14.162.030 Wetland categories.
In order to provide information on the functions and values of wetlands in a time- and cost-effective way, wetland analysis reports shall categorize wetlands by their attributes and characteristics. Wetlands shall be rated using the latest adopted version of the Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington published by the Washington State Department of Ecology (“State Wetland Rating System”).
The State Wetland Rating System provides the detailed criteria for establishing wetland categories. Wetlands are generally designated as follows:
A. Category I wetlands are those that (1) represent a unique or rare wetland type; or (2) are more sensitive to disturbance than most wetlands; (3) are relatively undisturbed and contain ecological attributes that are impossible to replace within a human lifetime; or (4) provide a high level of functions. Generally, these wetlands are not common and make up a small percentage of the wetlands in the region. The following are considered Category I wetlands:
1. Bogs.
2. Mature and old-growth forested wetlands.
3. Wetlands that perform many functions very well: wetlands scoring 23 to 27 points using the Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington, Ecology Publication No. 14-06-029.
B. Category II wetlands are difficult, though not impossible, to replace, and provide high levels of some functions. These wetlands occur more commonly than Category I wetlands, but still need a relatively high level of protection. Category II wetlands in western Washington include wetlands that perform functions well: wetlands scoring between 20 and 22 points using the Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington. Wetlands scoring 20 to 22 points were judged to perform most functions relatively well, or performed one group of functions very well and the other two moderately well.
C. Category III wetlands are wetlands with a moderate level of functions (scores between 16 and 19 points) using the Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington. Category III wetlands usually have been disturbed in some ways, and are often less diverse or more isolated from other natural resources in the landscape than Category II wetlands.
D. Category IV wetlands have the lowest levels of functions (scores between nine and 15 points) and are often heavily disturbed. These are wetlands that we should be able to replace, and in some cases be able to improve. These wetlands may provide some important functions. [Ord. 630 § 7, 2015; Ord. 362 § 3, 2004.]