HomeMy WebLinkAboutCritical Lands Study for the Bozeman Area (1997) CRITICAL LANDS STUDY
for the Bozeman Area
Prepared by the Bozeman
Y .t
� 5
1 T
City-County Planning Board
'a-
.s +
25 June 1997
.f
slow-
22
-_
i
- S
1 _
yyII
s+ 3
i
--
I 1
�I
i
CRITICAL LANDS STUDY
FOR THE BOZEMAN AREA
Prepared for:
Bozeman City-County Planning Board
35 N. Bozeman Avenue
P.O. Box 640
Bozeman, MT 59771-0640
h ,
4
t�
Prepared by:
Bozeman City-County Planning Office
.� 35 N. Bozeman Avenue
P.O. Box 640
Bozeman, MT 59771-0640
I
1
25 June 1997
! I
I
i
i
II
n
ICI
i
n
li
� I
i
I
i
III,
1
� i
l�
CONTENTS & FIGURES
r
Critical Lands Study Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Introduction ......................................................................................................................................1
1.0 Background................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Critical Lands Study Goals and Objectives............................................................................................. 1
1.2 Critical Lands Study Mission Statement...................................................................................................2
11. Bozeman Area Master Plan.......................................................................................................3
2.0 Background...................................................................................................................................................3
2.1 The 1983 Bozeman Area Master Plan......................................................................................................3
2.2 1990 Bozeman Area Master Plan Update................................................................................................4
III. Critical Lands Community Vision..........................................................................................7
3.0 Introduction to Visioning.................................................. 7
...................................................
3.1 Community Focus Group Sessions..........................................................................................................7
3.2 Leap of Faith Town Meetings.................................................................................................................... 8
3.3 Gallatin Valley Tomorrow..........................................................................................................................9
3.4 Visioning Conclusion................................................................................................................................10
IV. Critical Lands Planning Process.........................................................................................11
4.0 Planning Process........................................................................................................................................11
4.1 Document Organization...........................................................................................................................12
4.2 Preliminary Draft Document...................................................................................................................12
4.3 Public Comment Draft..............................................................................................................................13
V. Wetlands...........................................................................................................................................15
5.0 Introduction to Wetlands..........................................................................................................................15
5.1 Wetland Benefits........................................................................................................................................18
5.2 Regulations and Programs to Protect Wetlands...................................................................................21
5.3 Wetlands in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction...........................................................23
5.4 Mitigation,Restoration and Enhancement...........................................................................................24
5.5 Wetland Goals and Objectives................................................................................................................24
5.6 Wetland Protection Options.....................................................................................................................25
5.7 Funding Sources for Wetlands Protection............................................................................................26
5.7 Map of Wetlands in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction.............................................27
VI. Floodplains.....................................................................................................................................29
6.0 Introduction to Flooding and Floodplains............................................................................................29
6.1 Floodplain Damage Factors.....................................................................................................................30
6.2 Floodplain Management Efforts.............................................................................................................30
6.3 National Flood Insurance Program........................................................................................................32
6.4 Flooding Situation in Bozeman...............................................................................................................33
6.5 Federal,State and Local Floodplain Regulations.................................................................................35
6.6 Floodplains in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction.......................................................37
6.7 Floodplain Goals and Objectives............................................................................................................37
6.8 Floodplain Protection Options................................................................................................................38
6.9 Map of Floodplains in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction.........................................39
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page i
Table of Contents Critical Lands Study
VII. Rivers, Streams & Ditches......................................................................................................41
7.0 Introduction to Rivers,Streams and Ditches........................................................................................41
7.1 Stream Types Common in Montana.......................................................................................................42
7.2 Values and Functions of Rivers,Streams and Ditches........................................................................43
7.3 Water Quality in Rivers,Streams and Ditches......................................................................................45
7.4 Regulations Pertaining to Rivers,Streams and Ditches......................................................................48
7.5 Rivers,Streams and Ditches in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction..........................50
7.6 River,Stream and Ditch Goals and Objectives....................................................................................51
7.7 River,Stream and Ditch Protection Options........................................................................................51
7.8 Map of Rivers,Streams,and Ditches in the Bozeman City-County Planning
Jurisdiction...................................................................................................................................................52
Vill. Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones.................................................................53
8.0 Introduction to Groundwater and the Water Table.............................................................................53
8.1 Groundwater Values..................................................................................................................................55
8.2 Threats to Groundwater
8.3 Other High Water Table Considerations...............................................................................................60
8.4 Regulations and Programs to Protect Groundwater Resources.........................................................60
8.5 Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones in the Bozeman Citv-County Planning
Jurisdiction.................................................................................................................................................63
8.6 Groundwater Aquifer and Recharge Zones Goals and Objectives...................................................63
8.7 High Water Table and Recharge Zone Areas Protection Options....................................................64
8.8 Map of Areas with Seasonal High Water Tables in the Bozeman City-County Planning
Jurisdiction..................................................................................................................................I................65
IX. Geologic Constraints.................................................................................................................67
9.0 Erosive Soils...............................................................................................................................................67
9.1 Steep and Unstable Slopes........................................................................................................................70
9.2 Seismic Hazards.........................................................................................................................................73
9.3 Regulations and Programs for..Areas with Geologic Constraints......................................................74
9.4 Geologic Hazard Areas in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction..................................75
9.5 Geologic Constraint Goals and Objectives...........................................................................................76
9.6 Geologic Constraints Protection Options.............................................................................................76
9.7 Map of Geologic Hazards in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction..............................78
X. Farmland and Open Space.....................................................................................................79
10.0 Introduction..............................................................................................................................................79
10.1 Values of Farmland and Open Space...................................................................................................79 -'
10.2 Threats to Farmland and Open Space..................................................................................................80
10.3 Regulations and Programs Designed to Preserve Farmland and Open Space..............................80
10.4 Farmland and Open Space Resources in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction.......82
10.5 Farmland and Open Space Preservation Goals and Objectives......................................................82
10.6 Farn land and Open Space Preservation Options..............................................................................83
10.7 Map of Farmland and Open Space Resources in the Bozeman City-County Planning
Jurisdiction...............................................................................................................................................84
Page ii Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Table of Contents
XI. Fish and Wildlife Habitat..........................................................................................................85
11.0 Introduction..............................................................................................................................................85
11.1 Wildlife Habitat in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction.............................................85
11.2 Fish and Wildlife Species in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction.............................85
r-, 11.3 Habitat Requirements.............................................................................................................................87
11.4 Threats to Fish and Wildlife Habitat.....................................................................................................88
11.5 Regulations and Programs to Protect Fish and Wildlife Habitat.....................................................88
11.5 Wildlife Habitat Goals and Policies.....................................................................................................90
11.6 Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Options..............................................................................90
11.7 Map of Fish and Wildlife Habitat in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction..............92
XII. Next Steps.......................................................................................................................................93
AppendixA................................................................................................................................................A-1
Appendix B
r, Appendix C................................................................................................................................................A-5
Bibliography.................................................................................................................Bibliography Page-1
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page iii
List of Figures Critical Lands Study
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure1...............................................................................................................................................Wetlands
Figure2.........................................................................................................................................Hydric Soils
Figure 3..........................................................................................FEMA Flood Insurance Study Streams
Figure4...........................................................................................................................Flood Hazard Areas
U
Figure5......................................................................................................... ................Streams and Ditches
Figure6.............................................................................................................Seasonal High Water Tables
Figure7...................................................................................................................Topographical Contours
Figure8.........................................................................................................................Geologic Constraints
Figure9......................................................................................................................Agricultural Land Uses
Page iv Bozeman City-County Planning Board
INTRODUCTION
Critical Lands Study Introduction
Chapter
INTRODUCTION
1.0 BACKGROUND
In recent years, the City and County Commissions have considered several development
applications which have raised important questions concerning environmental compatibility and
consistency with Master Plan goals, objectives and implementation policies.
The protection of critical areas in Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley, and the preservation of our
environmental quality, benefits the City and outlying areas in many ways. First, there are many
public health and safety issues associated with protecting critical areas. In fact, the most compelling
reason for regulating development in and around critical areas is to protect life and property. For
example, development on a slope too steep to accommodate development could result in costly
damage to property due to slope failure, increased soil erosion and sedimentation, and the
associated problem of surface water degradation.
Second, regulating development in and around critical areas can reduce public and private costs.
For example, retention of a natural wetland may save the considerable expense associated with
building a retention system to accommodate the runoff formerly intercepted by the wetland.
Finally, many people and companies move to the Gallatin Valley, and remain here, because of the
high quality of life. Protection of critical areas plays an important role in maintaining this quality of
life. The following statement is found in the 1990 Bozeman Area Master Plan Update (page 42):
"The beauty of the City of Bozeman, the Gallatin Valley, and our productive
agricultural lands are valuable resources. The area is truly unique and fragile because
of our high-mountain setting. However, with additional growth anticipated, some
of the valley's natural resources may be endangered. The success of the Bozeman
Area Master Plan will come about through protecting our natural, pristine
environment, and healthy agriculture."
The City and County Commissions have recognized the need for a clear definition of potentially
developable lands, so that the development review and approval process can be facilitated and
unnecessary delays can be avoided. The challenge is to define and distinguish environmentally
sensitive lands from lands which are more suitable for development, by a process that is technically
sound, equitable, and understandable to all interested persons.
1.1 CRITICAL LANDS STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
In the fall of 1994, the Bozeman City-County Planning Board initiated an effort to prepare a
"Critical Lands Strategic Plan" for the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction. Generally, the
goal of this planning effort is to establish ways to protect the unique physical setting and
environmental features of the Bozeman area as we implement our Master Plan. The objectives of
this planning process are threefold:
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 1
Introduction Critical Lands Study
® Identify those aspects of the physical environment which present problems for sound
development, and/or have characteristics such as uniqueness or public value that are worth
protecting.
® Include the public in identifying these lands and defining protection methods for identified
lands.
® Develop the mechanisms which can provided the Bozeman community with a pattern of
development that protects these valuable and unique resources in an economically sound
manner.
1.2 CRITICAL LANDS STUDY MISSION STATEMENT
`To implement BoZeman Area Master Plan objectives by ident�ing areasnatural or human-
with
induced haZards that kmit development capacity, as well as areas with unique characteristics or
public values. To achieve Master Plan objectives by developing
and implemenfin g strateg
ies that
protectpubfic safety and we�are while preserving and conserving identified criticalt ieZands. Finally, to
encourage and promote public participation in both identifying and preserving critical lands.
Page 2 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
CHAPTER 2
BOZEMAN AREA MASTER PLAN
Critical Lands Study Bozeman Area Master Plan
Chapter II
BOZEMAN AREA MASTER PLAN
2.0 BACKGROUND
Land use and physical development in Bozeman and its jurisdictional area are guided by the
Bozeman Master Plan. The Critical Lands Study would be a supplement to the Bozeman Area
Master Plan. The current Master Plan was published in 1983, and was substantially updated in 1990.
The 1983 Master Plan established goals and policies for environmental resources; population;
housing, economics; public facilities/services; parks, recreation and open space; and existing land
use. It also outlined a land use plan and strategies for implementing the land use plan. The 1990
Bozeman Area Master Plan Update updated, but did not totally replace, the 1983 Bozeman Area
Master Plan. The 1990 Update was prepared to:
• Simplify Master Plan land use recommendations, allowing for more flexibility in decision
making;
• Give a stronger vision to land use concepts and projects which recognize and enhance the
Bozeman Area's unique environmental and cultural assets;
• Encourage more development within the Urban Growth Area, and less scattered
development in the unserviced rural area;
• Identify long-term major capital improvement projects, beyond the scope of current annual
funding,which will further Master Plan goals;
• Provide a basis for revision of the Bozeman Zoning Ordinance.
.1 THE 1983 BOZEMANAREA MASTER PLAN
The 1983 Plan emphasized the importance of the natural and environmental resources in the
Bozeman area. The following is an excerpt from the 1983 Master Plan:
"The beauty of the City of Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley is a valuable resource. The area
is truly unique. The people have done a good job of protecting these resources, but some
of the uniqueness has been destroyed; some has been damaged, and some is being
threatened. Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley are not likely to continue to grow and develop
as a tourist, cultural and employment center unless their amenities are protected.
Should the Master Plan provide for protection of views and vistas such as the top of
Sourdough Ridge and Story Hills; should it restrict building heights to prevent blocking of
views; should it provide for the protection of floodplains and stream banks; should it
provide for the protection of ground and surface water resources; should it provide for
protection of wildlife winter range areas; should it prevent development of steep slopes,
landslide-prone areas, fault zones and productive farmland? This Master Plan concludes
that one of the Bozeman area's most important resources is its natural beauty. This
resource must be protected. The answer is yes to all the previously stated questions."
Bozeman City-County Planning ward Page
Bozeman Area Master Plan Critical Lands Study
The 1983 Bozeman Area Master Plan established the policies of using the Master Plan, subdivision
reguiations and zoning regulations to implement environmental and natural resource goals. The
1983 Master Plan established the following goals in regards to environmental and natural resources:
1. Preserve the identity of the Bozeman area by encouraging the preservation of steep slopes,
natural foliage, historic sites, ridge lines, stream corridors and areas of special natural beauty.
2. Protect the welfare of the individual and the community by preventing development on
landslide-prone areas, floodways, fault zones and other sites likely to present hazards if
developed.
3. Encourage the protection and preservation of Gallatin Valley's productive agricultural land,
4. Do not allow groundwater, streams or air to become polluted or degraded.
5. Protect wildlife winter range areas.
2.2 1990 BOZEMAN AREA MASTER PLAN UPDATE
In its section on Goals, Objectives, and Implementation Policies, the 1990 Bozeman Area Master
Plan Update states the following:
"The beauty of the City of Bozeman, the Gallatin Valley, and our productive agricultural
lands are valuable resources. The area is truly unique and fragile because of our high-
mountain setting. However,with additional growth anticipated, some of the Valley's natural
resources may be endangered. The success of the Bozeman Area Master Plan will come
about through protecting our natural beauty, pristine environment, and healthy agriculture."
The goals, objectives, and implementation policies necessary to maintain that environment are
further described in this section of the Bozeman Area Master Plan Update as follows:
2.2.1 Environment, Aesthetics, and Natural Resources
Goal I - Identify environmental constraints and preserve aesthetic resources of the Bozeman area.
Goal 1 Objectives -
• Work with City and County Staff, MSU, State Agencies, Federal Agencies, and advisory
groups to identify areas in the Bozeman City-County Planning Area with natural or human
induced hazards which limit development potential.
® Identify and protect areas with special characteristics such as stream corridors and wetlands
within the jurisdictional areas.
® Protect the safety and welfare of the public by identifying areas with physical constraints
(examples of such areas include floodplains, landslide-prone areas, steep slopes, fault zones,
areas susceptible to severe erosion problems, fill areas, and areas of high water table).
Goal 5 - Encourage agriculture/agni-business by protecting and preserving the Gallatin Valley's
productive agricultural operations through well-planned development within the jurisdictional area.
Page 4 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Bozeman Area Master Plan
Goal 5 Objectives -
• Identify agriculturally productive soils and investigate strategies to encourage development
on less productive soils.
• Protect productive agricultural operations within the jurisdictional area, but outside the
urban service area.
• Encourage more efficient use of land through smaller lot size and increased densities
throughout the urbanizing'jurisdictional area.
• Encourage the more aesthetic and efficient use of land through the establishment of an
effective noxious weed control plan.
Goal 6 -Preserve, protect and promote high quality standards for the Bozeman area's groundwater,
surface water and air.
Goal 6 Objectives -
• Encourage stream bank buffer strips for sediment, erosion and water pollution control and
to protect riparian areas.
• Protect air quality in the Bozeman/Gallatin Valley.
• Encourage development in portions of the Gallatin Valley where waste disposal and the
storage of hazardous materials pose a minimal threat to the groundwater table.
• Cooperate and coordinate with the State of Montana to ensure the development and
adoption of clean air standards and the establishment of a monitoring program to identify
the cumulative effects of on-site storage and on-site sewage disposal on water quality.
Goal 6 Implementation Policies -
• Develop zoning and subdivision controls to protect water quality and riparian areas.
• Require storm water retention and detention facilities where applicable for any construction;
require Permanent erosion and sediment control facilities as needed for all construction; and
require facilities for removal of solids and oils from storm drainage water.
• Develop guidelines for fireplace/stove air emission controls, and cause to be presented to
the City Commission.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 5
Bozeman Area Master Plan Critical Lands Study
PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
Page 6 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
CHAPTER 3
CRITICAL LANDS COMMUNITY VISION
Critical Lands Study Critical Lands Community Vision
Chapter III
CRITICAL LANDS COMMUNITY NITYVISION
.0. INTRODUCTION TO VISIONING
Visioning is a process by which a community envisions the future it wants, and how it plans to
achieve this desired future. The visioning process brings people in a community together to
develop a shared image of what they want their community to look like in the future. A visioning
process leads to the creation of a vision statement. The vision statement is the formal expression
of the community's vision.
By engaging in a visioning process, a community can achieve four things: 1) better understand the
values of its citizens and use them as a basis for planning for the future; 2) identify trends and
forces that are impacting the community; 3) articulate a "big picture" view to guide short-term and
long-term decisions;and 4) develop tools to achieve the community's vision.
While no visioning event was held specifically for the Critical Lands Study, a variety of different
community visioning events and sessions, covering a range of community issues, have been held
during the past two years. Many of the comments, views and opinions given at these events and
sessions focused on environmental issues. These various visioning events and sessions are
described below.
3.1 COMMUNITY C GROUP E 1 S
In the summer of 1995, the Southwest Montana Building Industry Association contracted with
Advantage One Marketing (AOM) Group to research public opinion about the quality-of-life and
growth issues in Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley. AOM proposed the use of focus groups to
better understand public sentiment. Thirteen focus groups were convened over a period of four
weeks. The groups ranged in size from five to twelve participants. The meetings lasted for about
100 minutes each and were conducted in an informal manner by a moderator with an assistant.
The participants were seated in a roundtable configuration. Discussion topics included:
s Quality of life in Bozeman and the surrounding area;
• Growth in the area and its impacts;
• Economic development, jobs and the local economy;
• Affordable housing issues;
Perspectives on government regulation and administration;
• Planning issues for the area;
• Views on the future of Bozeman;
• Views on the image of the Building Association and its members.
Bozeman City-County planning Board page 7
Critical Lands Community Vision Critical Lands Study
The thirteen focus groups consisted of community and civic leadership from the following
segments:
• Church ministers and religious leaders;
• Elected and appointed officials of the City of Bozeman and Gallatin County;
• Land use specialists and citizens active in environmental preservation issues;
• Private sector business owners of service and professional practices;
• Public school officials, teachers and parents;
• Representatives of the Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce;
• Representatives of Gallatin Development Corporation;
• Representatives of Montana State University;
• Representatives of neighborhood activist groups;
• Representatives of community non-profit groups;
• Representatives of private sector manufacturing companies;
• Representatives of the Downtown Business Association;
• Senior citizens.
At these focus group sessions, many participants expressed views, opinions and visions about
environmental quality in the Bozeman area and in Gallatin Valley (see Appendix A). The
comments of these participants are summarized below:
• Many people move to the Bozeman area because of the natural beauty and pristine quality
of the environment.
• Bozeman has such a high quality-of-life because of our open space, beautiful mountain
valley, incredible streams and natural resources.
• Residential and commercial development is threatening open space and water quality.
• The area is environmentally sensitive, and this should be considered during deliberations for
development projects.
• Too much productive agricultural land is being converted to urban development, or 20-acre
"ranchettes".
• There is a lot of support for preserving open space, including agricultural land.
3.2 LEAP OF FAITH TOWN MEETINGS
Starting in February of 1996, the Mayor of the City of Bozeman called for a series of three town
meetings called "Leap of Faith" to be held for Gallatin Valley. These meetings were intended to
continue the work started by the focus group sessions convened by the Southwest Montana
Building Industry Association. At these meetings, concerns regarding the environment focused on
Page 8 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Critical Lands Community Vision
water and sewer issues, recycling, open space/parks, green corridors, wildlife habitat, viewsheds,
clean air and water, trail networks, conservation and watersheds. Related growth and planning
comments focused on urban sprawl and the erosion of the area's agricultural base.
In conclusion, the meetings showed that different groups, ranging from builders to
environmentalists, from the Chamber of Commerce to religious groups, largely had similar visions
for the future of Gallatin Valley. Further, these visions largely reflected concerns regarding air
quality, water quality, open space, farmland protection, fish and wildlife protection and quality-of-
life.
3.3 GALLATIN VALLEY TOMORROW
Starting early in the summer of 1996, the Leap of Faith process was re-named Gallatin Valley
Tomorrow. Gallatin Valley Tomorrow's intent was to move ahead with the community visioning
process initiated during the Focus Group sessions and during the Leap of Faith meetings. The
thirteen groups from the Focus Groups and Leap of Faith were reduced to eight groups including-
Culture and the Arts-, Growth and Planning; the Environment; Schools and Children; Government
and Taxes;Attitudes and Behavior; Economic Development; and Housing.
The priorities of the Environment group include:
• Clean water and air, watershed protection; water resources planning, management and
conservation; and water and sewer supply issues,
• Open space and parks; the protection and/or establishment of vistas and nidgelines, trails,
green corridors, and wildlife habitat.
• Legislative changes at the state and local level to enhance the protection of the natural
environment and agricultural land, promotion of cluster development to avoid sprawl,
conserve open space and agriculture, and reduce infrastructure costs; subdivision law
reform;ways to protect sensitive areas; support for selling development rights to keep land
as open space.
• Protection of agricultural land, family farms, and the traditional character of the Gallatin
Valley.
• Environmental education to encourage recycling and the conservation of natural resources.
3.3.1 Agricultural Land
Gallatin Valley Tomorrow in general, and the Environment Group in particular, have taken a
strong interest in the trends in agricultural land uses in the Gallatin Valley, Many participants
throughout these visioning events have voiced the opinion that the community's agricultural base is
disappearing. Productive agricultural lands are being rapidly converted to urban land uses, or to
large-lot"ranchettes". Some statements reflecting this sentiment include:
® "The sprawling growth pattern of Batieman and the surrounding ' causing an erosion of the City's
area is
downtown economic base and the disappearance of the community's agricultural base.
0 'Tle are developing over our agricultural land base.99
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 9
Critical Lands Community Vision Critical Lands Study
• "Ve should be developing the flank of the Bridges Mountains ins
tead of the valley floor with its rich
agricultural Zand."
• "Our kids want to go on with the famiylfarm, but the economics have changed and they won't be able to.
Farms can't expand because land costs are too high. Our taxes have gone up 30percent in three years. fFle
know ourplace will be swallowed up. Agriculture in Gallatin County is over, its only a matter of time.
• 'We should not forget the roots of our local economy. The second largest industry in the Gallatin Valley
traditionalyl has been agriculture. But it is being
forced aside. What will be the Ion g-term economic
consequences of this?99
In response to concern about agricultural lands, a special visioning event called "How to Preserve
Agriculture in a Rapidly Growing Community and an Uncertain, Changing Economy" was held in
September of 1996. This event included a panel discussion by Gallatin County planning staff,
Bozeman City-County planning staff, and planning board members for Gallatin County and the
Bozeman City-County Planning Board.
3.3.2 Environment/ Growth and Planning Group Vision Statement
The Environment Group of Gallatin Valley Tomorrow has drafted the following vision statement:
'71e identif y n4des pread sup
port throughout our community for,preserving and/or restoring our
natural environment, open space and agricultural heritage. Ire acknowledge that our local
hometown values and the surrounding
natural beauty have become a population magnet, and that
growth,Particularly rap' growth, challenges
id ges our conservationist ideals; we seek a balance between
these competing dynamics. Wle envision a Valley in which some degree of growth is inevitable, but
in which growth is guided and planned,
3.4 VISIONING CONCLUSION
Throughout the course of several visisioning processes, the residents of the Gallatin Valley had the
opportunity to share how they envision the future of this area. Participants in these processes
expressed the concern that the quality-of-life enjoyed in the Gallatin Valley is being eroded. For
many, the quality-of-life in the Gallatin Valley is defined by things such as clean water, clean air,
farmland, open space, quality fish and wildlife habitat, etc. The participants of the visioning
processes expressed the belief that the quality-of-life of the valley can only be maintained in the
long-run if these environmental and natural resources are protected and preserved.
Page 10 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
CHAPTER 4
CRITICAL LANDS PLANNING PROCESS
Critical Lands Study Planning Process
Chapter IV
CRITICAL ANDS PLANNING PROCESS
4.0 PLANNING PROCESS
The impetus for preparing and implementing a Critical Lands Study is found in the 1990 Bozeman
Area Master Plan Update as described in Chapter II of this document.
During the summer of 1994, the Bozeman City Commission expressed a desire to pursue the goals,
objectives and implementation policies related to the environment, aesthetics, and natural resources.
The City Commission directed the Bozeman City-County Planning Board to define and inventory
the following:
• Wetlands, aquatic habitat, stream corridors
• Wildlife habitat
• Groundwater,watersheds
• Open space,potential greenbelt
• ]Ridgelines, foothills
• Agricultural land
In September of 1994, tze Bozeman City-County Planning Board prepared a Scope of Work for a
Critical Lands Strategic ?lan. The Planning Board also established a Critical Lands Subcommittee
to work closely with the Bozeman City-County Planning Staff in preparing a draft Critical Lands
Strategic Plan. The subcommittee served as the executive "steering committee", to review and
confirm staff efforts, and to recommend actions to and by the full Planning Board.
A Technical Committee was created to aid in inventorying and mapping critical lands in the
Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction. The Committee provided information to be used to
mapping. The Comm-_ttee also helped define the critical lands, and reviewed final mapping
materials. Once the inventorying and mapping was completed, the Committee provided technical
support in writing the Critical Lands Strategic Plan. The Technical Committee consisted of
representatives of the following agencies:
• U.S. Department of Agriculture - Natural Resource Conservation Service (formerly Soil
Conservation Service)
• State of Montana- Fish,Wildlife and Parks
_._ • Montana State University- Geographic Information and Analysis Center
• Gallatin County-Water Quality District
• U.S. Department of Agriculture - Farm Services Agency
The Planning Board contracted with the Geographic Information and Analysis Center (GIAC) at
Montana State University to prepare geographic information system (GIS) layers for each of the
critical lands identified and defined by the Critical Lands Subcommittee and the Technical
Committee. Each layer consisted of map graphics and database information. The following GIS
coverages were prepared by GIAC:
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 11
Planning Process Critical Lands Study
• Wetlands;
• Streams and ditches;
• Floodplains and floodways;
• Hydric soils;
• Seasonal high water table; and
• Contours/topography.
Using ArcView, and desktop GIS program, Bozeman City-County Planning Staff prepared a map
showing land remaining in agricultural use in the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction.
Planning Staff also prepared a map depicting geologic constraints.
Working closely with the Critical Lands Subcommittee, the Planning Staff prepared the draft
Critical Lands Strategic Plan.
4.1 DOCUMENT ORGANIZATION
Each critical land type is described in a separate chapter. The critical lands described in this
document include:
• Wetlands;
• Floodplains;
• Rivers, streams and ditches;
• Groundwater aquifers and recharge zones;
• Geologic constraints,
• Farmland and open space;and
• Fish and wildlife habitat.
Each chapter contains the following information for each of the critical lands:
• Background information and definitions,
• Functions and values;
• Threats to critical lands;
• Regulations and programs to protect critical lands;
• Goals and objectives;
• Critical lands in the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction;
• Protection options; and
• Maps of critical lands in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction.
4.2 PRELIMINARY DRAFT DOCUMENT
The Bozeman Area Draft CHd6d Lands .Strategic Plan was published on 12 November 1997.
It was distributed to the Bozeman City-County Planning Board, the Bozeman City Commission,
and the Gallatin County Commission, as well as other interested parties., The Planning Board
discussed the draft plan at meetings on 3 December 1996, 4 February 1997, and 19 February 1997.
Page 12 Bozeman City-
County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Planning Process
In addition, the Planning Board held a special meeting with the Bozeman City Commission and the
Gallatin County Commission on 14 January 1997.
4.3 PUBLIC COMMENT DRAFT
Based on comments received from the Planning Board, and the City and County Commissions, the
critical lands document was revised and released as the public comment draft on 14 March 1997.
The name of the document was changed to the Draft Ciidcal Element of the Bozeman Area
Master Plan to reflect the intention that this document would eventually become an supplement to
the 1990 Bozeman Area Master Plan Update. The Planning Board scheduled a public forum on
the Critical Lands Study for 1 April 1997, to answer questions the public might have about the CLE
and to encourage public input. The public hearing before the Bozeman City-County Planning
Board was scheduled for 15 April 1997. The public hearing before the Bozeman City Commission
was scheduled for 5 May 1997, and the public hearing before the Gallatin County Commission was
scheduled for 6 May 1997.
4.4 PLANNING BOARD, COUNTY COMMISSION AND CITY COMMISSION
ACTION
On 1 April 1997, the Bozeman City-County Planning Board held a public hearing to consider the
Master Plan Amendment application to include the CLE as part of the Bozeman Area Master Plan.
At that time, the Planning Board voted 7-1 to recommend approval of the application to both the
City and County Commissions. In Planning Board resolution #P-9654, the Planning Board
stipulated that the document only be used as a reference tool, and not as a regulatory document.
On 5 May 1997, the Gallatin County Commission held a public hearing to consider the CLE Master
Plan Amendment application. At that time, the County Commission voted 2-0 to not include the
CLE as part of the Bozeman Area Master Plan, but to endorse its' use as a reference tool and guide.
On 6 May 1997, the Bozeman City Commission also held a public hearing to consider including the
CLE as part of the Bozeman Area Master Plan. The City Commission voted 5-0 to endorse the
study as an informational tool, but not as part of the Bozeman Area Master Plan.
Because the Master Plan Amendment was not approved by both of the Commissions, and because
the document was not adopted as part of the Bozeman Area Master Plan, this document will not be
referred to as the Critical Lands Study.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 13
Planning Process Critical Lands Study
PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
Page 14 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
CHAPTER 5
WETLANDS
Critical Lands Study Wetlands
Chapter V
WETLANDS
5.0 INTRODUCTION TO WETLANDS
Wetlands have long been regarded as fringe environments, wastelands, or nuisances with limited
land use utility. For centuries, wetlands have been systematically destroyed through filling, draining
and dredging, In fact, it is estimated that since 1800 approximately 50 percent of all wetlands in the
United States, and approximately 27 percent of all wetlands in Montana, have been destroyed. This
is largely because Congress made the draining and filling of wetlands for reclamation a national
policy through the promulgation of the Swamp Lands Acts of 1849, 1850, and 1860. These Acts
granted 15 western states nearly 65 million acres for swamp reclamation. However, beginning in
the early 1960's, the federal government began issuing regulations to protect wetlands.
Today, several federal and state agencies are responsible for, and are involved in, wetlands
protection in the United States and in the State of Montana. These agencies include the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers (COE), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Natural
Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (F`%1S), and the Montana
Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
5.0.1 Definition of a Wetland
Wetlands are generally identified and delineated based on the following characteristics:
• The presence of water at or near the surface, usually
relatively
shallow water, all orpart of tbe-Year.
• The presence of distinctive soils (hydric soils), often with organic contents, which are clearly ffe nt
from upland soils and are poorly drained
® The presence of vegetation (b dap v Is
andlor)qooding. ydr0plytes) composed of species adapted to et soil,oi , surface avatar,
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which shares responsibility for regulating wetlands
with the Army Corps of Engineers (COE), has described wetlands as follows:
"Wetlands consist of areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a
frequency and duration suffident to sup
port, and that under normal circumstances do sup
port, a
prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally
include nclude swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas".
