8832 ASHWORTH AVE N

Feb. 25, 2023: CASE No: 1055149-VI

I received a letter telling me that I was in violation of the Seattle Municipal Code chapter 25.09, section(s) 25.09.012, 25.09.200.A.2 and 3.

I am requesting an exemption on the following grounds:

- Existing concrete watercourse has failed in multiple places and is leaking water into the yard
- Existing concrete watercourse is too narrow for the current flow of water (especially at higher flows)
- Existing concrete watercourse has sharp rocks embedded in it which are unsafe for humans and fish.
- Existing concrete watercourse is too steep and as such the water travels too fast down it to sustain aquatic life.

Homeowner proposes that a new natural watercourse be created using all natural methods in accordance with the guidelines from the Washington Dept of Fish and Wildlife. This watercourse will be dug by hand and will not affect the flow of Licton Springs whatsoever. In other words, the new watercourse will be constructed completely dry, with no water in it.

A silt barrier has already been installed along the banks of the existing watercourse so as to protect the water from any soil or other debris contaminating it.

New watercourse will be approximately twice the width of the existing watercourse and include a step pool to slow down the water and create habitat for fish and other aquatic animals. Stream bed sediment mix (see section 9-03.11 of 2023 standard specifications) will be used to line the channel of the new watercourse as specified by the Dept of Fish and wildlife. River boulders will be used to strengthen the banks and further promote aquatic life. Native plants and trees will be added to provide shade for the water and further strengthen the banks.

Once the new watercourse has been completed, water will be diverted from the existing watercourse into the new watercourse. Once the new watercourse has been carefully observed and proven to function effectively, the existing concrete watercourse (once drained of all water) will either be filled in with rock or soil or a mix of both, or completely removed and backfilled.

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