20010869 Ver 1_Complete File_20010611

LVIAW'4-

United States Department of the Interior ,/ v c (? 1
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE,
Asheville Field Office
160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, North Carolina 28801 4 t5'
February 12, 2001
Mr. William D. Gilmore, Y.E., Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
Subject: Replacement of Bridge No. 14 over Plumtree Creek, SR 1114, Avery County, North
Carolina, (TIP No. B-3111)
We responded to a request for comments on the subject project in a letter dated July 18, 2000.
At that time we expressed concerns regarding the decision to replace a bridge over Plumtree
Creek (a tributary to the Toe River) with a culvert, and we questioned why a replacement bridge
was not considered, particularly since this stream is a designated trout water. In addition, this
location contains significant bedrock; the installation of a culvert would certainly create negative
impacts to the stream. On October 16, 2000, we received a copy of a permit application for this
project from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The permit application did not include our
July 18, 2000, letter, and it did not include any recent correspondence from the North Carolina
Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). Several agencies have expressed concern regarding
this project, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) agreed to provide
further information and to meet and discuss those concerns.
On December 14, 2000, there was an Interagency meeting to discuss the project. According to
the information provided, a bridge was considered in the early planning stages. However,
because of the cost ($411,000 for a bridge versus $216,000 for a culvert), the idea of a bridge
was abandoned, and further designs involved only culverts at different locations. Apparently the
design constraints were related only to cost.
We appreciate your willingness to delay this project to discuss agency concerns. In the future it
would be most helpful if the categorical exclusion document included a complete discussion of
the alternatives considered, including those dropped from detailed study and the reasons they
were not carried forward. It also would be helpful if you would include all agency contacts,

1
41
particularly the NCWRC, in trout counties and sensitive aquatic areas. This may clarify the
situation and enable the agencies to provide comments more relevant to the project.
We are still concerned about the decision to replace this bridge with a culvert. We believe the
project will have significant adverse effects on the flood plain and the stream. The culvert
design, even with overflow drainage provided, would not allow for the natural function of the
flood plain, could impede the movement of aquatic life, and would not allow for terrestrial
wildlife passage. We still have questions about the culvert and its capacity to accommodate high
flows, especially storm events. During high flows in this narrow, steep valley, the accumulation
of debris behind a culvert could cause damming, with potential serious structural scouring and
channel adjustment. Channel changes and sediment could have negative effects on downstream
resources, including the Toe River and an area of the Toe River that is proposed for designation
as critical habitat for the endangered Appalachian elktoe mussel. We maintain that fish and
wildlife resources would be far better served with a spanning structure.
If you have questions about these comments, please contact Ms. Marella Buncick of our staff at
828/258-3939, Ext. 237. In any future correspondence concerning this project, please reference
our Log Number 4-2-00-244.
Spcerely,
Brian P. Cole
State Supervisor
cc:
Mr. Steve Lund, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Asheville Regulatory Field Office, 151 Patton
Avenue, Room 208, Asheville, NC 28801-5006
Ms. Cynthia Van Der Wiele, North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Division of Water Quality, Wetlands Section, 1621 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC
27699-1621
Mr. Ron Linville, Western Piedmont Region Coordinator, North Carolina Wildlife Resources
Commission, 3855 Idlewild Road, Kernersville, NC 27284-9180
Mr. John Williams, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, North Carolina
Department of Transportation, 1548 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
Ms. Mary Frazer, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, North Carolina
Department of Transportation, 1548 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
/*tF.Fraae-r 6Z chi . sfnk, nc . Us
SUMMARY OF HISTORY
FOR PROJECT B-31 I]
REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE NO. 14 ON SR 1114
OVER PLUMTREE CREEK
This project was originally scoped and reviewed in April 1997. At the time of
receiving initial comments, Stephanie GOlldreau of the Wildlife Resource Commission
wrote that Plumtree Creek is Designated Public Mountain Trout water and supports wild
brown trout. She also requested a moratorium on "in water" construction from
November 1 to April 15. She also commented that the existing bridge should be replaced
with another spanning structure to maintain fish passage. And minimize disturbance to
the substrate.
During the scoping meeting, it was recognized that if possible the preferred
structure would be a bridge. Initial efforts were made to look at a bridge but problems
arose in the use of that structure. Because the existing bridge was so close to the
intersection with another road, constructibility would be a serious problem.
The topography in that area is such that as a driver approaches the bridge on
SR 11 14 from the south, he would follow a tight, steep curve around a mountain which
suddenly reverses at the bottom of the hill, cross Bridge 14 and come to an immediate
stop on SR 1119. Immediately on the other side of the intersection is a mountain. To
construct an abutment (a vertical abutment in this case) on the north side of the new
bridge would require laying back the banks of the stream. Laying the bank back would
cut into at least half of SR 1119. This would force temporarily shifting SR 1119 to the
south requiring blasting into the mountain.
While this is possible it would change the landscape dramatically and at great
economic cost. This would still have been a viable alternate except for another issue; the
steep grade required for a bridge. Because of the steep approach on the south side, any
bridge going anywhere at or near to the existing bridge would require a minimum grade
of'8% on the bridge sloping downward toward the intersection. This poses an extreme
risk during the winter months due to snow and ice. A driver would not be able to stop at
the end of the bridge and would instead slide into the intersection; a prescription for
disaster.
When we realized that a bridge was not possible, we evaluated the possibility of a
culvert. A culvert offers flexibility that a bridge does not in that it is not limited to a flat
roadway surface. The surface can accommodate vertical curvature and allow a change in
the grade allowing vehicles to safely come to a stop. It also accommodates to horizontal
curvature in a safer fashion.
I coordinated with Joe Mickey (who had recently replaced Stephanie Goudreau).
I explained our design dilemma and he offered a compromise. He suggested first that we
evaluate a bottomless culvert but ifs that didn't work that he would accept a culvert with
carefully designed fish sills. He was also concerned about a pool of water good for fish
spawning that appeared as though it would be impacted by the new structure. He
suggested and we agreed to reconstruct the pool as part of the new project. At the time,
the discussions between Joe and I were exclusively verbal. There was no documentation.
I recently spoke to Joe (12-20-00) who remembered the situation and sent an e-mail
summarizing his comments. His comments are attached.
We then tried to evaluate the use of bottomless arch culverts. The viable use of
these structures is very dependant upon the foundation conditions and upon the skew.
The skew in this particular case is fine. For a bottomless culvert to be used, it requires
bedrock to set it upon. Below is an approximate cross section of the stream illustrating
the findings of the geotechnical investigations.
Water Surface
Loose Cobble
Bedrock
There is bedrock available on one side of the stream but a five foot depth of loose
cobble on the other. This rules out the use of a bottomless structure as there is nothing
solid on which to attach it.
This leaves a box culvert as the most viable, constructible alternate. Since it is a
trout stream, WRC has requested that we bury the bottom of the culvert 1 foot beneath
the surface. In the area where the loose cobble is present, the cobbles can be removed
and reused in constructing a natural type surface on top of the culvert bottom. The
removal of the cobbles will most likely occur with backhoe style equipment. Blasting
would not be required for this section. The bedrock will require shallow blasting to
achieve the depth necessary to bury the bottom.
NCDOT recognizes the value of trout streams and as a policy has agreed to
pursue bridges everywhere possible. This is unfortunately one of those locations where a
structure other than a culvert compromises safety and poses extraordinary costs due to
topographic conditions (blasting mountains). We will do everything possible to limit the
impact of construction to the streambed.

