Vantage Bay PUD Final Development Plan Index Master File

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STATE OF WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE 1701 5 24th Aven~e • Yakima, Washingtoll 98902-5720 • (509) 575-2740 FAX (509) 575-2474 July 12, 2006 Brett Tiller Environmental Assessment Services 350 Hills Street, Suite 151 Richland, W A 99354 Dear Brett: I am writing concerning the proposed development in Kittitas County on parcels 17-23- 30000-0001, 17-23-30000-0003, and 17-23-30010-0006. As you know, there had been a bald eagle nest on the side of the Columbia River about 800 feet from the proposed development. I first became aware of the nest in early· March and confirmed a bald eagle incubating on March 14th. The eagle territory was name Vantage #1703. I went to the site on June 13 th and found the nest tree had blown over. This was not surprising as the tree was a dying hybrid poplar. In reviewing the above parcels, I determined there was no need for a bald eagle plan or restrictions on the development to protect bald eagles. The properties are distant enough from any potential nest trees that timing restrictions on construction will not be needed. There also aren't any potential eagle perch or nest trees on the above parcels. I am uncertain if eagles will return to the area for nesting in the future. The only trees in the area are relatively small with tight branching that wouldn't typically be good nest trees. If the eagles do return, the onlyconcem would be human disturbance around the nest. The best course of action if eagles do return would be to try to educate the new homeowners and work with Grant County PUD (owner ofland with potential nest trees) to limit disturbance directly around the nest during critical periods. WDFW would undertake that responsibility. Sincerely, District Wildlife Biologist Washington Department ofFish and Wildlife Index #9