20010118 Ver 1_Complete File_20010118

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Michael F. Easley, Governor
Bill Ross, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
Mr. J.G. Nance, P.E., Division Engineer
NCDOT, Division 5
2612 N. Duke Street
Durham, NC 27704
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NCDENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
June 19, 2001
DWQ No. 010118
Warren County
Re: Warren County, Replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629,
Maple Branch [28-79-20.5; C NSW]
APPROVAL of Tar-Pamlico Buffer Rules AUTHORIZATION CERTIFICATE with ADDITIONAL
CONDITIONS
Dear Mr. Nance,
You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions, to impact 60 linear feet of streams and
3000 square feet protected riparian buffers for the purpose of replacing Bridge Number 111 over Maple
Branch on SR 1629. The project shall be constructed according to your application dated February 12, 2001,
and the subsequent addendum dated April 5, 2001, and any conditions listed below. This approval shall act as
your Authorization Certificate as required within the Tar-Pamlico River Riparian Area Protection Rules (15A
NCAC 2B .0259). In addition, you should get any other required federal, state or local permits before you go
ahead with your project including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control.
This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application dated February
12, 2001, and the subsequent addendum dated April 5, 2001. If you change your project, you must notify us
and you may be required to send us a new application. If the property is sold, the new owner must be given a
copy of this authorization and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying with all conditions. For
this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed below.
? Weep holes shall be designed so as not to discharge directly into surface waters.
? All stormwater shall be directed to sheetflow at non-erosive velocities through the protected buffers.
If you do not accept any of the conditions of this authorization, 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 authorization and its conditions are final and
binding unless you ask for a hearing.
Non-Discharge Branch Wetlands/401 Unit 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27669-1621
Telephone [phone] FAX # [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/] 0% post consumer paper
This letter completes the review of the Division of Water
determination required in 15A NCAC 2B .0259(8)
at 919-733-5694. Quality under the "No Practical Alternatives" Page ves" 2 of 2
If you have any questions, please contact John Hennessy
Cc: US Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh
DWQ Raleigh Regional Office
File Copy
Central Files
CAncdoA.SR 1629\wgc1010118 buffer authorization.doc
0 N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
TRANSMITTAL SLIP DATE
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? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS ? FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION - ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT:
COMMENTS: -
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APR 1 0
STATE of NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely Lyndo Tippett
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
April 5, 2001
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Attention: Mr. Garland Pardue
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629
and paving of SR 1629 in Warren County.
References: (1) Biological Assessment for dwarf wedgemussel (NCDOT, January 16,
2001)
(2) Biological Opinion for project issued by USFWS (USFWS, February
21, 2001)
(3) Biological Opinion for project rescinded by USFWS (USFWS, March
6, 2001)
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has previously
proposed to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 as well as upgrade
and pave SR 1629 in Warren County. The dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon),
a federally Endangered species protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended (ESA), has been documented in Maple Branch within the vicinity of the
proposed project study area.
A Biological Assessment (BA) for the dwarf wedgemussel at Bridge No. 111 over
Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren County was submitted to the United States Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS) on January 16, 2001. The BA discussed the proposed
replacement of Bridge No. 111 and the paving of SR 1629. Additionally, the BA
discussed the project history, proposed design of the roadway (SR 1629) and replacement
bridge, and site-specific description of Maple Branch at the project site. The BA
provided an assessment of project impacts on dwarf wedgemussel (including direct,
secondary and cumulative impacts) and erosion control plan. The NCDOT concluded
that the replacement of Bridge No. 111 and the paving of SR 1629 are Not Likely To
Adversely Affect the dwarf wedgemussel.
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
r
The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC), in
correspondence via e-mail dated February 20, 2001, requested an on-site meeting to
discuss stormwater control measures at the site. The NCWRC noted that the measures, as
described in the BA, may not be sufficient to control stormwater and prevent a predicted
increase in discharge. The USFWS, in a letter dated February 21, 2001, stated that based
on the information presented in the BA, the Service concurs with the project,
implemented as described, is "Not Likely To Adversely Affect" the dwarf wedgemussel.
In a subsequent letter dated March 6, 2001, the USFWS noted the comments from the
NCWRC and rescinded the previous concurrence until an on-site meeting could be
conducted to resolve outstanding concerns.
Accordingly, an on-site meeting was conducted on March 22, 2001. Personnel
from the USFWS, NCWRC and NCDOT attended the meeting. During the meeting, the
NCDOT decided to pursue separate concurrence for the replacement of Bridge No. 111
and the paving of SR 1629. This decision was agreed to in principal during the meeting
by the regulatory agencies.
