wria 43 upper crab/wilson creek draft watershed plan building a watershed plan with the interests...

WRIA 43WRIA 43Upper Crab/Wilson Creek Upper Crab/Wilson Creek

Draft Watershed PlanDraft Watershed Plan

Building a Watershed Plan with the Interests Building a Watershed Plan with the Interests and Values of the WRIA 43 Planning Unitand Values of the WRIA 43 Planning Unit

July 13July 13thth & 18 & 18thth, August 17, August 17thth 2006 Meetings2006 Meetings

Gene St.Godard, P.G., L.HGGene St.Godard, P.G., L.HG..

Principal Hydrogeologist/OwnerPrincipal Hydrogeologist/OwnerWater & Natural Resource GroupWater & Natural Resource Group

P.O. Box 28755, Spokane, WA 99228P.O. Box 28755, Spokane, WA 99228509-468-4876, 509-468-4876, [email protected]@comcast.net

www.wnrgroup.comwww.wnrgroup.com

mailto:[email protected]

Watershed Management ActWatershed Management Act

ESHB 2514 codified as RCW 90.82 in ESHB 2514 codified as RCW 90.82 in 19981998 – Voluntary ProcessVoluntary Process– Purpose: to increase local involvement in Purpose: to increase local involvement in

decision-making and planning for water decision-making and planning for water resources.resources.

– WMA has been revised several times since WMA has been revised several times since passedpassed

Phase I: Organization Phase II: Data

Collection and Assessment

Phase III: Watershed Plan

Development Phase IV: Implementation

The Four Phases of The Four Phases of Watershed PlanningWatershed Planning

INNITIATING GOVERNMENTS for INNITIATING GOVERNMENTS for WRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANNINGWRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANNING CountiesCounties

– Lincoln (87.4% of watershed)Lincoln (87.4% of watershed)– Grant (7.7% of watershed)Grant (7.7% of watershed)– Adams (2.3% of watershed)Adams (2.3% of watershed)– Spokane (2.6% of watershed)Spokane (2.6% of watershed)

Spokane County opted out of WRIA 43 Planning in June 2006 Spokane County opted out of WRIA 43 Planning in June 2006 per RCW 90.82.130 and is not obligated for any actions in the per RCW 90.82.130 and is not obligated for any actions in the Plan.Plan.

Largest City (Medical Lake)Largest City (Medical Lake) Medical Lake supported the Planning process but did not Medical Lake supported the Planning process but did not

participate during Phase 2 and Phase 3.participate during Phase 2 and Phase 3. Largest Water Purveyor (City of Odessa)Largest Water Purveyor (City of Odessa)

LRB Management was identified as largest water purveyor in LRB Management was identified as largest water purveyor in Phase 1 and 2. However RCW 90.82 states largest “public” Phase 1 and 2. However RCW 90.82 states largest “public” water purveyor.water purveyor.

WATERSHED PLANNING WATERSHED PLANNING PROCESS IN WRIA 43PROCESS IN WRIA 43

Phase 1: January 2001-October 2002Phase 1: January 2001-October 2002– Selected all planning elementsSelected all planning elements– Prepared Operating ProceduresPrepared Operating Procedures

Phase 2: November 2002-October 2005Phase 2: November 2002-October 2005– Conducted Technical AssessmentConducted Technical Assessment

Water Quantity (required)Water Quantity (required) Water Quality (optional)Water Quality (optional) Habitat (optional)Habitat (optional) Instream Flow (optional)Instream Flow (optional) Water Storage (optional)Water Storage (optional)

Phase 3: November 2005 - presentPhase 3: November 2005 - present– Review of the Watershed’s Information Review of the Watershed’s Information – Issue and Solution DevelopmentIssue and Solution Development– Designing an Implementation ProgramDesigning an Implementation Program– Plan PreparationPlan Preparation– Plan Review and ApprovalPlan Review and Approval

INFORMATIONINFORMATION

WEB SITE!!!!!!!WEB SITE!!!!!!!– http://mapdata.info/wria43/index.htmhttp://mapdata.info/wria43/index.htm– All documents and information are on the web All documents and information are on the web

site.site. Task MemorandumsTask Memorandums Agendas & MinutesAgendas & Minutes Steering Committee MinutesSteering Committee Minutes All Phase 2 and Phase 3 DocumentsAll Phase 2 and Phase 3 Documents The draft Plan will be posted on July 18The draft Plan will be posted on July 18thth, 2006, 2006

http://mapdata.info/wria43/index.htm

THE WRIA 43 PLANTHE WRIA 43 PLAN Section 1: IntroductionSection 1: Introduction

– General overview of the Watershed Planning Act (RCW General overview of the Watershed Planning Act (RCW 90.82).90.82).

Section 2: Watershed Planning in WRIA 43Section 2: Watershed Planning in WRIA 43– Overview of the watershed planning process in WRIA Overview of the watershed planning process in WRIA

43 from Phase 1 through Phase 3.43 from Phase 1 through Phase 3.

Section 3: Related Water Resource Planning and Section 3: Related Water Resource Planning and ProgramsPrograms– Overview of other federal, state and local water Overview of other federal, state and local water

resource programs which have occurred or are ongoing resource programs which have occurred or are ongoing in WRIA 43.in WRIA 43.