"Vetland vegetation consists of plants that require saturated soils to survive (obligate wetland
plants) as well as plants, including certain trees, that gain a competitive advantager others
,they can tolerate prolonged over th rs
because
ged wet soil conditions and their competitors cannot. In addition to
plant populations and communities, wetland are delimited �y hydrological physical
s To gical and p ysi
characteristics of the environment. These characteristics should be considered when information
about them is needed to supplement information available about vegetation, or here eliand
w w
veg
etation has been removed or is dormant".
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 15
Wetlands Critical Lands Study
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) defines wetlands as follows:
"Vellands are lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic gstems where the water table is
usually at or near the surf
ace or the land is covered by shallow water...wetlands must have one or
more of the following
three attributes.- 1) at least penodicalyl, the land its su po predominantly
,p
bydqphytes, 2) the substrate is predominantly undrained hydtic soil, and 31) the substrate is nonsoil
and is saturated with water or covered by shallow water at some time during the growing reason of
each year'
These wetland definitions and criteria are used to delineate wetlands based on legal requirements;
considerations of wetland functions were not included in developing these criteria.
5.0.2 Wetland Hydrology
Water is the most basic element of a
wetland. Wetlands are first and r4_�
foremost a hydrologic system with
inflows and, often, outflows of water.
The flow of water in and out of a
wetland, and the duration of the
presence of water, depends largely on
..........
the type of wetland, its location, climate, zft
and the season. Most wetlands have a
pattern of inflows and outflows that can ....... ......
be daily, seasonal, or sporadic resulting ......
from storm events. Water is critical to a
wetland's existence; wetlands buffer
....... ...
against fluctuations in the water balance .............. .......
by storing a large reserve of water in soil
moisture and groundwater.
There are generally three water sources for wetlands in Montana: 1) direct precipitation, 2) runoff
from surrounding topography, and 3) groundwater inflow. Wetlands lose water to
evapotranspiration, seepage into the ground, stream discharge, and tidal outflow.
There are four general types of wetlands which are classified based on their water sources. 1)
Surficial wetlands are characterized by inflows from surface sources such as direct precipitation,
streams, and overland runoff. 2) Groundwater wetlands are found at low areas characterized by
stream valleys, sinkholes, and glacial kettles, These areas lie at, or below, the water table and receive
groundwater discharge. 3) Riparian wetlands are located adjacent to rivers and. 4) Composite
wetlands are wetlands supported by one or more water sources, and are often the most permanent.
The following hydrology indicators could denote the presence of periodic flooding or soil
saturation:
• Standing or flowing water is observed on the area during the growing season;
• Soil is waterlogged during the growing season;
Page 16 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Wetlands
• Water marks are present on trees or other erect objects. Such marks indicate that water
periodically covers the area to the depth shown on the object.
• Drift lines, which are small piles of debris oriented in the direction of water movement
through an area, are present. These often occur along contours and represent the
approximate extent of flooding in an area.
5.0.3 Wetland Vegetation Indicators
According to the Army Corps of Engineers, there are approximately 5,000 different plant types that
may be found in wetlands. These plants species are classified as hydrophytic vegetation. However,
some plant species commonly occur in wetlands and can be used to identify wetland areas. These
include: cattails, bulrushes, cordgrass, sphagnum moss, willows, sedges, rushes, and arrowheads.
Often hydrophytic species have shallow root systems, swollen trunks, or roots that grow above the
soil surface.
5.0.4 Wetland Soil Indicators
' According to the Army Corps of Engineers, there are approximately 2,000 different identified soil
types that may occur in wetlands. These soils are called hydric soils, and are formed in conditions
where soil oxygen is limited by soils saturated with `eater for long periods of time during the
growing season. Please see Figure 2 for the location of hydric soils in the Bozeman City-County
Planning Jurisdiction. The following are possible indicators of hydric soils:
• Soil consists predominately of decomposed
plant material (peats and mucks).
Loose leaves and organic debris • Soil has a thick layer of decomposing plant
Partly decompose or matted organic debris material on the surface.
Dark colored horizon with a high content of • Soil has a bluish gray or gray color below the
y organic matter mixed with mineral matter
- __ -- - surface, or the major color of the soil at this
= ' = depth k s dark (brownish black or black and
Light colored horizon of maximum leaching
dull.
• Soil has the odor of rotten eggs.
• Soil is sandy and has a layer of decomposing
Weathered material,either like or plant material at the soil's surface.
unlike the material from which the soil
formed • Soil is sandy and has dark stains or dark streaks
of organic material in the upper layer below the
soil surface. These streaks are decomposed
plant material attached to the soil particles.
When soil from these streaks is rubbed
consolidated rock between the fingers, a dark stain i t n h_ , ar s s eft o the
g
fingers.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 17
Wetlands Critical Lands Study
5.0.5 Wetland Types and Systems
Wetlands are classified and characterized using hydrogeomorphic (HGM functional assessment.
HGNI, which evaluates wetlands based on functionality, was developed at the -Army Corps of
Engineers' Waterways Experimental Station. HGTNI evaluates multi-scaled processes and
interactions such as position in the landscape and connectivity of wetlands. Understanding the
hydrologic connectivity functions, along with other wetland functions, allows for greater
understanding of how disturbances impact and effect wetlands. Further, wetland mitigation
measures can be more prescriptive if the functionality of wetland systems are considered in their
classification. It is anticipated that the Army Corps of Engineer will eventually use HGM
assessments in their permitting process for wetlands,
5.1 WETLAND BENEFITS
Wetiand Benefits
• Aquifer recharge to wetland and/or discharge from the ecosystem
• Water storage reservoir and regulator
• Regional stream hydrology(discharge and recharge)
• Regional climate control(evaportranspiration export)
• Carbon storage and fixation
• Nutrient source or sink on the landscape
• Denitrification
• Sediment and organic matter reservoir
• Decomposition(carbon release)
• Habitat for species (including unique and endangered)
• Habitat for algae,bacteria,fungi,fish,shellfish,wildlife,and wetland plants
• Biodiversity
• Net biological productivity
• Flood control and storage
• Sediment control(filter for waste)
• Wastewater treatment system
• Nutrient removal from agricultural runoff and wastewater systems
• Recreation
• Open space
• Visual-cultural
Page 18 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Wetlands
Wetland Benefits, continued
• Hunting(fur-bearers,beavers,muskrats)
• Preservation of flora and fauna(endemic,refuge)
• Timber production
• Shrub crops (cranberry and blueberry)
• Medical
• Education and research
• Erosion control
• Food production(waterfowl,fish)
• Historical,cultural,and archaeological resources
• Threatened,rare,endangered species habitat
• Water quality
s Water supply
e Global carbon storage
Note: There eeneyits are not listed according to priority.
.1.2 Costs of Developing In and Around Wetlands
There are a number of costs associated with development in and around wetlands. Many of these
costs result from the loss of benefits, as described above, that wetlands provide.
A
o o
Time
M-,
• — No wetlands,higher flood crest and higher flows
Wetlands,lower flood crest and lower flows
Beyond costs associated with the loss of wetland benefits, there are also many practical costs
associated with development in and near wetlands. First, wetlands typically form in areas
characterized by poor drainage conditions which are ill-suited for most development. Development
in these areas often involves considerable expense resulting from considerations for site drainage,
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 19
Wetlands Critical Lands Study
flood protection, and facility maintenance. Second, most wetlands are characterized by hydnic soils
that are unstable for most types of development. Hydnic soils tend to compress under the weight
of structures, and decompose when drained. Therefore, the costs of development may be
significantly greater resulting from complex engineering design requirements, or from the need to
excavate and replace the soils.
5.1.3 Impacts On Wetland Benefits
Since the U.S.was first colonized, approximately half of all wetlands in the contiguous United States
have been lost or seriously degraded. The causes of wetland destruction have changed over time.
The earliest threat to wetlands was conversion to agricultural uses and deforestation. Today,
urbanization and the effects of urbanization (i.e., urban runoff, increased pollutants, air pollution)
pose a significant threat to wetland resources.
Human impacts on wetlands fall under two general categories: 1. Specific events or actions such as
filling, excavating, drainage, spills, etc. 2. Continuous, gradual processes whose cumulative effects
are harmful (changes in water level, nutrient loading, sedimentation, etc.)
Direct impacts on wetlands include:
• Drainage for crop or timber production, or mosquito control;
• Dredging for stream channelization, flood protection, and reservoir maintenance;
• Construction of dikes, dams, and levees for flood control,water supply, irrigation and storm
protection;
• Discharge of point source and non-point source pollutants such as pesticides, sewage,
agricultural runoff, sediments, urban runoff, etc.; and
• Filling for roads and highways, and commercial, residential and industrial development.
Indirect impacts on wetlands include:
• Sedimentation resulting from dams, deep channels, etc.;
• Hydrologic disruptions resulting from canals, roads and other structures, and groundwater
withdrawal;
• Subsidence resulting from groundwater withdrawal.
In addition to human impacts on wetlands, there are natural threats to wetlands, These include:
• Subsidence;
• Droughts;
• Natural disasters;
• Erosion and accretion;
• Biotic effects;
• Introduction of exotic plant species.
Page 20 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Wetlands
5.2 REGULATIONS AND PROGRAMS TO PROTECT WETLANDS
5.2.1 Federal Regulation
Clean Water Act - At the federal level,wetlands are currently regulated through Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act. Under Section 404, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have regulatory authority over wetlands. Section 404
protects wetlands by prohibiting the discharge of dredge or fill materials into waters of the United
States, including wetlands, without receiving a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers. In its
permit review process, the COE uses guidelines developed by the EPA that require that practicable
alternatives be considered before discharges of dredge or fill materials are allowed. The COE may
also conduct a public interest review. Some of the factors considered in this review include:
aesthetics, conservation, economics, general environmental concerns, flood hazards, historic
properties, fish and wildlife values, land use, navigation, shoreline erosion and accretion, recreation,
water supply and conservation, water quality, energy needs, and property ownership. It is
important to note that the EPA reserves the right to veto any permit issued by the COE.
Section 404 exempts the following activities: "normal" farming, silviculture, and ranching;
construction and maintenance of a farm or stockponds, or irrigation ditches; and the construction
of farm or forest roads.
Swarripbuster Legislation - This is a provision of the Food Security Act of 1985 that discourages
the conversion of wetlands for agricultural purposes. If farmers convert wetlands to farmland, they
may lose eligibility for agricultural support programs.
5.2.2 State Regulation
The State of Montana has numerous regulations and permit processes that may impact
development in and around wetlands.
St® Water Discharge General Permits - This law,which is administered by the Department of
Environmental Quality (DEQ), is designed to prevent degradation of state waters from pollutants
such as sediment, industrial chemicals or materials, heavy metals, and petroleum products. The law
also protects existing water quality, and monitors the effectiveness of best management practices
used to reduce pollu-ant loads. The following activities require a permit:
* Construction activity that will disturb more than 5 acres total, or more than 1 acre total if
that acre is located less than 100 feet from state waters.
* Industrial activity that will discharge storm water as a point source to state waters.
77W
0 Mining or ol. and gas activity in which storm water will come into contact with overburden,
raw material, intermediate products, finished products, or waste products located on the site
of such operations (including state and inactive mine sites) and discharge to state waters.
Strearriside Management Zone Law- The Strearnside Management Zone Law is administered by
the State Department of Lands (DSL). This law is designed to protect the quality and quantity of
forest waters, and to conserve the integrity of Montana's strearnside zones. This law prohibits the
following timber harvest activities within at least 50 feet of any stream, lake, or other body of water
(including wetlands):
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 21
Wetlands Critical Lands Study
® Broadcast burning;
® Operating wheeled or tracked vehicles except on established roads;
® Clearcutting;
® Constructing roads in the Strearnside Management Zone except when necessary to cross a
stream or wetlands;
® Handling, storing, applying, or disposing of hazardous or toxic material in a manner that
pollutes streams, lakes, or wetlands or that may cause damage or injury to humans, land,
animals or plants;
® Casting road material into a stream,wetland, or watercourse; and
® Depositing slash in streams or other water bodies.
Short-term Exemption from Montana's Surface Water Quality Standards (3A Authorizations
- This law is implemented by the DEQ. The purpose is to provide short-term exemptions from
water quality standards for certain activities carried out in accordance with conditions prescribed by
the Department of Health and Environmental Sciences. The law protects water quality, and
minimizes sedimentation.
Activities requiring authorization include an activity in any state water that will cause unavoidable,
short-term violations of water quality standards. "State water" includes any body of water, irrigation
system, or drainage system, either surface or underground, including wetlands, except for irrigation
water where the water is used up within the irrigation system and the water is not returned to other
state water.
Montana aters - This law is administered by
the State Department of State Lands, and is designed to protect riparian areas and the navigable
status of the water bodies. The law is also designed to provide for the beneficial use of state lands
for public and private purposes in a manner that will provide revenues without harming the long-
term capability of the land or restricting the original commercial navigability. A permit is required
for construction, placement, or modification of a structure or improvement on lands below the low
water mark of navigable streams.
Lakeshore Protection Act - This law is administered by County governments, and. applies to all
private individuals and government entities proposing to do work in or near a body of water within
a County's jurisdictional area.
Montana Pollutant DischarLre Elimination System (MPDES Permits - This program is
administered by the Department of Health and Environmental Sciences' Water Quality Bureau. It
applies to all discharges to surface water or groundwater, including those related to construction,
dewatering, suction dredges, and placer mining.
Montana Water Ouality Act - This program is implemented by the Department of Health and
Environmental Sciences' Water Quality Bureau. It prohibits the pollution of state waters and the
placement of wastes in a location where they are likely to cause pollution of any state water.
Page 22 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Wetlands
In addition to state regulatory programs, the Montana Wetlands Council is currently preparing a
document entitled the Montana Wetland Conservation Strategy. This document is "intended to
guide and coordinate the protection, conservation, and management of Montana's wetlands for
present and future generations, without impeding necessary economic development." In addition,
this document "provides focus and suggests a `blueprint' for an integrated state wetlands program
that will support and guide environmentally responsible wetland stewardship through the
cooperation of public and private interest groups." This strategy promotes the concept of"No Net
Loss" of wetland acreage, function, and values of Montana's wetlands. The strategy advocates
avoiding and minimizing wetland losses where possible, and where losses are unavoidable, replacing
lost wetlands through wetland restoration, creation, or enhancement."
5.3 WETLANDS IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION
The approximate locations of suspected wetlands within the Bozeman City-County Planning
Jurisdiction are shown in Figure 1.
Two major wetland types were identified for the Critical Lands Study inventory - wetlands and
artificial wetlands. Because 1985 Food Security Act (FSA)/1990 Food and Agriculture
Commodities Trade Act (FACTA) wetland mapping conventions were used for the inventory, the
separation of wetlands from artificial wetlands was required. These designations were used to
separate natural wetlands (wetlands occurring as a result of natural conditions) from wetlands
resulting from human activity. In this case, human activity includes the construction of a network
of irrigation diversion structures, ditches and artificial waterways that provided localized hydrology
sufficient to have allowed hydric soils and hydrophytic vegetation to develop.
The separation of artificial wetlands from wetlands was made because artificial wetlands were
exempt from FSA/FACTA rules relative to agricultural manipulation or alteration. However,
artificial wetlands are still protected under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, and fall under the
jurisdiction of the Armv Corps of Engineers. The artificial wetland designation indicates that at the
time of the inventory all three wetland criteria were met, and that these areas were wetlands.
Changes in irrigation patterns, for whatever reasons, may alter the status of these areas. If the
status of artificial wetlands occurs, this change will be reflected on the wetlands map and in the
Critical Lands inventory.
_7 Within the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction, most natural wetlands lie within river and
stream corridors. Some of these river and stream corridors include the East Gallatin River, Bridget
Creek, Bozeman Creek, Nash-Spring Creek, Mathew-Bird Creek and Hyalite Creek. Natural
wetlands also occur between Bear Canyon Road and Fort Ellis Road, and along Kelly Canyon Road.
Most artificial wetlands identified by the Natural Resource Conservation Service are the result of
agricultural activities. Most artificial wetlands in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction are
located west of the City of Bozeman, south of Interstate 90 and north of Johnson Road - in areas
historically used for irrigated cropping. Most artificial wetlands are associated with agricultural
ditches, stream/ditch combinations, or intermittent streams.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 23
Wetlands Critical Lands Study
5.4 MITIGATION, RESTORATION AND ENHANCEMENT
The federal government has a "No Net Loss" policy regarding wetlands. This policy advocates the
concepts of mitigation through avoidance, minimization, or compensation for unavoidable adverse
impacts to wetlands. When wetlands are eliminated or damaged through development, the lost
wetland benefits must be mitigated. Mitigation actions are prioritized below, with avoidance being
the most preferable option:
1. Avoidance - Impacts are avoided to the maximum extent practicable. Alternative locations
should be explored to avoid impacts and the necessity for mitigation.
2. Impact Minimization - If impacts cannot be avoided, the area of impact must be reduced and
the project must be modified.
3. Mitigation - If impacts cannot be avoided or minimized at all, wetlands must be restored or
created on- or off-site. There are three types of wetland mitigation preferred by the EPA and
COE. (1) Wetland restoration is the rehabilitation of previously impacted wetland. (2)
Wetland creation is the conversion of an upland area to a wetland. (3) '%7etland enhancement is
the improvement, maintenance, and management of existing wetland to improve their
ecological functions.
® WETLAND GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
5.5.1 Goals
• To minimize property damage resulting from land uses in and around wetlands.
• To protect and preserve the benefits wetlands provide.
5.5.2 Objectives
• Reduce added development expense due to consideration for site drainage, flood protection,
and facility maintenance.
• Reduce the added development expense resulting from complex engineering design
requirements, or from the need to excavate and replace the soils.
• Protect surface water and groundwater quality.
• Maintain animal life and minimize disturbances to wildlife habitat.
• Balance the rights of landowners and their development goals with the public's interest in
protecting unique environmental features, containing public service costs, and maintaining
wetland values and functions.
• Encourage the use of lands characterized by wetlands and hydnic soils as public open space.
• Discourage development of ill-suited areas based on soils, hydrology, and vegetation studies.
• Retain the important benefits wetlands provide such as groundwater recharge, stream
recharge/discharge, fish and wildlife habitat, flood control, sediment control, erosion control,
water quality, open space, and recreation.
Page 24 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Wetlands
5.6 WETLAND PROTECTION OPTIONS
Public Acquisition- The City of Bozeman, perhaps in conjunction with non-profit land
conservation organizations, could purchase the fee simple title to land containing significant wetland
resources. Farmland with wetlands could be re-leased to the property owner for continued
agricultural production.
Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) - Instead of fee simple acquisition, the City of
Bozeman, perhaps in conjunction with non-profit land conservation organizations, could purchase
only the development rights for land containing wetlands. Therefore, the landowner retains
ownership of the land, but sells the night to develop it.
City Wetland Permit Program - The City could develop a wetland permit system to protect
wetland areas. A permit could be required for the following activities:
• Placement of any material, including soil, sand, gravel, mineral, aggregate, organic material,
or water into a wetland;
• Construction, installation, or placement of any obstruction or the erection of a building or
structure;
• Removal, excavation, or dredging of solid material of any kind, including without limitation
any soil, sand, 'al;
, gravel, mineral, aggregate, or organic maten
• Removal of any existing vegetation or any activity which will cause any loss of vegetation in
a wetland;
• Alteration of the water level or water table by any means, including without limitation
draining, ditching, trenching, impounding, or pumping; and
• Disturbance of existing surface drainage characteristics, sedimentation patterns, flow
patterns, or flood retention characteristics by any means, including without limitation
grading and alteration of existing topography.
Development Regglations - Where incentive programs prove inadequate to meet wetland
protection goals, development regulations could be applied. Development regulations could
possibly be implemented through the use of an overlay zoning district, during subdivision or site
plan review. These regulations could require the following:
• Require that structures be elevated on piles and otherwise protected against natural hazards;
• Modify waste disposal and water supply facilities;
• Require deed restrictions concerning future use and subdivision of lands, including without
limitation preservation of undeveloped areas as open space and restrictions on vegetation
removal;
• Require buffers between wetland areas and development;
• Require erosion control and storrn water management measures;
• Cluster structures;
• Modify development design to ensure continued water supply to the wetland;
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 25
Wetlands Critical Lands Study
® Modify development design to preserve natural watershed channels;
• Require a mitigation plan which may involve the creation of new wetlands or the restoration
of damaged or degraded wetlands.
Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) - A TDR program would designate conservation areas
i.e. wetland areas, where development density would be limited. Receiving sites would also be
designated in areas that are capable of accommodating high density development. The
development rights of the property in the conservation areas can be transferred to property in the
receiving sites.
Conservation Easements - Conservation casements occur when a landowner donates or sells the
right to develop property, but retains ownership. Because this process involves a decrease in
property value, certain tax advantages are associated with conservation easements.
Wetland Rankin I g - Wetland mitigation banking is the creation, enhancement, and restoration of
wetlands to compensate in advance for future wetland impacts. In wetland banking, large wetlands
are created to mitigate for the loss of many small, unconnected wetlands. The private or public
entity proposing a project that will disturb wetlands may purchase wetland values from someone
who has produced and banked wetland credits by creating wetlands for the purpose of wetland
banking. Currently, there are no privately owned wetland banks in Montana.
Conservation Subdivisions - Amend the Bozeman Area Subdivision Regulations and Zoning
Ordinance to encourage the design of conservation subdivisions. These are subdivisions that are
designed based on the principals of conservation, creating open space, and protection of
environmentally sensitive areas. Conservation subdivisions are designed very differently than
traditional subdivisions. Designing around conservation features occurs in four steps: (1)
conservation areas and features are identified; (2) house sites are located; (3) streets and trails are
aligned; and (4) lot lines are drawn in. The concept of conservation subdivisions should be
incorporated into the preparation of any future open space plan for the Bozeman City-County
Planning jurisdiction.
5.7 FUNDING SOURCES FOR WETLANDS PROTECTION
5.7.1 Federal Funding Sources
North American Waterfowl Mana—aernent Plan (NAViMP) and North American Wetland
Conservation Act (NAWCA - The NAWW is an international effort to reverse waterfowl
population declines. The plan is implemented through cooperative efforts by federal and state
agencies, private organizations and individuals. NAWCA is the funding vehicle for NAVVMP.
Congress has been appropriating approximately $1.5 million for NAWCA per year. To date,
Montana has had two grant proposals approved for a total of$300,000.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Partners for Wildlife Pro—ararn (Private Lands Proaram) - This
program provides funding and technical assistance to private landowners interested in fish and
wildlife habitat programs. This program is strictly voluntary. Between $500,000 and $700,000 is
available in Montana annually, and so far the PFW program has worked with over 550 landowners
in Montana.
Page 26 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Wetlands
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Challenge Grants - These grants are largely designated for habitat
projects on private land. The projects must combine federal, state and private funds, Nearly
$200,000 in challenge money has been spent in Montana.
Natural Resources Conservation Service Wetland Reserve Program (WRP) - The WRP
program provides funds to help landowners restore degraded wetlands-. Also, landowners can sell
casements to MRCS in return for the agricultural value of the land.
Natural Resources Conservation Service Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program CEHM -
WUIP provides funds for private landowners to develop, restore, and enhance wildlife habitats of
state or national significance. The funds are generally spent on habitats with reduced or declining
wildlife populations due to agricultural practices, to implement practices beneficial to habitat, and
restore native habitats with native plants,
Natural Resources Conservation Service Environmental Quaft Incentives _-Program
kE_QIPJ - This program funds wildlife and wetland habitat projects where wildlife is a secondary
land use.
Natural Resources Conservation Service Forestry Incentives Program,(FIP) - FIP provides
funds for tree planting, timber stand improvements, and other forestry practices, as well as Wildlife
habitat enhancement. This is a collaborative effort between NRCS, the Forest Service, etc.
Forest Stewardship Program (FSP) and Stewardship Incentive Program. (SIP) - These are
companion programs created by the 1990 Farm Bill. They provide financial and technical assistance
to landowners who wish to protect and enhance forest lands,wetlands, and wildlife habitat.
Bureau of Reclamation Wetlands Development Program - This program provides funds in the
form of grants or cooperative agreements to public or private organizations for the improvement
of wildlife habitat associated with Bureau of Reclamation projects.
5.7.2. State Funding Sources
Montana Department of Fish,,Wildlife and Parks Montana Waterfowl Stamp Program - This
program is funded through the sale of Duck Stamps and associated waterfowl art. The program's
focus is on waterfowl production through pond development and restoration. This program funds
shallow water developments, that benefit a variety of wildlife species, and have three acres of upland
for every one acre of surface water.
Montana DeDartment of Fish. Wildlife and Parks Upland Gamebird Habitat Enhancement
Pro ram - This program funds projects that protect or enhance upland habitat for ebirds. The
funds are generated through the sale of upland gamebird licenses.
5.8 MAP OF WETLANDS IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY PLANNING
JURISDICTION
Figure 1, on the following page, shows the approximate locations for suspected wetlands within the
Bozeman City-County Planning 'jurisdiction. This map is based on information from the Natural
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 27
Wetlands Critical Lands Study
Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Figure 2 shows the location of hydnic soils in the
jurisdiction. This map is also based on information from the MRCS.
Page 28 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
CHAPTER
FLOODPLAINS
Critical Lands Study Floodplains
Chapter V1
FLOODPLAINS
6.0 INTRODUCTION TO FLOODING AND FLOODPLAINS
Flooding causes more property damage in the United States than any other type of natural disaster.
In fact, it is estimated that 90 percent of all property losses from natural disasters in the United
States are caused by flooding. The Bozeman area has experienced considerable flooding and flood
damage in the past. The rate of urban development in the area, and changes in the natural drainage
system, threatens continued incidences of flooding.
Floodplains are areas where floodwaters spread when the natural stream or river channel overflows
its banks because it cannot accommodate runoff from storms or melting snow. Dissipation of
flood waters into the floodplain helps reduce the amount of damage incurred by flooding. In
addition to providing natural buffers for floods, floodplains provide critical functions such as
groundwater recharge areas and maintenance of water quality. Finally, some of the most
biologically diverse and productive habitats occur where land and water meet.
Flooding in undeveloped areas provides many benefits, including the natural replenishment of soil
fertility, sediment filtration, the nourishment of wetland systems, and benefits to aquifer recharge
areas. Unoccupied floodplains provide greenbelt areas, wildlife habitat, and recreational and
aesthetic values. In fact, flooding generally is not a problem until flood waters encroach upon
developed areas.
6.0.1 Floodplain Definitions
The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) defines a floodplain as: 'Any land
area susceptible to being inundated by flood waters frvm any source."
Floodplains can also be described as "the be which m
law-lying d along the stream, limits may g Ian g re m, the outer
marked by steep slopes..the fl000Ldn is generally the lowest part of the stream valley and thus is most Prone to
flooding...flood pkdn soils are often poorly drained because of the nearness of the water table to the surface and
saturation by floodwaters".
6.0.2 Floodplain Formation
As rivers flow, they erode and deposit materials. Over time a river may shift its course and deposit
materials in its valley bottom. This deposited material takes on the shape of a plain - a floodplain.
This results in floodplains that are often broader than the river itself. Sometimes a river changes
course and erodes through its own floodplain and forms a new floodplain. The old floodplain is at
a higher elevation, and is called a terrace.
6.0.3 Floodplain Identification
There are five factors often used in delineating and indentifying floodplains, including-.
Physiographic - Floodplains are characterized by at, low-lying areas near rivers.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 29
Floodplains Critical Lands Study
• Soils - Soils are characterized by floodplain alluvium deposited by channel flows and flood
flows.
• Vegetation - Vegetatation is characterized by plants suited to high soil moisture and flood
conditions.
• Local and ReLrional Flood History - `The extent of the floodplain can be determined
based on river discharge records.
• Water Table - The water table in floodplains is generally very high.
® FLOODPLAIN DAMAGE FACTORS
W'hen a floodplain is altered by grading, filling, or the erection of structures, its flood-dissipating
ctions are reduced. Many flood damage factors are directly related to the effects of
urbanization. Many urbanization activities such as construction of structures, road building,
increasing impervious surfaces, and substituting natural drainage systems with man-made systems all
increase the risk of flooding. Generally, urbanization increases the quantity and velocity of
stormwater runoff, while at the same time decreases the capacity of natural drainage systems.
Specifically, factors that increase the incidence of flooding include:
• Removing vegetation that stabilizes banks of streams and rivers, and slows flood waters.
• Construction of structures that deflect or inhibit the flow of floodwaters can increase flood
elevations upstream and modify natural flow paths, shifting flooding problems to other
areas and increasing the potential for soil erosion.
• Constructing bridges, culverts, buildings or other structures that encroach on the floodplain
and reduce the storage area available for floodwaters and thereby increase the height of the
flood.
• Altering natural drainage systems, and/or building drainage systems that quickly discharge
stormwater into the receiving body.
• Channelizing streams (straightening meandering watercourses to expedite drainage) which
transfers flooding problems downstream and degrades fish and wildlife habitat.
• Filling and dumping debris in floodplains. Even something as seemingly innocuous as
dumping lawn clippings or leaves in these areas can cause a considerable amount of damage
as floodwaters rise and transport debris that can interfere with the movement of
floodwaters.
• Poor agricultural and grazing practices.
® FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT EFFORTS
The general purpose of floodplain management is threefold:
• Reduce damages associated with flooding-,
• Retain the natural functions and values of the floodplain system;
Page 30 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Floodplains
Balance personal property interests with public safety concerns.
However, methods for managing flood risks have changed considerably over time. Initially, focus
was placed on structural controls aimed at keeping floodwaters away from people and urban areas.
These structural controls include dams, and levees. In the next phase of flood management,
emphasis was placed on disaster warning, relief programs, flood insurance programs, and building
elevation requirements. This allowed occupation of floodplains with reduced risk of financial loss
and property damage. Most recently, flood management has focused on keeping people from
occupying floodplains. These management techniques rely on police power regulations,
comprehensive planning, land acquisition, public facilities placement, incentives/disincentives, and
public information about the hazards of flooding.
MODIFYING FLOODING • Dams and reservoirs to control velocities,
extent of flooded area, and timing.
& Controlling flood waters by building levees,
dikes and floodwalls (flood protection).
e Controlling flood waters through planned
upland runoff control measures (flood
abatement).
® Land treatment to increase infiltration, and
decrease run-off rate and volume (i.e.,
changes in vegetative cover).
• On-site detention temporarily stores urban
runoff, and reduce flood peaks.
® Minimize disruption of soils and vegetation.
RISK REDUCING MEASURES 0 Providing information, such as maps of
floodplains and general information about
flood risks and safe floodplain building
practices.
* Flood forecasting and warning system.
e Adjusting building characteristics by
elevating and floodproofing structures and
related infrastructure.
* Providing emergency preparedness (e.g.,
Red Cross) and federal disaster assistance..
® Providing affordable flood insurance for
flood damages.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 31
Floodplains Critical Lands Study
Risk Reducing Measures, continued ® Adjusting site characteristics by elevating
sites through fill.
FLOODPLAIN AVOIDANCE MEASURES * Adjusting land use by acquiringvacant land,
acquiring and relocating buildings, zoning,
and considering flood hazards in
comprehensive planning.
e Direct the development of utilities and
capital facilities outside of flood hazard
areas.
9 Use agricultural methods that minimize
impact on floodplam' s.
9 Establish greenbelts or stream protection
- corridors in floodplains.
6.3 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM
In response to the widespread loss
of life and property resulting from
flooding, and to aid those impacted
by flooding, the federal government P�w daiM
has promoted local floodplain
management strategies through local
education programs. The federal
government also enacted the
National Flood In Program
(NFIP). The NFIP was designed to
.......................................
make in available to aid
people in recovering losses from
floods, to slow escalating flood
damages, and to halt the drain on
federal disaster relief ds.
