SAND LAKE ESTUARY WETLAND ACQUISITION A PROPOSAL TO THE NATIONAL COASTAL WETLANDS CONSERVATION GRANT PROGRAM

Transcription

1 SAND LAKE ESTUARY WETLAND ACQUISITION A PROPOSAL TO THE NATIONAL COASTAL WETLANDS CONSERVATION GRANT PROGRAM Submitted To: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Submitted By: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department 725 Summer St. N.E. Suite C Salem, OR Contact: Jim Morgan (503) Primary Partner: North Coast Land Conservancy JUNE 2012

2 EXCEUTIVE SUMMARY The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is requesting $675,000 in federal funds to help acquire 167 acres within the Sand Lake Estuary. The property will be permanently preserved by the North Coast Land Conservancy and the State of Oregon. The Sand Lake property is located ten (10) miles south of Tillamook, Oregon and surrounded by a network of privately conserved and publicly owned lands. The Sand Lake wetland parcel proposed for acquisition totals 167 acres of coastal estuary and associated freshwater wetlands. The aquatic system includes intertidal salt marsh, tidal channels, and forested wetlands that connect to a number of stream systems. The property includes 1.5 miles of Sand Creek, which is one of the major stream corridors and a migratory pathway for salmon and steelhead spawning adults and is important rearing habitat for smolting salmon and steelhead while chum salmon have also been recorded in the system. Sand Creek connects to three other tributaries (Jewel, Andy, and Davis Creeks) totaling 4.7 miles in spawning reaches. In addition, there are four miles of spawning reaches in the rest of the estuary system on adjacent protected lands. The Sand Lake property and estuary also support a large bird population with recent surveys identifying over 43 species using the Sand Lake property. These species include the Bald Eagle, Dunlin, Rufous Hummingbird, and Willow Flycatcher which are all North Coast Basin priority species. Of the 36 major estuaries recognized in Oregon, the Sand Lake Estuary is just one of four bar-built estuaries found along the coast giving it a unique status. Classified as a relatively pristine estuary, Sand Lake is the only remaining estuary of its size on the Oregon Coast that is dominated by a diverse set of native plant associations due to very little agricultural or commercial development. According to The Nature Conservancy, the Sand Lake estuary also supports the largest known remnant stand of old-growth western red cedar swamp in Oregon. The estuarine habitat is largely intact along the western portion of Sand Lake with agricultural land use activities taking place in the eastern portion of the estuary. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary... page 2 Table of Contents... page 3 Project Statement... pages 4-7 A. Need... page 4 B. Objectives... page 4 C. Benefits and duration of benefits... page 4 D. Approach... page 4-5 E. Location... page 5 F. Partners and Cost... page 5 G. State trust fund... page 6 H. Other coastal actions, plans... page 6 I. Public involvement, interagency coordination... page 6-7 J. Letters of commitment... page 7 Ranking Criteria... pages Wetlands conservation... page Maritime forests on coastal barriers... page Long-term conservation... page Coastal watershed management... page Conservation of threatened/endangered species... page Benefits to fish... page Benefits to coastal-dependent or migratory birds... page Prevent or reduce contamination... page Catalyst for future conservation... page Partners in conservation... page Federal share reduced... page Education/outreach, wildlife-oriented recreation... page Other factors... page Additional considerations/tiebreakers... page Appendices Maps... page Additional bird species list..page 34 Pictures... page Letters of commitment... page 41 References... page Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 3

4 Project Statement A. Project Need: Estuaries and their associated wetlands and forests are the beating heart of the coastal interface between upland watersheds and the near-shore ocean. If an estuary is impacted by diking, filling, development on pilings, marinas and other marine based industry, conversion and fragmentation create loss not only at the estuarine level, but at the watershed level by impacting the major transition zone of a watershed. Protection by acquisition is the best method to abate that potential future loss. As stated in the Joint Ocean Commission s report and echoed by the West Coast Governor s agreement, protection of the land-sea interface is paramount to the future livability of the west coast. Estuaries exhibit among the highest biodiversity and ability to produce ecosystem services of any ecosystem type on earth, and in the terrestrial setting are rivaled only by rainforests which come in at a close second. The Sand Lake property owned by the Teufel family has exceptional ecological productivity due to the intact and functioning presence of both the estuarine and rainforest ecosystem types. B. Project Objective: Protecting the ecosystems ability to maintain high water quality and watershed functions including persistence of priority habitats and species is the ultimate goal of the proposed Sand Lake acquisition. Protection through acquisition avoids the prospect of restoring the system later at much greater cost than the current cost of this proposed acquisition. This proposal also advances Oregon state wide goals to protect estuaries zoned as natural on the Oregon Coast. This zoning is meant to assure the citizens of Oregon that some of the highest value resources in the state will be protected. The Sand Lake Estuary is zoned as a natural system and this proposal will take one more step in assuring the citizens of Oregon and the United States that the coastal goals will be achieved and deliver ecosystem services in perpetuity. C. Duration of Benefits: The property will be protected in perpetuity by the North Coast Land Conservancy (NCLC) and the State of Oregon. The North Coast Land Conservancy will hold fee title while the State of Oregon will hold a conservation easement over the property. This ensures multiple partners working together to permanently protect and steward the conservation values of the Sand Lake property. D. Approach: The acquisition of the Sand Lake property is part of a much larger effort by cities and municipalities to protect estuaries within the state as mandated by the State of Oregon through Goal 16: Estuarine Resources of the Oregon Statewide Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 4

