WASHINGTON STATE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION - Washington State Parks ...
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Don Hoch
Director
STATE OF WASHINGTON
WASHINGTON STATE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
1111 Israel Road S.W. • P.O. Box 42650 • Olympia, WA 98504-2650 • (360) 902-8500
TDD Telecommunications Device for the Deaf: 800-833-6388
www.parks.state.wa.us
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT
Determination of Non-Significance
May 6, 2020
Lead Agency: Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
Description of proposal: Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (State Parks) is
planning the Clayton Beach Pedestrian Overpass Project within Larrabee State Park, south of
Bellingham, Washington. The project will include re-routing the trail from the Lost Lake Parking
Lot to access Clayton Beach and installing two pedestrian bridges, one to replace a stream
crossing and a new bridge over the BNSF railroad. Currently, the trail begins at the parking lot
and crosses Chuckanut Drive at an unmarked location. Once across Chuckanut Drive, the park
user follows a partially flooded, historic railroad grade over a stream bridge along the
unimproved trail to an uncontrolled, at-grade railroad crossing. The existing at-grade railroad
crossing was deemed unsafe due to inadequate sight distances for approaching trains by the
Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). Additionally, the at-grade railroad crossing is a
trespass issue on BNSF Railway. In response and in coordination with adjacent landowners
(BNSF, PSE, and WSDOT) the proposed project will:
1) improve ADA parking along the west side of Chuckanut Drive,
2) install a traffic-lighted and signed crosswalk crossing of Chuckanut Drive to provide a
safer pedestrian crossing,
3) improve the trail surface from the junction of new and old trail to trailhead,
4) provide a new trail through the forest that is firm and dry,
5) provide a continuous path from trailhead to the new BNSF railroad overpass bridge that
is accessible to emergency response, patrolling and maintenance all-terrain vehicles,
6) formalize a path/trail through vegetation clearing to connect the overpass bridge to
existing social trails that lead to Clayton Beach, and
7) install a composting toilet near the railroad pedestrian overpass bridge on the east side of
the railroad tracks near the bridge abutment.
The project will result in a net increase of 10,573 square feet of impervious surface for the
construction of new trail (comprised of gravel) and the composting toilet footprint. In addition,
approximately 6,750 square feet of the existing trail will be decommissioned, restored and used
as mitigation for wetland, wetland buffer, stream and stream buffer impacts.
Northwest Region HQ • 220 N. Walnut Street • Burlington, WA 98233 • (360) 755-5262May 6, 2020
Page 2 of 3
Location of proposal, including street address, if any: Larrabee State Park, Whatcom and
Skagit Counties; 245 Chuckanut Drive (Washington State Highway 11), Bellingham, WA 98229.
The coordinates for the project are latitude 48.647565 and longitude -122.486429. The project
study area includes Skagit County tax parcels P47654, P47653, and P47938 and Whatcom
County tax parcels 3703310530500000 and 370236495041000.
The lead agency has determined that the proposal will not have a probable significant adverse
impact on the environment. An environmental impact statement (EIS) is not required under
RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). This decision was made after review of a completed Environmental
Checklist and other information on file with the lead agency. This information is available at:
http://bit.ly/ParksSEPA
This determination is based on the following findings and conclusions:
• The project will meet stormwater Minimum Requirement 1 through 9 from the Ecology
Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington (SWMMWW) for the new
and replaced impervious area.
• The proposed trail design will implement dispersion Best Management Practices (BMPs)
to disperse runoff from the trail into the adjacent forested areas. The trail design includes
use of full, concentrated flow, and sheet flow dispersion to meet stormwater
requirements.
• A Method 2 wetland analysis was performed following the Ecology SWMMWW
standards for the segments of the trail that will drain to Category III wetlands prior to the
runoff being fully-dispersed. The wetland analysis demonstrated that the project will not
increase runoff volumes to the wetlands significantly and will meet Minimum
Requirement 8 for Wetland Protection.
• The wetland impacts resulting from the construction of a new trail will be mitigated (at a
ratio of 4:1) through restoring the existing trail that goes through a wetland.
• Wetland and stream buffer impacts resulting from the construction of a new trail will be
mitigated (at a ratio of 1:1) through restoring habitat and installing native plants.
• The proposed project will provide a way (via boardwalk) for hikers to cross wetlands
without going through the wetland, thereby reducing impacts to hydraulic function.
• Trail building techniques such as out-sloping and waterbars will be used to prevent
erosion and surface water runoff.
• Native vegetation will be used to restore portions of the existing trail to enhance and
provide quality habitat surrounding.
• Native tree species will be planted in mitigation areas to replace trees felled during the
construction process.
• The cultural resource survey will identify and record all historic and prehistoric cultural
resources within the project area. It will be the preferred strategy of State Parks to avoid
direct impacts to significant cultural resources; more specific actions are pending the
results of the cultural resource survey.
Northwest Region HQ • 220 N. Walnut Street • Burlington, WA 98233 • (360) 755-5262May 6, 2020
Page 3 of 3
This DNS is issued under 197-11-340 (2); the lead agency will not act on this proposal for 14
days from the date below. Comments must be submitted by May 20, 2020 or they may not be
considered.
Responsible Official: Kira Swanson
Position/Title: NW Region Environmental Planner
Phone (360) 755-5262
E-mail: kira.swanson@parks.wa.gov
Address: 220 N. Walnut Street
Burlington, WA 98233-1138
Date May 6, 2020 Signature
"All Washington State Parks are developed and maintained for the enjoyment of all persons regardless of age, sex, creed, ethnic
origin, or physical limitations."
There is no agency SEPA appeal; however all comments are welcome and will be thoroughly considered.
