NorthCreekForest_SP16(Final Version)

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North Creek Forest
UW-REN 2015 - 2016 Stewardship Plan
Prepared for Friends of North Creek Forest
Executive Director Emily Sprong
Authored by:
Eric Carpenter- UW Bothell Environmental Science Major
Kai Farmer - UW Bothell Environmental Studies Major w/ Minor in Restoration Ecology
Thomas Radon - UW Seattle Environmental Science and Terrestrial Resource Management Major
Batzorig Tuvshinjargal - UW Bothell Environmental Studies Major w/ Minor in Restoration Ecology
Nick Vradenburg - UW Bothell Environmental Studies Major w/ Minor in Restoration Ecology

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Table of Contents
Project Description…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….3
Post Installation…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………5
Overview……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5
Polygon 1……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….6
Polygon 2……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….7
Polygon 3……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….9
Polygon 4……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..11
Polygon 5……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..13
Trail………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………14
As-built Map…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………15
Maintenance Plan…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….16
Maintenance Task List………………………………………………………………………………………………….16
Maintenance Timetable……………………………………………………………………………………………….22
Monitoring Plan……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….24
Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………24
Vegetation Photo Monitoring………………………………………………………………………………………25
Vegetation Monitoring Plots………………………………………………………………………………………..33
Monitoring Methods…………………………………………………………………………………………………….35
Habitat Structure and Mycelium Monitoring Methods…………………………………………………36
Long-Term Site Management Plan……………………………………………………………………………………………38
References……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….40
Appendix………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….43
Appendix A (Monitoring and Survey Form)…………………………………………………………………..43
Appendix B (Project Contact Information)…….……………………………………………………………..44
Appendix C (Materials Sources).…………………………………………………………………………………..45
Appendix D (Habitat Structure and Mycelium Monitoring Methods)…………………………..46

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Project Description:
Located along the western edge of North Creek Forest, our ecological restoration site is
downhill of a residential neighborhood, and in the heart of the City of Bothell. It is a small part
of the 64 acre mixed evergreen/deciduous canopy of North Creek Forest that is a prime
example of an upland forest in the Puget Sound Lowlands, representing wetland and riparian
habitats as well. The project site (Site 5) is part of the North Creek watershed, with
groundwater outflow from within the site as well as the surrounding forest draining into North
Creek. The soil throughout the site is highly saturated and even periodically inundated during
the fall and winter months and will stay wet most of the year. The exception is Polygon 5 which
lies underneath a dense coniferous canopy provided by several large western redcedar (Thuja
plicata). Polygon 5 receives far less moisture, as well as sunlight, compared to the rest of the
site. There is little-to-no canopy coverage in the majority of the site due to the sparsity of
mature trees, and this has provided a suitable environment for many sun-loving species to
thrive. The southern parts of Polygons 1 and 3, however, both receive partial deciduous shade
from big-leaf maple (Acer macrophyllum).
With the help of Friends of North Creek Forest and the hard work and dedication of volunteers,
we have accomplished many of the tasks laid before us to successfully restore this portion of
North Creek Forest. Much of our time on site was dedicated to the removal of invasive species,
mulching trails, removing garbage and planting. Trails were created by adding a layer of mulch
approximately 12-18” thick to absorb moisture and provide accessibility to the site. Many areas
where we made trails had excessive moisture and were considerably muddy, requiring a thicker
mulch layer in order to maintain trail stability. We lined the trails using large branches that had
fallen and become available. We also had to deal with a tall snag that was located at the top of
the site in Polygon 2 because it was considered a hazard to volunteers and a nearby
neighborhood resident who’s backyard was located a few meters from where the snag was. It
was cut down and taken offsite. The most recent work done to Site 5 was the addition of wine-
cap stropharia (Stropharia rugosso-annulata) inoculated mulch to the eastern access trail,
insertion of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) plugs into a fallen red alder (Alnus rubra) at
the bottom of Polygon 3, and the construction and placement of mason bee (Osmia sp.) boxes,
bumble bee (Bombus sp.) habitat structures, a black cap chickadee (Poecile atricapillus)
birdhouse, and a habitat structure for western screech owls (Megascops kennicottii) or
northern Saw-whet owls (Aegolius acadicus).
Prior to restoration activities, the site was heavily dominated by the native species salmonberry
(Rubus spectabilis) and the non-native invasive species Himalayan blackberry (Rubus bifrons).

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Dense impenetrable thickets comprised of both of these species covered approximately 60% of
the site. Two other non-native invasive species, English ivy (Hedera helix) and English holly (Ilex
aquifolium), were also heavily present on the site. Much of the site could not progress to a
later stage of succession due to the presence of these invasive species.
Our first goal was to establish native vegetation to initiate site development towards later-
successional maturity characteristic of Puget Sound lowland forests prior to extensive logging.
The first objective to accomplish this goal was to rid the site of invasive species. This would
make room for the planting of native species in their place and also decrease the competition
that existing native vegetation onsite had to deal with. However, the slope of the site made the
removal of invasive species challenging. Digging up the invasive species would leave the soil
exposed to rain-drop erosion and erosion from the lack of stabilizing root systems (Gold 2016).
Sediment loss and erosion will result in a loss of organic matter within the local soil. We also
need to ensure that the unprotected soil does not wash off-site into the creek below, which
flows into North Creek. Sediment pollution can lead to declines in fish populations by clogging
fish gills and affecting egg and larvae development (MARC 2016). In order to try and prevent
erosion from going into the creek that was caused by foot traffic and digging while working on
the site, we worked with Friends of North Creek Forest (FNCF) to install a silt fence that runs
along the eastern border of our site. Our second objective was to remove lumber and any
garbage present, as well as apply an 8-12” covering of wood chip mulch across the site, and
install a fascine on the western border of Polygon 1 to stabilize soil and slow runoff. Our third
objective was to install biologically and structurally-diverse native species suitable for the
current successional stage of site.
Goal 2 for our project was to improve ecological functions onsite as well as those provided to
nearby habitat and the local watershed. To accomplish this goal, we wanted to plant native
species that would improve water absorption and filtration, aiding in the reduction of surface
erosion and assisting the uptake of excess surface water. We also selected plant species with
extensive root systems that would be useful for soil stabilization, such as twinberry (Lonicera
involucrata), snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus), and pacific ninebark (Physocarpus capitatus).
Our final objective for Goal 2 was to increase fungal diversity and potentially improve water
quality, via filtration by the fungi, by inoculating the main mulched trail with wine-cap
stropharia. To do this, we planned on acquiring wood chip mulch colonized by the mycelium.
Goal 3 was focused on increasing the wildlife value of our site. We wanted to create
structurally-diverse wildlife habitat to attract local fauna such as birds, bats, insects and
amphibians. To do this, we planned to install a variety of native vegetation that could be used

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by wildlife for food, shelter and nesting, as well as integrate a variety of hand-built facilities that
would provide additional shelter and nesting opportunities.
Our final goal for our project site was to engage the community in restoration efforts and
continued maintenance of project site, and we plan on doing this by informing residents and
students in the area of the benefits of restoration activities like we have at North Creek Forest,
for their educational opportunities and fun activities. It is important that stewardship persists
on our site to ensure its progression towards successional maturity.
Post Installation:
Overview
In all of the polygons, we have created access trails for the team and volunteers to be able to
get to previously hard-to-reach areas of the site for restoration activities. Each polygon was
carefully considered for what the conditions were and what plants would do best for various
goals and objectives picked out by the team, such as soil stabilization, water filtration and slow-
down of runoff, and food/shelter for small mammals and birds, etc. Most of the polygons had
some trash or debris that needed to be cleared out before major restoration could begin,
including large pieces of wood, plastics and dead branches that had fallen off trees. We used
the fallen branches to make borders dividing trails from planted areas, and we cleaned up all of
the trash and debris that remained. We mulched the access trails much more heavily than we
expected we would need to. Our goal was to have an 8-12” layer of wood chip mulch
throughout the site, but for the access trails, the mud sank deep enough to where we required
an additional 6-12” to make them safe enough for foot traffic. Invasive removal was also a
major goal for us, as this was an initial step needed before we could begin planting our native
plant species throughout the site. There was some areas of very dense thickets of Himalayan
blackberry, and English ivy had spread into each polygon (more densely in some than others).
We also encountered several established patches of English holly throughout. The invasive
plants present in each polygon have been removed in order to make way for the native plants
that were mentioned in each polygon description above, and we have planted all of the
planned native species for the site. The removal of invasive species left the soil exposed, and
this would eventually result in a loss of organic material onsite because of continued sediment
loss/erosion. We needed to ensure that the unprotected soil does not wash off-site into the
creek below.

