2024126_YelmLoop_OakMitigationPlan
FINAL OREGON WHITE OAK
MITIGATION REPORT
Olympic
Region
SR 510 Yelm Loop- New Alignment Phase 2
December 2024
Prepared By:
Robert Phipps, PLA, PWS, ISA-CA, CESCL, Principal Landscape Architect
WSDOT Olympic Region
Environmental & Hydraulic Services Office
Project Engineer:
Grace Amundsen Barnkow, Project Engineer
(360) 357-2600
WSDOT Olympic Region
Title VI Notice to Public
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denied the benefits of, or be otherwise discriminated against under any of its federally funded programs and activities. Any
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discrimination obligations, please contact OEO’s Title VI Coordinator at (360) 705-7090.
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request by calling the Washington State Relay at 711.
SR 510 Yelm Loop – New Alignment Phase 2 December 2024
Oregon White Oak Mitigation Report i
Executive Summary
This report was prepared for Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)
Olympic Region in preparation for the second phase of the Yelm Loop project, adding a
new three-mile stretch of roadway, for completion of an alternate route around the business
district of the City of Yelm. The proposed project would connect the already constructed
alternate state route (SR) 510 Yelm Loop Stage 1 in north Yelm, to main line SR 510, south
of the town center. The project is anticipated to provide congestion relief for the City of
Yelm, regional travel alternatives to I-5 during heavy traffic periods, improved safety, and
promote economic vitality of local businesses.
A Vegetation, Fish, Wildlife Discipline Report (FWV) was prepared in 2019 (Parametrix
2019), which identified priority habitat species, Oregon White Oak (Quercus garryana)
within the study area. Per the report, both individual oaks and oak woodlands (OWO) were
identified. Oak trees and stands of oak trees provide an important source of food, cover,
nest sites, and arboreal movement routes for more than 200 species of vertebrate wildlife,
including several species that are protected by state or federal law, such as the western
gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus). OWO are identified as priority habitat by WDFW and
protected by Yelm Municipal Code 18.21.110 A.1.b. Oak woodlands were avoided where
practicable, and unavoidable impacts were minimized wherever feasible, however tree
impacts are to occur.
The project proposes to permanently impact approximately 0.43 acres of OWO.
To mitigate for the unavoidable oak woodland impacts, WSDOT will implement a mitigation
strategy to compensate for the loss of oak habitat. Compensatory mitigation will be
implemented in accordance with the guidance outlined in WDFW Best management
practices for mitigating impact to Oregon white oak priority habitats and Yelm’s Critical Area
Ordinance. Proposed impacts and compensatory mitigation are summarized in Table 1.
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Oregon White Oak Mitigation Report ii
Table 1. Summary of project oak impacts and compensatory mitigation.
Region Olympic Region
Township/Range/Section Township 1 North, Range 5 East, Sections 17,
19, and 20
Permanent Oregon White
Oak Woodland Impact 0.43 acres (55 trees, See Table 2)
Mitigation Location Thurston County. Section 17, Township 17 North,
Range 2 East, Willamette Meridian
Area & Type of Mitigation
· 0.65 acres Oak Woodland
Establishment/Enhancement
(Site 1 - WSDOT owned ROW)
· 1.06 acres Oak Woodland
Establishment/Enhancement/Preservation
(Site 2 – Covenant Agreement)
Years of Monitoring 5 Years
*Acreage rounded to nearest hundredth
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Oregon White Oak Mitigation Report iii
Table of Contents
Executive Summary ................................................................................................... i
Figures ...................................................................................................................... iii
Tables .......................................................................................................................iv
Appendices ...............................................................................................................iv
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................ 5
2. Proposed Project ................................................................................................... 5
2.1. Project Location ........................................................................................................ 5
2.2. Project Purpose and Description ........................................................................... 5
3. Existing Conditions ................................................................................................ 8
3.1. Landscape Setting ................................................................................................... 8
4. Oak Woodland Impact Assessment ...................................................................... 9
5. Mitigation Strategy ................................................................................................. 9
5.1. Oak Woodland Mitigation Sites ............................................................................ 10
6. Mitigation Goals, Objectives and Performance Criteria ....................................... 11
6.1 Goals ..................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
6.2 Objectives .............................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
6.3 Performance Criteria ............................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
6.4 Monitoring .............................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
6.5 Contingency Plan .................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
6.5.1 Vegetation ............................................................................................................... 16
6.5.2 Protection BMPs ...................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
6.6 Site Management and Establishment .................................................................. 16
7. References .......................................................................................................... 17
Figures
Figure 1. Vicinity Map……………………………………………………..……………….3
Figure 2. Photo of Site 2 Oak Mitigation Site (from WSDOT 2024).Error! Bookmark
not defined.
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Tables
Table 1. Summary of project oak impacts and compensatory mitigation…..........…ii
Table 2. Summary of Oregon White Oaks………………………………….............…4
Table 3. Monitoring Schedule…………….……………………………………...........10
Table 4. Monitoring report recipients..….…………………………………….............10
Appendices
Appendix A. Mitigation Site 1& 2 – Existing Conditions
Appendix B. Mitigation Site 1 & 2 – Site and Soil Preparation
Appendix C. Mitigation Site 1 & 2 – Planting Plan
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Oregon White Oak Mitigation Plan
1. Introduction
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) proposes to construct the
remaining segment of State Route (SR) 510 Alternate Route in Yelm, Washington. Phase 1
of the Yelm Loop Project, extending from Mud Run Road to Cullens Road in northwestern
Yelm, was completed in 2010. The Phase 2 project segment that is the subject of this
review would extend the highway to meet SR 507 near the southeastern corner of the city.
