HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-11-26 with attachmentsConservation Board
November 26, 2019
Dryden Conservation Board
November 26, 2019
Members Present: Peter Davies (Chair), Bob Beck, Gian Dodici, Jeanne Grace, Nancy Munkenbeck
(at 7:20), Craig Schutt, and Milo Richmond
Absent: Anne Clark, David Wilson and Tim Woods
Liaisons: Craig Anderson, Planning Board
Guest(s) Loren Sparling and David Weinstein
The meeting was called to order at 7:01 p.m.
Review and approval of minutes dated October 29, 2019
Discussion regarding minor changes to minutes, minutes were approved with changes. Motion made by
C. Schutt, seconded by G. Dodici, P. Davies abstained due to his absence from that meeting, minutes
were approved.
M. Richmond was made a voting member in the absence of T. Woods.
Reports and Updates
Agricultural Advisory Committee — C. Schutt
See attached report.
Planning Board — C. Anderson
Recommended changes to the zoning for Varna.
D. Weinstein —The Varna Plan (2012) has a proposed build -out of approximately 450 bedrooms to the
800 that were already in Varna. The plan was to increase Varna by 50%. The zoning allows for 2,700
bedrooms to be added. A subcommittee met for about one month to hammer out what changes could
be made that would bring the zoning more in line with the Plan. Beyond reducing the total number of
bedrooms, we worked hard on finding ways to get a diversity of housing in Varna. That's really what the
Plan is calling for. The recommendations have now gone to the Town Board for their review.
C. Anderson — We met in Varna for the subcommittee and several residents of Varna attended and gave
their input.
Dryden Rail Trail — B. Beck
• Still working on getting easements needed to complete the trail
• Project to renovate the two trestles at the Game Farm crossing Cascadilla Creek:
o After more than three months of our plan being sent to Albany for DEC engineer review,
they have finally gotten back to us and said they think the trestles should be torn out
and two prefab pedestrian bridges at a cost of $50,000 each plus abutments be
installed. This would bring the cost up to around $300,000, which is more than the
$30,000 we had planned on investing to make the trestles functional.
o Working on getting our engineers to talk to the DEC engineers to see if we can get this
worked out.
Page 1 of 4
Conservation Board
November 26, 2019
o TG Miller did a study and tested the structure and wrote up a detailed report showing
where the individual weak places were, a precise diagram of all the components.
• There will soon be new railings on the FH Fox bridge in Varna. DPW needs to do welding on the
new railings so traffic will need to be diverted while they complete their work. We are hopeful
that the alumni of the veterinary college will follow through with their plan to support the
trail/bridge.
• We will be interviewing 3 engineering firms next week for the Route 13 bridge construction
project. There were 6 applicants originally, and we narrowed it down to 3. We will choose and
hire 1 company to proceed after the interviews are completed.
• Discussion ensued regarding the speed limit on Game Farm Road, engineering study, agreement
between Ithaca and Dryden; we need to get approval of our plan from the Town of Ithaca.
Environmental Management Council (EMC) — D. Weinstein
The draft report of the valuation of the County forests is now being reviewed by the Unique Natural
Areas Committee of the EMC. There will be a public meeting to introduce the report on December 18th
from 4:00-5:30 p.m. in the Borg Warner room at the Tompkins County Public Library. Report won't be
released to the public until after the review of the UNA Committee and the EMC.
Old Business
Ditch Management — G. Dodici
He is still waiting for a response from R. Schneider, so there is nothing new to report at this point. D.
Weinstein sees Ms. Schneider on a regular basis so he will bring this up to her. Further discussion is
tabled until the next meeting.
M. Richmond stated there are some logical places to do the experimental "show and tell" of what can be
done and in what ditches. The Ellis Hollow area would be a good place for this experiment.
C. Anderson -Walker Road was just ditched between Bradshaw & Simms Hill Road — a lot of water is
flowing through there. There are farm fields/wetlands on both sides. M. Richmond offered to contact
R. Schneider.
Restrictive Covenant Rule as it relates to protection of open space - C. Anderson
• It is C. Anderson's understanding that the Town Board said yes to the moratorium, but there
must be a public hearing before it can be effective. J. Kiefer sent a letter to the town attorney
and to a Department of State attorney and asked both attorneys for some guidance on this
issue. The Department of State attorney responded that she believes the Town would have
jurisdiction over conservation easements, but it is not clear.
• C. Anderson brought B. Beck up to date regarding the problem at the Bluebird Subdivision.
• D. Weinstein stated the problem is it wasn't caught by our planning department when they
approved the building. It is clearly on the plat, but we need to get assurances from our lawyer
that what is on the plat is defensible in court. Our lawyer has not yet agreed to that.
• C. Anderson — They have thrown around ideas to keep this from happening in the future.
1) Surveying the foundation before the footings are even dug.
2) Charge additional fees for these type of subdivisions as they are costing the town
more money. You would then have more resources to make sure this kind of thing
doesn't happen again.
Page 2 of 4
Conservation Board
November 26, 2013
3) Code enforcement is looking at the zoning law and that is why the applicant was
given a permit. They gave them an occupancy permit based on the zoning law.
There is no one checking the plat. It is not the responsibility of the planning
department, it's the responsibility of the homeowners' association or the builder.
Our planning department people are not surveyors.
4) Suggestion was made that requirements should be changed to make it a
requirement to have the building staked by a surveyor before a building permit will
be issued.
5) Neighbors in the subdivision are fine with where the house in question was built.
6) A request has been made to the Town Board to set up a fund for litigation of
violations to easement restrictions.
New Business
Riparian Workshop — P. Davies
He attended a Cooperative Extension riparian buffer workshop on November 21St. It was very
interesting. He will scan and send it to everyone for their information.
• It is possible to have a local ordinance protecting streams by mandating a buffer along the
streams.
• The experts stated that having trees along the edges of streams is much better in protecting
them from erosion and nutrient runoff, far more effective than grass.
• There were some very nice talks about what they are doing to remediate this by planting trees
and how to do it.
• Native vegetation that could be used.
• Stream buffer ordinances are in operation for the Town of Ithaca and (he believes) the Town of
Ulysses.
• This is something we should investigate next year. If it can be done, it is rather useful. What it
essentially does is encourage farmers whose fields came right down to the edge of a stream to
do these plantings and there are grants available for partial financing. This is very valuable in
decreasing the flow of nutrients into streams, which ultimately end up in the lakes and this is
one of the things that are causing the lake blooms.
• Having the tree buffers along the edge pulls out a lot of the nutrients before they flow into the
waterways.
A lot of this information is available online. I would suggest this would be something useful to
investigate in the coming year, particularly in association with the ditch stormwater management.
D. Weinstein inquired if there is a template ordinance that can be used for guidance. P. Davies stated he
has one that he will copy and send.
D. Weinstein mentioned that the recommended new zoning for Varna is to put a 100' buffer on the
flood plain along Fall Creek so you cannot build within that buffer at all.
Trinitas Housing Development in Varna - SEQR
P. Davies — Stated they have now put out a State Environmental Quality Review.
Page 3 of 4
Conservation Board
November 26, 2019
D. Weinstein advised to disregard as Trinitas has come back and stated they are going to downsize the
project, although at this point it is unknown by how many units. The SEQR will have to be redone at that
point.
Board reviewed the attached Trinitas documents/information. D. Weinstein suggested the board be
prepared to review the new plan when it arrives, as the expertise around this table will be useful.
P. Davies pointed out how vague the documents are, and C. Anderson suggested they take the maps
out, look at the plat, the site plans, get the full drawings to understand what they are looking at. You
need to compare what they said with the pond that is there.
P. Davies suggested that members of the board get together when the new drawings are in and spend a
couple of hours to look at and compare the documents. As soon as the new version comes in, D.
Weinstein will immediately contact P. Davies so arrangements can be made for a sub -committee to get
together to review it all. (This would need proper notice.)
Volunteers for subcommittee: B. Beck, N. Munkenbeck (possibly), C. Schutt, J. Grace, P. Davies.
Action items for 2020
• Ditch management
• Stream buffers
• Fill ordinance
• Stormwater law- soil disturbance with no silt fences or anything else being put out. Pressure
needs to be put on the planning department to make sure these types of things are being done.
• Water management
• Deer management
• April 2018, we passed a resolution asking the Town Board to develop a preservation (farmlands,
natural areas, open space) fund somehow. This would be away for the Town to accept
specified donations.
New Chair for 2020
P. Davies made a motion to appoint G. Dodici as the Conservation Board Chair effective January 1, 2020,
seconded by C. Schutt and unanimously approved.
P. Davies was thanked for his years of service being Chair.
There will not be a meeting in December. A social gathering for the board will be held — date and time
will be emailed later.
There being no further business, under motion made by M. Richmond, seconded by C. Schutt, the
meeting was adjourned at 9:02 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Chrystle Terwilliger
Deputy Town Clerk
Page 4 of 4
z)tream gutter ranting guide
Tompkins County Stream Buffer der Management
Enhancing Water Resources in Tompkins County:
Stream Buffer Benefits
Introduction
j Cayuga take, along with many streams, ponds, and wetlands provideTompkins County with a
beautiful environment Each of these waterways has its own ecological requirements in order
to be sustainable over a long period of time. To meet the requisite conditions necessary for
ecological development this booklet will outline vegetation appropriate for riparian areas*
and stream buffers.
When designed well, the areas along streams, lakes and rivers are important in maintaining the
quality of the water, stabilizing streams, and minimizing flood damage. The condition of birds
and animal habitats is enhanced by riparian buffers which, in turn, stimulates ecological diversity.
If properly designed and maintained, riparian buffers can provide a variety of benefits, from
water quality protection to ecosystem maintenance to recreation and education to flood
damage prevention" (Davis and Hitchings, 2000).
Consideration of the impact of people upon such environments is primary to protecting the
waterways, and surrounding environments, as it ensures riparian buffers can continue to provide
ecosystem benefits. Protecting and restoring streamside areas also enables streams "to re-
cover dynamic equilibrium and function at a self-sustaining level:' (Federal Interagency Stream
Restoration Working Group, 1998).
As communities recognize the benefits of protecting and restoring the various waterways, and
their buffers, developing these areas becomes an important ecological goal. This vegetation
guide is intended to educate community leaders and landowners about riparian and stream
buffers, and provide a scientific foundation for implementing riparian and stream buffers in
Tompkins County. Although the term "riparian buffer' includes a variety of buffer types this
document specifically discusses stream buffers, which are considered by many researchers to
be the most effective.
For more information on why and how to protect riparian areas, please visit
wwwtompk'tns-coorg/planning 'Water resources'section.
*Riparian areas, the areas immediately adjacent to flowing waters such as streams, lakes, shorelines,
and wetlands, provide a transition between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems
(Environmental Law Institute 2003).
The Tompkins County Stream Corridor Protection and Management Program
is a comprehensive, coordinated stream buffer program with goals to protect
water quality and promote wildlife habitat throughoutTompkins County. The
program seeks to advance these goals by protecting existing healthy, stream
buffers in addition to establishing new ones. The program features both regula-
tory and non -regulatory protection tools for landowners, local governments and
other conservation oriented organizations. This stream buffer planting guide is
one such tool. The intention is that this planting guide is to assist in visualizing
and implementing healthy stream buffers. The guide provides details on specific
species appropriate for buffer areas and outlines how they should be planted,
For more information on other tools available to protect local streams please
visit www.tompkins-co.org/planning and see the "water resources" section or call
theTompkins County Planning Department 607-274-5560.
Tree Descriptions
Recommended Tree Species Indude
Sycamore
(Platanus occidentalis):
Characteristics:
Height 75-90' Width: 60'-70'
Growing Conditions: Full sunlight to partial shade,
moderately dry to wet conditions, prefers well -drained
soil, can 'sustain droughts.
Rate of Growth: Fast
Description:
The most
l' striking feature
ofthe Syca-
more tree is
its mottled
appearance.
It has multi-
colored bark
that dramati-
cally peels of
in large sheets.
Frequently,
the Sycamore
tree divides
into sev-
eral secondary
trunks, near
the ground,
but it has few
branches leading to the canopy. The trunks of large
trees are often hollow. Some of our ancestors lived
in hollow Sycamore trees while' building their cabins.
Another unusual feature is that the leaves grow sticky,
green buds. The Sycamore also grows fuzzy seed balls,
about one inch in diameter, that remain intact through
most of the winter.
Benefits: The growth structure of the Sycamore sup-
ports many types of birds, animals, and fish. Its massive
roots substantially reduces stream bank erosion and
encourages the development of deep pools of water.
The stream's habitat and water quality are improved and
provideprotection to wildlife during flooding conditions
Many aquatic species (fish, mussels, and insects) benefrt
from the improved water quality. In tum, smallmouth
bass, and other types of sport fish, increase their num-
bers provides better fishing.
The Sycamore's characteristics of height open canopy,
strong limbs and numerous cavities provide nesting sites
that are preferred by great blue herons, wood ducks,
and bald eagles. Purple finches, chickadees, juncos,
muskrats, beavers, and squirrels also are attracted to
this tree and they feed on the seeds. Sycamores can
grow rapidly — frequently at the rate of 6 feet a year
— and they can live for hundreds of years.
Silver Maple
(Acer saccharinum):
Characteristics:
Height 75'-100' Width: 75'-100'
Growing Conditions: Full sunlight to partial shade,
can withstand drought or wet conditions. It is best to
plant in lowland areas, near water and away from any
structure as the roots are extensive and they could
damage a foundation.
Rate of Growth: Fast
Description: The
Silver Maple is also
called the River Maple
N' because it
is naturally found next
to streams and rivers.
The branches emerge
out of a short, rotund
trunk dividing into
several large branches,
to create a large can-
opy with gracfully
shaped IeavesThe
Silver Maple flowers
in early spring, well
before the leaves
emerge The tops of the leaves are light green and a
pale, silvery white underneath. Fall colors range from
yellow with a trace of red to yellow-brown. It is an ex-
tremely easy tree to propagate from seed or transplants
Benefits: Squirrels, chipmunks, and song birds, along
with wild turkeys and ducks, eat Silver Maple seeds.
Silver Maple sap can be used to make both maple sugar
and a light syrupThe flavor is good, but not as pro-
nounced as that of the Sugar Maple. The Silver Maple is
a fine shade tree due to its size and it has been known
to live up to, and beyond, 130 years.
hite Oak
bicolor):
Height 75' - 100' Width: 50' - 75'
Growing Conditions: Sun to partial shade, prefers
low moist areas, adapts to a variety of acidic soil types,
good resistance to damage by wind and ice.
Rate of Growth: Medium - fast (for an oak)
Description: The
Swamp White Oak
has a single trunk
with a broad crown.
The dark shiny green
leaves create a distinc-
tive pattern that radi-
ates from the center
oftheleafcluster. Fall
colors vary from gold-
en yellow, to brown, to
reddish purple.
Bloom period is in
early spring with one
inch acorns produced during the summer months. The
Swamp White Oak grows an average of 24' per year
and it has the potential to live 300 to 350 years. This
tree is sensitive to root disturbance so it should initially
beplanted at the permanent site and be mulched.
Benefits: Quercus means "fine tree;" bicolor refers to
the colors of the leaves: dark green on top and silverly
white on the bottom. Oaks are indeed "fine trees:'
So much so that in November 2004, Congress passed
legislatior designating the oak as our national tree, The
Swamp V ✓bite Oak attracts many types of animals
and bird., In the fall, deer, wild turkeys, black bear, fox,
gray squirrels, and particularly wood ducks, seek out
the matuie acorns for food. Acorns contain significant
protein, carbohydrates and fats, as well as the miner-
als calcium, phosphorus and potassium, and the vitamin
niacin. Acoms have been a traditional food of many
Native Americans. The acorn can be converted into
flour, made into mush, or the meats can be added to
other foods such as muffins. Acorns can be substituted
for chickpeas, nuts, peanuts or olives in many recipes.
Native Americans, in this area of the country, made oil
from acorns and used it as a salve for burns and injuries.
Brooms have been made from Swamp Oak by selecting
very thin twigs with at least three leaves attached. The
twigs should be long enough to form a handle when
bundled.
Black Cherry
(Prunus serotina):
Characteristics:
Height 60'- 90' Width: 35'- 50'
Growing Conditions: Full sun to part shade,
prefers deep, moist fertile soil, can withstand salt
wet conditions, and drought
Rate of Growth: Fast
Description: The Black
Cherry has a single trunk
with abroad crown. When
grown with enough space,
the tree is oval shaped,
branches spreading until they
hang down loosely. Leaves
are oblong and shiny with a
pointed tip. After the leaves
have come out white flowers
bloom in late April or early
May. The cherries ripen from
August through October.
Its an adaptable tree which
will grow in old fields, along
streams, or in ebsting forests. It is a shade tolerant tree
but it will grow rapidly, and become larger than usual, in
open spaces. Some trees have grown to 125 feet high and
four feet in diameter. The Black Cherry has been known to
five up to 258 years.
Benefits: The black cherries are especially prized by black
bears (numerous pits have been found in their scat). Cubs
learn to climb when they follow their mothers up the tree
to get the cherries. Wild turkeys, ruffed grouse, raccoons,
fox, and non -game birds also eat black cherries. Porcu-
pines, white-tailed deer, rabbits, and hare feed on Black
Cherry seedlings. Alhough some young trees are
eaten, because birds and animals spread the cherry pits,
one tree can produce numerous seedlings. People eat
black cherries raw or use them to make a variety of foods.
It should be noted that some parts of the Black Cherry
tree are poisonous to people and these parts should NOT
be ingested. The seed inside the pit is poisonous as are
wiled leaves, twigs and stems. On the other hand, other
parts of the Black Cherry tree have traditionally been used
medicinally.
Red Oak
(Quercus rubra):
Characteristics:
Height 50' - 80' Width: 50' - 70'
Growing Conditions: Sun to full sunlight, can with-
stand drought or wet conditions, prefers well -drained
stream borders, must have acidic soil, withstands cold
and pollution.
Rate of Growth: Moderate to fast growing, up to two
vertical feet per year.
Description: The Red
Oak is set apart from
other oaks by a shini-
ness on the ridges of
the bark extending from
the top of the tree all
the way to the bottom
of the trunk The size of
the trunk depends on
whether the Red Oak
grows in a forest (close
to other trees) or in
the openl. Trees growing in open spaces tend to have
thicker, shorter trunks while the trees in the forest are
taller with thinner trunks. The dark green leaves of sum-
mer turn' to a brilliant red, or rich brown, in the fall. The
acoms ripen in the spring of the second year because
they require 18 months to mature. This oak transplants
easily and it is hardy in most conditions.
Benefits: The Red Oak is popular with a wide variety
of wildlife. It is favored, for its acorns, by the wild turkey.
woodpecker, blue jay, white -breasted nuthatch, sapsucker,
quail, ruffed grouse, ring-necked pheasant, eastern craw,
northern' flicker, blue jay, brown thrasher, starling, chicka-
dee, white—breasted nuthatch, and other songbirds. The
acoms also attract the mallard duck American pintail
duck green -winged teal duck white-tailed deer, cot-
tontail
ottontail rabbit white-footed mice, eastern chipmunk fox
squirrel, gray squirrel, red squirrel, hummingbird, and but-
terflies. Trilliums often grow under the Red Oak This
tree is fast growing, easy to transplant, tolerant of varied
conditions, has beautiful colors, is a good shade tree,
and it is effective in rehabilitating areas after floods or
where revegetation is needed. Its wood is valued for its
strength so it is used for building houses and furniture.