Northwest Region HQ • 220 N. Walnut Street • Burlington, WA 98233 • (360) 755-5262SEPA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST Purpose of checklist: Governmental agencies use this checklist to help determine whether the environmental impacts of your proposal are significant. This information is also helpful to determine if available avoidance, minimization or compensatory mitigation measures will address the probable significant impacts or if an environmental impact statement will be prepared to further analyze the proposal. Instructions for applicants: This environmental checklist asks you to describe some basic information about your proposal. Please answer each question accurately and carefully, to the best of your knowledge. You may need to consult with an agency specialist or private consultant for some questions. You may use “not applicable” or "does not apply" only when you can explain why it does not apply and not when the answer is unknown. You may also attach or incorporate by reference additional studies reports. Complete and accurate answers to these questions often avoid delays with the SEPA process as well as later in the decision- making process. The checklist questions apply to all parts of your proposal, even if you plan to do them over a period of time or on different parcels of land. Attach any additional information that will help describe your proposal or its environmental effects. The agency to which you submit this checklist may ask you to explain your answers or provide additional information reasonably related to determining if there may be significant adverse impact. Instructions for Lead Agencies: Please adjust the format of this template as needed. Additional information may be necessary to evaluate the existing environment, all interrelated aspects of the proposal and an analysis of adverse impacts. The checklist is considered the first but not necessarily the only source of information needed to make an adequate threshold determination. Once a threshold determination is made, the lead agency is responsible for the completeness and accuracy of the checklist and other supporting documents. Use of checklist for nonproject proposals: For nonproject proposals (such as ordinances, regulations, plans and programs), complete the applicable parts of sections A and B plus the SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET FOR NONPROJECT ACTIONS (part D). Please completely answer all questions that apply and note that the words "project," "applicant," and "property or site" should be read as "proposal," "proponent," and "affected geographic area," respectively. The lead agency may exclude (for non-projects) questions in Part B - Environmental Elements –that do not contribute meaningfully to the analysis of the proposal. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 1 of 23
A. Background [HELP]
1. Name of proposed project, if applicable:
Clayton Beach Pedestrian Overpass Project
2. Name of applicant:
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
3. Address and phone number of applicant and contact person:
Adam Fulton, 360-755-5262 ext.241, Adam.Fulton@parks.wa.gov
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
220 North Walnut Street
Burlington, WA 98233
4. Date checklist prepared:
1/2/2020
5. Agency requesting checklist:
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
6. Proposed timing or schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
The proposed project is anticipated to begin in summer of 2020 and will be completed by June 2021.
The project will be completed in two phases. The first phase will construct the new trail, replace an
existing pedestrian bridge over a stream, and construct a new pedestrian bridge over the Burlington
Northern Santa Fe (BSNF) Railroad. The second phase will decommission the existing trail, reestablish
wetlands, and reestablish wetland and stream buffers. Once the overpass bridge has been installed
vegetation will be cleared west of the overpass to connect the stair landing to existing social trails. The
new trail and bridges will be complete before the existing trail is decommissioned. An ADA accessible
composting toilet will be installed east of the railroad overpass bridge as the final component of the
project.
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or
connected with this proposal? If yes, explain.
No.
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be
prepared, directly related to this proposal.
• A critical areas report, Clayton Beach Pedestrian Overpass Project Wetland Delineation and
Stream Assessment Report prepared by Otak, Inc. (2020)
• Geotechnical Engineering Report, Clayton Beach Pedestrian Overpass, Landau (2020)
• Stormwater Site Plan Report, Otak, Inc (2020)
• JARPA for US Army Corps of Engineers permit application
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 2 of 23• Cultural resource survey of project Area of Impact
• Larrabee RRFB Existing Pedestrian and Vehicular Activity, TENW (2020)
9. Do you know whether applications are pending for governmental approvals of other
proposals directly affecting the property covered by your proposal? If yes, explain.
There are no known current pending applications or approvals of other proposals that will directly affect
the properties for this project.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
• Whatcom County – Building Permit, Natural Resource Assessment and Critical Areas Review
• Skagit County – Building Permit, Shoreline Permit
• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife - Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA)
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Nationwide 42 Recreational Facilities or a Nationwide 14 Linear
Transportation
11. Give brief, complete description of your proposal, including the proposed uses and the size
of the project and site. There are several questions later in this checklist that ask you to
describe certain aspects of your proposal. You do not need to repeat those answers on this
page. (Lead agencies may modify this form to include additional specific information on project
description.)
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (State Parks) is planning the Clayton Beach Pedestrian
Overpass Project within Larrabee State Park, south of Bellingham, Washington. The project will include re-routing
the trail from the Lost Lake Parking Lot to access Clayton Beach and installing two pedestrian bridges, one to
replace a stream crossing and a new bridge over the BNSF railroad. Currently, the trail begins at the parking lot
and crosses Chuckanut Drive at an unmarked location. Once across Chuckanut Drive, the park user follows a
partially flooded, historic railroad grade over a stream bridge along the unimproved trail to an uncontrolled, at-
grade railroad crossing. The existing at-grade railroad crossing was deemed unsafe due to inadequate sight
distances for approaching trains by the Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). Additionally, the at-grade
railroad crossing is a trespass issue on BNSF Railway. In response and in coordination with adjacent landowners
(BNSF, PSE, and WSDOT) the proposed project will:
1) improve ADA parking along the west side of Chuckanut Drive,
2) install a traffic-lighted and signed crosswalk crossing of Chuckanut Drive to provide a safer pedestrian
crossing,
3) improve the trail surface from union of new and old trail to trailhead,
4) provide a new trail through the forest that is firm and dry,
5) provide a continuous path from trailhead to the new BNSF railroad overpass bridge that is accessible to
emergency response, patrolling and maintenance all-terrain vehicles,
6) formalize a path/trail through vegetation clearing to connect the overpass bridge to existing social trails,
and
7) install a composting toilet near the railroad pedestrian overpass bridge on the east side of the railroad tracks
near the bridge abutment.
The proposed project will improve the existing trail surface from the trailhead to the start of the new trail
alignment. The new trail alignment will be constructed west of the existing trail and will meander through a
forested area of the park. The new trail alignment will connect to a new overpass bridge crossing the BNSF
tracks. The railroad overpass bridge will connect to a new stairwell, with a viewing platform, that will allow trail
users to access Clayton Beach on the west side of the BNSF tracks.