The full project (including Phase 2) underwent National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
review in 2000, followed by a NEPA re-evaluation and Endangered Species Act (ESA)
consultation in 2007 and 2008. The project design currently under review is largely identical
to the design that was reviewed in 2008. The current design includes two modifications that
influence the project’s potential impacts to the environment:
· The shared-use paths previously planned for both sides of the roadway have been
combined into a single shared use-path along the south/west side of SR 510 from
Cullens Road to 103rd Avenue.
· The stormwater concept employs linear infiltration facilities instead of relying on
conveyance and ponds.
Compared to the earlier design, both of these modifications reduce the amount of ground-
disturbing work needed for project construction.
This report identifies the proposed OWO impacts and mitigation strategy to offset the
anticipated habitat loss.
2. Proposed Project
2.1. Project Location
The proposed project occurs at the eastern edge of Thurston County, Washington, in the
City of Yelm and in portions of unincorporated Thurston County (Figure 1). The project
spans Sections 17, 18, 20, and 29, Township 17 North, Range 2 East, Willamette Meridian.
2.2. Project Purpose and Description
Phase 2 of the Yelm Loop Project proposes to construct the remaining three miles of SR
510 Alternate Route through WSDOT ROW in the City of Yelm, Washington. Stage 1 of the
Yelm Loop Project has already been completed. The proposed Phase 2 project will extend
the configuration of Stage 1 design components, consisting of a two-lane highway with
bicycle and pedestrian facilities, between Cullins Road and 170th Street Southeast, and will
connect the Stage 1 portion of SR 510 Alternate Route, around downtown Yelm, back to
the SR 510 mainline, southwest of the primary business district.
Traffic volumes on existing SR 510/Yelm Avenue, the main street running through the City
of Yelm, are heavy during commute times, build when I-5 becomes congested and
travelers choose this route as an alternative, as well as heavier volumes experienced
during summer travel. Providing this alternate route will address congestion and safety
issues along SR 510/Yelm Avenue and will result in:
· improved regional travel times
· reduced traffic volume and congestion through the Yelm business district
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Oregon White Oak Mitigation Plan
· contributions to the economic vitality of local businesses
· reduced potential collisions
· a new route for bicyclists and pedestrians
· improved emergency response times
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Oregon White Oak Mitigation Plan
Figure 1. Vicinity Map
Oak Mitigation Site 1 and 2
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3. Existing Conditions
3.1. Landscape Setting
The project is located in the city of Yelm and City of Yelm urban growth area (UGA), within
the Nisqually watershed, Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 11. The area is known for
unique historic prairie habitats formed on glacial outwash soils within the Nisqually river
watershed.
Mount Rainier and its western foothills lie to the east of the project and the Nisqually River
delta lies to the west. Vegetation communities typical of the Yelm Prairie area include
Oregon white oak (Quercus garryana) and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) stands with
grass and wildflower prairie habitat in between. Scattered native shrub communities are
also established in some areas. Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) and Himalayan
blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) are common invasive species established in the area.
The project area is ten miles southeast of the Nisqually River estuary on the shore of South
Puget Sound and is situated at 300 feet above sea-level (Appendix A-4). The project is in
the lower Nisqually River – Frontal Puget Sound Watershed (5th hydrologic unit code -
1711001503) in Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) Nisqually 11.
Land use immediately surrounding the project includes residential, commercial
development, prairies, pasture, and hay-fields. The Centralia City Light, Yelm Hydroelectric
Canal lies to the north of the project, between the WSDOT ROW and the Nisqually River.
Figure 2. Photo of Site 2 Oak Mitigation Site (from WSDOT 2024).
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Oregon White Oak Mitigation Plan
4. Oak Woodland Impact Assessment
This chapter summarizes the existing conditions of the Oregon White Oak woodland
proposed to be impacted, a general assessment of impacts to Oak woodlands and
functions related to the proposed project, and minimization efforts used to reduce natural
resource impacts.
WSDOT has taken appropriate and practicable steps to avoid and minimize adverse
impacts Oak Woodland habitat. Total avoidance was not possible due to constraints
associated with safety and design-guidelines, the close proximity of resources to existing
highway embankments, and the linear nature of transportation projects. Several phases of
review and alternative analysis were conducted to identify the proposed project as the
alternative that best meets the design objectives while minimizing environmental impacts.
See reference document, Supplemental Biological Assessment – SR510, Yelm Loop –
New Alignment Phase 2 –, (Parametrix 2020) for additional information on avoidance and
minimization efforts through design alternatives. Additional information on the overall
habitat impacts is also described within.
The project proposes to permanently impact approximately 0.43 acres of OWO. Below
describes impacts by each individual tree and sizes.
Table 2. Summary of Oregon White Oak impacts.
Quantity
Size
Location
Yelm Creek Flume Road East of Flume Road
4” to 15” DBH 32 2 0
16” to 30” DBH 17 0 3
>30” DBH 1 0 0
Total 50 2 3
5. Mitigation Strategy
To mitigate for unavoidable impacts to priority habitat areas (Oregon White Oaks), a
comprehensive mitigation strategy will be implemented in accordance with the guidance
outlined in WDFW Best management practices for mitigating impact to Oregon white oak
priority habitats, USDA Planting Native Oak in the Pacific Northwest and Yelm’s Critical
Area Ordinance.