5 Planning Goals and Guidelines. Goal 16 states that comprehensive management programs shall be developed by the appropriate local, state, and federal agencies for all estuaries to protect the unique environmental, economic, and social values of each estuary and associated wetlands. The approach is also used by land trusts who work with private willing land owners on land acquisitions as a tool to implement state, regional and national goals. This effort is shared by North Coast Land Conservancy who over the last several years has permanently protected of 500 acres or estuarine wetlands in the Necanicum and Nehalem estuaries. Sand Lake has long been a priority clearly defined in the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife s Oregon Conservation Strategy, Pacific Coast Joint Venture s Bird Conservation Plan, and The Nature Conservancy s Ecoregional Assessment. E. Location: The Sand Lake Estuary is centrally located along the Oregon Coast approximately ten (10) miles south of Tillamook. The Sand Lake property is located on the northwesterly extent of the estuary and is surrounded by a network of conserved lands. Located just across the road from Bradley Bog owned by the Nature Conservancy, freshwater wetlands are hydrologically connected via a culvert under the road between Bradley Bog and the Sand Lake property. Bradley Bog protects a small population of Darlingtonia californica (California pitcherplant). Also, to the south across from the Bradley Bog and surrounded by the proposed Sand Lake property is a small bed and breakfast, Sand Lake Country Inn, which is the first green certified Bed and Breakfast in Oregon. The east side of the property is adjoined by three agricultural properties. The southern boundary is connected to public trust lands (navigable waters) and the Clay Myers State Park Natural Area at Whalen Island. The western boundary adjoins private land, but is also connected to freshwater wetlands and salt marsh on private land. Much of this border is relatively undisturbed and includes a bald eagle nest on private land. NCLC will begin exploring the opportunities to expand the western boundary to add additional forest and wetland habitats to this border through land acquisition. As agricultural holdings decline in use, residential development opportunities and pressures build. There will be continuing fragmentation of the lowland areas from retirement and recreational home development pressure. Given this pressure, the proposed acquisition is an opportunity to secure an ecological hub and habitat stronghold in the Sand Lake estuary. The lowlands around Sand Lake estuary are privately owned. There is significant pressure for residential development in this coastal community. Conservation acquisition is an important tool for lowland protection to buffer the estuarine wetlands and link public ownerships with conservation ownerships to consolidate conservation management. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 5

6 F. Estimated Costs: Total Costs Acquisition Cost* $665,000 Project Costs** $10,000 Total $675,000 *Acquisition Cost is based on an appraisal completed in Based on current real estate market conditions it is anticipated the final acquisition cost will decline in correlation with the market. ** Project costs were determined by NCLC based on a billing rate of $27 per hour. Source Acquisition Cash or In-kind Fed / Non USFWS $675,000 cash Federal Charlotte Martin Foundation* $20,000 cash Private PG&E Salmon Fund* $15,000 cash Private National Fish and Wildlife Foundation* $50,000 Cash Private State Parks $225,000 in-kind State Nestucca, Neskowin and Sand Lake Watershed Council $10,000 in-kind State Country Inn $5,000 in-kind Private *indicates pending match. If cash match is awarded NCLC and State Parks will use the money to lower the Ask from USFWS. G. State Trust Fund: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service previously determined that Oregon s constitutionally dedicated state lottery funds for habitat conservation and watershed improvement make the state eligible for a federal cost-share of 75 percent for the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program. H. Other Conservation Actions and Their Relationship to the Project The Sand Lake Estuary presents an important opportunity for multiple interests to share a common goal of protecting the estuarine functions. The significant amount of public ownership in the watershed and the key conservation ownerships of coastal wetland features (50 acre Bradley Bog, 195 acre Whalen Island) and dedicated protection of two Research Natural Areas (Sand Lake RNA and Renecke Creek RNA) provide an important framework for long-term conservation. Conservation acquisition of this parcel creates strong links between the estuary and the adjacent freshwater wetlands and uplands. I. Public Involvement and Interagency Coordination Conservation acquisition of wetlands associated with the Sand Lake Estuary has been identified as an important opportunity for some time. Acquisition at this time Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 6

7 will be used to engage the public through local venues and involve a number of public agencies. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will be used for their considerable technical skills in development of a stewardship plan for the parcel along with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Coordination with Oregon State Parks, Nature Conservancy and U. S. Forest Service will be an important role for the land steward in managing the watersheds to benefit coastal wetland dependent species. NCLC's management goal is to look beyond specific habitat types and manage for all the benefits and other ecosystem services provided along the entire river continuum from the headwaters of rivers and streams in the Coast Range to the sea. J. Letters of Commitment (Appendix IV) North Coast Land Conservancy Sand Lake Country Inn The Nature Conservancy Oregon State Parks The Nestucca, Neskowin & Sand Lake Watershed Council Teufel Family Ranking Criteria 1. Wetlands Conservation The acquisition of Sand Lake will protect in perpetuity 167 acres of nationally declining coastal wetland types and will further prevent the degradation of such habitat in Oregon (Sand Lake Acquisition Map). Of the total land area in the conterminous United States only 5.5 percent of the land cover is wetlands as classified by U.S. Fish and Wildlife s National Wetlands Inventory. Of those million acres only five percent are marine or estuarine systems. From 1998 to 2004 marine and estuarine systems saw the second largest decline of all wetland habitats at -1.4 percent, making it imperative we work to protect this scarce and declining wetland resource. (Wetlands in the Conterminous U.S ) The project also includes conservation of 42.5 acres of palustrine forested and scrubshrub wetlands, which from saw the largest decline of any wetland type in the conterminous U.S. at -4.9 percent. Some figures that illuminate just how much wetland habitat we have lost is the observation that 97% of the global extent of Sitka Spruce/Cedar tidally influenced forested wetland swamps has been lost, only 3% remain and are entirely located in the Pacific Northwest. Also, in Oregon approximately 70% of estuarine wetlands have been lost to conversion. Sand Lake currently has the lowest conversion rate of all Oregon estuaries and has suffered only a 2% loss making this estuary the most pristine, intact estuary in Oregon and a stronghold for the entire Oregon Coast. The Sand Lake property is comprised of 100% nationally declining wetlands and includes 50 acres of palustrine emergent, 42.5 acres of palustrine forested and scrub- Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 7

8 shrub, and 41 acres of estuarine intertidal emergent. Table one below indentifies all types of acreages of wetlands associated with the Sand Lake Property. The movement of water through tides and currents is what connects estuarine habitats together. Transport of animals, sediments, nutrients, organic materials between marine and freshwater systems is critical to the survival of millions of estuary-dependent organisms. During high tide events, hydrological connectivity is at its greatest. The proposed Sand Lake acquisition will provide a protected corridor of water. Three streams, Jewel, Andy, and Davis Creeks enter the Sand Lake estuary, these streams in total provide approximately 4.7 miles of spawning reach for salmon, steelhead, and resident cutthroat trout. In the estuary, freshwater begins its journey in nearby coastal mountains; three salmon bearing streams connect to the estuary within the proposed acquisition. Once the streams enter the lowland non-linear forested wetlands, they meander through Sitka spruce swamp, depressional shrublands, and tidal freshwater marsh draining into tidal channels to begin their dissection of the intertidal salt marsh, mud flats, and eel grass beds before they empty into the ocean. Watershed function will be enhanced and sustained by the acquisition of the 167 acres in the Sand Lake estuary. Table 1. Sand Lake Acquisition Wetland Types Wetland Type PEMC: Palustrine emergent; nontidal,seasonally flooded PFOC: Palustrine forested; nontidal, seasonally flooded E2EMP: Estuarine intertidal emergent; irregularly flooded by tidal water E2EMN: Estuarine intertidal emergent; regularly flooded by tidal water at least once daily PSSC: Palustrine scrub-shrub; seasonally flooded PEMAd: Palustrine emergent; temporarily flooded partially drained or ditched PSSR: Palustrine scrub-shrub; seasonally tidal E1UBL: Estuarine subtidal, deepwater tidal with continuously submerged unconsolidated bottom Nationally Decreasing Coastal Wetland Type? Acres Percentage of Total Project Yes % Yes % Yes % Yes % Yes % Yes 3.5 2% Yes 2.8 2% Yes 2.0 1% Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 8

