HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution 01-44 06/18/2001
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RESOLUTION NO 01-44
A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE MCKENZIE RIVER OXBOW NATURAL AREA MASTER
PLAN AS THE MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE CITY
OF SPRINGFIELD.
WHEREAS, the City of Springfield is the owner of property located adjacent to, and outside of, the
Springfield Urban Growth Boundary, north of the Highway 105, east of 420d Street; and
WHEREAS, the City has conducted a master planning project to determine the most beneficial management
strategy to protect the natural function of the property while allowing appropriate uses to occur on the site;
and
WHEREAS, the Springfield City Council held a work session to identify goals that a master plan for such
property must meet; and
WHEREAS, a Mayor's Task Force, comprised of adjacent property owners, existing and potential site
users, and affected agencies and associations was formed to review and comment upon the Master Plan; and
WHEREAS, a copy of the McKenzie River Oxbow Master Plan is attached hereto; and
WHEREAS, such plan has been reviewed by the Mayor's Task Force and their comments have been
incorporated into the plan; and
WHEREAS; the Council has thoroughly reviewed said plan and determined that it is in the best interest of
the City to effectuate it.
NOW THEREFORE THE CITY OF SPRINGFIELD DOES RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section I: The Common Council of the City of Springfield does hereby recognize the McKenzie River
Oxbow Natural Area Master Plan as containing the management plan for said real property being described
as follows:
Township 17 South, Range 2 West, Section 30, Map 00, Tax Lot 401 and 17 South, Range
2 West, Section 29, Map 00, Tax Lot 2901.
Section 2: City staff are directed to comply with the policies contained within the Master Plan when making
management decisions concerning the property;
Section 3: The City Manager may authorize legal activities not addressed by the Master Plan;
Section 4: Activities required by state and/or federal laws that may be inconsistent with the policies
of the Master Plan may be authorized by the City Manager.
Approved by the Common Council of the City of Springfield this 18th day of June 2001, by a vote of ~
for and ~ against.
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APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Springfield this 18th
ATTEST:
City Recorder
VIEWED & APPROVED
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OFFICE OF CITY ATTORNEY
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
A Donation By Weyerhaeuser Company
Master Plan
S~7o
City of Springfield
225 Fifth Street
Springfield, Oregon 97477
'P~ g'9:
Satre Associates, P.C.
132 East Broadway, Suite 536
Eugene, Oregon 97401
(541) 465-4721
June 12,2001
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area Master Plan
Table of Contents
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Executive Summary
Section One: Project Overview
o Purpose
o Planning Process
o Site Context
McKenzie River Watershed and Subbasin
Project Site
Surrounding Land Use
Surrounding Transportation Network
Section Two: City Goals and Mayor's Task Force
o City Goal
Environmental Stewardship
Provision of Public Facilities
Site and River Access
Site Uses and Management
o Mayor's Task Force
Section Three: Characteristics
o Natural Resources
Wetlands and Vegetation
Soils
Topography
Flood Hazard Area
Species of Concern
Plant
Wildlife
o Site Improvements
Access
Welljield
Overhead Electrical Line
Informal Trails
Site Uses
Section Four: Previous Land Use Documents
o Draft McKenzie River Subbasin Assessment, Draft Summary Report
o Juvenile Chinook Salmon and Pond Turtle Habitat Characteristics of
the Springfield/ Weyerhaeuser Property; Reach # 10 of the McKenzie
River
o Rare Species Habitat Assessment
o Delineation of Jurisdictional Wetland Boundaries, Report Findings
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. Eugene-Springfield Metro Area General Plan
Willamette River Greenway, River Corridors, and Waterway
Element
Environmental Resources Element
Transportation Element
Parks and Recreation Facilities Element
Metro Plan Update Natural Assets and Constraints
Working Papers
. Draft Metropolitan Natural Resources Special Study
. Draft Metropolitan Natural Resources Functional Plan
. McKenzie River Riparian Corridor Evaluation
. Willamalane Park and Recreation District 1980 Comprehensive Plan
. Willamalane Park and Recreation District, 1995 Park, Recreation and
Open Space Plan
. Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area Transportation Plan
. The Eugene-Springfield Transportation System Plan, Update
. Springfield Bicycle Plan
Section Five: Regulatory Requirements
. Federal Agencies
National Marine Fisheries Service
Army Corps of Engineers
US Fish and Wildlife Service
. State Agencies
Oregon Division of State Lands
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Oregon Department of Transportation
. Local Agencies
Lane County
Section Six: Site Analysis and Uses
. Site Analysis
Physical Improvements
Restorative Improvements
Restorative Areas
. Analysis Methodology
. Findings
. Opportunities
Public Education
Wetland Mitigation
Storm Water Management
Restoration
Conservation
McKenzie River Multi-use path
. Constraints
. Site Uses
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Section Seven: Enhancement Plan
G Enhancement Plan Philosophy
G Design Approach
G Initial Plan
G Enhancement Plan
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Section Eight: Site Policies
G Restoration Improvements
G Physical Improvements
G Site Management
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Section Nine: Implementation Scope
G Management Requirements
G Project Formation Phase
G Program Development
G Funding Sources
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Section Ten: Attachments
Tables
G Table I : Potential Rare Plant Species Examined
G Table 2: Potential Rare Animals Species Examined
G Table 3: Potential Permit Requirements for Proposed Improvements
G Table 4: Proposed Uses and Area Designations
G Table 5: Proposed Uses and Potential Needs
G Table 6: Potential Management for Site Uses
G Table 7: Potential Management for Site Improvements
G Table 8: Proposed Uses/Improvements and Applicable City
Project Goals
G Table 9: potential Uses and Site Areas
G Table 10: Implementation Phasing
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Maps
G Map 1: Vicinity Map
G Map2: Existing Site Conditions Map
G McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area Wetland Boundary Map
G Map 3: Vegetation Zones Map
G Map 4: Wildlife Habitat Zones Map
G Map 5: Site Analysis Map
G Map 6: Enhancement Plan
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area Master Plan (Plan) assesses environmental
conditions to determine opportunities for conservation, enhancement, and appropriate uses of
a unique 85-acre tract of land donated to the City of Springfield by the Weyerhaeuser
Company. The site is located on a portion of the McKenzie River that is hydrologically very
dynamic with outstanding habitat for salmonids, pond turtles, and other ecologically
significant species. In addition to possessing high quality wetlands and riparian environment,
the site also houses groundwater wellfields that are important to the community's potable
water supply. This Plan, therefore, highlights the natural and human context to guide the
future of this special place.
The Plan provides the City with a long-term VISIOn and management strategy for this
environmentally sensitive area, while providing the community with an understanding of the
property's ecological importance. An overriding goal of the Plan is to incorporate potential
new uses for the site that does not impede the site's existing uses (e.g., groundwater wellfield
operation and maintenance, and stormwater management) or natural function.
The planning process began with Springfield City Council identifying planning goals for the
project site and with the formation of Mayor's Task Force. The Task Force represents a
broad base of user groups, interested and affected agencies, associations and property owners
and has provided assistance in the planning effort.
In the planning process, the consultant project team assessed the site's characteristics,
features, opportunities, and constraints through site inspections and review of documents that
refer, or are applicable to the subject site. The team used an overlay analysis method, which
"stacks" existing natural features, sensitive areas, critical resources, and regulatory setback
requirements to identify those areas that merit protection and those that have potential for site
improvements. Based on this overlay analysis, the team divided the site into three areas.
These areas are identified as: 1) unsuitable for physical improvement, 2) suitable for
improvement, and 3) suitable for improvement with mitigation. The team also identified the
potential regulatory requirements for the proposed uses and improvements as well as the
regulatory agencies involved.
Potential uses identified for the site include:
~ environmental education programs;
~ wetland mitigation, enhancement and banking;
~ storm water management;
~ wellfield production and maintenance;
~ multi-use path (southern portion of site);
~ wildlife viewing; and
~ walking/hiking.
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Proposed improvements to the site include:
~ vegetation restoration;
~ relocation of overhead utility lines;
~ trailheads;
~ interpretive signage;
~ kiosk;
~ small scale information center;
~ multi-use path; and,
~ soft surface, ADA-accessible conservation trails.
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Based on these uses, the site's natural features and City Council's goals, the Plan outlines a
series of site policies for the management of the site.
The site policies are divided into three categories:
~ restoration improvements;
~ physical improvements; and
~ site management.
Implementation of the plan requires a cooperative effort among city, local, state and federal
agencies and organizations.
A general implementation scope identifies three elements for implementation including:
~ management requirements,
~ project formation, and
~ program development.
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McKENZIE RIVER OXBOW NATURAL AREA
MASTER PLAN
Section One: Project Overview
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
PROJECT OVERVIEW
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Section I of this document provides an overview of this plan's purpose and a summary of
the planning process. This section also provides contextual information on the site as it
relates to the McKenzie River, its watershed, subbasin, and adjacent land uses. A historic
overview ofthe river's geomorphic activity is provided through aerial photographs dating
back to 1944.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Master Plan
(Plan) is to assess and document
environmental conditions and to
determine opportunities for
conservation, enhancement, and
appropriate uses of a unique 85-
acre tract of land. Weyerhaeuser
Company donated this property to
the City of Springfield in 1993.
The site is identified on Lane
County Assessor's Map No. 17-02-
30-00 Tax Lot No. 401 and Map
No. 17-02-29-00, Tax Lot No.) It
is located north of the Eugene-
Springfield Highway (Highway
126), immediately east of 42nd
Street. It should be noted that the
total area of land reviewed as part
of the site analysis (refer to Section
6) is approximately 105 acres.
42nd Street
Project Site
Hwy. 126
Weyerhaeuser
Company
MAP 1: VICINITY MAP
Not to Scale
This additional area includes the portion of McKenzie River within the project site, land
immediately north of the site, land east of the wellfield and land on the east side of
McKenzie River. This area was included to provide the project consultants, Satre
Associates (Satre), with additional information on adjacent natural features and how
those areas influence the ecological functions of the site.
This Plan will provide the City with a long-term vision and management strategy for this
environmentally sensitive tract of land, while providing the community with an
understanding of the property's ecological importance. An overriding goal of the Plan is
to incorporate potential new uses for the site with existing authorized uses of the site
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(e.g., well field operation and maintenance and storm water management) in a manner
that allows for public use of the site, but does not impede the site's existing uses or
natural function. Potential projects and partnerships to assist the City with
implementation and management strategies of improvement projects were also identified.
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PLANNING PROCESS
An iterative planning process based on an approved work program and public
involvement program was followed during the preparation of this Plan. The two
programs, although separate, shared certain functions and were dependent on one another
throughout the process. The Springfield City Council outlined key goals and interests for
the site, which provides a framework for the site program and potential uses. These goals
and interests are discussed in Section 2: City Goals and Mayor's Task Force. The
formation of the Mayor's Task Force (Task Force) was necessary to assist with planning
efforts.
PlanninR Process Diawam
WORK PROGRAM
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
PROGRAM. .
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Project Overview
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
Satre reviewed numerous planning documents that either refers to the site directly or
indirectly. Those reports are discussed in Section 4: Previous Land Use Documents.
Based on the information gathered from those reports, site inspections and meetings with
the Task Force, an Existing Conditions Report (Report) was prepared. The Report
documents known data pertaining to soils, floodplains, wetlands, vegetation, habitat
values, and other environmental factors; existing on-site utility facilities (i.e.,
groundwater wellheads and monitoring wells) and other constructed features; and
applicable plans, documents, and planned improvements and actions that provide
planning and regulatory context. The Report was used as a basis for a site analysis,
which identifies potential environmental influences, regulatory influences, site
opportunities and constraints for proposed site improvements. The City Council and
Task Force reviewed a draft schematic design. This Plan is a product of the revised draft
schematic plan reflecting input from the City and Task Force concerning the site
program, site analysis and regulatory requirements for proposed site uses. Satre
identified potential partnerships and cooperative agreements with agencies or
organizations to help the City implement the plan, and to assist with long-term
management of the site. The three interim reports prepared during the planning process
(City Goals and Interests; Existing Conditions; and a Site Facilities Program) are
incorporated into this Plan.
SITE CONTEXT
Source: McKenzie Watershed Council website, h1tP://WWW.polld.llet/-mwcl
The project site is part of the McKenzie River watershed, which extends from the ridge of
central Cascade Mountains to the floor of the Willamette Valley. The McKenzie
watershed encompasses an area of land approximately 1,300 square miles in Lane and
Linn counties within the larger Willamette River watershed, which is a component of the
even larger Columbia River watershed.
