Lake Whatcom Management Program
2010 Annual Progress Report
Prepared by the Lake Whatcom
Interjurisdictional Coordinating Team
March, 2011
Table of Contents
Introduction ... 4
Reading the Header Table ... 5
Reading the Task Sheet ... 6
Program Area: 1. Land Preservation ... 8
Task: 1.1 Acquire easements or titles to watershed properties ... 9
Task: 1.2 Create Conservation Easements for Preserves ... 10
Task: 1.3 Manage Acquisition Program properties ... 11
Program Area: 2. Stormwater Management ... 12
Task: 2.1 Identify and prioritize stormwater projects utilizing models ... 13
Task: 2.2 Improve phosphorus removal in stormwater facilities ... 14
Task: 2.3 Implement comprehensive stormwater plans ... 15
Task: 2.4 Conduct Inspections and Assessments ... 16
Task: 2.5 Coordinate NPDES Phase II Implementation ... 17
Task: 2.6 Restore Stream Riparian Areas ... 18
Program Area: 3. Urbanization & Land Development ... 20
Task: 3.1 Maintain and improve permit tracking system ... 21
Task: 3.2 Maintain joint development review process ... 22
Task: 3.3 Continue to assess the effectiveness of regulations ... 23
Program Area: 4. Community Outreach ... 24
Task: 4.1 Improve outreach and participation strategies through staff collaboration ... 25
Task: 4.2 Educate and engage watershed residents and visitors ... 26
Task: 4.3 Reduce pollution from animal waste ... 27
Task: 4.4 Reduce pollution from vehicle washing and maintenance practices ... 28
Task: 4.5 Reduce pollution associated with landscape practices ... 29
Task: 4.6 Continue Residential Stormwater Retrofit Program ... 30
Task: 4.7 Continue Water Conservation Outreach ... 31
Task: 4.8 Report Toxic Algal Blooms ... 32
Program Area: 5. Data Management & Information ... 34
Task: 5.1 Continue Lake Whatcom water quality monitoring ... 35
Task: 5.2 Update tributary loading models ... 36
Task: 5.3 Review and summarize monitoring studies and reports... 37
Task: 5.4 Maintain and update Data Catalog ... 38
Task: 5.5 Establish new monitoring programs ... 39
Program Area: 6. Spill Response & Hazardous Materials ... 40
Task: 6.1 Amend local Emergency Operations Plans ... 41
Task: 6.2 Coordinate spill response reporting among all jurisdictions ... 42
Task: 6.3 Conduct hazardous waste collection events ... 43
Program Area: 7. Forestry/Fish/Wildlife ... 44
Task: 7.1 Review IJC reports of DNR activities ... 45
Task: 7.2 Enforce water quality assurances ... 46
Program Area: 8. Transportation ... 48
Task: 8.1 Improve transportation planning ... 49
Task: 8.2 Reduce vehicle mile trips (VMT) in watershed ... 50
Program Area: 9. Recreation ... 52
Task: 9.1 Prevent aquatic invasive species infestations ... 53
Task: 9.2 Design recreational opportunities to protect water quality ... 54
Program Area: 10. Utilities & Waste Management ... 56
Task: 10.1 Continue OSS contract with County Health Department ... 57
Task: 10.2 Promote water conservation ... 58
Task: 10.3 Protect lake from wastewater pollution ... 59
Program Area: 11. Administration ... 60
Task: 11.1 Staff the ICT, Management Committee, and Joint Council meetings ... 61
Task: 11.2 Establish funding needs and strategy ... 62
Task: 11.3 Coordinate Program Area committees ... 63
Task: 11.4 Maintain contact with regulatory agencies ... 64
Task: 11.5 Oversee contracts and work products ... 65
Task: 11.6 Integrate Lake Whatcom Management Program goals into Comp Plans ... 66
Program Area: 12. Enforcement ... 68
Task: 12.1 Improve enforcement capabilities ... 69
Task: 12.2 Improve reporting of enforcement actions ... 70
Appendices ... 72
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In tr o d u ct io n
Introduction
In 2010 the Whatcom County Council, Bellingham City Council and Lake Whatcom Water & Sewer District Commission approved the 2010‐2014 Lake Whatcom Work Plan. This plan follows two previous five‐year work plans and encompasses 12 separate Program Areas. Each year a report on the status of Work Plan accomplishments is compiled by staff for council and public review. This report is for 2010, the first year of the third five‐year Lake Whatcom Work Plan. Although each five‐ year work plan is unique, they are all guided by the original Lake Whatcom Management Program strategies and goals that were adopted in 1992 by the City of Bellingham, Whatcom County and the Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District (formerly Water District 10).
This report provides a summary of actions implemented in 2010 by Whatcom County, the City of Bellingham, the Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District (LWWSD), and community partners, notably the Sudden Valley Community Association. As with the 2010‐2014 Lake Whatcom Work Plan, this report is organized around the Program Areas that have provided structure to all previous management program documents. Each Program Area section begins with a brief introduction and summary followed by information on each task included in that Program Area. Task information includes the objective of the task, a summary of 2010 accomplishments and performance measures, cost estimates, and any expected lake benefits. Some tasks have a direct benefit to the lake, such as treating stormwater and increasing infiltration, while other tasks have less direct benefits, such as education and administration. These benefits are represented under each task, and are marked as either reductions in phosphorus, fecal coliform or sediment, or as behavior changes. If the task provides a different benefit, it is outlined in the space provided. When the benefits are quantifiable, those numbers are provided either in the accomplishments and/or status summary sections.