Pin Oak
(Quercus palustris):
Characteristics:
Height 75'-100' Width: 40'
Growing Conditions: Full sunlight to partial shade,
performs best in full sun in corrtinuously moist to wet,
deep, very acidic soils; it can adapt to dry soils, prefers
to be transplanted in spring. Note:The Pin Oak does
not adapt easily to higher ground. It should only be
planted near stream areas.
Rate of Growth: Fast IT - 15' in 5 - 7 years if
planted in acidic soil
Description: The Pin
Oak's appearance is
distinctive because the
upper branches ascend,
the middle branches
are horizontal, and
the lower branches
are down swept The
branch arrangement
along with the dense
foliage, forms a symmet-
rical, pyramidal shape. It
has medium sized, green
leaves that becomes re -
dish -brown to crimson
in the fall. Another distinctive feature of the Pin Oak is
that it retains most of its leaves during the winter and
then drops them in the spring. The acorns ripen in
the spring of the second year because they require 18
months to mature. Strong, robust trees grow from the
acoms found near the Pin Oak parent tree.
Benefits: The benefrts ofthe Pin Oak are similar to
the Red Oak and the White Swamp Oak In addition,
all three of these trees support migration of many
birds such as hawks, owls, hummingbirds, warblers and
finches by providing a retreat from the stresses and
hazards of migration_ The Pin Oak in particular, of-
fers dense foliage for cover and by retaining its twigs,
attracts insects that the migrating birds feed upon.The
oaks in riparian buffer areas create optimum conditions
for migrating birds by providing the combination of
food, shelter, cooler water and air temperatures. The
water is cleaner because the buffer assists in filtering
out sediments and pollutants from runoff. Animals
such as deer, fox raccoon, quail and wild turkey are also
supported by the Pin Oak's acoms and fshefter within
the area of the tree.
Eastern Cottonwood
(Populus deltoides):
Characteristics:
Height 80' - 100' Width: 60'- 70'
Growing Conditions: Sun to full sun, prefers wet soils,
transplants easily, can tolerate a wade variety of conditions,
including high pH, pollution and salt Seedlings will not
grow in 'shade and should be placed in sunny locations.
Planting close to buildings is discouraged because it may
result in;damaged foundations, walls, and pipes due to the
extensive roots.
Rate oflGrowth: Fast 15' - 3' per year
Description:
Large, deciduous
cottonwoods are pyra-
midal during
the early stage of
development As
it grows, large
spreading'branches
;expand to a broad
and open growth. It
is one of the largest
North American
hardwood trees.
` The bark is gray,
with pronounced
ridges and deep
fissures:
Foliage is light to
medium green, turning
yellow in the fall.
Tufted seeds, which
have a "cotton -like" look are easy to recognize as they
float easily through the air.
Benefits: The Eastern Cottonwood usually lives
70 - I OO.years; ifs possible for them to live
200 - d00 years if the growing environment is good. A
Cottonwood in Baimville, NewYork is reputed to be the
oldest ofthe species in the Eastern United States. Core
samples hof the tree has dated its growth to the year 1699.
It is 25 feet in circumference at its base and the tree was
once 110 feet high before being damaged from Hurricane
Floyd in 11999. Now it is 83 feet in height
Cottonwood trees stabilize the soil when soil and
moisture conditions are sufficient Frequently these
trees are found along waterways. Capable of growing
in mercury -contaminated soils, Cottonwoods transform
contaminants into substances that are less hazardous to
humans, animals, or other plants.
The buds and fruits are food sources for spring birds,
quail, and rabbits. Deer feed on the young bark
foliage and buds. Beavers use saplings for food and
dam construction.
s
�,. Descr�Ptlu&
C��R cls ��d Shrub S E erbol, '
Sambucus canadeusis}:
a Gbara�err" Width; 6Foi sun to PartfiuctuahOns
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Conus amore Grown a w\de range ,e rberry
t ctec sties' ltl shade, Pre, tolesdrought ressta .1.he F1de
Cara & "10 y(,dth- 6 Full sun to Pa Saes), ��n fro of GroWt}': Fast pescri4tis°tnmed a1Gub
fra$
HeripGrnB Gondd lin usedrom seeds or tutu ,aae dusters °tha aPP�r t
G+� ,�{4. S to 1propagate 5dky fiow� dark 91, Pte
iers Fast peso `pu°n medium w Gl in
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dusters of �Oom in Outstanding so and {pod for
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for
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late s� iter in'd'e e Nkilde• 1t also Pr Sed for cn,\d arid dam
beer branches ben s and Other line. Hers Pie for ver e d on6y
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rro woom to }: C ��eristios: 6 12 shade tolerant
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ra q• Ora, an to Groynr+g a of soil
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vrv_ &I. rich tine berr,es ma crober source of foo Sctefor b rd
an rk gin m g e fall rOduce % O s Provide and a nesting
ora^8es. orme-s continue to P iWw ves �� the
ndlaencomet he P'r, e� d oths gg�erfiy. the shrub
near for b e for the P_ d coverfor birds
larval iood SOU
nest sn tes
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Eastern Redbud
(Cercis canadensis):
Chara erisdcs:
Heightl 20'- 35' Width: 20'-35'
Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade,
tolerant of a wide range of soil moisture fluctuations:
drought resistant to wet Transplanting should be done
in spring or fall.
Rate of Growth: Slow to Medium
D I
escrrptron: n
early spring, pink-
ish-lavender
ink
ish-lavender flowers
open slowly,
becoming a vibrant
dramatic display. The
foliage, appears after
the flowers have
bloomed, first as
bronzed to medium
green then chang-
ing to dark green.
The Redbud usually
branches low on the
trunk and it will be-
come multi -trunked If
the brar cher are not pruned. This will result in a grace-
ful arrangement of branches containing heart -shaped
leaves. Seed pods appear in the fall as the leaves turn
yellow.
Benefits: The Redbud is a source of nectar for
pollinators and food for birds. This tree is part of the
Pea family and Native Americans have lightly roasted
the edible flowers. These trees can form an attractive
shrub border. Frequently the border occurs naturally on
woodland edges.
I
i
Nannyberry
(Viburnum lentago):
Characteristics:
Height 20' - 35' Width: I U - 20'
Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade,
tolerant of a wide range of soil moisture fluctuations
from drought resistant to moist soil.
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Description: A
multi -stemmed
shrub (that can be
trained into a tree),
the size of the Nanny -
berry can be large
to extra large. It is
part ofthe Honey-
suckle Family with
white flower heads
and medium to dark
green leaves in early
May. In the fall, the
foliage becomes
a mixture of faded
shades of green, purple, red, and yellow. Small clusters
of berries, in shades of light green, pale yellow, and
pinkish -red, appear from August through December.
Selective pruning, if desired, should be done in the
winter. An unusual feature of the wood is that it smells
like wet goat so it is not harvested for commercial use.
Female goats have been referred to as "nannies" which
may have been one influence for the name of this
strange smelling bush.
The Nannyberry is moderately susceptible to damage
by the viburnum leaf beetle. By planting single Nanny -
berry shrubs among other species, rather than in
groups, the beetle problem is less likely to have a heavy
impact
Benefits: Nannyberry is an easy -to -grow, low -care
native shrub. Native to Eastern North America, these
scrubs provide cover and the berries are a source for
food for birds in the fall.
Native Plant Descriptions
Recommended Grass, Herbs and Flowering Plants Include
Little Bluestem Virginia Wild Ryegrass
(Andropogon scoparius): (Elymus virginicus):
Characteristics:
Height Mature height is over 3'
Growing Conditions: A perennial, Little Bluestem
prefers full sun, excessive moist, fertile soil that is
well -drained. Control of competing plants is neces-
sary when first establishing Little Bluestem plants.
Rate of Growth: Moderate but it has a long life span
compare to some other grass species.
Description: New shoots have a
blue tint in spring and early summer.
M` ,I In the fall, colors turn to a redish
i shade which is frequently retained
throughout the winter months.
Flowers bloom in late July through
September.
Benefits: A good forage grass, it
supplies both domestic and wild animals with food
when the plant is very young and green. It attracts a
variety of birds, butterflies and deer. The grass also
provides effective erosion control
Riverbank Wild Ryegrass
(Elymus riparius):
Characteristics:
Height 2' - 4.5'
Growing Conditions: Requires moist soil with high
water availability. Adapts to a variety of soil types.
Rate of Growth: Moderate
Description: A native cool -season,
bunch grass. Strong seedlings are
I shade tolerant Riverbank Wild
Ryegrass is not drought tolerant
Benefits: Essential component
of rtream bank rehabilitation.
r Supplies sparrows, finches, and
small mammals with food.
Seed heads are available over
winter for food.
All /�
Characteristics:
Height 2%a'-4'
Growing Conditions: Virginia Wild Ryegrass prefers
full sun to light shade; prefers high fertility, moist, heavy
soil texture. Best established from seed.
Rate of Growth: Moderate
Description: A native, perennial, cool -
season, bunchgrass that grows from May
through September. Light to medium green
spikes have rigid, hollow shafts with floppy
blades emerging along the shaft
Benefits: It supplies forage for birds and
small mammals and it is also good grazing
for livestock Canadian Geese feed on the
foliage while seed heads are sometimes eaten by ducks.
A variety of wildlife use Virginia Wild Ryegrass for denning
and nesting material. Attracts butterflies.
Blue Vervain
(Verbena hastata):
Characteristics:
Height 2'- 6' Width: 1'- 2.5'
Growing Conditions: Full to partial sunlight with
fertile, wet soil BlueVervain tolerates temporary stand-
ing water. It easily adapts to wetlands. During favorable
growing conditions, each spike will continue to grow,
producing new flowers.
Rate of Growth: Medium
Description: An attractive perennial
wild flower, with very small, blue or violet
flowers on numerous spikes, Blooming
Period lasts from July to early September
in central NewYork
Benefits: Attracts many kinds of long -
tongued and short -tongued bees; some
bees gather nectar while others collect
pollen. Wasps, moths, butterflies, and
hummingbirds are also attracted to this
plant Various songbirds eat the seeds;
rabbits may eat the foliage when plants are young.
Historically, it has been used as an herb and valued for
its medicinal qualities.
virgatum):
Height Mature height 6'
Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade,
moist to dry, sandy soils. Switchgrass should be
planted in the spring after the soil is warm, it has
drought and flooding tolerance.
Rate of Growth: Rapid
Description: A warm sea-
son. perennial and self -seeding
q crop, Switchgrass can take up
• � to three years to reach its full
production potential. However,
Switchgrass can survive for ten
F years or longer. It will grow in
many weather conditions, soil
types, and land conditions.
Benefits: The roots of Switch -
grass are about as deep as the
plant is tall, which makesit ideal for erosion control.
Pheasant quail, grouse, wild turkey, and song birds use
Switchgrass for its plentiful small seeds and tall cover
habitat j Switchgrass has become a bioenergy crop as it
can be converted to pellets for heating.
Ox Eye Flower
(HelioIpsis helianthoides):
Height,Tto 6' Wiidth:2'to 4'
Growir g Conditions: Full sun to partial sun, dry to
medium, moist soils, prefers well drained soils but can
tolerates dry poor soils. Blooms summer through fall.
Rate of Growth: Medium
Description: Double, daisy -like
all flowers, two to three inches in diam-
eter, yellow-orange, on stiff stems with
glossy, deep green foliage.
Benefits: Ox Eye flowers provide
nectar for butterflies and other
pollinators. Seeds can be eaten
by songbirds during the winter.
Attracts hummingbirds.
Wild Bergariont
(Monarda fistulosa):
Characteristics:
Height 2' - 3'
Growing Conditions: Prefers sun but it can tolerate
partial shade. Thrives in a wide range of soils; it prefers
moist soil but is fairly drought resistant
Rate of Growth: Fast
Description: Perennial,a part ofthe Mintfamily. Flowers
cluster toward the end of branches
with about 20-50 flowers per plant
Blooms July through September.
52 Brilliant flowers that range from light
a pink to very bright magenta; has
pleasantly fragrant gray -green foliage.
Benefits: Considered an herb,
�I Bergamont has been used as a tea.
Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies,
and bees.
Canada Wild Ryegrass
(Elymus canadensis):
Characteristics:
Height 2'4
Growing Conditions: Prefers sun but it can
tolerate partial shade. Growth better in moist soil but
Canada Wild Ryegrass is fairly drought resistant
Rate of Growth: Fast
Description: Stems can be 2'- 4' high,
supporting spike -shaped seed heads.
The seed heads cause the stems to
r, bend and droop. It has distinct flowers
and interesting foliage.
�t Benefits: Canada Wild Ryegrass
F provides nesting material and its seeds
supply food for birds and small mam-
mals. The grass attracts butterflies,
it is highly deer resistant and it requires
little to no maintenance. Cut seed stalks
j are used in dried flower arrangements.
I
Rough Dropseed
(Sporobolus asper):
Characteristics:
Height 2%a'-5'
Growing! Conditions: Full sun, will grow in moderate
moisture to dry conditions. It tolerates a variety of
soils but prefers soils that are intermittently wet and
dry. Plant.when soil is warm in spring. Has drought
tolerance:
Rate of Growth: Rate of growth varies with type
of soil.
Description: Warm season, peren-
nial, bunchgrass that flowers from
August through November. Rough
Dropseed is tall, often tufted at the
\ base, sending up multiple stems from
l I short rootstocks. Plants have light to
medium green, hollow stems with
medium green leaf blades along
with long white hairs on the upper
surface of the leaf blades.
Benefits: Animals prefer to forage
this grass in the spring when blades are tender. Ex-
cellent food source for grasshoppers, which are then
consumed by songbirds and gamebirds. Seeds of
Rough Dropseed are eaten by some songbirds during
the winter.
Black -Eyed Susan
(Rudbeckia hirta):
Characteristics:
Height 1'-3'
Growing' Conditions: Full sun, it can adapt to a variety
of soils, needs average moisture.
Rate of Growth: Medium
Description: Daisy -like,
golden petals with a dark
brown center. Biennial, with
a two-year life cycle, it grows
leaves in the first season; it
blooms in the second season
from late July through
September.
Benefits: Very easy to grow.
press seeds into bare soil
any time during the growing
season. Attracts birds,
butterflies, and bees.
Annual Ryegrass
(Lolium multiflorum):
Characteristics:
Height Mature 2'— 4'
Growing Conditions: May be sown under
unfavorable wet or dry conditions. Grows under
a w de range of soils and climates. Tolerant of wet
soils, Annual Ryegrass adapts easily to heavy clay
or silty soils and temporary flooding. Flowers
May through July.
Rate of Growth: it has a vigorous rate of growth
that varies with weather conditions. Seed may be
planted when soil is dry and it will germinate
following rain.
Description: As a winter
annual grass, Annual Rye-
grass seeds quickly, estab-
lishes easily, and tolerates
cold. It germinates in cooler
soils more easily that other
grasses, It is a bunch grass,
yellow -green at the base of
the plant R has long, glossy,
green leaves on the top.
Benefits: Annual Ryegrass
improves the fertility of the soil and reduces erosion.
It alters and balances organic matter by improving the
soil structure through capturing nitrogen, increasing
infiltration, stabilizing aggregate soil particles, increasing
the soil's capacity for holding moisture, and suppress-
ing weeds. Annual Ryegrass accomplishes these soil
property improvements in half the time of other
methods or of planting other grasses. According to
the Department of Agriculture, fifty percent or more,
of nutrient and pesticide runoff into water is reduced
by grasses growing in the buffer area Other grasses
do need to be planted with Annual Ryegrass because
it is a winter grass. If no other grasses are planted in
the area there will be no grasses present during the
spring, summer, or fall.
RECOMMENDED STREAM BUFFERVEGETATION
Common Name Scientific Name Near Stream Upland Area I Light Requirements
TREES
Black Cherry
Prunus serotina
Eastern Cottonwood
Populus deloides
Silver Maple
Acer saccharinum
Swamp White Oak
Quercus bicolor
Sycamore
Plantanus occidentialis
I
SHRUBS
Arrowwood Virurnum
Viburnum dentatum
Eastern Redbud
Cercis candensis
Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis
Gray Dogwood
Cornus racemosa
Nannyberry
Viburnum lentago
Silky Dogwood
Cornus amomum
GRASSES
Annual Ryegrass
Lolium multillorum
Black Eyed Susan.
Rudbeckia hirta
Blue Vervain
Verbena hastata
Canada Wild Rye
Elymus canadensis
Little Bluestem
Andropogon scoparius
Ox Eye Flower
Heliopsis.helianthoides
RiverbankWild Rye
Ely'mus riparius
Rough Dropseed
Sporobolius asper
Switch Grass
Panicum virgatum
Virginia Wild Rye
Elymusvirginicus
Wild Bergamot
Monarda fistulosa
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Full Sun
Full Sun
Shade Intolerant
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
ShadeTolerant
Deer Resistant*
X
X
X
X
Full Sun
Full Sud to Partial Sun
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun
Full Sun to Partial Sun
Full Sun
Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Light Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
*Plants rarely damaged by deer
Common Name
Allegheny Serviceberry
Bald Cypress
Black Oak
Black Walnut
Box Elder
Buttonbush
Bur Oak
Cherry Birch
Cockspur Hawthorn
Common Ninebark
Eastern Redcedar
Honeylocust
Meadowsweet
Northern Bayberry
Pagoda Dogwood
Red Maple
Redosier Dogwood
Roughleaf Dogwood
Scarlet Oak
Staghorn Sumac
Sugar Maple
Sweet Gum
Tamarack
Tuliptree
Virginia Rose
White Oak
Scientific Name
Amelanchier laevis
Taxodium distichum
Quercus velutina
Juglans nigra
Acer negundo
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Quercus macrocarpa
Betula lenta
Crataegus crusgalli
Physocarpus opulifolius
Juniperus virginiana
Gleditsia triacanthos
Spiraea alba
Morella pensylvanica
Cornus alternifolia
Acer rubrum
Cornus sericea
Cornus drummondii
Quercus coccinea
Rhus typhina
Acer saccharum
Liquidambar styraciflua
Larix laricina
Liriodendron tulipifera
Rosa virginiana
Quercus alba
ADDITIONALTREE SPECIES
PLANTING AREAS & LIGHT REQUIREMENTS
DEER RESISTANT SPECIES
Near Stream
X
X
X
X
X
X
Upland Area
X
Light Requirements
Shade to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun
Shade Tolerant
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun
Full Sun
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun to Partial Shade
ShadeTolerant
ShadeTolerant
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun
Full Sun
ShadeTolerant
Full Sun
Full Sun
Deer Resistant*
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Full Sun to Partial Shade X
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full Sun X
*Plants rarely damaged by deer
5Tp,E/ M BUFFED
)pING �'` pend Unhealthy Bu4fersr?�chment and
Healthy es al en
een s and 91-a'!rt o human needs andtey
rence BetW trees,shrub s ms and they
species of na dto differentpurPose w eek root morass g ng
eynples nduda:g rov+ s
ndths corfe A buffers have Pi e buffer
widths"
r �e erUnhealruru of (Dther onhg a�hhnYganimals:m Program, NYSDE�-
d release
sediment ap knotweed:
species.such as ase p�ayemenr' (}-Judson RNer Estuary
ous sella species -Its
arenctfamiltar w�h ti1e sic rded.