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Master Plan
A recent analysis of the watershed, the McKenzie River Subbasin Assessment, ecological
assesses the McKenzie River floodplain's ecology, identifies conservation and restoration
opportunities, and discusses the influence of upstream actions and processes. This
assessment identifies 37 river reaches, which are defined by changes in geomorphology,
land use, tributary junctions, and/or cultural features. The project site is identified as
Reach #10 of the McKenzie River subbasin. The McKenzie subbasin includes large
contiguous blocks of federal land, private land, and almost exclusively private ownership
of the floodplain. Forestry is the dominant land use within the subbasin. In the sensitive
lower subbasin floodplain area, commercial and residential development is dominant.
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Eight families of fish with 23 species, some of which are listed by federal and state
agencies as protected Threatened or Endangered species, are native to the McKenzie
River subbasin including: Chinook salmon, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, bull trout and
mountain whitefish. Issues that affected the vitality of those species include: migration
barriers, increase in water temperature due to loss of riparian vegetative cover,
competition for food with non-native aquatic species and loss of rearing areas. Another
aquatic species that greatly depends on the viability of the river's subbasin is the Western
Pond Turtle. The Western Pond Turtle, which is identified as a Species of Concern by
federal and state regulatory agencies, uses the riparian habitat of the McKenzie River and
its ponded areas for nesting sites. Certain avian species (e.g., willow flycatcher, yellow-
breasted chat and osprey) have been adversely affected by the loss of lowland riparian
vegetation within the subbasin. Riparian vegetation and the habitat it provides is an
important aspect of the McKenzie River ecosystem. The ecological function of the
river's riparian area depends on riparian vegetation, ponded areas, wetlands and diverse
aquatic and wildlife habitat.
The McKenzie River has been referred to in previous planning studies as a "scenic
resource of the highest value" and as "a major environmental recreational, cultural and
aesthetic feature of the metropolitan area.,,1 Headwaters for the McKenzie River
originate from springs at Clear Lake, high in the Cascade Range. The McKenzie River
flows 90 miles through the valley, and drops five thousand feet in elevation as it flows
through ancient forests, agricultural land, and small communities including: Nimrod,
Vida, Leaburg and Walterville before merging with the Willamette River just north of
Eugene. Main tributaries emptying into the McKenzie River include the Mohawk River,
Gate Creek, and Quartz Creek.
The river provides a variety of resources and recreational opportunities and is the sole
.source of public drinking water for the City of Eugene, Oregon. The once complex
system of natural features (i.e., side-channels, alcoves, islands and ponds) along the
I McKenzie River Riparian Corridor Evaluation, Scientific Resources, Inc., 1993
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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McKenzie River has been altered by the developing dams for flood control and
hydroelectric production, and armoring the riverbank in some areas with riprap. The
project site is one of the few areas left where the river interacts dynamically with its
floodplain and has a healthy system of side-channels, islands and ponds. The McKenzie
River supports a diverse aquatic ecosystem. This ecosystem is affected by changes in
flow regime, water temperature, turbidity and sediment, water quality, channel
complexity, bank hardening, loss of riparian vegetation, and land use within the
watershed.
Project Site
The project site covers approximately 85 acres abutting the Springfield city limits and
Urban Growth Boundary (UGB), and WiIlamalane Park and Recreation District
Boundary, but is within the Eugene-Springfield Metro Area General Plan (Metro Plan)
boundary. The entire site is within the 100-year floodplain and a portion of the site,
primarily along the westerly riverbank, is located within the floodway (see Map 2-
Existing Conditions Map). Land south, west and northwest of the site is in the City's
Heavy Industrial zoning district; property to the north and east across the main river
channel, is zoned Rural Residential and in Lane County jurisdiction. The subject site is
zoned Exclusive Farm Use by Lane County, but is designated Public Open Space on the
Metro Plan diagram.
The site is the only location within the Springfield metro area in public ownership along
the McKenzie River within such a diverse natural setting. The McKenzie River within
the project site boundaries is historically a geomorphically and hydrologically active area,
with significant movement and braiding of river over time. The following historic photos
of the portion of the McKenzie River in the project site depict substantial river c~annel
migration.
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
1 4: ere does not appear to
be a well defined channel.
1968: A geomorphic foundation
of island can be seen. Mature
cottonwoods exist at # I, and
#2, a band of red alder at #3.
1952: A well de me
channel now exists. Gravel bar
at #2 is migrating downstream.
1979: The mature pioneer
woodland traversed at # 1,
myriad bars have coalesced into
elongated island.
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1960: A new bar (#3) is building,
a gravel pit (#4) is located where
Main channel was 8 years earlier,
island has been logged, gravel
roads are evident at #5.
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1984: Building bar (# I) will
fonn willow habitat types and
pond.
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1993; # I expands downstream
and laterally into main channel,
#2 becomes beaver pond.
1998; Bar #] has joined main island
and continues to grow, #2 is
abandoned and now diverts flow
only at higher river stage.
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
Surroundin~ Land Uses
The Weyerhaeuser Company operates a containerboard manufacturing facility and a raw
materials merchandising and chipping operation on a tract of land south of the project
site, on the south side of Highwayl26. The company's regional offices (for timberlands
and regional administrative staff) are also located on this property. The project site and
the Weyerhaeuser Company property are connected by Keizer Slough, which runs from
the Weyerhaeuser site through the southerly portion of the site to the McKenzie River.
Other businesses adjacent to the site include: Oregon Industrial Lumber Products Inc.,
located north of the site on the north side of Marcola Road; the Child Center located
northeast of the site on the south side of Marcola Road; the Springfield School District 19
maintenance yard, Rainbow Water District's headquarters and water treatment facility
located west of 42nd Street; and the Riverview Market northeast of the site, on south side
of Marcola and on the east side of McKenzie River.
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The Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB) Hayden Bridge Water Filtration Station
(Station) and the Hayden Bridge Boat Ramp are both located north of Marcola Road.
The Station opened in 1950 and is on a 53-acre parcel. The Station is rated to pump 72
million gallons of water per day (mgd) from the McKenzie River and EWEB has water
rights to 200 million gallons of water daily, which represents approximately 1% of the
river flow. The Station pumps an average of 30 mgd; winter pump rates are 19 mgd and
summer pump rates are 45-50 mgd. A remote water station with eight pumps and two
filter screens is located immediately adjacent to Hayden Bridge. This remote station
pumps water though two pipes to the Station, where water is filtered using a dual media
method of course silica sand and anthracite coal. Sediment is removed with Aluminum
Sulfate and the water is disinfected with chlorine. An expansion project for the Station
will be constructed in 2001 and consists of a 15 million gallon reservoir, water
sedimentation basins, new filters and pumps.
Surroundin~ Transportation Network
The principal arterial road that serves the site is Highway 126. In 1998, the average daily
traffic volume for Highway 126 0.70 miles west of 1-5 in Eugene was 57,292 vehicles.
This traffic count location is west of the site, but is presumed to be a fair representation of
traffic volume on Highway 126 between Eugene and Springfield. Two minor arterial
roads abut the site, 42nd Street and Marcola Road. At the southeast comer of the 42nd
Street and Marcola Road intersection is a gravel area within Lane County right-of-way
serving as the primary point of ingress and egress to the site. Existing bicycle lanes are
located on Marcola Road north of the site and on Olympic Street southwest of the site.
East of the site is a striped bicycle lane on High Banks Road from 52nd Street eastward.
The City is currently developing plans for an off-street multi-use path located on the east
side of 42nd Street on the side of a former railroad spur, immediately west of the site.
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MCKENZIE RIVER OXBOW NATURAL AREA
MASTER PLAN
Map 2
June 12, 2001
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Legend
Inset:
1998 Aerial Photograph
Not To Scale
1\1 Subject Site
D Tax Lots
N ~~i~~~9 Bikeway
I \ I Planned Bikeway
EEEJ100-year Floodplain
Floodway
... · Utility Lines
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:WI:II!li Wellfield
_ McKenzie River
_ Tributary
_ Wetland
"!~1 Ponded Area
D Slough
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McKENZIE RIVER OXBOW NATURAL AREA
MASTER PLAN
Section Two: City Goals/Interests and Mayor's Task Force
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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CITY GOALS/INTERESTS AND MAYOR'S TASK FORCE
Section 2 identifies Springfield City Council's expressed goals and interests, which
provided a framework for this Plan, and involvement by the Mayor's Task Force, which
was created during the initial stages of the planning process.
CITY GOALS
As an initial step in the project's public involvement program, the Springfield City
Council met in a work session on July 17, 2000. The Council reviewed the scope of
work for the project and Existing Conditions Report, and articulated its goals for the
project and its interests in approaching selected issues. To frame the varied issues and
factors that have bearing on the future use and management of the subject site the project
consultants grouped major issues into four categories for Council consideration and
deliberation. Issue areas involved environmental stewardship, the continued provision of
public facilities, site and river access, and site uses and management.
Environmental Stewardship
Goal: To actively initiate environmental restoration projects and activities, and consider
potential site modifications that would allow legitimate public uses to occur while
still preserving the resource base.
The City Council is interested in:
· Promoting removal of invasive, non-native plant species from the site;
· Actively managing the site to improve the site's aquatic and riparian habitats;
· Providing public access to the site, at a level compatible with the site's natural
qualities;
· Developing opportunities for outdoor environmental education on-site;
· Considering a variety of land tenure and management options;
· Allowing legitimate public uses to occur, including exploring the establishment of an
east-west bike route linking the Thurston area with mid-Springfield; and
· Soliciting involvement and support from various existing groups and creating new
groups or aIIiances to educate the community about the value of this resource and
support restoration activities.
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2-1
June 12,2001
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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City Goals/Interests and Mayor's Task Force
Provision of Public Facilities
Goal: To maintain the existing level of use and function of public facilities on or near
the site (e.g., groundwater wells, overhead electrical line, downstream water
intake), but consider options that could either allow for potential expansion of
groundwater capacity to meet future demand, or relocate wells and the overhead
electric line elsewhere.
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2-2
June 12,2001
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The City Council is interested in:
· Maintaining the provision of clean potable water as a priority;
· Continuing plans to remediate contaminant impacts to the wellfield;
· Assuring that nearby underground utilities (e.g., fiber optic line within railroad right-
of-way along 42nd Street) are preserved;
· Exploring the potential for relocating or burying the existing overhead electrical line
to reduce visual impact to and from the river and vegetation removal in easement; and
· Exploring the potential for relocating existing wells to avoid contaminant sources.
Site and River Access
Goal: To provide enhanced public access to the site and river, while preserving the
site's inherent natural resource values.
The City Council is interested in:
· Constructing a small safe, informal trailhead and trailhead parking area that is visible
from, and proximate to the 42nd Street/Marcola Road intersection;
· Developing trail access within the site that meets the provisions of the Americans
with Disabilities Act;
· Providing directional signage to the site;
· Developing river access opportunities that are subordinate to the site's important
ecological values (e.g., perhaps a canoe launch or accessible fishing pier if such
facilities can be suitably developed, but NOT another boat launch).
Site Uses and Mana~ement
Goal: To provide for educational and passive recreational uses that do not harm site
ecology or public facilities.
The City Council is interested in:
· Cultivating relationships with schools and non-profit educational groups to create
outdoor environmental education opportunities;
· Developing accessible, multi-use trails as called for in adopted local plans;
· Establishing interpretive kiosks and other signage for self-guided environmental
education;
2-19
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
City Goals/lnterests and Mayor's Task Force
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· Preventing the creation of an attractive nuisance and security problem by restricting
hours of use, providing a mechanism for ongoing site maintenance, and using other
methods of appropriate site management.
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MAYOR'S TASK FORCE
The Task Force represents a broad base of user groups, interests and affected agencies,
associations and property owners that have assisted the City and Satre in developing the
Plan. The Task Force visited the site, reviewed the Existing Conditions Report, City
Goals and Interests Report, Site Facilities Program Report and the draft schematic plan.
Throughout the planning process, Task Force members were offered opportunities to
review and comment on the project. The Task Force also reviewed and commented on
the plan during its development.
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Mayor's Task Force Membership
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Interest Task Force Member-Affiliation
Cycling Bill Carpenter - Springfield Planning Commission, former Springfield Bike Committee
Boating Ken Helfrich - McKenzie River Guides
Community Development Fred Simmons - Springfield City Council
Area Property Owner Pam Whyte - Weyerhaeuser Company
Area Property Owner George Grier - McKenzie River Trust
Area Property Owner Blake Hastings - Area Property Owner
Area Property Owner Steve Moe - Area Property Owner
Recreation Provider Greg Hyde - Willamalane Park and Recreation District
Recreation Provider Bob Keefer - Willamalane Park and Recreation District
Recreation Provider Jacob Risley - Lane County Department of Public Works, Parks Division
Utilities Debborah Brewer - Eugene Water and Electric Board
Utilities Ken Cerotsky - Springfield Utility Board
Utilities Tim Hanley - Rainbow Water District
Technical Assistance Jeff Ziller - Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Technical Assistance Jim Beal- US Army Corps of Engineers
Technical Assistance Thomas Boyatt - Oregon Department of Transportation
Technical Assistance Keith Andersen - Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
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2-3
June 12,2001
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2-20
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McKENZIE RIVER OXBOW NATURAL AREA
MASTER PLAN
Section Three: Site Characteristics
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2-21
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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SITE CHARACTERISTICS
Section 3 provides a detailed assessment of the natural features of the site that define its
characteristics. The information in this section provides a basis for identifying the
opportunities and constraints of the site, and is used to set parameters for the site
program, proposed enhancement activities, and improvements to, and appropriate uses of,
the site.
