HomeMy WebLinkAbout2999 Amending Comprehensive Plan Adding Maps Adopting Wetlands Inventory
ORDINANCE NO.
JtjqOj
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF ASHLAND COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN CHAPTER IV, [ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES] TO ADD A NEW
AND UPDATED RESOURCE MAPS AND ADOPTING THE LOCAL WETLANDS
INVENTORY AS A SUPPORTING DOCUMENT
Annotated to show deletions and additions to the code sections being modified.
Deletions are bold I: .. ..- _L and additions are in bold underline.
WHEREAS, Article 2. Section 1 of the Ashland City Charter provides:
Powers of the Citv The City shall have all powers which the constitutions,
statutes, and common law of the United States and of this State expressly or
impliedly grant or allow municipalities, as fully as though this Charter specifically
enumerated each of those powers, as well as all powers not inconsistent with the
foregoing; and, in addition thereto, shall possess all powers hereinafter
specifically granted. All the authority thereof shall have perpetual succession.
WHEREAS, the above referenced grant of power has been interpreted as affording all
legislative powers home rule constitutional provisions reserved to Oregon Cities. City of
Beaverton v. International Ass'n of Firefiqhters. Local 1660. Beaverton Shop 20 Or.
App. 293; 531 P 2d 730, 734 (1975); and
WHEREAS, the City of Ashland Planning Commission considered the above-referenced
recommended amendments to the Ashland Municipal Code at a duly advertised public
hearing on October 28, 2008 and following deliberations recommended approval of the
amendments; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ashland conducted a duly advertised public
hearing on the above-referenced amendments on April 21, 2009, and on several
additional public hearing continuance dates; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ashland, following the close of the public
hearing and record, deliberated and conducted first and second readings approving
adoption of the Ordinance in accordance with Article 10 of the Ashland City Charter;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ashland has determined that in order to
protect and benefit the health, safety and welfare of existing and future residents of the
City, it is necessary to amend the Ashland Comprehensive Plan in manner proposed,
that an adequate factual base exists for the amendments, the amendments are
consistent with the comprehensive plan and that such amendments are fully supported
by the record of this proceeding.
THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF ASHLAND DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Page 1 of 2
SECTION 1. The above recitations are true and correct and are incorporated herein
by this reference.
SECTION 2. The City of Ashland Comprehensive Plan. Chapter IV,
[ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES] is hereby amended to add the 2009 Ashland Water
Resources Map, attached hereto as Exhibit A, and made a part hereof by this reference.
SECTION 3. The City of Ashland Comprehensive Plan, Chapter IV,
[ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES] is hereby amended to replace the existing Physical
and Environmental Constraints Floodplain Map with a new 2009 Physical and
Environmental Constraints Floodplain Map Ashland Water Resources Map, attached
hereto as Exhibit B, and made a part hereof by this reference.
SECTION 4 The City of Ashland Comprehensive Plan, Chapter IV,
[ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES] is hereby amended to add as a support document
to the Comprehensive Plan, Ashland local Wetlands Inventory, attached hereto as
Exhibit C, and made a part hereof by this reference.
SECTION 50 Severability. The sections, subsections, paragraphs and clauses of this
ordinance are severable. The invalidity of one section, subsection, paragraph, or clause
shall not affect the validity of the remaining sections, subsections, paragraphs and
clauses.
SECTION 6. Codification. Provisions of this Ordinance shall be incorporated in the
City Comprehensive Plan and the word "ordinance" may be changed to "code", "article",
"section", or another word, and the sections of this Ordinaflce may be renumbered, or
re-lettered, provided however that any Whereas clauses and boilerplate provisions (i.e.
Sections 1, 5-6) need not be codified and the City Recorder is authorized to correct any
cross-references and any typographical errors.
The foregoing ordinance was first read by title only in acc=:~ Article X,
Section ) of the City Charter on the /? day of t:, , 2009,
and PASSED and A OPT this IS day of ;r"..-b.e;- , 2009.
.
Barbara M. Christensen, City Recorder
SIGNED and APPROVED this I~ay of ~o
Page 2 of 2
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Oregon Department of State Lands
775 Summer Street NE, Suite 100
at Theodore R. Kulongoski, Govemor Salem, OR 97301 -1279
(503) 378 -3805
FAX (503) 378 -4844
www.oregonstatelands.us.
State Land Board
March 21, 2007
Theodore R. Kulongoski
Govemor
John Morrison, Mayor Bill Bradbu te
City of Ashland Secretary of State
20 East Main Street
Ashland, OR 97520 Randall Edwards
State Treasurer
Re: Approval of the City of Ashland Local Wetlands Inventory and Assessment
Dear Mayor Morrison:
1 am pleased to notify you that the Department of State Lands (DSL) has
approved your Local Wetlands Inventory (LWI) and assessment. We appreciate
your planning staff and the wetland consultant working with our staff to ensure
that the inventory meets state LWI requirements (OAR 141 -86 -180 to 240) and
the city's needs. The final inventory requirement is for the city to notify property
owners with wetlands mapped on their property within 120 days of this approval.
Please provide us with a copy of the landowner notification, once completed,
indicating the date of notification.
Approval by DSL means that the LWI becomes part of the Statewide Wetlands
Inventory. The LWI must now be used by the city instead of the National
Wetlands Inventory for the Wetland Land Use Notification Process (ORS
227.350). The LWI and functional assessment also form the foundation for your
wetland planning under Statewide Planning Goal 5, and the LWI must be
adopted by the city per the Goal 5 requirements. Please note when significant
wetlands are designated by the city, "non- significant" wetlands may be coded to
distinguish them from "significant wetlands," but must not be removed from the
approved LWI maps. These wetlands are still subject to state and federal permit
requirements.
While considerable effort has been made to accurately identify most wetlands
within the study area, DSL's approval does not guarantee that all regulated
wetlands have been mapped. The mapped wetland boundaries are estimated
boundaries, they have not been surveyed, and there are inherent limitations in
mapping accuracy. DSL advises persons proposing land alteration on parcels
containing mapped wetlands to contact DSL or obtain a wetland boundary
delineation by a qualified consultant and submit it to DSL for approval prior to the
land alteration.
p.
John Morrison, Mayo.
March 21, 2007
Page 2
It will be important to annotate your map (and associated database, if any) as
new wetland delineations are completed and approved by DSL in order to keep
your LWI updated. Future wetland delineation report approvals will be provided to
the planning department.
We are pleased that the City of Ashland has conducted a thorough wetlands
inventory and has made wetland planning a high priority. We look forward to
working with you and your staff as you continue on the Goal 5 wetland planning
effort. Please feel free to contact Peter Ryan at extension 232, with any
questions you may have about the LWI or its use.
Sincerely,
Louise Solliday
Director
cc: Bill Molnar, Planning Manager, City of Ashland
John Renz, DLCD
Stacy Benjamin, SWCA
Yvonne Vallette, EPA
Jim Goudzwaard Benny Dean, Corps of Engineers (enclosure)
John Marshall, FWS, Portland Field Office
Patty Snow, ODFW
Bill Kirchner, FWS Regional Office
Bob Lobdell, DSL
Kevin Moynahan, DSL
CITY OF ASHLAND
LOCAL WETLANDS INVENTORY AND ASSESSMENT
RIPARIAN CORRIDOR INVENTORY
Pr
va
C I T Y O F
ASHLAND
Prepared for:
City of Ashland
Bill Molnar, Senior Planner
Community Development
20 E. Main Street
Ashland, Oregon 97520
Prepared by:
SWCA Environmental Consultants
434 NW 6 Avenue, Suite 304
Portland, Oregon 97209
July 2005
Revised February 2007
SWCA
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Inventory
Riparian Corridor Inventory
Table of Contents
Summary 1
Project Purpose 2
Background Information 2
Study Area 2
Drainage Basin 2
Topography 2
Vegetation 3
Soils 3
National Wetlands Inventory Previous Wetland Inventory 3
Floodplain 3
Department of State Lands Files 3
Aerial Photographs GIS Data 3
Scope of Work 4
Local Wetlands Inventory 4
Wetland Assessment and Determination of Locally Significant Wetlands 4
Riparian Corridor Inventor• 4
Determination of Significant Riparian Corrido's 5
Public Involvement Process 5
Local Wetlands Inventory and Assessment (OAR 660 023 -0090) 5
Wetland Definition 5
Wetland Methodology 6
Wetland Assessment Criteria 8
OFWAM Units 9
Determination of Significance for Wetland Areas 10
Status of National Wetlands Inventor Mapped Wetlands 11
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /S WCA Page i
Riparian Corridor Inventory (OAR 660 023 -0090) 12
Riparian Corridor Definition 12
Riparian Corridor Methodology 12
Riparian Corridor Units 13
Determination of Significance for Riparian Corridor Areas 13
Staff Qualifications 14
References 17
Appendices 20
Appendix 1: Local Wetlands Inventory Index Map Detail Maps
Appendix 2: List of DSL Wetland Determination and Permit Files
Appendix 3: Wetland Determination Sample Plot Data Sheets
Appendix 4: Wetland Summary Sheets
Appendix 5: OFWAM Evaluation Sheets
Appendix 6: OFWAM Wetlands of Special Interest for Protection
Wetland Characterization Sheets
Appendix 7: Ashland Study Area Vegetation List
Appendix 8: Riparian Corridor Summary Sheets
List of Tables
Table 1. OFWAM Units, Wetland Habitat Types Acreages 9
Table 2. Local Wetlands Inventory Determination Of Locally Significant Wetlands 11
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment. July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 1i
Summary
SWCA Environmental Consultants' (Fishman /SWCA), conducted a Local Wetlands
Inventory and Assessment and Riparian Corridor Inventory for the City of Ashland. The
study area included the Ashland city limits and urban growth boundary. Total study area
boundary acreage is 4,959 acres or 7.75 square miles.
Fourteen wetland units (W 1 W 14) were inventoried and assessed. Eight of these 13
units (WI, W4, W5, W6, W7, WI W]2 and W13) were not previously mapped in the
National Wetlands Inventory or the City's GIS database. Eleven wetland units were
associated with streams or were hydrologically connected to a stream via roadside or
agricultural drainage ditches. Three (W2, W8 and W9) wetlands did not contain a surface
water connection to a stream or other wetland and were therefore determined to be
isolated. Total wetland acreage within the study area was calculated to be 28.31 acres.
Locally significant wetlands were identified using the Oregon Freshwater Wetland
Assessment Method OFWAM). Significance was determined based on a wetland's
ability to provide high function in one or more of the following categories: wildlife
habitat, fish habitat, water quality or hydrologic control, or the wetland's ability to
provide medium water quality function if located within 0.25 mile of a DEQ water
quality listed stream. Eleveh wetland units were determined to he locally significant. The
Ashland Demonstration Wetlands (W2) were not designated as locally significant due to
their creation for the purpose of wastewater treatment per OAR 141- 086 350(1). The
Billings Ranch wetland (W3) and the Washington Street wetland (WI I) were determined
to be non- locally significant.
All riparian corridors were inventoried to evaluate general stream characteristics and
hydrology, adjacent landform, and vegetation. Significant riparian corridors were
determined using the Goal 5 Safe Harbor criteria. Riparian corridors along streams
identified by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife as being fish- bearing were
determined to be significant according to the Safe Harbor criteria. Significant riparian
corridors in the study area include Ashland Creek, Bear Creek, Emigrant Creek, Kitchen
Creek, Neil Creek, and Tolman Creek.
Further information is included in the accompanying report, and the reader is referred to
the appendices for wetland and riparian summary sheets, wetland sample plot data,
OFWAM data sheets and other information.
The Portland, Oregon office of SWCA Environmental Consultants was acquired from
Fishman Environmental Services in 2004.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page I
Project Purpose
The City of Ashland is required to update their Comprehensive Plan under periodic
review for Goal 5 wetland resources. The Goal 5 rule requires the City to inventory its
natural resources according to the general inventory process outlined in OAR 660 -023-
0030 as well as specific guidelines for wetlands (660- 023 -0100) and riparian corridors
(OAR 660 023 0090). Fishman Environmental Services, a Division of SWCA
Environmental Consultants (Fishman/SWCA), conducted a Local Wetlands Inventory
(LWI) and Riparian Corridor Inventory (RCI) for the City of Ashland to meet statewide
planning Goal 5 requirements. The LWI was prepared to meet the Department of State
Lands (formerly the Division of State Lands) Local Wetlands Inventory Standards and
Guidelines (OAR 141- 086 -0180 through 141 -086 -0240; effective July 1, 2001).
Significant riparian corridors were mapped using the Safe Harbor criteria identified under
OAR 660 023 0090(5). The LWI and RCI are required to be submitted to the Oregon
Department of State Lands (DSL) and the Department of Land Conservation and
Development (DLCD) for review and approval before they can be adopted by the City
and used to develop a land use program to conserve and protect significant Goal 5
resources.
Background Information
Study Area
The study area for the Local Wetlands Inventory and Riparian Corridor Inventory
includes the City of Ashland city limits and the urban growth boundary. Total study area
boundary acreage is 4,959 acres or 7.75 square miles. The study area is located in
Township 38 South, Range 1 East, Sections 31, 32, and 33 and Township 39 South,
Range 1 East, Sections 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 22, and 23. An index
map of the study area is included in Appendix 1. The study area is contained on 12 base
maps.
Drainage Basin
The City of Ashland is located within the Rogue River basin. The study area is contained
entirely within the Bear Creek watershed. The study area contains two major drainages:
Bear Creek in the north and Ashland Creek in the west.
Topography
Topography of the study area consists of steeply sloped foothills in the south, a relatively
flat central portion that is highly developed, and the Bear Creek floodplain in the north.
Streams in the higher elevation areas are confined within steep V- shaped drainages, and
streams in lower elevation areas are typically confined within a well defined stream
channel. Therefore, stream- associated wetlands are generally either not present or are
limited to a narrow fringe along the stream channel. Fishman/SWCA obtained two -foot
contours of the study area from the City of Ashland. Two -foot contours were not
available for the northwest portion of the study area in Sections 31 and 32.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 2
Vegetation
Wetland indicator status is according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National List
of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: Northwest (Region 9).
