HomeMy WebLinkAboutWATERGLEN SOLAR ARRAY - FDP200013 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 2 - ECS REPORTConsulting LLC
Ian Skor, PE
Sandbox Solar
430 N College Ave, Suite #441
Fort Collins, CO 80524
RE: Ecological Characterization Study
Mr. Skor:
August 31, 2019
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 corner 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,
Matt 74t ar
Natural Resource Specialist, Certified Ecologist
Blue Mountain Environmental Consulting, LLC
937 Mallard Drive, Ft. Collins, CO 80521 * (970) 224-0851 * www.bluemountain1.net
Appendix B: Site Photos
10
Map
Number:
1
Photo
Direction:
West
r
t
Y
Looking west into the property from the concrete trail; note the Front Range in the background.
Map
Number:
1
r
Photo
Direction:
North
" wr ,�
•' Ql JY
Looking north towards the Larimer and Weld Canal and a dirt access road.
11
Map
Number:
2
Photo
Direction:
West
Looking west from the southeast corner; Rabbit Brush Park is to the left of this photo.
Map
Number:
Photo
Direction:
NW
Looking northwest across the property.
12
Map
Number:
2
Photo
Direction:
North
Looking north along the trail.
Map
Number:
3
y
Photo
Direction:
North
Looking north from near the southwest property corner; the Larimer and Weld Canal is to the left.
13
Map
Number:
At -
Photo
Direction:
NE
Looking northeast.
14
Map
Number:
4
ff,Photo
North
Looking north; note the Larimer and Weld Canal at left.
Map
Number:
5
Photo
Direction:
NE
Looking northeast.
15
Map
Number:
Photo
Direction:
South
Looking south from the northeast corner.
16
Map
Number:
6 �.
Photo
Direction:
West
Looking west; note the access road on top of the dike and the Larimer and Weld Canal.
Map --
Number:
7
Photo
Direction:
South
Looking south from within a wetland area towards Rabbit Brush Park.
17
Appendix C: Wetland Data Forms
in
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region
Pro)ecusite: W'atergkn Clty/County Fort Collitu/L:rrimer 7/23/I8
Sampling Date:
ApplicantlOwnw Sandbox Solar Stato CO Roemlinq Point: Wl
Investigator(s): M. Tobler, C. Several Section, Township, Range: See. 4, T7N, R69W
Landrorm (hillslope, terrace, etc.): swalle Loral relief (concave, convex, nonel: concave _ Slope (%): _ 2 _
Subregion (LRR): LRR - G Let; 40.60340 Lam.-105.00842 Datum: NAD 03
Sol Map Unit Name: Nunn clay losey 0.1 percent slept NWI classillcation: None
Are climatic I hydrolooic conditions on the site typical for be time of yowl Yes a No _ (If no, explain in Remarks.)
Are Vegetation No Sall No or Hydrology No signillcairdy disturbed? Are "Normal Circumstances" present? Yes a No_
Are Vegetation 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 Present? Yes-X _ No_ within a Weiland? Yes X No
Welland Hydrology Present? Yes_X _ No_
Remarks.
}Headwater or Cooper Slough
VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants.
Absolute Domment indicator
TT%,, Stntunt (Pot size: 10 anradius ) %Cover Soecies? Status
1
2
3.
4.
5 en radius
Sapling/Shrub Stratum (Plot size: )
1.
2.
3.
4
S.
Jif,rt, crciro I m radius
1 Schoenoplectuspungens
2. Juncus balticus
3. Sehedonorus pratensis
4.
5.
8.
7.
S.
9.
10.
a
Woody Vine Stratum (Pot size: 1
1 2.
0
I % Bore Ground In
- Total Cover
= Total Cover
50 Y _ OBL
40 Y FACW
10 N FACU
-100 _ _
= Total Cover
- Total Cover
19
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 1 =
FACW spades
x 2 =
FAC species
x 3 -
FACU spades
x4-
UPL species
x 5
Column Totals:
(A) (B)
Prevalence Index - B/A -
X 1 - Rapid Test for Hydmphytie Vegetation
_ 2 - Dominance Test is >50%
_ 3 - Prevalence Index is s3.0'
_ 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting
date In Remarks or on a separate sheet)
_ Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present/ Yes a No
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 Latimer 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 warmer 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,
Pa
SOIL
Sampling Point: WI
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator a confirm the absence of Indicators.)
Depth Matrix
Redox Features
/Mrhw<) Cda (moist) % Color
(moist) ° Twe Loci
TaN, na Remarks
_ 0-4 _ 10YR3/2 too
clay loam
4-8 _ 10YR 42 _ 100 _
clan loam
8-16 10YR4/2 _ 8o IOYR51S 5 C M
�— -- — - — —
claN [Oulu _
2.5 10B 15
clav loam dark coating on surlace of peds
'T e: C-Concentration. D=De letlon RM-Reduced Matrix, CS -Covered or Coaled Sand Grains. 'Location: PL-Pore Lire M-Matrix.
