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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBRIEFING re CFCOC funding recommendations /\ 615 Sheridan Street Iff Port Townsend, WA 98368 4` ozn www.JeffersonCountyPublicHealth.org ol Public Heacilt JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AGENDA REQUEST TO: Board of County Commissioners Mark McCauley, County Administrator FROM: Michael Dawson, Water Quality Manager, Environmental Public Health Tami Pokorny, Natural Resources Program Manager DATE: May 19, 2025 SUBJECT: Briefing of Conservation Futures Fund Citizen Oversight Committee funding recommendations for 2025 STATEMENT OF ISSUE: Public Health and Conservation Futures Fund Citizen Oversight Committee (CFF Committee) Chair Joanne Pontrello request an opportunity to present the Committee's funding recommendations for 2025. ANALYSIS: Three project applications for Conservation Futures funding were received in 2025: 1. Deerfoot Forest 2. Toandos Forest Acquisition and Restoration 3. Upper Yarr Creek Protection Conservation Futures funds available to projects in 2025 equal $323,200.The combined total funding request for this year is less than the amount available, at $230,500. At its April 22nd meeting, the CFF Committee voted to recommend fully funding all three projects. The purpose of the CFF 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." Community Health Environmental Public 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 Public Health will separately request that the BoCC hold a public hearing on the applications and make funding determinations in the coming weeks. The applications and other materials will be included with that briefing packet as well and may be viewed online at http://www.co.*efferson.wa.us/commissioners/Conservation/conservation.asp. FISCAL IMPACT: Costs for the presentation are negligible. RECOMMENDATION: Public Health recommends that BoCC review the three project applications brought to the CFF Committee, hear the Chair's presentation of the Committee's recommendations, and ask questions. REVIEWED BY: Mark McCauley unty Administrator I 6ate Community Health Environmental Public 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 615 Sheridan Street A- n Port Townsend, WA 98368 6 www.JeffersonCountyPublicHealth.org Public Health TO: Jefferson County Board of Commissioners FROM: Joanne Pontrello,Chair Conservation Futures Fund Citizen Oversight Committee DATE: SUBJECT: Conservation Futures Fund Citizen Oversight Committee—2025 funding round recommendations As the Chair of the Conservation Futures Fund Citizen Oversight Committee(CFF Committee), I am writing to provide you with our funding recommendations for the 2025 cycle.As authorized in RCW 84.34 and by the direction of the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners,the CFF Committee receives and reviews applications from the community to fund projects that will conserve lands as open space for compatible economic uses, habitat for fish and wildlife, and enjoyment. This past March,the CFF Committee received three applications for consideration in this cycle,that are presented with this memo.Also presented are the Sponsors' responses to some clarifying questions asked by the Committee. Two projects are sponsored by Northwest Watershed Institute(NWI), and one by Jefferson Land Trust(JLT).These sponsoring agencies meet the requirements of"nonprofit nature conservancy corporations",as defined by RCW 84.34.250.All three projects are located in Jefferson County and outside of the City of Port Townsend. • Deerfoot Forest—JLT requests$98,000 in acquisition funding and $12,000 in O& M funding for a total request of$110,000 towards a conservation easement(JLT provides 51% matching funds). • Toandos Forest—NWI requests$76,000 in acquisition funding and$18,500 in O&M funding for a total request of$94,500 towards a fee simple purchase(NWI provides 50% matching funds). • Upper Yarr Creek—NWI requests a total of$26,000 in acquisition funding toward a fee simple purchase(NWI provides 50%matching funds). This 2025 funding cycle,there are$323,200 in CFF funds available to support these projects.The total amount requested is$230,500. CFF Committee members toured the project sites on March 111h,and Sponsors made presentations about their projects and answered initial questions during our April 1"CFF Committee meeting. Additional questions raised by the Committee were provided to,and answered by,Sponsors Community Health Environmental Public 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 through staff over email. Each Committee member separately scored the projects on a set of 13 criteria in order to assess the merits of protecting each property for open space and the likelihood of project success.The project ranking,as determined by the scores,was reviewed,discussed,and confirmed at the April 22"d meeting. The CFF Committee ranked the projects as follows: 1. Toandos Forest—199 average points(75%of total available points) 2. Upper Yarr Creek—167 average points(66%of total available points) 3. Deerfoot Forest—163 average points(64%of total available points) Neither Deerfoot Forest nor Upper Yarr Creek scored at or above the 70%cutoff score required by the Program Manual to be automatically considered worthy of funding. In both cases,the committee saw that the conservation values of the projects were in actuality worthy of funding for the following reasons: Deerfoot Forest is an"ecological island"that has been managed well and has developed into a mature forest over the last 50 years. It has hydrologic value for two watersheds, which are protected further downstream. Upper Yarr Creek is a small,yet important property which is adjacent to a much larger preserve,and the conservation values are well-worth the low price of the property. If not preserved, it is likely that this section of the creek will see significant disturbance,which could compromise the work already being done downstream to project salmon habitat. After review of the scoring data, and further discussion and evaluation,the Committee arrived at the following funding recommendations: • The Committee voted unanimously that Toandos Forest is worthy of funding. By a second vote,we unanimously recommended full funding at the requested amount of$94,500. • The Committee voted eleven (11) in favor and one(1)against that Upper Yarr Creek is worthy of funding. By a second vote,the Committee voted eleven (11) in favor of and one (1) against recommending full funding at the requested amount of$26,000. • The Committee voted unanimously that Deerfoot Forest is worthy of funding. By a second vote,we unanimously recommended full funding at the requested amount of$110,000. 1 would like to express my gratitude to the Sponsors for submitting these projects,and to the other CFF Committee members for their time and dedication in evaluating these proposals. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at pontrello@gmail.com,or Tami Pokorny at tpokorny co.iefferson.wa.us. I look forward to attending the public hearing when you consider these recommendations and will be happy to discuss them at that time as well. Thank you for your consideration of the CFF Committee's recommendations for the 2025 funding cycle. Community Health Environmental Public 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 Sincerely, Joanne Pontrello Conservation Futures Fund Citizen Oversight Committee,Chair Community Health Environmental Public 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 ¢gON 2025 Jefferson County Conservation Futures Fund Program IN Property Acquisition Project and/or 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(360)379-4498 or tpokorny@co.iefferson.wo.us with questions. Background and Eligibility Information 1. .Project Title:Toandos Forest Acquisition and Restoration 2. Conservation Futures Acquisition Request: $79,500 Conservation Futures O&M Request: $15,000 3. Total Conservation Futures Request: $94,500 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? Northwest Watershed Institute 5. Applicant Information Name of Applicant or Organization: Northwest Watershed Institute Contact: Peter Bahls Title: Executive Director/Conservation Biologist Address: 3407 Eddy Street, Port Townsend,WA 98368 Phone: (360)821-9566,ext. Fax: ext. Email: peter@nwwatershed.org 6. Sponsor Information: (if different than applicant) Same Organization Name: Contact: Title: Address: Phone: . Fax: O - ,ext. This application was approved by the sponsor's legally responsible body(e.g., board, council, etc.)on February 25, 2025 1 2025 CFF Program Application 7. Project Location Street Address or Description of Location: 1125 Toandos Road, Quilcene,WA Driving Directions from Port Townsend: Coyle Road south to Toandos Road. Need gate code to proceed on Toandos Road to"Leaning Firs" sign on left. Section: 15 Township: 27 N Range: 1 W Assessor's Parcel Number(s): 701-153-003 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. The parcel is to be acquired with CF funds Please list the assessed values for each property or APN, as applicable. 701-153-003=$124,257 8. Existing Conditions New Site: Yes No Number of Parcels: 1 Addition to Existing Site: Yes No Acres to Be Acquired: 6.38 Total Project Acreage(if different): Current Zoning: 1 per 5 Existing Structures/Facilities: Yes Any current covenants, easements or restrictions on land use: No Current Use: Residential Waterfront (name of body of water): Discovery Creek watershed, part of Dabob Bay Watershed Shoreline(linear feet): NA Owner Tidelands/Shorelands: NA 9. Current Property Owner X is _is not a willing seller. Project Description 10. In 1,000 words or less,provide a summary description of the project,the match, and why you think preserving this property is important.Name three top objectives for the property(other than those related to funding). Include information about the physical characteristics of the site that is proposed for acquisition with Conservation Futures Fund Program funds including:vegetation,topography, surrounding land 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 project relates to a larger 2 2025 CFF Program Application conservation program (please identify), 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. Background, goals, and objectives Since 2002, Northwest Watershed Institute (NWI),Jefferson Land Trust, and over 40 partnering organizations have been working on a landscape scale project to protect and restore the Tarboo- Dabob Bay watershed, with over 4,000 acres conserved to date along Tarboo Creek and within the state's Dabob Bay Natural Area.The three main objectives of the conservation effort are to: 1) protect and restore the stream and wetland corridor,from the headwaters of Tarboo Creek to Dabob Bay, 2) conserve uplands for sustainable forestry, 3) preserve lands within the Dabob Bay Natural Area. For this project, NWI proposes to acquire and permanently protect and restore a 6.38 acre parcel within the boundaries of the Dabob Bay Natural Area. The property adjoins state protected lands on three sides. The property is mostly forested with a small residence and drains to Discovery Creek.As match to the grant, NWI is proposing to clean up the property, including removal of the cabin, trailers, debris, decommission of roads and septic system, plant native trees, control weeds where needed. Protection and restoration of the property is an important part in the larger landscape scale conservation effort to conserve fish, wildlife, water quality and habitat connectivity of the Dabob Bay ecosystem. Proposed uses The Property will be owned and managed by NWI.The county's required deed restriction language will be added to the Statutory Warranty Deed (SWD)to permanently preserve the Property.A Navy REPI restrictive easement is also proposed that will prevent development. Selective commercial timber harvest of the existing tree plantation will be permitted to restore complex older forest structure and habitat. A walking trail system for supervised public school and other tours is planned. Critical dates and urgency NWI has secured an agreement with the landowner to purchase by June 30, 2025. If NWI cannot purchase,the property will be sold for residential development. Since Conservation Futures funding cannot be secured in time for the NWI purchase, an NWI supporter has agreed to purchase the property and hold until October 2025, then sell to NWI for the same price. As a lower cost option to comply with Conservation Futures manual requirements, NWI is requesting approval from Jefferson County to allow NWI to purchase by June 30,then after the grant agreement is in place later in the summer,to re-record the SWD with the required county deed restriction included (example of re-record of deed in supplemental materials). 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 Fund 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. 3 2025 CFF Program Application 1 Estimated or Appraised Value of Propert(ies)to be Acquired: $145,000 Total Estimated Acquisition-related Cost(see Conservation Futures Manual for eligible costs): $9,500 Total Operation and Maintenance Cost: $34,500 Total Project Cost: $189,000 Budget JCCF Match to Total Request JCCF Cost Timeline Acquistion Hough Property- Fee Simple 70,000 75,000 145,000 Oct-25 Acquisition Related Costs: Appraisal 4,200 4,200 Feb-25 Closing costs 1,800 1,800 O&M Costs -Cleanup and restoration Demo and remove cabin, trailers,junk 7,500 7,500 15,000 Nov-25 Decompact/decommission roads 2,500 2,500 5,000 Nov-25 Planting and weed control - 2 years 3,000 3,000 6,000 Jun-27 Stewardship and forest management plan 2,000 2,000 4,000 Jun-27 Project management and administration 3,500 4,500 8,000 Feb-25-June-27 Total Project Costs 94,5001 94,500 189,000 Percent JCCF match 1 50% Note-Of Project mgt. costs, approx. $3,500 is estimated for acquisition related costs and $4,500 for 0&M. 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): Estimate of fair market value is $145,000 based on a restricted appraisal report by Chad Johnson, SH&H Appraisal, dated February 26, 2025 (see Supplemental Materials). Clean-up and restoration costs are based on NWI's inspection of the site and experience of over 20 years of working with contractors and NWI's field crew to do this type of work. Standalone O & M go to question #14: Scored Questions 1. To what degree does the project leverage contributions for acquisition from groups, agencies or individuals? 4 2025 CFF Program Application i Sponsors or other organizations are required to contribute to acquisition of the proposed site and/or operation and maintenance activities. 