Soils
Soils were mapped in the Soil Survey of Jackson County Area, Oregon (USDA SCS
1993). The vast majority of the study area is mapped as containing hydric soil inclusions.
The only area of mapped hydric soils in the study area is located along Kitchen Creek.
National Wetlands Inventory Previous Wetland Inventory
Approximately fifty wetlands were mapped in the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) on
the Ashland, Oregon NWI quadrangle. A few mapped wetlands are associated with
streams, but the majority of wetlands appear to be isolated. A field survey of Ashland's
wetlands was conducted by two Southern Oregon University students in 1990. The 1990
study area generally coincided with the study area of the present inventory, with the
exception of that the previous inventory did not include the area located outside the City
limits and inside the UGB in Sections 5, 31, and 32. The 1990 inventory focused almost
exclusively on field verifying the presence of NWI- mapped wetlands, collecting sample
plot data, and photodocumenting the wetlands.
Floodplain
The floodplain was [napped by the Federal Emergency Management Agency on the
Flood Insurance Rate Map for the City of Ashland, Oregon. A 100 -year floodplain is
mapped along Ashland, Bear, Clay, Emigrant, Hamilton, and Neil creeks. The City of
Ashland modified the FEMA floodplain boundaries following the 1997 flood, including
mapping the 100 -year floodplain adjacent to Cemetery Creek.
Department of State Lands Files
Fishman/SWCA obtained copies of wetland determinations, delineations, and permit
applications within the study area from the Department of State Lands. A list of the DSL
files obtained along with their approximate locations and current status of these wetlands
is included in Appendix 2. Wetland delineation boundaries from maps included in DSL
files were hand mapped onto aerial photograph base maps and were field verified where
permission to access was granted.
Aerial Photographs GIS Data
Fishman/SWCA obtained black and white aerial photographs dated April 16, 1998,
which showed spring hydrology, and color aerial photographs dated July 2001 from the
City of Ashland. The 1998 aerial photos were previously used by the City of Ashland
Geographic Information Department to prepare a Geographic Information System (GIS)
layer of streams, ditches and ponds in the study area.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 3
Scope of Work
Local Wetlands Inventory
A Local Wetlands Inventory has been prepared in accordance with the Department of
State Lands Local Wetlands Inventory Standards and Guidelines (OAR 141 -086 -0180
through 141 -086 -0240; effective July 1, 2001). Fishman/SWCA mapped all wetlands
greater than 0.5 acre according to the LWI rules. The approximate locations of many
wetlands less than 0.5 acre in size were also mapped. These small wetlands are identified
as "possible wetlands" on the LWI maps. Many isolated man-made ponds are present in
the study area, most of which are less than 0.5 acre. Man -made ponds were also included
on the LWI maps. Mapping protocol follows the DSL LWI rules and wetland boundaries
have been digitized in an ESRI compatible fonnat for use by the City and DSL.
Wetland Assessment and Determination of Locally Significant Wetlands
Wetlands greater than 0.5 acre in size have been assessed using the Oregon Freshwater
Wetland Assessment Method (OFWAM) as required by the LWI rules. The OFWAM
assessment consisted of evaluating Wildlife Habitat, Fish Habitat, Water Quality, and
Hydrologic Control functions. Per the Department of State Lands Administrative Rules
for Identifying Significant Wetlands (OAR 141 -86 -300 through 141 -86 -350), if the
assessed wetland unit provided diverse wildlife habitat, intact fish habitat, intact water
quality function, or intact hydrologic control function, then the wetland was determined
to be significant.
Wetlands not meeting the significance criterion based upon the OFWAM assessment
were also evaluated according to the other criteria for determining Locally Significant
Wetlands established by DSL. These criteria include (but are not limited to): the wetland
or a portion of the wetland is within a horizontal distance less than one fourth mile from a
water quality limited water body (DEQ's 303(d) list) and its water quality function is
intact or impacted or degraded; the wetland contains one or more rare plant communities;
the wetland is inhabited by any species listed by the federal government as threatened or
endangered or listed by the state as sensitive, threatened or endangered; or the wetland
has a direct surface water connection to a stream segment mapped by ODFW as habitat
for indigenous anadromous sahnonids and the wetland is determined to have intact or
impacted or degraded fish habitat function.
Riparian Corridor Inventory
Although the Goal 5 Rule is very specific regarding Local Wetlands Inventory
methodology, the Goal 5 Rule does not include a prescribed method for the preparation
of a Riparian Corridor Inventory. Discretion provided to local communities through the
Goal 5 rule allows for inventory methods which are created by the City, reviewed by its'
citizens, and implemented in a manner that best fits with the local natural resources.
The process of determining an exact location of a riparian corridor requires an on -site
resource delineation. Even among the experts, the definition of "riparian" and the
position of the boundary is often debated.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 4
Determination of Significant Riparian Corridors
Goal 5 provides a Safe Harbor optional course of action rather than following the
standard Goal 5 process, including the ESEE decision process. The Safe Harbor criteria
identified under OAR 660 023- 0090(5) establish a standard setback distance from all
fish- bearing lakes and streams as follows:
(a) Along all streams with average annual stream flow greater than 1,000 cubic
feet per second (cfs) the riparian corridor boundary shall be 75 feet upland from
the top of each bank.
(b) Along all lakes, and fish bearing streams with average annual stream flow less
than 1,000 cfs, the riparian corridor boundary shall be 50 feet from the top of
bank.
(c) Where the riparian corridor includes all or portions of a significant wetland as
set out in OAR 660 023 -0100, the standard distance to the riparian corridor
boundary shall be measured from, and include, the upland edge of the wetland.
(d) In areas where the top of each bank is not clearly defined, or where the
predominant terrain consists of steep cliffs, local governments shall apply OAR
660 023 -0030 rather than apply the safe harbor provisions of this section.
Public Involvement Process
A newspaper article was published in the Ashland Daily Tidings on May 23, 2003
notifying the public of the onset of the Local Wetlands Inventory and Riparian Corridor
Inventory. A second newspaper article appeared in the Medford Mail Tribune on July 23,
2003 describing the status of the inventory process.
Fishman /SWCA conducted two public open house meetings for the project. The first
meeting was held on June 4, 2003 to present the Goal 5 requirements and inventory
process. The second meeting was held on November 20, 2003 to present the draft
inventory results and maps and to receive public comments on the draft maps.
Approximately two dozen citizens attended the second meeting. A third public meeting
will occur to present the final inventory and maps to the City planning commission.
Local Wetlands Inventory and Assessment (OAR 660 023 -0090)
Wetland Definition
Wetlands are federally defined as "areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or
ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal
circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in
saturated soil conditions" (Environmental Laboratory 1987). In other words, wetlands
typically display three wetland criteria: a predominance of hydrophytic (wetland)
vegetation, the presence of hydric (wet) soils, and wetland hydrology (ponding or near-
surface saturated soils for at least 5 percent of the growing season; typically 11 days or so
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 5
during the growing season. According to the Jackson County soil survey, the growing
season in Medford is April 7 through November 3 (the growing season may vary
annually).
Wetland Methodology
The Goal 5 rule is very specific in the method required for wetland inventories. The
wetland inventory must be prepared using OAR 141- 086 -0210 through 0240. The
product of the wetland inventory is a Local Wetlands Inventory (LWI). The Oregon
Department of State Lands (DSL) must approve the LWI.
Prior to conducting field work, background information was reviewed in the office to
identify possible wetland areas and to prioritize sites for field verification. Background
information included USGS topographic map, national wetlands inventory map, Jackson
County soil survey, and FEMA floodplain maps; DSL wetland determination /delineation
and permit files; two -foot contour mapping from the City; and 1998 and 2001 aerial
photos from the City. Field work included verification of the presence or absence of NWI
mapped wetlands and wetlands previously identified in DSL files; identification of
previously unmapped wetlands areas greater than 0.5 acre; and identification of possible
wetlands less than 0.5 acre, even though these areas are not required to be mapped
according to LWI standards. Identification of new (i.e. previously unmapped) wetland
areas was facilitated by field visits of sites which contained either a topographic drainage
on the 2 -foot contour maps or a wetland hydrology signature visible on the aerial
photographs.
Letters requesting permission to access were mailed to 1,513 property owners. The City
sent out letters to the property owners requesting written permission to access these
parcels. The list of parcels for which permission to access was requested was generated
primarily based upon a GIS query identifying parcels containing either NWI or City
snapped streams, wetlands or ponds, parcels mapped within the 100 -year floodplain, and
parcels located within 50 feet of any one of these mapped resource boundaries. In
addition, several parcels which contained either a topographic drainage based upon 2 -foot
contours or a wetland hydrology signature on the aerial photographs were also included
on the list. Of the approximately 1,500 letters, the City received 589 yes responses and
104 no responses. Field work was conducted on June 3, 4, 5, 24, 25, and 26, 2003.
Properties for which on -site data collection was allowed were identified on a tax lot base
map which was color coded to identify publicly -owned parcels as well as properties for
which permission to access was either granted or granted with conditions (i.e. call to
notify property owner prior to site visit). On -site data collection consisted of either
preparation of wetland determination sample plot data sheets documenting vegetation,
soils, hydrology, and topography (included in Appendix 3) or field notes recording our
visual observations of one or more of these parameters. No on -site data was collected on
parcels for which permission to access was not granted or for which no response to the
public notice requesting permission to access was received by the City. For areas where
permission to access was not granted, off -site data was collected where possible by
viewing the site with the use of binoculars from adjacent roads, parking lots or public
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA page 6
properties. Base maps used for field work and mapping consisted of 2001 color aerial
photographs plotted at a scale of 1 inch to 300 feet. The City's stream, ditches and ponds
GIS layer, which was created based on interpretation of 1998 aerial photographs, and the
NWI mapping were overlayed onto the aerial photographs. Wetland and riparian
boundaries, sample plots, and off -site observation points were hand mapped on the aerial
photograph base [naps in the field.
Wetlands were identified based on the methodology contained in the 1987 Corps of
Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory 1987), used by the
Department of State Lands. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and
similar areas, but also include seasonally wet meadows, farmed wetlands and other areas
that may not appear "wet" at all times throughout the year. Aerial photograph signatures
of wetland habitat types were groundtruthed at the start of the inventory at publicly
owned sites including the Ashland Demonstration Wetlands and adjacent BMX park and
at the North Mountain Nature Park. Wetland habitat types were labeled according to
Cowardin class. Wetland habitat types present in the study area include: palustrine scrub
shrub (PSS), palustrine emergent (PEM). and palustrine open water (POW).
Wetland boundaries, sample plot locations, and field observation points were mapped by
hand on the color aerial photo base maps. Wetland boundaries and other data were then
digitized onto digital aerial photographs in a Geographic Information System. The GIS
attribute tables contain data for each wetland polygon including unique polygon ID
number, wetland unit number, habitat type, wetland acreage, and DSL file number (if
any).
The locations of several isolated wetlands that were too small to be inventoried according
to DSL rules (<0.5 acre) were mapped approximately as "possible wetlands In addition,
several other areas that appeared to be wetland from off -site, but for which the presence
of wetland could not be field verified since permission to access these properties was not
granted, were also [napped as possible wetlands. Many isolated man -made ponds are
present in the study area, most of which are less than 0.5 acre. Man -made ponds were
mapped separately from possible wetlands and wetlands greater than 0.5 acre.
Wetland summary sheets have been prepared for each wetland unit. Wetland summary
sheets include the site name, site code, general location, Township, Range, and Section
location, DSL file number (if any), acreage. Cowardin (NWI) classification,
hydrogeomorphic classification, hydrologic basin, snapped soils, sample plot numbers (if
any), date(s) of field work, dominant vegetation, primary hydrology source, OFWAM
summary. significance determination, and general wetland description including basis for
wetland boundary determination. Wetland summary sheets are included in Appendix 4.
The approximate locations of potential wetland mitigation /restoration sites are also
required to be identified according to DSL's local wetlands inventory standards and
guidelines. According to OAR 141 086 -210 (19), "Vacant, former wetlands, consisting
mostly of relict (dewatered) hydric soils, which are five (5) acres or larger in size shall be
identified and mapped as potential wetland mitigation or restoration sites...." No sites
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 7
within the study area meeting these criteria were identified; therefore, a map of potential
wetland mitigation /restoration sites is not included in the LWI.
Wetland Assessment Criteria
Wetlands were assessed using the Oregon Freshwater Wetland Assessment Methodology
(OFWAM; Roth et al. 1996), which evaluates wetland functions and values relative to
other wetlands within the study area. The four functions listed below were assessed for
each OFWAM unit, and each function was rated high, medium or low based on how
many of the criteria listed below for each function were met. OFWAM evaluation sheets
are included in Appendix 5. OFWAM wetlands of special interest for protection and
wetland characterization evaluation sheets which evaluate general watershed
characteristics are included in Appendix 6.
Wildlife Habitat The following criteria contribute to wetlands having high wildlife
habitat function: two or more Cowardin wetland classes (Le. forested, scrub shrub.
emergent) are present; woody vegetation is the dominant wetland vegetation cover type;
there is high interspersion among Cowardin classes; more than one acre of open water is
present; the wetland is connected to other wetlands or bodies of water by surface water
(stream, lake, pond, ditch, or culvert); no upstream or adjacent stream reaches are listed
as water quality limited; the dominant existing land use within 500 feet of the wetland's
edge is exclusive forest use or open space; and greater than 40 percent of the wetland's
edge is bordered by a vegetated buffer at least 25 feet wide.