Hyddc Soil Indicates: (Applicable to all LRR9, unless otherwise noted.)
Indicators for Problematic Hydrlc Soils':
_ Hlstosol (Al)
_ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
_ 1 cm Muds (Ag) (LRR I, J)
_ Hlstic Epipedon (A2)
_ Sandy Redox (135)
_ Coast Plains Redox (At 6) (LRR F, G, H)
_ Black Hlstic (A3)
_ Slipped Matrix (Sit)
_ Dank Surface (S7) (LRR G)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
_ Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1)
_ High Plains Depressions (F16)
_ StraBfied Layers (A5) (LRR F)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
(LRR H outside of MLRA 72 & 73)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR F, G, H)
X Depleted Matrix (173)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18)
_ Depleted Below Dark Surface (All)
_ Redox Dark Surface (F6)
_ Red Parent Material (TF2)
_ Thick Dark Surface (At 2)
_ Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
_ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12)
Sandy Mucky Mineral (SI)
_ Redox Depressions (FB)
_ Other (Explain in Remarks)
_ 2.5 mi Mucky Peat or Peat (S2) (LRR G, H)
_ High Plains Depressions (F16)
'Indicators of hydmphytic vegetation and
_ 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peal (S3) (LRR F)
(MLRA 72 d 73 of LRR H)
wafiand hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Restrictive Layer (H present):
Type:
Depth (irs):
Hydrie Soil Present? Yes ` No
Remarks:
Area appears to have been graded in past for construction of detentiontretention basin
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Phmary Indicators (minlmum of one reoulred: check
_ Surface Water (At) _
all that aonly) v--lndary
Salt Crust (311) X
Indicators dnimmum of two reoulred)
Surface Soil Cracks (136)
_ High Water Table (A2) _
Aquatic Invertebrates (813) _
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (88)
_ Saturation (A3) _
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl) _
Drainage Patterns (810)
_ Water Marks (B1) _
Dry -Season Water Table (C2) _
Oxidized Rhizosphares on Living Roots (C3)
_ Sediment Deposits (82) _
Oxidized Rhizosphoms on Living Roots (0)
(whom tilled)
_ Drift Deposits (83)
(where not tilled) _
Crayfish Burrows (C8)
_ Algal Mat or Crust (84) _
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
_ Iron Deposits (85) _
Thin Muck Surface (C7) X
;aamorphic Position (D2)
_ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) _
Other (Explain in Remarks) X
FAC-Neutral Test (05)
_ Water -Stained Leaves 09)
_
Frost -Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F)
Field Obsee eatlons:
Surface Water Present? Yes_ No_X
Depth (inches)!
Water Table Present? Yes_ No X
_
Depth (inches) —
Saturation Present? Yes No, X
_ Depth (Inches):
Weiland Hydrology Present? Yee X No_
includes capillary fringe)
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring
well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available
Remarks
US Army Corps of Engineers
20
Great Plains - Version 2.a
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region
Waterglen Fort Collins. Larimer 721/18
Pmjecvslte: Cltylcounty: Sampling Date: _ ,
AppllcanvOvmer: Sandbox Solar State: CD Swicillno Point: U1
Investigator(s): M. Tobler, C. Severn Section, Tovmahlp, Range: —Sec. 4, T7N, R68W
Landfonn (hilWope, terrace, etc.): Swale Local relief (concave, convex, norei _ Concave Slope (%):
Subregion(LRR): LRR-C Lot' _40.60349 _ Long:_-105.00855 _ Datum'. NAD 03
Soil Map Unit Name: Nunn eby loam, 0-1 prment elope NWI classification: Now
Are dimatc I hydrologic 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 �o signiflrantly disturbed? Are "Nomai Circumstances' present? Yes X No
AreVegetation 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, transects, important features, etc.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No_ _T.ltthh
Spled Area
Hydnc Sol Present? Yes _ NOX a Wetland? Yes No X
Watland Hydrology Present? Yes_X _ No_
Remarks'.
Headwater of Cooper Slough
VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants.
10 m radius
PDsisme Uunnnanl Inolcatur
%Cover Cnnrlm Rtae w
2
uomrnence I asi wprresrwer:
�e Stratum (Plot size: _)
� _
Number of Dominant Spades
1.X acuminate
c _
_ Y _ -FAC
That Are OBL. FACW, or FAC
-Populus
(excluding FAC-):
(A)
2
3.
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
(B)
4
5 as radius
' Total Cover
Percent of Dominant Species
Sabllno/Shrub Stratum (Plot size: )
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
(A/S)
Prevalence Index workaheet:
2.
Total % Cover of: Multiply by
3.
OBL species x 1 =
4
FACW species x 2 =
FAC species x 3
5.