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Polygon 1
1,295 square feet. Southwest section of Site 5
Prior to restoration, Polygon 1 received partial deciduous canopy coverage provided by a
number of big-leaf maple and contained a sparse shrub layer made up of several vine maple
(Acer circinatum), but much of the polygon was dominated by a carpet of English ivy (Hedera
helix) and a thicket comprised of mainly Himalayan blackberry (Rubus bifrons), both of which
prevented other native species from establishing. Our goal for restoration in this polygon was
to stimulate successional maturity by building a fast-growing and robust shrub layer, fill in the
groundcover layer using sun-loving and part-shade tolerant species, and plant tree species that
will eventually be able to reduce canopy gaps. Accomplishing these tasks will deter the re-
emergence of problematic invasive species, reduce the high water table of the site, stabilize the
soil to prevent soil erosion and sediment pollution, and create habitat and food sources that a
variety of wildlife can use.
To begin, we removed all of the English ivy and Himalayan blackberry that we could find and
then proceeded to add an 8-12” layer of wood chip mulch across the polygon. Once the area
had been cleared, we began planting. Because much of this polygon is open to sun and contains
mostly moist-to-saturated soils, we chose to plant several sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis)
throughout that can tolerate both abiotic factors. Over a number of years, these will grow tall
and be able to provide substantial amounts of evergreen shade to the area, which will prevent
English ivy and Himalayan blackberry from returning and will provide adequate conditions for
later-successional species to establish. One was planted near the start of the western access
trail in a moist patch, another at the southeastern corner of this polygon and a third being
installed along the borders of Polygons 1 and 2. Also, we installed an additional big-leaf maple
right in this middle of Polygon 1 to enhance the deciduous canopy in this area as well as provide
leaf-litter and woody debris that will help to absorb water and provide potential nutrients to
the soil in the form of organic matter. In order to speed up the successional process and
develop a small deciduous canopy very quickly, we planted a number of Pacific willow (Salix
lucida ssp. lasiandra), Hooker’s willow (Salix hookeriana) and sitka willow (Salix sitchensis) as
live stakes in this area. These are known to grow fast and are establish well in saturated soil
conditions (USDA 2016). Due to their ability to survive high-moisture soil content, and
preference for shade, we planted some western redcedar (Thuja plicata) to help begin the
process of establishing late-successional evergreen understory (Pojar 2004).
To increase the density and diversity of the mid-story layer in Polygon 1, we planted several
extra vine maple (to supplement those already in this polygon) in the somewhat dry, more

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elevated portion of Polygon 1 located west. Moisture-tolerant shrubs, such as red-twig
dogwood (Cornus sericea), snowberry, and Pacific ninebark were planted in the wet and high-
sun areas in the form of live stakes and bare root plants. All of these species will provide a
number of services to this polygon such as competition against invasive species, habitat and
food sources for small mammals and birds, nectar sources for pollinators, and stabilization of
the site’s slope (Leigh 1999). Another shrub species, swamp gooseberry (Ribese lacustre) was
added in some spots as a food source for birds and small mammals. A couple of Goat’s beard
(Aruncus dioicus) were also added because of their tolerance of moisture and their production
of seeds that birds can eat (USDA 2001).
In order to promote a healthy understory in Polygon 1, we have added a number of species.
The two most planted of our understory species were slough sedge (Carex obnupta) and
Henderson’s sedge (Carex hendersonii), which were installed primarily to improve erosion
control and to filter sediment from surface runoff, but also to provide habitat for small birds
and mammals and act as a food source (browse and seeds). Slough sedge is especially well-
suited for early-successional planting because as the site matures, this species will be able to
survive the changing light conditions, can persist through all stages of succession and it’s
evergreen cover is important in winter (USDA 2016). False Lily of the Valley (Maianthemum
dilatatum) has also been installed to help with preventing invasive species from returning since
they act as an aggressive groundcover, and it is also considered a good food source for small
mammals (Shebitz 2003). Several salal (Gaultheria shallon) were recovered from salvage and
planted in the northern portion of this polygon where there is partial shade. This species will do
well to add more sources of berries for wildlife, bind the soil on the hillside, and give small
mammals and birds another resource for cover (Tirmenstein 1990). The final understory species
that was to be planted in this polygon was deer fern (Blechnum spicant). This species requires a
decent amount of shade, so we installed it in the northeastern area of this polygon underneath
thicker deciduous cover. Deer fern will be useful to absorb water out of soil and provide browse
for deer (Matthews 1993).
Polygon 2
1,567 square feet. Northwestern portion of Site 5
Polygon 2 was dominated by dense, impenetrable thickets of salmonberry and Himalayan
blackberry prior to restoration. These two species alone accounted for approximately 80% of
the vegetation throughout Polygon 2 because not much else was able to establish in the
thickets. English ivy was also problematic in this polygon, for it had completely covered a snag
at the southwestern corner (that has since been removed with the help of Jim Freese at Friends

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of North Creek Forest) and had also climbed to the top of a mature western redcedar
(approximately 100 ft tall). Some native understory species such as skunk cabbage (Lysichiton
americanus) and horsetail (Equisetum ssp.) were also present. Three young (under 40 years old)
western redcedar (Thuja plicata) are located along the eastern border of Polygon 2.
Polygon 2 receives almost no shade and consists of extremely saturated soil throughout (except
along the western border where it is slightly drier), so we installed species that would tolerate
both abiotic factors. The species were also chosen to initiate canopy development, absorb
moisture from the soil, and bind the soil with their root systems. We installed 3 sitka spruce
bare root plants in various locations in this polygon. One was placed near the trail dividing
Polygons 1 and 2, and the other two were installed in the center where they will receive high
amounts of sun and help with initiating our objective of an evergreen canopy (Scott 1992). Two
other tree species were planted in this polygon for the purpose of developing evergreen canopy
cover and to absorb water: western redcedar and Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis). The first
western redcedar was planted next to the northern border in a position where it will receive
partial shade from the present salmonberry thicket. The other was planted next to the edge of
the evergreen canopy produced by the mature western redcedar trees in Polygon 5. We
installed three Sitka spruce in this polygon because of the moisture conditions. This species is a
fast-growing early-successional pioneer, so it will quickly add to the canopy layer. Sitka spruce
provides roosting, nesting, and winter cover for birds, and food for deer, elk, and squirrels
(Leigh 1999).
The most highly-planted vegetation in this polygon were the willow species (Salix sp.), which
were installed in the form of live stakes. They will address two very important issues in this
polygon which are to add aggressive competition to combat the invasive H. helix and R. bifrons
and to stabilize the soil with their extensive root systems (Labbe 1998). The species installed
include sitka willow, Hooker’s willow and Pacific willow. Pacific willow will act as a fast-growing
tree species that will add thin deciduous canopy to Polygon 2, and the other two willow species
will help to replace the mid-story layer that became less dense after removing the Himalayan
blackberry. The final tree species in this polygon will be cascara (Rhamnus purshiana). There are
some sparsely scattered throughout our site, so we bare root planted 4 additional individuals a
minimum of 6 ft. apart. This species is tolerant of high-sun and wet conditions, and will also be
useful for a number of purposes such as binding soil, providing berries as food for birds and
small mammals, and acting as a source of pollination for wasps such as yellow jackets (Leigh
1999).
Pacific ninebark was a frequently-planted shrub species in Polygon 2, which were installed as
bare root plants. These were planted where Himalayan blackberry had been previously

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established in order to recreate the shrub layer. It is extremely useful for riparian slope
stabilization and it prefers open sites. Also, the berries will continue to be a food source into
the late winter months, so it has a high wildlife value (McWilliams 2000). We also planted live
stakes of red-twig dogwood and a mix of bare root plants and live stakes of snowberry to fulfill
similar tasks. Finally, twinberry was installed near the center of the polygon which is useful for
slope stabilization and it can also handle a variety of light conditions. Twinberry provides a
source of berries for birds and small mammals, as well as a valuable nectar source for
hummingbirds and butterflies (Darris 2011).
Due to much of the soil in this polygon being saturated or inundated, skunk cabbage was able
to grow throughout. It is a wetland obligate, so it will be able to handle the wettest conditions
in our site. The leaves and flowering parts are used by flies for food and mating (NOWPP 2005-
16). There is a high number of skunk cabbage that revealed themselves early in the month of
April, so there was no need to add additional individuals. Slough sedge is an important
understory species in this polygon for the areas in particular need of soil stabilization, so we
planted approximately 50 throughout. Intermixed with the slough sedge, we planted some
False Lily of the Valley to also help maintain slope stability and absorb some of the excess
moisture. Finally, we installed a pair of deer fern in the northeastern corner of this polygon
where a cluster of mature western redcedar trees present in Polygon 5 provide partial-to-dense
evergreen shade.
Polygon 3
803 square feet. Southeastern portion of Site 5.
Prior to restoration, Polygon 3 contained several red alder (one of which fell in Fall 2015) and
big-leaf maple that provided sparse overstory cover. It was also inhabited by some dense
patches of salmonberry and Himalayan blackberry and the understory was dominated by a
widespread establishment of English ivy. Some native understory was present such as sword
fern (Polystichum munitum) and horsetail, as well as a small patch of Youth-on-age (Tolmiea
menziesii) located in the southeastern corner. Because of the existing deciduous overstory
covering most of this polygon, we only have two tree species that were installed here. One sitka
spruce was bare-root planted fairly close to the main trail that acts as the eastern border of our
site (AKA the eastern access trail) where there is some sun coming through the canopy and a
high level of moisture, and another was planted under near the access trail that divides
Polygons 3 and 4. The other species was western redcedar, installing two individuals along the
border between Polygons 3 and 4 where they will receive some shade and be placed in moist-