The NCDOT agreed to implement additional project conditions relevant to the
replacement of Bridge No. 111. These are addressed below:
• NCDOT shall conduct an in-stream survey in the project footprint for mussels prior to
the construction availability date.
• The erosion control measures currently on-site (cross-line pipe and catch basins) will
be maintained.
• The timber abutment on the south bank will be removed using an excavator that will
be stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the partially
submerged timber before removal.
• Sediment and Erosion control measures must be in place prior to land clearing
activities. No sediment from bridge construction activities shall be allowed to enter
Maple Branch.
• There will be no clearing or grubbing conducted at the site between November 15 and
April 1.
• Deck drains (weep holes) will be located on the two end spans located above the
floodplain. Class 2 rip rap located under and adjacent to the end spans will filter
runoff from the deck drains.
• Wet concrete shall not come in contact with stream water at any time during
construction.
• Equipment shall be maintained such that hydraulic fluids, oil, gasoline, or other
chemicals will not enter the stream. If chemicals are stored on site, they should be
stored a sufficient distance from the stream and under secure conditions to prevent
accidental contact with the stream. If chemicals are spilled on site, they should be
cleaned up immediately and not allowed to filter down into the soil.
• The erosion control plan will be designed to High Quality Water (HQW) standards.
• Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) will be defined on the plans, which consist of
a 50 foot buffer zone on both sides of Maple Branch.

• Once grading operations have commenced in the ESA as specified on the plans, work
will progress in a continuous manner until complete.
• Seeding and mulching will be performed immediately following final grade
establishment.
• The project will be designed using special sediment control fencing comprised of
wire mesh hardware cloth and sediment control stone. This erosion control device
will be used where needed along stream banks.
• Excavation activities associated with the removal of the existing road bed and
subsequent sloping to form a floodplain will not extend beyond the wing walls and
associated rip rap.
• The existing roadway bed will serve as a staging/access area to conduct excavation
activities and placement of rip rap along the streambanks above the water line.
• The riparian buffer outside the limits of the proposed wing walls and rip rap will not
be disturbed.
• The timber bridge abutment on the north bank of Maple Branch will be cut at the
existing ground level and sloped as necessary to form the floodplain.
• Excavation activities associated with the removal of the existing road bed and
subsequent sloping to form a floodplain will be scheduled to be completed in one day.
If this activity cannot be completed in one day, the exposed banks will be covered
with soil stabilization fabric or plastic sheeting.
• There will be no construction activity conducted in the active channel except for the
removal of the timber abutment on the south bank.
The NCDOT has concluded that based on the design of the project including
guidelines outlined in the BA and commitments listed above, the replacement of Bridge
No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Maple Branch is Not Likely To Adversely
Affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT is requesting an expedited concurrence
of our findings. If you have any questions, I can be reached at [phone] or
ciiiun'ay a)clot st;ltc.nc_uti.
Sincerely,
a- L, -4?
Christopher A. Mural , P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
cc: Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT, Henderson
Dallie Bagwell, NCDOT, Raleigh
Garland Pardue, USFWS, Raleigh
John Fridell, USFWS, Asheville
Tom McCartney, USFWS, Raleigh
Judith Johnson, NCWRC, Apex
John Alderman, NCWRC, Pittsboro
David Cox, NCWRC, Creedmoor
Tim Savidge, NCDOT, Raleigh
Logan Williams, NCDOT, Raleigh
Jon Nance, P.E., NCDOT, Durham
John Dorney, NCD WQ, Raleigh
Eric Alsmeyer, USACE, Raleigh

usANra
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely Lyndo Tippett
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
April 5, 2001
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Attention: Mr. Garland Pardue
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629
and paving of SR 1629 in Warren County.
References: (1) Biological Assessment for dwarf wedgemussel (NCDOT, January 16,
2001)
(2) Biological Opinion for project issued by USFWS (USFWS, February
21, 2001)
(3) Biological Opinion for project rescinded by USFWS (USFWS, March
6, 2001)
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has previously
proposed to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 as well as upgrade
and pave SR 1629 in Warren County. The dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon),
a federally Endangered species protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended (ESA), has been documented in Maple Branch within the vicinity of the
proposed project study area.