Um s as �n be identified should be ret
dseape identify tree
bUW zone. ream! species the moreYou will
{an nd there, how` long
th the landscape• -Che more time You s Iter For ev�mPle, � � is
Merit together riotce how coed rious parts of the s te.
ng
done lbydsP den g oe the sun
have al Ful shine In �°urs ? he ° n� uldd
Sun.
Of the day. be cons tiered in order to be Cons
e sunlight l d foliage produces light
-
assist
avaassis in, notbe blocke nei ht usually P
tenson can led w g Shade:' gar
"Full sun:, DaPP al5un! Some
omelledu) int conddions called" gni{icant sun' it is usually' QeeP
rhood near area doesr. get rrt P is require �� amountsnt of
f
hbo the proper am
neig what Plants Shade:' Differ'
as aboutsun and if they donthava
You may wanttO include 'N
,(OU
also wont grow a one or more hills? Is t
o . collect for planting Is the ste flat or does it lieu rough1" Th how m of
it and' stro
landscape very 11 also affe�
der to know where land w It
aveand If
piar� are exp Wetatt strong`
Weather pate
0 or est o the wind is the wind may ival challenges. and how
they have more patter
of Plants
s�eiwhere the sod is most can
affect d e trow{ng P
how much space is available
e water is al look er area is
e Gond tion of ccessfut bud ours
Malang decisions about way to have s means adjusting
form w e v,Mdh nature. This s of nature insBY
ct for the area work hrn and character tdre. BY r
ervat ons of this type ibte{ ook e the s{ung our personanideares upon na
the -Imposing wile telt us
tf treret
multiple visits to careful observat Dinar do on d1e site
grit come to imm��te cootie
r am
a map of the area and fist is we ser what is their cond ton%
otos es already g� d straighthave a o of insi
are imPo�nt Tael pi g a plan. they the
broken branches? Do Y o{ the leaves:
referto when dev offers to You e condition
nd , hat your site Alar ��or g at is the leaves blotchy? H a F
the site that it down
have Doti or are or condition, it may
are of what liniitat om t k and in P° be that itis not
ter. Pears wee r it Y
P °� down to the water' pfantfor'he site ° ds. TheYe may be so
r the area of sun it nee and some that do r
ver is nea amount 11 on a s to
iclude VI ms. that do we ond'tions on the site,
buffer In addition to stxeapp{e of at notice about c rotes%
fields, make duringthe Planntng P
woodlots and •frees that you VIA help
a ,
r other P or ones thtneatohe P YObe U
p, tree vide
2. Planning
Botanist Diana Beresford-Kroeger coined the word
"bioplan" In creating this term. Beresford-Kroeger
wanted to consider all the "connectivity of He in nature'
(Beresford-Kroeger, 2004). Trees, shrubs, grasses and
flowers do not passively sit on a patch of earth. They
interact with the elements of nature and with all liv-
ing creatures. A good bioplan will restore balance
in a habitat and create health for all living parts of it
Plants can assist in cleaning the air and water and they
can support wildlife and insects. In the interaction of
all these.things is an ongoing process of a biological
system that makes healthy soil that contains a micro -
system of living organisms which, in turn, makes the
earth sustainable. Our job is to learn how to support
and maintain the living topography. This is the goal of
planning.
After gathering observations, the next step is to plan
what changes will be made on the site. Think about
how to use the optimal areas and how to use the less
than optimal ones Nature is not consistent and it's
important to work with that in mind because diversity
is one of the greatest strengths of a good ecosystem.
Compare your map and observation list to the charts
that outline the characteristics of the trees, shrubs, wild
grasses and flowers What seems like it will work in
what area? One of the most important considerations
is whether the plants will have enough space to grow
to their mature size. Some of the trees will get to be
very large and they need to have the space to expand
as they grow.
Based on what you know, make an initial planting map
that shows the size of the mature plant and its location.
If you will not be planting the entire area all at once,
indicate which plants will be planted first and when the
others may be planted. At that point a visit back to
the site, with the map in hand, is advisable.
Next compare your choices to what you see at the
site. Do the plants and the condition of the site match
up? Is there anything you hadn't considered that needs
to be included in the decision process? Sometimes,
after looking at the site along with the initial choices
of plants, you may find that you want to get more
information about the plant before investing in it and
putting it on the site.
There are people you can consult with in order to
decide if a plant is a good choice. There are nursery
and landscape companies lists available through the
Tompkins County Planning Department (607-274-5560)
and Cornell Cooperative Extension (607-272-2292).
Please note special care should be taken to avoid
planting any invasive species as noted by theTompkins
County Environmental Management Council. Invasives
can dominate buffer areas and choke out healthy, native
vegetation. A list of invasive plants native to this area is
at the following website www.tompkins-co.org/emcl
docs/ I3_invasive_plaats_of tompkins countypdf
Two basic considerations are whether your plan is
biologically feasible and whether it is economically real-
istic. The biological feasibility depends on how carefully
you have matched the conditions of the site and the
selection of appropriate plants. The expenses when
making changes also requires planning. You may want
to develop the site over several years Decide what is
most critical and what can be accomplished in a given
amount of time so that it's possible to successfully
develop the buffer.
3. Site Preparation
Once the decisions have been made about the plants to
use, the next step is to prepare the site. Site prepara-
tion should be completed before purchasing the plants.
As carefully as you may have planned, there can be
unexpected conditions that will have to be worked out
before anything can be planted. For example, when dig-
ging holes for trees there may be large rocks under the
soil that will have to be removed before the tree can be
planted. Or, if there was heavy rein for several days you
may discover areas that are prone to becoming overly
saturated. Some plants are quite at home in that condi-
tion whereas others may not survive. Knowing where
these saturated areas are can affect the decision as to
what to plant there. These situations are usually not
complicated but they require patience to work through.
Before embarking upon making physical change to the
environment it is recommended to consult with people
knowledgeable about site preparation. Work and
money have the potential of being wasted if the efforts
i
I
made are not really suitable for the site. If you
choose to hire professional landscapers to do the site
preparation for you, discuss with them the methods
they will! use and why they choose their techniques.
The methods they use will have an impact on the
ecosystem. Invasive techniques may cause damage:
be sure whatever they choose to do is the best choice
for the environment
4. ImplementingThe Plan
Now that the planning and site preparation are com-
pleted,the next step is to plant the buffer zone. The
following recommendations will help to ensure the
success of the ecosystem.
'S. Planting Trees And Shrubs
Tips to ensure
a successful planting.
WHEN: Plant when you know the plants are going to
be able - o easily survive transplant stress. The heat of
summerlis usually not a good time. Most transplanting
is done in the fall and early spring when the weather is
somewhat cool. Then the roots have the opportunity
to grow and develop before summer. However, some
trees must be planted only in the spring because they
establish; new roots very slowly. Check with the plant
nursery before purchasing.
WHERE Refer to the site map and observation
notes that you have made. It is very important to
allow enough space for the plant to expand as it
grows to maturity. The mature size of the plant may
be considerably larger than the young plant Consult
the plant descriptions, in this guide, for the types of
plants that can fit into smaller spaces on the buffer.
Plants should not be too close to buildings or power
lines because they can be damaged as a result A
useful method is to use a length of rope that can form
the circumference of the plant when laid upon the
ground. It will be easy to see how much space the
mature plant will require.
It's important to match the plant to an area that meets
its water needs. Some plants can thrive in very moist
or.wet conditions but other plants that need dryer
conditionsmight not survive. The advice of a profes-
sional ori the types of plants and moisture conditions
can be vi luable in the decision making process.
I
I
Also, if there are drainage problems on the land, it
would be best to consult a professional from Cornell
Cooperative Extension or a landscape company. They
would be able to advise you on how to change or con-
trol drainage issues.
HOW: Dig the planting hole first and dig it to be twice
as wide as the root ball. Remove the plant from its
container by tapping or squeezing the container. Once
out of the container, use a fork or other tool that is
pointed to gently loosen the roots. This will help .
the plant's roots be "able to spread so it will grow as
it should. Ifthe trees or shrubs have their root ball
wrapped in burlap, they can be planted without remov-
ing the burlap. The burlap will biodegrade and compost
itself into the soil.
Mix the soil from the planting hole with slow -releasing,
organic fertilizers. Select one that is suitable for your
particular plant Many times fertilizing information is
included with the plant During the first year, fertilize
only at the first watering.
After placing the plant in the soil, cut any strings or wire
that may be tied around the trunk Once the plant is
in the hole, secure it with some soil. Then step back
and check to see ifthe plant is standing straight, and if
the base of the stalks, or trunk will be level with the
ground. The plant can be adjusted if needed by adding
or subtracting soil. Keep stepping back to check to see
if it's straight and level. Some plants have what is called
a "crown:' This type of plant must have its crown even
With the ground or it won't survive. It is typical to find
a planting diagram showing crown planting information
included with the plant
Based on the vegetation in your buffer, you may want to
consider controlling weeds using barriers and, also, using
tree guards to protect the young tree trunks from dam-
age caused by mice or deer.
Once the plant looks level, and the soil has been put
into the hole, tamp the soil down with your footThis
will help to force air holes to compress, air that gets
trapped next to the roots will dry them out and the
plant may die. Tamp from the base ofthe plant to the
edge of where the hole was. So that bad weather won't
up root the planting, support tall trees using at least
three wires and some stakes.
MAINTENANCE Water thoroughly and deeply
right after planting.This allows the soil to settle
tightly around the root ball. Water carefully, at
the base of the plant so the soil does not
become displaced. It is important to water
the plant "deeply" This means the plant should
receive enough water to reach all its roots.
Before watering next, press your index finger
in the soil. If the soil is dry to the first joint on
¢Y'h .•,'
your finger, it's time to
water again. It is extremely7-
water
important to
1
water regularly!
;.n
for the plant to "„'.'.,.':'-';''..y'•^'`
become established
�'
;;,
REFERENCES
Appleton, Bonnie Lee. (1993) Rodole's Successful Organic Gordening:Trees, Shrubs and Vines. Emmaus,
PA: Rodale Press.
Beresford-Kroeger, Diana. (2004) A Garden for Life. -The Natural Approach to Designing Planting and Maintaining
o North Temperate Garden. The University of Michigan Press, Ann Arbor.
Enviinmental Law Institute. (2003) "Conservation Thresholds for Land Use Planners:'
Davis, P. and Hitchings, B. (2000) "Protecting Stored Water with Riparian Buffers:' Public Works.
Excerpted from "An Introduction to Riparian Buffers:' published byTriangle J Council of Governments.
I
Dirr, Michael. (1997) Dino Hardy Trees and Shrubs: an illustrated encyclopedia. Portland, Or.:Timber Press.
Federal Interagency Stream Restoration Working Group. (1998) "Stream Corridor Restoration:
Principles, Processes, and Practices:'
Hudson River Estuary Program, NewYork State Department of Environmental Conservation,'
Tools for Watershed Protection: Stream Buffers. New Patz, NewYork
www.dec.nygov/docs/remediation_hudson—pdf/hrewfssb I.pdf
I
I
Kress,:Steven, ()006)The Audubon Society Guide to Attracting Birds: Creating Natural Habitats for Properties
Large and Small. Ithaca, New York Cornell University Press.
I
Leopold, Donald Joseph. (2003 ) Trees of NewYork State: native and naturalized. Syracuse, N.Y.:
Syracuse University_ Press.
MoreDavid and White, John. (2002) The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Trees. Portland, Or.:Timber Press.
Petrides, George A. (1993) Peterson's First Guide to Trees. Boston : Houghton Mifflin.
i
Petrides, George A. (1958 ) A Field Guide to Trees and Shrubs: field marks o f all trees, shrubs, and woody vines that
grow wild in the Northeastern and North-Central United State. Boston, Houghton Mifflin.
Symopds. George Wellington Dillingham. (1963) The Shrub Identification Book the visual method for the practical
identifjcadon ofshrubs, including woody vines and ground covers. NewYork M. Barrows
Williams, Michael D, forester. (2007) Identifying Trees: on all -season guide to Eastern North America.
Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books.
Special Thanks to
Cornell Cooperative Extension
RPM Ecosystems
SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
for their assistance in producing this booklet
10u (ions, deigns byM eu Richards
BIA=hards C-6. Services
I
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SETBACK �f
AREA
IOne Inch
UPLAND
AREA
Black Cherry
STREAM BUFFER PLAN at PLANTING
TOMPKINS COUNTY STREAM CORRIDOR & MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
50 ft.
Black Cherry
20' ®-
°➢ ° P,
D➢
Eastern e a ➢ ,�
Redbud➢ B➢➢°
This stream plan represents a 50' setback
from top of stream bank.This is the rec-
Eastern ommended setback width for intermittent
streams and on agricultural properties.
Redbud Please note: a minimum 100' setback is
recommended for perennial streams. In
such cases the spacing and species listed
in the Upland area should be replicated
for the next 50'. Native grasses should be
planted, and not cut, between all trees
and shrubs.
. a
D
NEAR
STREAM
10�
0 10, _ o
Silver Maple
Silky Dogwood Gray Dogwood Elderberry
100 ft. STREAM BANK
i
Q
Silver Maple
10
;r.
Swamp White Oak
STREAM BUFFER PLAN -- MATURE PLANTS
SETBACK -� ppD D Dp pp
AREA pYp �p DB D
Qp,�p p ppp r Q
Black Cherry
Eastern
�f Redbud
UPLANDk,
-
AREA
�I S�
p �v, mQ •rr
Eastern
A = O
Redbud
D Q
m
NEAR
STREAM Elderberry
O
Silky Dogwood Gray Dogwood Silver Maple .
Swamp White Oak
100 ft. STREAM BANK
Zhwnk you
for your interest
in. Stream Buffer Plantings
Planting a buffer area is
one way in which you
can make a lasting
difference to the health of our
waterways. A well=planned stream
buffer can limit erosion, improve soil
and water conditions as well as
increase wildlife habitat
Many ofthe trees recommended
in this booklet can live a century or
longer. By planting and.protecling
a healthy stream buffer, you can
contribute to positive improve-,
ments in water quality and wildlife '
habitat that will last for Qenerations.!
You can make a difference that
MY have fasting significance.
I— --� I.
Tompldns County Stream Bufrer Management
r M,
Central New York Regional Planning & Development Board
126 N. Salina Street, Suite 200, Syracuse, New York 13202 • Tel. (315) 422.8276 • Fax: (315) 422-9051
Paul W. Pinckney, Chairman - David V. Bottar, Executive Director
September 19, 2019
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayors and Supervisors of Cayuga Lake Watershed Municipalities
FROM: Kathleen Bertuch, CNY RPDB Environmental Management Program Manager
RE: Municipal Water Quality Improvement Grant Project
I am writing to invite your participation in a new Cayuga Lake watershed protection project that is being
conducted under the leadership of the Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Organization with funding provided by
a NYS Department of State Local Waterfront Revitalization Program grant to the Town of Ithaca.
The objective of this effort is to advance recommendations made in the 2017 Cayuga Lake Watershed
Restoration and Protection Plan update by identifying water quality improvement projects for
implementation. An advisory committee has been established to review and rank the suggested projects
based on their feasibility and potential to improve lake and tributary water quality. The highest ranking
projects will be advanced for implementation funding.
Over the next several weeks, I will reach out to a wide variety of watershed stakeholders to solicit
information on specific water quality protection and restoration projects within four broad categories:
1. Stormwater Management and Erosion Control
2. Forestry and Silviculture Management
3. Wetland and Riparian Corridor Management
4. Regulatory Management
Ideally, a minimum of five, locally targeted project suggestions will be identified within each category.
Project recommendations should be well defined in terms of location, the issue or problem being addressed,
and the solution being proposed. Additional details, including any advance studies, documents or support
information that may have been prepared to date will be helpful but, not necessary for submitting potential
project ideas for consideration.
I encourage you to contribute to this project and to invite other elected and appointed officials and staff
members from your municipality to do the same. Over the next month, I will call you with a direct invitation
to discuss project ideas, or to obtain contact information should you wish to designate a point person on
behalf of your municipality. In-person meetings will be set up as needed to discuss project details and
compile information necessary to support a competitive and equitable assessment of all proposed projects.
Project suggestions can also be sent to me at any time at l3ertuchna,cnvrgdb.ore. I can be reached at 315-
422-8276 Ext. 1208 to discuss this project or to answer any questions you may have.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation and input.
Serving the Counties of Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga and Oswego
www.enyrpdb.org de mail@cnyrpdb.org
Is your municipality looking for funding for water quality projects?
Fill out this form!
The Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Organization is asking municipalities for water quality focused
project ideas that could be eligible for state grants. If your municipality has ideas for one or more projects that
fit any of the categories below, we would love to hear your idea and work with you on a grant application
submission in 2020.
• Wastewater Treatment Improvement
• Nonagricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control
• Land Acquisition for Source Water Protection
• Salt Storage
• Aquatic Connectivity Restoration
• Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4)
• Nonagricultural Source Water Quality Improvement Planning
• Preparing or Updating or implementing a Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (including to
mitigate future physical climate risks)
• Climate adaptation implementation projects
What type of project is being proposed? (i.e. stream restoration, local law revision, buffer installation, road
ditch seeding, etc.)
Where is it located? (as specific as possible and include municipality)
What are the issues that the project addresses? What are the current conditions and how will this project help
alleviate them?
Has there been any work done to advance or plan this project already? If so, what?
Who is the contact for more information? (Name, title, email, phone number)
Please leave completed forms tonight with Darby Kiley or email information to dkile, tombkins-co.org
Tompkins County Stream Corridor Restoration & Flood
Hazard Mitigation Program Overview (2011 Update)
Program Objectives
Both completed local Watershed Assessments and field-testing have identified the
following important objectives for the program:
1. Ensure selected projects have been developed using a watershed/systems
approach, rather than a site -by -site based approach, and consider the potential
positive and negative, and downstream and upstream, impacts of the project.
2. Enhance the use of natural, sustainable flood mitigation strategies (such as
floodplain protection and wetland restoration) over structural approaches, where
possible, to help reduce the future cost of project maintenance and repair.
3. Ensure that selected projects support the goals identified in the Flood Mitigation
Needs Assessment Reports (Watershed Assessments), Tompkins County Multi -
Jurisdictional All -Hazards Mitigation Report (as it relates to flooding), and the
Tompkins County Comprehensive Plan.
4. Use program funding to leverage other sources of project funding from local,
regional, state and federal levels.
5. Fund projects that support a long-term approach to the management of water
resources in Tompkins County.
6. Undertake projects that support attaining and sustaining high levels of surface
water and groundwater quality and support the important functions of waterways
and riparian areas, as habitats for aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
Project Prioritization
Prioritization of projects will be based on the Watershed Assessment Reports for the Six
Mile Creek, Fall Creek, Salmon Creek, Cayuga Inlet and Taughannock Creek
watersheds as well as other technically competent studies or publications. This list may
be augmented with other priority projects in the remaining watersheds of Tompkins
County.
The program is available to fund three different types of projects:
1. Stream corridor revegetation and protection
2. Stream bank stabilization which may include minor instream structures
3. Stream corridor assessments or feasibility studies for larger scale projects
where implementation will be funded through outside revenue sources
Experience has shown that projects typically range from $5,000 - $10,000.