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to-wet soil. These trees will help to initiate the development of an evergreen canopy in these
spots, and will also help to stabilize the soil and absorb water.
The southwestern corner of Polygon 3 has a small mound where the soil is slightly less wet than
the surrounding soil. A single vine maple was already growing here, so we installed two more
near it to increase the density of the mid-story at this location. Along the border between
Polygons 3 and 4 and the border between Polygons 1 and 3, there was mostly wet, saturated
soil and medium-to-high light availability. This is where our moisture-tolerant shrubs were
placed that also required adequate sunlight. A total of 6 live stakes of snowberry were planted
in Polygon 3 along these borders, along with a couple of bare root plants. Several red-twig
dogwood live stakes were planted in the same area. Along the border between Polygons 3 and
4 in the northwestern portion, we installed 2 Goat’s beard. The final shrub species for this
polygon was Pacific ninebark, 2 of which were planted as bare root plants slightly south of the
border between Polygons 3 and 4 to assist the other installed shrubs in this location with slope
stabilization and mid-story development.
Because there was deciduous shade present, we installed the understory species red
huckleberry (Vaccinium parvifolium). It requires a substrate that is high in organic matter
(preferably decaying wood), so when we salvaged this species, we took some of the wood that
they were growing in as well. 2 of these were planted adjacent to the access trail that divides
Polygons 3 and 4 on top of a remnant stump. Here there should be adequate shade and plenty
of organic matter for them to establish. This species will be useful to provide cover and nesting
sites for small mammals and birds, and will produce red berries that wildlife can use for food
(Tirmenstein 1990). Sword fern is very durable and useful for erosion control, water absorption
and provides good cover for small mammals and birds (Zouhar 2015). We chose not to plant
very many of this species throughout our site because there is already a very high presence,
especially in Polygon 5. However, In Polygon 3, we installed 4 that were recovered from salvage
fairly close to the center of the polygon. We also installed a single deer fern in the densest
shade of Polygon 3. Finally, skunk cabbage was planned to be installed in the wettest portions
of Polygon 3, but because some of it appeared in this polygon in April and because there is such
a high density of skunk cabbage throughout the site, we chose not to plant any additional
individuals.

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Polygon 4
2,433 square feet. Largest polygon, sits in-between Polygons 3 and 5 on the eastern side of Site
5.
Polygon 4 was by far the most diverse in vegetation. This polygon receives the most sunlight in
comparison to the rest of the site, and was the most heavily dominated by both salmonberry
and Himalayan blackberry (approximately 70% coverage) before our restoration activities.
English holly was also a problem, for it had developed very dense roots and was beginning to
spread. One individual English holly was approximately 20 ft. tall, which members of FNCF came
onsite to cut down using an axe. The stem will need to be injected with Imazapyr in the summer
of 2016. According to EarthCorps and King County, Imazapyr is the most effective treatment for
dealing with English holly (Salisbury 2014). Some English Ivy was also spread throughout, but
Polygon 4 was not as heavily infested as the other polygons. Aside from the dense thicket of
salmonberry and Himalayan blackberry, there was also some red alder, cascara, skunk cabbage,
English holly, red huckleberry, and beaked hazelnut (Corylus cornuta var. californica) mixed into
the thicket in some spots.
Along the northern border of Polygon 4, the vegetation begins to transition into a western
redcedar and low Oregon-grape (Mahonia nervosa) dominated landscape where the soil is drier
and the canopy begins to close. Several pioneer tree-species we chose were planted along the
edge of the closing canopy in this polygon in order to help to expand the overstory canopy.
Because of the high availability of light, sitka spruce will do well in this polygon. The moisture
next to the border between Polygons 3 and 4 will provide suitable conditions for this species to
establish, so we installed 2 here. Big-leaf maple will also do well here because of the high
availability of light, but had to be placed in slightly drier microsites. There were none previously
established in this polygon, so we planted 4 of these in Polygon 4 through the middle at least 8
ft. apart.
Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) will quickly add to the evergreen overstory, so we planted a
total of 4 along the border dividing polygons 4 and 5 at least 6ft. apart. We also added several
bare root western redcedar in the northwestern corner of this polygon where there are several
young but fairly tall western redcedar already present that are providing shade. Our final two
deciduous trees we planted in this polygon are cascara and Pacific willow. There is one existing
cascara just east of the center of this polygon, so we planted an additional one next to it.
Several Pacific willow were installed as live stakes around the center of Polygon 4 in order to
initiate canopy development there. With such a significant volume of Himalayan blackberry

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removed, the soil was also highly susceptible to erosion, so Pacific willow’s extensive root
system will be beneficial in this area as well.
When we were planning the shrub species for this polygon, we took into account the fact that
much of the mid-story layer would be gone with the removal of the vast amount of Himalayan
blackberry that was present before restoration. The chosen shrub species planted here will be
of great benefit to this polygon, providing increased and higher-quality wildlife services than
the Himalayan blackberry could alone. Both Hooker’s willow and Sitka willow were installed in
this polygon and will quickly replace the mid-story layer. We live-staked 3 red-twig dogwood in
the southwestern corner of Polygon 4, next to the border that divides it with Polygon 3, in an
area of high moisture and great need for slope stabilization. We installed an additional red-twig
dogwood live stake near the center of the polygon, in an area with high amounts of sun and
wet soil, giving us a total of 4 red-twig dogwood live stakes installed in polygon 4. 6 snowberry
live stakes were planted, scattered throughout the southern half of the polygon. Twinberry
was also planted in this polygon. The tubular flowers that it produces attract hummingbirds
and will create an appealing feature to have trailside (Leigh 1999). The conditions were
appropriate, so we bare-root planted 6 of this species (at least 2 ft. apart) along the eastern
border of Polygon 4 next to the trail. We planted 3 Pacific ninebark in the middle of the polygon
to help reduce erosion, and one Goat’s beard was installed with the twinberry next to the trail
because it produces visually appealing flowers and is able to handle the moisture conditions
present in that location. Our final shrub, swamp gooseberry, was planted in a pocket of
moisture found at the southeastern corner of this polygon, and the area just west of center of
the polygon, giving us a total of 3 planted. This species will handle the high levels of moisture
on the slope and will tolerate high levels of sunlight.
For the understory, we divided up the plants based the varying light availability present
throughout the polygon. The northernmost portion of our polygon that stretches all the way
across the border between Polygons 4 and 5 will receive more shade than the rest of this
polygon. Because of that, we planted species in this particular spot that require more shade to
thrive. Salal was chosen to be planted here for that reason and we installed 6 from salvage.
Most of the hillside that Polygon 5 is located on has high amounts of salal already present, so
we expanded its range to the southern part of that hillside. Red huckleberry is another species
that likes shade, and there were already some established prior to restoration near the border
that divides Polygons 4 and 5. We installed 3 more along this border where there is some
decaying wood available and suitable conditions for its establishment. We also installed 4 plugs
of redwood sorrel (Oxalis oregana) because of the moist soil and their requirement of shade.
The last understory species we installed to make use of the present shade conditions in this
polygon is deer fern, and this was placed in the northwestern corner of this polygon where

