Ecosystems North West WA

Providing priority species and habitat assessments in Eastern Washington

Wetland Delineations

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Conducted in accordance with the Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual and the Washington State Department of Ecology Wetland Rating System. This step is required if it is determined that any regulated wetland areas or associated protective buffer areas are located on the project site and may be affected by a proposed development activity.

The wetland boundary is identified on the ground with fixed points and then a map is developed that shows the relation of the wetland boundary to the wetland.  In addition, the wetland is characterized in accordance with the Washington State Department of Ecology “Wetland Rating System.”  Once rated the appropriate local Critical Area Ordinance regulations are applied and standard wetland buffer requirements determined.

Ecosystems North West have certified Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) on staff.  We are trained and experienced in wetland delineation and classification in Eastern Washington.  Our scientists have completed all available applicable training, including the Wetland Delineation and Field Practicum Certification Program, Wetland Delineation for Eastern Washington, Using the Revised Washington State Wetland Rating System, Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils, Using the Credit-Debit Method for Estimating Mitigation Needs, Reviewing Wetland Mitigation and Monitoring Plans, Army Corps of Engineers Regional General Permit Applications, and other relevant courses.

Before you hire a wetland consultant, make sure they are a Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) through the Society of Wetland Scientists by checking here: http://www.wetlandcert.org/search.html

For more information regarding wetlands and their function and value check the following link: Wetlands overview – Washington State Department of Ecology

Wildlife & Wildlife Habitat Assessments

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Conducted to determine if habitat for threatened, endangered, and special status wildlife species occurs on a proposed development site. Detailed wildlife habitat assessments are required by multiple jurisdictions based on site characteristics and the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) data base.

Feasibility Analysis

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Are conducted to determine if a client’s proposed development plan will impact a regulated critical area or associated buffer area. This service can save clients time and money because it is important to be aware of Critical Area regulations prior to moving forward with survey and design work on a proposed development.

Shrub Steppe Mitigation Sites

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Ecosystems North West has identified available land that is suitable for shrub steppe/eastside steppe mitigation.

Habitat Management Plans will often require mitigation for impacts to Priority Habitats. Mitigation can take several forms depending on type and extent of impacts. One mitigation option is for offsite-in-kind mitigation where similar habitat type, within a similar landscape setting is protected at a ratio determined by a qualified wildlife biologist to replace the habitat that is impacted by the proposed development.

Ecosystems North West has identified several properties within Grant County, Washington that are suitable for offsite mitigation.