20000677 Ver 1_Complete File_20000522

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
/ • •
NCDENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
August 8, 2000
Columbus County
DWQ Project No. 000677
APPROVAL OF 40lQuality Certification
Mr. William D. Gilmore, PE, Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 25201
Raleigh, NC, 27611-5201
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
You have our approval, as described in your application dated April 28, 2000 and in accordance with the
attached conditions and those listed below, to place fill material in 3.81 acres of jurisidctional wetlands and
13 linear feet of streams for the purpose of improving the intersection at US 74 and NC 130-410. After
reviewing your application, we have decided that this fill is covered by General Water Quality Certification
Number 3197. Certification 3197 corresponds to Nationwide Permit Number 23 issued by the Corps of
Engineers. In addition, you should acquire any other federal, state or local permits before you proceed with
your project including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control, Non-Discharge and Water Supply
Watershed regulations. This approval will expire when the accompanying 404 permit expires unless
otherwise specified in the General Certification.
This approval is valid solely for the purpose and design described in your application (unless modified
below). Should your project change, you must notify the DWQ and submit a new application. If the
property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of this Certification and approval letter, and is thereby
responsible for complying with all the conditions. If total wetland fills for this project (now or in the future)
exceed one acre, or of total impacts to streams (now or in the future) exceed 150 linear feet, compensatory
mitigation may be required as described in 15A NCAC 211.0506 (h) (6) and (7). ). This approval shall
expire with the corresponding Nationwide Permit expires or as otherwise provided in the General
Certification. For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed in the attached
certification and any additional conditions listed below.
1.) When written concurrence is required, the applicant is required to use the enclosed "Certification of
Completion Form" to notify DWQ when all work included in the 401 Certification has been completed.
The responsible party shall complete the attached form and return it to the 401 [Wetlands Unit. (of the
Division of Water Quality) upon completion of the project.
2.) Compensatory mitigation for impacts to wetlands shall be done for 3.81acres (replacement ratio of 1:1)
of jurisdictional wetlands. The mitigation shall be provided by purchasing credits equivalent to 3.81
acres of restored wetland credits from the Barra Farms Wetland Mitigation Site located in Cumberland
County.
Wetlands/401 Unit 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post consumer paper

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
I L7?WA
4
•
T
NCDENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
If you do not accept any of the conditions of this certification, you may ask for an adjudicatory hearing.
You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this letter. To ask for a hearing, send a written
petition, which conforms to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes to the Office of
Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7447. This certification and its conditions
are final and binding unless you ask for a hearing.
This letter completes the review of the Division of Water Quality under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act.
If you have any questions, please telephone John Dorney at 919-733-9646.
Attachment
cc: Wilmington District Corps of Engineers
Corps of Engineers Wilmington Field Office
Fayetteville DWQ Regional Office
File Copy
Central Files
c:\ncdot\TIP R-2558\wqc\000677wgc.doc
Sincerely,
Steven
Wetlands/401 Unit 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/10% post consumer paper
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
MOM
NC ENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
GENERAL CERTIFICATION FOR PROJECTS ELIGIBLE FOR CORPS OF ENGINEERS
NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 23 (APPROVED CATEGORICAL EXCLUSIONS)
This General Certification is issued in conformity with the requirements of Section 401, Public Laws 92-
500 and 95-217 of the United States and subject to the North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Regulations in 15A NCAC 211, Section .0500 and 15A NCAC 2B .0200 for the discharge of fill material to
waters and wetland areas as described in 33 CFR 330 Appendix A (B) (23). This Certification replaces
Water Quality Certification Number 2670 issued on January 21, 1992 and Water Quality Certification
Number 2734 issued on May 1 1993. This WQC is rescinded when the Corps of Engineers reauthorize
Nationwide Permit 23 or when deemed appropriate by the Director of the DWQ.
The State of North Carolina certifies that the specified category of activity will not violate applicable
portions of Sections 301, 302, 303, 306 and 307 of the Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217 if conducted in
accordance with the conditions hereinafter set forth.
Conditions of Certification:
1. Proposed fill or substantial modification of waters or wetlands for this General Certification requires
written notification to the Division of Water Quality regarding the extent of impact to waters and
wetlands;
2. Two copies shall be submitted to DWQ at the time of notification in accordance with 15A NCAC 2H
.0501(a);
3. Fill or alteration of more than one acre (0.45 ha) of wetlands will require compensatory mitigation in
accordance with 15A NCAC .0506 (h). Written DWQ approval is required for this mitigation plan
which may utilize the State's Wetland Restoration Program;
4. Fill or alteration of more than 150 linear feet (45.7 meters) or streams may require compensatory
mitigation in accordance with 15A NCAC 211.0506(h). Written DWQ approval is required for this
mitigation plan which may utilize the State's Wetland Restoration Program;
5. That appropriate sediment and erosion control practices which equal or exceed those outlined in the
most recent edition of the "North Carolina Erosion and Sediment Control Planning and Design
Manual" or "North Carolina Surface Mining Manual" (available from the Division of Land Resources
in the DEHNR Regional or Central Offices) are utilized to prevent exceedances of the appropriate
turbidity water quality standard (50 NTUs in streams and rivers riot designated as trout by DWQ; 25
NTUs in all saltwater classes, and all lakes and reservoirs; and 10 NTUs in trout waters);
6. All sediment and erosion control measures placed in wetlands or waters shall be removed and the
natural grade restored after the Division of Land Resources has released the project;
7. If an environmental document is required, this Certification is not valid until a FONSI or ROD is issued
by the State Clearinghouse;
Wetlands/401 Unit 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/l0% post consumer paper
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
1 • •
NC ENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
8. That additional site-specific conditions may be added to projects proposed under this Certification in
order to ensure compliance with all applicable water quality and effluent standards;
9. If the project is not completed within three years from the date of the first notification to DWQ, then
the applicant will again need to notify DWQ.
Non-compliance with or violation of the conditions herein set forth by a specific fill project shall result in
revocation of this Certification for the project and may also result in criminal and/or civil penalties.
The Director of the North Carolina Division of Water Quality may require submission of a formal
application for individual certification for any project in this category of activity, if it is determined that the
project is likely to have a significant adverse effect upon water quality or degrade the waters so that existing
uses of the wetland or downstream waters are precluded.
Public hearings may be held for specific applications or group of applications prior to a Certification
decision if deemed in the public's best intefest by the Director of the North Carolina Division of Water
Quality.
Effective date: 11 February 1997.
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
By
A. Preston Howard, Jr. P.E.,
Director
WQC # 3107
Wetlands/401 Unit 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/10% post consumer paper
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
DWQ Project No.:
Applicant:
Project Name:
1 ? •
NCDENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
County:
Date of Issuance of 401 Water Quality Certification:
Certificate of Completion
Upon completion of all work approved within the 401 Water Quality Certification or applicable Buffer
Rules, and any subsequent modifications, the applicant is required to return this certificate to the
401/Wetlands Unit, North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 1621 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC,
27699-1621. This form may be returned to DWQ by the applicant, the applicant's authorized agent, or the
project engineer. It is not necessary to send certificates from all of these.
Applicant's Certification
I, , hereby state that, to the best of my abilities, due care and
diligence was used in the observation of the construction such that the construction was observed to be built
within substantial compliance and intent of the 401 Water Quality Certification and Buffer Rules, the
approved plans and specifications, and other supporting materials.
Signature:
Date:
Agent's Certification
I, , hereby state that, to the best of my abilities, due care and
diligence was used in the observation of the construction such that the construction was observed to be built
within substantial compliance and intent of the 401 Water Quality Certification and Buffer Rules, the
approved plans and specifications, and other supporting materials.
Signature:
Date:
Engineer's Certification
Partial Final
I, , as a duly registered Professional Engineer in the State
of North Carolina, having been authorized to observe (periodically, weekly, full time) the construction of
the project,for the Permittee hereby state that, to the best of my abilities, due care and diligence was used in
Wetlands/401 Unit 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/10% post consumer paper
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
/ •
•
NC ENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
the observation of the construction such that the construction was observed to be built within substantial
compliance and intent of the 401 Water Quality Certification and Buffer Rules, the approved plans and
specifications, and other supporting materials.
Signature
Date
Registration No.
Wetlands/401 Unit 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
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U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
WILMINGTON DISTRICT
Action ID: 200001464 TIP No. R-2558DA State Project No. 8.T461801
County: Colum
a?
i
GENERAL PERMIT (REGIONAL AND NATIONWIDE) VERIFICATION
Property Owner: North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 15
Address: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
WETLAIf Cis
Telephone Number: [phone], extension 307 a WATER U;'. /
Size and Location of project (waterway, road name/number, town, etc.): Intersection of US 74 and NC 130-
410, Columbus Country, North Carolina.
Description of Activity: Discharge of fill material permanently impacting a total 3.8 acres of waters of
the United States, including wetlands, for construction of TIP Project No. R-2558DA as de ' ed in the NCDOT
letter dated April 28, 2000. The existing signalized intersection will be converted to an interchange. The
interchange will be a modified diamond interchange with a ramp and loop in the northwest quadrant of the
intersection and ramps in the southwest and southeast quadrants. The Permittee has purchased 3.81 in-kind non-
riverine flat wetland restoration credits from the Barra Farms Cape Fear Mitigation Bank in Cumberland County,
North Carolina. No work within waters or wetlands authorized by this permit shall begin until the bank sponsor has
verified to the Corps that it has received payment for said credits, and that the credits have been debited from the
Bank in accordance with the Barra Farms Mitigation Banking Instrument dated March 5, 1999.
Applicable Law: X Section 404 (Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C. 1344)
Section 10 (River and Harbor Act of 1899)
Authorization: 23 Nationwide Permit Number
Regional General Permit Number
Your work is authorized by this Regional General (RGP) or Nationwide (NWP) Permit provided it is accomplished
in strict accordance with the attached conditions and your submitted plans. If your activity is subject to Section 404
(if Section 404 block above is checked), before beginning work you must also receive a Section 401 water quality
certification from the N.C. Division of Environmental Management, telephone [phone]. For any activity
within the twenty coastal counties, before beginning work you must contact the N.C. Division of Coastal
Management, telephone [phone].
Please read and carefully comply with the attached conditions of the RGP or NWP. Any violation of the conditions
of the RGP or NWP referenced above may subject the permittee to a stop work order, a restoration order, and/or
appropriate legal action.
This Department of the Army RGP or NWP verification does not relieve the permittee of the responsibility to obtain
any other required Federal, State, or local approvals/permits. The permittee may need to contact appropriate State
and local agencies before beginning work.
If there are any questions regarding this authorization or any of the conditions of the RGP or NWP, please contact
the Corps Regulatory Official specified below.
Date August 4, 2000
Corps Regulatory Official
Telephone No. [phone]
Expiration Date of Verification February 11, 2002
SURVEY PLATS, FIELD SKETCH, WETLAND DELINEATION FORM, ETC., MUST BE ATTACHED TO
THE FILE COPY OF THIS FORM, IF REQUIRED OR AVAILABLE.
CF: FHWA, NCDENR-Division of Water Quality, NC-WRC.
NCDOT/P&E BRANCH Fax : [phone] Aug 4 '00 1135 P.01
STATE.OF N©RTR CA LIMA
DEPARTMENT. OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RA1.T=IGIl: l?f_C :.2761 -5201 DAVID MCCOY
SEMTARY
GOVERNOR
PROJECT DEVEL0PMENT &'E1V R lV3MNTAL BRANCH
FAX (RVY fE T
Date., ° r -
ql D = a5(- Cfo
Number You Are Calling:
Please deliver the following pages to:
Ldp di c? t
Name: -
Department and/or Firm:
Address or Room Number:
This Telecopy is being sent by
Name: ?E
Phone Number:
Remarks:
Number of pages (Including Cover Sheet)
IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE ALL PAGES CLEARLY, CA? L019) 1 141 AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT 4~ BVVIRONt M*4TAL ANALYS B BRANCH
FAX NUMBER-(9I9) 731=9794
-733-7qS-1
NCDOT/P&E BRANCH Fax:[phone]
a?
STATE OF NORTH.'QAR
DEPARTMENT OF T.RAN'k
JAMES B. HUNT JR.
GOVERNOR
04 •August 2000
US Army Corps of Engineers
Wilmington Regulatory Field Office;.. .
PO Box 1890
Wilmington, NC 28402-1890
ATTENTION: Mr. David TulWy- ; .
NCDOT Coordinator
SUBJECT: Wedand mitigation for impacts. assocli
intersection at US 74 and NC 13.0:-4.1:.1 to an interchaM
NHF-74(7), State Project No. 8.74618©1.; T.I-.F.:N6 I
199501106.
This letter serves as an addendum°to *0 ofigi
28 April 2000. In response to our telephone con viers
has investigated using Barra Farms 1 in Cumberwxu
3.81 credits from t$e site to mitigate for.*etlarid ir»
interchange at the intersection of US 74?'and NE 130
attached an updated copy of the debit ledger. .
Please contact Dak- Suiter at`(91 }) 731-1.142
project.
Sincerely
" V. Charles Barton, Ph.D.
Assistant Branch Manager
enclosure
cc: John Dorney, NC Division of Water QW.ity.
Bruce Ellis, Natural Systems. Unit Head-
Dale Suiter, Environmental Specialist
File R-2558DA
1AAILINa ADDRESS: TELEPHONE. 0Y9-73:
PmEOT D6v6LOPMENT AND EWRONMENTALANALrSiS FAX: 6?9-733-97
1548 MAIL $ERVICE CENTER
RALGIGH NC 27999.1548 WESSIM WWWOOM.OOr.
Aug 4 '00 11.36 P.02
A
TION
DAVID MCCOY
SECRETARY
with converting a signalized
Federal Aid Project No. MA-
58 DA. Action I.D.
permit application submitted on
m on August 4, 2000, NCDOT
wary. NCDOT proposes to debit
s associated with constructing an.
0 in Columbus County. We have
you have any questions about this
f
LOCATION:
TRANspwmnOn BVILDING
1 SOUTH WIwwOVON STREET
us RALE10H, NC
NCDOT/P&E BRANCH Fax:[phone]

