04/29/1991 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e e e and suggested that the site be used instead for an outdoor environmental education class for Springfield schools. Responding to a question from Mr. Berg, Ms. Teague affirmed her opinion that high-speed boat testing would cause irreparable damage to the wildlife. Responding to a question from Mr. Rust, Ms. Teague said that the mitigation strategy does have some valuable features for wildlife. Mr. Beyer asked what the impact on the wildlife would be if the owner was to start-up gravel excavation. Ms. Teague said that this would be less harmful to the wildlife because its impact would be of a shorter duration. She com- mented that this site is one of the highest-ranked ponds in terms of species diversification. Constraining the wildlife to the refuge pond would effec- tively reduce species population. Mr. Beyer noted that the ponds on Seavey Loop Road also have a wide diversity of wildlife species. Arthur Farley, 907 Woodhill Drive, representing Lane County Audubon Society, testified on the issue and noted that a letter from this group is included in the agenda packet. He recognized that there is a need for diversity in the local economy and said that he has been impressed by the mitigation efforts on the site. He said that Audubon is strongly opposed to boat testing on the site; other nearby bodies of water could sufficiently meet this need. He said that the value of on-site testing can balance the loss of wetland habi- tat disturbance as supported under Statewide Planning Goal 5 or Metro Plan Policy 19. He stated further that the Audubon Society would consider raising an appeal under those issues, if the proposal was approved unconditionally. If the proposed urban growth boundary expansion is approved, he asked that on- site boat testing be prohibited altogether or only allowed on a seasonal basis. He voiced concern with the planning process and the lack of concern for wetland habitat areas. Responding to a question from Ms. Ehrman, Mr. Farley said noise, wave action, and water quality problems would significantly impact wildlife in the area and harm the viability of the mitigation plan. In response to a question from Mr. Boles, Mr. Farley said he is also con- cerned with the possibility of toxic run off on the ponds, but assumes that this issue would be closely monitored by State and Federal agencies. Noting that pond on the Eugene Sand and Gravel site has not been used recent- ly and also supports wildlife habitat, Mr. Walters asked whether the Audubon Society would attempt to stop plans to reactivate the site for gravel excava- tion. In response, Mr. Farley said that, recognizing the amount of wildlife activity on that site, some regulations should be in place that would require some consideration before permitting excavation activity. Mr. Walters commented that wildlife would likely adjust to boat testing ac- tivity over time, making it possible for both activities to co-exist. Ms. Dumdi noted that there is significant boating activity on the Rogue River and yet this area still has a large amount of wildlife activity. Mr. Farley MINUTES--Eugene City Council April 29, 1991 Springfield City Council Lane County Board of Commissioners Page 10