12 December, 2000
MEMORANDUM TO: Cynthia Van Der Wiele, NCDWQ
Marella Buncick, USFWS
Steven Lund, USACOE
Ron Linville. NCWRC
FROM: Mary Frazer, PDE
SUBJECT: Culvert construction on Plumtree Creek
DESCRIPTION: B-31 11, Avery County, replacement of old bridge on SR 11 14
I am attaching a memo from Randy Henegar of our hydraulics unit describing the
alternatives that were assessed for replacing the old bridge over Plumtree Creek. My
understanding is that since SR 1 114 ends in a `T' junction at one end of the bridge, it created
physical constraints in how Plumtree Creek could be crossed. A safe turning radius on to and off
of SR 1114 must be provided, which does not exist currently. More details are in the attachment.
I apologize that we did not include a more complete assessment of alternatives
previously. If you still have any concerns or would like more information about cost estimates.
etc., please contact me. 1 will be sending a modified permit application ASAP for an 80-foot
long culvert, instead of the 97-foot long culvert that was in the original application.
I can be reached at [phone]. Thank you for your prompt attention to this request.
Attachment

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMGS B. HUNTJR. DAVID MCCOY
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANAL 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WESSITE MW DOH DOT.STATE NC US
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RAI EIGH NC
resource. Design time for a bridge replacement usually takes about eight weeks but
because of our environmental commitment the amount of time for the design was
exceeded to properly investigate reasonable alternatives. A bridge was considered first,
but because of the unusual geometry of a trapezoidal span which would require a vertical
abutment and retaining wall at the T-intersection, it was found that the cost when
compared to a culvert was high (bridge $411,000.00, culvert = $216,000.00). The next
consideration was a bottomless culvert. To construct a bottomless culvert, design criteria
requires a fairly uniform rock line within 5 feet of the surface so that the footings may be
founded in scour resistant rock. Field observation indicated that bedrock possibly existed
within 5 foot of the surface. A 28 foot wide and 10 foot high bottomless culvert 87 feet in
length was designed and the "Culvert Survey & Hydraulic Design Report" was prepared
in July, 2000. The report was distributed to the various design units which require this
information to complete the project design. A subsurface investigation was provided by
the Geotechnical Unit. It was determined that adequate footing support exist at the
upstream end of the proposed bottomless structure but not at the downstream end.
Therefore, evaluation of the replacement structure based on cost and constructability led
to the conclusion that a culvert with a bottom and incorporating" fish friendly" design
was the best alternative (2 a)12x 10 reinforced concrete box culvert (RCBC)).
In the original plan, the 78 foot culvert that Ms. Van Der Wiele incorrectly refers to was
actually an 87 foot bottomless culvert. Culvert length is established by the point of
intersection at the low cord of the top slab and the roadway fill slope. When the structure
was redesigned as a 2 (a)12x1o RCBC, the top slab intersected the proposed slope at a lower
elevation resulting in the 97 foot long culvert. This length has since been reduced to 80
feet by the Structure Design Unit.
Channelization impacts upstream and downstream were listed as a concern. While it is
true that constructing a box culvert would have a temporary impact on the channel at the
footprint of the culvert, there is no impact up and downstream of the structure as the
natural channel width approximates that of the box culvert. Upstream of the culvert is a
natural weir which will prevent head cutting. Sills will be placed in the culvert and
placement of stockpiled natural streambed material between the sills will mimic existing
channel substrate. Downstream we are installing a cross vane and reconstructing an
existing pool to promote fish passage and spawning The cross vane will minimize
damage to the downstream banks. The box culvert will safeguard water temperature
equally well and may assist in promoting more desirable temperature of water flowing to
the crossing from the open area northeast of the site.
There is no "inclination" to utilize rip rap for scour protection on this project. There is
neither any scour anticipated nor stream bank disturbance to warrant rip rap and none is
,hown on the proposed plans. The only use of rock will be stockpiling of existing bed
material during construction and reinstallation of this material between the sills in the
proposed culvert.