1 Aug 4 '00 11 : 36 P.03

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources a
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary NCDENR
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
June 29, 2000
Mr. Bill Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 25201
Raleigh, North Carolina, 27611
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
Re: Permit Application for the construction of the Signalized intersection at US74 and NC 130-410 in
Columbus County, DWQ No. 000677, Federal Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7), State Project No.
8.T461801, T.I.P. No. R-2558DA
The Division of Water Quality has reviewed your submittal for a 401 Water Quality Certification for the
aforementioned project. Review of your application revealed it lacking necessary information required for
making an informed permit decision. The permit application was deficient in the following areas.
• The wetlands mitigation plan is not complete. The NCDWQ has visited the proposed mitigation site.
Based on that visit, we believe that the site has the potential to be a quality site. However, to date, we
have received no formal mitigation plan for developing the site.
Therefore, pursuant to 15A NCAC 2h.0507(a)(4), we will have to place the permit application on hold
until we are supplied the necessary information. Furthermore, until the information is received by the NC
Division of Water Quality, we request (by copy of this letter) that the US Army Corps of Engineers place
the permit application on hold.
We will work together to expedite the processing of your permit application in the coming weeks. If you
have any questions or require additional information, please contact John Hennessy at 919-733-5694.
R. Dorney
r Quality (
cc: Joanne Steenhuis, DWQ Regional Office
Scott McClendon, USACE
Central Files
C:\ncdot\R-2558\correspondence\000677h ld.doc
Wetlands/401 Unit 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
Telephone [phone]. FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycied/10%a post consumer paper
A
d d STATg PAYSENT - 000677
RECEIVED @ ?STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID MCCOY
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
28 April 2000
US Army Corps of Engineers
Wilmington Regulatory Field Office `F
PO Box 1890
Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 W 2 22n,
i
ATTENTION: Mr. David Timpy WETLANDS GROUP
NCDOT Coordinator „.._. ?IATEtt UALfTY SECTIOP
Dear Sir:
Subject: Categorical Exclusion for Columbus County, conversion of a signalized
intersection at US 74 and NC 130-410 to an interchange. Federal Aid Project No.
MA-NHF-74(7), State Project No. 8.T461801,
T.I.P. No. R-2558 DA. Action I.D. 199501106.
Please find the attached Categorical Exclusion Action Classification Form for the subject
project. On August 15, 1996, your office issued an Individual Permit for the widening of US 74
from NC 41 in Robeson County to US Highway 76 in Columbus County (Action I.D.
199501106). Due to a high number of accidents and fatalities at the intersection of US 74 and
NC 130-410, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to convert
this signalized intersection to an interchange. The interchange will be a modified diamond
interchange with a ramp and loop in the northwest quadrant of the intersection and ramps in the
southwest and southeast quadrants. The interchange will be constructed primarily within the
existing right of way. However, due to the grade change along NC 410, small amounts of
additional right of way will be required along NC 410 north of the interchange and along NC
130-410 south of the interchange to tie the new roadway to the existing roadway.
Wetlands
Bruce Ellis, NCDOT Natural Systems Unit Head, conducted general field surveys of the
project study area associated with this interchange on 18 August 1998 and 03, 09, 23 September
1998. Jurisdictional wetland boundaries were verified by Mr. David Timpy on 06 January 1999.
NCDOT estimates wetland impacts associated with this project total 3 .81 acres (2.62 acres of fill

in wetlands, 0.28 acres of excavation in wetlands and 0.91 acres of Mechanized Clearing -
Method I11). , Impacted, wetlands are described below.
BE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
Wetland BE is dominated by three canopy species: red maple (Acer rubrum), red bay (Persea
borbonia) and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua). The shrub layer is dominated by coast
pepper bush (Clethra alnifolia), titi (Cyrilla racemiflora) and fetter bush (Lyonia lucida). The
wetland contains oxidized root channels in the upper 12 inches and passed the FAC neutral test.
Hydric soils had a matrix of 1OYR 2/2 from 0-3 inches deep and IOYR 4/1 from 3-12 inches
deep. No mottles were noted. This wetland received a DWQ rating of 12.
CE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
Wetland CE is dominated by canopy species such as: red maple (Acer rubrum), red bay (Persea
borbonia), Virginia bay (Magnolia virginiana), water oak (Quercus nigra) and loblolly pine
(Pinus taeda). The shrub layer contains young representatives of the canopy species as well as
coast pepper bush (Clethra alnifolia), titi (Cyrilla racemiflora) and bay-gall holly (Ilex
coriacea) ns ofland hydrology include oxidized root channels in the upper 12 inches,
buttressed tree trunks and shallow roots. This wetland passed the FAC neutral test. Hydric soils
had a matrix of 10YR 3/1--from 0-12+ inches deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a
silty texture. This wetland received a DWQ rating of 20.
FE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
This wetland is dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and black
gum (Nyssa sylvatica). The shrub layer contains young representatives of the canopy species as
well as fetter bush (Lyonia lucida) and titi (Cyrilla racemiflora). Signs of wetland hydrology
include saturation in the upper 12 inches. Hydric soils had a matrix of l OYR 2/1 from 0-3 inches
deep and l OYR 4/1 from 3-12+ inches deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a sandy-silt
texture. This wetland received a DWQ rating of 28.
JE - Scrub-Shrub Wetland, inundated
Wetland JE is dominated by canopy species such as: loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and black gum
(Nyssa sylvatica). The shrub layer contains young representatives of the canopy species as well
as titi (Cyrilla racemiflora), red maple (Acer rubrum),wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera) and coast
pepper bush (Clethra alnifolia). Signs of wetland hydrology includes innundation with water 6-
12 inches deep and saturation in the upper 12 inches. Hydric soils had a matrix of 10YR 3/1
from 0-12+ inches deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a silty texture. This wetland
received a DWQ rating of 40.
KE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
Wetland KE is dominated by canopy species such as: loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and red maple
(Acer rubrum). The shrub layer contains young representatives of red maple as well as titi
(Cyrilla racemiflora), ink-berry (Ilex glabra) and wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera). Signs of
wetland hydrology include saturation in the upper 12 inches. Hydric soils had a matrix of l OYR
3/1 from 0-5 and IOYR 4/15-12+ inches deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a sandy-
silt texture. This wetland received a DWQ rating of 35.
*v
IE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
This wetland is dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), black gum
(Nyssa sylvatica) and water oak (Quercus nigra). The shrub layer contains young representatives
of the canopy species as well as coast pepper bush (Clethra alnifolia) and titi (Cyrilla
racemiflora). The herb layer contains giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea) and cinnamon fern
(Osmunda cinnamomea). Signs of wetland hydrology include saturation in the upper 12 inches.
Hydric soils had a matrix of IOYR 2/1 from 0-3 inches deep and IOYR 4/1 from 3-12+ inches
deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a sandy-silt texture. This wetland received a
DWQ rating of 16.
Wetland Mitigation
NCDOT proposes to mitigate for impacts to wetlands by using the Juniper Bay Wetland
Mitigation Site. The Juniper Bay site was purchased by NCDOT in January 2000 and consists of
approximately 750 acres. The site is mostly former Carolina Bay that has been ditched and used
for agriculture. NCDOT proposes to restore hydrology and vegetation to the site that is typical
of Carolina Bays. We anticipate the wetland mitigation site plan to be completed by Summer
2000. Wetland impacts associated with this project include 2.62 acres of fill in wetlands, 0.28
acres of excavation in wetlands and 0.91 acres of Mechanized Clearing (Method III) for a total of
3.81 acres. NCDOT proposes to debit 7.62 wetland credits from Juniper Bay Mitigation Site to
offset 3.81 acres of impacts associated with R-2558 DA.
Protected Species
The project area for the proposed interchange lies completely within the original project
limits and existing right of way. The project study area was surveyed for federally protected
species during the original natural resources field work. In addition, Bruce Ellis, NCDOT
Natural Systems Unit Head, surveyed the portion of the project area associated with this
interchange again on 03, 09, 23 September 1998. The biological conclusions for all protected
species remain No Effect.
NCDOT requests that the USACE authorize this additional work in Columbus County
under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit 23. The issuance of a Section 401 Water Quality
Certification by the N.C. Division of Water Quality is also requested. If you have any questions
or need additional information about this project, please contact Mr. Dale Suiter at (919) 733-
1142 or [e-mail].
Sincerely,
?07 William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch
cc: Mr. David Franklin, Corps of Engineers, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, Division of Water Quality
Mr. David Cox, NC WRC
Mr. Timothy V. Roundtree, P.E., Structure Design
Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design
A
Mr. Calvin Leggett, P.E. Program Development
Mr. Deborah Barbour, P.E., Highway Design
Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit
Mr. Terry R Gibson, P.E.. Division 6 Engineer
Mr. R.B. Davis., P.E., PD&EA Consultant Engineering Unit Head
WDG/dws
reporting*burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 5 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions.
.rching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed. and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send
rnments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to
Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Service Directorate of InformationOpstations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite
1204, Arlington, VA 22202-4302: and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project (0710-0003), Washington, DC
20503. Please DO NO RETURN your form to either of those addresses. Completed applications must be submitted to the District Engineer having
jurisdiction over the location of the proposed activity.
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
Authority: 33 USC 401, Section 10;. 1413, Section 404. Principal Purpose: These laws require permits authorizing activities in, or affecting,
navigable waters of the United States, the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, and the transportation of dredged
material for the purpose of dumping it into ocean waters. Routine Uses: Information provided on this form will be used in evaluating the application
for a permit. Disclosure: Disclosure of requested information is voluntary. If information is not provided, however, the permit application cannot be
processed nor can a permit be issued.
One set of original drawings or good reproducible copies which show the location and character of the proposed activity must be attached to this
application (see sample drawings and instructions) and be submitted to the District Engineer having jurisdiction over the location of the proposed
activity. An application that is not completed in full will be returned.
1. APPLICATION NO. 12. FIELD OFFICE CODE 3. DATE RECEIVED
4. DATE APPLICATION COMPLETE
f/TFMS RF1 OW Tr1 RF All / Fn RY APPLICAN71
5. APPLICANT'S NAME 8. AUTHORIZED AGENT'S NAME AND TITLE ion agent is not required,
6. APPLICANT'S ADDRESS 9. AGENT'S ADDRESS
7. APPLICANT'S PHONE NOS. W AREA CODE 10. AGENT'S PHONE NOS. W/AREA CODE
a. Residence
b. Business a. Residence
b. Business
11. STATEMENT OF AUTHORIZATION
I hereby authorize, to act in my behalf as my agent in the processing of this application and tc
furnish, upon request, supplemental information in support of this permit application.
APPLICANT'S SIGNATURE DATE
NAME, LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT OR ACTIVITY
12. PROJECT NAME OR TITLE (see instructions)
p- 255 $ D-A

13. NAME OF WATERBODY, IF KNOWN at eppiiceo1e1
15. LOCATION OF PROJECT
COUNTY STATE
14. PROJECT STREET ADDRESS (ifsppiicsbiel
16. OTHER LOCATION DESCRIPTIONS, IF KNOWN, (see instructions)
17, DIRECTIONS TO THE SITE

,.ure 0I Activity (O!•:CnpNOn of project. "Chide a///earwes/
19. Project Purpose IDescribe the reason or purpose or the project, see instn/crionsl

BLOCKS 20-22 IF DREDGED AND R FILL MATERIAL IS TO BE DISCHAR ED
- USE 20. Reason(s) for Discharge
21. Type(s) of Material Being Discharged and the Amount of Each Type in Cubic Yards
Fri R-TH
22. Surface Area in Acres of Wetlands or Other Waters Filled isa. tnsrrvcrionsi
?'JLL IN W£?'CflNOS=2,(o?AcIZF,s
= 4. ?c31°,?.R£.?
?ILL I;U Sve-fAc-5 wRcE25
23. Is Any Portion of the Work Already Complete? Yes No IF YES, DESCRIBE THE COMPLETED WORK
24. Addresses of Adjoining Property Owners, Lessees, Etc., Whose Property Adjoins the Waterbody Of more than can be entered here,
please attach a supplemental list).
A (,c, Nc Do-("
25. List of Other Certifications or Approvals/Denials Received from other Federal, State or Local Agencies for Work Described in This Application.
AGENCY TYPE APPROVAL' IDENTIFICATION NUMBER DATE APPLIED DATE APPROVED DATE DENIED
"Would include but is not restricted to zoning, building and flood plain permits
26. Application is hereby made for a permit or permits to authorize the work described in this application. I certify that the information in this
application is complete and accurate. I further certify that I possess the authority to undertake the work described herein or am acting as the
duly authorized agent of the applicant.
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT DATE
DATE
SIGNATURE OF AGENT
The application must be signed by the person who desires to undertake the proposed activity (applicant) or it maybe signed by a duly
authorized agent if the statement in block 11 has been filled out and signed.
18 U.S.C. Section 1001 provides that: Whoever, in any manner within the jurisdiction of any department or agency of the United States
knowingly and willfully falsifies, conceals, or covers up any trick, scheme, or disguises a material fact or makes any false, fictitious or
fraudulent statements or representations or makes or uses any false writing or document knowing same to contain any false, fictitious or
fraudulent staterents or entry, shall be fined not more than $ 10,000 or imprisoned not more than five years or both.