Projects will be selected based on the list of prioritized projects within prepared
Watershed Assessments as well as other factors including:
• Total project costs
• Property owner support
• Level of benefit to residents of Tompkins County
• Ability to leverage additional funding sources
Stream Corridor Restoration & Flood Hazard Mitigation Program Overview Page 1 of 3
Program funds may also be used to complete additional Watershed Assessments
throughout Tompkins County.
A technical committee will assist with final prioritization of projects (including the
integration of priority projects for each assessed watershed into one priority project list)
and identification of supplementary sources of funding opportunities. Committee
members will include representatives of the Tompkins County Planning Department
(TCPD), Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District (TCSWCD), Tompkins
County Health Department, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and United States
Geological Survey. This committee will meet annually to help monitor and evaluate
projects funded by the TCFHMP; update the list of priority projects as needed (e.g., with
priority projects from other assessed watersheds or in response to extreme localized
weather events that may shift the list of existing priority projects); finalize project
selection; and assist with project planning.
Program Implementation
Each year, one or more projects will be identified for approval. Depending on the
availability of funding, project implementation may require supplementary funding from
outside sources. TCPD and TCSWCD will work cooperatively on program oversight
and implementation, with TCPD providing assistance with project planning and
implementation and TCSWCD providing assistance with in -field project implementation
and construction. Implementation of projects, including project construction may also
include municipalities, landowners, and other organizations, agencies, and contractors
as needed.
Opportunities will be provided for municipalities to identify projects for the technical
committee to consider in addition to projects that are already included on the list of
priority projects. This will foster local involvement in the program and ensure municipal
approval of the proposed project. In these cases, project approval will be based on the
same criteria as projects identified in the Watershed Assessments: demonstrated need,
project cost, availability of supplementary funding, consideration of downstream and
upstream impacts, and consistency with program goals. A strong case will need to be
made for a newly identified project to be added to the project list of priority projects
based on Watershed Assessments.
Stream Corridor Restoration & Flood Hazard Mitigation Program Overview Page 2 of 3
Program Timeline
The program will annually follow the timeline below:
January — March — Call to municipalities for project consideration.
May -June — Technical committee meeting/site visits to prioritize prospective projects.
July - Technical Committee project recommendations made to Planning, Development
and Environmental Quality (PDEQ) Committee. PDEQ discusses projects and moves
resolution authorizing a contract with TCSWCD and other contractors to Full
Legislature.
July — Legislature authorizes by resolution a contract with TCSWCD and other
contractors.
August — Contracts drafted, circulated and finalized with TCSWCD and other
contractors and work is initiated.
October — Monitoring visit to sites of past and current projects. Photo documentation
post implementation is conducted.
-Program Monitoring and Evaluation
Monitoring of project performance is a critical element of the Stream Corridor
Restoration & Flood Hazard Mitigation Program. Projects will be monitored regularly to
determine whether they are achieving the intended results. If at all possible metrics will
be utilized to track the success or failure of implemented projects. Each project will be
evaluated as to its likelihood for long-term effectiveness.
Every three years TCPD will work with the technical committee to submit to the
Planning, Development, and Environmental Quality Committee of the Tompkins County
Legislature a report on the effectiveness of the program and its individual projects.
Stream Corridor Restoration & Flood Hazard Mitigation Program Overview Page 3 of 3
[Name of municipality], Tompkins County, New York
Model Stream Buffer Ordinance [April 20091
1. Title
This ordinance shall be known and may be cited as the "Stream Buffer Ordinance of
the (jurisdiction)." [1f applied to zoning —This ordinance shall
amend the Zoning Ordinance of the (jurisdiction) to add Article
(section) entitled "Stream Buffer Requirements."]
2. Purpose
The purpose of this ordinance (article) is to establish requirements for creating and
maintaining buffers to protect the water quality in the streams of
the (jurisdiction), Tompkins County. This ordinance (article)
promotes the prevention of sediment, nutrient and pollutant loads from entering
streams by maintaining stream buffers of at least 100 feet from the top of stream
bank. Research has shown that this distance is the minimum necessary to filter
nutrients and pollutants to protect water quality. Although it not regulated in this
ordinance (article), the (jurisdiction) strongly encourages
landowners to maintain stream buffers of 330 feet from the top of stream bank, on
undeveloped land where feasible, in order to protect wildlife habitat. - -
3. Definitions
Buffer: land on each side of a stream that shall be left vegetated to provide riparian
corridor functions. Buffers are measured horizontally from the top of the stream bank
in a direction directly perpendicular to the bank and in the horizontal plane.
Development: the construction, reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration,
relocation, or enlargement of any structure including that intended for agricultural
use; any mining excavation, landfill, or land disturbance, including grading and
- filling. ---
Intermittent Stream: surface water drainage channels with definite bed and banks in
which there is not a permanent flow of water (and is represented as a dashed line on
United State Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 Minute Quadrangle maps).
Impervious Surface: -any paved, hardened or structural surface including, but not
limited to, buildings, dams, decks, driveways, parking areas, patios, streets,
swimming pools, tennis courts, walkways, and other non_permeable structures.
Perennial Stream: a stream that flows continuously throughout the year in a natural
or man-made channel (which is represented as a solid blue line on United States
Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 Minute Quadrangle maps).
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Ordinance Page I of 8
Steep Slope: any slope of 15% grade or greater.
Stream: the full length and width, including the bed and banks, of any watercourse,
that has a channel which periodically or continuously contains moving water. It
further has a defined bed, and has banks that serve to confine water at low to
moderate flows (and is represented as either a solid or dashed blue line on United
States Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 Minute Quadrangle maps). For the purpose of
this ordinance, constructed drainage -ways, including water bars, swales, and roadside
ditches, are not considered streams.
Stream Bank: the lateral confines of a stream which contain the normal flow of the
stream.
Parcel: a designated tract or area of land established by plat, subdivision, or as
otherwise permitted by law, to be separately owned, used, developed, or built upon.
Top of Stream Bank: the primary edge of the ordinary high water mark, or break in
slope for a watercourse, which maintains the integrity of the watercourse.
Wetlands: lands, including submerged lands, saturated by water at a frequency and
duration sufficient to support vegetation adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.
For the purpose of this ordinance, wetlands are limited to those lands that are
categorized as wetlands by either the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation (DEC) or the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) or have been
documented and mapped as part of an officially adopted community wetlands
inventory.
4. Applicability
These requirements do not supercede or replace any greater applicable buffer
requirements established under state or federal law and are applicable to all land
within - ______ ____ __(jurisdiction).__This ordinanceshallapply to all proposed
development.
5. Requirements
5.1. Protection Requirements for Perennial Streams
A vegetative buffer shall be required for all development activities that occur in
proximity to perennial streams with additional considerations for wetlands and steep
slopes. Protection shall be divided into a Riparian Buffer and a Setback Area that
protects overall water quality by limiting development in accordance with the
adjacent land's ability to filter sediment, nutrients and other pollutants. This
protection will provide stability to the stream and stream bank. The minimum total
DRAFT Tompkins County Stream Buffer Ordinance Page 2 of 8 April 2009
setback width for all perennial streams combined is 100 feet. There is no established
maximum setback width.
The (jurisdiction) shall require the delineation of any applicable
Riparian Buffer and Setback Areas on all subdivision plats, site plan applications,
special permits, special approval and variance applications, building permit
applications, and excavation or fill permit applications. This delineation shall be
subject to review and approval by the appropriate board or officer.
Prior to any soil -disturbing activity, the Riparian Buffer and Setback Area shall be
clearly delineated on site and shall be undisturbed until the project is complete.
5.1.1 Riparian Buffer: The function of the Riparian Buffer is to protect the
physical -and ecological integrity of the portion of the riparian corridor
in closest proximity to the stream through protection and enhancement
of the native vegetation. Native vegetation provides shade, leaf litter,
woody debris, erosion protection, and filtering of sediment, nutrient
and pollutant loads to the stream.
a. The Riparian Buffer will begin at the top of the stream bank and
extend a minimum of 50 feet horizontally measured in a direction
directly perpendicular to the stream bank in a horizontal plane.
Should a steep slope or wetland exist within this Buffer the entirety
of that area will be added to the measurement of the Riparian
Buffer. This full area will utilize the restrictions accorded to the
Riparian Buffer.
b. Development and use are restricted to the following, the entirety of
which may not modify or interrupt more than 10% of the entire
Riparian Buffer unless necessary for the protection of human
health, utility usage, public infrastructure, or the betterment of the
riparian corridor.
0 -Benches or seating;
• Implementation of educational and scientific research that
does not negatively impact the native vegetation;
• Flood control, stormwater management structures, and
stream bank stabilization measures approved by the
Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District,
Natural Resource Conservation Service, Army Corps of
Engineering, or NYS Department of Environmental
Conservation;
• Maintenance of roadways or impervious surfaces existing
at the time of the adoption of this provision;
• Stream crossings necessary to access the property by
driveway, transportation route, or utility line which are
DRAFT Tompkins County Stream Buffer Ordinance Page 3 of 8 April 2009
designed to minimize negative impacts to the stream and
Riparian Buffer;
• Public water supply intake or public wastewater outfall
structures;
• Public access and public recreational facilities that must be
on the water including boat ramps, docks, foot trails
leading directly to the stream, fishing platforms and
overlooks;
• Public sewer lines and/or other utility easements.
• Techniques to remove invasive species;
• Non -paved recreational trails no wider than 10 feet that
either provide access to the stream or are part of a
continuous trail system running roughly parallel to the
stream;
• Temporary use of erosion control measures such as silt
fencing;
• Limited tree cutting, forestry or vegetation management
done in accordance with a Forest Stewardship Plan
prepared by the Department of Environmental
Conservation, a forester who is certified by the Society of
American Foresters or such successor organization as is
later created, or a Cooperating Consulting Forester with the
New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation. Any harvest must furthermore be done in
accordance with the New York State Forestry Best
Management Practices for Water Quality — BMP Field
Guide. Tree cutting may not compromise the integrity of
the stream bank or negatively impact the function of the
Riparian Buffer. Tree cutting within 25 feet of the top of
stream bank is prohibited. Any such activity must retain at
a minimum 50% of the tree canopy in the Riparian Buffer
at all times.
-- 5.1.3. Setback Area: The function of the Setback Area is to filter sediment,
nutrients and pollutants in runoff and slow the rate at which runoff enters
the Riparian Buffer.
a. The Setback Area will begin at the outward edge of the Riparian
Buffer and provide a minimum width of 50 feet. Should a steep
slope or wetland exist within this Area the entirety of that area will
be added to the measurement of the Setback Area. This full area
will utilize the restrictions accorded to the Setback Area.
b. Within the Setback Area development uses are restricted to the
following:
• All development and uses permitted in the Riparian Buffer;
DRAFT Tompkins County Stream Buffer Ordinance Page 4 of 8 April 2009
Minor recreational structures and surfaces to allow passive
recreation in the Setback Area such as decks, picnic tables,
playground equipment, and small concrete slabs, the total area
of which is not to exceed 200 square feet each and in aggregate
occupy no more than 10% of the Setback Area;
Fences, provided such structures do not impede floodwaters;
Landscaping, mowing, decorative planting or improvements
that do not encroach upon or impact the integrity of the
Riparian Buffer.
5.2 Prohibited Activities
The following activities are explicitly prohibited in both the Riparian Buffer and
Setback Area.
5.2.-1. Storage or placement of any hazardous materials, before the following
setback allotment, is prohibited. All sewage systems, both drain fields and
raised systems and replacement of existing wells, must adhere to a 100 -
foot buffer from perennial streams. Any property that cannot
accommodate such a buffer requires a variance.
5.2.2. Purposeful introduction of invasive vegetative species that reduce the
persistence of local vegetation is prohibited. For a listing of invasive
vegetation to avoid, refer to the Tompkins County `Environmental
Management Council's Invasive Plants of Tompkins County" (1998, as
revised).
5.2.3. Waste storage and disposal including but not limited to disposal and
dumping of snow and ice, recyclable materials, manure, hazardous or
noxious chemicals, used automobiles or appliance structures, and other
abandoned materials.
5.2.4. No combination of allowed or exempt activities may compromise or alter
more than 10% of the total riparian buffer and setback area that lies within
-- - -
-a-tax-parcel. — — - - ---- ---
5.2.5. Public water supply wells must be greater than 200 feet from top of stream
bank; private wells are not allowed in the Riparian Buffer. Any property
whose water supply cannot accommodate such a buffer requires a
variance.
5.2.6. Mining or removal of soil, sand and gravel, and quarrying of raw
materials.
5.2.7. Dredging, deepening, widening, straightening or any such altercation of
the beds and banks of natural streams except where the New York State
DRAFT Tompkins County Stream Buffer Ordinance Page 5 of 8 April 2009
Department of Environmental Conservation has issued a permit expressly
allowing such activities on the parcel.
5.2.8. Application of herbicide, pesticides, fertilizers, or other chemicals.
5.2.9. Parking of motorized vehicles.
5.3 Protection Requirements for Intermittent Streams
For those streams classified as intermittent, only the Riparian Buffer shall apply. For
an intermittent stream the buffer will begin at the top of the stream bank and extend a
minimum of 50 feet horizontally measured in a direction directly perpendicular to the
stream bank in a horizontal plane. All provisions applicable to the Riparian Buffers
for perennial streams should apply to intermittent streams.
6. Exemptions
The following specific activities are exempt from the requirements of this ordinance.
6.1. General Exemptions
6.1.1. The ordinance shall not apply to agricultural land use activity existing as
of the effective date of this ordinance.
6.2. Grandfather Provisions
6.2.1. Work consisting of the repair or maintenance of any lawful use of land
that is approved for such use on or before the effective date of this
ordinance.
6.3. Variance Procedures
Variances from the above buffer and setback requirements may be granted only in
accordance with the following provisions. Except as provided below, the
(appeals board) of (jurisdiction) shall grant no
variance from this ordinance without conducting a public hearing on the application
for variance, and issue a notice of public meeting on such variance in a newspaper of
general circulation in the municipality at least ten working days prior to such hearing.
Such notice shall be forwarded at least ten working days in_advance-by a registered_
letter to the superintendent of highways or commissioner of public works, to the clerk
of the county legislative body, and to the county planning board, if any, and
appropriate state and federal agencies affected.
6.3.1. A variance shall be granted only upon a finding that a property's shape,
topography or other physical conditions prevents land development
unless a variance is granted, or that strict adherence to the minimal
buffer and setback requirements would create extreme hardship.
6.3.2. A variance request shall include the following information in written
documentation:
DRAFT Tompkins County Stream Buffer Ordinance Page 6 of 8 April 2009
• A to -scale site map with stream, wetlands, slopes and other natural
features locations as determined by field survey;
• Description of the topography, slopes and soil type, shape of
property, natural vegetation, and other distinguishing or prohibitive
physical characteristics of the property;
• The locations and footprint of all existing structures and other
impervious cover on a site map, with footprint for proposed
structures. This map shall include the limits of all existing and
proposed land disturbance, both inside and outside the buffer and
setback;
• The exact area of the affected buffer and setback, and nature of
proposed changes to be made to these areas shall be accurately and
clearly 'indicated. A calculation of the total area and length of the
proposed intrusion and any pre-existing intrusions shall be included;
• A stormwater management plan given the proposed changes and
intrusions;
• Documentation of supposed hardship should the buffer be
maintained;
• Proposed mitigation for the intrusion.
6.3.3 The foll6wing matters will be considered in determining whether to
issue a variance:
• The shape and physical characteristics of the property;
• The locations of all streams on and/or adjacent to the property;
• The location and extent of the proposed buffer or setback intrusion;
• Whether alternative designs are possible which require less
intrusion;
• The water -quality impacts of the proposed variance.
7. Administration and Enforcement
7.1 This ordinance shall be administered by . (Jurisdiction
Administrator, i.e. Code Enforcement Officer) or other official as designated.
7.2 A development plan shall not be approved, and therefore a building permit shall
not be issued, unless the development plan satisfies the requirements under this
ordinance. The (jurisdiction) may deny, suspend, or revoke
any development plan if the plan violates this ordinance.
7.2. The (jurisdiction) may cancel or revoke any approved
development plan or issued building permit if it fails to maintain the
requirements of this ordinance; and may take legal action to stop, revoke or
cancel the approval or the building permit.
DRAFT Tompkins County Stream Buffer Ordinance Page 7 of 8 April 2009
References Used for Model Ordinance Development
Anderson, P., Bradford, D., Frissell, C., Olson, D., & Welsh, H. (2007). Biodiversity
management approaches for stream -riparian areas: Perspectives for Pacific
Northwest headwater forests, microclimates, and amphibians. Forest Ecology
and Management, 246, pp. 81-146.
Bren, L. (2000). A case study in the use of threshold measures of hydrologic loading
in the design of stream buffer strips. Forest Ecology and Management, 132, pp.
243-257.
Enhancing Water Resources in Tompkins County: Benefits of Riparian Stream Areas
and Stream Buffers: Tompkins County Planning Department, 2004.
http://www.tompkins-
co.org/planning/Water%20Resources/FINAL%20STREAM%20D OC.pdf
Guidance for Agency Act 250 and Section 248: Comments regarding Riparian
Buffers: Vermont Agency of Natural Resources. December 9, 2005.
Markaroff, D., & Ng, R. (1995). Schemes for implementing buffer sharing in
continuous -media systems. Information systems, 20 (6), pp. 445-464.
New York State Forestry Best Management Practices for Water Quality — BMP Field
Guide - htti)://www.dec.nv.aov/docs/lands—forests—i)df/dlfbMDiauide.Ddf
Part I: A Strategic Approach to Natural Stewardship: Tompkins County Conservation
Plan. Tompkins County Planning Department. 2007.
Tompkins County Conservation Plan: Section I: A strategic approach to natural
resource stewardship. Tompkins County Planning Department, 2007.
Town of Ithaca Local Law No. (undecided) of 2006 as amendment to Chapter 270 of
Town of Itha_c_a Code. Proposed,_"Zoning, to add stream setback provisions."
Reviewed copy of 9/8/06. Town Board of the Town of Ithaca, 2007.
Town of Ulysses. Zoning Law. Accessed February 1, 2008. Ulysses, 2005.
http://www.trumansburg.ny.us/ulysses/zoning-law-08-30-05.pdf
DRAFT Tompkins County Stream Buffer Ordinance Page 8 of 8 April 2009
Deed of Conservation Easement
M
THIS CONSERVATION EASEMENT is granted this day of by
C'Grantor") to the F -0 s�W,MQ%ffi
ectively the "Grantee"), a
New York municipal corporation -having offices at
respectively.
1IJI:1�:
A. Grantor is the owner of certain real property (the "Property") consisting of „ " acres,
on j parcel located on $; Road in the Town of Tompkins County, New York,
the metes- and bounds -of which are more fully described in the legal description of the
Property, attached hereto as Exhibit A and shown on the Easement Survey Map, which is
duly filed and referenced in an attachment known as Exhibit B; and
B. Grantee is a municipal corporation having the authority pursuant to New York State
General Municipal Law §247 and Article 49, Title 3 of the New York Environmental
Conservation Law (the "ECL") to acquire conservation easements; and
C. W Creek is a tributary to Creek, which is the largest tributary to the southern
basin of Cayuga Lake, a water body that is on the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation's 303(d) list of impaired water bodies. Because of the steep
topography of the banks of = Creek, disturbance to soils in this area due to development
activity may significantly degrade water quality in the Creek and adversely affect Cayuga
Lake; and
D. Grantor has received independent legal and financial advice regarding this Easement to
the extent that Grantor has deemed necessary. The Grantor freely signs this Easement in
order to accomplish its conservation purposes.