Proposed impacts and compensatory mitigation are summarized in Table 1. WSDOT
proposes to use two sites (Site 1 and Site 2) to satisfy the mitigation requirement in
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consultation with WDFW. Both sites are located approximately 1 mile west of the western
project terminus and directly adjacent to SR510 ROW.
Site 1 is a WSDOT owned parcel adjacent to the agency’s right of way originally acquired
for mitigation opportunity. The 2.38 acres additional ROW area site is intermixed by a range
of species including the tree species Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), big-leaf maple
(Acer macrophyllum), shore pine (Pinus contorta), and a single mature Oregon white oak
(Quercus garryana). Understory varies from typical native species, such as serviceberry
(Amelanchier alnifolia), sword fern (Polystichum munitum), and salal (Gaultheria shallon),
snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus), Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), osoberry
(Oemleria cerasiformis), beaked hazelnut (Corylus cornuta), black hawthorn (Crataegus
douglasii), tall Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) to non-native shrubs, Himalayan
blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) and grasses and forbs.
Grasses and forbs dominate the majority of the cover. 0.65 acres will be utilized in
conjunction with the full parcel area of Site 2 for mitigation purposes to enhance and create
new oak habitat. See Figure 1.
Site 2 is a property that will be placed in a convenance through an agreement between the
property owner and WSDOT. The agreement will place the property into perpetuity for
establishment and management of the site as an OWO habitat for mitigation. The 1.06
acres area site is primarily dominated by tree species of Oregon white oak (Quercus
garryana) and fringe shore pine (Pinus contorta) along the north and west property lines.
Within the southern half of the triangle parcel and immediately adjacent to Alternate SR510
is dominated by Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) with non-native grasses intermixed with
some volunteer sapling Oregon white oak (Quercus garryana). Along the northern half is
mature Oregon white oak (Quercus garryana) in a mostly contiguous canopy with
understory of snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus), serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia),
black hawthorn (Crataegus douglasii) and native rose (Rosa spp.) with grasses and forbs.
The entire area will be utilized for mitigation purposes for preservation, enhancement and
establishment of new oak habitat. See Figure 2.
5.1. Oak Woodland Mitigation Sites
WSDOT will establish and enhance existing oak habitat through development of a
comprehensive mitigation strategy to restore and reduce competition through invasive
weed removal and restoration of OWO woodland habitat through planting and long-term
management.
Specific mitigation components include:
· Establish and enhance 0.65 acres of disturbed Oregon White Oak Woodland (invasive
species removal, canopy and understory planting) at Site 1
· Establish and enhance 1.06 acres of disturbed Oregon White Oak Woodland (invasive
species removal, canopy and understory planting) at Site 2. This area includes 0.32
acres of the total area for preservation of mature Oregon White Oak canopy. The mature
Oregon White Oak area includes over 20 trees ranging from 10” DBH and larger
extending a contiguous habitat corridor north off the mitigation parcel.
With favorable native soil conditions, targeted weed removal, existing habitat presence
(saplings and mature oaks), regular site management, WSDOT anticipates long term
success at each of the sites. Both proposed sites contain similar soils to the impacted
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OWO areas, provide direct access from SR510 for initial construction and on-going
maintenance activities.
Summer construction related work will identify desirable vegetation to be retained including
native understory, mature oaks and oak saplings. Tree protection fencing and or flagging
will clearly delineate the existing vegetation to be retained. Weed control will be conducted
within invasive Scotch broom and nuisance grasses by hand methods only to reduce soil
compaction and maintain favorable planting mediums. No herbicide treatment will be
allowed for initial weed control activities. Though fringe conifer tree species are present of
existing OWO habitat, none are within WSDOT owned property to alleviate competition and
overshadowing by removal or stump cutting.
Acorn harvesting from existing OWO trees on each site will be completed in September
with dormant season planting of new oaks/acorns within the same year. Acorn use from
within the same project footprint will retain site specific genetic ecosystem makeup of
nearby well-established OWO habitat.
Planting holes, 12 inches deep and 2 feet wide, will be amended with compost to increase
organics, beneficial mycorrhizal fungi, water absorption/infiltration and nutrient cycling
production. Up to three acorns will be installed within each amended soil pit in naturalized
groupings at approximately 8’ o.c. spacing. The extra acorns per hole are in response to
expected mortality. If establishment is good, the acorn growth will likely fuse together
naturally. The acorns will be planted within the top 1-2 inches below the surface. Each
planting hole will be covered in a 3-inch depth of organic mulch to reduce weed competition
post planting. Weed mats, protection tubings, or other landscape fabrics may be employed
if weed competition is excessive or animal browsing becomes problematic.
A specific quantity and location of the planting holes will be determined based on success
of acorn harvesting and existing oaks fully identified within the proposed planting areas. It is
desired to WSDOT expects acorn harvesting to be successful to fulfill the needs for
restoration, however, as a contingency, purchase of containerized or seedling material may
be needed to complete first year planting. If additional acorns remain after planting,
WSDOT will make consolidated efforts to properly store the acorns for replanting in follow
up years.