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PPOPOSED BRIDGE
PROPOSED BOX CULVERT
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PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT
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¦ DRAINAGE INLET
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5 ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER
OR PARCEL NUMBER
IF AVAILABLE
X X X X X LIVE STAKES
BOULDER
--- COIR FIBER ROLLS
N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
COLUMBUS COUNTY
PROJECT: 8.T461801 (R-2558DA)
PROPOSED INTERCHANGE AT
US 74 AND NC 150-410
I
DECEMBER 1991)
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US 74
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadboum
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
ADDENDUM TO
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
AND
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
?-=t=
Date
William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, NCDOT
Date N cholas L. Graf, P.E.
Division Administrator, FHWA
US 74
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
Since the approval of the Categorical Exclusion (CE) for the above project on
February 28, 2000, additional information has been developed concerning jurisdictional
wetland impacts. The construction of this project will impact approximately 3.8 acres of
jurisdictional wetlands instead of the 2.6 acres as stated in the CE. Of the 3.8 acres of
wetlands impacted by this project, approximately 2.6 acres involve fill in wetlands, 0.3
acre involves excavation in wetlands, and 0.9 acre involves mechanized clearing
operations.

US 74
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
AND
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
ft
2 r6 00 ?,
Date "f1william D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, NCDOT
.2eFk- (
Date icholas L. Graf, P.E.
Division Administrator, FHWA
US 74
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NBF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
February, 2000
Documentation Prepared in Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch By:

W. Ron Elmore, P.E.
Project Development Engineer
L. Gail r' es, P.E., Uinit ead
Consultant Engineering it
ccc?n!._9
SEAL
14058
11640010%
US 74
'Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7)
State Project No. 83,461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
There are no special environmental commitments for this project.
Categorical Exclusion
February 16, 2000
US -4
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid. Project No. MA-N-HF'-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461 SO1
TIP No. R-2558DA
I. PROPOSED ACTION
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to convert
the signalized intersection at US 74 and NC 130-410 near Chadbourn in Columbus
County to an interchange (see Figure 1). This project is included in the NCDOT
2000-2006 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) with construction scheduled for
fiscal year 2000.
The interchange will be a modified diamond interchange with a ramp and loop in
the northwest quadrant of the intersection and ramps in the southwest and southeast
quadrants. The interchange will be constructed primarily within the existing right of
way. Due to the grade change along NC 410, small amounts of additional right or way
will be required along NC 410 north of the interchange and along NC 130-410 south of
the interchange to tie the new roadway to the existing roadway.
H. PROJECT HISTORY
1972 - US 74 from NC 41 near Lumberton (east of I-95) to US 76 near Chadboum was
constructed on new location as a two-lane roadway on right of way for an ultimate four-
lane divided freeway. Right of way was acquired to accommodate a 68-foot median and
future designated interchanges and grade separations. At the US 74/NC 130-410
intersection, a modified diamond interchange consisting of a ramp and loop in the
northwest quadrant of the intersection and ramps in the southwest and southeast
quadrants was recommended for future construction.
1979 - A Draft and Final Negative Declaration (now referred to as an Environmental
Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact), which discussed the impacts of
constructing the additional two lanes for US 74 along the south side of the existing two
lanes, was approved by the NCDOT and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). A
68-foot median was recommended. Interchanges and grade separations were not
recommended for construction, however, provisions were included for temporary at-
grade intersections and median openings at designated locations. A temporary at-grade
intersection was recommended at the US 74/NC 130-410 intersection. Due to funding
shortages, the construction of this project was delayed.
1995 - A Reevaluation of the Final Negative Declaration, which discussed the impacts of
constructing the additional two lanes along US 74 and the design changes since the
ar,-rnVal of +I--- Final Ne-,t;i,e Declarat;?... ..,:',_s !Cprc,:2` E NcDnT era r'u'Wa T1?e
recommended median width was narrowed to 60 feet. Interchanges and grade
separations were not recommended for constriction: however, provisions were included
for temporary at grade intersections and median opening-s at designated locations. A
temporary at-grade intersection was recommended for the US %4: NC 130-410
intersection.
November, 1996 - Construction began on the dual laning of L:'S 74 in the vicinity of the
US 74 and NC 130-410 intersection.
August. 1997 - A traffic signal was installed at the intersection of US 74 and NC 130-410.
May. 1998 - Due to a continuing pattern of serious traffic accidents resulting in fatalities
at the intersection of US 74 and NC 130-410, the NCDOT recommended the construction
of an interchange at this location. The proposed design, a modified diamond interchange
with a ramp and a loop in the northwest quadrant of the intersection and ramps in the
southwest and southeast quadrants, is consistent with the right of way previously
acquired at this location.
August, 1998 - Construction of the dual laning of this section of US 74 was completed.
July. 1999 - The construction of an interchange at the intersection of US 74 and
NC 130-410 was included in the NCDOT 2000-2006 TIP.
III. NEED FOR THE PROJECT
Since 1995, numerous severe accidents have occurred at the US 74 and
NC 130-410 intersection resulting in four (4) fatalities. During the time period from
November of 1995 through August of 1997, ten (10) accidents were reported at this
intersection. One (1) of these accidents resulted in a fatality. Seven (7) of the accidents
were right angle type collisions.
A traffic signal was installed at this location in August of 1997. Since the
installation of a traffic signal in 1997, the pattern and severity of the accidents at this
location have continued. During the time period from August of 1997 through October
of 1998, twenty (20) accidents were reported. Three (3) of the accidents resulted in three
(3) fatalities. Thirteen (13) of the accidents were right angle type collisions.
Accident investigations have determined the major cause of the accidents was the
failure of motorists on US 74 to stop at the traffic signal. Measures taken to enhance the
safety and awareness of the intersection have included the addition of advance warning
signs, rumple strips, and strobe lights on the traffic signals.
Due to the pattern and severity of the accidents at this location, the intersection is
now rated in the North Carolina Highway Safety Program as the number one priority in
the state for improvements. In order to enhance the safety characteristics of this location,
the NCDOT proposes to convert this intersection to a modified diamond interchange.
This section of US 74 is also designated as part of the 1-74 corridor, a high
priority Interstate facility, in North Carolina by the Intermodal Surface Transportation
Efficiency Act of 1991 as amended by the National Highway System Designation Act of
1995. The conversion of this at-grade intersection to an interchange will contribute to the
overall effort of bringing US 74 up to Interstate design standards (i.e., access along the
Interstate system shall be fully controlled, which can be achieved by interchanges at
selected public highways).
IV. EXISTING CONDITIONS
US 74 is part of the National Highway System and is classified as a rural principal
arterial in the North Carolina Statewide Functional Classification System for highways.
As previously discussed, this section of US 74 is also the designated route for future I-74.
NC 130 and NC 410 are classified as rural major collectors in the North Carolina
Statewide Functional Classification System.
The proposed project is located in a rural area of Columbus County,
approximately 2.0 miles north of the town of Chadbourn.. Land use within the study area
is a mixture of residential and agricultural uses interspersed with natural, forestland.
At the intersection, US 74 is a four-lane, median divided facility with two 12-foot
travel lanes in each travel direction with 4-foot paved shoulders along the outside of the
travel ways. In the median, there is a 2-foot paved shoulder along the eastbound lanes
and a 4-foot paved shoulder along the west bound lanes. The grassed median is 46 feet in
width. The intersection is signalized.
North of US 74,NC 410 is a two-lane roadway with 24 feet of pavement with 6-
foot grassed shoulders. South of US 74, NC 130-410 is a two-lane roadway with 21 feet
of pavement and variable width grassed shoulders.
The existing traffic volumes along US 74 range from 7,200 vehicles per day (vpd)
to 8,200 vpd. By the year 2025, the traffic volumes along US 74 are projected to range
from 24,700 vpd to 26,700 vpd (see Figure 2). The projected traffic volumes assume the
proposed I-74 is in place at that time.
The existing traffic volumes along NC 130-410 range from 2,500 vpd to 3,500
vpd. By the year 2025, these traffic volumes are projected to range from 4,800 vpd to
6,800 vpd.
V. RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE
The recommended improvements consist of converting the existing at-grade
intersection to a modified diamond interchange. Ramps are proposed in the southwest
and southeast quadrants of the interchange, and a ramp and loop are proposed in the
northwest quadrant of the interchange. NC 410 will be carried over US 74 by a bridge
approximately ' )56 feet in length with a clear roadway width of 30 feet (see Figure 3).
NC 410 will be widened to 24 feet of pavement through the interchange area
except for the approaches to the intersections of the ramps and loops. At the intersection
of the ramp and loop (northwest quadrant) north of US 74, the northern approach wili be
widened to 36 feet of pavement, which will provide for two travel lanes and a separate
left turn lane for traffic turning onto SR 1572 (Klondyke Road). The southern approach
will be widened to 48 feet of pavement which will provide for two travel lanes and a left
turn lane for traffic turning onto the westbound entrance ramp to US 74 and a right turn
lane for traffic turning onto SR 1572.
At the intersection of the ramps south of US 74, the northern approach on NC 410
will be widened to 36 feet of pavement to provide for two travel lanes and a left turn lane
for traffic turning onto the eastbound entrance ramp to US 74. The southern approach to
this intersection will provide 24 feet of pavement.
The construction of the interchange will be contained primarily within the
existing US 74 right of way. Due to the grade change along NC 410, small amounts of
additional right or way will be required along NC 410 north of the interchange and along
NC 130-410 south of the interchange to tie the new roadway to the existing roadway.
VI. ESTIMATED COST
The estimated cost of this project is $5,900,000.
VII. TRAFFIC DETOUR
Traffic along US 74 will be maintained on-site during the construction of the
interchange.
The construction of the bridge to carry NC 410 over US 74 will require
substantial changes in the grade for NC 130-410 in the vicinity of the existing
intersection. The following phased plan is proposed for detouring NC 410 traffic during
the construction of the interchange and is subject to modification during the final design
of the project:
Phase 1:
This phase consists of the construction of a temporary, on-site, at-grade detour to
the west of the existing intersection to handle NC 410 traffic. This will allow the
construction of the minimum fill faces and approach embankments for the bridge over
US 74.
Phase 2:
The on-site detour will be closed, and traffic will be diverted off-site to Detour 1
which utilizes SR 1536, SR 1534, SR 1572, SR 1562, and US 76 (see Figure 4). This
will allow for the construction and grade changes along NC410 at the SR 1572
Phase 3:
After the construction at the NC 410 - SR 1572 intersection is completed, the
traffic will be detoured along the Detour 2 route.N-hich utilizes SR 1572, SR 1562, and
US 76 (see Figure 5). This detour will be used while the tie-ins for the ramps and loops
are completed. The length of this detour is approximately 5.4 miles.
VIII. NATURAL RESOURCES
A. Water Resources
Two unnamed tributaries to Dunn Swamp are present within the project area.
Both of these tributaries are severely channelized.
One of these streams crosses US 74 near the western project terminus. The
physical characteristics of this tributary (as observed in August 1998) include a channel
width of approximately twelve (12) to fifteen (15) feet and a channel depth of
approximately six (6) feet. The baseflow was observed to be approximately twelve (12)
feet wide and two (2) feet deep. The substrate was composed of sand and silt.
The second tributary crosses US 74 near the eastern terminus. The physical
characteristics of this stream include a channel width of approximately twenty (20) feet
and a channel depth of approximately six (6) feet. The baseflow was observed to be
approximately seven (7) feet wide and one-half (0.5) foot deep. The substrate was
composed of sand and silt. The best usage classificatio for mp?? ch is i /the Lumber River f;
basin, is C Sw. Waters classified' ar ose waters sui? ble for a uatic-life.---
propagation and survival, ing, t i e, secondary recreation, and agriculture: The
supplemental classificat' n S enotes swamp waters, which are waters that have low
velocities and other nat characteristics that are different from adjacent streams.
B. Federally-Protected Species
As of December 20, 1999, the US Fish and Wildlife Service listed the following
federally-protected species for Columbus County:
Acipenser brevirostrum shortnose sturgeon Endangered
Menidia extensa Waccamaw silverside Threatened
Picoides borealis red-cockaded woodpecker Endangered
Lysimachia asoerulefolia roueh-leaved loosestrife Endangered
Thalictrum cooleyi Cooley's meadowrue Endangered
The project area was surveyed for federally-protected species in conjunction with
the widening of US 74 in August 1991 (red-cockaded woodpecker) and in June 1996 (all
federally-protected species for Columbus County). Additional field surveys for
federally-protected species were conducted in the project area in September 1998 by a
NCDOT staff biologist.
5
Shortnose sturgeon - The shortnose sturgeon is a small species of fish, which occurs in
the lower sections of large rivers and in coastal marine habitats. The shortnose sturgeon
prefers deep channels with salinity less than salt water. It feeds on invertebrates and
plant material and is most active at night.
This species requires large fresh water rivers that are unobstructed by dams or
pollutants to reproduce successfully. It is an anadromous species that spawns upstream in
the spring and spends most of its life within proximity of the river's mouth. At least two
entirely fresh water populations have been recorded in South Carolina and Massachusetts.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Suitable habitat in the form of large rivers is not present within the project area.
The two unnamed tributaries to Deep Swamp are not of sufficient size to support the
shortnose sturgeon, and they have a tendency to dry out during the summer months. The
NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats was
reviewed and contained no records of the shortnose sturgeon within three miles of the
project area. Therefore, it can be concluded the project construction will not affect the
shortnose sturgeon.
Waccamaw'silverside - The Waccamaw silverside is a small, slender, nearly transparent
fish with a slivery stripe on its side. It has large eyes and a jaw that is sharply angled
upwards. The body is laterally compressed. This fish is also commonly called the
"skipjack" or the "glass minnow".
The Waccamaw silverside is found only in Lake Waccamaw and Big Creek from
its mouth 0.4 miles upstream to where SR 1947 crosses the creek. The upper Waccamaw
River in Columbus County serves as a habitat for the Waccamaw silverside during times
of high water. The required habitats for the Waccamaw silverside to survive are high
quality, neutral pH water with a clean, sandy substrate. Waccamaw silversides inhabit
the surface of shallow, dark bottomed areas. Spawning occurs in April through June and
peaks when the water temperatures reach 68-72 degrees. The major threats to the
Waccamaw silverside are not from the taking of the species but from activities that affect
water quality and substrate quality through nutrient loading, siltation, or a change in
temperature.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
The project area surface waters drain to Dunn Swamp, which is a tributary of the
Lumber River. These surface waters are not contained within the Lake WaccamawBig
Creek drainage area and are well outside the known occurrences of the species. The NHP
database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and contained no records of
the Waccamaw silverside within three miles of the project area. Therefore, it can be
concluded the project construction will not affect the Waccamaw silverside.
Red-cockaded woodpecker - The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has a
plumage that is entirely black and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the
6
nape of the male. The back of the RCW is black and white with horizontal stripes. The
breast and underside of this woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The RCW has a
large white cheek patch surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat.
The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf
pine (Pinus alb ustris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at
least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be
appropriate habitat for the RCW. The bird nests exclusively in trees that are greater than
60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging
range of the RCW is up to 500 acres. This acreage must be contiguous with suitable
nesting sites.
These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that
are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in
colonies from 12-100 feet above the ground and average 30-50 feet high. They can be
identified by a large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the tree. The RCW lays
eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38 days later.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Forested communities within the project area are primarily composed of
hardwoods with scattered loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) present. The understory in all the
forested communities is thick and dominated by hardwood shrubs and saplings.
Consequently, no habitat for the RCW is present within the project area. Previous
surveys for the RCW within the project area rendered biological conclusions of no effect.
The NHP database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and contained no
records of the RCW within three miles of the project area. Therefore, it can be concluded
the project construction will not affect the RCW.
Rough-leaved loosestrife - The rough-leaved loosestrife is a perennial herb having
slender stems and whorled leaves. This herb has showy yellow flowers, which usually
occur in threes or fours. Fruits are present from July through October.
The rough-leaved loosestrife is endemic to the coastal plain and sandhills of North
and South Carolina. This species occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine
uplands and pond pine pocosins (areas of dense shrub and vine growth usually on a wet,
peat, poorly drained soil), on moist to seasonally saturated sands, and on shallow organic
soils overlaying sand. It has also been found to occur on deep peat in the low shrub
community of large Carolina bays (shallow, elliptical, poorly drained depressions of
unknown origin). The areas it occurs in are fire maintained. The rough-leaved
loosestrife rarely occurs in association with hardwood stands and prefers acidic soils.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Habitat for the rough-leaved loosestrife is present within the project area along
ditch banks and long edges of project area wetlands. Plant by plant surveys were
conducted in September 1998 by a NCDOT biologist. No rough-leaved loosestrife was
7
observed during the surveys. The NHP database of rare species and unique habitats was
reviewed and contained no records of rough-leaved loosestrife within three miles of the
project area. Therefore, it can be concluded the project construction will not affect the
rough-leaved loosestrife.
Cooley's meadowrue - Cooley's meadowrue is a rhizomatous perennial plant with stems
that grow to one meter in length. Stems are usually erect in direct sunlight but are lax or
may lean on other plants or trial along the ground in shady areas. Leaves are usually
narrowly lanceolate and unlobed, some two or three lobed leaves can be seen. The
flowers lack petals. Fruits mature from August to September.
Cooley's meadowrue occurs in moist to wet bogs, savannas and savanna-like
openings, sandy roadsides, rights of ways, and old clearcuts. This plant is dependent on
some form of disturbance to maintain its habitat. All known populations are on
circumneutral, poorly drained, moderately permeable soils of the Grifton series.
Cooley's meadowrue only grows well in areas with full sunlight.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Habitat for Cooley's meadowrue is present within the project area along ditch
banks. Plant by plant surveys for Cooley's meadowrue were conducted in September
1998 by a NCDOT staff biologist. No Cooley's meadowrue was observed during the
surveys. The NHP database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and
contained no records of Cooley's meadowrue within three miles of the project area.
Therefore, it can be concluded the project construction will not affect Cooley's
meadowrue.
C. Wetlands
The jurisdictional wetlands for this project were delineated in September 1998
and field verified by the Corps of Engineers in November 1998. Approximately 2.6 acres
of jurisdictional wetlands will be impacted by the construction of the proposed
interchange. These wetlands are comprised of mixed pine hardwood and inundated
scrub-shrub communities.
It is anticipated the mitigation of the wetland impacts will be provided at the
Juniper Bay mitigation site in Robeson County. The NCDOT currently has an option to
purchase this property with the acquisition scheduled for February 2000. The
development of a mitigation plan for the site is in progress.
IX. CULTURAL RESOURCES
This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1996, as amended, implemented by the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part
800. Section 106 requires that for all federally funded, licensed, or permitted projects,
having an effect on properties listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic

Places, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation must be given an opportunity to
comment.
In 1994, the Area of Potential Effect (APE) for the widening of US 74 was
surveyed for historic architectural resources. No properties either listed in or eligible for
listing in the National Resister of Historic Places were identified within the APE (see
attached letter). Therefore, this project will have no effect on historic architectural
resources.
In 1978, the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) reviewed the widening of
US 74 and reported there were no known or recorded archaeological sites in the area, and
the probability of the presence of significant archaeological sites was low. The
previously disturbed nature of the existing right of way was cited as the basis for this
opinion. In 1990, a reconnaissance survey for archaeological resources for the widening
of US 74 was completed. As reported by the SHPO, the right of way exhibited very little
potential for any surviving archaeological sites of significance. In 1995, the SHPO
concurred the widening of US 74 would not involve or affect anv archaeological
resources eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (see attached letter).
X. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The project is expected to have an overall positive impact by converting a
hazardous at-grade intersection to an interchange. There will be some minor
inconvenience to motorists during construction due to the temporary detour for NC 410
traffic.
Based on its limited scope and insignificant environmental consequences, the
project is considered a Federal "Categorical Exclusion"
The project will not have an adverse effect ort the quality of the human or natural
environment with the use of current NCDOT standards and specifications.
The project is not in conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning
regulations. No significant changes in existing land uses are expected to result from this
project.
No adverse impact on families or communities is anticipated. No relocatees are
expected due to the construction of this project.
No adverse effect to public facilities or services is anticipated. The project is not
expected to adversely affect social, economic. or religious opportunities in the area.
There are no publicly owned parks, recreational facilities, or wildlife and
waterfowl refuges of national, state, or local significance in the vicinity of the project.
Since the project consists of converting an at-grade intersection to an interchange
within existing right of way, the Farmland Protection Policy Act does not apply.
9
This is an air quality "neutral" project, therefore, it is not required to be included
in the regional emissions analysis. and a project level CO analysis is not required.
Noise levels could increase during construction, but they will be of a temporary
nature. If vegetation is disposed of by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance
with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina State implementation
Plan (SIP) for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. This evaluation
completes the assessment requirements of highway traffic noise of Title 23, Code of
Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 772 and for air quality (1990 Clean Air Act
Amendments and the National Environmental Policy Act), and no additional reports are
required.
On the basis of the above discussion, it is concluded that no significant adverse
environmental effects will result from the implementation of this project.
10
410
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21
130 NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
'to !?,?? TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
_24A 2245 _ MeF? PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL '
BRANCH
t
?l n US 74
o FROM EAST OF NC 41
TO US 76
i
ROBESON - COLUMBUS COUNTIES
R - 2558
•Q.
\ 0 mile 1 mile 2
FIG. 1
1998 ESTIMATED ADT
No Build
NC 410
2500
N
PM
8200 1 300 OG (3 7f f0
US 74/ X US 74
NC 130 1300 00 7200 To -go
Whiteville
3500 ;a.7;,
a
NC 130/410
199812025 ESTIMATED ADT
with Proposed 1-74 in Place
NC 410
Proposed 14,200
1-741 26,700
US 74/NC 130
00
25
X-
to
4800 ;
u
0
Statewide Planning Branch
Division of Highways
North Carolina Department of Transportation
TIP Project R-2558DA
Columbus County US 74
Legend DHV - Design Hourly Volume Percentage
D ¦ Directional Split Percentage
DHV M- D FM ¦ Peak Hour & Direction of Peak Flow
(D. T) D ¦ Dual Truck Percentage
T • TTST Percentage
Note: If DHV and D are not shown, they are the same as the opposing ISO.
September, 199810. Norris Not To Scale Sheet 1 of 1
100
Boo Z-)
1XIM /?
!t? 7
1dDQ
800.
1>?
100
l?
?.
,zoQ-! (;zav
700
,zoo
PM
55?-f2 Proposed
(5115) 1-74/
12,900 US 74
24,700
To
Whiteville
3500 g
6800
a
0
NC 1301410
FIGURE 2
, MID
(7)
FIGURE 3
W ? ? a
v
1534
1552
DETOUR 1
1005
1572
.10 O 1562 °
4
• S
74 1559
• , -' 1561
1573 40 1. 3
•
1581 r"
• LCD 15:?r
W 1564 -
i 1576
CIO ?0 -
? -
528.100-1;
N 1582
158)
562 tS? ?
40 N
1574
1 TRAFFIC DETOUR
1 , PHASE 2 i
C) FIGURE 4
;Oooo"

.