A Biological Assessment (BA) for the dwarf wedgemussel at Bridge No. 111 over
Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren County was submitted to the United States Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS) on January 16, 2001. The BA discussed the proposed
replacement of Bridge No. 111 and the paving of SR 1629. Additionally, the BA
discussed the project history, proposed design of the roadway (SR 1629) and replacement
bridge, and site-specific description of Maple Branch at the project site. The BA
provided an assessment of project impacts on dwarf wedgemussel (including direct,
secondary and cumulative impacts) and erosion control plan. The NCDOT concluded
that the replacement of Bridge No. 111 and the paving of SR 1629 are Not Likely To
Adversely Affect the dwarf wedgemussel.
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Strcct Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]

The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC), in
correspondence via e-mail dated February 20, 2001, requested an on-site meeting to
discuss stormwater control measures at the site. The NCWRC noted that the measures, as
described in the BA, may not be sufficient to control stormwater and prevent a predicted
increase in discharge. The USFWS, in a letter dated February 21, 2001, stated that based
on the information presented in the BA, the Service concurs with the project,
implemented as described, is "Not Likely To Adversely Affect" the dwarf wedgemussel.
In a subsequent letter dated March 6, 2001, the USFWS noted the comments from the
NCWRC and rescinded the previous concurrence until an on-site meeting could be
conducted to resolve outstanding concerns.
Accordingly, an on-site meeting was conducted on March 22, 2001. Personnel
from the USFWS, NCWRC and NCDOT attended the meeting. During the meeting, the
NCDOT decided to pursue separate concurrence for the replacement of Bridge No. 111
and the paving of SR 1629. This decision was agreed to in principal during the meeting
by the regulatory agencies.
The NCDOT agreed to implement additional project conditions relevant to the
replacement of Bridge No. 111. These are addressed below:
• NCDOT shall conduct an in-stream survey in the project footprint for mussels prior to
the construction availability date.
• The erosion control measures currently on-site (cross-line pipe and catch basins) will
be maintained.
• The timber abutment on the south bank will be removed using an excavator that will
be stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the partially
submerged timber before removal.
• Sediment and Erosion control measures must be in place prior to land clearing
activities. No sediment from bridge construction activities shall be allowed to enter
Maple Branch.
• There will be no clearing or grubbing conducted at the site between November 15 and
April 1.
• Deck drains (weep holes) will be located on the two end spans located above the
floodplain. Class 2 rip rap located under and adjacent to the end spans will filter
runoff from the deck drains.
• Wet concrete shall not come in contact with stream water at any time during
construction.
• Equipment shall be maintained such that hydraulic fluids, oil, gasoline, or other
chemicals will not enter the stream. If chemicals are stored on site, they should be
stored a sufficient distance from the stream and under secure conditions to prevent
accidental contact with the stream. If chemicals are spilled on site, they should be
cleaned up immediately and not allowed to filter down into the soil.
• The erosion control plan will be designed to High Quality Water (HQW) standards.
• Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) will be defined on the plans, which consist of
a 50 foot buffer zone on both sides of Maple Branch.
• Once grading operations have commenced in the ESA as specified on the plans, work
will progress in a continuous manner until complete.
• Seeding and mulching will be performed immediately following final grade
establishment.
• The project will be designed using special sediment control fencing comprised of
wire mesh hardware cloth and sediment control stone. This erosion control device
will be used where needed along stream banks.
• Excavation activities associated with the removal of the existing road bed and
subsequent sloping to form a floodplain will not extend beyond the wing walls and
associated rip rap.
• The existing roadway bed will serve as a staging/access area to conduct excavation
activities and placement of rip rap along the streambanks above the water line.
• The riparian buffer outside the limits of the proposed wing walls and rip rap will not
be disturbed.
• The timber bridge abutment on the north bank of Maple Branch will be cut at the
existing ground level and sloped as necessary to form the floodplain.
• Excavation activities associated with the removal of the existing road bed and
subsequent sloping to form a floodplain will be scheduled to be completed in one day.
If this activity cannot be completed in one day, the exposed banks will be covered
with soil stabilization fabric or plastic sheeting.
• There will be no construction activity conducted in the active channel except for the
removal of the timber abutment on the south bank.
The NCDOT has concluded that based on the design of the project including
guidelines outlined in the BA and commitments listed above, the replacement of Bridge
No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Maple Branch is Not Likely To Adversely
Affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT is requesting an expedited concurrence
of our findings. If you have any questions, I can be reached at [phone] or
cimirray(a)dot. state..nc. Lis.
