The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink AboutWATERGLEN SOLAR ARRAY - FDP200013 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - ECS REPORTBLUE MOUNTAIN August 31, 2019 Ian Skor, PE Sandbox Solar 430 N College Ave, Suite #441 Fort Collins, CO 80524 RE: Ecological Characterization Study Mr. Skor: This report is submitted to satisfy the requirements to Section 3.4.1 (D) (1) of the Land Use Code of the City of Fort Collins regarding the preparation of an Ecological Characterization Study (ECS). This report was required by the City of Fort Collins Community Development and Neighborhood Services Department because the property is within 500 feet of the Larimer and Weld Canal. The site was visited by Matt Tobler and Craig Severn with Blue Mountain Environmental Consulting on July 23, 2018. Two wetlands were identified; one is situated on the bank of the Larimer Weld canal and a second is located in a drainage near the northeastern comer of the property. Wetlands were delineated and flagged in accordance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' methodologies. Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have. Sincerely, Mxtt Tatter Natural Resource Specialist, Certified Ecologist Blue Mountain Environmental Consulting, LLC 937 Mallard Drive, Ft. Collins, CO 80521 * (970) 224-0851 * www.bluemountainl.net Appendix B: Site Photos 10 Map Number: 1 Photo Direction: West -a, 07t 11 1 Ti Looking west into the property from the concrete trail; note the Front Range in the background. Map Number: 1 Photo Direction: North Looking north towards the Larimer and Weld Canal and a dirt access road. `. `Y� rt ' rk ' : . a. N 'f —.. �_ .� '?K�! '�� ^ .» .1!' � �`� ar. � ,XJJ��.1. t t w � ._"e�^ 1''.• i .. � r - '' .. .. a ... a� � ,.Y 'r ... �. r " W "y .. � � �. ..v '' � � ;.' ` i ' r • � • � '� • � ' w ,,;. Map Number: r] Photo Direction: North Looking north from near the southwest property corner; the Larimer and Weld Canal is to the left. 13 Map Number: Photo Direction: NE Looking northeast. Map Number: 3 Photo Direction: East Looking east; note the overhead power lines. 14 Map Number: 4 Photo Direction: North Looking north; note the Larimer and Weld Canal at left. Map Number: 5 Photo Direction: NE Looking northeast. 15 Map Number: g Photo Direction: South Looking south. Map r'T - Number: 6 Photo Direction: South Looking south from the northeast corner. 16 Map TI Number: _a 6 Photo Direction: West Looking west; note the access road on top of the dike and the Larimer and Weld Canal. Map Number: NMI- 7 Photo Direction: South Looking south from within a wetland area towards Rabbit Brush Park. 17 Appendix C: Wetland Data Forms 18 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region Proleevsae• Waterglen City/County'.Fort Collins/Larimer Sampling Date: 7/23/1N Appllrant/0 n : Sandbox Solar Slat. CO 1w llmq Point: Wl Investigator(s): cal. I obler, C. Severna Section, Township, Range: Sec. 4, T7N, RMV Landform (hllislope, terrace, etc.): Swale Loral relief (concave, convex, nonal: concave _ Slope (%): _ 2 _ Subregion (LRR): LRR - G Lot 40.60340 Long:-105.00842 Datum: NAD E3 Soil Map Unit Name: Nunn clay loam, 0-1 percent elope, NWI classification: None Are dimatic / hydroioole conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes X No_ (If no, explain in Remarks.) Are Vegetation NO Soil NO or Hydrology Ns gigniflcantly tllslurbed? Are "Normal Clrwnlslances' present? Yes X No Are Vegetation NO , Soil No , or Hydrology No naturally prablamatic? (If needed, explain any answers In Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transacts, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes- X _ No_ Is the sampled Area Hydric Soil Present? Yes X _ No _ X Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes _X _ No_ within a Wetland? Yea No Remarks Headwater of Cooper Slough VEGETATION - Use scientific names of planks. Tot, Stratum (Plot size: 10 to radius l 1. 2, 3. 4. 5 m radius SapllndlShrub Stratum (Plot Size: ) 1. 2. 3. 4. S. 1 m radius r 1 Schoenoplecluspungem 2. Juncus balticus 3. Schedonorus pralensis 4. 5. 8. 7, 8. 9. 10, Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: 1 1. 2. 11 Ye Bare Ground in Herb Stratum %Cover ?ems I Number of Dominant Species That hie OBI, FACW, or FAC (excluding FAC-): (A) Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata: (B) Percent of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAQ (A/B) = Total Cover Total % Cover of: Multiply by: OBL species x 1 = FACW species x 2 = = Total Cover FAC species FACU species x 3 = x4= _ OB+ UPL species x 5 = _so _ _Y 40 Y FACW Column Totals: (A) (B) 10 N FACU - - - Prevalence Index = 81A = X 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytc Vegetation _ 2 - Dominance Test Is >500h _ 3 - Prevalence Index is 53,0' _ 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting data in Remarks or on a separate sheet) -1o0 _ Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain) = Total Cover Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be present. unless disturbed or problematic. Hydrophytic = Totai Cover Presen? Vegetation Yesa No_ 19 Waterglen Ecological Characterization Study 1.0 Project Background The proposed Waterglen cooperative solar garden project will construct a ground -mounted, 50- 150 kW solar array that will be part of the City of Fort Collins SP3 program. The property is located in the neighborhood north of East Vine Drive and west of Interstate 25 in Fort Collins, Colorado, at the end of Waterglen Place. Local residents will purchase solar panels and receive disbursements from the solar cooperative formed. The cooperative will sell solar energy to the City of Fort Collins through the SP3 program. Sandbox Solar, in cooperation with resident of the neighborhood, has organized an application to the Vibrant Neighborhoods Grant program to make additional improvements to the property such as a native plant and bee garden, benches and educational kiosks. Fencing as required by the City of Fort Collins will be included in the project. The project area is an open field with scattered trees situated between three dead end streets; the Larimer and Weld Canal flows along the border of the northern and western property boundary. Cooper Slough originates from the canal and is a drainage Swale that collects runoff from adjacent residential developments. 