Evaluating and reporting of the Work Plan continues to be a work in progress. Staff found certain tasks and performance measures more conducive to reporting out on than others. For example some tasks can be measured quantitatively, while others require narrative and still others simply provide little indication of performance or progress (even if progress was made). Therefore, for effectiveness and accuracy of reporting as well as for ease of reading and avoiding repetition, we have grouped accomplishments and select performance measures together under each task. An appendix listing all performance measures as well as their corresponding measure/action is included at the end of the report. In future progress reports and work plans these performance measures may be refined to increase clarity and better encompass our reporting needs.
Note that the approved 2010‐2014 Lake Whatcom Work Plan is a five‐year plan and while all tasks are included in this report, not all have yet been undertaken. Similarly, several actions are reactive, such as reporting and responding to harmful algal blooms or spills. Fortunately neither of these events occurred in 2010, but monitoring and preparing for such events continues.
In addition to implementing Lake Whatcom Work Plan tasks in 2011, the Lake Whatcom Management Program will also be placing additional emphasis on two new efforts: 1) the introduction of an aquatic invasive species action plan to prevent further infestations by destructive non‐native plant and animal species, and 2) a cost‐benefit analysis of a selection of 2010‐2014 Lake Whatcom Work Plan tasks. Both of these efforts will inform and direct future resource allocations.
The Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) water quality improvement plan for the lake will move ahead this year (2011) and may lead to refinement of the 2010‐2014 Lake Whatcom Work Plan as well as determine the focus of future work plans. The TMDL process highlights the long‐term
Period: This column refers to the time period in which the task was/is being implemented. This entry includes the year the task started and the expected duration. For example, the period 2010‐2014 indicates that the task is first being implemented in 2010 and is expected to continue until 2014. 2010 or any other single year indicates the task will be completed in one year.
Responsible Party: This column refers to the party or parties responsible for implementing the task.
Cost Estimate: This column gives an estimated cost for the implementation of the task during the period indicated. When applicable this estimate will be a combined amount for staff, capital and other costs for all participating parties. Details are broken out in the Cost Estimates Table.
Status: This column refers to the status of the task which is indicated by the following:
‐ Active indicates the task is funded and will be implemented.
‐ Hold indicates the task is on hold due to staff and/or funding constraints .
P Reduction: This column is used to indicate 1) whether this task is expected to result in a reduction in phosphorus loading, and 2) if there is an expected reduction, will it be a) Indirect, meaning that the phosphorus reduction will occur as a result of the impact this task will have on other actions, e.g. education program influence on stewardship activities, or b) Direct, meaning that this task is expected to directly result in a reduction in phosphorus loading, e.g. retrofitting a stormwater facility.
Reading the Header Table
Reading the Header Table
Program Area: 1. Land Preservation
Program Area: 1. Land Preservation
Task: 1.3 Manage Acquisition Program properties
Task: 1.3 Manage Acquisition Program properties
Period
Period Responsible Party Responsible Party Cost Estimate Cost Estimate Status Status P Reduction P Reduction 2010
2010‐2014 2011‐2012
City County
SVCA District WSU Extension Education Team
Data Team
$20,000
Active Hold
Indirect Direct
Header Table Descriptions:
Quick Reference: Program Area and Task Number
Quick Reference: Key information for each task is found in the Header Table (left) at the top of each task sheet.
Quick Reference: Detailed descriptions of all Header Table entries can be found here
Reading the Task Sheet
Here is an example of the Header Table from the previous page
The reference task number and name can be found here
A detailed Task Objective can be found in this section
A list of Accomplishments and Performance
Measures can be found here. Performance Measures indicate how progress toward completing the task objective is being measured. A more detailed Performance Measures report is included as an appendix.
Boxes in this section are checked to indicate specific benefits the lake may have received as a result of this task. If Other is checked, a description will follow below.
The Cost Estimates section gives an estimate of the resources and funding used to implement the task in 2010. Cost estimates are divided into Full Time Equivalents (1.0 FTE = $100k), Capital Costs ($), Other Costs ($), and Total Costs ($) for the respective jurisdictions. Undetermined is used to indicate when no resource/funding information is currently available. Status Summary gives
a brief summary of steps taken in 2010 to meet the above task objective.
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1 . L an d P re se rv at io n
Program Area: 1. Land Preservation
Goal:
Land preservation strategies help preserve or rehabilitate natural areas for the benefit of protecting water quality. The Land Preservation Program Area aims to reduce water quality impacts to Lake Whatcom by preserving land within the watershed that might otherwise be made available for development. Land preservation strategies that have been used in the Lake Whatcom watershed include: acquisition, conservation easements, transfer of development rights, purchase of development rights, lot consolidation, and other incentive programs.
