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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-05-21 ENR Packet AGENDA CITY OF MAPLEWOOD ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCE COMMISSION Monday, May 21, 2012 7 p.m. Council Chambers - Maplewood City Hall 1830 County Road B East 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes: a. April 16, 2012 5. New Business a. East Metro Public Safety Training Center and Marshlands (Century Ave. and Highway 5) – Review of Project and Wetland Map Change 6. Unfinished Business 7. Visitor Presentations 8. Commission Presentations a. Fish Creek Update – Commissioner Yingling 9. Staff Presentations a. Update on Maplewood Trash Plan: Ordinance, Standards, Cart Orders b. Waterfest – Saturday, June 2 c. Taste of Maplewood – July 4 d. Maplewood Nature Center Programs 10. Adjourn Agenda Item 4.a. MINUTES CITY OF MAPLEWOOD ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION 7:00 p.m.,Monday, March 19, 2012 Council Chambers, City Hall 1830 County Road B East 1. CALL TO ORDER A meeting of the Environmental and Natural Resources Commissionwas called to order at 7:02 p.m.by Chair Edmundson. 2. ROLL CALL Randee Edmundson, Chair Present Judith Johannessen, Vice Chair Present Carol Mason Sherrill, Commissioner Present Ann Palzer, Commissioner Present Absent Bill Schreiner, Commissioner Dale Trippler, Commissioner Present Absent Ginny Yingling, Commissioner Staff Present Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner Council Liaison Present Kathleen Juenemann, City Councilmember 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Staff and the commission added the following items to the agenda. Adding items under Commission Presentations: 8. a. Legislative Update on Inverse Condemnation for Organized Trash Hauling – Commissioner Trippler 8.b. Earth Hour – Commissioner Mason Sherrill 8. c. Year ofthe Bat – Commissioner Mason Sherrill 8. d. Waterfest – Chair Edmundson 8.e. Phalen Stewards – Chair Edmundson Adding items under Staff Presentations: 9. d. All Park Clean Up – Staff 9. e. Tree City USA Status – Staff CommissionerTripplermoved to approve the agenda as amended. Seconded by Commissioner Mason Sherrill. Ayes – All The motion passed. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES TheCommission requested additions and corrections be made to the minutes. CommissionerTripplermoved to approve the February 16, 2012, Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes as amended. Seconded by CommissionerMason Sherrill. Ayes – Commissioner’s Johannessen, Mason Sherrill, Palzer, & Trippler Abstain – Chair Edmundson The motion passed. 5. NEW BUSINESS a.2011 Annual ENR Report i.Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall gave the report Commissioner Mason Sherrill requested that Tree City USA, Earth Hour 2012, Year of the Bat and the Heritage Tree Program be added under the reviews and accomplishments. Chair Edmundson recommended that thePhalen Stewards should be added as an outside activityin the report. Commissioner Trippler asked if Commissioner Schreiner should be added to the subcommittee list. Ms. Finwall indicated she would make the requested changes and forward the report to the City Council for approval. CommissionerTripplermoved toapprove the 2011 Annual ENR Report as amendedand recommendedthe report goto the City Council. Seconded by CommissionerJohannessen. Ayes – All The motion passed. 6.UNFINISHED BUSINESS a.Maplewood Trash Plan Update – Trash Cart Implementation Plan i.Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall gave the report. ii.Councilmember Kathleen Juenemann addressed the Commission regarding information printed on the trash carts and the pros and cons of using the black trash carts. The Commission discussed the trash cart color and logo options. Because the black carts offered more post consumer waste produce (up to 50 percent) and because they were less expensive than the other colors, the Commission recommended the City purchase carts in the black color. The Sustainable Maplewood and Standard Maplewood logos were reviewed for inclusion on the side of the carts. Because the Sustainable Maplewood logo could be perceived as a recycling emblem, the Commission recommended the use of the Standard Maplewood logo. Commissioner Trippler moved to recommendthe black color trash carts and the Standard Maplewood logo. Seconded by Commissioner Palzer. Ayes – All The motion passed. b.Solid Waste Management Ordinance i.Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall gave an update on the Solid Waste Management Ordinance. ii.Councilmember Kathleen Juenemann addressed the Commission regarding the ordinance. TheCommission recommended various changes, clarificationsandcorrections to the Solid Waste Management Ordinancethat will be made by staff. The Commission will have their final review of the ordinance in April. 7.VISITOR PRESENTATIONS a.Councilmember Kathleen Juenemann addressed the Commission.Ms. Juenemann stated she is the Council Liaison again this year for the ENR Commission and thanked the Commission for their work. Ms. Juenemann also thanked staff. 8.COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS a.Legislative Update on Inverse Condemnation for Organized Trash Hauling – Commissioner Trippler Commissioner Trippler discussed attending a hearing at the Legislature regarding the Senate File Bill 1664 that would allow trash haulers to file an inverse condemnation claim against a City or County that organizes trash hauling. The hearing was delayed until Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at the Senate.This change in the law would affect the City of Maplewood regarding the work that has been done on having a single trash hauler in the city. b.Earth Hour – Commissioner Mason Sherrill Commissioner Mason Sherrill discussed National Earth Hour which is on March 31, 2012, from8:30– 9:30 p.m. Show your support and help conserve and save energy by turning your lights off for an hour. c.Year of theBat – Commissioner Mason Sherrill Commissioner Mason Sherrill discussed the devastating effects of white nose syndrome to bats and the effortsto protect bats. d.Phalen Stewards April 12, 2012 – Chair Edmundson Chair Edmundson said the Phalen Stewardswill be holding a meeting Thursday, April 12, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. atOur Redeemer Lutheran Church located at 1390 Larpenteur Avenue. e. Waterfest June 2, 2012 – Chair Edmundson Chair Edmundson said the Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District’s annual Waterfest event will be held on Saturday, June 2, 2012, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lake Phalen Pavilion. 