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• Using the 2021 Interagency Wetland Mitigation Guidance

  • Start
    Tuesday, March 21, 2023
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, March 30, 2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    4 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual (via Zoom)
  • Spaces left
    0

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  Using the 2021 Interagency Wetland Mitigation Guidance

  
  

  
  

  This class is designed for those who develop mitigation plans and for those who review and approve such plans. The training, which is divided into four modules, is based on the 2021 interagency document, "Wetland Mitigation in Washington State," Part 1, Agency Policies and Guidance.

  
  

  This class provides an in-depth overview of the contents of Part 1. Topics include mitigation sequencing, site selection, compensation approaches and methods, determining the amount of compensation, buffers, and more. Several class exercises and poll questions allow participants to apply the concepts being taught.

  
  

  This course does NOT provide technical specifications for how to design or condition mitigation projects. (11.0 CM Credits)

  
  

  Link to guidance: https://ecology.wa.gov/Water-Shorelines/Wetlands/Mitigation/Interagency-guidance

  
  

  
  

  Instructors

  Rick Mraz is a certified Professional Wetland Scientist who works as the Washington Department of Ecology Wetland Policy Lead. He began his career in wetlands work in 1987. He has worked as a field biologist and environmental planner with local and state agencies in Washington since 2001. Rick has degrees in Geology, Field Biology and Philosophy. 

  
  

  Patricia Johnson is a wetland specialist with the Washington Department of Ecology. She conducted Ecology's Washington State Wetland Mitigation Evaluation Study (Phase 1 and 2) and co-authored Wetlands in Washington - Volume 1: A Synthesis of the Science, the 2006 Interagency guidance document Wetland Mitigation in Washington State, as well as the 2021 update to Part 1. Patricia follows up on wetland mitigation projects to ensure compliance. Patricia has a master’s degree in environmental studies from the Evergreen State College. 

  
  

  Dana Mock is a wetland mitigation specialist for the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program at the Washington State Department of Ecology. She coordinated the development of the 2006 interagency wetland mitigation guidance document "Wetland Mitigation in Washington State," as well as the 2021 update to Part 1. Dana tracks and follows up on wetland mitigation projects across Washington to ensure compliance with the conditions of Section 401 water quality certifications and Administrative Orders for non-federally regulated wetlands.

  
  

  
  

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• Alternatives to Bulkheads: Course #4 - Demonstration of Need, Risk Assessment, and Alternatives Analysis- virtual

  • When
    Wednesday, April 05, 2023
  •  
    9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Virtual (Zoom)
  • Spaces left
    0

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  This course examines how to determine which type of erosion protection and shoreline treatment is applicable for a given site, as no one design is applicable everywhere. It will cover the preparation and review of the site-specific alternatives analysis for shoreline stabilization, including an evaluation of where alternatives to bulkheads are appropriate. The information in this course builds upon the information identified and included in the Site Assessment course #3. This course will also address the application review perspective of a local jurisdiction, including the concept of “demonstration of need,” as required in shoreline master programs, and how emergency situations are addressed. The risk assessment tool (as revised), provided in the Marine Shoreline Design Guidelines (MSDG), will be discussed as a basis for determining need (5 AICP CM Credits/CEP Points).

  
  

  The Alternative to Bulkheads courses are endorsed by the Shore Friendly program and the content is consistent with Shore Friendly recommended practices. Participation in the training program does not indicate any form of endorsement of attendees by the Shore Friendly program, nor does participation assume subsequent work conducted by a participant adheres to Shore Friendly principles. Funded wholly or in part by EPA under grant #PC-01J22301 (NEP Habitat Strategic Initiative).

   

  Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarship to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Instructors

  Jessica Cote is a coastal engineer with Blue Coast Engineering, which she founded in 2018. Jessica is deeply committed to the health and recovery of Puget Sound. For more than two decades she has worked on complex coastal issues nationally and globally. She received her Master’s degree in Ocean Engineering from Oregon State University.

