Title
Habitat Stewardship Program Overview
Recommended Action/UAC Deliverable:
Briefing only
Issue:
Receive an overview of the Habitat Stewardship Program, including how the program has evolved in recent years.
Staff Contact:
Kym Foley, Environmental Habitat Planner, Public Works - Water Resources, 360.570.3957
Presenter:
Same as above
Background and Analysis:
Olympia’s Habitat Stewardship Program was formalized 10 years ago with the adoption of the Habitat Stewardship Strategy in 2013, however the Stormwater Utility has been investing in this work since the 1990’s. Aquatic ecosystems (wetlands, streams, marine shorelines, etc.), adjacent forests, trees and other “green infrastructure” play a critical role in reducing flooding and filtering harmful pollutants from surface waters prior to entering Puget Sound, in addition to many other environmental, public health, and economic benefits. Outcomes achieved by this program address goals in the Storm & Surface Water Plan, Comprehensive Plan, and several other citywide priorities and initiatives. In recent years, the program has evolved to meet new challenges and environmental pressures ranging from climate change to extensive urban growth. Through an ongoing partnership with the Parks Department and by leveraging emerging technologies, the Habitat Stewardship program continues to strategically protect and restore priority habitat citywide.
Climate Analysis:
A substantial amount of the work completed by the Habitat Stewardship Program involves planting, protecting, and caring for trees primarily on public property. While these activities play a role in promoting some carbon sequestration, this is a secondary climate mitigation strategy compared to the greater impacts of building and transportation electrification and moving to clean energy sources. Habitat restoration does, however, increase Olympia's climate resilience and adaptation. Through strategic planning and tracking emerging climate science, this work is intended to decrease urban heat islands, use best practices that ensure enhancement success despite hotter, dryer, longer summers and winters with heavier precipitation events. Restoring vegetation along streams and wetlands minimizes erosion and helps protect aquatic wildlife from the impacts of climate change.
Equity Analysis:
Everyone who works, lives, and plays in Olympia will benefit from the "ecosystem services" that are enhanced by aquatic habitat stewardship work. These activities have the potential to promote public health, reduce risk associated with flooding, connect people to the land and community where they live, create jobs, and many other benefits that promote an overall well-being. Program staff use the Stormwater Equity Index as a tool to ensure that this work is distributed equitably across the City benefitting communities that have historically lacked investments in environmental programs and improvements.
Neighborhood/Community Interests:
The Habitat Stewardship Program was established with substantial encouragement from the Olympia community who continue to support this work today and into the future. This support is shown by the number of community members who regularly participate in volunteer stewardship work parties, complete habitat restoration activities on their own properties, and promote the importance of city-owned natural areas that are healthy and functioning through various public engagement processes.
Financial Impact:
None currently. Program activities are supported by existing stormwater utility staff.
Attachment:
None