2.0 Ecological Characterization The elements of the Ecological Characterization Study are summarized in this section in the order listed in Section 3.4.1 (D) (1) of the Land Use Code. Site maps are provided in Appendix A; site photos are provided in Appendix B. Photo points are indicated on the Natural Features Map in Appendix A. 2.1 Wildlife Due to the property's suburban location and human disturbance level, wildlife value is moderate. The property consists of landscape trees, most of which are less than six inches in diameter, and other native and non-native short- and mixed -grass prairie species. Most wildlife use can be expected to be transitional as animals travel along the Larimer and Weld Canal to the west and north and to the south toward Rabbit Brush Park. Seasonal and/or year-round use can be expected by a number of avifauna including American robin (Turdus migratorius), northern flicker (Colaptes auratus), mourning dove (Zenaidura macroura), western kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis), magpie (Pica pica), killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), swallow, crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and raven (Corvus corax). Raptors would probably utilize the site primarily for hunting rodents and small birds, especially during the wanner months. Mammals such as mice, voles, fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) and eastern cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus) and raccoon (Procyon lotor) could utilize the property year round. Given the property's location adjacent to Larimer and Weld Canal and nearby agricultural areas, 2 SOIL Sampling Pant: W1 Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.) Depth Matrix Redox Features h,hanl Color imoist) % Color (mole % Two^ Lor,: TwN� �rw Remarks 0.4 _ 10YR 3/2 100 clay loam 4-8 _ 10YR 4/2 _ 100 clay loam 9-16 10YR 4/2 _ BO _ 10YR 5/8 _ 5 C M clay loam 2.5 30B _ 15 _ _ _ ebry loam dark coating on surface of pedx ,Type: C-Concentralion. D-De letion RM-Reduced Matrix CS -Covered or Coated Sand Grains. "Location: PL-Pons Lira M-Matrx. Hydrlc Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicatoro for problematic Hydrle Soils]: _ Hlstosol (Al) _ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) _ 1 cm Muds (A9) (LRR I, J) _ Hlstic Eplpadon (A2) _ Sandy Redox (S5) _ Coast Pmine Redox (At 6) (LRR F, G, H) _ Black Hlstic (A3) _ Stripped Matrix (S6) _ Dark Surface (S7) (LRR 01 _ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) _ Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) _ High Plains Depressions (Fi6) _ Stratified Layers (AS) (LRR F) Loamy Gleyed Matrix (172) (LRR H outside of MLRA 72 3 73) _ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR F, G, H) X Depleted Matrix (F3) _ Reduced Vertic (F18) _ Depleted Below Dark Surface (All) _ Redox Dark Surface (F6) _ Red Parent Material (TF2) _ Thick Dark Surface (At 2) _ Depleted Dark Sudace (F7) _ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) _ Sandy Mucky Mineral (Sl) _ Rados Depressions (F8) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ 2.5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S2) (LRR G, H) _ High Plains Depressions (F16) 'Indicators of hydmphytic vegetation and _ 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S3) (LRR F) (MLRA 72 & 73 of LRR H) "land hydrology must be present. unless disturbed or problematic. Restrictive Laysr (If present): Type: Depth (Inches) Hydrlc Soil Present? Yes X No_ Remarks Area appears to have been graded in past for construction of delentionfretenfion hasin HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology indlcatoro: Primary Indicators iminimum of one required. Check _ Surface Water (At) _ all that aoolvl — Salt Crust (Bit) X )ndary Indicators /mininnum of two namiredl Surface Sall Cracks (B6) _ High Water Table (A2) _ Aquatic Invertebrates (B13) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (BB) _ Saturation (A3) _ Hydrogen Sulfide Color ICI) _ Drainage Panama (810) _ Water Marks (Bi) _ 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 (CB) Algal Mat or Crust (B4) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) saturation Visible an Aerial Imagery (C9) _ Iran Deposits (B5) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) X ieomorphic Position (D2) _ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) X FAC-Neutral Test IDS) _ Water -Stained Leaves (B9) _ Frost -Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F) Field Observations: X Surface Water Present? Yes _ No Depth (inches): Water Table Present? Yes _ No. X _ Depth (inches): Saturation Present? Yes_ No, X _ Depth (inches): Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes ` No includes capillary fence) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available Remarks US Amty Corps of Engmeers 20 Great Plains - Version 2.0 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region Waterglen Fort Collins. Larimer 7/21/18 ProJecUSlte: Cily/County. Sampling Data:_ , AppllaanV0"or: Sandbox Solar State: CD Seminal Point: Ul Investigalor(s): M. Tobler, C. Severn Section, Township, Range: _ Sec. 4, T7N, R68W Landronn (hlllslops. terrace, etc.): swale Local relief (concave, convex, none): -concave _ Slope (%): _ 5 _ Subregion (LRR): LRR - G Lett _ 40,60349 _ Long:_-105.00855 _ Datum: NAD 83 Sail Map Unit Name: Nunn clay loam, 0-1 perttnt elope NWI classification: Now Are climatic 1 hydrolopic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes X No _ (If no. explain in Remarks.) Are Vegetation Ne Soil NO or Hydrology No significardly dlaturbed? Am 'Normal Circumstances' present? Yes X No Are VegabdIm No . Soil No or Hydrology No naturally problematic? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transacts, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No - Is the Sampled Area Hydnc Soil Presenl7 Yes _ No-X _ wIthln a Wetland? Yea No X Welland Hydrology Present? Yes _ X _ No Remarks Headwater of Cooper Slough VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants. A solute uonnnam marts¢ 10 m radius n.H..? ttakm j�e Stratum !Plot size: _i %cover C 1-Populus X Acuminala , 5 - - y - - FAC 2 3 4, Saolino/ShrW Stratum 5 In radius {Plot size: ) 1 2, 3. 