NATURAL RESOURCES
As noted earlier, the project site has dynamic features (i.e., river, side-channels, ponds,
wetlands, diverse aquatic and riparian ecosystems) that shape its physical characteristics.
Wetlands and Vef,!etation
National Wetland Inventory maps the portion of the McKenzie River within the study
area as Riverine Lower Perennial Unconsolidated Bottom Permanently Flooded
(R2UBH). The majority of the northwestern portion of the site, and a small area in the
southwestern portion, is mapped as Palustrine Forested Seasonally Flooded (PFOC).
National Wetland Inventory Map, Springfield Quadrangle
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3-1
June 12,2001
2-22
Site Characteristics
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
A large area near and within the river in the eastern portion of the study area is mapped as
Palustrine Forested Temporarily Flooded (PFOA). Small areas near the river are labeled
as Palustrine Scrub Seasonally Flooded (PSSC) and Riverine Lower Perennial
Unconsolidated Shore Seasonally Flooded (R2USC).
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SATRE
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3-2
June 12,2001
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In 1994, wetlands analysis of the site was conducted for the City of Springfield by
Wetland Specialties, Inc. (Guard, 1994) A delineation map was developed, but a report
was not submitted to regulatory agencies.
In 2000 and 2001 as part of the preparation of this Plan, Satre conducted field
assessments and prepared a wetland delineation report. The Delineation of Jurisdictional
Wetland Boundaries, Report Findings describes the methodology used to delineate
wetlands in the study area and information regarding wetland types and vegetation. The
report delineated on-site approximately 55 acres of wetlands, and confirmed the wetland
type under the PFOC classification. The enclosed map delineates wetland boundaries on-
site.
Backwater slough wetlands on the subject site
2-23
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Wetland Boundary Map
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LEGEND
St;-a'-; 1.=-200'
EiIlII 1'O>O.....,.oj, ES:d .."...-~..
1l:l:1:'I~ CI :m.o1.'~l
IZJ ~h,"tlon.
August 2000
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SATRE
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.-.... ~t~.'PlOln _". .lV'c1I.";~."""""~.."
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2-24
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Site Characteristics
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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The wetlands report identified dominant tree species within the project site as including
black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera var. trichocarpa), red alder, (Alnus rubra), big
leaf maple (Acer macrophyllum), and Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia). Understory is
dominated by Himalayan blackberry (Rubus discolor), and reed canary grass (Phalaris
arundinacea ).
Soils '
Source: Soil Survey of Lane County, Oregon, USDA Soil Conservation Service
The majority of the site is underlain by soils identified as Fluvents, with areas of
Newberg Fine Sandy Loam soils. The following identifies the soils found within the
project area, with soil units noted by their classification number given by the Natural
Resources Conservation Service (NRCS, formerly the Soil Conservation Service).
(NRCS 29) Cloquato Silt Loam: This unit is comprised of well-drained soils found on
floodplains. The slopes are usually 0 to 3 percent and the vegetation in areas not
cultivated is mainly Douglas-fir, black cottonwood, big leaf maple, Oregon white oak,
western sword fern and cream bush ocean spray. The surface layer is very dark grayish
brown silt loam about 14 inches thick. The next layer is very dark grayish brown silt
loam about 19 inches thick. The permeability is moderate and run-off is slow. The
hazard of water erosion is slight.
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3-3
June 12,2001
2-25
Site Characteristics
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
(NRCS 48) Fluvents, nearly level: This unit is the predominate soil unit within the
project boundary and contains deep, well drained to poorly drained soils located on
islands and low floodplains and in overflow channels, oxbows, and sloughs along major
rivers and streams. Native vegetation associated with this unit is mainly cottonwood,
Douglas-fir, Oregon white oak, Oregon ash, red alder, big leaf maple, shrubs and grasses.
Fluvents are brown and dark brown, highly stratified sand, silt, and gravel up to a depth
of 40 to 60 inches. Permeability of Fluvents is moderate to very rapid and runoff is' slow.
The hazard of water erosion is slight, except during periods of flooding. Most areas of
this soil unit are used for wild life habitat and recreation.
3-4
June 12,2001
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(NRCS 75) Malabon Silt Loam: This soil unit is deep, well-drained and located on
broad valley terraces. The slopes are usually 0 to 3 percent and vegetation in areas not
cultivated is mainly Douglas-fir, Oregon white oak, ponderosa pine, poison oak, shrubs
and grasses. The surface layer is very dark brown and dark brown silty clay loam about
12 inches in depth. The subsoil is dark brown and brown silty clay and silty loam about
30 inches in depth. The silt clay loam surface is subject to compaction if it is worked
when moist. Permeability of this soil is moderately slow and runoff is slow. The hazard
of water erosion is slight.
(NRCS 89C) Nekia Silty Clay Loam: This soil unit is moderately deep, well drained
located on foothills adjacent to the Willamette Valley. Slopes are usually 2 to 12 percent
and the vegetation in areas not cultivated is comprised mainly of Douglas-fir, Oregon
white oak, Pacific madrone and vine maple. The surface is typically covered with a mat
of needles, twigs and moss about 0.5 inch in depth. The surface layer is dark reddish
brown silty clay loam aboutl0 inches in depth. The subsoil is dark reddish brown and
reddish brown clay about 25 inches in depth. Permeability of this soil unit is moderately
slow and runoff is slow to medium. The hazard of water erosion is moderate.
(NRCS 95) NewberR Fine Sandy Loam: This soil unit is deep, somewhat excessively
drained located on flood plains and bottomlands. Slopes are usually 0 to 3 percent and
the vegetation in areas not cultivated is comprised mainly of Douglas-fir, grand fir,
Oregon white oak, big leaf maple, black cottonwood, shrubs and grasses. The surface
layer is dark brown fine sandy loam about 14 inches in depth. The substratum is dark
brown, fine sandy loam about 65 inches in depth. Permeability is moderately rapid and
runoff is slow. The hazard of water erosion is slight.
(NRCS 114) Riverwash: This soil unit consists of deep, excessively drained to poorly
drained soil, usually located on islands or sand bars in and along major rivers or streams.
Riverwash consists of recent deposits of sand and gravel. The slopes are usually 0 to 3
percent and the native vegetation is mainly grasses and scattered willows. Riverwash is
ABII
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SATRE
ASSOCIATIS
2-26
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Site Characteristics
McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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typically highly stratified sand and gravel at a depth of 60 inches or more. Permeability
is very rapid and runoff is slow. The hazard of soil erosion is very high.
Topol!raphy
Excerpt/rom the Springfield USGS Topographical Map
Topographic relief within the site is a result of annual flooding patterns and deposition.
Elevations across the project site range from approximately A65 to 485 feet above sea
level. Northeast of the site is the southwesterly portion of the Camp Creek Ridge, which
ascends to approximately 1284 feet. To the northwest is Vitus Butte, approximately 586
feet above sea level. South of the project site, elevations increase slightly southward
through the City. The elevation along the McKenzie River in the project area ranges
from elevations of 465 to 470 feet above sea level.
Flood Hazard Area
The entire site is within the 100-year flood boundary and is designated as an area where
base flood elevations and flood hazards have been determined. A portion of the west
bank of the McKenzie River is located within the floodway. See Map 2 for boundaries of
flood hazard areas on-site.
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ASSOCIATES
3-5
June 12,2001
2-27
Site Characteristics
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
Plant and Animal Species of Concern
As of August 2000, the Oregon Natural Heritage Program (ONHP) database did not
contain any recorded sightings of rare plant species within a half-mile radius of the site.
At that time, the ONHP database did not include recorded sightings of animal species
although the Northwestern pond turtle, Chinook, and Steelhead are known to use the site.
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3-6
June 12,2001
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Rare Plants
Satre conducted extensive field investigations on-site for the above rare and protected
plant habitats specifically considered include suitable areas for: Bradshaw's desert
parsley, Kincaid's lupine, Willamette daisy; white-topped aster, wayside aster, Cusick's
checker-mallow, meadow checker-mallow, Howell's montia, shaggy horkelia.
Table 1: Potential Rare Plant Species Examined
PLANT SPECIES OF FEDERAL/ HABITAT DESCRIPTION
CONCERN STATE STATUS
Lomatium bradshawii LE/LE Wet prairie
Bradshaw's Desert Parsley
Lupinus sulphureus ssp. LT/LT Upland prairie
kincaidii
Kincaid's Lupine
Erigeron decumbens var. LE/LE Wet prairie to upland prairie
decumbens
Willamette Daisy
Aster curtus SoC / L T Wet prairie to upland prairie
White- Topped Aster
Aster vialis SoC / L T Dry woodlands, within oak and conifer
Wayside Aster stands
Montia howellii SoC / C Open bare soil areas of coniferous forests,
Howell's Montia areas of habitat disturbance
Sidalcea cusickii N/A/ C Wet prairie, ash swales
Cusick's Checker-Mallow
Sidalcea campestris N/A / C Wet prairie to upland prairie
Meadow Checker-Mallow
Horkelia congesta ssp. SoC / C Wet prairie
congesta
Shaggy Horkelia
LE= Listed Endangered, L T= Listed Threatened, PE= Proposed Endangered, PT= Proposed Threatened,
SoC= Species of Concern, C= Candidate, SC= Sensitive Critical, SV= Sensitive Vulnerable, SP=
Peripheral or Naturally Rare, SU= Undetermined Status, N/A= Not Available. Source: Oregon Natural
Heritage Program, January 200 I. ESU= Evolutionarily Significant Unit, ESH= Essential Salmonid Habitat.
2-28
Map3
June 12, 2001
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Legend
1998 Aerial Photograph
Not to Scale
AI Study Area
"'D Tax Lots
.. Streets
~ Grasslands
_ Shrubbed Dry
~ Forested Dry
_ Upland
:::::::;:. Upland Forested
~ Forested Wet
~ Shrubbed Wet
~ Wet Riparian
ITIIDJ Dry Riparian
_ Bare Riparian
_ McKenzie River
_ Tributary
III Wetland
~~ Ponded Area
[+1 Slough
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Site Characteristics
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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Bradshaw's desert parsley generally occurs in open, grassy, moist to wet areas of the
Willamette Valley. Some populations occur in the open sunny edges of ash forests.
Although they typically display an association with tufted hairgrass, some local
populations are found in areas now dominated by tall fescue. Populations of 1.
bradshawii do not respond well to ground disturbances, although seeds of 1. bradshawii
float and embed in the soil more readily in disturbed sites. Some populations have
therefore been located in areas of past ground disturbance. Bradshaw's desert parsley has
been recorded occurring with many other plant species of concern including the
Willamette Valley daisy, white-topped aster, Wayside Aster, and shaggy horkelia. In
addition, Bradshaw's desert parsley, along with the Willamette Valley daisy, exhibits a
preference for Bashaw Clay soils. Bradshaw's lomatium would not likely grow at this
site .due to the sandy loam soils (well drained) and the extensive dominance of reed
canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea).
The Willamette daisy is generally found in open, wet prairie meadows of the Willamette
Valley drainage basin. It has shown a preference for hydric silty clay or clay soils.
Populations can be present in meadows with a history of pasture or hay use, but no recent
tillage. The Willamette daisy has shown a preference for Bashaw Clay soils. White-
topped aster can be located in open, wet and upland prairies of the greater Willamette
Valley. The white-topped aster can be found in association with 1. bradshawii as both
individuals share the same general habitat conditions. The Wayside Aster is generally
found in upland prairies, open deciduous and mixed coniferous forests, especially in areas
with poison oak. Shaggy horkelia is generally found in opens prairie areas and displays
similar habitat conditions to the listed endangered endemic, 1. bradshawii. It can also be
found in sandy or rocky flats and in open forested areas. Like Bradshaw's lomatium, the
Willamette daisy, white-topped aster, Wayside aster, and shaggy horkelia would not
likely grow at this site due to the sandy loam soils and the domination of reed canary
grass (Phalaris arundinacea).