Supporters of the NFIP also hoped
that the program would reduce
development 'in floodplains due to
in cost of land preparation,
construction and floodplain
occupation.
The NFIP is generally the only source of flood insurance available in this country, and is only
available to properties located in communities participating in the NFIP. The program is
administered by the Federai Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Communities wishing to
participate in the subsidized insurance program are required to adopt and enforce measures to
Page 32 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Floodplains
regulate development in floodplain areas. Participation in the program is purely voluntary, and
depends on state and local involvement. However, there is a strong incentive for municipalities to
participate because federally-insured mortgages, such as FHA and VA mortgages, are prohibited in
delineated floodplains, unless flood insurance is carried.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is based on what is defined as the "100-year
floodplain". Under this program, the floodplain is divided into two zones: the reguIatory
Boodway and the Boodway L-inge. The regulatory floodway is the lowest part of the floodplain
where the deepest and most frequent floodflows occur. The floodway must be kept free of
encroachment so that a 100-year flood could be carried without substantial increases in flood
heights. Federal standards limit such increases to 1.0 foot, and State of Montana standards Emit
such increases to 0.5 feet. The area between the regulatory floodway and the 100-year floodplain
boundary is called the floodway fringe. The floodway fringe includes the portion of the floodplain
that could be completely obstructed without increasing the water elevation of the 100-year flood
more than 0.5 feet at any poinT. Buildings located in the regulatory floodway are not eligible for
flood insurance, however structures in the floodway fringe are eligible as long as certain
floodproofing precautions are taken.
6.4 FLOODING SITUATION IN BOZEMAN
6.4.1 Bozeman Flood Insurance Study
In 1988 a Flood Insurance Study was conducted for the corporate limits of Bozeman, as well as the
extraterritorial jurisdiction of the City. This study was prepared by FEMA to aid in the
administration of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The study established risk data
for various areas in and around Bozeman that will be used to determine flood insurance rates, and
promote effective flood management.
In the Bozeman Flood Insurance Study, detailed analyses were performed on the following streams
within the City of Bozeman and the jurisdictional area (see Figure 3)®
East Gallatin River - This river was studied starting at a point nearly two miles downstream of
Spring Hill Road to a private drive approximately 50 feet downstream of the confluence with Bear
Creek and Rocky Creek. The East�Gallatin River is formed from Rocky Creek and Bear Creeks
which originate in the mountains south and east of Bozeman and join 3.5 miles east of Bozeman.
The highest elevations of these drainages range from 7,000 to 8,000 feet. At the highest elevation,
the drainage area is 78.1 square miles. At the end of the study reach, the drainage area is 262.4
square miles, and is at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet. The study area along the East
Gallatin River was located in the northeastern section of Bozeman. At the time, most of the land
along the river was being used for trailer courts.
Bridiler Creek - This study area starts at the confluence with the East Gallatin River to a point
approximately one mile upstream of Bridger Drive. Bridger Creek joins the East Gallatin River just
north of Bozeman. Bridger Creek originates in the Bridger Range mountains at an elevation of
9,665 feet. The total drainage area for Bridger Creek is 70.3 square miles. At the time of the study,
there was residential and commercial development along the study reach.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 33
Floodplains Critical Lands Study
Bozeman Creek - This creek was studied starting at the confluence with the East Gallatin River to
a point approximately 170 feet downstream of Nash Road. At the U.S. Forest Service boundary,
Bozeman Creek drains nearly 30 square miles of the Gallatin Range. Elevation in this part of the
drainage ranges from 5,200 to 9,600 feet. From the Forest Service boundary, the creek flows north
for nearly seven miles to the East Gallatin River. During this reach, the creek gains approximately
20 square miles of drainage, largely supplied by Mathew-Bird Creek, Figgins Creek, Nash-Spring
Creek and Flat Creek. Elevation in the lower part of the reach ranges from 4,800 to 5,200 feet.
Mathew-)Bird Creek - This creek was studied from its confluence with Bozeman Creek to a point
roughly 3,450 feet upstream from Goldenstein Lane. Along with Figgins Creek, Mathew-Bird
Creek drains the southern area of the City. Mathew-Bird Creek joins Bozeman Creek no of Ice
Pond Road and east of Black Avenue.
Eiggins 'Creek - This creek's study area starts at the confluence with Mathew-Bird Creek to a point
approximately 2,780 feet upstream of a farm access driveway. Along with Mathew-Bird Creek,
Figgins Creek drains the southern area of the City. Figgins Creek flows into Mathew-Bird Creek
just no of Kagy Boulevard.
This creek was studied from its confluence with Bozeman Creek to a point
roughly 3,260 feet upstream of Goldenstein Lane. Nash-Sprig Creek originates south of
Bozeman, and parallels Bozeman Creek until they loin south of Kagy Boulevard.
6.4.2 Principal Flood Problems in Bozeman
Most of the localized flooding problems in Bozeman are the result of heavy snowfall followed by
snowmelt during the months of April, May and June. The Bozeman area is subject to chinook
winds that are warm and can cause rapid snowmelt. Increased impervious surfaces, associated with
increased development, enhances the City's susceptibility to flooding. wi
Bozeman also experiences inflooding. Inflooding occurs in upstream areas when surface water
collects in low spots. Inflooding is especially prevelant in the winter and spring when the ground is
frozen and water cannot infiltrate the ground. Inflooding can result in crop damage, septic-field
malfunction, cellar flooding and lawn damage.
Finally, Bozeman is susceptible to downstream flooding resulting from floodplain development
upstream. As development occurs in the floodplain upstream, the capacity of the floodplain to
accommodate water is reduced, often resulting in flooding problems downstream. In the past,
flooding has occurred in downtown Bozeman as well as many southside neighborhoods
The Flood Insurance Study indicates that Bozeman experienced considerable flooding in April
1893, April 1937, April 1948,July 1958, March 1960,June 1969, May 1970,January 1974,June 1975,
and April 1977.
6.4.3 Flooding in Recent Years
May 1981 - Heavy rains caused severe flooding, resulting in washed out bridges, closed roads and
flooded basements. Many residents were forced to leave their homes. The Governor declared
Gallatin County a disaster area and called in the National Guard.
Page 34 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Floodplaii
Tune 1992 - Heavy rains contributed to flooded irrigation ditches along College Street, near the
Wagon Wheel Mobile Home Park.
May 1993 - Heavy rains (3/2 inches in 4 days) caused flooding in the Bozeman area. Flooding
occurred on Rocky Creek, in Kelly and Bridger Canyons, on Bear Creek, and along the East
Gallatin River. Many homes, businesses and roads were flooded.
April 1995 - Wet snowpack and warm temperatures raised water levels in local creeks and rivers.
The National Weather Service issued an advisory for people living along creeks draining into the
East Gallatin River.
June 1995 - High snow pack in the mountains, combined with heavy rains, created a flooding
threat. Local officials said that a flooding threat of this magnitude had "only been seen five times in
the last 100 years".
6.5 FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS
6.5.1 Federal Floodplain Regulations
At the federal level, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) protects people from financial
loss resulting from flood damaged property. While this is a federal program that is administered by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), NFIP is implemented at the local level.
6.5.2 State of Montana Regulations
Chapter 5 of Title 76 of the Montana Code Annotated addresses floodplami and floodway
management. This chapter requires the Montana State Department of Natural Resources to
delineate, map and designate floodplains and floodways. This process is subject to the public
hearing process. Once the Department of Natural Resources has designated and identified
floodplains and floodways, local officials are informed and have six months to adopt land use
regulations that meet, or exceed, the minimum standards prepared by the Department of Natural
Resources.
According to Chapter 5, the following uses are permitted in designated floodways:
® Agriculture;
® Industrial-commercial uses such as loading areas, parking areas, or emergency landing strips;
• Private and public recreational uses such as golf courses, tennis courts, driving ranges,
archery ranges, picnic grounds, boat launching ramps, swimming areas, parks, wildlife
management and natural areas, game farms, fish hatcheries, shooting preserves, target
ranges, trap and skeet ranges, hunting and fishing areas, or hiking and horseback riding
trails;
® Forestry, including processing of forest products with portable equipment;
® Residential uses such as lawns, gardens, parking areas, and play areas;
® Excavations subject to the issuance of a permit as described in this chapter.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 35
Critical Lands Study
uses are allowed in the floodplain, but outside of the floodway:
2 permitted in the floodway;
Structures, including but not limited to residential, commercial, and industrial structures,
provided that:
a) The structures meet the minimum standards adopted by the Department of Natural
Resources.
b) Residential structures are constructed on fill such that the lowest floor level (including
basements) is 2 feet above the 100-year flood elevation.
C) ornmercial and industrial structures are constructed on fill such that the lowest floor
Aelevation is 2 feet above the 100-year flood elevation, or are adequately floodproofed up
to an elevation no lower than 2 feet above the 100-year flood elevation.
The following uses are prohibited in the floodway:
• A building for living purpose, or place of assembly or permanent use by human beings;
• A structure or excavation that will cause water to be diverted from the established floodway.,
cause erosion, obstruct the natural flow of water, or reduce the carrying capacity of the
floodway;
• The construction or permanent storage of an object subject to flotation or movement
during flood level periods,
It is Important to note that in addition to giving local governments the right to regulate
development in floodplains and floodways, Section 75-5-1108 also gives local governments the right
to "acquire by gift, purchase, or condemnation and appropriation of private property within the
limits of the project...to carry into effect the provisions of this part...
Other Montana regulations pertaining to floodplains include: Stormwater Discharge General
Permits, Strearnside Management Zone 1,aw, and the Short-term Exemption from Montana's
Surface Water Quality Standards.
®3 City of Bozeman Regulations
Bozeman Zoning Ordinance - Chapter 18.44 of the Bozeman Zoning Ordinance regulates the
Flood Hazard District. These regulations apply to floodplains as identified in the National Flood
Insurance Program study of 1988. Chapter 18.44 adopts State of Montana Regulations as set forth
in Chapter 5 of Title 76 of the Montana Code Annotated. According to Chapter 18.44, any
activities or uses that require the issuance of a permit, including the expansion or alteration of such
uses, shall not be initiated, established or undertaken until a permit has been issued by the
floodplain administrator (the City Engineer).
Bozeman Area Subdivision Regulations - Chapter 16.24 of the Bozeman Area Subdivision
Regulations describes Flood Hazard Evaluation. This Chapter states:
"If any portion of a proposed subdivision is within 2,000 horizontal feet and less
than 20 vertical feet of a live stream draining in an area of 25 square miles or more,
and no official floodway delineation or floodway studies of the stream have been
Page 36 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Floodplains
made, the subdivider shall submit survey data to the Water Resources Division,
Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, to delineate the 100-year
floodway frequency."
The following survey data must be submitted to the Water Resources Division: contours,
benchmark, cross sections, foot mark, bridges,water surfaces, profiles, and location.
Elevation Reauirements - Require that any structures be constructed a specified elevation above
the 100-year floodplain elevation. For example, the City of Bozeman currently requires that all
structures be at least two feet above the 100-year floodplain elevation.
6.6 FLOODPLAINS IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION
The regulated floodplains in the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction he along the rivers and
streams included in the 1988 Bozeman Flood Insurance Study. These include: the East Gallatin
River, Bridger Creek, Bozeman Creek, Mathew-Bird Creek, Fi ns Creek and Nash-Spring Creek.
I 99i
The East Gallatin River and Bozeman Creek have the largest floodplain areas.
6.7 FLOODPLAIN GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
6.7.1 Goals
• Prevent the loss of life and property by limiting activities and development in floodplains.
• Ensure that structures allowed in the floodplain are appropriately designed and sited.
• Protect and preserve the values floodplains provide.
6.7.2 Objectives
• Minimize public facility maintenance costs.
• Minimize damage to structures and property allowed in the floodplain.
• Maintain animal life and minimize disturbances to wildlife habitat.
• Maintain the waterbody's and floodplain's ability to convey floodwaters,
• Balance the rights of landowners and their development goals with the public's 'interest in
protecting life and property, protecting floodplains, and containing public service costs.
• Maintain the benefits the City receives by participating in the National Flood Insurance
Program.
• Ensure the protection of public and private water and sewer services.
• Reduce construction and property maintenance costs associated with development in areas
characterized by flooding.
• Reduce the costs to the community of remedial measures associated with preventable damage
from flooding and associated impacts.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 37
Floodplains Critical Lands Study
• Encourage the use of lands characterized by floodplains as public open space.
• Discourage development in ill-suited areas based on soils and hydrology.
6.8 FLOODPLAIN PROTECTION OPTIONS
FloodDroofinLr Reauirements - In order to be i eli9ble for FEMA floodplain insurance, the City
can require certain floodproofing methods for construction in the floodplain. Some examples of
floodproofing include: pier construction or modification; fill construction; wainscoated sealed
walls; "wrapping" the structure; and flood wall or levees on site.
Septic Tank Permits - The City can forbid installation of septic systems within the floodplain. In
addition, the City could require that septic systems be installed a specifiec distance from, or a
specified elevation above, the floodplain.
Critical Lands Re-oulations - Floodplains can also be regulated under a larger critical lands
category. Regulations for critical areas could include: required setbacks, cluster development
limited density, and the need to connect to municipal water and sewer systems.
CornDrehensiveLflanAing - Designate a "floodplain" land use designation. Allow only parks,
recreation and open space uses on land designated as floodplain in the Comprehensive Plan.
Land Acauisition/Ea_sements - The City could purchase floodplain areas that provide important
public health and safety, or open space benefits. Park land dedications to the City could include
floodplain areas. The City could establish partnerships with non-profit and private organizations to
purchase or gain easements on floodplain land. The City could also purchase easements.
Easements allow control of development in floodplain areas,while the property remains on the tax
rolls and owners retain some benefits of property ownership.
Pubfic Facilities Placement - Locate public facilities outside of floodplain areas. is win
discourage development in and around floodplains.
Er-eferentiallaxation - Explore the option of giving tax credits to property owners who establish
floodplain areas for agricultural and open space uses. The tax credit should reflect the fact that the
land is not suitable for development.
Density 1ransfer- Explore transfer of development rights (TDRs) mechanisms. This would allow
low density use of flood hazard areas in exchange for higher density uses in other more suitable
areas.
Rubbc_Information - The City should establish a public information program to inform citizens
about the impacts of developing on floodplains, the regulations that apply to floodplains, and the
availability of flood insurance .
Page 38 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Flooplains
6.9 MAP OF FLOODPLAINS IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY LANNIN
JURISDICTION
Figure 4, on the following page, shows the locations of all regulated floodplains within the Bozeman
City-County Planning jurisdiction. This map was generated using information from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency MA).
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 39
lccdplains Critical Lands Study
AGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
Page 40 Bozeman City-County Planning Beard
CHAPTER 7
RIVERS, STREAMS & DITCHES
Critical Lands Study Rivers, Streams & Ditches
Chapter V11
RIVERS, STREAMS, & DITCHES
7.0 INTRODUCTION TO RIVERS, STREAMS AND DITCHES
As threads of water moving overland merge with other threads of water, rivulets are eventually
formed which carry enough water to erode soil and create small channels. These rivulets merge to
form streams, streams merge to form rivers, and rivers merge to form larger rivers. Ditches are
man-made channels developed to convey water for agricultural purposes, or for stormwater
conveyance. This system of rivers, streams and ditches are interconnected and form a drainage
network. The area drained by any particular drainage network is called the drainage basin or
watershed. The size of main channels and the volume they convey is determined by the size of the
watershed.
Stream order is a stream classification system. First order streams are channelized streams with no
tributaries. Second order streams have at least two first order stream tributaries. Third order
streams are comprised of at least two second order streams.
#
F® Order
Third Order
Second Order
First Order
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 41
Rivers, Streams & Ditches Critical Lands Study
7.0.1 Impacts of Climate and Geology
Stream channel formation is dependent upon the flow of water, the amount of sediment carried by
the water flow, and the physical characteristics of the landscape the water flows through.
Specifically, climate and geology determine the following.
Climate Determines: Geology Determines:
Amount of rain and snow, and runoff Rate of erosion
ng
to of evaporation Potential for sedimentation
Type of vegetation Stream bank material
to of groundwater recharge Permeability and porosity of soil
to of erosion ® Aquifer depth and recharge rate
How quickly bedrock weathers to soil • Water chemistry/biological productivity
7.1 STREAM TYPES COMMON IN MONTANA
Streams can be typified and evaluated based on several characteristics including: channel and bank
materials; sinuosity; channel gradient; floodplain; channel shape; flow timing and amount; and
amount of sediment. In addition to typifying and evaluating streams, understanding the
characteristics of streams aids in developing and implementing management programs. Unhealthy
streams are often characterized by the following:
• Channel widening;
• Unvegetated, eroding stream banks;
• Channel downcutting;
• Increased slit/clay on the channel bottom;
• Inability to overflow banks during spring runoff;
• 'Increase or decrease in water supply; and
• Increase or decrease in sediment supply.
The following tables list healthy and unhealthy stream types found in Montana, and their
characteristics.
Page 42 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Rivers, Streams & Ditches
UNHEALTHY STREAM TYPES:
Braided Streams Wide, Shallow Stream
• Slope less than 2 percent a Sinuous
• Multiple shifting channels 0 Slope less than 4 percent
• Heavy sediment load En' trenched/incised Stream
• Erodes laterally 0 Slope 2 to 4 percent
• Wide, shallow 0 Gully-shaped channel
0 Little aquatic habitat * No access to floodplain
HEALTHY STREAM TYPES: Wide Valley Bottom Streams
Mountain Streams 0 Slope less than 2 percent
• Steep slope, greater than 4 percent * Point bars, riffles, pools
• V-shaped valley 0 Flood flows spread over broad floodplain
• Vertical erosion 0 Sinuous, wide and shallow
• Narrow floodplain and riparian areas 0 Horizontal (lateral) erosion
• Narrow, deep channel Meandering Streams
• Straight to slightly sinuous 0 Slope less than 2 percent
• Often a series of descending pools 0 Flat bottomed valley
Foothill Streams 0 Narrow, deep, sinuous channel
• Slope 2 to 4 percent a Little Sediment
• Pools and riffles 0 Accessible floodplain and vegetated banks
7® VALUES AND FUNCTIONS OF RIVERS, STREAMS & DITCHES
In Montana, surface water sources such as rivers, streams, ditches, lakes and reservoirs provide 98
percent of the total off-stream water use. Ninety-eight percent of all surface water usage is for
agricultural uses. Surface water resources provide the following values and functions:
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 43
Rivers, Streams & Ditches Critical Lands Study
Consumptive Value and Functions
• Industrial and municipal water supply # Transportation
• Energy production e Food production (fisheries)
• Agricultural irrigation 0 Assimilation of human wastes
• Flood control 0 Urban stormwater convevance
• Groundwater recharge
Non-Consumptive Value and Functions
• Sport fishing 0 Camping
• River-running e Wildlife riparian habitat
• Swimming 0 Scenic and aesthetic values
• Strearnside hiking
Of these many general functions and values provided by rivers, streams and ditches, some are more
applicable to the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction. These include the follovnin&
Industrial and 1Vlunici�al Water Sub -The City of Bozeman receives its municipal water from
three stream sources - Bozeman Creek, Middle Creek/Hyalite Reservoir, and Lyman Creek.
Bozeman and Middle Creeks supply water to the southern part of Bozeman, and Lyman Creek
supplies the northern areas. Individuals served by public water supplies use approximately 140
gallons of water per day - an estimate that includes water for commercial and parkland uses.
Irrigation - Throughout Montana, 97 percent of the total amount of water withdrawn each year is
for irrigation. There remains a significant amount of cropland within the City-County Planning
Jurisdiction. Most of this cropland is irrigated, and relies on a network of agricultural ditches to
irrigation water. The agricultural ditches are interconnected i the steam system, and
supply irrigation with
there are many ditch/stream combinations in the jurisdiction.
Flood Control - Over the years, the City of Bozeman and its outlying areas have been subject to
seasonal flooding. The jurisdiction's network of rivers, streams and ditches play an important role
in conveying floodwaters.
Assimilation of Human Wastes - The City of Bozeman's community wastewater system
ultimately discharges into the East Gallatin River after the wastewater has been treated at the
Bozeman treatment plant.
Urban Stormwater Conveyance - Within the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction, areas
without storm sewers accommodate stormwater runoff through the use of rivers, streams and
ditches.
Page 44 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Rivers, Streams& Ditches
Recreation - Throughout Montana, rivers and streams provide important tourism and quality of
life resources. In fact, in 1991-1992 23,000,000 state fishing licenses were issued. The rivers,
streams and ditches in and around Bozeman provide many recreational amenities including fishing
and hiking. In addition, many of the open space corridors and/or linear trails follow stream or
ditch corridors.
Fish and Wildlife Habitat - Riparian corridors along rivers, streams and ditches provide some of
the last remaining quality fish and wildlife habitats in the planning jurisdiction. The vegetation along
these corridors, plus the 35 foot setback required by the Bozeman Zoning Ordinance, provide
excellent habitat for birds and small animals.
7.3 WATER QUALITY IN RIVERS, STREAMS, AND DITCHES
7.3.1 Evaluating Watercourse Quality
The water quality of a waterbody can be assessed based on the following parameters: 1) measure
the amount and type of materials found in water, 2) waterbody's ability to support water uses such
as irrigation, municipal pal and recreation, 3) the overall diversity and stability of the ecosystem. The
following characteristics can be used to determine water quality:
Chemical - ?Natural chemical characteristics include dissolved minerals or salts, dissolved gases, and
acidity. Chemical contaminants include petroleum products, metals, and nutrients from fertilizers
and sewage.
Physical - Physical characteristics include total suspended and dissolved solids, turbidity, color,
taste and odor, and temperature.
Biolo—aical - These characteristics are based on the organisms living in water ranging from bacteria
and other microscopic organisms to fish. Contaminants would include fecal coliform bacteria from
wastes.
7.3.2 Water Resource Degradation Factors
There are a number of factors that can degrade surface water resources:
® Changes in water quantity or flow;
® Modification of the river channel and n'ven'ne ecosystem morphology through channel
constrictions, channel widening, channel entrenchment, channel straightening, and drainage
and filling of wetlands;
® Urbanization;
® Damaging land use practices, including agriculture;
• Degrading water quality, through addition of point source and non-point source
contaminants; and
® Changes in riparian and strearnside vegetation.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 45
Rivers, Streams& Ditches Critical Lands Study
Changes in Water Quantity or Flow - Withdrawal of water, regardless of the end use, has severe
impacts upon stream flows and aquatic habitat. Water levels are changed by activities such as over-
appropriation of water; building dams; storing water in reservoirs; and transferring water from one
basin to another. Decreased stream flow leaves inadequate water levels for other users and aquatic
species, and upsets the stream's natural vegetative balance. Decreased flows can also result in
increased water temperature, alteration of the natural cycle of high spring and lowArinter flows, and
cause ice buildups if winter flow is low.
Modification of River Channel - Channel changes come in many forms. Channel constriction
involves the building of bridges, berms, levees, roads and railroads; cutting off side channels;
installing culverts; and placing debris or nip-rap along channels. Channel constriction can result in
increased erosive energy and low-energy backwater. Channel widening occurs through livestock
overgrazing and trampling; degradation of upstream banks, floodplains, or riparian areas; increased
sedimentation; increased flood flows; and transferring water from one basin to another. Channel
widening results in increased erosion.: greater drinking water treatment; increased maintenance of
irrigation pumps, ditches and diversions; and decreased vegetation and habitat. Channel
entrenchment results from straightening or shortening a channel; decreasing sediment supplies; and
increasing water supplies. Entrenchment can result in lowered water table levels; limited access to
floodplains; and reduced aesthetic, recreational uses and property values. Finally, channel
straightening is done to reduce the number of highway and railroad crossings; develop strearnside
land more easily; control overbank flows; and eliminate channel migration. Straightening results in
increased water velocity, erosion, and flood intensity;and decreases channel stability.
Urban land Agricultural land
El
1800 1875 1900 1950
------------
psi
M!
Natural streams Field ditches L---- Storm sewer
Urbanization - Urbanization results in a number of detrimental impacts upon streams and rivers.
First, urbanization results in alteration of the natural drainage pattern. As the landscape's ability to
transport and accommodate runoff is compromised, the possibility of flooding increases.
Urbanization also results in more impervious surfaces, especially in the form of parking lots, roads,
and roofs. This results in increased stormwater overland flows, stream overloading, and possible
flooding. Finally, increased urbanization also results in urban residues and pollutants which are
carried by overland flow, and deposited in streams and rivers. Some of these residues and
Page 46 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Rivers, Streams& Ditches
pollutants include heavy metals, petroleum residues, deicing materials, and sediments from soil
erosion. The following table illustrates the relationship between different land uses, and four
pollutants the uses contribute to urban stormwater runoff.
Density' Nitrogen 2 PhosphoruS2 Lead 2 ZinC2
Large-lot residential (I acre) 12%
3.0 0.3 0.06 0.2
Small-lot residential (0.25 acre) 25% 8.8 1.1 0.4 0.32
Townhouse/apartment 40% 12.1 1.5 0.88 0.5
Fligh rise apartment 60% 10.3 1.2 1.42 0.71
Shopping center 90% 13.2 1.2 2.58 2.06
Central business district 95% 24.6 2.7 5.42 2.71
Source: Guidebook for Screening Urban Nonpoint Pollution Manag
ement Strategies, Northern Virginia Planning District
Commission, 1979.
Percentage of land area covered by hVernous surfaces.
Pounds per acre of landperyear,
Damaging Land Ilse Practices - Agricultural land uses often result in increased soil erosion and
sedimentation, and sedimentation in rivers and streams is a major source of water pollution.
Runoff from agricultural lands also deposits fertilizers and pesticides in rivers and streams. Grazing
animals tend to congregate near rivers and streams, and trample and consume fragile vegetation.
Grazing animals also compact soils. In addition, animal wastes are a significant source of water
pollution. Finally, silviculture results in increased soil erosion and sedimentation, and altered
drainage basins.
DeLyradin—a Water through Point Source and Non-point Source Pollution - Point source
pollution results from a discrete, localized discharge into a river, stream, ditch or groundwater. This
type of pollution accounts for 10 percent of all water pollution in Montana. Most point source
discharges are municipal or industrial, including wastewater treatment plants, underground storage
tanks, and landfills. Most point source polluters are regulated through discharge permits required
by federal and state law.
Non-point sources account for 90 percent of all water pollution in Montana, and results from a
wide-range of activities over a broad area of land. The following tables list some sources of non-
point pollution and common non-point source pollutants.
Landscape Sources * Urban stormwater 0 Soil erosion
® Agriculture ® Septic systems
® Spills and leakages * Fires (grassland,wastes)
Atmosphere Sources ® Power plants and industry ® Agriculture (wind erosion)
® Residential heating ® Fires (grassland,wastes)
® Automobiles (exhaust)
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 47
Rivers, Streams & Ditches Critical Lands Study
Subsurface Sources ® Urban stormwater ® Agriculture
® Landfills ® Spills and leakages
Non-point Source 0 Nutrients ® Organic compounds
Pollutants (nitrogen/phosphorus) (diazinon,PCBs, etc.)
® BOD (organic debris) ® Heavy metals (lead,zinc)
® Sediments 0 Acid rain (oxides)
® Petroleum residues ® Biological (bacteria)
Changes in Riparian and StrearnaLde Vegetation - Vegetation can be impacted in many ways
including: overgrazing, herbicides, operation of heavy equipment, road building, clearcutting,
farming, invasion of non-native species, and removal of riparian vegetation. Decreased vegetation
results in the following: increased erosion and bank failure, channel widening and deepening,
increased invasion of non-native species, lowered water tables, increased susceptibility to trampling,
increased water temperatures, reduced sediment and pollutant trapping, reduced habitat, and
increased bank damage due to ice.
7® REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO RIVERS, STEAMS AND DITCHES
.4®1 Federal Regulations
Federal Clean Water Act (404 Permit) -This regulation applies to all persons, agencies, or entities
(public or private) proposing a project that will result in the discharge or placement of dredged or
fill material into waters of the United States, including lakes, rivers and streams. The Clean Water
Act is administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
star ality Act of 1987 - One.of the main purposes of this act is to control non-point source
ti polluon from sources such as agricultural uses, urban streets, and sewers. States were directed to
identify and provide abatement plans for waters affected by non-point source pollution. This Act
also created a revolving fund system to provide low interest loans to cities and towns for upgrades
in sewage treatment systems.
Safe Drinkin—a Water Act of 1974: Amendments of 1986 - SDWA is designed to ensure that
public drinking water supply systems meet national standards for the protection of public health.
The Environmental Protection Agency established national drinking water standards. The 1986
amendments created a wellhead protection program to encourage states to develop wellhead
programs. The SDWA is administered by the U.S. EPA and the states.
Comprehensive Environmental Response Corn ensation, and Liability Act of 1980
(CERCIA) - This Act is more commonly known as Superfund. It was enacted to address the
Page 48 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Rivers, Streams& Ditches
growing threat accidental spills and releases of hazardous substances posed to surface and ground
water resources. It created a fund to clean up hazardous sites.
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act of 1972 (FIFM - This Act was passed
to address the issue of non-point source pollution related to agricultural land uses.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RC RA) - RCRA has been labeled a "cradle
to grave" program because it creates a paper trail for hazardous waste from the time it is created
through disposal. RC RA helps prevent the introduction of hazardous materials to surface and
ground water,
7.4.2 State of Montana Regulations
Montana Stream Protection Act (SPA Permit) - This regulation applies to any agency or
subdivision of federal, state, county or city government proposing a project that may affect the bed
or banks of any stream in Montana. Its intent is to protect and preserve fish and wildlife resources,
and to maintain the natural state of rivers and streams. This act is administered by the Montana
Department of Fish,Wildlife and Parks (DFWP).
Stormwater Dischar—ae General Permit - This permitting process applies to persons or groups
proposing construction, industrial or mining activity that will discharge stormwater to state waters.
The intent of this legislation is to prevent the degradation of state waters, to protect water quality,
and to monitor the effectiveness of best management practices. This program is administered by
the Montana Department of Health and Environmental Sciences' Water Quality Bureau.
Short-term ExernDtion from Montana's Surface Water Quality Standards (3A Authorization)
- This regulation applies to persons or groups (public or private) initiating any short-term activity
that may cause an unavoidable violation of state surface water quality standards for turbidity, total
dissolved solids, or temperature. The intent of the program is to monitor short-term impacts,
protect water quality and minimize sedimentation. This program is administered by the Water
Quality Bureau.
M,ontana Natural Strearnbed and Land Preservation Act (310 Permit) - This act applies to any
private, non-governmental individual or group proposing to work in or near a stream on public or
private land. The ourpose of the law is to minimize soil erosion and sedimentation, to protect
streams and rivers, and to prevent damage to land adjacent to rivers and streams. Within the
Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction, this act is implemented by the USDA's Natural
Resource Conservation Service (MRCS).
Montana Water Use Act ater Right Permit) - This act applies to persons and groups
intending to acquire new or additional water rights or change an existing water night in the state.
The intent of the act is to maintain a general adjudication of all existing water nights, and to
implement a centralized record of water nights. This program is implemented by the Department
of Natural Resources and Conservation's Water Rights Bureau.
Montana Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (MPDES Permit) -This program applies to
all discharges to surface water or groundwater. It is implemented by the Water Quality Bureau.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 49
Rivers, Streams & Ditches Critical Lands Study
7.4.3 it of Bozeman Regulations
Bozeman Area Subdivision Regulations - The Bozeman Area Subdivision Regulations include
surface water as an environmental assessment requirement. It includes any existing or proposed
stream bank or shoreline alterations or any proposed construction or modification of stream
channels.