°

.
1

N ° -

2
e °
,? ° ?A. ? 559 °s

DETOUR 2
3

CIO

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5
N

TRAFFIC DETOUR
PHASE -3)
?? FIGURE 5

North Carolina Department of Cultural
James B: Hunt, Jr.. Governor
Betty Ray W.Cain, SecretvY
June 23, 1994
Nicholas L. Graf
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
Department of Transportation
310 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442
Re: US 74 from NC 41 to US 76, Columbus and Robeson
Counties, R-2558, NHF-74(7), ER 94-8883
Dear Mr. Graf:
-: JUN 2 U
21?101 OIVISICq OF Q?
H1GHW AYS?(Py
Division of " orY
William S. Price, Jr-Director
Thank you for your letter of May 9, 1.994, concerning the above project. We apologize for
the delay in our response.
We have reviewed the historic architectural resources survey report prepared by Kitty
Houston, architectural historian for the North Carolina Department- of.Transportation
(NCDOT). Based upon the information provided, we concur with the Federal Highway
Administration's (FHwA) determination that Gaging Station 2-1345 on the Lumber River is
not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places since it has little historical or
architectural significance.
As discussed during the February 10, 1994 meeting between -NCDOT and Historic
Preservation Office representatives, we agree that the four other properties over fifty years
of age--Houses "A," "B," and "D" and Barn "D"-do not appear eligible for the National
Register. Thus, we concur with FHwA's determination that no National Register-listed or
eligible properties are located in the project's area of potential effect.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations
for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the
above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at
919/733-4763.
S' cerely,
?y
a rook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
DB:slw /
cc: H. F. Vick
B. Church
A-11
109 East Jo= Strut • Rilcigh, Narth Caroiiua 27601-2807
r`+Wts
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
lames B. Hunt. Jr.. Governor
Betty Ray McCain. Sememy
February 9, 1995
MEMORANDUM
TO: H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
Division of Highways
Department of Transportation
FROM: David Brook 4stalffic . DePutY State Preservation Officer
Division of
William
SUBJECT: US 74 from east of NC 41 near Lumberton to US 76
at Chadbourn, Robeson and Columbus Counties, TIP
R-2558, Federal-Aid NHF-74(7), State 8.T461801, ER
95-8291, ER 95-8256
Thank you for your memorandum of January 23, 1995, concerning the above
project. We have reviewed the reevaluation for the project and determined that no
properties within the area of potential effect are on or eligible for listing in the
National Register of Historic Places.
We have also received from the Federal Highway Administration by letter of
January 26, 1995, an archaeological survey report entitled "Archaeological Survey
Report Widening of US 74 (Bridge Replacement) at the Lumber River, Columbus
and Robeson Counties, North Carolina, TIP R-2558," by John J. Mintz. Since no
archaeological sites were discovered during the survey, the project will not involve
or affect resources eligible for the National Register. We have no further
comments concerning this project.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's
Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions
concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley,
environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763.
DB:slw
cc: Nicholas L. Graf
B. Church
T. Padgett
J. Mintz
i
`r-r
109 East Jones Street - Raleigb. North Carolina 2760I-2SO"
ew ANI? '?
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID MCCOY
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
18 October 1999
MEMORANDUM TO: Gail Grimes, P. E., Unit Head
Consultant Engineering Unit
FROM: Bruce O. Ellis, CLM, PWS, Natural Systems Specialist
Natural Systems Unit
SUBJECT: Federally Protected Species Surveys for Proposed
Interchange at US 74 and NC 130-410 in Columbus County,
TIP No. R-2558DA, State Project No. 8.T461801, Federal
Aid No. MA-NHF-74(7).
ATTENTION: Ron Elmore, P.E., Project Manager
Consultant Engineering Unit
REFERENCES: 1. Addendum to the Natural Resources Technical Report,
NCDOT, 8 October 1991.
2. Updated Protected Species Report, NCDOT, 28 June
1996.
The following memorandum provides information on water resources and federally
protected species issues for the proposed project. The proposed project involves
construction of an interchange at US 74 and NC 130-410 in Columbus County.
Water Resources
Two unnamed tributaries to Dunn Swamp (index no. 14-27-4) are present within
the project area. One of the unnamed tributaries is located near the western project
terminus. The physical characteristics of this tributary as observed on 18 August 1998
include a channel width of 3 ).6-4.6 m (12.0 -15.0 ft), and a channel depth of approximately
1.8 m (6.0 ft). Baseflow was observed to be 3.7 m (12.0 ft) wide and 0.6 m (2.0 ft) deep.
The substrate was composed of sand and silt.
The second unnamed tributary to Dunn Swamp is located near the eastern project
terminus. The physical characteristics of this tributary as observed on 18 August1998
include a channel width of 6.2 m (20.0 ft), channel depth of 1.8 m (6.0 ft), baseflow width
of 2.1 m (7.0 ft), and baseflow depth of 0.2 m (0.5 ft). The substrate is composed of sand
and silt.
2
Both unnamed tributaries to Dunn Swamp are severely channelized within the
project area. On 23 September 1998 the western tributary had a reduced water depth to 0.2
in (0.5 ft) and the eastern unnamed tributary contained no water.
The Best Usage Classification for Dunn Swamp is C Sw. Waters classified as C
are those waters "suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife,
secondary recreation, and agriculture." The supplemental classification Sw denotes swamp
waters, which are "waters that have low velocities and other natural characteristics, which
are different from adjacent streams."
Federally-Protected Species
Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T),
Proposed Endangered (PE) and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions
of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of 14
May 1999, the FWS lists the following federally-protected species for Columbus County
(Table 1). A brief description of each species' characteristics and habitat follows.
Table 1: Federally Protected Species for Columbus County
Scientific Name Common Name Status
Acipenser brevirostrum short nosed sturgeon Endangered
Menidia extensa Waccamaw silverside Threatened
Picoides borealis red-cockaded woodpecker Endangered
Lysimachia asperulaefolia rough-leaved loosestrife Endangered
Thalictrum cooleyi Cooley's meadowrue Endangered
Threatened species are species that are likely to become endangered within the
foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
z Endangered is defined as a species that is threatened with extinction throughout all or
a significant portion of its range.
The project area for the proposed interchange at US 74 and NC 130-410 lies
within the existing right-of-way (ROW). As such, the project area was surveyed'for
federally protected species, in conjunction with the widening of US 74 (TIP no. R-2258),
on 13-15 August 1991 (red-cockaded woodpecker) and 17-21 June 1996 (all federally-
protected species for Columbus County).
Additional surveys for federally-protected species were conducted within the
project study area on 03, 09, 23 September 1998 by NCDOT biologist Bruce Ellis. On
these dates jurisdictional wetland delineations were also performed. Wetland lines were
inspected and verified on 17 November 1998 by US Army Corps of Engineers inspector
Mr. David Timpy.
Acipenser brevirostrum (short-nosed sturgeon) Endangered
Animal Family: Acipenseridae
Date Listed: 11 March 1967
The short-nosed sturgeon is a small species of fish, which occurs in the lower
sections of large rivers and in coastal marine habitats. The short-nosed sturgeon prefers
deep channels with salinity less than seawater. It feeds on invertebrates and plant material
and is most active at night.
The short-nosed sturgeon requires large fresh water rivers that are unobstructed by
dams or pollutants to reproduce successfully. It is an anadromous species that spawns
upstream in the spring and spends most of its life within proximity of the river's mouth.
At least two entirely freshwater populations have been recorded, in South Carolina and
Massachusetts.
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Suitable habitat in the form of large rivers is not present within the project area.
The two unnamed tributaries to Dunn Swamp are not of sufficient size to support the
short-nosed sturgeon, and they have a tendency to dry out during the summer months.
The NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats
was reviewed and contained no records of the short-nosed sturgeon within three miles of
the project area. Therefore, it can be concluded that project construction will not affect
the short-nosed sturgeon.
Menidia extensa (Waccamaw silverside) Threatened
Animal Family: Atherindae
Date Listed: 4/8/87
The Waccamaw silverside is a small, slender, nearly transparent fish with a
silvery stripe on its side. It has large eyes and a jaw that is sharply angled upwards. The
body is laterally compressed. This fish is also commonly called the "skipjack" or the
"glass minnow".
The Waccamaw silverside is found only in Lake Waccamaw and Big Creek from its
mouth 0.4 miles upstream to where county road 1947 crosses the creek. The upper
Waccamaw River in Columbus County serves as a habitat for the Waccamaw silverside
during times of high water. The required habitats for the Waccamaw silverside to survive
are high quality, neutral pH water with a clean sandy substrate. Waccamaw silversides
inhabit the surface over shallow, dark bottomed areas. Spawning occurs in April through
June and peaks when water temperatures reach 68-72 degrees. The major threats to the
Waccamaw silverside are not from the taking of species, but from activities that affect
water.quality and substrate quality through nutrient loading, siltation, or a change in
temperature.
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Project area surface waters drain to Dunn Swamp, which is a tributary to the
Lumber River. Project area surface waters are not contained within the Lake
Waccamaw/Big Creek drainage area and are well outside the known occurrences of the
Waccamaw silverside. The NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species
and unique habitats was reviewed and contained no records of the Waccamaw silverside
within three miles of the project area. Therefore, it can be concluded that project
construction will not affect the Waccamaw silverside.
4
Picoides borealis (red-cockaded woodpecker) Endangered
Animal Family: Picidae
Date Listed: 10/13/70
The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has a plumage that is entirely black
and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the nape in the male. The back of
the RCW is black and white with horizontal stripes. The breast and underside of this
woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The RCW has a large white cheek patch
surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat.
The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf
pine (Pinus palustris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at
least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be
appropriate habitat for the RCW. These birds nest exclusively in trees that are >60 years
old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the
RCW is up to 200 hectares (500 acres). This acreage must be contiguous with suitable
nesting sites.
These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that
are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in
colonies from 3.6-30.3 m (12-100 ft) above the ground and average 9.1- 15.7 m (30-50 ft)
high. They can be identified by a large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the
tree. The RCW lays its eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38
days later.
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Forested communities within the project area are primarily composed of
hardwoods with scattered loblolly pine (Pinus Taeda) present. The understory in all the
forested communities is thick and dominated by hardwood shrubs and saplings.
Consequently, no habitat for the red-cockaded woodpecker is present within the project
area. Previous surveys for the red-cockaded woodpecker within the project area
(References 1 and 2) rendered biological conclusions of no effect. The NC Natural
Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and
contained no records of the red-cockaded woodpecker within three miles of the project
area. Therefore, it can be concluded that project construction will not affect the red-
cockaded woodpecker.
5
Lysimachia asperulaefolia (rough-leaved loosestrife) Endangered
Plant Family: Primulaceae
Federally Listed: 12 June 1987
Flowers Present: June
Rough-leaved loosestrife is a perennial herb having slender stems and whorled
leaves. This herb has showy yellow flowers which usually occur in threes or fours.
Fruits are present from July through October.
Rough-leaved loosestrife is endemic to the coastal plain and sandhills of North
and South Carolina. This species occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine
uplands and pond pine pocosins (areas of dense shrub and vine growth usually on a wet,
peat, poorly drained soil), on moist to seasonally saturated sands and on shallow organic
soils overlaying sand. It has also been found to occur on deep peat in the low shrub
community of large Carolina bays (shallow, elliptical, poorly drained depressions of
unknown origins). The areas it occurs in are fire maintained. Rough-leaved loosestrife
rarely occurs in association with hardwood stands and prefers acidic soils.
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Habitat for rough-leaved loosestrife is present within the project area along ditch
banks and along edges of project area wetlands. Plant by plant surveys for rough-leaved
loosestrife were conducted on 03, 09, 23 September 1998 by NCDOT biologist Bruce
Ellis. No rough-leaved loosestrife was observed during the surveys. The NC Natural
Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and
contained no records of rough-leaved loosestrife within three miles of the project area.
Therefore, it can be concluded that project construction will not affect rough-leaved
loosestrife.
Thalictrum cooleyi (Cooley's meadowrue) Endangered
Plant Family: Ranunculaceae
Federally Listed: 07 February 1989
Flowers Present: late June-July (best mid July)
Cooley's meadowrue is a rhizomatous perennial plant with stems that grow to one
meter in length. Stems are usually erect in direct sunlight but are lax and may lean on
other plants or trail along the ground in shady areas. Leaves are usually narrowly
lanceolate and unlobed, some two or three lobed leaves can be seen. The flowers lack
petals. Fruits mature from August to September.
Cooley's meadowrue occurs in moist to wet bogs, savannas and savanna-like
openings, sandy roadsides, rights-of-ways, and old clearcuts. This plant is dependent on
some form of disturbance to maintain its habitat. All known populations are on
circumneutral, poorly drained, moderately permeable soils of the Grifton series. Cooley's
meadowrue only grows well in areas with full sunlight.

6
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Habitat for Cooley's meadowrue is present within the project area along ditch
banks. Plant by plant surveys for rough-leaved loosestrife were conducted on 03, 09, 23
September 1998 by NCDOT biologist Bruce Ellis. No Cooley's meadowrue was
observed during the surveys. The NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare
species and unique habitats was reviewed and contained no records Cooley's meadowrue
within three miles of the project area. Therefore, it can be concluded that project
construction will not affect Cooley's meadowrue.
Please contact me at 733-1203, if you have any questions or if you need
additional information.
Cc: Phil Harris, P.E., Natural Systems Unit Head
File: R-2258DA

PAYMENT ? .000677
RECEIVED
.??:?..
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID MCCOY
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
28 April 2000
US Army Corps of Engineers
Wilmington Regulatory Field Office
PO Box 1890 MAY 2 2 2Q00
Wilmington, NC 28402-1890
ATTENTION: Mr. David Timpy l?lA E U?-Ds S®cP
NCDOT Coordinator
Dear Sir:
Subject: Categorical Exclusion for Columbus County, conversion of a signalized
intersection at US 74 and NC 130-410 to an interchange. Federal Aid Project No.
MA-NHF-74(7), State Project No. 8.T461801,
T.I.P. No. R-2558 DA. Action I.D. 199501106.
Please find the attached Categorical Exclusion Action Classification Form for the subject
project. On August 15, 1996, your office issued an Individual Permit for the widening of US 74
from NC 41 in Robeson County to US Highway 76 in Columbus County (Action I.D.
199501106). Due to a high number of accidents and fatalities at the intersection of US 74 and
NC 130-410, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to convert
this signalized intersection to an interchange. The interchange will be a modified diamond
interchange with a ramp and loop in the northwest quadrant of the intersection and ramps in the
southwest and southeast quadrants. The interchange will be constructed primarily within the
existing right of way. However, due to the grade change along NC 410, small amounts of
additional right of way will be required along NC 410 north of the interchange and along NC
130-410 south of the interchange to tie the new roadway to the existing roadway.
Wetlands
Bruce Ellis, NCDOT Natural Systems Unit Head, conducted general field surveys of the
project study area associated with this interchange on 18 August 1998 and 03, 09, 23 September
1998. 'Jurisdictional wetland boundaries were verified by Mr. David Timpy on 06 January 1999.
NCDOT estimates wetland impacts associated with this project total-3 .81 acres (2.62 acres of fill

in wetlands, 0.28 acres of excavation in wetlands and 0.91 acres of Mechanized Clearing -
Method I11). Impacted wetlands are described below. I Ilk, qV
BE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat `i a3
Wetland BE is dominated by three canopy species: red maple (Acer rubrum), red bay (Persea
borbonia) and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua). The shrub layer is dominated by coast
pepper bush (Clethra alnifolia), titi (Cyrilla racemiflora) and fetter bush (Lyonia lucida). The
wetland contains oxidized root channels in the upper 12 inches and passed the FAC neutral test.
Hydric soils had a matrix of 1OYR 2/2 from 0-3 inches deep and IOYR 4/1 from 3-12 inches
deep. No mottles were noted. This wetland received a DWQ rating of 12.
CE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
Wetland CE is dominated by canopy species such as: red maple (Acer rubrum), red bay (Persea
borbonia), Virginia bay (Magnolia virginiana), water oak (Quercus nigra) and loblolly pine
(Pinus taeda). The shrub layer contains young representatives of the canopy species as well as
coast pepper bush (Clethra alnifolia), titi (Cyrilla racemiflora) and bay-gall holly (Ilex
coriacea). Signs of wetland hydrology include oxidized root channels in the upper 12 inches,
buttressed tree trunks and shallow roots. This wetland passed the FAC neutral test. Hydric soils
had a matrix of 10YR 3/1 from 0-12+ inches deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a
silty texture. This wetland received a DWQ rating of 20.
FE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
This wetland is dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and black
gum (Nyssa sylvatica). The shrub layer contains young representatives of the canopy species as
well as fetter bush (Lyonia lucida) and titi (Cyrilla racemiflora). Signs of wetland hydrology
include saturation in the upper 12 inches. Hydric soils had a matrix of l OYR 2/1 from 0-3 inches
deep and IOYR 4/1 from 3-12+ inches deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a sandy-silt
texture. This wetland received a DWQ rating of 28.
JE - Scrub-Shrub Wetland, inundated
Wetland JE is dominated by canopy species such as: loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and black gum
(Nyssa sylvatica). The shrub layer contains young representatives of the canopy species as well
as titi (Cyrilla racemiflora), red maple (Acer rubrum),wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera) and coast
pepper bush (Clethra alnifolia). Signs of wetland hydrology includes innundation with water 6-
12 inches deep and saturation in the upper 12 inches. Hydric soils had a matrix of 10YR 3/1
from 0-12+ inches deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a silty texture. This wetland
received a DWQ rating of 40.
KE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
Wetland KE is dominated by canopy species such as: loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and red maple
(Acer rubrum). The shrub layer contains young representatives of red maple as well as titi
(Cyrilla racemiflora), ink-berry (Ilex glabra) and wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera). Signs of
wetland hydrology include saturation in the upper 12 inches. Hydric soils had a matrix of l OYR
3/1 from 0-5 and IOYR 4/15-12+ inches deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a sandy-
silt texture. This wetland received a DWQ rating of 35.
1
IE - Mixed Pine Hardwood Flat
This wetland is dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), black gum
(Nyssa sylvatica) and water oak (Quercus nigra). The shrub layer contains young representatives
of the canopy species as well as coast pepper bush (Clethra alnifolia) and titi (Cyrilla
racemiflora). The herb layer contains giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea) and cinnamon fern
(Osmunda cinnamomea). Signs of wetland hydrology include saturation in the upper 12 inches.
Hydric soils had a matrix of IOYR 2/1 from 0-3 inches deep and IOYR 4/1 from 3-12+ inches
deep. No mottles were noted and the soil had a sandy-silt texture. This wetland received a
DWQ rating of 16.
Wetland Mitigation
NCDOT proposes to mitigate for impacts to wetlands by using the Juniper Bay Wetland
Mitigation Site. The Juniper Bay site was purchased by NCDOT in January 2000 and consists of
approximately 750 acres. The site is mostly former Carolina Bay that has been ditched and used
for agriculture. NCDOT proposes to restore hydrology and vegetation to the site that is typical
of Carolina Bays. We anticipate the wetland mitigation site plan to be completed by Summer
2000. Wetland impacts associated with this project include 2.62 acres of fill in wetlands, 0.28
acres of excavation in wetlands and 0.91 acres of Mechanized Clearing (Method III) for a total of
3.81 acres. NCDOT proposes to debit 7.62 wetland credits from Juniper Bay Mitigation Site to
offset 3.81 acres of impacts associated with R-2558 DA.
Protected Species
The project area for the proposed interchange lies completely within the original project
limits and existing right of way. The project study area was surveyed for federally protected
species during the original natural resources field work. In addition, Bruce Ellis, NCDOT
Natural Systems Unit Head, surveyed the portion of the project area associated with this
interchange again on 03, 09, 23 September 1998. The biological conclusions for all protected
species remain No Effect.
NCDOT requests that the USACE authorize this additional work in Columbus County
under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit 23. The issuance of a Section 401 Water Quality
Certification by the N.C. Division of Water Quality is also requested. If you have any questions
or need additional information about this project, please contact Mr. Dale Suiter at (919) 733-
1142 or [e-mail].
Sin
V4 cerely, J-4s,14-
William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch
cc: Mr. David Franklin, Corps of Engineers, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, Division of Water Quality
Mr. David Cox, NCWRC
Mr. Timothy V. Roundtree, P.E., Structure Design
Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design
I
Mr. Calvin Leggett, P.E. Program Development
Mr. Deborah Barbour, P.E., Highway Design
Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit
Mr. Terry R Gibson, P.E.. Division 6 Engineer
Mr. R.B. Davis., P.E., PD&EA Consultant Engineering Unit Head
WDG/dws
kporting ourden for this collection of information is estimated to average 5 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions,
.rching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send
.mments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to
Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Service Directorate of InformationOperations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite
1204, Arlington, VA 22202-4302: and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project (0710-0003), Washington, DC
20503. Please DO NO RETURN your form to either of those addresses. Completed applications must be submitted to the District Engineer having
jurisdiction over the location of the proposed activity.
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
Authority: 33 USC 401, Section 10, 1413, Section 404. Principal Purpose: These laws require permits authorizing activities in, or affecting,
navigable waters of the United States, the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, and the transportation of dredged
material for the purpose of dumping it into ocean waters. Routine Uses: Information provided on this form will be used in evaluating the application
for a permit. Disclosure: Disclosure of requested information is voluntary. If information is not provided, however, the permit application cannot be
processed nor can a permit be issued.
One set of original drawings or good reproducible copies which show the location and character of the proposed activity must be attached to this
application (see sample drawings and instructions) and be submitted to the District Engineer having jurisdiction over the location of the proposed
activity. An application that is not completed in full will be returned.
1. APPLICATION NO. 12. FIELD OFFICE CODE 3. DATE RECEIVED 4. DATE APPLICATION COMPLETE
tITFMS BFL OW Tn RF F11 L FL) RY APPLICANTI
5. APPLICANT'S NAME 8. AUTHORIZED AGENT'S NAME AND TITLE ton agent is not required!
6. APPLICANT'S ADDRESS 9. AGENT'S ADDRESS
7. APPLICANT'S PHONE NOS. W /AREA CODE 10. AGENT'S PHONE NOS. W/AREA CODE
a. Residence
b. Business a. Residence
b. Business
11. STATEMENT OF AUTHORIZATION
1 hereby authorize, to act in my behalf as my agent in the processing of this application and tc
furnish, upon request, supplemental information in support of this permit application.
APPLICANT'S SIGNATURE DATE
NAME, LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT OR ACTIVITY
12. PROJECT NAME OR TITLE (see instructions)
K- 255 $ z-A