1 a. Please describe below how contributions from groups or agencies will reduce the need to use Conservation Futures Fund program funds. Describe 1 b.Matching Fund Estimate Acquisition O&M % Conservation Futures Funds Requested $79,500 $15,000 50% Matching Funds/Resources* $75,000 $19,500 50% Total Project Acquisition Cost $154,500 $34,500 100% *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. I c. Source of matching Amount of Contribution If not, Contribution If not, funds/resources contribution approved? when? available now? when? Navy REPI easement $65,000 Yes No 2025 Yes No 2025 NWI Donations $29,500 Yes No 2025 Yes No 2025 NOTE: Fifty percent(50%) matching funds are required, and a higher rating will be assigned to those projects that guarantee additional resources for acquisition. Donation of property or a property right can 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. To what degree has the project sponsor identified the long-term stewardship issues for the proposed project? 2 a. Identify any factors,threats, or stressors that could negatively affect the conservation values and/or community benefits for which the property would be conserved. The property needs work to help restore it to natural conditions.The residential site needs to be removed, debris cleaned up,and the forest,which is mainly Douglas fir plantation, roads,and open areas, needs to be diversified and revegetated in some areas. 2 b. Describe the management strategies that the stewardship plan will include to address the identified factors, threats, or stressors, including any actions planned to make these negative outcomes or impacts less likely. As match to this grant, NWI is proposing to clean up the property and restore native vegetation where needed. Restoration includes removal of two trailers,cabin,shed, household debris, decommission septic system, remove utilities,deco mmission/decompact roads, revegetate cleared areas within native trees and shrubs,and control weeds. 5 2025 CFF Program Application As part of the Stewardship Plan, NWI will also prepare a forest management plan for the purpose of possible selective commercial and/or non-commercial thinning of the plantation forest to restore diverse older forest species and stand structure. 2 c. Describe any existing water rights, and current uses of water. Identify any conservation values currently being protected that are dependent on these sources of water. The property does not have a well or water rights.The resident currently gets water from roof runoff and the neighbor's hose. 3. To what degree has the project sponsor demonstrated effective long-term stewardship of a similar project? 3 a. Describe the sponsoring agency's previous or on-going stewardship experience. Northwest Watershed Institute is a nonprofit conservation organization that provides scientific, technical and on-the-ground support for watershed restoration and has been conducting habitat stewardship and restoration projects in the Tarboo watershed for over 20 years. NWI employs conservation biologists and professional restoration field crew and has extensive experience stewarding and managing the Tarboo Wildlife Preserve and private and state conservation properties using professional staff,experienced field crew,contractors,and volunteers. NWI forestlands are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and NWI has completed several successful ecologically-based selective timber harvests in the Tarboo forest to date. 3 b. Has the project sponsor and/or applicant been involved in other projects previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funding? No,neither the sponsor nor applicant has been involved in a project previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funds. X Yes,the sponsor and/or applicant for this project has been involved in a project previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funds. Please provide details: Yes. NWI has been involved in eleven previous successful Conservation Futures funded projects in the Tarboo watershed including nine conservation easement projects proposed jointly by NWI and JLT and two fee simple projects. NWI is now completing the West Slope Forest,funded in 2024 and planned for acquisition by June of 2025. 4. To what degree is the project apart of an adopted open space, conservation, or resource preservation program or plan that was open to public review and comment, or identified in a community conservation effort that provided opportunities for public input? The proposed acquisition: X is specifically identified in an adopted open space, conservation, or resource preservation program or plan,or community conservation effort,that provided opportunities for public review and comment. Please describe below, including this project's importance to the plan. Please also reference the website of the plan if available or include the plan with this application. 6 2025 CFF Program Application _complements an adopted open space or conservation plan that was open to public review,but is not specifically identified. Please describe below, and describe how the proposed acquisition is consistent with the plan. _is a stand-alone project,or part of a project that was not open to public review. The Property is within the approved boundaries of Washington State's Dabob Bay Natural Area that was established through many public hearings and with extensive public input.The boundary was established to identify the area where DNR and partners want to prioritize acquisition of private lands from willing owners for permanent conservation as part of the Natural Area. The Dabob Bay Natural Area boundary has been expanded three times since 2008 after public hearings, scientific review, and with broad and strong public support. This parcel is included in the 2009 expansion the resulted from scientific assessment by DNR's Natural Areas biologists, several public hearings in Jefferson County with extensive opportunity for public input, review and approval by DNR's Natural Heritage Advisory Council, and approval by the State Commissioner of Public Lands. Jefferson Land Trust's Jefferson County Conservation Plan (2010), that underwent public participation and review, generally identifies the Property as within a priority habitat conservation area. https://www.saveland.org/wp- content/uploads/2016/06/2010 JLT Conservation Plan LoRes.pdf The Property is more specifically included within the priority Dabob Bay area of the Tarboo Creek/Dabob Bay Implementation Strategy, a Sub-Plan of JLT's Jefferson County Conservation Plan (2010). The Property is a top priority in Northwest Watershed Institute's Tarboo Watershed Conservation Strategy to protect and restore lands within the recently expanded boundaries of the Dabob Bay Natural Area (Objective 2) and also fits within the Forestland protection objective (objective 3) http•//www nwwatershed.org/tarboo-watershed-conservation-strategy.htmI The proposed properties are within a priority terrestrial conservation area identified and mapped in the Willamette Valley-Puget Trough--Georgia Basin Ecoregional Assessment(2004 Floberg et al). This priority area includes much of the Tarboo and Thorndyke watersheds. The Ecoregional plan, developed by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and The Nature Conservancy, is one of the primary conservation plans for Puget Sound and has received extensive public and scientific review. 5. To what degree does the project conserve opportunities which are otherwise lost or threatened? 5 a. The proposed acquisition site X does _does not provide a conservation or preservation opportunity which would otherwise be lost or threatened. 5 b. If applicable,please carefully describe the nature and immediacy of the threat, and any unique qualities about the site. 7 2025 CFF Program Application The proposed acquisition will provide a significant conservation opportunity that will be otherwise by lost in the next year.The small property has outsized conservation value as an inholding surrounded on three sides by state protected land and is important to protect and restore forest and wildlife connectivity. If Conservation Futures grant funding is not secured,the property will be sold for residential development in summer of 2025, with potentially long term impacts not only on the property but on surrounding protected lands, such as stormwater impacts to Discovery Creek, spread of non-native plants and weeds to surrounding native forests, and disturbance of wildlife using the Dabob Bay area. The seller is moving this summer and is giving NWI until June 30, 2025 to purchase the property under a signed purchase agreement(see Supplemental Materials).An NWI supporter has agreed to serve as an interim buyer to purchase the property (under NWI's purchase agreement assigned to them) and hold the property until October 2025 if needed to allow time for grant funding to be secured to purchase the property. NWI is also requesting county approval for a less expensive option to comply with the Conservation Futures manual that allows NWI to purchase the property in June, then after the grant agreement is in place NWI is reimbursed through re-recording the Statutory Warrantee Deed with the addition of the required county deed restriction language, as well as recording the Navy Restrictive Easement. 6. Are the conservation values of the project commensurate with or greater than the amount of CFF funds requested, and will both the timeframes for meeting project objectives and associated metrics demonstrate achievement of the conservation objectives? 6 a. Summarize the project's conservation values and how the CFF funds requested support these values. The project's conservation values are extremely high relative to CF funds requested because: 1) the property is a key inholding surrounded on three sides by protected lands and thus its fate has an outsized influence on conservation of the larger landscape, and 2) match is provided for a portion of the acquisition costs and about half of the cleanup and restoration costs. Conservation objectives of acquiring the property will be obtained by October of 2025. Cleanup and restoration will be completed within two years, by June 2027,to allow two planting seasons and weed control. 6 b. Summarize how the project's conservation values are related to the project's specific objectives. The project's conservation values of providing wildlife habitat and connecting corridor to adjoining protected lands, water quality protection for downstream Discovery Creek, cultural resources for local Tribes, outdoor education, forest carbon storage, and protecting biodiversity are well served by the project objectives which are to purchase the property for permanent conservation and restoration of older forest habitat. 7. To what degree does the project preserve habitat for flora and fauna other than habitat for anadromous fish species? 8 2025 CFF Program Application 7 a. X provides habitat for State of Washington Priority Habitat specific to the project and/or State or Federal (NOAA and USFWS)Candidate, Endangered, Threatened or Sensitive species(provide list and references). 7 b. X provides habitat for native flora and fauna. Identify the documented habitat(s)and native flora or fauna species that will be protected by the project. 7 c. X contributes to a wildlife corridor or migration route identified by Washington Connectivity Working Group or other peer-reviewed source. If affirmative in any of the above,please describe and list the Priority Habitat(s) and Threatened, Endangered, or Sensitive species below, and cite or provide documentation of species'use.' Priority and Listed Species (observed on-site or within 1 mile) Western toad (near) State Candidate and Federal Species of Concern Pileated woodpecker(on site) State Candidate Fisher (near) State Endangered Documented observations by Peter Bahls and Keith Lazelle, NWI Listed Species benefited downstream in Discovery Creek(WDFW and NWI data): Puget Sound steelhead (likely) State Candidate and Federal Threatened Hood Canal coho salmon Federal Species of Concern Documented in WDFW fish distribution mapping and NWI survey data Listed Species benefited downstream in Tarboo-Dabob Bay Hood Canal summer chum salmon State Candidate and Federal Threatened Puget Sound Chinook salmon State Candidate and Federal Threatened Documented in NWI's nearshore fish survey report- http://www.nwwatershed.orgluploadslpdfltarbooFish5urvey.pdf Provides habitat for a variety of native flora and fauna The project is surrounded on three sides by permanently protected state lands, much of which is older native forest habitat. Protection of the parcel will protect help restore connected forest habitats that support a high diversity of at-risk fish, bird, amphibian, and mammal species that occur in Pacific Northwest forests, including western toad, amphibians, bats, bear, cougar, blacktail deer, and neo-tropical migratory birds. The 6-acre parcel is primarily 30-year old plantation forest, but includes a variety of forest types including alder and some older trees, as well as at least two yew trees rarely found in this area. Ecologically based thinning of plantation forest is proposed that will promote older forest habitat growth over time for potential use by at-risk species such as fisher and marbled murrelet. Wildlife corridor The property is a critical piece of long-term effort to protect a significant wildlife corridor from the ' See, for example, http://www dnr wa gov/researchscience/topics/naturalherita.e/pa esg /amp nh.aspx http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/ http•//wwwl.dnr.wa. og v/nhp/refdesk/plants.html http://wwwl dnr wa og_ v/nhp/refdesk/12ubs/wa ecological systems pdf 9 2025 CFF Program Application headwaters of Tarboo Creek downstream and around Dabob Bay. Cougar and bear are frequently seen on the Toandos Peninsula and a recent camera trap survey study by Point No Point Treaty Council shows this Toandos area as having a high density of deer and cougar(see maps and photos).Western toads, seen in the area, seasonally migrate from wetlands to nearby forests.The proposed project will significantly benefit landscape scale wildlife conservation. Development of the parcel would impact the larger wildlife corridor through both habitat impacts and potentially significant disturbance from dogs and cats. 8. To what degree does the project protect habitat for anadromous fish species? 