  
  

  Corey Morss is an Environmental Engineer working for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Habitat Program. He provides technical assistance to WDFW Habitat Biologists statewide, as well as designing and constructing restoration projects in marine and freshwater environments. Corey has developed and delivered trainings on water crossings, marine shoreline protection (MSDG), fluvial geomorphology, reading engineering plans, and fish friendly construction considerations.

  
  

  Sydney Fishman is the Coastal Management Specialist at Washington Sea Grant, where she helps shoreline and coastal decision-makers find solutions to their complex management issues. Her work spans the broad areas of shoreline management, shoreline stabilization, and coastal climate resilience. She supports regional efforts to address shoreline armoring and improve the health of Puget Sound shorelines. A goal of her work is to increase the use of soft shore methods and other alternatives to hard shoreline armoring, and to encourage the removal of hard armoring where possible. She holds a Master of Environmental Management degree from Duke University.

  
  

  Dave Risvold is an Environmental Biologist with the Land Use and Environmental Review division of Pierce County Planning and Public Works, a position he has held for 26 years.  He has a BS in Biology with Marine Emphasis, and a Masters degree in Public Administration.  In addition to development project review and code enforcement, he has been involved in County code updates related to critical fish species listings,  a comprehensive update to the County Critical Areas Ordinance, and the first major update to its Shoreline Master Program to occur since its adoption in the mid-70’s.   For the last six – seven years, Dave has overseen implementation of the Shoreline Master Program that became effective in October, 2018.

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• Navigating SEPA - Module 1 and Module 2

  • Start
    Tuesday, April 11, 2023
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, April 13, 2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual (via Zoom)
  • Spaces left
    0

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  Module 1: Overview and Applicability and  Module 2: Conducting the Review – Checklists, Threshold Determination, Public Notice, Review and Commenting,

  and Appeals

  
  

  The online State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) training series will be presented by Fran Sant of the Washington State Department of Ecology. The four-session series is designed to provide participants with a general overview of the purpose of SEPA, the procedural requirements of the rules, and how SEPA can be used in decision-making. You can sign up for all four or just the modules that pertain to your work.

  
  

  Module 1 will cover the statutory overview and purpose of the Act as well as when it is required for agency decision-making.  It will cover agency roles and responsibilities – including the designation of the SEPA lead agency.  This session also addresses SEPA exemptions and a discussion of when there are exceptions to those exemptions

  
  

  Module 2 will covers the basic environmental review and analysis process with a focus on SEPA for projects such as general development proposals, industrial projects, and infrastructure construction.  We’ll discuss the Environmental Checklist, supplemental information, significant impacts, threshold determination (DNS, MDNS, or DS).  We’ll also cover inter-agency distribution, public notice and the SEPA Register as well as tips on how to review and comment on other agencies’ documents.  The general SEPA appeal options will be addressed with time for question and answer about various agency-specific options.  (5 AICP credits/CEP Points)

  
  

  Here is a recording of the training from April 13, 2021 of Module 1. This is free and available right now. Here is a recording of the training from April 15, 2021 of Module 2.This is free and available right now. 

  
  

  Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarship to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

  
  

  Instructor:

  Fran Sant is a senior environmental planner for the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program at the Washington State Department of Ecology. She has been providing SEPA technical assistance and working on SEPA rulemaking since joining Ecology in 2012. Prior to joining Ecology Fran was with the Governor’s Office for Regulatory Assistance and Innovation.  
  

  
  

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• How to Conduct a Forage Fish Survey on 4/19/2023

  • When
    Wednesday, April 19, 2023
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (PDT)
  • Location
    Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve - 10441 Bayview Edison Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
  • Spaces left
    0

  Registration is closed

  

  Our April 19^th implementation has filled. Please click here to sign up for the training on April 20^th. The April 20^th implementation of this training will take place at the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve from 9:00 am – 4:30 pm.

  
  

  
  

  This 1-day training will demonstrate the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s methods for conducting beach surveys and processing samples for Surf Smelt and Sand Lance spawn.  The training will include a classroom component with a presentation and hands-on demonstration of lab techniques. It will also include a field component with a demonstration and time to practice field collection and sample processing. The training is specifically designed for biologists who need to conduct forage fish surveys for regulatory purposes, such as to comply with the conditions of a WDFW, DNR, or ACoE permit. At the conclusion of training, participants will have knowledge of forage fish survey techniques and reporting requirements. (6 AICP CM Credits/CEP Points)

   

  Lunch will be provided.