Fish Habitat The following criteria contribute to wetlands having high fish habitat
function: more than 75 percent of the stream is shaded by stream -side (riparian)
vegetation; the stream is in a natural channel, or modified portions of the stream are
returning to a natural channel; more than 25 percent of the entire stream contains
instream structures such as large woody debris, floating submerged vegetation, large
rocks, or boulders; no upstream or adjacent stream reaches are listed as water quality
limited; the dominant existing land use within 500 feet of the wetland's edge is exclusive
forest use or open space; and salmon, trout or sensitive species are present in a stream,
lake or pond associated with the wetland at some time during the year.
Water Ouality Protection The following criteria contribute to wetlands having high
water quality protection function: the wetland's primary source of water is surface flow,
including streams and ditches, or precipitation; there is evidence of flooding or ponding
during a portion of the growing season; wetland vegetation cover is greater than 60
percent; the wetland is greater than 5 acres in size or is between 0.5 acre and 5 acres in
size and is connected to other wetlands within a 3 miles radius by surface water (stream,
ditch, canal or lake); the dominant existing land use within 500 feet of the wetland's edge
is developed uses or agriculture; and one or more upstream or adjacent stream reaches are
listed as water quality limited.
Hydrologic Control The following criteria contribute to wetlands having high
hydrologic control function: the wetland is located within the 100 -year floodplain or
within an enclosed basin: there is evidence of flooding or ponding during a portion of the
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 8
growing season; the wetland is greater than 5 acres in size; waterflow out of the wetland
is restricted (beaver dam, concrete structure, undersized culvert) or the wetland has no
outlet; woody vegetation is the dominant wetland vegetation cover type; the dominant
existing land use within 500 feet of the wetland on the downstream or downslope edge of
the wetland is developed uses; and the dominant land use in the watershed upstream from
the assessment area is urban or urbanizing.
OFWAM Units
Fourteen wetland units (W I W14) were inventoried and assessed. Wetland units are
listed below along with their Township, Range and Section, general location, Cowardin
wetland habitat classification, and wetland acreage. Wetland units may contain one or
more wetland areas. Wetlands along the same stream reach with the same hydrology
source and adjacent land use are grouped into the same OFWAM unit for assessment
purposes. Similarly, if a wetland is bisected by a road crossing and each wetland area
contains similar characteristics, they are grouped into the same wetland unit. Eleven
wetland units were associated with streams or were hydrologically connected to a stream
via roadside or agricultural drainage ditches. Three (W2, W8 and W9) wetlands did not
contain a surface water connection to a stream or other wetland and were therefore
determined to be isolated. Narrow wetland fringes, ranging from I to 5 feet wide, were
present along several streams within the study area. These wetland fringes were much
smaller than 0.5 acre (the minimum wetland size required by DSL to be mapped) and are
not included in the OFWAM units in the table below. It was not possible to map wetland
fringes given the map scale of a wetland inventory. Wetland fringes were included within
the riparian corridor mapping along streams in the study area, including forested wetland
fringes along Ashland Creek and Bear Creek.
TABLE UNITS, WETLAND HABITAT TYPES ACREAGES
Wetland TRS Location Habitat Wetland
Unit Type* Acreage
WI T39S, RIE, S4 Ashland Creek/BMX PEM 2.23
Park
W2 T39S, RIE, S4 Ashland Demonstration POW/PEM 0.64
Wetlands
W3 T39S, RIE, S5 Billings Ranch PEM 1.83
W4 T39S, RIE, S10 Cemetery Creek PEM 3.86
W5 T39S, R 1E, S4 Clear Creek Village PEM/POW 1.29
&9
W6 T39S, RI E, S 11 Knoll Creek PEM 1.71
W7 T39S, RIE, S4 North Mountain Nature PEM/POW 3.25
Park
W8 T39S, RIE, S4 NWI Wetland 4G PSS 0.90
W9 T39S, RIE, S10 NWI Wetland 1OB PEM 5.38
W10 T39S, RIE, S13 NWI Wetland 13B PEM 2.12
13C
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 9
TABLE 1. OFWAM UNITS, WETLAND HABITAT TYPES ACREAGES
Wetland TRS Location Habitat Wetland
Unit Type* Acreage
WI I T39S, RIE, S14 Washington Street PEM 0.85
W 12 T39S, R 1E, S 10 West of Cemetery PEM 1.68
Creek
W13 T39S RIE, S 1 1 West of Hamilton PEM 1.41
Creek
W14 T38S, R1E, S33 Ashland Creek, near POW/PEM 1.16
sewage treatment plant
Total Wetland Acreage 28.31
PEM palustrine. emergent; POW palustrine, open water; PSS palustrine, scrub -shrub
Determination of Significance for Wetland Areas
The 14 wetland units listed above were evaluated using the Oregon Freshwater Wetland
Assessment Methodology (OFWAM) as required by the LWI rules. The OFWAM
assessment consisted of evaluating Wildlife Habitat, Fish Habitat, Water Quality, and
Hydrologic Control functions. Per the Department of State Lands Administrative Rules
for Identifying Significant Wetlands (OAR 141 -86 -300 through 141 -86 -350), if the
assessed wetland unit provided diverse wildlife habitat, intact fish habitat, intact water
quality function, or intact hydrologic control function, then the wetland was determined
to be locally significant. Wetlands WI, W4 -W9 and W12 -W14 were determined to be
locally significant wetlands according to this methodology. Although Wetland W2
displays intact water quality function. it is excluded from the locally significant wetland
criteria according to OAR 141 086 0350(1) "Exclusions. Regardless of their standing in
relation to the criteria in OAR 141 -086- 0350(2) or (3) of these rules, wetlands shall not
be designated as locally significant if they fall within any one of the following
categories:...(E) Of any size and created for the purpose of wastewater treatment...."
Three wetlands (W3, W10 and WI 1) did not meet the significance criterion based upon
the OFWAM assessment and were therefore evaluated according to the other criteria for
determining Locally Significant Wetlands established by DSL. These criteria include: the
wetland or a portion of the wetland is within a horizontal distance less than one fourth
mile from a water quality limited water body (DEQ's 303(d) list) and its water quality
function is intact or impacted or degraded; the wetland contains one or more rare plant
communities; the wetland is inhabited by any species listed by the federal government as
threatened or endangered or listed by the state as sensitive, threatened or endangered; or
the wetland has a direct surface water connection to a stream segment mapped by ODFW
as habitat for indigenous anadromous salmonids and the wetland is determined to have
intact or impacted or degraded fish habitat function.
Wetland W10 was determined to be locally significant based on rating medium for water
quality function and occurring within r/a mile of a water quality limited stream listed by
DEQ on the 303(d) list. Wetlands W3 and WI1 did not meet any of these criteria and
were therefore determined to be non locally significant.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 10
The table below summarizes the wetland function ratings and wetland significance for
each OFWAM unit. OFWAM evaluation sheets for each unit are included in Appendix 5,
and OFWAM wetlands of special interest for protection and wetland characterization
evaluation sheets are included in Appendix 6. A complete list of all vegetation observed
in wetlands and uplands in the study area is included in Appendix 7.
TABLE 2. LOCAL WETLANDS INVENTORY
DETERMINATION OF LOCALLY SIGNIFICANT WETLANDS
OFWAM FUNCTIONS'
Wetland Wildlife Fish Water Hydrologic SIGNIFICANT
Unit Habitat Habitat Quality Control
I M L H M Y
2 M L H M N'
3 M L M M N
4 M M H M Y
5 M M H H Y
6 M H H M Y
7 H M H H Y
8 M L M H Y
9 M L H H Y
10 M L M M Y
11 M L M M N
12 M L H M Y
13 M L H M Y
14 H M M _H Y
t Wildlife Habitat Function: H Diverse wildlife habitat, M Habitat for some species, L Lost or not
present. Fish Habitat, Water Quality and Hydrologic Control Functions: H Intact. M Impacted or
degraded. L lost or not present
Wetlands which score high in at least one of the four functions evaluated are determined to be locally
significant according to DSL rules. except as noted below.
Wetlands of any size that were created for the purpose of wastewater treatment shall not he designated as
Iocally significant per OAR 141 -086 350(1).
4 Wetland W10 was determined to be locally significant based on rating medium for water quality function
and occurring within 'A mile of a water quality limited stream listed by DEQ on the 303(d) list.
Status of National Wetlands Inventory Mapped Wetlands
We attempted to field verify the presence or absence of all wetlands mapped on the NWI
in the study area. Several of the. larger NWI- mapped wetlands have been incorporated
into the wetlands snapped in the local wetlands inventory, including units W3, W8, W9,
W10 and W13. Many of the NWI- mapped wetlands were determined to be man -made
ponds and are mapped as ponds on the local wetlands inventory maps. Several wetlands
mapped as less than 0.5 acre in size on the NWI could not be field verified due to lack of
permission to access the sites and are therefore identified as Possible Wetlands (PW) on
the local wetlands inventory maps. The local wetlands inventory maps replace the
national wetlands inventory maps and the City's stream, ditches and ponds GIS layer and
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor hrventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 1 1
provide the most accurate inventory of wetlands inside the Ashland urban grown
boundary.
Riparian Corridor Inventory (OAR 660 023 -0090)
Riparian Corridor Definition
Goal 5 definitions:
"Riparian area" is the area adjacent to a river, lake, or stream, consisting of the area of
transition from an aquatic ecosystem to a terrestrial ecosystem.
"Riparian corridor" is a Goal 5 resource that includes the water areas, fish habitat,
adjacent riparian areas, and wetlands within the riparian area boundary.
"Riparian corridor boundary" is an imaginary line that is a certain distance upland from
the top of bank...
Riparian Corridor Methodology
The method for conducting a riparian corridor inventory is not prescribed. The Goal 5
Rule permits the application of a "Safe Harbor" setback distance to all fish bearing lakes
and streams. The standard setback is 50 feet for streams with more than 1000 cubic feet
per second (cfs) stream flow and 50 feet for fish bearing lakes and streams with less than
1000 cfs. The rule also lists the following resources that must be consulted when
completing the riparian corridor inventory:
Oregon Department of Forestry stream classification maps
USGS 7.5- minute quadrangle map
National Wetland Inventory Maps
Oregon Department of Wildlife (ODFW) maps indicating fish habitat
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood maps
Aerial photographs
Fishman /SWCA has prepared the riparian corridor inventory using a modified on -site
method. Time and budget constraints typically make it unfeasible to conduct an on -site
delineation of all riparian corridors in the City. Therefore, we conducted brief on -site
field visits to document vegetation and topography adjacent to streams at several
locations along each stream to determine the approximate location of the riparian
corridor. The location of the riparian corridor was hand mapped on the aerial photo base
map (photo date 2001, scale 1 inch to 300 feet). Two foot contour data and vegetation
signatures on the aerial photos were used to approximate the location of the riparian
corridor for areas that were not field verified. For areas where permission to access was
not granted, off -site data was collected if possible by viewing the site with the use of
binoculars from adjacent roads, parking lots or public properties. No field data was
collected for Strawberry Creek or Twin Creek since permission to access the properties
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 12
containing these small sections of stream was not granted, and the streams were not
visible from adjacent public roads. Field work was conducted on June 3, 4, 5, 24, 25, and
26, 2003.
Riparian summary sheets include the site name, Township, Range, and Section location.
sample plot numbers (if any), dates(s) of field work, dominant vegetation, and general
riparian corridor description. Riparian summary sheets are included in Appendix 8.
Riparian Corridor Units
Riparian corridors were mapped along all streams in the study area, which include:
o Ashland Creek
o Ashland Creek Tributary 1
o Beach Creek
o Bear Creek
o Bear Creek Tributary 1
o Cemetery Creek
o Clay Creek
o Clear Creek
o Emigrant Creek
o Fordyce Creek
o Golf Course Creek
o Hamilton Creek
o Hamilton Creek Tributaries 1 2
o Kitchen Creek
o Knoll Creek
o Mountain Creek
o Neil Creek
o Paradise Creek
o Paradise Creek East
o Pinecrest Creek
o Roca Creek
o Strawberry Creek
o Tolman Creek
o Twin Creek
o Wrights Creek
o Wrights Creek Tributaries 1 5
Determination of Significance for Riparian Corridor Areas
Significant riparian corridors mapped using the Safe Harbor criteria identified under
OAR 660 023 0090(5). The Safe Harbor criteria establish a standard setback distance
from all fish- bearing lakes and streams as follows:
a) Along all streams with average annual stream flow greater than 1,000 cubic
feet per second (cfs) the riparian corridor boundary shall be 75 feet upland from
the top of each bank. (Top of bank is defined by the DSL as "bankfull stage," and
in the absence of obvious tops of bank can be approximated by the two -year flood
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 13
elevation. Most streams in the City of Ashland have well- defined channels and
the top of bank is in most cases easily observed in the field.)
b) Along all lakes, and fish- bearing streams with average annual stream flow less
than 1,000 cfs, the riparian corridor boundary shall he 50 feet from the top of
bank.
c) Where the riparian corridor includes all or portions of a significant wetland, the
standard distance to the riparian corridor boundary shall be measured from, and
include, the upland edge of the wetland.
d) In areas where the top of each bank is not clearly defined, or where the
predominant terrain consists of steep cliffs, local governments shall apply OAR
660 -23 -030 (the inventory process defined in the subject document) rather than
apply the safe harbor provisions.
Fish- bearing streams were determined based upon ODFW StreamNet data and a map
from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife showing stream segments where fish
presence was documented based upon ODFW observations during electroshocking and
snorkel surveys conducted in 1997 through 2000. The ODFW map identifies Ashland
Creek, Bear Creek, Emigrant Creek, Kitchen Creek, Neil Creek, and Tolman Creek as
being fish- bearing within the study area. According to the Safe Harbor criteria, a 50 foot
buffer is required adjacent to these streams.
Most of the streams in Ashland are not documented as fish- bearing, and therefore would
not be protected under the safe harbor requirements. Short sections of Clay Creek,
Hamilton Creek and Wrights Creek located downstream of the study area were mapped
as fish- bearing; however, the streams are not documented as being fish bearing within the
study area, so a safe harbor has not been applied to these streams. The City currently
requires 10 to 20 foot buffers adjacent to all streams within the Ashland urban growth
boundary, including those that are not fish bearing. The City of Ashland is currently
discussing alternatives for additional inventory, assessment, and regulation of riparian
corridors not addressed under the Safe Harbor.
