University of Alaska Anchorage
OP-11: Biodiversity

The Anchorage Wetland Management Plan classifies the wetlands as follows: • Class A wetlands have the highest biological and hydrological functions and values. These wetlands are generally not to be developed, cleared or otherwise altered unless the action would restore or enhance a site’s functions and values. • Class B wetlands typically have a mixture of higher and lower values and functions. The intent of the B designation is to conserve and maintain a site’s key functions and values by limited and minimizing fills and development to less critical zones while retaining higher value areas. • Class C wetlands have the lowest value and are generally suitable for development to support community expansion and infilling.

One of the premier assets on the UAA campus is the Chester Creek riparian zone that meanders under the pedestrian Spine through the heart of campus. The creek, an anadromous fish stream (Stream Number 247-50-10050), is home to Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) and also supports rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykis) and Dolly Varden char (Savelinus malma)

The UAA main campus consists of 384 acres. Of that, only 149 acres have been developed. The remaining acres consist of forest and wetlands that contain unpaved trails, and are otherwise undeveloped. Additionally, we have a designated Class A wetland (Mosquito Lake) on campus which is protected for bird habitat and breeding. Moose, fox, coyote and the occasional black bear and beaver also have habitat at UAA. The stream (south fork of Chester Creek) that crosses UAA also has returning salmon and a healthy trout population. “TREErific Anchorage has chosen UAA as one of three local establishments to be recognized for exceptional use of landscaping and/or preservation of natural vegetation. The University is recognized for its preservation of existing natural vegetation on the campus and for enhancing it with the largest variety of tree species in south-central Alaska, and for having a certified arborist on staff.”

The Anchorage Wetlands Management Plan also requires setbacks and buffers from waterbodies, streams, and wetlands to protect wildlife corridors, sensitive riparian zones, and water quality. Setbacks and buffers generally range from 25 feet to 100 feet. All three wetland types within the campus have soil characteristics that are challenging for development due to shallow depths to the water table, areas of topography relief, or organically rich soil.