2010 Summary:
The Lake Whatcom Property Acquisition Program purchased five new properties in 2010, protecting 77.2 acres and reducing development potential by 24 lots. In addition, 17.2 acres were protected with easements, further reducing development potential by 3 lots. These new additions bring the program total to 1,554 acres protected with 728 lots removed from development. All properties are inspected at least annually, with about 75% inspected quarterly. Management plans are available for each property.
Progress continues on the DNR‐ Whatcom County reconveyance of approximately 8,000 acres of forest board trust land. The reconveyance is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2011.
Reference Documents:
Goals and policy of the Land Preservation Program Area can be viewed at:
http://www.lakewhatcom.whatcomcounty.org/UserFiles/File/allWatershed%20Ownership.pdf
Lake Whatcom Property Acquisition Program
http://www.cob.org/services/environment/lake‐whatcom/lw‐property‐acquisition‐program.aspx Pursue public ownership and protection of the watershed whenever possible through public/private partnerships, tax exemptions, transfer of development rights, land trusts, and other means.
Program Area: 1. Land Preservation
Task: 1.1 Acquire easements or titles to watershed properties
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County $2.85 million Active Indirect
Task Objective
Reduce the potential number of development units in the watershed through the acquisition of easements or titles to watershed properties
Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• In 2010 the City purchased an additional 77.2 acres through the Property Acquisition Program for a total cost of $2,618,500. 2010 purchases reduced development potential in the watershed by 24 units.
• City has created an extensive interactive public website on the Property Acquisition Program: http://www.cob.org/services/environment/lake‐whatcom/lw‐property‐acquisition‐program.aspx
• County continues to work with DNR to transfer or reconvey over 8,000 acres of watershed forest to the County for park use. The project is currently in the late stages of the inter‐grant process. Timber and land appraisals have been completed and the individual trust parcels are now being evaluated and grouped. Once approved by the trusts and the Council, the action will be scheduled for approval by the DNR Board. Closing date for the reconveyance is on target for late 2011.
• Sudden Valley assessed 99 of its vacant SVCA‐owned properties and ranked them in terms of development potential and natural features. In 2011, SVCA will review the lots with the least development potential of the 99 lots and assess their potential to be converted to green spaces. Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Reduction in potential development will reduce other pollutants associated with urbanized land use.
Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.5 ($50,000) $2.61 million $2.66 million
County 0.25 ($25,000) $150,000 $175,000
District/Other 0.12 (SVCA) ($12,000) $12,000
Total 0.87 ($87,000) $2.76 million $2.85 million
Status Summary 2010
• City and County have continued to purchase property to reduce development and improve natural functions of properties in the watershed
• City purchased an additional 77.2 acres in 2010 and County continued process of finalizing Lake Whatcom reconveyance project
• SVCA assessed the potential for converting some of its vacant SVCA‐owned properties to green spaces.
Program Area: 1. Land Preservation
Task: 1.2 Create Conservation Easements for Preserves
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City $22,000 Active Indirect
Task Objective
Create Conservation Easements (CEs) for Preserves Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• City negotiated a Conservation Easement with the Whatcom Land Trust for the Watts Family Preserve, a property purchased in 2010
• Watts Conservation Easement resulted in the protection of 17.2 acres and 3 units of reduced development potential
• Separate Conservation Easements over the years have resulted in the protection of 164 acres and 116 units of reduced development potential
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Reduction in potential development will reduce other pollutants associated with urbanized land use.
Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.02 ($2,000) $20,000 $22,000
County
District/Other
Total 0.02 ($2,000) $20,000 $22,000
Status Summary 2010
• In 2010, City created new Conservation Easement that protected an additional 17.2 acres.
• Total number of acres protected in Conservation Easements now stands at 164 acres and 116 units of reduced development potential.
Program Area: 1. Land Preservation
Task: 1.3 Manage Acquisition Program properties
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County $505,000 Active Indirect
Task Objective
Protect the watershed by managing Acquisition Program properties Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• City inventoried and created management plans for new acquisitions
• County and City implement management plans for all properties
• City and County conducted periodic inspections, invasives control, planting, trail construction, encroachment response and other tasks as needed
• All Acquisition Program properties are inspected on an annual basis (about 75% on a quarterly basis)
• In 2010, 45 upland acres were restored and 200 linear feet of streams were restored Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 1.0 ($100,000) $30,000 $130,000
County 1.0 ($100,000) $225,000 $50,000 $375,000
District/Other
Total 2.0 ($200,000) $225,000 $80,000 $505,000
Status Summary 2010
• County and City continue to inventory and create management plans for all new acquisitions.
• In 2010, City and County implemented management plans for all properties and conducted periodic inspections, invasives control, planting, trail construction, encroachment response and other tasks as needed.
2 . St o rm w at e r M an ag e m e n t
Program Area: 2. Stormwater Management
Goal:
The Stormwater Management Program Area aims to prevent water quality and quantity impacts associated with stormwater runoff. This program area focuses on the implementation of options for stormwater control including best management practices and standards, capital projects, pollutant source control and treatment, and the evaluation of stormwater control options that can be applied to both existing and new development in the watershed.