9.STAFF PRESENTATIONS a.Sustainability Workshop – March 23, 2012 Ms. Finwall said she will be attending the annual Sustainability Workshop put on by the Alliance for Sustainability. The workshop is Friday, March 23, 2012 from 12 to5 p.m. at the McNamara Alumni Center at the U of M at 200 Oak Street SE.Commissioner Trippler and Ms. Finwall will be presenting the City’s efforts to organize trash haulingat one of the workshop sessions. b.Spring Clean Up and Home Expo –April 21, 2012 Maplewood’s Spring Clean Up will be held atthe Aldrich Arena parking lot on Saturday, April 21, 2012, from 8:00 a.m. to1:00 p.m. There will also be a Home Expo being heldat the Aldrich Arenabuilding from 10:00 a.m. to5:00 p.m.The event coordinator for the Home Expo is offering the Commission a booth to present City environmental initiatives. Additionally, all participants of the spring clean up will get a free ticket to the Expo. c.Maplewood Nature Center Programs Ms. Finwall mentioned upcoming Maplewood Nature Center Programs. For more information contact the Nature Center at 651-249-2170 or visit the websiteat www.ci.maplewood.mn.us/nc. d.All Park Clean Up Ms. Finwall said the All Park Clean Up will be heldSaturday, April 21, 2012, from 8:00 a.m.to 1:00 p.m. Groups interested in volunteering should contact the Park Department. e.Tree City USA Status Ms. Finwall updated the Commission on Maplewood becoming a Tree City USAthis year. 10.ADJOURNMENT Chair Edmundson adjourned the meeting at 9:05 p.m. Agenda Item 5.a MEMORANDUM TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission FROM: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner SUBJECT: East Metro Public Safety Training Center and Marshlands – Review of Project and Wetland Map Change LOCATION: Century Avenue and Highway 5 DATE: May 17, 2012, for the May 21 ENR Commission Meeting INTRODUCTION The city is proposing to build a Public Safety Training Center on a 20.5 acre vacant property located at the intersection of Century Avenue and Highway 5 (refer to building rendering on Attachment 1). The property is currently owned by MnDOT. One of the conditions of the city’s acquisition is that the property be used for a public use. Additionally, MnDOT will maintain at least 5 acres for their ongoing operations (primarily soil stockpiling and snow storage) until they are able to find an alternative location for these operations. In addition to the training center the city is proposing Marshland improvements. Marshlands is the name of the county open space which surrounds the property. The improvements will be located on a portion of the city’s property and the county open space and will include: wetland buffer enhancements, the creation of natural areas, trails, and educational components. DISCUSSION The East Metro Public Safety Training Facility will require several land use permits including a comprehensive land use designation (designate right-of-way to Government Land Use), zoning (zone right-of-way), conditional use permit, and design review. The project will be completed in phases (refer to Attachment 2 – portions of the feasibility report – for additional information). Phase 1 will include a burn building; a training and tactical building for prop storage, simulations and setup; hydrant/hose relay facilities and a fire equipment driver training areas. Future phases of the Training Center improvements will include a classroom training building; and a training and burn tower that can also be used for repelling and burn training. As part of this project the marshlands on the site will be used as a demonstration site for sustainable landscape design and natural resources restoration and will work to better connect the surrounding neighborhoods. A joint work group comprised of the City Engineer, Maplewood Fire Chief, Oakdale Fire Chief, SEH project representative, and MnDOT staff has worked towards an acceptable layout for the site. The MnDOT representatives consist of personnel representing land management/right-of- way office, maintenance, and environmental. This group has met officially twice to ensure maintenance needs are met and the needs of the training facility and environmental component are met. Wetlands Wetlands on the site were originally delineated in 2005 (Attachment 3), with an updated map review in 2011 (Attachment 4). The attached Maplewood Wetland Map (Attachment 5) shows 1 six wetlands located on the site. Wetlands 1 and 2 are designated as Manage B wetlands and will not be impacted by the development. With the development these wetlands will maintain a 75 to 100 foot buffer, with buffer enhancements in some areas. Wetlands 3 through 6 were developed incidentally as a result of the activities associated with the grading and fill material completed by MnDOT in the 1970s. These water bodies will be impacted by the development. The wetland delineation report found the wetlands to be incidental. The Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District’s Technical Evaluation Panel agreed with this assessment and will be removing them from their wetland maps and regulatory review (Attachment 6). The City of Maplewood’s wetland classification map was adopted in 2009 as part of the new wetland ordinance. The wetland ordinance states that the city council will adopt changes to the wetland map which are based on MnRAM studies and other technical data which has been approved by watershed districts. Because the wetlands have been deemed incidental, the city should formally remove them from our wetland map. Marshlands The Marshlands will be one of Maplewood’s key demonstration sites for sustainable landscape design and natural resources restoration. The concept includes four main components. 1. Sustainable landscaping. The site design and landscaping will use sustainable landscaping principles and include rain gardens, planted parking lot medians, drought- tolerant, low-maintenance plantings, and plantings designed to lessen building energy usage. 2. Natural area restoration. Portions of the site that are not developed will be restored to native prairie and woodland. Areas of wetland buffer will be enhanced. 3. Trail Connections. A rustic trail will connect the Marshlands site to Southwood Nature Preserve north of Holloway Avenue and to the Sterling Street Trail west of the site. Most of the trail will be on Ramsey County Open Space, with short segments through Hill- Murray land and the Marshlands. 