THE WRIA 43 PLAN (cont.)THE WRIA 43 PLAN (cont.) Section 4: Water Resource Management PlanningSection 4: Water Resource Management Planning

– Core of the WRIA 43 PlanCore of the WRIA 43 Plan– Outlines the guiding principlesOutlines the guiding principles– Outlines the policiesOutlines the policies– Outlines the Issues, Goals, Objectives, and Alternative Outlines the Issues, Goals, Objectives, and Alternative

Solutions for:Solutions for: Plan Implementation and ManagementPlan Implementation and Management Water QuantityWater Quantity Water QualityWater Quality HabitatHabitat Instream FlowInstream Flow Water StorageWater Storage

THE WRIA 43 PLAN (cont.)THE WRIA 43 PLAN (cont.) Section 5: ImplementationSection 5: Implementation

– Outlines Phase 4 Scope of WorkOutlines Phase 4 Scope of Work– Proposed Implementation FrameworkProposed Implementation Framework– Funding AlternativesFunding Alternatives– Duties and ResponsibilitiesDuties and Responsibilities– Early Action ItemsEarly Action Items– Revision schedule of PlanRevision schedule of Plan

Section 6: State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)Section 6: State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)– Discuss the State Comprehensive EIS for Watershed PlanningDiscuss the State Comprehensive EIS for Watershed Planning– The proposed recommended alternative for adoptionThe proposed recommended alternative for adoption– Application of Final Watershed Planning EIS Alternatives to WRIA Application of Final Watershed Planning EIS Alternatives to WRIA

43 Watershed Plan43 Watershed Plan Section 7: ReferencesSection 7: References AppendicesAppendices

Basic Over Riding Principal Used to Basic Over Riding Principal Used to Develop the WRIA 43 Develop the WRIA 43

Watershed PlanWatershed Plan

““The Crab Creek watershed is a unique The Crab Creek watershed is a unique and poorly understood physical and and poorly understood physical and biological environment that requires biological environment that requires local input for management to protect local input for management to protect the interests and values of the the interests and values of the residents and landowners within the residents and landowners within the watershed”.watershed”.

WRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANWRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANPREFACE & SECTION 1PREFACE & SECTION 1

Executive SummaryExecutive Summary List of AcronymsList of Acronyms GlossaryGlossary

– Defines key words and terms from the PlanDefines key words and terms from the Plan Table of ContentsTable of Contents Section 1: IntroductionSection 1: Introduction

– Discussion of the Watershed Planning processDiscussion of the Watershed Planning process– Discussion of the State’s MOA to speak with one voice. Discussion of the State’s MOA to speak with one voice. – Discusses key components of RCW 90.82 - Watershed Discusses key components of RCW 90.82 - Watershed

Planning ActPlanning Act

WRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANWRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANSECTION 2SECTION 2

Overview of the Planning Process in WRIA 43 throughout Overview of the Planning Process in WRIA 43 throughout the 3 Phasesthe 3 Phases

Discusses how and why the PU addressed each of the Discusses how and why the PU addressed each of the planning elements in WRIA 43planning elements in WRIA 43

Mission Statement:Mission Statement:

““To develop a plan to manage and protect the water To develop a plan to manage and protect the water and related resources in an environmentally and and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner that is in the interest economically sound manner that is in the interest

of the residents and landowners of the Upper of the residents and landowners of the Upper Crab Creek Watershed.”Crab Creek Watershed.”

(adopted by PU on(adopted by PU on November 20th, 2001 and refined in 2006)November 20th, 2001 and refined in 2006)


PHASE 3 GOALSPHASE 3 GOALS– Water Quantity Goal:Water Quantity Goal: Define and manage the available water Define and manage the available water

resources in the watershed for economic, domestic, and resources in the watershed for economic, domestic, and environmental uses.environmental uses.

– Water Quality Goal:Water Quality Goal: Improve overall water quality in surface and Improve overall water quality in surface and groundwater where determined necessary without adversely groundwater where determined necessary without adversely impacting the economy within the watershed.impacting the economy within the watershed.

– Habitat Goal:Habitat Goal: Maintain fish and wildlife habitat within the Maintain fish and wildlife habitat within the watershed for a balance of economic and recreational purposes watershed for a balance of economic and recreational purposes through efficient and effective management programs by local through efficient and effective management programs by local stewardship.stewardship.

– Instream Flow Goal:Instream Flow Goal: Evaluate flow within the mainstem of Crab Evaluate flow within the mainstem of Crab Creek to support the goals of the Plan and determine if an Creek to support the goals of the Plan and determine if an instream flow recommendation is warranted.instream flow recommendation is warranted.

– Water Storage Goal:Water Storage Goal: Develop feasible water storage projects to Develop feasible water storage projects to support and enhance water needs within the watershed.support and enhance water needs within the watershed.


PHASE 3 GOALSPHASE 3 GOALS– 6) General Planning Goal:6) General Planning Goal: Develop a local Develop a local

comprehensive watershed plan which provides comprehensive watershed plan which provides a cooperative framework for water resource a cooperative framework for water resource management and decision making in WRIA 43.management and decision making in WRIA 43.

– 7) 7) Economic GoalEconomic Goal: To implement and : To implement and promote water resource planning that promote water resource planning that encourages economic growth within the encourages economic growth within the watershed.watershed.


Section 3 presents an overview of other Section 3 presents an overview of other related water resource planning and related water resource planning and programs that have occurred or are programs that have occurred or are ongoing in WRIA 43.ongoing in WRIA 43.

These programs may have relevance to These programs may have relevance to the management decisions in WRIA 43.the management decisions in WRIA 43.

Need to be monitored so there is no Need to be monitored so there is no duplication in efforts.duplication in efforts.

Share data and informationShare data and information


Section 4 is the Core of the WRIA 43 Section 4 is the Core of the WRIA 43 Watershed Plan.Watershed Plan.