9 PUBH: Palustrine nontidal with substrate classified as unconsolidated bottom PEMR: Palustrine nontidal; seasonally tidal R1UBV: Riverine tidal with unconsolidated bottom; permanently tidal R2UBH: Riverine lower perennial with substrate classified as unconsolidated bottom; permanently flooded E2USN: Estuarine deepwater intertidal with substrate classified as unconsolidated shore Yes.9 T Yes.8 T Yes.7 T Yes.3 T Yes.2 T Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 9

10 Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 10

11 2. Maritime forests on coastal barriers Maritime forests, as defined by 50 CFR 84.11, occur only on barrier islands and along the mainland coast from Delaware to Texas. Therefore, Oregon projects will not benefit maritime forests. 3. Long-term conservation North Coast Land Conservancy is celebrating 25 years as a non-profit with a mission to serve as a resource for Northwest Oregon coastal communities and landowners to conserve and protect land in perpetuity for its ecological and cultural values. Acquisition will allow the Sand Creek Property to be protected in perpetuity by the North Coast Land Conservancy and the State of Oregon. Fee title will be held by the North Coast Land Conservancy while the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board will hold a conservation easement on the property. The terms of the easement will be consistent with the goals and mission of the Coastal Wetlands Program; to protect in perpetuity the declining coastal wetland types associated with the Sand Creek Property. The ecology of the Sand Lake site proposed for acquisition is driven by the highfunctioning hydrological connections currently in place. Hydrological drivers include the tidal influence, the freshwater watershed flow source, and the residual water held in the wetland systems. For the described priority habitats to exist and continue to provide critical ecological services, the hydrological integrity of the site must be maintained. Acquisition of this parcel would guarantee key hydrological connections between the Sand Lake estuary and its watershed will be maintained providing the opportunity for priority habitats and species listed above to exist and produce in perpetuity. Providing a guarantee on this site for perpetual estuarine watershed connectivity will make important contributions to securing the hydrological functions of the entire Sand Lake estuary due to its proximity to other currently protected conservation properties. Other parcels of conserved land include hundreds of acres of reclaimed estuarine pasture associated with the Whalen Island State Park Natural Area; 50 acres of The Nature Conservancy preserve, Bradley Bog; and public land managed by the Siuslaw National Forest. The cumulative effect of this proposed acquisition on hydrological connectivity, habitat connectivity, and conservation ownership connectivity provides an opportunity to complete a conservation project of such a scale that the whole becomes much bigger than its isolated parts. Each of the properties under conservation in the Sand Lake estuary have unique ecological value, but the potential landscape-scale connectivity resulting from this proposed acquisition ranks this project as a top priority. Scale and conservation ownership of highfunctioning natural resources is critical to long-term stewardship. In the Sand Lake estuary, disturbance from human activities and invasive species are the biggest threats. Acquisition by a conservation owner such as the North Coast Land Conservancy, which has established working partnerships with the other Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 11

12 conservation property owners in the estuary, is the best option available for eliminating those threats and protecting this pristine Oregon resource. Protecting the ecosystems ability to maintain high water quality and watershed functions to support priority habitats and species is the ultimate goal of the proposed Sand Lake acquisition. Protection through acquisition avoids the prospect of restoring the system later at much greater cost than the current cost of this proposed acquisition. This proposal also advances the state-wide goal to protect estuaries zoned as natural on the Oregon Coast. This zoning is meant to assure the citizens of Oregon that some of the highest value resources in the state will be protected. The Sand Lake Estuary is zoned as a natural system and this proposal will take one more step in assuring the citizens of Oregon that the coastal goals will be achieved and will deliver ecosystem services in perpetuity. 4. Coastal watershed management The project furthers the goals and objectives of the following formal, ongoing coastal ecosystem management plans and efforts: Regional Wetlands Concept Plan (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1990). This plan calls for the acquisition and protection of wetlands in Sand Lake Estuary. The project advances that goal. Strategic Plan: The Coastal Program (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2007). The Coastal Program s strategic plan includes estuaries among its Focus Areas for conservation. Estuaries are emphasized due to their high ecological importance and because they provide essential habitat for many marine and anadromous fish as well as migratory birds. This project will contribute to meeting the Coastal Program s goals for estuarine and tidal wetland protection. Oregon Conservation Strategy (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 2005). This statewide strategy identified Sand Lake area (Conservation Opportunity Area CR-11) as a priority for wetland conservation because of good potential to link projects to sites that are already protected. The Oregon Conservation Strategy identifies estuaries as a focus habitat as well as identifying the area as a conservation opportunity area. The Sand Lake Conservation Project will conserve wetlands and wetland connectivity and advance this statewide strategy. Sand Lake Watershed Analysis (SRI/Shapiro/AGCO, Inc. 1998). This watershed analysis describes the conservation of estuarine wetlands and the resources dependent upon them. Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board Ecological Priorities for Land Acquisition by Basin (Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board 2004). OWEB places priority on land acquisition projects that secure areas undergoing transition from undeveloped to developed conditions, protect Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 12