  
  

  Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarships to cover the registration fees. Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training after you register.

  
  

  
  

  Instructors:

  Before moving to Washington State, Phillip Dionne studied geology and oceanography at Stony Brook University and the University of Hawaii, was a hands-on science instructor at the Newfound Harbor Marine Institute in the Florida Keys and was a graduate research assistant at the University of Maine where he earned degrees in Marine Biology and Marine Policy. Phill has been with the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife since 2011. During this time he has worked on mark- recapture and acoustic telemetry studies of ESA listed Green Sturgeon, developed spawning biomass estimates for Pacific Herring and ESA listed Eulachon Smelt using ichthyoplankton and egg deposition surveys, developed new methods to improve detection of Surf Smelt and Pacific Sand Lance habitat, monitored the effects of shoreline modifications on nearshore habitat, participated in surveys of coastal pelagic species from Washington to California, and has had the privilege to work with and train over 400 volunteers, professional biologists, and AmeriCorps interns in the US and Canada to document forage fish habitat. Phill is currently the Senior Research Scientist for forage fish research and management at WDFW, he serves as a co-chair of the Puget Sound Ecosystem Monitoring Program’s Forage Fish and Food Webs work groups, he is the Washington State representative on the Pacific Fishery Management Council’s Highly Migratory Species Management Team and is a member of the Pacific Marine and Estuarine Fish Habitat Science and Data Committee. 

  
  

  Wendel Raymond is a research scientist with Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Habitat Science Team. Wendel joined the team in mid-February and will be working on a variety of nearshore projects including forage fish spawn surveys. Wendel earned his PhD in 2020 from University of Alaska Fairbanks where is studied subsistence harvest of sea otters and sea otter effects in seagrass communities in southeast Alaska. Since moving to Washington in late 2020, Wendel has been a research scientist at University of Washington where he has worked on a variety of projects including assessing the impact of the 2021 heatwave on co-managed shellfish, helped develop the new floating kelp bed area vital sign indicator for Puget Sound Partnership, and lead a watershed and algae monitoring program on San Juan Island. Wendel is excited to apply his experience and expertise to the Habitat Program’s mission through research and collaboration within and outside the agency.
  

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• How to Conduct a Forage Fish Survey on 4/20/2023

  • When
    Thursday, April 20, 2023
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (PDT)
  • Location
    Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve - 10441 Bayview Edison Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  This 1-day training will demonstrate the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s methods for conducting beach surveys and processing samples for Surf Smelt and Sand Lance spawn.  The training will include a classroom component with a presentation and hands-on demonstration of lab techniques. It will also include a field component with a demonstration and time to practice field collection and sample processing. The training is specifically designed for biologists who need to conduct forage fish surveys for regulatory purposes, such as to comply with the conditions of a WDFW, DNR, or ACoE permit. At the conclusion of training, participants will have knowledge of forage fish survey techniques and reporting requirements. (6 AICP CM Credits/CEP Points)

   

  Lunch will be provided.

  
  

  Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarships to cover the registration fees. Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training after you register.

  
  

  
  

  Instructors:

  Before moving to Washington State, Phillip Dionne studied geology and oceanography at Stony Brook University and the University of Hawaii, was a hands-on science instructor at the Newfound Harbor Marine Institute in the Florida Keys and was a graduate research assistant at the University of Maine where he earned degrees in Marine Biology and Marine Policy. Phill has been with the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife since 2011. During this time he has worked on mark- recapture and acoustic telemetry studies of ESA listed Green Sturgeon, developed spawning biomass estimates for Pacific Herring and ESA listed Eulachon Smelt using ichthyoplankton and egg deposition surveys, developed new methods to improve detection of Surf Smelt and Pacific Sand Lance habitat, monitored the effects of shoreline modifications on nearshore habitat, participated in surveys of coastal pelagic species from Washington to California, and has had the privilege to work with and train over 400 volunteers, professional biologists, and AmeriCorps interns in the US and Canada to document forage fish habitat. Phill is currently the Senior Research Scientist for forage fish research and management at WDFW, he serves as a co-chair of the Puget Sound Ecosystem Monitoring Program’s Forage Fish and Food Webs work groups, he is the Washington State representative on the Pacific Fishery Management Council’s Highly Migratory Species Management Team and is a member of the Pacific Marine and Estuarine Fish Habitat Science and Data Committee. .

