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Home My WebLink AboutLAKEVIEW ON THE RISE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING - PDP - PDP170014 - REPORTS - RECOMMENDATION/REPORT W/ATTACHMENTS (24)Ecological Characterization Study 6740 S. College Fort Collins, CO Prepared for: Pedcor Investments, LLC One Pedcor Square 770 3rd Avenue, SW Carmel, IN 46032 and Current Planning Department City of Fort Collins 281 North College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80524 December 21, 2015 Prepared by: Ecology and Environment 4949 Pearl East Circle, Suite 300 Boulder, CO 80301 303.443.3282 Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 i Table of Contents Introduction ................................................................................................................................................... 1 Property Location ...................................................................................................................................... 1 Methods ........................................................................................................................................................ 1 Desktop Review ........................................................................................................................................ 1 Site Assessment ........................................................................................................................................ 2 Findings ........................................................................................................................................................ 2 Site Description ......................................................................................................................................... 2 Natural Habitats and Ecological Functions ............................................................................................... 3 Site Vegetation .......................................................................................................................................... 3 Noxious Weeds ......................................................................................................................................... 5 Threatened and Endangered Plant Species ............................................................................................... 5 Wetlands ................................................................................................................................................... 6 Wildlife ..................................................................................................................................................... 6 Potential Special Status Wildlife Species ................................................................................................. 6 Raptors and Migratory Birds..................................................................................................................... 7 General Wildlife ........................................................................................................................................ 7 Summary ....................................................................................................................................................... 7 Special Features ........................................................................................................................................ 9 Recommendations ..................................................................................................................................... 9 References and Literature Cited .................................................................................................................. 10 List of Tables Table 1. Soils Occurring on the Site ............................................................................................................. 1 Table 2. Plant Species Observed Within the Site Boundary ......................................................................... 4 Table 3. Trees Larger Than 6” Diameter ...................................................................................................... 5 Table 4. Special Status Wildlife Species with Potential to Occur on the Site, Larimer County, Colorado. . 7 Table 5. Natural Habitats and Features Within 500 Feet of the Site ............................................................. 8 List of Figures Figure 1. Site Location, Soils, and National Wetland Inventory ............................................................... 11 Figure 2. Ecological Features..................................................................................................................... 12 Appendices Appendix A. Photo Documentation Appendix B. Wetland Data Sheets Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 ii Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 1 INTRODUCTION Pedcor Investments, LLC proposes to construct 250 multi-family dwelling units at 6740 S. College (Parcel #9613200006) (Site). The Site is within 500 feet of known natural habitats—Robert Benson Lake and Pelican Marsh Natural Area. Therefore, an Ecological Characterization Study is required, under Article 3, Section 3.4.1 of the Fort Collins Land Use Code. This report describes ecological conditions and functions observed at the Site. Property Location The Site is located in southern Fort Collins, approximately 0.7 mile north of the intersection of Highway 392 (also known as East County Road 32 and Carpenter Road) and South College Avenue (also known as Highway 287). An unnamed access road lies adjacent to the northern boundary of the Site (Figure 1). The 20-acre Site is within the NW¼ of Section 13, Township 6 North, Range 69 West, of the Sixth Principal Meridian. Near the center of the Site, latitude-longitude coordinates are 40° 29’ 25.96” N and 105° 04’ 32.51” W. METHODS Desktop Review A desktop analysis was conducted to assess potential federal, state, and local special status species (SSS) including threatened and endangered (T&E) species and species of special concern (SSC) listed