HomeMy WebLinkAbout025 17STATE OF WASHINGTON
County of Jefferson
Dedication of Conservation Futures Funds to the }
Snow Creek Uncas Preserve Taylor project as }
Authorized by and in Accordance with Jefferson } RESOLUTION NO. 25-17
County Code Section 3.08.030(7) to Provide a }
System. of Public Open Spaces }
WHEREAS, conservation futures tax levy collections, authorized under RCW 84.34.230
are an important means of retaining community character and accomplishing the open space policies
and objectives of the Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan that encourage the coordinated acquisition
of key open space lands for long-term protection; and
WHEREAS, Jefferson County is authorized by RCW 84.34.210 and 84.34.220 to
acquire open space land, agricultural and timber lands as defined in RCW 84.34.220; and
WHEREAS, the Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee has reviewed
project applications for 2017 and made its funding recommendations to the Board of County
Commissioners in accordance with Jefferson County Code Chapter 3.08; and
WHEREAS, under the provisions of the Jefferson County Conservation Futures
Program, the Jefferson Land Trust, as project sponsor, requests funding towards acquisition of one
parcel of forested land in Sec. 36 T. 29N, R. 1W with Assessor's Parcel Number 902362004; and
WHEREAS, the County retains enough developable land to accommodate the Snow
Creek Uncas Preserve Taylor project as well as the housing and employment growth that it is expected
to receive, thus satisfying the requirements of Chapter 449, Laws of 2005; and
WHEREAS, Jefferson County considers it in the best public interest to contribute
financially to this open space project.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that:
Jefferson County hereby dedicates up to $9,434 in conservation futures funds in the
2017 funding cycle for acquisition expenses contingent on a matching contribution of
eighty percent (80%) of the total project cost.
Resolution No. 2 S 1:7 re: Dedication of Conservation Futures Funds to Snow Creek Uncas Preserve
Taylor project
2. Jefferson County hereby dedicates up to $4,000 in conservation futures funds to
reimburse for operations and maintenance expenses incurred within ten years of the
signing of this resolution contingent on a matching contribution of no less than the
amount of conservation futures funds requested.
3. This dedication of funding may be nullified if a submittal for reimbursement,
accompanied by documentation of matching funds sufficient to complete the
acquisition, is not received from the sponsor within three years of the signing of this
resolution.
APPROVED AND -4jW PTED this floday of
SEAL:
ATTEST':
Carolyn
Deputy Clerk of the Board
1!�/Z �'`e- , 2017 in Port Townsend, Washington.
JEFFERSON COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
*A"� 4��
Kathleen r, Chair
Davi u 1v ember
T
Kate Dean, Member
e V _ Regular Agenda
615 Sheridan Street
Port Townsend, WA 98368
O`www.JeffersonCountyPublicHealth.org
Public 1-legalit
June 13, 2017
JEFFERSON COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA REQUEST
TO: Board of County Commissioners
Philip Morley, County Administrator
FROM: Tami Pokorny, Environmental Health Specialist II
DATE: June 19, 2017
SUBJECT: Agenda Request: Public Hearing and Possible Decision
Regarding Applications for Conservation Futures Funding in
2017
STATEMENT OF ISSUE:
On June 5h, the BoCC approved a Public Hearing Notice to hold a public hearing on the Conservation
Futures Program project applications received in 2017 on July 19, 2017 at 10:30 AM. The notice was
published in the Port Townsend & Jefferson County Leader on June 7 and June 14, 2017. The
Conservation Futures Program (JCC 3.08) requires a duly noticed public hearing to be held as part of the
public process of allocating conservation futures funding to worthy projects that protect public open
spaces. After the hearing, the BoCC may decide which project(s) to fund by passing resolution(s) to
include a factual finding as to whether each project would reduce the county's capacity to accommodate
growth.
ANALYSIS/STRATEGIC GOALS:
The four applications for conservation futures funding are:
1. Ialitzin Farm, $110,000 towards the purchase of a conservation easement on three parcels of
agriculture, riparian, and forested lands currently used as a performing arts venue totaling 53 acres in the
upper Tarboo Creek watershed. The proposed match of $110,000 includes a partial donation of the
conservation easement's value and cash from private sources for operations and maintenance activities.
Jefferson Land Trust is the project sponsor. Northwest Watershed Institute is the project applicant. Project
location: Sec.17, T.28N, RAW.
W.