The existing aluminum pedestrian stream bridge near the trailhead will be replaced. The existing bridge and
concrete footings will be removed. The bridge will be replaced with a new 60-foot long by 5-foot wide
prefabricated steel truss bridge. The new bridge will be located in the existing bridge alignment (albeit wider and
longer than the existing bridge) on new concrete abutment footings above the Ordinary High Water Mark.
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 3 of 23The proposed project will also install a new prefabricated modular bridge and staircase to create a safe crossing over the BNSF railroad tracks. The new overpass bridge will connect the new trail alignment to the staircase with a viewing platform. The new bridge will be approximately 110 feet long and 6 feet wide and will include a complete fence enclosure to ensure pedestrian safety. The existing gravel trail will be decommissioned south of the union with the new trail. An informational sign will be installed at this junction to inform pedestrians of the new trail and the purpose for the project. Habitat piles, consisting of wood from removed trees, will be placed on the decommissioned trail near the union with the new trail to discourage continued use of the existing trail. Additionally, conifer trees will be planted on informal social paths leading to the decommissioned trail. Sections of the decommissioned trail will be used for wetland creation and buffer mitigation through decompaction and native woody and herbaceous plantings. A cracked concrete culvert within the existing trail will be removed to allow the stream to reestablish a new channel. A chain-link fence will be installed near the train tracks to block the informal BNSF track crossing and a sign will be installed on the fence to direct pedestrians to the new BNSF overpass bridge. The pedestrian overpass bridge will connect to Clayton Beach through a series of new and existing social trails, approximately 400 lineal feet will be constructed. The new trail will be constructed by trimming vegetation and grubbing down to mineral social to create a 3 feet wide path. Adjacent social trails will be decommissioned through placement of logs/brush and or planting if funding available. The section of trail from the proposed pedestrian overpass bridge to Clayton Beach will not be ADA accessible. As part of the project a composting toilet is proposed near the pedestrian bridge overpass that meets ADA accessibility standards. The facility will be no larger than 200 square feet and will not require any sewer or water since it will be a sustainable composting toilet design. Placing a toilet near the pedestrian overpass bridge and out of the shoreline will help minimize the environmental impact of park visitors to the beach and provide accessible accommodations. 12. Location of the proposal. Give enough information for a person to understand the precise location of your proposed project, including a street address, if any, and section, township, and range, if known. If a proposal would occur over a range of area, provide the range or boundaries of the site(s). Provide a legal description, site plan, vicinity map, and topographic map, if reasonably available. While you should submit any plans required by the agency, you are not required to duplicate maps or detailed plans submitted with any permit applications related to this checklist. The project is located within Larrabee State Park between the Lost Lake Parking Lot and Clayton Beach, in unincorporated Whatcom and Skagit County approximately 9 miles south of downtown Bellingham, Washington. The project is located in Section 36 of Township 37 North, Range 02 East, Section 31 of Township 37 North, Range 03 East, Section 01 of Township 26 North, Range 02 East, and Section 06 of Township 36 North, Range 03 East of the Public Land Survey System. The project is in Water Resource (WRIA) 1 (Nooksack). The project is located on the west side of Chuckanut Mountain and east of Samish Bay of Puget Sound. The shoreline of Puget Sound is located approximately 800 feet west of the Lost Lake trailhead and approximately 75 feet west of the western pedestrian overpass abutment. The project can be accessed via Interstate-5 north, turning onto State Route (SR) 11. Continue on SR- 11 (Chuckanut Drive) for approximately 14 miles to the Lost Lake Parking Lot off Fragrance Lake Road. B. Environmental Elements [HELP] SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 4 of 23
1. Earth [help] a. General description of the site: (circle one): Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes, mountainous, other _____________ The project area generally slopes north to south. The trailhead is at approximately 200 feet above sea level and the proposed trail terminus is Clayton Beach, located at sea level. The existing trail is bordered by steep slopes on either side. The proposed trail meanders generally through slightly rolling upland forest. b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)? The steepest slope on site occurs at the location of the proposed overpass bridge. The overpass bridge will span the BNSF railroad tracks and connect the east side of the tracks to a new stairwell west of the tracks. A cut slope is present at this crossing location and has an approximate 90% slope. c. What general types of soils are found on the site (for example, clay, sand, gravel, peat, muck)? If you know the classification of agricultural soils, specify them and note any agricultural land of long-term commercial significance and whether the proposal results in removing any of these soils. Soils mapped by NRCS on site include Chuckanut gravelly ashy sandy loam 15-30% slopes and 30-65% slopes, Indianola loamy sand 0-5% slopes, Nati loam 15-30% slopes, and, Squalicum gravelly loam 5- 15% slopes. No mapped soils are hydric. Hydric soils were identified within wetlands on site. These soils consist of sandy loam, clayey loam, gravelly loam, and sandy clayey loam. d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity? If so, describe. Skagit County identified potential geologic hazards within 200 feet of the proposal and Whatcom County has the area classified as a geologically hazardous area with 15-35% slopes. A geotechnical analysis and report prepared by Landau Associates (2020), does not identify any surface indications of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity. e. Describe the purpose, type, total area, and approximate quantities and total affected area of any filling, excavation, and grading proposed. Indicate source of fill. Filling, excavation, and grading are necessary to construct the new trail, improve existing trail surface, install the two new bridges, and to restore the existing trail to wetland and buffer conditions. Excavation will be required to remove and replace the existing pedestrian stream bridge abutments and install the pedestrian overpass bridge abutments and stairwell. Excavation will also be necessary to decompact the existing trail and remove thick course rock material and old railroad ballast. Fill material within the decompacted trail will consist of topsoil mix and compost to install new plants. Grading will be required to install the new trail and minimum excavation of the topsoil and duff layer. The new trail will be a maximum of 6 feet wide and will consist of 6 inches compacted crushed surfacing top course above a geotextile layer for soil stabilization. Improvements to the existing trail sections will add gravel and be a maximum of five feet wide. The new trail will be constructed on top of compacted subgrade or native material and will have 2:1 slopes on either side. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 5 of 23
The project will require approximately 235 cubic yards (CY) of excavation, and 290 CY of fill material
consisting of crushed surfacing top course and bridge abutments. Excavation will occur to remove
existing bridge abutments and to remove compacted areas along the existing trail corridor for wetland
reestablishment. Approximately 2 to 12 inches of course material from the existing trail will be removed
for wetland reestablishment and approximately 3 inches of topsoil mix and compost will be placed
within wetland reestablishment areas to support wetland plantings. Material removed from
decompacting the existing trail will be repurposed for the new trail base course as appropriate.