4. Environmental Education. Maplewood Nature Center will schedule educational events at the site such as naturalist-led hikes. There is opportunity for some unique environmental programming in collaboration with firefighters. At this point, Ramsey County Parks is not interested in building or maintaining a trail on the county open space, but they would give the city a trail easement across county land. Hill- Murray School is supportive of the trail connecting to Sterling Street Trail, across the northwest corner of their site. Other trail connection options are being explored as part of the plan. RECOMMENDATION Review and comment on the East Metro Fire Training Facility and Marshlands Project and wetland map change. Attachments 2 Attachment 1 Attachment 2 Portions of the Feasibility Report Feasibility Study East Metro Public Safety Training Center Phase 1 City of Maplewood, Minnesota City Project 09-09 SEH No. MAPLE 117956 May 8, 2012 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Introduction The City of Maplewood is currently planning for the first phase of improvements to a property that will consist of three primary uses: the East Metro Public Safety Training Center; the Marshlands environmental improvements; and continued MnDOT Operations. In order to accommodate the development plan, the City is planning to implement the necessary infrastructure improvements as City Project 09-09, East Metro Public Safety Training Center project. The East Metro Public Safety Training Center project (Project / Training Center) is being created as a multi-jurisdicational partnership between a number of local fire departments and public safety organizations. The Training Center will be built to serve the training needs of local fire departments, police and emergency management agencies, as well as training organizations including Century College. The Training Center will be built on a 20.51-acre parcel that is currently owned by MnDOT and located immediately west of the intersection of Trunk Highway 120 and CSAH 5. The project will be completed in phases. Phase 1 will include a burn building; a training and tactical building for prop storage, simulations and setup; hydrant/hose relay facilities and a fire equipment driver training areas. Future phases of the Training Center improvements will include a classroom training building; and a training and burn tower that can also be used for repelling and burn training. As more detailed plans are developed for the Phase 1 improvements and cost estimates are refined, the Phase 1 project may include all or a portion of the training tower building if adequate funding is available. The City of Maplewood is working through the process of acquiring the property from MnDOT. One of the conditions MnDOT has placed on the transfer is that the property be used for a public use(s) and that MnDOT is able to maintain use of at least 5 acres for their ongoining operations (primarily soil stockpiling and snow storage) until they are able to find an alternative location for these operations. As part of the Marshland environmental enhancement concepts, trail connections adjacent to and within the property area also planned so that the environmental enhancements surrounding the Training Center can be more easily accessed by the general public and available for educational programs. Estimated Costs Phase 1 improvement cost estimates are summarized in the following table. An estimated cost of the future phases and the total project costs are also provided. The costs listed include a 10% construction cost contingency and a 26% allowance for indirect costs such as engineering, administrative, and legal items. Executive Summary - Feasibility Study MAPLE 117956 City of Maplewood Page i PHASE 1 ESTIMATED ITEMDESCRIPTIONCOST 2.A TRAINING CENTER IMPROVEMENTS - PHASE 1 $2,811,000 2.B MNDOT SITE IMPROVEMENTS $- 2.C1 PUBLIC UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS - WATER MAIN TO SITE $333,000 2.C PUBLIC UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS - WATER MAIN LOOP $55,000 2.C2 PUBLIC UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS - SANITARY SEWER $77,000 2.D1 REVISED SIGNAL SYSTEM AT INTERSECTION OF TH120 / TH5 $293,000 2.D INTERCONNECT (FIBER) TO TH5 / GRANADA $53,000 2.E SOILS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CLEAN-UP ACTIONS $450,000 2.F MARSHLANDS SITE IMPROVEMENTS $263,000 TOTAL PHASE 1 $4,335,000 FUTURE PHASES ESTIMATED ITEMDESCRIPTIONCOST A TRAINING CENTER IMPROVEMENTS - FUTURE PHASES $4,284,000 TOTAL PROJECT WITH FUTURE PHASES $8,727,000 Method of Financing The improvements are proposed to be financed through a combination of grant funds, City of Maplewood funds, funds paid by St. Paul Regional Water Services and MnDOT and special assessments to the benefiting property. For the special assessment, the City desires to have the opportunity to assess the JPA for a portion of the costs of the public utility improvements. The City has a total estimated budget of $4,335,000 for the Phase 1 work including a $3,000,000 grant from the State of Minnesota to design and construct a significant portion of the proposed improvements and $450,000 grant from the Ramsey County Environmental Response. The following is a summary of the proposed financing plan for the planned improvements, excluding these additional funds: FUNDING ITEM FUNDING SOURCE AMOUNT 1 STATE BONDING BILL GRANT $3,000,000 2 RAMSEY CO ERF GRANT $450,000 3 CITY EUF FUND $250,000 4 CITY CIP FUND $250,000 5 EAST METRO JPA – SPECIAL ASSESSMENT $175,000 6 MNDOT/MSA STREET ACCOUNT $55,000 7 ST PAUL REGIONAL WATER SERVICES $55,000 8 SANITARY SEWER FUND $50,000 9 ST PAUL WAC FUND $50,000 TOTAL PHASE 1 $4,335,000 Executive Summary - Feasibility Study MAPLE 117956 City of Maplewood Page ii Project Schedule The following is a preliminary schedule for the implementation of the proposed improvements if the City Council elects to proceed. City Council Accepts Feasibility Report, Calls Public May 14, 2012 Hearing, Authorizes Preparation of Plans & Specs and Authorizes Acquisition of Right-of-Way/Easements Environmental and Natural Resources Commission May 21, 2012 (Wetland Map Change, Marshlands Concepts) Community Design Review Board (Design Review, May 22, 2012 Marshlands Concepts) Planning Commission – Public Hearing June 5, 2012 (Land Use Designation Change, Zoning, CUP, Wetland Map Change, Marshlands Concepts) City Council - Public Hearing Phase 1 Feasibility Study June 25, 2012 City Council - Approval of Land Use