  
  

  Wendel Raymond is a research scientist with Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Habitat Science Team. Wendel joined the team in mid-February and will be working on a variety of nearshore projects including forage fish spawn surveys. Wendel earned his PhD in 2020 from University of Alaska Fairbanks where is studied subsistence harvest of sea otters and sea otter effects in seagrass communities in southeast Alaska. Since moving to Washington in late 2020, Wendel has been a research scientist at University of Washington where he has worked on a variety of projects including assessing the impact of the 2021 heatwave on co-managed shellfish, helped develop the new floating kelp bed area vital sign indicator for Puget Sound Partnership, and lead a watershed and algae monitoring program on San Juan Island. Wendel is excited to apply his experience and expertise to the Habitat Program’s mission through research and collaboration within and outside the agency.
  

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• Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark - virtual with field site visit (on 5/4 in Skagit County)

  • Start
    Tuesday, May 02, 2023
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, May 04, 2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual - Zoom w/ field site visit in Skagit County. See the event details for more information.
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  

  This training provides information and methods for determining the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) as defined in the state Shoreline Management Act (SMA). Waters regulated under the SMA include all tidal waters, streams greater than 20 cubic feet per second mean annual flow, water bodies greater than 20 acres in size, and any associated wetlands and deltas.       

  In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:      

  
  

  • How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
  • What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
  • Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
  • What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
  • What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

  The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 2 and May 3 (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM). Participants will have the option to log on 10 minutes early on day 1 for a brief Zoom introduction. On May 4, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Skagit with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. 

  
  

  
  

   

  Instructors

  Lynn Schmidt is the Department of Ecology’s Statewide Flood Engineer, focusing on reducing flood risks to communities while enhancing natural floodplain functions. Her career has spanned a wide range of topics within the environmental and hydraulics engineering fields, including hydraulic modeling, river restoration, floodplain management, stormwater management, environmental investigations, and monitoring. Lynn holds a BS in Civil Engineering, MS in Environmental Engineering, and is a Professional Engineer and Certified Floodplain Manager.

  
  

  Hallie Ladd is a Wetlands/Shorelines Specialist with Ecology.  Hallie’s role is to provide permitting and technical assistance to the local jurisdictions and citizens of Eastern Washington. Her professional background includes work in aquatic ecology, fisheries, and natural resource damage assessment and restoration. Hallie’s education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a Master’s degree in Fisheries Science from Texas Tech University.

  
  

  Jeremy Sikes began working at the Department of Ecology in 2007 as a shorelines and wetlands permit specialist and transitioned to shorelines planning in 2012. Currently Jeremy is the Eastern Regional senior shorelines planner. In this role he works with local governments on Shoreline Master Program updates, conducts shoreline permit review and technical support, participates in statewide shorelines policy groups, and supports Ecology’s legislative actions and responses. Jeremy is an EWU alumnus with a BS in Biology and a minor in Planning.  He previously worked as a fisheries specialist for both Tribal and state fisheries departments, and spent seven years as a consulting fisheries biologist throughout the western U.S.

  
  

  Lori White is the regional Wetland, Shoreline, and Federal Permit Specialist for the southcentral counties of Washington.  Lori joined our Central Regional Office in 2017.  She has served in academia, consulting, and state government roles since completing her BS in Zoology from Southern Illinois University and her MS in Biology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe.  Duties during that time varied from organismal research, museum collection, teaching, wildlife management, floodplain permitting, wetland delineation, and T & E species surveys.  Currently, her focus is on providing the citizens and local governments of south-central Washington with technical assistance in Shoreline, wetland and 401 Water Quality Certification permitting. 

