -Native Grassland) Grassland areas are mainly found in the northeast portion of the site and on the west and south sides of the west pond. The grasslands are generally poor_quality__and mowed (Photo 7). Non-native smooth brome (Bromus inermis) appears dominant, with little plant diversity and few shrubs or trees. Other non-native species observed include Russian thistle (Salsola australis), cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), and leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula). The patch of herbaceous upland overlooking the river on the south bank does contain some native species --blue grama (Chondrosum gracile), grape (Vitis riparia)--and the non -natives crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), quackgrass (Elytrigia repens), and bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis). The plant community around the stormwater basin and ditch in the northeast part of the property is distinguishable from the lower areas within the basin. The upper "rim" is dominated by the non-native herbaceous species reed canarygrass (Phalaris arunindacea), and other non-native species such as blue mustard (Chorispora tenella), cheatgrass (Anisantha tectorum), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), common mullein (Verbascum thapsus), flixweed (Descurainia sophia), pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus), and scattered Siberian elm volunteers. Native plant species, including rabbitbrush _ (Chrysothamnus sp.), skunkbrush grasses) in the center of the east parcel, Reach 3. (Rhus trilobata), wester whea rass (Pascopyrum smithii), buffalograss, as well as three_cottonwq_ and�six catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) planted saplings, constitute relatively little coverage. The interior of the stormwater retention basin is dominated by the native species Hall's panicgrass (Panicum hallii). Other native species in the basin are horsetail (Equisetum arvense), clustered field sedge (Carex praegracilis), and rushes (Juncus sp.). Non- native species include dandelion, yellow sweetclover (Melilotus officinale), Siberian elm volunteers, and numerous resprouting Russian -olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) trees, a Colorado C-list noxious weed. 13 November 18, 2016 (0.005 acres) patch of cattails in the northeast corner. Riparian vegetation around the east pond includes the subcanopy species box elder (Acer negundo), coyote willow (Salix exigua), green ash (Fraxinus pensylvanica), p�n che_ rry (Cerasus pensylvanica), American - plum Prunus americana), and plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides) saplings. See Photos4a,b. west pond. Note cottonwood seedling in the foreground. Coy Ditch (0.104 acres). The wetland along the ditch northeast of the east pond is dominated by reed canarygrass and is judged to be poor -quality. Also occurring in the ditch are minor occurrences of cottonwood and sandbar willow seedlings, native duckweed (Lemna sp.) and Macoun's_ buttercup (Ranunculus macounii), and non-native meadow (oxtail (Alopecurus pratensis). Riparian vegetation adjacent to the ditch is dominated by Russian -olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia), but there are also native subcanopy species including ash, cottonwood, pin cherry, choke cherry (Padus virginiana), and _snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis; Photo 6). Stinging nettle (Urtica gracilis) and non-native Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) are also present. conveys gas at high pressure. Photo faces west-southwest. 12 November 18, 2016 2. Natural Communities and Habitat Features Natural communities or habitats as defined in the City's Land Use Code (§3.4.1) include aquatic habitat, wetlands, native grassland, riparian forest, urban plains forest, riparian shrubland, and foothills forest. Environmental protection standards also apply to special features such as remnant native plant communities, potential and known habitats of special plant and animal species (rare, threatened or endangered); and several other key wildlife habitat features. Natural communities and habitat features found in the project area are described here. 2.1 Plant Communities Four plant community types — wetlands, upland herbaceous, subcanopy, and riparian forest — were mapped on -site based on the commune y escnp ions from the Natural Areas' 2009 Habitat Mapping project; see Figure 4. The riparian forest characterization include information on significant trees, canopy cover, and general forest health observations. Figure 4 also shows other non -vegetated areas including a gravel/cobble patch, a disturbed debris area, and the developed area. 2.1.1 Wetlands _Three wetland areas were delineated within the project area in accordance with the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation manual. These areas are the associated with the west pond, the east pogd -znd_,the Coy Ditch (Figure 4). The combined total area of these wetlands ' 0.935 acres Ecological functions of the wetlands and associated pond areas in dee some degree of local flood protection and water regulation; potential groundwater recharge; and on -site habitat diversity for aquatic and amphibious wildlife. The size, vegetation and condition of each wetland area is further defined below. West Pond (0.703 acres). Cattail -dominated emergent wetlands occupy the west pond. Reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea) is co -dominant with only slightly less cover than the cattails (Typha angustifolia). There are also wetlands occupying the ditch leading from the Poudre River to the west pond (from the west side); these are poor- quality and dominated by reed canarygrass. A "mud -flat" wetland emerged in the pond in the late summer 2015, following seasonal water drawdown, and was characterized by bare ground, asters, and smartweed (Polygonum sp.; Photo 5). East Pond (0.128 acres). Like the west pond, the east pond has "mud flat" wetlands (0.123 acres) that emerges when the water is low. Bare ground, asters, and seedlings of