– Outlines the:Outlines the: IssuesIssues GoalsGoals ObjectivesObjectives Alternative SolutionsAlternative Solutions

– ObligationsObligations– RecommendationsRecommendations

Table 1: Number of IGOAS addressed in the WRIA 43

Element Number of Issues

Developed

Number of Goals

Developed

Number of Objectives Developed

Number of Alternative

Solutions selected for Plan

Administrative N/A N/A N/A 17

Water Quantity 1 8 31 57

Water Quality 1 6 31 51

Habitat 1 3 8 23

Instream Flow 1 5 14 28

Water Storage 1 4 14 35

WRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANWRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANSECTION 4 (cont.)SECTION 4 (cont.)

Plan Implementation & ManagementPlan Implementation & Management– 17 Alternative Solutions presented (primarily 17 Alternative Solutions presented (primarily

moved from water quantity section).moved from water quantity section).– Shared Governance:Shared Governance:

RCW 90.82 was enacted in order to promote local RCW 90.82 was enacted in order to promote local involvement in managing the water resources throughout the involvement in managing the water resources throughout the local watersheds. To successfully administer and implement local watersheds. To successfully administer and implement the WRIA 43 Watershed Plan, a cooperative decision making the WRIA 43 Watershed Plan, a cooperative decision making process with local and state agencies with input from the process with local and state agencies with input from the water users in the WRIA shall be conducted. Therefore water users in the WRIA shall be conducted. Therefore Ecology shall work in a cooperative framework to reach Ecology shall work in a cooperative framework to reach agreed upon solutions with the local watershed group for agreed upon solutions with the local watershed group for successful administration and implementation of this Plan. successful administration and implementation of this Plan.


Water QuantityWater Quantity– Issue: “Management of water in Issue: “Management of water in

WRIA 43 is required.”WRIA 43 is required.” 8 Goals and 31 Objectives developed.8 Goals and 31 Objectives developed.57 alternative solutions57 alternative solutions


Water Quantity (cont.)Water Quantity (cont.)– Obligations:Obligations:

Placed on Ecology to further define and Placed on Ecology to further define and implement water resource strategies.implement water resource strategies.

– Fund hydrostratigraphy studyFund hydrostratigraphy study– Further evaluate impacts in Odessa subareaFurther evaluate impacts in Odessa subarea– Priority on issuing water rightsPriority on issuing water rights

Placed on County to maintain watershed Placed on County to maintain watershed web site.web site.


Water Quantity (cont.)Water Quantity (cont.)– Recommendations:Recommendations:

Most recommendations are presented Most recommendations are presented to conduct more studies to further to conduct more studies to further define the groundwater and surface define the groundwater and surface water within the WRIA.water within the WRIA.

– Recommendations for numerous studies to understand the Recommendations for numerous studies to understand the hydrogeology in the WRIAhydrogeology in the WRIA

– Recommendations to evaluate the impacts of uncased Recommendations to evaluate the impacts of uncased wellswells

– Recommendations for developing a water market in the Recommendations for developing a water market in the WRIAWRIA


Water Quantity (cont.)Water Quantity (cont.)– Recommendations (cont.):Recommendations (cont.):

– Further evaluate conservation and reuse strategies for Further evaluate conservation and reuse strategies for agriculture and municipal usersagriculture and municipal users

– Recommendations to transfer surface water diversions to Recommendations to transfer surface water diversions to groundwater withdrawalsgroundwater withdrawals

– Recommend policy for future water right transfersRecommend policy for future water right transfers– Recommend Ecology conduct educational outreach to Recommend Ecology conduct educational outreach to

WRIA 43 on the procedures, benefits, and disadvantages of WRIA 43 on the procedures, benefits, and disadvantages of adjudicating WRIA 43adjudicating WRIA 43

Planning Unit does not want an adjudication at this timePlanning Unit does not want an adjudication at this time


Water QualityWater Quality– Issue: “Poor water quality is a threat Issue: “Poor water quality is a threat

to human health and the to human health and the environment.”environment.” 6 Goals and 31 Objectives developed.6 Goals and 31 Objectives developed. 51 alternative solutions51 alternative solutions


Water Quality (cont.)Water Quality (cont.)– Obligations:Obligations:

Placed on Ecology to further define water quality Placed on Ecology to further define water quality parameters and work in a cooperative manner on the parameters and work in a cooperative manner on the upcoming WRIA 43 TMDL.upcoming WRIA 43 TMDL.

– Evaluate and separate the West Medical Lake and Crab Evaluate and separate the West Medical Lake and Crab Creek TMDLCreek TMDL

– Coordinate participation and input from the WRIA 43 water Coordinate participation and input from the WRIA 43 water users and implementation teamusers and implementation team

– Recommends that all affected landowners and operators Recommends that all affected landowners and operators are allowed an adequate opportunity to implement practices are allowed an adequate opportunity to implement practices to improve water quality where neededto improve water quality where needed

– No enforcement unless landowner refuses to take any No enforcement unless landowner refuses to take any action at all to address the problem after a significant period action at all to address the problem after a significant period of time, even after being offered funding and technical of time, even after being offered funding and technical assistance to address the problem assistance to address the problem


Water Quality (cont.)Water Quality (cont.)– Recommendations:Recommendations:

Most recommendations are presented to Most recommendations are presented to conduct more studies to further evaluate conduct more studies to further evaluate water quality in surface and groundwater.water quality in surface and groundwater.