Staff Qualifications
As required by LWI rules, technical staff qualifications are described below.
Project Manager: Daniel Stark, AICP, Natural Resource Planner GIS Program
Manager
Responsibilities: Dan provided project management and coordination with the City of
Ashland Planning Staff, provided coordination of the GIS database development, and
assisted in preparing the Goal 5 report.
Dan Stark is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners and provides land
use expertise and public service sector personal experience. Dan's specialties include
natural resource planning, GIS, and land use planning. Dan had more than five years
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 14
experience as a Planner and GIS Analyst for Marion County, Oregon where he developed
and maintained the County Planning Division GIS using Arclnfo, ArcView and Map
Objects. Dan has developed tools using AML (Arc Macro Language) to analyze the
county groundwater consumption rates and determine compliance with the county
groundwater ordinance. His GIS database included tax lot -level analyses of soils,
wetlands, floodplains, other natural resource features and urban infrastructure. Dan also
participated in the long -range planning program at Marion County by providing support
to the periodic review tasks including Goals 3, 4, 5, 7, 14 and others. Since joining
Fishman /SWCA in November of 1999, Dan has managed several large inventory and
assessment projects including the City of Hillsboro Local Wetlands, Riparian Corridor,
and Wildlife Habitat Inventory and Assessment (Goal 5 project), Watersheds 2000 stream
assessment for Clean Water Services (Washington County's stonnwater management
agency), and has also assisted with the City of Wilsonville's Goal 5 Inventory, Title 3
Compliance, and ESA Compliance project.
Field Inventory Staff: Stacy N. Benjamin, Wetland Ecologist
Responsibilities: Stacy managed the field inventory, prepared the wetland and riparian
corridor maps, conducted OFWAM, prepared the resource site summary sheets and
summary tables, and prepared the Goal 5 report. Stacy provided review and quality
control of GIS map products.
Stacy Benjamin is experienced in wetland determination and delineation, wetland
permitting, mitigation design, wetland monitoring, and natural resource assessment.
Stacy's Goal 5 experience includes conducting local wetlands inventories for the Cities of
Hillsboro and Lakeside; wetland, riparian and upland habitat function and value
assessments; and updating the natural resource inventory (riparian and upland resources)
for the Lane Council of Governments. Stacy is experienced in both on -site and off -site
wetland inventory methodology, aerial photograph interpretation and mapping, and
conducting function and value assessments for wetland, riparian, and upland areas. Stacy
has completed training in the 1987 Wetlands Delineation Manual and has been
conducting wetland determinations and delineations since she joined Fishman /SWCA in
1996.
Field Inventory Staff: C. Mirth Walker, Pws, CWD, Wetlands Program Manager
Responsibilities: Mirth assisted with the field inventory and provided review and quality
assurance for all inventory and assessment products.
Mirth Walker is responsible for coordination of wetland work orders and provides
wetland delineation QA/QC and project management. She is certified as a Professional
Wetland Scientist (PWS) by the Society of Wetland Scientists and is a provisionally
certified Wetland Delineator by the Seattle District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Mirth's specialties include wetland determinations and delineations, wetland mitigation
and monitoring, permit coordination, aerial photograph interpretation, wetland training,
and natural resource inventories. Mirth managed and conducted the City of Wilsonville
LWI RCI Upland Wildlife Habitat Inventory and Assessment, the Lakeside LWI, the
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 15
La Grande LWI, and she assisted with the Cities of Hillsboro, Tualatin, Tigard, and
Stayton wetland inventories and assessments.
Geographic Information System Management: Rafael Gutierrez, GIS Analyst
Responsibilities: Preparation of GIS maps and management of the GIS database
Rafael's specialties include ESRI's ArcView and Archtfo software, Global Positioning
Systems, database design and development, and cartographic design. He has a firm
understanding of projection, datum, and coordinate system concepts. Rafael also has four
years experience in web development and design including client/server administration.
PHP and MySQL database construction and CGI programming. Many of Rafael's
projects include digitizing, editing and topological operations, area calculations,
transforming datasets to and from various projections and coordinate systems, and spatial
analysis using raster datasets. Other project experience includes using dynamic
segmentation for linear surveys, multiple criteria analyses, and integrating large relational
database management systems with GIS.
Project Contract Oversight: Paul A. Fishman, CEP, Principal Ecologist
Responsibilities: Paul provided contract management oversight and assistance as
necessary in this project, and assisted with public involvement
Paul is a Certified Environmental Professional by the Academy of Board Certified
Environmental Professionals. Paul has over 34 years management experience in natural
resource assessment and planning. He has managed small and large, individual consultant
and multi discipline team efforts for dozens of clients in the western U.S. Paul has
organized and /or participated in community -based processes to guide and implement
these efforts. He has developed an extensive network in the environmental cotmmunity,
including resource and regulatory agencies, local jurisdictions, consultants, and public
groups. He has developed his company as a key consultant to local jurisdictions for
natural resource inventory and planning projects. Paul has a history of providing training
and educational seminars to a variety of audiences: in 1996, he conducted a half -day
wetland training to help attendees understand the basic requirements for wetland issues;
in 1999, Paul provided an educational program for recognizing wetlands, Goal 5 criteria
and conducting assessments for the Endangered Species Act.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 16
References
Ashland Ranger District, Rogue River National Forest. 1995 Bear Creek Watershed
Analysis. 2 Volumes.
Begnoche, D. 2002. Islands in Time. The Klatnaths. A Tour. Purchased from the
Northwest Nature Shop, Ashland :Oregon.
Begnoche, D. 1999. Siskiyou Sundays. A Tour of Southwestern Oregon. Purchased from
the Northwest Nature Shop, Ashland, Oregon.
Bossard, C.C., J.M. Randall, and M.C. Hoshovsky, Eds. 2000. Invasive Plants of
California's Wildlands. University of California Press. Berkeley, California.
City of Ashland. Municipal Code Chapter 18.62. Physical Environmental Constraints.
http: /www.ashland .or.us /CodePrint.asp ?ChapterlD =168
City of Ashland GIS Department. 1998. Digital Orthophotos (b /w). Photo date April 16,
1998, plotted at scale 1 inch 300 feet.
City of Ashland GIS Department. 2001. Digital Orthophotos (color). Photo date July
2001, plotted at scale 1 inch 300 feet.
City of Ashland GIS Department. 2003. FEMA 100 Year Floodplain and Ashland
Modified Floodplain Maps.
City of Ashland GIS Department. 2003. 10 Foot and,20 Foot Riparian Buffer Maps
City of Ashland GIS Department. 2003. Storm Drain Features Map. Data Version:
30Jan2003.
Cooke, S.S. 1997. A Field Guide to the Common Wetland Plants of Western Washington
and Northwestern Oregon. Audubon Society. Seattle, Washington.
Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands
and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
FWS /OBS- 79/31.
Department of Land Conservation and Development. Division 23. Procedures and
Requirements for Complying with Goal 5.
http: /arcweb.sos. state. or. us rules /OARS_600 /0AR_660/660_023.htm1
Division of State Lands. 2001. Local Wetland Inventory (LWI) Standards and
Guidelines. Adopted February 15, 2001. Effective July 1, 2001.
http://statelands.dsl.state.or.us/141-086_LWI.htm
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 17
Division of State Lands. 1997. Identifying Significant Wetlands.
htto /statelands.dsl.state.or.us /141 -086 LSW.htm
Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual.
Technical Report Y -87 -1. Vicksburg, Mississippi.
Federal Emergency Management Agency. 1981. Flood Insurance Rate Map, City of
Ashland, Oregon, Jackson County. Community Panel Numbers 410090 0001B,
0002B 0003B. Effective date June 1, 1981.
Guard, B.J. 1995. Wetland Plants of Oregon and Washington. Lone Pine Publishing,
Canada.
Hickman, J.C., Ed. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of
California Press. Berkeley, California.
Hitchcock, C.L., A. Cronquist, M. Ownbey, and J.W.Thompson. 1969. Vascular Plants of
the Pacific Northwest. Five volume set. University of Washington Press. Seattle,
Washington.
Hitchcock, C.L. and A. Cronquist. 1973. Flora of' the Pacific Northwest. University of
Washington Press, Seattle.
Jacksonville Woodlands association. A Visual Guide to Flowering Plants of the
Jacksonville Woodlands. 541- 899 -7402. www.jvwoodlands.org
Kartesz, J.T. 1994. A Synonymized Checklist of the Vascular Flora of the United States,
Canada, and Greenland. Volume 1_Checklist and Volume 2_Thesaurus. Second
Edition. In association with Biota of North American Program of the North
Carolina Botanical Garden. Timber Press, Portland.
Kollmorgen Instrument Corporation. 1998 revised washable edition. Munsell Soil Color
Charts. Baltimore.
Petrides, G.A. O. Petrides. 2000. Trees of the California Sierra Nevada. Explorer
Press. Williamston, Michigan.
Pojar, J. and A. MacKinnon, Eds. 1994. Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast.
Washington, Oregon, British Columbia and Alaska. Lone Pine Press, Redmond,
Washington.
Reed, P.B., Jr. 1988. National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: Northwest
(Region 9). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Report No. 88 (26.9).
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 18
Reed, P.B., Jr., et al. 1993. Supplement to List of Plant Species That Occur in Wetlands:
Northwest (Region 9).
Reyes, C. 1994. The Table Rocks of Jackson County: Islands in the Sky. Last Minute
Publications. Ashland, Oregon.
Roth. E.M., R.D. Olsen, P.L. Snow, and R.R. Sumner. 1996 Revised Edition. Oregon
Freshwater Wetland Assessment Methodology. Ed. by S.G. McCannell. Oregon
Division of State Lands, Salem, Oregon. (And supplement dated July, 1997.)
Siskiyou Research Group. 2000. Ashland Creek Stream Survey (Bear Creek to Reeder
Reservoir). Greg Bennett. 7 pages.
Taylor, R.J. 1990. Northwest Weeds: The Ugly and Beautiful Villains of Fields, Gardens,
and Roadsides. Mountain Press Publishing Company. Missoula, Montana.
Tetra Tech/KCM, Inc. 2000. City of Ashland Stormwater and Drainage Master Plan.
Final Report. June 2000. In association with Greenworks, PC. KCM Project
2840031. Brad Moore.
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. 1999. Jackson County Area, Oregon,
Hydric Soils List. Parts of Jackson and Klamath Counties: Detailed Soil Map
Legend. Compiled by Steve Campbell February 9, 1999. 116 pages.
USDA Soil Conservation Service. 1993. Soil.Survey of Jackson County Area, Oregon. In
cooperation with United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land
Management; United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service; and
Oregon Agricultural Experiment Station. 3 Volumes. Aerial photographs from
1974 -1979. Sheet Numbers 101 and 112.
US Fish and Wildlife Service. 1994. Ashland, Oregon National Wetland Inventory Map.
Color infra -red aerial photography 8/82 at a scale of 1:58,000.
US Geological Service. 1983. Ashland, Oregon Provisional Edition 7.5 minute
Topographic Map.
US Geological Service. 1996. Ashland, Oregon 7.5 minute Topographic Map.
Whitson, T.D., Ed. 1992. Weeds of the West. Pioneer of Jackson Hole. Jackson,
Wyoming.
Enclosures:
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Inventory Maps
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 19
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Local Wetlands Inventory Index Map Detail Maps
Appendix 2: List of DSL Wetland Determination and Permit Files
Appendix 3: Wetland Determination Sample Plot Data Sheets
Appendix 4: Wetland Summary Sheets
Appendix 5: OFWAM Evaluation Sheets
Appendix 6: OFWAM Wetlands of Special Interest for Protection
Wetland Characterization Sheets
Appendix 7: Vegetation List
Appendix 8: Riparian Corridor Summary Sheets
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page 20
�r, City of Ashland
Local Wetlands Inventory
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Ft, City of Ashland
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WETLAND SUMMARY SHEETS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SITE PAGE
Wetland 1 1
Wetland 2 2
Wetland 3 4
Wetland 4 6
Wetland 5 7
Wetland 6 8
Wetland 7 9
Wetland 8 10
Wetland 9 11
Wetland 10 12
Wetland 11 13
Wetland 12 14
Wetland 13 15
Wetland 14 14
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005. revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page i
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 1
Site Code: W1
Location: South of Ashland Creek, west of sewage treatment plant, east of BMX park
Township 395 Range 1E Section 4 Quarter NW
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391 E04BB 102 200
DSL none
Approximate size (acres): 2.23
Cowardin classification: PEM HUM classification: Slope Valley
Hydrologic basin: Ashland Creek
Soil type(s): Brader Debenger, Barron
Sample Plot Number(s): 7. 8 9 Field verification date(s): 6 /4/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs: cattail, poison hemlock, and creeping spikerush
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands: any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation groundwater seeps
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, no woody vegetation, <0.5 acre open water
Fish Habitat: Low wetland does not include a stream, lake or pond
Water Quality: High evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, Ashland Creek is WQ limited
Hydrologic Control: Medium unrestricted outlet, no woody veg., upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the bask for the wetland boundary
determination:
This emergent wetland is dominated by cattail, poison hemlock (a noxious species) and creeping spikerush.