2. Lower Duckabush River Estuaj)� Open Space, $55,800 towards the fee simple acquisition of 0.80 acres
of floodplain along Pierce Creek in proximity to the lower Duckabush River south of Brinnon, and
$16,200 to reimburse operations and maintenance expenses. The site is currently used by the Brinnon Fire
Department. The proposed match is $57,400 from a pending Recreation and Conservation Office Salmon
Community Health Environmental Health
Developmental Disabilities Water Quality
360-385-9400 360-385-9444
360-385-9401 (f) Always working for a safer and healthier community (f) 360-379-4487
Recovery Funding Board grant. Jefferson County Environmental Health is the project sponsor. Hood
Canal Salmon Enhancement Group is the project applicant. Project location: Sec. 16, T25N, R.2W.
3. Serendipity Farm, $106,600 towards the acquisition of a conservation easement on four parcels of
actively used agricultural land totaling approximately 45 acres located along Cemetary Drain in the Little
Quilcene River watershed just north of Quilcene. The proposed match of $106,600 is a pending WA State
Conservation Commission State Farmland Preservation grant. Jefferson Land Trust is the project sponsor
and applicant. Project location: Sec. 14, T.27N, R.2W.
4. Snow Creek Uncas Preserve Taylor, $9,434 towards the fee -simple acquisition of approximately 2.5
acres of forested and riparian land along Snow Creek and $4,000 to reimburse operations and
maintenance expenses. The proposed match is $53,461 from a Recreation and Conservation Office
Salmon Recovery Funding Board grant secured in 2015. Jefferson Land Trust is the project sponsor and
applicant. Project location: Sec.36, T.29N, R.IW.
At its May 3, 2017 meeting, the Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee voted to
recommend three of the four projects (Iglitzin Farm, Serendipity Farm, and Snow Creek Uncas
Preserve Taylor) as worthy of funding at the full requested amounts.
This briefing packet contains:
• Four conservation futures project applications and the relevant sponsor information:
1). Iglitzin Farm
2). Lower Duckabush River Estuary Open Space
3). Serendipity Farm
4). Snow Creek Uncas Preserve Taylor
5). Sponsor Information - Jefferson Land Trust
• Map of conservation futures projects 2003-2016
• Matrix of conservation futures applications 2003-2016
• Findings from Joel Peterson, Jefferson County Department of Community Development
associate planner regarding the four projects, all of which are located in the County.
• Draft resolutions to award funding to each of the three projects recommended by the CF
Committee at the recommended award levels (three at full funding and one at no funding).
The purpose of the CF Program is to address the "general and increasing need to provide a system of
public open spaces... for the health, welfare, benefit and safety of the residents of Jefferson County," and
to maintain "Jefferson County as a desirable place to live, visit and locate businesses." Conservation
futures tax levy collections, authorized under RCW 84.34.230 are an important means of retaining
community character and accomplishing open space policies and objectives of the Jefferson County
Comprehensive Plan. The goal of the program is to preserve and protect the county's open space
resources from development, and from being "negatively and permanently affected."
On January 3, 2006, the BOCC approved Ordinance No. 01-0103-06 in response to Chapter 449 of that
year which allowed up to 15% of the conservation future levy monies raised in the preceding year to be
used for operations and maintenance needs. Fifteen percent of the revenue for in 2016 ($244,237.48) is
$36,636, well in excess of the $20,200 for operations and maintenance requested this year for all four
projects. Chapter 449 also states that local governments must consider and analyze whether new CF
projects would reduce capacity to accommodate planned growth.
Community Health Environmental Health
Developmental Disabilities Water Quality
360-385-9400 360-385-9444
360-385-9401 (t) Always working for a safer and healthier community (f) 360-379-4487
Grant agreements for approved projects between Jefferson Land Trust and the county will be developed
by Environmental Health and submitted to the BoCC for approval.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The explicit purpose of the Conservation Futures Program is to fund acquisition projects to support a
system of public open spaces. There is no impact to the General Fund for this effort. The balance for
Conservation Futures Fund #308 at the end of May was $761,674.25. The total request for funding equals
$302,304. The three projects recommended for funding by the CF Committee total $226,034 for
acquisition and $4,000 for reimbursement of O & M expenses for the Snow Creek Uncas Preserve Taylor.
Up to $297,000 is available to award from the Conservation Futures Fund in this cycle including, as
stated above, up to $36,636 to reimburse O & M expenses.
The following projects are anticipated to close during the remainder of 2017:
Midori Farm: $94,626 Resolution No. 22-15
Big Quilcene River - Moon Valley Reach: $5,000 Resolution No. 28-16
Snow Creek (remaining funds): $25,924 Resolution No's 29-14 and 05-15
Irondale Beach County Park Additions: $22,000 Resolution No. 29-16
Tarboo Creek, Farm, and Forest: $97,100 Resolution No. 30-16
The following project is anticipated to close after 2017:
Bishop Dairy Preservation: $56,225 Resolution No. 20-15
A third quarter Supplemental Budget Appropriation request is anticipated this year for any projects
approved in 2017.