= Total Cover
Herb Stratum (Plot size 1 no radius I
Y OBL
FACU species x 4 =
1 Schoenoplectus punges
so
_
_
UPL spades x S =
_
2. _ Spartitm pectinate
-40 _
_ y _FACW
Column Totals: (A)
(6)
3.
FACII
- Schedonorus ralen-sis
p
-10 _
_N _
Prevalence Index - B!A =
5.
1( I -Rapid Teat for Hydrophytic Vegetation
8.
2 - Dominarrce Testis >50%
7.
_
_ 3 -Prevalence Index is 53.0'
4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting
9.
data In Remarks a on a separate sheet)
10.
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
100 = Total Cover
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: 1
1.
_
Indicators of hyddc soil and wetland hydrology must
be present. unless disturbed or problematic.
2.
Hydrophytic
Vegetation X
Present? Yes _ No
0 = Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum
Great
21
SOIL Sampling Point: 131
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.)
Depth Matrix
Radox Features
(Inched Color(molstl % _ Color
imolst) ��✓_ Twe Locr
ro,n�,.o Remarks
0-4 10YR 3/2 100
clay loam
4.7 _ 10TR 4/2 100
— — —
clay loam
7-10 10YR 3/2 100
— —
clay loam
_
10-16 10YR 42 95 10YR 5/6 - S — C M
clay loam
Type: C-Concantralion. D-Delotion. RM-Raducsd Matrix CS -Covered or Coated Sand Carains. 'Location: PL-Pore 1-mi M-Matnx.
Hydrlc Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRR9, unless otherwise noted.)
Indicators for Problematic Hydrlc Solis'!
_ Histosol (Al)
_ Sandy Gleyed MaMx (S4)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR I, J)
_ Histic Eplpadon (A2)
_ Sandy Redox (S5)
_ Coast Preine Redox (At 6) (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 (F16)
_ Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F)
_ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (172)
(LRR H outalde of MLRA 72 & 73)
_ i 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 (TF2)
_ Thick Dark Surface (Al2)
_ Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
_ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12)
Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1)
_ Redox Depressions (F8)
_ Other (Explain in Remarks)
_ 2.5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S2) (LRR G, H)
_ High Plains Depressions (F16)
'Indicators of hydmphybc vegetation and
_ 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S3) (LRR F)
(MLRA 72 & 73 of LRR H)
wetland hydrology must be present.
urd"s disturbed or problematic.
Restrictive Layer (H present):
Type:
Depth (Inches)
Hydrlc Soil Present? Yes_ No X
Remarks:
Redox indicators > 10 inches in depth
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Pnmary Indicators (minimum
of one ramlred' chock
_ Surface Water (At) _
all that aooly)
Salt Crust (B11)
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two ren Ared)
_ Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
_ High Water Table (A2) _
Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
_ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
_ Saturation (A3) _
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl)
_ Drainage Patterns (BI0)
_ Water Marks (B1) _
Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
_ Oxidized Rhizospherss on Living Roots (C3)
_ Sediment Deposits (82) _
Oxidized Rhizosphares on Living
Roots (C3) (where tilled)
_ Drift Deposits (83)
(where nottllled)
_ Crayfish Burrows (CB)
Algal Mat or Crust (84) _
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Saturation Visible on Asnal Imagery (C9)
_ Iron Deposits (B5) _
Thin Muck Surface (C7)
X Geomorphic Position (132)
_ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) _
Other (Explan In Ramarks)
X FAC-Neutral Test (D5)
_ Water -Stained Leaves (89)
_ Frost -Heave Hummocks (07) (LRR F)
Field 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 X No
Includes capillary Gn a
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available
Remarks
US Army Carps of Engineers
22
Great Plains - Version 2.0
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region
W'eteri len Fort Collins/Lorimer7/21/18
Project/Site, ClrylCouMy: Sampling Date:_ ,
AppllcantlOwner: Sandbox Solar State: CO Sampling Point: _ U2
Investigator(s): M. Tebler. C. Severn Section, Township, Range: —See. 4, T7N, R69W _
Landrorm (hillelops, terrace, etc.): Swale Local relief (concave, convex, nme) concave Slope (%): _ 2 _
Subregion (LRR). LRR-G tar _40.60.119 _ Long; _-105.00862 _ Datum: NAD83
Soil Map Unit Name: Nunn clay loam, 0-1 percent slope NWI ciasslflcatlon: None
Are climatic / hydroloalc 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 significantly olsturbed? Are "Normal Cl=rnstances' present? Yes X No
Ara Vegetation No Sal NO , or Hydrology No naturally probiematc? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks )
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transacts, important features, etc.
Hydrophybc Vegetation Present? Yes X No _ Is the Sampled Area
Hydric Sol] Present? Yes_ _ No_X _ within a Wetland? Yes No X
Welland Hydrology Present? Yes a No_
Remarks'.
Headwater of Cooper Slough
VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants.
Tree Stratum (Plot size: 10 m radius )
1.