Other species noted in the wetland include meadow foxtail, teasel, Himalayan blackberry, willow -herb, soft
rush, sedge and bedstraw. The wetland is connected to Ashland Creek at its downslope edge. Adjacent uplands
are dominated by ryebrotne, downy cheat grass, tall fescue, geranium and hairy vetch.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman)SWCA Page 1
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 2
Site Code: W2
Location: Ashland Demonstration Wetlands, south of Ashland Creek, east of sewage treatment plant
Township 39S Range 1E Section 4 Quarter NW
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E04BB 200
DSL none
Approximate size (acres): 0.16 0.22 0.26 0.64
Cowardin classification: POW/PEM HGM classification: Depressional Closed Nonpermanent
Hydrologic basin: Isolated
Soil type(s): Brader Debenger
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/4/03 6/24/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs: narrow -leaf cattail, hardstem bulrush
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium sparse woody veg., low interspersion, <0.5 acre open water, isolated
Fish Habitat: Low small seasonal ponds with no connection to stream, no cover or shade
Water Quality: High evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, Ashland Creek is WQ limited
Hydrologic Control: Medium outside floodplain, no woody veg., upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Not locally significant, not subject to state jurisdiction.
Note: although Wetland W2 displays intact water quality function, it is excluded from the locally significant
wetland criteria according to OAR 141- 086 0350(1) since it was created for the purpose of wastewater
treatment. The wetland is also non jurisdictional since it was created in upland soils and is smaller than 1 acre.
Description of the wetland, including topographic position, land uses, alterations. and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
The Ashland Demonstration Wetlands consist of 3 excavated ponds, 0.16, 0.22 and 0.26 acre in size, dominated
by narrow -leaf cattail and hardstem bulrush. The upper pond also contained poison hemlock (noxious) and
floating pennywort with red -osier dogwood, rose and willow shrubs planted on the side slopes. The middle
pond also contained globepodded hoarycress, a noxious species. The ponds were constructed in 1996 and were
lined and planted. The ponds were built as an experimental system to determine their effectiveness for removing
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Wetland 2, continued
phosphorous from the City's wastewater. The ponds received 10,000 gallons per day from the sewage treatment
plant until 1998 or 1999 when the experiment was discontinued since preliminary results revealed that this type
of natural treatment system would not be adequate to meet DEQ's phosphorous standard given the volume of
the City's wastewater and small size of the treatment ponds. The wetland/upland boundaries are well defined by
topography and a change to non hydrophytic vegetation surrounding the ponds consisting of ripgut brome,
ryebrome, tall fescue, hairy vetch, and two -color lupine.
Three rectangular areas were excavated immediately north of the Ashland Demonstration Wetlands to provide
stormwater infiltration. These areas are currently dominated by non hydrophytic vegetation and do not meet the
wetland criteria. The upper two excavated areas are dominated by dead giant reed (invasive in California), and
the lower excavated area is dominated by a brome species. These three excavated areas are not included in the
mapping for wetland unit 2.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 3
Site Code: W3
Location: Billings Ranch, north of railroad, just south of City limits
Township 39S Range 1E Section 5 Quarter NE
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E05 200
DSL WD 02 -0472: RF -30032
Approximate size (acres): 1.83
Cowardin classification: PEM HGM classification: Slope Valley
Hydrologic basin: Bear Creek
Soil type(s): Sheftlein, Coker
Sample Plot Number(s): none (recent delineation) Field verification date(s): 6/25/03 (off -site)
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs: common velvetgrass, grass species, bulrush and cattail
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation groundwater seeps (seeps noted in wetland delineation report)
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, no woody veg., <0.5 acre open water
Fish Habitat: Low wetland does not include a stream, lake or pond
Water Quality: Medium primary water source groundwater, evidence of ponding, high veg. cover
Hydrologic Control: Medium outside floodplain, unrestricted outlet, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Not locally significant but still jurisdictional
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
The Billings Ranch residential subdivision site was under construction at the time of the site visit. This wetland
was viewed from off -site from Nevada Street using binoculars. Grading activity was occurring, and orange
construction fencing was present adjacent to the wetland area. Vegetation was dominated by grasses, including
common velvetgrass (all species could not be identified with binoculars). Trace amounts of teasel, hardstem
bulrush, rush and dock were also noted. The wetland delineation report describes the portion of the wetland to
be impacted as being dominated by upland and wetland grasses (often facultative wetland grasses) with lesser
amounts of rushes and sedges. The portion of the wetland to be protected is described as having bulrush and
cattails.
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Wetland 3, continued
This site was delineated in 2002 (DSL WD 2002 0472). A portion of this wetland is slated to be filled under
permit (DSL RF- 30032), with mitigation to occur adjacent to Billings Pond just north of this wetland. The size
of the wetland to remain after permitted impacts is 1.14 acres.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 4
Site Code: W4
Location: Cemetery Creek, north of railroad, south of Main Street
Township 39S Range lE Section 10 Quarter SE
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E10D 201; 391EJODA 3200, 3500 3600
DSL WD 03 -0203 (east side of tax lot 3600 only)
Approximate size (acres): 3.86
Cowardin classification: PEM HGM classification: Riverine Flow- Through
Hydrologic basin: Cemetery Creek
Soil type(s): Kubli
Sample Plot Number(s): none (no permission to access) Field verification date(s): 6/3/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs: Pacific willow, weeping willow
Herbs: reed canarygrass, cattail
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Cemetery Creek, also stormwater input from adjacent residential development to east noted
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, no woody veg., <0.5 acre open water
Fish Habitat: Medium low shading and cover, adjacent land use is agriculture
Water Quality: High evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, adjacent land use is agriculture
Hydrologic Control: Medium outside floodplain, unrestricted outlet, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position, land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This wetland unit is associated with Cemetery Creek. Vegetation is dominated by reed canarygrass (invasive)
and cattail, with areas of Pacific willow and weeping willow shrubs. Himalayan blackberry and white poplar
shrubs were also noted in areas. A few black cottonwood trees are also present along the stream. The wetland is
closely bordered by residential development along its east edge. The western wetland boundary is defined by a
change to upland grasses. A wetland fill violation occurred at the west end of Creek Drive, and an on -site
wetland determination was conducted by the Division of State Lands in April 2003 (DSL WD 03- 0203).
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 5
Site Code: W5
Location: Clear Creek Village mitigation site, north of Chegar Street, south of Hersey Street
Township 39S Range 1E Section 4 Quarter SW
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E04CD 1904
DSL WD 02 -0292
Approximate size (acres): 1.29
Cowardin classification: PEM/POW HGM classification: Riverine Impounding
Hydrologic basin: Clear Creek
Soil type(s): Coker
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/3/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs: Oregon ash, red -osier dogwood, Douglas spirea, willow, red elderberry
Herbs: cattail, hardstem bulrush, rush, blue wildrye, tufted hairgrass, buttercup
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Stormwater runoff, wetland is the headwaters of Clear Creek
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium mod. interspersion, <0.5 acre open water, adjacent land use developed
Fish Habitat: Medium low shading and cover, adjacent land use is developed
Water Quality: High evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, adjacent land use is developed
Hydrologic Control: High enclosed basin, evidence of ponding, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
A wetland delineation of the Clear Creek Village mitigation site was recently conducted by Integrated
Environmental Design (DSL WD 02- 0292). Two on -line ponds are present on Clear Creek. The site contains a
diverse vegetation community in the emergent wetland area and native shrub plantings should develop into a
scrub -shrub wetland community over time. Wetland boundaries are well- defined by topography and a change to
non hydrophytic vegetation.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 6
Site Code: W6
Location: Knoll Creek, north of Interstate -5, south of East Main Street
Township 39S Range 1E Section 11 Quarter SE
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E1 I D 100, 300, 900 1000
DSL none
Approximate size (acres): 1.71
Cowardin classification: PEM MGM classification: Riverine Flow- Through
Hydrologic basin: Knoll Creek
Soil type(s): Kubli, Brader Debenger, Central Point
Sample Plot Number(s): none (no permission to access) Field verification date(s): 6/4/03 (off -site)
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs: cattail, rush
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Knoll Creek
OFWAM Summary:
Function Ratine Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium sparse woody vegetation, moderate interspersion, <0.5 acre open water
Fish Habitat: High natural stream channel, adjacent land use is undeveloped
Water Quality: High surface water- driven, evidence of ponding, high veg. cover
Hydrologic Control: Medium outside floodplain, unrestricted outlet, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland. including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This unit was viewed from off -site from the Windmill Inn parking lot using binoculars. Two stream- associated
wetlands are present along Knoll Creek. The wetlands are predominantly emergent with a minor scrub -shrub
component. Vegetation is dominated by cattail and rush, with a few willow, black cottonwood, Oregon ash and
rose shrubs also present. Adjacent uplands are dominated by Himalayan blackberry and upland grasses.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 7
Site Code: W7
Location: North Mountain Nature Park, south of Bear Creek, east of Mountain Avenue
Township 39S Range lE Section 4 Quarter SE
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E04DA 300; 39IE04DD 100 400
DSL WD 95 -0229
Approximate size (acres): 3.25
Cowardin classification: PEM/POW HGM classification: Riverine Impounding
Hydrologic basin: Bear Creek
Soil type(s): Camas Newberg -Evans
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/24/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs: Douglas spirea, Oregon ash, sandbar willow, black hawthorn and black cottonwood
Herbs: cattail, hardstem bulrush, soft rush, sedge, meadow foxtail, bentgrass and creeping buttercup
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands: any potential non jurisdictional status)
Beach Creek (ponds) precipitation (emergent wetlands)
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: High connected to Beach Bear Creeks, moderate interspersion, wide buffer
Fish Habitat: Medium low shading and cover, stream channel modified (on -line ponds)
Water Quality: High surface water driven, evidence of pending, high veg. cover
Hydrologic Control: High within floodplain, evidence of ponding, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
Three on -line ponds (upper, middle and lower ponds) are present on Beach Creek. We refer to the pond at the
downstream end of Beach Creek as the lower pond and to the pond further upstream on Beach Creek the upper
pond, although the North Mountain Park informational brochure refers to the lower pond as the upper pond and
vice versa. The ponds are fringed by emergent wetlands containing cattail, hardstem bulrush, soft rush, sedge,
and meadow foxtail with Douglas spirea, Oregon ash, sandbar willow, black hawthorn, and black cottonwood
shrubs. The lower wetlands are located in the floodway of Bear Creek. Floating aquatic vegetation in the ponds
includes lesser duckweed and Mexican water fern. Western pond turtle were observed in the upper pond.
Additional emergent wetland vegetation observed in the non ponded areas included meadow foxtail, bentgrass,
creeping buttercup, teasel, Watson's willow -herb, and rush.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment. July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 8
Site Code: W8
Location: North of Bear Creek, west of Mountain Avenue
Township 39S Range 1E Section 4 Quarter NE
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 39] E04AC 900
DSL none
Approximate size (acres): 0.90
Cowardin classification: PSS HGM classification: Slope Valley
Hydrologic basin: Isolated, no apparent connection to Bear Creek
Soil type(s): Camas Newberg Evans, Darow, Medford
Sample Plot Number(s): 16 17 Field verification date(s): 6/24/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs: sandbar willow, Pacific willow and Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation, may be spring -fed
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, <0.5 acre open water, isolated
Fish Habitat: Low wetland does not include a stream, lake or pond
Water Quality: Medium no evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, Bear Creek is WQ limited
Hydrologic Control: High restricted outlet, woody veg.. upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This scrub -shrub wetland is dominated by sandbar willow and Pacific willow shrubs surrounded by a dense
Himalayan blackberry thicket. One Oregon ash tree was also present in the wetland, along with trace amounts
of soft rush, spreading rush and teasel (invasive). This wetland is bordered on the south and west by a gravel
road, and no culvert was observed under the road that would connect the wetland with Bear Creek to the south.
Upland vegetation adjacent to the wetland is dominated by yellow starthistle (noxious), ripgut brome,
tumblemustard, poison hemlock (noxious), teasel and Himalayan blackberry and hairy.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 9
Site Code: W9
Location: North of railroad, south of East Main Street, west of Cemetery Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Section 10 Quarter NE SE
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391 E10D 903, 909, 910, 913 1000
DSL WD 91 -0031
Approximate size (acres): 5.38
Cowardin classification: PEM HGM classification: Slope Valley
Hydrologic basin: Isolated
Soil type(s): Kubli
Sample Plot Number(s): none (difficult access) Field verification date(s): 6/25/03 (off -site)
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs: Himalayan blackberry is around the perimeter
Herbs: (from 1991 delineation) fine grass, cattail, soft rush, creeping buttercup, common velvetgrass
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation, apparently spring -fed
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, <0.5 acre open water, isolated
Fish Habitat: Low wetland does not include a stream, lake or pond
Water Quality: High evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, adjacent land use is developed
Hydrologic Control: High evidence of ponding, outlet restricted, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This wetland was difficult to view from off -site due to the presence of berms bordering much of the site and the
lack of viewing points from adjacent roads. The south portion of the wetland was partially viewed from a
permission to access parcel on Normal Street and was observed to be surrounded by dense blackberry with a
few a few willow and black cottonwood. A portion of this wetland was delineated in 1991 (DSL WD 91- 0031).
Wetland vegetation on the wetland data sheets included a fine grass, cattail, soft rush, creeping buttercup,
common velvetgrass and Himalayan blackberry.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 10
Site Code: W10
Location: North of Highway 66, south of Neil Creek
Township 39S Range lE Section 13 Quarter NW
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E13B 2001
DSL WD 90 -0119
Approximate size (acres): 2.12
Cowardin classification: PEM HGM classification: Slope Valley
Hydrologic basin: Neil Creek
Soil type(s): Barron, Kubli, Camas-Newberg-Evans
Sample Plot Number(s): 19 20 Field verification date(s): 6/25/03 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs: reed canarygrass, poison hemlock, teasel
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, no woody vegetation, <0.5 acre open water
Fish Habitat: Low wetland does not include a stream, lake or pond
Water Quality: Medium no evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, Neil Creek is WQ limited
Hydrologic Control: Medium within floodplain, unrestricted outlet, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This wetland is dominated by reed canarygrass (invasive), poison hemlock (noxious) and teasel (invasive). A
few willow, white alder and Oregon ash shrubs are also present. Soils are hummocky, indicating possible prior
agricultural use. The wetland appears to be connected to Neil Creek at its downslope end. Adjacent uplands
consist of quack grass, ripgut brome, downy cheat grass, yellow starthistle (noxious), globepodded hoarycress
(noxious) and Himalayan blackberry.