— —FORE,consideration of -the -foregoing; _zero-- ---Dollars-($=0__) paid-by—
Grantee to Grantor, and in consideration of the mutual covenants, terms, conditions and restrictions
contained herein, the parties agree as follows:
1. Grant of Conservation Easement
Grantor hereby grants and conveys to Grantee, a Conservation Easement over the Conservation
Easement Area (the "Easement"). The Easement is an immediately vested interest in real property for
the benefit of the general public. The Easement shall run .with the land and bind the Property in
perpetuity. Grantor will neither perform, nor knowingly allow others to perform, any act on or affecting
the Property that is inconsistent with the covenants contained herein. Grantor authorizes Grantee to
enforce these covenants in the manner described below.
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 1 of 14
2. Purpose
It is the primary purpose of this Easement the "Purpose") to establish a riparian corridor (the
"Conservation Easement Area") along am Creek (the "Creek") for the following purposes
(collectively, the "Conservation Objectives"): 1) to maintain and improve the quality of water
resources associated with the Creek; 2) to perpetuate and foster the growth of healthy vegetation; 3)
to preserve habitat for Native Species, as defined in Section 4, Definitions, dependent on water
resources or forest resources; and 4) to ensure that activities and uses in the Conservation Easement
Area, as defined in Section 4, Definitions, are sustainable, i.e., they neither diminish the biological
integrity of the Conservation Easement Area nor deplete the soil, forest and other natural resources
within the Conservation Easement Area over time.
3. Implementation
The Purpose of this Easement shall be implemented by limiting and restricting the development and
use of the Property in accordance with the herein provisions. No use of the Property shall occur and
no permanent or temporary structures or other buildings or improvements shall hereafter be constructed,
placed or maintained on the Property, except as specifically provided herein. The Property shall remain
subject to all applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations.
4. Definitions
Terms not defined herein shall have the customary dictionary meaning. As used in this Easement,
the following additional definitions shall apply:
"Additional Improvements" means all buildings, structures, facilities and other improvements
within the Conservation Easement Area other than Existing Improvements.
"Applicable Law" is defined as any federal, state or local laws, statutes, codes, ordinances,
standards and regulations applicable to the Conservation Easement Area or this Conservation
Easement as amended through the applicable date of reference.
"Beneficiary or Beneficiaries" means the Persons (if any) designated as a Beneficiary.
"Conservation Easement Area" is depicted on the Easement Survey Map attached hereto as
Exhibit B. The Conservation Easement Area is -9 acres.
"Construction" means any demolition, construction, reconstruction, removal, expansion, exterior
alteration, installation or erection of temporary or permanent Improvements; and, whether or not in
connection with any of the foregoing, any excavation, dredging, mining, filling or removal of gravel,
soil, rock, sand, coal, petroleum or other minerals.
"Existing Agreements" is defined as easements and other servitudes affecting the Conservation
Easement Area as defined on the Easement Survey Map or as identified in the Baseline
Documentation Report and running to the benefit of utility service providers and other Persons that
constitute legally binding servitudes prior in right to this Conservation Easement.
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 2 of 14
"Existing Improvements" means Improvements located on, above or under the Conservation
Easement Area as identified in the Baseline Documentation Report.
"Grantor" or "owners" include the original Grantor, his or her heirs, successors and assigns, all future
owners of any legal or equitable interest in all or any portion of the Property, and any party entitled to
the possession or use of all or any part thereof, and the term "Grantee" includes the original Grantee and
its successors and assigns.
"Improvements" is defined as any additions or modifications to the property. They include
construction, erection, installation, removal or placement of buildings, structures, habitat
improvements, pedestrian trails, stream stabilization, utilities, signs, fences, walls and gates.
"Indemnified Parties" is defined as the Holder, each Beneficiary (if any) and their respective
members, directors, officers, employees and agents and the heirs, personal representatives, successors
and assigns of each of them.
"Invasive Species" is defined as a plant species that is (a) non-native to the ecosystem under
consideration; and (b) whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm
or harm to human health.
"Lien" means any mortgage, lien or other encumbrance securing the payment of money.
"Litigation Expense" means any court filing fee, court cost, arbitration fee or cost, witness fee and
each other fee and cost of investigating and defending or asserting any claim of violation or for
indemnification under this Conservation Easement including in each case, attorneys' fees, other
professionals' fees and disbursements.
"Losses" is defined as any liability, loss, claim, settlement payment, cost and expense, interest, award,
judgment, damages (including punitive damages), diminution in value, fines, fees and penalties or other
charge other than a Litigation Expense.
"Native Species" is defined as a plant indigenous to the locality under consideration.
"Person" is referred to as an individual, organization, trust or other entity.
"Review" means review and approval of Grantee under the procedure described in Section 15.
"Review Requirements" means collectively, any plans, specifications or information required for
approval of an activity, use or Construction under Applicable Law (if any) plus (a) the information
required under the Review Requirements incorporated into this Conservation Easement either as an
exhibit or as part of the Baseline Documentation Report or (b) if the information described in clause (a)
is inapplicable, unavailable or insufficient under the circumstances, the guidelines for Review of
submissions established by Holder as of the applicable date of reference.
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 3 of 14
"Top of the Bank" means the ordinary high water level for a water basin or wetland, and the break in
slope for a watercourse.
5. Reserved Rights Retained by Grantor
Notwithstanding any provisions of this Easement to the contrary, Grantor reserves all customary rights
and privileges of ownership, including the right of exclusive use, possession and enjoyment of the
Property, the rights to sell, lease, and devise the Property, as well as any other rights consistent with the
Purpose set forth in Section 2, Purpose, and not specifically prohibited or limited by this Easement.
Unless otherwise specified below, nothing in this Easement shall requires Grantor to take any action to
restore the condition of the Property after any Act of God. Nothing in this Easement relieves Grantor of
any obligation with respect to the Property or restriction on the use of the Property imposed by law.
6. Access
Nothing contained in this Easement shall give or grant to the public a right to enter upon or to use
the Property or any portion thereof where no such right existed in the public immediately prior to the
execution of this Easement.
7. Right to Use the Property for Recreational Purposes
Grantor retains the right to use the Property for otherwise lawful recreational uses, including, but not
limited to, hunting, fishing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling providing no motorized trails are
established in the Conservation Easement Area. All uses are subject to the limitations set forth in
this Easement, including Section 8, Improvements.
8. Improvements
Permitted uses of the Property vary depending on where on the Property the use occurs. The
Property is divided into two principal areas, which are depicted on the Easement Survey Map
attached hereto as Exhibit A and which include: 1) the Conservation Easement Area; and 2) the
Area of Development. This easement will only outline permitted uses within the Conservation
Easement Area.
Grantor may undertake construction, erection, installation, removal or placement of buildings,
structures, or other improvements within the Conservation Easement Area only as provided in this
Easement and set forth below. Any permission -requested or granted shall be in accordance with -
Section 15, Permission of Grantee.
8(a) Existing Agreements
A) Without permission of Grantee, Grantor may construct Improvements that they are
required to allow under Existing Agreements, as defined in Section 4, Definitions.
8(b) Other Additional Improvements
A) Without permission of Grantee, Grantor may repair, remove, enlarge and replace existing
fences.
B) Without permission of Grantee, Grantor may install signs along the perimeter of the
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 4 of 14
buffer not exceeding one square foot each.
C) Without permission of Grantee, Grantor may install habitat improvement devices such as
birdhouses and bat houses.
D) Without permission of Grantee, Grantor may develop trails of highly porous surface
including footbridges for non -motorized use.
E) Permission is required by Grantee -for construction or placement of fish passage
structures, fish habitat improvements, and stream bank stabilization measures.
F) Permission is required by Grantee for construction or placement of utility lines. Such
permission shall be granted only if there is no other reasonably feasible means to provide
utility services to the Property except via the Conservation Easement Area.
9. Subdivision
The Property is currently comprised of one tax parcel owned by the Grantor. Any subdivision,
recording of a subdivision plan, partition, or any other attempt to internally or externally divide any
-individual parcel or the Property into two or more parcels -is prohibited. Mortgages, or other non -
possessory interests in land do not constitute subdivisions for the purpose herein.
10. Forest Management
No timber harvesting will be allowed in the Conservation Easement Area unless timber removal is
necessary to protect the property or maintain and/or enhance the ecosystem and related habitat. Such
harvesting must be done with approval from the Grantee.
11. Mining and On -Site Extractive Activity
New surface exploration for, or development, storage and extraction of, minerals and hydrocarbons in
the Conservation Easement Area by any method are prohibited. Any surface mining or extractive
activity that is not expressly authorized in this section or any reclamation deemed unacceptable as
described herein shall be considered a violation of this Easement and the Grantee may seek any of the
remedies as described in Section 19.
12. Road Construction
The construction of roadways, driveways, parking lots, public roads and . all impervious surface,
coverings is prohibited in the Conservation Easement Area.
-----
The dumping, land filling, burial, application, injection, or accumulation of any kind of garbage, trash or
debris in the Conservation Easement Area is prohibited, including:
A) Storage of hazardous substances
B) Above or below ground petroleum storage facilities
C) Drain fields from on-site sewage disposal and treatment system
D) Raised septic systems
E) Solid waste landfills, junkyards or any type of fill
14: Other Activities and Uses
Except as provided in the preceding sections; Improvements, activities and uses within the Conservation
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 5 of 14
Easement Area are limited to those permitted below and provided in any case that the intensity or
frequency of the activity or use does not have the potential to materially and adversely impair
maintenance or attainment of Conservation Objectives.
A) Activities, Uses and Disturbance of Resources
1. Without permission of Grantee, Grantor may remove Invasive Species, or otherwise
disturb the soil and non -tree vegetation in the Conservation Easement Area, as long
as the actions are clearly necessary to further the Conservation Objectives outlined
in Section 2, Purpose. If it is unclear whether or not such actions are clearly
necessary, the Grantor shall consult with Grantee prior to taking such actions.
2. Without permission of Grantee, Grantor may plant Native Species, as long as it is
not planted as a monoculture.
3. Permission is required by Grantee for stream bank stabilization, dam removal and
other habitat improvement activities, as long as Improvements necessary to allow
such use are also permitted, as described in the Easement.
4. Permission is required by Grantee for removal and disturbance of soil, rock and
vegetative resources to the extent reasonably necessary to accommodate
Construction of and maintain access to Improvements within the Conservation
Easement Area with restoration as soon as reasonably feasible by replanting with
Native Species.
5. Without permission of Grantee, Grantor may use vehicles in connection with an
activity permitted or otherwise in the case of emergency.
15. Permission of Grantee
Where Grantor is required to obtain Grantee's permission for a proposed action hereunder, said
permission shall be requested in writing. Grantor's written request for permission shall include any
information or documentation that is relevant to the request and where applicable shall include
building plans identifying the use, footprint and total square footage of any proposed structures, and
related survey information if survey information is available. A request that does not include all
pertinent information or documentation that is relevant to the request shall not be considered a
complete written request and the Grantee are under no obligation to respond within 45 days, as
described below. Grantee shall, however, be required to respond to Grantor's incomplete written
request with a request for additional information within twenty (20) days of receipt of an incomplete
written request.
Grantee shall grant permission unless it determines that such action would violate the Purpose of this
Easement.
Once Grantor have provided Grantee with a complete written request, Grantee shall respond in writing
granting or denying permission within forty-five (45) days of receipt of such request.
Grantee shall not be held liable for any losses incurred by Grantor due to Grantee's failure to act
within any of the above time periods. Grantee shall not be liable for damages for any failure to grant
permission to Grantor. All requests and letters shall be transmitted in accordance with Section 28,
Notices.
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 6 of 14 -
16. Ongoing Responsibilities of Grantor and Grantee
Other than as specified herein, this Easement is not intended to impose any legal or other responsibility
on Grantee, or in any way to affect any obligations of Grantor as owner of the Property, including, but
not limited to, the following:
16(a) Taxes
Grantor shall be solely responsible for payment of all taxes and assessments levied against the
Property. If the Grantor becomes delinquent in payment of taxes the Grantee, at its option,
shall have the right to take such actions as may be necessary to protect the Grantee's interest
in the Property and to assure the continued enforceability of this instrument and to recover
from Grantor all of its costs including reasonable attorney's fees and costs. If, as a result of
such actions, Grantee pays any taxes or assessments on Grantor's interest in the Property,
Grantor will reimburse Grantee within forty-five (45) days for the same.
16(b) Upkeep and Maintenance
Grantor shall be solely responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the Property, to the extent
required by law and this Easement. Grantee shall have no obligation for the upkeep or
maintenance of the Property.
16(c) Liability and Indemnification
Grantor agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Grantee from any and all costs, claims or
liability, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys fees arising from any personal
injury, accidents, negligence or damage relating to the Property, or any claim thereof, unless
due to the negligence or intentional acts of Grantee or its agents, in which case liability shall
be apportioned accordingly.
17. Baseline Documentation
By its execution of this Easement, Grantee acknowledges that the present uses of the Property are
permitted by this Easement. In order to document the present condition of the Property (including
both natural and man-made features) so as to facilitate future monitoring and enforcement of this
Easement, a Baseline Documentation Report, including maps and photographs, describing such
condition at the date hereof, has been prepared and subscribed by both parties, and a copy thereof
has -been -delivered -to -Grantor -and-a-copy-will-be-kept-on--file-with--Grantee.--The Baseline ----
Documentation Report shall remain on record. and is available for inspection at the O
O vat. The Report maybe used by Grantee or the Grantor to establish that a change in the use or
character of the Property has occurred, but its existence shall not preclude the use by Grantee or the
Grantor of other evidence to establish the condition of the Property as of the date of this Easement.
18. Right of Inspection
Grantee shall have the right to enter upon the Property upon forty-eight (48) hours advance notice to
Grantor for the purpose of inspecting for compliance with the terms of this Easement. Such inspection
shall be conducted between the hours of 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. on a weekday that is not a legal holiday
recognized by the State of New York or at a date and time agreeable to the Grantee and Grantor. In
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 7 of 14
the instance of a violation or suspected violation of the terms of this Easement which has caused or
threatens to cause irreparable harm to any of the agricultural or other resources this Easement is
designed to protect, no such advance notice is required.
19. Enforcement
If Grantee determines that a violation of this Easement has occurred, Grantee shall so notify Grantor,
giving Grantor thirty (30) days to cure the violation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where Grantee in
Grantee's sole discretion determines that an ongoing or threatened violation could irreversibly diminish
or impair the Purpose of this Easement, Grantee may bring an action to enjoin the violation, ex parte if
necessary, through temporary or permanent injunction.
In addition to injunctive relief, Grantee shall be entitled to seek the following remedies in the event of a
violation:
(a) money damages, including damages for the loss of the resources protected under the Purpose
of this Easement; and
(b) restoration of the Property to its condition existing prior to such violation.
Said remedies shall be cumulative and shall be in addition to all remedies now or hereafter existing
at law or in equity. In any case where a court finds that a violation has occurred, Grantor shall
reimburse Grantee for all its expenses incurred in stopping and correcting the violation, including,
but not limited to, reasonable attorney's fees and costs. The failure of Grantee to discover a
violation or to take immediate legal action shall not bar Grantee from doing so at a later time. In any
case where a court finds no violation has occurred, each party shall bear its own costs.
20. Transfer of Easement
Both Grantee, acting together, or any sole remaining Grantee which has acquired the rights of another
Grantee, shall have the right to transfer this Easement to any remaining co -grantee or any private non-
governmental organization or public agency that, at the time of transfer is a "qualified organization"
under Section 170(h) of the Internal Revenue Code, provided the transferee expressly agrees to assume
the responsibility imposed on Grantee by this Easement. If Grantee ever ceases to exist or qualify under
Section 170(h) of the Internal Revenue Code, or applicable state law, a court of competent jurisdiction
shall transfer this Easement to another qualified organization having similar purposes that agrees to
assume the Grantee's responsibilities imposed -by this Easement. -Grantor will be notified -in writing in
advance of such transfer.
21. Transfer of Property
Any subsequent conveyance, including, without limitation, transfer, lease or mortgage of the
Property, shall be subject to this Easement, and any deed or other instrument evidencing or effecting
such conveyance shall contain language substantially as follows: "This {conveyance, lease,
mortgage, easement, etc. } is subject to a Conservation Easement which runs with the land and which
was granted to Tompkins County by instrument dated , and recorded in the
office of the, Clerk of Tompkins County on as Instrument Number
" Grantor shall notify Grantee in writing at least thirty (3 0) days before conveying the
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 8 of 14
Property, or any part thereof or interest therein, to any third parry. The failure to notify Grantee or to
include said language in any deed or instrument shall not, however, affect the validity or
applicability of this Easement to the Property or limit its enforceability in any way.
22. Amendment of Easement
This Easement may be amended only with the written consent of Grantee and Grantor. Any such
amendment shall be consistent with the Purpose of this Easement. Any such amendment shall be duly
recorded.
24. Interpretation
This Easement shall be interpreted under the laws of the State of New York, or federal law, as
appropriate. Notwithstanding any general rule of construction to the contrary, this Easement shall be
liberally construed to effectuate the Purpose of this Easement. If any provision in this Easement is found
to be ambiguous, an interpretation consistent with the Purpose of this Easement that would render the
provision valid shall be favored over any interpretation that would render the provision invalid.
25. Successors
Every provision of this Easement that applies to Grantor or Grantee shall also apply to their respective
agents, heirs, survivors, executors, administrators, assigns, and other successors in interest, and shall
continue as a servitude running in perpetuity with the Property.
26. Severability
Invalidity of any of the covenants, terms or conditions of this Easement, or any part thereof, by court
order or judgment shall in no way affect the validity of any of the other provisions hereof which shall
remain in full force and effect.
27. Notices
Any notice required or desired to be given under this Easement shall be in writing.and shall be sent
by (i) personal delivery, (ii) via U.S. registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, or (iii) via
Federal Express or other private courier of national reputation providing. written evidence of
delivery. Notice shall be deemed given upon receipt in the case of personal delivery, and upon
delivery by the U.S. Postal Service or private courier. All notices shall be properly addressed as
follows: (a) if to Grantee: ;x:: ; (b) if to Grantor: ;. ; (c) if to any subsequent owner, at
—the-address-ofhe-Property; Anypartycan-change the -address-to-whichnotices-are-to be-sentto him;-- -
her or it by duly giving notice pursuant to this Section.
28. Title
The Grantor covenants that the Grantor has good right to grant and convey the aforesaid Easement;
that the Property is free and clear of any and all mortgages not subordinated to this Easement, and
that the Grantee shall have the use of and enjoyment of the benefits derived from and existing out of
the aforesaid Easement.
29. Subsequent Liens on Property
No provisions of this Easement should be construed as impairing the ability of Grantor to use this
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 9 of 14
Property, or a portion thereof encompassing entire separately deeded parcels, as collateral for a
subsequent borrowing.
30. Subsequent Encumbrances
The grant of any easements or use restrictions is prohibited, except with the permission of Grantee.
31. Grantor's Environmental Warranty
Nothing in this Easement shall be construed as giving rise to any right or ability in Grantee to
exercise physical or management control over the day-to-day operations of the Property, or any of
Grantor's activities on the Property.