13. NAME OF WATERBODY, IF KNOWN tit spoceoiei
15. LOCATION OF PROJECT
coz-vMgvS Pc
COUNTY STATE
14. PROJECT STREET ADDRESS at epp/iceore!
16. OTHER LOCATION DESCRIPTIONS, IF KNOWN, tseeinstrucrionsl
17. DIRECTIONS TO THE SITE

,.Ure 01 Activity IDe:Cnpnon dl projeCt. -Clude All realu,esl
19. Project Purpose 'Describe the roesson or purpose o/ the project, see instructions/
WTE AT 6e- A Z) E r v-rt FL<_ _'' ?t7??
- USE BLOCKS 20-22 IF DREDGED AND/OR FILL MATERIAL IS TO BE DISCHARGED
20. Reason(s) for Discharge
21. Type(s) of Material Being Discharged and the Amount of Each Type in Cubic Yards
22. Surface Area in Acres of Wetlands or Other Waters Filled is** instrucrionsl
?'1LL IN
WLANOS=Z,(o?cIZES
'?:IL L !M Sv?EAcE wATERS = o.5C3A<,RE-5
23. Is Any Portion of the Work Already Complete? Yes No
IF YES, DESCRIBE THE COMPLETED WORK
24. Addresses of Adjoining Property Owners, Lessees, Etc., Whose Property Adjoins the Waterbody (If more than can be entered here,
please attach a supplemental list).
A6-?- 1?c.Do7"
25. List of Other Certifications or Approvals/Denials Received from other Federal, State or Local Agencies for Work Described in This Application.
AGENCY TYPE APPROVAL' IDENTIFICATION NUMBER DATE APPLIED DATE APPROVED DATE DENIED
Would include but is not restricted to zoning, building and flood plain permits
26. Application is hereby made for a permit or permits to authorize the work described in this application. I certify that the information in this
application is complete and accurate. I further certify that I possess the authority to undertake the work described herein or am acting as the
duly authorized agent of the applicant.
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT DATE SIGNATURE OF AGENT DATE
The application must be signed by the person who desires to undertake the proposed activity (applicant) or it may be signed by a duly
authorized agent if the statement in block 11 has been filled out and signed.
18 U.S.C. Section 1001 provides that: Whoever, in any manner within the jurisdiction of any department or agency of the United States
knowingly and willfully falsifies, conceals, or covers up any trick, scheme, or disguises a material fact or makes any false, fictitious or
fraudulent statements or representations or makes or uses any false writing or document knowing same to contain any false, fictitious or
fraudulent statements or entry, shall be fined not more than $10.000 or imprisoned not more than five years or both.