Historically this site appears to have been upland, per the 1990 wetland determination; however, recent normal
hydrologic conditions present for several years support a revised finding that it is now jurisdictional wetland.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 11
Site Code: W1.1
Location: Southwest of Washington Street Interstate -5, north of railroad
Township 39S Range lE Section 14 Quarter NE
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E14A 1102 1104
DSL none
Approximate size (acres): 0.85
Cowardin classification: PEM HGM classification: Slope Valley
Hydrologic basin: Knoll Creek
Soil type(s): Kubli
Sample Plot Number(s): none (no permission to access) Field verification date(s): 6/5/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs: meadow foxtail
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, no woody vegetation, <0.5 acre open water
Fish Habitat: Low wetland does not include a stream, lake or pond
Water Quality: Mediutn no evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, adjacent land use is developed
Hydrologic Control: Medium outside floodplain, no evidence of ponding, upstream land use developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Not locally significant but still jurisdictional
Description of the wetland, including topographic position, land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This wetland was viewed from off -site from Washington Street with binoculars. This wetland consists of a
roadside emergent wetland along the southwest side of Washington Street, dominated by meadow foxtail, with
lesser amounts of blue wildrye, birdsfoot trefoil and catchweed bedstraw. This wetland is connected to Knoll
Creek via a roadside ditch at its downstream end. The wetland boundary is defined by a change to upland
grasses.
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 12
Site Code: W12
Location: West of Cemetery Creek, north of railroad, south of East Main Street
Township 39S Range lE Section 10 Quarter NE SE
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E10D 201, 203, 204, 300 700
DSL none
Approximate size (acres): 1.68
Cowardin classification: PEM HGM classification: Slope Valley
Hydrologic basin: Cemetery Creek
Soil type(s): Kubli
Sample Plot Number(s): 10 11 Field verification date(s): 6 /5/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs: cattail, meadow foxtail, water foxtail and soft rush
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation TID
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, no woody vegetation, <0.5 acre open water
Fish Habitat: Low wetland does not include a stream, lake or pond
Water Quality: High evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, adjacent land use is agriculture
Hydrologic Control: Medium outside floodplain, unrestricted outlet, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This wetland swale originates in a horse pasture north of the railroad tracks and is located approximately 400
feet west of Cemetery Creek. The wetland is dominated by cattail, meadow foxtail, water foxtail and soft rush.
Lesser amounts of western buttercup, forget -me -not, common velvetgrass, spreading rush and creeping
spikerush were also present, with a few black cottonwood trees also present in the northern portion. Adjacent
uplands contain Mediterranean barley, ryebrome, tall fescue, yellow clover and mayweed chamomile.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 13
Site Code: W13
Location: West of Hamilton Creek, north of Ashland Street, south of East Main Street
Township 39S Range 1E Section 11 Quarter SW
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E11C 2500; 391E11CA 2762 12761; 391E11CB 1000 1100
DSL WD 01-0613
Approximate size (acres): 1.41
Cowardin classification: PEM HGM classification: Slope Valley
Hydrologic basin: Bear Creek
Soil type(s): Kubli
Sample Plot Number(s): 1 4 Field verification date(s): 6 /3/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs: common velvetgrass, meadow foxtail, Kentucky bluegrass, soft rush, cattail and spearmint
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands; any potential non jurisdictional status)
Precipitation TID
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: Medium 1 Cowardin class, no woody vegetation, <0.5 acre open water
Fish Habitat: Low wetland does not include a stream, lake or pond
Water Quality: High evidence of ponding, high veg. cover, adjacent land use is agriculture
Hydrologic Control: Medium outside floodplain, unrestricted outlet, upstream land use is developed
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position, land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This wetland is the headwaters of a small unnamed tributary to Bear Creek that flows behind a residential
subdivision. The wetland consists of a gentle topographic Swale trending north through several agricultural
properties. A portion of this wetland was previously delineated (DSL WD 01 -0613) and the adjacent area was
partially plowed up to the edge of wetland. The wetland is described as containing common velvetgrass,
meadow foxtail, Kentucky bluegrass, soft rush, cattail and spearmint in the wetland delineation report. Several
Canada geese were observed on the headwater area in this area from off -site. Uplands are meadow foxtail,
brome, tall fescue and orchard grass.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Site: Wetland 14
Site Code: W14
Location: East pond between Ashland Creek Bear Creek, downstream of sewage treatment plant
Township 38S Range lE Section 33 Quarter SW
Tax Map Tax lot(s) 391E05 100
DSL
Approximate size (acres): 1.16
Cowardin classification: POW/PEM HGM classification: Depressional Closed Nonpermanent
Hydrologic basin: Ashland Creek
Soil type(s): Camas Newberg -Evans
Sample Plot Number(s): Field verification date(s): 6/24/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs: Himalayan blackberry, Oregon ash, willow and black cottonwood
Herbs: cattail, knotweed (Polrgonum species), yellow iris, poison hemlock and willow -herb
Other:
Primary hydrology source:
(including hydrology source and use of artificially created wetlands: any potential non jurisdictional status)
Inlet from Ashland Creek
OFWAM Summary:
Function Rating Rationale
Wildlife Habitat: High >1 acre open water (seasonal) emergent veg., connected to Ashland Cr.
Fish Habitat: Medium low shading and cover, Ashland Creek is water quality limited
Water Quality: Medium moderate veg. cover,adj. land use undeveloped, Ashland Cr. WQ limited
Hydrologic Control: High within floodplain, evidence of ponding, restricted outlet
Determination of Goal 5 Locally Significant Wetland: Significant
Description of the wetland, including topographic position. land uses, alterations, and the basis for the wetland boundary
determination:
This wetland is a seasonal open water pond located near the confluence of Ashland Creek with Bear Creek just
downstream of the Ashland sewage treatment plant. The pond is signed as the "Ashland Sediment Passive
Treatment Pond" and was reportedly constructed in 1987 as a settlement pond to divert water from Ashland
Creek during sluicing of the upstream Reader Reservoir. Sluicing Last occurred in 1985. The pond is connected
to Ashland Creek and contains both an inlet and outlet structure. The pond bottom and side slopes are
comprised of granite sediment. Pond depth appeared to range from 1 to 6 feet. Vegetation fringing the pond
includes cattail, yellow iris, poison hemlock, willow -herb, a few Oregon ash, willow and black cottonwood
shrubs. Dense Himalayan blackberry is present along the north side adjacent to Bear Creek. Small diameter
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 16
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Wetland Summary Sheet
Wetland 14, continued
branches and woody debris were present in the pond. The pond dries up in the summer and becomes an
emergent wetland dominated by knotweed in the middle and other emergents around the perimeter. Wildlife use
included the following birds: wood duck, mallard, barn swallow, tree swallow, red winged blackbird, and great
blue heron.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 17
RIPARIAN SUMMARY SHEETS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SITE PAGE
Ashland Creek 1
Ashland Creek Tributary 1 3
Beach Creek 4
Bear Creek 5
Bear Creek Tributary I 6
Cemetery Creek 7
Clay Creek 8
Clear Creek 9
Emigrant Creek 10
Fordyce Creek 11
Golf Course Creek 12
Hamilton Creek 13
Kitchen Creek 14
Knoll Creek
K 15
Mountain Creek 16
Neil Creek I7
Paradise Creek 18
Paradise Creek East 19
Pinecrest Creek 20
Roca Creek 21
Strawberry Creek 22
Tolman Creek 23
Twin Creek 24
Wrights Creek 25
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005. revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page i
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Ashland Creek
Township 38S Range lE Section 32; Township 39S Range 1E Sections 4, 9, 16 17
Sample Plot Number(s): 13 (upland) Field verification date(s): 6/4/03, 6/5/03, 6/24/03, 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
White alder, black cottonwood, big -leaf maple, Oregon ash, and Pacific willow; with lesser amounts
of weeping willow, choke cherry, incense cedar, and Douglas fir
Shrubs:
Oregon ash, Pacific willow, sandbar willow, red -osier dogwood, and Himalayan blackberry, with
lesser amounts of snowberry, mock orange, Pacific ninebark, bittersweet nightshade, Pacific yew,
thimbleberry, oceanspray. beaked hazelnut, madrone. and California myrtle
Herbs:
English ivy, periwinkle, sword fern
Other:
Description:
Ashland Creek originates outside the study area in the steep hillside south of Ashland. The Granite
Street Reservoir is present on Ashland Creek at the upstream end of the study area. The reservoir is
surrounded by a fringe of Himalayan blackberry with black cottonwood, white alder, Pacific willow,
Oregon ash, Oregon white oak and big -leaf maple trees.
The upstream portion of Ashland Creek meanders through Lithia Park for approximately 1 mile.
Ashland Creek receives flow from Lithia Springs. The stream channel ranges from 15 to 30 feet
wide and generally widens as it trends downstream. Cobbles, boulders, and woody debris provide
good in- stream structure, and the stream is well shaded by a riparian and upland forest consisting of
white alder, big -leaf maple, and Oregon ash. Invasive species including Himalayan blackberry and
English ivy are present in a few areas along Ashland Creek. The stream channel is confined by well
defined stream banks in Lithia Park. No wetland benches were noted; however, a few off channel
shallow water areas were created during the 1996 flood. These shallow water areas contain
mannagrass, common velvetgrass, American speedwell, sawbeak sedge, and willow -herb. Two off
line ponds are present adjacent to Ashland Creek. Both ponds have concrete lined sides with
embedded boulders and contain floating "Lake Restorer" islands designed to improve water quality.
The upper pond is the larger pond and is used by wood ducks, mallards, and turtles. A few
topographic draws were noted in the steep hillside above Ashland Creek, indicating that intermittent
drainages may flow downslope to Ashland Creek. At the downstream end of Lithia Park beginning
at the bridge at Calle Guanajuato Way, Ashland Creek is confined within a series of concrete
sidewalis, some with adjacent planter boxes containing red -osier dogwood and willow shrubs.
The downstream portion of Ashland Creek ranges from 10 to 20 feet wide and is bordered
predominantly by residential development, a few agricultural parcels and the Ashland Community
Garden. Ashland Creek contains good in- stream structure with tnany.cobbles and boulders as well as
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman /SWCA Page I
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Ashland Creek, continued
in- stream woody debris in some areas. Portions of the stream channel bottom are comprised of
bedrock. Ashland Creek is confined within its stream banks dice to topography of the adjacent side
slopes and armoring of banks with riprap and boulders in some areas; therefore, wetland benches are
generally not present along Ashland Creek. A riparian and upland forest corridor generally ranging
from 50 to 150 feet wide is present along Ashland Creek. Development along Ashland Creek has
resulted in some fragmentation and open canopy areas, but the stream is well- shaded in many areas.
Dominant riparian vegetation consists of white alder, black cottonwood, Oregon ash, Pacific willow,
sandbar willow, weeping willow and red -osier dogwood. Some areas of Himalayan blackberry and
English ivy were noted, although invasive species are not generally dominant along the stream
corridor.
Two large man -made open water ponds are present near the confluence of Ashland Creek with Bear
Creek just downstream of the Ashland sewage treatment plant. The east pond is seasonal and
becomes an emergent wetland in the summer and was therefore [napped as wetland unit W14.
The west pond (1.9 acres) is accessible from a trail off the end of Glendower and appears to be a
diversion pond from Ashland Creek. The pond was reported to have been constructed approximately
30 years ago. An overflow structure to Ashland Creek was noted at the west end. The pond contains
a fringe of reed canarygrass, teasel, and poison hemlock with scattered black cottonwood, sandbar
willow, Oregon ash and rose shrubs. This pond appears to contain water year -round and was
therefore mapped as a pond rather than a wetland. Wildlife use noted includes wood duck, mallards
and western pond turtle.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishntan/S WCA Page 2
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Ashland Creek Tributary 1
Township 39S Range 1E Section 17
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Willow, Himalayan blackberry, Oregon ash
Herbs:
Common horsetail, soft rush, periwinkle, sword fern, hosta, columbine
Other:
Description:
The headwaters of this tributary to Ashland Creek are located in the steep hillside to the west of
Ashland Creek. The stream channel is confined within steep side slopes and is 2 to 5 feet wide with
large cobbles. The stream was not flowing during the June site visits. Riparian side slopes contained
a mixture of native and ornamental species in the herb layer. Adjacent uplands contain paintbrush,
oceanspray, poison oak, madrone, and Oregon white oak.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishmaa/SWCA Page 3
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Beach Creek
Township 39S Range LE Sections 4, 9 16
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/4/03, 6/24/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Big -leaf maple, Oregon white oak
Shrubs:
Oregon ash, Pacific willow, willow
Herbs:
cattail, curve -pod yellow- cress, poison hemlock, spearmint, teasel, bittersweet nightshade, yellow
starthistle
Other:
Description:
The downstream section of Beach Creek daylights north of the railroad tracks where the stream is
confined within steep Himalayan blackberry covered slopes. A weir structure is present on Beach
Creek at the BPA substation site. Sedimentation has occurred upstream of the weir and a narrow
wetland fringe is present containing cattail, curve -pod yellow- cress, poison hemlock and Pacific
willow. A few Oregon ash and willow shrubs are also present, along with planted big-leaf maple and
Oregon white oak saplings. Downstream vegetation along the stream channel consists of spearmint,
teasel, bittersweet nightshade and yellow starthistle. Uplands consist of downy cheat grass, blue
wildrye, Italian ryegrass, and planted big -leaf maple saplings. Downstream of the BPA substation,
Beach Creek and an emergent wetland swale flow northwest through the North Mountain Nature
Park to Bear Creek. Three on -line ponds (upper, middle and lower ponds) are present on Beach
Creek. These ponds and associated wetlands were mapped as wetland unit 7.