RECOMMENDATION:
1) Review the four project proposals brought forth by the Oversight Committee.
2) Hold a public hearing on June 19, 2017, at 10:30 AM. Consider the written and oral testimony from
the CF Committee Chair and hearing and adopt any of the enclosed funding resolutions (with or
without revisions) for project proposals and funding amounts that the Commissioners may wish to
approve.
REVIEWED BY:
Philip Morley, Cou ty min4s�Date
Community Health
Developmental Disabilities
360-385-9400
360-385-9401 (f)
Always working for a safer and healthier community
Environmental Health
Water Quality
360-385-9444
(f) 360-379-4487
gON 2017 Jefferson County Conservation Futures Program
Property Acquisition and/or
IN ��SHo Operations and Maintenance Project Application
Please complete the following application in its entirety. Be sure to answer "N/A" for questions that don't apply
to the project. Incomplete applications will not be accepted for consideration.
Unless directed otherwise, use as much space as needed to answer each question.
Contact program staff at 379-4498 or tpokornyPco.iefferson.wa.us with questions.
Background i i i Information
1. Project Title: Snow Creek Uncas Preserve Taylor
2. Conservation Futures Acquisition Request: $9,434
Conservation Futures O&M Request: $4,000
3. Total Conservation Futures Request: $13,434
4. Please indicate the type of interest contemplated in the acquisition process.
X Warranty Deed —Easement _ Other (Please describe below.)
In whose name will the property title be held after acquisition?
Jefferson Land Trust
5. Applicant Information
Name of Applicant or Organization: Jefferson Land Trust
Contact: Sarah Spaeth
Title: Director, Conservation and Strategic Partnerships
Address: 1033 Lawrence Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Phone: (360) 379-9501, ext. 101 Fax: (360) 379-9897
Email: sspaeth at—saveland.org
6. Sponsor Information: (if different than applicant)
Organization Name:
Contact:
Title:
Address:
Phone: () - ext. Fax: ext.
Email:
This application was approved by the sponsor's legally responsible body (e.g., board, council, etc.) on
March 21, 2017.
7. Site Location
Street Address or Description of Location:
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 1
W ,
172 Wycoff Road, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Driving Directions from Port Townsend:
Travel south from Port Townsend on Highway 20 to the intersection with Highway 101 at the
head of Discovery Bay. Turn south onto 101 and travel to West Uncas Road. Turn right
onto West Uncas, and then across Snow Creek and immediately left onto Wycoff.
Section: 36
Township: T29N
Range: R1 W
Assessor's Parcel Number(s): 902 362 004
Please differentiate current and proposed ownership of each APN and indicate if the parcel is to be
acquired with CF funds or used as match.
Jefferson Land Trust plans to purchase a portion of the Taylor property (above TPN 902 362
004) that is east of Wycoff Road. We will apply to the Jefferson County DCD for segregation of
that part of the property from the remainder that is west of Wycoff Road.
Please list the assessed values for each property or APN, as applicable.
AV = $121,459 for the total property.
S. Existing Conditions
New Site: Yes No
Addition to Existing Site: Yes No
Total Project Acreage (if different): -26.5
Number of Parcels: l
Acres to Be Acquired: — 2.5
Current Zoning: RR 1:5
Existing Structures/Facilities: None on the section of property to be acquired
Any current covenants, easements or restrictions on land use: None that we are aware of
Current Use: Native mature undeveloped forest
Waterfront (name of body of water):
Shoreline (linear feet):
Owner Tidelands/Shorelands:
9. Current Property Owner X is _is not a willing seller.
gmmm1k • �
10. In 1,000 words or less, provide a summary description of the project, the match, overarching goal, and
three top objectives. Include information about the physical characteristics of the site that is proposed for
acquisition with Conservation Futures Program funds including: vegetation, topography, surrounding land
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 2
use, and relationship to parks, trails, and open space. Describe the use planned for the site, any
development plans after acquisition (including passive development), characteristics of the site which
demonstrate that it is well-suited to the proposed use, and plans for any structures currently on the site. If
applicable, describe how the site relates to the larger project, and whether the project has a plan, schedule
and funding dedicated to its completion. Please also list any important milestones for the project or critical
dates, e.g. grant deadlines. List the dates and explain their importance. Please attach a spreadsheet of the
budget.
Jefferson Land Trust is applying for funds to acquire a -2.5 acre property located adjacent to
Snow Creek, providing important forested buffer in the Snow/Salmon Creek watershed near
the head of Discovery Bay in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The Taylor property connects with
Jefferson Land Trust's existing Snow Creek Uncas Preserve at approximately river mile 1.3.