13 key portions of larger landscapes, improve connectivity, and complement existing networks of conserved sites. The project encompasses these principles. OWEB also determined that freshwater marsh and intertidal salt marsh are priority ecological systems for land acquisition efforts in the North Coast Basin, the geographical area in which the project is located. Joint Venture Implementation Plans: Northern Oregon Coast (Oregon Wetlands Joint Venture 1994). The Northern Oregon Coast plan calls for securing private tidelands where there are willing sellers and permanently protecting 2,700 acres of freshwater wetlands. The Sand Lake Wetlands Conservation Project advances these goals. The Oregon Coastal Management Plan (Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development 1987). Statewide Planning Goal 16 (Estuarine Resources) established detailed requirements for the planning and management of Oregon s estuaries. The overall objective of Goal 16 is to recognize and protect the unique environmental, economic, and social values of each estuary and associated wetlands. Sand Lake Estuary is classified as a natural estuary with only natural management units. Conservation acquisition of private wetlands will meet the management outcomes of the Oregon Coastal Management Plan. Oregon s Wetland Strategy (Leibowitz 1995). This strategy calls for priority protection for wetlands that serve multiple functions and are connected to other wetlands. The project will acquire wetlands that have both good wildlife and water quality functions and also pose an outstanding opportunity to ensure connectivity from freshwater wetlands to open estuary in the Sand Lake Estuary. Oregon Wetlands Priority Plan (Oregon Division of State Lands and Oregon State Parks and Recreation Division 1989). This plan identified Oregon s estuaries as one of the state s top priorities for wetlands conservation. The plan states that wetland types with public values recognized by local communities are critical area in need of conservation. 5. Conservation of threatened and endangered species The Sand Lake Conservation Project will contribute to the conservation of listed, recently de-listed species, and threatened species, (Table 3) that occur regularly at the project site (parcels proposed for acquisition and immediately adjacent habitat) and/or in the project area. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 13

14 Table 3: Listed Species Conserved by the Project Species Status Project Benefits Other Information Coho salmon (Oregon Coast ESU) (Oncorhychus kisutch) Federal: threatened The estuarine wetlands proposed for acquisition provide valuable nursery habitat for coho. The palustrine forested wetlands, temporarily tidally influenced during storms, provide refuge that is critical for the survival of young coho. The Oregon Coast Coho Conservation Plan for the State of Oregon specifies the need for concerted conservation investments in estuarine habitats to boost their viability (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 2007). Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) Federal: delisted State: delisted The project site and project area provide year-round foraging habitat (waterfowl, gulls, fish). There is a nesting pair within a few hundred meters of the parcel. North American Landbird Conservation Plan (Species of Continental Importance); ODFW Species of Greatest Conservation Need; Pacific Bald Eagle Recovery Plan, Region 1, USFWS (protect habitat) Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) Federal: delisted State: delisted The project site and project area provide winter and migratory foraging habitat for falcons. Falcons have been observed foraging in the Sand Lake estuary. ODFW Species of Greatest Conservation Need; Pacific Coast American Peregrine Falcon Recovery Plan (protect habitat) Northern Sea Lion (Eumetopias jubatus) Federal: threatened The project site and project area provide tidal channels for use by sea lions. A sea lion was observed using the tidal channels on the western portion of the property. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service 6. Benefits to fish The Sand Creek Estuary contains a single primary source of potential salmonid habitat, Sand Creek. Sand Creek is a 4 th order stream with three significant tributaries, Jewel, Andy, and Davis Creeks. Sand Creek and its associated tributaries account for nearly all of the basin s summer rearing Coho and due to little human interference has large amounts of downed woody debris within its reaches on the proposed acquisition (Bio-Surveys, LLC). The upper 1.6 miles of the Sand Creek mainstem includes the most suitable gravel beds for spawning observed in the Sand Creek Basin. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 14

15 In addition to benefiting federally threatened Oregon Coast coho, the Sand Lake Wetlands Conservation Project will conserve habitat for sensitive anadromous fish species associated with Sand Creek. The Sand Lake basin has 8.6 miles of available habitat for juvenile salmonids as identified in a Rapid Bio-Assessment completed in Table 4 below was completed by Bio-Surveys, LLC and estimates the juvenile salmonid production in Sand Lake from 2002 to 2005 and indicates that Sand Creek consistently produces juvenile coho, steelhead, and cutthroat trout as shown in Table 4. As noted in criterion one, the Sand Lake acquisition includes declining wetland types (50 acres of palustrine emergent and 41 acres of estuarine intertidal emergent) which provide important rearing habitat for coho salmon. Table 4: Estimates of Juvenile Salmonid Production in Sand Lake Basin Survey Year Coho 0+ Steelhead Cutthroat ,675 2, , ,606 1, ,338 1, , ,919 1, ,375 Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 15

16 Table 5: Sensitive Anadromous Fish Species Sensitive Anadromous Fish Species Conserved by this Project Species Status Project Benefits Other Information Chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) State: sensitive critical The estuarine wetlands proposed for acquisition provide feeding habitat for chum salmon. The wetlands also indirectly benefit chum by filtering contaminants from the water that enters the bay. A critical feeding period occurs for chum salmon fry during their first month in bays and estuaries. The young chum feed mainly on crustaceans in brackish water (Behnke 2002). Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Federal: species of concern State: sensitive vulnerable The wetlands proposed for acquisition afford feeding opportunities and shelter to steelhead. The Oregon Conservation Strategy (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 2005) and the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds*, supported by federal agencies, specify the importance of protecting remaining estuarine habitat for salmon and steelhead recovery. Sea-run coastal cutthroat trout (Oregon Coast ESU) (Oncorhynchus clarkii) Federal: species of concern State: sensitive vulnerable The wetlands proposed for acquisition provide shelter, food, and water quality improvements for sea-run coastal cutthroat trout. Cutthroat adults make extensive use of estuaries before migrating upstream (Behnke 2002). The project will also protect habitat and water quality for the following estuarinedependent interjurisdictional fish species, many of which are prey for birds: Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) Northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax) Surf smelt (Hypomesus pretiosus) Threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 16

17 Invertebrates are important food sources for the scores of shorebirds that use Sand Lake Estuary. Many invertebrate species are sensitive to impaired water quality (Monaco et al. 1990). Protection of the wetlands that provide detritus to the sand flats protects the food web of the estuary. 7. Benefits to coastal-dependent or migratory birds The Sand Lake Wetlands Conservation Project will provide important Estuarine and freshwater wetland habitat for bird species that occur regularly at the project site (the parcels proposed for acquisition and the immediately adjacent habitat) and/or in the project area (Sand Lake and surrounding uplands). According the North American Waterfowl Management Plan 31% of colonial waterbirds require estuarine wetlands for nesting while 33% of colonial waterbirds require inland wetlands for nesting. Furthermore, Sand Lake property will provide critical foraging habitat for colonial waterbirds 36% of which require estuarine wetlands, 31% near-shore, and 34% freshwater habitats for foraging, all habitats which are provided by the Sand Lake property. The Sand Lake Estuary also provides key wintering habitat for waterfowl and critical habitat for a number of threatened or endangered species in pacific flyway. Many of the species are of high conservation concern, as identified in national and/or regional bird conservation plans. Some of the species are USFWS-designated Birds of Conservation Concern for the Northern Pacific Rainforest Bird Conservation Region (BCR 5). Information in Table 5 was provided by the American Bird Conservancy (Altman 2008). Table 5. Avian Benefits Species Mallard (Anas platyhynchos) Lesser scaup (Aythya affinis) Northern pintail (Anas acuta) American widgeon (Anas Americana) Benefits Protection of approximately 42 acres of palustrine forested wetlands, 100 acres of palustrine and intertidal emergent wetlands. Protection of approximately 100 acres of palustrine and intertidal emergent wetlands Protection of approximately 100 acres of palustrine and intertidal emergent wetlands Protection of approximately 100 acres of palustrine and intertidal emergent wetlands Contribution to the Goals of North American Waterfowl Plan or Other Bird Conservation Initiatives North American Waterfowl Management Plan (High Priority Species) North American Waterfowl Management Plan (High Priority Species) North American Waterfowl Management Plan (High Priority Species) North American Waterfowl Management Plan (Moderate/High Priority Species) Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 17