by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). The USFWS Information for Planning and Conservation (IPaC) tool was used to review federal species (USFWS 2015). The Colorado Natural Diversity Information Source (NDIS 2015) was used to review state species (CPW 2015). The management plan for the Pelican Marsh Natural Area was reviewed for local species (Fort Collins 2005). Soils Soil types occurring on the Site are summarized in Table 1 and illustrated on Figure 1. Soils are generally gently sloping, clay loams with the exception of some poorly drained clay in the southern and western portions of the Site, near the lake. Table 1. Soils Occurring on the Site Soil Map Unit Number and Name Description Hydric 36 – Fort Collins loam, 3- 5% Slopes Well-drained loam and clay loam; depth to water table more than 80 inches. No 37 – Fort Collins loam, 5- 9% slopes Well-drained loam and clay loam; depth to water table more than 80 inches. No 49 – Heldt clay loam, 3- 6% slopes Well-drained clay loam; depth to water table more than 80 inches. Farmland of statewide importance. No 63 – Longmont clay, 0- 3% slopes Poorly-drained clay; depth to water table approx. 24-30 inches. Slightly to strongly saline. No Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 2 Wetlands National Wetland Inventory The National Wetland Inventory (NWI) was consulted (USFWS 2015). The NWI identified one wetland type in the vicinity of the project area, with the code L1UBG. This code indicates a wetland and deep- water habitat situated in a topographic depression, lacking trees, shrubs, and persistent emergent vegetation with greater than 30 percent coverage, and exceeding 20 acres in total size. The lake includes all deep-water habitats with at least 25 percent cover of particles smaller than stones and a vegetative cover less than 30 percent (USFWS 2015). The mapped NWI wetland includes Robert Benson Lake (Figure 1). Proximity to Designated Natural Areas or Open Space The adjacent 156-acre Pelican Marsh Natural Area which includes Robert Benson Lake were acquired by the City of Fort Collins in 2002. The City’s natural areas management plan identifies the key features of the natural area as the lake with high use by American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos). Site Assessment Ecological conditions on the Site were assessed by a wetland specialist and a wildlife biologist on November 16, 2015. Wetland Delineation The wetland delineation was conducted following the methodology described in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual and in the 2010 Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Great Plains Region. Wetland characteristics are variable within the lake fringe. To gain an understanding of the hydrology, several soil test pits were dug, dominant vegetation was observed, and hydrologic indicators were noted at each soil test pit location. Of the numerous test pits that were dug in the effort to delineate the wetland boundary, two were selected and these are data sampling points for which the vegetation, soils, and hydrology findings were recorded on Corps of Engineers data sheets (Figure 2 and Appendix B). The wetland boundary was recorded using a hand-held Trimble Geo6000 XH GPS unit and TerraSync Professional Field software. Color photographs were taken to document site conditions at test pits, data sampling points, and throughout the Site. Wildlife Assessment The entirety of the Site was traversed on foot to qualitatively document onsite conditions of habitats, and to assess the variety, distribution, and abundance of wildlife populations. FINDINGS Site Description The Site ranges in elevation from 5,042 feet at the northwest corner to 5008 feet near the south end near the margin of Robert Benson Lake. Topographically, the land slopes from the north, east, and west gradually southward toward the lake, and the overall effect is bowl-like (Photos 1 and 2). There is an existing vacant one-story commercial building in the northwestern part of the Site, with access off of South College Avenue (Photo 3). An irrigation ditch runs along the western boundary, with a lateral ditch extending in an east-west direction at the north end of the Site and a lateral extending north-south at the eastern boundary (Photo 3). The majority of the Site consists of irrigated non-native grassland that has been mown for hay. Trees are scattered around the perimeter of the abandoned building. Dominant views are toward the lake. Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 3 Natural Habitats and Ecological Functions Within Site Boundaries Because the Site vegetation is dominated by irrigated and mown pasture grassland, natural habitats occur as remnants in association with the lake fringe. There are two large plains cottonwood trees in the northeastern corner of the Site (Photo 4). These function to provide foraging and nesting opportunities for arboreal birds. The pasture land provides an open view of the lake and produces forage hay for livestock. Unmown areas along the southern property line represent a transitional habitat between the mown pasture grassland and the lake fringe. Here, the soils hold more moisture, and inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea), occur in large patches. This natural habitat functions to filter any overland water flow prior to entering the lake (Photo 5). These transition areas also function as a source of invertebrates and seeds for bird species, and mammalian prey such as voles (Microtus sp.) for carnivores such as coyotes (Canis latrans). It is noteworthy that most of the unmown areas of the Site support milkweed species (Asclepias sp.), which is an important resource for monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) and other native invertebrates (Photo 6). Adjacent to the Site The Site is bordered on the north by a small farm and pasture land to the northeast, with additional pasture land and single-family residences on variously-sized lots beyond to the north. There is another small farm immediately east of the Site, with large single-family residential subdivisions further east and to the