Our goal is to acquire the 2.5 acre portion of the Taylor property that is to the east of Wycoff
Road, to add to the adjacent Land Trust Snow Creek Uncas Preserve, thereby increasing the
protection of forested slopes draining directly into Snow Creek. The remainder of the -10 acre
Taylor property west of Wycoff Road will stay in private ownership.
Preservation of this property will build on efforts of Jefferson Land Trust, Chumsortium
partners and the Salmon Recovery Funding Board (SRFB) to protect intact habitat in the Snow
Creek Watershed for multiple wildlife species including; threatened summer chum and
steelhead, coho, fall chum, and cutthroat trout. Summer chum are among the species seen as
most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. According to WDFW, spotted owls have also
been observed in the area. Preserving and enhancing the mature forest, riparian and buffer
habitat here will augment ongoing efforts in the Snow Creek watershed to provide a continuous
protected corridor from the salt waters of Discovery Bay to headwaters in the Olympic
Mountains, enabling species movement, providing resilience and, as much as possible,
maintaining normative ecological processes that will be affected by the changing seasonal
temperatures and precipitation patterns associated with climate change. Snow Creek from
here to Discovery Bay is particularly important because it is used by ESA summer chum and
steelhead during all stages of their fresh water life. Snow Creek in the downstream agricultural
area has benefitted from restoration ranging from re -meandering to CREP buffer planting
along the existing channel, although gaps in riparian vegetation still exist. These gaps
contribute to higher water temperatures in the summer months, and narrower or non-existent
buffers increase the risk of runoff that is detrimental to water quality.
The property is characterized by a complex, mature native forest of mostly fir and red cedar.
There is no infrastructure on-site. Property to the north and east is preserved by Jefferson
Land Trust. Much of the parcel is a level plateau approximately 30 feet above Snow Creek. A
ravine runs from the southwest across the property, dropping 60' to the creek and delivering
seasonal run-off from the foothills of the Olympics into Snow Creek at the current upstream
extent of spawning summer chum salmon. The property also drops off 50' steeply at the
southeast corner into the channel migration zone and floodplain habitat of Snow Creek.
Changing precipitation patterns due to climate change are predicted to result in less snow,
more rain, and higher peak flows of runoff, highlighting the need for robust riparian buffers to
reduce sedimentation in the creek. The Land Trust plans to maintain the mature forest in its
natural state to facilitate future climate adaptations, and remove noxious weed species and
trash as needed.
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 3
The Land Trust received a SRFB grant in 2015 that will be used to fund the majority of the
project costs of acquiring the Taylor property along with some weed removal, in addition to a
restoration project on another site downstream on Snow Creek. These grant funds are
currently available for acquisition and related costs, though we need matching funds to
complete the project and are looking to CFF for that match.
Project Goal: Preserve one of the last parcels of native mature forest in the lower main -stem of
Snow Creek for wildlife, salmon habitat, and water quality.
Top Objectives:
• Receive CFF grant award to match our existing SRFB grant
• Apply to Jefferson County for parcel segregation
• Purchase and preserve the portion of Taylor property to the east of Wycoff Road
• Remove noxious weed species and conduct ongoing stewardship and maintenance.
• Develop a long-term management plan to sustain the existing ecosystem values.
11. Estimate costs below, including the estimated or appraised value of the propert(ies) or property right(s)
to be acquired, even if Conservation Futures funds will only cover a portion of the total project cost. In the
case of projects involving multiple acquisitions, please break out appraisals and estimated acquisition costs
by parcel.
Estimated or Appraised Value of Propert(ies) to be Acquired: $50,000.00
Total Estimated Acquisition -related Cost (see Conservation Futures Manual for eligible costs): $12,895
Total Operation and Maintenance Cost: $4,000
Total Project Cost: $66,895
Basis for Estimates (include information about how the property value(s) was determined, anticipated
acquisition -related costs, general description of operation and maintenance work to be performed, task list
with itemized budget, and anticipated schedule for completion of work):
The total value for the Taylor property was determined to be $155,000, as reflected in an
appraisal conducted by SH&H Valuation and Consulting, dated November 3, 2016. The
eastern portion of the Taylor property that we propose to acquire was appraised at $50,000.
Operations and Maintenance: The Snow Creek Uncas Preserve is a focus of Jefferson Land
Trust's restoration and enhancement efforts. We have an active program to address noxious
weed pressures, trash accumulation, and inappropriate development of trails in sensitive
habitats. Estimates are based on 8.0 hr x $50/hr for 10 years ($4,000) to perform annual
monitoring, report -writing and document storage, and to coordinate volunteer site maintenance
to manage noxious weeds, trash, or other stewardship needs.