At year 3 post planting with successful oak establishment, woody shrub understory
(snowberry, rose, hawthorn, others) may be planted at approximately 4’ o.c. spacing with
concurrence by WDFW to extend the native understory footprint. This delayed understory
approach will reduce resource competition of nutrients and water for greater success of
new planting oak acorns in Years 1 and 2.
6. Mitigation Goals, Objectives and
Performance Criteria
The proposed OWO mitigation sites will be monitored for 5 years to demonstrate that the
intended goals and objectives are met. Goals describe the overall intent of mitigation
efforts, and objectives describe individual components of the mitigation site in detail.
Performance measures and performance standards describe specific on-site characteristics
that indicate a function is being provided. Performance measures are used to guide
management of the mitigation site. Performance standards are used to evaluate
compliance with regulatory permits in the final year of monitoring. Contingency plans
describe what actions can be taken to correct site deficiencies.
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WSDOT uses the adaptive management process to improve mitigation and restoration
success. Adaptive management involves learning from monitoring and implementing
management activities, such as implementing parts of the site management or contingency
plans. Information from monitoring is used to direct subsequent site management
activities. As part of the adaptive management process, mid-course corrections may
necessitate a change in vision for the site if nature takes its course and things turn out
differently than planned. A change in vision may require renegotiation with regulators for a
new set of performance standards.
6.1. Goals
The goal of the proposed compensatory mitigation is to ensure that no functional loss of
priority habitat species, Oregon White Oak woodlands. The two off-site mitigation areas are
expected to provide the following function:
· Preserve significant Oregon White Oak woodland habitat
· Restore and increase the aerial extent and associated function of Oregon White Oak
woodland in the project vicinity
6.2. Objectives
The following list of objectives describes the proposed mitigation at the various natural resource
mitigation sites and within the project limits:
· Establish and enhance 0.65 acres of disturbed Oregon White Oak Woodland (invasive
species removal, canopy and understory planting) at Site 1.
· Establish and enhance 1.06 acres of disturbed Oregon White Oak Woodland (invasive
species removal, canopy and understory planting) at Site 2.
· Promote the development of native oak woodland plant communities including
understory by limiting the growth and spread of noxious and nuisance vegetation,
including Himalayan Blackberry, Scotch Broom and other nuisance woody species.
· Preserve and create habitat corridor connectivity in association with priority habitat
species.
6.3. Performance Criteria
The performance standards described below provide benchmarks for measuring
achievement of the goals and objectives of the mitigation site. Mitigation activities are
intended to meet these performance standards within a specified time frame. Monitoring of
mitigation success standards begins immediately following initial planting with the collection
of baseline data and initial (year 1) survival standards.
Objective 1:
Restore or establish at least 1.72 acres of OWO habitat at the mitigation sites. Restore
Oregon White Oak woodland function and provide increased habitat by promoting the
development of OWO associated native plant communities.
Performance Standards Monitoring Methods
1A Success Standard
The OWO woodland on Site 1 and 2
mitigation sites will be revegetated in
accordance with the Soil
As-built plans documenting that the
restoration areas have been planted
according to the planting plan will be
submitted within year 1.
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Preparation/Planting Plans, and final
PS&E documents.
1B Success Standard
At monitoring year 1, there will be a
minimum survival rate of 100% in oaks at
each site.
Conduct plant assessment of contract-
installed vegetation (plant counts based on
as-built plans).
1C Success Standard
At monitoring year 3, there will be a
minimum density and/or survival of
native woody trees and/or shrubs
planting areas as follows:
· minimum density of 100 living native
trees (includes existing trees and
volunteers) per acre or a minimum
survival rate of 90%.
· minimum density of 500 living native
shrubs per acre when included in
woody species understory planting
areas in Year 3 only.
Use current monitoring protocols (see
Monitoring Plan) to determine density
(number of living trees and shrubs per acre).
1D Success Standard
At monitoring year 5, there will be a
minimum density of native woody trees
and/or shrubs planting areas as follows:
· minimum density of 75 living native
trees (includes existing trees and
volunteers) per acre.
· minimum density of 400 living native
shrubs per acre when included in
woody species planting areas by
Year 5.
Use current monitoring protocols (see
Monitoring Plan) to determine density
(number of living trees and shrubs per acre).
Contingency: If the monitoring reports indicate insufficient establishment and/or plant
survival, those areas not meeting current-year standard(s) will be replanted to bring them in
compliance with the failing current-year standard(s).
Objective 2: Promote the development of native Oregon White Oak woodland associated
plant communities by limiting the growth and spread of noxious and nuisance vegetation.
Performance Standards Monitoring Methods
2A. Performance Standard
Conduct a pre-construction survey of the
existing extent of invasive vegetation at the
mitigation sites 1 and 2, to establish a
baseline for invasive species monitoring and
management at years 1, 3, and 5.
Provide photographic and map (GPS or
notations on plan sheets) documentation of
existing stands of nuisance vegetation
including Scotch Broom and Himalayan
Blackberry.
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2B. Performance Standard
At monitoring years 1, 3, and 5, Invasive
Species will be managed as follows:
The aerial extent of Class B and Class C
noxious weeds will not exceed 15% in the
planting areas, exclusive to each mitigation
site (ie – invasive species totals at both sites
shall not be added together to create a single
% cover for reporting purposes).
Class A Noxious weeds
If/when detected, Class A Noxious Weeds,
shall be treated so that the species do not
exist on the site. These species shall not be
included in the 15% cover allowed for invasive
species.