Although we are not installing a tishway in this culvert, we are providing a low flow
channel through one of the barrels. The low flow channel is designed to carry the average
daily flow to a depth approximating existing conditions since the cell width of the box
equals the width from waters edge at low flow. This will provide for fish movement
through the culvert.
In conclusion, a spanning structure was considered throughout the planning and design
phases of this project. A bridge was considered first as the preferred alternative. It wasn't
until the economics and constructability issues were investigated that a culvert with a
bottom was recommended. The NCDOT always considers a bridge option first when
dealing with valuable resources such as trout streams. If a bridge is found to be a feasible
and reasonable alternative, then it is given priority consideration.
cc. Len Hill, P.E.
Deborah Barbour, P.E.
Bill Gilmore, P.E.
John Alford, P.E.
Tim Roundtree, P.E.
Roy Shelton
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NOTE:
1. Bed material should be stock piled during excavation
2. Place stock piled bed material between sills upon
completion of culvert floor.
3. Material placed between sills in the culvert should provide
a continuous low flow channel between the lower sills.
4. Sills a 32.0 ft. O.C.
A) The I' x I' sills are to be cast seperately and attached
to the floor slab with dowels.
B) The I' x 0.5' sills are to be cost seperately and attached
to the floor slab with dowels.
5. Material placed between sills is to be taken from the
stock pile created during excavation.
6. StocKpiled material to be placed adjacent to northwest
\ wingwall to elevation 3317.5. B- 3111
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STATE
STA FE OF NORTI I CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR.
GOVERNOR
9 November, 2000
MEMORANDUM TO
CC:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
John Williams, P.E., Project Manager
Bridge Replacement Unit
DAVID MCCOY
SECRETARY
William Gilmore, P.E., Branch Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Rob Hanson, Project Planning Unit Head
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Cynthia Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator
Division of Water Quality
Mary Frazer, Natural Systems Specialist
Project Development and Environmel i B rich' /
Alternatives analysis for bridge replacement
DESCRIPTION: Bridge 14 over Plumtree Creek on SR 1114 (Big Plumtree Creek
Road). Federal Aid Project No. MABRZ-1114(l), State Project
No. 8.272 1001, TIP No. B-31 11
The resource agencies responsible for reviewing this project have raised concerns about
the potential environmental impacts from replacing the existing bridge with box culverts. Their
concerns are not only for impacts from this individual project, but also include cumulative
impacts from overall work in the watershed.
Plumtree Creek contains not only rainbow trout, but also a wild, naturally reproducing
population of brown trout, which merits special consideration for project design. Although the
bottom of the culverts were designed to replace aquatic habitat, we feel that more should be done
to address the concerns of the resource agencies. The Wildlife Resources Commission requested
in 1997 that a spanning structure be used at this site, but this concern was never properly
addressed.
Per a meeting today with Charles Bruton, the Project Development and Environmental
;analysis Branch recommends that a thorou?1,11 analysis should be conducted of alternatives to the
currently proposed box culverts, includin-y:
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANi LYSI S 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE' WWW.DOH. DOT. STATE. NC.US RAL EIGH NC
RALE ,ri NC 27699-1548
.
• a replacement bridgre
• shorter culverts
• open-bottom culverts
• costs for each of the alternatives, and
• on-site design constraints.
Some of this information has been committed to paper, but a complete analysis has never
been presented to the agencies.
John and Rob, please provide us with some feedback so we can coordinate with Roadway
Design on how to proceed with this. Cynthia, Charles has requested that you please direct any
future communication on this project directly to me, since I am the permit specialist for this
project.
Any questions can be directed to me at [phone]. Thank you for your prompt
attention to this matter.
WA "I Michael F. Easley, Governor
\O?? 9QG William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Mr Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
> Acting Director
p .? Division of Water Quality
August 10, 2001
Avery County
DWQ Project No. 010896
TIP Project B-3111
Replacement of Bridge No. 14 over Plumtree Creek on SR 1114
APPROVAL of 401 Water Quality Certification with Additional Conditions
Mr. William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions and those listed below, to excavate
bedrock material and divert water temporarily for the purpose of constructing Bridge No. 14 over
Plumtree Creek on SR 1114, as described in your application dated 3 April 2001 (received June 11,
2001). After reviewing your application, we have decided that this fill is covered by General Water
Quality Certification Number 3290, which allows for 25 CY of dredging and Water Quality.
Certification Number 3114. This certification allows you to use Nationwide Permit Numbers 19 and
33 when the Corps of Engineers issues it. In addition, you should get any other federal, state or local
permits before you go ahead 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 only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application except as
modified below. If you change your project, you must notify us and to send us 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 conditions. If total wetland fills for this project (now or
in the future) exceed one acre, compensatory mitigation may be required as described in 15A NCAC
2H.0506 (h) (6) and (7). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed in the
attached certification and any additional conditions listed below.
1. Blasting shall consist of the minimum amount necessary for the installation of the wing walls.
Should the blasting and excavation remove the bedrock grade control structure and change the
stream dimensions, NCDOT shall be required to install rock veins, weirs, step pools or whatever
structure is necessary to restore the stream to natural conditions.
2. Natural stream substrate shall be used. The shot rock that has been placed in the bottom of the
culvert shall be removed.
3. Sedimentation and Erosion Control Guidelines for Sensitive Watersheds (15A NCAC 4B .0024)
must be implemented prior to any ground-disturbing activities to minimize impacts to
downstream aquatic resources. Temporary or permanent herbaceous vegetation shall be planted
on all bare soil within 5 days of ground-disturbing activities to provide long term erosion control.
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919.733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), httpJ/h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetiands/
4. Trout conditions and moratoriums as determined by the Wildlife Resources Commission.
5. All work shall be performed during low flow conditions.
6. All mechanized equipment operated near surface waters must be regularly inspected and
maintained to prevent contamination of stream waters from fuels, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, or
other toxic materials.
7. The presence of equipment in the channels must be minimized. Under no circumstances must
rock, sand or other materials be dredged from the wetted stream channel under authorization of
this permit, except in the immediate vicinity of the culverts.
8. Existing vegetated buffers shall not be mowed in order to utilize it for storm water sheet flow.
9. No live concrete shall be allowed to enter surface waters.
10. Use of rip-rap for bank stabilization is to be minimized; rather, native vegetation is to be planted
when practical. If necessary, rip-rap must be limited to the stream bank below the high water
mark, and vegetation must be used for stabilization above high water.
Upon completion of the project, the NCDOT shall complete and return the enclosed
"Certificate of Completion" form to notify NCDWQ 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 NC Division of Water Quality upon
completion of the project.
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 that conforms to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes to the
Office of Administrative Hearings, 6714 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-6714. 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 Ms. Cynthia Van Der Wiele at 919-733-9646
or Mr Mike Parker of the Asheville Regional Office at 828.251.6208.
Attachment
Sincer ly,
1
go . Thorpe, D.
ctin irector
Pc: Wilmington District Corps of Engineers ; .
Corps of Engineers Asheville Field Office
NCDWQ Asheville Regional Office
Central Files
File Copy
O?O? W A T ?RpG
r? r
o ?c
Michael F. Easley
Governor
William G. Ross, Jr., Secretary
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Acting Director
Division of Water Quality
DWQ Project No.: County:
Aoolicant:
Project Name:
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:
N this project was designed by a Certified Professional
I, , as a duly registered Professional (i.e., Engineer,
Landscape Architect, Surveyor, ect.) 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 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 Registration No. Date

