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Home My WebLink About11132023 Potocky Presentation Land Exchange and Conservation EasementA Proposed Alternative: Presented by: Shauna Potocky Land Exchange Seward Resident and Conservation Easement November 13, 2023 2 Proposal to City Council Tasha DeMarzic Collaborative Committee F T 'Land Exchange and Conservation Easement Work Towards the Benefit of the City of Seward, Community and Department of Transportation Willing to Meet with Council, City Manager, DOT, Citizens L Z IF 3 Collaborative Committee TashaDeMa2i. Build on Previous Committee Work Explore and Review DOT Project Proposal Research All Options Including Land Exchange and Conservation Easement Collaboratively Address yam, Concerns F. Assure an Inclusive and Transparent Process Provide Findings to Council and City Manager 4 Background The Department of Transportation (DOT), in an effort to extend the short runaway located at the Seward Airport in Seward, Alaska, has proposed a purchase of tidal lands from the City of Seward. This is due to issues sited both with weather conditions, which impact use and maintenance due to erosion and river dynamics adjacent to the F long runway. Please see DOT website for full project details. In 2021, the DOT offered $2000.00 to the City of Seward for this parcel of land. This offer was not actioned. 5 Background DOT has had subsequent discussions with both the City and private land holders, regarding acquiring lands of adjacent, abutted properties. In 2023 the Council approved, upon the understanding that without giving up any rights of refusal or action, the DOT could move forward with drafting an adjustment to the plat map, as this would be required by the FAA in order to be considered for any FAA managed funding sources. 4 6 Background In order to accomplish DOT objectives, the extension of the short runway would entail, as I NEEL understand it, filling part of the wetland including wetland ponds, along with filling and armoring the area or associated infrastructure. In addition, Spruce stands currently located adjacent to the airport would be removed in order to expand air space. As stated during a September 2023 City Council meeting, the area would be fenced off to limit public access. Mitigation of wetland, habitat and Arctic Tern colony disturbance was not discussed. 7 Current Status Per ISchedu e & Process DOT Website hops://dot.alaska.goy/creg/sewa rdairport/index.shtml Scoping A hops://dot.alaska.gov/creg/sewa Environmental r-rdairport/documents.shtml https://dot.alaska.gov/creg/sewa Right of Way Acquisition rdairport/documents/Mar202O-3- Continuing through 2024f Final-EA-and-FONSI.pdf rj 1 The schedule is dependent upon Source: Alaska DOT Website variables and will likely change l 1• f s If the Project Proceeds Consider An Alternative That Is Better for Everyone: Land Exchange and Conservation Easement 10 Critical Impacts This is a fully functioning wetland with direct flow and interface with tidal lands and cycles. Disruption, filling, armoring or development will result in impacts,which may be comparable to what the ItER: " Y DOT has experienced along the long runway development. 3z z In direct line with the proposed expansion is the 6 only Arctic Tern nesting colony on the Kenai Peninsula. This colony is located on the berm in the direct path of the currently proposed extension. Disruption to the wetland will result in both infrastructure and wildlife impacts. 11 Critical Impacts Tasha DeMarzio In direct line with the proposed expansion is the only Arctic Tern nesting colony on the Kenai Peninsula. This colony is located on the berm in the direct path of the currently proposed extension. Disruption to the wetland will result in both infrastructure and wildlife impacts. These impacts should be avoided or actively mitigated. Land Exchange Due to challenges with use and maintenance of the long runaway, the DOT has indicated it will forego attempts to further invest in or use the long runway due to impacts related to the adjacent river. A land exchange, if the City has decided to assist DOT in its efforts related to the short runway, would be a much better alternative to the City as well as the