4 .5 1jft!:p Stratum (Plot size'. I no radius 1 _ Sehoenoplectus punges 2, _ Spartina pectinata 3. - Schedonorus pratensis 4. 5. 6. 7. B. 9. 10. Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: ) 1. 2. 0 % Bare Ground In Herb Stratum - Total Cover Number of Dominant Species That Are OBL. FACW. or FAC (excluding FAC-): (A) Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata: (B) Percent of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: (A/B) Total % Cover of: Multiply by OBL species x t - FACWspaces FAC species x2= x 3 = = Tate! Cover Cover Y FACU species x4 - UPL species x5- _� _ 40 y FACW Column Totals: (A) (B) _ 10 N FACU - — - — Prevalence Index = B/A - X I- Rapid Test for Hydmphytic Vegetation _ 2 - Dominance Test is >50% _ 3 - Prevalence Index Is 53.0' _ 4 - Morphological Adaptaflons' (Provide supporting data in Remarks a on a separate sheet) _ Problematic Hydrophyfic Vegetation' (Explain) 100 - Total Cover 'Indicators of hyddc soil and waland hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic. Hydrophytic - Total Cover Vegetation X Present? Yee_ No_ 21 SOIL Sampling Pant: U1 Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.) Depth Matrix Redox Features finchosl Color (moistl % _ Color (moist) _'o _ Twa' Luc- Tnvr, ire Remarks 0-4 10YR 3/2 100 clay loam _ 4-7 10TR 4/2 100 clay loam _ 7-10 10YR3/2 100 -clay loam _ 10-16 10YR 412 95 10YR 516 - 5 — �' bl clay loam Type: C-Concentration. D=De lefion RM-Reducad Matrix CS-Coversd a Coated Sand Grains 'Location PL=Pore Lining, M-Matrx. Hydrlc Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydrlc Solls : _ Histosol (All _ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) _ 1 cm Muck (Ag) (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 Minerel (171) _ High Plains Depressions (Fi 6) _ Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F) _ Loamy Cloyed Mafnx (F2) (LRR H outside of MLRA 72 8 73) _ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR F, G, H) _ Depleted Matrix (F3) _ Reduced Vertic (F18) _ Depleted Below Dark Surface (All) _ Redox Dark Surface (F6) _ Red Parent Material (772) _ Thick Dark Surface (Al2) _ Depleted Dark Surface (F7) _ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) Sandy Mucky Mineral (Si) _ Redox Depressions (F8) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) 2.5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S2) (LRR G, H) _ High Plains Depressions (F18) 'Indicants of hydrophytic vegetation and _ 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S3) (LRR F) (Ill 72 8 73 of LRR H) wetland hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic. Restrictive Layer (ff present): Type: Depth (Inches): Hydrlc Soil Present? Yes_ No X Remarks' Redox indicators> 10 inches in depth HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators (minimum of one reaurredcheck _ Surface Water (Al) _ all that aoolvl Secondary Sall Crust (Bt1) _ Indicators (minimum of two reoulredi Surface Soil Cracks (B6) _ High Water Table (A2) _ Aquatic Invertebrates (B13) _ Sparsely Vegetated Conceive Surface (BB) _ Saturation (A3) _ Hydmgen Sulfide Odor (CI) _ Drainage Patterns (Big) _ Water Marks (Bl) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2) _ Oxidized Rhizospheroa on Living Roots (C3) _ Sediment Deposits (82) _ Oxidized Rhizoaphems on Living Roots (C3) (whom tilled) _ Drift Deposits (B3) (whom not tilled) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8) Algal Mat or Crust (B4) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (CO) _ Iran Deposits (B5) _ Thin Muds Surface (C7) X Geomorprsc Position (02) _ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) _ Other (Explain In Remarks) X FAC-Neutral Test (D5) _ Water -Stained Leaves (B9) _ Frost -Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F) Fleur Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes_ No X _Depth (Inches) Water Table Present? Yes_ No_X_ Depth (inches) Saturation Present? Yes _ No X Depth (inches): Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes C No Includes capillary fringe) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, provious inspections), if available Remarks US Army Corps of Engineers 22 Great Plains - Version 2 0 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region Waterglen Fort Collins/Larimer 7/21/18 ProlecvSlte: CltylCmnty Sampling Date: _ Appllcanvovmer: Sandbox Solar State: co Sompllno Point: _ U2 Inveatigator(s): M.'robler. C. Severn Section, Township, Range: —,Sec. 4, T7N, R68W Landform (hillalops, terrace, etc.): swap Loral ralief iconcave, convex, nme1concave Slope (%): _ 2 _ Subregion (LRR) LRR - G I nh _ 40.60319 _ Long: _ -105.00862 _ Datum. NAD 93 Soil Map Unit Name: Nunn clay Once, II-1 percent slope NWI classi6catlm: None Are climatic / hydrolooic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes X No _ (If no, explain in Remarks.) Are Vegetation No Sol, No , or Hydrology No signMranlly dlsturbed? Ars'Nomral Clrwmstances' present? Yes X No_ Are Vegetation NO Soil No , "Hydrology No naturally problematic? (If needed, explain any answers In Remarks) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transacts, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No. _ Tllftthl,a e Sampled Area Hydric Soil Present? Yes _ - No X Wetland? Yes No K Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes A No_ Remarks Headwater of Cooper Slough VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants. Absolute Dominant Indicator Dominance Test worksheet: Tree Stratum (Plot size: 10 at radius ) % Cover Species? Status Number of Dominant Species 1 That Are OBL. FACW. a FAC (excluding FAC-): (A) 2 3. Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata' (B) 4 5 in radius - Total Cover Percent of Dominant Spades Sapling/Shrub Stratum (Plat size: ) That Are CIBL, FACW, or FAC: (A1B) Prevalence Index worksheat: 2. Total %Cover of' Multiply by 3. OBL spades x 1 = 4. FACW spades x 2 = FAC spades x 3 = S Jjgrb Stratum !Plot size: 1 as raMus = Total Cover 70 FACU spades x 4 - 1 _Schoenoplectuspungent Y OBL _ _ UPLsped" x5- 2. - Spartina pectinala _20 _ _ } _ FACW Column Totele, (A) IB) 3, Prevalence Index - B/A - 4. w•Mrophylie Vegetation Indicators: 5. X 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation 6. _ 2 -Dominance Test is >50% 7. _ 3 -Prevalence Index IS 53.0' 8. _ 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting 9. date In Remarks or on a separate sheet) Problematic Hydrophyllc Vegetallod (Explain) 10. - Cover _ Weetiv Vlne Stratum (Plot size: 1 _=Total of soul and wetland hydrology must 1. be present, unless disturbed or problematic. be present. less 2. Hydrophytic Vegetation Yes X No 0 = Total Cover % Baro Ground In Herb Stratum Rrsmarks. US Army Corps of Engineers 23 SOIL Sampling Point 112 Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.) Depth Matnx Redox Features fines P41 _ Color (mdat) w. Color (moletl �ri>— Twal Lo[T T�v�� r> Remarks 0-5 MR.32 100 clay loam ,5-16 10YR 42 _ 70 slur loam 5YR 4/3 30 clay loam 'Type: C-Concentration. D-De etion. RM-Reduced Matrix. CS -Covered or Coated Sand Grams. 'Location PL=Pore Lining, M-Manx. Hydric Sol] Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soil*': _ Hlstosol (At) _ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) _ 1 crn Muck (AS) (LRR I, J) _ Histic Epipedon (A2) _ Sandy Redox (S5) _ Coast Pralde Redox (At 6) (LRR F, G, H) _ Black Histic (A3) _ Stripped Matrix (S6) _ Dark Surface (S7) (LRR G) Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) _ Loamy Mucky Mineral (171) _ High Plains Depressions (F16) _ Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F) _ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) (LRR H outside of 11172 d 73) _ 1 cm Muck (Ag) (LRR F, G, H) _ Depleted Matrix (F3) _ Reduced Vertic (F18) _ Depleted Below Dark Surface (At I) _ Redox Dade Surface (176) _ Red Parent Material (T172) _ Thick Dark Surface (At 2) _ Depleted Dark Surface (F7) _ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) _ Sandy Mucky Mineral (Si) _ Redox Depressions (F8) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ 2.5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat ($2) (LRR G, H) _ High Plans Depressions (F16) "Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and _ 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S3) (LRR F) (MLRA 72 6 73 of LRR H) wet]and hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic. Restrictive Layer (If present): Type: Depth (Inches) Hydric Soil Present? Yes_ No X Remarks: HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Pnmary Indicators Iminimum that eecondary of one ranuirod, chock _ Surface Water (At) all annlvl _ Salt Crust (B11) _ Indicators /minimum of two mouiredl Surface Soil Cracks (66) _ High Water Table (A2) _ Aquatic Invertebrates (B13) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8) _ Saturation (A3) _ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) _ Drainage Patterns (B10) _ Water Marks (B1) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2) _ Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (0) _ Sediment Deposits (02) _ Oxidized Rhizoepheres on Living Roots (C3) (where tilled) Dnft Deposits (B3) (whore not tilled) _ Crayfish Burrows (CB) Algal Mat or Crust (B4) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) Saturation Visible on Aenal Imagery (CB) _ Iron Deposits (B6) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) X Geomorphic Position (132) _ Inundation Viable on Aerial Imagery (B 7) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) X FAC-Neutral Test (D5) _ Water -Stained Leaves (BB) _ Frost -Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes_ No -X _ Depth (inches): Water Table Pmsem9 Yes_ No_X_ Depth pnches): Saturation Present.) Yes— No _ X_ Depth (inches): X Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No Includes capillaryfnn s Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections). If available Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers 24 Great Plains- Version 2.0 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region Waterglen Fort CollinJLarimer 7/21/18 ProjecUSite: City/County Sampling Date: _ Applicant/Omer: Sandbox Solar State: CO Semolina Point: L13 Investlgator(s): X Tobler. C. Severn Section, Township, Range: _ Sec. 4, T7N, R69W _ Landfome (hillslope, terrace. etc.): swule Loral relief (concave, convex, none). concave _ Slope (%): -2 _ Subrsgwn(LRR): LRB-G Iar _40.60333 _ Long: _ -105.00869 _ Datum: NADS3 Soli Map Unit Name: Nunn clay loam, 0-1 percent slope NWI classification: None Ara climatic I hydrologic conditions an the site typical for this tins of year? Yes X No_ (If no, explain in Remarks.) Are Vegetation No Soil Ne , or Hydrology NO significantly disturbed? Are"Normal Circumstances' present? Yes X No Are Vegetation NO Soil Na , or Hydrology No naturally problematic? (If needed, explain any answers In Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transacts, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes _ No? _ Is the Sampled Area Hydnc Soil Preaant? Yes— No-X _ X Wetland Hydrology Present's Yes_ Nc•X _ wnhlna Wetland? Yea No Headwater of Cooper Slough VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants. Tres Stratum (Plot size! 10 In radius 1. 2. 5 to radius Saollna/Shrub Stratum (Plot siza: j 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. )jffh Rtrahim mint ,n,. 1 m rodkin e 1. Schedonorus pratensis 2. _ Rronrus inermis 3. _DLYtichlt. spicuta 4.-Spartina Pectinata 5- Muhlenbergin asperifolin a. 7. a. 9. 10. Woody Vine Stratum (Rot size: ) 1 2 % Bare Ground In Herb Stratum U %C—over Sondes? Status Number of Dominant Spades That Are OBL. FACW. or FAC 1 (excluding FAC-): (A) Total Number of Dominant 3 Species Across A11 Strata: (8) Percent of Dominant Species 33 That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: (A!B) - Total Cover Total % Cover of: Multiply by'. OBL spades x 1 = FACW species x 2 = FAC species x 3 = Total Cover y FACU spades x 4 - 50 FACU UPL species x 5 - 20 - y i7P1, Column Totals: (A) (B) 20 _ - --y _FACW_ Prevalence Index = B!A = -5 --N -FACW Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators: -5 - - N _ r' ACNV " _ 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophylic Vegetation _ 2 - Dominance Test is >501A _ 3 - Prevalence Index is s3.0' _ 4 - Morphological AdeptaGons' (Provide supporting date In Remarks a on a separate sheet) Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain) too = Total Cover - 'Indicates of hytlnc loll and wetiend hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic. Hydrophytic Vegetation X Present? Yes_ No_ = Total Cover Vegetated areas over most of this upper basin are dominated by Bromus inermis 25 SOIL Sampling Point: UJI Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.) Depth Matrix (ior .l Cola (moist) _ _ 4 Color tmoist) 01 Texture Remarks Od 10YR 312 100 _ _ clay loom 4-12 10YR 3/2 _ 95 _ _ _ _ gravely clay loam _ 5% white calcite deposits - 'Type: C-Concentration, D-De lation RM-Reduced Matrix CS-Covsred a Coated Sand Grains. 