8. Describe to what degree the project protects habitat for anadromous fish species (for example: marine shorelines, stream or river corridors including meander zones, and riparian buffers). Please provide documentation and maps that demonstrate the location,quality and extent of the existing buffer and adjoining habitat. i The slopes of the Toandos Forest Property drain to a tributary of upper Discovery Creek,which is a salmon spawning stream and the second largest stream feeding Tarboo-Dabob Bay(see Maps). Protection and restoration of the property will prevent stormwater runoff, pesticides, septic waste and other contamination from reaching Discovery Creek or the downstream estuary. Most lands are now conserved within the watershed of Discovery Creek and the addition of this parcel will help secure long-term watershed level protection for native coho salmon, coastal cutthroat trout,fall chum salmon, and steelhead that occur in Discovery Creek. Anadromous Fish Species benefited in adjacent downstream Discovery Creek(WDFW and NWI data): Puget Sound steelhead (likely) State Candidate and Federal Threatened Hood Canal coho salmon Federal Species of Concern Fall chum samon Coastal cutthroat trout Western Brook lamprey(likely) Federal Species of Concern Listed Species benefited downstream in Tarboo-Dabob Bay(documented rearing habitat) Hood Canal summer chum salmon State Candidate and Federal Threatened Puget Sound Chinook salmon State Candidate and Federal Threatened 9. To what degree does the project preserve farmland for agricultural use OR preserve forestland for forest management? 9 a. Describe the extent and nature of current and planned agricultural use or forest management activities of the proposed acquisition, including any anticipated changes to that use once the property, or property right, is acquired with Conservation Futures funds. The forest will be managed for ecologically based sustainable forestry and to restore diverse older forest habitats. NWI will prepare a forest management plan that meets FSC standards and that will involve potential thinning the 30-year-old plantation forest as needed to help restore older forest structure,function and species diversity, and to provide sustainable timber products as feasible. 10 2025 CFF Program Application 9 b. Describe how the acquisition or proposed easement will likely preserve and/or enhance soil, water quality, watershed function and wildlife habitat. NWI proposes to protect and help fully restore watershed functions,wildlife habitat, and water quality by: 1) removing all residential impacts, including trailers, cabin, unpermitted septic system, debris, and utilities, 2) de-compacting and decommissioning roads and residential areas as needed to improve infiltration and soil condition, 3) Planting native trees and shrubs and controlling weeds as needed to revegetate the site, 4) Conducting low impact selective thinning of the Douglas fir plantation as needed to help restore species and structural diversity to the forest. 9 c. Does this project preserve a mix of quality farmland and forestland? This specific project involves forestland and habitat protection and does not include agriculture. However, if the definition of agriculture is broadened to include native food foraging,the Property has excellent potential for gathering of black truffles and other edible mushrooms and deer hunting. In addition, although this property does not include agricultural lands,within the context of the large conservation effort for the Tarboo-Dabob Bay watershed, NWI,JILT, and partners are preserving a mix of agricultural lands,forestlands,wetlands,and wildlife habitats. 10. To what degree does this project increase resiliency to and mitigation of climate change, and is the project's scale significant in regards to increasing climate resiliency? 10. Describe how this project will increase resiliency to and mitigation of climate change. Is the project's scale significant in regards to increasing climate resiliency? Forests of the Pacific Northwest are among the best in the world for sequestering and storing carbon.The project proposal to protect and restore forest habitat will store significant amounts of carbon. Every acre of a 60-year old forest stores roughly the equivalent of 7 years of carbon emissions by the average American. In addition,the planned thinning of the plantation forest to help restore diverse older forest will increase its resilience to forest fires, helping to mitigate climate change impacts. Finally,the property helps the county's resilience to the climate crisis by removing a residential property from the wildland-urban interface where a large fire would be catastrophic for residential uses. 11. What area does the project serve? 11 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 project benefits a broad county area because it is a key part of a conservation project that extends from the headwaters of Tarboo Creek to the state's Dabob Bay Natural Area to protect and restore habitats and wildlife connectivity on a landscape scale. In particular,the project will protect a critical "gap" in the 11,300 acre Dabob Bay Natural Area that will directly benefit the wildlife, biodiversity and safeguard water quality in downstream Dabob Bay,which has been 11 2025 CFF Program Application recognized as a state and national priority for conservation due to its diverse estuarine habitats and valuable shellfish production. 11 b. Is the project located in an area that is under-represented by CFF funded Projects?Areas that Conservation Futures has not been able to support to date include, Toandos Peninsula, Dosewallips Valley, Bolton Peninsula, and the West End. Yes,the project is located on the Toandos Peninsula,an area under-represented by CFF funding. 12. To what degree is the applicant committing to providing educational opportunities, interpretive opportunities, and/or serve as a general community resource that does not reduce the conservation value(s) of the project? 12. Describe the educational or interpretive opportunities that the applicant will provide for 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 that will not reduce the conservation value(s)of the project.z Provide the time frames when each of the above will be implemented. The Property will serve as an important site for educating the public on forest protection and sustainable use.The site is easily accessible as a stop on NWI field tours and NWI plans to develop a foot trail system to host workshops,tours and other public events to expand understanding and adoption of forest restoration methods. As described in the letter from the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe,the Property will also serve an important educational purpose as a place for the Tribes to pass on traditions of sustainable gathering of forest plants used for cultural purposes and ceremonies. 13. To what degree does the project preserve historic or culturally significant resources3. 13. The proposed acquisition includes historic or culturally significant resources4 and is registered with the National Register of Historic Places, or an equivalent program. X is recognized locally has having historic or cultural resources. _is adjacent to and provides a buffer for a historic or cultural site. none of the above. If affirmative in any of the above,please describe below, and cite or provide documentation of the historical cultural resources. Please see letter from Laura Price,Cultural Resources Director for the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe, that attests to the importance of this Property for preserving and restoring cultural resources. The Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe,Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe, Lower Elwha S'Klallam Tribe,and Skokomish Tribe are signatories to the Point No Point Treaty and retain the right to hunt and gather within their Usual and Accustomed Area, including the Tarboo watershed. These tribes continue to rely upon a diversity of intact native plant communities in the region,as they have for thousands of 2 The words"education"and"interpretation"are interpreted broadly by the CFF Committee. 3 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. 12 2025 CFF Program Application years,as places where they gather traditional food, medicine,and materials for use in all aspects of their cultural life, including social and religious.The project site's forests will provide resources for tribal uses, such as cedar bark for basket weaving. If funded,the project will permanently conserve the forest while allowing sustainable harvest and gathering to maintain tribal cultural traditions. Standalone O & M Projects 14. Applications for standalone Operation and Maintenance funding to be scored on a scale of 1- 100 based on information provided. Consider the CFF Manual and the topics below, for example: 14.Please describe in detail,the reason O&M funds are needed,proposed O&M activities,and how they protect resources cited in the original acquisition project. Attach additional information such as up-to-date stewardship plan, maps, field reports,work plan,budget,timeline,etc.,to support the application, if appropriate. O&M projects must address a compelling, immediate need. Specifically include whether the project has an up- to-date stewardship plan. If there is such a plan, is it being implemented and is the proposed O&M work specifically included in the plan?Also, describe any unforeseen or urgent threats to the resource conservation values of the site and whether the proposed O&M activities will mitigate those threats and/or prevent potential future threats. 13 2025 CFF Program Application Verification 15. Sponsor commitments: 15 a. Sponsors of projects 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. 15 b. If this project 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 kPate 15 c. If,three years after the date funding is approved by the Board of County Commissioners,the project sponsor has 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 project is approved for funding, I understand that we may be required to re-submit the application if the project sponsor does not o tain the necessary matching funding within three years. ��2 Initials r _ Date T�3 15 d. The applicant has reviewed all project requirements and all information in the application is accurate to the best of their knowledge. PO 2 _Initials_A�_�$Date foYCi 15 e. The sponsor commits to providing long-term stewardship to achieve the conservation and protection goals of the project as proposed in this application or as may be modified with recommendation of the CF Committee and -J approval of the BoCC. �I Initials Date �� Z Zoy-5 14 2025 CFF Program Application Tarboo Watershed ed Watershed Institute Assessment +yA Townsen Watershed Locator A ~�. 5 0 5 Miles S }} March 2004 l d m Tarboo Ct Watershed Hood 1 V Canal 1 Olympic Quilcene /A B"dgj' rr Mountains -- _fc.__ b J q 1400 �a 1 . Seattle erto I 1 Northwest Washington Sta ti r> Figure 1. Project location within the Tarboo Creek-Dabob Bay and Hood Canal watersheds. Tarboo Creek Watershed Dabob Bay Natural Area 2019 lidar Imagery (3 ft resolution) Projection: NAD 1983 atershed boundary State Plane Wash, North 0 0.75 1.5 3 I i i l i i i l Miles Road it/vV ' Lakes -- Northwest Streams Watershed Institute ,. Rare Forests Rare Forest EO—Confirmed C3 Rare Forest EO—Possible 2020 Parcels ' NW Watershed DNR Natural Area jj WDWF Critical Habitat Preserve County Park DNR Trust Lands Rayonier Under Appraisal Other-Private Other-Public Easement Type Conservation Easement DNR Aquatic Land Jft Public Private Northwest Watershed Institute t Unknown ry Land Boundaries Current Dabob NA Boundary Proposed Dabob NA Boundary Figure 2. Project location within the-Dabob Bay Natural Area (orange and magenta lines). x I Hough 4 Figure 3. The proposed Hough property acquisition is surrounded on three sides by state protected lands. .✓, --*'� 701153015 ` „ .. .0 701153006 K3• \. 70115 �--- - 7011 Proposed Projec 701153077 - -.- r: LL 154001 a 701153 153 ,alpp ir IT.. 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'�� ;siY- �A>!.\ - t� .�'� .1 r•� •�i'�':\ ss..�r: �•.'' .1 131.lJ.i� ti •1 r [ t _ �F7 , r». 7: T- �J 1. [A`:.` off •�"'r'i�� a- 'r-4' r- - �.fi is � '-.Tj µPIC, y �d �l..g�I Y►r �� Mi;.yR. �� � ��.. .- t. P .�F�,�t�L._ -Icy -.�L yl .,,,� � .,, r Y► ��+ ��'yyM3�� y �` -%;� FY,,��`1�--J8ir�_My4(�, µ ���c E°'�/+1�kt�1Lti,_ � r.t,1 •7' A^21t�-a •' µ11-- .. >�<' _ !,i yam- '•- � r-. ,. 7 f � A�a� f. ` • 3d ?,/.r �a w�kt."1 �XUPri', 1:. +jL�4��t+ 'i. ' /{�Q y Lvtt ': �•�Ys ►:,,-•.� ,e� t I 1. t'�'G .T �• Q�i��J � - „�•_ 1 V R . lot � .Tt ot f r'Y+ lt"�151177ff��" GGGG - d►is�:tom_ � s ' (_ ._ � .fir T�ys �^ _ Aft _ f , 1 • . . •.- •• 2020 Camera Grid-Cougar Density • 2020 Cameras 2020 Approx.Density 0—M.rs f 150 days rf lcouga r 1150 days Figure 16. Cougar density heat map.The ,ceuga r r 100 days I r..gar r40 days Toandos Peninsula has a high density of • ®I-uge r 120 day, wildlife and is important as wildlife corridor. • From Dylan Bergan,wildlife biologist, Point 'v ° ° ° O • ° No Point Treaty Council. 0 0 0 • 0 0 • 0 ° o • O O • • ° O ° • 0 0 O 0 • • o io • • • 1 .0 / b ° • • ° • e e • • is o ° • • i f rJd • u .� 2020 Camera Grid-Fawn Density • 2020 Cameras / 2020Approe.Density 0lawns/100 days t raven r tga dnys linwn1000ays Figure 17. Fawn density heat map. Another '_,"„a dawn/10 days e dawn/0days example of wildlife abundance around Dabob Bay. 0 ° ° O 7 ° ° o ° ° • o ° 0 0 • e o e ° • e e - • o • ° • �t o 0 • • E • ti • o y 0 /1 • 0 2.25 4.5 81,- Northwest Watershed Institute-Toandos Forest Acquisitions and Restoration- 6.38 acres NWI proposes to protect and restore 6.38 acres of disturbed and human occupied forest habitat within the boundaries of Dabob Bay Natural Area. Conservation values that will be protected and enhanced (trash removal, road abandonment and restoration,elimination of human habitation including associated cats and dogs, and reforestation)are: o 6.3 acres of forest habitat for multiple species o 6.3 acres of Dabob Bay watershed Are there other conservation values that should be noted? The Toandos Forest project proposes acquisition and permanent protection of the entire site by NWI, as well as clean-up and restoration activities on the parcel.The conservation values/benefits are detailed in the application and presentation and include: 1) Protection of the entire site to allow restoration of older forest habitat over time, including habitat for a diversity of mammal, bird,amphibian, and other native biota. 2) Protection of habitat for priority species, including western toad and pileated woodpecker,which likely occur on the site. 3) Protection of downstream water quality and salmon habitat of Discovery Creek, and Tarboo/Dabob Bay,from stormwater pollutants associated with development 4) Protection of instream flow of Discovery Creek from any type of impact of groundwater withdrawal at the site. 5) Conservation of a key parcel for wildlife connectivity with adjoining DNR Natural Area lands on three sides and as part of the larger Dabob Bay Natural Area. 6) Restoration of impacted areas as part of the proposal (structure and debris removal,weed control,road decommissioning,tree planting). 7) Stewardship plan includes future forest management of the plantation forest to restore older biological diverse forest habitat,including higher quality example of a globally imperiled forest type, while also producing commercial forest products. 