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there is a small stand of young but tall western redcedars (Leigh 1999). The rest of the
understory will consist of species both more tolerant of sunny conditions and useful for slope
stabilization. These will be installed throughout most of the site. Slough sedge was the most
heavily planted of all understory species in this polygon with 23 plugs (or salvaged plants) being
spread through the polygon. Within that same range, we installed 4 plugs of false lily of the
valley and five salvaged sword fern along the slope. Because sword fern prefers less moisture
than slough sedge and false lily of the valley (Zouhar 2015), we placed these in some of the less-
saturated spots on the slope that still require soil stabilization.
Polygon 5
1,395 square feet. Northeastern corner of Site 5
Polygon 5 was completely different from the rest of the site because of the high levels of shade
provided by the evergreen stand of mature western redcedar trees, and because it is on an
isolated mound that separates it from the slope we see throughout the site. The soil here is
slightly drier (but still moist) and there is a higher diversity of understory and mid-story species
already present here in comparison to other parts of the site. There are 2 tree species we
installed here that were not planted anywhere else on site. The first is western hemlock (T.
heterophylla), which is a late-successional lowland forest climax species usually found in more
mature forest stands as the dominant overstory species. Because of the high amount of shade
provided, the conditions in Polygon 5 will be ideal. We installed five as bare root plantings
underneath the dense western redcedar stand, and they will do well to provide thermal cover
for wildlife in the winter months (Tesky 1992). The second tree species we will install that
requires similar shady conditions is western yew (Taxus brevifolia). This species will act more as
a shrub in Polygon 5 because it does not grow very tall, but it will act as a source of cover for
birds and small mammals and will also be a source of browse (Bolsinger 1988). We installed two
of this species in Polygon 5 underneath the western redcedar overstory.
We only planted one mid-story species (vine maple) since there were already many of them
growing in this polygon prior to restoration, especially just across the stream in the
northwestern corner of the polygon. We planted 3 more from salvage south of the other vine
maple to increase the density of the mid-story layer.
The understory in this polygon will consist of species that can tolerate higher amounts of shade.
Red huckleberry is one of those species that will be able to grow on the decaying wood that is
available in this polygon. 2 were placed near the border dividing Polygons 4 and 5 just before
the edge of the western redcedar canopy, and 2 were placed in the middle of the polygon

14
underneath thick shade (for a total of 4). Salal, which is already fairly common in this polygon
(especially in the eastern portion along the slope), was also installed. We obtained six from
salvage and planted them further west of the slope, underneath the western redcedar canopy
where it was less common.
Trail
The trail that borders our eastern site has been mulched over in order to provide access to UW
REN team members and volunteers. We plan to inoculate sections of this mulch with the fungal
species wine-cap stropharia. Wine-cap stropharia mycelium is a documented food source for
bees (Stamets 2005). This fungi will also be able to absorb and filter water, as well as help to
reduce the fecal coliform count in the surface water flowing from our site (Taylor et. al. 2015).
In order to grow this species, we will simply mix colonized wood chips into the existing wood
chips on the trail in determined spots. Another fungal species that we installed along the trail is
oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) in order to increase the fungal diversity present and
help with water filtration. We purchased colonized plugs and hammered them into a fallen red
alder that is adjacent to the trail. This species should eventually colonize the entire log.

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Maintenance Plan:
Our restoration project site is located in the center of an ever-growing urban area and the
success of this project will rely heavily on its maintenance. This Maintenance Plan is key for our
goals to succeed in the future. Our goals for this project are: Establish native vegetation to
initiate site development towards later-successional maturity characteristic of Puget Sound
lowland forests prior to extensive logging (Goal 1), improve ecological functions onsite as well
as those provided to nearby habitat and local watershed (Goal 2), promote wildlife habitat and
attract local fauna such as birds, bats, insects and amphibians (Goal 3), and engage community
in restoration efforts and continued maintenance of project site (Goal 4). In order to ensure our
restoration plan follows through as projected, we have included reasons and instructions that
cover the continued maintenance of critical aspects such as plant care, invasive removal, site
upkeep, bird and bee house maintenance, and community outreach.
Maintenance Task List
1. Irrigation
Why: Summer in the Pacific Northwest can be dry and hot, and we recently broke the previous
record for June-August summer temperatures in the summer of 2015. (Climate Nexus 2015).
Lack of water due to extreme temperatures will result in plants that are unable to intake
adequate amounts of water, leading to dehydrated and dead plants. Therefore, to ensure plant
survival, it is critical to monitor the water needs of the plants (Chalker-Scott 2009). We have
installed various plants in specific locations based on their individual water needs and
tolerances, but these conditions may change with higher temperatures and an increased
duration of sunlight. It is critical to maintain consistent moisture in the root zone throughout
the summer drought. Plants experience drying cycles, so it is okay for there to be some times
of “drought”, but it should be monitored so that the droughts aren’t too prolonged.
Where: Check all installed and previously-established plants to determine watering needs
throughout all areas of the site. Watering the red alder log inoculated with oyster mushroom
plugs (located in Polygon 4) once a week through the summer of 2016 is also recommended.
When: Spring installations require much more watering during the following summer to help
them establish, even for drought tolerant species (Chalker-Scott 2009). During the dry months
(June-September) newly-planted species will need additional water for the first growing season.

17
After the first growing season, additional watering can be limited unless the drier months are
unusually hot and dry. Although watering in the morning is best, plants should be watered any
time if they show drought stress (Chalker-Scott 2009).
Resources and Tools: The Community Partner (FNCF) can provide buckets or attach a hose from
the nearest house, with permission of course.
How: When irrigating the site it is important to look for visual signs such as wilting and leaf
scorch to identify the plants that need to be watered. In addition, to minimize water loss due to
evaporation it is better to water late in the day or early in the morning, using enough water to
moisten the ground and the roots of the plants. (Chalker-Scott 2009).
2. Vegetation Thinning/Pruning
Why: Vegetation thinning is effective for reducing competition between trees and shrubs,
improve growth and maturation of trees, and increase native pasture and groundcover growth
(NSW Native Vegetation Regulation 2013).
Where: Polygons 2 and 4 are densely planted with live stakes such as willow species and red-
twig dogwood. In order to increase the survival rate of installed or previously-established
species, it is critical to thin these areas if they become overcrowded or will not thin themselves.
A lack of thinning could potentially prevent other desirable species from maturing or
establishing.
When: Removal of dead, diseased, or damaged plants or branches can be done through all
season (Chalker-Scott 2009). Most of the time, pruning responses are determined by the plant
and the environment. Gentle summer weather is most favorable for pruning trees and shrubs
(Chalker-Scott 2009).
Resources and Tools: FNCF has the required tools such as loppers and hand clippers and as well
as a person who regularly checks the site.
How: Clip decaying or encroaching branches/foliage at the base, close to the stem or before
newly-forming buds. A sign to look for is if one population of certain shrubs or trees are densely
growing in an area and the surrounding desirable species look weak or are unable to grow, then
trimming might be necessary. For our site, salmonberry is most likely to overcrowd in Polygons
2, 4, the east side of Polygon 1, and the northern side of Polygon 3. Salmonberry that is more
than 1.3 meters high and stems with a diameter 25 centimeters or higher (NSW Native

18
Vegetation Regulation 2013) should be examined to decide whether thinning is required.
Shrubs that are overcrowding the trails can also be pruned to allow continued access and
maintenance to the site.
3. Mulching
Why: Our project goal includes spreading an 8-12” thick layer of woodchip mulch across the site
in order to assist in suppressing invasive species, retaining soil moisture, and reducing erosion.
In addition, maintaining a ring of mulch around the installed plants will be beneficial for limiting
competition and keeping moisture (Chalker-Scott 2009). Also, we have added an additional 6-
12” of mulch to access trails because of the excess amounts of moisture onsite that have led to
extremely muddy and unsafe walking conditions. It is important that these amounts of mulch
are maintained.
Where: Throughout the entire site, especially on trails and around installed plants.
When: Any time of the year when mulch levels have been lowered or depleted.
Resources and Tools: Mulch can be ordered or donated from local entities such as Northwest
Arboriculture or Bartlett’s Tree Service. Necessary tools such as wheelbarrows, pitchforks,
gloves, and buckets can be acquired from FNCF.
How: Use pitchforks or shovels to fill wheelbarrows and buckets with mulch, bring the mulch
onsite, and spread the mulch in desired areas. Mulch can be spread by hand or with rakes.
4. Replanting
Why: It is important to maintain an abundance of the desired native species throughout the
site. Replanting where needed will increase the chances that selected species will mature and
fulfill their roles, and will also limit the re-emergence of invasive species. We have planted both
evergreen and deciduous tree species as well as fast-growing shrub species in order to prevent
the reemergence of invasive species. The installation of our trees will initiate onsite canopy
development and the fast-growing shrubs will work quickly to fill in the mid-story and
outcompete invasives. The resulting shade will prevent sunlight from reaching the remaining
invasive seedlings, preventing their re-emergence (Leigh 1999). There is no guarantee that all of
the plants will survive, so as some plants die, they will need to be replaced. As more shade is
created on the site, western redcedar trees can be planted throughout, especially in areas like
Polygons 2 and 4 that receive significant amounts of sunlight currently.