18 Cinnamon teal (Anas cyanoptera) Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) Common goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) Brandt s cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) Great-blue heron (Ardea Herodias) Protection of approximately 100 acres of palustrine and intertidal emergent wetlands Protection of approximately 100 acres of palustrine and intertidal emergent wetlands Protection of approximately 100 acres of palustrine and intertidal emergent wetlands Protection of approximately 100 acres of year-round palustrine and intertidal emergent wetland foraging habitat Protection of approximately 100 acres of nesting and year-round foraging habitat North American Waterfowl Management Plan (Moderate/High Priority Species) North American Waterfowl Management Plan (Moderate/High Priority Species) North American Waterfowl Management Plan (Moderate/High Priority Species) US Waterbird Plan (High Concern Species) Northern Pacific Rainforest Regional Waterbird Plan (Moderate Concern Species) Green heron (Butorides virescens) Protection of approximately 100 acres of nesting and year-round foraging habitat Northern Pacific Rainforest Regional Waterbird Plan (High Concern Species) Western sandpiper (Calidris mauri) Protection of approximately 100 acres of wintering habitat, and foraging and resting habitat for migrants Northern Pacific Coast Regional Shorebird Management Plan (High Concern Species) Waterfowl: The Sand Lake Conservation Project is within the planning area of the Pacific Coast Joint Venture Strategic Plan for Oregon (1996). The project will contribute to the conservation of waterfowl habitat and waterfowl species through protection of forested and estuarine wetlands that provide important habitats for waterfowl. The greatest benefits will be provided to migrating and wintering waterfowl, although local breeding populations of wood ducks will benefit from the protection of nesting, brood rearing, and year-round foraging habitat, especially in the forested wetlands. Additionally, the project s wetland protections will directly support and implement provisions of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. Shorebirds: The Sand Lake Wetlands Conservation Project is within the planning area of the Northern Pacific Coast Regional Shorebird Management Plan (2000). The plan cites the Sand Lake Estuary as an important shorebird area. Most Pacific coast shorebirds are long-distance migrants that breed in Alaska and northern Canada and concentrate in large numbers in a network of Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 18

19 small, tidally influenced estuarine wetlands on the Pacific coast. The project will protect 167 acres of intertidal and freshwater wetland habitat for shorebirds. Estuarine wetland habitats have been identified as a priority habitat for shorebird conservation in the Northern Pacific Coast Regional Shorebird Management Plan. The project will contribute to the Plan s habitat objectives through protection of approximately two acres of emergent wetland shorebird habitat. The Plan specifies the need to protect important sites through various means, including acquisition. Acquisition of Shorebird habitat protected by this project will contribute to the Northern Pacific Coast Regional Shorebird Management Plan s goal of stabilizing and/or maintaining current levels of wintering and migrating populations of the more common shorebirds, and measurably increasing populations of species experiencing population declines. In addition to the high priority species in Table 5, other shorebirds that regularly occur in the general project area include long-billed dowitchers and sanderlings. Waterbirds: The project is located within the planning area of the Northern Pacific Coast Draft Waterbird Conservation Plan (2005). One of the primary objectives identified in the plan, the prevention of wetlands loss, is supported by the Sand Lake Wetlands Conservation Project. Both freshwater and saltwater wetland habitats, and some upland habitats, support large numbers of waterbirds on the northern Oregon coast. This region of Oregon provides migration, wintering, and breeding habitat for waterbirds. The forested and emergent wetlands that will be protected by the project benefit a wide range of waterbird species, including various grebes, gulls, terns, cormorants, herons, and egrets (Figure 4). Landbirds: The project area is addressed in two planning documents produced by Oregon-Washington Partners in Flight (PIF): Conservation Strategy for Landbirds in Coniferous Forests of Western Oregon and Washington (1999) and Conservation Strategy for Landbirds in the Lowlands and Valleys of Western Oregon and Washington (2000). The project area is especially important for early spring migrant landbirds. Project activities that protect forested wetland habitats (i.e., riparian habitats) support two biological objectives within the PIF plans: no net loss of riparian habitats and the maintenance or restoration of greater than 30 percent of the historical extent of riparian habitat. 8. Prevent or reduce contamination Acquisition of the proposed Sand Lake property will result in a protected, contiguous wetland buffer between the freshwater wetlands and estuary, ultimately protecting four at risk plant species and habitat for 11 priority species as identified by the Oregon Conservation Strategy. North Coast Land Conservancy is committed to stewardship of the property, including invasive species removal and debris removal through hosting educational and stewardship days on the property. A management plan will be developed by the North Coast Land Conservancy in partnership with the State of Oregon. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 19