Grantor warrants that he or she has no actual knowledge of a release or threatened release of hazardous
substances or wastes on the Property, as such substances and wastes are defined by applicable law, and
hereby promises to indemnify Grantee, and hold Grantee harmless from, any and all loss, cost, claim
(without regard to its merit), liability or expense (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from or
with respect to any release of hazardous waste or violation of environmental laws.
If at any time after the effective date of this Easement there occurs a release in, on, or about the property
of any substance now or hereafter defined, listed, or otherwise classified pursuant to any federal, state, or
local law, regulation, or requirement as hazardous, toxic, polluting, or otherwise contaminating to the
air, water, or soil, or in any way harmful or threatening to human health or the environment, Grantor
agree to take all steps that may be required under federal, state, or local law necessary to assure its
containment and remediation, including any cleanup.
32. Duration of Easement
Except as expressly otherwise provided herein, this Easement shall be of perpetual duration, and no
merger of title, estate or interest shall be deemed effected by any previous, contemporaneous, or
subsequent deed, grant, or assignment of an interest or estate in the Property, or any portion thereof, to
Grantee, it being the express intent of the parties that this Easement not be extinguished by, or merged
into, any other interest or estate in the Property now or hereafter held by Grantee. .
33. Entire Agreement
This instrumentsetsforth the entire agreement of the parties with respect to -the -Easement and
supersedes all prior discussions, negotiations, understandings and agreements relating to the
Easement, all of which are merged herein. No alteration or variation of this instrument shall be valid
or binding unless contained in an amendment that complies with Section 22, Amendment of
Easement.
34. Waiver
No waiver by Grantee of any default, or breach hereunder, whether intentional or not, shall be deemed to
extend to any prior or subsequent default or breach hereunder or affect in any way any rights arising by
virtue of any prior or subsequent such occurrence. No waiver shall be binding unless executed in
writing by Grantee.
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 10 of 14
35. Binding Effect
The provisions of this Easement shall run with the Property in perpetuity and shall bind and be
enforceable against the Grantor and all future owners and any party entitled to possess or use the
Property or any portion thereof while such party is the owner or entitled to possession or use thereof.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon any transfer of title, the transferor shall, with respect to the
Property transferred cease being a Grantor or owners with respect to such Property for purposes of
this Easement and shall, with respect to the Property transferred, have no further responsibility,
rights or liability hereunder for acts done or conditions arising thereafter on or with respect to such
Property, but the transferor shall remain liable for earlier acts and conditions done or occurring
during the period of their ownership or conduct.
36. Captions
The captions in this instrument have been inserted solely for convenience of reference and are not a
part of this instrument and shall have no effect -upon construction or interpretation.
IN WITNESS W-flEREOF, Grantor and Grantee, intending to be legally bound hereby, have hereunto
set their hands on the date first above written.
Grantor:
Grantee:_.:L
State of New York )
County of ), ss:
On the day of in the year 200_ before me, the undersigned, personally
appeared .1 �_ '�.: ,, personally known to me or proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be
the individual (s)'whose name (s) is (are) subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me
that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their capacity (ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on
the instrument, the individual(s), or the person upon behalf of which the individual(s) acted, executed the
instrument.
Signature/office of individual taking acknowledgement
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 11 of 14
State of New York )
County of ), ss:
On the day of in the year 200_ before me, the undersigned, personally
i3 a
appeared _PI ;A �. � t , personally known tome or proved tome on the basis of satisfactory evidence
to be the individual (s) whose name (s) is (are) subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to
me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their capacity (ies), and that by his/her/their
signature(s) on the instrument, the individual(s), or the person upon behalf of which the individual(s)
acted, executed the instrument.
Signature/office of individual taking acknowledgement
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 12 of] 4
Exhibit A
Legal Description of Property
Tompkins County Model Stream Buffer Easement Page 13 of 14
Exhibit B
Easement Survey Map
The Easement Survey Map, dated �S, and revised , and bearing the seal of ,`04' , Licensed
Land Surveyor working for UR:TNCiC:O;:>,.I'�OOMPY 'L >.Di is to be filed
with the Tompkins County Clerk's Office at 320 North Tioga Street, concurrently with the
recording of this easement.
Tompkins County Model Strewn Buffer Easement Page 14 of 14
RIPARIAN BUFFER PROTECTION AGREEMENT
THIS RIPARIAN BUFFER PROTECTION AGREEMENT dated as of is by and
between XXXXX (the "undersigned Owners") and Tompkins County ("County").
Background
Property
The undersigned Owners are the sole owners in fee simple of the Property as legally described in the deed
to them recorded in the Tompkins County Clerk's Office at 320 N. Tioga Street, Ithaca, NY 14850. The
Property is also described as:
Street Address:
Municipality:
County:
Tax Parcel Number:
Purpose
Conservation Objectives
The undersigned Owners and County are entering into this Riparian Property to establish a riparian corridor
(the "Riparian Corridor") along XXXX Creek (the "Creek") for the following purposes (collectively, the
"Conservation Objectives"): 1) to maintain and improve the quality of water resources associated with the
Creek; 2) to support flood mitigation investments; 3) to perpetuate and foster the growth of healthy
vegetation; 4) to preserve habitat for Native Species; and 5) to ensure that activities and uses in the
Riparian Buffer are sustainable, i.e., they neither diminish the biological integrity of the Riparian Buffer
nor deplete the soil, forest and other natural resources within the Riparian Buffer over time.
Riparian Buffer Area
The Riparian Buffer consists of the strips of land stretching 100 (ft) feet landward from the Top of the
Banks of the Creek, together with the banks and bed of the Creek, to the extent that the strips, banks and
bed are contained within the Property. A line defining the Riparian Buffer will be discretely marked on the
property.
Baseline Documentation
The Baseline Documentation Report of the buffer, to be kept on file at the Tompkins County Planning
Department, describes the conservation values of the Riparian Buffer identified in the Conservation
Objectives, describes existing conditions of the Riparian Buffer including Existing Improvements as of the
Agreement Date, and includes, among other information, photographs depicting the Riparian Buffer.
Allowed Activities Within Riparian Buffer Area
The following activities are considered allowed uses within the established Riparian Buffer:
(1) Benches, seating, and small signage
(2) Flood control structures and stream bank stabilization measures approved by Tompkins
County Soil and Water Conservation District and the County
(3) Public utility transmission lines
(4) Educational and scientific research
(5) Footpaths not exceeding loft in width
(6) Conservation uses including the restoration of natural vegetation, wildlife sanctuaries, nature
preserves, and forest preserves
Tompkins County Riparian Buffer Protection Agreement Page l of 3
Prohibited Activities Within Riparian Buffer Area
The following activities are considered prohibited activities within the established Riparian Buffer:
(1) Construction of new buildings or structures
(2) Storage or placement of any water quality hazardous materials including:
- Storage of hazardous substances
- Above or below ground petroleum storage facilities
- Drain fields from on-site sewage disposal and treatment system
- Raised septic systems
- Solid waste landfills, junkyards or any type of fill
- Confined animal feedlot operations
- Subsurface discharges from a wastewater treatment plant
- Land application of bio -solids
(3) Clear -cutting of trees and other vegetation and removal or disturbance of vegetation such that
soil quality will be compromised and increased erosion may ensue
(4) Insertion of roadways or driveways and all impervious surface coverings
(5) Waste storage and disposal including but not limited to the disposal of and dumping of snow
and ice, fill, the burning of trash (prohibited throughout property) recyclable materials, trash
generatives, used automobiles or appliance structures, and other abandoned materials.
(6) Mining or on-site extractive activity of any type
Enforcement
If the County determines that a violation of this Agreement has occurred they shall notify the Owners,
giving Owners thirty (30) days to cure the violation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where the County in
the County's sole discretion determines that an ongoing or threatened violation could irreversibly diminish
or impair the Riparian Buffer. The County may bring an action to enjoin the violation, ex parte if necessary,
through temporary or permanent injunction.
In addition to injunctive relief, the County shall be entitled to seek the following remedies in the event of a
violation:
(a) money damages, including damages for the loss of the resources protected under the Purpose of this
Agreement; and
(b) restoration of the Property to its condition existing prior to such violation.
Said remedies shall be cumulative and shall be in addition to all remedies now or hereafter existing at law
or in equity. In any case where a court finds that a violation has occurred, Owners shall reimburse the
County for all its expenses incurred in stopping and correcting the violation, including, but not limited to,
reasonable attorney's fees and costs. The failure of the County to discover a violation or to take immediate
legal action shall not bar the County from doing so at a later time. In any case where a court finds no
violation has occurred, each party shall bear its own costs.
Binding Effect
The provisions of this Agreement shall run with the Property in perpetuity and shall bind and be
enforceable against the Owner and all future owners and any party entitled to possess or use the Property or
any portion thereof while such party is the owner or entitled to possession or use thereof. Notwithstanding
the foregoing, upon any transfer of title, the transferor shall, with respect to the Property transferred cease
being a Owner or owners with respect to such Property for purposes of this Agreement and shall, with
respect to the Property transferred, have no further responsibility, rights or liability hereunder for acts done
or conditions arising thereafter on or with respect to such Property, but the transferor shall remain liable for
earlier acts and conditions done or occurring during the period of their ownership or conduct.
Tompkins County Riparian Buffer Protection Agreement Page 2 of 3
INTENDING TO BE LEGALLY BOUND, the undersigned Owner or Owners and County, by their
respective duly authorized representatives, have signed and delivered this Agreement as of the noted Date.
Owner Date
Tompkins County Date
State of New York )
County of ), ss:
On the day of in the year 200_ before me, the undersigned, personally appeared
personally known to me or proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the
individual (s) whose name (s) is (are) subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that
he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their capacity (ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the
instrument, the individual(s), or the person upon behalf of which the individual(s) acted, executed the
instrument.
Signature/office of individual taking acknowledgement
Tompkins County Riparian Buffer Protection Agreement Page 3 of 3
To: Involved Agencies:
Planning Department 93 East Main Street
Dryden, NY 13053
T 607 844-8888 ext. 216
F 607 844-8008
joy@dryden.ny.us
http://dryden.ny.us/planning-
department
Michael P. Uitvlugt, Biologist, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Branch
Matthew Marko, Regional Director, NYS Department, of Environmental Conservation Region 7
Julie Baldwin, Planning Group, NYS Department of Transportation, Region 3
Katherine Borgella, Commissioner, Tompkins County Department of Planning & Sustainability
Elizabeth Cameron, Director of Environmental Health, Tompkins County Health Department
Rick Young, Highway/Department of Public Works Superintendent, Town of Dryden
From: David Sprout, Code Enforcement Officer
Date: November 15, 2019
Re: Trinitas Ventures, LLC's Multi -family Housing Development Project at 959 Dryden Road
REQUEST FOR LEAD AGENCY STATUS
The Town of Dryden has received an application for Special Use Permit Approval and Site Plan Approval for
Trinitas Ventures, LLC's proposed 219 unit multi -housing project at 959 Dryden Road pursuant to Articles
XI and XII of the Dryden Zoning Law. The proposal involves construction of 17 residential buildings bordering on
Dryden and Mount Pleasant Roads. The project includes construction of a mix of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom dwelling units
within 17 townhouse style buildings, a clubhouse and recreational amenities, a 2200 sf retail space, a parking garage
which combined with surface parking provides a total of 428 parking spaces, and stormwater facilities.
The preliminary determination is that this is a Type I Action under the State Environmental Quality Review
Act, 6 NYCRR Part 617 (SEQRA). In an effort to coordinate review under SEQRA, your Board or Agency
has been identified as having "approval" authority over some aspects of this project. Under Dryden Zoning
Law these applications are reviewed and decided by the Dryden Town Board. It is the intent of the Town of
Dryden to act as Lead Agency in this review.
Enclosed is a Full Environmental Assessment Form (Full EAF), Part 1, along with supplemental project
information provided by the applicant. These are the minimum materials required under SEQRA for lead
agency coordination. All other application material may be viewed on the Town of Dryden's website:
www.drvden.nv.us
It is respectfully requested that you advise within thirty (30) days of your consent to the Town of Dryden
Town Board serving as the Lead Agency for the project. The Town Board will undertake Lead Agency status
at that time in the event that you do not respond within thirty (30) days, that deadline being December 18,
2019.
If you have any questions regarding the above manner, please contact Ray Burger, Director of Planning, at
(607) 844-8888 x213, or by email at rbur�:er0Wrvden.nv.us
Enc.
Full EAF Part 1
Site Plan
Cc:
Tiffany Ho, Chief, Varna Volunteer Fire Company
Michael Hall, Chief, Neptune Hose Company
Teri Phelps, NYS DEC Region 7 Cortland Office
Jeffrey Smith, Highway Director, Tompkins County Highway Department
Steve Riddle, General Manager, Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission
Mark Bush, Asst. Resident Engineer, Cortland/Tompkins Residency, Region 3, NYS Department
of Transportation
Joseph Turcotte, General Manager, Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit
Fernando DeAragon, Executive Director, Ithaca -Tompkins County Transportation Council
Jeremy Thomas, Senior Director, Cornell University Real Estate
Peter Davies, Chairman, Town of Dryden Conservation Board
John Kiefer, Chairman, Town of Dryden Planning Board
Bob Beck, Chairman, Rail Trail Task Force
Jeff Fearn, Chairman, Town of Dryden Zoning Board of Appeals
Heather McDaniel, Administrative Director, Tompkins County IDA
Page 2
Full Environmental Assessment Form
Part 1- Project and Setting
Instructions for Completing Part 1
Part 1 is to be completed by the applicant or project sponsor. Responses become part of the application for approval or funding,
are subject to public review, and may be subject to further verification.
Complete Part 1 based on information currently available. If additional research or investigation would be needed to fully respond to
any item, please answer as thoroughly as possible based on current information; indicate whether missing information does not exist,
or is not reasonably available to the sponsor; and, when possible, generally describe work or studies which would be necessary to
update or fully develop that information.
Applicants/sponsors must complete all items in Sections A & B. In Sections C, D & E, most items contain an initial question that
must be answered either "Yes" or "No". If the answer to the initial question is "Yes", complete the sub -questions that follow. If the
answer to the initial question is "No", proceed to the next question. Section F allows the project sponsor to identify and attach any
additional information. Section G requires the name and signature of the applicant or project sponsor to verify that the information
contained in Part lis accurate and complete.
A. Project and Applicant/Sponsor Information.
Name of Action or Project:
Townhomes at Dryden
Project Location (describe, and attach a general location map):
Rte. 366 Dryden Road, Ithaca, NY 14850
Brief Description of Proposed Action (include purpose or need):
The project includes construction of a mix of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom multifamily apartment units within 17 townhouse style buildings along with
recreational amenities and a private clubhouse. A +/- 2,200 sf retail component, which could include a coffee shop (or similar shop) is also proposed.
Max. height, as defined by the Town of Dryden Zoning Ordinance, will be 40 ft. A total of 428 parking spaces are to be provided via surface spaces
and structured spaces within a parking garage to be used for the residence, retail patrons, community garden and the Varna Trail. The project will
have access both to Mt. Pleasant and to Dryden Roads and vehicle circulation through the site is sufficient to accommodate life safety equipment such
as fire trucks and ambulances. Two surface SWM facilities and one underground SMM Vault will provide quality and quantity controls for
stormwater. Utilities serving the site include storm, water, sanitary sewer, electric, phone and cable and no new overhead lines are proposed. There
are also off-site infrastructure improvements associated with this project; they include: adding a PRV station next to the Monkey Run Pump station,
upsize 2,680 LF of waterline pipe from 8" to 12" along NYS Rt. 366 from the Apple Orchard PRV to Game Farm Rd., upsize 1,440 LF of waterline
pipe from 8" to 12" along NYS Rt. 366 from Game Fann Rd. to Forest Home Dr., upsize 2,050 LF of waterline pipe from 8" to 12" along NYS Rt.
366 from Forest Home Dr. to the Site, upsize the pumps and generator at the Varna Sanitary Sewer Pump Station, and upsize 2,150 LF of sanitary
sewer pipe from 8" to 10" along NYS Rt. 366 from Forest Home Dr. to the Site.
Name of Applicant/Sponsor: I Telephone: (317) 507-7142
Trinitas Ventures, LLC I E -Mail:
khansen@trinitas.ventures.com
Address: 201 Main Street, Suite 1000
City/PO: Lafayette
Project Contact (if not same as sponsor; give name and title/role):
HUNT Engineers, Architects, Land Surveyors, & Landscape Architects, DPC
Address:
4 Commercial Street, Suite 300
City/PO:
Rochester
Property Owner (if not same as sponsor):
Address:
City/PO:
Page 1 of 13
State: IN Zip Code: 47901
Telephone: (585) 327-7950
E -Mail: keithm@hunt-eas.com
State: Zip Code:
NY 14614
Telephone:
E -Mail:
State: I Zip Code:
FEAF 2019
B. Government Approvals
B. Government Approvals, Funding, or Sponsorship. ("Funding" includes grants, loans, tax relief, and any other forms of financial
assistance.)
Government Entity
a. City Counsel, Town Board, mYes❑No
or Village Board of Trustees
b. City, Town or Village ❑YesmNo
Planning Board or Commission
c. City, Town or mYes❑No
Village Zoning Board of Appeals
d. Other local agencies ❑YesmNo
If Yes: Identify Agency and Approval(s)
Required
Town Board, Special Use Permit, Site Plan
ZBA: Buffering setback variance
e. County agencies mYes❑No County Planning Board
f. Regional agencies ❑YesmNo
g. State agencies mYes❑No NYSDEC: SPDES, Water Qua]. Cert., dam permit,
DOH: water and sewer. DOT: Utility/driveway
h. Federal agencies mYes❑No USACE: Disturbance to water of the US
i. Coastal Resources.
i. Is the project site within a Coastal Area, or the waterfront area of a Designated Inland Waterway?
Application Date
(Actual or projected)
❑YesmNo
ii. Is the project site located in a community with an approved Local Waterfront Revitalization Program? ❑ YesmNo
iii. Is the project site within a Coastal Erosion Hazard Area? ❑ YesmNo
C. Planning and Zoning
C.1. Planning and zoning actions.
Will administrative or legislative adoption, or amendment of a plan, local law, ordinance, rule or regulation be the
❑YesmNo
only approval(s) which must be granted to enable the proposed action to proceed?
• If Yes, complete sections C, F and G.
• If No, proceed to question C.2 and complete all remaining sections and questions in Part 1
C.2. Adopted land use plans.
a. Do any municipally- adopted (city, town, village or county) comprehensive land use plan(s) include the site
®Yes❑No
where the proposed action would be located?
If Yes, does the comprehensive plan include specific recommendations for the site where the proposed action
mYes❑No
would be located?
b. Is the site of the proposed action within any local or regional special planning district (for example: Greenway;
❑YesmNo
Brownfield Opportunity Area (BOA); designated State or Federal heritage area; watershed management plan;
or other?)
If Yes, identify the plan(s):
c. Is the proposed action located wholly or partially within an area listed in an adopted municipal open space plan, ❑YesmNo
or an adopted municipal farmland protection plan?
If Yes, identify the plan(s):
("' NYSDOT-driveway and utility connection permits, NYSDEC SPDES permit, MS4 permit, NYSDEC sewer extension, NYSDOH water service
approval.)