  
  

  Railin Santiago is a Shoreline Planner in Ecology’s Northwest Regional Office. She has 10 years of consulting experience as an environmental planner and Biologist. At ecology she provides technical assistance related to implementation of local Shoreline Master Programs, and Shoreline Permitting. She has a BS in biology from the Evergreen State College and a Master’s in Marine Affairs from the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs.

  
  

  Chris Luerkens works in Ecology’s Bellingham Field Office, where he has been a shoreline and wetlands permit specialist since 2018. His work is largely focused on reviewing permits, and providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions, including Ordinary High Water Mark determinations. Chris has a BS in environmental science from WWU and has been working in natural resource management since 2005. His background includes work in water quality, fisheries, and local government as a planner.  

  
  

  
  

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• Eastern Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark - virtual with field site visit (on 5/4 in Spokane County)

  • Start
    Tuesday, May 02, 2023
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, May 04, 2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual - Zoom w/ field site visit in Spokane County. See the event details for more information.
  • Spaces left
    2

  Register

  
  

  

  This training provides information and methods for determining the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) as defined in the state Shoreline Management Act (SMA). Waters regulated under the SMA include all tidal waters, streams greater than 20 cubic feet per second mean annual flow, water bodies greater than 20 acres in size, and any associated wetlands and deltas.       

  
  

  
  

  In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:      

  • How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
  • What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
  • Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
  • What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
  • What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

  The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 2 and May 3 (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM). Participants will have the option to log on 10 minutes early on day 1 for a brief Zoom introduction. On May 4, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Spokane County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. 

  
  

   

  Instructors

  Lynn Schmidt is the Department of Ecology’s Statewide Flood Engineer, focusing on reducing flood risks to communities while enhancing natural floodplain functions. Her career has spanned a wide range of topics within the environmental and hydraulics engineering fields, including hydraulic modeling, river restoration, floodplain management, stormwater management, environmental investigations, and monitoring. Lynn holds a BS in Civil Engineering, MS in Environmental Engineering, and is a Professional Engineer and Certified Floodplain Manager.

  
  

  Hallie Ladd is a Wetlands/Shorelines Specialist with Ecology.  Hallie’s role is to provide permitting and technical assistance to the local jurisdictions and citizens of Eastern Washington. Her professional background includes work in aquatic ecology, fisheries, and natural resource damage assessment and restoration. Hallie’s education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a Master’s degree in Fisheries Science from Texas Tech University.

  
  

  Jeremy Sikes began working at the Department of Ecology in 2007 as a shorelines and wetlands permit specialist and transitioned to shorelines planning in 2012. Currently Jeremy is the Eastern Regional senior shorelines planner. In this role he works with local governments on Shoreline Master Program updates, conducts shoreline permit review and technical support, participates in statewide shorelines policy groups, and supports Ecology’s legislative actions and responses. Jeremy is an EWU alumnus with a BS in Biology and a minor in Planning.  He previously worked as a fisheries specialist for both Tribal and state fisheries departments, and spent seven years as a consulting fisheries biologist throughout the western U.S.

  
  

  Lori White is the regional Wetland, Shoreline, and Federal Permit Specialist for the southcentral counties of Washington.  Lori joined our Central Regional Office in 2017.  She has served in academia, consulting, and state government roles since completing her BS in Zoology from Southern Illinois University and her MS in Biology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe.  Duties during that time varied from organismal research, museum collection, teaching, wildlife management, floodplain permitting, wetland delineation, and T & E species surveys.  Currently, her focus is on providing the citizens and local governments of south-central Washington with technical assistance in Shoreline, wetland and 401 Water Quality Certification permitting. 

  
  

  Railin Santiago is a Shoreline Planner in Ecology’s Northwest Regional Office. She has 10 years of consulting experience as an environmental planner and Biologist. At ecology she provides technical assistance related to implementation of local Shoreline Master Programs, and Shoreline Permitting. She has a BS in biology from the Evergreen State College and a Master’s in Marine Affairs from the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs.