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 4
Taylor Project related costs
Timeline
Est. Cost
Land acquisition
Fall 2017
$50,000
Land acquisition related costs: title, management
plan, survey, County parcel segregation fees,
closing taxes, etc
Fall 2017
$9,900
Project Management, Admin and legal fees
Fall 2017
$2,995
Operations and Maintenance
2017-2027
$4,000
Total
$66,895
1 a. Sponsor or other organizations X will will not contribute to acquisition of proposed site and/or
operation and maintenance activities.
1 b. If applicable, please describe below how contributions from groups or agencies will reduce the need to
use Conservation Futures program funds.
Jefferson Land Trust received a Salmon Recovery Funding Board grant for habitat
preservation in this area of Snow Creek. 80% of the project costs will be provided through the
SRFB grant.
1 c. Matching Fund Estimate Acquisition O&M %
Conservation Futures Funds Requested $9,434 $4,000 20%
Matching Funds/Resources* $53,461
80%
Total Project Acquisition Cost $62,895 $4,000 100%
* If a prior acquisition is being proposed as match, please describe and provide documentation of value, location,
date of acquisition and other information that would directly link the match to the property being considered for
acquisition.
1 d. Source of matching Amount of Contribution If not, Contribution If not,
funds/resources contribution approved? when? available now? when?
2015 SRFB Grant $ 53,461 Yes No Yes No
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 5
NOTE: Matching funds are strongly recommended and a higher rating will be assigned to those projects that
guarantee additional resources for acquisition. Donation ofproperty or a property right will be considered as
a matching resource. Donation of resources for on-going maintenance or stewardship ("in-kind"
contributions) are not eligible as a match.
2 a. Sponsoring agency X is _is not prepared to provide long-term stewardship (easement monitoring,
maintenance, up -keep, etc.) for the proposed project site.
2 b. Describe any existing programs or future plans for stewardship of the property, including the nature
and extent of the commitment of resources to carry out the stewardship plan.
Jefferson Land Trust will be engaging volunteers to inventory relevant current habitat
conditions and special ecological features that will drive management plan development, and
to remove noxious weeds on the Taylor property shortly after acquiring the parcel. In addition,
we perform a site inspection of all Land Trust -owned properties, including those secured with
CFF funding sponsored by the Land Trust, no less than annually, and in some cases quarterly.
Monitoring of Jefferson Land Trust properties includes documentation of any changes that
have occurred since the acquisition, or since any previous monitoring visit. These monitoring
visits will result in a written monitoring report, with photographs and written descriptions
documenting any relevant changes. The written reports will be reviewed by the Jefferson Land
Trust staff to help determine if activity on the property is consistent with the protection of the
conservation values of the property.
Monitoring will be conducted regularly also to ensure site objectives are being achieved. The
following types of monitoring will be conducted at this site:
Annual Site Monitoring - This monitoring includes inspecting boundaries and management
zones/habitat inodes to ensure trespass and/or encroachment is not occurring on properties
and/or any other inappropriate uses of the site are occurring.
Land Change Monitoring - This will help identify potential impacts to habitat features or
qualities of the site. Changes may include naturally -occurring disturbances such as fallen
trees, or human -caused impacts such as trash dumping.
Development Monitoring - This will document any changes in Preserve infrastructure.
Access Monitoring - This will help to identify any current or potential future impacts to site
related to changes in Preserve access by members of the public. This monitoring will occur
through observations of perceived impacts and estimations of frequency of visitors observed
during monitoring visits.
Surrounding Land Use Monitoring - This will help to identify any potential direct or indirect
impacts to the integrity of the site, including hydrologic function. This monitoring will occur
through incidental observations during annual monitoring or other site activities within the
vicinity of the site.
Habitat and Wildlife Monitoring - Wildlife monitoring will generally be conducted incidentally
while on site. This effort will involve recording wildlife observations, tracks or other sign in
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 6
monitoring reports. In order to determine species composition and utilization of habitat, other
non-invasive methods may be employed, such as wildlife cameras, which can be helpful in
detecting use by more reclusive or nocturnal species. Other tools could include scat or hair
analysis or species specific surveys.
Stewardship Needs - Stewardship needs will be noted as part of the monitoring visit, to identify
actions necessary to reduce current or prevent future negative impacts to the conservation
values of the site. Example: Return to pull ivy that is threatening forest buffer.
3 a. Describe the sponsoring agency's previous or on-going stewardship experience.
