12/20/2006 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Nature's Refuge DRAFT DECEMBER 14, 2006 EAW Record of Decision page 4 will be designated as an area of Exceptional Natural Resource Value (ENRV) based on the existence of several rare (state - listed) plant species and a rare wetland community. The BWSR Wetland Committee has expressed initial approval of this approach for this site (April 2006 meeting). This designation will allow greater wetland credit generation. It is expected that the conservation plan will allow accumulation of excess wetland credit, which will be banked for future off -site wetland mitigation needs within the city and/or watershed. Forest and Tree Impacts The project will cause the conversion of 51 acres of forest, resulting in the loss of forest wildlife habitat and a large number of trees. The development is designed to preserve forested upland buffers wherever possible. Remaining forest patches will be restored and maintained as part of the conservation area. Rare Species Impacts Blanding's turtles and five rare plant species have been recorded on the site. At present, it is unknown how many turtles use the site, but they are most likely to occur in and around the larger, deeper wetlands, which will be protected from loss or impact by the project. By including upland wooded buffer zones in the planned conservation areas, upland foraging and nesting habitat for Blanding's turtles will be maintained, though there may be some permanent reduction in this type of habitat. As recommended by DNR, signs will be installed to inform residents and visitors of the need for caution around turtle habitat. The installation of ribbon curbs in some places will reduce barriers to turtle movements. Flyers will be given to all contractors working in the area, and future residents will be informed of the presence of the turtles and their habitat needs. Silt fencing will exclude the turtles from construction areas, but will be removed after construction and revegetation to allow free turtle movement. Culverts connecting wetlands and ponding areas will be of recommended size and shape to allow turtle passage. The runoff and sedimentation controls, and restriction on fertilizer use, will help maintain habitat quality for the turtles. In general, the placing of the conservation areas under easement and long -term management will maintain habitat quality. The rare plant species found on the site are all native wetland plants that respond well to wetland restoration measures that are planned for the conservation areas. However, a minority of populations of these plants presently occur in wetlands that would be filled by the project. This will constitute a taking of rare plant populations which will require a permit from the DNR. The DNR has expressed initial support for this approach on condition that the conservation areas be fully restored and maintained as improved habitat for these plant species. Also, attempts will be made to transplant existing populations from those wetlands that will be filled into wetlands that will be restored. Because future active restoration and management activities are