  
  

  Chris Luerkens works in Ecology’s Bellingham Field Office, where he has been a shoreline and wetlands permit specialist since 2018. His work is largely focused on reviewing permits, and providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions, including Ordinary High Water Mark determinations. Chris has a BS in environmental science from WWU and has been working in natural resource management since 2005. His background includes work in water quality, fisheries, and local government as a planner.  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark - virtual with field site visit (on 5/4 in Thurston County)

  • Start
    Tuesday, May 02, 2023
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, May 04, 2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual - Zoom w/ field site visit in Thurston County. See the event details for more information.
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  

  This training provides information and methods for determining the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) as defined in the state Shoreline Management Act (SMA). Waters regulated under the SMA include all tidal waters, streams greater than 20 cubic feet per second mean annual flow, water bodies greater than 20 acres in size, and any associated wetlands and deltas.       

  
  

  
  

  In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:      

  • How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
  • What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
  • Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
  • What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
  • What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

  The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 2 and May 3 (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM). Participants will have the option to log on 10 minutes early on day 1 for a brief Zoom introduction. On May 4, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Thurston County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. 

  
  

   

  Instructors 

  Lynn Schmidt is the Department of Ecology’s Statewide Flood Engineer, focusing on reducing flood risks to communities while enhancing natural floodplain functions. Her career has spanned a wide range of topics within the environmental and hydraulics engineering fields, including hydraulic modeling, river restoration, floodplain management, stormwater management, environmental investigations, and monitoring. Lynn holds a BS in Civil Engineering, MS in Environmental Engineering, and is a Professional Engineer and Certified Floodplain Manager.

  
  

  Hallie Ladd is a Wetlands/Shorelines Specialist with Ecology.  Hallie’s role is to provide permitting and technical assistance to the local jurisdictions and citizens of Eastern Washington. Her professional background includes work in aquatic ecology, fisheries, and natural resource damage assessment and restoration. Hallie’s education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a Master’s degree in Fisheries Science from Texas Tech University.

  
  

  Jeremy Sikes began working at the Department of Ecology in 2007 as a shorelines and wetlands permit specialist and transitioned to shorelines planning in 2012. Currently Jeremy is the Eastern Regional senior shorelines planner. In this role he works with local governments on Shoreline Master Program updates, conducts shoreline permit review and technical support, participates in statewide shorelines policy groups, and supports Ecology’s legislative actions and responses. Jeremy is an EWU alumnus with a BS in Biology and a minor in Planning.  He previously worked as a fisheries specialist for both Tribal and state fisheries departments, and spent seven years as a consulting fisheries biologist throughout the western U.S.

  
  

  Lori White is the regional Wetland, Shoreline, and Federal Permit Specialist for the southcentral counties of Washington.  Lori joined our Central Regional Office in 2017.  She has served in academia, consulting, and state government roles since completing her BS in Zoology from Southern Illinois University and her MS in Biology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe.  Duties during that time varied from organismal research, museum collection, teaching, wildlife management, floodplain permitting, wetland delineation, and T & E species surveys.  Currently, her focus is on providing the citizens and local governments of south-central Washington with technical assistance in Shoreline, wetland and 401 Water Quality Certification permitting. 

  
  

  Railin Santiago is a Shoreline Planner in Ecology’s Northwest Regional Office. She has 10 years of consulting experience as an environmental planner and Biologist. At ecology she provides technical assistance related to implementation of local Shoreline Master Programs, and Shoreline Permitting. She has a BS in biology from the Evergreen State College and a Master’s in Marine Affairs from the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs.

  
  

  Chris Luerkens works in Ecology’s Bellingham Field Office, where he has been a shoreline and wetlands permit specialist since 2018. His work is largely focused on reviewing permits, and providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions, including Ordinary High Water Mark determinations. Chris has a BS in environmental science from WWU and has been working in natural resource management since 2005. His background includes work in water quality, fisheries, and local government as a planner.  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Using the Credit-Debit Method for Estimating Mitigation Needs in Eastern WA (field day on 5/11 in Spokane)

  • Start
    Wednesday, May 10, 2023
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, May 11, 2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual on 5/10 and in-person at wetlands in Spokane on 5/11
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  
  

  This two-day class will provide wetland regulators and consultants with a practical tool for calculating if mitigation projects will adequately replace the functions and values lost to altered wetlands. The class is based on a method developed by the Department of Ecology called "Calculating Credits and Debits for Compensatory Mitigation in Wetlands of Eastern Washington" (Ecology Publication #11-06-15). This method is designed to provide guidance for both regulators and applicants during two stages of the mitigation process: 1) estimating the functions and values lost when a wetland is altered, and 2) estimating the gain in functions and values that result from the mitigation.