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N. C. DEPT.OF TRANSPORT..TION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
COLUMBUS COUNTY
PROJECT: 8.T461801 (R-2558DA)
PROPOSED INTERCHANGE AT
US 74 AND NC 130-410
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F
. US 74
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
ADDENDUM TO
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
AND
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
Date William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, NCDOT
Date N cholas L. Graf, P.E.
Division Administrator, FHWA
US 74
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
Since the approval of the Categorical Exclusion (CE) for the above project on
February 28, 2000, additional information has been developed concerning jurisdictional
wetland impacts. The construction of this project will impact approximately 3.8 acres of
jurisdictional wetlands instead of the 2.6 acres as stated in the CE. Of the 3.8 acres of
wetlands impacted by this project, approximately 2.6 acres involve fill in wetlands, 0.3
acre involves excavation in wetlands, and 0.9 acre involves mechanized clearing
operations.
US 74
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
AND
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
t Le 00.
Date William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, NCDOT
Date icholas L. Graf, P.E.
Division Administrator, FHWA
US 74
Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NBF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.T461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
February, 2000
Documentation Prepared in Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch By:
Z?6/28oa
W. Ron Elmore, P.E.
Project Development Engineer
L. Gail r' es, P.E., Unit ead
Consultant Engineering t
Mot ?;••4
??.•_GESSfO
`SEAL'-1
14058
.'e't 0 V??••
US 74
'Proposed Interchange at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-NHF-74(7)
State Project No. 8.7461801
TIP No. R-2558DA
There are no special environmental commitments for this project.
US -4
Proposed Interchang-e at NC 130-410 Near Chadbourn
Columbus County
Federal-Aid Project No. MA-N`HF-74(")
State Project No. 8.T461 SO1
TIP No. R-2558DA
1. PROPOSED ACTION
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to convert
the signalized intersection at US 74 and NC 130-410 near Chadbourn in Columbus
County to an interchange (see Figure 1). This project is included in the NCDOT
2000-2006 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) with construction scheduled for
fiscal year 2000.
The interchange will be a modified diamond interchange with a ramp and loop in
the northwest quadrant of the intersection and ramps in the southwest and southeast
quadrants. The interchange will be constructed primarily within the existing right of
way. Due to the grade change along NC 410, small amounts of additional right or way
will be required along NC 410 north of the interchange and along NC 130-410 south of
the interchange to tie the new roadway to the existing roadway.
II. PROJECT HISTORY
1972 - US 74 from NC 41 near Lumberton (east of I-95) to US 76 near Chadboum was
constructed on new location as a two-lane roadway on right of way for an ultimate four-
lane divided freeway. Right of way was acquired to accommodate a 68-foot median and
future designated interchanges and grade separations. At the US 741NC 130-410
intersection, a modified diamond interchange consisting of a ramp and loop in the
northwest quadrant of the intersection and ramps in the southwest and southeast
quadrants was recommended for future construction.
1979 - A Draft and Final Negative Declaration (now referred to as an Environmental
Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact), which discussed the impacts of
constructing the additional two lanes for US 74 along the south side of the existing two
lanes, was approved by the NCDOT and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). A
68-foot median was recommended. Interchanges and grade separations were not
recommended for construction, however, provisions were included for temporary at-
grade intersections and median openings at designated locations. A temporary at-grade
intersection was recommended at the US 74/NC 130-410 intersection. Due to funding
shortages, the construction of this project was delayed.
1995 - A Reevaluation of the Final Negative Declaration, which discussed the impacts of
constructing the additional two lanes along US 74 and the design changes since the
a-oval of tl,a Final Ne7^r;,,-e Declaration a j appro,:-_? b%- N CDQT -n' F"W The
recommended median width was narrowed to 60 feet. Interchanges and grade
separations were not recommended for construction- however. pro?-isions were included
for temporary at-grade intersections and median openings at designated locations. .?
temporary at-,grade intersection was recommended for the US 74. NC 130-410
intersection.
November. 1996 - Construction began on the dual laning of US 74 in the vicinity of the
US 74 and NC 130-410 intersection.
August. 1997 - A traffic signal was installed at the intersection of US 74 and NC 130-410.
May. 1998 - Due to a continuing pattern of serious traffic accidents resulting in fatalities
at the intersection of US 74 and NC 130-410, the NCDOT recommended the construction
of an interchange at this location. The proposed design, a modified diamond interchange
with a ramp and a loop in the northwest quadrant of the intersection and ramps in the
southwest and southeast quadrants, is consistent with the right of way previously
acquired at this location.
. st. 1998 - Construction of the dual laning of this section of US 74 was completed.
,ku-
July. 1999 - The construction of an interchange at the intersection of US 74 and
NC 130-410 was included in the NCDOT 2000-2006 TIP.
M. NEED FOR THE PROJECT
Since 1995, numerous severe accidents have occurred at the US 74 and
NC 130-410 intersection resulting in four (4) fatalities. During the time period from
November of 1995 through August of 1997, ten (10) accidents were reported at this
intersection. One (1) of these accidents resulted in a fatality. Seven (7) of the accidents
were right angle type collisions.
A traffic signal was installed at this location in August of 1997. Since the
installation of a traffic signal in 1997, the pattern and severity of the accidents at this
location have continued. During the time period from August of 1997 through October
of 1998, twenty (20) accidents were reported. Three (3) of the accidents resulted in three
(3) fatalities. Thirteen (13) of the accidents were right angle type collisions.
Accident investigations have determined the major cause of the accidents was the
failure of motorists on US 74 to stop at the traffic signal. Measures taken to enhance the
safety and awareness of the intersection have included the addition of advance warning
signs, rumple strips, and strobe lights on the traffic signals.
Due to the pattern and severity of the accidents at this location, the intersection is
now rated in the North Carolina Highway Safety Program as the number one priority in
the state for improvements. In order to enhance the safety characteristics of this location,
the NCDOT proposes to convert this intersection to a modified diamond interchange.
This section of US 74 is also designated as part of the 1-74 corridor, a high
priority Interstate facility, in North Carolina by the Intermodal Surface Transportation
Efficiency Act of 1991 as amended by the National Highway System Designation Act of
1995. The conversion of this at-grade intersection to an interchange will contribute to the
overall effort of bringing US 74 up to Interstate design standards (i.e., access along the
Interstate system shall be fully controlled, which can be achieved by interchanges at
selected public highways).
IV. EXISTING CONDITIONS
US 74 is part of the National Highway System and is classified as a rural principal
arterial in the North Carolina Statewide Functional Classification System for highways.
As previously discussed, this section of US 74 is also the designated route for future I-74.
NC 130 and NC 410 are classified as rural major collectors in the North Carolina
Statewide Functional Classification System.
The proposed project is located in a rural area of Columbus County,
approximately 2.0 miles north of the town of Chadbourn.. Land use within the study area
is a mixture of residential and agricultural uses interspersed with natural forestland.
At the intersection, US 74 is a four-lane, median divided facility with two 12-foot
travel lanes in each travel direction with 4-foot paved shoulders along the outside of the
travel ways. In the median, there is a 2-foot paved shoulder along the eastbound lanes
and a 4-foot paved shoulder along the west bound lanes. The grassed median is 46 feet in
width. The intersection is signalized.
North of US 74,NC 410 is a two-lane roadway with 24 feet of pavement with 6-
foot grassed shoulders. South of US 74, NC 130-410 is a two-lane roadway with 21 feet
of pavement and variable width grassed shoulders.
The existing traffic volumes along US 74 range from 7,200 vehicles per day (vpd)
to 8,200 vpd. By the year 2025, the traffic volumes along US 74 are projected to range
from 24,700 vpd to 26,700 vpd (see Figure 2). The projected traffic volumes assume the
proposed I-74 is in place at that time.
The existing traffic volumes along NC 130-410 range from 2,500 vpd to 3,500
vpd. By the year 2025, these traffic volumes are projected to range from 4,800 vpd to
6,800 vpd.
V. RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE
The recommended improvements consist of converting the existing at-grade
intersection to a modified diamond interchange. Ramps are proposed in the southwest
and southeast quadrants of the interchange, and a ramp and loop are proposed in the
northwest quadrant of the interchange. NC 410 will be carried over US 74 by a bridge
approximately 356 feet in length with a clear roadway width of 30 feet (see Figure 3).
NC 410 will be widened to 24 feet of pavement through the interchange area
except for the approaches to the intersections of the ramps and loops. At the intersection
of the ramp and loop (northwest quadrant) north of US 74, the northern approach will be
widened to 36 feet of pavement, which will provide for two travel lanes and a separate
left turn lane for traffic turning onto SR 1572 (Klondyke Road). The southern approach
will be widened to 48 feet of pavement which will provide for two travel lanes and a left
turn lane for traffic turning onto the westbound entrance ramp to US 74 and a right turn
lane for traffic turning onto SR 1572.
At the intersection of the ramps south of US 74, the northern approach on NC 410
will be widened to 36 feet of pavement to provide for two travel lanes and a left turn lane
for traffic turning onto the eastbound entrance ramp to US 74. The southern approach to
this intersection will provide 24 feet of pavement.
The construction of the interchange will be contained primarily within the
existing US 74 right of way. Due to the grade change along NC 410, small amounts of
additional right or way will be required along NC 410 north of the interchange and along
NC 130-410 south of the interchange to tie the new roadway to the existing, roadway.
VI. ESTIMATED COST
The estimated cost of this project is $5,900,000.
VII. TRAFFIC DETOUR
Traffic along US 74 will be maintained on-site during the construction of the
interchange.
The construction of the bridge to carry NC 410 over US 74 will require
substantial changes in the grade for NC 130-410 in the vicinity of the existing
intersection. The following phased plan is proposed for detouring NC 410 traffic during
the construction of the interchange and is subject to modification during the final design
of the project:
Phase 1:
This phase consists of the construction of a temporary, on-site, at-grade detour to
the west of the existing intersection to handle NC 410 traffic. This will allow the
construction of the minimum fill faces and approach embankments for the bridge over
US 74.
Phase 2:
The on-site detour will be closed, and traffic will be diverted off-site to Detour 1
which utilizes SR 1536, SR 1534, SR 1572, SR 1562, and US 76 (see Figure 4). This
will allow for the construction and grade changes along NC410 at the SR 1572
Phase 3:
After the construction at the NC 410 - SR 1572 intersection is completed, the
traffic will be detoured along the Detour 2 route «-hich utilizes SR 1572, SR 1562, and
US 76 (see Figure 5). This detour will be used while the tie-ins for the ramps and loops
are completed. The length of this detour is approximately 5.4 miles.
VIII. NATURAL RESOURCES
A. Water Resources
Two unnamed tributaries to Dunn Swamp are present within the project area.
Both of these tributaries are severely channelized.
One of these streams crosses US 74 near the western project terminus. The
physical characteristics of this tributary (as observed in August 1998) include a channel
width of approximately twelve (12) to fifteen (15) feet and a channel depth of
approximately six (6) feet. The baseflow was observed to be approximately twelve (12)
feet wide and two (2) feet deep. The substrate was composed of sand and silt.
The second tributary crosses US 74 near the eastern terminus. The physical
characteristics of this stream include a channel width of approximately twenty (20) feet
and a channel depth of approximately six (6) feet. The baseflow was observed to be
approximately seven (7) feet wide and one-half (0.5) foot deep. The substrate was
composed of sand and silt.
The best usage classification for Dunn Swamp, which is in the Lumber River
basin, is C Sw. Waters classified as Class C are those waters suitable for aquatic life
propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. The
supplemental classification Sw denotes swamp waters, which are waters that have low
velocities and other natural characteristics that are different from adjacent streams.
B. Federal-Protected Species
As of December 20, 1999, the US Fish and Wildlife Service listed the following
federally-protected species for Columbus County:
Acipenser brevirostrum shortnose sturgeon Endangered
Menidia extensa Waccamaw silverside Threatened
Picoides borealis red-cockaded woodpecker Endangered
Lysimachia asperulaefolia rough-leaved loosestrife Endangered
Thalictrum cooleyi Cooley's meadowrue Endangered
The project area was surveyed for federally-protected species in conjunction with
the widening of US 74 in August 1991 (red-cockaded woodpecker) and in June 1996 (all
federally-protected species for Columbus County). Additional field surveys for
federally-protected species were conducted in the project area in September 1998 by a
NCDOT staff biologist.
Shortnose sturgeon - The shortnose sturgeon is a small species of fish, which occurs in
the lower sections of large rivers and in coastal marine habitats. The shortnose sturgeon
prefers deep channels with salinity less than salt water. It feeds on invertebrates and
plant material and is most active at night.
This species requires large fresh water rivers that are unobstructed by dams or
pollutants to reproduce successfully. It is an anadromous species that spawns upstream in
the spring and spends most of its life within proximity of the river's mouth. At least two
entirely fresh water populations have been recorded in South Carolina and Massachusetts.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Suitable habitat in the form of large rivers is not present within the project area.
The two unnamed tributaries to Deep Swamp are not of sufficient size to support the
shortnose sturgeon, and they have a tendency to dry out during the summer months. The
NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats was
reviewed and contained no records of the shortnose sturgeon within three milL-s of the
project area. Therefore, it can be concluded the project construction will not affect the
shortnose sturgeon.
Waccamaw'silverside - The Waccamaw silverside is a small, slender, nearly transparent
fish with a slivery stripe on its side. It has large eyes and a jaw that is sharply angled
upwards. The body is laterally compressed. This fish is also commonly called the
"skipjack" or the "glass minnow".
The Waccamaw silverside is found only in Lake Waccamaw and Big Creek from
its mouth 0.4 miles upstream to where SR 1947 crosses the creek. The upper Waccamaw
River in Columbus County serves as a habitat for the Waccamaw silverside during times
of high water. The required habitats for the Waccamaw silverside to survive are high
quality, neutral pH water with a clean, sandy substrate. Waccamaw silversides inhabit
the surface of shallow, dark bottomed areas. Spawning occurs in April through June and
peaks when the water temperatures reach 68-72 degrees. The major threats to the
Waccamaw silverside are not from the taking of the species but from activities that affect
water quality and substrate quality through nutrient loading, siltation, or a change in
temperature.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
The project area surface waters drain to Dunn Swamp, which is a tributary of the
Lumber River. These surface waters are not contained within the Lake Waccamaw/Big
Creek drainage area and are well outside the known occurrences of the species. The NHP
database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and contained no records of
the Waccamaw silverside within three miles of the project area. Therefore, it can be
concluded the project construction will not affect the Waccamaw silverside.
Red-cockaded woodpecker - The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has a
plumage that is entirely black and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the
6
nape of the male. The back of the RCW is black and white with horizontal stripes. The
breast and underside of this woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The RCW has a
large white cheek patch surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat.
The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf
pine (Ping alp ustris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at
least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be
appropriate habitat for the RCW. The bird nests exclusively in trees that are greater than
60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging
range of the RCW is up to 500 acres. This acreage must be contiguous with suitable
nesting sites.
These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that
are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in
colonies from 12-100 feet above the ground and average 30-50 feet high. They can be
identified by a large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the tree. The RCW lays
eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38 days later.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Forested communities within the project area are primarily composed of
hardwoods with scattered loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) present. The understory in all the
forested communities is thick and dominated by hardwood shrubs and saplings.
Consequently, no habitat for the RCW is present within the project area. Previous
surveys for the RCW within the project area rendered biological conclusions of no effect.
The NHP database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and contained no
records of the RCW within three miles of the project area. Therefore, it can be concluded
the project construction will not affect the RCW.
Rough-leaved loosestrife - The rough-leaved loosestrife is a perennial herb having
slender stems and whorled leaves. This herb has showy yellow flowers, which usually
occur in threes or fours. Fruits are present from July through October.
The rough-leaved loosestrife is endemic to the coastal plain and sandhills of North
and South Carolina. This species occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine
uplands and pond pine pocosins (areas of dense shrub and vine growth usually on a wet,
peat, poorly drained soil), on moist to seasonally saturated sands, and on shallow organic
soils overlaying sand. It has also been found to occur on deep peat in the low shrub
community of large Carolina bays (shallow, elliptical, poorly drained depressions of
unknown origin). The areas it occurs in are fire maintained. The rough-leaved
loosestrife rarely occurs in association with hardwood stands and prefers acidic soils.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Habitat for the rough-leaved loosestrife is present within the project area along
ditch banks and long edges of project area wetlands. Plant by plant surveys were
conducted in September 1998 by a NCDOT biologist. No rough-leaved loosestrife was
7
observed during the surveys. The NHP database of rare species and unique habitats was
reviewed and contained no records of rough-leaved loosestrife within three miles of the
project area. Therefore, it can be concluded the project construction will not affect the
rough-leaved loosestrife.
Cooley's meadowrue - Cooley's meadowrue is a rhizomatous perennial plant with stems
that grow to one meter in length. Stems are usually erect in direct sunlight but are lax or
may lean on other plants or trial along the ground in shady areas. Leaves are usually
narrowly lanceolate and unlobed, some two or three lobed leaves can be seen. The
flowers lack petals. Fruits mature from August to September.
Cooley's meadowrue occurs in moist to wet bogs, savannas and savanna-like
openings, sandy roadsides, rights, of ways, and old clearcuts. This plant is dependent on
some form of disturbance to maintain its habitat. All known populations are on
circumneutral, poorly drained, moderately permeable soils of the Grifton series.
Cooley's meadowrue only grows well in areas with full sunlight.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Habitat for Cooley's meadowrue is present within the project area along ditch
banks. Plant by plant surveys for Cooley's meadowrue were conducted in September
1998 by a NCDOT staff biologist. No Cooley's meadowrue was observed during the
surveys. The NHP database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and
contained no records of Cooley's meadowrue within three miles of the project area.
Therefore, it can be concluded the project construction will not affect Cooley's
meadowrue.
C. Wetlands
The jurisdictional wetlands for this project were delineated in September 1998
and field verified by the Corps of Engineers in November 1998. Approximately 2.6 acres
of jurisdictional wetlands will be impacted by the construction of the proposed
interchange. These wetlands are comprised of mixed pine hardwood and inundated
scrub-shrub communities.
It is anticipated the mitigation of the wetland impacts will be provided at the
Juniper Bay mitigation site in Robeson County. The NCDOT currently has an option to
purchase this property with the acquisition scheduled for February 2000. The
development of a mitigation plan for the site is in progress.
M. CULTURAL RESOURCES
This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1996, as amended, implemented. by the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part
800. Section 106 requires that for all federally funded, licensed, or permitted projects,
having an effect on properties listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic
Places, the Advisorv Council on Historic Preservation must be given an opportunity to
comment.
In 1994, the Area of Potential Effect (APE) for the widening of US 74 was
surveyed for historic architectural resources. No properties either listed in or eligible for
listing in the National Register of Historic Places were identified within the APE (see
attached letter). Therefore, this project will have no effect on historic architectural
resources.
In 1978, the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) reviewed the widening of
US 74 and reported there were no known or recorded archaeological sites in the area, and
the probability of the presence of significant archaeological sites was low. The
previously disturbed nature of the existing right of way was cited as the basis for this
opinion. In 1990, a reconnaissance survey for archaeological resources for the widening
of US 74 was completed. As reported by the SHPO, the right of way exhibited very little
potential for any surviving archaeological sites of significance. In 1995, the SHPO
concurred the widening of US 74 would not involve or affect any archaeological
resources eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (see attached letter).
X. ENVIRON1yIENTAL EFFECTS
The project is expected to have an overall positive impact by converting a
hazardous at-grade intersection to an interchange. There will be some minor
inconvenience to motorists during construction due to the temporary detour for NC 410
traffic.
Based on its limited scope and insignificant environmental consequences, the
project is considered a Federal "Categorical Exclusion"
The project will not have an adverse effect on the quality of the human or natural
environment with the use of current NCDOT standards and specifications.
The project is not in conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning
regulations. No significant changes in existing land uses are expected to result from this
project.
No adverse impact on families or communities is anticipated. No relocatees are
expected due to the construction of this project.
No adverse effect to public facilities or services is anticipated. The project is not
expected to adversely affect social, economic. or religious opportunities in the area.
There are no publicly owned parks, recreational facilities, or wildlife and
waterfowl refuges of national, state, or local significance in the vicinity of the project.
Since the project consists of converting an at-grade intersection to an interchange
within existing right of way, the Farmland Protection Policy Act does not apply.
9
This is an air quality "neutral" project; therefore, it is not required to be included
in the regional emissions analysis. and a project level CO analysis is not required.
Noise levels could increase during construction, but they will be of a temporary
nature. If vegetation is disposed of by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance
with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina State implementation
Plan (SIP) for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. This evaluation
completes the assessment requirements of highway traffic noise of Title 23, Code of
Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 772 and for air quality (1990 Clean Air Act
Amendments and the National Environmental Policy Act), and no additional reports are
required.
On the basis of the above discussion, it is concluded that no significant adverse
environmental effects will result from the implementation of this project.
10
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130 NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
o_ TRANSPORTATION
~ ?p`° ?? s L DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
?_ 22x5 ?. McFR PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL
BRANCH
t
US 74
o v FROM EAST OF NC 41
TO US 76
i
ROBESON - COLUMBUS COUNTIES
R - 2558
p• \ 0 mile 1 mile 2
FIG. 1
1998 ESTIMATED A D T
No Build
NC 410
2500
N
Pd/
8200 100 300 to--* 7)7) f0
US 741 US 74
NC 130 1300 00 7200 To No
Whiteville
3500
e>.
OD
NC 1301410
199812025 ESTIMATED ADT
with Proposed 1-74 in Place
NC 410
Proposed 14,200
/- 74/ 261700
US 74/NC 130
a
2500
4800
i.a
0
Statewide Planning Branch
Division of Highways
North Carolina Department of Transportation
TIP Project R-2558DA
Columbus County US 74
Legend DHV - Design Hourly Volume Percentage
O - Directional Split Percentage
DHV f M- D PM • Peak Hour 3 Direction of Peak Flow
AT) O - Dual Truck Percentage
T ¦ TTST Percentage
Not- If DMV and O am not shown. they are the same as the opposing leg.
September, 19981D. Norris Not To Scale Sheet 1 of 1
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FIGURE 2
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North Carolina Department of Cultural
James B: Heat. Jr.. Governor
Betty Ray McCain. SeaetwY
June 23, 1-994
Nicholas L. Graf
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
Department of Transportation
310 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442
Re: US 74 from NC 41 to US 76, Columbus and Robeson
Counties, R-2558, NHF-74(7), ER 94-8883
Dear Mr. Graf:
G E vF
-? JUN 2 7 "'M
?Z DIVISIGN OF Q`3
e 2?d HIGHWAY?cP?
Division of Aift49=3R9017Y
William S. Price. Jr...Director
Thank you for your letter of May 9, 1.994, concerning the above project. We apologize for
the delay in our response.
We have reviewed the historic architectural resources survey report prepared by Kitty
Houston, architectural historian for the North Carolina Department- of. Transportation
(NCDOT). Based upon the information provided, we concur with the Federal Highway
Administration's (FHwA) determination that Gaging Station 2-1345 on the Lumber River is
not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places since it has little historical or
architectural significance.
As discussed during the February 10, 1994 meeting between,NCDOT and Historic
Preservation Office representatives, we agree that the four other properties over fifty years
of age--Houses "A," "B," and "D" and Barn "D"--do not appear eligible for the National
Register. Thus, we concur with FHwA's determination that no National Register-listed or
eligible properties are located in the project's area of potential effect.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations
for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the
above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at
919/733-4763.
S' cerely,
a rook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
DB:slw /
cc: H. F. Vick
B. Church
A-11
109 East Jones Suet Rslcigh, North =dim 27601-2807