Summary of Import and Export for Trail Work in Skagit and Whatcom Counties.
Length Width Finished Import at Trail Export at
Skagit County (ft) (ft) Surface Area 6” (CY) Footprint (sf) 6” (CY)
(sf)
New Trail 1,525 6 9,150 200 13,700 170
(including
pervious
boardwalks 612
sf)
Decommissioned Trail 950 5 4,750 ~ ~ ~
Improved Existing Trail ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Length (ft) Width
Finished Import at Trail Export at
Whatcom County (ft)
Surface 6” (CY) Footprint (sf) 6” (CY)
Area (sf)
New Trail 357 6 2,140 55 3,225 65
Decommissioned Trail 400 5 2,000 ~ ~ ~
Improved Existing Trail 410 6 2,460 (2”) 35 ~ ~
*Finished Surface Area (sf) – is the area covered in 6” compacted crushed surfacing top course
** Trail Footprint (sf) includes the Finished Surface Area and the 2:1 slope on either side of the trail.
f. Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If so, generally describe.
Erosion could potentially occur as a result of soil disturbing activities (construction of new trail,
decommissioning of existing trail, installation of bridge abutments) during construction. Temporary erosion
and sediment control (TESC) measures and best management practices (BMPs) will be employed during
construction to minimize the potential for erosion. The project intends to improve erosion caused by trail
users walking within the stream that meanders through the existing trail by decommissioning the trail and
constructing a new trail. All temporarily impacted areas will be revegetated after construction is complete.
Erosion is not anticipated to occur once construction is complete and as a result of use of the new trail.
g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after project
construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)?
Existing non-pollution generating impervious surfaces (NPGIS) include the existing trail to be
decommissioned (total 6,750 sq ft; 4,750 sf in Skagit County, 2000 sf in Whatcom County) and the
existing trail to be improved (2,460 sf in Whatcom County) for a total of 9,210 sf NPGIS.
New NPGIS consists of the new trail footprint with 2:1 slopes (13,088 sf of compact crushed top course,
excluding pervious boardwalks of 612 sf in Skagit County, and 3,225 sf of compact crushed top course
in Whatcom County), the decking of the new BNSF bridge (660 sf) and 150 sf of concrete bridge
abutments, for a total of 17,323 of new NPGIS.
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 6 of 23Decommissioning the existing trail will remove impervious surfaces and result in a decrease of 6,750 sf
of NPGIS (4,750 Skagit, 2,000 Whatcom).
Construction of the project will result in a net increase of 10,573 sf of NPGIS (New NPGIS-Decrease
NPGIS).
The boardwalks and stream bridge will allow precipitation to flow unimpeded through the decking are
not included in new NPGIS. The BNSF bridge will have solid decking that carries precipitation falling on
the deck surface to the west end of the bridge and directs it to a dispersion trench.
h. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the earth, if any:
Appropriate TESC measures and BMPs designed to avoid and limit erosion will be deployed during
construction. High visibility silt fences will be installed to mark clearing limits to avoid unnecessary
clearing. Straw wattles will be installed around the existing pedestrian stream bridge during removal and
replacement to reduce the potential for erosion and sediment mobilizing. In addition, straw wattles will
also be utilized during the installation of the new concrete abutments for the pedestrian railroad overpass
bridge.
2. Air [help]
a. What types of emissions to the air would result from the proposal during construction,
operation, and maintenance when the project is completed? If any, generally describe and
give approximate quantities if known.
Emissions from typical motorized construction equipment will occur during project construction such as
small excavators, dump trucks, and graders. All construction equipment will meet current emission
standards and will be maintained to function properly. There will be no additional emissions after the
project is completed as the trail is intended for pedestrian use only.
b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your proposal? If so,
generally describe.
Emissions from passing vehicles along Chuckanut Drive and from passing trains along the railroad exist
under normal circumstances and will not affect this proposal.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if any:
All onsite motorized equipment will meet current emission standards and will be properly maintained.
3. Water [help]
a. Surface Water: [help]
1) Is there any surface water body on or in the immediate vicinity of the site (including
year-round and seasonal streams, saltwater, lakes, ponds, wetlands)? If yes, describe
type and provide names. If appropriate, state what stream or river it flows into.
Yes. Nine wetlands (Wetlands A through I) and four watercourses (Streams A through D) were
identified by Otak, Inc. biologists in the project area (Otak, Inc. 2020). Wetlands A, B, and C are
located within the vicinity of the proposed new trail. Wetlands D through H are located adjacent to
the existing trail to be decommissioned. Wetland I is located north of the existing pedestrian
stream bridge along the east side of the existing trail. Wetlands consist of depressional and
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 7 of 23slope hydrogeomorphic classes, and palustrine emergent, scrub-shrub, and forest Cowardin
habitat classes.
Stream A flows north to south through a shallow channel along and within the existing trail,
north of the existing stream bridge crossing. Stream A emanates from a seep on an upland
vegetated hillslope. The stream meanders on the east and west sides of the existing trail and
crosses east to west beneath the trail via two 8-inch diameter plastic culverts. Portions of the
stream are bordered by logs marking the trail alignment. Stream A is a Type Ns (non-fish
habitat, seasonal) watercourse per Whatcom County. Stream A flows directly to Stream B.