reed canarygrass and cattail characterized this area. The east pond also has a small 1 1 November 18, 2016 (a) (b) Photos 4a-f. Views within Poudre River Whitewater Park project area. (a) view to west across east pond, (b) opposite side of east pond, facing east-northeast, (c) west pond/wetland facing north, (d) developed parcel along Vine Drive, (e) eastern parcel along Vine Drive facing east-southeast, and (f) eastern parcel facing west. 10 November 18, 2016 1.4 Views From and Within the Site From off -site, portions of the project area are visible from the south side of the river along the Poudre River Trail and from College Avenue. The northern parts of the property are also partially visible from Vine Drive. A recent aerial photograph taken from a drone (Photo 3) shows a perspective of the property and the surrounding areas looking northeast across the project area. Photo 3. Aerial photo of Reach 3 of the proposed Poudre River Whitewater Park project area. Photo was taken September 7, 2016, and is view from southwest to northeast. Typical views within the project area are shown in Photos 4a-f. Details are provided in the photograph captions. 9 November 18, 2016 patch indicating mesic (moist) conditions, although this population was not represented in 2016. In the absence of a reliable water supply and given the proposed river channel modifications to alleviate flooding issues, it is expected that the two ponds will continue to dry out and eventually transi ion to uplands. However, the timing of the drying period is unknown. Also, temporary periods of wetter conditions may gersist because of planned storm runoff modifications as well as the proximity of the ponds to the river and the dynamic nature of groundwater exchange along the Poudre. For example, the past three years of high river flows have shown how inter -annual dynamics (e.g., multiple high water years) caused elevated water levels for prolonged periods in some City gravel ponds along the Poudre (e.g., at Sterling Pond). Now pond areas. Photo 2. October 3, 1999 view of pond areas. GoogleEarth Stormwater The stormwater basin in the northeast corner of the project area has two inlets (one in the northeast and another on the west side) and an outlet in the southwest part of the basin. The basin is designed to percolate water, and no surface water was observed during the visits. During the May 4, 2016 visit, the sandy soils were saturated as a result of the significant precipitation received during the preceding four days. The basin soils were dry during the May 20, 2016 follow-up visit. 8 November 18, 2016 Cache la Poudre River (ton of bank shoreline, and high water mark) The Cache la Poudre River flows in a southeasterly direction along the southern edge of the site. Figure 3 indicates the Ordinary High Water (OHW) mark for this reach of the Poudre River as well as the top of bank. The OHW was interpolated from river conditions associated with flows of 1800 and 3000 cfs to identify the surface elevation at 2000 cfs. Field assessment of OHW in Reach 3 is complicated by its being channelized and hardened, compounded by several years of high flows that would eliminate field indicators of high water. As would be expected in this highly urban reach, the river channel is "locked into place," with high, steep banks and armoring on both sides. As a result of urban land use, channel entrenchment, and the desire to keep 100-year discharges in the channel, there is limited if any opportunity to create an active floodplain. Within this reach, there are areas of channel bank that are not armored and are experiencing various degrees of erosion. It is anticipated that the proposed f improvements will address stabilizing these poor -condition banks. In some of these areas, however, there are large crack willows that are stabilizing the banks as well as providing shade and organic matter. While the crack willows aren't native, some of the larger trees will be incorporated into the proposed channel improvements. Coy Ditch and Ponds (and Shoreline) Historically, the two on -site ponds were supplied by water from the Coy Ditch. The headgate was closed soon after the sale of the water rights to the City in 2012 but because it is not water -tight, water continues to seep through it. Figures 3 and 4 indicate the location of the ditch and shoreline of the eastern pond as surveyed in September 2015. The west pond, has ephemeral standing water only in a mudflat in its southeastern corner (Figure 4). Photos 1 and 2 compare the extent of open water in the two ponds in 2014 and 1999, respectively. The photographs show the west pond was mostly dry in June 2014 (despite high river flows that spring), while the east pond held water. In 2015, open water in the west pond was significantly larger than in 2014, although it had begun to dry out by fall. Supplemental water supply to the ponds includes storm runoff from Vine Drive and properties to the north as well as seepage through th� a Coy hea_ dgate. Further investigation may highlight whether seepage from Lake Canal to the north is another source (see possible seepage path in Photo 2). In 2015 we did observe a band of an obligate wetlapd_-sedge, common threesquare (Schoenoplecfus pungens), in a 7 November 18, 2016 1.3.2 Geology The property is underlain by Post -Piney Creek Alluvium, which consists of dark gray, sandy to gravelly alluvium underlain by the Pierre Shale. The depth to bedrock is es it mated to be about 10-15 ft below ground surface. 1.3.3 Soils Soils on the property have been mapped by the US Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) as shown in Figure 2. There are 3 soil types mapped on the property: • Paoli fine sandy loam, 0-1 % slope — in the northwest corner and on the south side of the Poudre River. • Nunn clay loam, 0-1 % slope — in the northeast corner. • Table Mountain loam, 0-1 % slope — the majority of the project area on the north side of the river. Each of these soils forms from alluvium and is found on low terrace formations such as that at the project site. They are generally considered to be deep and well -drained. f�PJi� Native upland grass communities associated with these soils include species such as blue gra rya (Chondrosum gracile), buffalo rass (Buchloe dactyloides), needlegrass (Nassella viridula), and wheatgrass (Agropyron sp.). Si Wetland soils were identified onsite during the wetland delineation, but these units are not shown in the NRCS soil survey. The reason for this could be because they represented too small of a mapping unit or the soils transformed since the time of the 1974 survey. 