southeast. Robert Benson Lake, and its associated wetland fringe, borders the Site on the south. Outside the northern boundary a ditch runs east-west. This ditch has three vegetative strata that coincide: tree canopy, shrubs and saplings, and herbaceous ground cover (Photo 7). The herbaceous component along this ditch is more diverse than on other areas on the Site. The offsite ditch has a representation of riparian habitat, but the sparse and scattered nature of the native trees, the minimal presence of shrubs, and the prevalence of non-native smooth brome (Bromus inermis) grass reduce the habitat quality (Photo 6). Herbaceous vegetation cover along the ditch outside the northern boundary includes smooth brome and reed canarygrass, with areas of asparagus (Asparagus), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), showy milkweed, and one area (approximately 8’ x 20’) of Emory sedge (Carex emoryi). There are approximately six small patches of American plum (Prunus americana), each containing 10 to 20 stems. Trees include: plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides), boxelder (Acer negundo), and Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila). Although these remnants may have some ecological function for feeding, roosting, and nesting by wildlife species, the value is reduced due to the limited nature of native habitats. On the west side of the Site and west of South College Avenue, there is a mixture of land uses: a small farm, some large single-family residences, a nursery, a large single-family residential subdivision, and a sand and gravel sales yard. Although wetlands were not observed within the Site boundary, wetland habitat does occur between the Site’s southern property line and Robert Benson Lake. These are described later in this report. Site Vegetation Herbaceous vegetation along the ditch on the western Site boundary consists primarily of smooth brome, with patches of reed canarygrass, Hooker’s evening primrose (Oenothera elata), and common sunflower (Helianthus annuus). There are no trees or shrubs along this ditch. The lateral ditch is vegetated by smooth brome and reed canarygrass. There are two mature cottonwood trees at the eastern Site boundary. One is more than seven feet in diameter, and the other has two stems, each approximately two feet in diameter (Figure 2). Vegetation within the lateral ditch extending along the eastern boundary is smooth brome grass. Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 4 In the southern and southeastern areas of the site, intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium) is present and inland saltgrass occurs in areas that have more soil moisture (Photo 8). Eight Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) trees, greater than six inches diameter occur inside of the southern Site boundary, in areas that are not mown for hay. A list of vegetation species observed on the Site is provided in Table 2 and trees greater than six inches in diameter are listed in Table 3. The preponderance of trees around the building consists of crack willow (Salix fragilis) and green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) (Photos 9 and 10, Table 3). Table 2. Plant Species Observed Within the Site Boundary Latin Name1 Common Name Origin Comments Trees and Shrubs Elaeagnus angustifolia Russian olive Non-native Six at the northeastern corner of the Site, and 19 at the southeast corner. Colorado Noxious Weed B List. Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green ash Native A few individuals along the northern irrigation ditch and others in a line at the perimeter of the vacant building. Populus deltoides Plains cottonwood Native Saplings and one >6” along the northern irrigation ditch; one >7’ and two >2’ at the northeast corner of the Site. Salix fragilis Crack willow Non-native Two at the perimeter of the vacant building. Grasses and Grass-like Species Bromus inermis Smooth brome Non-native The dominant herbaceous species on the Site. Carex emoryi Emory sedge Native One patch approximately 160 square feet in the bottom of the northern irrigation ditch. Distichlis spicata Inland saltgrass Native Prevalent at the southern site boundary. Phalaris arundinacea Reed canarygrass Native Occurs in irrigation ditches and laterals. Schizachyrium scoparium Little bluestem Native Fewer than 20 plants along the northern irrigation ditch. Thinopyrum intermedium Intermediate wheatgrass Non-native Prevalent in the south/southeastern areas of the Site. Forb Species2 Asclepias speciosa Showy milkweed Native Occurs in all unmown areas. Asparagus Asparagus Native Is prevalent along the northern ditch. Aster sp. Aster Native Observed along the northern ditch and in unmown areas to the south. Cirsium arvense Canada thistle Non-native Occurs as scattered individuals in the northeastern corner and the south. Colorado Noxious Weed B List. Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 5 Latin Name1 Common Name Origin Comments Helianthus annuus Common sunflower Native Occurs as scattered individuals along the western and northern ditches. Melilotus officinalis Sweetclover Non-native Small number observed along the northern ditch. Oenothera elata Hooker’s evening primrose Native Occurs as scattered individuals along ditches. Verbascum thapsus Common mullein Non-native Very few observed along the northern ditch. Colorado Noxious Weed C List. 1Plant names throughout this document are from USDA 2015. 2Site assessment occurred during the dormant season. Other forb species may occur that were not visible. Table 3. Trees Larger Than 6” Diameter Tree Number1 Latin Name Common Name Native/Non- Native Quantity 1, 20-28 Elaeagnus angustifolia Russian olive Non-native 4-6, 9-19 Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green ash Native 14 2, 3 Populus deltoides Plains cottonwood Native 2 7, 8 Salix fragilis Crack willow Non-native 2 1Refer to Figure 2 for tree locations Noxious Weeds Although noxious weeds occur on the Site, they are not prevalent and comprise less than one percent of the total vegetation cover. Fewer than 25 plants of common mullein (Verbascum thapsis) were noted on the south bank of the northern ditch. Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) and Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) saplings occur in loose stands among other herbaceous vegetation in the northeastern corner of the Site and in unmown parts at the southern boundary. Outside the Site boundary, larger Russian olive trees occur in the lake fringe, and approximately 12 salt cedar (Tamarix chinensis) saplings were observed between the southeastern Site boundary and the lake. Threatened and Endangered Plant Species Two threatened plant species have the potential to occur in Larimer County: Ute ladies’-tresses orchid (Spiranthes diluvialis) and Colorado butterfly plant (Gaura neomexicana var. coloradensis). Ute Ladies’‐tresses Orchid Ute ladies’-tresses orchid is endemic to moist soils in mesic or wet meadows near springs, lakes, or perennial streams. Most of the occurrences are along riparian edges, gravel bars, old oxbows, and moist to wet meadows along similar situations near freshwater lakes or springs (USFWS 1995). Ute ladies’-tresses orchid seems to require permanent sub-irrigation, indicating a close affinity with floodplain areas where the water table is near the surface throughout the growing season. Ute ladies’-tresses orchid occurs primarily in areas where the vegetation is relatively open and not overly dense, overgrown, or overgrazed. The only known populations on the Colorado Front Range are near Boulder Creek in the City of Boulder, and along Clear Creek near the towns of Golden and Wheat Ridge. Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 6 The Ecological Characterization Study for this Site occurred outside of the season for surveying for Ute ladies’-tresses orchid. However, the presence of dense smooth brome and an absence of plant species commonly associated with the orchid likely preclude the presence of potential habitat on the Site. Colorado butterfly plant The Colorado butterfly plant is adapted to stream channel sites that are periodically disturbed. It occurs on sub-irrigated, alluvial soils on level or slightly sloping floodplains and drainage bottoms at elevations of 5,000 to 6,400 feet (USFWS 2015). While this plant does occur in northern Larimer County (USFWS 2010), habitat is typically open, without dense or overgrown vegetation. Habitat for this plant does not occur on the Site. Wetlands Moving southward from the Site’s southern boundary, as soils become moist and then saturated, the herbaceous vegetation transitions from a solid stand of inland saltgrass, to an intermixing of arctic rush (Juncus arcticus) and inland saltgrass. Continuing toward the lake, common threesquare (Schoenoplectus pungens) and reed canarygrass become more dominant, and then give way to narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia) at the lake edge (Photo 11). This vegetation occurs outside of the Site boundary. Rating categories have been developed to represent the estimated probability with which a certain plant species occurs in wetlands (Lichvar 2012). The wetland indicator status of the plants observed at the sampling points is noted below in parentheses. Based on visual observation of dominant vegetation and soil moisture, there is a zone where the interplay of the lake level, water table, and overland drainage from irrigation ditches or higher-elevation uplands creates a fluctuating effect in soil moisture. For example, there were areas where narrowleaf cattail, (a plant that almost always occurs in wetlands), had died and soil moisture was absent. Nearby, in other areas where soils were saturated, inland saltgrass (a plant that occurs in both wetlands and non-wetlands) dominated. Areas delineated as wetlands were defined by the presence of all three wetland indicators: hydric vegetation, hydric soils, and hydrology, which in this case is defined by saturated soils. Soil test pits that were dug to look for indicators of hydric soils and hydrology are illustrated on Figure 2. Test Pits 1, 2, and 3 displayed hydric vegetation and soils, but soils were barely moist at a depth of 12 to 18 inches, indicating an absence of wetland hydrology. Test Pit 4 represents the first occurrence of all three wetland indicators (Photo 12). The water table was present eight inches below the ground surface. At Sampling Point 1, water filled the entire depth of the soil pit, almost immediately after excavation. Dominant vegetation cover consisted of 60% common threesquare (a plant that almost always occurs in wetlands) and 40% inland saltgrass (occurs in both wetlands and non-wetlands). The delineated wetland, test pits, and sampling points are shown in Figure 2. Sampling Point 2 was taken in an upland area for purposes of comparison (Photo 8). Soil was slightly moist at a depth of 18 inches. Approximate vegetation cover was: 5% Canada thistle (usually occurring in non-wetlands), 15% intermediate wheatgrass (almost never occurs in wetlands), 30% inland saltgrass (occurs in both wetlands and non-wetlands), and 50% smooth brome (almost never occurs in wetlands). Wildlife Potential Special Status Wildlife Species E & E ecologists surveyed the Site for CPW state and federal T&E species and SSS when the desktop survey indicated that potential habitat could be present. Five species fit these criteria and are listed in Table 4. No impacts to listed species are anticipated as the majority of the Site is irrigated pasture. Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) may visit Robert Benson Lake for foraging opportunities but no nests were observed onsite. Some large cottonwoods on the northeastern side of the Site could be used for a nest, but surrounding human activity reduces the likelihood of local breeding. Black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) and burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) have been documented offsite on the Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 7 eastern side of the Pelican Marsh Natural Area, but no individuals or their sign were observed onsite. No appropriate habitat or drainages occur on site that would support Preble’s meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei). The closest positive Preble’s meadow jumping mouse trapping data was collected along the Big Thompson River in 2001 (USFWS 2015b), approximately 8.1 miles southeast of the Site. Northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens) and common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) activity would be concentrated within the wetland fringe off of the Site. Table 4. Special Status Wildlife Species with Potential to Occur on the Site, Larimer County, Colorado. Common Name Scientific Name Listing Status1 Habitat Present Bald eagle2 Haliaeetus leucocephalus DL, SC Limited Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia ST Adjacent Black-tailed prairie dog Cynomys ludovicianus SC Adjacent Preble’s meadow jumping mouse Zapus hudsonius preblei FT No Northern leopard frog Rana pipiens SC Adjacent Common garter snake Thamnophis sirtalis SC Adjacent Source: USFWS 2015, CPW 2015. 1 DL = Delisted, FT = Federal Threatened, ST = State Threatened, SC = State Special Concern (non-statutory). 2 The bald eagle was removed from the federal list of T&E species in 2007, but it continues to be protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA). It was removed from the Colorado State Endangered List in 2009 but it continues to be a state species of special concern (a non-statutory status). Raptors and Migratory Birds No raptor nests were detected onsite. Large cottonwood trees on the northeastern side are large enough for raptors to nest in, but no nests were observed within or adjacent to the Site. Raptors, especially red- tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) and American kestrel (Falco sparverius) may occasionally forage for voles on the grassy areas of the Site. Migratory birds that may use the Site include American robin (Turdus migratorius), western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta), red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), and house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus). General Wildlife CPW (NDIS 2015) indicated the Site is within overall range for white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and black bear (Ursus americanus), and overall and seasonal range (summer, winter) for mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus). The Site is also within a human conflict area for mountain lion (Puma concolor) due to the urban/wildland interface and the occasional human interaction with these large carnivores. The Site is also within peripheral and overall mountain lion range. The habitats and cover on the Site are unlikely to support these game and predator species. Canada goose (Branta canadensis) foraging areas and winter range are indicated, as would be expected with the nearby lake and grasses on Site. American white pelican overall range and foraging area are also indicated due to the lake. SUMMARY The presence or absence of natural habitats and features as defined by Article 3, Division 3.4, Section 3.4.1 of the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code is summarized in Table 5. Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 8 Table 5. Natural Habitats and Features Within 500 Feet of the Site Type Present Within or Immediately Adjacent (within 500 feet) of the Site Comments Natural Habitats Aquatic Yes The shoreline of Robert Benson Lake is from 130 to 300 feet of the Site property line. Wetland and wet meadow Yes The wetland fringe of Robert Benson Lake is from 100 to 200 feet of the Site property line. Native grassland No None observed. Riparian forest No None observed. Urban plains forest No None observed. Riparian shrubland No None observed. Foothills forest No Site outside elevational limits. Special Features Significant remnants of native plant communities No None observed. Potential habitats and known locations of rare, threatened or endangered plants No None observed. Potential habitats and known locations of rare, threatened or endangered animals No None observed or anticipated. Raptor habitat features, including nest sites, communal roost sites, and key concentration areas No Raptors could nest on Site, but no nests observed. Concentration areas for nesting and migratory shorebirds and waterfowl Yes Robert Benson Lake may host migratory shorebirds and waterfowl and is noted by Natural Areas for American white pelican. Migratory songbird concentration areas No Limited native riparian habitat. Prairie dog colonies over fifty acres in size No None within 500 feet. Concentration areas for rare, migrant or resident butterflies Possible Limited numbers of nectaring (wildflowers) and larval foods (grasses). Areas of high terrestrial or aquatic insect diversity Possible Nearby wetland habitat and Robert Benson Lake could support aquatic insects. Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 9 Type Present Within or Immediately Adjacent (within 500 feet) of the Site Comments Areas of significant geological or paleontological interest No None present. Irrigation ditches that serve as wildlife corridors No No native cover along ditches, Special Features Special features identified on the Site include the two large plains cottonwood trees in the northeastern corner; the prevalence of milkweed in unmown areas; and the native wetland vegetation on the fringe of the lake. The general ecological functions provided by these features include open space, open views of the lake, butterfly and insect habitat, and a water quality filter for water entering the lake from uphill areas of the Site. Recommendations Preservation of the two large plains cottonwood trees is the primary recommended action for enhancement and preservation of the Site’s natural features. Other potential options are:  Planting of plains cottonwood trees, boxelder trees, and American plum shrubs along the, eastern, and western ditches if they remain;  Incorporation of native trees, shrubs, and pollinator-attractant plants in the landscape of the development, to offset removal of any significant trees;  Preservation of a band of herbaceous vegetation to filter stormwater runoff before it reaches the lake; and  Implementation of low impact development/green infrastructure to manage stormwater. Fencing and native plantings along the boundary of the development may help to reduce the impact of the development on wildlife and contain at-large cats and dogs. The Land Use Code requires compatibility with and reasonable public access to the natural area (Section 3.4.1(L)(M). Because the lake is noted for harboring large numbers of summer American white pelican, consider limiting access to the adjacent shoreline and encouraging access to trails and park access to the east. This would also reduce trampling of wetland vegetation and disturbance of migratory birds. Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 10 REFERENCES AND LITERATURE CITED Center for Plant Conservation, 2010. National Collection Plant Profile. http://www.centerforplantconservation.org/collection/cpc_viewprofile.asp?CPCNum=1997 . Accessed January, 2015. Colorado Parks and Wildlife. 2008a. Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Colorado Raptors. Colorado Parks and Wildlife. 2015. Threatened & Endangered List. (http://cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/SOC-ThreatenedEndangeredList.aspx). Accessed December 2014. Lichvar, R. W., N.C. Melvin, M.L. Butterwick, and W.N. Kirchner. 2012. National Wetland Plant List Indicator Rating Definitions. ERDC/CRREL TR-12-1. U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory, Hanover, New Hampshire. Natural Diversity Information Source, 2015. Colorado Parks and Wildlife Biologists, District Wildlife Managers, and Researchers. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). 2013. Soil Survey Geographic Database for Larimer County Area, Colorado. Fort Worth, Texas. U.S. Department of Agriculture. http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov. Accessed November 2015. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers methodology (USAC 2010) Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Great Plains Region (Version 2.0). U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), NRCS, 2015. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901. USA. Accessed November, 2015. http://plants.usda.gov. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (USFWS) 1995. Ute Ladies’-tresses (Spiranthes diluvialis) Recovery Plan, Agency Review Draft. Denver, CO. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2010. WETDBA.CONUS_wet_poly (vector digital data), from: Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Habitat and Resource Conservation. Washington, D.C. FWS/OBS-79-31. http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/. Accessed November 2015. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2015a. IPaC - Information, Planning, and Conservation System. U.S. Department of the Interior. (http://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/). Accessed November 2015. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2015b. Trap Data for Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei). Colorado Field Office. U.S. Department of the Interior. Accessed December 2015. Figure 1 Site Location, Soils, and National Wetland Inventory 6740 S. College Fort Collins, Colorado South College Avenue Pelican Marsh Natural Area R69W T6N ¤£287 11 12 14 13 BenRsoobnert Lake 37 49 63 36 L1UBG L2USC L2USC PEMC PUBF 3117000 3117000 3118000 3118000 3119000 3119000 1420000 1420000 1421000 1421000 1422000 1422000 1423000 1423000 W Soils 36; Fort Collins loam, 3 to 5 percent slopes 37; Fort Collins loam, 5 to 9 percent slopes 49; Heldt clay loam, 3 to 6 percent slopes 63; Longmont clay, 0 to 3 percent slopes U:\Projects_2015\Pedcor\Fig1_Soils_NWI.mxd 18 Dec 2015 1 inch = 500 feet NAD 1983 StatePlane Colorado North FIPS 0501 Feet 0 1,000 Feet ^_ Site Location ¦¨§25 VU402 VU14 VU257 VU392 VU1 ¤£34 ¤£287 Fort Figure 2 Ecological Features 6740 S. College Fort Collins, Colorado !? !? !? !? $8 $8 ) ) ) South College Avenue Pelican Marsh Natural Area ¤£287 R69W T6N T P-4 TP-1 TP-2 TP-3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 23 25 26 27 28 13 14 BenRsoobnert Lake SP-1 SP-2 3118000 3118000 1421000 1421000 1422000 1422000 W ) Views $8 Sampling pit !? Test pits Trees >6" diameter Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 13 APPENDIX A Photo Documentation Photo 2. Site overview, from the northwest side looking east. 11-16-15. Ecological Characterization Study December 21, 2015 6740 S. College, Fort Collins, CO Photo 1. Site overview, from the northwest side looking south. 11-16-15. Ecological Characterization Study December 21, 2015 6740 S. College, Fort Collins, CO Photo 3. The east-west lateral ditch at left front, and the ditch that runs along the western site boundary on the right. South College Avenue is to the right. The vacant commercial building and associated trees are in the background. 11-16-15 Photo 4. The two large plains cottonwood trees at the northeast boundary. The tree on the right is a single trunk and on the left has two trunks. 11-16-15 Photo 5. At the southeastern boundary, looking westward at the unmown grasses that function as a stormwater filter. Wetland is at upper center, left side of photo. 11-16-15 Ecological Characterization Study December 21, 2015 6740 S. College, Fort Collins, CO Photo 6. Example of swamp milkweed presence at northeast boundary. The two large cot- tonwood tree trunks are visible at the top of the photo. 11-16-15 Photo 7. Ditch outside north boundary, looking eastward. Plains cottonwood sapling at front, left, little bluestem grass on the right, American plum in far right center, swamp milk- weed in center, and reed canarygrass on the ditch bottom. 11-16-15 Photo 8. In the south/southeastern part of the Site, a mixture of smooth brome, intermedi- ate wheatgrass, and inland saltgrass in an upland area. 11-16-15 Ecological Characterization Study December 21, 2015 6740 S. College, Fort Collins, CO Photo 10. Trees at perimeter of commercial property, looking east. Building is to the right of the viewer and South College Avenue is behind the viewer. 