Division of Water Quality 1650 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Wetlands/401 Unit: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
MEMORANDUM
TO: John Dorney Regional Contact: Michael R. Parker
Non-Discharge Branch WO Supervisor: Forrest Westall
Date:
SUBJECT: WETLAND STAFF REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Facility Name NCDOT - Bridge 14 on SR 1114
Project Number 01 0869
Recvd From DOT
Received Date 6/11/01 Recvd By Region
Project Type channel excavation bridge to culvert
Certificates Stream Stream Impacts (ft.)
Permit Wetland Wetland Wetland Stream Class Acres Feet
Type Type Impact Score Index Prim. Supp. Basin Req. Req. ME
F 14 Stream O Y O N F- 7-2-17 Fc TR 40,306. ?- 80.00 80.00 F_
10 Y U,
Mitigation Wetland
MitigationType Type Acres Feet
Is Wetland Rating Sheet Attached? Q Y (0 N Did you request more Info? Q Y O N
Have Project Changes/Conditions Been Discussed With Applicant? Q Y Q N
Is Mitigation required? Q Y 0 N
Recommendation: Q Issue f0 Issue/Cond O Deny
Provided by Region: Latitude (ddmmss) 360113 Longitude (ddmmss) 815826
County Avery
County2
Region Asheville
cc: Regional Office
Central Office Page Number 1
Facility Name NCDOT - Bridge 14 on SR 1114
Project Number 01 0869
County Avery
Regional Contact: Michael R. Parker
Date:
Comments (continued from page 1):
d No lode concrete shall be allowed to enter surface waters,
cc: Regional Office Page Number 2
Central Office
0? W AT ?RpG
O 'C
Michael F. Easley - -
Governor
William G. Ross, Jr. Secretary
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Kerr T. Stevens
Division of Water Quality
Division of Water Quality
Department of Environmental and Natural Resources
.Wetlands/401 Unit
Location: 2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250 Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Mailing Address: 1650 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Contact Information: General 919-733-1786 Fax: [phone]
Fax To: "fad Fax Number: 82.8. 261, a452
Company: 11)(yk Date: (,o - 26 • c5 /
From: CUh %a flan bff W'ele- Phone: [phone]
No. Of Pages including cover sheet:
Notes or special instructions:
O??4ryr? C?
in f -0 c,
b• 3/1/
A'4rIC,
NCDENR
Division of Water Quality 2321 Crabtree Blvd, Ste 250 Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Wetlands/401 Unit: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
401 reviews
Subject: 401 reviews
Date: Thu, 05 Jul 2001 15:37:15 -0400
From: Megan Owen <[e-mail]>
Organization: NC DENR, DWQ
To: Cyndi Karoly <[e-mail]>, John Dorney <[e-mail]>
Cyndi and John:
The following are my comments on 401 reviews.
Applications with comments:
010869 (DOT, Avery County) - the project is in WS-IV Tr. The culvert is a part of a public road crossing
and therefore allowed, but DOT must show no practicable alternative, as well as, show that they have
minimized BUA, diverted stormwater away from surface waters, and will use their BMPs guidelines
document. DOT must also comply with the local WSWP ordinance - this is something new-ish, DOT
must comply with the ord. but the local government does not have enforcement authority (that is vested
solely in the EMC).
010882 (Michael Horton, Chatham Co.) - Brooks Creek is WS-IV. A private road is not allowed in the
buffer, even if it is turned over to DOT later on. Horton should either redesign and/or investigate the local
variance process. The local contact for Pittsboro is Mr. Hugh Montgomery.
010895 (Jimmy Loftis, McDowell Co.) - in the materials that were submitted to me there was contradictory
information on the location of the project and no topo map included. Using my best judgement, I think the
project is outside any WS watersheds, but dangerously close. Further location verification needed.
Applications with NO comments/not in WS:
010893 (DOT, Haywood Co.)
010883 (Price Residence Project, Brunswick Co.)
010880 (DOT, Haywood & Buncombe Cos.)
010873 (DOT, Yancey Co.)
010846 (Long Creek Village, Forsyth Co.)
010855 (Castle Hayne Substation, New Hanover Co
010894 (River View Subdivision, Gaston Co.)
Megan Owen <[e-mail]>
Environmental Planner
North Carolina Department of Environment & Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
I of 1 7/5/01 3:50 1
US 9R1,1V CORPS/ENGRS IU:18282714858 MAY 01,01 10:37 No.002 F.U1
Yus'.ARMY CORPS CAF
n y
ENGINEERS
JUN 1 2
151 Yattr.m Avert:.ce, rZaori: 143
Asheville, North Carolina 28801-5006
[phone]
? Fax: [phone]
FAX IRANSW5-5I0N COVER SHEET
010869
Date: A9ay y 2001
To. _ Maril Frazer, NCUOT, PD&EA, Nattifcst S te?r?s --
Fax.
JRec B-3117 SR 1114, A vent Co.
.7e'u+h ". Steven Lund
Yo U SHOULI) ItECE•IVE 7 PAGE(S), INC-L LIDING 1 HIS COVER SHEET; IF YOU DO NOT
RECEIVE ALL THE PAGES, PLEASE CALL [phone].
REMARKS: CopV of modified NW/GP permit verification attached. Original
will be mailed.