Page 2 of 13
C.3. Zoning
a. Is the site of the proposed action located in a municipality with an adopted zoning law or ordinance. ®Yes❑No
If Yes, what is the zoning classification(s) including any applicable overlay district?
Varna Hamlet Residential District, Varna Hamlet Mixed Use District and Varna Hamlet Traditional District
b. Is the use permitted or allowed by'a special or conditional use permit? ® Yes❑ No
c. Is a zoning change requested as part of the proposed action? ®Yes❑No
If Yes,
L What is the proposed new zoning for the site? An elimination of the 15' Setback from the buffer per Section 909.8.3 of the Zoning Ordinance.
CA. Existing community services.
a. In what school district is the project site located? Ithaca Central School District
b. What police or other public protection forces serve the project site?
NYS Police and Tompkins Countv Sheriff
c. Which fire protection and emergency medical services serve the project site?
Drvden Ambulance, Drvden Fire Protection
d. What parks serve the project site?
Cornell Botanic Gardens. Monkev Run Natural Area. Ellis Hollow Nature Preserve and Drvden Rail Trail
D. Project Details
D.I. Proposed and Potential Development
a. What is the general nature of the proposed action (e.g., residential, industrial, commercial, recreational; if mixed, include all
components)? Multi -family residential with a retail component, clubhouse, surface parking and parking garage.
b. a. Total acreage of the site of the proposed action? 16.7 acres
b. Total acreage to be physically disturbed? 13.7 acres
c. Total acreage (project site and any contiguous properties) owned
or controlled by the applicant or project sponsor? 16.7 acres
c. Is the proposed action an expansion of an existing project or use? ❑ Yes® No
L If Yes, what is the approximate percentage of the proposed expansion and identify the units (e.g., acres, miles, housing units,
square feet)? % Units:
d. Is the proposed action a subdivision, or does it include a subdivision? ❑Yes ®No
If Yes,
L Purpose or type of subdivision? (e.g., residential, industrial, commercial; if mixed, specify types)
ii. Is a cluster/conservation layout proposed? ❑Yes []No,
iii. Number of lots proposed?
iv. Minimum and maximum proposed lot sizes? Minimum Maximum
e. Will the proposed action be constructed in multiple phases? ❑ Yes®No
i. If No, anticipated period of construction: 17 months
ii. If Yes:
• Total number of phases anticipated
• Anticipated commencement date of phase 1 (including demolition) month year
• Anticipated completion date of final phase month year
• Generally describe connections or relationships among phases, including any contingencies where progress of one phase may
determine timing or duration of future phases:
Page 3 of 13
f. Does the project include new residential uses? ®Yes❑No
If Yes, show numbers of units proposed.
One Family Two Family Three Family Multiple Family four or more
Initial Phase 219. "(66 1 -bedroom units, 33 2-
bedroom units, 60 3 -
At completion bedroom units, and 60 4 -
of all phases 219' bedroom units)
g. Does the proposed action include new non-residential construction (including expansions)? ®Yes❑No
If Yes,
i. Total number of structures 3' Retail, pool and clubhouse and maintenance building.
fl. Dimensions (in feet) of largest proposed structure: 40 height; 151 width; and 109 length
iii. Approximate extent of building space to be heated or cooled: 20,433 sf (all three buildings) square feet
It. Does the proposed action include construction or other activities that will result in the impoundment of any ®Yes❑No
liquids, such as creation of a water supply, reservoir, pond, lake, waste lagoon or other storage?
If Yes,
L Purpose of the impoundment: stormwater detention system and infiltration basin
ii. If a water impoundment, the principal source of the water: ❑ Ground water ® Surface water streams ❑Other specify:
stormwater runoff from the project site
iii. If other than water, identify the type of impounded/contained liquids and their source.
iv. Approximate size of the proposed impoundment. Volume: 2 million gallons; surface area: 08 acres
v. Dimensions of the proposed dam or impounding structure: 15' height; 220' length
vi. Construction method/materials for the proposed dam or impounding structure (e.g., earth fill, rock, wood, concrete):
compacted eathern fill
D.2. Project Operations
a. Does the proposed action include any excavation, mining, or dredging, during construction, operations, or both? ®Yes❑No
(Not including general site preparation, grading or installation of utilities or foundations where all excavated
materials will remain onsite)
If Yes:
i . What is the purpose of the excavation or dredging? Construction of buildings, parking lots, utilities and SWM Facilities
ii. How much material (including rock, earth, sediments, etc.) is proposed to be removed from the site?
• Volume (specify tons or cubic yards): +/- 32,000 cubic yards
• Over what duration of time? 4-6 months
iii. Describe nature and characteristics of materials to be excavated or dredged, and plans to use, manage or dispose of them.
Top soil, structural and non-structural fill will be removed from the site and used at other construction sites or NYSDEC approved fill locations.
iv. Will there be onsite dewatering or processing of excavated materials? ®Yes❑No
If yes, describe. Existing pond to be drained and reconstructed to current DEC standards.
v. What is the total area to be dredged or excavated? +/ 13.5 acres
vi. What is the maximum area to be worked at any one time? 7-8 acres
vii. What would be the maximum depth of excavation or dredging? 41 feet
viii. Will the excavation require blasting? ❑Yes®No
ix. Summarize site reclamation goals and plan:
Re -use as much dirt on site. Lica non-structural fill in open spaces and take structural fill and 000d unused to soil off-site to be used at other construction
sites. The structural fill and good top soil is more valuable to other construction sites so the non-structural fill will try to be used on-site as much as
possible.
b. Would the proposed action cause or result in alteration of, increase or decrease in size of, or encroachment ®Yes❑No
into any existing wetland, waterbody, shoreline, beach or adjacent area?
If Yes:
L Identify the wetland or waterbody which would be affected (by name, water index number, wetland map number or geographic
description): USACOE- Jurisdictional Wetlands of approximately +/- 0.50 Acres PEM cover tvoe. The wetland is located within the southern portion
of the project site and is unnamed. Streams A and B will have approximately +/- 0.03 acres and +/- 0.01 acres of disturbance,
respectively. However, disturbance to Stream A will De reduced Dy using an open bottom culvert to Keep the wetlands intact.
Page 4 of 13
ii, Describe how the proposed action would affect that waterbody or wetland, e.g. excavation, fill, placement of structures, or
alteration of channels, banks and shorelines. Indicate extent of activities, alterations and additions in square feet or acres:
Excavation. fill and placement of drainaae structures. Existing _bond will be rearaded and dam will likely be reconstructed. Proposed
road, parking and retaining walls also to be constructed. Area of disturbance within waterbodv/wetland to be approximately
+/- 20,800 sq. ft. or 0.52 Ac.
iii. Will the proposed action cause or result in disturbance to bottom sediments?
mYes❑No
If Yes, describe: bottom of existing pond will be excavated and culverts installed elsewhere
iv. Will the proposed action cause or result in the destruction or removal of aquatic vegetation?
m Yes❑No
If Yes:
• acres of aquatic vegetation proposed to be removed: +/= 0.53
• expected acreage of aquatic vegetation remaining after project completion: +/-0.9
• purpose of proposed removal (e.g. beach clearing, invasive species control, boat access):
Stormwater Management Facility, including dam embankment and road crossing
• proposed method of plant removal: mechanical removal
• if chemical/herbicide treatment will be used, specify product(s):
v. Describe any proposed reclamation/mitigation following disturbance:
Site will be seeded and stabilized with appropriate mixes. Mitigation will be done with the in -lieu fee proqram.
c. Will the proposed action use, or create a new demand for water?
mYes ❑No
If Yes:
i. Total anticipated water usage/demand per day: 43.500 to 62.200 gallons/day
ii. Will the proposed action obtain water from an existing public water supply?
[Z]Yes ❑No
If Yes:
• Name of district or service area: Varna Water District
• Does the existing public water supply have capacity to serve the proposal?
❑ Yesm No
• Is the project site in the existing district?
m Yes❑ No
• Is expansion of the district needed?
❑ YesO No
• Do existing lines serve the project site?
m Yes❑ No
iii. Will line extension within an existing district be necessary to supply the project?
mYes ❑No
If Yes:
• Describe extensions or capacity expansions proposed to serve this project:
See list at bottom of Page*
• Source(s) of supply for the district: Varna Water District
iv. Is a new water supply district or service area proposed to be formed to serve the project site?
❑ YesmNo
If, Yes:
• Applicant/sponsor for new district:
e Date application submitted or anticipated:
• Proposed source(s) of supply for new district:
v. If a public water supply will not be used, describe plans to provide water supply for the project:
vi. If water supply will be from wells (public or private), what is the maximum pumping capacity: gallons/minute.
d. Will the proposed action generate liquid wastes? mYes ❑No
If Yes:
L Total anticipated liquid waste generation per day: 43,500 to 62,200 gallons/day
ii. Nature of liquid wastes to be generated (e.g., sanitary wastewater, industrial; if combination, describe all components and
approximate volumes or proportions of each):
Sanitary Wastewater (43,500 to 62,200 gallons/day).
iii. Will the proposed action use any existing public wastewater treatment facilities? mYes ❑No
If Yes:
• Name of wastewater treatment plant to be used: Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility
• Name of district: S2422 -Varna Sewer Prime
• Does the existing wastewater treatment plant have capacity to serve the project? mYes ❑No
• Is the project site in the existing district? mYes❑No
• Is expansion of the district needed? ❑YesmNo
Page 5 of 13
*Water Extensions or capacity expansions nronosed to serve this nroiect as reauested in c.iii. above:
Add a PRV station next to the Monkey Run Pump station, upsize 2,680 LF of pipe from 8" to 12" along NYS Rt. 366 from the Apple Orchard PRV
to Game Farm Rd., upsize 1,440 LF of pipe from 8" to 12" along NYS Rt. 366 from Game Farm Rd. to Forest Home Dr., upsize 2,050 LF of pipe
from 8" to 12" along NYS Rt.366 from Forest Home Dr. to the Site and connect to 12" line along Rt. 366 and extend into site.
Do existing sewer lines serve the project site?
Will a line extension within an existing district be necessary to serve the project?
If Yes:
® Yes ❑ No
®Yes❑No
• Describe extensions or capacity expansions proposed to serve this project:
Upsize the pumps and generator at the Varna Sanitary Sewer Pump Station and upsize 2,150 LF of sanitary sewer pipe from 8" to 10" alonq NYS Rt. 366
from Forest Home Dr. to the Site. Make connection to line along Rte. 366 running adjacent to site and extension to site.
iv. Will a new wastewater (sewage) treatment district be formed to serve the project site? ❑Yes®No
If Yes:
• Applicant/sponsor for new district:
• Date application submitted or anticipated:
• What is the receiving water for the wastewater discharge?
v. If public facilities will not be used, describe plans to provide wastewater treatment for the project, including specifying proposed
receiving water (name and classification if surface discharge or describe subsurface disposal plans):
vi. Describe any plans or designs to capture, recycle or reuse liquid waste:
nnne
e. Will the proposed action disturb more than one acre and create stormwater runoff, either from new point ®Yes ❑No
sources (i.e. ditches, pipes, swales, curbs, gutters or other concentrated flows of stormwater) or non -point
source (i.e. sheet flow) during constriction or post construction?
If Yes:
i. How much impervious surface will the project create in relation to total size of project parcel?
Square feet or +/-8.0 acres (impervious surface)
Square feet or 16.7 acres (parcel size)
ii. Describe types of new point sources.Roofs, parking lots, access roads, sidewalks, existing roads, and SWM Facilities
iii. Where will the stormwater nmoff be directed (i.e. on-site stormwater management facility/structures, adjacent properties,
groundwater, on-site surface water or off-site surface waters)?
On-site Stormwater Manaqement.
• If to surface waters, identify receiving water bodies or wetlands:
• Will storrnwater runoff flow to adjacent properties? ® Yes❑ No
iv. Does the proposed plan minimize impervious surfaces, use pervious materials or collect and re -use stormwater? ® Yes❑ No *SEE NOTE
f. Does the proposed action include, or will it use on-site, one or more sources of air emissions, including fuel
combustion, waste incineration, or other processes or operations?
If Yes, identify:
i. Mobile sources during project operations (e.g., heavy equipment, fleet or delivery vehicles)
ii. Stationary sources during construction (e.g., power generation, structural heating, batch plant, crushers)
iii. Stationary sources during operations (e.g., process emissions, large boilers, electric generation)
g. Will any air emission sources named in D.2.f (above), require a NY State Air Registration, Air Facility Permit,
or Federal Clean Air Act Title IV or Title V Permit?
If Yes:
i. Is the project site located in an Air quality non -attainment area? (Area routinely or periodically fails to meet
ambient air quality standards for all or some parts of the year)
ii. In addition to emissions as calculated in the application, the project will generate:
• Tons/year (short tons) of Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
• Tons/year (short tons) of Nitrous Oxide (N20)
• Tons/year (short tons) of Perfluorocarbon (PFCs)
• Tons/year (short tons) of Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6)
• Tons/year (short tons) of Carbon Dioxide equivalent of Hydroflourocarbons (HFCs)
• Tons/year (short tons) of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPS)
❑Yes ®No
❑Yes®No
❑Yes❑No
Page 6 of 13
*Note: The applicant is reducing the amount of impervious area by use a parking garage to help meet the parking requirements and open space
requirements. This garage will also help reduce impervious area on the site by "stacking spaces".
h. Will the proposed action generate or emit methane (including, but not limited to, sewage treatment plants, ❑Yes®No
landfills, composting facilities)?
If Yes:
L Estimate methane generation in tons/year (metric):
ii. Describe any methane capture, control or elimination measures included in project design (e.g., combustion to generate heat or
electricity, flaring):
i. Will the proposed action result in the release of air pollutants from open-air operations or processes, such as ❑Yes®No
quarry or landfill operations?
If Yes: Describe operations and nature of emissions (e.g., diesel exhaust, rock particulates/dust):
j. Will the proposed action result in a substantial increase in traffic above present levels or generate substantial ®Yes❑No
new demand for transportation facilities or services?
If Yes:
L When is the peak traffic expected (Check all that apply): ® Morning ® Evening ❑Weekend
❑ Randomly between hours of to
ii. For commercial activities only, projected number of trick trips/day and type (e.g., semi trailers and dump trucks):
iii. Parking spaces: Existing 42 Proposed 428 Net increase/decrease +386
iv. Does the proposed action include any shared use parking? ®YesONo
v If the proposed action includes any modification of existing roads, creation of new roads or change in existing access, describe:
The site will be accessible both from Rte. 366 and 2 access points from Mt. Pleasant (1 -full movement: 1 -restricting left turns out from oaraae).
vi. Are public/private transportation service(s) or facilities available within V2 mile of the proposed site? ®Yes❑No
vii Will the proposed action include access to public transportation or accommodations for use of hybrid, electric ®Yes❑ No
or other alternative fueled vehicles?
viii. Will the proposed action include plans for pedestrian or bicycle accommodations for connections to existing ®Yes❑ No
pedestrian or bicycle routes?
k. Will the proposed action (for commercial or industrial projects only) generate new or additional demand ®Yes❑No
for energy?
If Yes:
i. Estimate annual electricity demand during operation of the proposed action:
Approximately 1,900,000 kilowatthours (kWh)
fl. Anticipated sources/suppliers of electricity for the project (e.g., on-site combustion, on-site renewable, via grid/local utility, or
other):
Via grid/local utility (NYSEG).
iii. Will the proposed action require a new, or an upgrade, to an existing substation? ❑Yes®No
1. Hours of operation. Answer all items which apply.
L During Constriction: ii. During Operations:
• Monday - Friday: 7 AM to 6 PM • Monday - Friday: See Note (2), (3) and (4)
• Saturday: 8 AM to 5 PM • Saturday: See Note (2), (3) and (4)
• Sunday: N/A See Note (1) • Sunday: See Note (2), (3) and (4)
• Holidays: N/A • Holidays: See Note (2), (3) and (4)
NOTES TO HOURS OF OPERATION:
(1) There will be no Construction Hours on Sunday but the Property Management Office will be open from 12 PM to 4 PM.
(2) The clubhouse will be operating 24 hours with controlled access outside Property Management Hours.
(3) The maintenance will be on call 24/7 for emergencies and will be available on-site during the weekehds for any repairs to the pool.
(4) Residence will be 24 hours a day - 7 days a week.
Prooertv Manaaement Maintenance Commercial (i.e. coffee shoo)
Monday - Friday 9 AM to 6 PM 8 AM to 5PM 6 AM to 9 PM
Saturday: 10 AM to 4 PM On Call 7 AM to 9 PM
Sunday: 12 PM to 4 PM On Call 7 AM to 8 PM
Holidays: Closed On Call 7 AM to 6 PM
Page 7 of 13
m. Will the proposed action produce noise that will exceed existing ambient noise levels during construction, ® Yes ❑No
operation, or both?
If yes:
i. Provide details including sources, time of day and duration:
Construction vehicles will exceed existina ambient noise levels. Construction hours are anticipated to be Monday - Friday 7AM to 6PM and
Saturdays from 8 AM to 5 PM with no construction on Sundays and Holidays.
ii. Will the proposed action remove existing natural barriers that could act as a noise barrier or screen? ® Yes ❑No
Describe: Some existina trees will be remove durina construction. Some existing tree buffers will remain but some tree buffers will be removed and
replanted.
n. Will the proposed action have outdoor lighting? ®Yes ❑No
If yes:
i. Describe source(s), location(s), height of fixture(s), direction/aim, and proximity to nearest occupied structures:
Light pole fixtures located throuah parking areas to provide safe access in the oarkina lot to the residence. Fixtures will be between 16-25 ft. in height and
toward the ground. The lights are proposing to be LED and night -sky compliant lighting. Section 910 of local Zoning Ordinance shall be met.
ii. Will proposed action remove existing natural barriers that could act as a light barrier or screen? ® Yes El No
Describe: Tree removal is reauired for development. Trees along the property line will be kept to a minimum throuah the use of walls and building_
designs that step down with the grading. Any trees removed will supplemented wiih proposed landscaping buffers.
o. Does the proposed action have the potential to produce odors for more than one hour per day? ❑ Yes ®No
If Yes, describe possible sources, potential frequency and duration of odor emissions, and proximity to nearest
occupied structures:
p. Will the proposed action include any bulk storage of petroleum (combined capacity of over 1,100 gallons) ❑ Yes ®No
or chemical products 185 gallons in above ground storage or any amount in underground storage?
If Yes:
L Product(s) to be stored
H. Volume(s) per unit time (e.g., month, year)
iii. Generally, describe the proposed storage facilities:
q. Will the proposed action (commercial, industrial and recreational projects only) use pesticides (i.e., herbicides, ❑ Yes ®No
insecticides) during construction or operation?
If Yes:
i. Describe proposed treatment(s):
ii. Will the proposed action use Integrated Pest Management Practices? ❑ Yes ®No
r. Will the proposed action (commercial or industrial projects only) involve or require the management or disposal ® Yes ❑No
of solid waste (excluding hazardous materials)?
If Yes:
i. Describe any solid waste(s) to be generated during construction or operation of the facility:
• Construction: construction waste* tons per 40 tons/month (unit of time)
• Operation: residential uses tons per 36 tons/month (unit of time)
ii. Describe any proposals for on-site minimization, recycling or reuse of materials to avoid disposal as solid waste:
• Construction: See below**
• Operation: Recyclinq dumpsters will be available for separate trash and pick-up. Recycling will be encouraged.
iii. Proposed disposal methods/facilities for solid waste generated on-site:
• Construction: Subcontractors solid waste companies will remove debris from site and dispose of them locally under proper jurisdictional code
requirements. Subcontractor recycling companies will remove recyclables and process them locally under same,
• Operation: Dumpster pick-up with local waste manaqement and recyclinq companies.