'Location: PL=Pore Lining M-Mamx. Hydrlc Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRa, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydrlc Solis': _ Hlstosol (At) _ Sandy Gleyed Marix (S4) _ 1 cm Muck (Ag) (LRR I, J) _ Hook Epipadon (A2) _ Sandy Redox (S5) _ Coast Phalle Redox (At 6) (LRR F, G, H) _ Black Hlstic (A3) _ Skipped Matrix (Sit) _ Dark Surface (S7) (LRR G) _ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) _ Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) _ High Plains Depressions (F16) _ Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F) _ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) (LRR H outside of MLRA 72 8 73) _ 1 cm Muck (Ag) (LRR F, G, H) _ Depleted Matrix (F3) _ Reduced Vertic (F18) _ Depleted Below Dark Surface (All) _ Redox Dark Surface (F6) _ Red Parent Material (TF2) Thick Dark Surface (At 2) _ Depleted Dark Surface (177) _ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) Sandy Mucky Mineral (Sl) _ Redox Depressions (Fit) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ 2.5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S2) (LRR G. H) _ High Plains Depressions (1716) 'Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and _ 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S3) (LRR F) (MLRA 72 & 73 of LRR H) wetiand hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic Restrictive Layer (it present): Type: Depth (Inches): Hydrlc Soli present? Yes_ No - Remarks: HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Ind stators: Primary Indicators (minimum of one required: check _ Surface Water (At) _ all that anWvl Secondary Salt Crust (811) _ Indicator; Iminlmum of two reanrsdl Surface Soli Cracks (86) _ High Water Table IQ) _ Aquatic Invertebrates (B13) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (BB) _ Saturation (A3) _ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl) _ Drainage Patterns (BI0) _ Water Marks (81) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2) _ Oxidized Rhaospheras on Living Roots (C3) _ Sediment Deposits (B2) _ Oxidized Rhizospharee on Living Roots (C3) (whom tilled) _ Drift Deposits (B3) (whers nottllled) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8) _ Algal Mat a Crust (94) _ Presence of Reduced Ion (C4) Saturafion Visible on Aerial Imagery (Cg) _ Iron Deposits (85) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) X GeomorpNc Position (D2) _ Inundation Visible on Aenal Imagery (B 7) _ Other (Explain In Remarks) _ FAC-Neutral Test (D5) _ Water -Stained Leaves (130) _ Froal-Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes _ No_N _ Depth (inches): Water Table Present? Yes _ No_ X_ Depth (inches): SeNhatbn Present? Yea _ No _ X_ Depth (inches): Wetland Hydrology Present? Yea No includes capillary fringe) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monnoiing well, aenal photos, previous inspections),if available Remarks US Army Corps of Engineers 26 Great Plains - Version 2.0 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region ProlecUslte: W alerglen Clry/eaunty Fort Collins/Larim7/23/18 er Sampling Date: ApdicantfCr e : Sandbox Solar State: _ CO _ Sampling Point: _ W4 Investigator(s): M. Tobler, C. Severn Section, Township, Range: Sea 4, T7N, R68W Landform (hilislope, tamacs, eta): Swale Local relief (concave, convex, none): concave_ Slope (%): _ 80 Subreglon(LRR): LRR-G Lot: 40.60398 _ Long:_-105.008" _ Datum. NAD83 Soil Map Unit Name: Nunn clay loam, 0-1 percent slope NWI classification: None Are climatic 1 hydrolople conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes X No _ (If no, explain in Remarks.) Are Vegetation No Soil No , or Hydrology NO signitlrantly dlaturbed? Are"Normal Circumstances" present? Yes X No Are Vepstatim No , Soil No , or Hydrology No naturally emblematic? (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- X _ No_ Is the Sampled Area Hydne Soil PrasanP Yee _ X _ No— within a Wetland? Yes X No Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes-X _ No South bank of Lrrimer and Weld Canal VEGETATION — Use scientific names of plants. Absolute Dominant Indicator Dominance Test worksheet: Tree Stratum (Plot size: 10 m radius 1 % Cover S000eS? Status Number of Dominant Species 1 That Are OBL. FACW, or FAC (excluding FAC-): (A) 2 3, Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata: (B) 4 S In radius 'Total Cover Percent of Dominant Spades Sapllna/Shrub Stratum (Plot size: ) That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: (AIB) 1. Prevalence Index wodcsheet: 2. Total %Cover of: Multiply by 3. OBL species x 1 = 4. FACW species x 2 = 5. FAC species x 3 = 1 m radius )jgh Stratum (Plot size ' ) = Total Cover FACU species x 4 = 1. Spartins peelinals 60 _ y _ FACW UPL species x 5 _ 2._Dromusinerires _5 __N _ LTL Column Total& (A) (B) 3._Fascopyrunr smithii _5 — _N _ FACU _ prevalence Index - B/A 4. —roDhytic Vegetation Indicators: 5. X_ 1- Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation a. _ 2 - Dominance Testis >50% 7' _ 3 - Prevalence Index is 93,0' a' _ 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting 9. date In Remarks or on a separate shoat) problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain) 10. _ 70 = Total Cover _ Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: ) _ of sog and wetiantl hydrology must 1. be prosenL unless disturbed or problematic. be pretorssent. less 2, Hydrophytic Vegetation X Present? Yes— No 10 -Total Cover % Bare Ground In Herb Stratum Remarks'. Narrow discontinuous wetland fringed :done hank US Army Corps of Engineers 27 SOIL Sampling Point: W4 Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.) Depth Matrix Redox Faaures (Inches) Color(moistl % Color/moist) °!