Observe and map (notations on plan sheets)
locations of nuisance weeds (Class B and C)
as part of annual vegetation surveys using
current monitoring techniques. For larger
stands, GPS measurements of stand
perimeters will be provided to measure the
extent of change over time. Observations will
form the basis of on-going site management
and integrated vegetation management
activities.
Use current monitoring protocols (see
Monitoring Plan) to determine species
composition as a basis for potential treatment
options.
Contingency: Implement a long-term integrated vegetation management plan to maintain
the aerial extent of invasive species or non-native pasture grasses and forbs at or below
the established thresholds. Weed management activities may be conducted in all
monitoring years.
6.4. Monitoring
WSDOT staff will monitor the mitigation sites for 5 years after initial installation. The
monitoring objective for the mitigation areas is to achieve the prescribed standards unless
WSDOT, in consultation with the regulatory agencies, establish replacement standards
based on circumstances and conditions observed at the mitigation sites. If all performance
standards are achieved in less than 5 years, WSDOT may terminate monitoring with
approval of the review agencies. A quantitative monitoring plan will be developed and
implemented (beginning in the first growing season following project acceptance -1 year
following initial installation) that addresses the standards listed in this plan. The site will be
monitored in years 1, 3, and 5 by the WSDOT Mitigation Monitoring Program to evaluate
compliance with performance standards, formal monitoring. In formal monitoring years,
years 1, 3, and 5 reports of the formal monitoring will be prepared and submitted to the
WDFW and City of Yelm. Additional monitoring will occur in intervening non-report years in
order to inform and guide site development activities, informal monitoring. Successful
mitigation will be measured by attainment of the performance standards described in the
mitigation plan.
The Mitigation Monitoring Program uses objective-based monitoring to document the
condition of WSDOT’s mitigation sites. Monitoring protocols are selected based on
objectives specified in the mitigation plan, and evaluation of current site conditions.
Quantitative data collection techniques presently in use are based on standard ecological
and biostatistical methods described in Bonham (1989), Elzinga et al. (1998), Krebs (1999),
Zar (1999), and other sources. The monitoring program’s current monitoring methods
include the key concepts of objective-based monitoring, adaptive management, and
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statistical rigor. Quantitative monitoring methods employed involve sample size analyses
and may include the point-line, point-frame, quadrat, and line-intercept methods as defined
by the works cited above.
Formal and informal monitoring of the mitigation site will occur over the 5-year monitoring
period. Table 3 lists the monitoring schedule for the mitigation sites. Successful mitigation
will be measured by attainment of the performance standards described in this mitigation
plan document. Monitoring and establishment/contingency activities will cease as soon as
all success standards have been attained.
Table 3. Monitoring Schedule.
Monitoring
Year
Formal Informal
1 Yes quarterly site visits
2 No quarterly site visits
3 Yes quarterly site visits
4 No quarterly site visits
5 Yes quarterly site visits
Table 4. Monitoring report recipients.
Permitting Agency or
Organization
Contact Name and Email
WDFW Portia Leigh Portia.Leigh@dfw.wa.gov
City of Yelm Gary Cooper GaryC@Yelm.wa.gov
WSDOT has established a comprehensive set of monitoring methods that are based
primarily on Elzinga et al. (1998). The actual methods used to monitor each site are
documented in annual monitoring reports prepared by WSDOT’s Wetland Assessment and
Monitoring Program, which is based in the Environmental Services Office in Olympia,
Washington. Some variation of the methods occurs as techniques are improved, or
standards change.
6.5. Contingency Plan
WSDOT anticipates the mitigation goals will be accomplished with the construction and
installation of the mitigation design as shown on the grading and planting plans.
Contingency actions, however, may be needed to correct unforeseen problems.
Contingency revisions typically require coordination with the permitting agencies.
Type of Monitoring
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As necessary, contingency measures (such as adaptive management options or revisions
to performance criteria with permitting agency agreement) will be implemented to meet
performance measures and performance standards. The following describes potential
situations that may occur and the potential contingencies that might be implemented to
correct the problem. Because not all site conditions can be anticipated, the contingencies
discussed below do not represent an exhaustive list of potential problems or remedies.
6.5.1 Vegetation
Problems related to vegetation include plant mortality, and poor growth resulting in low
plant cover. These problems could be the result of insufficient site management,
particularly watering in the first few growing seasons, animal browse, competition from
invasive species, incorrect plant selection, altered site conditions, and vandalism.
Contingencies for plant mortality and poor plant cover may include:
Plant replacement – Additional planting may be required to meet plant survival and plant
cover requirements. Plant species will be evaluated in relation to site conditions to
determine if plant substitutions will be required.
Supplemental watering – Temporary watering or irrigation system may be necessary for
initial and on-going establishment.
Weed control – Control of non-native invasive species may be required to meet survival
and plant cover requirements. Weed control methods could include mechanical or hand
control, mulching, or herbicide application.
Herbivore control – If plant survival or vegetation cover standards are not met because
of animal browse, the wildlife responsible will be identified and appropriate control
measures will be attempted. This could include plant protection, fence installation, or
the use of repellents.
Vandalism – To prevent vegetation disturbance from vandalism, fence installation and
sensitive area signage may be installed.
Review and revise performance criteria with permitting agency agreement.