2010 Summary
Treating stormwater entering Lake Whatcom continued to be a priority for both the City and the County, with each agency completing projects in 2010 and beginning work on several others. In accordance with the five‐year work plan, daily inspections of stormwater facilities were conducted by each agency. Additionally, both agencies began testing new systems for phosphorus removal; results will be available in 2011.
The County completed construction of the Lahti Drive/Britton Road bio‐infiltration swale which is expected to result in 31 acres of runoff being treated. The project will officially go online in 2011. Also completed was the design plan for water quality and stream stabilization improvements in the upper Silver Beach Creek to reduce erosion and phosphorus loading from Brownsville Drive up to E. 16th Place.
The City completed work on the reconstruction of Barkley/Britton wet pond as well as on a new stormwater treatment facility on Flynn St. In total, City models show phosphorus removal efficiency improvements of 14%, removing a total of 109 lbs of phosphorus (up from 96lbs in 2009). The City has also had conversations with private property owners regarding restoration of riparian areas along Silver Beach Creek.
Sudden Valley continued to require and inspect on‐site infiltration systems and conducted regular erosion control inspections for new construction projects and additions. Sudden Valley staff completed 13 inspections for permitted new construction in 2010.
Reference Documents:
City of Bellingham 2007 Comprehensive Stormwater Plan
http://www.cob.org/documents/pw/storm/2007‐stormwater‐comp‐plan.pdf City 1990 Watershed Stormwater Ordinance 10023
City 1995 Stormwater Ordinance 10633
City 2006 Ordinance 2006‐05‐047 (Amendment to BMC 15, 16, 15.40, 15.42) City 2009 Ordinance 2009‐06‐041 (Amendment to BMC 15.42 Stormwater Code) Whatcom County 2008 Lake Whatcom Comprehensive Stormwater Plan (LWCSWMP) http://www.whatcomcounty.us/publicworks/water/compstormwaterplan.jsp
Prevent water quality and quantity impacts due to stormwater runoff by
implementation of best management standards and practices, pollutant source
control, and construction, maintenance and retrofit of stormwater facilities.
Program Area: 2. Stormwater Management
Task: 2.1 Identify and prioritize stormwater projects utilizing models
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County $110,000 Active Indirect
Task Objective
Prioritize nutrient reduction projects in the watershed using sub‐watershed scale pollutant loading models Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• County staff identified suitable sites for stormwater projects in the watershed.
• County hired a consultant to inspect and evaluate stormwater treatment facilities in the upper Silver Beach Creek watershed. Consultant is preparing pre‐design reports for the retrofitting and will provide County with final report in 2011
• Original plan for this task involved contracting with a consultant to prioritize nutrient reduction projects in watershed using sub‐watershed scale pollutant loading models. Contract was not approved by County and City Councils due to budget constraints
• City is using a simplistic GIS spatial model to track phosphorus removal within City portion of watershed. Model is complete and will be used for annual phosphorus load reduction tracking
• City conducted an infiltration study of soils in the City portion of watershed to determine best sites for infiltration. Study showed infiltration is low to non‐existent in most of the City’s portion of watershed
• City applied for and received the Homeowner Incentive Program (HIP) grant from Ecology for homeowner infiltration and stormwater retrofit projects. Grant funds can also be used for County properties in the Silver Beach Creek watershed
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Remove pollutants e.g. oil, grease and metals Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.15 ($15,000) $55,000 $70,000
County 0.1 ($10,000) $30,000 $40,000
District/Other
Total 0.25 ($25,000) $30,000 $55,000 $110,000
Status Summary 2010
• City has created a simplistic loading and treatment effectiveness model for use in the City portion of the watershed and will expand this model into the County.
• City conducted infiltration study of soils in City portion of watershed that will be expanded into the County.
• City prioritized stormwater retrofit projects on single family properties and is carrying out projects through Homeowner Incentive Program (HIP) grant from Ecology. Grant also applies to County properties in Silver Beach Creek Watershed.
• County inspected and evaluated stormwater treatment facilities in the upper Silver Beach Creek watershed.
Program Area: 2. Stormwater Management
Task: 2.2 Improve phosphorus removal in stormwater facilities
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County $245,000 Active Direct
Task Objective
Improve phosphorus removal in stormwater facilities Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• County and City inspected and maintained all stormwater facilities in 2010
• County plans to retrofit private stormwater ponds in Silver Beach Creek Watershed in 2012
• City’s model calculated stormwater facilities removed 109.4 lbs of phosphorus in 2010. Three projects and one vault contributed to an additional 13.4 lbs of phosphorus being removed in 2010 from 2009 (96.1 lbs)
• City began testing Imbrium Systems phosphorus removal media. No results to date. Original test data indicate a 50‐75% reduction in dissolved phosphorus
• County began testing of PhosphoSorb media, and have validated 12 of 16 required sampling events. Testing to date indicate a 50‐60% reduction in phosphorus
• City reconstructed Barkley/Britton wet pond to a rock/plant filter design (similar to site at WWU). Testing to begin in 2011
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Remove pollutants e.g. oil, grease and metals Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.3 ($30,000) $185,000 $215,000
County 0.2 ($20,000) $10,000 $30,000
District/Other
Total 0.5 ($50,000) $185,000 $10,000 $245,000
Status Summary 2010:
• City and County inspected and maintained all stormwater facilities in 2010.