�_ Twar Locr Texture Remarks 0-4 - I OYR 3/2 _ 100 _... . clay loam 4-16 _ 10YR 412 _ 95 10YR 518 5 C _ - M _ _ clay loam 'Tyipw C-Concentralion D=De letion RM-Reduced Matrix, CS -Covered or Coated Sand Grains 'Location: PL-Pare Unm . M-Mamx. Hydrie Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRa, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Solis': _ Histosol (At) _ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) _ 1 cm Muck (Ag) (LRR 1, J) _ Histic Epipadon (A2) _ Sandy Redox (S5) _ Coast Pratte Redox (A16) (LRR F, G, H) _ Bieck Hisfic (A3) _ Stripped Matrix (S6) _ Dark Surface (S7) (LRR G) _ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) _ Loamy Mucky Mineral (Ft) _ High Plains Depressions (F76) _ Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F) _ 1 cm Muck (Ag) (LRR F, G, H) X Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) Depleted Matrix (173) (LRR H outside of MLRA 72 6 73) _ Reduced Verde (F18) _ Depleted Below Dark Surface (All) _ Redox Dark Surface (FB) _ Red Parent Material (TF2) _ Thick Dark Surface (Al2) _ Depleted Dark Surface (F7) _ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) _ Sandy Mucky Mineral (SI) _ Redox Depressions (F8) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) 2.5 cm Mucky Past or Peat (S2) (LRR G, H) _ High Pions Depressions (Fl 6) "Indicators 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 (N present): Type: Depth (inches): Hydric Soli Present? Yes X No Remarks HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators (minimum of one reauired check all that anti Secondary Indicators (minimum of two remulredl X Surface Water (All _ Salt Crust (B11) _ Surface Sall Cracks (96) X - High Water Table (A2) _ Aquatic Invertebrates (813) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (BB) X Saturation (A3) _ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) _ Drainage Patterns (010) _ Water Marks (Bl) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2) _ Oxidized Rhaospheres on Living Roots (C3) _ Sediment Deposits (82) _ Oxidized Rhizosphsras on Living Roots (C3) (whirs tilled) _ Drift Deposits (83) (where not tilled) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8) _ Algal Mat a Crust (B4) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (CO) _ Iron Deposits (85) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) X 3eamorphic Position (02) _ Inundation Visible an Asnal Imagery (137) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ FAC-Neutral Test (D5) _ Water -Stained Leaves (Bg) _ Frost -Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes X _ No_ Depth (inches): _ 12 _ Water Table Present? Yes _ X _ No_ Depth (incheap 12 Saturation Present? Yes -X _ No— _ Depth (inches): _ q Wetland Hydrology Resent? Yee ` No includes capillary fr e Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections). if available: Remarks: Canal flowing at bank -full US Army Corps of Engineers 28 Great Plains - Version 2.0 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region Waterglen Fort Collim/Larimer W21nll Pro)ect/Slte: CltylCounty. Sampling Date:_ AppllcantlOwnar: Sandbox Solar State: Co Samolino Point: _ U4 Investigator(s): NL Tobler• C. Sevem _ Section, Township, Range: —Sec. 4, T7N, R68W Landform (hillslops, terrace, etc.): _top of canal bank - Local relief (concave, convex, none): concave Sloe (%): _ 0 _ Subregion (LRft): LRR - G Lat: _ 40.60396 _ Long: _ -105.00897 pates. NAD tU Sell Map Unit Name: Nunn clay loam, 0.1 percent slope NWI classillcatlon: Noire Am dlmate 1 hydroloolc conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes X No _ (If no, explain in Ramarks.) Are Vegetation No Sol, No or Hydrology No significantly disturbed? Are "Normal Clrcumstances" present? Yes X No Are Vegetation No , Sail No , or Hydrology NO 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_X Is the Sampled Area Hydric Soil Present? Yes_ No_X _ Welland Hydrology Resent? Yes_ No X within a Wetland? Yea No South bank of Larimer and Weld Canal VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants. Absolute Dominant Indicator Dominance Test worksheet: Tree Stratum (Plot size: 10 at radius ) % Cover Species? Status Number of Dominant Spades 1. That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC (excluding FAC-): (A) 2 3. Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata: (B) 4 S In radius - Total Cover Percent of Dominant Species SaollnolShrub Stratum (Plot size: ) That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: (AIB) 1. Prevalence Index worksheets 2. Total %Cover of: Multiply by 3. OBL species x 1 = 4 FACW species x 2 = S. = Total Cover FAC species x 3 - t1prb Stratum ipint aze. 1 in radius ) FACU species x 4 - 1. Brorrtus inermis 30 _ UPL UPL species x 5 2. Poscopyrum still 10 _ FACU Column Totals: (A) (8) 3. Prevalence Index = B/A = 4. HydroPhytle Vegetation Indicators: S. _ 1 -Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation _ 2 - Dominance Test Is >50% 7. _ 3 -Prevalence Index is 53.0' 8. _ 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting g. data In Remarks or on a separate sheet) 10, _ Problematic Hydropmytic Vegetation' (Fxpain) - Total Cover Weetiv Vine Stratum (Plot size: ) 'Indicators of hydnc soll and wetland hydrology must 1. he present, unless disturbed or problematic. 2, Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes_ No 40 Total Cover % Bare Ground in Herb Stratum — Remarks, . US Army Corps of Engineers W. Great Plans - Version 2.0 Waterglen Ecological Characterization Study species such as mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), coyote (Canis latrans), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) and red fox (Vulpes fulva) may be common. 