18E.40.070 – Appendix C Habitat Assessment Study
A. The habitat assessment study shall, at a minimum, include the following:
1. The information required in PCC 18E.40.030 B.2.
2. Identify the presence of the habitat area or species on the site.
3. Identify and discuss how the project complies with the standards set forth in PCC 18E.40.040.
4. Provide a detailed description of the proposed project. At a minimum, the following items should be included:
a. A legal description (Section, Township, Range) and vicinity map that clearly shows the site and project area in relation to nearby waterbodies, sensitive habitats, etc.
b. A site plan of the habitat area and associated buffer in relation to the proposed project area. If the applicant proposes to reduce a standard buffer, the site plan shall identify all significant trees adjacent to the reduced buffer.
c. Photographs, especially color copies, are useful to orient the reviewer to the project area. A combination of aerial or orthophotos and snapshots are ideal.
5. Describe the environmental baseline (current or pre-project) condition of the habitat and the project area. The baseline description should address all pertinent habitat parameters for the species.
6. Describe in detail the type and scope of development activity proposed:
a. Describe the overall purpose of the project and a brief summary of project objectives.
b. List all proposed project related construction activities and types of equipment. Provide a chronology of activities, timing of construction, hours of operation, phasing.
c. Provide to-scale plans that show where work is proposed relative to habitat areas and buffers.
d. Quantify areas of vegetation removal, include clearing and grubbing, vegetation type.
e. Describe proposed grading and filling or other earthwork, include specific BMPs for erosion, sedimentation, stormwater, and spill control. If appropriate, append the TESC Plan, Spill Control Plan, BMP specifications, etc.
f. Provide stormwater treatment information including:
(1) Amount of new impervious surface;
(2) Percent of surface and type of treatment for new and existing impervious surface;
(3) Specify BMPs to treat for quality and quantity; and
(4) Identify the receiving area /waterbody for each BMP, including overflow channels.
g. If buffer averaging or reduction is proposed for use, and significant trees are identified on the outer edge of the reduced buffer such that their drip line extends beyond the buffer edge, the tree protection measures described in PCC 18E.40.060 are to be implemented.
B. Mitigation Elements. When vegetative enhancement is required as an element of a Habitat Assessment Study, the following information shall be provided:
1. Type of species proposed.
2. Exact location of proposed enhancement area.
3. Timing and schedule of planting.
4. Schedule for monitoring and maintenance and any financial guarantees for these as required in PCC 18E.10.080.
5. Name, address, and telephone number of the person(s) responsible for the enhancement project.
6. Additional site specific information may be required by the Department.