2
3,
4.
5 in radius
SaolinalShrub Stratum (Plot Size: j
1,
2.
3.
4
5.
hjjrb Stratum (Plot size: 1 to radius_)
1.,Schoenoplectuspungens _
2. - Spartina pectinate
3.
4,
5
6.
7
8.
9.
10.
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: 1
1.
2.
0
Sam Ground in Herb Stratum
%Covet= Status
Number of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC
(excluding FAC-): (A)
Total Number of Dorninant
Species Across All Strata' (B)
Percent of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: (AIS)
- Total Cover
Total %Cover of: Multiply by,
OBL spades x 1 -
FACW spades x 2 =
= Total Cover
FAC species x 3 -
70 Y OBL
FACU species x4 -
UPL spades x 5 -
_ 20 _ _ y _ FACW
Column Totals: (A) (B)
Prevalence Index - B/A -
W-1rephytic Vegetation Indleators:
X 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
2 - Dominance Test is >50%
_
3 - Prevalence Index Is 53.01
_
_ 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting
date In Remarks a on a separate sheet)
-
90 _ = Total Cover
_ Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
'Indicators of hydric soli and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problemasc.
Hydrophytic
Vegstation X
Present? Yeses No
=Total Cover
23
Plains - Version
SOIL Sampling Point: U2
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth Matnx
Redox Features
flnm.�l - color (moistl Color
0-5 10YR 312 100
(molell % Type Loc' T��-. Remarks
clay loatil
.5-16 10YR 4/2 70
CIUN lintin
SYR 413 30
clav lolin
Typ� C-Conoontration D-Deplotion, RM-Roduced Matnx, CS-Covored or Coated Sand Groins Location: PL-Pom Lining, M-Matdx.
Hydric Soil Indlestwo! (Applicable to all LRRs,
unless otherwise noted.)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Sails'!
Histosol (At)
— Sandy Cloyed Matrix (S4)
— 1 cm Muck (Ag) (LRR 1, J)
Histic Eptipadon (A2)
— Sandy Rodox (S5)
— Coast Prairie Rodox (At 6) (LRR F, (3, H)
Black Histic (A3)
— Stripped Matrix (S6)
— Dark Surface (S7) (LRR 0)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
— Loamy Mucky Mineral (Fl)
— High Plains Depressions (1716)
Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F)
— Loamy Cloyed Matrix (F2)
(LRR H outside of MLRA 72 & 73)
I cm Muck (A9) (LRR F, 0, H)
— Depleted Matrix (173)
— Reduced Verfic (Fl8)
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)
— Radox Depressions (178)
— Other (Explain in Remarks)
— 2,5 cm Mucky Peat or Post (S2) (LRR G, H)
_ High Plains Depressions IF1 6)
�'Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
— 5 = Mucky Peat x Peat (S3) (LRR F)
(MLRA 72 & 73 of LRR H)
wofland hydrology must be present.
undess chsturload or pirnblematc.
Restrialve Layer (if present):
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrlc Soil Pmsent? Yea_ No X
Remarks:
HYDROLOGY
Watland Hydrology Indicators:
Foment Indicators (in
nimurn of one reou aid check
— Surface Water (All —
all that apphil Secondiry
Salt Cnait (BI 1)
Indicators inummurn of two reduired)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
— High Water Table (A2) —
Aquatic Invertebrates (813)
Sparsely Vegetated Concavvi Surface (B8)
— Satundion IA3) —
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl)
Drainage Patterns (810)
— Water Marks (Bl) _
Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
Oxidized Rhizoaphorsia on Living Roots (C3)
— Sediment Deposits (92) —
Oxidized Rhizosphow on Living Roots (C3)
(whom tilled)
— Drift Deposits (B3)
(whom not tilled)
Crayfish Burrows (C8)
— Algal Mat a Crust (134) —
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (Cg)
— low Deposits (BS) —
Thin Muck Surface (C7) X
Geomorphic Position (D2)
— Inundation Visible on Asnal Imagery (B7) _
Other (Explain in Remarks) X
FAC-Noutral Test (DS)
— Water -Stained Leaves (89)
Fmst-Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F)
Field Observations:
Surface Water Pnosent? Yea No-X
_ Depth (inchas)!
Water Table Proseral) Yea No_ X_
Depth (inches):
Saturation Prosent? Yea No X
_
_ Doplh(inchos):—
X
Weiland Hydrology Present? Yes_ No_
(includes capillary longs)
Describe Rocardod Data (stream gauge, moriftoring well, serial 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 CollinsfLarimer 7/21118
Prolect/Site: CltylCounty. Sampling Date' _
ApplicanVOwner: Sandbox Solar State Co Sa relino Point: 113
Investigatons): Nf. Tobler. C. Severn Sacton, Township, Range: _ Sec. 4, T7N, R68W
Landform (hillslops. terrace, etc.): Swale Local relief (concave, convex, none!: Concave _ Slope (%): _ 2 _
Subregion(LRR): LRR-G IAl _40.60333 _ Long:_-105.00869 _ Datum: NAD83
Sou Map Unit Name: Nunn clay Iowa, II-1 percent slope NWI classification: None
Are climatic I hydrologic conditions on the site typeal for this time of year? Yes X No_ (If no, explain in Remarks.)