– Recommendations for implementing BMPs to improve impaired Recommendations for implementing BMPs to improve impaired water bodies in the WRIAwater bodies in the WRIA

– Recommendations to continue with monitoring of surface water Recommendations to continue with monitoring of surface water and groundwater through programs that the LCCD will administerand groundwater through programs that the LCCD will administer

– Recommendations for subarea planning by CountiesRecommendations for subarea planning by Counties

– Evaluate if UAAs should be conductedEvaluate if UAAs should be conducted

– Public education programsPublic education programs


HabitatHabitat– Issue: “The physical and biological Issue: “The physical and biological

relationship in Crab Creek is one of relationship in Crab Creek is one of the most poorly understood the most poorly understood ecosystems in the northwestern ecosystems in the northwestern United States.”United States.” 3 Goals and 8 Objectives developed.3 Goals and 8 Objectives developed. 23 alternative solutions23 alternative solutions


Habitat (cont.)Habitat (cont.)– Obligations:Obligations:

Placed on Ecology and WDFW to work in a Placed on Ecology and WDFW to work in a cooperative manner prior to conducting any cooperative manner prior to conducting any habitat work within the WRIA.habitat work within the WRIA.

– No modifications or restoration efforts in fisheries habitat shall be No modifications or restoration efforts in fisheries habitat shall be conducted without the regulatory agencies considering these conducted without the regulatory agencies considering these impacts to the hydrogeologic framework and its influences on the impacts to the hydrogeologic framework and its influences on the existing fisheries in the watershed existing fisheries in the watershed

– Recognize that existing habitat conditions which currently support Recognize that existing habitat conditions which currently support surprisingly good fish populations in many locations throughout surprisingly good fish populations in many locations throughout Crab Creek are fragile and can be easily impaired, even potentially Crab Creek are fragile and can be easily impaired, even potentially from restoration projects from restoration projects


Habitat (cont.)Habitat (cont.)– Recommendations:Recommendations:

Most recommendations are presented to Most recommendations are presented to conduct more studies to further evaluate conduct more studies to further evaluate habitat, conduct riparian corridor restoration, habitat, conduct riparian corridor restoration, and provide support to local landownersand provide support to local landowners

– Recommendations to try to protect the existing fisheries habitatRecommendations to try to protect the existing fisheries habitat– Education program to help landowners and residents of WRIA 43 Education program to help landowners and residents of WRIA 43

understand the unique habitat characteristics of the creek systemunderstand the unique habitat characteristics of the creek system– Promote voluntary, non-evasive restoration practices and projects Promote voluntary, non-evasive restoration practices and projects

in the watershed (riparian restoration, water conservation, and in the watershed (riparian restoration, water conservation, and wetland restoration)wetland restoration)

– Develop a Habitat Management PlanDevelop a Habitat Management Plan


Instream FlowInstream Flow– Issue: “WRIA 43 is a hydraulically Issue: “WRIA 43 is a hydraulically

unique and complex system of unique and complex system of streams.”streams.” 5 Goals and 14 Objectives developed.5 Goals and 14 Objectives developed. 28 alternative solutions28 alternative solutions


Instream Flow (cont.)Instream Flow (cont.)– Obligations:Obligations:

Placed on Ecology and WDFW to work Placed on Ecology and WDFW to work in a cooperative manner to reach in a cooperative manner to reach mutually agreed upon minimum mutually agreed upon minimum instream flows prior to proceeding with instream flows prior to proceeding with any rule making.any rule making.

– Obligations are representative of the proposed minimum Obligations are representative of the proposed minimum instream flow and the conditions developed by the Planning instream flow and the conditions developed by the Planning Unit for the Irby and Rocky Ford gauges.Unit for the Irby and Rocky Ford gauges.

Proposed Minimum Flows for Proposed Minimum Flows for Protection of Fish Habitat (trout)Protection of Fish Habitat (trout)

MonthMonth Rocky FordRocky Ford IrbyIrby

Range in RptRange in Rpt Recom.Recom. Range in RptRange in Rpt Recom.Recom.

OctoberOctober 18-24 cfs18-24 cfs 18 cfs18 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs

NovemberNovember 28-45 cfs28-45 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs >5 cfs>5 cfs 5 cfs5 cfs

DecemberDecember 28-45 cfs28-45 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs > 5 cfs> 5 cfs 5 cfs5 cfs

JanuaryJanuary 28-45 cfs28-45 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs > 5 cfs> 5 cfs 5 cfs5 cfs

FebruaryFebruary 28-45 cfs28-45 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs > 5 cfs> 5 cfs 5 cfs5 cfs

MarchMarch 50 cfs (3/1)50 cfs (3/1) 50 cfs50 cfs 10-28 cfs10-28 cfs 10 cfs10 cfs

AprilApril ↓↓ 37 cfs37 cfs 10-28 cfs10-28 cfs 10 cfs10 cfs

MayMay 24 cfs (5/31)24 cfs (5/31) 24 cfs24 cfs 10-28 cfs10-28 cfs 10 cfs10 cfs

JuneJune 18-24 cfs18-24 cfs 18 cfs18 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs

JulyJuly 18-24 cfs18-24 cfs 18 cfs18 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs

AugustAugust 18-24 cfs18-24 cfs 18 cfs18 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs

SeptemberSeptember 18-24 cfs18-24 cfs 18 cfs18 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs 28 cfs28 cfs

MINIMUM INSTREAM FLOW MINIMUM INSTREAM FLOW PROPOSED CONDITIONSPROPOSED CONDITIONS

The Planning Unit does not want to recommend a reservation The Planning Unit does not want to recommend a reservation account with the instream rule making process and does not support account with the instream rule making process and does not support any such reservation associated with the instream flow rule making any such reservation associated with the instream flow rule making process.process.