community as a whole. This includes economic benefits, preservation of vital wetland services and habitat, and supports community resilience and wellness, while also addressing DOT desires for the area to not be developed. Important note: Specific expertise and guidance will be necessary to inform approaches relative to the Arctic Tern nesting colony that resides within the proposed project footprint and to explore mitigation actions to protect the colony. AA Conservation Easement a. i g A Often established as a mitigation to impacts related to development, such easements can allow for varied use, protect water way functioning, support wildlife, and habitat protection. Conservation Easements are a valuable asset to the community and given this specific location, will grow in economic value for the City. City Benefits ar, Provides a respectable exchange that is to the benefit of the City and community. Wetlands protect communities by buffering floodwaters, improving water quality, providing habitat for fish, birds and more. They provide cost effective resiliency against storms andg environmental change. Is a sound investment in the unique and incomparable attributes of Seward. Demonstrates that Seward is proud of its unique environment r and stewards it for both the economic and the long term benefits it provides. City It supports community wellness through resiliency to environmental impacts, supports unparalleled seasonal migrations which awe and inspire adults, students Benefits and visitors alike. Whose beauty provides inspiration for tourists to visit and solace for community members through good years and tough years. Financially, serves as a substantial investment both as a quality land acquisition and fostering coastal resiliency for the City. City0 If considered for stewardship or active restoration (long runway area), this area would likely Benefits be eligible for wide-spread funding opportunities, as coastal wetland restoration is a significant focus for diverse fund sources both federal and non-federal. If active stewardship were considered, it would be a remarkable way to engage the Seward community and support learning, education and youth engagement outdoors. V7- City Benefits During a prior City Council meeting there was a recommendation to explore they connection of this area and the Historic Iditarod trail, which could be an option to x i u explore for this area. Economically, Seward could develop its recreational opportunities to include v historic trail use, birding activities, bird festivals--these events in similar w h. communities provide substantial economic benefits while fostering stewardship. Benefits to the Community 1) Mitigates development and provides protection for unique habitat and open space in a vital area at the head of Resurrection Bay. 2) Preserves resiliency to flooding, erosion, and keeps wetland ecosystems services intact. 3) Provides for unique species and unparalleled proximity to up close observation of long-migration birds and some of Alaska's best known wildlife. 4) Provides for beauty, quiet, wonder, and solitude or family time that is accessible, right in town. 5) Could be leveraged to provide tourism opportunities if the City felt this was appropriate. The PictureBig rotection and Why are Wetlands Important? oration Home Learn About Wetlands Wetlands are important features in the landscape that provide numerous beneficial services for people and for fish and wildlife,Some of these services,or functions,include protecting and Types improving water quality,providing fish and wildlife habitats,storing floodwaters and Functions maintaining surface water f low du ring dry periods,These valuable fu nctions are the result of the Understand unique natural characteristics of wetlands, The Science of Wetlands Full Value of Site See the Wetland Factsheet Series for more information about wetlands. Monitoring and Assessment Water Quality Standards Volunteer Monitoring Wetlands and Nature Constructed Wetlands Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world,comparable to rain forests and coral reefs,An immensevariety of species of microbes,plants,insects,amphibians, States and Tribal reptiles,birds,fish and mammals