Kincaid's lupine can be found in open grass-covered upland areas throughout the
Willamette Valley. This species is also known to inhabit areas with habitat disturbances
that include mowing, light grazing, and roadside clearings. The site is overgrown with
blackberries, reed canary grass, shrubs, and trees, making this site an unlikely habitat for
Kincaid's lupine.
The Sidalcea (Sidalcea spp.) species of concern tend to grow in wet meadows, fields,
upland prairies, ash swales, and along Willamette Valley roadsides. Habitat for Cusick's
checker-mallow and meadow checker-mallow, which includes wetland prairie areas and
ash swales, could be present at this site. These checker-mallows have been known to
grow at the edges of wooded wetlands in the transition zone to open wetland areas.
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3-7
June 12,2001
2-30
Site Characteristics
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
Howell's montia can be located in open, bare soil understory areas of coniferous forests,
mixed coniferous forests, and forest edges. Howell's montia can also be found in areas
of habitat disturbances that include abandoned or seasonally used roads. Potential habitat
could exist at this site for Howell's montia, particularly within the forested areas where
neither the blackberries nor the reed canary grass have become dominant, and relatively
little vegetation is present (e.g., the small areas towards the north of the project site near
the banks of the river).
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3-8
June 12,2001
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Despite numerous site visits over a period of months during the bloom periods for each of
the above plants, none of the above identified species of concern were identified on the
subject site.
Wildlife
Satre also conducted analysis of known data on potential rare animal species and
significant wildlife habitat on-site. As depicted on Map 4, there are several areas of
potential habitat for aquatic and terrestrial species on or near the subject site.
Table 2: Potential Rare Animal Species Examined
ANIMAL SPECIES OF FEDERAL/ HABIT A T DESCRIPTION
CONCERN STATE STATUS
Clemmys marmorata marmorata SoC / SC Quiet waters in streams, marshes,
Western Pond Turtle sloughs, sluggish waters. Requires
basking areas
Icaricia icariodes fenderi PE / N/ A Upland prairie, uses Kincaid's Lupine
Fender's Blue Butterfly as a host
Haliaeetus leucocephalus LT / LT along shores, rivers, lakes, marshes
Bald Eagle
Rana aurora aurora SOC/SU Meadows, forests near wet areas
Northern Red-Legged Frog
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha ESU not listed Main stem and / or lower tributary
Chinook for McKenzie reaches for spawning
River, but in ESH
Oncorhynchus mykiss ESU not listed Prefer large or moderate size
Steelhead for McKenzie watersheds with high gradient
River, but in ESH throughout, mainstem or more robust
tributaries for spawning
LE= Listed Endangered, L T= Listed Threatened, PE= Proposed Endangered, PT= Proposed Threatened,
SoC= Species of Concern, C= Candidate, SC= Sensitive Critical, SV= Sensitive Vulnerable, SP=
Peripheral or Naturally Rare, SU= Undetennined Status, N/A= Not Available. Source: Oregon Natural
Heritage Program, January 2001. ESU= Evolutionarily Significant Unit, ESH= Essential Salmonid Habitat.
2-31
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~ YiiilIi ':'!~~'2::~_LandsCap~ Arc:h!te;;ts &
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LJ_L~.a._.a. .,.- _..-._
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MASTER PLAN
Map4
June 12, 2001
v
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Ins.t:
1998 Aerial Photograph
Not to Scale
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Tax Lots
Streets
Potential Turtle Nesting Sites
Potential Bald Eagle Roosting
Potential Frog Habitat
~. / Bare riparian
/ /.
~ ...//.... . McKenzie River
V .' Habitat Area
v, Existing Pond Turtle Habitat
~ Existing Fish Habitat '
_ Overlap of Existing Fish and Turtle Overlap
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Site Characteristics
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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The Western Pond Turtle (Clemmys marmorata) lives where water persists throughout
the year, in ponds along foothill streams or in broad washes near the coast where water is
concentrated from back country streams. The ponds favored by turtles are characterized
by emergent and floating vegetation such as cattails and mats of algae. These islands of
vegetation are usually large enough to ensure a fair supply of food and protection for the
pond turtle. When undisturbed these turtles will sun themselves on rocks protruding from
the pond or on partially sunken logs. Sometimes, they float on large patches of green
algae. In cool weather, they leave the water to bask in the sun at favorite basking sites.
During hot weather, they float in the cool water. At the first sign of danger, they quickly
splash into the safety of the pond, where they become invisible to predators. In mid to
late spring, the turtles breed and lay up to eleven eggs in a clutch (a group of eggs that is
laid in the same place at the same time, or nearly the same time) and will hatch at the
same time. The female deposits her eggs in sand or loose soil, usually near the pond.
Hatchlings appear in about 12 weeks. Investigations as part of this study suggest that
there are identified areas of suitable habitat although there are no known locations of
Western Pond Turtle nesting areas on the subject site.
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Northern Red-Legged frogs prefer meadows and forests near wetland areas. Breeding is
conducted in slow-flowing waters that contain submerged vegetation. Although no
sightings have been recorded, the site does provide suitable habitat for this species.
Bald eagles roost in tall trees along the coast, rivers, lakes, and marshes. The closest
known evidence of bald eagles is along the Middle and Coast Forks of the Willamette
River. These areas are more remote and removed from human activities. There are some
tall cottonwoods and large red alders that could be used for roosting (with excellent
foraging opportunities), but due to the nearby heavy traffic and industrial disturbances
surrounding the site, nesting would be unlikely. Other avian species adversely affected
by the loss of lowland riparian vegetation within the McKenzie River subbasin include:
willow flycatcher, yellow-breasted chat, and osprey.
Upper Willamette Spring Chinook and Summer Steelhead are known to be present in the
McKenzie River and to use the side channels within the site. The site provides suitable
habitat for spawning and rearing for Chinook Salmon. Summer Steelhead use this site
for rearing, migration, and spawning. Issues affecting anadramous fish species include:
migration barriers, increases in water temperature, competition for food with non-native
aquatic species, and loss of rearing areas. To minimize impacts to wild Chinook and
Steelhead species from anglers, state regulations allow only fishing for fin-clipped,
hatchery-bred species above Hayden Bridge (to Forest Glen landing).
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3-9
June 12,2001
2-33
Site Characteristics
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
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EXISTING SITE IMPROVMENTS
Access
A triangle shaped gravel area at the southwest comer of 42nd Street and Marcola Road
serves as the primary access point for the site, and as an informal parking area and
trailhead. Although the area is still owned by Lane County and was part of the 42nd
Street right-of-way before the Marcola Road intersection was reconfigured, the entire
7,400 s.f. gravel area is within the Springfield city limits. A gravel maintenance drive
extends parallel to 42nd Street due south from the trailhead area to a significant public
groundwater wellfield located in the southerly portion of the site. Springfield Utility
Board (SUB) and Rainbow Water District (RWD) personnel regularly use this drive for
access to the wellfield, which provides much of north and mid-Springfield with potable
water. The drive is approximately 12-15' wide, comprised of coarse compacted rock, and
crosses Keizer Slough via a bridge with a concrete surface and railroad timber framing.
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ASSOCIATES
3-10
June 12,2001
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Tile view looking nortll along tile maintenance drive
An easement over the property allows SUB and R WD to use the maintenance drive as
long as there are active public groundwater production wells in the wellfield. A gate
located in the gravel area on the southeast comer of the 42nd Street and Marcola Road
intersection controls entry to the maintenance drive. Another gate, immediately west of
the maintenance drive gate controls access to the former railroad spur. Although public
access on the maintenance drive is not authorized, the drive and bridge are used by
anglers and others on the site. Illegitimate uses are easy to conceal due to the dense
riparian vegetation and the fact that the elevation of the maintenance drive is
approximately eight feet below the level of the former railroad spur, which runs parallel
to the drive and screens direct visibility from 42nd Street. .
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A view of Keizer Slough looking north from the bridge to the McKenzie River
Wellfield
The so-called Weyerhaeuser groundwater wellfield is jointly operated by SUB and RWD
. and represents a significant contribution to Springfield's public water supply. The
wellfield is an open field bounded by Highway 126 and the McKenzie River. Several
large maple trees grow along the northerly boundary of the well field along the river.
Other vegetation in the wellfield area consists largely of field grasses, which are
periodically mowed to reduce the potential for fire hazard, and to increase visibility of the
wellheads and.reduce the potential for vandalism. The McKenzie River's southern bank,
north of the wellfield, is armored with riprap. The wellfield has three active groundwater
production wells, two inactive wells and three monitoring wells; another monitoring well
is located along at the southeast turn of the lower access road. The three active wells
pump 3.6 million gallons of water per day (2500 gallons per minute). Security for the
wellfield is a significant concern for water utility operators.
View toward the welljield from the maintenance drive north of Highway 126
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Immediate water quality concerns are focused around a subsurface plume of
Pentachlorophenal (Penta), a chemical formerly used at the Weyerhaeuser plant as a
wood preservative, which was discovered in 1994 migrating northwesterly toward the
McKenzie River and wellfield area. A monitoring well (MW 19D) located on the
Weyerhaeuser property immediately south of Highway 126 is monitoring the direction of
the plume twice a month. The plume is elliptical in shape and is approximately 1200 feet
wide at its widest point, and approximately 4500 feet long and 70-80 feet in depth.
The concentration of Penta in the aquifer is at 9-11 parts per billion at the MW 19D well.
Federal regulations establish the value for Penta limits for non-human consumption
species in surface water at 12 parts per billion; the limit for drinking water is 1 part per
billion. Weyerhaeuser Company, SUB and RWD have collaborated to develop protocols
for removing Penta from the public water supply when the plume reaches the
Weyerhaeuser wellfield. It is estimated that the SUB and RWD monitoring wells located
immediately east of the site could begin to detect Penta levels in 2001.
The Weyerhaeuser Company paid for the construction of a filtration system located at the
RWD site on 42nd Street to treat potable water supplies when Penta reaches the wellfield.
When concentrations of Penta are detected in the water supply, water will be directed
from the main transmission line to the filtration system. There the water will pass
through a series of eight filtration canisters, each with activated carbon, which are
specifically designed to remove the Penta from the water. It is estimated the Penta plume
will enter the McKenzie River by the year 2008. Based on the dilution factors, once the
Penta is in the McKenzie River it is not anticipated that it will be detected at levels that
will pose a risk to human consumption, aquatic species or wildlife habitats.
Overhead Electrical Line
A 35-foot wide EWEB utility easement is located along the easterly boundary of the site
that extends the length of the site immediately east of the maintenance drive. The lines
provides 3-phase power to serve uses at the Hayden Bridge Station and Weyerhaeuser
Company.
Informal Trails
Approximately 500 feet south of the maintenance drive gate is a ten-foot wide grassy
pathway, created by informal use as a trail to access the McKenzie River. This swath of
grass narrows to a width of a single person and is bounded by blackberry approximately
thirty feet west of the river. There are numerous lateral trails traversing the site in
multiple directions. Although made by informal use of the site, the trails may provide
legitimate trail use in areas that will not adversely impact the ecological functions of the
site.
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The McKenzie River from the terminus of an informal trail east of Keizer Slough
Site Uses
Currently, there are several authorized uses of the project site, which include SUB's and
RWD's wellfield production and maintenance of the wellfield, EWEB's electrical
line/utility corridor through the westerly portion of the site, stormwater management,
Weyerhaeuser's use of Keizer Slough for non-contact coolant water discharge. Existing
uses of the site include fishing, transient camping and picnicking. No parking is currently
allowed in the gravel area at 42nd Street, due in part to past dumping activities.
An existing non-consumptive use on the site is an area in the northwestern portion of the
site authorized as a wetland mitigation site in 1996. Documentation of this mitigation
site should be considered as a part of future planning and design for wetland mitigation or
restoration activities.
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McKENZIE RIVER OXBOW NATURAL AREA
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Section Four: Relevant Planning Documents
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RELEVANT PLANNING DOCUMENTS
Section 4 identifies applicable plans and planning documents relevant to the site and
master planning effort. The site is a key tract of land for many reasons including but not
limited to: its geographical location to the metro area, providing the potential for visual, if
not physical, river access; its status as a natural resource asset; and its potential to link
local and regional bicycle and pedestrian corridors.
Draft McKenzie River Subbasin Assessment, Draft Summary Report
The McKenzie River Subbasin Assessment (WaterWork Consulting, Pacific Wildlife
Research, Alsea Geospatial, Hardin-Davis, 2000) is a summary report that provides an
ecological assessment of the McKenzie River floodplain, identifies conservation and
restoration opportunities, and discusses the influence of some upstream actions and
processes. This assessment identifies 37 river reaches, which are defined by changes in
geomorphology, land use, tributary junctions, and/or cultural features. The project site is
identified as Reach # 10 of the McKenzie River subbasin.