RECEIVED
US t;RMY CORPS/ENGRS ID :18282714855 MAY 01 ' 01 10:37 No.002 ? . U2
U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENC INEERS
WILMINGTON DISTRICT
A.clion Id, 2,00130140 (Modification)
County: Awry
C..NERAL PERMIT (REC:IONAL AND NA'T'IONWIDE) V8111F1CATION
Property owner: North Carolina Department of Transporiation
Address: Project Development and Fnvironnrental Analysis Branch, Attn: William D, Gilnwre, Manaacr. 1548 Mail
Service Cenlur, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
Telephone No.: [phone]
Si2c and Lkwation of prc,ject (wider body, road nainc/numbur, (ow", rtc.):
Bridge No. 14 over Plwnbtree Crech on SR 1114 west of Crossnoret TIP No. 13-3111
Description of Activity:
Replace Bridge No. 14 with an 80-foot long, t.wo-l)orrcl concrete box culvert approximately
51 feet west of the existing structure, conduct minor channel excavation, construct
temporary dikes or cofferdams and construct two cross vanes downstream of the culvert.
:S'EE ATTACHED SHEET FOR SPECIAL CONDITIONS
Applicable Law: X Section 404 (C'lean Water Act, 33 ILS.C.1344),
i,•beck all that apply) --,."..--Section 10 (River and Harbor Act of 1899).
Authorization: 1913200031
Regional GunerLd Permit. Number,
23 Nationwixlc I'crtnit Numbers,
Yrr,,ir work is authorized by this Regional General (RGI') or Nationwide Permit (NWP) provided it is
a(:.(,omplisbed in strict accordance with the attached conditions and your submitted plans. if your activity
is suhiect to Section 404 (if Section 404 bltx:k above is checked), before beginning work you must also
1"Ceeive a Section 401 water quality certification from the N.C. Division of Tsuvironmental Management,
clcphone [phone],
R'oase read and carefully comply with the atta0wd conditions of the RGP or NWP, Any violation of the
(,onditions of the RGP or the NWP referenced above tray subject the permittee to a stop work order, a
r,;storation order, and/or appropriate legal action.
)"nis Department. of the Army RGI' or NWP verification does not relieve the permittee of the
responsibility to obtain any other required Federal, State, or local approvals1permits, The permittee may
need to contact appropriate State and local agencies before beginning work,
If there are any questions regarding tliis authorization or any of the conditions of the General Permit or
Nationwide Permit, please contact the Corps Regulatory Official specified below,
Pratc May 1, 2001
Corps Regulatory Official Stevan Lund Telephone No. (82$) 271-4857
,4,%piration Date of Verification February 1.1,?2002(NW23) December 31. 2002 (GP031)
SURVEY PLATS, FIELD SKE'T'CH, WRTLAND DELINEATION FORMS, PROJECT PLANS, ETC., MUST
.311, Al'I'ACH1EI) TO TIIE YELLOW (]FILE) COPY OF THIS FORM, IF REQUIRED OR AVAILABLE.
CWMW Form 391
k"I" July 1995
US ARMY CORPS/ENGRS I D : 1828271 X1858 MAY 01 , 01 10 : 38 No. uu1 r . u-?.-
SPECIAL CONDITIONS F()R NATIONWIDE PERMIT 23 and
General Permit 1915200031, North Carolina Department of'T'ranspotfiation
Actium IT) 2001301140, TIP B-3111
May 1, 20101
a. All conditions of the attached North C arolinn Wildlife Resources letters of April 23,
2001 and October 25, 2000 are hereby incorporated as special conditions of this
permit.
b. Should it he determined that blasting is necessary to remove, bedrock from the stream
channel, the permittee will notify appropriate representatives of the Corps of
Engineers and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission in advance of the blasting dale
by facsimile transmission or electronic mail.
c. The stability of the stream chatuiel below the authorized culvert will be monitored
with reference photos, a Sul veved cross-section and a surveyed longitudinal section,
This monitoring will be conducted annually following construction for a period of S
years or through 2 bankfull flow events, whiclhcvcr occurs first, The results of this
monitoring will be reported annually to the Corns of Engineers, Asheville Field
Office and the NC" Wildlife Resources Commission, The permittoe will conduct any
necessary remedial action as directed by the Corps of Engineers.
iiq ARM'' 1-.nRPSlFNGRS ID:18282714858
MAY 01 ' 01 10 : 38 No. 002 P.04
North. Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission"...
C harlex R. Fullwood, FxC•C'UClve Dircctcn-
R°
TO. Stave Lund, USACOE
Asheville Field Office APR r,
FROM: Ron Linville, Regional Coordinator,
Habitat Conservation Progrann t-
DATE: April 23, 2001
SUBJECT: North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), Bridge No. 14
over Plumtree Creek., SR1 l 14 TIP B-3111, Avery County
These comments are provided in accordance with the provisions of the Fish and
Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stitt, 401; as amended; -16 U.S.C.- 661 567d) and the'North
Carolina Environi iontal Policy: Act (G.S..'113.A-1 •througli 113A-1 G; NCAC 25). The
NCDOT proposes to proceed with the Nationwide Pcrmit (NWP) 23 for this protect in
order to replace the prosent bridge with a double barrel culvert installation. Plumtree
Creek is Wild Designated Public Mountain 't'rout Wutcr that supports wild rainbow and
brown trout populations. Removal of the existing bridge should not be allowed to impact
waters.
While our preference still remains to replace the bridge with another spanning
structure, we have conCUrred with the proposed double barrel culvert due to design and
safety issues raised by North Carolina Department ofTransportation (NCDOT). NC;DOT
has repeatedly indicated that they can and will provide aquatic life and fish passage
through the culvert. NCD01' will steed a N WP 19 and NWP 33 to complete the project.
NWP 19 could include minor blasting. Based on a site visit conducted on April 12, 2001
and a phone conversation with Randy Henegar, NCDC)'I' Hydraulics Unit, plus
connnunications from Bob Brown, Assistant Fish Biologist for District 8, we will not
object to the issuance of the NWPs provided the following conditions are implemented;
1. All. conditions previotisly provided in associated 404Permits and 401
Certification:: or NCDOT Project C.ommitmonts will be llullowed, including
moratorium periods,
Mailing Addrenm: Di.rision of Intand NO)crics - 1721 N4.1il SffViCC Center • R,licigli, NC_ 27699-1721
Telephone: [phone] oxt.2A1 - Fax: [phone]
US 1Rt,!Y CORPS/ENGRS ID :18282714855
Plumtrec NWs 19 & 33
11-IRY 01 ' 01 10 39 No . UU'/-' F . U5