Jefferson Land Trust, formed in 1989 and accredited in 2009, will hold title to the Taylor
property. The Land Trust has been stewarding conservation easements since 1991 and
currently holds and monitors 57 conservation easements in Jefferson County, in addition to
conducting monitoring and stewardship activities on the 517 acres it owns in fee. Stewardship
activities are carried out by professional staff with the assistance of volunteer Preserve
Stewards. The Hoh River Trust and Washington State Parks contract with Jefferson Land
Trust to monitor and steward nearly 7400 acres of land under their control. In addition,
Jefferson Land Trust stewards land owned by Jefferson County, the City of Port Townsend
and Department of Natural Resources. Jefferson Land Trust stewardship and monitoring
protocols were developed with the guidance of the Land Trust Alliance and adherence to those
protocols is one of the requirements for our national accreditation.
3 b. Has the sponsor and/or applicant of this project been involved in other projects previously approved
for Conservation Futures funding?
No, neither the sponsor nor applicant has been involved in a project previously approved for
Conservation Futures funds.
X Yes, the sponsor and/or applicant for this project has been involved in a project previously approved
for Conservation Futures funds. Please provide details:
Jefferson Land Trust has sponsored numerous applications that have received Conservation
Futures funds. These projects include: Sunfield Farm, 2003; Quimper Wildlife Corridor, 2004;
East Tarboo Creek Conservation Project, 2005; Tamanowas Rock Phase 1, 2006; the Winona
Buffer Project, 2006; Glendale Farm, 2007; Finnriver Farm, 2008; Quimper Wildlife Corridor,
2009; Brown Dairy, 2009; Salmon Creek Ruck 2010, Quimper Wildlife Corridor 2010;
Tamanowas Rock 2010; Chimacum Creek Carleson 2011; Winona Basin - Bloedel 2011; L.
Brown 2012, Boulton Farm 2012; Quimper Wildlife Corridor and Short Family Farm 2013;
Quimper Wildlife Corridor and Snow Creek Irvin and Jenks, 2014; Midori Farm, 2015; QWC
2016 Addition: Tarboo Creek, Farm and Forest 2016.
4 a. Property X can _cannot feasibly be acquired in a timely fashion with available resources.
4 b. Necessary commitments and agreements are X are not in place.
Jefferson Land Trust will apply to Jefferson County for parcel segregation of the Taylor
property to the east of Wycoff Road, resulting in the remaining parcel at below minimal lot size
according to county code.
4 c. All parties X are are not in agreement on the cost of acquisition.
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 7
If "not " to any of the above, please explain below
5. The proposed acquisition X is specifically identified in an adopted open space, conservation, or resource
preservation program or plan, or community conservation effort. Please describe below, including the
site's importance to the plan. Please reference the website of the plan if available or include the plan with
this application.
_ complements an adopted open space or conservation plan, but is not specifically identified. Please
describe below, and describe how the proposed acquisition is consistent with the plan.
_is a stand-alone project.
The properties in this proposal are located in the Discovery Bay project area which has been
the focus of protection and restoration efforts by Chumsortium partners since 2000. In 2015,
the HCCC has identified Snow Creek Summer Chum salmon as core stock for the eastern
Straits of Juan de Fuca population of Hood Canal Summer Chum (Guidance for Prioritizing
Salmonid stocks, Issues, and Actions for the Hood Canal Coordinating Council, 2015).
The WDFW/Point No Point Summer Chum Conservation Initiative is clear about the
importance of projects like this one: "To sustain and recover summer chum salmon
populations, functional and accessible fish habitat is essential. This includes both existing
salmonid habitat in its present condition, as well as degraded habitat in need of restoration. It
will also require protection and restoration of the productive capacity of habitat. Areas used by
summer chum salmon to complete their life history needs must be protected or restored,
including instream, riparian, estuarine, and wetland ecosystems, and the upland activities and
processes that affect them."
Protection priorities in WDFW's draft Snow -Salmon Watershed Management Plan include
"riparian floodplain and stream flow and habitat quality" and in the same plan, restoration
priorities include "restore and/or enhance natural riparian integrity through the following
actions: plant and maintain riparian areas, encourage conifer regeneration, control exotic
vegetation." This project includes all these actions.
While it relates to other nearby watersheds, the National Marine Fisheries Service 2006
Supplement to the Puget Sound Recovery Plan notes that "NMFS agrees with the Shared
Strategy Plan that protecting functioning habitat is one of the top priorities and first steps for
achieving a viable ESU." and we suggest that the priorities can be expected to apply to this
watershed also.
In addition, the Snow Creek watershed is identified on the Jefferson County's Comprehensive
Plan map as Parks, Recreation Areas, Conservation Easements and Areas for Future
Cooperative Preservation Efforts.
In Jefferson Land Trust's Conservation Plan, this area has four priority habitat indicator layers
(the maximum). The plan is located on the Land Trust's website, www.saveland.org.
The Nature Conservancy's Ecoregional Assessment categorizes this as both an aquatic and
terrestrial Ecoregional Portfolio site (defined as areas of exceptional biological value and most
likely for conservation to succeed).