Bozeman Area Zoning Ordinance - The Bozeman Zoning Ordinance requires watercourse
setbacks. The Zoning Ordinance states, "no newly constructed structure, addition to an existing
structure, parking lot, or other similar improvements shall be located closer than 35 feet to the
mean high water mark of a watercourse." A watercourse is defined as any natural stream, river,
creek, drainage, waterway, gully, ravine or wash in which water flows either continuously or
intermittently and has a definite channel, bed and banks. The term watercourse does not apply to
any facility created solely for the conveyance of irrigation water.
7.5 RIVERS, STREAMS AND DITCHES IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY
PLANNING JURISDICTION
Rivers, streams and ditches are located throughout the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction.
The major watercourses were studied in the City's 1988 Flood Insurance Study. These watercourses
include:
East Gallatin River- The East Gallatin River is formed from Rocky Creek and Bear Creeks which
originate in the mountains south and east of Bozeman and join 3.5 miles east of Bozeman. The
highest elevations of these drainages range from 7,000 to 8,000 feet. At the highest elevation, the
drainage area is 78.1 square miles. At the end of the river's reach, the drainage area is 262.4 square
miles, and is at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet.
Brid—ger Creek - Bridger Creek joins the East Gallatin River just north of Bozeman. Bridger Creek
originates in the Bridger Range mountains at an elevation of 9,665 feet. The total drainage area for
Bri'dger Creek is 70.3 square miles.
Bozeman Creek - Bozeman Creek drains nearly 30 square miles of the Gallatin Range south of
Bozeman. Elevation in this part of the drainage ranges from 5,200 to 9,600 feet. From the Forest
Service boundary, the creek flows no for nearly seven miles to the East Gallatin River. During
this reach, the creek gains approximately 20 square miles of drainage, largely supplied by Mathew-
Bird Creek, Figgins Creek, Nash-Spring Creek and Flat Creek. Elevation in the lower part of the
river's range from 4,800 to 5,200 feet.
Mathew-Riftd Creek - Along with Figgins Creek, Mathew-Bird Creek drains the southern part of
the City. Mathew-Bird Creek joins Bozeman Creek no of Ice Pond Road and east of Black
Avenue.
Eig gins_Creek - Along with Mathew-Bird Creek, FiggIns Creek drains the southern area of the
City. Figons Creek flows into Mathew-Bird Creek just north of Kagy Boulevard.
Page 50 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Rivers, Streams & Ditches
Nash-Spring Creek - Nash-Spring Creek originates south of Bozeman, and parallels Bozeman
Creek until they join south of Kagy Boulevard.
7.6 RIVER, STREAM AND DITCH GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
7.6.1 Goals
® Retain the consumptive values and functions of rivers, streams and ditches including municipal
water supply, irrigation, flood control,waste water disposal, and stormwater conveyance.
® Retain the non-consumptive values and functions of rivers, streams and ditches including fish
and wildlife habitat, open space, recreation, and scenic values.
7.6.2 Objectives
® Maintain animal life and minimize disturbances to wildlife habitat.
® Balance the rights of landowners and their development goals with the public's interest in
protecting life and property, and protecting fragile riparian areas.
® Prevent the pollution and/or contamination of surface water and groundwater supplies.
® Encourage the use of riparian corridors as public open space.
® Preserve drainage basins to reduce the loss of life and property from flooding.
® Ensure the viability of agricultural land uses by protecting waterbodles used for irrigation.
7.7 RIVER, STREAM AND DITCH PROTECTION OPTIONS
Soil Absorption - Soil absorption helps control the volume of urban stormwater overland flows.
Absorption is most easily achieved by increasing the ratio of vegetated, permeable surfaces to
impervious surfaces by using porous paving materials, or diverting runoff into infiltration beds. Soil
absorption is believed to be the most effective means of —removing pollutants from urban
stormwater.
Vegetated Buffers - Require a buffer between the high water mark of a stream or river and any
proposed structure. Vegetation, natural or landscaped, should be retained within the buffer to slow
overland flows and to filter pollutants. For the best results,
buffers should be 50 to 100 feet wide.
A buffer could be implemented through the use of an overlay zoning district.
On-site Retention/Detention Ponds - Development proposals will be required to provide on-
site retention/detention to accommodate stormwater run-off. Within the ponds, sediments will
settle, and pollutants can be filtered. This will keep stormwater runoff, and pollutants carried by
stormwater, out of rivers, streams and ditches.
Encourage Best Management Practices (BMrs�- Encourage agricultural land uses to use BNIPs
in handling pesticides and fertilizers, and keep these materials out of water resources. Encourage
BMPs for agricultural and construction practices to prevent soil erosion and sedimentation in water
Bozernan City-County Planning Board Page 51
Rivers, Streams & Ditches Critical Lands Study
resources. The Montana State University Extension Program is an excellent source of information
on BMPs.
Education - Citizens need to be educated about the dangers of improperly disposing of toxic
substances such as cleaners, paints, and solvents. Often these substances end up in water resources
through overland flows, septic systems or the municipal wastewater system. In addition, citizens
should be educated about proper application of lawn chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides,
and about proper application of household insecticides, to keep these substances out of rivers,
streams and ditches.
Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control - Best management practices could be implemented by
agricultural users to reduce soil erosion and sedimentation. Sites under construction also present
significant sources of soil erosion and sedimentation. Construction guidelines should be created
that reduce the amount of soil leaving construction sites.
7® MAP OF RIVERS, STREAMS AND DITCHES IN T OZEMAN CITY-
COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION
Figure 5, on the following pages shows the locations of rivers, streams and ditches within the
Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction. This map is based on information from the Montana
Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP).
Page 52 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
GROUNDWATER
Critical Lands Study Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones
Chapter Vill
GROUNDWATER AQUIFERS AND RECHARGE ZONES
8.0 INTRODUCTION TO GROUNDWATER AND THE WATER TABLE
Groundwater can he defined as "the water that fills, or saturates, open spaces in consolidated or
unconsolidated rock formations in the subsurface environment below the water table (Witten and
Horsley 1995)." The subsurface environment is composed of several zones, each with distinct
properties. The zone of saturation is the subsurface layer that is saturated with groundwater, and
from which groundwater is withdrawn. The water table is the uppermost elevation of the zone of
saturation. The zone of aeration lies above the zone of saturation and is not saturated with
groundwater. The zone of aeration is also called the unsaturated zone, or the vadose zone. Water
reaches the zone of saturation through uptake by the soil, and the draw of gravity.
102
ix
..........
Unsaturated
Zone . ......
................
at Table
..............
—--—-------------
Zone of .. ..............
Saturation
::..,........... ..........
..............
xt _ZR*
.............
8.0.1 Water Table
Water table levels fluctuate naturally during the year due to changes in recharge and discharge rates.
Typically, water table levels are highest in the winter or spring resulting from snowmelt and rains.
During the spring and winter months plants are not yet taking up much water so water table levels
rise. During the summer months, water table levels fall due to evaporation and uptake by
vegetation. Human activities, such as pumping groundwater, can also effect water table levels.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 53
Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones Critical Lands Study
8.0.2 Groundwater Aquifers
Most areas of the subsurface environment are characterized by layers, formations and zones, each
with varying capacities for storing groundwater. Areas capable of storing large quantities of
groundwater, and from which large qua quantities of groundwater can be taken, are referred to as
aquifers. The best materials for aquifers include porous material with good permeability.
Aquifers can be unconfined or confined. An unconfined aquifer exists when Zn aquifer is overlain
by a highly permeable deposit and is in contact with atmospheric pressure. A confined aquifer is
overlain by non-permeable materials, and is under greater-than-atmospheric pressure.
Groundwater is replenished, or "recharged," via surface water (soil, wetlands, lakes) percolation
down to aquifers. Some aquifers receive water from a broad, non-specific ar--a. However, many
aquifers are fed from specific areas called recharge zones. It is critical to protect recharge zones
because these are areas where contaminants can easily reach groundwater resources. Some
common recharge zones include:
• Wetlands, or other topographical depression where water accumulates;
® Areas where the soils and/or rock formations are highly permeable;
• Areas where the water table lies at or near the surface.
Land surface River Land surface
River
0
1!1,10\
1 WE
Aquifer ater table
Aquifer
Impermeable
L
Im ermeable I P
Gaining Stream Losing Stream
Groundwater is often connected hydrologically to stream and river resources. Streams that supply
groundwater recharge through channel infiltration are called "losing" streams. Streams that receive
water from groundwater discharge are called "gaining" streams.
Water moves very slowly through aquifers - typically only 15 to 20 meters per year. Further,
groundwater can remain in aquifers for as little as several years or as long as several centuries.
Groundwater is released from aquifers through pumping, capillary rise into the soil, uptake by
vegetation, and seepage to surface water resources (lakes, streams, wetlands). The movement of
groundwater through an aquifer, as well as the length of time water remains in the aquifer, are
important factors in the rate at which contaminants are flushed.
Page 54 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones
8.0.3 Hydric Soils
In the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction, there is a strong correlation between seasonal
high water tables and hydnic soils. Hydnic soils are defined as soil that is "saturated, flooded, or
ponded long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part
of the soil." In other words, soils that experience flooded and saturated conditions for an extended
period,with "extended period" being defined as saturated for 15 consecutive days or inundated for
7 days during the growing season, create an oxygen-free environment where plants cannot survive.
Areas characterized by hydric soils are generally unsuitable for development. Hydric soils tend to
compress under the weight of structures, and/or decompose once drained. Sometimes hydnic soils
can be excavated and replaced with fill material, but this process can often be extremely expensive
and ecologically destructive. For a map of hydnic soils in the Bozeman City-County Planning
Jurisdiction, please refer to Figure 2.
8.1 GROUNDWATER VALUES
The most significant value of groundwater is as a source of potable water for residential,
commercial, agricultural, and industrial land uses. In No America, groundwater provides more
than 95 percent of the potable water used in rural areas, and about 70 percent of the water used for
agricultural purposes. Between 25 and 50 percent of all communities in the United States depend
on groundwater for municipal water supplies.
All developments within the Bozeman City limits are required to connect to the municipal water
system which uses surface water resources. However, the Bozeman City-County Planning
Jurisdiction extends well beyond the City limits, and water users outside of the City rely on
groundwater and well systems for potable water. Because so many businesses and people rely on
groundwater, it is very important to prevent groundwater contamination.
Groundwater also supplies many surface water resources such as rivers, streams, and wetlands
which provide additional values.
8.1.1 Costs of Groundwater Contamination
The threat or reality of groundwater contamination can create significant problems for community
residents and municipal officials. These impacts include the following.
Threats to Public Health - Contaminated groundwater can threaten both private and municipal
water systems. Even in small amounts, contaminants can render water undrinkable.
CommunjW.Costs - If a responsible party can not be identified for groundwater contamination,
local governments can often be held liable and have to pay for cleanup. Communities may also
have to provide community water or selver service to properties impacted by groundwater
contamination. Finally, local governments may have to pay for replacing contaminated public
drinking water supplies.
Impact on Property Values - Environmental contamination makes real estate difficult to market
and the values of nearby properties can be greatly affected. Banks may refuse to mortgage property
if there is a threat of contamination.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 55
Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones Critical Lands Study
Groundwater contamination can also be very costly for identified responsible parties. These costs
include:
HiLyh Costs and Damage Claims - Past and present property owners can be found liable for
environmental contamination on their property, and can be responsible for the costs of cleanup
and damages. Parties found responsible may also be responsible for mitigating impacts to
neighboring properties.
Im act on Marketability of Private Probe - Property owners with on-site environmental
contamination may have difficulty obtaining insurance or selling property. Realtors, sellers and
lending institutions may be liable if they misrepresent the environmental condition of land.
Therefore, the costs of preventing groundwater contamination is "cheap insurance" when
compared to the costs associated with a contaminated site,
® TH R EATS TO G RO U N DWATE R
All major land uses represent potential sources of groundwater contamination, including: industrial,
agricultural, residential, and transportational uses. The likelihood of groundwater contamination
vanes widely depending on. 1) variability in groundwater susceptibility; 2) variability of contaminant
loading rates; and 3) variability in the threat different contaminants pose to living organisms.
8.2.1 Major Groundwater Contamination Sources
There are seven major potential sources of groundwater contamination within the Bozeman City-
County Planning jurisdiction. These include:
Landfills - Landfills are used to dispose of both solid and hazardous wastes. Rainwater failing on,
and seeping into, the landfill filters down through the wastes and picks up contaminants from the
waste. This contaminated liquid is called leachate. The types of contaminants carried by leachate
depend upon the nature of the wastes in the landfill. For residential uses the leachate is often heavy
in organic compounds such as benzene and methane, agricultural wastes result in leachate heavy in
nutrients such nitrogen and phosphorus, and industrial wastes may produce leachate laden with
heavy metals such as lead, chromium, zinc and iron.
AgdgWIUMLLaad Uses - Agricultural land uses can result in the contamination of groundwater
resources. Agricultural chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides reach groundwater resources by
filtering through the soil, or by running off into streams and ditches. Fertilizers are often
composed of nitrogen and phosphorus, and pesticides often contain organic compounds such as
diazinon, flourene, benzene, and chloroform. Agricultural uses also result in saline seeps. Saline
seeps are characterized as wet salty areas that are discharge zones for shallow watertable aquifers.
The Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction still contains a significant amount of land being
used for irrigated crops or livestock production. These uses present possible threats to
groundwater quality. Most agricultural land uses occur outside of the City limits in areas where
people and businesses rely on groundwater for potable water.
Page 56 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones
Urban Stormwater - Urban runoff from surfaces such as streets, parking lots, and industrial and
residential surfaces is a significant source of groundwater contamination. Urban runoff may contain
substances such as heavy metals (lead, zinc, and iron), organic compounds (insecticides), petroleum
residue, nitrates and deicing materials. These contaminants reach groundwater via discharge into
streams and ditches, or by filtering through soil.
Within the City limits, storm sewers are used to convey stormwater. However, in areas not served
by storm sewers, the City relies on streams and ditches, and on-site stormwater retention. Because
streams and ditches are often connected to groundwater sources, especially in areas like the Gallatin
Valley with seasonal high water tables, the risk of groundwater contamination by urban stormwater
is great. On-site retention also allows contaminated stormwater to filter down to the water table.
Drainfields - When septic tank systems are improperly designed or maintained, they may not be
able to adequately handle wastes from a home or business. Liquid wastes may penetrate the water
table. Septic systems may contribute nitrogen, sodium, and chlorinated organic compounds to
groundwater resources; the liquid may contain organisms that cause typhoid fever, dysentery and
other diseases.
All agricultural users and other water users in the Bozeman extraterritorial 'jurisdictional area, rely on
individual or community septic systems. Therefore, many people and businesses in the Bozeman
City-County Planning jurisdiction rely on groundwater resources for potable water.
Spills and Leakages - The potential sources of groundwater-polluting spills and leaks are
numerous. Spills often consist of petroleum products, organic compounds, fertilizers, heavy metals
and acids. Spills most often occur along highways, railroads, and in industrial areas. Leakages most
often result from above ground or underground storage tanks. Most tanks are used for commercial
or industrial purposes, however many private homes and farms have storage tanks. Underground
storage tanks are of special concern. Typically, these tanks have a lifespan of 15 to 25 years, after
which they are highly susceptible to leaking. Leaks often contain toxic compounds such as
benzene, toluene, xylene, as well as additives such as ethylene dibromide and organic lead
compounds.
Like any town with a substantial commercial and industrial base, Bozeman's groundwater is
susceptible to pollution through spills and leakages. Bozeman has already experienced groundwater
pollution resulting from spills and leakages. The Bozeman Solvent Site is an area of groundwater
contamination within the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction. In 1989, groundwater from
wells in the Nelson Mobile Home Park (north of 'the N. 17th Avenue and Durston Road
intersection) was determined to contain chlorinated solvents in excess of safe drinking water
standards. Subsequent investigations found that the contaminants in the groundwater originated
from the Buttrey's Shopping Center property and extended north, generally between N. 19th
Avenue and an extension of N. 11th Avenue, to Interstate-90. The State of Montana issued orders
requiring the shopping center property owner, the City of Bozeman, and others to begin cleanup of
the contamination. While further investigations were under way, those potentially liable for the
contamination provided impacted well users with alternative supplies of water. Often the City of
Bozeman municipal water system was used as an alternative water supply if it was available.
Those further investigations determined that improper disposal of chlorinated solvents by a dry
cleaning business in the shopping center was the likely cause of the contamination. Solvents were
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 57
Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones Critical Lands Study
improperly released to the septic system of the shopping center, and to the sewer system. The
seepage pits and leaking joints in the sewer system allowed the contaminants to enter the
groundwater aquifer. As time passed, the flow of groundwater carried the ccntaminants to the
present boundaries of the solvent site. A study of how to clean up the site is currently under way.
Household Hazardous Wastes - Many common household products contain the same chemicals
found in commercial and industrial wastes. These household products include: paint, cleaning
supplies, automotive supplies, hobby supplies, pesticides and fertilizers. If these products are
improperly used, stored or disposed of, they can pose a threat to groundwater. Garden and lawn
chemicals are of special concern. Conditions that are conducive to pollution include: shallow
groundwater; coarse textured soils; low organic material content; steep slopes; high soil
permeability; overwatening; and over-application.
Abandoned Wells - Wells that are not properly plugged when abandoned can provide a direct
conduit for contaminants to reach groundwater. Abandoned wells may be from water wells,
agricultural wells, or dry wells. Abandoned wells present a threat of contamination because of old
construction practices. Often, contaminants can move down the side of the well, or wastes are
sometimes illegally deposited in abandoned wells. It is unknown how many abandoned wells exist
within the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction.
® High Hazard Light Industries
In addition to the land uses described above, the following light industrial land uses have been
identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has having a high potential for
groundwater contamination:
ElectrODIaters and Metal-Fabricators - These businesses engage in processes such as forging,
stamping, etching, engraving, coating, polishing, grinding, painting and electroplating. Their wastes
include metal scraps, used solvents, paint wastes, chemical solutions, waste oils, heavy metal laden
sludges, etc.
Wood Preservers and Treaters - These businesses use chemicals to treat wood. Wood preserving
processes produce wastewater treatment sludges. Other wastes include preservative chemicals,
water contaminated with creosote, sludge, stormwater runoff, spilled and leached preservatives, etc.
The Idaho Pole Company, Bozeman's only federal Superfund site, is wood preserving business.
The chemical used by Idaho Pole contaminated nearby groundwater resources. The Mercer Pole
Plant in Bozeman, a state State's Comprehensive Environmental Cleanup and Responsibility Act
(CECRA) site,was also a wood treating facility.
Furniture and Wood StriDDers/Refinishers - These businesses remove fu=_ure finish by using
methylene chloride, acetone, p erchloro ethylene, or toluene. These operations also handle stains,
pigments, varnish, resins, enamel, lacquer, and other hazardous substances.
Auto ReDair Shops Businesses such as glass replacement, auto body repair, paint shops,
transmission and engine repair, and tire retreading are included in this category. Groundwater
threats include gasoline, diesel fuel, oil, degreasing solvents, and paints.
Page 55 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones
Scrap and funk Yards - These businesses accept or buy scrap automobiles, white goods (such as
refrigerators), and other metals. Left outside, these materials corrode and release oil. Automobile
batteries, recycled for their lead plates, may also contaminate soil and water if stored outside.
Finally, used oil, antfreeze and gasoline are also associated with these uses.
The CNIC Asbestos site in Bozeman, a state CECRA site, was used for metal salvage and recycling
between 1965 and 1988. This activity may have contributed to contamination of this site as
petroleum compounds and metals were found in contaminated soils.
Laundry and Dry Cleaning Establishments - These businesses involve laundering garments in
non-aqueous degreasers and solvents. In the past, the garments were agitated in one machine, and
dried in another. Today, many dry cleaning businesses filter and distill contaminated solvents for
reuse. This is often done in-house. In addition, many businesses use self-contained machines that
wash and dry, eliminating the need to transfer wet garments. The most common cleaning solvents
are tetrachloro ethylene, fluorcarbon-113 and petroleum solvents.
A dry cleaning business was the likely source of contaminants at the Bozeman Solvent Site.
Chlorinated solvents were found in groundwater near the Buttrey's Shopping Center. This site is a
major site in the State CECRA program, and may be eligible for the federal Superfund program.
8.2.3 Medium to High Ranking Groundwater Threats
There are many other land uses that pose a threat to groundwater resources that are ranked as
medium to high threats. These land uses are associated with residential, agricultural, commercial,
industrial, institutional, and transportational activities. Many of these uses are listed in Appendix B.
8.2.4. Groundwater Contaminants
There is a wide variety of chemicals and compounds that pose a threat to groundwater resources.
These include the following:
Inorganic Compounds - These are compounds that do not contain carbon such as nitrogen,
phosphorus, sodium, and chloride. Common sources of nitrogen and phosphorus include sewage,
lawn and agricultural fertilizers,wildlife, and road and roof runoff. Common sources of sodium and
chloride include improper application or storage of road salt, salt water intrusion, or excessive
irrigation.
Pathogens - Pathogens include protozoa, bacteria, and viruses. More than 50 percent of all
outbreaks of waterborne disease is attributable to contaminated groundwater. Sources of these
contaminants include sewage disposal areas, and landfills.
Organic Compounds - These include any compound containing carbon including volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), semi-volatile compounds, PCBs and pesticides. VOCs are petroleum-based
compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes. Semi-volatile compounds include
napthalenes and phenols.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 59
Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones Critical Lands Study
8.2.5 Contaminant Pathways to Groundwater Resources
There are many different pathways through which contaminants from land uses can reach
groundwater. Pathways of special concern include leaking septic systems, improper floor drains,
improper storage and disposal of hazardous substances, leaking storage tanks, leaking pipes, surface
spills, condensation from air emissions, and improper waste disposal. The number of pathways is
significantly increased in areas not serviced by municipal sewer compared to areas that are serviced
by public sewer,
® OTHER HIGH WATER TABLE CONSIDERATIONS
In addition to being susceptible to groundwater contamination, areas charac-erized by a high water
table may also have limited development capacity and capability. Areas with a high water table are
subject to subsidence and possible seasonal flooding. Soils in high water table areas may also be
subject to liquefaction during seismic events such as earthquakes. Liquefaction occurs during strong
vibrations when soils lose their strength and collapse. If soils are saturated with water, as is often
the case in areas with seasonal high water tables, the soil can become momentarily liquefied.
Therefore, development in areas characterized by a high water table may require special engineering,
drainage, construction, and facility maintenance considerations.
8.4 REGULATIONS AND PROGRAMS TO PROTECT GROUNDWATER
RESOURCES
8.4.1 Federal Regulations
Safe Drinking Water Act poLf !192721_(MA - This Act was passed in 1974 to ensure that public
water supplies meet national standards. Congress authorized the EPA to establish national drinking
water regulations, and maximum contaminant levels for 83 chemicals in drinking water. In 1986,
this Act was amended to include the establishment of wellhead protection programs (WTP). With
this program, states establishing acceptable wellhead protection programs are eligible to receive
federal funds to implement the plans.
of 1980
f!:EC - This Act is more commonly known as Superfund. It was enacted to address the
growing threat accidental spills and releases of hazardous substances posed to surface and ground
water resources. It created a fund to clean up hazardous sites. Currently, the State of Montana has
eight Superfund sites.
The Idaho Pole site is the only Superfund site within the City of Bozeman. This site is located on
the no side of Bozeman near the confluence of Rocky and Bozeman Creeks. The site is roughly
50 acres in size, and is owned by the Idaho Pole Company which is a wood-treating operation. The
site has been contaminated with wastes from wood-treating products, including: pentachlorophenol
and other chlorinated phenols, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, and dioxins/furans. The,
private wells of two nearby residences were found to be contaminated. Cleanup of the site began in
1995, and should be completed by 2000 to 2005.
Page 60 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RC RA) - RCRA has been labeled a "cradle
to grave" program because it creates a paper trail for hazardous waste from the time it is created
through disposal. RC RA helps prevent the introduction of hazardous materials to surface and
ground water.
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide. and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) - This Act was amended in 1988
to require manufacturers of pesticides to perform a variety of tests to determine the effects
pesticides have on the physical, chemical and biological environment.
8.4®2 State of Montana Regulations
Montana Groundwater Pollution Control System - This program is intended to protect
groundwater resources from potential threats such as surface impoundments, landfills, disposal
systems, and spills and leaks. It requires any operator of a potential pollution source to obtain a
permit from the state. Groundwater used for potable water cannot exceed maximum allowable
chemical, radiological and microbiological contaminant levels. In addition, groundwater is also
subject to non-degradation standards.
Montana Water Use Act (Water Ri—aht Permit) - The purpose of this Act is to provide a permit
and certificate system of water rights administration similar to systems in other Western states; to
maintain a general adjudication of A existing water nights in the state; and to implement a
centralized record system in addition to the local courthouse records. This Act is required before
the construction of new or additional diversion, withdrawal, impoundment, or distribution works
for appropriations of groundwater over 35 gallons per minute or 10 acre-feet per year, or for any
surface water.
Cornmehensive Environmental Cleanup and ResDonsibility Act (CECRA) - In 1989, the
State of Montana passed CECRA to address sites not being investigated and cleaned up under the
Federal Superfund program. CECRA also is applied to sites in the Superfund process needing
immediate attention. CECRA pertains to sites in Montana where a release or the threat of a release
of hazardous substances exists. CECRA is implemented similarly to the Federal Super
program. Currently, Montana has 279 CECRA sites.
There are currently nir e CECRA sites in Bozeman. These include the:
® Old City of Bozeman Landfd]- This thirty acre landfill was in operation between 1962
and 1970. Regular sampling has found no contamination. Groundwater and lake sampling
will continue.
® Bozeman Solvent Site - This site is located on the west side of Bozeman. In 1989
groundwater in the area was found to contain chlorinated solvents originating from the
Buttrey's Shopping Center septic system and sewer line. This site is being evaluated for
Federal Superfund eligibility.
® CMC Asbestos- This is an inactive, 38-acre railroad facility that was in operation between
1927 and 1978. Asbestos was found on the site in a large pile of ore and in soils. In 1992
and 1995, the contaminated ore and soils were removed. The site currently has "no further
action" status.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 61
Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones Critical Lands Study
® Developmenta] Technology - This in an inactive, quarter-acre electroplating site that
closed in 1976. In 1.977, much of the contaminated wastes were removed. More work is
needed before the site can receive CC no further action" status.
• Lattice Materials - This site is currently a Montana Power Company sub-station and
operations/storage area. It was in use between 1958 and 1978. In 1991, petroleum
contamination was found in soils on the site. Beginning in 1994, the operators of the site
initiated a voluntary cleanup. More investigation is needed before &-e site can receive "no
further action" status.
® Mefcer Post Plan - This inactive wood treating plant is one acre is size, and operated
between 1971. and 1974, An inspection in 1989 found no contamination. More
investigation is needed before the site can receive "no further action" status.
® Montana Rag Link Asbestos - This former asbestos loading area ,s one acre in size and
operated between the 1930s and 1950s. In 1990, contaminated soils were found on the site.
In 1991, the asbestos contaminated soils were removed. The site has "no further action"
status.
® Montana State University - While no contamination has been found at MSU, a 1992
assessment found some migration paths for contamination. MSU developed a hazardous
waste minimization plan.
• SunwVt-Dana, Ltd. - This two-acre facility was used for electronics manufacwring
beginning in 1978. Hazardous wastes were stored in barrels at the site, but the wastes have
been removed. Further investigations are needed before "no further action" status can be
given.
A—aricultural Chemical Groundwater Protection Act - This Act was created in 1989 and directs
the Montana Department of Health and Environmental Services to establish particular standards
for agricultural chemicals. The state must adopt federal standards applicable to chemicals. If there
are no federal standards for a particular chemical, the state can request that the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) set standards. Specific management plans must be prepared for specific
chemicals or regions under the following conditions: 1) a chemical found in groundwater exceeds
allowable levels by fifty percent; 2) a trend of increased levels of a particular chemical are found in
groundwater; 3) agricultural chemicals have migrated from a point of detection; 4) the EPA
proposes to suspend or cancel a chemical registration; and 5) chemicals with the ability to migrate
are spilled in an areas susceptible to contamination.
® . City of Bozeman Regulations
BozernanALea Subdivision Regiflations - As part of the environmental assessment required for
major subdivisions, subdividers must establish the depth to the water table and the dates on which
these depths were determined. They must also determine the depth and location of all know
aquifers which may be affected by the proposed subdivision. Finally, subdivides must describe any
steps necessary to avoid the degradation of groundwater and groundwater recharge areas.
Bozeman MuniciDal Code - Section 8.16.065 "Dumping of Hazardous Materials/Wastes
Prohibited" of the Bozeman Municipal Code makes the dumping of hazardous materials and/or
wastes illegal. These wastes cannot be dumped at the landfill or anyplace else in the City.
Page 62 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones
Uniform Building Code - The Uniform Building Code, which has been adopted by reference by
the City of Bozeman, has special requirements for foundations built in areas with seasonal high
water tables. The Building Code also has an "H" occupancy for hazardous occupancies. Special
regulations for things such as spill control, drainage, containment, ventilation, standby and
emergency power, etc. may apply.
Uniform Eire Code - The Uniform Fire Code addresses the use, production, and storage of
hazardous wastes. The Fire Code also regulates specific land uses such as junk yards, dry cleaning
businesses, semiconductor fabrication, industrial plants, etc.
S. GROUNDWATER AQUIFERS AND RECHARGE ZONES IN THE BOZEMAN
CITY-COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION
Much of the Bozeman City-County Planning jurisdiction is characterized by a high water table.
The western part of the Planning jurisdiction, from 1-90 to Patterson Road and west to Gooch Hill
Road, is largely characterized by water tables ranging from V/2 to five feet below the surface. Areas
along Bozeman Creek and the E. Gallatin River are characterized by water tables ranging from zero
to six feet below the surface, and are subject to flooding.
8.6 GROUNDWATER AQUIFERS AND RECHARGE ZONES GOALS AND
OBJECTIVES
8.6.1 Goals
® Prevent the contamination of groundwater and protect this source of potable water.
® Prevent damage to or loss of property.
8.6.2 Objectives
® Balance the rights of landowners and their development goals with the public's interest in
protecting life and property, and preventing groundwater contamination.
® Reduce construction and property maintenance costs associated with development in areas
characterized by seasonal high water tables.
® Reduce the costs to the community of remedial measures associated with preventable damage
from flooding, subsidence and liquefaction.
• Encourage the use of lands characterized by seasonal high water tables and/or recharge areas as
public open space.
® Discourage development in ill-suited areas based on soils and hydrology.
® Discourage or control the development of land uses that may contaminate groundwater in areas
with seasonal high water tables and/or recharge zones.
® Educate area citizens about the proper use, storage and disposal of household hazardous wastes.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 63
Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones Critical Lands Study
® HIGH WATER TABLE AND RECHARGE ZONE AREA PROTECTION
OPTIONS
Groundwater Protection Overlay Zone - Used to map areas with high water tables that are highly
susceptible to groundwater contamination. This would become a new section in the Zoning
Ordinance explaining the purpose of the district, identifying the permitted and prohibited uses, and
outlining any design or mitigation standards. Some, if not all, land uses in the overlay district could
be processed as conditional use permits. "Grandfather" protection would be provided to pre-
existing uses and structures.
Prohibit Various Land Uses - Some uses that pose a substantial threat of groundwater
contamination should be prohibited from areas with a high water table, or areas with a high water
table not connected to municipal sewers. Some of these uses may inclucle: industrial uses that
handle, store, or produce hazardous substances; gas stations or other uses storing petroleum
products in storage tanks; dry-cleaning operations, etc. This could be incorporated into a
Groundwater Overlay District.