Are Vegetation No Sol No , or Hydrology No significantly disturbed? Are "Nomtal Circumstances' present? Yes X No
Are Vegetation 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 _ No x - Is the Sampled Area
Hydric Soil Present? Yes— No,X within a Wetland? Yes No X
Welland Hydrology Recent? Yes— No-X _
Headwater of Cooper Slough
VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants.
Absolute Dominant Indicator
Dominance Test worksheet:
Tree Stratum (Plot size. 10 in radius )
% Cover Species? Sfatis
Number of Dominant Species
1.
That Are OBL. FACW, or FAC 1
(excluding FAC-): (A)
2.
3.
Total Number of Dominant 3
Species Across All Strata (B)
Percent of Dominant Species 33
4
5 as radius = Total Cover
SaolinolShrub Stratum (Plot size: )
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: (Al8)
Prevalence Index workshseb
2.
Total %Cover of: Multiply by,
3.
OBL species z 1 =
4.
FACW species x 2 -
FAC species X 3 =
5
Itill(h Rtrah im !pint.1, 1 m radius t
= Total Cover
Y
FACU species X4=
1,.SChedolmruspralerois
FACU
uPLspedes x5=
2._&'omusinermis
_20 _-Y
_ __ -UPL
Column Totals: (A) (B)
3. _ Distichlis spicata
_ 20 _ _ Y _ FACW _
N
Prevalence Index - B/A =
4.-Suartinn Pectinate
- 5 - - - FACW
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
5.- Muhknbergin asperifolin
-5 --N -FACW-
1- Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
e.
_ 2 - Dominance Test is >50%
7.
_ 3 -Prevalence Index is s3.0'
fi'
_ 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting
9.
data in Remarks a on a separate sheet)
10,
-
_ Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
100 = Total Cover
Woody Vlne Stratum (Plot size: )
_
'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
1
be present, unless disturbed or problemasc.
2
Hydrophytic
0
Total Cover
Vegetation X
Present? Yes_ No_
% Bare Ground In Herb Stratum
Remarks:
Vegetated areas over most of this upper basin are dmnitutted by Bromus inermis
US Arty Corps of Engineers
25
arF
SOIL Sampling Point UJ
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.)
Depth Matrix
Redox Features
nnln.,=,, Color fmdst) _ _ Color (moist) _ Tvoer Loc=
Texture Remarks
0-4 1OYR 3/2 100
_ _
clay loam
4-12 10YR 3/2 _ 95
_ _ _
_
gravely clay loam _ 5% white cakite deposit
'Type- C-Concentrafion. D-De lation RM=Reduced Motnx CS -Covered or Coated Sand Grains. 'Location: PL-Pore Ud M=Matrix.
Hyddc Boll Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRS, unless
otherwise noted.)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Bolls":
_ Histosoi (Al)
_ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
_ 1 cm Muck (Ag) (LRR I, J)
_ Histic Epipedon (A2)
_ Sandy Redox (S5)
_ Coast Prelde Redox (Al6) (LRR F, G, H)
_ Black Hishc (A3)
_ Striped Matrix (S6)
_ Dark Surface (S7) (LRR G)
Hydrogen Sulfide (44)
_ 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 (A9) (LRR F, G, H)
_ Depleted Matrix (F3)
_ Reduced Ver6c (F18)
_ Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
_ Redox Dark Surface (F6)
_ Red Parent Material (TF2)
_ Thick Dark Surface (At 2)
_ Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
_ Very Shallow Dade Surface (TF12)
_ Sandy Mucky Mineral (S7)
_ Redox Depressions (F8)
_ Other (Explain in Remarks)
_ 2.5 crri 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 6 73 of LRR H)
welland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Type:
Depth (Inches):
Hydrlc Boll Present? Yea No X
-
Remarks:
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology IrMlcatom:
Pilmary Indicators (mirllmum
of one reouired: check
_ Surface Water (Al)
all that aodv)
_ Salt Crust (B11)
S_econdary Indicators (minimum of two mou ed)
_ SLeace Soil Cracks (136)
High Water Table (A2)
_ Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
_ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (88)
_ Saturation (A3)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl)
_ Drainage Patterns (810)
_ Water Marks (131)
_ Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
_ Oxidized Rhizosphares on Living Roots (C3)
_ Sediment Deposits (82)
_ OxlAized Rhizosphems on Uving
Roots (C3) (whom tilled)
_ Drift Deposits (83)
(where not tilled)
_ Crayfish Burrows (C8)
Algal Mat or Crust (134)
_ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
_ Iron Deposits (135)
_ Thin Muck Surface (C7)
X Geomorphic Position (02)
_ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (87)
_ Other (Explain In Remarks)
_ FAC-Neutral Test (0.5)
_ Water -Stained Leaves (B9)
_ Frost-Heava Hummocks (D7) (LRR F)
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present? Yes _ No_X
_ Depth (Inches):
Water Table Present? Yes_ No
_ X_ Depth (Inches):
Saturation Present? Yes_ No
_ X_ Depth (inches):
Welland Hydrology Present? Yes_ No
includes capillary fringe)
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, ashal photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks.
