(1) The wetlands rating system is intended to differentiate between wetlands based on their sensitivity to disturbance, rarity, irreplaceability, and the functions and values they provide. A general description of wetland categories and the rationale for each category is provided in Chapter 28.08 PMC, Definitions (see “Wetland Categories”).

(2) Wetlands shall be rated (classified) as either Category I, Category II, Category III, or Category IV according to the criteria listed in this section. This rating system is based on the Washington Department of Ecology’s Washington State Wetlands Rating System for Eastern Washington – Ecology Publication No. 14-06-030 (October 2014), as amended. The most current copy of this document should be used in classifying wetlands and developing wetland mitigation plans. [Ord. 4525 § 1, 2021; Ord. 3911 § 2, 2009; Code 1970 § 28.16.030.]