6.6 Site Management and Establishment
WSDOT will manage the mitigation sites annually for 5 years following initial project
acceptance. Site management and establishment activities will include plant replacement,
vegetation management (including noxious weed control) and may include mulching,
fertilizing, supplemental watering, maintenance of access control (fences and gates),
repairing damage from vandals, correcting erosion or sedimentation problems, or litter
pickup. Suppression and control of these invasive plants will require careful site
preparation and active site management. While complete elimination of Scotch Broom and
Himalayan blackberry from the mitigation sites may not be possible, they should be
managed sufficiently to ensure survival of the native planted species until they can
effectively compete.
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Oregon White Oak Mitigation Plan
7. References
City of Yelm. (2024). City of Yelm Municipal Code. Chapter 18.21 Critical Areas and
Resource Lands, Section 18.21.060 Wetlands, and Section 18.21.110 Fish and
Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas.
https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Yelm/html/Yelm18/Yelm1821.html#18.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Planting Native Oak in Pacific
Northwest. February 2010.
Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. (n.d.b). PHS on the Web. Retrieved
April 24, 2024 from https://geodataservices.wdfw.wa.gov/hp/phs/
Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. Best management practices for
mitigating impacts to Oregon White Oak priority habitat. January 2024.
Washington State Department of Transportation. (2018). Wetland Assessment Report
– SR 510/Yelm Loop – New Alignment Phase 2. December 2018.
Washington State Department of Transportation (SCJ Alliance). Vegetation, Fish and
Wildlife Discipline Report: SR 510/Yelm Loop – New Alignment Phase 2.
December 2019.
Washington State Department of Transportation (Parametrix). Supplemental Biological
Assessment – SR510, Yelm Loop – New Alignment Phase 2. 2020.
SR 510 Yelm Loop – New Alignment Phase 2 December 6, 2024
Oregon White Oak Mitigation Plan
Appendix A. Existing Conditions
Appendix A includes the following sub-appendices:
A-1 Existing Conditions – Site 1
A-2 Existing Conditions – Site 2
FILE NAME
TIME
DATE
DESIGNED BY
ENTERED BY
CHECKED BY
PROJ. ENGR.
REGIONAL ADM.REVISION DATE BY
SHEET
OF
SHEETS
Washington State
Department of Transportation
P.E. STAMP BOX P.E. STAMP BOX
DATE DATE
LOCATION NO.CONTRACT NO.
JOB NUMBER
REGION
NO.
STATE FED.AID PROJ.NO.
WASH
PLOTTED BY
PLAN REF NO
PhippsRo
11/26/2024
7:18:18 AM
c:\users\phippsro\pw_wsdot\d0777071\OakExhibitSite1.dgn
10
SCALE IN FEET
0 40 80
LEGEND
WSDOT LIMITED ACCESS
PARCEL BOUNDARY (NOT SURVEYED)
EXISTING FENCE
(10" DBH AND GREATER)
EXISTING OAK TREE
(TREES GREATER THAN 4" DBH)
EXISTING OAK TREE DRIPLINE
TREE ID SPECIES SIZE (DBH)NOTES
STOR
M POND
EXISTING
SR510
EXTENTS OF NUISANCE VEG
(4x4 WOOD POSTS, 50' O.C.)
MANAGEMENT AREA
DELINEATED MARKER FOR
FOR CONSTRUCTION ACCESS
EXISTING GATE
NEW ALIGNMENT PHASE 2
YELM LOOP
EXISTING CONDITIONS - SITE 1
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
S. ROARK
G. AMUNDSEN BARNKOW
SR 510
1
LEGEND
FILE NAME
TIME
DATE
DESIGNED BY
ENTERED BY
CHECKED BY
PROJ. ENGR.
REGIONAL ADM.REVISION DATE BY
SHEET
OF
SHEETS
Washington State
Department of Transportation
P.E. STAMP BOX P.E. STAMP BOX
DATE DATE
LOCATION NO.CONTRACT NO.
JOB NUMBER
REGION
NO.
STATE FED.AID PROJ.NO.
WASH
PLOTTED BY
PLAN REF NO
PhippsRo
11/26/2024
7:36:28 AM
c:\users\phippsro\pw_wsdot\d0777071\OakExhibitSite2.dgn
10
WSDOT LIMITED ACCESS
PARCEL BOUNDARY (NOT SURVEYED)
SR510
EXISTING ASPHALT TRAIL
EXISTING FENCE
TREE ID SPECIES SIZE (DBH)
(10" DBH AND GREATER)
EXISTING OAK TREE
(6" - 10" DBH)
EXISTING OAK TREE
(4" DBH TO SAPLING)
EXISTING OAK TREE
(TREES GREATER THAN 4" DBH)
EXISTING OAK TREE DRIPLINE
(SCOTCH BROOM)
EXTENTS OF NUISANCE VEG STORM PONDEXISTING
SR 510
NEW ALIGNMENT PHASE 2
YELM LOOP LP8
EXISTING CONDITIONS - SITE 2
SCALE IN FEET
0 40 80
NOTES TREE ID SPECIES SIZE (DBH)NOTES
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
S. ROARK
G. AMUNDSEN BARNKOW
CONSTRUCTION ACCESS
X5502
X5503
X5505
X5506
X5507
X5508
X5509
X5600
X5601
X5603
X5604
X5605
X5607
X5608
X5609
X5511 X5512
X5513
X5514
X5515
X5516
X5517
X5518
X5519
X5610 X5611
X5612
X5613
X5616
X5617
X5618
X5520
X5521
X5522
X5523
X5524
X5525
X5526
X5528X5529
X5622
X5623
X5624
X5626
X5627
X5628
X5531
X5532
X5533
X5534
X5535
X5536
X5537
X5538
X5539
X5540
X5541
X5542
X5543
X5544
X5545
X5546
X5547
X5548
X5549
X5550
X5551
X5552
X5553
X5554
X5555 X5556
X5557X5558
X5559
X5560
X5562
X5563
X5564
X5565
X5566
X5567
X5568
X5569
X5570
X5572
X5573
X5575
X5576
X5577
X5579
X5485
X5486
X5487
X5488
X5489
X5580
X5581
X5582
X5583
X5584
X5585
X5586
X5587
X5589
X5490
X5493
X5494
X5496
X5497
X5498
X5590
X5591
X5592
X5593
X5594
X5596
X5597
X5598 X5599
SR 510 Yelm Loop – New Alignment Phase 2 December 6, 2024
Oregon White Oak Mitigation Plan
Appendix B. Site Preparation
Appendix B includes the following sub-appendices:
B-1 Site Preparation Plan – Site 1
B-2 Site Preparation Plan – Site 2
FILE NAME
TIME
DATE
DESIGNED BY
ENTERED BY
CHECKED BY
PROJ. ENGR.