Ecology to only condition future surface water diversions to the Ecology to only condition future surface water diversions to the instream flow that are within the perennial reaches of Crab Creek at instream flow that are within the perennial reaches of Crab Creek at the Irby and Rocky Ford Road gauging locations, that section of the Irby and Rocky Ford Road gauging locations, that section of creek which is no further than 1.15 mile upstream of each gauging creek which is no further than 1.15 mile upstream of each gauging station (the reaches that were evaluated in the Phase 2 Technical station (the reaches that were evaluated in the Phase 2 Technical Assessment). This is recommended as a result of the hydraulic Assessment). This is recommended as a result of the hydraulic analysis conducted during the instream flow study between the two analysis conducted during the instream flow study between the two gauging stations which revealed that there is no correlation of flows gauging stations which revealed that there is no correlation of flows between the gauging stations and the creek is flowing under unique between the gauging stations and the creek is flowing under unique hydrologic conditions. And the findings that the instream flow hydrologic conditions. And the findings that the instream flow analysis is limited in its ability to represent the actual environment analysis is limited in its ability to represent the actual environment that exists throughout the Crab Creek Watershed.that exists throughout the Crab Creek Watershed.

MINIMUM INSTREAM FLOW MINIMUM INSTREAM FLOW PROPOSED CONDITIONS (cont)PROPOSED CONDITIONS (cont)

Ecology to only condition future groundwater withdrawals to the Ecology to only condition future groundwater withdrawals to the instream flow that are demonstrated to have a direct hydraulic instream flow that are demonstrated to have a direct hydraulic continuity to the creek, such as wells within the unconsolidated continuity to the creek, such as wells within the unconsolidated sediment aquifers. Also Ecology to exempt groundwater sediment aquifers. Also Ecology to exempt groundwater withdrawals from an interruptible status if they meet the following withdrawals from an interruptible status if they meet the following provisions:provisions:

– Groundwater withdrawal is extracting groundwater from the Grande Groundwater withdrawal is extracting groundwater from the Grande Ronde basalt aquifers.Ronde basalt aquifers.

– Groundwater wells are cased throughout the unconsolidated sediments Groundwater wells are cased throughout the unconsolidated sediments and a minimum of 200-feet into the basalt bedrock.and a minimum of 200-feet into the basalt bedrock.

– Proponent of a groundwater well to be completed in the unconsolidated Proponent of a groundwater well to be completed in the unconsolidated sediment aquifer and/or Wanapum aquifer that does not meet the sediment aquifer and/or Wanapum aquifer that does not meet the previous two criteria demonstrates there is not a direct hydraulic previous two criteria demonstrates there is not a direct hydraulic connection from the groundwater withdrawal to the stream reach where connection from the groundwater withdrawal to the stream reach where the gauging station is located, which is based upon best available the gauging station is located, which is based upon best available science. science.


Ecology to reopen instream flow rule in 10-years after Ecology to reopen instream flow rule in 10-years after initial adoption date and reevaluate if flows should be initial adoption date and reevaluate if flows should be modified if additional data and analysis is available. modified if additional data and analysis is available. Ecology and WDFW will work with the WRIA 43 Ecology and WDFW will work with the WRIA 43 watershed group in a cooperative effort to reach watershed group in a cooperative effort to reach agreement on any future flow modifications, if proposed. agreement on any future flow modifications, if proposed.

Ecology or other state agencies will not propose any new Ecology or other state agencies will not propose any new or modify future existing instream flows within WRIA 43 or modify future existing instream flows within WRIA 43 unless they are negotiated and agreed upon with the unless they are negotiated and agreed upon with the local watershed planning group (and any subsequent local watershed planning group (and any subsequent adaptations to the implementation group). adaptations to the implementation group).


Ecology is obligated to use the mutually Ecology is obligated to use the mutually agreed upon flow levels for their draft rule agreed upon flow levels for their draft rule and must start the process over from the and must start the process over from the beginning with local negotiated input if the beginning with local negotiated input if the public testimony at the hearings is strongly public testimony at the hearings is strongly for recommending a different flow level.for recommending a different flow level.

Ecology not to condition any domestic Ecology not to condition any domestic exempt wells to the instream flow ruleexempt wells to the instream flow rule


Instream Flow (cont.)Instream Flow (cont.)– Recommendations:Recommendations:

Most recommendations are presented to Most recommendations are presented to further evaluate and understand the flow further evaluate and understand the flow conditions in Crab Creek and its tributariesconditions in Crab Creek and its tributaries

– Recommendations to continue flow monitoring at existing and new Recommendations to continue flow monitoring at existing and new locationslocations

– Evaluate and determine the quantity of surface water and shallow Evaluate and determine the quantity of surface water and shallow groundwater which is exiting the WRIA near Wilson Creekgroundwater which is exiting the WRIA near Wilson Creek

– Evaluate and develop conservation measures which may assist in Evaluate and develop conservation measures which may assist in increasing stream flows.increasing stream flows.

– Evaluate if guidelines should be developed for placement of wells Evaluate if guidelines should be developed for placement of wells in aquifers which are hydraulically connected to Crab Creekin aquifers which are hydraulically connected to Crab Creek


Water StorageWater Storage– Issue: “There may be insufficient Issue: “There may be insufficient

available water resources in WRIA available water resources in WRIA 43.”43.” 4 Goals and 14 Objectives developed.4 Goals and 14 Objectives developed. 35 alternative solutions35 alternative solutions


Water Storage (cont.)Water Storage (cont.)– Obligations:Obligations:

Placed on Ecology and other agencies Placed on Ecology and other agencies to work with the WRIA 43 to work with the WRIA 43 Implementation Team to evaluate Implementation Team to evaluate storage opportunities.storage opportunities.

