11/19/2008 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

a public agency permittee could choose to execute a maintenance agreement in place of a recorded declaration. Within the buffer, a property owner generally would not be permitted to mow vegetation, engage in cultivation or pasturing, apply fertilizer or engage in similar disturbances. However, a property owner could engage in periodic cutting, remove diseased and invasive species, and otherwise manage the buffer in accordance with a written plan approved by RCWD staff. Structures and hard surface would be prohibited within the buffer and habitat area, as would filling and excavating. The proposed rule contains limited exceptions for suspended structures, public utilities, stormwater management features and trails for non - motorized use. The proposed rule also would allow a buffer to be regraded if done in accordance with certain conditions. These include rigorous erosion control; preservation of wooded buffer and canopy trees; a design that when implemented enhances sheet flow and improves buffer function; a revegetation plan establishing primarily native vegetation; and a three -year maintenance obligation. Stormwater Management. The existing requirements of RCWD Rule C largely will apply. The chief difference is a specific focus on restoration and use of natural wetland systems, without impact on the ecological function of those systems, to limit and help manage runoff volume increases as the subwatershed develops. Activity meeting any of the three criteria listed in bullets on page 3 of this letter would need to meet stormwater requirements. Rule C exempts from stormwater requirements work on Tots smaller than one acre (industrial, commercial, institutional or multi -unit residential development) or five acres (single - family residential development), as well as single - family house construction. These exceptions would not apply under Rule RMP -3. Both Rule C and Rule RMP -3 require, for water quality and stormwater volume control purposes, infiltration or retention on -site of the runoff within the contributing area from a 2.8 -inch rainfall (two -year event). RMP -3 requires that 0.5- inches of this be achieved by reestablishing drained wetland, restoring 7 RCWD Rule RMP -3 SONAR Letter October 23, 2008 •