8) Protection of carbon storage on the site of estimated 2,794 mt CO2 equivalent currently, with potential for a total of 3,531 mt CO2 site by 2070.Loss due to selective thinning will be offset over time by gains in more rapid tree growth. 9) Improved resilience to climate change by removal of fire prone structures and selective thinning of plantation forest to improve forest health. 10)Conservation of an accessible site for NWI supervised environmental education, research,monitoring,and field tours. 11)Protection of a site recognized by the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe as having cultural resources (supporting native plants of importance and accessible for tribal cultural uses). SON w�� oGa 2025 Jefferson County Conservation Futures Fund Program ING 0 Property Acquisition Project and/or 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(360)379-4498 or tpokorny@co.iefferson.wa.us with questions. Background and Eligibility Information 1. Project Title: Upper Yarr Creek Protection 2. Conservation Futures Acquisition Request: $26,000 Conservation Futures O&M Request: $0 3. Total Conservation Futures Request: $26,000 4. Please indicate the type of interest contemplated in the acquisition process. X Warranty Deed OR Easement _Other(Please describe below.) In whose name will the property title be held after acquisition? Northwest Watershed Institute 5. Applicant Information Name of Applicant or Organization: Northwest Watershed Institute Contact: Peter Bahls Title: Executive Director/Conservation Biologist Address: 3407 Eddy Street, Port Townsend,WA 98368 Phone: (360)821-9566,ext. Fax: ext. Email: peter@nwwatershed.org 6. Sponsor Information: (if different than applicant)Same Organization Name: Contact: Title: Address: Phone: . Fax: �) - ,ext. This application was approved by the sponsor's legally responsible body(e.g., board, council, etc.) on February 25, 2025 1 2025 CFF Program Application 7. Project Location Street Address or Description of Location: 12 Old Tarboo Road, Quilcene Driving Directions from Port Townsend: South on Center Road, left at Old Tarboo Road and park Section: 29 Township: 28 N Range: 1 W Assessor's Parcel Number(s): 801-293-003 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. The parcel is to be acquired with CF funds Please list the assessed values for each property or APN, as applicable. 801-293-003=$34,125 8. Existing Conditions New Site: Yes No Number of Parcels: 1 Addition to Existing Site: Yes No Acres to Be Acquired: 1.03 Total Project Acreage(if different): Current Zoning: 1 per 5 Existing Structures/Facilities: No Any current covenants, easements or restrictions on land use: No Current Use:Vacant land Waterfront (name of body of water): Yarr Creek,tributary to Tarboo Creek Shoreline(linear feet): NA Owner Tidelands/Shorelands: NA 9. Current Property Owner X is _is not a willing seller. Project Description 10. In 1,000 words or less,provide a summary description of the project,the match, and why you think preserving this property is important.Name three top objectives for the property(other than those related to funding). Include information about the physical characteristics of the site that is proposed for acquisition with Conservation Futures Fund Program funds including: vegetation,topography, surrounding land 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 project relates to a larger conservation program(please identify),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. Background,goals,and objectives 2 2025 CFF Program Application Since 2002, Northwest Watershed Institute (NWI),Jefferson Land Trust, and over 40 partnering organizations have been working on a landscape scale project to protect and restore the Tarboo- Dabob Bay watershed,with over 4,000 acres conserved to date.The three main objectives of the conservation effort are to: 1) protect and restore the stream and wetland corridor,from the headwaters of Tarboo Creek to Dabob Bay, 2) conserve uplands for sustainable forestry, 3) preserve lands within the Dabob Bay Natural Area. For this project, NWI proposes to permanently protect a one acre parcel of critical stream and riparian habitat along Upper Yarr Creek. NWI purchased the property in 2023 to prevent development that would have impacted water quality,wildlife habitat, and downstream salmon habitat in Yarr Creek and Tarboo Creek. The Jefferson County Conservation Futures Manual does not appear to prevent a conservation organization from securing reimbursement toward a property purchased prior to the grant agreement being in place.The manual does require that a Statutory Warranty Deed (SWD) be placed on the property that includes a paragraph of specific deed restriction language required by the county. Since this property was purchased by NWI in 2023, NWI is requesting county approval for reimbursement toward the fee simple appraised value of the property through one of two methods: 1) after the Conservation Futures grant agreement is in place, NWI re-records the Statutory Warranty Deed and includes the county's required language (see Supplemental information for example of the re-record of deed restriction), or 2) prior to signing a Conservation Futures grant agreement, NWI sells the property to an interim private buyer,then after the grant agreement is place, NWI purchases the property back and records a new SWD with the addition of the county's deed restrictions. Proposed uses The Property will be owned and stewarded by NWI as a unit of the Tarboo Wildlife Preserve.The property will serve as one of the places NWI brings students and other groups for field tours and educational trips to learn about the Tarboo watershed and stream habitats. Critical dates and urgency To afford permanent protection and stewardship of the property, NWI needs to secure at least partial reimbursement for the purchase made in 2023.The property has no deed restriction on it at present and NWI may need to sell the property in the future without funding to help fund the purchase and long term stewardship. 1 I. Estimate costs below,including the estimated or appraised value of the propert(ies)or property right(s)to be acquired, even if Conservation Futures Fund 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. 3 2025 CFF Program Application JCCF Match to Total Request JCCF Cost Timeline Acquistion NWI Upper Yarr Ck property 20,000 20,000 40,000 Aug-25 Acquisition Related Costs: Aug-25 Deed recording/legal/closing costs 1,000 1,000 Appraisal 5,000 5,000 Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Stewardship Plan 3,400 3,400 Sep-25 Project management and administration 2,600 2,600 Mar-25-Sept 25 Total Project Costs j 26,0-00j 26,000 1 52,000 Percent match to JCCF 1 1 50% Estimated or Appraised Value of Propert(ies)to be Acquired: $40,000 Total Estimated Acquisition-related Cost(see Conservation Futures Manual for eligible costs): $8,600 Total Operation and Maintenance Cost: $3,400 Total Project Cost: $52,000 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): Estimate of fee simple fair market value is based on a sale of property to NWI in 2023 for$37,000 and some increase since then. Scored Questions 1. To what degree does the project leverage contributions for acquisition from groups, agencies or individuals? Sponsors or other organizations are required to contribute to acquisition of the proposed site and/or operation and maintenance activities. 1 a. Please describe below how contributions from groups or agencies will reduce the need to use Conservation Futures Fund program funds. Describe 1 b. Matching Fund Estimate Acquisition O&M % Conservation Futures Funds Requested $26,000 $0 50% Matching Funds/Resources* $22,600 $3,400 50% Total Project Acquisition Cost $48,600 $3,400 100% 4 2025 CFF Program Application i *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 c. Source of matching Amount of Contribution If not, Contribution If not, funds/resources contribution approved? when? available now? when? NWI land match $20,000 Yes No 2025 Yes No 2025 NWI labor donation $6,000 Yes No 2025 Yes No 2025 NOTE: Fifty-percent(50%) matching funds are required, and a higher rating will be assigned to those projects that guarantee additional resources for acquisition. Donation of property or a property right can 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. To what degree has the project sponsor identified the long-term stewardship issues for the proposed project? 2 a. Identify any factors,threats, or stressors that could negatively affect the conservation values and/or community benefits for which the property would be conserved. No major stewardship issues. Property boundaries have been surveyed and marked.Adjoining property on two sides is permanently protected for forestry under conservation easement by Leopold-Freeman Forests. 2 b.Describe the management strategies that the stewardship plan will include to address the identified factors, threats, or stressors, including any actions planned to make these negative outcomes or impacts less likely. Stewardship plan will the following management strategies: baseline assessment and restoration and stewardship plan to include:debris cleanup, annual monitoring for weed control and encroachment issues, road decommission and revegetation, potential selective thinning(non- commercial), and tree planting as needed to help restore older forest habitat and species and structural diversity. 2 c. Describe any existing water rights,and current uses of water. Identify any conservation values currently being protected that are dependent on these sources of water. No water rights and no use of water on the property. 3. To what degree has the project sponsor demonstrated effective long-term stewardship of a similar project? 3 a. Describe the sponsoring agency's previous or on-going stewardship experience. Northwest Watershed Institute is a nonprofit conservation organization that provides scientific, technical and on-the-ground support for watershed restoration and has been conducting habitat stewardship and restoration projects in the Tarboo watershed for over 20 years. NWI employs 5 2025 CFF Program Application conservation biologists and professional restoration field crew and has extensive experience stewarding and managing the Tarboo Wildlife Preserve and private and state conservation properties using professional staff,experienced field crew,contractors, and volunteers. 3 b. Has the project sponsor and/or applicant been involved in other projects previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funding? No,neither the sponsor nor applicant has been involved in a project previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funds. X Yes,the sponsor and/or applicant for this project has been involved in a project previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funds. Please provide details: Yes. NWI has been involved in eleven previous successful Conservation Futures funded projects in the Tarboo watershed including nine conservation easement projects proposed jointly by NWI and AT and two fee simple projects. NWI is now completing the West Slope Forest acquisition funded in 2024. 4. To what degree is the project apart of an adopted open space, conservation, or resource preservation program or plan that was open to public review and comment, or identified in a community conservation effort that provided opportunities for public input? The proposed acquisition: X is specifically identified in an adopted open space, conservation, or resource preservation program or plan,or community conservation effort,that provided opportunities for public review and comment. Please describe below, including this project's importance to the plan. Please also reference the website of the plan if available or include the plan with this application. _complements an adopted open space or conservation plan that was open to public review,but is not specifically identified. Please describe below, and describe how the proposed acquisition is consistent with the plan. _is a stand-alone project, or part of a project that was not open to public review. Jefferson Land Trust's Jefferson County Conservation Plan (2010)generally identifies the Property as within a priority forest conservation area. https://www.saveland.org/wp- content/uploads/2016/06/2010 AT Conservation Plan LoRes.pdf More specifically,the Property is within two mapped priority areas of the Tarboo Creek/Dabob Bay Implementation Strategy, a Sub-Plan of JLT's Jefferson County Conservation Plan(2010).Those priority areas are: 1)the priority habitat stream corridor area and 2)the priority forests area. The Property is a top priority in Northwest Watershed Institute's Tarboo Watershed Conservation Strategy to protect and restore the stream and wildlife corridor of Tarboo Creek(Objective 1)and also fits within the Forestland protection objective(objective 3) http://www.nwwatershed.org/tarboo-watershed-conservation-strategy.htmi 6 2025 CFF Program Application The proposed properties are within a large priority terrestrial conservation area identified and mapped in the Willamette Valley-Puget Trough--Georgia Basin Ecore Tonal Assessment(2004 Floberg et all.This priority area includes much of the Tarboo and Thorndyke watersheds. The Ecoregional plan, developed by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and The Nature Conservancy, is one of the primary conservation plans for Puget Sound and has received extensive public and scientific review. S. To what degree does the project conserve opportunities which are otherwise lost or threatened? 5 a. The proposed acquisition site X does _does not provide a conservation or preservation opportunity which would otherwise be lost or threatened. 5 b. If applicable,please carefully describe the nature and immediacy of the threat, and any unique qualities about the site. NWI purchased the property in 2023 in a bidding war with another potential buyer who wanted to move onto the property with a trailer and storage containers that would likely have caused severe impacts to Yarr Creek, its riparian habitat, and downstream habitat on Tarboo Creek and NWI's Tarboo Wildlife Preserve. The property is comprised mostly of critical habitat of Yarr Creek, its riparian forest and associated steep slope ravines. If NWI cannot secure funding to protect the property under county deed restriction and help fund long term stewardship, NWI may need to sell the parcel and it could be heavily impacted by inappropriate residential development. 6. Are the conservation values of the project commensurate with or greater than the amount of CFF funds requested, and will both the timeframes for meeting project objectives and associated metrics demonstrate achievement of the conservation objectives? 