Stream B flows east to west through a steep-sided ravine and beneath the existing aluminum
bridge located on the existing trail. Within the project area, the stream emanates from a
concrete box culvert beneath Chuckanut Drive and flows through a cascade-pool system at an
approximate 20% gradient. Stream B is a type F (fish-habitat) watercourse per Whatcom
County.
Stream C emanates from within Wetland D and meanders through the wetland and the existing trail
prism. Some surface flow braids away from the main channel and sheet flows through the center of the
existing trail. The main channel flows adjacent to and within Wetland D and discharges from the wetland
through an exposed concrete culvert crossing east to west beneath the trail. The culvert is cracked and
the majority of stream flow escapes through the crack and flows through a defined channel within the
existing trail. The stream then flows generally on the east side of the trail and turns 90 degrees, crossing
the trail through an incised channel and flowing through Wetland A. Surface water from Stream C braids
and flows through rivulets and sheet flow across the western half of Wetland A. The main channel flows
downslope through the eastern half of the wetland and flows through a culvert beneath the BNSF railroad
tracks. The stream continues to flow downslope and converges with Stream D before discharging directly
to Puget Sound. Stream C is a Type Np (non-fish habitat, perennial) watercourse per Skagit County.
Stream D emanates from Wetland H within a ravine east of the existing gravel trail. Stream D
flows downslope and through a culvert beneath the BNSF railroad tracks. The stream flows
near the existing informal dirt trail to Clayton Beach and converges with Stream C before
discharging directly to Puget Sound. Stream D is a Type Ns watercourse per Skagit County.
The proposed western abutment of the pedestrian railroad overpass bridge is within 200 feet of
the marine (Puget Sound) shoreline south of Bellingham bay and Wildcat Cove.
2) Will the project require any work over, in, or adjacent to (within 200 feet) the described
waters? If yes, please describe and attach available plans.
Yes, please see site plans as Attachment 1. Replacement of the pedestrian bridge will occur over
and within the vicinity of Streams A and B. Grading will occur at each end of the existing bridge to
remove concrete footings and install new concrete abutments above Ordinary High Water Mark
(OHWM). The existing bridge will be removed. Removal will take place in upland areas at each end
of the bridge. A 60-foot span prefabricated truss bridge will be installed on top of the new concrete
abutments. Prior to any construction activity or ground disturbance, all temporary erosion and
sediment control (TESC) measures such as straw wattles and construction best management
practices (BMPs) will be installed and deployed to minimize erosion and impacts to the aquatic
environment. All work in removing and replacing the stream crossing will be above OHWM.
The installation of the pedestrian railroad overpass bridge will be within 200 feet of the marine
shoreline of Puget Sound. Specifically, a concrete abutment will be constructed on the western side
of the railroad tracks is within the shoreline area. Vegetation will be cleared to formalize a trail from
the western abutment landing to existing social trails, this clearing will occur over approximately 400
SF. The trail surface will be unimproved and there will be minimal trail brushing associated with the
vegetation clearing. The eastern abutment is beyond 200 ft of the marine shoreline, along with the
proposed composting toilet
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 8 of 23Trail improvements north of the pedestrian bridge will occur within the vicinity of Stream A and Wetland I.
Currently, Stream A meanders through the existing trail and passes beneath the trail via two 8-inch culverts. The
improved trail surface will be constructed west of the existing alignment to avoid impacts to Stream A. The
existing trail will be elevated so that the water course for Stream A will flow next to the trail and not across it.
The proposed project will construct a new trail within the vicinity of wetlands and streams on site. The new trail
alignment will include two timber boardwalk segments that span Wetland A. Both boardwalks will be
constructed on top of galvanized steel pin piles. The impacts to Wetland A are minimized by establishing
proposed trail alignment through the narrowest portion of those wetlands, and by establishing trail approaches
perpendicular to wetland boundaries. The proposed boardwalks through Wetland A utilizes upland islands
within the wetland to minimize alterations of wetland water quality and hydrologic functions.
The project was designed to avoid impacts to wetlands, streams, and buffers to the greatest extent possible.
The proposed trail alignment was established to lie outside of project area wetlands except when no other
option was available. Examples include aligning the proposed trail to avoid Wetland C, Wetland B, and
Wetland I, avoid new stream crossings, and aligning much of the trail to remain outside of stream and wetland
buffers. Much of the trail alignment that impacts buffer habitat was minimized during design to allow for trail
approaches perpendicular to buffer boundaries, resulting in less impact to buffer habitat. All TESC measures
and BMPs will be installed prior to any ground disturbance. High-visibility fencing will be installed to delineate
wetlands and buffers clearing limits to avoid any unnecessary clearing.
The project will decommission the existing trail and reestablish wetlands, Stream C, and buffers within
the decommissioned trail corridor. Reestablishing wetlands within the decommissioned trail corridor
will improve hydrologic connectivity between wetlands and Stream C. The project proposes to
decompact portions of the existing trail using appropriate scarification techniques and amend the
decompacted areas with an appropriate topsoil mix and compost. A mixture of native wetland and
upland plants will be installed within the decommissioned trail corridor. The project will remove the
existing cracked concrete culvert to allow Stream C to reestablish. Approximately 15 linear feet of
stream habitat (all within Skagit County) will be reestablished within the decommissioned trail corridor.
3) Estimate the amount of fill and dredge material that would be placed in or
removed
from surface water or wetlands and indicate the area of the site that would be affected.
Indicate the source of fill material.
No fill or dredging activities will occur within any wetlands or streams in the project area. The
proposed boardwalk that spans Wetland A will be constructed on galvanized steel pin piles. The
proposed project is not anticipated to negatively impact wetland or stream hydrology as a result of trail
construction or improvements and use of the new trail by pedestrians.
Currently, pedestrians walk within the flow path of Stream A as it runs over the existing trail surface
north of the pedestrian bridge. The improved trail surface will be constructed west of the existing
alignment and will avoid impacts to Stream A. The existing trail will be elevated so that the water
course for Stream A will flow next to the trail and not across it (see Attachment 1, Sheet 21 of 28).
4) Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions? Give general
description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
Currently, pedestrians walk within channels of Stream A and Stream C when using the existing trail.
The project will include relocating the improved trail surface to the west of its existing alignment to limit
stream impacts by trail users. In addition, the existing trail will be decommissioned and the area
around restored the length or Stream C. As part of decommissioning the existing trail and removing
the culvert along the Stream C watercourse there will be no surface water withdrawals, contouring or
other diversions will be required for this project. Culvert removal will occur in the summer months
when the stream flows are at their lowest.
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 9 of 235) Does the proposal lie within a 100-year floodplain? If so, note location on the site plan.
No. The project is not located within a FEMA-mapped 100-year floodplain. However, 100 year
streamflow volume is expected to increase more than 25% in Nooksack River drainages over the next
60 years. Intensifying heavy rain events are expected to alter sediment transport and channel
morphology in small creeks like this, and could cause wider and shallower channels that are more
prone to flooding. The proposed stream bridge will be longer than the existing bridge and will be
accommodating of larger stream flows.
6) Does the proposal involve any discharges of waste materials to surface waters? If so,
describe the type of waste and anticipated volume of discharge.
No. There will be no discharges of waste materials to surface waters as a result of this project. All
TESC and construction BMPs will be in place prior to any ground disturbing activities.
b. Ground Water: [help]
1) Will groundwater be withdrawn from a well for drinking water or other purposes? If so,
give a general description of the well, proposed uses and approximate quantities
withdrawn from the well. Will water be discharged to groundwater? Give general
description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
There will be no groundwater withdrawals from a well or discharges to groundwater for any
purpose of this project.
2) Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground from septic tanks or
other sources, if any (for example: Domestic sewage; industrial, containing the
following chemicals. . . ; agricultural; etc.). Describe the general size of the system, the
number of such systems, the number of houses to be served (if applicable), or the
number of animals or humans the system(s) are expected to serve.
Included with the placement of the compost toilet is a drain field that is approximately 3 feet by 10 feet
and consists of a single pipe that allows liquid to drain after being filtered through the composting
process. The drain field is outside of the shoreline jurisdiction and located in the outer portion of
wetland buffer. It is anticipated that the amount of effluent is not to exceed approximately 0.6 liters per
person and therefore not expected to impact wetland function or structure.
c. Water runoff (including stormwater):
1) Describe the source of runoff (including storm water) and method of collection
and disposal, if any (include quantities, if known). Where will this water flow?
Will this water flow into other waters? If so, describe.
As a result of the project there will be a net increase of approximately 10,573 square feet of new non-
pollution generating impervious surface as a result of developing the new trail. The trail surface will be
tapered on either side with compacted subgrade or native material at a 2:1 slope to the forest floor to
promote and allow infiltration. Any storm water runoff from construction activity will be intercepted by
installed erosion control methods such as silt fencing and straw wattles. Under existing conditions,
storm water infiltrates on the forest floor, sheet flows to/through wetlands and streams, or infiltrates
through the decking of the existing bridge. Water will sheet flow off of the new and improved trail
alignments and down the 2:1 slopes where it will infiltrate as under existing conditions. The new
stream pedestrian bridge will have decking that will allow for water to infiltrate as under existing
conditions. The BNSF bridge will have solid decking that carries precipitation falling on the deck
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 10 of 23surface to the west end of the bridge and directs it to a dispersion trench where it will infiltrate as
under existing conditions.
2) Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally describe.
No waste materials will enter ground or surface waters as a result of this project.
3) Does the proposal alter or otherwise affect drainage patterns in the vicinity of the site? If
so, describe.
A Method 2 wetland analysis was performed following the Ecology SWMMWW standards for the segments of
the trail that will drain to Category III wetlands prior to the runoff being fully-dispersed. The wetland analysis
demonstrated that the project will not increase runoff volumes to the wetlands significantly and will meet
Minimum Requirement 8 for Wetland Protection.
Construction of the new trail and bridge installations will allow storm water runoff to continue to
disperse and infiltrate as under existing conditions.
The existing trail prism is compacted and contains little or no vegetation. Given the landscape
nature of the associated wetlands, however, it appears the existing trail was established through
historic wetlands, converting those wetlands to non-wetland conditions. Decommissioning and
reestablishing wetlands within the existing trail will restore hydrologic connectivity between
wetlands and Stream C.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, and runoff water, and drainage
pattern impacts, if any:
During construction, temporary erosion and sediment control (TESC) measures such as silt fencing and
straw wattles will be installed to control surface runoff and reduce impacts to adjacent aquatic
environments. No drainage impacts are anticipated after construction is complete.
The project will meet stormwater Minimum Requirement 1 through 9 from the Ecology Stormwater Management
Manual for Western Washington (SWMMWW) for the new and replaced impervious area.
Additionally, the proposed trail design will implement dispersion Best Management Practices (BMPs) to disperse
runoff from the trail into the adjacent forested areas. The trail design includes use of full dispersion, concentrated
flow dispersion, and sheet flow dispersion to meet stormwater requirements.
4. Plants [help]
a. Check the types of vegetation found on the site:
_X___deciduous tree: alder, maple, aspen, other
_X___evergreen tree: fir, cedar, pine, other
_X___shrubs
____grass
____pasture
____crop or grain
____ Orchards, vineyards or other permanent crops.
_X___ wet soil plants: cattail, buttercup, bulrush, skunk cabbage, other
____water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
____other types of vegetation
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 11 of 23b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
The project is located within a predominately upland forested area of Larrabee State Park. Forested
habitat within the park is dominated by Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), Western red cedar
(Thuja plicata), and red alder (Alnus rubra) trees with an understory of sword fern (Polystichum
munitum), salal (Gaultheria shallon), and salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis). Habitat is in generally
good condition with little invasive vegetation and disturbance.