Designation June 25, 2012 Change, Zoning, CUP, Wetland Map Change, Marshlands Concepts Bid Package 1 City Council Approves Bid Package #1 Plans & Specs June 25, 2012 and Authorizes Ad for Bids Bid Package #1 Construction Starts July 30, 2012 Bid Package #1 Construction Complete October 2012 Bid Package 2 City Council Approves Bid Package #2 Plans & Specs July 9, 2011 and Authorizes Ad for Bids. Bid Package #2 Construction Starts September 4, 2012 Bid Package #2 Construction Complete November 2012 Bid Package 3 City Council Approves Bid Package #3 Plans & Specs Early 2013 and Authorizes Ad for Bids Bid Package #3 Construction Starts May 2013 Bid Package #3 Construction Complete September 2013 Summary Based upon the analysis completed as a part of this report, the proposed East Metro Public Safety Training Center Improvements, City Project 09-09, are feasible, necessary, and cost effective. Executive Summary - Feasibility Study MAPLE 117956 City of Maplewood Page iii APPENDIX A - FIGURES Figure 1 Training Center Location Map Figure 2 Site Layout – Three Main Uses Figure 3 Site Phasing Figure 4 Burn Building Schematic Figure 5 Simulation and Training Building Schematic Figure 6 Training Tower Schematic Figure 7 Certificate of Survey for Land Transfer Figure 8 Water Main and Sanitary Sewer Service Figure 9 Site Environmental Investigation Figure 10 Turf Trail Concept CENTURY AVE. (TH 120 & 5) Attachment 3 Wetland Delineation Report Proposal for Development of Mn/DOT Land by Hill-Murray School Maplewood, Minnesota SEH No. A-MAPLE0602.00 October 12, 2005 Attachment 3 October 12, 2005 Wetland Delineation Report For Proposal for Development of Mn/DOT Land by Hill- Murray School City ofMaplewood Introduction The purpose of this study is to investigate the project area, identify areas meeting the technical criteria for wetlands, delineate the jurisdictional extent of the wetland basins, and classify the wetland habitat. This field delineation is the basis on which wetland impacts from the proposed project will be determined. This report describes the methodology and results of the field delineation thth performed on September 15 and 30, 2005. Figures referred to in the text are included at the end of the report. Site Description The project site is located in the SE¼ of Section 13 in Township 29 North, Range 22 West in Maplewood, Ramsey County, Minnesota as shown on Figure 1 . The site is located in the Lake Elmo, Minnesota U.S. Geological Service (USGS) quadrangle map. The site is bounded on the north by Holloway Avenue, on the east by Trunk Highway (TH) 120, on the south by the existing Hill Murray Campus, and on the west by Sterling Street North. The site is comprised of smaller sub parcels that are designated public green space lands owned by the City of Maplewood and Ramsey County, and a triangular shaped parcel owned by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT). The Mn/DOT parcel is a previously disturbed, graded and filled area surrounded by the green space parcels on the north, south, and west and the TH 120 alignment on the east where a vehicle access and gate is located. The Mn/DOT parcel conditions are due to a partially constructed interchange for TH 120 and TH 5 that was proposed in the 1960s and subsequently abandoned after the site was graded and filled. The site is now used by Mn/DOT for stockpiling and storage of soil based materials. A-MAPLE0602.00 Page 1 Attachment 3 Wetland Delineation Wetlands Definition Wetlands are defined jointly by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as follows: “Those 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. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.” According to USACE, one positive indicator (except in certain situations) from each of three elements must be in order to make a positive wetland determination, which are as follows: Greater than 50 percent dominance of hydrophytic plant species; Presence of hydric soil; and The area is either permanently or periodically inundated, or soil is saturated to the surface during the growing season of the dominant vegetation. Methodology Wetlands Survey Topographic maps, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) map, the Soil Survey for Ramsey County, the Ramsey County hydric soils list, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) Protected Waters and Wetlands Inventory (PWI) map were reviewed prior to visiting the site to locate potential wetland habitats. Figure 1Figure 2 is a project location map. is a copy of the NWI map and Figure 3Figure 4 is a copy of the soil map for the project area. is the PWI Figure 5 map and is the location map of the delineated wetlands. A previous site wetland analysis completed in 2000 was also referenced (Svoboda Environmental Services Inc., 2000). These sources showed 8 wetland areas that were investigated in greater detail during the field delineation. Field Procedures thth The project site was examined on September 15 and 30, 2005 for areas meeting wetland criteria in accordance with the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (USACE, 1987). The 1987 Manual requires that soil inundation or saturation occur within 18 inches of the surface and that all three wetland parameters (as discussed above) be present. The Routine Onsite Determination Method (RODM) was applied for this delineation. Field notes, samples, and photographs were taken at representative locations in each wetland basin. Collected information was Appendix A transferred to RODM data sheets, which are included in . Photographs of the site and representative sample locations were taken and will be retained on file at SEH. Wetland plant species nomenclature follows the National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands (U.S. Department of the Interior, 1988). Identification was aided when necessary with field guides for the region. Wetland Delineation Report A-MAPLE0602.00 City of Maplewood Page 2 Attachment 3 Soils were observed for hydric soil characteristics. Soils were examined in cores taken with a Model A Oakfield sampler. Cores were taken to a depth necessary to confirm hydric soil characteristics, up to a maximum depth of 24 inches. Soil color determinations were made using MUNSELL Soil Color Charts (Kollmorgen Instruments Corporation, 1990). Site soil characteristics were compared to those mapped and described in the Soil Survey for Ramsey County. Subsurface wetland hydrology indicators were examined using the soil cores and/or soil pits as deep as 12 inches to confirm soil