We also will build storm water facilities to contain runoff, remove pollutants and protect water quality in the project area. Permitting agencies are reviewing these proposed environmental protection and mitigation measures. Our proposed mitigation will restore important wetland and stream functions and help protect the project area. At the same time, it will undo the effects of more than 100 years of human activity such as the channels dug to drain wetlands and improve farmland, the channelizing and straightening of Miller Creek to reduce flooding, and the removal of native trees and bushes that once shaded the water and provided food sources for fish. The replacement wetlands that will restore lost wildlife functions will be located away from the airport in compliance with federal advisories that limit creation of wetlands near airports.
Wetlands attract birds, which can threaten the safety of aircraft.
A Biological Assessment evaluated impacts of the project on listed species, including Chinook salmon, bull trout, marbled murrelet, and bald eagles. Results of that Biological Assessment show there are no listed threatened or endangered species that would be adversely affected by the third runway or other airport development. Regulatory agencies currently are reviewing these findings.