2.2 Wetlands Two wetlands were delineated on the property in accordance with the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Great Plains Region (Version 2.0). One wetland occurs along the southern margin of the Larimer Weld Canal; the second wetland measuring 0.04 acres is located on the northeastern portion of the site within the drainage swale. Several other areas within the bottom of the drainage swale that supported hydrophytic vegetation were also tested for wetland status but did not have hydric soils indicators and therefore do not meet the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers definition of wetland. Wetland vegetation within the swale included threesquare (Schoenoplectus pungens), Baltic rush (Juncus balticus), meadow fescue (Schedonorus pratensis), prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata), inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) and scratchgrass (Muhlenbergia asperifolia). The transition to upland status was marked by a shift in dominance to smooth brome (Bromus inermis) and western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii). According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wetlands Inventory, there are no wetland types within the interior of the Property. The Larimer and Weld Canal is classified as Riverine, Intermittent, Seasonally Flooded, Excavated (R4SBCx). The proposed solar array occurs next to the 50 foot wetland buffer associated with the Larimer Weld Canal and is approximately 225 feet from the isolated wetland to the northeast which occurs within the headwaters of the Cooper Slough. Wetland features and associated 50-foot buffer are indicated on the Wetlands Map in Appendix A. Wetland data forms are provided in Appendix C. 2.3 Prominent Views The property is accessible to the general public via a concrete trail that extends from a cul-de-sac on the western end of Celtic lane south past Waterglen place then west towards Elgin Court. As viewed from this trail, open meadows of the property appear in the foreground while the Front Range appears in the background when looking west. Views of the Budweiser plant can be seen to the north. 2.4 Native Trees and Vegetation Native landscape vegetation is a minor component of the total cover on the Property. Common native tree species are lanceleaf cottonwood (Populus x acuminata), blue spruce (Picea pungens), ponderosa (Pinus ponderosa), juniper (Juniperus scopulorum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), box elder (Acer negundo), linden (Tilia americans) and honey locust (Gleditsia 3 SOIL Sampling Point U4 Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.) Depth Matrix Redox Features (inches) Color tmoist) W. - Color(moist) % Tvne. Loc` Texture Remarks 0-12 10YR 42 100 clay loam 'Type: C-Concentration, D=De lotion. RM=Reduced Matrix. CS=Covarad or Coated Sand Grains2Location: PL-Pare Lining, M-Matrix. Hydrlc Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRR9, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hyddc Solls : _ Histosol (At) _ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) _ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR I, J) _ Histic Epipedon (A2) _ Sandy Redox (S5) _ Coast Pralne Redox (At 6) (LRR F, O, H) _ Black Hlstic (A3) _ Stripped Matrix (S6) _ Dark Surface (S7) (LRR 0) _ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) _ Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) _ High Plains Depressions (F16) _ Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F) _ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) (LRR H outside of MLRA 72 6 73) _ 1 crri Muck (A9) (LRR F, 0, H) _ Depleted Matrix (F3) _ Reduced Vertic (1718) _ Depleted Below Dark Surface (At 1) _ Redox Dark Solace (F6) _ Red Parent Material (TF2) _ Thick Dark Surface (Al2) _ Depleted Dark Surface (F7) _ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) _ Sandy Mucky Mineral (St) _ Redox Depressions (F8) _ Other (Explain In Remarks) _ 2.5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S2) (LRR 0, H) _ High Plains Depressions (Fl 6) 'Indicators of hydrophyflc vegetation and _ 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peal (S3) (LRR F) (MLRA 72 6 73 of LRR H) wetland hydrology must be present. unless disturbed or problematic. Restrictive Layer (9 present): Type: Depth (Inches): Hydrlc Soil Present? Yes No X - Remarks, HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators (minimum of one reouired- check _ Surface Water (At) _ all that annly) Secondary Salt Crust (B11) Indicators (rrthimwn of two moulted) _ Surface Soil Cracks (B6) _ High Water Table (A2) _ Aquatic Invertebrates (813) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (88) _ Saturation (A3) _ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl) _ Drainage Patterns (B10) _ Water Marks (B1) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2) _ Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) _ Sediment Deposits (132) _ Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (0) (where tilled) _ Drift Deposits (83) (where not tilled) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8) _ Algal Mat or Croat (134) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) _ Saturation Visible on Asnal Imagery (C9) _ Iron Deposits (86) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) _ Geomorphic Position (132) _ Inundation Visible on Asnal Imagery (B7) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ FAC-Neutral Test (05) _ Water -Stained Leaves (89) _ Frost -Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes_ No_X _ Depth (inches): Water Table Present? Yea_ No_X_ Depth(inches): Saturation Present? Yes_ No_X_ Depth(inches): Wetland Hydrology Present? Yee No includes capillary fringe) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous Inspections). if variable Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers 30 Great Plains - Version 2,0 Waterglen Ecological Characterization Study triacanthos). Herbaceous native vegetation includes hairy goldenaster (Heterotheca villosa) and foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum). Native hydrophytic vegetation include include threesquare, Baltic rush, meadow fescue, prairie cordgrass, inland saltgrass and scratchgrass. There are 16 blue spruce and 13 lanceleaf cottonwood trees that are greater than six inches in diameter. All other native trees are less than six inches in diameter. 