saturation. Wetland boundaries were located and marked with sequentially numbered, pin flags or flagging tape with “WETLAND BOUNDARY” labeling to allow for surveying and mapping. The wetland edge is considered the highest extent of the wetland basin; areas above the boundary fail to meet the three required wetland parameters while areas below the edge meet the wetland parameters required by the field delineation methodology. The locations of the delineated wetland boundaries were surveyed with a Global Positioning Figure 5 System (GPS). The results of the delineation are shown on . The Appendix A corresponding RODM data sheets are included in . Wetland Classification Classification of each wetland basin is included on the RODM data sheets in Appendix A . Wetland classification follows the methods described in Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States (Cowardin, et al., 1979) that is used by the USFWS NWI. The Circular 39 classification (Shaw and Fredine, 1956) is also provided. Results The field delineation was conducted under temperature and precipitation conditions that were above normal for the month of September as compared to the historical average for the region according to recent weather reports. Most of the vegetation was identifiable, including all dominant species. Eight wetland basins were identified, delineated and classified. The RODM data sheets indicate the dominant species of vegetation and the soil and hydrologic characteristics at representative locations around each basin. Table 1 provides a summary of the size and classification of each wetland basin. Wetland 1 Wetland 1 is a large complex located within the county and city owned green space parcels within the project site. Type 3 herbaceous marsh (PEMF, PEMC) is the dominant wetland type and is present in the north half of the wetland complex. Type 4 and 5 conditions (PEMF, PEMH) prevail in the west half of the complex on the east side the study area where deepwater habitats are most extensive. Smaller amounts of Type 4 and 5 conditions are found in the core portion of the north half of the wetland basin where water depths are at their deepest. A Type 7 forested fringe (PFOB1, PFOC1) surrounds the wetland complex edge and also includes finger like extensions or islands of forested habitat within the marshy habitat. Several small patches of Type 6 shrub swamp wetland (PSS1B, PSS1F) are scattered within the Wetland Delineation Report A-MAPLE0602.00 City of Maplewood Page 3 Attachment 3 marsh. Lastly, two linear shaped depressions extend outward from the main basin on the north side of the complex with Type 2 wet meadow conditions (PEMC). All of these wetland types exist within the Wetland 1 boundary Figure 4 shown on . Type 3, and Type 4 and 5 conditions are the most abundant wetland types present. Dominant vegetation within the Type 3 wetland of Wetland 1 includes reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea – FACW+), hybridized cattail (Typha latifoliaXangustifolia – OBL), lakebank sedge (Carex lacustris – OBL), Canada blue-joint (Calamagrostis canadensis OBL), and woolgrass (Scirpus cyperinus – OBL). Dominant Type 4 and 5 vegetation includes white water lily (Nymphaea odorata – OBL), arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia – OBL), and duckweed (Lemna sp. – OBL) growing in open water. A shrub layer comprised of sandbar willow (Salix exigua – OBL), black willow (S. nigra – OBL), and red-osier dogwood (Cornus stolonifera – FACW) over a herbaceous layer of reed canary grass are the dominants within the Type 6 habitat. Reed canary grass, Canada blue joint and woolgrass are the dominant species within the Type 2 wet meadow habitats of Wetland 1. Wetland 1 soils and soil conditions were relatively uniform throughout the basin and multiple wetland types. Soil samples were comprised of deep silty mucks with a MUNSELL color of 10YR 2/1. No mottles were observed and the soils are histosols. Sulfidic odor was detected often. According to the Ramsey-Washington Soil Survey, Wetland 1 soils are in the poorly drained Aquolls and histosols, ponded map unit. This unit is defined as a whole unit hydric soil according to the Hydric Soils List. Hydrology observations included a wide degree of variation. Standing water, at times exceeding 4 feet in depth is prevalent within the Type 4 and 5 wetlands. Standing water was also present in the other wetland types where it was 2 to 6 inches in depth. Soils were saturated to the surface within the Type 7 forested fringe habitats and in areas of topographic variation within the other wetland types. Several primary and secondary hydrology indicators Appendix A were observed and recorded in the RODM sheets in . Upland samples were taken within a forested area of a slope on the Hill Murray campus located on the south side of the wetland basin. The tree canopy is dominated with quaking aspen (Aspen tremula – FACU+), paper birch (Betula papyrifera – FAC+), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica – FACW), bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa – FAC-), Northern pin oak (Q. ellipsoidalis – UPL), and Eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides – FAC+). A dense and severe infestation of Eurasian buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica – FACU) was the only shrub species present and is extensive throughout the area. No herbaceous cover was observed, likely due to excessive shading and deer browse. The upland soil profile includes an sandy-loam A horizon extending to 4 inches below the surface with MUNSELL matrix color of 2.5YR 4/2, and a B horizon from 4 to 8 inches below the surface with a sandy clay matrix MUNSELL color of 2.5YR 6/4. No hydric soil indicators were observed. Wetland 1 is a MNDNR Protected Water wetland comprised of two designated basins, PWI #240W and #239W. Based on field conditions, these Wetland Delineation Report A-MAPLE0602.00 City of Maplewood Page 4 Attachment 3 two basins are hydrologically and topographically connected and were delineated as one large wetland basin. Wetland 1 is the only designated Protected Water wetland delineated for this study. Wetland 2 Wetland 2 is a Type 5 basin that is an excavated pond with an inlet and no visible outlet. It appears that this excavated pit is used for storm water retention from run-off sources located on the Hill Murray Campus. Wetland 2 is best defined as a Type 5 open water habitat (PUBH) with little emergent vegetation and steep slopes. The Svoboda report and a phone conversation (2005) with the Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District (RWMWD) suggest that this and the remaining wetlands (Wetlands 2 –8) meet the WCA criteria for incidental wetlands. More discussion on these incidental wetlands is provided in the Regulatory Considerations section of this report. A small littoral shelf located along the south side of the pond is the only location within Wetland 2 where vegetation is present. Reed canary grass and hybrid cattail are the dominant vegetative species within this zone. Open water comprises the remaining surface area within Wetland 2. Wetland 2 soils were unconsolidated bottom sediments comprised of clay with a thin layer of silty muck on the uppermost horizon. The silty muck has a MUNSELL color of 10YR 2/1 and the clay horizon is 7.5YR 5/3. Approximately 3 to 5 feet of standing water is present within Wetland 2. Upland samples were taken within the same forested area where Wetland 1 upland samples were collected. The tree canopy is dominated with quaking aspen, paper birch, green ash, bur oak, Northern pin oak, and Eastern cottonwood. A dense and severe infestation of Eurasian buckthorn is the only shrub species present and is extensive throughout the area. No herbaceous cover was observed, likely due to excessive shading and deer browse. The upland soil profile includes an sandy-loam A horizon extending to 4 inches below the surface with MUNSELL matrix color of 2.5YR 4/2, and a B horizon from 4 to 8 inches below the surface with a sandy clay matrix MUNSELL color of 2.5YR 6/4. No hydric soil indicators were observed. Wetland 3 Wetland 3 is a seasonally flooded Type 3 herbaceous marsh (PEMC) located within the Mn/DOT parcel. According to the Svoboda study and the RWMWD, Wetland 3 is an incidental wetland. Narrow leaved cattail (Typha angustifolia – OBL) and reed canary grass are the dominant vegetative species present. Soils were comprised of gravel, rock and sand with a thin layer of organic sediment with MUNSELL colors of 5YR 4/2. The soils were compacted and difficult to penetrate with a probe or shovel. Wetland 3 is defined by topography, a depression within the Mn/DOT parcel’s fill where water has ponded and wetland vegetation has become established. Surrounding areas without wetland conditions are topographically higher and maintained for vehicle access and material stockpiling. Approximately 2 inches of standing water was present within Wetland 3 during the survey. Wetland 4 Wetland Delineation Report A-MAPLE0602.00 City of Maplewood Page 5 Attachment 3 Wetland 4 is a seasonally flooded Type 3 herbaceous marsh (PEMC) located within the Mn/DOT parcel. According to the Svoboda study and the RWMWD, Wetland 4 is an incidental wetland. Narrow leaved cattail and reed canary grass are the dominant vegetative species present. Soils were comprised of gravel, rock and sand with a thin layer of organic sediment with MUNSELL colors of 5YR 4/2. The soils were compacted and difficult to penetrate with a probe or shovel. Wetland 4 is defined by topography, a depression within the Mn/DOT parcel’s fill where water has ponded and wetland vegetation has become established. Surrounding areas without wetland conditions are topographically higher and maintained for vehicle access and material stockpiling. Soils were saturated to the surface within Wetland 4 during the survey. Wetland 5 Wetland 5 is a seasonally flooded Type 3 herbaceous marsh (PEMC) located within the Mn/DOT parcel. According to the Svoboda study and the RWMWD, Wetland 5 is an incidental wetland. Narrow leaved cattail and reed canary grass are the dominant vegetative species present. Soils were comprised of gravel, rock and sand with a thin layer of organic sediment with MUNSELL colors of 5YR 4/2. The soils were compacted and difficult to penetrate with a probe or shovel. Wetland 5 is defined by topography, a depression within the Mn/DOT parcel’s fill where water has ponded and wetland vegetation has become established. Based on the linear shape and sharp angled boundaries, it appears that Wetland 5 was created by grading or scraping activities. Surrounding areas without wetland conditions are topographically higher and maintained for vehicle access and material stockpiling. Soils were saturated to the surface within Wetland 5 during the survey. Wetland 6 Wetland 6 is a seasonally flooded Type 3 herbaceous marsh (PEMC) located within the southern side of the Mn/DOT parcel. According to the Svoboda study and the RWMWD, Wetland 6 is an incidental wetland. Narrow leaved cattail, reed canary grass and lakebank sedge are the dominant vegetative species present. Wetland 6 is also the most botanically diverse of the incidental wetlands with other less abundant wetland species present. Soils were comprised of gravel, rock and sand with a thin layer of organic sediment with MUNSELL colors of 5YR 4/2. The soils were compacted and difficult to penetrate with a probe or shovel. Wetland 6 is defined by topography, a depression within the Mn/DOT parcel’s fill where water has ponded and wetland vegetation has become established. Surrounding areas without wetland conditions are topographically higher and maintained for vehicle access and material stockpiling. Approximately 3 inches of standing water was present within Wetland 6 during the survey. Wetland 7 Wetland 7 is a seasonally flooded Type 3 herbaceous ditch (PEMC) located within the Mn/DOT parcel. According to the Svoboda study and Watershed District, Wetland 7 is an incidental wetland. This wetland is an elongated narrow ditch that was created by grading activities. Narrow leaved cattail, Wetland Delineation Report A-MAPLE0602.00 City of Maplewood Page 6 Attachment 3 reed canary grass, and lakebank sedge are the dominant vegetative species present. Soils were comprised of gravel, rock and sand with a thin layer of organic sediment with MUNSELL colors of 5YR 4/2. The soils were compacted and difficult to penetrate with a probe or shovel. Wetland 7 is defined by topography and drainage, a depression within the Mn/DOT parcel fill where water has ponded and wetland vegetation has become established. Surrounding areas without wetland conditions are topographically higher and maintained for vehicle access and material stockpiling. Approximately 4 inches of standing water was present within Wetland 7 during the survey. Wetlands 3 – 7, Upland Sample Data To provide a comparable data set for the incidental wetlands located within the Mn/DOT fill area, upland data was collected within the fill area as well verses within an undisturbed