Vegetation and habitat along the existing trail include dense thickets of salmonberry and stands of red alder
trees. Steep upland slopes border the trail and slope and depressional wetlands are located adjacent to the
trail.
The proposed trail meanders through an upland forest dominated by Douglas fir and Western red cedar trees.
Three wetlands (Wetlands A, B, and C) are located adjacent to or intersect the proposed trail alignment.
Wetland A is a mosaic of depressional and slope HGM classes and palustrine scrub shrub forested wetland
habitats. Two large upland islands are present within the wetland. Forested habitats include shrub and
emergent understories. Vegetation in Wetland A is dominated by salmonberry, water parsley (Oenanthe
sarmentosa), creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens), Western red cedar and snowberry (Symphoricarpos
albus). Wetland B is a depressional wetland with a PEM wetland habitat. Wetland B is sparsely vegetated and
dominated by lady fern (Athyrium felix-femina). Wetland B is surrounded by small upland mounds dominated
by sword fern, salal, and Western red-cedar saplings. Wetland C is a slope wetland with PSS wetland habitat.
Dominant vegetation includes salmonberry and foam flower. The buffer of Wetland C is dominated by
oceanspray (Holodiscus discolor), sword fern, and Douglas fir.
Approximately 30 trees will be removed to construct the new trail alignment. Of those 30 trees, 18 are
10” diameter at breast height (DBH) or greater and of those 18 trees, three trees will be assessed for
removal based on the method of installation (land based or use of helicopter) of the railroad
pedestrian overpass bridge. Upland, wetland, and wetland/stream buffers will be cleared to construct
the new trail alignment. Palustrine scrub-shrub and emergent wetland habitat within Wetland A will be
converted to install the boardwalk. The project will result in approximately: 447 square feet of
vegetated wetland impacts (all within Skagit County), approximately 5,036 square feet of wetland
buffer impacts (3,823 SF in Skagit County, 1,213 SF in Whatcom County), and 669 square feet of
stream buffer impacts (all within Whatcom County).
The project will not result in a net loss of wetland or buffer habitat. Wetland and wetland/stream buffer
impacts will be mitigated for within the decommissioned trail alignment. Approximately,
• 5,050 square feet of wetland buffer habitat (3,097SF within Skagit County, 1,953 SF in
Whatcom County),
• 453 square feet of wetland habitat (316 SF in Skagit County, 137 SF in Whatcom County),
• 670 square feet of stream buffer habitat (all within Skagit County), and
• 15 linear feet of stream habitat (all within Skagit County) will be reestablished within the
decommissioned trail corridor.
Due to the location of the decommissioned trail alignment and available areas to create, reestablish,
and reconnect wetlands and buffers within the trail prism, wetland and buffer mitigation quantities vary
slightly from impact quantities within each respective county. The project will result in a net gain of 14
square feet of wetland buffer habitat, 1 square foot of stream buffer habitat, and 6 square feet of
vegetated wetland area.
Wetland and buffer plantings will consist of a mixture of woody and herbaceous upland and wetland
species. Approximately 30 coniferous trees will be installed near the decommissioned trailhead and in
mitigation areas to mitigate for removed trees and to deter use of informal trails that lead to the
decommissioned trail. Vegetation on the west side of the proposed overpass bridge will be pruned to
create a 3-foot wide social trail that will lead to existing trails that access Clayton Beach.
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 12 of 23Habitat and Vegetation Impacts
Impact Area Total Impact Whatcom Skagit County
Area County
Wetland 447 SF 0 SF 447 SF
Wetland Buffer 5,036 SF 1,213 SF 3,823 SF
Stream Buffer 669 SF 669 SF 0 SF
Habitat and Vegetation Mitigation
Mitigation Area Total Whatcom Skagit County
Mitigation Area County
Wetland 453 SF 137 SF 316 SF
Wetland Buffer 5,050 SF 1,953 SF 3,097 SF
Stream Buffer 670 SF 0 SF 670 SF
Stream 15 LF 0 LF 15 LF
Additionally, approximately 1,200 SF of vegetation will be cleared that will connect the western
landing of the pedestrian overpass bridge to an existing trail network to the west of the BNSF railroad
tracks to Clayton Beach. There is no grading or resurfacing of this section of trail, it will be a more
primitive trail with only vegetation clearing and trail brushing.
The proposed composting toilet footprint will impact no more than 200 square feet. The vegetation
and ground will be cleared to mineral soils for the structure. A drain field that is approximately 10 feet
by 3 feet is also included in the overall square footage of the compost toilet.
c. List threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
There are no known threatened or endangered plant species on or near the site. No sensitive or rare plant
species were observed during the field surveys in April and October 2019, or during park wide surveys in
2004 - 2005 (Smith, H.M. IV, P.H. Morrison and D. Visalli. 2005. Rare Plant and Vegetation Survey of
Larrabee State Park. Pacific Biodiversity Institute, Winthrop, Washington. 201p.).
Review of the Washington Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage Program data (accessed
March 30, 2020) indicates the nearest occurrence, Douglas-fir - Western Hemlock / Cascade Barberry -
Western Swordfern Forest, is approximately 450 feet from the project site.
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or enhance
vegetation on the site, if any:
High visibility fencing will be installed around clearing limits during construction to prevent any
unnecessary clearing of vegetation. All temporarily impacted areas will be replanted with native woody
shrubs. Approximately 453 square feet of wetland habitat will be reestablished within the decommissioned
trail corridor. Approximately 5,050 square feet of wetland buffer and 670 square feet of stream buffer will
also be reestablished within the decommissioned trail corridor. Reestablished wetlands and buffers will be
planted with native herbaceous and woody shrub species. Approximately 30 conifer trees will be planted.
e. List all noxious weeds and invasive species known to be on or near the site.
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 13 of 23Invasive plant species observed on site include Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), English
hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), and Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius). Over the entire project area, the
population of invasive species is generally low.
5. Animals [help]
a. List any birds and other animals which have been observed on or near the site or are known
to be on or near the site.