Sincerely,
Christopher A. Muria , P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
cc: Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT, Henderson
Dallie Bagwell, NCDOT, Raleigh
Garland Pardue, USFWS, Raleigh
John Fridell, USFWS, Asheville
Tom McCartney, USFWS, Raleigh
Judith Johnson, NCWRC, Apex
John Alderman, NCWRC, Pittsboro
David Cox, NCWRC, Creedmoor
Tim Savidge, NCDOT, Raleigh
Logan Williams, NCDOT, Raleigh
Jon Nance, P.E., NCDOT, Durham
John Dorney, NCDWQ, Raleigh
Eric Alsmeyer, USACE, Raleigh
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
TRANSMITTAL SLIP DATE ''!!
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ACTION
? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS ? FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMMENTS:

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4
STATE of NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely
GOVERNOR
February 12, 2001
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Wetlands/401 Unit
2321 Crabtree Blvd.
Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Attention: Mr. John Dorney
Supervisor
FEB 2 8 2001
Lyndo Tippett
SECRETARY
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629
in Warren County.
Reference: USACE Permit Application (January 16, 2001).
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) applied for
applicable permits associated with the replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch
on SR 1629 in Warren County in a letter to the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
on January 16, 2001 (note: a copy of this letter was forwarded to the N.C. Division of
Water Quality (NCDWQ) on the same day). Specifically, the NCDOT requested
authorization under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit (NWP) 13 to perform streambank
stabilization associated with this project. Notification for the use of this NWP to the
USACE is required for this project, as the federally protected dwarf wedgemussel
(Alasmidonta heterodon) has been observed in the vicinity of the project. The Section
401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) No. 3258 (which corresponds to NWP 13) does not
require written application or approval from the NCDWQ as NCDOT intends to comply
with conditions for the WQC. The purpose of this letter is to provide additional
information to the NCDWQ concerning riparian buffer impacts associated with the
project.
Project History
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren
County sustained extensive irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy
rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple Branch. A population of dwarf
wedgemussel, a federally protected species, had been documented within the vicinity of
Bridge No. 111. On October 22, 1999, representatives from the NCDOT, U.S. Fish and
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Wildlife Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission
(NCWRC) met at the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure.
It was decided to remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris
removal plan was proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not
Likely to Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by
NCDOT. The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge
debris removal project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their
formally designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing
under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Bridge No. 111 was removed on December
12-13, 1999. Representatives from NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch were present and observed no damage to downstream
habitat as a result of the removal. The NCDOT proposes to pave SR 1629 and replace
Bridge No. 111 (Figure 1).
Impacts to Waters of the United States
The project crosses Maple Branch (DWQ Index No. 28-79-20.5), located in
Subbasin 03-03-04 of the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. This stream has a Best Usage
Classification of Class C NSW.
Proposed Project
The timber abutment on the south bank of Maple Branch has washed out over the
last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the creek bank and is partially
submerged in Maple Branch. The NCDOT proposes to remove this abutment using an
excavator that is stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal.
The NCDOT proposes to construct a 3-span (consisting of 1@ 25 foot, 1@ 50
foot and 1@ 25 foot) cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. This structure will cross
Maple Creek from high ground to high ground as pile bents will be driven into the non-
jurisdictional floodplain on each side of the creek. Deck drains are not located over
Maple Branch in the proposed design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains
located on the end spans above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans.
Additionally, the NCDOT proposes to slope the creek bank, place a silt fence
along the creek bank and line the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. The rip rap placed
under and adjacent to the end spans and along the creek bank will catch and filter runoff
from the project and stabilize the creek bank. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank.
Federally Protected Species
The dwarf wedgemussel has been documented in the vicinity of Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch. A Biological Assessment was completed by NCDOT to fulfill
obligations under Section 7 of the ESA and to address project-related concerns with
respect to the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT has concluded that the construction of
the project will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the dwarf
wedgemussel population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water
(HQW) Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and
protocols to conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge
replacement will eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel
population during construction. The NCDOT has concluded that project construction is
not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT forwarded a copy of
the Biological Assessment to the USFWS on January 16, 2001 and requested a
concurrence of our findings.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
This project was discussed in a meeting with John Hennessy and Todd St. John of
the NCDWQ on October 31, 2000. Bridge No. 111 and SR 1629 existed as a
transportation facility within the riparian buffer as of July 22, 1997. This project is being
constructed within the footprint of the existing use. Level spreaders will be constructed
where the roadside ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level
spreaders will be directed to divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These
structures will allow the ninoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and
restrict sediment and nutrient input into Maple Branch. It was incorrectly determined
in the USACE permit application dated January 16, 2001 that the project is exempt
from the rule.