REGIONAL ADM.REVISION DATE BY
SHEET
OF
SHEETS
Washington State
Department of Transportation
P.E. STAMP BOX P.E. STAMP BOX
DATE DATE
LOCATION NO.CONTRACT NO.
JOB NUMBER
REGION
NO.
STATE FED.AID PROJ.NO.
WASH
PLOTTED BY
PLAN REF NO
PhippsRo
11/26/2024
11:35:52 AM
c:\users\phippsro\pw_wsdot\d0152581\XL5607_PS_LS7.dgn
10
SCALE IN FEET
0 40 80
LEGEND
WSDOT LIMITED ACCESS
PARCEL BOUNDARY (NOT SURVEYED)
EXISTING FENCE
(10" DBH AND GREATER)
EXISTING OAK TREE
STOR
M POND
EXISTING
SR510
NEW ALIGNMENT PHASE 2
YELM LOOP
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
S. ROARK
G. AMUNDSEN BARNKOW
SR 510
CONSTRUCTION NOTES
1
2
3
4
3
1
2
1
2
3
LEGEND / SUMMARY OF QUANTITIES
SYMBOL
1
EA 1EXISTING FENCE GATE
(6' LENGTH, 2' BURIED)
4X4 WOOD POST EA 10
PER SPECIAL PROVISIONS
SELECTIVE CLEARING
2
3
#UNIT TOTALITEM
AC 0.53
EXISTING OAK TREE DRIPLINE
POSTS AT 50' O.C. AND STAKED LOCATIONS
INSTALL 4X4 WOOD (NON-TREATED) CEDAR OR DOUG FIR
AND LOCKING THROUGHOUT LIFE OF CONTRACT
EXISTING FENCE GATE - ENSURE PROPER OPERATION
4
5 AS DIRECTED BY ENIGNEER.
ELIMINATE AREAS OF COMPACTION PER SECTION 8-02.3(5)
5
SITE PREPARATION - SITE 1
LP7
EXTEND TREATMENT TO R.O.W. FENCE OR AS DIRECTED.
SEE SPECIAL PROVISIONS.
NO MOTORIZED VEHICLE EQUIPMENT ALLOWED.
SELECTIVE CLEARING AT THE DIRECTION OF ENGINEER.
5 ENGINEER PER STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS 1-07.16(2).
PROTECT EXISTING NATIVE VEGETATION AS DIRECTED BY
LEGEND
FILE NAME
TIME
DATE
DESIGNED BY
ENTERED BY
CHECKED BY
PROJ. ENGR.
REGIONAL ADM.REVISION DATE BY
SHEET
OF
SHEETS
Washington State
Department of Transportation
P.E. STAMP BOX P.E. STAMP BOX
DATE DATE
LOCATION NO.CONTRACT NO.
JOB NUMBER
REGION
NO.
STATE FED.AID PROJ.NO.
WASH
PLOTTED BY
PLAN REF NO
PhippsRo
11/26/2024
11:36:16 AM
c:\users\phippsro\pw_wsdot\d0152581\XL5607_PS_LS8.dgn
10
WSDOT LIMITED ACCESS
PARCEL BOUNDARY (NOT SURVEYED)
SR510 EXISTING ASPHALT TRAIL
EXISTING FENCE
(10" DBH AND GREATER)
EXISTING OAK TREE
(6" - 10" DBH)
EXISTING OAK TREE
(4" DBH TO SAPLING)
EXISTING OAK TREE
(TREES GREATER THAN 4" DBH)
EXISTING OAK TREE DRIPLINE STORM PONDEXISTING
SR 510
NEW ALIGNMENT PHASE 2
YELM LOOP LP8
SCALE IN FEET
0 40 80
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
S. ROARK
G. AMUNDSON BARNKOW
CONSTRUCTION NOTES
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
LEGEND / SUMMARY OF QUANTITIES
SYMBOL
EA 1
LF 10
PER SPECIAL PROVISIONS
SELECTIVE CLEARING
#UNIT TOTALITEM
AC 0.53
(MATCH EXTG FENCE)
CHAIN LINK FENCE GATE
EXISTING FENCING TYPE AND STYLE.
