12/15/2010 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • "Exceptional" Natural Resources ♦ Exceptional Resources. The WCA rule provides a list of exceptional resources. They include habitat for state - listed endangered or threatened species, rare native plant communities, special fish and wildlife resources, sensitive surface waters, and others determined to be exceptional by the TEP. See MN Rule 8420.0526, Subp. 8 for details. A site containing one of these resources, however, does not necessarily qualify for ENRV. + Public Value. An exceptional resource is somewhat rare and of special value to the public because of the functions it provides. Exceptional resources are also typically difficult to replace, resulting in a permanent loss of function when impacted (i.e. white cedar swamps and bogs). What is considered exceptional will vary across the state based on abundance, functional benefits provided, statewide or national significance, watershed needs, and local values. ♦ Qualification as Exceptional. A site that contains a feature listed in rule cis exceptional (i.e. rare native plant community) does not automatically qualify cis exceptional for allocating ENRV credit. The LGU and TEP must determine that the resource is exceptional within the context of the watershed, Pine marten rely on large tracts of contiguous wetland and upland habitat, including conifer swamps. region, or state and consistent with local priorities. For example, a wildlife travel corridor primarily used by raccoons is dearly not exceptional. ♦ Functional Assessments. The Minnesota Routine Assessment Method for evaluating wetland functions (MnRAM) can be used to assist in determining if a site is exceptional and to support the applicability of ENRV for allocating credit. For example, if a site is expected to be a significant wildlife resource, MnRAM can be used as evidence to support its exceptional rating. MnRAM ratings of high or exceptional, however, do not necessarily mean the site qualifies as "exceptional" for ENRV. t Approved Plans. BWSR approved plans can identify local or regional goals for the restoration or protection of specific wetland types or functions that may be considered exceptional for ENRV. + Functional Gain. Meeting the definition of exceptional doesn't automatically result in project approval or the granting of replacement credit. The actions proposed must improve the Tong -term function and sustainability of the exceptional resource to a degree sufficient to justify the allocation of WCA replacement credit. Ecological Suitability TEPs should pay particular attention to the ecological suitability and sustainability requirements of MN Rule 8420.0522, Subp. 5 when evaluating proposals. In determining the value of a resource and the contributions of a proposed action, TEPs can also consider any of the following: • Wetland types or characteristics that have been significantly lost in the watershed, including current trends in wetland and habitat loss, fragmentation, or degradation. • Habitat connectivity and proximity to public lands or natural areas (i.e. Wildlife Management Areas). • Sites that meet, or will meet, the criteria to qualify as a Scientific and Natural Area (as determined by the DNR). • Wildlife habitat requirements for important species. • Compatibility with adjacent land use (both current and projected). • Watershed needs and the benefit of the project to the ecological functions of the watershed. 3