6 a. Summarize the project's conservation values and how the CFF funds requested support these values. The project's conservation values are extremely high relative to CF funds requested because the project is low cost and most of the acreage represents critical stream and riparian habitat. Upper Yarr Creek flows into Tarboo Creek on the Tarboo Wildlife Preserve, so protection of this small critical parcel helps secure water quality and important salmon habitat downstream. The property also adjoins permanently conserved forestlands on two sides, so protection of this parcel will help long term wildlife connectivity of the larger area. 6 b. Summarize how the project's conservation values are related to the project's specific objectives. The project's conservation values of stream, salmon habitat, and water quality, as well as wildlife habitat and connectivity are directly served by NWI's objective to fully and permanently protect the parcel as a unit of the Tarboo Wildlife Preserve. 7. To what degree does the project preserve habitat for flora and fauna other than habitat for anadromous fish species? 7 a. X provides habitat for State of Washington Priority Habitat specific to the project and/or State or Federal (NOAA and USFWS) Candidate, Endangered, Threatened or Sensitive species(provide list and references). 7 2025 CFF Program Application I 7 b. X provides habitat for native flora and fauna. Identify the documented habitat(s)and native flora or fauna species that will be protected by the project. 7 c. X contributes to a wildlife corridor or migration route identified by Washington Connectivity Working Group or other peer-reviewed source. If affirmative in any of the above,please describe and list the Priority Habitat(s) and Threatened, Endangered, or Sensitive species below, and cite or provide documentation of species'use.' Priority and Listed Species on-site Tarboo Creek tributaries Priority Riparian Habitat Western toad (nearby) State Candidate and Federal Species of Concern Pileated woodpecker (on site) State Candidate Documented observations by Peter Bahls, NWI Listed Species benefited downstream in lower Yarr Creek and Tarboo Creek: Puget Sound steelhead (likely) State Candidate and Federal Threatened Hood Canal coho salmon (Yarr Ck) Federal Species of Concern Western Brook lamprey(likely) Federal Species of Concern Documented in WDFW fish distribution mapping and NWI survey data Listed Species benefited downstream in Tarboo-Dabob Bay(documented rearing habitat) Hood Canal summer chum salmon State Candidate and Federal Threatened Puget Sound Chinook salmon State Candidate and Federal Threatened Documented in NWI's nearshore fish survey report- http://www.nwwatershed.org/uploadslpdfltarbooFishSurveV.pdf Provides habitat for a variety of native flora and fauna The project will protect stream, riparian and forest habitats that support a high diversity of at-risk fish, bird, amphibian, and mammal species that occur in Pacific Northwest forests, including western toad, amphibians, bats, bear, cougar, blacktail deer, and neo-tropical migratory birds. The property comprises stream and riparian habitat along the Yarr Creek ravine, especially important for birds and other wildlife. Wildlife corridor The property is a small but critical piece of a long-term effort to protect a significant wildlife corridor from the Tarboo valley to the uplands along Yarr Creek and also directly connects with large protected forestlands. For example, during the Conservation Futures field tour, a radio collared cougar named Yenewes was on a kill site on lower Yarr Creek about% mile away. She has a den with three cubs on the other side of Center Road and is frequently tracked in this area (Matt Mahan, Panthera project). See, for example,http://www.dnr.wa.gov/researchscience/topics/naturalheritage/pa eg s/amp nh.aspx http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/ http://wwwl.dnr.wa.vy v/nhp/refdesk/plants.html http://wwwl.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/pubs/wa ecological systems.pdf 8 2025 CFF Program Application i 8. To what degree does the project protect habitat for anadromous fish species? 8. Describe to what degree the project protects habitat for anadromous fish species (for example: marine shorelines, stream or river corridors including meander zones, and riparian buffers). Please provide documentation and maps that demonstrate the location, quality and extent of the existing buffer and adjoining habitat. Upper Yarr Creek is listed in DNR's stream type mapping as fish bearing, and cutthroat may occur. Lower Yarr Creek, about one-quarter mile downstream, has documented use as spawning habitat by coho salmon and coastal cutthroat trout(per NWI spawning surveys since 2002). The project will protect downstream water quality for salmon in Yarr Creek and Tarboo Creek, as well as helping protect water quality of Dabob Bay, used by juvenile rearing salmon. Listed Species benefited in adjacent downstream Yarr Creek and Tarboo Creek: Puget Sound steelhead (historic) State Candidate and Federal Threatened Hood Canal coho salmon Federal Species of Concern Western Brook lamprey Federal Species of Concern Listed Species benefited downstream in Tarboo-Dabob Bay (documented rearing habitat) Hood Canal summer chum salmon State Candidate and Federal Threatened Puget Sound Chinook salmon State Candidate and Federal Threatened 9. To what degree does the project preserve farmland for agricultural use OR preserve forestland for forest management? 9 a. Describe the extent and nature of current and planned agricultural use or forest management activities of the proposed acquisition, including any anticipated changes to that use once the property, or property right, is acquired with Conservation Futures funds. Forest management(non-commercial) will be conducted for restoration purposes, such as weed control, hand selective thinning of young alder, planting of native tree species to restore older forest habitat.These activities will be detailed in the proposed Stewardship Plan. 9 b. Describe how the acquisition or proposed easement will likely preserve and/or enhance soil, water quality, watershed function and wildlife habitat. Complete protection of the parcel will allow for full preservation and restoration of soils,water quality, and other watershed functions over time. 9 c. Docs this project preserve a mix of quality farmland and forestland? This specific project involves forestland and habitat protection and does not include agriculture. However, if the definition of agriculture is broadened to include native food foraging,the Property has potential for gathering of black truffles and other edible mushrooms and deer hunting. In addition, although this property does not include agricultural lands,within the context of the large conservation effort for the Tarboo-Dabob Bay watershed, NWI,AT, and partners are preserving a mix of agricultural lands,forestlands, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. 9 2025 CFF Program Application 10. To what degree does this project increase resiliency to and mitigation of climate change, and is the project's scale significant in regards to increasing climate resiliency? 10. Describe how this project will increase resiliency to and mitigation of climate change. Is the project's scale significant in regards to increasing climate resiliency? This project will increase habitat and wildlife resilience to climate extremes of winter flooding and summer high temperatures by: 1) protecting riparian vegetation and their undisturbed steep slopes that are vulnerable to increased erosion and sediment impacts to stream habitats during winter flooding, and 2) protecting riparian forests and their ability to provide shade that will help reduce summer stream temperatures and impacts to fish. H. What area does the project serve? 11 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. Although the project acreage is small, it benefits a broad county area because it is a key part of a conservation project that extends from the headwaters of Tarboo Creek to the state's Dabob Bay Natural Area to protect and restore habitats and wildlife connectivity on a landscape scale. In particular, the project proposes protection of a critical section of Yarr Creek,where, if developed, there would likely be outsized impacts on downstream salmon habitat, adjoining protected habitats of the Leopold-Freeman Forest and the Tarboo Wildlife Preserve, and potentially the water quality of Dabob Bay, regionally important for shellfish production and public recreation. 11 b. Is the project located in an area that is under-represented by CFF funded Projects?Areas that Conservation Futures has not been able to support to date include, Toandos Peninsula, Dosewallips Valley, Bolton Peninsula, and the West End. No. 12. To what degree is the applicant committing to providing educational opportunities, interpretive opportunities, and/or serve as a general community resource that does not reduce the conservation value(s) of the project? 12. Describe the educational or interpretive opportunities that the applicant will provide for 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 that will not reduce the conservation value(s) of the project.' Provide the time frames when each of the above will be implemented. The Property is easily accessible from Center Road and NWI plans to use it as site for supervised field trips of the Tarboo watershed for NWI's education programs for students and community members. As described in the letter from the Port Gamble S'Kiallam Tribe,the Property will also serve an important place for the Tribes to pass on traditions of sustainable gathering of forest plants used for cultural purposes and ceremonies. ' The words "education"and"interpretation"are interpreted broadly by the CFF Committee. 10 2025 CFF Program Application The Property is also available for public access by prior permission, including deer hunting, berry picking,and mushroom picking,three important recreational uses in rural areas 13. To what degree does the project preserve historic or culturally significant resources'? 13. The proposed acquisition _includes historic or culturally significant resources'and is registered with the National Register of Historic Places, or an equivalent program. X is recognized locally has having historic or cultural resources. is adjacent to and provides a buffer for a historic or cultural site. none of the above. If affirmative in any of the above,please describe below, and cite or provide documentation of the historical cultural resources. Please see letter from Laura Price,Cultural Resources Director for the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe, that attests to the importance of this Property for preserving and restoring cultural resources. The Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe,Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe, Lower Elwha S'Klallam Tribe, and Skokomish Tribe are signatories to the Point No Point Treaty and retain the right to hunt and gather within their Usual and Accustomed Area, including the Tarboo watershed. These Tribes continue to rely upon a diversity of intact native plant communities in the region,as they have for thousands of years,as places where they gather traditional food, medicine,and materials for use in all aspects of their cultural life, including social and religious.The project site's forest is easily accessible and will provide resources for tribal uses, such as cedar bark for basket weaving. If funded,the project will permanently conserve the forest while allowing sustainable harvest and gathering to maintain tribal cultural traditions. Standalone O & M Projects 14. Applications for standalone Operation and Maintenance funding to be scored on a scale of 1- 100 based on information provided. Consider the CFF Manual and the topics below, for example: 14. Please describe in detail,the reason O&M funds are needed, proposed O&M activities,and how they protect resources cited in the original acquisition project. Attach additional information such as up-to-date stewardship plan,maps, field reports,work plan, budget,timeline, etc.,to support the application, if appropriate. O&M projects must address a compelling, immediate need. Specifically include whether the project has an up- to-date stewardship plan. If there is such a plan, is it being implemented and is the proposed O&M work specifically included in the plan?Also, describe any unforeseen or urgent threats to the resource conservation 3 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. 11 2025 CFF Program Application values of the site and whether the proposed O&M activities will mitigate those threats and/or prevent potential future threats. Verification 15. Sponsor commitments: 15 a. Sponsors of projects 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. 15 b.If this project 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 15 c.If,three years after the date funding is approved by the Board of County Commissioners,the project sponsor has 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 project is approved for funding,I understand that we may be required to re-submit the application if the project sponsor does n t ob in the necessary matching funding within three years. Initials 2 Z/ Date �s 15 d.The applicant has reviewed all project requirements and all information in the application is accurate to the best of their knowledge.--ee� ---Initials 2��Date 15 e. The sponsor commits to providing long-term wardship to achieve the conservation and protection goals of the project as proposed in is application or as ma be modified with recommendation of the CF Committee and approval of the BoCC. 17 Initials ate 12 2025 CFF Program Application Tarboo Mortnwest Watershed Watershed Institute Assessment Port Townsen Watershed Locator 0 5 Miles March 2004 FOR Tarboo Watershed j Ct Hood canal Olympic Quilcene Bridge Mountains .......... .... .......... Z 1400a .......................5eattle\ ............. erto Northwest Washington State Figure 1. Project location within the Tarboo Creek-Dabob Bay and Hood Canal watersheds. Tarboo Watershed y - Parcel Ownership Parcels _ r7] DNRNatural Mea ` � _ I Norbmrost Mt mhed Indt t. :. l+ I F 7D ._ ..J County Park V4DVYF Critlpl NaEdat Praaarve D14RTmst land, Pope Re9a—M °� %�✓�/ _i (hoer-Pmate Under Approesl Nb b NRCA 2ol6 Expmnicn /•�� �7 �� Conervadon Eesemenl: Restoratron Prgects 4 Conservation d Resto Mn Aquatic Lands ungnown I yy Public J l Pnvata Northvw Watershed Insbmte Prwate road County road _, I I .. Slate road //i I/ Pro Lak" j .� ^� Streams Northwest Watershed Institute e' E l 6 Dec 2018 0 0.5 1 Miles t - I O,J J f aay i �•_ i I"� Figure 2. Project location within the Tarboo Creek watershed. lu ch °1hO&se V a u �f �o �MC C k j gjer 0 .. .............................. 