– BOR 1943 Water Right: initiate communications to BOR 1943 Water Right: initiate communications to determine the effects of the water right on storage determine the effects of the water right on storage opportunities in WRIA 43 opportunities in WRIA 43

– Ecology to work with WRIA 43 as outlined in the ESSHB Ecology to work with WRIA 43 as outlined in the ESSHB 2860 – Columbia River Management Program 2860 – Columbia River Management Program


Water Storage (cont.)Water Storage (cont.)– Recommendations:Recommendations:

Most recommendations are presented to Most recommendations are presented to conduct more studies to evaluate and conduct more studies to evaluate and construct feasible water storage projectsconstruct feasible water storage projects

– Recommendations to further assess potential for increasing water Recommendations to further assess potential for increasing water supplies in the watershedsupplies in the watershed

– Further define where storage is feasible (GIS analysis)Further define where storage is feasible (GIS analysis)

– Promote small scale (category 1 & 2) projects on individual farms Promote small scale (category 1 & 2) projects on individual farms and/or within the stream channel/riparian corridorand/or within the stream channel/riparian corridor

– ESHB 2860 coordinationESHB 2860 coordination

– Small scale (<10 acre-feet) storage projectsSmall scale (<10 acre-feet) storage projects


Section 5 address the Phase 4 Section 5 address the Phase 4 Watershed Implementation FrameworkWatershed Implementation Framework– Section 5 presents:Section 5 presents:

Potential management structure for Phase 4 Potential management structure for Phase 4 Implementation of the WRIA 43 PlanImplementation of the WRIA 43 Plan


Several framework structures are presented Several framework structures are presented in Plan for Phase 4 Implementationin Plan for Phase 4 Implementation

Lincoln County in coordination with PU will Lincoln County in coordination with PU will select final framework structureselect final framework structure

Final Phase 4 Framework decided after PU Final Phase 4 Framework decided after PU approval of Plan and before Phase 4 approval of Plan and before Phase 4 Implementation.Implementation.


Recommended Phase 4 FrameworkRecommended Phase 4 Framework1.1. Lincoln County as sole lead agencyLincoln County as sole lead agency

Structured similar to Phase 3 structureStructured similar to Phase 3 structure Lincoln County as Lead AgencyLincoln County as Lead Agency Works in cooperation with a volunteer Watershed Works in cooperation with a volunteer Watershed

Implementation Team (WIT) similar to the Planning Implementation Team (WIT) similar to the Planning Unit structureUnit structure

Lincoln County grant financial manager that can Lincoln County grant financial manager that can contract required needs to contractorscontract required needs to contractors


2. Watershed Management Partnership Coalition of local governments

Counties, local towns, LCCD Interlocal agreements as set forth in RCW 39.34.200

Board of Nine Members (Example) 8 appointed by the County Legislative Authority

• 3 County representatives• LCCD• Local towns

Ecology Rep to hold 9th position

Residents, Landowners, other interests can participate as a WIT


2. Watershed Management Partnership (cont.) Elect a ChairpersonElect a Chairperson Assume delegated authority as defined in the Assume delegated authority as defined in the

Implementation Plan and in accordance with applicable Implementation Plan and in accordance with applicable regulations (90.82, 90.54, 90.03)regulations (90.82, 90.54, 90.03)

Accountable to the County Legislative Authorities Accountable to the County Legislative Authorities (Lincoln, Grant and Adams)(Lincoln, Grant and Adams)

Work cooperatively with state and local agencies on Work cooperatively with state and local agencies on mutual water resource concerns and implement the mutual water resource concerns and implement the recommendations in the WRIA 43 Planrecommendations in the WRIA 43 Plan

Work with a volunteer WIT, similar to the Phase 3 Work with a volunteer WIT, similar to the Phase 3 Watershed Planning UnitWatershed Planning Unit


3. 501(c)(3) Coalition of local residents, landowners, and agency

representatives (e.g. LCCD) Non-profit Organization

Can apply for and receive grant funding Can act independently of the County Legislative Authorities, or Enter into MOA with County Legislative Authority to Administer

Plans Takes 4 to 6 months to setup

Benefits Qualify and receive private and public grants that may not be

available to the government agencies Free radio and PSA announcements for public outreach Ability to receive charitable and tax deductible donations


Section 5 also outlines entities who can Section 5 also outlines entities who can complete Phase 4 Recommendationscomplete Phase 4 Recommendations– Plan recommendations to implement proactive Plan recommendations to implement proactive

strategies that are socially acceptable and strategies that are socially acceptable and economically feasible to the residents and economically feasible to the residents and landowners in WRIA 43 landowners in WRIA 43

– These recommendations are developed under These recommendations are developed under the strategy to solve the primary issues and the strategy to solve the primary issues and goals identified by the Planning Unit. goals identified by the Planning Unit.


Entities who can complete Phase 4 Entities who can complete Phase 4 Recommendations (cont.)Recommendations (cont.)

– The recommended actions are non-binding to various The recommended actions are non-binding to various state and local entities, inclusive of the future state and local entities, inclusive of the future watershed body assigned to oversee and implement watershed body assigned to oversee and implement the WRIA 43 Watershed Plan. the WRIA 43 Watershed Plan.

– Most recommendations are developed for the local Most recommendations are developed for the local entities to complete the assessments, projects and/or entities to complete the assessments, projects and/or policy development, such as the departments within policy development, such as the departments within the County structure or the LCCD, if resources and the County structure or the LCCD, if resources and funding are available.funding are available.


Entities who can complete Phase 4 Entities who can complete Phase 4 Recommendations (cont.)Recommendations (cont.)

– Although local entities are preferred to complete the Although local entities are preferred to complete the recommendations presented in the Plan, the Plan is recommendations presented in the Plan, the Plan is developed to allow other entities, outside of Lincoln developed to allow other entities, outside of Lincoln County, to complete recommendations should they County, to complete recommendations should they have available funding and resources. have available funding and resources.