upland. In addition, the nearest undisturbed upland was 0.25 miles from the Mn/DOT parcel. Only one RODM for upland data was prepared for wetlands 3 –7 due to the close proximity of all the wetlands and the continuity of the wetlands in the Mn/DOT parcel conditions. Dominant vegetative species in the uplands include red elm (Ulmus rubra – FAC), black locust (Robinia psuedoacacia – FACU), eastern cottonwood, green ash, tall goldenrod (Solidago altimissima – UPL), and smooth brome (Bromus inermis – UPL). Bare ground and stockpiled soils dominate the overall cover of the Mn/DOT parcel and vegetation is not abundant in the uplands. The upland sample soils are comprised of dense, compacted rock, sand and gravel and were impenetrable with a soil probe or shovel. The MUNSELL matrix color was 10YR 6/3. The key soil diagnostic feature that was absent in the uplands is the lack of any organic matter, silt, or discoloration from staining that accumulates in the inundated wetland depressions. Hydrology indicators, primarily standing water and saturation within the upper 6 inches, were lacking in the upland sample. The soils within the Mn/DOT fill area are all in the Urdothents, wet substratum map unit according to the soil survey. This map unit is not recognized as a whole unit hydric soil in the hydric soils list. Table 1 Wetland Characteristics BasinSize Cowardin Circular 39 ID(acres) Classification Classification PEMC, PEMG, PEMF, 31.84 Type 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 1 PEMH, PSS1B, PSS1C, PFO1B, PFO1C 2 0.58 PUBH Type 5 3 1.74 PEMC Type 3 4 0.64 PEMC Type 3 5 1.38 PEMC Type 3 Wetland Delineation Report A-MAPLE0602.00 City of Maplewood Page 7 Attachment 3 6 1.51 PEMC Type 3 7 0.11 PEMC Type 3 Regulatory Considerations Wetlands in the project area are regulated by several agencies at the local, regional, state, and federal levels including the USACE and the EPA at the federal level; the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) at the state level; and the Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District (RWMWD) at the local level. The Ramsey- Washington Metro Watershed District has accepted the responsibility for the administration of the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) of 1991. The Svoboda study and the RWMWD have determined that Wetlands 2 through 7 meet the incidental wetland criteria of WCA. It was determined that these wetlands developed incidentally as a result of the activities associated with the grading and fill material completed on the Mn/DOT parcel in the 1970s. Topographic depressions within the graded area have developed wetland conditions. This report is being provided to the RWMWD to confirm and clarify this incidental wetland status. Construction plans that propose any direct alteration or indirect impact to wetlands or watercourses within the project area will require permits from the appropriate regulatory agencies. Violation of wetland regulations can result in substantial civil and/or criminal penalties. Wetland Delineation Report A-MAPLE0602.00 City of Maplewood Page 8 Attachment 3 Bibliography 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. 131 pp. Eggers, S.D. and D.M. Reed, 1987. Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, St. Paul, Minnesota Kollmorgen Instruments Corporation, 1992. MUNSELL SOIL COLOR CHARTS. Macbeth Division of Kollmorgen Instruments Corporation, Newburgh, New York. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Protected Waters and Wetlands Inventory Map, Ramsey County, 1986. Scale: 1" = 5,280'. Shaw, S.P. and C.G. Fredine, 1956. Wetlands of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Circular 39. 67 pp. Soil Survey of Ramsey-Washington Counties, Minnesota. United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, 1980. Scale: 1" = 1,320'. Svoboda Environmental Services Inc., 2000. Site Wetland Report. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical Report Y-87-1. Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 1988. Wetland Evaluation Methodology for the North Central United States. 97 pp. plus appendices. U.S. Department of Agriculture - Soil Conservation Service, 1991. Hydric Soils of the United States. In cooperation with the National Technical Committee for Hydric Soils. USDA-SCS, Washington, D.C. U.S. Department of the Interior, 1988. National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: North Central (Region 3). Biological Report 88 (26.3), Fish and Wildlife Service. In cooperation with the National and Regional Interagency Review Panels. Washington, D.C. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wetlands Inventory Map, Lake Elmo, Minnesota Quadrangle, 1978. (From 1980 aerial photographs.) Scale: 1" = 2,000'. U.S. Geological Survey 7.5' Quadrangle Map, Lake Elmo, Minnesota Quadrangle, 1978. Scale: 1" = 2,000'. Vepraskas, M.J., 1994. Redoximorphic Features for Identifying Aquic Conditions. Technical Bulletin 301. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina. Wetland Delineation Report A-MAPLE0602.00 City of Maplewood Page 9 Attachment 3 List of Figures Figure 1 – Site Location Map Figure 2 – National Wetlands Inventory Map Figure 3 – Ramsey County Soil Survey Map Figure 4 – MNDNR Protected Water Inventory Figure 5 – Wetland Location Map Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Appendix A RODM Data Sheets Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 3 Attachment 4 Wetland 1 - Regulated by WCA and USACE Remaining wetlands - Exempt from WCA, and isolated per USACE Approved Jurisdictional Determination 2011 Wetland Delineation Project: MAPLE0602.01 Extent of Wetland Jurisdiction Figure 3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.Print Date: 11/29/2011 ST. PAUL, MN 55110 PHONE: (651) 490-2000 Map by: drd Marshlands Fire Training Facility FAX: (651) 490-2150 Projection: UTM NAD 83 1 WATTS: 800-325-2055 Source: HIG Maplewood, Minnesota www.sehinc.com This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided. Attachment 3  )%781)86386%-2-2+*%'-0-8=;)80%2(7 Attachment 6 November 3, 2011 RE: City of Maplewood Marshlands Fire Training Facility SEH No. A-MAPLE0602.01 32.00 Tina Carstens Permit Program Coordinator Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District 2665 Noel Drive Little Canada, MN 55117 Dear Ms. Carstens: This letter is a request for review of the jurisdictional status of wetlands associates with a Fire Training Facility proposed by the City of Maplewood. This facility is proposed for development on property located west of Trunk