70 1 n iew Ln -- i' 00 Figure 3.The proposed acquisition adjoins permanently conserved lands of the Leopold-Freeman Forests (hatched lines) and upstream of NWI's Tarboo Wildlife Preserve (green). „•” y. `.c -'+ K r - �? �X-ij``mot .•' `°,Y: t� 8 012 91 662 .� � � s !t'.Y �V .rt .} •r� � . y�".4 r-� - '• . 29 � r 1 X. Ar Upper' rr rL �c r00 c ` L cy �4• `-q� K `* _ .���;�;°� ��. 2 . : -� a_:. k yw NWI- Tarboo YQ Pit• Wildlife Preserve ` ' Leopold-Free► an Forests - CE protected + { ��.,�a�`I,•R !70129 a005� �* } �. t t7.'' 801294002 r o , 1292002 r,. s N 801.291002 mo N m N C - �� 801294001 � a m O �. eo1291002 a 292002 f* - m 0 N m � •01 a os a 129a o2 N * ~ . , Wit 6012 1002� tj 1 + �* ` � '+ , "�'` ,•�,� �' • N 4 t �MEN ..a o�zs�ooz 002 "ct j. tit � 1J 1 'i ".' r� �..;y .. � �n ��( 'Al� ill j, w "F' Ij'"r •.aft ,t ; all `��� �..� � �, ��.p:- , \ _��9 �� `i,� r•Y ,��� � tea"., �. y ^.fit p .n - .� - N' :+.� ' +'�i3• �''f �'l �q.�. -f �{., of �•'f. M1�^ ,�L w. .� �`^ i NOt'�•\ \, 1 ���(M i• � 9•h f,�� 3.,:� p. • � �';,Y• ��"tom �,•r� Y^'" +'���� 1� "4�- .•7�j,F,ram �{\ xl� sue.^� '., � N •• _ ~�.i� �///• �� ; ,as a �a„.� ,�; �� ../�•. , ! ��"�-4T_~• � r Ak ft • .� '-� 7�.e•�R by 7r+' � � 7.��e 4 f s f� Ae Lx 7-Y{ - .1. Na MM - �;(x,�,E��,rr � �.� ��.+i ,'����• riff:-• Lt L 41 A/ ,it kl !. '}A��.�, `ICI' "-__ �,\ y �'3� ,�,' ••Y� .-• qW �� may:. ,. NWI RESPONSES TO 2025 CFFCOC Project Questions Northwest Watershed Institute-Upper Yarr Creek - 1.03 acres NWI proposes to protect 1.03 acres with multiple conservation values. They include: o Protection (including)restoration as needed of a portion of Yarr Creek and associated riparian habitat downstream from Center Road o Protection of downstream water quality for anadromousfish Are there other conservation values that should be noted? First a clarification regarding the question above -the grant proposal includes preparing a stewardship plan that would detail restoration actions to be undertaken by NWI at a later phase.The Upper Yarr Creek proposal does not itself include any restoration actions. The Upper Yarr Creek project proposes acquisition of the parcel for permanent protection and long-term restoration by NWI.The conservation values/benefits are detailed in the application and presentation and include: 1) Protection of high-quality riparian and stream habitat(a WDFW Priority Habitat) along Upper Yarr Creek,which includes habitat for a diversity of mammal, bird,amphibian,and other native biota. 2) Protection of downstream water quality for anadromous coho salmon and coastal cutthroat trout which spawn in lower Yarr Creek 3) Protection of instream flow of Yarr Creek from any type of surface or groundwater withdrawal or diversion. 4) Protection of habitat for priority species including western toad and pileated woodpecker,which likely occur on the site. 5) Protection of forest habitat and opportunity for restoration of old growth forest habitat over time. 6) Conservation of a key parcel for wildlife connectivity with adjoining and nearby conserved lands (Leopold Freeman LLC and NWI's Tarboo Wildlife Preserve). 7) Opportunity over time for NWI to restore some impacted areas (road and previous cleared site) to older forest habitatthrough forest management activities (weed control,road decommissioning,tree planting). 8) Protection of riparian habitat on steep slopes to increase resilience to climate change;in terms of shade to reduce summer stream temperatures and riparian protection of steep stream banks to reduce erosion from high flows. 9) Conservation of an accessible site for NWI supervised environmental education, research,monitoring,and field tours. 10)Protection of land recognized by the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe as having cultural resources (supporting native plants of importance and accessible for tribal cultural uses). 4goN oG� 2025 Jefferson County Conservation Futures Fund Program O Property Acquisition Project and/or 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(360)379-4498 or tpokorny@co.iefferson.wo.us with questions. Background and Eligibility Information 1. Project Title Deerfoot Forest 2. Conservation Futures Fund Acquisition Request Amount: $98,000 Conservation Futures O&M Request Amount: $12,000 3. Total Conservation Futures Request Amount: S 110 000 4. Please indicate the type of interest contemplated in the acquisition process. _Warranty Deed X Easement _Other(Please describe below.) In whose name will the property title be held after acquisition? Penney Jo Ewing Hubbard will continue to hold title,with a conservation easement held by Jefferson Land Trust and potentially a REPI easement held by the US Department of Defense. 5. Applicant Information Name of Applicant or Organization: Jefferson Land Trust Contact: Sarah Spaeth Title: Director of Conservation&Strategic Partnerships Address: 1033 Lawrence St.Port Townsend,WA 98368 Phone: (360)379-9501, ext. 101 Fax: ext. Email: sspaeth(@saveland.org 6. Sponsor Information: (if different than applicant) Organization Name: Contact: Title: Address: Phone: ext. Fax: ( ) - ,ext. Email: 1 2021 CFF Program Application This application was approved by the sponsor's legally responsible body(e.g., board, council, etc.) on February 20,2024 7. Project Location Street Address or Description of Location: 11500 Center Rd.Quilcene,WA 98376 Driving Directions from Port Townsend: From Chimacum,take Center Road south for 11.5 miles and turn right into the private driveway. Section: 5 Township: 27 N Range: 1W Assessor's Parcel Number(s): 701052002 and 701052011 Please differentiate current and proposed ownership of each APN and indicate if the parcel is to be acquired with CFF funds or used as match. All parcels listed above will remain in Penney Hubbard's ownership and will be preserved with a conservation easement held by Jefferson Land Trust,likely along with a Navy Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration(REPI) restrictive easement. Please list the assessed values for each property or APN,as applicable. 701052002 -$469,479 current market value assessed&taxable value 701052011-$82,905 current market value assessed&taxable value 8. Existing Conditions New Site: Yes X No Number of Parcels:2 Addition to Existing Site: Yes No X Acres to Be Acquired: 36.9 Total Project Acreage(if different): Current Zoning: RR:20 and RR:S Existing Structures/Facilities: Two residences,two wells,a pump house,a small barn,woodshed,and a few additional outbuildings. Any current covenants,easements or restrictions on land use: None Current Use: Residential Waterfront (name of body of water): None Shoreline(linear feet): N/A Owner Tidelands/Shorelands: N/A 9. Current Property Owner X is _is not a willing seller. Project Description 2 2025 CFF Program Application 10. In 1,000 words or less,provide a summary description of the project,the match, and why you think preserving this property is important.Name three top objectives for the property(other than those related to funding). Include information about the physical characteristics of the site that is proposed for acquisition with Conservation Futures Fund Program funds including: vegetation,topography, surrounding land 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 project relates to a larger conservation program(please identify),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 seeking Conservation Futures funding for the permanent protection of Deerfoot Forest with a conservation easement.This property is in Quilcene along Center Road and contains two parcels that total 36.9 acres. Jefferson Land Trust seeks to protect this property with a conservation easement to protect the important ecological features of upland forest,forested wetlands,and headwaters of two important creek systems.The easement will prohibit fragmentation of the two parcels,further development,and conventional/clear-cut forest management practices. The Hubbard Forest property appears to be a section of the headwaters of both Donovan Creek and Tarboo Creek.This is inferred from onsite characteristics,knowledge of the water drainage,property location,and elevation hillshade imagery.Jefferson Land Trust and other partners such as the Northwest Watershed Institute,WA Department of Natural Resources, and Jefferson County have been working for over two decades on the protection efforts of both watersheds of Donovan and Tarboo Creeks.This offers an important opportunity for Jefferson Land Trust to continue with land protection efforts in these priority areas. The Deerfoot Forest conservation easement will limit future development, require single ownership of the two parcels, restrict forest management that only permits ecological enhancement activities,all with the goal of protecting the wildlife corridor that this diverse second growth forest contributes to(described further in#7). As large rotating clearcuts have occurred on adjacent neighboring parcels, Penney Hubbard and her husband have ensured that the management of the Deerfoot Forest has allowed natural regeneration of the forest ecosystem to occur.Their management vision includes the maintenance,preservation,and enhancement of the diverse second growth forest as a "forest garden"for native plant species,wildlife,and human recreation and enjoyment. Deerfoot Forest has been naturally regenerating since its last logging operation around 1920.There are various forest zones including mature Douglas fir mixed with cedar,western hemlock,Sitka spruce,alder and maple patches,and forested wetlands.While some areas of the forest could benefit from more conifer tree presence,there is a substantial amount of downed wood and standing snags throughout the property which provide important habitat for various wildlife and sequester water and carbon on site.The property has varied topography ranging from mostly flat forestland on the south side of Center Road to south-facing sloped forestland on the parcel north of Center Road.The topography and soils of Deerfoot Forest hosts seasonal and perennial forested wetlands and while there is no apparent surface water flow,the property appears to have hydrological connections as a section of the headwaters of both Donovan Creek and Tarboo Creek.These characteristics are well-suited to the proposed ecological protection. On the property,in addition to the two 3 2025 CFF Program Application residences located in the larger northern parcel,infrastructure includes two wells,a pump house,a small barn,and other small outbuildings.Current zoning of the parcels appears to allow for one additional development right on the southern parcel that would be extinguished with the conservation easement.The existing infrastructure on site would remain in use by private landowners after protection with the conservation easement,and the infrastructure would be limited to within one"building envelope" in the easement. Deerfoot Forest's surrounding neighbor landowners include private timber companies,residential development,and Department of Natural Resources Forest Board.These surrounding land uses have resulted in the Deerfoot Forest serving as an intact wildlife corridor across the busy Center Road from the DNR Dabob Bay Natural Area,only.25 miles away across Dabob Rd to the south.The landowners and other community members have regularly sited black bears and cougars crossing Center Road between the two Hubbard parcels, presumably because of the habitat interruption and fragmentation occurring on the surrounding properties.The Deerfoot Forest has remained a wildlife and native plant refuge over the years as nearby disturbances have continued to occur. Jefferson Land Trust intends to protect this forested property with a conservation easement before the end of 2026 or early 2027,and CFF funds will provide essential funding toward this goal. In addition to CFF funds, funding from the Navy Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) program for the REPI easement will also likely provide a substantial amount of the funding for this project,as well as(or alternately) a bargain sale of the conservation easement from the landowners,providing the required matching funds for the CFF program.The federal grant dollars and landowner match contributed to this project have reduced the amount of funding requested from the CFF program. After the protection of Deerfoot Forest with a conservation easement,the landowners will continue to manage the property to enhance its ecological values,and the property will be protected from inappropriate development or timber harvesting,forever. To date,Jefferson Land Trust protects over 1,360 acres in the Tarboo Creek and Donovan Creek watersheds. These properties include forestland,riparian,and farmland properties,working with several partners, including the Northwest Watershed Institute and Department of Natural Resources. Top objectives: 1. Protect the property with a conservation easement and Navy REPI restrictive easement which will reduce the development rights,protect the forest and wetland habitat,and protect the headwaters of Tarboo Creek and Donovan Creek-2026/early 2027 2. After protection of the property the landowners,Jefferson Land Trust staff,and other natural resources partners will collaborate to plan and implement the best forest management practices to ensure that the property continues on its path toward old-growth forest characteristics and contributes to climate resiliency 3. Landowners, Land Trust,and other partners will continue to assess the use of the property as a wildlife corridor and determine if there are additional enhancements that can contribute to that use. The overarching goal of this project is to protect the ecological values of Deerfoot Forest so that the property will always remain in a maturing forested condition,protecting the water quality of the lower watersheds. 4 2025 CFF Program Application 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 Fund 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:The estimated value of the conservation easement is$180,000. Total Estimated Acquisition-related Cost(see Conservation Futures Fund Manual for eligible costs): $32,000 Total Operation and Maintenance Cost: $12,000 Total Project Cost: $224,000 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): Deerfoot Forest estimated costs Timeline Est.Total CFF Request Match Cost Easement acquisition 2026 $180,000 $75,000 $105,000 Land acquisition related costs,i.e. 2026 $24,000 $15,000 $9,000 appraisal,survey,Baseline document, closing costs Project management,admin and legal ongoing $8,000 $8,000 $0 fees O&M ongoing $12,000 $12,000 $0 Total $224,000 $110,000 $114,000 (49%) (51%) The estimate for the value of the easement acquisition is based on the current Jefferson County fair market value assessment of the property,combined with our knowledge of the appraised value of other conservation easements on local properties recently.Similarly,Jefferson Land Trust completes multiple acquisition projects a year which helps us provide experienced estimates for project management and other administrative costs that will be needed for this project. Standalone O & M go to question#14: Scored Questions 5 2025 CFF Program Application 1. To what degree does the project leverage contributions for acquisition from groups, agencies or individuals? Sponsors or other organizations are required to contribute to acquisition of the proposed site and/or operation and maintenance activities. 