– However, due to the unique conditions within WRIA However, due to the unique conditions within WRIA 43, if outside entities undertake Plan 43, if outside entities undertake Plan recommendations, the Plan states that input from the recommendations, the Plan states that input from the local watershed group must be given for assessments, local watershed group must be given for assessments, projects, and policy development that are conducted projects, and policy development that are conducted within, or affect the watershed. within, or affect the watershed.


Section 5 also proposes Early Action ItemsSection 5 also proposes Early Action Items– Phase 3 Ecology grant set aside up to $100,000 to Phase 3 Ecology grant set aside up to $100,000 to

complete early action itemscomplete early action items– Funds are available to complete some implementation Funds are available to complete some implementation

items (preferably on the ground) after adoption of the items (preferably on the ground) after adoption of the WRIA 43 Plan by the County Legislative AuthoritiesWRIA 43 Plan by the County Legislative Authorities

– Early action items developed by the Steering Early action items developed by the Steering Committee are mostly “general” in natureCommittee are mostly “general” in nature

– Of the 10 early action items developed. PU will Of the 10 early action items developed. PU will approve of which projects, etc. to conductapprove of which projects, etc. to conduct


Recommended Early Action ItemsRecommended Early Action Items1.1. Fund watershed coordinator/grant administrator to Fund watershed coordinator/grant administrator to

coordinate planning effort into Phase 4coordinate planning effort into Phase 42.2. Develop a program for cooperative management with Develop a program for cooperative management with

BOR, starting with the initiation of meetings with the BOR, starting with the initiation of meetings with the BOR representatives to discuss water storage BOR representatives to discuss water storage alternatives in Crab Creek, and cooperative meetings alternatives in Crab Creek, and cooperative meetings with Ecology and BOR to determine integration of with Ecology and BOR to determine integration of ESSHB 2860 options for the WRIA 43 Implementation ESSHB 2860 options for the WRIA 43 Implementation program.program.

3.3. Initiate public outreach/education/demonstration sites Initiate public outreach/education/demonstration sites for riparian habitat and the goals and the objectives of for riparian habitat and the goals and the objectives of the Watershed Plan. the Watershed Plan.


Recommended Early Action Items (cont.)Recommended Early Action Items (cont.)4.4. Conduct focused Hydrogeology/ Conduct focused Hydrogeology/

hydrostratigraphy projects within the hydrostratigraphy projects within the watershed.watershed.

5.5. Initiate stream gauging in the watershed.Initiate stream gauging in the watershed.

6.6. Conduct stream gauging on Crab Creek and Conduct stream gauging on Crab Creek and evaluate the quantity of groundwater at the evaluate the quantity of groundwater at the outfall of WRIA 43 to determine the quantity of outfall of WRIA 43 to determine the quantity of natural recharge from the watershed natural recharge from the watershed downstream to Potholes Reservoir.downstream to Potholes Reservoir.


Recommended Early Action Items (cont.)Recommended Early Action Items (cont.)7.7. Conduct water quality monitoring and Conduct water quality monitoring and

mitigation projects in Crab Creek and its mitigation projects in Crab Creek and its tributaries.tributaries.

8.8. Assess and construct small scale (<10 acre-Assess and construct small scale (<10 acre-feet) water storage projects.feet) water storage projects.

9.9. Conduct well abandonment activities to Conduct well abandonment activities to mitigate water quantity and quality issues in mitigate water quantity and quality issues in the watershed.the watershed.

10.10. Conduct habitat/riparian restoration projects.Conduct habitat/riparian restoration projects.


Section 5 Addresses Revisions to PlanSection 5 Addresses Revisions to Plan1.1. WIT and County Legislative Authorities update Plan WIT and County Legislative Authorities update Plan

24-months after Plan adoption by BOCCs to 24-months after Plan adoption by BOCCs to address deficiencies and results of early action address deficiencies and results of early action items.items.

2.2. Lincoln County Legislative Authority will be allowed Lincoln County Legislative Authority will be allowed unscheduled revisions due to events that may unscheduled revisions due to events that may affect the availability of water resources or the affect the availability of water resources or the effects of new State legislation.effects of new State legislation. Completed in cooperation with the WITCompleted in cooperation with the WIT

3.3. Revised a minimum of every 5 years thereafter.Revised a minimum of every 5 years thereafter.


Section 6 Addresses the SEPASection 6 Addresses the SEPA– SEPA Determination – Option 1 as defined in the SEPA Determination – Option 1 as defined in the

State’s Comprehensive EIS for Watershed PlanningState’s Comprehensive EIS for Watershed Planning

1.1. Adoption and Determination of Significance Adoption and Determination of Significance (DS):(DS): can be issued if it is determined that the can be issued if it is determined that the statewide EIS document adequately addresses statewide EIS document adequately addresses the probable significant adverse impacts the probable significant adverse impacts associated with the recommended alternatives in associated with the recommended alternatives in the Plan.the Plan.

- Does not require a public comment period or public Does not require a public comment period or public noticenotice

- Just notify agencies w/ jurisdiction, and interested Just notify agencies w/ jurisdiction, and interested partiesparties


Discussion on the SEPA Compliance for Discussion on the SEPA Compliance for the WRIA 43 Watershed Planthe WRIA 43 Watershed Plan

– Addresses the SEPA compliance for each of Addresses the SEPA compliance for each of the components addressed in the Plan:the components addressed in the Plan: Administration/ManagementAdministration/Management Water Quantity (WP-1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 16, 19, 24)Water Quantity (WP-1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 16, 19, 24) Water Quality (WP-32, 33, 34, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40)Water Quality (WP-32, 33, 34, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40) Habitat (WP-36, 42, 47, 49, 52)Habitat (WP-36, 42, 47, 49, 52) Instream Flow (WP-26)Instream Flow (WP-26) Water Storage (WP-3, 5, 8, 19, 21, 24, 47, 48)Water Storage (WP-3, 5, 8, 19, 21, 24, 47, 48)


Brief discussion on NEPA:Brief discussion on NEPA:– For federal action, NEPA compliance is required when For federal action, NEPA compliance is required when

the action is implemented. However, this compliance the action is implemented. However, this compliance is not a prerequisite for approval of the WRIA 43 is not a prerequisite for approval of the WRIA 43 Watershed Plan by the County Legislative Authorities, Watershed Plan by the County Legislative Authorities, nor is it a necessity during the state programmatic nor is it a necessity during the state programmatic SEPA review. SEPA review.