• City recorded phosphorus removal efficiency improvements of 13.4 lbs between 2009‐2010 (+14%).
• County and City tested new phosphorus removal media (Imbrium Systems and PhosphoSorb) for improving phosphorus removal in stormwater facilities.
• City completed reconstruction of Barkley/Britton wet pond.
Program Area: 2. Stormwater Management
Task: 2.3 Implement comprehensive stormwater plans
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County $885,000 Active Direct
Task Objective
Implement existing comprehensive stormwater plans for phosphorus control Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
Public Property Actions:
• County completed design plan for water quality and stream stabilization improvements in upper Silver Beach Creek to reduce erosion and phosphorus loading from Brownsville Drive to E. 16th Place
• County began design phase for water quality and stream stabilization improvements in upper Silver Beach Creek to reduce erosion and phosphorus loading from E. 16th Place to the crest of Toad Lake Road
• County completed construction of Lahti Drive/Britton Road bio‐infiltration swale (31.08 acres of high density residential runoff will be treated)
• City completed Flynn Street pilot project which included increasing vegetated cover in the area to hold and capture phosphorus (including additional piping and treatment facility)
• City staff are exploring ditch retrofits as part of Homeowner Incentive Program (HIP) Grant (2011). First phase will be installation of non‐erosive check dams to try to increase infiltration in ditch lines
Private Property Actions:
• City prioritized infiltration project techniques and locations based on the outcome of soil studies
• City piloted infiltration projects and stormwater retrofits through Homeowner Incentive Program (HIP) Grant by providing technical assistance and financial incentives to property owners
• City established design standards for types of infiltration techniques and a homeowner’s handbook with descriptions and illustrations for each
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.2 ($20,000) $75,000 $95,000
County 0.4 ($40,000) $750,000 $790,000
District/Other
Total 0.6 ($60,000) $825,000 $885,000
Status Summary 2010
• County and City completed construction of capital projects to improve phosphorus control including: Lahti Dr/Britton Rd Bioswale (County) and the Flynn Street pilot project (City).
• County completed design for water quality and stream stabilization improvements in upper Silver Beach Creek area.
• City began piloting infiltration and stormwater retrofit projects through the Homeowner Incentive Program (HIP) Grant.
Program Area: 2. Stormwater Management
Task: 2.4 Conduct Inspections and Assessments
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County/SVCA $210,000 Active Indirect
Task Objective
Conduct daily stormwater inspections of active development projects and conduct regular site assessments throughout the watershed
Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• County continued year‐round daily inspections of development projects in the watershed
• City continued to provide daily inspections during construction window and twice weekly inspections outside of window
• City and County conducted routine surveillance for non‐permitted actions in watershed in coordination with Lake Whatcom permit inspection program
• Sudden Valley (SVCA) continued to require and inspect on‐site infiltration systems and conducted regular erosion control inspections for new construction projects and additions (Completed 13 inspections for permitted new construction in 2010)
• SVCA continued to conduct on‐site assessments for property owners planning property modifications and provide one‐on‐one education about existing on‐site retention systems
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe:
Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.7 ($70,000) $70,000
County 1.0 ($100,000) $100,000
District/Other 0.4 (SVCA) ($40,000) $40,000
Total 2.1 ($210,000) $210,000
Status Summary 2010
• City/County/SVCA continued routine inspections of development projects and surveillance in the watershed for non‐permitted actions.
• SVCA continued their on‐site assessments and provided one‐on‐one education for property owners which was found to be very effective. Staff helped curtail non‐compliant behavior and provided pro‐active planning on upcoming projects.
Program Area: 2. Stormwater Management
Task: 2.5 Coordinate NPDES Phase II Implementation
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County $100,000 Active Indirect
Task Objective
Coordination and implementation of NPDES Phase II stormwater requirements will demonstrate the ability to positively influence water quality to conform with TMDL and NPDES permit requirements
Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• City and County continue to share resources for the Silver Beach Creek Pilot Project (SBCP)
o HIP grant applied for and administered by City will also be available to County residents in Silver Beach Creek Watershed
o County and City staff both involved in Silver Beach Creek watershed community meetings
• County and City adopted required NPDES resolutions and ordinances (City pre‐2010 and County in 2010)
• Continued to coordinate NPDES required programs: Illicit Discharge Detection, Construction Site Controls, Permanent Water Quality Facilities, Public Outreach, and Public Education
• Performed required public outreach activities and trained staff for required duties to meet requirements: o Sustainable Landscaping Class (Phase II Public Education and Outreach) – targeted to both County
and City residents
o Homeowner Incentive Program (HIP) – targeting both City and County residents o Silver Beach Creek watershed community meetings (NPDES Phase II)
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Remove pollutants e.g. oil, grease and metals Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.5 ($50,000) $50,000
County 0.5 ($50,000) $50,000
District/Other
Total 1.0 ($100,000) $100,000
Status Summary 2010
• City and County continued to coordinate and implement NPDES Phase II stormwater requirements in 2010 including: sharing resources for the Silver Beach Creek Pilot Project, adopting relevant resolutions and ordinances, coordinating required programs, and performing required public outreach activities.