Large-lot Residential Zoning - Limit development to large-lot residential uses in areas highly
susceptible to groundwater contamination.
Site Plan Review Ingo orating Groundwater Protection Standards - Site plan submittals for
uses that pose a threat of groundwater contamination, or uses proposed in areas with high water
tables, could have site plan review requirements for groundwater protection. This sort of review
would require information such as:
• Proposed location of best management practices and measures for groundwater protection,
such as secondary containment storage areas;
• Structural features which can affect the flow of hazardous substances to groundwater
resources, such as interior floor drains, exterior storm drain inlets, underground storage
tanks, etc.;
• Location of environmental features (streams and wetlands) and drinking water well locations
on and near the property.
This information could be collected by using a "Hazardous Substances Reporting Form for Site
Plan Review." Site plan review standards could include the following.
• Site design to prevent spills and discharges to the environmental and groundwater;
• Secondary containment for hazardous substance storage and use areas;
• General purpose floor drains are only allowed if approved for connection to a public sewer
system, an on-site closed holding tank (not a septic), etc.;
• Compliance with state and federal requirements for hazardous substances, safety and
environmental protection.
Hazardous Substance Control Ordinance - To augment the Uniform Fire and Building Codes,
the City could adopt an ordinance to address hazardous substances and the threat they pose to
Page 64 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones
groundwater resources. This type of ordinance would attempt to directly regulate hazardous
substances instead of land uses.
Depth to Groundwater Testing - Due to the fact that water table levels fluctuate throughout the
year,i several water level tests should be performed throughout the year. Or, developers could be
required to perform water level tests during the spring when water table levels are typically the
highest.
Link to Other Permits - The City could add a provision to the text of the Zoning Ordinance
requiring that no final site plan approval, occupancy permit, or building permit be issued for any
land use or activity until it has obtained all required environmental permits and approvals from the
county, state, or federal agencies.
Transfer of DevelODMent Rights - Use TDRs to transfer development rights or development
density from areas highly susceptible to groundwater contamination to areas with little
susceptibility.
Growth Controls/Timing - Allow uses that pose a threat to groundwater resources, or high
density development, in areas served by municipal sewer and water. This will relieve the risk of
contamination from on-site private septic systems.
Hazardous Waste Collection - The City of Bozeman can sponsor regularly scheduled household
hazardous waste collection days. This can reduce the amount of household hazardous wastes being
accumulated in homes and garages.
Public Education - The City of Bozeman can employ a number of public education techniques
ranging from brochures to seminars about groundwater. Citizens should be informed about the
hazards household hazardous wastes present to groundwater. Groundwater education could be
done in area schools.
8.8 MAP OF AREAS WITH SEASONAL HIGH WATER TABLES IN THE
BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION
Figure 6, on the following page, shows water table levels for the 'jurisdiction. This map is based on
soils data obtained from the Natural Resource Conservation Service (MRCS).
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 65
Groundwater Aquifers and Recharge Zones Critical Lands Study
PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
Page 66 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
I `
r
r'Z
77
i
� I
r`1
r �
j
i
r
n
CHAPTER 9
r-,
GEOLOGIC CONSTRAINTS
Critical Lands Study Geologic Constraints
Chapter IX
GEOLOGIC CONSTRAINTS
In the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction, geologic constraints refers to erosive soils, steep
or unstable slopes, and seismic areas.
9.0 EROSIVE SOILS
Erosion is defined as the detachment, transport and deposition of soil particles by wind or water.
In the past, erosion had been largely associated with agricultural activities. However, increasingly
erosion from construction sites is recognized as an environmental problem. Normally, an
unprotected construction site can lose over 150 tons of topsoil per acre per year. Generally, there
are four properties of soil that determine its susceptibility to erosion:
• Texture- This refers to the proportions of particles of sand, silt, and clay in a soil. Water
and wind are better able to dislodge and transport certain types of particles.
• Slope- Generally, the longer and steeper the slope,the greater the potential for erosion.
0 Soil structure - This refers to the physical and chemical bonds that hold soil particles
together.
• Organic matter content- Organic matter is the decomposed remains of plant and animal
life. Soil with plentiful organic matter is characterized by greater fertility, water infiltration
and storage, and soil structure. Increasing organic matter content is a principal means of
improving erosion damaged soils.
Further, there are four factors that determine erosion rates:
Type and amount of wind and/or rainfall;
• The erodibility of soil (as determined by texture, slope, structure and organic matter
content);
• Ground cover; and
e The management of the land.
9.0.1 Geologic Erosion
Erosion is largely a natural process; the earth's surface is constantly being worn away by wind and
water and the eroded soils are deposited elsewhere. Geologic erosion is naturally occurring, it does
not result from human activities or impacts. Geologic erosion can occur very slowly or very
rapidly. For example, geologic erosion slowly created the mesas, canyons and natural stone
sculptures found in the southwest. However, landslides are also examples of geologic erosion.
9.0.2 Water Erosion
Water erosion is a threat anywhere there is enough rain to cause runoff, or where land is flooded by
irrigation or snowmelt. All types of water erosion occur in a three-part process. First, the force of
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 67
Geologic Constraints Critical Lands Study
falling raindrops breaks apart the chemical and physical bonds connecting soil particles. Second,
overland flows carry the particles. Finally, the particles are deposited when the energy of overland
flows decreases.
Groundcover such as living plants, plant residue, and rocks can significantly reduce the impacts of
water erosion. Groundcover intercepts falling raindrops, slows overland flows, and increases the
rate at which water is absorbed into the ground. The effectiveness of groundcover depends upon
the following factors:
• The amount of soil surface covered by groundcover;
• The density and height of the plant canopy;
• The capacity of vegetation to intercept water through their leaves, stems and roots;
• The extent to which soil beneath the plant canopy is subject to overland flows; and
• The amount of plant residue (leaves, stalks, etc.) on the soils surface. --
There are several categories of water erosion, including.
• Splash Erosion- Splash erosion is the result of raindrops breaking the bonds between soil
particles, and then splashing the particles short distances. These particles are left more
vulnerable to other forms of water erosion.
• Sheet Erosion - Sheet erosion results from the force of raindrops and overland flows that
remove continuous layers of soils.
• Rill Erosion- Rill erosion occurs when the quantity and velocity of overland flows is great
enough to form small channels, or rills. Flow in rills erodes the sides and the bottom of the
rill which can rapidly increase the size of the rill. Sheet and rill erosion often occur together
and are referred to as "sheet and rill erosion".
• Gully Erosion - As rills are enlarged, and join together, gullies can form. Gullies are so
deep that they cannot be smoothed out by ordinary agricultural cultivation. Sometimes
large gullies break farmland up into parcels too small to farm.
• Mass Erosion/Slumping- Mass erosion occurs when a hillside becomes so unstable, and
saturated with water, that large areas of soil slide or creep downhill.
9.0.3 Wind Erosion
Depending on the size of soil particles, and the strength of the wind, wind erosion occurs in three
different ways:
• Saltation - Saltation moves fine- and medium-textured soil particles. During saltation,
particles are lifted into the air and carried a short distance before they fall back to the
ground to dislodge more particles. Saltation breaks down large clods and surface crust to
increase the soil's vulnerability to erosion. Saltation accounts for 50 to 80 percent of all
wind erosion.
• Suspension - During suspension, very fine particles are lifted from the surface during
saltation, carried high into the air, and then suspended in the air for long distances.
Page 68 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
1 �
Critical Lands Study Geologic Constraints
Suspension particles can be carried hundreds of miles. Often, soils carried by suspension
r
are the most fertile.
• Surface Creep - During surface creep, larger soil particles roll along the earth's surface.
These particles are loosened through saltation, but are too large to be picked up by the
wind.
.................
. ............................................................
:.
.: .... ..... ..:...:
irw:'::
XX
::. ::% : !:_::::.:::ii::ii:.i::
......... ........................ ♦:::•i::i::::::::...:..:..:..�:..�::. ..::.�:•.::::iii: .
:.:::::::::','i:iii::.:':::':...:::::::.............::::::::::::::::::::::::::::4.:�:.:::/YY V :: ...�.•�.... :::i::::::::j:::iii::i:::.:::ii;.i:::..::;.i:iiiiii;.>:!.::.: ii
..:::::`i::::::...:.i::::::.i:ii:.i::.:'::.�:::.... .:::::. ::ii::.ii
.... i: =:l:T Ti: ..:::::.:::.:::::ii::::.:�:::::::::::•:::::
.;....... vv '.:'I.!r.' :iii::.::.:i::.i:ii::.::.::::ii:.iii:::.:
:::.
'.::iii!.::........... .....:. ..,j ...�::::::::::::::.:•:::vi':.�::::::::..
{•?:li•::�:�':':: :::i:i:::::::�iiii::i::i::':i::ii::•::'::.::::::::.:::::::ii:;•::{ttititiVi::i::
•i%:;�:i:i:•: •�•i'•:::iii:::•:::!::::::.:::•::'::::i:;:::_:�_':::
...........................
i
9.0.4 Environmental Impacts of Erosion
Sedimentation and Water Pollution- Soil erosion, and the deposition of sediments in waterways,
is one of the leading causes of non-point source water pollution in the United States. Eroded
sediments and pollutants associated with soil particles are deposited into surface water resources.
This degrades water quality, and can make water unfit for drinking.
Eutrophication is another water quality concern that results from sedimentation. Eutrophication is
caused by nutrient loading, nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen foster the growth of algae
and bacteria in surface water resources. Accelerated growth of aquatic plants results in a change in
the balance of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and micro-organisms in the water, and an increase in the
production of organic matter. This leads to many undesirable impacts,including-
* Increased rate of basin in-filling by dead organic matter;
• Decreased water clarity;
• Shift in fish species towards undesirable species such as carp;
• Decline in aesthetic quality, such as an unpleasant odor;
• Increased cost of water treatment by municipalities and industry;and
• Decline in recreational values.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 69
Geologic Constraints Critical Lands Study
Loss of Flood Control Values - As sediments are deposited into a waterbody, its ability to convey
stormwater and snowmelt is compromised. Sedimentation also clogs drainage systems. Therefore,
the risk of flooding, and its associated damage, is increased.
Destruction of Fish Habitat - Sedimentation clogs the gills of adult fish, and covers critical insect
habitat and fish spawning habitat. Algae growth in water can block sunlight needed by fish. In
addition, as algae die and decay they use up oxygen in the water needed by fish.
Impaired Attractiveness - Sedimentation, pollution and algae decreases the aesthetic and
recreational attractiveness of streams,rivers,lakes and reservoirs.
9.0.5 Production Impacts of Erosion
The loss of topsoil greatly impacts the productivity of agricultural lands. This is evident in stunted
crops, low yields, bare spots, crops buried in mud, and the appearance of gullies. Erosion impacts
on production manifests itself in many ways, including.
• The loss of topsoil decreases the soil's ability to hold and store water for use by vegetation.
The soil becomes more vulnerable to the effects of drought.
• The loss of organic material and plant nutrients occurs because nutrients are often attached
to eroded soil particles or water-soluble nutrients are lost through surface runoff.
• Surface runoff and sedimentation can damage seedbeds and seedlings.
• Soil layers with less desirable qualities are brought nearer to the surface as quality topsoil
erodes. Less desirable qualities include: low organic content, high clay content, reduced
phosphorus levels, and bedrock.
• Rills, gullies and other erosion formations make agricultural fields more variable in
topography and soil layers. This results in non-uniform application of fertilizers and
pesticides.
• Gullied areas are rendered useless for crop production or grazing, and can make an entire
field difficult to farm with modern equipment.
9.1 STEEP AND UNSTABLE SLOPES
Slopes are inherently unstable. They are characterized by an equilibrium between the geologic
forces that uplift parts of the earth's crust, and the forces of erosion such as wind and water. Any
changes in this system - earthquakes, excessively heavy rainfall, excavation, grading, etc. - can
disrupt this equilibrium and result in erosion and/or landsliding. Slope is also an important factor
in infrastructure installation, access, aesthetic and recreation amenities, and wildfire vulnerability.
9.1.1 Erosion
The rate of erosion is generally controlled by the velocity of overland flows, the volume of runoff,
and soil resistance to erosive agents. These, in turn, are related to vegetative cover and slope
inclination;as vegetation decreases and slope increases, the rate of erosion increases.
Page 70 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Geologic Constraints
High slopes provide a greater surface area to collect runoff, resulting in a greater volume of runoff;
the volume of runoff increases as it runs down a slope. In addition, as slope inclination increases,
so does the velocity of runoff. When the factors of volume and velocity are combined, areas at the
top of the slope results in low rates of erosion. The middle of the slope experiences the greatest
rates of erosion. Eroded sediments are deposited at the bottom of the slope.
a00
Vol
e�
---------------
w
a
9.1.2 Landslides
The term landslide is a generic reference to a phenomenon more technically know as mass wasting.
In the United States, landslides are more widespread and costly than any other geologic hazard;
costs can exceed $L billion annually. In addition to the direct costs of landslides (property damage),
there are many indirect costs including loss of tax revenues from devalued properties; reduced real
estate values; loss of productive agricultural lands; and loss of industrial productivity due to
infrastructure damage.
There are several different types of mass wasting - all of which are possible in the Bozeman City-
County Planning Jurisdiction.
• SoMuction - This is a very slow form of mass wasting that occurs at an imperceptible rate.
It occurs when ice or water content is high and increases the load on the soil, raises pore
water pressure, reduces capillary tension, and lowers shear strength. This allows gravity to
move soil and rock fragments down slope at a very slow rate. It is very difficult and
expensive to build infrastructure such as pipelines, highways or railroads in areas
characterized by solifluction because maintenance costs can be very high due to alignment
buckling and shifting.
• Creep - Creep also occurs very slowly in landforms susceptible to volume change due to
frost, moisture content fluctuations or pore water pressure. Other creep factors include
expansion and contraction of the soil surface due to temperature changes, plant growth and
decay, animal burrowing, weathering, and snow accumulation. The effects of creep can be
observed in leaning telephone poles, tilted or crooked fences, and tilted trees.
• Mudflows or Earthflows - These occur in areas characterized by high water saturation.
The consistency of the flows can range from concrete-like to muddied water. Flows can
move as fast as 1 foot per second. Mudflows are common in and or semiarid mountain
areas. The flows are caused by heavy rainstorms when large amounts of soil debris in
valleys are eroded.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 71
Geologic Constraints Critical Lands Study f
• Slump- Slumps are the most common form of mass wasting, and occur on hillsides when
the mass on a slope increases until the supporting capacity of the lower part of the slope is
exceeded.
There are several factors that can increase the gravity-related force or decrease the resisting forces
in landforms and cause landslides. These factors trigger mass wasting when the inherent causes are
already present. They include:
• Deterioration of Materials - Materials can be weakened through weathering, alteration,
frost action, plant growth, and earthquakes.
• Increases in Moisture Content - Changes in moisture content alter the weight, volume,
internal water pressure, and cohesion of soil particles. This may result from rainfall, melting
snow, groundwater outflow, irrigation, watering of lawns, and leaks from septic tanks and
impoundments.
• Overloading- This occurs through the addition of water, fills, or structures such as homes. -
• Removal of Underlying or Lateral Support - The earth's natural support can be
weakened by erosion or surface excavation.
• Earthquakes - Earthquakes reduce friction between soil particles and loosen fragments of
soil and rock.
These factors can often be attributed to human alteration of the landscape through the following
activities:
• Placing fills on top of marginally stable slopes; Y
• Cutting slopes at too steep an angle or undermining the toe of a slope;
• Redirecting storm runoff so as to concentrate flows artificially onto portions of the
landscape not prepared to receive them;
• Removing woody vegetation;
• Adding water by means of hillside septic systems;and
• Excessive landscape irrigation.
9.1.3 Infrastructure Impacts
The installation and maintenance of infrastructure, such as water and sewer lines as well as roads, in
areas characterized by steep slopes can be extremely difficult and expensive. It is often difficult to
obtain adequate water pressure to reach development at higher elevations. Roadways are especially
difficult to construct due to the need for cuts and fills. Extensive engineering is often required due
to increased slope instability, and increased maintenance costs result from erosion and
sedimentation, fallen rocks and landslides.
9.1.4 Access
Areas characterized by slopes present access problems for residents, visitors and emergency
vehicles. Roads are often steep, winding, and narrow with limited visibility due to curves.
Page 72 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Geologic Constraints
Driveways are often steep and narrow, and parking areas are often limited, resulting in on-street
parking. On-street parking can interfere with traffic flows and result in congestion. Finally, steep
narrow roads, especially when lined with parked cars, can present significant problems for
emergency vehicles.
9.1.5 Aesthetics and Recreation Amenities
Hillsides and ridgelines are highly visible features on the landscape, and therefore can provide
significant aesthetic values. Development, or overdevelopment, of these areas can negatively
impact views and viewsheds. Further, because many hillsides remain undeveloped and covered with
natural vegetation, they provide excellent wildlife habitat. Finally, hillsides and ridgelines make
excellent parks and public open space for hiking, biking, nature observation, and viewing. Burke
Park/Peet's Hill is an excellent example of hillside and ridgeline public open space.
9.1.6 Wildfire Hazard
Slope is an important factor in determining wildfire danger. Generally, wildfire spreads faster up a
hill than on flat surfaces. In addition, the steeper the slope, the faster the fire moves. Hillside fires
are difficult to extinguish due to limited access, limited water supplies and unpredictable winds.
Structures proposed for areas characterized by an urban and wildland interface, as well as by slopes,
are highly susceptible to wildfire damage.
9.2 SEISMIC HAZARDS
Bozeman lies within the Rocky Mountain Seismic Belt, which runs from southern Utah to Idaho
and Montana. Bozeman lies in an area characterized by severe damage according to the Uniform
Building Code Seismic Risk (Hazard) Map. Several major earthquakes have been documented in
this area. Most notably is the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake that triggered the 37 million cubic yard
Madison Canyon landslide forming Hebgen Lake. Several faults run through the Bozeman City-
County Planning Jurisdiction as shown on Figure 8. Therefore, land use and planning decisions in
the future should consider seismic hazards.
In addition to the impacts of ground shaking, there are several other damage causing phenomenon
that can result from earthquakes:
o Liquefaction - Liquefaction occurs when earthquake vibrations cause soil to lose its
strength and collapse. The soil becomes momentarily liquefied, and can result in structural
damage. Areas characterized by a seasonal high water table and/or wetlands are especially
susceptible to liquefaction.
• Subsidence - Subsidence refers to downward movement of earth caused by a reduction in
water pressure. Earthquakes can exacerbate the effects or incidence of subsidence.
• Landslides - Earthquakes can trigger landslides in unstable areas or areas already
susceptible to landslides.
In addition to the hazards described above, earthquakes pose threats to community "lifelines" or
critical facilities. These lifelines include:
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 73
Geologic Constraints Critical Lands Study
Energy Water
• Electricity • Potable
• Liquid fuel gas • Sewage and solid waste
Transportation Communications
• Highway • Telephone
• Railways • Radio and television
• Airport • Mail and press
9.3 REGULATIONS AND PROGRAMS FOR AREAS WITH GEOLOGIC
CONSTRAINTS
9.3.1 Federal Regulations and Programs -
Water Quality Act of 1987 - This Act reauthorized the federal Clean Water Act, and added a new
goal to the CWA focusing on controlling nonpoint source water pollutants. This Act directs the
states to conduct planning studies, and to identify and provide abatement programs for polluted
waters. Since sedimentation is one of the leading causes of nonpoint source water pollution, the
Water Quality Act would apply to projects causing erosion and sedimentation.
Federal Disaster Relief Act of 1974 - The federal government provides disaster relief funds
through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under the Federal Disaster Relief
Act of 1974. FEMA plays a crucial role in redevelopment and recovery in disaster areas.
9.3.2 State Regulations
Short-Term Exemption from Montana's Surface Water Quality Standards (3A
Authorization) - One of the main purposes of this law is to minimize sedimentation. This
program applies to any person or agency that initiates a short-term activity that may cause
unavoidable short-term violations of state surface water quality standards for turbidity, total
dissolved solids, or temperature. State waters refer to any body of water, irrigation system, or
drainage system, either surface or underground, and wetlands.
Montana Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (MPDES Permits - This Act applies to all
discharges to surface water or groundwater, including those related to construction, dewatering, and
suction dredges. It could also apply to erosion and sedimentation.
Montana Water Quaft Act - This Act prohibits the pollution of state waters and the placement
of wastes in a location where they area likely to cause pollution of any state water. This Act would
also likely apply to erosion and sedimentation.
Page 74 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Geologic Constraints
9.3.3 Local Regulations
Uniform Building Code - The Uniform Building Code has been adopted by reference by the City
of Bozeman for the entire Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction. The Building Code has
special provisions relating to seismic safety and earthquake-resistant design.
Bozeman Area Subdivision Regulations - The subdivision regulations have several requirements
in regards to geologic conditions, slopes and soils. First, subdividers must identify geologic hazards
affecting the proposed subdivision which could result in property damage or personal injury due to
rock falls or slides; land, mud or snow slides; surface subsidence; and seismic activity. Second,
applicants must identify any other unusual soil, topographic or geologic features or conditions on
the property which might limit its capability for building or excavation using ordinary and
reasonable construction techniques. Some unique conditions might include, but are not limited to,
shallow bedrock, high water table, unstable or expansive soils, slope and fault lines. Third,
applicants must provide a soils map for the property, including highly erodible soils or slopes in
excess of 15 percent grade. Fourth, applicants must describe the location and amount of any cut or
fill three or more feet in depth. Where fills and cuts are necessary, plans to prevent erosion and to
promote revegetation must be described. Finally, applicants must show measures to be taken to
prevent or materially lessen the danger of future property damage or personal injury due to any of
the hazards referred to above.
9.4 GEOLOGIC HAZARD AREAS IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY PLANNING
JURISDICTION
9.4.1 Erosion
Anywhere soils are exposed, and subject to the forces of wind and water, erosion is a threat. Some
conditions, such as a lack of vegetation, steep slopes, and unstable soils contribute to the effects of
erosion. Land uses most susceptible to erosion and sedimentation are agricultural uses and
construction sites. Agricultural and construction practices both expose bare, loose soils to water
and wind. Construction occurs throughout the planning jurisdiction, and may cause erosion and
sedimentation wherever it occurs. The planning jurisdiction also has substantial amounts of land
being used for agricultural purposes. Most of this land is west and south of the City of Bozeman.
9.4.2 Steep Slopes
The planning jurisdiction has several areas characterized by steep slopes, and rolling hills with some
steep areas. The steepest slopes are found on the east side of South Church/Sourdough Road, and
on the north and south faces of the Story Hills. Much of the land along South Church/Sourdough
is Burke Park and Peet's Hill, and is owned by the City of Bozeman. However, some of the land in
this area has been subdivided into the New Hyalite View, Graf's First and Second, and Longacre
Subdivisions. The land on the north and south faces of the Story Hills is currently privately owned.
There are several areas within the planning jurisdiction that are characterized by rolling hills, with
— some steep slopes. These areas are largely found in the Story Hills and southeast of the City. The
Saddle Ridge Estates, Hillcrest, Sourdough Hills, and Triple Tree Ranch Subdivisions are all located
southeast of the City, and are characterized by rolling hills with some steep slopes.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 75
Geologic Constraints Critical Lands Study
9.4.3 Seismic Hazards
There are several faults and related features in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction. A
section of the Gallatin Range Front Fault runs through the southern part of the jurisdiction. The
fault crosses Sections 11 and 15 of Township 3 South, Range 5 East. The Bri�dger Creek - Bear
Canyon Fault crosses Section 3, 11 and 14 of Township 2 South, Range 6 East. Next, there are
some areas in Section 3 of Township 2 South, Range 6 East that are characterized by Colorado
Group rocks that have an increased hazard due to dip slope attitude and lithology. Finally, there are
some fault headscarp and toe features in Sections 3 and 4 of Township 2 South, Range 6 East, and
in Sections 32 and 33 of Township 1 South, Range 6 East.
9.5 GEOLOGIC CONSTRAINT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
9.5.1 Goals
• Minimize the loss of life and property on hillsides due to seismic activity, landslides, soil erosion,
sedimentation, slope instability and water runoff.
• Encourage development that preserves natural topographical and geological conditions.
9.5.2 Objectives
• Minimize public facility maintenance costs.
• Maintain animal life and minimize disturbances to wildlife habitat.
• Restore vegetation as soon as possible after disturbance to ensure successful establishment and
reduce costs.
• Recognize unique geologic elements.
• Balance the rights of landowners and their development goals with the public's interest in
protecting life and property, protecting unique geologic elements, and containing public service
costs.
• Reduce construction and property maintenance costs associated with development in areas
characterized by geologic constraints.
• Reduce the costs to the community of remedial measures associated with preventable damage
from flooding, erosion, landslide, slumping, and seismic shaking.
• Encourage the use of lands characterized by geologic constraints as public open space.
• Discourage development in ill-suited areas based on soils, geology, hydrology, and vegetation
studies.
9.6 GEOLOGIC CONSTRAINTS PROTECTION OPTIONS
9.6.1 Erosion
Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance - The goal of this ordinance-�'rould be to ensure
that all soil remains on-site during any construction activity or land use. This ordinance would be
Page 76 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Geologic Constraints
implemented at the site plan or subdivision review stage. It would require submittal of soil types,
location of waterbodies, predominant land features, contour intervals and slope descriptions. In
addition, applicants would need to submit the following information:
Description and location of the physical limits of the exposed land area contemplated for
the earth change;
0 Description and location of all existing and proposed on-site drainage facilities;
• Timing and sequence of each proposed earth change;
• Description and location of all proposed temporary and permanent soil erosion control
measures;
• Program proposal for the continued maintenance of all permanent soil erosion control
facilities.
This ordinance could also require sedimentation basins during construction or for developments
with large amounts of impervious surface area, protection or creation of vegetative buffers near
waterbodies, and retention of existing landscaping and groundcover.
Agricultural Conservation Practices - Encourage agricultural conservation practices such as
conservation tillage, contouring, crop rotations, striperopping, and terracing. The Montana State
University Extension Service is a great local source of information and assistance for agriculture
conservation.
9.6.2 Steep Slopes
Slope Protection Ordinance - The purpose of the ordinance would be to minimize the loss of life
and property on hillsides due to seismic activity, landslides, soil erosion, sedimentation, slope
instability and water runoff. This ordinance would require the following for all lots with a slope
equal to or greater than 15 percent:
0 Consolidation of all areas of disturbance on the areas of least slope;
9 Establishment of minimum lot sizes for steep slopes;
• Minimize changes in grade, cleared area and volume of cut or fill on the site;and
• Comply with a limitation on disturbance of the subject property calculated as follows:
Slope Category Percent Disturbance Allowed
40 percent and greater 30 percent
25 to 40 percent 45 percent
15 to 25 percent 60 percent
Additional requirements for location, design and construction types may also apply.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 77
Geologic Constraints Critical Lands Study
Grading Ordinance - The City could adopt a Grading Ordinance that would set standards for
height, gradient, drainage, and structural setbacks for cut and fill-slopes. A grading ordinance could
be integrated with an erosion and sedimentation control ordinance.
The "Guiding Principles" Approach - This approach would require the delineation of hillside
overlay districts for all hillside areas in the planning jurisdiction. A set of guiding principles would
then apply to all development within these districts. These regulations would be very flexible, and `-
would allow for the arrangement of development to fit the characteristics of a specific site. This
approach would encourage creative and innovative design to meet the regulations.
Fire Protection Guidelines - The City could adopt fire protection guidelines developed by the
State of Montana Department of State Lands and the Department of Justice-Fire Prevention and
Investigation and outlined in Fire Protection Guidelines for Wildland Residential Interface
Development. These guidelines would apply to areas characterized by an urban and wildland
interface, as well as slopes.
9.6.3 Seismic Hazards
Seismic Hazards Ordinance - This ordinance would reduce the threat of loss of life and property
by requiring minimum setbacks between structures and known faults. A 25 foot setback should be
required between structures intended for human occupancy and all known faults.
9.7 MAP OF GEOLOGIC HAZARDS IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY
PLANNING JURISDICTION
Figure 7, on the following page, shows topographic contours for the Bozeman City-County
Planning Jurisdiction. The contour coverage is based on U.S.G.S. digital elevation model (DEM)
data. Figure 8 shows geologic constraints for the jurisdiction. This information was obtained from
maps in the 1983 Bozeman Area Master Plan.
Page 78 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
I
j
j
l
r,
CHAPTER 10
FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE
Critical Lands Study Farmland and Open Space
Chapter X
FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE
10.0 INTRODUCTION
The Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction contains considerable amounts of land currently
used for agricultural purposes such as the cultivation of crops and livestock production. If fact,
within the jurisdiction approximately 23,717 acres are zoned A-S "Agriculture Suburban District".
This is approximately 64.7 percent of all land in the planning jurisdiction. The A-S district is
intended to encourage cluster development so that areas of agriculture and areas of environmental
concern are preserved, and that agricultural pursuits and/or open space will be preserved.
However, in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction farmland and open space continue to
be converted to urban development.
10.1 VALUES OF FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE
There are a variety of values farmland and open space provide, and reasons to protect these
resources which include:
Preventing Urban. Sprawl - By preventing sprawl into agricultural areas, a more compact pattern
of development can be encouraged. Encouraging infill rather than sprawl saves public tax dollars
by reducing infrastructure costs. In addition, nonrenewable resources such as fuel are saved by
reducing commuting distances.
Maintaining Open Space - Farmland provides tremendous open space resources and wildlife
habitat.
Retaining Natural Systems and Natural Processes - Often preserving farmland is compatible
with other community goals of protecting wetlands,watersheds, aquifer recharge areas, floodplains,
and wildlife habitat. In the past farming has damaged sensitive environmental areas, however
farming practices are becoming increasingly more compatible with conservation efforts.
Controlling Public Costs - The costs of public services and facilities for farms are generally low.
In fact, the tax returns from farms often is greater than the costs of providing services to farms.
Preserving farmland is one way a community can maintain their tax base while reducing public
costs.
Preserving the Local. Economic Base - Historically, agricultural production has been one of the
largest economic sectors in Gallatin Valley. Agricultural economic benefits are great because
agriculture exports goods and imports incomes. Agriculture also support a wide-range of other
businesses such as grocery stores, hardware stores, farm implement dealers, feed supply stores, and
food processing plants.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 79
Farmland and Open Space Critical Lands Study
Promoting Local Self-Sufficiency - Agriculture uses local resources and is less sensitive to
national and international policy decisions than other industries. Therefore, areas with significant
agricultural establishments, as in the Gallatin Valley, often have more stable, self-reliant economies.
Preserving a Rural Lifestyle -Preserving agriculture protects the rural lifestyle that has historically
characterized the Gallatin Valley.
Conserving Energy - Prime agricultural soils require less energy, chemicals and fertilizers to farm.
Further,when agricultural lands are maintained near their primary markets energy requirements are
reduced through decreased transportation costs.
10.2 THREATS TO FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE
The greatest threat to farmland is expanding urban areas. Increasing, urban populations are spilling
out into suburban areas and farmland is being converted to commercial and residential
development. Due to speculation, the value of farmland adjacent to or near urban areas rises. This,
in turn, leads to higher property taxes on farmland. Often farmers and ranchers are unable to
afford the escalating taxes and must sell their land.
Another possible threat is increasing conflicts between agricultural land uses and urban
development. Suburban dwellers dislike the dust clouds, toxic or noxious chemicals used for
pesticides and fertilizers, and the odors emitted from livestock production. v-
Finally, due to expanding urban areas and development less land is available for farm operation
expansion. Increasingly, farms must be very large to be economically viable. However, large lots
are harder and harder to find.
