Ordinance No. 20513 - Laserfiche WebLink

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composition and community structure is necessary, but how the vegetation is managed is nearly as important for ecological function. For these reasons we recommend that substantial attention be given to identifying and applying multiple, standard metrics that are used to assess the value and success of ecological restorations in the master plan assessment, implementation and design phases. We further recommend that these metrics be used for monitoring and management purposes throughout the life of the project. Given the constraints of relatively the small habitat area planned for the site, we emphasized the importance of habitat quality for the overall ecological functioning of the site. We stressed the importance of a strong focus on the use of native species throughout the site and the exclusive use of native species in the riparian, midbank/upper bank, and prairie zones. Incorporating diverse mixtures of native species within structurally complex canopy, shrub and ground layer vegetation will be extremely important, particularly close to the river. In addition, the promotion of important habitat elements such as snags (standing dead trees), large logs, and leaf litter are critical to supporting the full cycle of life - giving processes needed for highly functioning ecosystems. At the same time, the use of native species in more traditional ornamental planting designs in some areas would still have substantial ecological value if designed with wildlife needs in mind. To this end, we recommend a creative and exploratory use of natives in ornamental designs. Description of Appendices in the Full Report The full report contained four appendices intended to guide project design, implementation and management phases. These included: Appendix A. EWEB Project Native Plant Communities. Provides detailed lists of appropriate native plant species or each zone as well as plant characteristics and environmental needs, ecosystem functions provided, and landscape qualities. Appendix B. Potential Riparian Zone Management Species for EWEB Property. Provides a suite of nine selected management species (birds, fish and insects) whose use of the site could provide both goals and benchmarks for project success. This list is by no means complete but provides examples of selected taxa that would be suitable for the site, its context and the master plan design. Appendix C. EWEB Invasive Species Control Recommendations. Contains management guidelines for the invasive exotic species most likely to require ongoing control on the site. Appendix D. Range of Functional Buffer Widths. Provides detailed quantitative guidelines needed for different riparian ecological functions. Such information is important to reference when making site design decisions intended to fulfill the intentions of the master plan. 27