Examples include:
birds: hawk, heron, eagle, songbirds, other:
mammals: deer, bear, elk, beaver, other: squirrel, raccoon, bat
fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other ________Frog
b. List any threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
The project is within the Puget Sound Recovery Domain for West Coast Salmon and Steelhead under the
Endangered Species Act (ESA). No critical habitat for salmonid species is present within the project area.
No fish species are mapped by WDFW as occurring or potentially occurring in any stream within the
project area.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) online Priority Habitats and Species map
(accessed on February 24, 2020) indicates the Townsend’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii) has
communal roosts and the Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis) and little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) has
breeding areas is within the township of the project area. Pacific sand lance (Ammodytes hexapterus) and
Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) are mapped along the shoreline of Clayton Beach.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife identifies the project area in the Chuckanut Mountains
Biodiversity Area and Corridor (State Parks WDFW data accessed on February 24, 2020).
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s online IPaC Report (accessed on February 24, 2020) indicates the
following threatened species may occur within the project vicinity Marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus
marmoratus), Streaked horned lark (Eremophila alpestris strigata), Yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus
americanus), Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus), and Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma).USFWS also lists
gray wolf (Canus Lupus) as proposed endangered and the North American Wolverine (Gulo gulo luscus)
as proposed threatened. The project is not anticipated to impact these species.
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
The project is within the broad boundaries of the Pacific Flyway, the major migrating corridor for birds in North
America west of the continental divide. However, the project site itself is not a known congregation point for
migrating birds.
d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any:
Reestablishing wetlands and buffers within the decommissioned trail corridor may provide a small amount
of enhanced habitat for species that occur within the project vicinity.
e. List any invasive animal species known to be on or near the site.
No invasive animal species are known to occur on or near the site.
6. Energy and Natural Resources [help]
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 14 of 23a. What kinds of energy (electric, natural gas, oil, wood stove, solar) will be used to meet
the completed project's energy needs? Describe whether it will be used for heating,
manufacturing, etc.
Solar energy is proposed for the lighted crosswalk.
b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties?
If so, generally describe.
No. The project would not impact the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties.
c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans of this proposal?
List other proposed measures to reduce or control energy impacts, if any:
Energy conservation features include the use of solar cells to power lights for the crosswalk.
7. Environmental Health [help]
a. Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to toxic chemicals, risk
of fire and explosion, spill, or hazardous waste, that could occur as a result of this proposal?
If so, describe.
Environmental health hazards associated with the project are limited to those from small improvement construction
projects. These may include the emission of gases or spilling of fluids associated with construction equipment.
Risks associated with these potential spills will be minimized or avoided by implementing appropriate BMPs and a
Stormwater Pollution Protection Plan (SWPPP). All equipment refueling will occur on uplands away from surface
waters.No environmental health hazards are anticipated to occur after completion of the project.
1) Describe any known or possible contamination at the site from present or past uses.
There is no known contamination at the site from past or present uses.
2) Describe existing hazardous chemicals/conditions that might affect project development
and design. This includes underground hazardous liquid and gas transmission pipelines
located within the project area and in the vicinity.
There are no known hazardous chemicals or conditions that may affect project development and design.
3) Describe any toxic or hazardous chemicals that might be stored, used, or produced
during the project's development or construction, or at any time during the operating
life of the project.
Spilling of fluids associated with construction equipment has the potential to occur. Potential
spills will be minimized or avoided by implementing appropriate BMPs and a Spill Prevention,
Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC), and properly maintaining construction equipment.
Fluids such as gasoline and oil will be stored away from the surface waters and in spill
preventative containers. There will be no other storage, use or production of hazardous
chemicals during project development and construction.
4) Describe special emergency services that might be required.
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 15 of 23First aid kit and emergency 911 response if there is a worker injury. In the event of an accidental injury
that requires emergency services, the park manager and/or rangers will be contacted to facilitate the
extraction of the affected individual or individuals. No other emergency services relating to this proposal
are anticipated following completion of the project.
5) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if any:
Appropriate BMPs will minimize risk of environmental health hazard exposure and reduce/control
environmental health hazards should exposure occur.
b. Noise
1) What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for example:
traffic, equipment, operation, other)?
Existing noise consists of traffic generated along Chuckanut Drive and train noise generated along
the BNSF railroad. There are no other sources of noise. Existing noise will not affect the project.
2) What types and levels of noise would be created by or associated with the project on a
short-term or a long-term basis (for example: traffic, construction, operation, other)? Indi-
cate what hours noise would come from the site.
Short term noise associated with the project includes sound from construction equipment associated
with trail construction and decommissioning of the existing trail, and installation of pin-piles for the
boardwalk segments. Pin-piles will be installed using a jackhammer or vibratory hammer on an
excavator. The sound associated with pin-pile installation will be intermittent and limited in duration
necessary to install 2 to 4 inch diameter galvanized steel pile. Pile installation is beyond the shoreline
jurisdiction. Long term noise levels are not anticipated to increase as a result of this project.
Construction noise will be temporary in nature and be restricted to daylight hours.
3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
Mufflers on motorized equipment will be maintained and construction will occur during daylight hours. There
are no other proposed measures to control noise impacts.
8. Land and Shoreline Use [help]
a. What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties? Will the proposal affect current
land uses on nearby or adjacent properties? If so, describe.
The project area is located within a public state park. The project area is located between Chuckanut
Drive and the shoreline of Puget Sound. The existing trail is used by pedestrians to access Clayton
Beach. A portion of the existing trail is located along an easement for Puget Sound Energy. The
proposed project is not expected to affect current land uses on nearby or adjacent properties.
b. Has the project site been used as working farmlands or working forest lands? If so, describe.
How much agricultural or forest land of long-term commercial significance will be converted to
other uses as a result of the proposal, if any? If resource lands have not been designated,
how many acres in farmland or forest land tax status will be converted to nonfarm or
nonforest use?
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 16 of 23You can also read