can be part of a wetland ecosystem,Climate,landscape shape Governments topology,geology and the movement and abundance of water help to determine the plants ng State and Tribal and animals that inhabit each wetland.The complex,dynamic relationships among the organisms inhabiting the wetland environment are called food webs,This is why wetlands in Texas,North Carolina and Alaska differ from one another, Source; EPAWebsite NAntl Cone& segrn"tea circle AsosPea roar a ElettdCelEpuiprcient m. Builing N Z O Understand All GA NI A Options TWE a l Setwaery LigIRel TAN F Eliminatatl VAST WinC Cana PAPI patl rl EYminaled VAST 4 LegendResurrection 1 I0Bay Rumvay Safely Area)RSA) Pavement Limits y Fill Limits elearngand State of Alaska rmblMng n Dapedment of Transportation a,I Public Facilities Q clearing only 0 750 1,500 4 Central Region Selective Clearing Feet N V T.iway/Runway Seward Airport Improvements Removal Seward,Alaska Seward Airport LAYOUT PLAN Q I•ewnaary Date:2/1212021 Figure:1 MII 1' 5 Review Benefits of Land Exchange and Conservation Easement da l fA y ' / "": i(' C ' ;Js-mac A _ ` 4^. Long-view Considerations Flooding: The Value of a h Functioning Wetland t 1 Hazards: Tsunami, Merbok, Storms, Surge J Unique Biodiversity Hotspot Breeding Tern Colony of Eastern Kenai Peninsula 1F' Explore All Footprint OptionsXPYP Climate Considerations v• Merbok Y Sea Level Rise Recognize Vital Wetland JCL {,t. Services and Wetland Iw Dynamics for Any Alternative Consider Hosting A Forum for Questions and Dialog with DOT r Resurrection Creek Phase II Stream and Riparian Restoraiion Project and Hope Mining Company Plan of Operations s Proposed Action-Altemative 2 Hope ProjectBwIP I r,mi 1 r Chi9.xlr Nf OcNtwr ,c4a wry prnfo0r[FAr: qeu CfaW 20,01 CbWN•ygNr SJ.Spie,cob.a rap'bbpnpr Y Wptlols aC•ma.o,70r3 A local example of recognized watershed value: Ir 0 dW I,90n Z600 Fee. Legend Resurrection Creek Restoration Project Q Project Area Boundary Proposed Miring Area Approved Miring Areas https:/ /resurrectioncreek.or Gravel Pit g 0 RestorationCorridor Top Soil&Ripanon RehabWalion effjr.Proposed Stream Chanel Not Proposed for Miring interpretive Area Multi-Agency and Organization Funding Support 0 7 Funding and Support Funding and Technical Support Sources 1) httys://wwwbhn.ov/services/financial-assistance-and-rants 2) httys://wwwfema.ov/emer ency- managers/practitioners/recovery-resilience-resource-library/land- water-c ons ervation-fund 3) httys://wwwdoi.ov/lwcf 4) httys://wwwlandcan.or/Grant-and-Assistance-Programs/ 5) https://lwcfcoahtion.orjZ/map h 6) https://conservationahnanac.org/about/ Wetlands and tidelands are some of the most valuable lands for cities and communities to hold in their lands portfolio. Wetlands and tidal lands are absolutely not waste lands, they have extraordinary value. There was a time in our country when people thought wilderness lands were waste lands. Now they are considered one of the most valued landscapes in our country. Summary If the future of the Seward airport includes landscape modifications to ecosystem function, community impacts and access, it is in the City and community's best interest to consider a land exchange, conservation easement or the like, which confers benefits, mitigates airport development, provides for comparable high quality land / habitat exchange, supports natural buffers between the local community and the airport. r i¢_ Recommend forming a collaborative that can help support completing background Form a and research needs for various alternatives, include members from key stakeholder Collaborative groups and provide opportunities for facilitated discussion and exploration of options. This will helpto establish trust and transparency as well as dialog and the best possiblepYg representation from all parties in this particular matter. I am willing to convene this group or participate. M 7 Please consider a land exchange, possible conservation easement or similar legal agreement for the airport project. Please forego voting on a sale of tidal land until this option can be explored for the benefit of the City of Seward and the community. 1 r M p '° t 1 a. T,.