The study recommends conservation and restoration of aquatic ecosystems, fish
population and wildlife species and habitats of concern within in the McKenzie Subbasin.
Recommendations that directly refer to or affect the area within the project are
incorporated into the use and management program for the site.
Juvenile Chinook Salmon and Pond Turtle Habitat Characteristics of the SprinJ!field/
Weyerhaeuser Properly: Reach # 10 of the McKenzie River
This study is a summary document of juvenile Chinook salmon and western pond turtle
habitat characteristics within and around the project site. Species habitats are assessed
and analyzed as a basis for recommendations to improve and enhance habitat, including:
· Concentrate recreational development in the south portion of the property that is
circumscribed by Keizer Slough;
· Protect and maintain existing habitat on the east side of the river;
· Increase juvenile salmon habitat by providing summer flow to blocked side channel
in north portion of the property, remove sediments and excavate additional side
channels further east;
· Protect and retain older trees;
· Remove exotic vegetation (reed canary-grass, blackberry, scotch broom) and replant
with black cottonwood, Oregon Ash and bigleaf maple;
· Remove riprap if no longer needed, or consider adding rock barbs at a right angle to
riprap if the riprap is needed;
· Excavate additional ponds and nesting areas for turtles, add half immersed logs to
ponds and backwater areas for turtles to bask. Nesting area should be on higher
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ground since hatchlings remain underground for much of their first year. Nesting
areas should have sparse vegetation and loose soil that will not be disturbed by human
or domestic animals. Where possible, use existing gravel pit depressions shown in
1960 aerial photographs;
· Keep automotive traffic away from turtle areas. Do not create turtle nesting areas on
the opposite side of the road from turtle ponds;
. Prevent illegal stocking of ponds, alcoves, and side-channels with exotic fish
(especially largemouth bass). Remove exotic fish if they become established.
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Rare Species Habitat Assessment
Satre conducted an assessment of habitat suitability for rare and protected species, both
plant and wildlife within the project site. The assessment identifies plant species and
wildlife species of concern, describes field investigation methodology and efforts at
locating species in the field, and maps potential habitat sites (refer to Section 3).
Delineation of Jurisdictional Wetland Boundaries, Report FindinJ!s
Satre also conducted delineations of wetland boundaries on the site (see Section 3). This
report provides a detailed account of the on-site wetlands, the methodology used, and
relevant maps delineating jurisdictional wetlands.
EUJ!ene-SprinJ!/ield Metro Area General Plan
The Metro Plan is the official long-range comprehensive land use plan for the cities of
Eugene and Springfield, their urbanizable areas, and surrounding area. The Metro Plan
diagram designates the site for Park and Open Space uses. This designation forms an
association between the site and some of the plan elements identified within the Metro
Plan. Relevant goals, objectives and policies in the Metro Plan's Willamette River
Greenway, River Corridors, and Waterway Element; Environmental Resources Element;
Transportation Element; and Parks and Recreation Facilities Element serve as a
framework within which project goals, objectives and recommendations must conform.
Willamette River Greenway, River Corridors, and Waterway Element
Findings in the Willamette River Greenway, River Corridors, and Waterway Element
state: "In the Eugene-Springfield area, portions of the McKenzie River share equal
importance [with the Willamette River] as a natural resource worthy of conservation and
protection." Listed below are applicable goals, objectives and policies from this element:
Goal: "Protect, conserve and enhance the natural, scenic, environmental, and economic
qualities or river and waterway corridors. " (pg. 111-0-3)
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Objective 2: "Ensure that development occurring within river corridors and waterway
corridors is responsive to and provides protection of these valuable natural assets. " (pg.
III-D-4)
Policy 2: "Land use regulations and acquisitions programs along river corridors and
waterways shall take into account all concerns and needs of the community, including
recreation, resource, and wildlife protection; enhancement of river corridor and
waterway environments,' potential for supporting non-automobile transportation,'
opportunities for residential development; and other compatible uses. " (pg. III -D-4)
Environmental Resources Element
This element pertains to natural assets and hazards of the metropolitan area. The site
qualifies is a natural asset because of its wildlife and ecological value, and the fact that
the McKenzie River is the sole source of drinking water for the city of Eugene and
supports the aquifer system providing potable water to Springfield.
Goal I: "Protect valuable natural resources and encourage their wise management,
proper use and reuses, reflecting their special natural assets. "
(pg.III-H-4)
Objective 5: "Manage open space areas for their diverse and multiple values. " (pg. 11I-
C-6)
Objective 6: "Prevent damage to life and property and expenses associated with flooding
and problem soils. " (pg. III -C-7)
Several policies (e.g., Policies 1, 2, 3, 14, 20 and 28) are also relevant to the current
planning efforts for the site because these policies address downstream impacts, FEMA
regulations, development within the floodway, water quality and public awareness.
Transportation Element
The transportation element addresses surface transportation in the metropolitan area with
an emphasis on the relationship between land use and transportation. The relationship of
land use and transportation is addressed to respond to articulated community goals
including: increasing public transit ridership; reducing automobile use; and increasing the
use of alternative modes of transportation such as pedestrian and bicycle.
Goal 1: "Provide for a more balanced transportation system to give mobility to all
segments of the community. " (pg. III-F-4)
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Objective 4: "Promote the use of alternative modes of transportation such as bicycle,
pedestrian, and paratransit to meet some of the trip needs of metropolitan residents. "
(pg. III-F-4)
Objective 8: "Promote land use arrangement, which will optimize use of existing and
planned transportation facilities and services and will allow the choice of using
alternative transportation modes. " (pg. III-F-4)
Parks and Recreation Facilities Element
The Metro area has a long history in providing diverse parks and recreation that enhance
the livability of the community. The site has the potential to become an aspect of the
overall recreation system within the Metro Area.
Goal 1: "Provide a variety of parks and recreation facilities to serve the diverse needs of
the community's citizens. " (pg. III-H-4)
Objective 4: "Develop park sites and recreation facilities in the manner best suited to
serve the diverse interest of local residents and in areas of greatest need. " (pg. III-H-4)
Policies 1 and 2 are also relevant to the current planning efforts for the project site
because they address including river corridors in recreation plans and coordination on a
metropolitan level.
Metro Plan Update Natural Assets and Constraints WorkinJ! Papers
As a companion to earlier iterations of the Metro Plan, the 1978 Working Papers are
inventories and analysis of a series of natural resource attributes throughout the Eugene-
Springfield area, including the subject site. Although the information is now quite old
and is mapped on a metropolitan scale, it is still instructive in that it identifies the area as
possessing significant wetlands vegetation and wildlife areas, and identifies the
McKenzie River as a spawning river for anadramous fish.
The subject site was specifically identified as Site 34, Hayden Bridge Wildlife Area, and
as home to two known avian wildlife species - Green Heron and Warblers.
Draft Metropolitan Natural Resources Special Study
Although a metro-wide NRSS has not been adopted to date, the 1991 NRSS Study Report
offers valuable inventory data based on sound principles and recommendations for
balancing human-built system and natural systems. It is looked upon as an advisory
guide for development with regard to' identifying natural resources and sites. The
regional analysis within the NRSS is a valuable source of information, which identifies
conflicting uses with the environment and their associated impacts; provides a regional
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overview on natural areas and developed areas; and regional environmental issues such
as, the protection of natural resources and the development of natural resources.
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A portion of the site is addressed as the Weyerhaeuser A (riparian) site (S I 0) within the
NRSS. The NRSS recognizes the Weyerhaeuser A site as an area of great importance
because of its connection to three nearby sites (i.e., S09- Weyerhaeuser, S20-Irving
Slough North, and S21-South Irving Slough and Pond). The site is identified as having
"a large riparian forested area with excellent structural diversity (multiple layers of
vegetation), abundant sources of food, water and cover and strong connections to other
wildlife habitat sites. Vegetation on the site is mostly native species, diverse and mature
and includes black cottonwood, willow, snowberry, sedge, rush, cattail and reed canary-
grass. The site is part of a major wildlife travel corridor and provides vital components
of fish habitat for the river. The backwaters in this site provide a rearing site for many
fish species. This type of aquatic habitat is typical of that used for rearing by the Oregon
Chub, a candidate for the federal endangered species list. There is one active heronry on
the site."
The site is also identified as. important because it is part of a larger riparian forest area
that borders the McKenzie River, which is also listed as a significant site (MC), with a
high wildlife habitat rating. The NRSS notes the high quality of the riparian area along
the river adjacent to the subject site, noting that it is "dominated by willow, black
cottonwood and red alder, with big leaf maple, Oregon ash, creek dogwood and Indian
plum. Structural diversity and density are high. The red-tailed hawk, osprey, great blue
heron, green backed heron, mallard, common merganser and belted kingfisher are
common inhabitants of these areas. These areas also support nutria, beaver, skunk,
raccoon, bats, black-tailed deer, red fox and other small mammals. These areas are
connected to other high quality riparian areas along the river and are important as part of
the travel corridor provided by the McKenzie. In addition to providing wildlife habitat
adjacent to the river, these riparian areas are a critical part of the biological system which
supports fish populations in the river itself. The McKenzie River is renowned for its
recreational fishing, including steel head, Chinook salmon, cutthroat and rainbow trout
and mountain whitefish. These species, along with over 30 other fish species, depend
upon healthy riparian areas to survive."
The NRSS recommends development in these areas a manner that is sensitive to the high
value and ecological sensitivity of the adjacent riparian area (i.e., protect the natural
resource, provide waterside development. in appropriate areas and utilize the site for
education purposes).
The companion to the NRSS study report, the Metropolitan Natural Resources Functional
Plan, contains detailed policies and recommended actions concerning the natural resource
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system in the Eugene-Springfield metropolitan area. The subject site is recommended for
protection, with limited waterside development and clean-up, restoration, and educational
efforts allowed. All applicable policies and recommended actions for Natural Resources
Policy (page 15-17), Waterside Protection and Development Policy (page 17-19), Public
Access Policy (page 22), Clean Up, Restoration and Education Policy (page 22-23) have
been incorporated into the Plan.
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McKenzie River Riparian Corridor Evaluation
This study evaluates natural resources associated with four sites in the McKenzie-
Gateway area approximately 2.5 miles west (downstream) of the site. This study is a
site-specific document and evaluation, but provides some limited information applicable
generally to the McKenzie River and upstream riparian areas. Future potential uses and
management strategies for the McKenzie-Gateway site were recommended to be
appropriate for the surrounding natural resources and the McKenzie River as a whole.
Willamalane Park and Recreation District Comprehensive Plan
The adopted 1980 Willamalane Parks Plan enumerates several policies, which warrant
consideration when reviewing potential use activities and management strategies for the
site.
. "Work with Lane Transit District (LTD) in assuring that mass transit routing is
convenient to existing andfuture Park and recreation facility locations. " (pg.l76)
. "Work with appropriate public agencies in assuring that metro bikeways are
convenient to existing andfuture recreation facility locations. " (pg. 176)
. "Work with Lane County in evaluating lwid in close proximity to the District which
are in the jloodway fringe or land generally unsuitable for other purposes for
possible recreational potential. " (pg. 177)
. "Evaluate the recreation potential for District residents and visitors of lands in close
proximity to the District, lvhich are located in the jloodway fringe or are generally
considered unsuitable for other purposes." (pg. 178)
. "Consider environmental enhancement with regard to recreation development.
Parks and recreation facilities shall be developed to insure that minimum of damage
to the environment. " (pg. 178)
. "Work to incorporate recreational amenities such as trail systems, bike paths and
jogging trails within existing drainage ways, open space corridors and
utility rights-of way so that these natural resources are retained as assets in the
community's recreation system and natural environment, while still providing a high
quality recreation experience for the District's residents and visitors. " (pg. 178)
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1995 Park, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan
The Willamalane Park and Recreation District's PROS Plan establishes a policy
framework for future recreation programming and planning for Willamalane Park and
Recreation District. The PROS Plan advocates: I) the development of a park and open
space network; 2) the protection of unique natural values; and 3) the coordination,
cooperation, and partnership with other agencies and the community. The plan was
adopted only by Willamalane and not the City, so it has only advisory status. The PROS
Plan identified the area northwest of the project site as a park deficient area and as a
potential location for a park site. Along the westerly boundary of the site along 42nd
Street, a planned multi-use path is shown on the Recreation Corridors Diagram.
In the PROS Plan, Willamalane also recommends the City obtain funding for the
development of a pathway linking the Thurston area with mid-Springfield and the rest of
the community. Specifically, the PROS Plan identifies a recreation corridor (see below)
that would connect the existing bikeway through north Springfield (the EWEB Bikeway)
to Marcola Road, the Weyerhaeuser property, High Banks Road, and east Springfield.
