Wild macro fish8/5/2023 ![]() Survey results and interpretation will be subject to WDFW approval. Deviations from the survey guidelines shall be approved by the AHB prior to conducting eelgrass or macroalgae surveys. Surveys shall be conducted by divers/biologists who are qualified to identify the predominant eelgrass and macroalgae species in the project area. ![]() If the project cannot be moved or redesigned to avoid direct eelgrass and macroalgae impacts, surveys are required for quantifying potential impacts. In known or suspected eelgrass areas, proponents shall survey to delineate the spatial extent of eelgrass and macroalgae presence in the project area. For macroalgae mitigation measures, the WDFW Area Habitat Biologist (AHB) shall be consulted. Because establishment of new eelgrass for mitigation is often unsuccessful, project proponents need to address this uncertainty by increasing the scope of their mitigation effort, such as planting an area larger than the project impact footprint. Mitigation for the loss of eelgrass typically entails providing eelgrass enhancement away from the project footprint. In administering the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) process, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) requires proponents for projects to: 1) avoid impacting eelgrass and macroalgae, 2) minimize unavoidable impacts, and 3) mitigate for any impacts. Under the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), eelgrass and macroalgae are defined as saltwater habitats of special concern (WACs 220-110-250 (3)(a, b)).
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