1.3.4 Water Resources Groundwater Preliminary review of regional information indicates that groundwater in the unconsolidated alluvial deposits flows generally parallel to the river from west to east across the project area. The depth to the top of the water table was historical mapped at 5-10 feet below ground surface, based on USGS regional water resource info rmatjon.2 Groundwater contours mapped by AECOM in 2005 at the eastern edge of the project area suggest groundwater is at roughly 4949 ft (5 ft below ground surface) in the vicinity of the ponds. The river is generally a gaining reach in this segment, but river loss (i.e., alluvial groundwater recharge that can raise the water table) also can occur temporarily, depending on local fluctuations in groundwater and surface water elevations. There will be diminishing potential for the river to raise the water table through this reach, as the project will lower the river bed by as much as six (6) feet. 6 November 18, 2016 • May 4, 2016, additional characterization of added properties on Vine Dr. and; • May 20, 2016, wetland delineation of added properties on Vine Dr. 1.2 General Site Description The eleven (11)-acre proposed project area is owned by the City of Fort Collins and includes the western portion of the Gustav Swanson Natural Area, along approximately 800 linear ft of the Poudre River, in a highly urbanized part of the City. The abandoned John G. Coy Ditch runs through the northern part of the property and previously fed the two small, on -site, man-made pongs. The project site also includes a stormwater detention area near the northern boundary, and two newly acquired parcels along Vine Drive. Xcel Energy owns a small, fenced inholding in the south-central portion of the project area just north of where the Poudre flows under the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad. Nearby parks and open space areas include River's Edge Natural Area and Lee Martinez and Legacy Parks, which are just upstream on the west side of College Avenue, Udall Natural Area approximately 2/3-mile downstream, and the Northside Aztlan Recreation Center due south of the property. The Gustav Swanson project area has been reportedly used for recreation since 1887 when it was purchased by a private company and designated as a public "park and pleasure grounds." Portions of the site were also previously used for archery, water treatment, and as a city dump (on the portion of Gustav Swanson east of the BNSF railroad). In 1986, the Poudre River Trust designated the property as a wildlife habitat area, and in 1988 the City established the natural area. The City manages the property as a Natural Experience zone with existing site improvements primarily limited to an asphalt trail, interpretive signs, and native plantings.' 1.3 Physical Setting Brief descriptions of the physical setting and general natural resources in the project area are described below including topography, soils, geology, and water resources. 1.3.1 Topography The topography of the property is relatively level with an average elevation of approximately 4955 feet above mean sea level. The maximum elevation on -site is 4958 ft in the northwest corner of the property. The minimum elevation is about 4948 ft in the southeast corner of the property along the downstream edge of the Poudre River. 5 November 18, 2016 would be provided along the river banks to the greatest extent possible, although some fragmentation will likely remain. • Wildlife connectivity is currently provided beneath College Avenue by the bridge's northemmost span and can be enhanced by improving vegetation.along the north bank. • Creating riffles and pools similar to those present in the river upstream and downstream of this reach. • This area contains a significant amount of non-native vegetation. As the area is improved, non-native vegetation will be replaced with native species. Biohabitats' scope of work for the current Ecological Characterization effort included attending site meetings with City staff; reviewing available background information; conducting desktop analyses; completing field assessments; delineating wetlands; and participating in discussions about resource protection measures with City staff and the design team. In addition to information gathered in these tasks, Biohabitats' staff were familiar with the project area from the master planning project as well as prior habitat mapping and restoration planning efforts since 2009 with the Natural Areas Program. Existing information that was collected and reviewed for the characterization project included the following: • Natural Areas' Habitat Mapping project data from 2009 and additional Biohabitats vegetation mapping from 2013; • Riparian assessment field data collected by Biohabitats in 2009; • The City of Fort Collins' Cache la Poudre River Natural Areas Management Plan Update (2011); • Available Geographic Information System (GIS) data for geology, soils, water resources and wetlands, nearby conservation properties, and previously identified opportunities and constraints; • A tree protection and mitigation plan provided by BHA Design, Inc.; and • Hydrogeologic reports and data by USGS and AECOM.z Dates of sites visits were: • August 12, 2015, plant community mapping and wetland delineation; • September 24, 2015,follow-up rapid ecological site assessment; Sources included: System Operation and Monitoring Semi -Annual Report July to December 2008, AECOM, January 2009; USGS, 1979, Map 1-855-I, Depth to Water Table; and Robson et al, 2000, Hydrologic