Notes to Solid Waste Disposal
*More specifically from drywall, framing, concrete, misc. building materials, cardboard, etc.
**Reduction by correct use, storage and material management, Recycle of building material packaging - i.e. pallets, plastic, cardboard, wrapping, etc.
Purchasing of specific waste factor percentage to drive trades towards minimizing waste. Construction waste will be separated by trade and by building.
Materials identified as recyclables will be placed in recyclable haul off dumpsters and waste materials will be placed in haul off waste dumpsters. Monitoring
and removal will be performed by a reputable and reliable Page 8 of 13 company/companies under bulk purchase agreement of contract for the
entire project. Each subtrade will be held responsible by way of their contract to separate waste from recyclables to minimize waste.
s. Does the proposed action include construction or modification of a solid waste management facility? ❑ Yes ® No
If Yes:
i. Type of management or handling of waste proposed for the site (e.g., recycling or transfer station, composting, landfill, or
other disposal activities):
fl. Anticipated rate of disposal/processing:
• Tons/month, if transfer or other non-combustion/thermal treatment, or
• Tons/hour, if combustion or thermal treatment
iii. If landfill, anticipated site life: years
t. Will the proposed action at the site involve the commercial generation, treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous ❑Yes®No
waste?
If Yes:
i. Name(s) of all hazardous wastes or constituents to be generated, handled or managed at facility:
ii. Generally describe processes or activities involving hazardous wastes or constituents:
iii. Specify amount to be handled or generated tons/month
iv. Describe any proposals for on-site minimization, recycling or reuse of hazardous constituents:
v. Will any hazardous wastes be disposed at an existing offsite hazardous waste facility? . ❑Yes❑No
If Yes: provide name and location of facility:
If No: describe proposed management of any hazardous wastes which will not be sent to a hazardous waste facility:
E. Site and Setting of Proposed Action
E.I. Land uses on and surrounding the project site
a. Existing land uses.
i. Check all uses that occur on, adjoining and near the project site.
❑ Urban ❑ Industrial ® Commercial ® Residential (suburban) ❑ Rural (non-farm)
® Forest ® Agriculture ElAquatic ElOther (specify):
ii. If mix of uses, generally describe:
b. Land uses and covertypes on the project site.
Land use or
Current
Acreage After
Change
Covertype
Acreage
Project Completion
(Acres +/-)
• Roads, buildings, and other paved or impervious
surfaces
1.2
8.00
+6.80
• Forested
0.0
0.0
0.0
• Meadows, grasslands or brushlands (non-
agricultural, including abandoned agricultural)
14.88
I 7.69
-7.19
• Agricultural I
0.0
0.0 I
0.0
(includes active orchards, field, greenhouse etc.)
• Surface water features
(lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, etc.)
0.0
0.84
+0.84
• Wetlands (freshwater or tidal) I
0.62
I 0.18 I
-0.44
• Non -vegetated (bare rock, earth or fill)
0.0
I 0.0
0.0
• Other
Describe:
Page 9 of 13
c. Is the project site presently used by members of the community for public recreation?
i. If Yes: explain:
❑ Yes❑✓ No
d. Are there any facilities serving children, the elderly, people with disabilities (e.g., schools, hospitals, licensed ®Yes❑No
day care centers, or group homes) within 1500 feet of the project site?
If Yes,
L Identify Facilities:
Cornell University, Varna Community Association, Inc., daycare center within the Varna Community Association.
e. Does the project site contain an existing dam?
If Yes:
L Dimensions of the dam and impoundment:
• Dam height:
• Dam length:
• Surface area:
• Volume impounded:
15 feet
180 feet
0.5 acres
1.6 Million gallons OR acre-feet
® Yes❑ No
ii. Dam's existing hazard classification: "A" or "low hazard"
W. Provide date and summarize results of last inspection:
Dam was inspected 6/23/98 by NYSDEC Div. of Water and found to be in need of repairs. SDecifically, the existing earthen berm was thouah to
be poorly constructed. Deficiencies of the embankment and the blow out at the control structure were noted and remedial measures recommended.
f. Has the project site ever been used as a municipal, commercial or industrial solid waste management facility, ❑Yes®No
or does the project site adjoin property which is now, or was at one time, used as a solid waste management facility?
If Yes:
i. Has the facility been formally closed? ❑Yes❑ No
• If yes, cite sources/documentation:
ii. Describe the location of the project site relative to the boundaries of the solid waste management facility:
iii. Describe any development constraints due to the prior solid waste activities:
g. Have hazardous wastes been generated, treated and/or disposed of at the site, or does the project site adjoin ❑Yes®No
property which is now or was at one time used to commercially treat, store and/or dispose of hazardous waste?
If Yes:
i. Describe waste(s) handled and waste management activities, including approximate time when activities occurred:
h. Potential contamination history. Has there been a reported spill at the proposed project site, or have any ®Yes❑ No
remedial actions been conducted at or adjacent to the proposed site?
If Yes:
i. Is any portion of the site listed on the NYSDEC Spills Incidents database or Environmental Site ®Yes❑No
Remediation database? Check all that apply:
® Yes — Spills Incidents database Provide DEC ID number(s): 1710909
❑ Yes — Environmental Site Remediation database Provide DEC ID number(s):
❑ Neither database
ii. If site has been subject of RCRA corrective activities, describe control measures:
iii. Is the project within 2000 feet of any site in the NYSDEC Environmental Site Remediation database? ❑Yes®No
If yes, provide DEC ID number(s):
iv. If yes to (i), (ii) or (iii) above, describe current status of site(s):
Page 10 of 13
v. Is the project site subject to an institutional control limiting property uses?
• If yes, DEC site ID number:
• Describe the type of institutional control (e.g., deed restriction or easement):
• Describe any use limitations:
• Describe any engineering controls:
• Will the project affect the institutional or engineering controls in place?
• Explain:
E.2. Natural Resources On or Near Project Site
a. What is the average depth to bedrock on the project site?
b. Are there bedrock outcroppings on the project site?
If Yes, what proportion of the site is comprised of bedrock outcroppings?
c. Predominant soil type(s) present on project site:
> 25' feet
Hudson Silt Loam 31.9 %
Darien Gravely Silt Loam 19.1 %
Rhinebeck Silt Loam 17.4 %
d. What is the average depth to the water table on the project site? Average: > 25' feet
e. Drainage status of project site soils:® Well Drained: 21.3 % of site
® Moderately Well Drained: 31.9 % of site
® Poorly Drained 46.8 % of site
f. Approximate proportion of proposed action site with slopes: ® 0-10%: 64.9 % of site
® 10-15%: 17.4 % of site
® 15% or greater: 17.7 % of site
g. Are there any unique geologic features on the project site?
If Yes, describe:
h. Surface water features.
❑ Yes®No
❑Yes❑No
❑ Yes mNo
❑ YesmNo
L Does any portion of the project site contain wetlands or other waterbodies (including streams, rivers, ®Yes❑No
ponds or lakes)?
ii. Do any wetlands or other waterbodies adjoin the project site? ®Yes❑No
If Yes to either i or ii, continue. If No, skip to E.2.i.
iii. Are any of the wetlands. or waterbodies within or adjoining the project site regulated by any federal, mYes❑No
state or local agency?
iv. For each identified regulated wetland and waterbody on the project site, provide the following information:
• Streams: Name 2 streams unnamed - associated with Falls Creek. Classification Intermittent Streams
• Lakes or Ponds: Name none Classification
• Wetlands: Name Unnamed Approximate Size 0.62
• Wetland No. (if regulated by DEC)
v. Are any of the above water bodies listed in the most recent compilation of NYS water quality -impaired ❑Yes mNo
waterbodies?
If yes, name of impaired water bodylbodies and basis for listing as impaired:
i. Is the project site in a designated Floodway? ❑YesmNo
j. Is the project site in the 100 -year Floodplain? ❑YesmNo
k. Is the project site in the 500 -year Floodplain? ❑YesmNo
1. Is the project site located over, or immediately adjoining, a primary, principal or sole source aquifer? ❑Yes mNo
If Yes:
i. Name of aquifer:
Page 11 of 13
in. Identify the predominant wildlife species that occupy or use the project site:
white tail deer eastern cottontail rabbit gray squirrel
raccoon eastern skunk white-footed mouse
green frog and American toad year-round birds' seasonal birds'
n. Does the project site contain a designated significant natural community?
If Yes:
i. Describe the habitat/community (composition, function, and basis for designation):
ii. Source(s) of description or evaluation:
iii. Extent of community/habitat:
• Currently: acres
• Following completion of project as proposed: acres
• Gain or loss (indicate + or -): acres
❑Yes mNo
o. Does project site contain any species of plant or animal that is listed by the federal government or NYS as m Yes❑No
endangered or threatened, or does it contain any areas identified as habitat for an endangered or threatened species?
If Yes:
L Species and listing (endangered or threatened):
The NYSDEC has identified the subject property to lie within habitat known to have or support a threatened or endangered species (Sedge Wren and
Northern Long Eared Bat). NYSDEC Staff has evaluated the project and concluded that they do not anticipate the proposed action to result in a take of
the SednP Wren. In addition oULimotland consultant has written a lattar nrovidinrg rmcnmmanrintinn to nvniri anv takes of the Northern I onrg Farad Bat.
p. Does the project site contain any species of plant or animal that is listed by NYS as rare, or as a species of
special concern?
If Yes:
i. Species and listing:
q. Is the project site or adjoining area currently used for hunting, trapping, fishing or shell fishing?
If yes, give a brief description of how the proposed action may affect that use:
E.3. Designated Public Resources On or Near Project Site
a. Is the project site, or any portion of it, located in a designated agricultural district certified pursuant to
Agriculture and Markets Law, Article 25 -AA, Section 303 and 304?
If Yes, provide county plus district name/number:
b. Are agricultural lands consisting of highly productive soils present?
L If Yes: acreage(s) on project site? 2.4
ii. Source(s) of soil rating(s): NYS Agricultural Land Classification System
c. Does the project site contain all or part of, or is it substantially contiguous to, a registered National
Natural Landmark?
If Yes:
i. Nature of the natural landmark: ❑ Biological Community ❑ Geological Feature
ii. Provide brief description of landmark, including values behind designation and approximate size/extent:
d. Is the project site located in or does it adjoin a state listed Critical Environmental Area?
If Yes:
i. CEA name:
ii. Basis for designation:
iii. Designating agency and date:
❑ Yesm No
❑Yes mNo
❑Yes mNo
mYes❑No
❑YesmNo
❑YesmNo
"Notes on predominant wildlife:
Year-round Birds could include black capped -chickadee, white breasted nuthatch, downy woodpecker, mourning dove and European starling.
Seasonal Birds could include red -winged blackbird, song sparrow, house wren and American robin.
Page 12 of 13
e. Does. the project site contain, or is it substantially contiguous to, a building, archaeological site, or district ❑ Yes® No
which is listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places, or that has been determined by the Commissioner of the NYS
Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to be eligible for listing on the State Register of Historic Places?
If Yes:
L Nature of historic/archaeological resource: ❑Archaeological Site ❑Historic Building or District
ii. Name:
iii. Brief description of attributes on which listing is based:
f. Is the project site, or.any portion of it, located in or adjacent to an area designated as sensitive for ❑Yes®No
archaeological sites on the NY State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) archaeological site inventory?
g. Have additional archaeological or historic site(s) or resources been identified on the project site? ❑Yes ®No
If Yes:
i. Describe possible resource(s):
ii. Basis for identification:
h. Is the project site within fives miles of any officially designated and publicly accessible federal, state, or local ®Yes❑Nc
scenic or aesthetic resource?
If Yes:
L Identify resource: *See below for list.
ii. Nature of, or basis for, designation (e.g., established highway overlook, state or local park, state historic trail or scenic byway,
etc.): Local Park
iii. Distance between project and resource: o.6 miles.
i. Is the project site located within a designated river corridor under the Wild, Scenic and Recreational Rivers ❑ Yes®No
Program 6 NYCRR 666?
If Yes:
L Identify the name of the river and its designation:
ii. Is the activity consistent with development restrictions contained in 6NYCRR Part 666? ❑Yes ❑No
F. Additional Information
Attach any additional information which may be needed to clarify your project.
If you have identified any adverse impacts which could be associated with your proposal, please describe those impacts plus any
measures which you propose to avoid or minimize them.
G. Verification
I certify that the information provided is true to the best of my knowledge.
Applicant/Sponsor Name rrJ1lMichael B. Keith Date 11/1112019
Signature V`^ Title Engineer of Record
`Notes on Official Designated Resources:
Cornell Botanic Gardens, Falls Creek Corridor Unique Natural Area, Monkey Run Unique Area, Federally designated Fall Creek Wetland,
Cayuga Trail, Federally designated Frees Road Bridge (eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Structures)
PRINT FORM I Page 13 of 13
EAF Mapper Summary Report
Lu
'est
Monday, June 25, 2018 10:53 AM
Disclaimer: The EAF Mapper is a screening tool intended to assist
project sponsors and reviewing agencies in preparing an environmental
assessment form (EAF). Not all questions asked in the EAF are
answered by the EAF Mapper. Additional information on any EAF
question can be obtained by consulting the EAF Workbooks. Although
the EAF Mapper provides the most up-to-date digital data available to
DEC, you may also need to contact local or other data sources in order
to obtain data not provided by the Mapper. Digital data is not a
substitute for agency determinations.
�Otuwta e]:Mflraal
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Monday, June 25, 2018 10:53 AM
Disclaimer: The EAF Mapper is a screening tool intended to assist
project sponsors and reviewing agencies in preparing an environmental
assessment form (EAF). Not all questions asked in the EAF are
answered by the EAF Mapper. Additional information on any EAF
question can be obtained by consulting the EAF Workbooks. Although
the EAF Mapper provides the most up-to-date digital data available to
DEC, you may also need to contact local or other data sources in order
to obtain data not provided by the Mapper. Digital data is not a
substitute for agency determinations.
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B.i.ii Local Waterfront Revitalization Area]
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Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Usa Community "Irttl�S..
Workbook.
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---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B.i.i [Coastal or Waterfront Area]
----------
No
B.i.ii Local Waterfront Revitalization Area]
No
C.2.b. [Special Planning District]
Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Workbook.
E.1.h [DEC Spills or Remediation Site -
Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Potential Contamination History]
Workbook.
E.1.h.i [DEC Spills or Remediation Site -
Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Listed]
Workbook.
E.1.[ p' or
Site
..-.. -
Digitalmapping data are not available _o_r.a..r,e._incomplete. ...R_.ef_er.toEAF
Environmental Ste Remediation se]
Workbook.
E.1.h.iii [Within 2,000' of DEC Remediation
No
Site]
E.2.g [Unique Geologic Features]
No
E.2.h.i [Surface Water Features]
No
E.2.h.ii [Surface Water Features]
Yes
E.2.h.iii [Surface Water Features]
Yes - Digital mapping information on local and federal wetlands and
waterbodies is known to be incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook.
E.2.h.v [Impaired Water Bodies]
No
E.2.i. [Floodway]
Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Workbook.
E.2 J. [1.00 Year Floodplain]
Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Workbook.
E.2.k. [500 Year Floodplain]
Digitalmapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Workbook.
E.2.1. [Aquifers]
No
E.2.n. [Natural Communities]
No
E.2.o. [Endangered or Threatened Species]
No
Full Environmental Assessment Form - EAF Mapper Summary Report 1
E.2.p. [Rare Plants or Animals]
--------------------------- -- -----------
No
E.3.a. [Agricultural District]
No
E.3.c. [National Natural Landmark]
No
E.3.d [Critical Environmental Area]
No
E.3.e. [National Register of Historic Places]
Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Workbook.
E.V. [Archeological Sites]
No
E.3.i. [Designated River Corridor]
No
Full Environmental Assessment Form - EAF Mapper Summary Report 2
Report to the CB on Ag Committee Meeting of 11/13/2019
Monica Roth from Tompkins County CCE was in attendance and shared updates on the Ag
District review. The Committee reviewed properties that may be taken out of the Ag District
due to changes in their status and/or they may be small and isolated from the contiguous
predominately ag lands. It was decided that some of those properties should receive a letter
asking the landowner if they want to continue to be included in the Ag District. Monica said she
would follow up with those property owners and report back at the next meeting.
The following excerpts are taken from the.Draft November Minutes. This is the best way to
understand what the discussion was about.
New Business — GREEN NEW DEAL
Naomi Crimm, Cornell Grad Student, studying planning. She is interested in the process and how to
bring different stakeholders on board to ensure that the policy that is created reflects many voices. So
far, it seems to be focused only on the City of Ithaca, but there is potential for things to happen that will
affect the surrounding area. Once voice that hasn't been heard yet is the voice of farmers. The goal is to
collect these different voices and make a report that the City of Ithaca will see and hopefully that can
influence the way that the approach this. Potentially the City could look for land to lease for a
community solar project, another could be looking to invest in carbon offsets. Paying rural landowners
or farmers to reduce emissions for what the City is unable to do.
She is looking for our reactions to those types of policies. What should they have in mind?
Discussion:
• Install solar panels on buildings in the City.
• The process of sequestering the carbon, you have short-term (such as an annual crop), you
have long-term (such as forests). Whether you are dealing with forestry land or annually cropped
ground, there is a different mathematical formula that must be used.
• Some research shows that annual crops do not really sequester any carbon, you might break
even.
• Equipment needed for planting is coming from carbon -based fossil fuels.
• How does the State factor in with all the state forests/lands that are around?
• New technology for measuring carbon sequestration.
• If you decrease the amount of tillage you do, you're not using as much gas.
• Hopefully policy will not put more burden on farms.
• Challenges: Weather and regulations.
• People in the City do not understand that what might work in one part of the county will not
work throughout the entire county. Soil structures, altitudes, scale of the farm all need to be
taken in to account.
• Misunderstanding the people in the City have about agriculture. Cost effective means.
• Let the farmer decide what would work best for their own farm.
• Paying farmers for various conservation type programs, there should be a program that pays
them for carbon sequestration. It must be measurable. .
• Biochar vs. charcoal.
Agenda
Town of Dryden Conservation Board
Tuesday, 26 November 2019
7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Dryden Town Hall
93 East Main Street, Dryden, NY 13053
Note: Items may be added to or removed from this agenda as needs and circumstances dictate.
Call to Order (7:00 p.m.) - Peter Davies
Completion of Record of Attendance by Members and Observers.
Review and Approval of Minutes from October 202019.
Additions to Agenda?
Discussion of Reports and Updates (if any) from Boards, Commissions, etc. (previously distributed by email
please).
Old Business:
• Additional discussion on ditch management: Gian Dodici
• The Town's "Restricted covenant" rule as it relates to protecting open space: Craig Anderson and Gian
Dodici.
New Business
• Report on riparian buffer workshop held November 21 st by Cornell Cooperative Extension: Peter
Davies.
• Trinitas Housing development in Varna: State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) and storm water
management (see attachments).
• Action items for the CB in coming year: Craig Schutt.
• Discussion and vote for new Chair starting January 2020.
• Any other business
Adjourn