The specific pedestrian corridor linkages identified in the PROS Plan are relevant to the
current planning effort for the project site.
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An excerpt of the PROS Plan's Recreation Corridors DiagTllnt
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EUJ(ene-Sprimdield Metropolitan Area Transportation Plan
The 1986 TransPlan recommends a McKenzie River Path, Project #688, from 420d Street
to High Banks Road. This project is on a medium ranre project schedule. Another
project on the medium range project schedule is the 420 Street Route, Project #733a,
which is recommended to connect Marcola Road to the Weyerhaeuser site.
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The EUJ(ene-SprinJ(field Transportation System Plan Update
The 1999 draft TransPlan Update sets policy recommendations for regional bikeways and
pedestrian circulation and provides a framework for bicycle and pedestrian corridor
improvements in proximity to the project site that would allow the project site to become
part of a larger bicycle or pedestrian corridor network. The TransPlan Update
recommends a striped lane from Marcola Road to the railroad tracks, Bicycle Project #
713. The McKenzie River Path, Bicycle Project # 753, a multi-use path from Marcola
Road to 520d Street is also recommended in the TransPlan Update.
The above referenced planning documents show the project site to be an important
property with regard to preserving it as a natural asset and as a potential link to connect
some of the fragmented portions of the bikeway network in proximity to the project site.
SprinJ(field Bicycle Plan
The Springfield Bicycle Plan is a 20-year projection of the City's bicycle system needs,
which takes into account safety, connectivity, convenience, and visual aesthetics for on-
street and off-street bicycle transportation. The Bicycle Plan was adopted in 1998 by the
City of Springfield and refines the bicycle element of the TransPlan. The Bicycle Plan
identifies the area immediately adjacent to the site as a highly fragmented bikeway
network. Currently there is no effective means to link the Thurston area with mid-
Springfield for bicyclists. The portions of the bicycle network that is in proximity of the
project site received a fair to superior rating for level of service. Presumably, any
addition to the. bikeway system in and around the project site would provide highly
needed linkages.
The Bicycle Plan's "Priority Projects Map" shows a proposed multi-use path called the
McKenzie River Connector on the southern boundary of the project site. This multi-use
path will provide a vital link in the City's fragmented bicycle network. The City of
Springfield has received an ODOT matching grant to develop a bike path on the old
railroad spur parallel to 420d Street from Marcola Road to the Weyerhaeuser property
located south of Highway 126. The City is developing in 2001 a work plan and
engineering drawings for the project.
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Fragmented Bike Network
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MASTER PLAN
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Section Five: Regulatory Requirements
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REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS
Section 5 identifies the applicable state, federal and local regulatory requirements that
may be involved in the review and approval of potential improvement projects.
Federal A~encies
National Marine Fisheries Service
Improvements to the site will need to be coordinated with the National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS) to ensure a "take" of federally protected aquatic species (Evolutionarily
Signficant Units, or ESUs) or habitat does not occur. NMFS has jurisdictional
responsibility to protect ocean species, including anadramous fish such as salmon, that
spend part of their life-cycle in freshwater environments, and part in oceanic habitats. In
June of 2000, NMFS adopted provisions to implement prohibitions of "takings" of 14
groups of salmon and steelhead listed as threatened and endangered under the federal
Endangered Species Act (ESA). NMFS adopted the take rule under section 4( d) of the
ESA. This rule prohibits anyone from taking a listed salmon or steelhead except in cases
where the take is associated with an approved program. The 4( d) rule approves some
specific existing state and local programs and creates a means for NMFS to approve
additional programs if they meet certain standards set out in the rule. This rule protects
14 ESUs of salmon and steelhead in Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and California. The
rule's principal function is to prohibit actions that kill or injure threatened species (i.e.
"take" them) without specific written authorization. The 4(d) limits are not the only
mechanism for NMFS and other applicable federal agencies to review activities to ensure
they do not harm salmon. Section 7 of the ESA requires that federal agencies (and their
assignees) consult with NMFS on activities they authorize, permit, fund, or carry out to
ensure they are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of listed species or
destroy or adversely modify their critical habitat.
The 4(d) rule's prohibitions on take apply to the activities of every state, city, and county
government, business, and citizen. The take guidance described in the final rule provides
information about what types of activities are most likely to result in a take and thus
violate the 4(d) rule. However, each activity must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to
determine if it is likely to cause take. Protocols for ensuring agency compliance with the
4( d) rule is generally described below.
I. Identify the program or activity (for state and local governments, this may include
activities they fund, authorize, or carry out);
2. Evaluate whether the program or activity is likely to take or harm listed fish or their
habitat;
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3. If the program or activity is not likely to take or harm listed fish, then there is no need
to modify the activity or for the federal agency involved in the project to contact
NMFS;
4. If, however, after reviewing the program or activity, it seems likely it will take or
harm listed fish, or there is uncertainty about whether take or harm may occur, the
acting party should contact NMFS to find out more about how to evaluate the
activity's impacts and determine ways to avoid harming the fish and violating the
ESA.
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US Army Corps of En~ineers (Corps)
The Corps has jurisdiction over the waters of the United States, which include
jurisdictionally delineated wetlands, ponds and waterways including the McKenzie River,
Keizer Slough and the wetlands on the site. The Corps also has a primary role in
developing and maintaining flood control devices throughout the entire Willamette River
basin. As a product of this latter mission for flood control, an overriding objective of the
Corps in the project area is to retain the function of, and maintain access to, the revetment
structure (riprap) north of the wellfield to be undisturbed. This does not preclude
enhancement projects to the revetment (i.e., adding vegetation), but the Corps would
review proposals to evaluate impacts to the function and protection of access to the
revetment, as well as any potential ESA take issues.
Any fill or removal of soils or construction activities involving more than 50 cubic yards
of fill in a year, and projects involving wetlands or waters of the United States would
need to be coordinated with the Corps. Also, any improvement to the site that may
impact the water's flow would also need to be reviewed by the Corps for hydrologic
impacts.
US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
The US Fish and Wildlife Service has jurisdiction over all other listed flora and fauna, as
well as non-anadromous fish species, such as Bull Trout. Any improvement that may
affect these species would need to be coordinated with the USFWS.
State Agencies
Ore~on Division of State Lands (DSL)
The DSL has jurisdiction over waters of the State of Oregon, including jurisdictional
wetlands. Any improvement projects that impact these waters will need to be
coordinated with the DSL. Since the DSL and ACOE both have jurisdiction over
wetlands and waters for their respective agencies, a coordinated review and permit (a
Joint Permit) would be necessary.
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Ore~on Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)
OOFW has jurisdiction over anadromous fish species and state listed endangered or
threatened species. The ODFW also serves as a conduit in which some Federal
regulations are enforced within the state. ODFW will be involved in any section 7 or
ESA consultation undertaken by NMFS.
Ore~on Department of Transportation (ODOT)
OOOT has jurisdiction over state highways and roads. Eugene-Springfield Highway 126
is under ODOT jurisdiction. Any improvement that may occur within the ODOT
Highway 126 right-of-way will need to be coordinated with ODOT.
Local Aeencies
Lane County
The site is outside of Springfield's UGB. Therefore, Lane County has jurisdiction over
land use, development, and fill/removal activities on the site.
In a work session on March 13th, 2001 the Lane County Board of Commissioners
reviewed but did not act upon the recommendations of the Lane County Planning
Commission. These recommendations called for the creation of a Critical Habitat
Conservation Zone (CHCZ) in response to the listing of bull trout, Oregon Coast coho,
and Upper Willamette spring Chinook as threatened species under the Endangered
Species Act and the 4(d) rule. The CHCZ would supersede the Class I Stream Riparian
Regulations (LC 16.253) and supplement the Willamette Greenway Development Permit
(LC 16.254) and Floodplain Combining Zone (LC 16.244) code provisions. Any future
improvement to the site will need to meet the criteria and standards set forth in the Lane
Code.
The following table illustrates the permitting requirements for uses and improvements
proposed on the site through this planning effort.
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Table 3: Potential Permit Requirements for Proposed Improvements and Uses.
NMFS ACOE USFWS DEQ ODFW ODOT DSL LC City
Wetland C P C C C - P P -
Mitigation
Stormwater C P C P C - P PIC -
Management
Multi-use Path C C C - C P - P P
42nu Street - - - - - - - P P
Trailhead
High Banks - - - - - P - P P
Road Trailhead
Signagel Kiosk C C C - C - C P -
(assumes above
ord. high water)
Vegetation C P C - C - C P -
Restoration
Conservation C P C C C - P P -
Trails
Wellfield C P C C C - P P -
Expansion
Relocation of C P C C C - P P -
Utility Lines
Riparian C P C C C - P P -
Enhancement
C = Coordinate
P = Permit
Potential Permits
ACOE = Section 404
DEQ = Section 401, NPDES (assuming 1 acres or more)
ODOT = Facility Permit, Access Permit
DSL = Fill/Removal Permit
LC = Riparian Modification Permit, Floodplain Permit
City = Land and Drainage Alteration Permit and Paving Permit
>- Coordination is cited when there is a possibility that a potential use or project may have
impact on surrounding jurisdictional areas, areas above ordinary high water levels or on
waters containing Section 7 ESA species.
>- General requirements: any removal of vegetation will require permits from Lane County,
placement or removal of anything within areas of Ordinary High Water Level will require
a permit from DSL and ACOE.
>- Work within ODOT right of way may have to be coordinated with NMFS.
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Section Six: Site Analysis and Uses
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SITE ANALYSIS AND USES
Section 6 is an analysis of the existing conditions and characteristics of the site. An
overlay analysis method was used, which "stacks" the existing natural features, sensitive
areas, critical resources, and regulatory setback requirements to identify those areas that
have potential for site improvements (refer to Map 5- Site Analysis).
SITE ANALYSIS
As noted earlier, the total area of land reviewed as part of the site analysis (refer to
Section 6) is approximately 107 acres; this additional area includes portions of the
McKenzie River and its features that are adjacent to tax lots 401 and 2901, which are not
owned by the City.
Below are definitions for some of the terminology used in this section of this Plan.
Physical Improvements: Any physical change or alteration to the site resulting the
construction of new structures or modification of existing structures (structures is defined
as any human-built feature temporarily or permanently stationed in the landscape).
Restorative Improvements: Any alteration or modification to any natural feature that, in
some way, improves said natural feature (e.g., McKenzie River, wetlands, vegetation).
Restorative Areas: Those areas that have been identified through the planning process as
needing restoration to vegetation and/or the land base. Restoration might either occur
through the removal of non-native invasive vegetation, enhancing existing riparian
vegetation, or improving habitat in critical resource areas.
When reviewing existing natural features, the site analysis used the following criteria
were developed to assist the City with identifying those areas that have potential for
physical improvements.
· Previously disturbed areas;
· Areas outside any regulatory setback or jurisdictional wetland;
· Areas outside of the floodway;
· Areas outside of any known critical habitat area;
· Areas located away from any existing rare plant and animal species;
· Areas outside of the existing wellfield (certain measures that address security and
contamination concerns could provide potential for minor improvements to those
areas in proximity to the wellfield).
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ANAL YSIS METHODOLOGY
The site analysis process included the following steps.
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Site Visit: The consultant team made numerous visits to the site to assess physical
conditions, map wetlands, rare plant communities, and review proposed improvement
scenanos.
Document Review: Section 4 of this plan documents the applicable plans and planning
documents reviewed as part of this project. These plans have provided insight potential
opportunities and constraints for improvements.
Meetings: The consultant team, City staff and Task Force met numerous times to discuss
project findings, proposed scenarios and potential improvements.
Mapping: Once identified, the critical habitat areas, natural features, regulatory
requirements and existing improvements were mapped in order to graphically display
those areas that have potential for improvement.
Findinf!s
Based on the overlay method of analysis, the project area was divided into three areas.
These areas are identified as 1) unsuitable for physical improvement, 2) suitable for
improvement, and 3) suitable for improvement with mitigation.
1) Unsuitable areas for physical improvement are those areas found to contain features or
resources that would be adversely impacted by improvements.
2) Suitable areas for improvement are those areas that, if improved would result in
minimal adverse impact existing natural features or resources.
3) Suitable areas for improvement with mitigation are those areas where some degree of
on-site mitigation would be necessary to ensure minimal adverse impact.
Of the approximate 107 acres in the project study area, 6 acres are suitable for
improvement, 29 acres are suitable for improvement with mitigation, and 72 acres are
unsuitable for improvement. Please note that the area that comprises the unsuitable for
physical improvement area includes those areas not owned by the City, including the
McKenzie River and its tributaries.