Atlas HA 746B and related Front Range infrastructure data. 4 November 18, 2016 1. Introduction This Ecological Characterization Study (ECS) summarizes the natural features of the proposed Poudre River Whitewater Park, which is bounded by the Cache la Poudre River to the south, Vine Drive to the north, College Avenue to the west, and the Burlington Northern/Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF) to the east (Figure 1). The Poudre River Whitewater Park is designed to improve recreation opportunities and flood mitigation while also enhancing natural habitat on -site. More specifically, the project is designed to achieve multiple environmental and public benefits including increased flood capacity; improved opportunities for kayaking and other recreational use; and native aquatic, riparian, and upland habitat protection as described in the Poudre River Downtown Master Plan (Reach 3).' The overall purpose of this ECS is to demonstrate that the proposed project design "will protect the natural habitats and features both on and in the vicinity of the site" per City Land Use Code (paragraph 3.4.1 [B]). 1.1 Project Background and Scope The final Poudre Downtown Master Plan' provided background information on habitat and ecological restoration issues in Reach 3. Possible opportunities for habitat improvements and integration were also provided. Several of the identified issues and opportunities were addressed and incorporated into the proposed design including those listed below (excerpted from the Master Plan'). • The Coy Diversion structure and boat chute significantly impact fish passage and create a large upstream pool within the river. In addition, these structures are unattractive and visually dominant features in the landscape. Fish passage and aquatic habitat improvements would be integrated into the recreational improvements when both the Coy Diversion and boat chute are removed. • Existing river banks near the Coy Diversion are dominated by vertical concrete walls, a variety of rail fences, and steep slopes. Remove, replace, mask or enhance walls and fences where possible to create an attractive corridor. • This stretch of the river is envisioned as an area that can accommodate visitor use that is higher than adjoining reaches. Wildlife connectivity improvements ' Poudre River Downtown Master Plan, October 2014. litty://www.fcaov.coili/poudre-downtown/pdt`/final-plan.pdf 3 November 18, 2016 Table of Contents I. Introduction................................................................................................................. 3 1.1 Project Background and Scope................................................................................ 3 1.2 General Site Description.......................................................................................... 5 1.3 Physical Setting........................................................................................................ 5 1.3.1 Topography........................................................................................................ 5 1.3.2 Geology.............................................................................................................. 6 1.3.3 Soils.................................................................................................................... 6 1.3.4 Water Resources................................................................................................ 6 1.4 Views From and Within the Site............................................................................... 9 2. Natural Communities and Habitat Features.............................................................. 11 2.1 Plant Communities................................................................................................. 11 2.1.1 Wetlands........................................................................................................... I I 2.1.2. Upland Herbaceous (Non -Native Grassland) ................................................. 13 2.1.3 Subcanopy (and Shrubland)............................................................................. 14 2.1.4 Riparian Forest and Significant Trees.............................................................. 14 SignificantTrees....................................................................................................... 14 2.1.5 Other................................................................................................................ 16 2.2 Aquatic Habitat.........................................................................................._............ 17 2.3 Wildlife Habitat...................................................................................................... 17 2.3.1 General Wildlife Habitat...................................................................................... 17 2.3.2 Sensitive and Specially Valued Species............................................................. 18 2.3.3 Special Habitat Features...................................................................................... 19 2.3.4 Wildlife Movement Corridors.............................................................................. 20 3 General ecological functions provided by the site .................................................... 20 4 Development -Related Activities and Considerations ............................................... 21 4.1 Timing Considerations........................................................................................... 21 4.2 Measures to Mitigate Projected Adverse Habitat Impacts ..................................... 21 Attachments...................................................................................................................... 26 List of Figures Figure 1 Site Location Figure 2 Soils of the Property Figure 3 Water Resources Figure 4 Natural Communities or Habitat Features 2 Ecological Characterization Study of Poudre River Whitewater Park November 21, 2016 Biohabitats 1732 Wazee Street Denver, CO 80202 *Biohabitats SOUTHERN ROCKY MOUNTAIN WOREGION