20 Acquisition of the Sand Lake property will help prevent potential agricultural runoff, land development, leaching from septic systems, storm water runoff, timber harvest, pesticides/fertilizer runoff, oil and gas exploration, sewage discharge or disposal of toxic materials, and the further degradation of declining wetland types on the proposed acquisition. These issues have been identified in the Oregon Nearshore Strategy as factors that are affecting Oregon s nearshore habitats. The wetlands proposed for protection abut a county road and receive runoff from the road surface and surrounding agricultural uses. The property is currently for sale and is zoned for three home sites, acquisition will limit the contaminate load expected from residential development and leaching from three additional individual septic systems, which would be further exacerbated by the additional fill and loss of wetland habitat. The land trust will evaluate the current hydrology associated with the logging road running south from Galloway Road and the culvert connecting Bradley Bog and the proposed Sand Lake acquisition. The logging road is now functioning as a dike in some areas by restricting east-west flow between the logged forested wetland and the unlogged portions of the Sitka spruce swamp. Restoring connection between the logged and unlogged forested wetlands will assist in controlling invasive species and increase hydrological dynamics. The culvert connecting Bradley Bog appears to restrict flow and thereby reducing hydrological connection between the two properties. Culvert replacement or the construction of a bridge would be considered for feasibility and effectiveness. Additionally, part of the estuary managed by Oregon State Parks is constricted by a bridge on Whalen Island Road. The bridge constriction churns tidal waters disrupting the salt water prism. The impacts of the bridge constriction are deleterious for juvenile coho that have not yet completed their metamorphosis in the estuary. With NCLC as an owner in the watershed there will be an additional partner willing to collaborate in solving this problem. As one of Oregon's least developed estuaries, preservation of ecologically intact native tidal marsh and forested swamps is of critical importance making this a truly unique opportunity. 9. Catalyst for future conservation NCLC uses a landscape-scale approach to conservation within the coastal bioregion. With a Priority of conserving lands that are currently in a high functioning ecological condition and have a long term stewardship strategy that is outright protection with a perpetual guarantee that it will provide ecosystem services for the people of Oregon and the globe. The goal with this approach is to secure the parts of coastal systems that are connected and still functioning at a high ecological level. This approach has not only produced results in the number of acres protected, but has also been a programmatic vision that NCLC has been able to share with a wide range of partners. Acquisition is not only a tool that guarantees conservation through time, but it also guarantees stewardship and adaptive conservation management in perpetuity. In addition being a landowner in the local landscape sets the stage for being a credible Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 20

21 partner, allowing NCLC to work with adjoining landowners to make a positive contribution by enhancing their land stewardship practices. NCLC has achieved great success using this strategy throughout our service area, and has seen that the results of our direct conservation and engagement of the community are greater than the original acreage purchased. In two state defined conservation opportunity areas the the north of Sand Lake, NCLC has worked for nearly 20 years to piece together ecological corridors that can effectively protect and deliver ecosystem services. In the Clatsop Plains NCLC began with a 1 ½ acre acquisition and now through their strategic partnerships and collaborations, owns or permanently manages over 250 acres of a rare dune prairie ecosystem that is habitat to the federally threatened Oregon Silverspot Butterfly. Similarly, in the Necanicum estuary NCLC began by facilitating the City of Seaside s purchase of 24 acres of estuarine wetland forest, and now owns or permanently manages over 500 acres associated with estuarine habitat, and is currently working with the city and over 20 partners to create and estuary wide natural history park for the purpose of protecting the resource and engaging the citizens in long term stewardship of their watershed. OWEB has been a partner of these past efforts of NCLC s, along with USFWS, Federal Scenic Byways, The Nature Conservancy, National Parks, and many others. The Sand Lake conservation acquisition is situated within a number of currently protected parcels (Figure 7). The property completes a conservation corridor between the freshwater marshes and swamps and the estuary protected at Clay Myers State Park Natural Area. Expanding the conservation footprint in the Sand Lake estuary will bring additional agricultural private landowners to consider conservation opportunities. NCLC s history of working with a wide variety of landowners in a respectful and professional way has helped advance conservation opportunities in other parts of the North Oregon coast and will be applied here. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 21

22 Figure 7: Ownerships 10. Partners in conservation NCLC GIS Data The North Coast Land Conservancy works with a diverse group of partners and is the primary partner in the proposed acquisition with OWEB. NCLC will involve Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department, OWEB, USFWS Coastal Program, The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Forest Service and others to be involved in the development of a stewardship plan for the property. The property will be managed in a cooperative effort with Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 22

23 adjacent conservation ownerships, especially Oregon State Parks, U.S. Forest Service and The Nature Conservancy. Oregon State Parks Oregon State Parks and NCLC will implement a Memorandum of Understanding between the two parties to address stewardship, maintenance, public access, and due diligence requirements of the grant application. Oregon State Parks and NCLC has been working for a number of years together on the acquisition of the property. Recently, Oregon State Parks hired a natural resource specialist who is focused on coastal parks and is a member of NCLC s Stewardship and Conservation Committee. NCLC will work in tandem with Oregon State Parks to develop a management plan to steward the property in perpetuity. Sand Lake County Inn The local Bed and Breakfast was the first certified green bed and breakfast in the State of Oregon. They are committed to the protection of the Sand Lake property and have volunteered to host fundraising dinners on their properties in conjunction with NCLC. The owners have also expressed interest in hosting outdoor educational opportunities for the guests along with the local community on the Sand Lake property, such as bird walks. North Coast Land Conservancy The North Coast Land Conservancy is the primary partner with OWEB in the acquisition of the Sand Lake property. NCLC is committed to developing a management plan for the property, which is consistent with the goals of the Coastal Wetlands Program. NCLC will conduct annual site visits on the property which will ensure active stewardship. Invasive species removal and monitoring, debris removal, and monitoring of the property will take place an annual basis. The Nestucca, Neskowin & Sand Lake Watershed Council The Council has been very active in this watershed and very cooperative as partners. The council has supplied extensive fish data for the Sand Creek and Jewell Creek systems that flow across the property under discussion. The Birding and Blues is an active community group that conducts bird surveys with a focus on linking the long-term protection of the estuary to the local economy. The Nature Conservancy The Nature Conservancy offered their local experience with the estuary system as a conservation landowner in the area, having managed Bradley Bog for several years. The U.S. Forest Service The U.S. Forest Service manages forest and recreation lands and has two dedicated Research Natural Areas in the watershed. 11. Federal share reduced The Sand Lake Wetlands Conservation Project proposes to use non-federal funds for half of the total cost, thereby significantly reducing the 75 percent Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 23