- ^' a - ar%=-a k:r+,. =-,,,.n;,..na ;mow r y i M( C Y y t y, xif,, 1 * 7!"i4 f Y3!? f : oaf, i, F sd. Before you complain, volunteer." Attribution Unknown I am volunteering. Shauna Potocky Resources Wetlands hftps://www.el i.org/events/wetlands-and-disaster-resi I i ence-leveragi ng-ecosystem-services-com munity-preparedness hftps://www.epa.gov/wetlands hftps://www.epa.qov/wetlands/how-do-wetlands-function-and-why-are-they-valuable hftps://www.fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Publiclusdafiles/FactSheets/archived-fact-sheets/floodplain wetlands initiative jul20l5.pdf hftps://prairierivers.org/priorities/Wetlands-floodplains/ Easements,Conservation Easements,Land Acquisition hftps://fws.qov/pro'ect/coastal-conservation-southcentral-alaska hftps://planningforhazards.com/land-acquisition hftps://ecology.wa.gov/Blog/Posts/February-2019/Wetlands-around-the-world-protect-communities-whi I hftps://www.landtrustal I iance.orq/news/looki ng-land-mitigate-cl i mate-change Https://www.nycwatershed.orq/conservation-easements/what-is-a-conservation-easement/ hftps://globalpolicyinsights.org/land-management-a-step-towards-mitigating-land-degradation.php hftps://www.adfq.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfq=habitatrestoration.main hftps://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static/home/library/pdfs/habitat/94 03.pdf hftps://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfq=conservationareas.main Resources Merbok https://storVmaps.arcqis.com/stories/ab 19c80f9a644d3a9741 e56cde5a41 ab https://www.ktoo.org/2022/09/28/typhoon-merbok-alaska-climate-change/ https://cpo.noaa.gov/Rick-Thoman-the-Alaska-Climate-Specialist-for-the-Alaska-Center-for-Climate-Assessments-and-Policy-ACCAP-a- N OAA-RISA-team-provides-coverage-of-the-i mpacts-of-Typhoon-Merbok-on-Western-Alaska/ https://www.mycg.uscq.mi I/News/Article/3236136/lessons-from-the-typhoon-merbok-response-i n-alaska/ Water Level Monitoring https://water-level-watch.portal.aoos.org Seward information https://water-level-watch.portaI.aoos.org/#default-data/default Sea Level Rise https://sealevel rise.org/states/alaska/#:-:text=It%27s%20unclear%20whether%20Alaska%20wi I I,how%20fast%20the%20ice%20melts. https://coast.noaa.gov/slr/#/layer/slr/0/-16689470.90393739/8523740.8021 1 1 93/8/satellite/15/0.8/2050/interHigh/midAccretion https://coastal.climatecentral.org/map/14/- 149.4075/60.1255/?theme=sea_level_rise&map_type=year&basemap=road map&contig uous=true&elevation_model=best_avai lable&forecast_ year=2050&pathway=ssp3rcp70&percentile=p50&refresh=true&return_level=return_level_1&rl_model=gtsr&slr_model=ipcc_2021_med Resources Bird List Includes 183 species hftps://ebird.org/printableList?regionCode=L586881&yr=all&m= Listed / Considered Species on the ESA seen at the Seward Airport Wetlands Yellow-billed Loon Marbled Murrelet Species of Concern seen at the Seward Airport Wetlands Red Knot Olive-Sided Flycatcher Kittlitz's Murrelet Rusty Blackbird Resources Species of note Rare migrants that have used the area to feed and refuel on their migration routes. Citrine Wagtail Red Knot Marbled Godwit Bar-tailed Godwit Bristle-thighed Curlew Brant McKay's Bunting King Eider Ruff Aleutian Tern Stilt Sandpiper Ross's Goose Cinnamon teal Common Eider Slaty-backed Gull Palm Warbler Red-throated Pipit Resources Species are new to using the area. Advancement due to climate change Great Blue Heron Killdeer Blue-winged Teal Red-winged Blackbird American Coot Caspian Tern Hooded Merganser Banded birds seen at the airport that have been apart survival and migration research projects ( not banded in Seward) Northern Pintail -banded on the Yukon Delta Western Sandpiper-Banded in Peru Hudsonian Godwit-Banded in Argentina Peregrin Falcon- Banded in WA furthest north banded bird location of a female Dusky Goose- Neck Collar Cordova Tundra Swan- Neck Collar Alaska Peninsula NWR Photo Credits Department of Transportation Seward Airport Project Schedule and Process Arctic Tern: Tasha DeMarzio Value of Wetlands : Environmental Protection Agency Department of Transportation Seward Airport Project Map: Alaska Department of Transportation Merbok: NOAA and National Weather Service Resurrection Creek Restoration Project Phase II map: https://resurrectioncreek.org