– The WRIA 43 Planning Unit has made The WRIA 43 Planning Unit has made recommendations to federal agencies (primarily the recommendations to federal agencies (primarily the BOR) within this Plan, but has not obligated any BOR) within this Plan, but has not obligated any federal agency to implement any actions. federal agency to implement any actions.

WRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANWRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANSECTION 7 & AppendicesSECTION 7 & Appendices

Section 7 list referencesSection 7 list references AppendicesAppendices

– Supporting documentation to the WRIA 43 Supporting documentation to the WRIA 43 Watershed PlanWatershed Plan

WRIA 43 Draft Plan Review and WRIA 43 Draft Plan Review and Comment PeriodComment Period

60 DAY PUBLIC 60 DAY PUBLIC REVIEW and REVIEW and

COMMENT PERIODCOMMENT PERIOD

July 18July 18thth through through September 19September 19th, th, 2006.2006.

Public Meetings for presentation Public Meetings for presentation of Planof Plan

Watershed Plan AvailableWatershed Plan Available– July 13July 13thth, 2006 meeting in Wilbur, 2006 meeting in Wilbur– July 18July 18thth, 2006 meeting in Davenport, 2006 meeting in Davenport

Regularly scheduled PU meetingRegularly scheduled PU meeting

– July 18July 18thth, 2006 – Posted on WRIA 43 Phase 3 , 2006 – Posted on WRIA 43 Phase 3 Watershed Plan web site.Watershed Plan web site.

http://mapdata.info/wria43/index.htmhttp://mapdata.info/wria43/index.htm All voting members will be contacted and All voting members will be contacted and

given a copy of the Draft Plangiven a copy of the Draft Plan

http://mapdata.info/wria43/index.htm

Public Meetings for presentation Public Meetings for presentation of Plan and commentsof Plan and comments

Comment Response Forms AvailableComment Response Forms Available Watershed Plan Comment ResponseWatershed Plan Comment Response

– August 15August 15thth, 2006 - Meeting in Davenport, 2006 - Meeting in Davenport Regularly scheduled PU meetingRegularly scheduled PU meeting

– August 17August 17thth, 2006 – Meeting in Odessa, 2006 – Meeting in Odessa– August 2006 – Watershed Plan presentations given to August 2006 – Watershed Plan presentations given to

the three BOCCs (Lincoln, Grant and Adams Counties)the three BOCCs (Lincoln, Grant and Adams Counties)– September 19September 19thth, 2006 - Meeting in Davenport, 2006 - Meeting in Davenport

Regularly scheduled PU meetingRegularly scheduled PU meeting

END OF PUBLIC COMMENT PERIODEND OF PUBLIC COMMENT PERIODSeptember 19September 19thth, 2006, 2006

FINALIZE WRIA 43 FINALIZE WRIA 43 WATERSHED PLANWATERSHED PLAN

Response to Comments presented at October Response to Comments presented at October 1717thth, 2006 PU Meeting in Davenport, 2006 PU Meeting in Davenport

Regularly scheduled PU meetingRegularly scheduled PU meeting PU approves response to comments or modifies at PU approves response to comments or modifies at

October 17October 17thth, 2006 meeting, 2006 meeting Response to comments incorporated into Response to comments incorporated into

Watershed PlanWatershed Plan Final Plan presented to PU at November 21Final Plan presented to PU at November 21stst, ,

2006 PU meeting2006 PU meeting– VOTE TAKEN TO APPROVE PLANVOTE TAKEN TO APPROVE PLAN

Sent to County Legislative Authorities for AdoptionSent to County Legislative Authorities for Adoption

Steering Committee is available to Steering Committee is available to answer your questions on the Plananswer your questions on the Plan

Scott BarrScott Barr Carol PaulCarol Paul

Dennis BlyDennis Bly Dean WhiteDean White

Eddie JohnsonEddie Johnson Don RolfeDon Rolfe

JoAnne KrupkeJoAnne Krupke Dan RossmanDan Rossman

Dave Lundgren (LCCD)Dave Lundgren (LCCD) Keith Holiday (Ecol.)Keith Holiday (Ecol.)

OPEN DISCUSSIONOPEN DISCUSSION

THIS IS YOUR WATERSHED PLAN AND YOUR CHANCE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE WATER RESOURCE PLANNING.

Questions?Questions? Concerns?Concerns? Need comments to enter into draft Need comments to enter into draft

PlanPlan

SEND COMMENTS TO:SEND COMMENTS TO:

Gene St.Godard, P.G., L.HGGene St.Godard, P.G., L.HG..

Principal Hydrogeologist/OwnerPrincipal Hydrogeologist/Owner

Water & Natural Resource GroupWater & Natural Resource Group

P.O. Box 28755, Spokane, WA 99228P.O. Box 28755, Spokane, WA 99228

509-468-4876, 509-468-4876, [email protected]@comcast.net

mailto:[email protected]

wria 43 upper crab/wilson creek draft watershed plan building a watershed plan with the interests...

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