Physical improvements may occur in suitable areas for improvement and suitable areas
for improvement with mitigation. Restorative improvements may occur in suitable areas
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Map 5
June 12, 2001
Main access to site,
controllled intersection,
access gates exist
on site, gravel area
serves as parking area
Dense vegetation, complex
side channels, most
diverse area of the site
with regard to supporting
a variety of vegetation
and wildlife habitat
Former railroad line at
higher elevation then
site, gravel surfaced
maintenance drive used
by SUB & RWD
v
,
7r. Sheltered "cove" areas
and side channels
Legend
N Study Area
~~~ ~~~:.ShP
_ McKenzie River
Inset:
1998 Aerial Photograph
Not To Scale
Existing utility right-of-way
for EWEB overhead electrical
lines service Hayden Bridge
Pump Station
Wellfield, open grass
area, hardened bank
_ Tributary
III Wetland
//~ ~ '~~ Ponded Area
/ D Slough
~/
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Internal trails exist
throughout site
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~~~
Extremely steep road
embankement,
heavily vegetated
Potential for connection to
High Banks Road
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for improvement, suitable areas for improvement with mitigation and unsuitable areas for
improvement.
Mitigation necessary for physical improvements is greatly dependent on the improvement
being proposed and the impact. However, in general, mitigation could include: creation
of additional wetlands, planting of riparian vegetation, and expansion of public
educational programs occurring on the site.
This analysis assumes all the current authorized uses (i.e., well field production and
maintenance, electric utility corridor and storm water management by the City of
Springfield) will continue to occur on the site. Any expansion of these uses should be
allowed with the appropriate mitigation measures to ensure minimal adverse impact to
the ecological function of the site.
Opportunities
Public Education
The site is a function of dynamic habitat, features and attributes that demonstrate the
importance of environmental stewardship. An environmental education program focus
for the site can promote a community awareness about how this site functions and why
the function of this site is so important. The education format can promote important role
the public well field serves to the community, how storm water is managed and the
importance of the ecological function of the site. The City can encourage partnerships
with local school districts (i.e., Springfield School District #19 and Eugene District # 4J)
to form create volunteer youth corps for restoration projects.
Wetland Miti~ation
This site has been the site of wetland mitigation in the past and may serve as a receiving
site for additional wetland mitigation for the City. The site has potential habitat
enhancement areas, which can be included in future mitigation.
Storm Water Mana~ement
The site is currently used for stormwater management and if necessary this use can be
expanded in concert with an educational program to highlight the benefits of storm water
management and vegetative restoration.
Restoration
Restoration can include enhancements and rehabilitation for habitat, vegetation and/or
wetland environments on the site. The site has numerous areas that contain invasive,
non-native species; these species can be removed through restoration efforts and
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management. The site may be able to serve as a restoration mitigation site, where
developers would either donate into a mitigation fund or complete restoration on the site.
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Conservation
Conservation includes numerous management techniques that will best serve a particular
portion or area of the site. Conservation may include ongoing management and
maintenance of public areas to assure minimal impacts to adjacent areas that may be at
risk, or it may include vegetation and habitat management.
Multi-use Connector (McKenzie River Multi-use Path)
The Springfield Bicycle Plan documents the need for an east-west pedestrian connection
that connects the Thurston area with mid-Springfield. There is an opportunity for such a
connection through the southern portion of the site.
The City of Springfield is in the design phase for the 42nd Street Pathway, which will be
located on the former railroad line, immediately west of the site. A multi-use path, the
McKenzie River Multi-use path, extending from the 42nd Street Pathway to High Banks
Road may be achieved by traversing the southerly portion of the site starting in the
southwest corner and continuing along the southern portion of the site adjacent to the
Highway 126 right-of-way to High Banks Road. Because of the narrow dimensions on
the southern portion of the site, and to allow for potential funding and maintenance
benefits, portions of the route may need to be placed within portions of the Highway 126
right-of-way.
Constraints
The constraints to physical improvements on the site are well documented and include
issues concerning floodways, wetlands, sensitive habitat (plant and wildlife) areas,
riparian areas, the wellfield, and the McKenzie River. These constraints also reflect the
site's tremendous ecological assets and should be incorporated into restoration,
conservation and education efforts of the site to serve as a method of creating a public
awareness of the importance of the ecological function of the river.
SITE USES
The opportunities and constraints for the site shape the type of appropriate uses for the
site. The following table shows the appropriate uses for the site and where the proposed
uses should occur.
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Table 4: Proposed Uses and Area Designations
Site Uses Designated Areas Comment
Education ]&2 Permit public access to these areas (I & 2)
through an education format. Access In
proximity of #3 areas should be allowed. Access
to the river should also be allowed.
Storm water 1,2, & 3 Public Works Department should have flexibility
Management with management efforts, future project details
and impacts should determine location.
Wetland/ ],2, & 3 The entire site can benefit by serving as a
Restoration receiving site for wetland mitigation or habitat
Mitigation (wildlife and/or plant) restoration programs.
Utility Corridor ]&2 The City should pursue having the overhead
electrical lines relocated. Possible locations
include in or around the wellfield maintenance
road easement or 42nd Street right-of-way.
Wellfield ]&2 Utility providers should have the flexibility of
Production and expanding the uses of the well field if necessary.
Maintenance A]so the maintenance of the well filed may
require access into areas adjacent to the well
field, which should be permitted with appropriate
. mitigation measures.
Multi-use Path Site perimeter A high volume use, such as a pedestrian/bicycle
path should occur on the perimeter of the site.
Wi]dlife Viewing ]&2 Wildlife vlewmg may occur at designated
locations and can serve as part of an overall
education program.
Natural Function 2&3 The site's natural functions should be recognized
as an existing use to be enhanced through
implementation of the plan.
I = Areas SUitable for Improvements
2 = Area suitable for improvements with mitigation
3 = Areas unsuitable for physical improvements
The manner in which the aforementioned uses are realized on the site depends greatly
on future unknown circumstances.
The following table shows what types of improvements may be necessary to
accommodate the proposed uses.
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Table 5: Proposed Uses and Potential Needs
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Site Use Potential Improvement Needs Comment
Education Parking area, on-site classroom Soft surface trails and/or boardwalks can
facility, interpretive signage, soft allow the public to access the site. These
surface trails or boardwalks, trails would be designed to meet ADA
removal of invasive, non-native requirements and become part of an
vegetation overall "education network" that would be
designed to promote the features of the
site.
Storm water Increase water quality and quantity City public works officials should have
Management characteristics by increasing flexibility to maintain and, if necessary,
riparian area, water channel expand storm water management features.
enhancement, vegetation
management, wetland mitigation
Wetland/ Invasive, non-native vegetation The potential to use appropriate portions
Restoration removal, creation of wetlands, of the site for public and/or private
Mitigation enhanced plant species and wetland mitigation should be explored.
wildlife habitat
Utility Corridor Upgrade equipment as required Relocate overhead electrical lines off-site
to prevent the need to disturb any plant
and/or wildlife habitat during maintenance
or servicing of the existing electrical lines.
Well Field Additional wells (monitoring It may become necessary in the future to
Production and and/or production) increase the number of wells in the well
Maintenance field. Utility providers should be allowed
that flexibility.
Multi-use Path Multi-use, hard surface path that The exact engineering technique of this
traverses the southerly portion of path is unknown at this point, but possible
the site (with the potential to scenarios should be allowed to include the
occupy a portion of Hwy 126 right- southerly portion of the site, Keizer
of-way) Slough bridge and Hwy. 126 right-of-way.
Wildlife Soft surface, ADA-accessible Wildlife viewing can become an exciting
Viewing trails, interpretive signage, use of the site that is part of an education
vegetation restoration focus for the site.
Natural Create a management plan and The existing and future natural function of
Function secure long-term financing for site the site must be maintained and enhanced
stewardship through the implementation of the plan.
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The following table shows the potential management responsibility of the proposed site
uses.
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Table 6: Potential Management for Site Uses
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Site Uses Potential Management Comment
Responsibility
Educational City, school district A management strategy based upon the extent of
Programs the program should be established during
implementation.
Storm water City Public Works Public Works Department should manage
Management Department potential improvements and projects to the City's
storm water management program. Coordinate
efforts with other agencies involved in managing
the site.
Wetlandl City, Private agreements City should investigate the potential to establish
Restoration with developers, the program, work agencies and developers to
Mitigation McKenzie River Trust, broaden capabilities of program
McKenzie Watershed
Council, ODFW, EWEB
Wellfield Public Service Provider Public service providers should coordinate
Production and management and maintenance programs with City
Maintenance and other agencies managing the site.
Multi-use Path City, Willamalane Park City, Willamalane and ODOT representatives
and Recreation District, should develop and delegate management
ODOT responsibilities.
Wildlife City, Willamalane Park City and WiIlamalane representatives should
Viewing and Recreation District develop and delegate management
responsibilities.
Natural Function City, Willamalane Park Future management of the site should be based
and Recreation District, upon a management plan designed to protect and
McKenzie River Trust! enhance the natural functions of the site.
McKenzie Watershed
Council
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Table 7: Potential Management for Site Improvements
Site Potential Management Comment
Improvements Responsibility
Soft Surface City, Willamalane A joint management, but the City should take the
Trails lead. Some maintenance duties can be part of a
volunteer program (Adopt a Park).
Multi-use Path City Public Works Oept., City, Willamalane and OOOT representatives should
OOOT, Willamalane develop and delegate management responsibilities.
Signage/ Kiosk City, Willamalane City, Willamalane and OOOT representatives should
develop and delegate management responsibilities
Trailhead City, Willamalane A joint management. Some maintenance duties can
be part of a volunteer program (i.e., Adopt a Park).
Vegetation/ City, Willamalane, Utility City should establish the program and work with
Wetland Service, Providers, other agencies and developers to broaden capabilities
Restoration McKenzie River Trust of implementing the program.
Water channel City, OOFW, McKenzie City should be the lead and coordinate efforts with
enhancement River Trust, McKenzie outside local, state and federal agencies
Watershed Council
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Section Seven: Enhancement Plan
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ENHANCEMENT PLAN
Narrative in this section accompanies Map 6, the illustrated Site Enhancement Plan. The
importance of environmental stewardship, education and awareness is the overriding
philosophy of the enhancement plan. Allowing the site to continue its ecological function
and its role as a public drinking water production site, and storm water management site
are equally important. This philosophy is one that utilizes the existing natural resources
and existing uses as a framework to guide potential uses and improvements in a manner
that minimizes any adverse impact to the environment or public interest
Desi~n Approach
The design approach used for enhancements is based on:
· Use the site's natural features to maximize public awareness;
· Create site uses, management techniques and programs that will support the notion of
environmental stewardship;
· Integrate the existing uses of the site into future use and management policies;
· Create a plan that can adapt to future public and city needs;
· Create an overall design that is based on several factors that although compliment
one another, are not strictly dependent one another;
· Create a plan that can be realized and maintained within acceptable fiscal parameters;
· Allow this plan to provide the framework for future improvement projects for the
site.
Initial Plan
The City Council, staff and the Task Force reviewed the draft schematic design and their
comments have been used to create the Enhancement Plan. A draft schematic plan
established the framework for improvement by dividing the site into three areas: 1)
preservation zone, 2) conservation zone and 3) a multi-use path zone. Each area had
particular uses and improvements proposed to promote the site and its features including
wellfield groundwater production, passive recreational uses (i.e., walking, river watching,
wildlife viewing), multi-use path, conservation trails, educational programs, and
vegetation restoration.
Enhancement Plan
The Enhancement Plan evolved from the initial plan scenario with the following changes:
· Proposing uses based upon suitability;
· Expanding uses to include wetland mitigation and storm water management;
· Emphasizing education as a focus of the overall design philosophy and approach;
· Shifting the focus from site recreation type uses to education type uses, although the
site will have a similar function
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· Establishing the multi-use path as a linked but separate component ofthe plan to
provide the City with greater flexibility in phasing and implementation;
· Increasing awareness of plant species and wildlife habitats.
· Promoting vegetation management and restoration;
· Promoting uses that support a high level and quality of ecological function.
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The physical layout of the Enhancement Plan and the uses for the site are based on
integrating the potential improvements and uses into the site compatible with the existing
and future ecological function of the site (refer to Map 6, Enhancement Plan). The
Enhancement Plan is comprised of three areas including: 1) Areas suitable for
improvement; 2) Areas suitable for improvement with mitigation; and 3) Areas unsuitable
for physical improvement. The following tables summarize the how the proposed uses
and improvements address and satisfy the City's goals and interest.
Site Uses City Goal Site Improvements City Goal
Education 1&2 Signage, Kiosk, small visitor 1,2&4
center
Storm water 1,2 & 4 Vegetation restoration, water 1,2, & 4
Management channel enhancement, educational
signage
WetIandl 1,3, & 4 Enhance habitat, soft surface trails, 1,2 & 4
Restoration signage, information kiosk
Mitigation .