   

  The Credit Debit Method is based on the Washington State Wetland Rating System for Eastern Washington (Ecology publications #04-06-015 and #14-06-030). This workshop however does not provide training in the wetland rating system. Training in the wetland rating system is strongly suggested as a PRE-REQUISITE for this workshop.

  
  

  This course will include a required virtual session on Zoom on May 10, 2023 (9:00 am - 12:30 pm). Participants will visit wetlands in Spokane with the instructor on May 11, 2023 (9 am - 12:30 pm). The in-person session will be conducted in wetlands in Spokane, so dress appropriately. (6 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points).

  
  

  All participants will be expected to follow Washington Department of Ecology’s COVID-19 guidelines at the time of the training. Specifically, you will be asked to  wear a mask.

  
  

  You will receive a copy of the “Eastern Washington Credit-Debit” manual. 

  
  

  Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarship to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

  
  

  
  

  Instructor: 

  Dr. Amy Yahnke is the senior wetland ecologist for the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program at the Washington State Department of Ecology. She holds a Certificate in Wetland Science and Management, BS in Environmental Horticulture, MS in Forest Resources, and PhD in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. She has studied wetland ecology within the contexts of amphibians, invasive plants, and stormwater management. Dr. Yahnke has experience teaching a wide range of environmental topics to audiences of all ages.

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• Alternatives to Bulkheads: Course #5 - Techniques for Erosion Control, including Construction Materials and Maintenance

  • Start
    Wednesday, May 17, 2023
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, May 18, 2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual (Zoom)
  • Spaces left
    31

  Register

  
  

  This course will explore the range of erosion control measures and restoration techniques applicable to Washington state shorelines as described in the Marine Shoreline Design Guidelines and developed for the Puget Sound region. Descriptions of each of the techniques and where they are appropriate to use will be discussed. The course will also cover the effects of these techniques, provide design examples, and present successful and unsuccessful examples. Included are construction materials, methods, and maintenance. The purpose of this course is to familiarize attendees with various technical assistance and support options.

   (6 AICP CM Credits/CEP Points).

  
  

  (Prerequisite: Course #4- Demonstration of Need, Risk Assessment, and Alternatives Analysis)

  
  

  The Alternative to Bulkheads courses are endorsed by the Shore Friendly program and the content is consistent with Shore Friendly recommended practices. Participation in the training program does not indicate any form of endorsement of attendees by the Shore Friendly program, nor does participation assume subsequent work conducted by a participant adheres to Shore Friendly principles. Funded wholly or in part by EPA under grant #PC-01J22301 (NEP Habitat Strategic Initiative).

   

  
  

  Instructors

  Kathy Ketteridge, PhD, PE, is a coastal engineer with Blue Coast Engineering. Her background includes civil engineering, coastal engineering, hydrodynamic modeling, and restoration projects. She has completed many complex modeling efforts for remediation projects in the Pacific NW, British Columbia, and New York State. Kathy lives in Bellingham and has been a co-owner of Blue Coast since 2020.

  
  

  Ben Alexander is co-owner of Sound Native Plants. He oversees SNP installation and maintenance programs, and provides professional consulting on project planning, design and permitting. Ben holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Planning from the Evergreen State College, Olympia, WA, and is qualified to conduct the Riparian Function and Fish Habitat modules for Washington Department of Natural Resources Watershed Analyses.

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• How to Administer Development Permits in Washington’s Shorelines - virtual

  • Start
    Wednesday, May 31, 2023
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, June 01, 2023
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual - Zoom
  • Spaces left
    8

  Register

  
  

  

  This practical, hands-on virtual class is intended for local government personnel and consultants engaged in shoreline permitting activities.