Construction of the project will result in the placement of 55 feet of rip rap along
the south creek bank and 60 feet of rip rap along the north creek bank. Rip rap will also
be placed under and adjacent to the end spans to filter runoff from the project (See Figure
2). Based on the impacts to the riparian buffer at this site, it is now determined that
this crossing is allowable under Streambanlc Stabilization. The NCDOT is requesting
that the NCDWQ complete a "no practicable alternatives" determination. The NCDOT
certifies that the criteria documented in Sub-Item (8)(a) of the buffer rules (which find
that there are no practical alternatives to the project) are met. The NCDOT requests an
Authorization Certificate for this project. Information supporting that there are no
practical alternatives for the issuance of this certification is summarized below:
Improvements must be conducted at the site to provide for adequate safety for
vehicular traffic. The previous Bridge No. 111 was washed out after Hurricane
Floyd. The construction of the project will re-establish this travel corridor.
The fill slopes have been reduced to 2:1.
The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best Management Practices
(BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water (HQW) Erosion
Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and protocols to
conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge replacement will
eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel population during
construction and reduce impacts to the Maple Branch and the riparian buffer.
® The amount of rip rap placed along Maple Branch has been reduced to the minimum
amount necessary to provide adequate streambank stabilization.
Summary
The NCDOT proposes to remove a timber abutment that has washed out and is
partially submerged in Maple Branch with an excavator. A turbidity curtain will be
placed around the partially submerged timber abutment before excavation. Additionally,
NCDOT proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch. This will involve
construction of a 3-span cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. The NCDOT will
stabilize the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank. The project is located in the Tar-Pamlico River Basin and is
subject to the Riparian Buffer Rule. Based on this re-evaluation of the impacts to the
riparian buffer at this site, this crossing is allowable. The NCDOT is requesting that the
NCDWQ complete a "no practicable alternatives" determination and subsequently issue
an Authorization Certificate for this project. A pre-construction notification is attached
with this request. If you have any questions or need additional information, please
contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
a-c,.??.
Christopher A. Murray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
cc: Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT District Engineer, Henderson
DWQ ID: CORPS ACTION ID: 200120024
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR
RIPARIAN BUFFER IMPACTS
FOR: APPLICATION FOR NCDWQ RIPARIAN BUFFER AUTHORIZATION CERTIFICATION
SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO: NC DIVISION OF
WATER QUALITY, ATTN: JOHN DORNEY, 2321 CRABTREE BLVD.,
RALEIGH, NC 27604. PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE.
1. OWNER'S NAME: North Carolina Dept. of Transportation, Division 5
2. MAILING ADDRESS: 2612 N. Duke Street
SUBDIVISION NAME
CITY: Durham STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27704
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
SR 1629, Warren County
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER: (HOME) (WORK) [phone]
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENTS NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,
PHONE NUMBER:
Christopher A. Murray, Division 5 Environmental Officer
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Warren -NEAREST TOWN: Inez
SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ECT.) SR 1629
6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Maple Branch RIVER BASIN: Tar-Pamlico
7. (a) 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 ? NO ® IF YES, EXPLAIN:
(b) IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)? YES ? NO
(c) 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?
8. (a) HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS
PROJECT? YES ? NO ® IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND
ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION):
(b) ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE?
YES ? NO ® IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK:
9. (a) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBERS OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND:
(b) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE:
0.0 acres
10. (a) NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING: EXCAVATION:
FLOODING: OTHER :
DRAINAGE : TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.0 acres
(b) (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED,
PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION:
LENGTH BEFORE: See Cover Letter FT AFTER: FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: FT AFTER: FT
(b) (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Streambank stabilization (NWP 13).
11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED
DRAINING TO THE POND? WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED? (ATTACH PLANS; 81/2 BY I I DRAWINGS ONLY)
Replacement of 11ridl!e No. 111 over Maple Branch and streambank stabilization
PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: Replacement of Bridge No. 111 over ]Maple Branch and
streambank stabilization.
13. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN
WETLANDS (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS)
No impacts to wetlands.
15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND/OR
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY
LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL
HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
DATE CONTACTED:
16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
(SHPO) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA
WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE USE OF PUBLIC
(STATE) LAND? YES ® NO ? (IF NO, GO TO 16)
(a) IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES ? NO
(b) IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE YES ? NO ?
IF ANSWER 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE
CLEARINGHOUSE 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].
18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED
ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OF 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 STREAM (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON
THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OF I INCH EQUALS 100 FEET
OF THEIR EQUIVALENT.