The headwaters of Beach Creek originate in the steep hillside south of Ashland Street. Much of the
stream is culverted through residential development. Beach Creek is intermittent where it is
daylighted above Ashland Street. Downstream of Beach Street, the stream is bordered by steep side
slopes with dense Himalayan blackberry and Pacific willow, black cottonwood and weeping willow
trees in the riparian area. Adjacent uplands contain catchweed bedstraw, periwinkle, Himalayan
blackberry, Oregon white oak and ponderosa pine. Upstream of Beach Street, Beach Creek is forked.
The east fork is approximately 1 foot wide and flows through a rock and flagstone water feature
through a backyard area and then continues upslope where it is confined at the bottom of steep
Himalayan blackberry covered side slopes with tall fescue, bulbous bluegrass, and Oregon white oak
further upslope. The west fork is an undefined channel at the bottom of a steep topographic ravine
with very sparse herb layer that had been recently cleared of blackberry. Oregon white oak,
madrone, big -leaf maple, Douglas fir and ponderosa pine were present in the tree canopy.
City of Ashland Local Wellands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 4
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Bear Creek
Township 38S Range lE Sections 31 32; Township 39S Range lE Sections 4 11
Sample Plot Number(s): 14 (upland) Field verification date(s): 6/5/03, 6/24/03, 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
black cottonwood, white alder, Oregon ash, weeping willow
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry, Pacific willow, sandbar willow, Piper's willow, black hawthorn
Herbs:
cattail, soft rush, common horsetail, curve -pod yellow- cress, buttercup, poison hemlock, teasel,
hardstem bulrush
Other:
Description:
Bear Creek originates at the confluence of Emigrant Creek and Neil Creek just downstream of the
airport. The downstream portion of Bear Creek varies from 30 to 75 feet wide. Bear Creek was
observed at the Mountain Avenue bridge and the Bear Creek Greenway Trail bridge (Talent Ashland
Trail segment). The portion of Bear Creek located within the study area is bordered mostly by
undeveloped land. Bear Creek has good in- stream structure with many cobbles and nice channel
meanders. Bear Creek is topographically confined within its stream banks; therefore, wetland
benches are generally not present. The stream is well- shaded by its riparian corridor which contains
a mixture of native trees and shrubs and is generally dominated by black cottonwood, white alder,
and Oregon ash in the tree canopy and by Pacific willow, sandbar willow and Piper's willow in the
shrub layer. The stream channel is inaccessible in many areas due to dense thickets of Himalayan
blackberry in the riparian corridor. An approximately 20 foot wide wetland bench containing cattail,
yellow iris, American speedwell and soft rush is present on the north bank, downstream of Mountain
Avenue. The stream channel is confined in this location by a steep Himalayan blackberry covered
slope on the south bank. Two great blue heron nests with herons were observed in black cottonwood
trees in the riparian corridor near Mt. Meadows Drive. Adjacent uplands contain a variety of upland
pasture grasses, yellow starthistle, poison hemlock, Himalayan blackberry, oak and ponderosa pine.
The North Mountain Nature Park borders Bear Creek to the south at the northeast edge of the study
area. The 14 acre park is being managed and enhanced by planting a variety of native species with
the goal of improving the quality of fish and wildlife habitat in the Bear Creek riparian corridor.
Bear Creek adjacent to the North Mountain Nature Park was approximately 30 to 35 feet wide and
was flowing 1 to 2 feet deep and contained many in- stream cobbles and boulders.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 5
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Bear Creek Tributary 1
Township 38S Range lE Section 31
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/5/03, 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Oregon ash, white alder
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry, Pacific willow, Piper's willow, cherry
Herbs:
Cattail, curve -pod yellow- cress, reed canarygrass, soft rush, common horsetail, hardstem bulrush,
poison hemlock, mannagrass, buttercup, forget -me -not
Other:
Description:
This Bear Creek tributary is located in the northwest corner of the study area, outside the city limits
and inside the UGB. The headwaters of the tributary originate in the steep hilisiope south of the
study area. The tributary flows northwesterly along the bottom of the hillslope behind several car
dealerships and the Lithia Springs Inn. The stream is culverted under West Jackson Road, heads
northerly through the Jackson Hot Springs RV Park, then continues northwesterly prior to being
culverted under Highway 99 and joining Bear Creek, The stream varies from 3 to 10 feet wide and is
bordered by a narrow emergent wetland fringe behind the Lithia Springs Inn. Wetland vegetation
consists of cattail, curve -pod yellow- cress, reed canarygrass, soft rush, common horsetail, hardstem
bulrush, poison hemlock, mannagrass, buttercup, forget -tne -not with areas of Himalayan blackberry,
willow and cherry shrubs. Oregon ash and white alder trees are present along the downstream
portion. Adjacent uplands consist of brome, Himalayan blackberry, Oregon white oak, big -leaf
maple, ponderosa pine, and Douglas fir.
Hydrology of the triburary is partially fed by sulfur springs, one of which was observed at the rear of
the Lithia Springs Inn property. Sulfur springs also appear to be feeding a small concrete -lined pond
south of West Jackson Road. Two -foot contours and black and white aerial photo coverage was not
available for this area, and mapping the stream location was difficult in areas due to tree canopy
cover and lack of permission to access the area.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 6
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Cemetery Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 10 14
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s):6 /3/03, 6/5/03, 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Weeping willow, Pacific willow, black cottonwood
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry, sandbar willow, Pacific willow, choke cherry
Herbs:
Cattail, meadow foxtail, water foxtail, reed canarygrass, creeping buttercup, small- fruited bulrush,
western buttercup, creeping spikerush, forget -me -not, velvetgrass
Other:
Description:
The headwaters of Cemetery Creek originate north of Siskiyou Boulevard. The stream channel is
approximately 10 feet wide at the Clay Street Park with a narrow fringe of cattail, creeping buttercup
and bittersweet nightshade. The riparian area contained Himalayan blackberry, sandbar willow,
Pacific willow, choke cherry and black cottonwood. Adjacent uplands consisted of Himalayan
blackberry, and mowed lawn (park) with a few pine and ornamental maple trees.
The stream channel is forked to the north of the railroad tracks. Emergent wetlands are associated
with Cemetery Creek along this downstream section and were mapped as wetland unit 4. A wetland
fill violation has been reported at the west end of Creek Drive (DSL WD 03- 0203). Cemetery Creek
generally ranges from 1 to 5 feet wide and is bordered by agricultural fields. The downstream
portion is channelized through a landscaped yard where it is bordered by mowed lawn, the escaped
ornamental periwinkle (Vinca species) and a few Piper's willow and weeping willow. Three small
landscaped ponds are present adjacent to the stream.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 7
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Clay Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 11 14
Sample PlotNumber(s): none Field verification date(s): 6 /3/03, 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
white alder, Pacific willow. weeping willow, black cottonwood, black locust
Shrubs:
white alder, Pacific willow. Himalayan blackberry, Japanese knotweed, tree of heaven
Herbs:
Mannagrass, American speedwell, reed canarygrass, cattail, soft rush, sawbeak sedge, waterweed,
monkey flower, forget -me -not, English ivy
Other:
Description:
Clay Creek is labeled on the USGS and NWI maps as Hamilton Creek (Hamilton Creek the next
stream east of Clay Creek). The headwaters of Clay Creek are located outside the study area in the
steep hillside south of Ashland. The upstream section of Clay Creek, south of Ashland Street, is
channelized through residential development and is generally 5 feet wide. A narrow wetland fringe
of reed canarygrass, cattail, and soft rush is present along the stream channel, and riparian vegetation
consists of Himalayan blackberry, white alder, Pacific willow, weeping willow, and black
cottonwood. Invasive species including English ivy and Japanese knotweed were noted adjacent to
Siskiyou Boulevard. Adjacent uplands contain tall fescue, orchard grass, Mediterranean barley, tall
oatgrass, hairy vetch, Himalayan blackberry, snowberry, Oregon white oak, California black oak.
ponderosa pine, and madrone.
Downstream of Ashland Street, six on -line ponds are present on Clay Creek in the Wingspread
Mobile Home Park. These ponds are characterized as open water ponds, some of which have a
narrow fringe of cattail or contain a small island with a few wi]llow. The ponds are connected by
concrete spillways and are bordered by mowed lawn.
Much of the riparian vegetation along Clay Creek was removed in the Meadowbrook Park Estates
and the side slopes adjacent to the stream are covered with bark dust. Downstream of this
subdivision, the riparian corridor is more natural, although some clearing has occurred at the top of
slope within the riparian buffer, and contains Pacific willow and black cottonwood on the side slopes
and mannagrass, American speedwell, sawbeak sedge and waterweed (E /odea species) in and along
the stream channel.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 8
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Clear Creek
Township 39S Range lE Section 4
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6 /4/03, 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Oregon ash, weeping willow, black cottonwood
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
Cattail, soft rush
Other:
Description:
Clear Creek originates just north of Clear Creek Drive at the Clear Creek Village wetland mitigation
site (DSL App. #12783; wetland unit 5) that was under construction during the June site visits. Just
downstream and north of Hersey Street, Clear Creek is channelized through residential development
and is approximately 3 feet wide with a narrow fringe of cattail and soft rush and is bordered by
mowed lawns with a few weeping willow and black cottonwood at the top of bank. A section of
Clear Creek is culverted north of Clinton Street and then daylights as an approximately 5 foot wide
channel surrounded by dense Himalayan blackberry and an Oregon ash overstory. This section of
Clear Creek, as well as two off -line ponds, are reported to receive flow from an irrigation ditch fed
by Ashland Creek. Adjacent uplands consist of Himalayan blackberry with poison hemlock, Canada
thistle and hairy vetch.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 9
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Emigrant Creek
Township 39S Range lE Sections 11 12
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
white alder, black cottonwood, Pacific willow
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry, Oregon ash, Pacific willow, bittersweet nightshade
Herbs:
cattail, common horsetail, hardstem bulrush, mannagrass, water foxtail, meadow foxtail
Other:
Description:
Emigrant Creek originates east of the Ashland city limits and enters the study area at the northeast
corner of the airport property, northwest of Dead htdian Memorial Road. Emigrant Creek is
culverted through the mowed field at the northwest end of the runway in a very large (15 to 20 feet
diameter) culvert. The stream is approximately 25 to 30 feet wide with abundant cobbles and
boulders and occasional woody debris in the stream channel. The stream was flowing several feet
deep during the June site visit, and channel meanders were noted in some areas. A narrow fringe of
cattail, common horsetail, hardstem bulrush, mannagrass, water foxtail, meadow foxtail, bittersweet
nightshade is present along the stream in a few areas. The stream is confined within steep side slopes
with Himalayan blackberry, white alder, black cottonwood, Oregon ash and Pacific willow in the
riparian area. Stream banks are armored with riprap in areas. Adjacent uplands consist of downy
cheatgrass, ripgut brome, tall oatgrass, bulbous bluegrass, tumblemustard.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 10
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Fordyce Creek
Township 39S Range lE Section 10
Sample Plot Number(s): None Field verification date(s): 6/4/03, 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs:
Yellow nut sedge, common velvetgrass, curve -pod yellow -cress
Other:
Description:
The majority of the Fordyce Creek has been culverted through residential development. Two small,
unculverted stream sections remain south of Munson Drive and•north and south of Kirk Lane. These
remnant stream segments are 1 to 2 feet wide and consist of either a mowed grass channel or have
rock lined sides with a fringe of emergent vegetation. The stream channel is bordered by mowed
lawns and hark dust.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fish man/SWCA Page I I
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Golf Course Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 13 14
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/5/03, 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Weeping willow
Shrubs:
Pacific willow, sandbar willow, white alder
Herbs:
cattail, soft rush, hardstem bulrush, yellow iris. buttercup, American speedwell, curve -pod yellow
cress, sawbeak sedge
Other:
Description:
The headwaters of Golf Course'Creek are located south of Highway 99, outside the UGB. An on -line
pond (LWI mapped wetland 14A) is present on Golf Course Creek at the upstream end of the study
area. The pond contains a fringe of soft rush and is bordered by mowed grass up to the edge. Some
woody debris and branches were present in the edge of the pond, and Canada goose were noted
using the site.
Golf Course Creek receives flow from an off -line pond reportedly fed by TM water located in the
residential subdivision north of Crowson Road and east of I -5. The pond has riprap sides with
crushed gravel at the top of slope with a few Oregon white oak, ponderosa pine and black
cottonwood surrounding the pond. Canada goose, wood ducks, great blue heron, and bullfrogs were
noted at the pond. Golf Course Creek downslope from the pond was approximately 3 feet wide with
a wetland fringe of curve -pod yellow- cress, birdsfoot trefoil, Watson's willow -herb and reed
canarygrass and a few weeping willow. The stream was bordered by a mowed lawn with oak located
further upslope.
On the Oak Knoll Golf Course, the stream is 2 to 3 feet wide with a narrow wetland fringes
containing cattail, soft rush, hardstem bulrush, yellow iris, buttercup, American speedwell, curve
pod yellow- cress, sawbeak sedge, and a few willow shrubs. An on -line pond mapped on the NWI
has been mostly filled (DSL Det. #98 -0318) and several smaller on -line ponds were created on the
downstream portion as wetland mitigation. Several very small seasonal drainages are visible on the
golf course in the black and white aerial photographs. These drainages were visible during the site
visit as very slight drainage patterns that followed site topography which decreases to the northeast.
Uplands consist of mowed lawn with a few large weeping willow trees along the stream.