19
Where: Throughout the entire site, especially in Polygon 2 where shrubs are densely installed
as live stakes and bare root plants.
When: In winter or early spring
Resources and Tools: Shovels and gloves can be acquired from the FNCF office.
How: Identify dead plants and, if possible, remove and replace them with same species. If the
same species is unavailable, replant using a species that can tolerate the same environmental
conditions and will fulfill a similar role as the previous species. If it seems as though the
particular species doesn’t cope well in the area it is planted we recommend planting a different
native species that can tolerate the conditions better.
5. InvasiveRemoval
Why: Much of the site has been halted in its stage of succession due to the establishment and
dominance of invasive species. The site was overrun with the invasive species Himalayan
blackberry, English holly, and English ivy. English ivy has been observed climbing and then
shading or choking out existing trees. Himalayan blackberry has prevented the establishment of
an overstory and understory without providing much wildlife value as the primary midstory
species. Without continuous maintenance, the likeliness that the site will proceed with
maturation is very low.
Where: The majority of the site with the exception of Polygon 5 where there was no invasive
species present prior to restoration.
When: Invasive species in the project site can be removed any time of the year. Since removal
of invasive species requires intensive labor over a fairly broad area, it is effective to use
volunteers and hold work parties to remove invasive species.
Resources and Tools: FNCF has the required tools for invasive removal such as: gloves, loppers,
shovels, handsaws etc.
How: Himalayan Blackberry can be removed by digging out the roots. Small individuals can be
hand-pulled out of the ground by pulling from the base of the canes if the roots are loosely
established or if they are located in a saturated area. The larger specimens will be removed by
cutting the canes and digging out the roots using shovels. If English ivy is found climbing trees,
cut and remove the roots around the base of each tree. English ivy roots can regenerate and
produce new leaves and more roots, which makes it important to remove any missed runner

20
stems and roots by pulling and walking the length of the stems as you pull (WRP 2016). Small
English holly can be removed by digging or pulling if the soil is moist. The mature individuals
have deep and extensive roots, thus, digging up mature holly tree can result in soil disturbance
or can be near impossible to remove. If removal is not a possibility, cut the trunk near the base
and then inject the stem at the cut entry point using the chemical herbicide Imazapyr.
6. Preventing Onsite Pollution
Why: Picking up garbage and trash will help maintain the health of the forest. While removing
invasive species and preparing the site, we have also removed any visible trash and litter from
the site. It is important to prevent litter from making its way into the site when possible and to
remove it when it is present. Site 5 is located just below a residential area, which means there is
a high possibility that more trash or litter will eventually travel to our site. This also means that
pollutants from urban runoff will also be present onsite, but we cannot prevent this.
Where: The entire site
When: During all work parties, as well as whenever FNCF members are onsite doing
maintenance work.
Resources and Tools: Most trash can be removed by hand, but any tools that may be required
can be provided by FNCF.
How: Trash pickup and removal should be orally addressed to volunteers prior to them
beginning their work onsite. Also, informing nearby neighborhood residents about the project
and how pollution could degrade the forest might reduce the amount of trash or debris making
its way onsite.
7. Bee Habitat Maintenance
Why: All of the hand-made habitat structures need to be monitored and maintained as needed.
Depending on the weather, disturbances, or simply time, the installed wildlife structures may
get damaged. Moreover, bee habitats can be taken over by unwanted parasites or fungus
molds.
Where: Installed bee habitat structures throughout the site.
When: Replace dead Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) canes being used for habitat
with newer canes every 2 years. Canes should be replaced in the summer time after young bees

21
have emerged (Carlton 2006-2015). Do an annual check on the mason bee habitat boxes in
winter to ensure they are still securely hung on the trees.
Resources and Tools: Necessary tools for replacements can be handmade or purchased. Bee
houses can be made from waste wood and logs which can be acquired fairly cheaply.
How: Replace canes every two years by cutting the zip ties and replacing them within the
habitat structure. Attach new zip ties through the holes in the bottom of the structure and
around the bunched canes. The bumble bee houses do not need any annual maintenance but if
one becomes damaged beyond repair the materials should be removed from the site. If any
mason bee houses are fall they can be re hung from trees with hemp twine, or if damaged
thoroughly, removed from the site.
8. BirdhouseMaintenance
Why: Bird houses require frequent monitoring after being set up. Due to some predators and
parasites certain problems can occur. Monitoring and giving attention to certain predators
should be done. Also some monitoring should be done to see if the birdhouses are being used.
Where: Installed birdhouses in the project site.
When: Cleaning of birdhouses should be done once a year. The best time is to clean after the
birds have finished breeding in autumn (BirdHouses101 2007).
Resources and Tools: Cleaning does not require any chemicals. Feces and nests can be hand
removed, owl house maintenance needs ladder to reach. If any part of the birdhouse has any
rotten parts it can be removed by screwdriver and replaced.
How: Bird houses need regular monitoring after being setup. Cleaning should be done once a
year, typically in the fall and after the birds have finished breeding. The old nesting can be
removed by hand and scrubbed with water. Damaged or rotten parts should be removed and
changed with a new one. It is easy to remove the unwanted parts of the bird house with
screwdriver and replace it with plywood (which can be found anywhere). The plywood should
be the same size as the one that is being replaced and should be recovered with the existing
cedar siding.

22
9. Community Outreach
Why: Neighborhood awareness towards the restoration project is one of the many key
elements of succession. People who are well-informed about the project site and people who
are invested in it can provide vast amount of help in maintaining the site. Building a close
relationship with the community and getting more people involved in the maintenance of
restoration projects such as this can make a big difference. Volunteers are crucial for this
project, since most of the heavy labor is conducted by volunteers.
Where: Through the FNCF website, schools, social media, connecting with other non-profits or
restoration organizations, and local residential neighborhoods.
When: Whenever possible. It is effective to spread awareness or to hold events during times of
regional environmental focus such as Earth Day.
Resources and Tools: Information can be acquired from the FNCF website, fliers can be handed
out to nearby residential neighbors, and FNCF representatives can be sent to various nearby
schools or other areas of interest to give informative talks and recruit volunteers.
How: Organizing work-parties and spreading awareness will lead to increased numbers of
volunteers and community involvement. Also, continued work and interaction with University
of Washington Bothell students and other local organizations is helpful to gain more public
interest. Sending out informative emails detailing the dates of events and work parties can
generate more involvement as well.
Maintenance Timetable
Irrigation:
May-September Add water as needed in the morning to plants that show
signs of drought. Once a day may be necessary in the
summer months depending upon the weather.
Vegetation
Thinning/Pruning:
Anytime of the year as
needed
Removal of dead or diseased plants can be done any time
of the season. Gentle summer weather is most favorable

23
for pruning trees and shrubs. Thinning of fast growing
shrubs that are crowding out larger tree seedlings may also
be necessary.
Mulching:
Any time as needed Apply woodchip mulch on access trails and in planting
areas
Replanting:
February-April,
September-November
Trees and shrubs will do best if planted in winter/early
spring. Fall conditions will also provide a good chance for
success.
Invasive Removal:
Any time of the year as
needed
During volunteer events, it is always good to have
volunteers remove invasive species. Reemergence of
invasive species should be regularly checked throughout
the entire site and removed when possible.
Preventing Onsite
Pollution:
Anytime of the year as
needed
Any garbage or litter found onsite should be removed.
Surrounding neighbors and people traveling through the
site should be informed to not litter in the forest.
Bee Habitat
Maintenance:
August-October Regular checkup should be done and knotweed canes
should be replaced every 2 years after the emergence of
young bees. Any mason bee boxes or bumblebee nests
that are damaged beyond repair can be removed from the
site.
Birdhouse
Maintenance :

24
September-November Removing the nesting material and feces in the fall will
allow the winter-time cold to kill any additional mites and
insects that might still be living on the bare wood. If the
floor of the birdhouse is rotted, it should be replaced as
critters of all kinds can over-winter in this area
(BirdmanUSA 2015).
Community Outreach:
Any time of the year Through the FNCF website, UWB or other areas of interest,
and the local community
Monitoring Plan:
Introduction
Now that our part of this restoration project is nearing completion, a very important job that
we'll be leaving for our community partners and future volunteers is ensuring our goals are
being met through effective monitoring of the site. Regular monitoring through photo
comparisons and vegetative cover sample plots will be crucial to ensure we achieve our first
goal of establishing native vegetation and initiating site development towards a later-
successional maturity forest. After all, the only way to see how each polygon is progressing and
how each plant is doing in its chosen microhabitat is to actually look at the site. Even though it's
a time-consuming job that will show little reward in the short-term, monitoring will allow our
community partners to observe the successional development of the forest as it begins to
establish a lower canopy, shade out any remaining invasive species, and eventually develop a
full upper canopy. By going onsite and taking pictures at 10 easily-reached photo spots, FNCF
will be able to monitor the site and track its changes over time, marking their observations and
dealing with any hardships experienced within each polygon such as invasive reemergence,
plant mortality, or vandalism. Continued monitoring will also allow our success in meeting our
second goal, which is improving the ecological functions provided to nearby habitat and the
local watershed so that any arising problems can be brought to attention. Going onsite to take
pictures at the photo points, they’ll be able to observe the wildlife attracted by our habitat
friendly functions such as berry bushes (salmonberry, gooseberry, huckleberry, snowberry,