North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
Tames B. Hunt. Jr.. Goveaor
3etty Ray McCain. Se=tary
February 9, 1995
MEMORANDUM _ . -f'
TO: H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
Division of Highways
Department of T-cansportation
FROM: David Brook 4swrc '? G??/ V
Deputy State Preservation Officer
?E/
or- g_A-rr.
FEB 14- 1995
Division of
William
SUBJECT: US 74 from east of NC 41 near Lumberton to US 76
at Chadbourn, Robeson and Columbus Counties, TIP
R-2558, Federal-Aid NHF-74(7), State 8.T461801, ER
95-8291, ER 95-8256
Thank you for your memorandum of January 23, 1995, concerning the above
project. We have reviewed the reevaluation for the project and determined that no
properties within the area of potential effect are on or eligible for listing in the
National Register of Historic Places.
We have also received from the Federal Highway Administration by letter of
January 26, 1995, an archaeological survey report entitled "Archaeological Survey
Report Widening of US 74 (Bridge Replacement) at the Lumber River, Columbus
and Robeson Counties, North Carolina, TIP R-2558," by John J. Mintz. Since no
archaeological sites were discovered during the survey, the project will not involve
or affect resources eligible for the National Register. We have no further
comments concerning this project.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's
Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions
concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley,
environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763.
DB:slw
cc: Nicholas L. Graf
B. Church
T. Padgett
J. Mintz

J ?.
' ?r
109 East Jones Stmt - Ralei2b. North Carolina 27601-2507
Yew ?O?
.Y ~yyy
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID MCCOY
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
18 October 1999
MEMORANDUM TO: Gail Grimes, P. E., Unit Head
Consultant Engineering Unit
FROM: Bruce O. Ellis, CLM, PWS, Natural Systems Specialist
Natural Systems Unit
SUBJECT: Federally Protected Species Surveys for Proposed
Interchange at US 74 and NC 130-410 in Columbus County,
TIP No. R-2558DA, State Project No. 8.T461801, Federal
Aid No. MA-NHF-74(7).
ATTENTION: Ron Elmore, P.E., Project Manager
Consultant Engineering Unit
REFERENCES: 1. Addendum to the Natural Resources Technical Report,
NCDOT, 8 October 1991.
2. Updated Protected Species Report, NCDOT, 28 June
1996.
The following memorandum provides information on water resources and federally
protected species issues for the proposed project. The proposed project involves
construction of an interchange at US 74 and NC 130-410 in Columbus County.
Water Resources
Two unnamed tributaries to Dunn Swamp (index no. 14-27-4) are present within
the project area. One of the unnamed tributaries is located near the western project
terminus. The physical characteristics of this tributary as observed on 18 August 1998
include a channel width of 3.6-4.6 m (12.0 -15.0 ft), and a channel depth of approximately
1.8 m (6.0 ft). Baseflow was observed to be 3.7 m (12.0 ft) wide and 0.6 m (2.0 ft) deep.
The substrate was composed of sand and silt.
The second unnamed tributary to Dunn Swamp is located near the eastern project
terminus. The physical characteristics of this tributary as observed on 18 August 1998
include a channel width of 6.2 m (20.0 ft), channel depth of 1.8 m (6.0 ft), baseflow width
of 2.1 m (7.0 ft), and baseflow depth of 0.2 m (0.5 ft). The substrate is composed of sand
and silt.
2
Both unnamed tributaries to Dunn Swamp are severely channelized within the
project area. On 23 September 1998 the western tributary had a reduced water depth to 0.2
m (0.5 ft) and the eastern unnamed tributary contained no water.
The Best Usage Classification for Dunn Swamp is C Sw. Waters classified as C
are those waters "suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife,
secondary recreation, and agriculture." The supplemental classification Sw denotes swamp
waters, which are "waters that have low velocities and other natural characteristics, which
are different from adjacent streams."
Federally-Protected Species
Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T),
Proposed Endangered (PE) and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions
of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of 14
May 1999, the FWS lists the following federally-protected species for Columbus County
(Table 1). A brief description of each species' characteristics and habitat follows.
Table 1: Federally Protected Species for Columbus County
Scientific Name Common Name Status
Acipenser brevirostrum short nosed sturgeon Endangered
Menidia extensa Waccamaw silverside Threatened
Picoides borealis red-cockaded woodpecker Endangered
Lysimachia asperulaefolia rough-leaved loosestrife Endangered
Thalictrum cooleyi Cooley's meadowrue Endangered
Threatened species are species that are likely to become endangered within the
foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
2 Endangered is defined as a species that is threatened with extinction throughout all or
a significant portion of its range.
The project area for the proposed interchange at US 74 and NC 130-410 lies
within the existing right-of-way (ROW). As such, the project area was surveyed for
federally protected species, in conjunction with the widening of US 74 (TIP no. R-2258),
on 13-15 August 1991 (red-cockaded woodpecker) and 17-21 June 1996 (all federally-
protected species for Columbus County).
Additional surveys for federally-protected species were conducted within the
project study area on 03, 09, 23 September 1998 by NCDOT biologist Bruce Ellis. On
these dates jurisdictional wetland delineations were also performed. Wetland lines were
inspected and verified on 17 November 1998 by US Army Corps of Engineers inspector
Mr. David Timpy.
Acipenser brevirostrum (short-nosed sturgeon) Endangered
Animal Family: Acipenseridae
Date Listed: 11 March 1967
The short-nosed sturgeon is a small species of fish, which occurs in the lower
sections of large rivers and in coastal marine habitats. The short-nosed sturgeon prefers
.r

deep channels with salinity less than seawater. It feeds on invertebrates and plant material
and is most active at night.
The short-nosed sturgeon requires large fresh water rivers that are unobstructed by
dams or pollutants to reproduce successfully. It is an anadromous species that spawns
upstream in the spring and spends most of its life within proximity of the river's mouth.
At least two entirely freshwater populations have been recorded, in South Carolina and
Massachusetts.
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Suitable habitat in the form of large rivers is not present within the project area.
The two unnamed tributaries to Dunn Swamp are not of sufficient size to support the
short-nosed sturgeon, and they have a tendency to dry out during the summer months.
The NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats
was reviewed and contained no records of the short-nosed sturgeon within three miles of
the project area. Therefore, it can be concluded that project construction will not affect
the short-nosed sturgeon.
Menidia extensa (Waccamaw silverside) Threatened
Animal Family: Atherindae
Date Listed: 4/8/87
The Waccamaw silverside is a small, slender, nearly transparent fish with a
silvery stripe on its side. It has large eyes and a jaw that is sharply angled upwards. The
body is laterally compressed. This fish is also commonly called the "skipjack" or the
"glass minnow".
The Waccamaw silverside is found only in Lake Waccamaw and Big Creek from its
mouth 0.4 miles upstream to where county road 1947 crosses the creek. The upper
Waccamaw River in Columbus County serves as a habitat for the Waccamaw silverside
during times of high water. The required habitats for the Waccamaw silverside to survive
are high quality, neutral pH water with a clean sandy substrate. Waccamaw silversides
inhabit the surface over shallow, dark bottomed areas. Spawning occurs in April through
June and peaks when water temperatures reach 68-72 degrees. The major threats to the
Waccamaw silverside are not from the taking of species, but from activities that affect
water.quality and substrate quality through nutrient loading, siltation, or a change in
temperature.
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Project area surface waters drain to Dunn Swamp, which is a tributary to the
Lumber River. Project area surface waters are not contained within the Lake
Waccamaw/Big Creek drainage area and are well outside the known occurrences of the
Waccamaw silverside. The NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species
and unique habitats was reviewed and contained no records of the Waccamaw silverside
within three miles of the project area. Therefore, it can be concluded that project
construction will not affect the Waccamaw silverside.
4
Picoides borealis (red-cockaded woodpecker) Endangered
Animal Family: Picidae
Date Listed: 10/13/70
The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has a plumage that is entirely black
and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the nape in the male. The back of
the RCW is black and white with horizontal stripes. The breast and underside of this
woodpecker are white with, streaked flanks. The RCW has a large white cheek patch
surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat.
The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf
pine (Pinus palustris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at
least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be
appropriate habitat for the RCW. These birds nest exclusively in trees that are >60 years
old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the
RCW is up to 200 hectares (500 acres). This acreage must be contiguous with suitable
nesting sites.
These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that
are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in
colonies from 3.6-30.3 m (12-100 ft) above the ground and average 9.1- 15.7 m (30-50 ft)
high. They can be identified by a large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the
tree. The RCW lays its eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38
days later.
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Forested communities within the project area are primarily composed of
hardwoods with scattered loblolly pine (Pinus Taeda) present. The understory in all the
forested communities is thick and dominated by hardwood shrubs and saplings.
Consequently, no habitat for the red-cockaded woodpecker is present within the project
area. Previous surveys for the red-cockaded woodpecker within the project area
(References 1 and 2) rendered biological conclusions of no effect. The NC Natural
Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and
contained no records of the red-cockaded woodpecker within three miles of the project
area. Therefore, it can be concluded that project construction will not affect the red-
cockaded woodpecker.

1 f
Lysimachia asTerulaefolia (rough-leaved loosestrife) Endangered
Plant Family: Primulaceae
Federally Listed: 12 June 1987
Flowers Present: June
Rough-leaved loosestrife is a perennial herb having slender stems and whorled
leaves. This herb has showy yellow flowers which usually occur in threes or fours.
Fruits are present from July through October.
Rough-leaved loosestrife is endemic to the coastal plain and sandhills of North
and South Carolina. This species occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine
uplands and pond pine pocosins (areas of dense shrub and vine growth usually on a wet,
peat, poorly drained soil), on moist to seasonally saturated sands and on shallow organic
soils overlaying sand. It has also been found to occur on deep peat in the low shrub
community of large Carolina bays (shallow, elliptical, poorly drained depressions of
unknown origins). The areas it occurs in are fire maintained. Rough-leaved loosestrife
rarely occurs in association with hardwood stands and prefers acidic soils.
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Habitat for rough-leaved loosestrife is present within the project area along ditch
banks and along edges of project area wetlands. Plant by plant surveys for rough-leaved
loosestrife were conducted on 03, 09, 23 September 1998 by NCDOT biologist Bruce
Ellis. No rough-leaved loosestrife was observed during the surveys. The NC Natural
Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats was reviewed and
contained no records of rough-leaved loosestrife within three miles of the project area.
Therefore, it can be concluded that project construction will not affect rough-leaved
loosestrife.
Thalictrum cooleyi (Cooley's meadowrue) Endangered
Plant Family: Ranunculaceae
Federally Listed: 07 February 1989
Flowers Present: late June-July (best mid July)
Cooley's meadowrue is a rhizomatous perennial plant with stems that grow to one
meter in length. Stems are usually erect in direct sunlight but are lax and may lean on
other plants or trail along the ground in shady areas. Leaves are usually narrowly
lanceolate and unlobed, some two or three lobed leaves can be seen. The flowers lack
petals. Fruits mature from August to September.
Cooley's meadowrue occurs in moist to wet bogs, savannas and savanna-like
openings, sandy roadsides, rights-of-ways, and old clearcuts. This plant is dependent on
some form of disturbance to-maintain its habitat. All known populations are on
circumneutral, poorly drained, moderately permeable soils of the Grifton series. Cooley's
meadowrue only grows well in areas with full sunlight.
A % 1'
6
BIOLOIGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT
Habitat for Cooley's meadowrue is present within the project area along ditch
banks. Plant by plant surveys for rough-leaved loosestrife were conducted on 03, 09, 23
September 1998 by NCDOT biologist Bruce Ellis. No Cooley's meadowrue was
observed during the surveys. The NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare
species and unique habitats was reviewed and contained no records Cooley's meadowrue
within three miles of the project area. Therefore, it can be concluded that project
construction will not affect Cooley's meadowrue.
Please contact me at 7334203, if you have any questions or if you need
additional information.
Cc: Phil Harris, P.E., Natural Systems Unit Head
File: R-2258DA
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