Highway 120, at the intersection of Trunk Highway 5, in the City of Maplewood, Ramsey County. This is located in the SE ¼ of Section 13, T29N, R22W, and due north of Hill Murray. The property is currently owned by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). The City of Maplewood and MnDOT have been in discussions on how to jointly utilize the property. Preliminary concept plans have been developed, but final plans will likely not be completed until the full extent of regulated wetlands have been determined. The wetlands on this property were delineated in 2005 by Brad Kovach (SEH). They were reviewed and approved at that time. The boundaries have subsequently been reviewed, and have been determined to remain accurate as originally mapped. The Soil Survey for Ramsey County identifies the soils associated with Wetlands 2-7 as Udorthents, wet substratum. Udorthents not considered to be hydric soils. The property is currently used for stockpiling and storage of materials for MnDOT. A large wetland (Wetland 1) is located on the north side of the property. This wetland will not be affected, and will be required to be buffered per City of Maplewood requirements. The remainder of the wetlands on the property would likely be affected by any project on the property. The property was graded in the early 1970’s as part of an interchange planned for the Trunk Highway 5 and Trunk Highway 120 intersection. Construction of the interchange was not completed, but it is clear from the layout of the wetlands that they are associated with the location of ponds and depressions within the ramps and ramp loops. Because these wetlands appear to be created, there is a question on the extent that the wetlands present would be considered to be incidental, and therefore not have a mitigation requirement if they were impacted. In 2005 an investigation of the site history and wetland jurisdiction was completed by Svoboda Ecological Services. This analysis (Attachment 1) used aerial photographs from the 1960’s to estimate the historic extent of wetlands before the interchange construction, and compare them to the wetlands Maplewood Fire Training Facility November 2011 Page 2 present in 2005. This analysis determined that 1.41 acres of wetland was present in the project area that was present prior to construction, and would not meet the criteria for incidental wetlands. Additional site investigations have been completed by SEH to further examine the extent of incidental wetlands on the property. Historic aerial photographs from 1937 to present were reviewed to determine the extent of wetlands on the property. The interpreted extent of wetlands were mapped on each aerial photo available prior to the construction of the interchange. The results of these individual years were overlaid, and GIS analysis was used to determine the most probable historic extent of wetlands present prior to construction. Based on this analysis, we conclude that 0.99 acres of wetland that is currently within the project area may have been historically present. The results of this analysis are included in Attachment 2. The wetlands have previously been reviewed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, and an Approved Jurisdictional Determination has been issued which claims jurisdiction over Wetland 1,but none of the other wetlands. This letter is a request for a decision on the extent that the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) would regulate the areas that were delineated as wetland. Based off of our understanding of the WCA, there are three potential decisions that could be made. These do not include Wetland 1, which is clearly wetland, is a Public Water, and is not within the limits of the potential project layouts. The alternatives for the remaining wetlands would be: No Wetland Present: 1. We know that the entire site was graded in the early 1970’s to create the interchange. At the time of that construction, any wetland that was present would have been filled and graded, and therefore no wetlands would have been present. The wetlands present today were created for the purpose of storm water treatment, not to be wetland. Because there is an interim period when no wetland was present, the areas we see today would be considered to be incidental, and therefore would be considered a no-loss if there were to be impacted. Some Wetland Present: 2. Some of the wetlands present today appear to be located on areas that may have been historic wetland. The areas that may have been historic wetland, and meet wetland criteria today, would be regulated. Based on SEH analysis, this would be 0.99 acres, as depicted in Figure 10 of Attachment 2. All Wetlands Regulated: 3. Because they meet wetland criteria today, all areas would be regulated, regardless of past land use or whether they were created or not. Our recommendation would be to recognize that the interchange construction impacted all of the potential historic wetlands, and that all areas meeting wetland criteria today were created from non-wetland with the intention of being utilized for storm water treatment. Therefore, under WCA language, the areas mapped would be eligible for consideration as a no-loss. If the local Governmental Unit (LGU) and Technical Evaluation Panel (TEP) are in agreement, no mitigation would be required for wetland impacts. The City intends to avoid and minimize impacts to the extent feasible, and is committed to establishing a 100-footbufferalong much of Wetland 1, as well as efforts to enhance, and preserve the natural resources to the extent possible. Maplewood Fire Training Facility November 2011 Page 3 As the project is located on land currently owned by the MnDOT, it is expected that they are responsible for implementation of the WCA. Because the land ownership for the project will be the City of Maplewood, and will be regulated under the Ramsey Washington Metro watershed District, it is important to obtain feedback from all parties. It is requested that a TEP be convened to discuss this project and reach a consensus on the extent of jurisdiction for this area. Thanks for your attention to this project, and please feel free to contact me at 651.490.2114 or at ddeuschle@sehinc.com if I can be of any assistance in organizing this meeting or with obtaining project information. Sincerely, SHORT ELLIOTT HENDRICKSON INC. Deric Deuschle Staff Biologist drd Enclosure c: Sarma Straumanis,MnDOT Ron Leaf, SEH S:\KO\M\Maple\060200\Wetlands\JD Request to COE\Maplewood Fire Training WCA jurisdiction letter.docx