US Army Corps of Engineers
26
Great Plains - Version 2 0
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region
Project/Site : R aterglen ClylCounty. Fort Collins/Larimer Sampling Date' 7/23118
Applicant/Ownei: Sandbox Solar State: _ CO _ Sampling Point._ W4 _
Investigator(s): M. Tobler. C. Severn Section, Township, Range: Set. 4, T7N, R68W
Landform (hillalops, terrace, etc.): %wale Local relief (concave, convex, none): _ eoncave _ Slope (%): _ 80
Subregion (LRR): LRR - G Let 40.60398 _ Long:--105.00899 _ Datum: NAD 83
Soil Map Unit Name: _ Nunn. clay loam, 0-1 percent slope NWI ciassitcaton: None
Are climatic / hydroloole 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 signHlcantly disturbed? Are "Normal Circumstances" present? Yes X No
Are Vegetation No , Soil No . ar Hydrology No naturally emblematic? (It 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_ Tisitthhe Sampled Area
Hyddc Soil Pmeant? Yes-X _ No_ in a Wetland? Yes X No
Wetland Hydrology Resent? Yes _ X _ No -
Remarks
South bank of larimer and Weld Canal
VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants.
Absolute
Comment Indicator
Dominance Test worksheet:
T eStratum (Plot size: 10 re radius )
^/. .over
Species? Status_
Number of Dominant Spades
1.
That Are OBL, FACW. or FAC
(excluding FAC-): (A)
2
].
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata: (B)
4
5 in radius
= Total Cover
Percent of Dominant Species
SaollnalShrub Stratum (Plot size: )
That Are OBL, FACW. or FAC: (AIS)
Prevalence Index worksheets
2.
Total % Cover of* Multiply by
3.
OBL spades x1-
4
FACW species x 2 =
5.
FAG spades x 3 =
I±t,rb Stratum iPlot size 1 in radius )
= Total Cover
FACU species x4 -
1 Spartina pectinata
60 _
t _FACW
UPL species x5-
_
2. _ Dromus inerims
.5 _
-N UPL
Column Totals: (A) (B)
0. Pascopymos smithii
FACU
_ _-5
_
-N _ _
Prevalence Index = BIA -
4.
`^•'roPhytk Vegetation Indicators:
5
X 1 -Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
6
_ 2 - Dominance Testis >50%
7
_ 3 -Prevalence Index is 53.0'
8,
_ 4 - Morphological Adaptatkns' (Provide supporting
0.
data In Remarks a on a separate sheet)
10.
- _
Problematic Hydmphybc Vegetation' (Explain)
70
=Total Cover
_
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: 1
_
Indicators of hydnc soil and wetland hydrology must
1.
be present. unless disturbed or problematic.
2,
Hydrophytc
Vegetation
Present? Yes- No
=
10 Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum
Remarks'.
Narrow discontinuous wetland fringed along bank
US Army Carps of Engineers
27
SOIL
Sampling Pdra: W4
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.)
Depth Matrix
Redox Feahnii
(inches) Color (mdstl % CNor triplet)
--2_ Twe
- Texture Remarks
04 -10YR 3/2 _ 100
^ _
clay loam
4-16 _ 10YR 412 _ 95 10YR 518
5 C _ _ M _
clay loam
Type! G-Concentration, D=De letlon RM-Reduced Matrix. CS -Covered or Coated Sand Grains. 'Location: PL-Pore UN M-Matrix.