Program Area: 2. Stormwater Management
Task: 2.6 Restore Stream Riparian Areas
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County $20,000 Active Direct
Task Objective
Stabilize and re‐vegetate stream riparian areas to decrease sedimentation sources from eroding stream banks and poorly vegetated stream areas. Include instream features when appropriate.
Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• County and City have identified suitable sites for restoration of privately owned stream segments
• City has held discussions with property owners to provide access to creek for riparian restoration ‐ For City, private property owner is the lead in bringing other homeowners into the program
• County has identified suitable sites along pre‐determined project areas in the Silver Beach Creek
watershed for restoration of privately owned stream segments ‐ will pursue use of HIP grant funding for private property projects in areas previously identified
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Remove pollutants e.g. oil, grease and metals Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.1 ($10,000) $10,000
County 0.1 ($10,000) $10,000
District/Other
Total 0.2 ($20,000) $20,000
Status Summary 2010
• City and County have identified suitable sites for stabilization and re‐vegetating projects in stream riparian areas to decrease sedimentation sources from eroding stream banks and poorly vegetated stream areas.
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3 . U rb an iz at io n & L an d D e ve lo p m e n t
Program Area: 3. Urbanization & Land Development
Program Area: 3. Urbanization & Land Development
Goal:
Goal:
The Urbanization and Land Development Program Area aims to reduce water quality impacts resulting from residential and land use development activities. As areas are developed, land cover is often converted into less pervious surfaces that result in increased stormwater runoff going into the lake. The focus of this program area is to identify and adopt code changes that will result in reduced water quality impacts from residential uses. Another focus of this program area has been the improvement of data sharing between jurisdictions and the joint review of significant projects. The Urbanization and Land Development Program Area aims to reduce water quality impacts resulting from residential and land use development activities. As areas are developed, land cover is often converted into less pervious surfaces that result in increased stormwater runoff going into the lake. The focus of this program area is to identify and adopt code changes that will result in reduced water quality impacts from residential uses. Another focus of this program area has been the improvement of data sharing between jurisdictions and the joint review of significant projects.
2010 Summary:
2010 Summary:
Staff from the City and County continued coordinating actions in 2010. Included in this is the joint reviews of 3 SEPA determinations, resulting in improved phosphorus controls and from proposed development. Sudden Valley Community Association (SVCA) also worked with the County and City during a SEPA determination of the Austin Creek bank stabilization project.
Staff from the City and County continued coordinating actions in 2010. Included in this is the joint reviews of 3 SEPA determinations, resulting in improved phosphorus controls and from proposed development. Sudden Valley Community Association (SVCA) also worked with the County and City during a SEPA determination of the Austin Creek bank stabilization project.
In 2010 City staff revisited the code changes made in 2009 to the Lake Whatcom Reservoir Regulatory Chapter and identified both areas needing revision and areas that are working well. Six properties are regulated under the new code; 0.59 acres of NVPA (Native Vegetation Protected Areas) have been created, 4,000 sq ft of new impervious surface is now infiltrated, and 13,500 sq ft of new impervious surface is filtered using BMPs.
In 2010 City staff revisited the code changes made in 2009 to the Lake Whatcom Reservoir Regulatory Chapter and identified both areas needing revision and areas that are working well. Six properties are regulated under the new code; 0.59 acres of NVPA (Native Vegetation Protected Areas) have been created, 4,000 sq ft of new impervious surface is now infiltrated, and 13,500 sq ft of new impervious surface is filtered using BMPs.
Whatcom County continues to develop a Low Impact Development Program incorporating code amendments, permit process modifications, a technical assistance manual, and public education and outreach to accomplish TMDL and Phase II requirements (2010) . This is an on‐going process, and will be based on the outcomes of the Silver Beach Creek Pilot Project.
Whatcom County continues to develop a Low Impact Development Program incorporating code amendments, permit process modifications, a technical assistance manual, and public education and outreach to accomplish TMDL and Phase II requirements (2010) . This is an on‐going process, and will be based on the outcomes of the Silver Beach Creek Pilot Project.
SVCA completed over 20 major regulation and policy revisions in 2010. Included in this is implementing a 6‐month timeline on all exterior alteration projects to better control construction activity; modified erosion control methods to meet current BMPs; providing recommendations for dog waste reduction, and fertilizer/pesticide use; and others.
SVCA completed over 20 major regulation and policy revisions in 2010. Included in this is implementing a 6‐month timeline on all exterior alteration projects to better control construction activity; modified erosion control methods to meet current BMPs; providing recommendations for dog waste reduction, and fertilizer/pesticide use; and others.
Reference Documents:
Reference Documents:
Bellingham Municipal Code (BMC)
Bellingham Municipal Code (BMC) 16.80 (Lake Whatcom Reservoir Regulatory Chapter), 15.42 (Stormwater Regulations), 16.55 (Critical Areas Ordinance), Title 22 (Shoreline Master Program) Whatcom County Code (WCC) 20.80.735, 16.16 (Critical Areas Ordinance), Title 23 (Shoreline Management Program)
Prevent water quality degradation associated with urban development through
zoning changes, development standards and density limits.