6. Conservation Opportunity or Threat:
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 8
6 a. The proposed acquisition X does _does not provide a conservation or preservation opportunity
which would otherwise be lost or threatened.
6 b. If applicable, please carefully describe the nature and immediacy of the opportunity or threat, and any
unique qualities about the site.
The landowner has indicated that that he may need to harvest the trees if he is not able to sell
this portion of his property. Health of Snow Creek is threatened by the possible risk of
sedimentation runoff caused by timber harvest on the upland slope above the creek. Runoff
resulting from the clearcutting of the slope can impact salmon redds and spawning.
Maintaining a mature, healthy stand of native forest will prevent the risk of harmful
sedimentation resulting from harvest.
7. The proposed acquisition:
X provides habitat for State of Washington Priority Habitat and/or State or Federal Threatened,
Endangered or Sensitive species.
X provides habitat for a variety of native flora or fauna species.
X contributes to an existing or future wildlife corridor or migration route.
If affirmative in any of the above, please describe and list the Priority Habitats) and Threatened, Endangered, or
Sensitive species below, and cite or provide documentation of species ' use.1
Anticipated results of the project include perpetual protection of this forested buffer habitat
which will benefit fresh water life stages of summer chum salmon (threatened and one of only
8 extant subpopulations remaining today), Coho salmon, cutthroat and steelhead trout utilizing
Snow Creek. (Summer Salmon Chum Recovery Plan) In addition to documenting occurrence
of these priority species, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Priority Species and
Habitat Report indicates that Northern Spotted Owl have been identified in this township. Other
species benefiting from protected water quality from this high quality habitat as it enters the
estuary include a native Olympia oyster population, white sturgeon, Pacific and brook lamprey,
spawning herring, surf smelt and sand lance. Puget Sound chinook salmon from other systems
likely use the estuary. The habitat also provides,habit for multiple wildlife species. Preserving
a forested riparian corridor from the marine waters of Discovery Bay into the foothills of the
Olympic Mountains is important now as species move seasonally. Its importance will increase
further as fauna and flora move in response to climate change.
7 d. Does the current owner participate in conservation programs that enhance wildlife habitat? If so,
please provide details.
S a. Describe the extent and nature of current and planned agricultural use of the proposed acquisition,
including any anticipated changes to that use once the property, or property right, is acquired with
Conservation Futures funds.
' See, for example, http://www.dnr.wa.gov/researchscience/topics/naturatheritage/pa e� s/amp nh.aspx
http://www.wdfw.wa.jzov/conservation/phs/list/
http://www l.dnr.wa.v-ov/nhp/refdesk/plants.htmi
httn://wwwl.dnr.wa.siov/nhn/refdesk/r)ubs/wa ecoloaical systems.ndf
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 9
None planned
8 b. Describe any current or future management practices that promote the preservation of soil and water
quality and good watershed function
NA 'ala rj
8 c. Describe how the owner employs agricultural management practices that will protect or enhance
wildlife habitat.
1"T
9 a. Describe the extent and nature of current and planned silvicultural use of the proposed acquisition.
Please cite or provide documentation of existing or planned silvicultural activities including forest
management plan(s) or forest ecosystem restoration.
No harvest planned at this time as the forest is in good health.
9 b. Describe the silvicultural management practices that promote the preservation of soil and water
quality and good watershed function on the property.
Jefferson Land Trust will maintain the forest so as to minimize the potential impacts of tree
harvest to water quality and soil erosion.
9 c. Describe the owner's timber harvest plan and harvest methods that will protect or enhance wildlife
habitat on the property.
Noxious weed removal will be conducted to promote healthy native species regeneration.
10. a. Describe how the proposed acquisition benefits primarily a _local area X broad county area
including the area served, the nature of the benefit, the jurisdictions involved, and the populations served.
The proposed acquisition benefits a broad county area and Washington State priorities by
protecting critical habitat for multiple wildlife species and threatened salmon species of this
area. The fact that we have received Salmon Recovery Funding Board support for the project
indicates the regional significance of this project.
10 b. Is the project located in an area that is under -represented by CF funded Projects? Areas that
Conservation Futures has not been able to support to date include Marrowstone Island, Toandos Peninsula,
Dosewallips Valley, Bolton Peninsula, and the West End.