10.3 REGULATIONS AND PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO PRESERVE FARMLAND
AND OPEN SPACE
10.3.1 Federal Programs
There are several federal farm subsidy programs that encourage continued agricultural production
on farmland. In addition, the new farm bill includes provision to provide matching funds for
qualified programs designed to protect agricultural land from conversion to non-agricultural uses.
10.3.2 State Programs T
Right-to-Farm Laws - These laws address conflicts between farmers and ranchers, and their non-
agricultural neighbors. The laws protect farmers and ranchers from nuisance suits by neighbors
complaining about odors, dust, noise, etc. Section 76-2-903 "Local Ordinances" of the Montana
Code Annotated is such a law. This section states:
"A city, county, taxing district or other political subdivision of this state may not
adopt an ordinance or resolution that prohibits any existing agricultural activities or
forces the termination of any existing agricultural activities outside the boundaries or
an incorporated city or town. Zoning and nuisance ordinances may not prohibit
Page 80 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Farmland and Open Space
agricultural activities that were established outside the corporate limits of a
municipality and then incorporated into that municipality by annexation."
Other State Programs - Several members of the Montana State Legislature have expressed
interest in proposing legislation designed to protect and preserve farmland resources. A
variety of protection. techniques have been considered including clustering, taxation policy,
and farmland conservation easements.
10.3.3 Local Regulations and Programs
1990 Bozeman Area Master Plan Update - The Master Plan establishes a "Rural
Residential' designation for areas outside of the Urban Growth Area that are encouraged to
remain undeveloped and in agricultural production. One of the development options in
areas designated as Rural Residential is cluster development.
Bozeman Area Subdivision Regulations - When farmland is subdivided for commercial
or residential development, the community impacts of subdivision are considered.
Community impacts include: water, wastewater, solid waste, roads, utilities, emergency
services, schools, etc. As stated earlier, the costs of providing public services to agricultural
land is significantly less than the costs of providing services to commercial and residential
uses.
Bozeman Area Zoning Ordinance - One of the zoning categories in the Zoning
Ordinance is A-S `'Agriculture Suburban District." The intent of the A-S district is to
encourage cluster development so that areas of agriculture and areas of environmental
concern are preserved. It is intended that through the use of this district, agricultural
pursuits and/or open space will be preserved and environmental pursuits and/or open
space will be preserved and environmental concerns such as high water table and
floodplains,will be protected. The A-S district allows a 20 acre maximum lot size.
The Bozeman Area Zoning Ordinance also has Cluster Development Option for
determining lot area and width in the A-S zoning district. The Cluster Development
r- Option is used to encourage land reassemblage and cluster development. For developments
using this option density bonuses over the one dwelling unit per twenty acres may be
permitted where the land to be subdivided consists of at least twenty-five acres, and where
the average net size of residential lots is limited to no more than one acre, thereby
maximizing the amount of land remaining in agricultural production or open space.
Additional density bonuses may be available where the proposed development enhances
and/or preserves identified community interests such as wildlife habitat, open space
corridors, ridge lines, or riparian areas.
County Covenants - Subdivisions in Gallatin County, including the Bozeman City-County
Planning Extraterrirorial Area, are required to record covenants which include a section
addressing agricultural uses of neighboring properties. While these covenants are required
conditions for subdivision approval, they have proven ineffectual in halting conflicts
between subdivisions and their agricultural neighbors. These covenants read as follows:
"Lot owners and residents of the subdivision are informed that adjacent uses
may be agricultural. Lot owners accept and are aware that standard
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 81
Farmland and Open Space Critical Lands Study
agricultural and farming practices can result in dust, animal odors, smoke,
flies and machinery noise. Standard agricultural practices feature the use of
heavy equipment, chemical sprays and the use of machinery early in the
morning and sometimes late into the evening."
10.4 FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE RESOURCES IN THE BOZEMAN CITY- `
COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION
There is very little remaining farmland within the corporate limits of the City of Bozeman. Most of
the remaining farmland in the City is located north of Durston Road along N. 1 9th Avenue. There
is also some farmland surrounding the neighborhoods along S. 3rd Avenue as you approach
Goldenstein Road.
Most of the remaining farmland in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction lies outside of
the City limits, but within extraterritorial zoning area. There is significant amounts of farmland to
the south, southwest, west, northwest and north of the City. There is also some farmland to the
southeast of the City.
10.5 FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION GOALS AND
OBJECTIVES
10.5.1 Goals
• Preserve productive farmland in close proximity to urban areas. --
• Maintain open space resources in close proximity to urban areas.
10.5.2 Objectives
• Prevent urban sprawl by maintaining agricultural lands surrounding the City of Bozeman.
• Maintain farmland as open space resources.
• Maintain environmental values such as wetlands,watersheds, aquifer recharge areas, floodplains,
wildlife habitat, etc.
• Control public costs associated with infrastructure requirements and public services.
• Maintain agriculture as an important economic sector in Gallatin Valley.
• Preserve the Gallatin Valley's historic agricultural character and rural lifestyle.
• Support the production of specialty and organic crops in close proximity to urban areas.
• Provide options to farmers and ranchers to allow them to keep their land and continue
agricultural pursuits.
• Balance the rights of landowners and their development goals with the public's interest in
protecting environmental features, preserving prime farmland and open space, and containing
public service costs.
Page 82 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Farmland and Open Space
10.6 FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION OPTIONS
Cluster Development - In certain circumstances, setback and lot size requirements could be
relaxed to allow cluster development. This would allow the grouping of buildings and lots on a
small portion of a larger tract while keeping most of the tract as farmland or open space. The
farmland or open space should be protected through permanent conservation easements. Cluster
development protects natural, agricultural, scenic and cultural resources. The PUD development
option could be used to do cluster developments. The 1990 Bozeman Area Master Plan Update
allows for cluster development on parcels that are designated as Rural Residential and are at least 25
acres in size. The Bozeman Zoning Ordinance allows cluster development on parcels that are
zoned A-S and are at least 25 acres in size. Greater use could be made of these existing cluster
options to preserve farmland and open space.
Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs) - The City would allow the development rights or
densities assigned through zoning to one lot to be transferred to another parcel at another location.
The "sending" parcel is typically unsuitable or undesirable for development due to environmental
constraints, or because it provides farmland or open space. The "receiving" parcel is typically
highly suited for denser development because it has adequate public services. TDRs allow a farmers
or ranchers to pursue their agricultural activities while gaining some monetary value for the land's
development potential.
Purchase of Development Rights P( DRS - The community can purchase easements for
farmland or open space. Some community's have found that purchasing development rights is
cheaper than providing roads, schools and other services to new subdivisions. Through PDRs, the
land is protected but remains on the tax rolls and in productive use. The property owner also
retains the advantages of property ownership. The City could work with non-profit organization
such as the Gallatin 'Valley Land Trust to purchase development rights.
Differential Taxation - Differential taxation (also known as preferred, use-value, restricted-use, or
deferred taxation) lowers the tax burden on lands a community wishes to protect from
development. Often, farmers and ranchers sell their land because of escalating property taxes
resulting from advancing urban development. Differential taxation assesses land at its use value
rather than its full market value.
Urban and Rural Service Area Assessments (URSAAJ - URSAA is alternative differential
taxation program. URSAA differentiates between properties that will ultimately be developed at
urban densities based on extension of public sewer and water lines, and properties not targeted for
public services and urban development. The areas targeted for development are taxed at a higher
rate. URSAA discourages speculative investment and channels development pressure into areas the
community has deemed as most acceptable for development.
Deed Restrictions/Conservation Easements - Communities can enter into voluntary deed
restrictions with landowners, or obtain conservation easements. Landowner must agree to keep
their land as agricultural or open space land. In return, landowners receive a lowered tax reflecting
the agricultural or open space use of their land. Often a sliding-scale taxation policy is used for
conservation easements that is based on the number of years the easement runs.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 83
Farmland and Open Space Critical Lands Study
Agricultural Districts - Agricultural districts are specially designated areas where state and local
governments are limited in their ability to restrict farm practices or operations, take farmland by
eminent domain, or allow the construction of public utilities. To participate farmers and ranches
must enroll for a specified amount of time with the option of renewing. Some states link r
agricultural districts with taxation programs; farmers and ranchers must be in an agricultural district
to receive tax breaks.
Open Space Plan - An open space plan could be adopted for the Bozeman City-County Planning
Jurisdiction. Farmland could be designated as one type of open space prioritized for protection.
The City of Missoula has already adopted a Missoula Urban Area Open Space Plan and passed a
City open space acquisition bond measure to implement the Plan. The Missoula plan calls for a
coherent open space system distributed throughout the Missoula Valley. Parks and conservation
lands are the central elements of their system; agricultural lands and the urban forest are the
complementary elements; and views and vistas and trails serve as links of the system. Their system
also revolves around "cornerstones," important parks and conservation lands that anchor the open
space system in a fundamental way. -
10.7 MAP OF FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE RESOURCES IN THE BOZEMAN
CITY-COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION
Figure 9, a map showing agricultural lands in the jurisdiction, is included on the following page.
This map depicts land in the jurisdiction being used for agricultural purposes according to the
Bozeman Land Use Map. The Land Use map defines agricultural uses as "cultivation of the soil or
the raising of livestock, and all activities incidental thereto, not to include areas of land used for the
raising of produce primarily intended for on-site consumption."
Page 84 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
j
i
II
r
r:
�i
j,
I �
r-
CHAPTER 11
FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
n
Critical Lands Study Fish and Wildlife Habitat
7
Ii
Chapter XI
FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
11.0 INTRODUCTION
Most of the critical lands described in this document represent physical constraints to development;
�1 features such as wetlands, floodplains, steep slopes, and high water tables make land unsuitable for
development. However, like agricultural lands, wildlife habitat areas are often highly desirable for
development.
The presence of tremendous fish and wildlife resources, as well as fish and wildlife habitat, are very
important to the local economy. The Bozeman area reaps considerable economic benefits from
tourism, and hunting and fishing activities that rely on quality fish and wildlife habitat. Quality fish
and wildlife resources, and habitat, also provide important aesthetic values. The area's high quality
of life includes opportunities to view a diversity of wildlife species from one's living room window,
or while out walking or bicycling on roads or nearby trails. Finally, wildlife provides emotional
values. The excellent fish and wildlife resources in Montana make it a truly unique place. Few
places provide as many opportunities for people to access such a wide-array and abundance of
wildlife and wildlife species.
� I
�! 11.1 WILDLIFE HABITAT IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY PLANNING
JURISDICTION
`I Many of the areas described in earlier sections of this document provide the best fish and wildlife
habitat in the planning jurisdiction. Wetlands, rivers and streams provide excellent fish habitat,
nesting and resting areas for migrating birds. In addition, wetlands, floodplains and riparian areas
n provide excellent habitat for most species of fish and wildlife. Riparian areas, areas characterized by
steep slopes, and farmland provides excellent habitat for larger wildlife species. Finally, areas
characterized by native grassland/coniferous forest interfaces (like those in the Story Hills) and
older residential areas also provide wildlife habitat in the planning jurisdiction.
11.2 FISH AND WILDLIFE SPECIES IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY
PLANNING JURISDICTION
11.2.1 Birds
Over 375 species of birds have been identified within the state of Montana. Because many species
are migratory, most lists of birds for the State or regions within Montana identify each species as to
hits residency status, i.e. whether it nests here (B), is present during the winter (W), or is simply a
seasonal transient (t). From this list of birds occurring in the state, 133 species have been observed
in the Bozeman Latilong, a larger area which includes the Bozeman Jurisdictional Planning Area
^' (see list in Appendix C). Most of the habitats which allow these species of birds to occur within the
Latilong are also present within the Planning Area, although frequently in modest and fragmented
representation. Consequently, most of the 133 species could be observed within the Planning Area,
but because some of the habitats are marginal, the residency status of certain species may change,
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 85
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Critical Lands Study T
II
for example from breeding (B) to transient (t). This change is most likely among certain species of
raptors which have little acceptance of human intrusion or which require large home ranges.
Conversely, certain adaptable species like the mallard almost appear to thrive as an urban
population. Among the many small songbirds present in this general area, most have rather small
home ranges while some are very specific in habitat requirements and as land uses change, a few
species will benefit from urban development, while most will not. It should come as no surprise
that the degree of change in residence status or in number of bird species present will depend
heavily upon the diversity of habitats maintained within the Planning Area.
11.2.2 Mammals
Montana hosts 109 mammalian species: 21 game and furbearer species, 87 nongame species (1 of
which is classified as threatened, grizzly bear, and 2 of which are classified as endangered, the black Lj
-
footed ferret and wolf pursuant to the Threatened and Endangered Species Act of 1973) and 1
classified as "bison" (Sect. 87-2-101, MCA). Forty-nine of these species occur in the Bozeman
Jurisdictional Planning Area (see list in Appendix C). This compares to 467 species of mammals u
that occur in the United States, the U. S. Territories (such as Puerto Rico, the U. S. Virgin Islands,
Guam and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands), and Canada. Mammalian families in Montana
include shrews, bats, rabbits, squirrels (including chipmunks, ground squirrels and tree squirrels), u
rodents, carnivores, and even-toed and odd-toed ungulates (wild horse). All mammals have hair, a
complete double circulatory system, provide milk for their young, have live birth, and seven cervical
vertebrae. Population dynamics are variable, with some producing few young and depending on
high survival to maintain populations, while others "overwhelm" the environment with offspring
and maintain populations by producing enough young to ensure survival under most all conditions.
Habitat needs must be met within the ecological amplitude or home range of a species. Some find u
all their needs within a small area, while others require extensive areas, even including migration
routes between distant summer and winter habitats.
V
11.2.3 Amphibians
Amphibian refers to a variety of cold-blooded species including frogs, toads, and salamanders.
Today, approximately 100 species of salamanders and 80 species of frogs and toads can be found in
the United States, however only 4 species of salamanders and 12 species of frogs and toads are
found in Montana. From these, there is one salamander species, and 4 species of frogs and toads I
that live in the Bozeman City/County Jurisdictional Planning Area (see species list in Appendix C).
There are several physical and life-cycle characteristics that typify amphibians. First, adult
amphibians live on land and water, but lay their eggs in water. The eggs hatch into tadpoles or
larvae that differ in appearance from adults. The tadpoles or larvae go through metamorphosis
where their bodies rapidly change and they begin to take on the characteristics of adults.
Amphibians do not have hair, feathers or scales like other land animals. Instead, they have skin that L
is moist, glandular, and naked. An amphibian uses its skin largely for breathing and water
absorption; most amphibians do not use their mouths for respiration and drinking. Because
amphibians are unable to generate sufficient body heat, and because their mobility is often i L
restricted, all amphibian species found in Montana must hibernate during winter.
11.2.4 Reptiles j
Approximately 100 species of lizards, 50 species of turtles, and 120 species of snakes are found in
the United States today. However, only 4 species of lizards, 3 species of turtles, and 10 species of I
Page 86 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
n
II
Critical Lands Study Fish and Wildlife Habitat
n
i
snakes can be found in Montana. From these, there are 3 species of snakes and 1 turtle species
found in the Bozeman City/County Jurisdictional Planning Area (see the species list in Appendix
C). Reptiles are characterized by shelled eggs, which eliminates the need to lay eggs in water, and
dry, scaly skin that protects them from dehydration. Montana lizards are most active during the day
and feed on insects and other invertebrates. Montana turtle species are all aquatic and lay their eggs
in nests on the banks of ponds, lakes or streams. They feed on vegetation, and live or dead animals.
The snake species found in Montana are all carnivorous and feed on a variety of animals such as
rodents, amphibians, and invertebrates. The only poisonous snake found in Montana is the
Western Rattlesnake. Like amphibian species found in the state, reptile species also must hibernate
during winter.
n
11.2.5 Fishes
Montana harbors 86 fish species; many are non-natives that were introduced to the state within the
past 100 years. Only seven of the 15 species inhabiting the Bozeman Jurisdictional Planning Area
I ! are true natives. The local trout species - rainbow, brown, brook, and Yellowstone cutthroat-were
all introduced, replacing the area's only native trout, the Missouri River cutthroat, which no longer
n exists in local waters. The few arctic grayling, another native gamefish, that persist in the East
Gallatin River are a product of recent experimental stockings by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
The trout of the State's rivers and streams are natural, self-sustaining populations that reproduce in
the wild. Hatchery trout are only stocked in area ponds. Urbanization and the associated changes
to the quantity and quality of the area's aquatic habitats is the greatest threat to the continued health
and well-being of local cold-water fisheries. These fisheries also face other problems including
71, unauthorized introductions of new fish species and diseased fish.
11.2.6 Species Matrix
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks developed a species/habitat type matrix for the Bozeman City-
County Planning Jurisdiction. This matrix portrays species presence and preferences by habitat
types. The matrix provides an important tool in evaluating the short-term, as well as long-term,
effects of planning and zoning decisions for the jurisdiction. This matrix is included in Appendix C.
11.3 HABITAT REQUIREMENTS
In order for habitats to support healthy, viable fish and wildlife populations, the following habitat
components are required:
• Food and Food Groups -Plants are the basic source of food for many species. Often, all
7 parts of plants and trees are used in some way. Leaves, twigs, roots, buds, stems, grasses,
mosses, and lichen are all eaten. Fruits and nuts provide food for many species in the fall
and winter. In addition, many species are sensitive not only to certain foods, but to certain
77 locations for finding foods.
Along with plants, the air and water support a variety of insects that are used by species.
Finally, the diets of many species change with the seasons according to the availability of
food sources.
• Cover and Shelter - Most species will not venture out into unprotected areas for long
;7 periods of time. Areas lacking cover can expose species to predators or extreme weather
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 87
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Critical Lands Study
conditions. Vegetation, rock piles, brush piles, snow,water, and burrows in the ground are u
examples of cover-types.
• Water - Most species rely on water sources for drinking, and some require water for certain ;_2
or all phases of their life-cycle. For example, many amphibians need water for the
development of their eggs and young and many bird species need to be near water for
nesting.
• Space - Space is an essential component of wildlife habitat and provides the living room for
survival and optimal use of the other basic habitat requirements of food,cover (shelter), and
water. The amount of space needed for wildlife species is highly variable. Therefore,
species diversity of any given area is contingent on the amount of open space and
juxtaposition of habitat features.
11.4 THREATS TO FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
The greatest threat to fish habitat is pollution or degradation of rivers, streams, and ditches. The
destruction of wetlands also threatens amphibian, and waterfowl/waterbird species. The issues
associated with water pollution and wetland destruction are described in great detail in Chapters V u
and VII of this document. Finally, aquatic species are also harmed by barriers such as dams which
limit their movement throughout their habitat.
In the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction, the greatest threat to wildlife habitat is
increasing urban development, including the installation of public infrastructure. Urban
development threatens aspects of all of the above habitat requirements. First, urban development
impacts the amount of space available to species, as well as the spatial arrangement of the other
habitat requirements resulting in habitat fragmentation. Second, the removal of vegetation can
eliminate food sources and feeding areas. Third, urban development results in erosion and
sedimentation,urban runoff, and urban pollutants which can threaten water sources. Fourth, urban
development removes natural groundcover and eliminates cover and shelter for many species.
Finally, habitat fragmentation removes natural wildlife habitats and results in increasingly smaller
islands of available habitat.
11.5 REGULATIONS AND PROGRAMS TO PROTECT FISH AND WILDLIFE
HABITAT
11.5.1 Federal Regulations and Programs
Endangered Species Act of 1973 - This act provides that the Secretaries of Interior and
Commerce can list species as endangered or threatened. Courses of action to help the species
recover are then prescribed.
Bald Eagle Protection Act - Passed in 1940, this act makes it illegal to take or posses any eagle or
any part, egg or nest.
Migratory Bird Treaty Act - The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 serves as enabling legislation
for the Migratory Bird Treaty between the United States and Great Britain (on behalf of Canada).
Mexico joined the Convention on 7 February 1936. Implementing regulations are administered by
.L
Page 88 Bozeman City-County Planning Board I
Critical Lands Study Fish and Wildlife Habitat
r
the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and are found in Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations. The list
r of protected species is found in Part 10, Section 10.13. Parts 13 and 21 contain permit regulations
and depredation orders. Basically, any bird designated as "migratory" is protected from "take"
unless there are exceptions. Starlings, house sparrows, rock doves (pigeons), and mute swans are
unprotected exotics in Montana. Upland game birds are not migratory, but are protected by state
law. Regulations provide for establishment of hunting seasons for waterfowl and some other
species.
Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1958 - This act was establishes the policy that wildlife
conservation receive equal consideration with other aspects of water resources development. The
act requires that any federal agency or permittee proposing to modify a natural body of water
consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the appropriate wildlife management agency of
the state involved.
Swampbuster Legislation - This is a provision of the Food Security Act of 1985 that provides
significant support for wildlife and fish. Swampbuster legislation discourages the conversion of
wetlands for agricultural purposes. If farmers convert wetlands to farmland, they may lose eligibility
for support programs. The Food Security Act also includes the Conservation Reserve Program
which provides assistance in improving water quality and increasing wildlife habitat for native and
migratory species.
11.5.2 State of Montana Regulations and Programs
7, Habitat Montana Program - This program is implemented by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
(MFWP). It implements HB 526 which is a habitat acquisition initiative passed by the 1987
legislature, and is funded through hunting and fishing license fees. MFWP has increased its efforts
to conserve critical habitat through acquisition and conservation easements. MFWP works directly
with private agricultural landowners. In some instances, MFWP has coordinated its efforts with
private, non-profit conservation organizations such as the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation,
Gallatin Valley Land Trust, and federal agencies to complete projects.
Hunting and Fishing Management - MFWP administers the State's hunting and fishing
programs. This includes permitting, enforcement, management programs and research.
Hunter Enhancement - MFWP coordinates with private property owners and other state and
federal agencies to provide access to hunting and fishing areas.
Stream Habitat - The MFWP works with other state and federal agencies to protect, maintain and
�
enhance aquatic habitats.
Montana Subdivision and Platting Act - For major subdivisions, the Montana Subdivision and
Platting Act requires "a description of every body or stream or surface water that may be affected
by the proposed subdivision, together with available groundwater information, and a description of
the topography, vegetation, and wildlife use within the area of the proposed subdivision." In
addition, applicants must also provide a "summary of the probable impacts of the proposed
subdivision based on the...effect on agriculture, agricultural water user facilities, local services, the
natural environment, wildlife and wildlife habitat, and public health and safety." (Section 76-3-603
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 89
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Critical Lands Study
"Contents of Environmental Assessment" and Section 76-3-608 "Criteria for Local Government
Review" in Part 6 -Local Review Procedure)
11.5.3 Local Regulations �-
Bozeman Area Subdivision Regulations - The environmental assessment requirements for
subdivision review include information regarding wildlife. Applicants are required to describe any
species of fish or wildlife that may be affected by the proposed subdivision. They must also identify
any known critical or key wildlife areas such as big game winter range,waterfowl areas,wetlands, or
habitats for rare or endangered species. Finally, applicants must describe any proposed measures
for protecting or enhancing wildlife habitat, or for minimizing degradation.
1990 Bozeman Area Master Plan Update and the Bozeman Zoning Ordinance - The Master
Plan establishes a "Rural Residential" designation for areas outside of the Urban Growth Area that
are encouraged to remain undeveloped and in agricultural production. One of the development
options in areas designated as Rural Residential is cluster development. In addition, the Bozeman
Zoning Ordinance establishes an A-S "Agriculture Suburban District" to encourage cluster
development so that areas of agriculture and areas of environmental concern are preserved. In
areas with a Rural Residential Master Plan designation and/or an A-S zoning designation, density J.
bonuses are also available for developments that enhance and/or preserve identified community
interests such as wildlife habitat, open space corridors, ridge lines, or riparian areas.
I�.
11.6 WILDLIFE HABITAT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
11.6.1 Goals
• Conserve fish and wildlife species abundance and diversity.
• Conserve fish and wildlife habitat and minimize habitat fragmentation.
11.6.2 Objectives
• Encourage the use of land containing significant or important habitat as open space.
• Prevent urban sprawl by maintaining open space surrounding the City of Bozeman.
• Reduce the fragmentation of remaining wildlife habitat.
• Reduce conflicts between human activities and wildlife.
• Balance the rights of landowners and their development goals with the public's interest in
protecting wildlife resources.
11.7 FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT CONSERVATION OPTIONS
As stated previously, many of the other critical lands described in this document provide some of
the best fish and wildlife habitat in the jurisdiction. These other critical lands include wetlands,
rivers and streams, steep slopes, floodplains, and farmland. As such, protection efforts to protect ` 1
these other critical lands will result in the protection of fish and wildlife habitat. Other protection
strategies and recommendations include the following.
Page 90 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
7
1 �
Critical Lands Study Fish and Wildlife Habitat
71
Open Space Plan - An open space plan should be developed for the Bozeman City-County
Planning Jurisdiction. Land providing important fish and/or wildlife habitat would be a priority for
such a plan. An open space planning effort would be especially conducive to habitat protection
because large tracts of unfragmented land could be protected, along with open space corridors
linking these large tracts.
As stated previously, the City of Missoula developed a Missoula Urban Area Open Space Plan and
passed a City-wide open space acquisition bond to implement the Plan. The Missoula Open Space
Plan and bond are used to prioritize and finance open space acquisitions. The Missoula plan
recognizes six types of open space including. conservation lands, urban forest, views and vistas,
park lands, agricultural lands, and trails. Two features mark all of these lands as open space - they
contain few or no structures, and their open character reflects a variety of positive, intrinsic values.
Cluster Development - In certain circumstances, setback and lot size requirements could be
relaxed to allow cluster development. This would allow the grouping of buildings and lots on a
small portion of a larger tract while keeping most of the tract as open space. The open space
should be protected through permanent conservation easements. Cluster development protects
natural, agricultural, scenic and cultural resources. The PUD development option could be used to
do cluster developments. The 1990 Bozeman Area Master Plan Update allows for cluster
development on parcels that are designated as Rural Residential and are at least 25 acres in size.
The Bozeman Zoning Ordinance allows cluster development on parcels that are zoned A-S and are
at least 25 acres in size. Greater use could be made of these existing cluster options to preserve
open space.
i
Transfer of Development Rights (TDRsI - The City would allow the development rights or
densities assigned through zoning to one lot to be transferred to another parcel at another location.
The "sending" parcel is typically unsuitable or undesirable for development due to environmental
constraints, or because it provides habitat or open space. The "receiving" parcel is typically better
suited for denser development because it has adequate public services
Purchase of Development Rights (PDRs) - The community can purchase easements for open
space. Some community's have found that purchasing development rights is cheaper than
providing roads, schools and other services to new subdivisions. Through PDRs, the land is
protected but remains on the tax rolls and in productive use. The property owner also retains the
advantages of property ownership. The City could work with non-profit organizations such as the
Gallatin Valley Land Trust to purchase development rights.
Differential Taxation - Differential taxation (also known as preferred, use-value, restricted-use, or
deferred taxation) lowers the tax burden on lands a community wishes to protect from
development. Differential taxation assesses land at its use value rather than its full market value;
land left as open space for wildlife would be taxed at a lower rate than land used for urban
, i
development.
Urban and Rural Service Area Assessments (URSAA) - URSAA is alternative differential
taxation program. URSAA differentiates between properties that will ultimately be developed at
urban densities based on extension of public sewer and water lines, and properties not targeted for
public services and urban development. The areas targeted for development are taxed at a higher
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 91
Fi
sh and Wildlife Habitat Critical Lands Study
i .
rate. URSAA discourages speculative investment and channels development pressure into areas the
community has deemed as most acceptable for development.
Deed Rest rictions/Conservation Easements - Communities
can an enter into voluntagree ry
keep
restrictions with landowners, or obtain conservationeasements.
their land as open space land. In return,landowners receive a lowered tax reflecting the open space
use of their land. Often a sliding-scale taxation policy is used for conservation easements that is
�I
based on the number of years the easement runs.
Conservation Subdivisions - Amend the Bozeman Area Subdivision Regulations and Zoning
Ordinance to encourage the design of conservation subdivisions. These are subdivisions that are
designed based on the principals of conservation, creating open space, and protection of
environmentally sensitive areas. Conservation subdivisions are designed very differently than `J
traditional subdivisions. Designing around conservation features occurs in four steps: (1)
conservation areas and features are identified; (2) house sites are located; (3) streets and trails are
aligned; and (4) lot lines are drawn in. The concept of conservation subdivisions should be
incorporated into the preparation of any future open space plan for the Bozeman City-County
Planning Jurisdiction.
Public Information - If given the proper information, private property owners can take a number
of steps to enhance wildlife habitat on their property. Information about wildlife should be made
available, and the public should be informed that this information is available. Montana State
University Extension has an Extension Agent who specializes in this sort of information.
11.8 MAP OF FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT IN THE BOZEMAN CITY-COUNTY
PLANNING JURISDICTION
Please refer to the maps for other critical lands such as wetlands, steep slopes, rivers and streams,
floodplains and farmland.
I �
u
i
Ll
Page 92 Bozeman City-County Planning Board j j
i
n
n
n '
r-,
+1
n
�1
r-i
i �
CHAPTER 12
NEXT STEPS
r-,
r'1
Critical Lands Study Next Steps
Chapter XII
NEXT STEPS
In order to implement the goals and objectives outlined in this document, several regulatory and
non-regulatory actions can be pursued. Some examples of such actions include:
1. Preparation and adoption of a new chapter in the Bozeman Zoning Ordinance. This new
chapter will be titled Critical Lands Districts and will describe regulations for development in or
near identified critical lands. This chapter will likely contain regulations pertaining to rivers,
streams and ditches; wetlands; floodplains; areas with seasonal high water tables; and areas
characterized by geologic constraints.
2. Other provisions should be incorporated into the Bozeman Zoning Ordinance to allow:
purchase of development rights (PDRs), transfer of development rights (TDRs), cluster
development, etc.
3. Incorporate the requirement for a Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan into the site
plan review processes. This would be implemented similarly to how the Stormwater Drainage
Plans are implemented currently.
-, 4. Initiate the process to develop a Bozeman Area Open Space Plan. This plan would accomplish
the following.
• Establish the policy basis for an open space plan;
• Assess the open space and recreational needs of the community;
• Inventory existing open space resources;
• Identify important future open space resources;
• Identify possible funding sources for open space acquisition;
• Lay the groundwork for pursuing a City-wide open space bond measure.
r-
5. Adopt the fire protection guidelines developed by the State of Montana. These guidelines
would apply to areas characterized by an urban and wildland interface, as well as slopes.
6. Support public education efforts that include the following.
• The impacts of developing on floodplains, the regulations that apply to floodplains, and
the availability of flood insurance;
• Encourage farmers to use best management practices for pesticide and fertilizer
application;
�, • Encourage best management practices for agricultural use and construction sites to
control soil erosion;
• Inform citizens about the proper application of lawn chemicals and household
insecticides;
• Inform citizens about the threats household hazardous wastes present to surface and
ground water resources;
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page 93
Next Steps Critical Lands Study
• Educate private property owners about how they can enhance wildlife habitat on their
property.
7. Work with non-profit organizations such as the Gallatin Valley Land Trust, The Nature
Conservancy, Ducks Unlimited, etc. to protect farmland and/or open space. These
organizations could be helpful for farmland and open space acquisition; purchase of
development rights;and conservation easements.
u
u
u
' i
u
Page 94 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
r
'7
i I
n
I �
APPENDICES
7-1
i
Critical Lands Study Appendices
n.