11-16-15 Ecological Characterization Study December 21, 2015 6740 S. College, Fort Collins, CO Photo 9. Trees at perimeter of commercial property, looking southeast. The building is to the left of the viewer and South College Avenue is behind the viewer. 11-16-15 Photo 12. Wetland Test Pit 4, where narrowleaf cattail, inland saltgrass, and common threesquare occur along with hydric soil indicators and soil saturation. 11-16-15 Ecological Characterization Study December 21, 2015 6740 S. College, Fort Collins, CO Photo 11. South of the Site property line, with inland saltgrass in the foreground, common threesquare in the midground, and narrowleaf cattail closest to the water. 11-16-15 Ecological Characterization Study – 6740 S. College December 21, 2015 14 APPENDIX B Wetland Data Sheets WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region Project/Site: '74 City/County: F04wlim 1 L1Th4 sampling Date: 11' Applicant/Owner: 14ç.ov State: Sampling Point: ,P I Investigator(s): 5.. No\s1okY5 5. &ewad Section, Township, Range: 5 13 T6 A) 1 Landform(hillslope, terrace, etc): 5IDr 4D W kJq.. Local relief (concave, convex, none): Y-bJlC.. Slope(%): 3 Subregion (LRR): ______________________________ Lat: 40 Z.°L )'L(,N Long: 16 04 1 Z.84W Datum: A1A1 63 Soil Map Unit Name: Lnhj~mckf C.4i91 63 % sJO3 NWI classification: Are climatic I hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes No (If no, explain in Remarks.) ---Are -Vegetation Soil , or Hydrology significantly disturbed? Are Normal Circumstances" Present? Yes V No ______ Are Vegetation , Soil or Hydrology naturally problematic? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS — Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes V No Yes V' No Is the Sampled Area Hydric Soil Present? I within a Wetland? Yes No Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No Remarks: VEGETATION — Use scientific names of plants. Absolute Dominant Indicator Dominance Test worksheet: Tree Stratum (Plot size: ___ % Cover Species? Status Number of Dominant Species 1. That (excluding Are OBL, FAC—)FACW, : or FAC 3 (A) 2. 3. Total Species Number Across of All Dominant Strata: 3 (B) Percent of Dominant Species j 4. = Total Cover SaolinglShrub Stratum (Plot size: ) That Are OBL. FACW, or FAC: (NB) 1. Total % Cover of: Multioly by: Prevalence Index worksheet: 2. 3. 4. OBL species x 1 = 5. FACW species x 2 = FAC species x 3 = = Total Cover Herb Stratum (Plot size: FACU species x 4 = 1. 1A ________ Zo OL UPL species x5= 2. _______ )7o )/ f4i i, Column Totals: (A) _________ (B) 3. _____________________ 0L Prevalence Index = B/A Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators: 5. 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation 6. - 2 - Dominance Test is >50% 3 - Prevalence Index is :53.0l 4 - Morphological Adaptations ' (Provide supporting 9. - data in Remarks or on a separate sheet) 10. - Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation ' (Explain) 61 = Total Cover Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: ' indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must 1. be present, unless disturbed or problematic. 1I.-u', .-1 SOIL Sampling Point: P I Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.) Depth Matrix Redox Features (inches) Color (moist) % Color (moist) % Tvoe Loc2 Texture Remarks o_iBhL Jbzj4- )L:( 3j+ J) 'Type: CConcentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains. 2 Location: PLPore Lining, M=Matrix. Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils': - Histosol (Al) - Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) - 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR I, J) - Histic Epipedon (A2) - Sandy Redox (S5) - Coast Prairie Redox (A16) (LRR F, G, H) - Black Histic (A3) - Stripped Matrix (S6) - Dark Surface (S7) (LRR G) - Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) Loamy Mucky Mineral (Fl) - High Plains Depressions (1716) - Stratified Layers (AS) (LRR F) Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) (LRR H outside of MLRA 72 & 73) - 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR F, G, H) j' Depleted Matrix (F3) - Reduced Vertic (F 18) - Depleted Below Dark Surface (All) - Redox Dark Surface (F6) - Red Parent Material (T172) - Thick Dark Surface (Al2) Depleted Dark Surface (F7) - Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) - Sandy Mucky Mineral (Sl) - Redox Depressions (F8) - Other (Explain in Remarks) - 2.5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S2) (LRR G, H) - High Plains Depressions (F16) 3lndicators of hydrophytic vegetation and - 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S3) (LRR F) (MLRA 72 & 73 of LRR H) wetland hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic. Restrictive Layer (if present): Type: Depth (inches): Hydric Soil Present? Yes No Remarks: HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators (minimum of one reouired: check all that apply) Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required) - Surface Water (Al) - Salt Crust (Bil) - Surface Soil Cracks (B6) j High Water Table (A2) - Aquatic Invertebrates (131 3) - Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (138) - Saturation (A3) Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl) - Drainage Patterns (B10) - Water Marks (Bi) - Dry-Season Water Table (C2) - Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) Sediment Deposits (B2) - Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) (where tilled) - Drift Deposits (133) (where not tilled) - Crayfish Burrows (C8) - Algal Mat or Crust (B4) - Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) - Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (CS) - Iron Deposits (135) - Thin Muck Surface (C7) Geomorphic Position (D2) - Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (137) Other (Explain in Remarks) - FAC-Neutral Test (05) - Water-Stained Leaves (139) - Frost-Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes No Depth (inches): Water Table Present? Yes No Depth (inches): 2€J0LJ') Saturation Present? Yes No_V.. Depth and Hydrology Present? Yes No (includes capillary fringe) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available: Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers Great Plains - Version 2.0 WETLAND DETERM!NATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region Project/Site: 4"7 City/County: 134 [J)ik3i /LJ.Jtfl.fr.' Sampling Date: ii -'it' -/5 Applicant/Owner: r4t&V State: ___ sampling Point: P Z. Investigator(s): 3 1)1OWl I 3&VA3' Section, Township, Range: § )3 'T A) ' Landform (hilislope, terrace, etc.): 3JO 4DW&14 t&.k€. Local relief (concave, convex, none): ,OVIbV€., Slope Subregion (LRR): Lat4O ° Z i,84N Long: )5° 04' Z7, Datum: )[ftD 83 Soil Map Unit Name: A)SOh i&Ji. o '3% 51oJ' NWI classification: Are climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes No (If no, explain in Remarks.) - Are Vegetation Soil or Hydrology significantly disturbed? Are Normal Circumstances" present? Yes 1." No Are Vegetation , Soil or Hydrology ______ naturally problematic? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes No Is the Sampled Area Hydric Soil Present? Yes No within a Wetland? Yes No Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No Remarks: VEGETATION Use scientific names of piants. Tree Stratum zs Absolute Dominant Indicator % Cover Species? Status Dominance Test worksheet: (Plot size: Number of Dominant Species i. Al/A That (excluding Are OBL, FAC—)FACW, : or FAC I (A) 3. Total Number of Dominant 3 4 Species Across All Strata: (B) Sapling/Shrub Stratum )b (Plot size: ) = Total Cover That Percent Are of OBL, Dominant FAC W, Species or FAC: 3 3 (NB) 1. Prevalence Index worksheet: 2. Total % Cover of: Multiply by: 3. OBL species x 1 = 4. FACW species x 2 = 5. = Total Cover FAC species x 3 = Herb Stratum (Plot size: species x 4 = 1. blowlka Jfflvii o% l.U'L 51 UPL species x5= 2. ___P1S _____k1)____b_ ______i&_ k 3o Fe&' Column __Totals: _________ ____ (A) ________________ _ (B) 3. 1ioi J0 U..PL Prevalence Index = B/A = . (51-SiXh Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators: 5 . - 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation 6. 2 - Dominance Test is >50% 3 - Prevalence Index is 53.0 1 — 4 - Morphological Adaptations 1 (Provide supporting 9. data in Remarks or on a separate sheet) 10. - Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain) = Total Cover, Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: ) 'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must 1. be present, unless disturbed or problematic. 2. Hydrophytic SOIL Sampling Point; Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicat rs.) Depth Matrix --R.ex-Rsatre,-- 1 l7niek.) 'v' (inches) Color (moist) % Color (moist) % Tvoe Loc2 Texture Remarks 0—is' / Z/ ioy 8/5 Z Iiih 3'0i 'Type: CCoñcentraIion, D=Depletion, RMReduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains. 2 Location: PLPore Lining, M=Matrix. Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils 3 : - Histosol (Al) - Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) - 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR I, J) Histic Epipedon (A2) - Sandy Redox (S5) - Coast Prairie Redox (A16) (LRR F, G, H) - Black Histic (A3) - Stripped Matrix (S6) - Dark Surface (S7) (LRR 0) - Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) - Loamy Mucky Mineral (Fl) - High Plains Depressions (F16) - Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F) - Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) (LRR H outside of MLRA 72 & 73) - 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR F, 0, H) - Depleted Matrix (F3) - Reduced Vertic (F18) - Depleted Below Dark Surface (All) - Redox Dark Surface (F6) - Red Parent Material (TF2) - Thick Dark Surface (Al2) - Depleted Dark Surface (F7) - Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) - Sandy Mucky Mineral (Sl) - Redox Depressions (F8) - Other (Explain in Remarks) - 2.5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S2) (LRR G, H) - High Plains Depressions (F16) 31ndicators of hydrophytic vegetation and - 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (53) (LRR F) (MLRA 72 & 73 of LRR H) wetland hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic. Restrictive Layer (if present): Type: Depth (inches): Hydric Soil Present? Yes No Remarks: HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators (minimum of one reauired; check all that apply) Secondary Indicators (minimum of two reouired) - Surface Water (Al) - Salt Crust (BI 1) - Surface Soil Cracks (B6) - High Water Table (A2) - Aquatic Invertebrates (131 3) - Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (138) Saturation (A3) - Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl) - Drainage Patterns (B 10) - Water Marks (81) - Dry-Season Water Table (C2) - Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) Sediment Deposits (82) - Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) (where tilled) - Drift Deposits (83) (where not tilled) - Crayfish Burrows (C8) - Algal Mat or Crust (B4) - Presence of Reduced Iron (04) - Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (09) - Iron Deposits (85) - Thin Muck Surface (07) - Geomorphic Position (D2) - Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (137) - Other (Explain in Remarks) - FAC-Neutral Test (D5) - Water-Stained Leaves (B9) - Frost-Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes No Depth (inches): Water Table Present? Yes No Depth (inches): Saturation Present? Yes No 17 Depth (inches): Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No (includes capillary fringe) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available: Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers Great Plains - Version 2.0 Total Cover Vegetation % Bare Ground in Herb Stratum Present? Yes No Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers . Great Plains - Version 2.0 2. Hydrophytic % Bare Ground in Herb Stratum Total Cover Vegetation Present? Yes V No Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers Great Plains - Version 2.0 Tamarisk Delineated wetland Irrigation ditch U:\Projects_2015\Pedcor\Fig2_EcologicalFeatures.mxd 18 Dec 2015 1 inch = 0 miles NAD 1983 StatePlane Colorado North FIPS 0501 Feet 0 500 Feet Collins Loveland Windsor Greeley Source: USDA/NRCS Soils, 2013; USFWS NWI, 2010