Program Area: 3. Urbanization & Land Development
Task: 3.1 Maintain and improve permit tracking system
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 ‐ 2014 City/County/District $12,000 Active Indirect
Task Objective
Improve the system for tracking building and development activities in the watershed and make accessible to City, County, and District
Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• City and County continued to use Tidemark to track permit activity in the watershed and share data between jurisdictions
• City continues to have the ability to develop data summaries based on needs and requests
• City tracked progress achieved by phosphorus limiting facilities and practices on private and public properties
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Track activities to identify trends that can be addressed through new policies or regulations
Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.02 ($2,000) $2,000
County 0.1 ($10,000) $10,000
District/Other
Total 0.12 ($12,000) $12,000
Status Summary 2010
• Improved the system for tracking building and development activities in the watershed and made data accessible to all jurisdictions.
• Monthly updates are made to permit and development data using Tidemark.
• Data summaries are available upon request.
• City tracked progress achieved by phosphorus limiting facilities and practices using Tidemark.
Program Area: 3. Urbanization & Land Development
Task: 3.2 Maintain joint development review process
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 – 2014 City/County/SVCA $3,000 Active/Hold Indirect
Task Objective
Maintain the City/County joint development review process Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• Notification and joint review of development applications in the UGA portion of the watershed is currently on hold until City/County Interlocal Agreement is completed and approved
• Continued notification between County and City of projects triggering SEPA
o 3 joint reviews of County SEPA determinations in 2010 resulting in improved phosphorus controls from proposed development
o SVCA worked with City and County staff during SEPA determination of Austin Creek bank stabilization project
• City/County will re‐evaluate joint development review process once the City/County Interlocal Agreement is completed and approved
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Coordinated review efforts result in improved outcomes for lake water quality
Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.01 ($1,000) $1,000
County 0.01 ($1,000) $1,000
District/Other 0.01 ($1,000) $1,000
Total 0.03 ($3,000) $3,000
Status Summary 2010
• The County and City have continued to notify each other of projects triggering SEPA.
• Joint development review process in the UGA portion of the watershed is currently on hold until City/County Interlocal Agreement is completed and approved.
Program Area: 3. Urbanization & Land Development
Task: 3.3 Continue to assess the effectiveness of regulations
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 ‐ 2014 City/County/SVCA $15,000 Active Indirect
Task Objective
Continue to assess the effectiveness of regulations Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• County’s development of a Low Impact Development Program incorporating code amendments, permit process modifications, a technical assistance manual, and public education and outreach to accomplish TMDL and Phase II requirements (2010) is on‐going, and will be based on the outcomes of the Silver Beach Creek Pilot Project
• City still monitoring the 2009 code changes to the Lake Whatcom Reservoir Regulatory Chapter to identify areas in need of code revision as well as areas where code and process are working well (2010)
o 6 properties regulated under the new code, 0.59 acres of NVPA (Native Vegetation Protected Areas) have been created, 4,000 sq ft of new impervious surface is now infiltrated, 13,500 sq ft of new impervious surface is filtered using BMPs
• City Council approved the Silver Beach Neighborhood Plan (SBNP) (2010)
• Each jurisdiction was updated on changes to regulations and BMPs (e.g. City changes to stormwater code on phosphorus fertilizer and associated guidelines on preferred practices and products)
• Sudden Valley completed over 20 major regulation and policy revisions (2010)
o Implemented 6‐month timeline on all exterior alteration projects to better control construction activity; included information on buffer distances for environmentally sensitive areas; modified erosion control methods to meet current BMPs; included recommendations for sustainable landscaping practices, dog waste reduction, and fertilizer/pesticide use; included restoration activity as a requirement for violations of regulations; modified BMPs for construction activities
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.05 ($5,000) $5,000
County 0.05 ($5,000) $5,000
District/Other 0.05 (SVCA) ($5,000) $5,000
Total 0.15 ($15,000) $15,000
Status Summary 2010
• City/County/SVCA continued to assess the effectiveness of regulations in 2010.
• County continued to assess potential code changes and permit process modifications to help develop a Low Impact Development Program in the Lake Whatcom watershed, City revisited code changes to the Lake Whatcom Reservoir Regulatory Chapter, SVCA completed over 20 major regulation and policy revisions to address problems and make regulations more consistent with other jurisdictions.
• Each jurisdiction was updated on changes made to regulations and BMPs
4 . C o m m u n ity O u tr e ac h
Program Area: 4. Community Outreach
Goal:
The Community Outreach Program Area aims to protect water quality by encouraging watershed residents and visitors to become stewards of the lake. The focus of this program is to provide stewardship tools that each individual can use to help protect Lake Whatcom. These tools range from lake‐friendly gardening practices to picking up pet waste and encouraging people to engage in lake‐friendly car washing and maintenance practices.
2010 Summary:
2010 was an active year for the Lake Whatcom Education Team, a group consisting of staff from the City, County, Sudden Valley Community Association and WSU Extension. The City sent 3,000 flyers to the Whatcom Humane Society for county‐wide distribution to encourage waste collection by dog owners. Staff went door to door in the watershed to advertise both HIP and RSRP program.