Appendix A
77 ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMENTS FROM 1996 FOCUS GROUP SESSIONS
• `�Quality of life factors most frequently cited in a positive light include. the natural beauty and pristine quality of
the area; the gutdoor recreational opportunities; good public schools; and the clean and safe small-town
atmosphere."
• "Many people move here because of the environmental and scenic qualities, but they end up having to work two
jobs and never really get to enjoy it."
• `7 see our future like Southern California with its water quality problems and pollution unless we act sensibly
now."
r--
• `But how doyou measure and value peace of mind, natural beauty,good schools, and low crime."
• `Bozeman still.bas great advantages,pointing to our university, our beautiful mountain valley, incredible streams
and natural resources. The environmental quality is rare in the United States."
• 'We need more environmentally clean manufacturing jobs."
• The sprawling growth pattern of Bozeman and the surrounding area is causing an erosion of the city downtown
economic base and the disappearance of the community's agricultural base.
n • "One opinion shared was that this area is environmentally sensitive and increasingly recognized as a national
treasure and that as time goes on environmental considerations will weigh even more heavily in deliberations over
development pryects. The majority of thepeople in the valley will comedown in favor of keeping things clean."
• "This group trews quality of life in Bozeman very much in terms of preserving open space, the natural
environment and the area's abundant natural resources. They eered much insight on this issue asserting that
many people come here from elsewhere because of open space, beautiful viewsheds, clean air and water, good
recreational opportunities and other related environmental factors.
• `The largest threat to quality of life in the residential or commercial development of open space areas along with
r} threats to water quality and recommended bold action to prevent this."
• "Several partictants expressed a concern that development be done with a greater recognition for the need for open
space, includinggreen ways."
• "One person felt that we have to get very specific in the planning process through reviewing regulatory policy and
ask ourselves how we are going to protect open space and the Big Sky atmosphere through the proper use of
regulation."
• `Anotherparti-cant stated that the preservation of our best resources (e.g. open space, wetlands, etc.)for the
r- long-terns means that we need to support alternatives for creative funding."
• "LIVe really share the same goals-green space, scenery and wildlife. Ve should be able to build on this."
7 • "Several comments were made about the excellent skiing,fishing,fresh air and outdoorsy lifestyle."
• "One person said that the reason she came here was the clean environment. She expressed the belief that
Bozeman has a chance to be like Davis, CA or Boulder, CO, where they emphasize neighborhoods and living on
a human scale with good walking trails and bike paths."
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-1
Critical Lands Study Appendices
• `Anotherparticlpant expressed concern that we are developing over our agricultural land base."
• "Several participants referred to the greater cultural diversity and increase in recreational opportunities, but
thought that there has been a downturn from the environmental perspective."
• "Concerns included the leapfrog and ridge line development occurring in the unincorporated areas of the county, the
increased traffic and the fading small town atmosphere. Poorer air quality and water pollution were mentioned"
• `A participant mentioned the critical lands inventory cur7vnty being conducted by the City-County Planning
Staff, covering Bozeman and the immediately surmunding Zoning district. He said, "it's a great start for long-
range planning."
• "One person called for developing the flank of the Bridger Mountains instead of the valaly floor with its rich
agricultural land "Its about the best agricultural land in the state. Developing its is a bad idea."
• "Somepersons described what they considered some of the bigplusses in BoZeman's favor. the beautiful natural
environment, the good schools, and a dynamic university."
• "Our kids want to go on with it (the farm), but the economics have changed and they won't be able to. Farms
can't expand because land costs are too high. Our taxes have gone up 30 percent in three years. We know our
place will be swallowed up. Agriculture in Gallatin County is over, its only a matter of time."
• "You'll still have open space butyou'll have to go much further to see it. There won't be much agriculture land
left in the Gallatin Valley."
• "Many of the group members consisted of persons who came here to Bozeman fmm other areas of the country
because of the attractions of the natural environment and not particularly for special economic opportunities. As
one participant observed, "[fie have everything here people want, beauty, open space and clean air."
• "There was a call that we be sure to preserve open space in the area, in view of the extent of urban sprawl which
has already occurred This elicited the response that planning should be encouraging people to live in confined
development areas with higher density. Another comment involved linear trails. The person felt that routine
planning should provide such trails. And another said that planners need to encourage the use of impact fees as a
way to cover the costs ofgmwth."
• `A participant cautioned that we not forget "the mots of our local economy. The second largest industry in the
Gallatin Valley traditionally has been agriculture. But it is being forced aside. What will be the long term
economic consequences of this?"
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-2
Critical Lands Study Appendices
r,
Appendix B
GROUNDWATER THREATS- MEDIUM TO HIGH RANKING
Land Use Contamination Sources
Automobile sales, rentals,washes Oil, solvents, floor drains/dry wells, storage tanks
Gasoline service stations Spilled fuel, oil and gas drips, storage tanks
Small engine/electrical equipment repair Solvents, oils, spills and leaks
Transportation terminals Solvents used in vehicle maintenance,paints
Medical and scientific laboratories Chemicals, solvents, hazardous wastes
Photofinishing laboratories Chemical use and disposal, requires municipal
sewer connection
Lawn care businesses Pesticides, fertilizers, containers with residue
Disinfecting and pest control services Pesticides, containers with residue
Warehouse operations for paint, solvent or Floor drains, septic systems
chemical mixing and blending
Carpet cleaning, silk-screening,power washing Paints, solvents, containers, soaps, rinsewater
'Municipal/state garages,public works Vehicle maintenance chemicals, storage tanks
-- Petroleum and coal products Fossil fuels, solvents, storage piles and tanks
Chemicals and allied products Chemical storage,use and production
Rubber and plastic containers Raw materials,hazardous materials
Primary metal industry, fabricated metal shops Solvents, acid/alkaline solutions,paints, cyanide,
oils, floor drains, dip tanks
Food processing and food products Processing wastes, caustics,wastewater,brine
Apparel and textile production Hazardous substances, equipment cleaning
Paper and allied products,pulp Materials storage,pulp waste
Printing and publishing Chemical storage/use, equipment cleaning,
engraving, silk screen equipment
Leather and leather products Storage and use of hazardous products
Stone, clay, and glass products Storage and use of hazardous products
Electronic and other electric equipment Hazardous substances, equipment cleaning
Electric power generation substations Acids, oils,PCBs
Transportation equipment Solvents, oils,vehicle maintenance, storage tanks
Fossil fuel power plants Solvents, oils, equipment repair
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-3
Critical Lands Study Appendices
PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
u
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-4
Critical Lands Study Appendices
Appendix C
r-.
FISH AND WILDLIFE SPECIES LIST
The following is a list of fish and wildlife species (excluding plants and invertebrates) that occur in
the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdictional Area for at least a portion of an ecological year
Qune 1 to May 31). This list was established for the Bozeman City-County Planning Office for use
in their Critical Lands Study. It was developed by personnel from Montana Fish, Wildlife and
Parks: Terry Lonner - Chief of Research and Technical Services (Wildlife), Dennis Flath - Statewide
r Nongame Coordinator (Wildlife), Kurt Alt - Region 3 (southwest Montana) Wildlife Management
Biologist, and Fred Nelson - Region 3 (southwest Montana) Fisheries Management Biologist.
Robert L. Eng, Professor Emeritus, Biology Department, Montana State University also assisted
n
with the development of this list. It is based on a combination of knowledge of habitat
requirements, professional experience, observations, and literature.
Amphibians
Western Toad (Bufo boreas) -Weto (species abbreviation)
Chorus Frog (Pseudacris triseriata) - Chfr
77 Leopard Frog (Ranapipiens) -Lefr
Spotted Frog (Rana pretiosa-Spfr
Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) -Tisa
Reptiles
Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer) -Busn
Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtaks)- Cgsn
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) -Patu
Western Terrestrial Garter Snake (I bamnophis elegans) -Wtgs
Birds
Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacmcorax auritus) Bl -Dcco
Great Blue Heron (Ardea herv&as) BW- Gtbh
Whistling Swan (Cygnus columbianus) t-Whsw
Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus bucanator)BW-Trus
Snow Goose (Chen caeruleacens) t- Sngo
Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) BW- Cago
Wood Duck (Aix sponsa)BW- Wodu
American Green winged Teal (Anal mcca) B - Agwt
Mallard (A-Anas platyrhynchos) BW- Mall
Northem Pintail (Anas acuta)BW- Nopi
Blue-winged Teal (Anas&scors)BW-Bwte
Cinnamon Teal (Anas cyanoptera)B - Cite
Northern Shoveler (Anas cbpeata) t- Nsho
Gadwall (4nas strepera) t- Gadw
American Wigeon (Anas americana) t- Amwi
Ring-necked Duck (Aythya collards) t- Rndu
Hooded Merganser (L.ophodytes cucullatus) t-Home
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-5
Critical !_ands Study Appendices v
Birds, cont.
Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula)Wt- Cogo
Common Merganser (Mergus merganser)BW- Come
Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) t-Baea
Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus)BW- Noha
Sharp-Shined Hawk (Accipiter striatus) t- Ssha
Coopers Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) t- Coha
Northern Goshawk (Accipitergentilis)WB - Nogo
Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni)B - Swha
Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) BW- Rtha
Rough-legged Hawk (Buteo lagopus) W t - Rlha
Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)WB - Goea
American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) B -Amke
Merlin (Falco columbarius) t- Merl
Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)WB -Pefa
Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus)Wt- Gyfa
Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus)WB -Prfa
Gray Partridge (Perdix perdix) BW- Grpa
Ring-necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)BW- Rphe
Blue Grouse (Dendragapus obscurus)WB -Blgr
Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus) BW- Rugr
Sharp-tailed Grouse (ly)Vanuchus phasianellus)WB - Stgr
Virginia Rail (Gallus limicola)W-Vira
Sora (PorZana carolina)B - Sora
American Coot (Fukca americana)B -Amco
Sandhill Crane (Gnus canadensis) B - Sacr
Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) BW- Kill
Spotted Sandpiper (Actitis macularia) B - Spsa
Common Snipe (Gallinagogallinago) BW- Cosn
Wilson's Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor)B -Wiph
Rock Dove (Columba Livia) BW- Rodo —
Mourning Dove (Zenaidura macroura) B - Modo
Great Horned Owl (Bubo drginianus) BW- Ghow
Snowy Owl (Nyctea scandiaca)Wt- Snow -
Great Gray Owl (Stria nebulosa)WB - Ggow
Long-eared Owl (Asio otus)WB - Leow
Boreal Owl (Aegodius funereus)t- Boow
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus)BW-Nswo
Common Night Hawk (Chordeiles minor) B - Coni
Calliope Hummingbird (Stellula calliope) B - Cahu
Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus)t- Ruhu
Belted Kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon) BW-Beki
Red-naped Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus nucbaks) B - Rnsa `-
Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) BW- Dowo
Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides villosus) BW - Hawo
Northern Flicker (Cola
ptes auratus) BW-Nofl
Western Wood-pewee (Contopus sordidulus)B - Wwpe
Flycatchers (Empidonax spp.)B - Flyc
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-6
r;
i �
Critical Lands Study Appendices
n
Birds, cont.
.-7 Western Kingbird (lyrannus verticalis)B -Weki
Eastern Kingbird (Tyrannus tyrannus) B - Eaki
Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris)WB - Hola
�-. Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) B -Trsw
Violet-gre m Swallow (I'achycinete thalassina)B -Vgsw
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Steigidopteryx semr ennis)B - Nrws
-- Cliff Swallow (Hirundo pyrrhonota)B - Clsw
Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) B -Bars
Gray Jay (Pensoreus canadensis)WB - Grja
- Steller's Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri)WB - Stja
Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)Wt- Blja
Black-billed Magpie (Pica pica) BW-Bbma
f-, American Crow (Cons brachyrhymbos) BW-Amcr
Common Raven (Cones corax) W- Cora
Black-capped Chickadee (Pares atricapillus) BW-Bcch
Mountain. Chickadee (Parusgambeli) BW- Moch
Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis)BW- Rbnu
Brown Creeper (Certhia americana)Wt-Brcr
House Wren (Frnglodytes aedon) B - Howr
Ruby-Crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula) B - Rcki
Mountain Blue Bird (Sialia curmcoides) B - Mobl
r 7 Townsend's Solitaire (Myadestes townsendi)WB -Toso
Veery (Caharns fuscescens) B -Veer
Swainson's Thrush (Catharus ustulatus) t- Swth
American Robin (Turdus migatorius) BW-Amro
Gray Catbird (Dumetella caroknensis)B - Grca
Bohemian Waxwing (Bombydllagarrulus) W-Bowa
r, Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum) BW- Cewa
Northern Shrike (Lanus excubitor)Wt- Nosh
European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) BW- Eust
— Warbling Vireo (Vireo gilms)B -Wavi
Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo okvaceus)B - Revi
Solitary vireo (Vireo soktarius) B - Sovi
-� Yellow Warbler (Dendmica petechia)B -Yewa
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Dendrnica coronata) BW-Yrwa
American Redstart (Setophaga rutialla)B -Amre
Northern Waterthrush (Seiurus noveboracensis)B Nowa
MacGillivray's Warbler (Opororns tolmid) B - Mgwa
Common Yellowthroat (Geothbpis trichas) B - Coye
Wilson's Warbler (V�ilsonia pusilla)t-Wiwa
Western Tanager (Piranga ludovidana) t-Weta
Black-headed Grosbeak (Pheucticus melanocephalus) -Bhgr
Lazuli Bunting (Passerina amoena)t-Lazb
Rufous-sided Towhee (Pipilo erythmphthalmus)BW- Rsto
American Tree Sparrow (SpiZella arborea) W- Atsp
Chipping Sparrow (SpiZella passerine) BW- Chsp
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-7
Critical Lands Study Appendices
Birds, coat.
Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetesgramineus)B -Vesp
Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandudchensis) B - Says
Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) t- Fosp
Song Sparrow (MelospiZa melodia) BW- Sosp
White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucopbgs) t-Wcsp
Dark-eyed Junco Qunco hyemalis) BW- Deju
Bobolink (Dolichonyx og!&onis) -Bobo
Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) BW- Rwbl
Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) BW-Weme
Yellow-headed Blackbird(Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) BW-Yhbl
Brewer's Blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus)BW-Brbl
Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula)BW- Cogr L�
Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothnus ater)B -Bhco
Northern Oriole (Bullock's and Baltimore) (Icterus spp.)B -Noor
Grey-Crowned Rosy Finch (Leucosticte tephmcotis)Wt- Gcrf
Cassin's Finch (Carpodacus cassind)WB - Cafi
House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) BW- Hofi
Red Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra)WB - Recr
Common Redpoll (Carduelis flammea)Wt- Core
Pine Siskin (Carduelis pinus) BW-Pisi
American Goldfinch (Carduelis tristis) BW-Amgo
Evening Grosbeak (Coccothraustes vespertima) BW- Evgr
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) BW- Hosp
1B = breeding records and/or W =winter (12/15 through 2/15) records for the Bozeman Latilong.
t = Transient or observed, no evidence of breeding in latilong. From: Bergeron, D., C.Jones, D.
L. Genter and D. Sullivan. 1992. Montana Bird Distribution. Montana Natural Heritage Program,
Special Publication No. 15th Edition, March, 1996. 129 pp.
Mammals `=
Fringed Bat (Myotis thysanodes) -Frba
Least Bat (Myotis leibii) -Ltba
Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus)-Bibb
Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus) -Libb
Long-eared Bat (Myotis evotis) -Leba
Long-legged Bat (Myotis volans) -Llba
Silver-haired Bat (Iasionycteris noctivagans) -Shba
Yuma Bat (Myotisyumanensis) -Yuba
Vagrant Shrew (Sorex vagrans) -Vash
Masked Shrew (Sorex dnereus) -Mash
Preble's Shrew (Sorex preblei) -Prsh
Water Shrew (Sorexpalustris) -Wash -
Richardson's Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus richardsoni) -Rgsq
Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus) -Flsq
Yellow Pine Chipmunk (Eutamias amoenus) -Ypch
Yellow-bellied Marmot (Marmota flaviventris) -Ybma
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-8
ti �
Critical Lands Study Appendices
Mammals, con t.
Red Squirrel (Famiasdurus hudsonicus) -Resq
Bushytail Woodrat (Neotoma cinerea) -Bwra
Northern Pocket Gopher (lhomomys talpoides) -Npgo
Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) -Demo
Meadow Vole (MiavlusPennylvanicus)- Mevo
Redback Vole (Clethrzonomysgapperi) - Revo
Mountain Vole (Mimius montanus) -Movo
Beaver (Castor canadensis)-Beav
Muskrat (Ondatra Zibethica)- Mura
r-, Porcupine (ErethiZon dorsatum) -Porc
House Mouse (Mus musculus) - Homo
Western Jumping Mouse (Zapus princeps) -Wjmo
r, Snowshoe Hare (L.epus amaicanus) -Snha
Mountain Cottontail Rabbit (Sylvilagus nuttaM) -Mcra
Least Weasel (Mustela nivaks) -Lewe
Longtail Weasel (Mustela fnnata) -Lowe
Marten (Martes americana) -Mart
Badger (Ika ddea taxus) -Badg
River Otte_ (Lxtra canadensis) -Riot
Bobcat (Lynx rrfus) -Boca
Mink (Mustela vison) -Mink
Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) - Stsk
j Raccoon (Procyon lotor) -Raco
Red Fox (Vu45es fulva) -Refo
Coyote (Canis latrans) -Coyo
Black Bear (Ursus americanus) -Blbe
Grizzly Bear (Ursus horribi#s) -Grbe
Mountain Lion (Fells concolor) - Moh
Wolverine (Gulp luscus)-Woly
White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) -Wtde
Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)- Mude
Elk (Cenws elaphus) -Elk
Moose (Aires alces) - Moos
Fishes
Natives
Arctic Grayling (I hymallus arcticus)-Argr
Mountain Whitefish (Prosopium ai&amsoni)- Mowh
White Sucker (Catostomus commersoni)-Whsu
Longnose Sucker (Catostomus catostomus) -Losu
Mountain Sucker (Catostomus platyrbynchus) -Mosu
Longnose Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) -Lod
Mottled Sculpin (Coitus bair&)-Mosc
Introduced
Rainbow'Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)-Ratr
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-9
Critical Lands Study Appendices
Fishes, coat.
Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) -Bwtr
Brook Trout (SalveUnus fontinalis) -Bktr
Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri) -Yect
Fathead Minnow (Pimephales promelas)-Fami
Carp (Cy
rinus carpio)- Carp
Bluegill (Lepomis macmchirus) -Blgi
Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) -Yepe
WILDLIFE SPECIES/HABITAT MATRIX
A species/habitat type matrix was developed for the Bozeman City-County Planning Office for use
in their Critical Lands Study. This matrix portrays species presence and preferences by planning
district habitat types as provided by the planning staff. The interpretation of the matrix should be
done with long range planning trade-offs in mind. For example, if a parcel of cultivated crop land y
was proposed to become a new urban residential neighborhood, what would be the trade-offs in
wildlife species diversity and presence? Furthermore, what will happen to the wildlife specied
diversity and presence as this new urban residential neighborhood ages?
The following is an example of using the matrix to evaluate wildlife species trade-offs for a land use
change proposal in the Bozeman City-County Planning Jurisdiction:
Species Cultivated Crop Land New Urban Residential Old Urban Residential —
Amphibian 2 0 2
/Reptiles
Birds 28 10 32 v
Mammals 16 1 6
Total 46 11 40
If
�1
It should be noted that these figures serve only as indices and will vary be degree depending on the
juxtaposition of other land types adjacent to or near the proposed development; such as near a
riparian area and/or established older neighborhood and/or range-pasture land.
u
L
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Page A-10
L -
;Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
`Prepared for Bozeman, Montana Cif)r-County Planning Deparfmentby Wildlife Species
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Amphibians Reptiles Birds
March 1997 page 1 of 15 p p
Habitat Types Wetol Chfr Lefr Spfr Tisa Busn Cgsn Patu Wtgs Deco Gtbh Whsw Trus Sngo Cago
40+yrold neighborhoods -- z --- --- --- 0 --- + __ + -_ --- --- ---
yneighborhoods --- ---
20 to 40 r old
-- --- --- -- --- --- --- - --- - --- --- --- ---
--- -- -- - -- -- -- -- -- --- --- -- -- --
< 20 yr old neighborhoods o - ' '
_ CU
1 acre or less 0 --- -- --- - -- -- -- -- -- ___ __.
1 to 5 acres +
� N
5to20acres + ___ __ __ + 0 + ___ + ___ ___ ___ __ ___ +
,Rural Residential (> 20acres) + ___ __ ___ + + + --- ++ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ +
Commercial/Industrial Land -- --- -_ ___ 0 ___ __ __ __ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ __
`U cultivated or crop land -- o --- -- o - + -- + -- - 0 0 --- +++
7 _
___ ___ __ -__ --- --- --- --- ---
o,�' range or pasture land o o + ® ++ +
Riparian Areas(including floodplains) +++ _ + ++ + ++ ++ ___ ++ 0 ++ __- ___ ___ ++
Wetlands (including ponds) +++ +++ +++ + +++ -- +++ +++ ++ 0 ++ 0 0 0 +++
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land --- --- -- --- -- -_ ___ ___ __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ---
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous + + -__ ++
---
Forest Interface -- ___ __ ___ __ __ ___ ___ __ ___ __
older urban parks and public
lands (>20years old) --' --- ___ __ __ ___ 0 __ +
0 ___ ___ ___ ___ __
newer urban parks and public
1 � -- ___ __ ___ __ __ __ __ __ ___ ___ ___ __ __ __
lands (<20 years old)
rural, undeveloped parks and + + __ + --- --
.N
public lands -- -__ __- __ __- ___ ___ ___
linear parks and trails (not
already included mother ---
categories)
Weto-Western Toad,Chfr-Chorus Frog,Lefr-Leopard Frog,Spfr-Spotted Frog,Tisa-Tiger Salamander, Busn-Bull Snake,Cgsn-Common
Gartersnake,Patu-Painted Turtle,Wtgs-Western Terrestrial Gartersnake,Dcco-Double crested Cormorant,Gtbh-Great Blue Herron,
Whsw-Whistling Swan,Trus-Trumpeter Swan,Sngo-Snow Goose,Cago-Canada Goose
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0)Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Common, (+++) Preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix_
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana Wildlife Species
City-County Planning Depart e Department by p
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parrs
March 1997 page 2 of 15 Birds
Habitat Types Wodul Agwt Mall Nopi Bwte Cite Nsho Gadw Amwi Rndu Home Cog Come Baea Noha
40+yrold neighborhoods --? --- o __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ __
CU0 20to40yroldneighborhood -- --- + ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ ___ ___ ___ __ ___ r
J
< 20 yr old neighborhoods --- --- + -' -- '-- --- --- --- --- --- -- -- ---
1 acre or less --- -- + --- --- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
� = I
1 to 5 acres --- --- + -- --- -- --- -- --- -- --- --- -- o
� N
`) 5to 20 acres --- --- + --- -- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- -
Rural Residential (> 20acres) ___ __ + ___ -_ __ ___ ___ ___ __ ___ ___ ___ ++ +
Commercial/Industrial Land --- -- 0 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- -- --- ---
cultivated or crop land -- --- ++ --- -- --- 0 0 0 -- +
U �
o,J range or pasture land --- -- + --- --- -- --- -- ___ __ ___ ___ ___ ++ ++
a
Riparian Areas(including floodplains) ++ ++ +++ _ 0 + - - 0 --- 0 + 0 +++ ++
Wetlands (including ponds) + + +++ + + 0 0 0 + - - 0 --- ++ o
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land --- -- -- -- -- -- --- -- --- -- --- --- -- + ---
Intermountain Grassi and/Coniferous __ ___ __ ___ __ __ ___ ___ -__ __ ___ ___ ___ + ___ r
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public ++ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ _-_ ___ __ ___ __-
lands (>20 years old) �
_
newer urban parks and public ___ ___ + T
a lands (<20 years old)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --
_
CU rural, undeveloped parks and + _
public lands -- --- --- --- -- --- --- --- -- --- --- -- -- --
N
N
linear parks and trails (not
already included in other --- --- + ___ ___ ___ ___
categories)
Wodu-Wood Duck,Agwt-American Green winged Teal,Mall-Mallard, Nopi-Northern Pintail,We-Blue winged Teal,Cite-Cinnamon Teal,
Nsho-Northern Shoveler,Gadw-Gadwall,Amwi-American Widgeon,Rndu-Ring necked Duck,Home-Hooded Merganser,Cogo-Common ! j
Goldeneye,Come-Common Merganser,Baea-Bald Eagle,Noha-Northern Harrier Lj
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (o)Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Common, (+++) preferred
Sozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana
Ciiy-County Planning Department by Wildlife Species
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parkrs
March 1997 page 3 of 15 Birds
Habitat Types Sshal Coha Nogo Swha Rtha Rlha Goea Amke Merl Pefa Gyfa Prfa Grpa Rphe Blgr
40+yr old neighborhoods +2 0 ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ + ___ ___ ___ ___ __ ___
20 to 40 yr old neighborhoods + o --- --- --- --- --- --- o -- --- --- -- -- ---
< 20 yrold neighborhoods - -- -- -- -- -- --- --- 0 --- --- --- -- -- --
1 acre or less + o --- --- --- -- --- -- o --- --- --- --- --- --
1 to 5 acres + o --- o --- --- --- o o --- --- --- --- --- --
� N
5to20acres + 0 -- + 0 + 0 + + ___ ___ ___ 0 _ 0
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) + 0 _ + + ++ --_ ++ + 0 0 - + + 0
Commercial/Industrial Land 0 __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ _ ___ -__ ___ __ __ ---
cultivated or crop land -- --- --- ++ 0 + --- 0 - _-- --- - + +cc
c
o,J range or pasture land -- --- -- + ++ ++ + ++ 0 __ + + + 0 -_
a
Riparian Areas(including floodplains) ++ + o --- -_- -- o + o + o --- --- ++ ---
Wetlands (including ponds) -- --- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- o --- --- --- + ---
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land ++ ++ ++ + + -- + + _ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ +
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous + + + -- + _ + ++ + ___ ___ _ ___ ___ 0
_ Forest Interface
older urban parks and public + o o __ ___ -__ ___ __ + ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ---
lands (>20 years old)
newer urban parks and public __ _
� _ -- """ -'- -- --- --- o _ ___ ___ _ ___ ___
lands old)
rz
rural, undeveloped parks and + o o +
.N
public lands
a�
® linear parks and trails (not
already included in other o
categories)
Ssha-Sharp shined Hawk,Coha-Coopers Hawk,Nogo-Northern Goshawk,Swha-Swainson's Hawk,Rtha-Red tailed Hawk,Rlha-Rough legged
Hawk,Goea-Golden Eagle,Amke-American Kestrel,Med-Mertin,Pefa-Peregrine Falcon,Gyfa-Gyrfalcon,Prfa-Prairie Falcon,Grpa-Gray
Partridge,Pphe-Ring necked Pheasant,Blgr-Blue Grouse
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (o) Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Amon, (+++) Preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix_
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana Wildlife Species
Cify-County Planning Department by
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parrs
March 1997 page 4of 15 Birds
Habitat Types Rugr� Stgr Mra Sora Amco Sacr Kill Spsa Cosn Wiph Rodo Modo Ghow Snow Ggom
2 - --- --- -- --- --- --- --- ---
40+yrold neighborhoods """ _""
20to40yroldneighborhoods
M Cn
< 20 yr old neighborhoods - --- -- -- --- -- --- --- --- -- "-- 0 --- -- --
1 acre or less -- --- --- -- --- -- --- -- --- -- --- o -- --- --
CU
1 to 5 acres --- --- --- --- --- --- - -- --- --- 0 + --- 0 --
� N
cn� 5to20acres -- - --- -- --- + o --- --- --- + + 0 0
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) --- o --- --- --- + + -- --- --- 0 + + 0
Commercial/Industrial Land -- ___ ___ __ ___ +++ 0 ___ ___ __-
4--0 cultivated or crop land -- 0 --- --- -- + 0 _-- + __ + ++ 0 0 --
7 _
U �
�J range or pasture land --_ + ___ ___ ___ ++ + ___ ___ ___ ___ + 0 0 --
Riparian Areas(including floodplains ++ o 0 --- --- + -- +++ + --- --- + +++ --- ---
Wetlands (including ponds) --- --- 0 0 0 - +++ 0 ++ + ___ ___ 0
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land + - --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- + + +
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous + 0 ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ + +
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public _ ___ ___ __ ___ __ ___ ___ ___ ___ + ___ 0
lands (>20 years old)
_
newer urban parks and public ___ __ ___ __ ___ + __ ___ _ _ __ __I
a
lands (<20 years old) _ _ _ o
-a
rural, undeveloped parks and _
+ 0
oN
public lands - --- -- --- --- -- --- -- --- -- --- --- -
a�
linear parks and trails (not _
already included in other
categories)
Rugr-Ruffed Grouse,Stgr-Sharp tailed Grouse,Vira-Virginia Rail,Sora-Sora,Amco-American Coot,Sacr-Sandhill Crane, Kill-Killdeer,
Spsa-Spotted Sandpiper,Cosn-Common Snipe,Wiph-Wilson's Phalarope,Rodo-Rock Dove, Modo-Mouming Dove,Ghow-Great Homed Owl;
Snow-Snowy Owl,Ggow-Great Gray Owl
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0)Occasional, (+)Light, (++) Common, (+++) Preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana
City-County Planning Depaftent by Wildlife Species
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Mach 1997 page 5 of 15 Birds
Habitat Types Leow1 Boow Nswo Coni Cahu Ruhu Beki Rnsa Dom Hawo Nofl Wwpe Flyc Weki Eaki
+0 +--- --
� 40+yr old neighborhoods "'2 + + + "' "' --• ---
�� 20 to 40 yr old neighborhoods --- --- --- 0 + + 0 _-_ ___ __
= a
< 20 yr old neighborhoods - --- --- - 0 0 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
1 acre or less -- --- -- - + +
1 to 5 acres --- --- -- o 0 0 --- --- - -- + --- --- --- o
� N
5to20acres __ ___ __ + 0 0 --- -- + 0 + --- __ __ +
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) - --- -- + o o ___ __ + + + ___ __ ___ +
Commercial/Industrial Land -- --- ___ ___ _ _ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
o cultivated or crop land ___ ___ ___ + _ _ 0 __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ + +
7 _
o,J range or pasture land -- _-_ ___ + 0 0 -- --- + -- + ___ __ __ ++
Riparian Areas(including floodplains) o --- -- + + + +++ 0 + 0 + ++ +++ ___ 0
Wetlands (including ponds) -- --- --- o - + ___ __ __ ___ ___ + --- __
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land o + + + ++ ++ ___ o __ ++ o + + ___ ---
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous 0 + ++ ++ __ + + + ++ + + 0
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public ___ ___ + + + + __ o + + ++
-a
lands (>20 years old)
_
newer urban parks and public ___ ___ __ ® 0 __ __ ___ 0 ___ ___ ___ ---
lands (<20 years old)
rural, undeveloped parks and -_- --_ + + + + -- + o o + 0 +
.N
public lands
a�
linear parks and trails (not
already included in other o ® + + o 0 0 -_ _ o + ___ ___
categories)
Leow-Long eared Owl,Boow-Boreal Owl, Nswo-Northern Saw whet Owl,Coni-Common Nighthawk,Cahu-Calliope Hummingbird,Ruhu-Rufus
Hummingbird,Beki-Belted Kingfisher,Rnsa-Red naped Sapsucker,Dowo-Downy Woodpecker,Hawo-Hairy Woodpecker, Nofl-Northern Flicker,
Wwpe-Western Wood pewee, Flyc-Flycatchers,Weki-Western Kingbird,Eaki-Eastern Kingbird
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0) Occasional, (+)Light, (++) common, (+++) Preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat - Wildlife Species Matrix__
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana City-County Planning Department by Wildlife Species
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
March 1997 page 6 of 15 Birds
Habitat Types Holm Trsw Vgsw Nnws Clsw Bars Grja Stja Blja Bbrna Amcr Cora Bcch Moch RbnL
40+yr old neighborhoods - ++ --- --- -- .... ... 0 0 ++ + + ++ + 0
CU� 20 to 40 yr old neighborhoods -- ++ -- -- -- -- --- -- --- +++ --- - ++ o --
� Cn
< 20 yr old neighborhoods --- ++ --- -- -- -- --- -- ---
_ 1 acre or less --- ++ --- --- --- --- --- --- --- +++ 0 _ + 0 --.