1 a. Please describe below how contributions from groups or agencies will reduce the need to use Conservation Futures Fund program funds. 1 b. Matching Fund Estimate Acquisition O&M % Conservation Futures Funds Requested S98,000 S12,000 49.0% Matching Funds/Resources* $114,000 LO 51% Total Project Acquisition Cost $212,000 $12,000 100% *If a prior acquisition is beingproposed as match,please describe andprovide documentation of value, location, date of acquisition and other information that would directly link the match to the property being considered for acquisition. 1 c. Source of matching Amount of Contribution If not, Contribution If not, funds/resources contribution approved? when? available now? when? Navy REPI (or bargain sale) $114,000 _ Yes No Yes No NOTE: Fifty percent(50%) matching funds are required, and a higher rating will be assigned to those projects that guarantee additional resources for acquisition. Donation of property or a property right can 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. To what degree has the project sponsor identified the long-term stewardship issues for the proposed project? 2 a. Identify any factors,threats, or stressors that could negatively affect the conservation values and/or community benefits for which the property would be conserved. The mature forest conditions and hydrological conservation values of the Deerfoot Forest,including the seasonal and perennial wetlands that feed into the Donovan Creek and Tarboo Creek watersheds could be negatively impacted by further development currently allowed on the southern parcel under county code, and by conventional forest management practices without a conservation easement. 2 b. Describe the management strategies that the stewardship plan will include to address the identified factors, threats,or stressors, including any actions planned to make these negative outcomes or impacts less likely. The Land Trust anticipates that the stewardship plan will focus on management strategies designed to retain and enhance the mature forest and wetland characteristics of the property.The landowners have a forest management plan that was recently updated in consultation with an experienced DNR forester.This plan promotes forest health,diversity,and resilience and will be a guiding document in the development of the Stewardship Plan. The Stewardship Plan is created in partnership with landowners who retain the fee-simple rights to the property.These plans,including their management strategies,are developed once the staff have more time (funded by public granting agencies)to conduct site assessments to create a baseline conditions report and 6 2025 CFF Program Application stewardship plan.The Land Trust will engage in ongoing,detailed discussions with landowners and their forest manager to formulate joint strategies for protecting and enhancing the identified conservation values, once the project has secured funding and before closing on the conservation easement. While we will have the required Stewardship Plan outline or draft to County Environmental Health staff in advance of closing on the conservation easement,the national Land Trust Alliance—which regularly updates its Standards and Practices to guide accredited land trusts such as Jefferson Land Trust—requires a management plan to be developed within 12 months of land acquisition.This timeline allows staff to set management goals,address risks to conservation values,and identify appropriate public access opportunities.When necessary,we will update the Stewardship Plan according to the conservation easement requirements. (https://Iandtrustalliance.org/resources/learn/explore/practice-12b-land-management-and- stewardshio 2 c. Describe any existing water rights, and current uses of water. Identify any conservation values currently being protected that are dependent on these sources of water. The Deerfoot Forest property residences utilize two domestic wells.Onsite water supply is not an element of the identified conservation values. 3. To what degree has the project sponsor demonstrated effective long-term stewardship of a similar project? 3 a. Describe the sponsoring agency's previous or on-going stewardship experience. Over the 35 years since it was formed,Jefferson Land Trust has managed many acquisition projects with several project partner organizations, including Jefferson County,The Trust for Public Land, Northwest Watershed Institute, North Olympic Salmon Coalition (NOSC),JCCD, HCSEG,the Navy and others,and we have been responsible for conducting or coordinating restoration activities in partnership with many of those same agencies and organizations. The Land Trust also holds title to over 1,890 acres of preserves and we have helped with the preservation and stewardship of another 12,941 acres in Jefferson County.We currently hold 69 conservation easements on 3,597 acres,including the Tarboo Wildlife Preserve (396 acres),Carl's Forest (156 acres),Arlandia (28 acres),and other facilitated protection projects with the Northwest Watershed Institute. Jefferson Land Trust stewardship and monitoring protocols were developed with the guidance of the national Land Trust Alliance,and adherence to those protocols is one of the requirements for our formal land trust accreditation. 3 b. Has the project sponsor and/or applicant been involved in other projects previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funding? No,neither the sponsor nor applicant has been involved in a project previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funds. X Yes,the sponsor and/or applicant for this project has been involved in a project previously approved for Conservation Futures Fund funds. Please provide details: Jefferson Land Trust has worked with many willing landowners and has sponsored 40 CFF applications over the years since Jefferson County approved collection of the conservation futures property tax and developed the program in 2003.These projects are found in almost all areas of East Jefferson County and range from fee simple acquisition of nature preserves that are held by Jefferson Land Trust,or by other entities such as the City of Port Townsend,Jefferson County or the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe,to permanent conservation easements held by Jefferson Land Trust on privately owned properties. 7 2025 CFF Program Application 4. To what degree is the project a part of an adopted open space, conservation,or resource preservation program or plan that was open to public review and comment,or identified in a community conservation effort that provided opportunities for public input? The proposed acquisition: _is specifically identified in an adopted open space,conservation,or resource preservation program or plan,or community conservation effort,that provided opportunities for public review and comment. Please describe below, including this project's importance to the plan. Please also reference the website of the plan if available or include the plan with this application. X complements an adopted open space or conservation plan that was open to public review,but is not specifically identified. Please describe below, and describe how the proposed acquisition is consistent with the plan. _is a stand-alone project,or part of a project that was not open to public review. For context,the Deerfoot Forest property is nearby the Washington DNR's designated Dabob Bay Natural Area.The Dabob Bay Natural Area was created to protect one of Washington's highest functioning coastal spit and tidal wetland systems. Deerfoot Forest and other properties within the Tarboo watershed have the opportunity to provide additional protection to these areas by protecting the water quality of tributaries feeding into Dabob Bay.Tarboo-Dabob is identified in the Willamette Valley—Puget Trough—Georgia Basin Ecoregional Assessment(Floberg et al.2004)as a priority area for conserving terrestrial biodiversity,and the summary of special occurrences appendix. Jefferson Land Trust's community-vetted 100-Year Conservation Plan articulates the importance of preserving habitat with the community vision-"Habitatis biologically diverse,interconnected,and supports viable population of keystone species."(pg. 13,Jefferson Land Trust Conservation Plan,2010). It also identifies "wildlife corridors"and"natural ecosystems"as priorities for habitat areas to be protected,which Deerfoot Forest can be characterized as. A portion of the Deerfoot Forest property is specifically identified as a Highly Resilient Terrestrial Biodiversity Area through Jefferson Land Trust's Climate Resiliency Spatial Conservation Planning. More information about the Land Resilience Studv can be found in the hyperlink and in Question#11. 5. To what degree does the project conserve opportunities which are otherwise lost or threatened? 5 a. The proposed acquisition site X does _does not provide a conservation or preservation opportunity which would otherwise be lost or threatened. 5 b. If applicable,please carefully describe the nature and immediacy of the threat,and any unique qualities about the site. The landowners of Deerfoot Forest have considered working with Jefferson Land Trust to protect their forestland for over a decade now. Up until last year,the Hubbards wanted to reserve their ability to sell off their second parcel in case they have unexpected medical costs arise. However,now that there is the opportunity to secure Conservation Futures funds for the protection of this property,we can now work with the landowners to consolidate the property,extinguish the remaining development right,and ensure that it cannot be subdivided or clearcut should the landowners need to sell the property in the future,or after their lifetimes. 8 2025 CFF Program Application 6. Are the conservation values of the project commensurate with or greater than the amount of CFF funds requested, and will both the timeframes for meeting project objectives and associated metrics demonstrate achievement of the conservation objectives? 6 a. Summarize the project's conservation values and how the CFF funds requested support these values. The conservation values of the property that will be protected by the conservation easement include mature, diverse forest habitat,forested wetlands,scenic qualities along a main county road,and educational and scientific opportunities.The protection of this mature forest habitat will benefit the biological diversity, carbon sequestration,and groundwater recharge of the forest,as well as extend the wildlife corridor in the Tarboo and Donovan Creek watersheds that many partners have been working to protect for two decades. CFF funds requested will directly support these values by utilizing the conservation future tax levy to preserve the sensitive lands of Deerfoot Forest that would be permanently damaged by increased development or resource extraction.CFF funds may also leverage additional funding from the Navy's Readiness and Environmental Integration Program,and/or a bargain sale of the conservation easements. The timeframes for meeting the project objectives are reasonable and will achieve the conservation objectives. 6 b. Summarize how the project's conservation values are related to the project's specific objectives. The objectives described in the Project Description ensure that Jefferson Land Trust is performing the appropriate steps to ensure permanent protection of the conservation values described in 6a. 7. To what degree does the project preserve habitat for flora and fauna other than habitat for anadromous fish species? 7 a.X provides habitat for State of Washington Priority Habitat specific to the project and/or State or Federal (NOAA and USFWS)Candidate, Endangered,Threatened or Sensitive species(provide list and references). 7 b.X provides habitat for native flora and fauna. Identify the documented habitat(s) and native flora or fauna species that will be protected by the project. 7 c.X contributes to a wildlife corridor or migration route identified by Washington Connectivity Working Group or other peer-reviewed source. If affirmative in any of the above,please describe and list the Priority Habitat(s)and Threatened, Endangered, or Sensitive species below, and cite or provide documentation of species'use.1 Note about this year's changes to 7c:the"Washington Connectivity Working Group"has no data on their Linkage Pathways interactive map west of the Cascade Mountains.Additionally,all the links recommended in the footnote below are expired. If citing information from specific resources is desired,please provide different requests. Otherwise,sponsors will continue to cite information from their resources. Note also that the Land Trust is participating in the statewide Washington Habitat ConnectivityAction Planning process and is providing feedback and local priority information to advise the update of the Action Plan, expected to be complete in mid-2025. ' See, for example,http://www.dnr.wa.gov/researchscience/topics/naturalheritage/pa eg s/amp nh.aspx http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list http://wwwl.dnr.wa. og v/nhp/refdesk/plants.html http://wwwl.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/pubs/wa ecological systems.pdf 9 2025 CFF Program Application The Deerfoot Forest property is nearby other conserved land including the conservation easements Tarboo Wildlife Preserve(396 acres),Carl's Forest(156 acres),Arlandia (28 acres),and other facilitated protection projects with the Northwest Watershed Institute,contributing to greater habitat corridors for wildlife species. The mature,mixed species forest and forested wetlands onsite provide habitat for multiple species-wildlife documented onsite include Black bear and deer,cougar,coyote, raccoon,local woodpecker species and bat species that move throughout the landscape.Western toads have been sited on the property for multiple years-they are listed as a State Candidate (WDFW Priority Habitat and Species list) and Federal Species of Concern. The Olympic Cougar Project,a connectivity collaborative funded by the international Panthera nonprofit organization, has documented that within the last several months,Yenewes,a collared female cougar who now has four kittens,spent one week on the northern Deerfoot Forest parcel.When a cougar who is part of this study spends a week in one place,they have either killed and are eating,or they are denning.Additionally, the Olympic Cougar Project has shared data of other collared cats that are also frequenting this area in and around Deerfoot Forest. Directly to the south of Deerfoot Forest is Department of Natural Resources property in their Forest Board category for timber production, but we understand that the presence of marbled murrelets on or near this property means that DNR may be working to incorporate these properties into their Dabob Bay Natural Area Preserve(currently located less than .25 miles from Deerfoot Forest). Deerfoot Forest contributes to the protection of water quality throughout the Dabob Baby and Donovan Creek watersheds by reducing the number of negative impacts that the streams and bays have to respond to such as sedimentation,erosion, pollution,and flooding. Furthermore, Dabob Bay is home to surf smelt, Pacific sand lace, Pacific Herring, Pacific geoduck,hardshell clams,commercial oyster production as well as several WDFW Priority Habitats (estuarine and marine wetland,freshwater emergent wetland).Quilcene Bay,fed by Donovan Creek has similar conservation values and species present. 