25
salal, twinberry, false lily-of-the-valley), built habitats (bat, bird and bee) and assess how well
we’re meeting our third goal of promoting wildlife habitat and attracting local fauna .
VegetationPhotoMonitoring
Due to the portability and amount of detail that can be recorded, photo monitoring is a cheap
and easy way to track changes within a restoration project after its initial development. It
provides a clear, visual comparison for how each polygon has changed year after year, allowing
our community partners to assess site conditions and address any apparent problems that may
have arisen.
For Site 5 of North Creek Forest, we have established 10 photo monitoring plots to be recorded
from 8 permanent photo monitoring point locations to track changes in vegetation cover and
structural development over time. Each polygon contains 2 different photo monitoring plots.
They can be viewed and assessed individually to track changes. All of our photo monitoring
points are marked by trees and debris native to the site, things that should remain in the same
place over time and can be used at markers.
To ensure the most representative photos for comparison, photo monitoring plots should be
captured during the last week of July and the first week of October each year. Each picture will
be taken with a Nikon COOLPIX L810 or equivalent camera at breast height in order to properly
compare vegetation coverage from year to year. Additional tools needed for photo capture are
an azimuth compass, clinometer, and a 25 foot measuring tape.

26
Photo Monitoring Point 1: Taken 4/28/2016
For the first photo of Polygon 1, stop in the center of the western access trail when you first
enter the polygon, along the upper trail facing northwest. The photographer should stand
directly in between the marked vine maple 16 feet to the left and the big-leaf maple 16 feet to
the right. Each biannual photo from this location should be taken on the azimuth of 15 degrees
and a clinometer angle of -35 degrees.
Taken by: Thomas Radon

27
For the first photo of Polygon 2, continue from Polygon 1 across the western access trail into
Polygon 2. The photographer should take position standing on the ground directly uphill of the
marked stump found upon entering the polygon. All reference photos from this spot should be
taken on the azimuth of 55 degrees and a clinometer angle of -35 degrees.

28
Continuing along from photo point 2, head east down the slope along the northern access trail
towards the swampy skunk cabbage patch for the second Polygon 2 reference photo. Once
there, locate the marked cedar tree to the right of the path when facing NE. Distance yourself
12 feet from the tree on an azimuth of 280 degrees. You should end up in the center of the
trail. Once standing at this point take biannual photos on the azimuth of 260 degrees and a
clinometer angle of +5 degrees.
Rounding the eastern edge of the skunk cabbage patch, cross into the tall western redcedar
patch of Polygon 5. From there, head out on the trail leading south and locate the marked tree
to the right of the trail when facing north. Measure approximately 8 feet along the 215 degree
azimuth from the tree and stand in the center of the established path. This location will serve as
the capture point for two photo monitoring plots, the first in Polygon 4 as well as in Polygon 5.
First reference photo plot for Polygon 4 will be captured on the azimuth of 125 degrees and a
clinometer angle of -35 degrees.

29
First reference photo for Polygon 5 will be taken along the azimuth of 0 degrees with a

30
To reach the second photo plot location of Polygon 5 at return to the main access trail (access
trail on the eastern border of Site 5) along the northeastern border of site and follow it until
you reach the stream. After crossing the stream, stand facing azimuth 210 degrees with the big-
leaf maple marking the northeastern tip of Polygon 5 immediately to photographer’s right. Each
biannual photo during the peak seasons of vegetation and dormancy should be taken at a
clinometer angle of 0 degrees.
For the second reference photo of Polygon 4, go along the main trail and locate the marked big-
leaf maple to the left of the path when facing south, roughly in the middle of the polygon’s
eastern border. The photographer should stand in the center of the established path directly in
front of the marked tree and facing an azimuth angle of 275 degrees. All reference photos from
this location should be taken at a clinometer angle of +10 degrees.

31
To capture the first photo monitoring plot of Polygon 3, go along the main trail and find the
marked red alder tree at the southeastern corner of the polygon. The photographer shall stand
facing azimuth of 270 degrees with the vine maple immediately to their right. Each biannual
photo from this point will be taken at a clinometer angle of +15 degrees.
To reach the final photo point head up the access trail dividing Polygons 3 and 4 from the main
trail. Continue past where it intersects with the trail heading north across the top of Polygon 4.
Photographer should stop 17 feet east of the intersection center. From this point the second
reference photos of Polygons 1 and 3 will be captured.

32
Second reference photo plot for Polygon 1 shall be captured on the azimuth of 200 degrees and
a clinometer angle of +5 degrees.
Second reference photo for Polygon 3 shall be taken along the azimuth of 115 degrees with a

33
VegetationMonitoring Plots
In order for our community partners and volunteers to be able to adequately track the progress
of our restoration efforts, we have chosen 4 locations in our site to be used for vegetative
assessment sample plots. Each of the chosen locations is in the middle of areas where we did
high intensity restoration work (>50% plant removal and native species replanting) and contain
a variety of installed native flora representative of that particular microclimate. We have
determined that in order to minimize future surveyor efforts and also have a large enough
sample size to be representative, a measured out ten by ten foot square would work well for
each of the plots. Each of the sample plots are marked with woody debris we found already
present onsite and are marked with its relative polygon number.
Since we are not completed installing plants just yet we are unable to provide a baseline
monitoring report at this time and will attach it at the end of this section when it is completed
for the As-built Report.
Plot locations are provided on the monitoring map for surveying references (see Map 2). All
plot perimeters are located bordering established access trails for ease of access during future
surveying events.

34
Monitoring Map
Map 2. Map detailing Photo Point locations and locations of Vegetative Plots.

35
Our first 10 x 10 permanent plot is located to the east of the access trail immediately upon
entering Polygon 1 headed north along the upper path. This polygon contains a large seepage
from the impermeable surfaces of the neighborhood above, so this area was planted largely
with sedges and other wetland species. The plot’s perimeter parallels the 80 degree azimuth.
Vegetative Sample Plot 2 can be found by following the western access trail north and
searching immediately east of the stump used for photo point 2 for the four corner markers.
This area was cleared of debris and heavily mulched to reduce the amount of moisture in the
soil, and we planted this area with a high density of willow, red-twig dogwood, and snowberry
live stakes, as well as some Pacific ninebark and snowberry bareroot plants. This plot’s
perimeter runs along the azimuth of 55 degrees.
Polygon 3 holds Vegetative Sample Plot 3 in its northeastern corner, bordered by the main trail
running along the east side of the site and the center trail splitting Polygons 3 and 4. Being
below the seepage of Polygon 1, this area is also fairly wet and is stocked with sedges and other
wetland species as well as some live stakes and red huckleberry. To accommodate the angle of
the trails, this representative plot takes the shape of a diamond with one set of perimeter sides
running along the azimuth of 325 degrees and the other set along the 190 degree azimuth.
The final established 10 x 10 permanent plot was installed near the northwestern corner of
Polygon 4 along the lower access path and bordering Polygon 5. Polygon 4 was one of our
driest, wetter only than five. We’ve placed a large variety of species from different lowland
forest types. Plot perimeter runs along the 350 degree azimuth.
With the little work we did there it was deemed unnecessary to install a vegetative sampling
plot in Polygon 5 due to the established, later successional conifers dominating the polygon.
Monitoring Methods
To adequately assess installed plant growth from year to year, all vegetative monitoring plots
should be surveyed for the percentage of vegetative cover by layer (overstory, mid-story, and
understory) as well as by the Line Intersect Method once a year, during the last week in July.
Percent Cover:
Percent-cover is a low cost, quick surveying technique that lets you get a good sense of the
general plant health in that area. By assessing the percentage of vegetative cover on the forest
floor, as well as that in the mid-story and overstory layers in each of our monitoring plots, our
community partner will be able to track the growth of our installed species and how the