Water conservation was a large focus for the Education Team in 2010. As part of the Residential Stormwater Retrofit Program (RSRP), 135 95‐gallon rain barrels were installed in the City portion of the watershed in 2010. The rain barrels have managed an estimated 3.2 million gallons of stormwater since 2008.
In 2010, the Education Team held two successful community conversations in the watershed to engage local residents in lake stewardship programs. Also in an effort to educate and engage residents, a Lake Whatcom E‐Newsletter was developed. The pilot edition will be sent out in 2011. This and other news/events are available on the Lake Whatcom Management Program website.
Reference Documents:
Lake Whatcom Management Program website http://www.lakewhatcom.whatcomcounty.org/ City of Bellingham Lake Whatcom website
http://www.cob.org/services/environment/lake‐whatcom/index.aspx Puget Sound Partnership Eco Net
http://www.psp.wa.gov/econet.php Watershed Friendly Gardening website
http://www.lakewhatcom.whatcomcounty.org/asub_fldrs/gardenkit/INDEX.HTML
Increase lake stewardship and reduce urban impacts through the provision of
educational programs and materials to watershed residents, the general public and
decision makers on topics related to water quality, source control, and land use and
development regulations.
Program Area: 4. Community Outreach
Task: 4.1 Improve outreach and participation strategies through staff collaboration
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 ‐ 2014 Education Team $6,000 Active None
Task Objective
Improve lake stewardship by coordinating staff to deliver accurate and cohesive regional messaging, while increasing participation effectiveness through the sharing of information and resources
Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• Staff from the Education Team continued to meet monthly and updated each other on existing and new education programs
• Staff continued to reduce conflicting program messaging to enhance outreach effectiveness (where feasible) and outreach materials have focused on messages shared by jurisdictions (when possible)
• Members of the Education Team also serve as a link to larger regional education efforts and resources (participate in WWIN, STORM, EcoNet, and Puget Sound Partnership)
• Coordinated with staff from other Program Areas/organizations to implement education and outreach needs (E.g. SVCA hosted 2 WSU Extension sustainable landscaping workshops, Collaborated with staff from City Planning and Stormwater to develop outreach materials for HIP, City staff provided invasive species signage to SVCA staff to install at their marina)
Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe:
Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Capital Costs Other Total
2010
City 0.02 ($2,000) $2,000
County 0.02 ($2,000) $2,000
SVCA/WSU 0.02 ($2,000) $2,000
Total 0.06 ($6,000) $6,000
Status Summary 2010
• Improved coordination and sharing of information/resources between partners by scheduling more regular meetings than in 2009.
• Staff shared information and expertise about existing and new education programs and brainstormed ideas of how programs could be most effectively applied in the Lake Whatcom watershed.
• Tried multiple new outreach strategies: community meetings, community socials, door‐knocking campaigns, website, one‐on‐one coaching with residents (RSRP and HIP).
• Efforts were made to reduce conflicting program messaging and to focus outreach efforts on areas where common messages could be agreed upon by staff.
• Continued to serve as link to larger regional education efforts and coordinated with staff from other Program Areas/organizations to meet their education/outreach needs.
Program Area: 4. Community Outreach
Task: 4.2 Educate and engage watershed residents and visitors
Period Responsible Party Cost 2010 Status P Reduction
2010 ‐ 2014 Education Team $30,000 Active Indirect
Task Objective
Improve lake stewardship by educating and engaging watershed residents and visitors Accomplishments and Performance Measures 2010
• Lake Whatcom Management Program (LWMP) website is maintained on a regular basis and improvements have been made to make site more up‐to‐date and accessible
• Two successful community conversations were held in 2010 to provide opportunities for community engagement in program development of outreach activities and materials
• Lake Whatcom E‐Newsletter is currently being developed and will be disseminated to a sub‐group of residents for review in Spring, 2011
• Lake Whatcom Resident’s Guide has been created and reviewed by staff and will be made available on City’s website and at Bellingham Public Library
• Updated informational signage throughout the watershed
• Staff met with Bellingham Visitor’s Bureau staff to identify effective ways to inform and engage watershed visitors
• Reviewed and selected applicable programs and materials from the Puget Sound Partnership
• Participated in interjurisdictional community events (E.g. Silver Beach Creek Watershed community meetings and Whatcom Water Week)
• Coordinated with local organizations to create appropriate public outreach materials Lake Benefits
Phosphorus Fecal Coliform Sediment Behavior Other Reduction Reduction Reduction Change
If other, please describe: Estimated Costs 2010
Year Party FTEs ($) Other Total
2010
City 0.1 ($10,000) $10,000
County 0.1 ($10,000) $10,000
SVCA/WSU 0.05 ($5,000)/0.05 ($5,000) $10,000
Total 0.3 ($30,000) $30,000
Status Summary 2010
• Staff continue to improve lake stewardship by educating and engaging watershed residents and visitors using community outreach events, websites, outreach materials, signage, and by coordinating with local and regional organizations.
• Staff will work to improve outreach efforts and their effectiveness in 2011. E.g. SVCA will be installing invasive species signs at marina in 2011, City is currently evaluating its watershed stewardship signage