8. To what degree does the project protect habitat for anadromous fish species? 8. Describe to what degree the project protects habitat for anadromous fish species(for example: marine shorelines,stream or river corridors including meander zones,and riparian buffers). Please provide documentation and maps that demonstrate the location,quality and extent of the existing buffer and adjoining habitat. As described in question#7,this property appears to be some of the headwaters of both Donovan Creek and Tarboo Creek, both of which are anadromous streams for multiple salmonid species, including Hood Canal summer chum, Puget Sound chinook,coho.The protection of habitats upstream in a watershed provides benefit to the water quality and conditions of the salmon-bearing streams further down the watershed. 9. To what degree does the project preserve farmland for agricultural use OR preserve forestland for forest management? 9 a. Describe the extent and nature of current and planned agricultural use or forest management activities of the proposed acquisition, including any anticipated changes to that use once the property, or property right, is acquired with Conservation Futures funds. The forestland's primary management goal is not for silvicultural and economic production, but instead for actively managing the property through enhancing and preserving the ecological diversity and resiliency of this upland and forested wetland habitat. 9 b. Describe how the acquisition or proposed easement will likely preserve and/or enhance soil, water quality, watershed function and wildlife habitat. 10 2025 CFF Program Application With the proposed terms of the conservation easement,Deerfoot Forest will be able to be managed in a similar function as described in 11b,in perpetuity.The easement terms will restrict clear cutting, timber harvest,and conversion of the forest which will protect the water quality,soil health,watershed function and wildlife habitat as described throughout this application. 9 c. Does this project preserve a mix of quality farmland and forestland? Preservation of farmland is not one of the proposed conservation values for this forested property;the preservation of structurally diverse,second growth forest is the primary goal of this conservation easement. 10. To what degree does this project increase resiliency to and mitigation of climate change, and is the project's scale significant in regards to increasing climate resiliency? 10. Describe how this project will increase resiliency to and mitigation of climate change. Is the project's scale significant in regards to increasing climate resiliency? Jefferson Land Trust and the North Olympic Land Trust have been involved in a Land Resilience Study of the North Olympic Peninsula since 2020.This study included working with a professional GIS consultant to utilize over 90 data sets and draw from 18 public and private sources to develop a set of climate resilience metrics that are helping to structure conservation initiatives in both partner organizations and shape future collaboration.The metrics are analyzed through the four pillars of our work including working farmland, working forestland,habitat and biodiversity,and community opportunity areas. Through this analysis,portions of Deerfoot Forest are identified as a Terrestrial Biodiversity Conservation Opportunity Area through this spatial resiliency study.Terrestrial Biodiversity Conservation Opportunity Areas are defined as the lands on the Olympic Peninsula that are most likely to retain their ecological integrity and features that support migrating biodiversity both present and predicted,where there are corridors between these features that will support future migration and are the habitat lands that have high carbon sequestration values. The long-term protection of this structurally diverse second-growth forest will enhance its ecological integrity,contributing to climate change resilience.Achieving climate change resilience in Jefferson County will require incremental protection efforts,collaborating with landowners of varying property sizes. Most privately-owned parcels in the county,not held by commercial timber companies,are smaller than 100 acres. In this context,the 37-acre size of this project is particularly significant,especially due to its proximity to the Dabob Bay Natural Area Preserve and protection efforts in the lower Donovan Creek watershed. 11.What area does the project serve? 11 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. Deerfoot Forest is a piece of property that is part of a much broader county area that has been prioritized for protection by many local and regional land conservation and management partners. Both the Donovan and Tarboo Creek watersheds have been prioritized for preservation and restoration for over two decades,as described in#7. Deerfoot Forest is at the top of these watersheds,which benefits all of the downstream work that has been happening over many years. 11 b. Is the project located in an area that is under-represented by CFF funded Projects?Areas that Conservation Futures has not been able to support to date include, Toandos Peninsula, Dosewallips Valley, Bolton Peninsula, and the West End. No. 11 2025 CFF Program Application 12. To what degree is the applicant committing to providing educational opportunities, interpretive opportunities, and/or serve as a general community resource that does not reduce the conservation value(s) of the project? 12. Describe the educational or interpretive opportunities that the applicant will provide for 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 that will not reduce the conservation value(s)of the project.'Provide the time frames when each of the above will be implemented. While conservation easements cannot require access for the public or interpretive signage,the Hubbards are very passionate about being able to share educational and visitor opportunities on their property.Their future goals for the forest stated in their Forest Management Plan include designing additional walking trails and visitor infrastructure such as benches and gazebo to encourage the opportunity for people to visit an exemplary native forest and wildlife habitat for future generations. 13. To what degree does the project preserve historic or culturally significant resources39 13. The proposed acquisition _includes historic or culturally significant resources4 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. X none of the above. If affirmative in any of the above,please describe below, and cite or provide documentation of the historical cultural resources. Standalone O & M Projects 14. Applications for standalone Operation and Maintenance funding to be scored on a scale of 1- 100 based on information provided. Consider the CFF Manual and the topics below, for example: 14.Please describe in detail,the reason O&M funds are needed,proposed O&M activities,and how they protect resources cited in the original acquisition project. Attach additional information such as up-to-date stewardship plan,maps,field reports,work plan,budget,timeline,etc.,to support the application,if appropriate. O&M projects must address a compelling, immediate need. Specifically include whether the project has an up- to-date stewardship plan. If there is such a plan,is it being implemented and is the proposed O&M work specifically included in the plan?Also,describe any unforeseen or urgent threats to the resource conservation values of the site and whether the proposed O&M activities will mitigate those threats and/or prevent potential future threats. Verification 'The words"education"and"interpretation"are interpreted broadly by the CFF Committee. a 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. 12 2025 CFF Program Application 15. Sponsor commitments: 15 a. Sponsors of projects 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. 15 b. If this project 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. `d j Initials IY you Date 5 c. If,three years after the date funding is approved by the Board of County Commissioners,the project sponsor has 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 project 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. _S _,_InitialsAhi h5Date 15 d.The applicant has reviewed all project requirements and all information in the application is accurate to the best of their knowledge. S5 Initials 31-N(tVate 15 e. The sponsor commits to providing long-term stewardship to achieve the conservation and protection goals of the project as proposed in this application or as may be modified with recommendation of the Cl~ Committee and approval of the BoCC. 5'5 lnitials jute 13 2025 CFF Program Application Landowner Acknowledgement Form ' Project Applicant Information Applicant Name:Jefferson land Trust Project Number/Name: Contact: ❑ Mr. ® Ms. First Name: Sarah Last Name:Spaeth Title: Director of Conservation Mailing Address: 1033 Lawrence St. Port Townsend, WA 98368 E-Mail Address: sspaeth@saveland.org Property Information Address or Location: 11500 Center Road.Quilcene,WA 98376 County/Parcel Number: 701052002 and 701052011 Landowner Information Landowner Name: Hubbard Center Road LLC Representative: ❑ Mr. ® Ms. First Name: Penney Last Name: Hubbard Title: Mailing Address: PO Box 602 Quilcene, WA 98376 E-Mail Address: auntpenney@gmail.com 1. Penney Hubbard, Hubbard Center Road LLC, is the legal owner of property described in the grant application being submitted to Jefferson County Conservation Futures by the project applicant. 2. I am aware that the project being proposed in the grant application is on my property. 3. If a 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 applicant, I will recuse myself from decisions made by the project applicant to work on or purchase my property. 6. Ther ar are not (circle one)tenants on the property.Tenants displaced as a result of this project may be eligible for relocation assistance. II Landowner/RepreseAtative Signature 6tate� l . mow get,JR `- , it law , _ _ r +� �h i l'F VLtiI • • . • . ' " ' - TRUST .. M -• 1 'r4 v I t t'P�">•r MIX -MA, v •a, #ti + r 1 475 950 1.900 Deerfloot Forest 2023 Aerial Image For informationalpurposes only.All Conservation Futures Fund data represented are from varying sources and approximate. TRUST Map created in February 2025 Deerfoot Forest -- — _ Jefferson Land Trust Conservation Easements _ REPI Protection ! i Dabob Bay Natural Area(DNR) DNR Forest Board tea- �► M US Fish&Wildlife Streams Roads I " Jefferson Co.Tax Parcels t r, 40 �.. -. T _. — Dabob Bay —7— r Deerfoot Forest Feet 23 Imag Conservation Futures Fund 2025 20r informational al ional p rpose For informational purposes only.All data represented are from varying Project Boundary H i l i s h a d e Map sources and approximate. N Map created in March 2025 f.t. ��1t�` I•�=.. �4R� cif! f "' �►C�wPh � �.-. .t _Yu ,'T:_tea PIPS ,.-- c'-,.+�r� 5�j,,,r,�arta_st�+�:�. ��. ��� 3�i�.., 3 _"�' M1 ne �, •'_ �� NOS � � -Ss{� � 'W "'+F'+'Iy r.S .•` �t5� d. �.. 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All W MNI k yt^ r tv 00 � ,�.'��, �' x FWD'"•z" � �'. t Yr'4 ,\,� � � �' j,, �, ',, �ytr rehj' { , -���.�' ,� t1q'1'fi a fri ��; f • ` t r � '#'�� i , 'fit '+„ �?�p '!'l�•'.y l.4rlF����� • - t f wp �'�i is� �� II r �ri- � ! I Si � • a low _ %'4 •3 s s .�4 � -r •r it - �_•.� _ ti�. •wy,+ _ � ' : �IN 71 lei k : �' '+' •Ems' a '� y `h } � y It qy*+.• M �.� �" [� _ 11. � � a _ 5 C 'try- �• ��1�`-; 2025 CFFCOC Project Questions Jefferson Land Trust-Deerfoot Forest, 37 Acres Jefferson Land Trust (JLT) proposes to acquire a Conservation Easement (CE) on approximately 37 acres comprised of two parcels. The application identifies three conservation values the project will protect- 37 acres of 100+year old forest and forest processes that will result in the 37 acres transitioning to an old growth forest with typical old growth forest characteristics • 37 acres of occupied western toad habitat • 37 acres of mountain lion corridor habitat Are there any other conservation values that the project will specifically protect? To clarify,the bullets above are not the conservation values identified in the Deerfoot Forest application, although there is truth to the overview. Cougars are listed as one of many species that the forest benefits, and the Olympic Cougar Project data is used in the application to provide on-the-ground, local research about an important apex predator which indicates that many other species also utilize the property. To clarify the proposed conservation values,the application identifies the conservation values as: • Mature, diverse forest habitat and conditions • Hydrological values, including the seasonal and perennial forested wetlands that feed into the Donovan Creek and Tarboo Creek watersheds • Scenic qualities along a main county road • Education and scientific opportunities o Although the conservation easement cannot require public access, with prior approval of landowners, Jefferson Land Trust can access the properties for educational and scientific research opportunities, and the current landowners are passionate about inviting visitors to their property to learn about the wetlands and species on site. Will the appraisal for the purchase of the Conservation Easement include the value of the trees on the property or will the trees be valued as part of the remaining estate of the fee title owner? Since the conservation easement will eliminate the right for current or future landowners to clear cut the forest (i.e. some selective thinning for the enhancement of the conservation values will be permitted, but not for income generation),the value of the trees will be included in the valuation of the conservation easement.