2 04/23/01
7. If binsting is necessary, it will be accomplished in dry areas and not in waters.
Blasting work will be accomplished so that shock impacts to aquatic
communities are minimized to the maximum extent practicable, including the
collection and removal of aquittic life to other stream reaches at a distance
considered reasonably safe to blasting experts. Kandy Henegar does riot
believe blasting will be necessary and that if it is, it will be minimal.
3. Due to the sensitivity of'this project, Randy Henegar should coordinate with the
resident engineers to insure that the culvert elevations arc correct during the
beginning of the project and during the siting and installation of all weir and
vane structures, IIeavy equipment operated in the stream should be new or in
excellent condition in order to minimize pollutant impacts and spill potential,
Spill containaient materials should be kept readily available and used as
appropriate.
4. Sediment and erosion control measures shall adhere to the design stwidards for
sensitive watersheds (l 5A. NCAC 414 .0024).
5. After construction, NCDOT should routinely inspect and adjust. (maintain)
instreanl structures so that aquatic life and fish passage will not be impacted in
the future, Additional structures and channel modifications may be necessary
if fish passage is ever restricted.
6. During construction sequences and stream diversions, NCDO`I' should insure
that aquatic life and fish are not stranded to the extent practicable. Pre-
collmdon and relocation of collectable species will be appropriate.
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project during the
early planning stages. If you have any questions regarding tlicsc comments, please
contact nee at 336/769-9453.
Ce; Marella Bunciek. IISFWS, Asheville
John Domey, DWQ, Raleigh
Mary Frazer, NDDOT
US RVIIY CORPSrENGk:S
TD:18282714858
MAY 01'01 10:39 No.002 P.06
D North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission ff]
(a101'leA 1l. 1'II IIWU(lCl, {tSt'C'IILIVB 1?ICCtiGtf)1
TO: Steve Lund, MSACO1
Asheville Field Office OC r 3 „ 2000
FROM: Ron Linville, Ref±ionnI C'oordinat5q x"? /-^ - ,
Habitat Conservation Program
FFF a
DATE: October 25, 2000
S1JR,113CT: North. Carolina Department of Transportation (NCD01), Bridge No. 14,
Big Plumtree Creek Read, SRI 114, Plumtree Creek, TIP R-3111, Avery
County
'1'liose comments arc provided in accordance. with the provisions ofthe Dish and
Wildlife Caordidation Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 i.J,S.C. 6161-667d) and the North
Carolina Environmental Polioy Act (G.S. 1 13A-1 tliraugh 113A-10; NCA(,' 25). The
NCDOT proposes to replace an existing; bridge with a two-barrel box culvert 97 feet
long. The new el?iverts will be 50 feet west of the present bridge, Each cross SGGtion of
the culvert will be 8 feet by 9 feet. The old bridge is to bo completely removed.
Removal of the existing bridge should not impact waters.
Plumtree Creek is Wild Designated Public Mountain Trout Water that supportk a
wild brown trout population as well as a population of rainbow trout, These waters are
very important as this slreani provides spawning and nursery habitat for trout. NCDOT
has included various design considerations for this structure. They are to he commended
for this effort. While our preference would he to replace the bridge with another
spatuting structure, we will not object to the use of a double culvert provided the
fallowing conditions are Implemented.
The culvert should be designed and constructed large enough,;() that it can be
installed approximately one Jout bclow streambed grade so that all waters can
flow through uninterrupted without dtunming or frcefalling on eitlhcr end
during low flow condition;: to maintain fish paitsugc. `l`hc dcsigg and nroiect:
cotngliunents attached to the referetigrd NC'•DOT mvmoMM4U6 should, be
1i11pvYed. As two barrels will be installed, only one barrel should receive base
flow, The second barrel should he installed so as to receive only storm flows
Mailing Address! .D;v;,ic,n of 1nkmi F 1shcric: • 1 721 KiiI Scrvicc Center • Raleigh, NC 2 7699-1 72 1
7elephonc: [phone] ext. 291 -lax: [phone]
US .ARI°IY CORPS/ENURS ID:18282714458
MAY 01 ' 01 10:40 No. 002 P.07
Ylumtrcc Crock, Bridge # 14 2 10/25/00
(bankfull elevation). '11tis ,;torniwa ter barrel should be frilly silted across both
ends and connected to the iloodplain.
2. The dimension, pattern, and profile of the stream above and below the base
flew barrel should not be modified by widening the stream channel/floodplailt
or reducing the depth of the stream water. Bankfull benches and floodplains
should remain intact or be restored to original contours upon project
conipleti.on. Natural stream dimensions should be created and maintained
through the base flow barrel.
3. if concrete will be used, work must be accomplished so that wet concrete does
not contact stream wader. This will lessen the, chance of altering the stream's
water chemistry and causing, a fish kill.
Q. Heavy equipment should be operated from the bunk Tether than in the stream
channel in order to minimize sodimentation and reduce the likelihood of
introducing other pollatatnts into the stream.
5. Stringent erosion control measures should be installed where soil is disturbed
and maintained until project completion.
0. Temporary or pernutnent berbaiceous vegetation should be planted on all bare
soil within 15 days of ground disturbing activities to provide long-term erosion
control. We encouragc NCDOT to uiilize onsitc vegetation and materials for
streambank atabilization when practicable.
7. Instream work and laud disturbance within the 25-foot wide buffer zone are
prohibited during the trout spawning seasons of October 15 throum b April 15 to
protect the egg and fry stages of trout From off site sedimentation during
construction.
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project during the
early planning stages. If you have any questions regarding these comments, please
contact me at 336/769-9453.
Cc: William D. Gilmore, NCDOT
• APR-16-2001 16:52 NCUUT 919 250 4108 P. 02/05
Ia
5
0
m
?I inN?CY?
NO"TH CAROLINA 0CPARTMENT OF ; ,RA;1Sp0RTATION
HYDRAULICS UNlr
f-rC:s ?IIL!( 1 RANUITTAL COVER SHEET
Please deliver the following pages to;
Name;
Of, /VC u., iP r-
`his facsimilie is being sent by;
Name.