CU.�
�-0 1 to 5acres --- ++ --- --- --- --- --- --- --- +++ + 0 ++ 0 __-
`"� 5to20acres + o -- --- --- + ___ _-_ ___ +++ + +
++ o ---
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) + 0 --- -- -- ++ --- --- --- +++ ++ ++ ++ 0
Commercial/Industrial Land o -- -- ___ ___ __ ___ ___ ___ + + 0 __ --- -_
cultivated or crop land -- --- __ -__ ___ ___cc
� j
C" range or pasture land +++ +
Riparian Areas(including floodplains -- +++ ++ ++ +++ ++ ___ ___ 0 ++ - - +++ +
Wetlands (including ponds) --- +++ +++ +++ ++ ++ ___ __ ___ __ ___ __ ___ ___ --
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land -- + --- + --- -- ++ + _-_ +++ --_ ++ +++ +++ +
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferou ___ ++ --- ++ --- --- --- + --- +++ + + ++ 0 01
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public ... 0 ___ __ ___ ___ ___ 0 ___ +++ + 0 +++ + o
lands (>20 years old)
c -�newer urban parks and public ___ 0 __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ +++ +
a lands (<20 years old)
-a -
rural, undeveloped parks and
•y
public lands
� linear parks and trails (not
already included in other
categories)
Hola-Homed Lark,Trsw-Tree Swallow,Vgsw-Violet Green Swallow,Nrws-Northern Rough winged Swallow,Clsw-Cliff Swallow,Bars-Barn Swallow
Grja-Gray Jay,Stja-Steller's Jay,Blja-Blue Jay,Bbma-Black billed Magpie,Amer-American Crow,Cora-Common Raven,Boch-Black capped.
Chickadee,Moch-Mountain Chickadee, Rbnu-Red breasted Nurhatch
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Unconxnon, (0) Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Common, (+++) preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana
City-CountyPlanning Department by Wildlife Species
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
March 1997 page 7 of 15 Birds
Habitat Types Brcr1 Howr Rcki Mobl Toso Veer Swth Arno Grca Bowe Cewa Nosh Eust Wavi Revi
40+yr old neighborhoods -- z + 0 --- -- --- o ++ ___ ++ 0 ___ + + +
c�-
c
20 to 40 yr old neighborhood -- o --- - --- --- --- +++ + 0 ___ +
< 20 yr old neighborhoods -- - --- o --- --- --- +++ ___ _ ___ ___ + __ __
1 acre or less --- + 0 -- --- --- --- +++ --- 0 0 --- + 0 0
c -- --- -- --- --- -
1 to 5 acres 0 0 0 +++ 0 0 + 0 0
a �
5to20acres __ 0 0 + __ ___ ___ +++ ___ 0 0 0 0 0 0
I Rural Residential (> 20 acres) --- 0 0 ++ --- --- --- +++ -__ + 0 + + 0 0
- Commercial/Industrial Land -- --- --- -- -__ _-- ___ _ ___ __ ___ ___ +++ __ __
cultivated or crop land -- --- --- o _-- ___ ___ + ___ __ ___ 0 0 __ __
a
5 c
U �
4Ripadan
nge or pasture land --- + ___ ++ + ___ ___ +++ ___ + _ ++ __ 0 0
Areas(including floodplains) +++ 0 ___ ___ +++ +++ + +++ + + ___ + ++ ++
jWetlands (including ponds) -- --- --- --- -- --- ___ __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ---
I Coniferous and/or mixed forest land o o +++ _-- + -_- o +++ ++ o
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous ___ + + + +++ ___ ___ +++ + + + ___ 0 + +
!Forest Interface
older urban parks and public ___ + + __ _-_ ___ 0 +++ --_ + --- _-- + + +
lands (>20 years old)
c
newer urban parks and public -_ 0 -_ __ __ -_ ___ +++ ___ __ ___ _-_ +
lands (<20 years old)
rural, undeveloped parks and --- + ___ + + ___ + +++ + + + +
public lands _
�N
U _ __ __ ___ __ ___ ___
_ ® linear parks and trails (not
already included in other ++ + + +++ + + + +
categories)
Brcr-Brown Creeper,Howr-House Wren,Roki-Ruby crowned Kinglet,Mobl-Mountain Bluebird,Toso-Townsend's Solitaire,Veer-Veery,
Swth-Swainson's Thrush,Amro-American Robin,Grca-Gray Catbird,Bowa-Bohemian Waxwing,Cewa-Cedar Waxwing,Nosh-Northern Shrike,
Eust-European Starting,Wavi-Warbling Vireo,Revi-Red eyed Vireo
^ 2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncorrxnon, (0)Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Common, (+++) preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana Wildlife Species
City-County Planning Department by
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Mach 1997 page 8 of 15 Birds
Habitat Types Sovi1 Yewa Yrwa Amre Nowa Mgwa Coye Wiwa Weta Bhgr Lazb Rsto Atsp Chsp Vesp
40+yr old neighborhoods +2 --- --- o -- --- 0 0 1 0 -- --- + +
E.� 20to40yroldneighborhood - --- --- --- --- --- --- --- 0 -- --- -- - o --
M N
CD I
< 20 yr old neighborhoods -- --- --- -- --- __ __- ___ ++ __ 0 ___ _ 0 __
_ 1 acre or less 0 0 0 --- --- --- 0 0 0 --- -- - 0 0 ---
�� 1 to 5 acres 0 0 0 --- --- --- 0 0 0 --- 0 - o + ---
5to20acres 0 0 0 0 --- --- 0 0 0 --- o - 0 + +
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) o + + + ___ ___ + + 0 -- + - + + +
Commercial/Industrial Land - --- --- -- --- --- --- --- --- -- ___ ___ ___ ___ __
cultivated or crop land -- 0 - -- ___ -_ ___ ___ ___ ___ "__ ___ 0
7 _
U �
range or pasture land 0 ___ __ __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ + --- 0 + +++
a -
Riparian Areas(including floodplains ++ +++ +++ +++ + ++ + + -- + --- ++ -_
Wetlands (including ponds) -- + + + + -- + + --- --- --- --- --- -- ---
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land + + o ---
-- + --- --- +++ + ___ + ___ ++
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous + + 0 --- --- + --- --- + --- + 0 0 + -
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public + + + --- _-- --- --- -- + -__ ___ + +
lands (>20 years old)
newer urban parks and public
lands (<20 years old) o o --- --- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- -- o --
o rural, undeveloped parks and _
+ + + + --- -- --- -- 0 --- --- + + + - M
public lands _
N
linear parks and trails (not
+ ++ ++ + --- --- 0 0 -- --- --- 0 0 0 ---
already included in other
categories)
t 1—J—
Sovi-Solitary Vireo,Yewa-Yellow Warbler,Yrwa-Yellow rurnped Warbler,Amre-American Redstart,Nowa-Northern Waterthrush,Mgwa-MacGillivray-
Warbler,Coye-Common Yellowthroat,Wiwa-Wilson's Warbler,Weta-Western Tanager,Bhgr-Black headed Grosbeak,Lazb-Lazuli Bunting,
Rsto-Rufous sided Towhee,Atsp-American Tree Sparrow,Chsp-Chipping Sparrow,Vesp-Vesper Sparrow,
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--)Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0)Occasional, (+) Light, (++)Common, (+++) preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana
City-CountyPlanningDepartmentby Wildlife Species
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
March 1997 page 9 of 15 Birds
Habitat Types Saysf Fosp Sosp Wcsp Deju Bobo Rwbl Werne Yhbl Brbl Cogr Bhco Noor Gcrf Cali
40+yrold neighborhoods -- --- --- -- + --- --- __ ___ + o + o __ +
20 to 40 yr old neighborhoods - --- -- -- o ___ ___ o o +
cr_ < 20 yr old neighborhoods -- --- -- --- -- --- --- --- --- -- 0 + --- -- -
1 acre or less -- --- --- --- 0 --- --- -- --- + o + 0 0 0
1 to 5 acres 0 --- -- -- 0 -- --- + --- + o + 0 + 0
� N
v'� 5to20acres o --- __ -- o --- --- ++ ___ + + + 0 ++ 0
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) o --- --- --- 0 --- --- ++ --- + + + + +++ 0
Commercial/Industrial Land -- --- -- ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 0 - o --- o ---
cultivated or crop land --- --- ___ ___ __ + ___ + ___ 0 ++ + ___ +
U �
o,J range or pasture land ++ ___ __ ___ _ + ___ +++ ___ + ++ +++ 0 + --
Riparian Areas(including floodplains + ++ ++ + + ___ + ___ ___ + __ + +
Wetlands (including ponds) -- --- ++ 0 --- --- +++ ___ +++ 0 ___ ___ ___ ___ __
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land --- --- --- + +++ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ ___ o +++
_ Intermountain Grassi and/Coniferou + ___ ___ + + ___ ___ 0 ___ __- 0 0 + + +
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public --- ___ __ ___ + ___ __- ___ ___ + o + + 0 +
lands (>20 years old)
_ `° newer urban parks and public __ ___ ___ ___ __ ___ __- ___ ___ _ +
o -- 0
lands (<20 years old)
CL
rural, undeveloped parks and 0 + + + 0 + 0 0 + + +
.N
public lands
_ linear parks and trails (not
already included in other o --- o o ___ ___ ___ ___ o o + o o ---
categories)
— Says-Savannah Sparrow,Fosp-Fox Sparrow,Sosp-Song Sparrow,Wcsp-White crowned Sparrow,Deju-Dark eyed Junco,Bobo-Bobolink,
Rwbl-Red winged Blackbird,Weme-Western Meadowlark,Yhbl-Yellow headed Blackbird,Brbl-Brewer's Blackbird,Cogr-Common Grackle,
Bhco-Brown headed Cowbird,Noor-Northern Oriole,Gerf-Grey crowned Rosy Finch,Cd-Cassin's Finch
~ 2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0) Occasional, (+)Light, (++) Amon, (+++) preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat - Wildlife Species Matrix—
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana Wildlife Species
City-County Planning Department by
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parrs Birds
March 1997 page 10 of 15
Habitat Types Hofil Recr Core Pisi Amgo Evgr Hosp
40+yr old neighborhoods + + --- +++ + ++ +
20 to 40 yr old neighborhood +++ --- --- +++ 0 ++ +
< 20 yr old neighborhoods + ___ __ _ 0 0 + -
_ 1 acre or less ++ --- -- + 0 + +
cc
1 to 5 acres o --- --- + 0 + +
5 to 20 acres - •-- + + + + +
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) - --- + + + + +
Commercial/Industrial Land __ ___ ___ ___ ___ 0 +++
cultivated or crop land --- --- --- ---
+ + +++
7 _
U �
L J range or pasture land --- --- ++ ___ ++ + +++
Riparian Areas(including floodplains ___ ___ ___ ___ __ + _
Wetlands (including ponds) --- --- --- --- 0 + -
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land 0 +++ --- +++ 0 ++
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous + + ___ ++ + ++ 0
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public ++ ++ ___ +++ ___ ++ + I^
lands (>20 years old)
`—° newer urban parks and public + ___ ___ __ 0 +
CU lands (<20 years old)
a
ca rural, undeveloped parks and
LM public lands --' o 0 0
linear parks and trails (not
already included in other o --- -- o 0 0 +
categories)
Hofi-House Finch, Recr-Red Crossbill,Core-Common Redpoll,Pisi-Pine Siskin,Amgo-American Goldfinch, Evgr-Evening Grosbeak,
Hosp-House Sparrow `
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0)Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Common, (+++) Preferred
`Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana City-County Planning Department by Wildlife Species
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Mammals
March 1997 page 11 of 15
Habitat Types Frbat Ltba Bibb Libb Leba Uba Shba Yuba Vash Mash Prsh Wash Rgsq Flsq Ypch
40+yrold neighborhoods --- + + + -- --- + + --- --- --- --- --- -- ---
cc� 20 to 40 yr old neighborhoods --- - -- 0 --- --- --- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
< 20yroldneighborhoods --- -- -- _ -- -- --- -- --- -' --- _-- --- -' ---
1 acre or less -- 0 0 0 -- --- --- o --- --- --- --- -- -- ®-
CO
1to5acres - 0 0 0 --_ ___ ___ 0 __ _ ___ __- _ __ --_
5to20acres --- 0 0 0 --- --- --- 0 0 + ___ ___ + __ ---
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) -- + 0 ++ -__ -- ___ + + ++ ___ ___ ++ __ ___
—. Commercial/Industrial Land -_ 0 + 0 ___ ___ ___ + ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ ---
W
cultivated or crop land -- ___ + + ___ ___ ___ __ + + ___ ___ __ ___ ___
5 _
v �
range or pasture land --- --- -- + ___ ___ ___ ___ 0 ++ + ___ 1 +++
a
— Riparian Areas(including floodplains + ++ ++ ++ + + + ++ +++ ++ --- +++ - + -
Wetlands (including ponds) + ++ ++ ++ + ___ 0 ++ ++ + ___ + --- --- __-
-- _
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land + o --- o + + ++ ++ ++ --- -- --- + +++
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous 0 0 ___ + ___ ___ + --- ++ ++ --- --- +
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public 0 0 0 + ___ ___ 0 0 0 + I --- --- -- + -
lands (>20 years old)
_
newer urban parks and public __ 0 0 + __ ___ ___ 0 _ __ ___ __- o
lands (<20 years old)
a�
cu rural, undeveloped parks and o 0 0 + + ® 0 ++ ++
LM public lands
linear parks and trails (not
already included in other --- 0 0 + --- --- 0 0 ++ ++ ___ ___ _ ___ 0
categories)I )
Frba-Fringed Bat,Ltba-Least Bat,Bibb-Big Brown Bat,Libb-Little Brown Bat,Leba-Long eared Bat,Uba-Long legged Bat,Shba-Silver haired
Bat,Yuba-Yuma Bat,Vash-Vagrant Shrew,Mash-Masked Shrew,Prsh-Preble's Shrew,Wash-Water Shrew,Rgsq-Richardson's Ground Squirrel,
Flsq-Flying Squirrel,Ypch Yellow Pine Chipmunk
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-)Uncommon, (0)Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Amon, (+++) Preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix—
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana Wildlife Species
City-County Planning Department by 1-
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Mammals
March 1997 page 12 of 15
Habitat Types Fbmal
Resq Bwra Npgo Demo Mevo Revo Movo Beav Mura Pon; Homo Wjmo Snha Mcra
2 + 0 --- --- --- -- --- --- -- --- -
40+yr old neighborhoods "_ "__ --- "'
� N
20to40yr old neighborhood -- --- -- --- ++ o --- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- +
a�
< 20 yr old neighborhoods --- --- --- --- +++ -- --- -- --- -- --- --- --- --- 0
1 acre or less -- --- -- - ++ _ _-- __ --_ ___ _- _-- --_ +
1 to 5 acres - --- --- + +++ 0 --- o --- - 0 --- -- -- +
� N
5to 20 acres --- --- -- ++ +++ + _-- + --- -- + --- -- -- +
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) 0 --- 0 ++ +++ + --- + --- -- + + --- -- ++
Commercial/Industrial Land --- --- --- --- 0 --- --- -_ ___ -__ ___ + __ -_ __
cultivated or crop land -- --- --- --- --- --- ---
U �
Io,J range or pasture land + --- -- ++ ++ - --- ++ --- -- o
a
Riparian Areas(including floodplains) + --- --- - ++ ++ --- --- +++ + ++ _-- +++ + ++
Wetlands (including ponds) -- --- --- -- 0 +++ --- -- + ++ 0 -_- ++ -- + -�
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land + +++ + + + - +++ + ___ ___ +++ ___ ___ +++ 0
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous ++ + 0 ++ +++ + 0 ++ ___ ___ ++ _-- --- + +
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public ___ + __ ___ 0 __ ___ ___ ___ ___ __ ___ __ __ ---
lands (>20 years old)
_
newer urban parks and public -_ ___ ___ ___ +
alands (<20years old) -_- --- -� --_ --- --- --- --- _- _-'
-a
co
rural, undeveloped parks and + + --- + + 0 0 + --- --- 0 -_- --- - ++
public lands
CD
N
linear parks and trails (not
already included in other -- --- --- + + ° "-- -- "-- --- ° "-- "-- -'- +
I
categories)
Ybma-Yellow bellied Marmot,Resq-Red Squirrel,Bwra-Bushytail Woodrat,Npgo-Notw Pocker Gopher,Demo-Deer Mouse,Mevo-Meadow Vc'-
Revo-Redback We,Movo-Mountain Vole,Beav-Beaver,Mura-Muskrat,Porc-Porcupine,Homo-House Mouse,Wjmo-Western Jumping Mouse
Snha-Snowshoe Hare,Mcra-Mountain Cottontail Rabbit
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0)Occasional, (+)Light, (++) Common, (+++) Preferred i
fiBozemanw MT Jurisdictiona►Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana
City-County Planning Department by Wildlife Species
(Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
March 1997 page 13 of 15 Mammals
~, Habitat Types Lewes Lowe Mart Badg Riot Boca Mink Stsk Raco Refo Coyo Blbe Grbe Moli Wolv
`i
40+yrold neighborhoods - --- --- --- --- --- --- 0 -- --- --- --- --- --- --
20to40yroldneighborhood -- --- --- -- --- -- --- 0 -- --- --- --- --- -- --
� Cn
< 20 yr old neighborhoods -- --- --- -- -- -- --- - - -- --- --- -- -- --
1 acre or less -- --- --- --- --- --- ---
+ o -- -- --- --- -- --
�� 1 to 5 acres - -- --- --- --- --- --- + o o - --- --- -- --
CD 5to20acres + 0 __ -_ ___ ___ -__ ++ 0 + 0 ___ __ 0 ---
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) + + __ - --- --- --- +++ + + 0 ___ 0 +
Commercial/Industrial Land -_ ___ -__ ___ __ __ ___ _ __ ___ ___ _-_ __ __
VP`� cultivated or crop land -- - --- __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 0 ___
_
co
_ QJ range or pasture land +++ ++ --- +++ -__ 0 ___ ++ 0 ++ +++ --- --- 0 ---
Riparian Areas(including floodplains) + ++ ++ - ++ + +++ +++ +++ + 0 ___ ++ ++ ---
Wetlands (including ponds) 0 + ___ ___ ___ 0 ++ +++ ++ ++ o --- 0 0 ---
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land -- ++ +++ ++ --- + --- + -- -_- ++ --- +++ ++ 0
Intermountain Grassi and/Coniferou 0 ++ ++ ++ -_- ++ -_- + __ + +++ ___ ++ +++ 0
_.Forest Interface
older urban parks and public _- + __- __ -_ __ ___ + __ __ _-_ ___ __ __ ---
lands (>20 years old)
newer urban parks and public o
� -- -- --- --_ ___ ___ _ __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __
lands (<20 years old)
r' rural, undeveloped parks and 0 ++ -- + -- ++ _ + - --_ 0 +
LM ---
public lands
.N
® linear parks and trails (not
already included in other _ ® ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ o 0 0 -- --- o o ---
categories)
Levee Least Weasel,Lowe-Longtail Weasel, Mart-Marten,Badg-Badger,Riot-River Otter,Boca-Bobcat,Mink-Mink,Stsk-Striped Skunk,
-- Raco-Raccoon,Refo-Red Fox,Coyo-Coyote,Blbe-Black Bear,Grbe-Cea*Bear,Moll-Mountain Lion,Woly-Wolverine
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0)Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Common, (+++) preferred
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Wildlife Species Matrix
Prepared for Bozeman, Montana Wildlife Species
City-County Planning Department by
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
March 1997 page 14 of 15 Mammals
Habitat Types Wtdel Mude Elk Moos
2
40+yr old neighborhoods '"" """ -"" ---
E 1,
20 to 40 yr old neighborhood - --- --- ---
< 20 yr old neighborhoods 0 --- --- ---
_ 1 acre or less o --- --- ---
c
1 to 5 acres o -_ -_ ---
� N
`n 5 to 20 acres + 0 -- --
Rural Residential (> 20 acres) + + 0 0
Commercial/Industrial Land -- o --- ---
W
cultivated or crop land +++ + + 0
o,J range or pasture land ++ ++ + 0
a
Riparian Areas(including floodplains) +++ + o ++
Wetlands (including ponds) +++ 0 - +
Coniferous and/or mixed forest land + +++ +++ ++
Intermountain Grassland/Coniferous ++ +++ +++ ++
Forest Interface
older urban parks and public __ --- __ ___
lands (>20 years old)
-a
newer urban parks and public 0 -__ __ ---
lands (<20 years old)
rural, undeveloped parks and a
Lm public lands o 0 0 o I
.y
linear parks and trails (not
already included in other ° ° - +
categories)
Wide-White tailed Deer,Mude-Mule Deer,Elk-Elk,Moos-Moose `r
2 Habitat use scoring definitions: (---) Nonexistent, (--) Rare, (-) Uncommon, (0)Occasional, (+)Light, (++)Corm, (+++) preferred
IJ
r (
d ,
Bozeman, MT Jurisdictional Area Critical Lands Habitat- Fish Species Matrix
,P►epa►ed for Bozeman, Montana
City-County Planning Department by Fish Species
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
,March 1997 page 15 of 15 Native Introduced
Habitat Types Argri Mowh Whsu Losu Mosu Lode Mosc Rat Bwtr Bktr YOUFami Carp Blgi Yepe
River ++2 ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ - - - - - -
11
Creek or Stream - + + + + ++ ++ ++ + ++ - - - - -
Man-made Pond - + ++ ++ _ _ _ + + + + ++ + ++ +
Irrigation Ditch - + + + - - - + + + - - - - -
�Argr-Arctic Grayling,Mowh-Mountain Whitefish,Whsu-White Sucker,Losu-Longnose Sucker,Mosu-Mountain Sucker,Lode-Longnose Dace,
Mosc-Mottled Scuon, Ratr-Rainbow Trout,Bwtr-Brown Trout,Bkt-Brook Trout,Yect-Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, Fami-Fathead Minnow,
Carp-Carp,Blgi-Bluegill,Yepe-Yellow Perch
Habitat use scoring definitions: (-) Not typically present, (+) Present, (++) Best habitat
F—
i
i
I ,
i
_r
BIBLIOGRAPHY
J
Critical Lands Study Bibliography
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1991. Erosion Control. Landscape Design (February): 18-23.
i
33 Code of Federal Regulations 328.
40 Code of Federal Regulations 320.
Advantage One Marketing (AOM) Group. 1995. Focus Group Research Report of Community
Leadership Opinion on Quality of Life. Bozeman, MT: Southwest Montana Building
Industry Association.
Anderson, Stanley. 1991. Managing Our Wildlife Resources. Englewood, NJ: Prentice-Hall, Inc.
Army Corps of Engineers. Recognizing Wetlands. Springfield, VA: U.S. Department of
Commerce, National Technical Information Service.
Bendick, Robert. 1993. State partnerships to preserve open space: lessons from rhode island and
new york. Land Conservation through Public/Private Partnerships ed. Eve Endicott.
Washington,DC: Island Press, 168.
Burby, Raymond and Steven French. 1981. Coping with floods: the land use management paradox.
Journal of the American Planning Association (Summer): 289-300.
Burke et al. 1988. Protecting Nontidal Wetlands. Chicago: American Planning Association.
Chaney, Rob. 1995. Floods threaten lowlands. Bozeman Daily Chronicle, 6 June, 1.
City of Boulder, Colorado. 1995. Boulder Municipal Code.
City of Bozeman, Montana. 1990. Bozeman Zoning Code.
, l
Crowley, Haughey, Hanson, Toole & Dietrich. 1992. Montana Environmental Law Handbook.
Rockville, MD: Government Institutes, Inc.
Dennison, Mark and James Berry. 1993. Wetlands: Guide to Science. Law. and Technology. Park
Ridge, NJ: Noyes Publications.
Doppelt, Bob et al. 1993. Entering the Watershed: A New Approach to Save America's River
Ecosystems. Washington, D.C.: Island Press.
Dzurik, Andrew A. 1990. Water Resources Planning. Savage, MD: Rowman & Littlefield
Publishers,Inc.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 1988. Flood Insurance Study: City of Bozeman.
Washington,D.C.: Federal Emergency Management Agency.
r-
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Bibliography Page-1
Bibliography Critical Lands Study
Federal Emergency Management Agency. 1990. National Flood Insurance Program Community
Rating System Coordinator's Manual. Washington, D.C.: Federal Emergency Management
Agency.
Flath, Dennis L. 1984. Vertebrate Species of Special Interest or Concern. Bozeman, MT: Montana
Department of Fish,Wildlife and Parks.
Fleming,Robert et al. 1979. Landslide hazard and their reduction. APA lournal (October): 428-439.
Gilbert,Janine et al. 1994. Groundwater Ecology San Diego, CA: Academic Press.
Great Lakes and Water Resources Planning Commission. Water Resources for the Future Technical
Document: Flooding. Lansing, MI: Great Lakes and Water Resources Planning
Commission, 1-8.
Higgins, Susan et al. 1996. Headwaters to a Continent: A Reference Guide to Montana's Water.
Bozeman, MT: Montana Watercourse.
Holway, James and Raymond Burby. 1993. Reducing flood losses: local planning and land use
controls.Journal of the American Planning Association 59 (Spring): 205-216.
Howard, Arthur and Irwin Remson. 1978. Geology in Environmental Planning. New York:
McGraw-Hill Book Company.
Jaffe, Martin et al. 1981. Reducing Earthquake Risks: A Planner's Guide (PAS Report 364).
Chicago: American Planning Association.
Kent, Donald. 1994. Applied Wetlands Science and Technology. Boca. Raton, LA: Lewis '
Publishers.
Knauber, Al. 1995. Rising waters may top banks. Bozeman Daily Chronicle, 4 April, 9.
Laska, Shirley Bradway. 1986. Involving homeowners in flood mitigation. journal of the American
Planning Association (Autumn): 453-466. -'
Marsh, William. 1978. Environmental Analysis for Land Use and Site Planning. New York:
McGraw-Hill Book Company.
Marsh,William. 1991. Landscape Planning: Environmental Applications. New York: John Wiley &
Sons, Inc.
Mays,Larry W. 1996. Water Resources Planning. New York: McGraw-Hill.
McCormick, Anita Louise. 1995. Vanishing Wetlands. San Diego, CA: Lucent Books, Inc.
Michigan Water Resources Commission, Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). A Better
Environment Through Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Act 347 of 1972. Lansing,
MI: Department of Natural Resources.
Bibliography Page-2 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Bibliography
Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Office of Water Resources. 1991. Community
Planning and Zoning for Groundwater Protection in Michigan: A Guidebook for Local
Officials. Lansing, MI: MDNR
Michigan Society of Planning Officials. 1990. MSPO Community Planning Handbook. Lansing,
MI: MSPO.
Michigan State University, Cooperative Extension Service. 1991. How to Control Sheet and Rill
Erosion (Extension Bulletin E-2315). E. Lansing, Ml: MSU Extension Service.
Montana. 1995. Montana Code Annontated.
Montana Association of Conservation Districts. 1993. A Guide to Stream Permitting in Montana.
Helena, MT: Montana Association of Conservation Districts.
Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). 1995. Montana Stream Management
Guide for Landowners,Managers, and Stream Users. Helena, MT: DEQ.
Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Environmental Remediation Division.
1996. Cleaning up Montana - Superfund Accomplishments 1983 to 1996. Helena, MT:
Montana Department of Environmental Quality.
Montana Department of State Lands and the Montana Department of Justice. 1993. Fire
�` Protection Guidelines for Wildland Residential Interface Development. Missoula, MT:
Montana Department of State Lands.
r
Montana State University Extension Service. 1988. Water dui - A Matter of Choice. Bozeman,
MT: Montana State University Extension Service.
Montana Wetlands Council. 1997. Draft Montana Wetland Conservation Strategy.
A Natural Lands Trust. 1995. Conservation subdivision design: a four step process. Natural Lands
Trust. Media,Pennsylvania: Natural Lands Trust (1-9).
Nordstrom, Sue. 1991. Creating Landscapes for Wildlife...A Guide for Back Yards in Utah. Logan,
UT: Utah State University.
Olshansky. 1996. Planning for Hillside Development. Chicago, IL: American Planning Association.
Oregon Visions Project. 1993. A Guide to Community Visioning. Hands-On Information for Local
-� Communities. Portland, OR Oregon Chapter, American Planning Association.
Page, G. William and Harvey Rabinowitz. 1993. Groundwater contamination: its effects on property
values and cities.Journal of the American Planning Association 59 (Autumn): 473-481.
Platt, Rutherford. 1986. Metropolitan flood loss reduction through regional special districts. journal
of the American Planning Association (Autumn): 467-479.
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Bibliography Page-3
Bibliography Critical Lands Study
Poole, William. 1993. Preserving urban and suburban gardens and parks: the trust for public land
and its partners. Land Conservation through Public/Private Partnerships, ed. Eve Endicott.
Washington,DC: Island Press, 66.
Roddewig, Richard and Cheryl Inghram. 1987. Transferable Development Rights Programs.
Chicago: American Planning Association.
Schwab, Jim. 1994. The biology of wildlife migration corridors. APA Environment and Planning
(April): 1-4.
Skaar, Palmer David. 1969. Birds of the Bozeman Latilong. Bozeman, MT:Palmer David Skaar.
Soule, Michael E. 1991. Land use planning and wildlife maintenance: guidelines for conserving '
wildlife in an urban landscape. APA Journal (Summer): 313 - 323.
Stokes et al. 1989. Saving America's Countryside: A Guide to Rural Conservation. Baltimore, MD: -
Johns Hopkins University Press.
Toner, William. 1978. Saving Farms and Farmlands: A Community Guide (PAS Report No. 333). -'
Chicago, IL: American Planning Association.
Trulio, Matthew. 1992. Erosion control: keeping sediment in its place. Landscape Design.
(February): 15 - 18.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service (SCS). 1985. Save Soil Systematically
Resource Management Systems for Midwestern Crops (Program Aid 1366).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service (SCS). 1987. Soil Erosion by Wind -`
(Bulletin 513).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service (SCS). 1981. Soil Erosion: The Work of
Uncontrolled Water (Bulletin 260).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service (SCS). 1989. Soil Erosion by Water '
(Bulletin 555).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service (SCS). 1988. Wind Erosion and Its
Control. E. Lansing, MI: Soil Conservation Service.
U.S. Geological Survey. National Water Survey - Montana (Paper 2300). Helena, MT: U.S.
Geological Survey.
U.S. Geological Survey. 1986. National Water Summary- Grounwater Quality-(Raper 2325 . Helena,
MT: U.S. Geological Survey.
Want, William. 1992. Law of Wetlands Regulation. Deerfield, IL and New York: Clark, Boardman,
Callaghan.
Bibliography Page-4 Bozeman City-County Planning Board
Critical Lands Study Bibliography
Way, Douglass. 1978. Terrain Analysis. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Company.
Witten, Jon and Scott Horsely. 1995. A Guide to Wellhead Protection. Chicago, IL: American
Planning Association.
7.
i
!'dam
i
I'
I
r--
Bozeman City-County Planning Board Bibliography Page-5