4. Natural Environment

Goal CH-2: Protect and enhance the natural environment in the Central Houghton Neighborhood.

Policy CH-2.1: Undertake measures to protect and improve water quality and promote fish passage in Lake Washington and neighborhood wetlands, streams and wildlife corridors.

The Central Houghton Neighborhood is located within the Yarrow Creek, Carillon Creek, Houghton Slope A and B, and Moss Bay drainage basins (see Figure CH-2). These drainage systems connect to Lake Washington and provide important ecological functions such as flood and storm water conveyance, water quality, fish habitat, wildlife and riparian corridors, and open space benefits.

Water quality is an important issue in the Central Houghton Neighborhood. Daylighted streams in the neighborhood should be kept clean and maintained in their natural state. Even in areas without significant streams, water from the neighborhood drains to Lake Washington and so pesticide and fertilizer use should be discouraged.

Policy CH-2.2: Ensure that development is designed to avoid damage to life and property on properties containing high or moderate landslide or erosion hazards areas.

The Central Houghton Neighborhood contains medium and high landslide hazard areas (see Figure CH-3a). These areas are prone to landslides that may be triggered by natural events or by manmade activities including grading operations, land clearing, irrigation, or the load characteristics of buildings on hillsides.

Policy CH-2.3: Protect wildlife throughout the neighborhood and encourage the creation of backyard sanctuaries for wildlife habitat.

The National Wildlife Federation has designated the City of Kirkland as a certified Community Wildlife Habitat. The Community Wildlife Habitat Program for the City began in the Central Houghton Neighborhood. Central Houghton contains many wildlife corridors connecting parks and along stream channels to Lake Washington and Yarrow Bay Wetlands. Residents are encouraged to continue to improve wildlife habitat on their private property by planting native vegetation, and providing food, water, shelter and space for wildlife.