C4 9? , 4 ,? ,-)
w 'T Iov

Fax Number Called: -- 7'G
REMARKS- n
C D

733-?za?
2
4-?
rd T ? Xc-
IF YOU DO NOT RE:CEIVF ALL, PAGES CLEAR[-Y, CALL BACK AS SOON AS POSSIBLE:
Our reh:?h?one Number is: (919) 250, oUC1
O.ir f7 AX No. is: (919) 250 -,1106
f'LE-ASF- C O INT P:r;E? ri,1r b r, -
0 c-r:
APR-16-2001 16:52 HCDOT 919 250 4108 P.03/05

CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCE
-LI-
Sta. I2+38.2
2@ 12'x 10'
I' Install Sediment control devices necessary for culvert construction
4? silt fence. including
2. Place stilling basin ($p h,
cu.
all effluent into the stilling b? pacitY) south of proposed culvert3. Install impervious as shown, pump
4. Co dyke A, diverting channel flow,
nstruct southernmost barrel.
S Removc impervious dyke A td-install impervious
6• Cons ?nordiarrel. dyke $, diverting flow through-%.
7. Place low flow inmost barrel.
channel sills and bed
material " northm"unost barrel
b• Remove impervious dyke B diverting flow
9• Install l' x I' sills and bed mater n south through northernmost ' Per detail.
10. Install rock cross vane downstream of culvert?71most bagel, Per detail.
I I. Upon P?anent stabilization ofall disturbed apex detail.
control devices. eas, remove all tcm
- pory Sediment
SPRINO
BOX
IIJJ
--------------
1

"CROSS VANE/
(APPROx4p. DOWNSTPEA)
,ice STILLING 8ASU
(80 Cu. Yo.)
?Fi `A ARE/
?.r
7'r YLL)" DYKE 8
C2 djj?
f \ -O6E11GiCTRE?'. -
'ER IOUS DYkE.q ? t~ lr - i`i .
is / / ? ? ' `•
APP-16-2001 16:53 H DC
0

919 250 4108 P.04i05
/0

APR-16-2001 16:53 NCDOT
919 250 4108 P.05i05

/ ?/
TOTAL P.OF
Prn+sSTATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
April 3, 2001
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Regulatory Field Office
151 Patton Avenue, Room 208
Asheville, North Carolina 28801-5006
ATTN: Mr. Steven Lund
NCDOT Coordinator
Dear Mr. Lund:
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
01 0869

SUBJECT: Avery County, Replacement of Bridge No. 14 over Plumtree Creek on SR 1114
(Big Plumtree Creek Road). Federal Aid Project No. MABRZ-1114(1), State
Project No. 8.2721001. TIP No. B-3111.
On January 30, 2001, your office issued a Section 404 Nationwide Permit 23 for the
replacement of the subject bridge over Plumtree Creek (Action ID 200130140) . The work
proposed in the permit application dated January 22, 2001 has not changed. This is a subsequent
application for authorization under NWP 19 for the excavation of bedrock material from the
streambed, and NWP 33 for the temporary diversion of water.
NCDOT proposes to replace the bridge with a two-barrel box culvert 80 feet long. Each
barrel of the culvert will have a cross section of 12 x 10 feet. The culverts will be placed on a
new alignment 50 feet west of the existing structure.
Sills and stockpiled streambed material will be placed in the bottom of the box culvert to
create a sinuous channel for continuous movement of water during low-flow conditions,
mimicking channel substrate. The low-flow sill is designed to be flush with the existing
streambed. (See attached plans for details.) In addition, to mitigate for impacts to fish habitat, a
cross-vane will be constructed to re-create a pool just downstream from the project site.
Upstream of the proposed culvert is a natural rock weir that will prevent head cutting.
The cross vane to be constructed downstream will help prevent damage to downstream banks.
Stockpiled natural streambed material placed between sills in the bottom of the culvert will
mimic channel substrate. The width of the box culvert approximates the width of the natural
channel.
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27899-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US
70 =
r-T-1 :T
C-) -
= _..
r -M
rn ??
ca --
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
The existing bridge will be removed. Best management practices for bridge demolition
will be followed during the course of the project. There will be no temporary fill dropped in
Plumtree Creek during demolition. In total, 80 feet of surface water will be impacted as a result
of this project.
NWP 19: It is anticipated that fill (such as sandbags or streambed material) will be
placed across part of the stream as a temporary dike or coffer dam to divert water while the first
barrel of the culvert is constructed. A pipe may be needed to contain the flow of water during
this time. Once the first barrel of the culvert is complete, water will diverted through the barrel
while construction of the second barrel takes place.
NWP 33: Since the bed of the stream contains bedrock, dynamite will be used to remove
material where the culvert will be located, so that it can be placed one foot below streambed
grade and the invert will be flush with the adjacent streambed (per NWP 23 special permit
conditions). Bed material will be stockpiled during construction and placed in the bottom of one
barrel of the culvert to create a low-flow channel once construction is complete. It is anticipated
that less than 25 cubic yards of bed material will be excavated for this project.
Restoration: Once the culvert is complete, bankfull benches and floodplains will be
restored to original contours and natural stream dimensions will be created and maintained in the
low-flow barrel of the culvert. The other barrel will receive only storm flows; it will be fully
silled across both ends and will be connected to the floodplain. Any fill used for diverting water
will be removed to an upland area.
Jurisdictional Surface Waters: Plumtree Creek (DWQ Index # 7-2-17) lies in the French
Broad River basin and is classified as a Class WS-IV Tr waterbody. Plumtree Creek is a
Designated Public Mountain Trout Water and supports a wild brown trout population.
Jurisdictional Wetlands: No jurisdictional wetlands occur within the project area.
Threatened and Endangered Species: Ten species of plants and animals occur in Avery
County which receive federal protection under the Endangered Species Act. A biological
conclusion of No Effect has been made for each of these species resulting from the bridge
replacement. A complete discussion of protected species is included in the attached Categorical
Exclusion Planning Document. Although the federally-endangered Appalachian elktoe
(Alasmidonta raveneliana) is not listed for Avery County, it is known to occur in the watershed
downstream of Plumtree Creek. To be certain that there would be no impacts to the species, a
survey was conducted by NCDOT biologists Michael Wood and Tim Savidge in November,
2000. No suitable habitat was found in the project area.
It is anticipated that the aforementioned activities will be authorized via NWP 19 and
NWP 33, in addition to the NWP 23 authorized previously. By copy of this application, request
is made to the Division of Water Quality for the appropriate 401 Water Quality Certification, and
to the Wildlife Resources Commission for their approval for work in a designated trout county.
Please note that this project was scheduled to be let to construction on March 20, 2001.
If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Mary Frazer at
[phone].
Sincerely,
William Gilmore, P.E., Branch Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
WDG/mef
cc: Mr. David Franklin, COE
Mr. John Dorney, NCDWQ
Mr. Ron Linville, NCWRC
Mr. Brian Cole, USFWS
Mrs. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Design Services
Mr. Calvin Leggett, P.E., Program Development
Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design
Mr. D.R. Henderson, P.E., Hydraulics
Mr. Tim Rountree, P.E., Structure Design
Mr. Ken Pace, P.E., Roadside Environmental
Mr. R.C. McCann, P.E., Division 11 Engineer
Mr. John Williams, P.E., PD & EA
010869
DEM ID:
CORPS ACTION ID:
NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT #):NWP 19, 33
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION
FOR NATIONWIDE PERMITS THAT REQUIRE:
1) NOTIFICATION TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS
2) APPLICATION FOR SECTION 401 CERTIFICATION
3) COORDINATION WITH THE NC DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO THE APPROPRIATE
FIELD OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET).
SEVEN (7) COPIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE N.C. DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). PLEASE PRINT.
1. OWNERS NAME: NCDOT; Project Development and Environmental Analysis.
2. MAILING ADDRESS: Post Office Box 25201
SUBDIVISION NAME:
CITY: Raleigh STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27611
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER (HOME):
(WORK): 919-733-3141
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENT'S NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL,
ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER:
William D. Gilmore, P.E., Branch Manager
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS
TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Avery NEAREST TOWN OR CITY: Crossnore, NC
1

SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ETC.): Bridge
No 14 is located over Plumtree Creek on SR 1114 (Big Plumtree Creek
Road).
6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Plumtree Creek (DEM # 7-2-17)
RIVER BASIN: French Broad
7a. IS PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER
(SA), HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW),
WATER SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II)? YES [x] NO [ ] IF YES, EXPLAIN:
Plumtree Creek is designated as trout water (Class WS-IV Tr).
7b. IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)?YES[ ] NO[x.]
7c. IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR
LIST OF COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION?
N/A
8a. HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON
THIS PROPERTY? YES [x] NO [ ] IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF
PREVIOUS PERMIT AND ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401
CERTIFICATION): ID # 200130140
8b. ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE
FUTURE? YES [ ] NO [x] IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK: _
9a. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND:
9b. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT
SITE:
None.
2
I
10a. NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING:
FLOODING:
DRAINAGE:
EXCAVATION:
OTHER:
TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: None.
10b. (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF
RELOCATED, PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION):
LENGTH BEFORE: 80 FT AFTER: 80
FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): See attached FT
WIDTH AFTER:
FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: See attached FT AFTER:
FT
(2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: x CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Temporary fill in channel to divert water for construction of
first barrel of double barrel box culvert.
11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE
WATERSHED DRAINING TO THE POND? N/A
WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF
MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TO BE USED (ATTACH PLANS: 8 1/2" X 11" DRAWINGS
ONLY): Replacement of existing bridge with an 80 foot long double barrel
box culvert. Dynamite will be used to remove areas of bedrock, so that
the culvert can be placed one foot below streambed grade and the invert
will be flush with the adjacent streambed. Bed material will be
stockpiled and laced in the bottom of the culvert to create a low-flow
channel Mechanical equipment will include heavy duty excavation
equipment, which will be operated from the streambank whenever possible.
13. PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK:. Bridge Replacement (Public
Transportation)
3
14. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED
OUT IN WETLANDS. (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND
IMPACTS): No wetland impacts will occur.
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OR THE USE
OF PUBLIC (STATE) LAND?
YES [x] NO [] (IF NO, GO TO 18)
a. IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN
ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH
CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT?
YES [x] NO [I
b. IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH
CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE?
YES [x] NO []
IF ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE
STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TO DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REGARDING
COMPLIANCE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT.
QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE
DIRECTED TO MS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH
CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH,
NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE [phone].
4
18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF
PROPOSED ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OR FILL MATERIAL
INTO WETLANDS:
a. WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES
AND PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS 14, 18, 21,
26, 29, AND 38). ALL STREAMS (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE
PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS
50 FEET OR 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET OR THEIR EQUIVALENT.
b. IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE
IMPACTED BY PROJECT.
C. IF DELINEATION WAS PERFORMED BY A CONSULTANT, INCLUDE ALL DATA
SHEETS RELEVANT TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE DELINEATION LINE.
d. ATTACH A COPY OF THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN IF REQUIRED.
e. WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY? Residential,
agricultural and forested.
f. IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
N/A
g. SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE U.S. MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO:
1) ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT,
2) EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (WATER QUALITY) CERTIFICATION, AND
3) (IN THE TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE
NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROPOSED
ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT
PROGRAM.
OWNER'S/AGENT'S SIGNATURE
?i?b
DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.))
5

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PROP. 2 L 2,,X10
STA. 12--3802 -LI-
(not to scale)
CROSS SECTION
24'
10' 9'
1' SILL /
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RCBC
1. Bed material should be stock piled during excavation
2. Place stock piled bed material between sills upon
completion of culvert floor.
3. Material placed between sills in the culvert should provide
a continuous low flow channel between the lower sills.
4. Silts a 32.0 ft. O.C.
A) The I' x I' sills are to be cast separately and attached
to the floor slab with dowels.
B) The I' x 0.5' sills cre to be cast seperately and attached
to the floor slab with dowels.
5. Material placed between sills is to be taken from the
stock pile created during excavation.
6. Stockpiled material to be placed adjacent to northwest
wingwall to elevation 3317.5. B-3111
AVERY CO.
II-00

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