36
microclimates of the different polygons affect them. For this measurement, the surveyor should
consider vegetation that grows 0-5 feet above the soil’s surface to be groundcover, 5-20 feet as
mid-story vegetation, and 20+ feet to be overstory vegetation. Try to accurately assess percent
coverage within the column directly above the plots for three layers for each of the four plots.
Line Intercept:
To get a more in-depth look at plant health, the surveyor should perform a line intercept
measurement between the opposite corner markers of the plot, 8 measurements in all. Take
note of each plant intersecting the NE-SW running transect, as well as the NW-SE transect for
each of the four plots. The species of each intersecting plant should be recorded, as well as the
plant’s current health, on a scale of 0-9 with 9 being extremely successful and thriving and 0
being dead. In order to maximize data relativity between years each transect measurement
should start on the northern end (NW-SE, NE-SW).
Habitat Structure andMyceliumMonitoring Methods
Since the efficacy of habitat structures and fungal inoculants are not well documented with
North Creek Forest or the UW-REN program some monitoring will be necessary to determine if
these measures were effective. It would be best if possible to get interested volunteers and
classes fromUW Bothell to do monitoring around the site.
Mason Bee Habitat:
The mason bee habitat boxes were built according to guidance from Dr. Amy Lambert as well as
online resources. It would be ideal to have Dr. Lambert’s Bee Behavior class out in the spring to
monitor the habitat structures and see if they are being used. Also additional volunteers could
monitor these. It would be best to see mason bees actually using the knotweed tubes but if
they appear sealed with mud it is likely that eggs have been laid within them and have already
been used. They can simply be monitored for an hour long period by students or volunteers.
This should be done in spring while mason bees are out pollinating and laying (they have a short
active life cycle). (see Appendix D for picture aids)
Bumble Bee Habitat:
The bumble bee habitat features can be monitored in much the same way as the mason bee
houses. They simply need people out there to stop and watch on an appropriate day in April or

37
May for about an hour to determine if they are being used. Perhaps Dr. Lambert’s Urban Bee
Behavior class would be able to contribute to this as well since this habitat is located in such
close proximity. (see Appendix D for picture aids)
Bird Houses:
Both the chickadee bird house and the owl house could benefit from some monitoring. It is
probable that a volunteer with a vested interest in birds and bird watching could be recruited to
do this. It would be best to watch during late spring and summer while both species of birds
would be nesting. The owl house would benefit from monitoring done shortly after sun rise or
around dusk since owls are active at night. This along with the birdhouse maintenance
(checking for nesting material within the houses) will give us an idea of the efficacy of these
kinds of structures in North Creek Forest. (see Appendix D for picture aids)
Bat Box Habitat:
The bat houses can be monitored in much the same way as the owl house. They will be located
nearby so perhaps a volunteer that is interested in owls and bats could be recruited. It will be
best to monitor these around dusk when bats will be leaving the house to feed. This should also
be done in late spring or summer when the bats are present and active. The bat boxes should
not be disturbed during winter when bats could potentially be hibernating. (see Appendix D for
picture aids)
Oyster and Wine-Cap Stropharia:
The fungi that we inoculated onsite are one of the many new additions to North Creek Forest.
While the stropharia have been inoculated successfully in the UW Bothell wetland we don’t
know for sure how well they will do on our site. It would be ideal for someone to check the
stropharia mycelium in Autumn 2016 to see if it has colonized successfully. This would simply
involve digging around in the woodchips on the main trail to check for large white mycelial
strands called rhizomorphs. This should be a good time to take a look at the oyster mushrooms
as well. The log should be quickly examined to see if a mottling pattern appears, this indicates
colonization by the fungus. In all likelihood, neither of these fungi will fruit until the spring of
2017. A check for fruiting bodies should be done when there is a spell of a few hot days of at
least 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit that comes directly after heavy rains. This will trigger the fungi
to form mushrooms and these two species should fruit at similar times. (see Appendix D for
picture aids)

38
Long-Term Site ManagementPlan:
Once initial restoration processes have been completed onsite, there will be a consistent need
for monitoring and maintenance in order for our outlined goals and objectives to be met. Many
of the species planted will take years to mature and many of the goals we want achieved will
depend on the growth of these plants. Stewardship of the site is imperative for long-term
success and we have detailed many of the needs that will have to be addressed as time goes
on. Long-term monitoring and maintenance will involve tracking observations of the site and
recording changes over time. Our intention for restoration was to mitigate the site’s
hindrances and allow it to turn into a healthy example of what North Creek Forest should look
like: a thriving ecosystem full of co-existing native species valuable for wildlife.
Successional management, the overall maintenance required for our site to achieve later stages
of succession, will require time, patience, and some additional work where needed. Goal 1 is to
establish a healthy forest that can eventually lead to later stages of succession. With the short-
term objectives accomplished (things like removing the invasive species and garbage onsite and
planting native species that will allow the site to progress), we now turn to the long-term look
at what will be needed to keep the site in working order. We expect that the invasive species
removed will be unable to successfully re-establish in the long-term because of our installation
choices, but they will still be problematic early on. It will require careful observation and
removal by members of FNCF and their ever-growing numbers of community volunteers. This
relates directly to Goal 4: Engaging the community in restoration efforts and continued
maintenance to the site. Getting people from the area who can become involved in the
restoration will foster community appreciation and ensure that the site will be maintained in
the long run by local residents. This continual maintenance will help to choke out invasive
species whenever they may creep across the boundaries of NCF from neighboring private lands.
This will ensure the continued growth of native species onsite, which will give rise to a full
canopy of mixed deciduous and evergreen tree species after 50 years.
Goal 2 for the site is to improve the ecological functions of this area of North Creek Forest so
that it may contribute to nearby habitat and the local watershed and Goal 3 is to promote
wildlife habitat and attract local fauna such as birds, bats, insects and amphibians. The lower
canopy will be filled in with a variety of native species appropriate to the local environment,
offering food and habitat to birds and small mammals. The forest floor will be held firm by a
variety of native groundcover species, preventing erosion from surface runoff and providing
food sources and cover for a variety of wildlife species. Runoff from the site will also be more
efficiently filtered before it reaches the nearby stream, and some excess moisture will be taken

39
up by plants. This will result in the reduction of urban chemical runoff such as pesticides,
hydrocarbons, and heavy metals flowing into North Creek, a Tier 2 salmon-bearing stream.
Installing wine cap stropharia mycelium in the mulch will also help to reduce Fecal Coliform
Bacteria (FCB) levels within the stream.
We expect the growth of the native species planted to have a lasting effect on the overall
health of the site. Looking at the future of the overstory canopy, the trees we have planted
should do well to maintain the site by deterring invasive species when they mature as they
begin to provide shade to the areas below, effectively reducing the chances of invasive species
that do well in sunny conditions from moving in or returning. Watering will be very important,
especially in the upcoming two or three dry seasons (summer months), where we recommend
early morning watering of all plants in the site as much as needed. At minimum once per week
over the entire site and up to twice per day in the visibly drier areas is appropriate, especially
during the summer months. We recommend watering as much as possible during the first few
dry seasons to ensure the plants are receiving sufficient amounts of water. As the plants grow
larger and establish themselves the need for constant watering during the dry seasons will be
significantly reduced. Something else to keep an eye out for the first few years is the need for
“thinning” the plants. This will most likely be necessary near the coniferous trees planted, as
they tend to take longer to grow than the fast-growing shrub species that might be planted in
close proximity to them, and we don’t want the saplings to be out-competed. If it seems like
the coniferous saplings are getting crowded with the shrub species around them, we
recommend thinning back the shrub species to ensure the conifers have plenty of room and
availability of resources like water and space.
Our site was designed to provide educational value for the future generations of stewards of
North Creek Forest and the community around Bothell. It will be available to the diverse range
of wildlife in the area, where they can use the habitats we built as homes and the native
vegetation planted for food for generations. In 100-200 years, this part of North Creek Forest
will be restored into a mature, native forest, similar to the rest of the forest that surrounds it.
Native vegetation will be abundant and co-existent, forming healthy structural layers around
maintained trails and wildlife paths.