INSTALL NEW CHAIN LINK FENCE GATE. MATCH
1
1
3 4
3
ENGINEER PER STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS 1-07.16(2).
PROTECT EXISTING NATIVE VEGETATION AS DIRECTED BY
SEE SPECIAL PROVISIONS.
MOTORIZED VEHICLE EQUIPMENT ALLOWED.
SELECTIVE CLEARING AT THE DIRECTION OF ENGINEER. NO
EXTEND TREATMENT TO R.O.W. FENCE OR AS DIRECTED.
5
INSTALL HI-VIS CONSTRUCTION FENCING.
2
2
5 TYPICAL
TYPICAL 5
FENCING
HI-VIS CONSTRUCTION
SITE PREPATION - SITE 2
SR 510 Yelm Loop – New Alignment Phase 2 December 6, 2024
Oregon White Oak Mitigation Plan
Appendix C. Site Preparation
Appendix C includes the following sub-appendices:
C-1 Planting Plan – Site 1
C-2 Planting Plan – Site 2
FILE NAME
TIME
DATE
DESIGNED BY
ENTERED BY
CHECKED BY
PROJ. ENGR.
REGIONAL ADM.REVISION DATE BY
SHEET
OF
SHEETS
Washington State
Department of Transportation
P.E. STAMP BOX P.E. STAMP BOX
DATE DATE
LOCATION NO.CONTRACT NO.
JOB NUMBER
REGION
NO.
STATE FED.AID PROJ.NO.
WASH
PLOTTED BY
PLAN REF NO
PhippsRo
11/26/2024
11:38:37 AM
c:\users\phippsro\pw_wsdot\d0152581\XL5607_PS_LS9.dgn
10
SCALE IN FEET
0 40 80
STOR
M POND
EXISTING
SR510
NEW ALIGNMENT PHASE 2
YELM LOOP
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
S. ROARK
G. AMUNDSEN BARNKOW
SR 510
1
NOT TO SCALE
PLACED WITHIN 2" OF SURFACE)
OAK ACORNS (THREE PER HOLE
OAK ACORN PLANTING HOLES
150
OAKS
PLACE APPROX. 8' O.C. AND WHERE STAKED
THIS SHEET. THREE ACORNS PER HOLE.
TOTAL PLANTING HOLE QUANTITY
PLANTING PLAN - SITE 1
D
E
P
T
H
12
I
N
C
H
COMPACT.
BACKFILL MATERIAL. DO NOT
ACORNS WITHIN 2" OF TOP OF
COMPOST SOIL BLEND. PLACE
CIRCLE. BACK FILL WITH AMENDED
NATIVE SOIL IN A ONE FOOT WIDE
EXCAVATE AND LOOSEN EXISTING
ACORNS
WIDE. PULL BARK MULCH AWAY FROM
2"-3" DEPTH OF BARK MULCH, 2 FEET
2 FEET BARK MULCH RING
LEGEND
WSDOT LIMITED ACCESS
PARCEL BOUNDARY (NOT SURVEYED)
EXISTING FENCE
EXISTING OAK TREE
FILE NAME
TIME
DATE
DESIGNED BY
ENTERED BY
CHECKED BY
PROJ. ENGR.
REGIONAL ADM.REVISION DATE BY
SHEET
OF
SHEETS
Washington State
Department of Transportation
P.E. STAMP BOX P.E. STAMP BOX
DATE DATE
LOCATION NO.CONTRACT NO.
JOB NUMBER
REGION
NO.
STATE FED.AID PROJ.NO.
WASH
PLOTTED BY
PLAN REF NO
PhippsRo
11/26/2024
11:38:58 AM
c:\users\phippsro\pw_wsdot\d0152581\XL5607_PS_LS10.dgn
10
SR510 EXISTING ASPHALT TRAILSTORM PONDEXISTING
SR 510
NEW ALIGNMENT PHASE 2
YELM LOOP LP8
SCALE IN FEET
0 40 80
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
R. PHIPPS
S. ROARK
G. AMUNDSON BARNKOW
NOT TO SCALE
PLACED WITHIN 2" OF SURFACE)
OAK ACORNS (THREE PER HOLE
OAK ACORN PLANTING HOLES
D
E
P
T
H
12
I
N
C
H
COMPACT.
BACKFILL MATERIAL. DO NOT
ACORNS WITHIN 2" OF TOP OF
COMPOST SOIL BLEND. PLACE
CIRCLE. BACK FILL WITH AMENDED
NATIVE SOIL IN A ONE FOOT WIDE
EXCAVATE AND LOOSEN EXISTING
ACORNS
WIDE. PULL BARK MULCH AWAY FROM
2"-3" DEPTH OF BARK MULCH, 2 FEET
2 FEET BARK MULCH RING
50
OAKS
PLACE APPROX. 8' O.C. AND WHERE STAKED
THIS SHEET. THREE ACORNS PER HOLE.
TOTAL PLANTING HOLE QUANTITY
50
OAKS
PLACE APPROX. 8' O.C. AND WHERE STAKED
THIS SHEET. THREE ACORNS PER HOLE.
TOTAL PLANTING HOLE QUANTITY
LEGEND
WSDOT LIMITED ACCESS
PARCEL BOUNDARY (NOT SURVEYED)
EXISTING FENCE
EXISTING OAK TREE
PLANTING PLAN - SITE 2