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRe, unless otherwise noted.)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Solls :
_ Hlstosol (At) _
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR I, J)
_ Histic Epipedon (A2) _
Sandy Redox (S5)
_ Coast Pralne Redox (A16) (LRR F, G, H)
_ Bieck Hisfic (A3) _
Stripped Matrix (S6)
_ Dark Surface (S7) (LRR G)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) _
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1)
_ High Plains Depressions (FIB)
_ Stratified Layer; (A5) (LRR F)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (172)
(LRR H outside of MLRA 72 b 73)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR F, G, H) X
Depleted Matrix (F3)
_ Reduced Verfic (F78)
_ 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 Mutlry Mineral (S1) _
Redox Depressions (F8)
_ Other (Explain in Remarks)
_ 2.5 crn 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 S 73 of LRR H)
welland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Type:
Depth (Inches):
Hydric Soil Present? Yes X No —
Remarks:
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Primary Indicators (minimum o} tins recumid Check
all that annlvl
Secondary Indicators Imininwm of two reaulredl
X Surface Water (All
_ Salt Crust (B11)
_ Surface Soil Cracks (66)
X - High Water Table (A2)
_ Aquatic Invertebrates (1313)
_ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (68)
X Saturation (A3)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (CI)
_ Drainage Patterns (810)
_ Water Marks (61)
_ Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
_ Oxidized Rhuoapherm on Living Roots (C3)
_ Sediment Deposits (132)
_ Oxidized R izoaphar s on Living
Roots (C3) (whore tilled)
_ Drift Dapowts (B3)
(where not tilled)
_ Crayfish Burrows (C8)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
_ Presence of Reduced Iron (04)
Saturation Viable on Aerial Imagery (C9)
_ Iron Deposits (135)
_ Thin Muck Surface (C7)
X 3aanorpblc Position (D2)
_ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (87)
_ Other (Explain in Remarks)
_ FAC-Neufral Test (D5)
_ Water -Stained Leaves (89)
_ Frost -Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F)
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present' Yes X _ No_
Depth (Inches)' _ 12 _
Water Table Present? Yes - X _ No
_ Depi i (Inches)! _ 12
Saturation Present? Yes - X _ No—
Depth (inches), _ 4
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yea X No
includes capillary fringe)
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring wall, serial photos, previous inspectors), if available
Remarks'
Canal flowing at bank -full
US Amry Corps of Engineers
28
Great Plains - Version 2.0
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Great Plains Region
Waterglen Fort Collim/Larinrer 7/21/18
Pro}ecvSae: ClylCounty, sampling Date:_ ,
ApplicanVOwner: Sandbox Solar State: CO Sompllno Point_ U4
Investigator(s): RL Tobler. C. Severn _ Section. Township, Range: —Sec. 4, T7N, R68W _
Landfomf (hlllslope, terrace, etc.): _top of canal bank - Local relief (concave, convex, novel: Concave Slope (%): _ 0 _
Subregion (LRR): LRR - G Let: _ 40.60396 _ Long: _'105.00897 _ Datum: NAD W
Soil Map Unit Name: Nunn clay loam, 0-1 percent slope NWI classification: None
Are climatic f hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes a No _ (If no, explain in Remarks.)
Are Vegetation No Soil No , or Hydrology No significantly disturbed? Are"Normal Circumstances' present? Yes X No
Are Vegetation No . Soil No a Hydrdogy 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 Sal Present? Yes— No X _ within a Wetland? Yes No X
Welland Hydrology Present? Yes_ No X
Remarks.
South bank of Larimer and Weld Canal
VEGETATION - Use scientific names of plants.
Absolute Dominant Indicator
Dominance Test worksheet:
Time Stratum (Plot size: 10 In radius 1
% Cover Species? 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
5 In radius
- Total Cover
Percent of Dominant Species
SaollnalShrub Stratum (Plot size: )
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: (A/B)
1.
Prevalence Index worlcsheet:
2.
Total %Cover of: Multiply by
3.
OBL spades % 1 =
4
FACW species x 2 =
5
FAC species x 3 -
Herb Stratum rPlnt size I to radius )
= Total Cover
FACU species x 4 -
i Br•omus inermis
30 _ UPL
UPL specias x 5 =
2, f ascopyrum smithii
10 _ FACU
Column Totals, (A) (B)
3.
Prevalence Index = B!A =
4.
Nydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
5
_ 1 • Rapid Test for Hydrophyec Vegetation
6.
2 - Dominance Test Is >50%
7.
_
3 -Prevalence Index is 53.0'
6.
_
_ 4 - Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
0.
date In Remarks a on a $operate sheet)
10.
_ Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
= Total Cover
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: )
'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
t
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
2,
Hydrophytic
Vegetation R
Present? Yes— No
= Total Cover
40
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum
Remarks
US Anny Corps of Engineers
29
urnm naem - vammn c,o
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 (Ater negundo), linden (Tilia americana) and honey locust (Gleditsia
CD
SOIL
Sampling Point: U4
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of Indicators.)
Depth Matrix
Radox Features
finchesl Color (moist) w Color
(moist) _// 7we,. Loc'
Texture Remarks
0-12 10YR 412 100
clay loam
Type, C-Concentratlon. D=De lotion RM-Reduced Matnx CS-Covared or Coated Sand Grains 'Location: PL-Pore Lid M=Mamx.