Upstream of Interstate -5, Golf Course Creek has a narrow riparian fringe consisting of a few willow
and white alder shrubs. Adjacent uplands consist of orchard grass, hairy vetch, tumblemustard,
Himalayan blackberry, and Oregon white oak.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 12
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Hamilton Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 11,14 23
Sample Plot Number(s): 5, 6 (upland) Field verification date(s): 6/3/03, 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Black cottonwood
Shrubs:
Pacific willow, sandbar willow, Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
Broad- leaved cattail, soft rush, yellow iris, white waterlily, giant reed
Other:
Description:
Hamilton Creek is generally confined within a moderately steeply sloped riparian corridor. Narrow
wetland benches (up to 5 feet wide) are present along the stream channel in downstream areas where
topography adjacent to the stream channel is less steep (see sample plot 5). Wetland benches contain
several species including mannagrass, reed canarygrass, buttercup, soft rush, American speedwell,
curve -pod yellow- cress, cattail and willow. Periwinkle (Witco major), an escaped ornamental
species, was noted along the stream channel in the upstream portion that is bordered by residential
development. A large on -line pond is present in the downstream portion. A small tributary (Hamilton
Creek tributary 1) and several ponds are present downstream of the on -line pond. These ponds
include two emergent wetland stormwater ponds north of Abbott Avenue in a residential subdivision
as well as two ponds east of Tolman Road which contain a fringe of cattail and yellow iris and 2
clumps of giant reed (invasive in California). Uplands contain tall fescue, ryebrome, ripgut brome,
medusahead rye, bulbous bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, oak, ponderosa pine, walnut and incense
cedar, with dense thickets of Himalayan blackberry present in disturbed areas.
The upstream portion of Hamilton Creek, above Siskiyou Boulevard, is generally 2 to 3 feet wide
and is bordered by a fringe of reed canarygrass, soft rush and mannagrass with Himalayan
blackberry on the side slopes. Adjacent upland areas are dominated by tall fescue, sweatpea, ripgut
brume, Himalayan blackberry, Oregon white oak, and ponderosa pine. A small tributary (Hamilton
Creek tributary 2) joins Hamilton Creek a few hundred feet upstream of Siskyou Boulevard. A
section of Hamilton Creek flows along Tolman Creek Road where it is confined between the road
fill slope and an adjacent mowed lawn. Further upstream, the channel is confined within steep side
slopes with a narrow riparian fringe of reed canarygrass, common horsetail and willow. Adjacent
uplands contain Himalayan blackberry, beaked hazelnut, western crabapple and Oregon white oak.
The headwaters of Hamilton Creek originate outside the study area boundary.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 13
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Kitchen Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Section 4
Sample Plot Number(s): None Field verification date(s): 6 /4/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
black cottonwood, Pacific willow, white alder
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
hardstem bulrush, cattail, creeping buttercup, meadow foxtail
Other:
Description:
The headwaters of Kitchen Creek originate outside the study area. Kitchen Creek is forked in the
upstream portion through residential development. The north fork is 3 to 5 feet wide and contains a
narrow wetland fringe of hardstem bulrush, creeping buttercup, and meadow foxtail with black
cottonwood, Pacific willow and white alder along the streambanks. The south fork is 5 to 10 feet
wide and contains a small on -line pond with a fringe of hardstem bulrush and cattail. A small putting
green and a mowed lawn is present between the two forks. Non- landscaped upland areas adjacent to
Kitchen Creek contain ripgut brome, ryebrome, tall fescue, orchard grass, California poppy and a
few oak. The two forks of Kitchen Creek join below Mountain Avenue, and the stream flows to Bear
Creek through a steeply sloped riparian corridor dominated by Himalayan blackberry with a few
Pacific willow.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005. revised February 2007
Fishtnan/SWCA Page 14
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Knoll Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 11 14
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s):6 /4/03, 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Black cottonwood, Pacific willow
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
Common horsetail, meadow foxtail
Other:
Description:
Knoll Creek is generally confined within steep Himalayan blackberry covered slopes with a few
black cottonwood and Pacific willow present in the riparian corridor. Adjacent uplands are
dominated by Himalayan blackberry and Oregon white oak. Two stream associated emergent
wetlands are present north of 1 -5 and west of the Windmill Inn and were mapped as wetland unit 6.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 15
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Mountain Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 4 9
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6 /3/03, 6/24/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Oregon ash, weeping willow
Shrubs:
Sandbar willow, Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
knotweed, willow -herb, cattail, hardstem bulrush
Other:
Description:
The majority of the historic upstream portion of the stream has been culverted through residential
development, although two small unculverted sections remain north of Holly Street and north of
Iowa Street. The section of Mountain Creek north of Holly Street is a 2 to 3 foot wide stream
channel confined at the bottom of steep Himalayan blackberry covered slopes. The upper portion of
the slopes contain periwinkle, English ivy, cherry, black cottonwood, and big -leaf maple. The
section of Mountain Creek located north of Iowa Street Flows through a rock lined channel bordered
by English ivy, sword fern and English laurel shrubs.
Mountain Creek is daylighted north of the railroad tracks along the east edge of the Southern Pacific
Railroad property. The riparian corridor along Mountain Creek contains Oregon ash, sandbar
willow, weeping willow and Himalayan blackberry. Two small on -line ponds are present in the
residential subdivision south of Hersey Street and contain cattail, and a scrub -shrub wetland fringe
of sandbar willow, Pacific willow, weeping willow, white alder and black cottonwood. North of
Hersey Street, Mountain Creek is confined to a roadside ditch until it joins Bear Creek. A 6 to 10
foot wide intermittent drainage containing knotweed, willow -herb and small amounts of cattail and
hardstem bulrush originates west of Mountain Creek on the Southern Pacific site and may be
culverted to Mountain Creek. Uplands contain ripgut brome, bulbous bluegrass, tall oatgrass, and
vetch.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 16
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Neil Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 11,12 13
Sample Plot Number(s): 18 (upland) Field verification date(s): 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Oregon ash, Pacific willow. black cottonwood
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry, Oregon ash, sandbar willow, black hawthorn
Herbs:
creeping buttercup, yellow iris, mint, soft rush, reed canarygrass, teasel
Other:
Description:
Neil Creek originates southeast of the Ashland city limits and enters the study area at the southeast
corner of the airport property, on the west side of Dead Indian Memorial Road. The downstream
section of Neil Creek is approximately 10 to 12 feet wide and was flowing approximately 6 to 12
inches deep during the June site visit, with a narrow wetland fringe of creeping buttercup, yellow
iris, mint, soft rush, reed canarygrass, and teasel. Cobbles were observed in one section of stream
where the stream channel was not obscured by Himalayan blackberry. The stream channel is
confined at the bottom of steep side slopes dominated by Himalayan blackberry in most areas.
Oregon ash. Pacific willow, sandbar willow, black hawthorn, and black cottonwood trees and shrubs
are also present in the riparian corridor. A berm is present at the top of the slope along the west edge
of the airport runway and is dominated by ripgut brome, hairy vetch, tumblemustard, yellow
starthisle, poison hemlock, and redstem filaree.
The upstream portion of Neil Creek, just prior to its confluence with Emigrant Creek, is
approximately 20 to 25 feet wide. Adjacent uplands are dominated by Himalayan blackberry, rattail
fescue and tumblemustard.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Paradise Creek
Township 395 Range 1E Section 15
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
white alder
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
creeping buttercup, curve -pod yellow- cress, soft rush, common velvetgrass. American speedwell,
sedge, cattail
Other:
Description:
The headwaters of Paradise Creek are located outside the study area in the steep hillside south of
Ashland. Paradise Creek is daylighted in the south portion of the study area; however, the majority
of the downstream portion, below Clarke Avenue, has been culverted due to development. The
upstream portion of Paradise Creek, above Peachey Road, is 2 to 3 feet wide with a fringe of
creeping buttercup, curve -pod yellow cress, soft rush, common velvetgrass, American speedwell,
sedge, and cattail. Side slopes above the stream are dominated by Himalayan blackberry and white
alder. Adjacent uplands consist of tall fescue, ripgut brome, hare's -foot clover, tumblemustard, hairy
vetch, Oregon white oak and ponderosa pine.
The downstream portion of Paradise Creek and its riparian area, adjacent to Sunset Avenue, have
been encroached upon by residential development. Portions of the stream channel are confined
within a rock lined channel and the streatn is bordered by mowed grass, ornamental species, and
other landscaping.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
FishmanJSWCA Page 18
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Paradise Creek East
Township 39S Range lE Section 15
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Himalayan blackberry, Piper's willow, Pacific willow
Herbs:
common velvetgrass
Other:
Description:
The headwaters of Paradise Creek East are located outside the study area in the steep hillside south
of Ashland. A small section of Paradise Creek East is daylighted in the south portion of the study
area Paradise Creek East, above Peachey Road, is topographically confined within a 2 to 3 foot
wide stream channel with a fringe of common velvetgrass. A small off -line pond is present just west
of Peachey Road. The riparian area contains Himalayan blackberry. Piper's willow and Pacific
willow shrubs. Adjacent uplands consist of tall fescue, Himalayan blackberry, Oregon white oak,
ponderosa pine and backyard areas. Further upslope, Paradise Creek East becomes a forked
drainage.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Pinecrest Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Section 15
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/25/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
snowberry, Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
tall oatgrass, false Solomon's seal
Other:
Description:
The headwaters of Pinecrest Creek are located just outside the study area in the steep hillside south
of Ashland. A small section of Pinecrest Creek is daylighted in the south portion of the study area
upslope of Oneida circle. The majority of Pinecrest Creek has been culverted due to development.
The upstream portion of Pinecrest Creek at Pinecrest Terrace is a narrow 6 to 12 inch wide channel
that is not very well defined by topography. The stream channel was dry during the June site visit,
with leaves in the bottom of the channel and only a trace amount of riparian vegetation consisting of
tall oatgrass. false Solomon's seal, snowberry, and Himalayan blackberry. Adjacent uplands were
steeply sloped with hare's -foot clover, Oregon grape, Himalayan blackberry, California black oak.
ponderosa pine, and madrone.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 20
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Roca Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 10 15
Sample Plot Number(s): None Field verification date(s): 6/4/03, 6 /25/03, 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
white alder, black cottonwood, Pacific willow, weeping willow
Shrubs:
white alder, black cottonwood, Pacific willow, Oregon ash, bittersweet nightshade, red -osier
dogwood, big -leaf maple
Herbs:
Reed canarygrass, soft rush, hardstem bulrush
Other:
Description:
The headwaters of Roca Creek are located outside the study area in the steep hillside south of
Ashland. The upstream daylighted portion of Roca Creek, above Madrone Street, is 2 to 3 feet wide
and is confined at the bottom of very steep side slopes. Riparian vegetation consists of white alder,
black cottonwood and Pacific willow shrubs and trees. Adjacent uplands are dominated by orchard
grass, ripgut brorne, charming barley, hare's -foot clover, common oat, hairy vetch, Himalayan
blackberry, and Oregon white oak.
The majority of the downstream portion of Roca Creek has been culverted due to development. The
stream daylights north of East Main Street in a residential subdivision. A small on -line pond is
present on Roca Creek with a water control structure. A patch of hardstem bulrush is present at the
upper end of the pond, and red -osier dogwood, white alder and big -leaf maple plantings are present
on the side slopes. Downstream from the pond, the stream channel ranges from 3 to 6 feet wide and
contains a narrow fringe of reed canarygrass, bittersweet nightshade, and soft rush with a few willow
shrubs. The stream channel is bordered by mowed lawn with a few planted Oregon ash and big -leaf
maple saplings. A portion of the stream channel consists of a mowed grass channel with a few
weeping willow and Pacific willow, bordered by mowed lawn.
Roca Creek downstream of Seena Lane is approximately 10 feet wide and contains dense reed
canarygrass in and adjacent to the stream channel, along with bittersweet nightshade, willow and
Oregon ash shrubs.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Strawberry Creek
Township 39S Range lE Section 8
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs:
Other:
Description:
Strawberry Creek is located in the steep hillside to the west of Ashland Creek. No field data was
collected since permission to access was not granted. and Strawberry Creek is not visible from
adjacent public roads.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Tolman Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 13 14
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/5/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Pacific willow
Herbs:
yellow iris, American speedwell, buttercup, curve -pod yellow -cress
Other:
Description:
Tolman Creek on the Oak Knoll Golf Course is 3 to 5 feet wide and is bordered by a narrow wetland
fringe of yellow iris, American speedwell, buttercup, curve -pod yellow -cress and a few Pacific
willow shrubs. A small on -line pond is present. Adjacent uplands contain tall fescue, catchweed
bedstraw, Himalayan blackberry, and a few white alder.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
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City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Twin Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Section 8
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6/26/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Shrubs:
Herbs:
Other:
Description:
Twin Creek is located in the steep hillside to the west of Ashland Creek. No field data was collected
since permission to access was not granted, and Twin Creek is not visible from adjacent public
roads.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005. revised February 2007
Fishman/SWCA Page 24
City of Ashland Local Wetland and Riparian Corridor Inventory and Assessment
Riparian Summary Sheet
Site: Wrights Creek
Township 39S Range 1E Sections 5, 6 8
Sample Plot Number(s): none Field verification date(s): 6 /5/03
Dominant Plant Species (Common Names):
Trees:
Big-leaf maple, Pacific willow, ponderosa pine, quaking aspen
Shrubs:
Snowberry, serviceberry, Oregon ash, western wahoo, Himalayan blackberry
Herbs:
English ivy
Other:
Description:
Wrights Creek is confined within tall steep slopes and no wetland benches were observed at several
road crossings. The stream channel is approximately 10 feet wide and contains many cobbles and
boulders in the downstream portion. The riparian corridor contains good tree and shrub cover.
Himalayan blackberry is present in open canopy areas. Uplands upslope of the riparian corridor
contain downy cheat grass, tall fescue, tall oatgrass and hairy vetch.
Five tributaries to Wrights Creek are also included in this unit. Tributaries are similarly confined
within steep side slopes, but the stream channels are narrower and contain more Himalayan
blackberry than the mainstem of Wrights Creek. Adjacent uplands contain downy cheat grass,
bulbous bluegrass, blue wildrye, common oat, hairy vetch, and catchweed bedstraw.
City of Ashland Local Wetlands Riparian Corridor Inventory Assessment, July 2005, revised February 2007
Fislunan/SWCA Page 25