24 federal funding share in accordance with 50 CFR 84.32(a)(11)(iii)(B), as shown in Table 8. Table 8: Reduction in Federal Share Budget Component Budget Amount Total acquisition cost $675,000 Federal request $675,000 Required match $225,000 Actual match $240, Education/outreach program or wildlife-oriented recreation The parcels acquired in the project present exciting opportunities for the North Coast Land Conservancy to expand its strong education and outreach programs. The NCLC is well known for the estuary education opportunities it offers community members and visitors of all ages in the Seaside area. The NCLC sponsors weekly events (see ) that highlight the conservation message to the North Oregon Coast visitors and residents. Access to this property is limited due to its extensive vegetatated wetlands, but canoeing offers an incredible glimpse into the complexity and biodiversity of a healthy and connected estuarine rainforest ecology. NCLC has an extensive outreach and engagement program that we run annually on a monthly basis, providing natural history programs in the field and stewardship days on our lands, all free and open to the public. Canoe-based natural history programs and stewardship days will be a goal of our overall coastal outreach program. NCLC also hosts stewardship days on their properties with local volunteers and has a strong relationship with the Tongue Point Job Corps and the Columbia River Youth Corps who implement stewardship activities on their properties. These activities not only allow NCLC to meet its stewardship obligations for their properties but also allows NCLC to provide education and outreach on the importance of wetlands, landscape connectivity, invasive species removal, wildlife data collection, and a host of other educational priorities for the land trust. Generally, stewardship activities are focused on plantings, invasive species removal, and debris removal. On the proposed acquisition, these activities will take place on the perimeter of the property and at the high tide mark where debris accumulates from the tide. Stewardship activities will be hosted in partnership with other agencies and organizations as well. NCLC has worked closely with The Nature Conservancy and Oregon State Parks on such activities and plans to continue to do so at the Sand Lake Estuary. NCLC manages these activities carefully and generally requires permission for access onto its Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 24

25 properties. This type of oversight means that activities on the property will be consistent with the conservation values of the property. Activities that would degrade habitat or be inconsistent with the management of the property will not be allowed. Acquisition of the Sand Lake property will enable NCLC to expand its outreach opportunities and provide another venue for increasing awareness about land conservation on the Oregon Coast in the southern reaches of our service area. As Oregon s most pristine estuary, there are unprecedented opportunities for scientific research similar to those studies that NCLC has participated in on their Coal Creek and Shangrila properties. NCLC will seek out and make the property available for scientific research and educational opportunities to advance state and regional goals towards a better understanding of estuarine habitat requirements, protection, and restoration. 13. Other factors Climate Change The Environmental Protection Agency states the most commonly predicted affects of climate change on an estuary are sea level rise, increased sea surface and air temperatures, ocean acidification, and changes in precipitation and storm intensity. The effects of these changes will be noticeable, if not catastrophic, and could result in salt water intrusion into aquifers, inundation of coastal wetlands and marshes, changes in habitat and species distributions, lower oxygen levels in wetlands, and the possibility of increased erosion from more severe storms (EPA.com). A report prepared for the Climate Leadership Initiative states that sea-level rise in Oregon, driven by climate change, will severely impact low-lying coastal areas and coastal marshes, estuaries, and beaches are the most at risk (Lawler et. al. 2008). Climate change will be further exacerbated by other humaninduced pressures such as development, diking, levees, and other infrastructure which was intended to protect homes from current sea levels. As a result, private residents and governments will rush to save existing infrastructure around the United States and the world, resulting in massive spending. Conserving places such as Sand Lake Estuary will reduce the risk and burden of private and public entities spending money to protect existing infrastructure by allowing for the natural adaptation of the land, such as inland migration of wetlands, and inundation of freshwater wetlands, as the sea level rises. Although future, sitespecific effects of climate change are hard to predict, it is likely that Sand Lake will serve as a buffer from the future predicted effects of climate change. Biodiversity Estuaries are arguably the most impacted and compromised systems on Oregon s coast. Their role as the ecological link between marine and freshwater and terrestrial habitats yields levels of biological productivity unmatched in other habitats found in Oregon. Recent reports from the IUCN have identified estuaries as providing the potential to sequester times more carbon than forested habitats. It is truly a rare find to have the opportunity to protect a large, intact estuarine parcel such as the proposed 167 acre project in the Sand Lake Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 25

26 estuary. Simple purchase of this property is a one-time investment that will provide continuing returns for Oregonians in perpetuity. The proposed Sand Lake acquisition includes five priority habitats that support 11 priority species. The exceptionally high level of diversity found within the property is indicative of natural, high-functioning estuarine systems. As the transition from marine to freshwater and terrestrial habitats, the natural array of habitats in an estuary provide food and shelter to millions of organisms. Biodiversity hot spots often exist in transitional zones. The natural transitional zones found on the proposed site provide an edge effect resulting in increased biodiversity. The Nature Conservancy, as a part of the Pacific Northwest Coast Ecoregional Assessment, has listed the Sand Lake estuary as having one of the highest biodiversity values in the State of Oregon. Plant Communities The proposed acquisition is composed of five priority habitats and two rare plant communities. Plant communities are classified and ranked according to the Oregon Biodiversity Information Center. Rank is a code identifying the conservation status of the plant association. It is composed of a global rank ("G") followed by a state rank ("S"). 1 = Critically imperiled because of extreme rarity, with 5 or fewer occurrences or very few remaining acres. 2 = Imperiled because of rarity, with 6-20 occurrences or few remaining acres. 3 = Either very rare and local throughout its range or found locally in a restricted range; uncommon, with occurrences. 4 = Apparently secure, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery; many occurrences. 5 = Demonstrably secure, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery; ineradicable under present conditions. These standardized ranks are used by all natural heritage programs and conservation data centers throughout North America. They are based on the best available information. The intertidal salt marsh is dissected by a network of tidal channels encloses a matrix of plant communities progressing from low to high marsh habitat. The low marsh is dominated by Lyngby sedge - (saltgrass - arrow grass) - Carex lyngbyei - (Distichlis spicata - Triglochin maritimum) (G4S4) salt marsh community. The high marsh is a network of Lyngby sedge - Pacific silverweed Carex lyngbyei - Argentina egedii (G4S4), tufted hairgrass - Pacific silverweed-deschampsia cespitosa - Argentina egedii (G3G4 S3), tufted hairgrass - Baltic rush Deschampsia cespitosa - Juncus balticus (G4S4) salt marsh. Tufted hairgrass - Pacific silverweed plant community is categorized as very rare and local throughout its range. In addition, we observed a small population of Henderson s sidalcea (Sidalcea hendersonii) with the high marsh habitat. This plant is listed as G3S1 by the Oregon Biodiversity Information Center meaning that it is globally either very rare and local throughout its range or found locally in a restricted Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 26

