A. Category I. Category I wetlands are: (1) relatively undisturbed estuarine wetlands larger than one acre; (2) wetlands with high conservation value that are identified by scientists of the Washington Natural Heritage Program/DNR; (3) bogs; (4) mature and old-growth forested wetlands larger than one acre; (5) wetlands in coastal lagoons; (6) interdunal wetlands that score eight or nine habitat points and are larger than one acre; and (7) wetlands that perform many functions well (scoring twenty-three points or more). These wetlands: (1) represent unique or rare wetland types; (2) are more sensitive to disturbance than most wetlands; (3) are relatively undisturbed and contain ecological attributes that are impossible to replace within a human lifetime; or (4) provide a high level of functions.

B. Category II. Category II wetlands are: (1) estuarine wetlands smaller than one acre, or disturbed estuarine wetlands larger than one acre; (2) interdunal wetlands larger than one acre or those found in a mosaic of wetlands; or (3) wetlands with a moderately high level of functions (scoring between twenty and twenty-two points).

C. Category III. Category III wetlands are: (1) wetlands with a moderate level of functions (scoring between sixteen and nineteen points); (2) can often be adequately replaced with a well-planned mitigation project; and (3) interdunal wetlands between one-tenth and one acre. Wetlands scoring between sixteen and nineteen points generally have been disturbed in some ways and are often less diverse or more isolated from other natural resources in the landscape than Category II wetlands.

D. Category IV. Category IV wetlands have the lowest levels of functions (scoring fewer than sixteen points) and are often heavily disturbed. These are wetlands that can be replaced, or in some cases improved. However, experience has shown that replacement cannot be guaranteed in any specific case. These wetlands may provide some important functions, and should be protected to some degree.

E. The city of Lacey shall have the authority to re-evaluate Category II and III wetlands when the calculation from the rating manual results in point values from seven to three habitat points, or the point value described in the wetland rating manual as hereafter amended. This re-evaluation shall be documented in writing and the city may use the descriptions of these wetland categories as guidance in determining the appropriate wetland rating.

F. Wetland rating categories shall be applied as the wetland exists on the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter; as the wetland may naturally change thereafter; or as the wetland may change in accordance with permitted activities. Wetland ratings shall not be altered to recognize illegal modifications. (Ord. 1505 §5, 2017; Ord. 1449 §3, 2014; Ord. 1215 §5, 2003; Ord. 935 §5 (part), 1992).