Utility Corridor 1&2 Vegetation and Habitat Restoration 1,2 & 4
(relocation)
Wellfield 1&2 Educational signage, potential for 1&4
Production and expansion
Maintenance
Multi-use Path Site perimeter Multi-use path, trailhead, signage, 1,3,4
kiosk
Wildlife Viewing 1, 2, 3 & 4 Soft surface trails, sign age 1,3 & 4
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Note: City Goals -
I) Environmental Stewardship To actively initiate environmental restoration projects and activities, and
consider potential site modifications that would allow legitimate public uses to occur while still preserving
the resource base.
2) Provision of Public Facilities: To maintain the existing level of use and function of public facilities on or
near the site (e.g., groundwater wells, overhead electrical line, downstream water intake), but consider
options that could either allow for potential expansion of groundwater capacity to meet future demand, or
relocate wells and the overhead electric line elsewhere.
3) Site and River Access: To provide enhanced public access to the site and river, while preserving the
site's inherent natural resource values.
4) Site Uses and Management, To provide for educational and passive recreational uses that do not harm
site ecology or public facilities.
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Partner with local school disctricts to
establish education programs for youths
to foster environemntal stewardship and
community awareness about the site and
its ecological importance
Ensure all trails, paths and/ or pedestrain
connections are meet ADA requirements
P Parking areas to serve as trail head for the
pedestrian connectionl multi - use corridor
improve area with signage, information kiosk,
building/ classroom, access gate, provide
measures to prevent dumping, unauthorized
use
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Create soft surface trails in areas that
will not disturb or adversely impact the
ecological function of the site. Complete a
survey of the site to determine appropriate areas.
.
Pursue vegetation restoration projects
to remove invasive,non-native species,
replant species that once dominated site,
but are no longer existing on site,
encourage restoration mitigation
by developers
1 Work with Utility providers to relocate overhead
ulitity line off-site
o() ~ Provide connection to 42nd Street bicycle path,
permit 24 hour use of McKenzie Multi-Use Path,
create viewshed from path to river.
Satre Associates, P.C.
Planners, Landscape Architects &
r- __ L _ __ _ _ __ _ __.... ~. _ __
~1'~lo' 1" = J:i:nn'
IVI Jo\ \:) I I: 1"'\ t'" LI'\ I"
e Protect fish habitats, increase complexity
of side channels to diversify fish habitat,
explore habitat enhancement projects
with other agencies
e Provide location to view wildlife
_ Protect aquatic habitats and investigate
methods to icrease and diversify habitats
. Pursue wetland restoration and mitigation projects
. to enhance plan species and wildlife habitat, establish
the site as a wetland mitigation site
@ Maintain current wellfield operation and allow
for future expansion if necessary, work with
utility providers to investigate methods of
maintaining wellfield security during public
use of the site
Maintain current storm water mitigation practi(
rand alllow for future expansion of mitigation
practices, if necessary. Combine, when feasil
restoration efforts with mitigation practices.
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June 12, 2001
Inset:
1998 Aerial Photograph
Not To Scale
Legend
N Study Area
D Taxlot
\l,;r&f$~ Streets
/\/pedestrain Connection/ Multi-Use Corridor
Suitability
_ Suitable for Improvement
IIm Suitable for Improvement With Mitigation
[JI[[] Unsuitable for Physical Improvements
_ McKenzie River
_ Tributary
.. Wetland
_ Ponded Area
1.'.:\"'";1 Slough
(;,..,;-,--,.
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McKenzie River Oxbow Natural Area
Master Plan
Enhancement Plan
As noted earlier, the site is divided into three areas that will set the parameters for
proposing a potential use and improvement for the site. The following table summarizes
the potential uses for those three areas.
Table 9: Potential Uses and Site Areas
Area Size Potential Uses
Suitable for Improvement 5.8 ac Expansion of public facilities, storm water
management, wetland mitigation, walking, wildlife
viewing, portion of multi-use path.
Suitable for Improvements 28.8 ac Expansion of Public facilities, storm water
with Mitigation management, wetland mitigation, walking, wildlife
vIewing.
Unsuitable for Physical 49 ac Wetland mitigation, stormwater management,
Improvements restoration management and uses.
The improvements and uses identified above would need to meet the applicable federal,
state and local regulations and follow the required mitigation necessary to have the
improvement and use realized. The uses and improvements identified can occur on the
site with minimal adverse impact to the ecological function of the river.
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McKENZIE RIVER OXBOW NATURAL AREA
MASTER PLAN
Section Eight: Site Policies
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SITE POLICIES
This section identifies the Policies for the proposed uses and management of the project
site to assist the City in developing programs and management schemes to ensure
improvements do not adversely impact the site, and the area can be managed in a sound
fiscal manner.
Policy recommendations are divided into the following categories: restoration
improvements, physical improvements, and site management, which are based on the site
features (e.g., natural resources, critical habitat, existing utilities).
Restoration Improvements
These improvements are focused on increasing, wherever practicable, the ecological
function of the site by enhancing the diversity and quantity of native plant and wildlife
species through habitat restoration.
Policies
· Pursue establishing an education program through partnerships with Springfield
School District # 19 and Eugene District # 4J that promotes vegetation restoration in
conjunction with youth programs (e.g., creation of volunteer youth organization for
restoration projects);
· Promote the "Adopt a Park" program to encourage public volunteer participation in
park clean up and restoration efforts;
· Establish educational signage and an information kiosk on-site that explain
restoration efforts and the site's dynamic function;
· Develop a protection and enhancement program;
· Coordinate discussions with local, state and federal agencies and organizations and
companies to partner in efforts in restoring riparian vegetation, enhancing side water
channels, and habitat quality;
· Encourage studies that investigate methods of diversifying riparian habitat and
wildlife on the site;
· Diversify fish habitat by increasing complexity in side channels and along the
shoreline;
· Support development of additional reports and surveys as needed to establish
baseline information and future desired conditions for restoration and mitigation
activities;
· Establish protocols for future enhancement projects by using the findings of the
. vegetation/wildlife survey and riparian habitat study;
· Reestablish native vegetation types that historically dominated the site;
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Master Plan
· Explore the potential for establishing the site as a restoration mitigation and wetland
mitigation bank site;
· Explore with Eugene Water and Electric Board the potential to relocate overhead
electrical lines off site;
· Pursue funding for restoration and education projects;
· Coordinate efforts with the US Army Corps of Engineers, Oregon Division of State
Lands and Lane County to develop a riparian vegetation restoration program;
· Establish an emergency restoration protocol to be followed during and after flooding
to ensure repair of damage shoreline and water channels meet the intent of this
document.
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Physical Improvements
These improvements are focused on establishing physical site amenities (e.g., soft surface
trails, signage, McKenzie River Multi-use path, parking area) that will assist the City in
reaching the goals identified for this site in a manner that is compatible with the
ecological function of the site.
Policies
. Develop the gravel area on the southeast corner of Marcola Road and 42nd Street into
a trailhead for site parking and access, and as a link to the 42nd Street Pathway;
· Pursue discussion with ODOT to partner efforts in creating a trailhead at High Banks
Road and 52nd Street;
. Conduct a detailed survey of the site that will identify specific areas for soft surface
trails within the area suitable for improvements and the areas suitable for
improvements with mitigation;
. Partner with ODOT to examine methods of designing and developing the McKenzie
River Pathway, a multi-use path from the 42nd Street Pathway to High Banks Road
using Highway 126 right-of-way where necessary and practicable;
. Promote low impact pedestrian use of the existing maintenance access drive to access
nature trails and wildlife viewing areas;
. Promote the site's natural function and highlight restoration efforts by designing and
developing interpretive signage unique to the site along the multi-use path;
. Establish methods of creating soft surface trails and/or boardwalks that are ADA
accessible within riparian buffer setbacks that will allow limited access to the river as
part of education and improvement program for the site;
. Promote coordination among the City's internal departments during the design and
development of the 42nd Street Pathway to facilitate the projected multi-use path
connections;
. Secure the funding necessary to begin the design and development phase of trails,
interpretive signage, an information kiosk, and educational programs;
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· Coordinate efforts with other agencies when improving the site (e.g., Willamalane,
McKenzie River Trust, SUB, RWD, McKenzie Watershed Council);
· Evaluate areas to be used for stormwater management functions in a manner that
promotes vegetation restoration, improves water quality, supports habitat functions,
and mixed site uses;
· Support wellhead production and maintenance activities while promoting the public
benefits of water quality through interpretive signage;
· Maintain a high level of security to the wellhead while allowing limited public access
to the river and the site's features (e.g., fencing individual well heads);
· Allow use of the entire site by public agencies for maintenance/enhancement
activities provided any vegetation removal or damage by any agency during the
routine or special use of the site is restored and the use is consistent with this plan.
Site Mana~ement
These improvements are focused on establishing a system for managing the site and its
uses in a fiscal prudent manner.
Policies
· Review potential improvement projects to identify the required approval and permits
necessary for the project;
· Locate and track funding sources for proposed improvements;
· Develop an improvement plan report that further identifies specific funding agencies,
permit requirements, and fiscal requirements for proposed improvements;
· Create an implementation plan for the site that identifies potential time frames and
requirements for implementation over a particular time frame;
· Pursue forming partnerships with other agencies that could assist the City in
managing the site and completing the necessary improvements (i.e., Willamalane
Park and Recreation District, school district(s), McKenzie River Trust, ODFW, US
Army Corps. of Engineers, McKenzie Watershed Council);
· Combine efforts in pursuing funding for surveys, studies and improvements with
other agencies to maximize funding capability and expanding potential options for
site improvements;
· Examine ownership and management options to ensure the site can be managed
within fiscal parameters;
· Form an advisory management team with representatives from various city
departments, affected agencies, and interest groups that will provide assistance in
monitoring the site and its uses;
· Develop maintenance and risk management practices for the site that are consistent
with the overall Plan philosophy and objectives; and
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Monitor water quality in Keizer Slough and other areas where discharge to the river
may impact water quality
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Section Nine: Implementation
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Master Plan
IMPLEMENTATION
This section outlines the necessary steps to begin and sustain the proposed improvements
necessary to realize this plan.
Management Requirements
· Develop a management task force or committee that is comprised of internal staff
from different departments to review the plan and prioritize improvement projects;
· Complete additional studies that help to facilitate the improvement projects;
· Begin efforts to coordinate project and management requirements with external
agencies and groups; and
. Create a database of potential funding sources.
Project Formation Phase
· Prioritize improvement projects based on available funding. Identify current projects
that may be similar to the proposed projects, which can be combined to maximize
funding capabilities;
· Identify long term fiscal requirements and potential funding sources to assist with
management cost;
· Pursue appropriate funding sources as available;
· Begin design and development phase for a particular project;
· Identify the required approvals and permits necessary for the completion of the
improvement project and begin to facilitate the coordination among involved
agencies; and
· Pursue the formation of partnerships with those agencies and interest groups that can
assist the City.
Program Development
· Begin to create programs that will assist the City with initial improvement projects
(i.e., "Adopt a Park" program, volunteer youth groups for restoration projects).
The following table provides a conceptual implementation scope that can be used to
identify needs and to serve as the basis for a more specific, detailed implementation plan.
Any restoration or mitigation should be preceded by the development of a long-term
management plan.
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Implementation
Table 10: Implementation Phasing
Improvement Implementation Potential Funding Source
Phase
Vegetation Restoration First Federal, State, City, Private
Commission additional Reports and Fist, Second Federal, State, City, Private
Survey
Establish and education program with First Private, City, School Districts
schools and a public volunteer program
Establish wetland mitigation and Second, Third Federal, State, City, Private
restoration mitigation programs for the
site
Begin making physical improvement to Second, Third Federal, State, City
the site (i.e., signage, soft surface trails,
kiosks, 42nd Street trail head)
Continue physical improvement (i.e., Third, Fourth Federal, State, City
McKenzie River Multi-use Path),
relocation of overhead electrical lines,
high banks trailhead)
Funding Sources
Federal: Bonneville Power Authority (BP A) restoration! enhancement funds, EP A,
NRCS, Army Corps of Engineers, NOAA! NMFS Forest Service
State: Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) fund,
Division of State Lands (DSL) revolving mitigation funds
Watershed Council funds (including Save the Fisherman projects)
Oregon Department of Fisheries and Wildlife (ODWF) habitat
enhancement funds
Oregon State University research fund
319 Grants, State Parks and Recreation Grants
Private: Wetlands Partnership Funds (includes groups like Ducks Unlimited,
Wetlands Conservancy), River Network, Watershed Program
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Local: Local revenue funds, EWEB enhancement/mitigation funds
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