27 range. On a state level, Henderson s sidalcea is critically imperiled because of extreme rarity. Federally, this plant is listed as a Species of Concern Eighty percent of Oregon's salt marshes have been converted to agriculture. As vital rearing habitat for salmonids, intertidal salt marshes are critical environments for the completion of the salmonid life cycle. As elevation rises, the salt marsh transitions into a tidally influenced freshwater wetland dominated by broad-leaved cattail Typha latifolia (G5S5) with patches of seacoast bulrush Scirpus maritimus (estuarine association) (G2S2) and threesquare bulrush Scirpus americanus (estuarine association) (G3S2). Both seacoast and three-square bulrush plant communities are considered very rare and locally restricted. The largest plant association found within the proposed acquisition includes a tidally influenced lowland non-linear forested wetland Sitka spruce swamp. We have classified this plant community as a Sitka spruce / creek dogwood Hooker willow tideland Picea sitchensis / Cornus sericea - Salix hookeriana plant association (G1G2S1) due to the presence of creek dogwood, touch-met-not (Impatiens capensis) and tree recruitment dominated by western red cedar (Thuja plicata). The forested wetlands within the proposed acquisition are within the zone of daily freshwater tidal inundation. We observed greater than one foot of standing water during a September site visit. The forested Sitka spruce swamp envelopes lower, wetter interiors composed of either lowland depressional shrub wetlands or freshwater marsh and aquatic beds. Jewell Creek, Andy Creek, and Davis Creek are all linked to their estuarine reaches within the tidally influenced forested swamp. As each creek empties into Sand Creek water flows through the forested swamp allowing for further connection to the greater estuary through tidal channels at high tide. This plant community is considered critically imperiled because of extreme rarity. Old-growth stands are very rare because most swamps were readily accessible for logging and suitable sites may never have been numerous or extensive. Of an estimated 14,000 acres in Oregon in 1850, about 1,700 remain today, representing an 88 percent loss. Within the lowland non-linear forested wetland Sitka spruce swamp is a remnant western red cedar swamp, which was logged with sustainable methods. The 40 acres of logged forested wetland are recovering well with western red cedar and red alder (Alnus rubra) dominating the canopy with a thriving native understory. Lowland depressional shrub wetlands (20 acres) found on the proposed acquisition site are interspersed along edges and interior pockets of the forested Sitka spruce swamp. The dominant plant association is classified as Hooker willow - Oregon crabapple / slough sedge - skunk cabbage, Salix hookeriana - Malus fusca / Carex obnupta - Lysichiton americanus (G3S2), plant association which is considered rare and locally restricted in its range. Freshwater marsh and aquatic beds (15 acres) include two freshwater ponds. Slough sedge Pacific silverweed, Carex obnupta - Argentina egedii (G4S4), dominate the freshwater marsh. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 27

28 Landscape Connectivity The matrix of habitats found within the proposed acquisition (e.g., tidal channels, tributaries, intertidal salt marsh, tidally influenced forested, shrub, and freshwater wetlands) exist only as a result of adjacent estuarine habitats. Each habitat supports a host of aquatic and terrestrial species. Nutrients and organic particles critical to the estuarine food web are continually transported among habitats through the cyclic movement of tides and currents. Furthermore, water-bound species that move among habitats for breeding, feeding, and shelter are wholly dependent on the sustained connectivity between habitats. Funding the proposed Sand Lake acquisition will protect the connectivity between marine and freshwater habitats throughout the estuary. Invasive Species Invasive species populations are mainly associated with the logged forested wetland, road edges, and perimeter of the residential property enclosed on the north side of the proposed project. English holly (Ilex aquifolium) and Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) are present along edges and openings. In addition, the transition zone between tidal and freshwater marsh support patches of yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) and reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea). Invasive species removal would be implemented with a priority placed on ecosystem-altering species according to NCLC's invasive species policy. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 28

29 OTHER CONSIDERATIONS/TIE-BREAKERS Is the habitat imminently threatened? X Yes No Residential construction is encroaching on the lowlands of Sand Lake Estuary. As lands change from agriculture to residential/recreational use there will be increasing pressure to develop lands adjacent to the estuary. Does the site have unique and significant diversity? X Yes No The parcels proposed for acquisition contain a unique mix of freshwater and estuarine wetlands and provide direct benefits to a wide range of wetland dependent species. Bald eagles, beavers, migratory birds, and other wildlife are dependent on the freshwater forested, emergent, shrub and estuarine wetlands. Refer to Criteria 5 (Conservation of threatened and endangered species), 6 (Benefits to fish), and 7 (Benefits to coastal-dependent or migratory birds). What are the costs per acre? It will cost approximately $4,041 per acre to acquire the proposed parcels. Are there new sources of funds, lands, or services being applied to this project? X Yes No What percentage of the funds, lands, or services is new? 100% H. Description of State Fund: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has previously determined that Oregon s constitutionally dedicated state Lottery funds for salmon and watershed conservation make the state eligible for a federal cost-share of 75 percent for the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program. I. Other Conservation Actions and Their Relationship to This Project: The Sand Lake Estuary presents an important opportunity for multiple interests to share a common goal of protecting the estuary functions. The significant amount of public ownership in the watershed and the key conservation ownerships of coastal wetland features (Bradley Bog, Whalen Island) and dedicated protection of two Research Natural Areas (Sand Lake RNA and Renecke Creek RNA) provide an important framework for long-term conservation. Conservation Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 29

30 acquisition of this parcel will create strong links between the estuary and the adjacent freshwater wetlands and uplands. Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 30

31 Appendix I: Maps Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 31

32 Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 32

33 Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 33

34 Appendix II: Additional Bird Species List Mallard Mallard Northern Pintail Green-Winged Teal Surf Scoter White-winged Scoter Bufflehead Hooded Merganser Common Merganser Great Blue Heron Great Egret Osprey Bald Eagle Least Sandpiper Dunlin Long-billed Dowitcher Ring-billed Gull Western Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Caspian Tern Eurasian Collared-Dove Rufous Hummingbird Northern Flicker Steller's Jay American Crow Common Raven Tree Swallow Chestnut-backed Chickadee Marsh Wren Golden-crowned Kinglet American Robin European Starling Orange-crowned Warbler Common Yellowthroat Savannah Sparrow Fox Sparrow Song Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Red-winged Blackbird Brown-headed Cowbird Purple Finch Northern Pintail Green-Winged Teal Surf Scoter White-winged Scoter Bufflehead Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 34

35 Appendix III: Pictures Northern sea lion in tidal channel on Sand Lake NCLC s Neal Maine traversing high intertidal salt marsh Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 35

36 High intertidal salt marsh with Scirpus maritimus patch Swallowtail caterpillar in tidally influenced freshwater wetland High intertidal salt marsh transitioning into tidally influenced freshwater wetland Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 36

37 Lowland non-linear forested wetland Lowland non-linear forested wetland Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 37

38 Lowland non-linear forested wetland Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 38

39 Lowland non-linear forested wetland Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 39

40 Appendix IV: Letters of Commitment Sand Lake Estuary National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application 40