40
References:
Birdhouses101. c2007. Care and Maintenance of Birdhouses,[Internet].Available:
http://www.birdhouses101.com/care-maintenance-birdhouses.asp
BirdmanUSA.c2015. The BirdMan. Birdhouse Maintenance –Critical ForHealthyBirdPopulations,
[Internet].Available: https://www.birdmanusa.com/birdhouse-maintenance/
BolsingerCL, JaramilloA E. 1988. Taxus brevifoliaNutt-PacificYew,[Internet] Available:
http://www.na.fs.fed.us/pubs/silvics_manual/Volume_1/taxus/brevifolia.html
CarltonM. 2006-2015. Howto Make and Manage a Bee Hotel,[Internet].Available:
http://www.foxleas.com/uploads/files/Bee%20Hotel%20page%20V4%20Nov%202015.pdf
Chalker-ScottL.2009. Sustainable Landscapes&Gardens:GoodScience-Practical Application.Yakima,
WA. GFG Publishing,Inc.’
Climate Nexus.2015. 2015 SeesHottestJune-AugustonRecord,[Internet].Available:
http://climatenexus.org/2015-sees-hottest-june-august-record[2016, May 6].
Darris D. 2011. TWINBERRYHONEYSUCKLE, [Internet].USDA PlantsFactSheet.Available:
http://plants.usda.gov/factsheet/pdf/fs_loin5.pdf[2016, May 6].
GoldW. [personal communication] 2016.
GriffithRS. 1992. Piceasitchensis.In:Fire EffectsInformationSystem, [Internet].U.S.Departmentof
Agriculture,ForestService,RockyMountainResearchStation,Fire SciencesLaboratory(Producer).
Available:http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/picsit/all.html
Labbe J. 1998. Salix lucida(ssp.lasiandra) - PacificWillow,[Internet].Available:
http://web.pdx.edu/~maserj/ESR410/SalixLucida.htm
Leigh,M. 1999. Grow Your OwnNative Landscape:A Guide toIdentifying,Propagating&
LandscapingwithWesternWashingtonNative Plants.Olympia,Wash:Native Plant
Salvage Project,WashingtonState UniversityCooperative Extension,ThurstonCounty.
Print.
MARC: Mid-AmericaRegionalCouncil.2016.WinterWatershedTip,[Internet] Available:
https://cfpub.epa.gov/npstbx/files/ksmo_sediment.pdf

41
MatthewsR F. 1993. Blechnumspicant.In:Fire EffectsInformationSystem, [Internet].U.S.Department
of Agriculture,ForestService,RockyMountainResearchStation,Fire SciencesLaboratory.Available:
http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/fern/blespi/all.html
McWilliamsJ.2000. Symphoricarposalbus.In:Fire EffectsInformationSystem,[Internet].U.S.
Departmentof Agriculture,ForestService,RockyMountainResearchStation,Fire SciencesLaboratory
(Producer).Available: http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/symalb/all.html
NSW.2013. LandholdersGuide:GuidelinesforThinningof Native Vegetationunderthe NSWNative
VegetationRegulation,[Internet].Available:
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/vegetation/140273DraftThinningGde.pdf
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& Alaska.Redmond,Wash:Lone Pine Pub.
SalisburyN.2014. EnglishHolly(Ilexaquifolium)Herbicide TreatmentStudy,[Internet].Available:
http://your.kingcounty.gov/dnrp/library/water-and-
land/weeds/Slideshows/Salisbury_2014_English_%20Holly_Ilex_aquifolium_Herbicide_Treatment_Stud
y.pdf [2016, May 6].
ShebitzD.2003. Mianthemumdilatatum,[Internet]Available:
http://depts.washington.edu/propplnt/Plants/Maianthemum_dilatatum.html
StametsP.2005. MyceliumRunning:How MushroomsCanHelpSave The World.New York:Ten Speed
Press,an imprintof the CrownPublishingGroup,adivisionof RandomHouse.
TaylorA, FlattA, Beutel M,Wolff M, BrownsonK,StametsP.2015. Removal of Escherichiacoli from
SyntheticStormwaterUsingMycofiltration.Ecological Engineering.UnitedStates:Elsevier,BV.78(1):
79-86.
TirmensteinD.1990a. Gaultheriashallon.In:Fire EffectsInformationSystem, [Internet]. U.S.
Departmentof Agriculture,ForestService,RockyMountainResearchStation,Fire SciencesLaboratory
(Producer). Available:http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis//plants/shrub/gausha/all.html
TeskyJ L. 1992. Tsuga heterophylla. In:Fire EffectsInformationSystem, [Internet].U.S.Departmentof
Agriculture,ForestService,RockyMountainResearchStation,Fire SciencesLaboratory(Producer).
Available:http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/tsuhet/all.html
USDA: UnitedStatesDepartmentof Agriculture Natural ResourcesConservationService.c2016. Plants
Database [Internet].Availablefrom: http://plants.usda.gov/java/

42
USDA: UnitedStatesDepartmentof Agriculture.2001. Aruncusdioicus.In:EasylivingWildflowers,
[Internet].National PlantDataCenter,BatonRouge,LA.Available:
http://www.easywildflowers.com/quality/aru.dioic.htm[2016, May 6].
WRP: WalamaRestorationProject.EnglishIvy:The HazardsandRemoval Strategies.[Internet].
Available:http://walamarestoration.org/resources/english-ivy-the-hazards-and-removal-strategies
ZouharK. 2015. Polystichummunitum.In:Fire EffectsInformationSystem,[Internet].U.S.Department
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43
Appendix:
Appendix A:Monitoring andSurvey

44
Appendix B:Project Contact Information

45
Appendix C:Materials Sources for Materials RecommendedinMaintenance
and/or Long-termSections
How to Prune or cut back encroaching shrubs ‘Grow Your Own Native Landscape’ Written &
Edited by Michael Leigh. WSU Native Plant Salvage Project. A comprehensive guide on native
landscape propagation, identification and care.
How to Live Stake Collecting, Installing, Storing, and Caring for Live Stakes, DesCamp,W. Jun 10,
2004 http://depts.washington.edu/propplnt/Chapters/Stakes%20combined.htm
Invasive Plant Species: King County Noxious Weeds
http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/animalsAndPlants/noxious-weeds.aspx
Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board
http://www.nwcb.wa.gov/default.asp
How to identify plant stress
http://www.gardeners.com/how-to/plant-stress/7341.html
English Holly (Ilex aquifolium) Herbicide Treatment Study
http://your.kingcounty.gov/dnrp/library/water-and-
land/weeds/Slideshows/Salisbury_2014_English_%20Holly_Ilex_aquifolium_Herbicide_Treatme
nt_Study.pdf
How to Clean a Birdhouse
http://birding.about.com/od/birdhouses/a/How-To-Clean-A-Bird-House.htm
Mason Bee Maintenance
http://lewiscountybeekeepers.org/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/Mason_Bee_Maintenance.3
57133331.pdf

46
Appendix D: Habitat Structure andMyceliumMonitoring Methods
Mason Bees:
Taken from: http://www.gardeners.com/how-to/about-mason-bees/8198.html
Mason bees are small and look more similar to a fly at first glance. The image above shows a
mason bee entering tubes. The tubes that are sealed with mud at the bottom of the photo are
tubes that have mason bee eggs already laid within them.
Bumble Bees:
Taken from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumblebee
The image above shows a bumble bee, this is what to look for when monitoring the bumble bee
habitat structures.

47
Bird Houses:
Taken from: http://stuffpoint.com/beautiful-birds/image/413244/black-capped-chickadee-poecile-atricapillus-wallpaper/
The desirable bird species black cap chickadee is pictured above
Image on left takenfrom: https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/northern-saw-whet-owl
Image on theright taken from: http://www.planetofbirds.com/strigiformes-strigidae-western-screech-owl-megascops-kennicottii
The image on the left shows the western screech owl and image on the right is the northern
saw-whet owl. These are the two species we expect to see and are most desirable for the owl
house.

48
Bat Boxes:
Taken from: http://www.batmanagement.com/Batcentral/batboxes/bathouse.html
The image above shows the underside of a bat box, this picture is taken from below looking up
into the box, you can see one bat exiting and many others roosting within the different cells.
Monitoring from this viewpoint will be helpful (below looking up).
Mushrooms:
Taken from: http://www.freshcropmushrooms.com.au/oyster-mushrooms/
The image above depicts oyster mushrooms while fruiting. Notice that they grow in clusters,
have a milky white color, and an almost non-existent stem that occurs at the base of the cap.
The gills will also run slightly down the stem.

49
Taken from: http://www.mswmag.com/online_exclusives/2013/10/what_is_white_infrastructure
The image above shows the long thick fungal strands (rhizomorphs) of the wine-cap stropharia
clinging to woodchip mulch. The initial monitoring in summer should involve searching for
these to check whether the fungus has thoroughly colonized the area.

50
Taken from: http://www.mushroomexpert.com/stropharia_rugosoannulata.html
The above image shows the fruiting bodies of wine-cap stropharia. They are quite large, with
the buttons at about 1 inch across and mature specimens with caps that can extend longer than
1 foot in diameter. The mushrooms have wine-red to tan caps and thick brittle tan stems that
have a shagginess to them. The gills are purple to tan in color and are initially covered by a veil
when young. The remnants of the veil remain as a ring around the stem. This can be seen on
the left middle mushroom in the above photo. The bottom of the stem is enlarged and often
attached to woodchips with thick white fungal strands and fuzzy looking mycelium.

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