  
  

  The class will take an in-depth look at the permit process and consider both procedural and substantive shoreline management issues. The Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and Revised Code of Washington (RCW) will be reviewed. 

  
  

  This class is appropriate for both beginners and more experienced planners. To prepare for the class, participants will complete a 30-minute pre-assignment by May 31st. Additionally, between May 31st and June 1st, the participants will complete a 30-minute permitting exercise on their own and spend about 10 minutes identifying a specific shoreline permitting question for the instructors.(7 CM AICP Credits/ CEP Points)

  
  

  Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarship to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

  
  Instructors:
  

  Misty Blair is the statewide Shoreline Management Policy Lead with the Washington State Department of Ecology. The Shoreline Management Policy Lead deals with complex shoreline management issues; researching, developing and implementing new shoreline planning policies, procedures and initiatives; coordinating shoreline planning and permitting activities to ensure statewide consistency; and providing technical support and guidance to SEA program planning staff statewide. Misty has been with Ecology for 5 years and previously worked in environmental planning/permitting for the City of Tacoma. She has a BS in environmental policy and land management from the University of California, Berkeley (2002).

  
  

  Rebecca Rothwell is the Regional Shorelands Technical and Regulatory Expert and represents the SEA Program in the development and review of statewide guidelines, policies, and regulations related to protecting and managing the state’s shorelands, wetlands, and related aquatic resources. This includes technical assistance to local governments as well as providing higher-level guidance to internal and external staff related to shoreline management. She reviews shoreline and wetland permits and provides technical assistance to applicants and consultants as well. Part of her work includes coordinating with property owners to resolve violations of the SMA or the state Water Pollution Control Act. Rebecca has a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Puget Sound and a master’s degree in environmental studies from The Evergreen State College. She has worked at Ecology for 12 years.

  
  

  Tim Gates has three decades experience in shoreline and growth management planning. He is currently Policy and Operations Manager for the Washington Department of Ecology Shorelands & Environmental Assistance Program. Prior to his current position he worked for nine years as land use planner for the Washington Department of Commerce Growth Management Services program, where he provided technical and financial assistance to local governments. He worked for Ecology’s shoreline program from 1989 through 2005 developing state rules, preparing guidance and providing technical and financial assistance.

  
  

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• Riparian and Wetland Plant Identification in Central and Eastern WA

  • When
    Monday, June 12, 2023
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (PDT)
  • Location
    Wenatchee River Institute, Leavenworth
  • Spaces left
    0

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  This is a one day workshop aimed at teaching field identification skills for wetland and riparian plant species in Central and Eastern Washington.  Students will learn how to identify 30 trees and shrubs most common to wetlands and riparian areas.  Field study will cover terminology, field characteristics that distinguish similar species, Wetland Indicator Status, habitat preferences, and information about using these species in restoration projects. This is a beginner level course and emphasis will be placed on teaching field identification characteristics; students are NOT expected to be proficient in plant taxonomy or wetland ecology. ​Students will build a plant press and take home pressed samples of the species covered during the training.​(6.5 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points)

   

  Please bring one of the recommended texts:
  1.  A Field Guide to the Common Wetland Plants of Western Washington and Northwestern Oregon by Sarah Spear Cooke
  2.  Wetland Plants of Oregon and Washington by Jennifer Guard
  3.  Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast by Pojar and MacKinnon
  4.  Plants of Southern Interior BA and the Inland Northwest by Parish, Coupe, Lloyd  

   

  Lunch is provided.

   

  Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarship to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

  
  

  Instructor:

  Jennifer Hadersberger has over 20 years of experience working in Natural Resources Management. Jennifer worked as a wetland consultant for 6 years performing wetland delineations, wetland mitigation site monitoring, and preparing permit applications and mitigation plans. Jennifer also has 14 years of experience working for government agencies including City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services, Oregon Department of State Lands, and Chelan County Natural Resources Department. In the public sector, Jennifer has specialized in project management, grant writing, permitting, and project development for stream and wetland restoration projects. Since 2000, Jennifer has also been teaching botany and biology classes part time for various Community Colleges and through the Portland State Environmental Professional Program. Jennifer is a Professional Wetland Scientist with a MS in Botany from Oregon State University. 

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