No
11. Describe the educational or interpretive opportunities that exist for providing public access, educational
or interpretive displays (signage, kiosks, etc.) on the proposed site, including any plans to provide those
improvements and any plans for public accessibility.2
The Snow Creek Uncas Preserve provides controlled passive recreational opportunities for the
public, such as walking, salmon viewing and bird watching. If we are successful at preserving
the Taylor property, we will expand opportunities onto this parcel as well. Jefferson Land Trust
currently provides education and stewardship activities for Port Townsend and Chimacum
2 The words "education" and "interpretation" are interpreted broadly by the CF Committee.
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 10
School District students - in 2016 alone we hosted over 260 students who learned about forest
health and the life cycle of salmonids and other wildlife species. The Land Trust also conducts
property tours in areas where conservation values and native habitat provide educational
experience for the public. The larger Salmon Snow Estuary project area has been a place to
inform, educate, involve, mobilize, and build strong support among citizens and communities to
assist in habitat protection, restoration, and stewardship. Acquisition of this property would
provide additional educational and scientific opportunities and limited recreational uses as
described above.
12. The proposed acquisition _ includes historic or culturally significant resources' and
_ is registered with the National Register of Historic Places, or an equivalent program.
is recognized locally has having historic or cultural resources.
_ is adjacent to and provides a buffer for a historic or cultural site.
If affirmative in any of the above, please describe belpw, and cite or provide documentation of the historical or
cultural resources.
n,
NA
13. Sponsors of applications that are approved for funding by the Board of County Commissioners are required to
submit a brief progress report by October 30 every year for three years after the award is approved, or three years
after the acquisition funds are disbursed to the applicant, whichever is later. The progress report must address any
changes in the project focus or purpose, progress in obtaining matching funding, and stewardship and
maintenance. Sponsors receiving O&M funds will also submit an annual report for each year that O&M funds are
expended. The Committee will use the information to develop a project "report card" that will be submitted
annually to the Board of County Commissioners.
If this application is approved for funding, I understand the sponsor is required to submit progress reports for
three years and for any year in which O&M funds are expended. Initials Date
14. If, three years after the date funding is approved by the Board of County Commissioners, the applicants have
not obtained the required matching funds, the Committee may request the Board of County Commissioners to
nullify their approval of funds, and may require the project to re -apply.
If this application is approved for funding, I understand that we may be required to re -submit the application if the
project sponsor does not obtain the necessary matching funding within three years. Initials Date
' Cultural resources means archeological and historic sites and artifacts, and traditional religious ceremonial and
social uses and activities of affected Indian Tribes and mandatory protections of resources under chapters 27.44
and 27.53 RCW
SCUP Taylor CFF application 2017 11
Landowner
Acknowledgement Form'
Landowner Information
Name of Landowner: Eric Taylor
Landowner Contact Information:
❑ Mr. ❑ Ms. Title: Owner
First Name: Eric Last Name: Taylor
Contact Mailing Address: 172 Wycoff Road, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Contact E -Mail Address: spamcan57@gmail.com
Property Address or Location: Same as above - TPN # 902 362 004
1. Landowner is the legal owner of property described in this grant application.
2. 1 am aware that the project is being proposed on my property.
3. If the grant is successfully awarded, I will be contacted and asked to engage in
negotiations.
4. My signature does not represent authorization of project implementation.
5. If I am affiliated with the project sponsor, I will recuse myself from decisions made by the
project sponsor to work on or purchase my property.
Landowner Signature Date
Project Sponsor Information
Project Name: Serendipity Farm
Project Applicant Contact Information: Jefferson Land Trust
❑ Mr. ❑ Ms. Title: Director, Conservation and Strategic Partnerships
First Name: Sarah Last Name: Spaeth
Mailing Address: 1033 Lawrence Street, PT, WA 98368 E -Mail Address: sspaeth@saveland.org
reek
Snow Creek U ncas - Taylor
Locator
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41111 �l U[l
0 0.125 0.25 0.5
Miles
For informational purposes only. All
data represented are from varying
sources and approximate.lia
N
Map created in March, 2017 i
Acquisition Parcel - Taylor
WDFW
Jefferson Land Trust Preserve
Jefferson Land Trust Conservation Easement
reek
Snow Creek U ncas - Taylor
Locator
11t'c�rt' �
41111 �l U[l
0 0.125 0.25 0.5
Miles
For informational purposes only. All
data represented are from varying
sources and approximate.lia
N
Map created in March, 2017 i
Fj-] Acquisition Parcel - Taylor
Jefferson Land Trust Preserve
Snow Creek U ncas - Taylor
Parcel Boundary
0 125 250 500
Feet
2013 Aerial Imagery ESRI
For informational purposes only. All
data represented are from varying •
sources and approximate. N
Map created in March, 2017
SNOW CREEK UNCAS PRESERVE TAYLOR PROJECT
CONSERVATION FUTURES FUNDS ILLUSTRATIONS - 2017
Tributary to Snow Creek that runs through Taylor property from SW to NE.
m
lk VA" VA
a x ,
s
T
y �-
Looking east from south eastern boundary of Taylor