2.5 Non-native Trees and Vegetation Non-native (exotic) forb and grass species dominate the understory on the property. Exotic species include field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), curly dock (Rumex crispus), leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), kochia (Bassia scoparia), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), yellow sweet clover (Melilotus oicinalis), yellow salsify (Tragopogon dubius), orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata), smooth brome (Bromus inermis), crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), meadow fescue (Schedonorus pratensis) and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). It should be noted that field bindweed, Canada thistle and leafy spurge are State -listed noxious species. 2.6 Bank, Shoreline and High Water Mark of Perennial Water According to FEMA Map Panel (08069C0979H), the property is a floodway and moderate- and high -risk floodplain within the City of Fort Collins Floodplain (http://www.fcgov.conVutilities/what-we-do/stormwater/floodin /g floodplain-maps-documents, accessed on July 23, 2018). There are ordinary high water marks and top of bank features associated with the Larimer and Weld Canal that are easily identified in the field. 2.7 Sensitive and Specially Valued Species There are no known occurrences of or habitat for sensitive and specially valued species on the property. The property does not have habitat for Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei), Ute lady's tresses orchid (Spiranthes diluvialis) or Colorado butterfly plant (Gaura neomexicana ssp. coloradensis). 2.8 Special Habitat Features Special habitat features include the Larimer and Weld Canal, the origin of Cooper Slough, numerous coniferous and deciduous trees and a small wetland. The Larimer and Weld Canal flows along the west and north edge of the property and is identified as an aquatic habitat on the Natural Features Map in Appendix A. The canal adjoins a wet meadow to the south with reasonably good connectivity south towards Box Elder Creek. 4 Waterglen Ecological Characterization Study 2.9 Wildlife Migration Corridors Most wildlife migration through the area can be expected to move along the Larimer and Weld Canal or south through Rabbit Brush Park towards Box Elder Creek 2.10 General Ecological Functions The property is a drainage swale situated at the origin of Cooper Slough, which conveys runoff water south towards Boxelder Creek and the Poudre River. It also abuts the Larimer and Weld Canal and as such has value as a corridor for wildlife moving east, west and south. There are approximately 50 trees (most of which are less than six inches in diameter) that provide roosting habitat, vertical structure, escape and thermal cover to a variety of mammals and birds. The understory is dominated by smooth brome, an exotic, perennial species with good forage value. There are several small areas that support wetland vegetation one of which qualifies as a wetland in accordance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers methodologies. Areas of wetland vegetation are confined to the bottom of the swale. Non -wetland areas supporting hydrophytic vegetation will likely develop wetland status given sufficient time and moisture. Three noxious species are present as are numerous other early seral species. The general ecological function is good. 2.11 Timing of Development in Relation to Ecological Character The primary concern for the timing of development is protection of migratory birds. Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, it is unlawful for anyone to take, possess, import, export, transport, sell, purchase, barter or offer for sale, purchase or barter, any migratory bird or the parts, nests or eggs. Avoid removing trees between April I and August 15. 2.12 Mitigation Measures Blue Mountain Environmental Consulting recommends the following mitigation: • Cluster the solar garden in uplands as proposed. • Re -seed disturbed soils with native xeric cool- and warm -season grasses and forbs. • Manage any noxious species that proliferate as a result of site disturbance with mechanical, cultural or chemical means. 3.0 Conclusions and Recommendations The team at Blue Mountain Environmental Consulting believes that no significant ecological 5 Waterglen Ecological Characterization Study resources will be adversely impacted by construction of the solar garden. References City of Fort Collins Floodplain Maps and Documents. http://www.fcgov.com/utilities/what-we- do/stormwater/floodin floodplain-mans-documents Colorado Parks and Wildlife Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Raptors. httn://cnw.state.co.us/Documents/WildlifeSpecies/Livin gWithWildlife/RaptorB ufferGui d elines2008.pdf National Wetland Inventory Mapper. Accessed on December 1, 2014. http://www.fws.jzov/wetlands/Data/MaDDer.html Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Colorado Raptors (https://cnw.state.co.us/Documents/Wi ldlifeSpgcies/LivingW ith Wi ldlife/RaptorBu fferGu idelines2008.pdf). Wildlife Management Guidelines, City of Fort Collins. http://www.fcgov.conVnaturalareas/pdf/wildlife-mana e� ment-guidelines.pdf 1i Waterglen Ecological Characterization Study Appendix A: Project Maps n Natural Features Map Waterglen Sandbox Solar Natural Features Map 6 ❑ Waterglen Property 5 Roads Streams Proposed Solar Array '! EL iE LN Natural Habitats 1 Aquatic Wet Meadow 7 Photo Point 0 250 500 ft 2 Data Sources: r Cite of Fort Collins (CO) LarimerCotmt' (CO) 4 �'' *" ~ i NA] P 2oi- GARCENWALC TiGAP DENWAL@T " pig Projection: t1TM Zone 13N. NAD 83 z ^- 0 GLENARBEPLN „. ..,, c•.,...,m,.. i of 70 The urf winuthm m thu mup u nu[ a br amUrurd ru uxvl ux + � a -k%m J.v riptim. "1'ahY'1 hrwrtdurx•. um bclxwJ br br aavrute, but mrurvey iv mN yuurvnt vd. r , Map by Red Beord Science W4, U4 M U1 U3 Wetlands Map ►IFIN r Waterglen Sandbox Solar Wetlands Map Roads Streams Wetland Line (0.09 acres) Wetland (0.04 acres) 50-ft. Wetland Buffer • Sample Pit Proposed Solar Array Wetland Sample Point 0 250 500 ft Data Sources: Blue Mountain Environmental Consulting NAIP 2017 Projection: UTbt Zone 13N. NAD 83 4e infcmmulum i m this map is not to be rnnstnad or used as a '4yal dms ptian.' Parcel boundaries um belsetW to be accurate. but accuracy is not guuruntced. Science 0