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRR9,
unless otherwise noted.)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Solls :
Histosol (At)
_ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
_ 1 can Muck (A9) (LRR I, J)
_ Histic Epipedon (A2)
_ Sandy Redox (S5)
_ Coast Proms Redox (At6) (LRR F, G, H)
_ Black Histic (A3)
_ Stripped Matrix (S6)
_ Dark Surface (S7) (LRR O)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
_ Loamy Mucky Mineral (171)
_ High Plains Depressions (1776)
_ Stratified Layers (A5) (LRR F)
_ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
(LRR H outside of MLRA 72 & 73)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR F, G, H)
_ Depleted Matrix (F3)
_ Reduced VerBc (F18)
_ Depleted Below Dark Surface (All)
_ Redox Dark Surface (176)
_ Red Parent Material (TF2)
Thick Dark Surface (At 2)
_ Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
_ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12)
Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1)
_ Redox Depressions (F8)
_ Other (Explain in Remarks)
2.5 crn Mucky Peat or Post (S2) (LRR G, H)
_ High Plains Depressions (F16)
'Indicators of hydmphybc vegetation and
_ 5 cm Mucky Peat or Peat (S3) (LRR F)
(MLRA 72 & 73 of LRR H)
wetiand hydrdogy must be prssent,
udess disturbed or problematic
Restrictive Layer (8 present):
Typo:
Depth (Inches):
Hydric Soil Present? Yes _ No X
Remarks:
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Primary Indicators (minimum
of one reoumed check
_ Surface Water (All
all that andv) Secondary
_ Salt Crust (811)
Indicators (minimum of two reaulredl
_ Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
_ High Water Table (A2)
_ Aquatic Invertebrates(813)
_ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (88)
_ Saturation (A3)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (Cl)
_ Drainage Patterns (810)
_ Woter Marks (B1)
_ Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
_ Oxidized Rhizoaphoms on Living Roots (C3)
_ Satlinant Deposits (B2)
_ Oxidized Rhizosphares on Living Roots (C3)
(whom tilled)
_ Drift Deposits (B3)
(where not tilled)
_ Crayfish Burrows (CO)
_ Algol Mat or Crust (B4)
_ Presence of Reduced Iran (C4)
_ Saturator, Visible an Aerial Imagery (C9)
_ Iron Deposits (85)
_ Thin Muck Surface (C7)
_ Gemorphic Position (D2)
_ Inundator, Visible on Aerial Imagery (87)
_ Other (Explain in Remarks)
_ FAC-Neutral Test IDS)
_ Water -Stained Leaves (B9)
_ Fmsi-Heave Hummocks (D7) (LRR F)
Field 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_ No X
includes capillary fringe)
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), If available
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 officinalis), 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.com/utilities/what-we-do/stonnwater/floodin 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.
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Waterglen
Ecological Characterization Study
2.9 Wildlife Migration Corridors
Most wildlife migration through the area can be expected to move along the Latimer 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 1 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. htp://www.fcgov.conVutilities/what-we-
do/stormwater/floodin /g floodplain-maps-documents
Colorado Parks and Wildlife Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Raptors.
httn://caw.state.co.us/Documents/WildlifeSt)ecies/LivinQW ithWildlife/RantorBufferGuid
elines2008.pdf
National Wetland Inventory Mapper. Accessed on December 1, 2014.
http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/Data/Mapper.htn-il
Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Colorado Raptors
(h!tps://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/WildlifeSMcies/LivingWithWildli fe/RantorBufferGu
idelines2008.pdf 1.
Wildlife Management Guidelines, City of Fort Collins.
http://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/pdf/wildlife-management-guidelines pdf
9
Waterglen
Ecological Characterization Study
Appendix A: Project Maps
4
J
7
Natural Features Map
3
R
M.
1
2
Waterglen
Sandbox Solar
Natural Features
Map
❑ Waterglen Property
Roads
Streams
— Proposed Solar Array
Natural Habitats
Aquatic
® Wet Meadow
Photo Point
0 250 500 ft
Data Sources:
Cite of Fort Collins (CO)
larimer Count% (CO)
6 NAIP 2ot7
�GARDEttWnLGT
Projection:
• UTRt Zone 13N. N_4D 83
%be Inlf orinutHl11 ioa this alull k ni,,t tip hL' o iuFtrued 1Ir uwd us
a 7cgaf dattription."Pararl boundurKn an, beh tvd to be
uavrak. but mvur uy ie mg yuarantard.
Map by Red Beard Science
U1
Wetlands Map
Waterglen
Sandbox Solar
Wetlands Map
Roads
W4, U4 Streams
Wetland Line (0.09 acres)
Wetland (0.04 acres)
50-ft. Wetland Buffer
Sample Pit
cetnc LN — Proposed Solar Array
U2 , Wetland Sample Point
• � W 1
U3
a
0 250 Soo ft
Data Sources:
Blue Mountain Environmental Considting
NAIP ^_al
Projection:
UTM Zone 13N. MAD 83
he infurtnuti.m r er thu map is nad to h¢ n nrstnud ur uxd us
u 'kgal dtxcriptiun.'t'anrf 6nundarks un• 6tlinxd to by
mrnrute. but acnrravu iv nnl ynurani
Red Beard Science
9