(b) IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY
PRODUCT.
(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? Forested, sin,lc family, residential.
(f) IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE US MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO:
I. ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT,
2. EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
CERTIFICATION, AND
3. (IN THE TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE NORTH
CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROFOSED
ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT
PROGRAM.
OWNER'S/AGENT'S SIGNATURE DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED).
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely
GOVERNOR
February 12, 2001
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Wetlands/401 Unit
2321 Crabtree Blvd.
Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Attention: Mr. John Dorney
Supervisor
Lyndo Tippett
SECRETARY
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629
in Warren County.
Reference: USACE Permit Application (January 16, 2001).
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) applied for
applicable permits associated with the replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch
on SR 1629 in Warren County in a letter to the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
on January 16, 2001 (note: a copy of this letter was forwarded to the N.C. Division of
Water Quality (NCDWQ) on the same day). Specifically, the NCDOT requested
authorization under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit (NWP) 13 to perform streambank
stabilization associated with this project. Notification for the use of this NWP to the
USACE is required for this project, as the federally protected dwarf wedgemussel
(Alasmidonta heterodon) has been observed in the vicinity of the project. The Section
401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) No. 3258 (which corresponds to MVP 13) does not
require written application or approval from the NCDWQ as NCDOT intends to comply
with conditions for the WQC. The purpose of this letter is to provide additional
information to the NCDWQ concerning riparian buffer impacts associated with the
project.
Project History
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren
County sustained extensive irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy
rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple Branch. A population of dwarf
wedgemussel, a federally protected species, had been documented within the vicinity of
Bridge No. 111. On October 22, 1999, representatives from the NCDOT, U.S. Fish and
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Strect Durlmin, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fay: [phone]
Wildlife Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission
(NCWRC) met at the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure.
It was decided to remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris
removal plan was proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not
Likely to Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by
NCDOT. The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge
debris removal project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their
formally designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing
under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Bridge No. 111 was removed on December
12-13, 1999. Representatives from NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch were present and observed no damage to downstream
habitat as a result of the removal. The NCDOT proposes to pave SR 1629 and replace
Bridge No. 111 (Figure 1).
Impacts to Waters of the United States
The project crosses Maple Branch (DWQ Index No. 28-79-20.5), located in
Subbasin 03-03-04 of the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. This stream has a Best Usage
Classification of Class C NSW.
Proposed Project
The timber abutment on the south bank of Maple Branch has washed out over the
last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the creek bank and is partially
submerged in Maple Branch. The NCDOT proposes to remove this abutment using an
excavator that is stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal.
The NCDOT proposes to construct a 3-span (consisting of 1@ 25 foot, 1@ 50
foot and 1@ 25 foot) cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. This structure will cross
Maple Creek from high ground to high ground as pile bents will be driven into the non-
jurisdictional floodplain on each side of the creek. Deck drains are not located over
Maple Branch in the proposed design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains
located on the end spans above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans.
Additionally, the NCDOT proposes to slope the creek bank, place a silt fence
along the creek bank and line the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. The rip rap placed
under and adjacent to the end spans and along the creek bank will catch and filter runoff
from the project and stabilize the creek bank. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank.
Federally Protected Species
The dwarf wedgemussel has been documented in the vicinity of Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch. A Biological Assessment was completed by NCDOT to fulfill
obligations under Section 7 of the ESA and to address project-related concerns with
respect to the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT has concluded that the construction of
the project will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the dwarf
wedgemussel population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water
(HQW) Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and
protocols to conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge
replacement will eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel
population during construction. The NCDOT has concluded that project construction is
not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT forwarded a copy of
the Biological Assessment to the USFWS on January 16, 2001 and requested a
concurrence of our findings.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
This project was discussed in a meeting with John Hennessy and Todd St. John of
the NCDWQ on October 31, 2000. Bridge No. 111 and SR 1629 existed as a
transportation facility within the riparian buffer as of July 22, 1997. This project is being
constructed within the footprint of the existing use. Level spreaders will be constructed
where the roadside ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level
spreaders will be directed to divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These
structures will allow the runoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and
restrict sediment and nutrient input into Maple Branch. It was incorrectly determined
in the USACE permit application dated January 16, 2001 that the project is exempt
from the rule.
Construction of the project will result in the placement of 55 feet of rip rap along
the south creek bank and 60 feet of rip rap along the north creek bank. Rip rap will also
be placed under and adjacent to the end spans to filter runoff from the project (See Figure
2). Based on the impacts to the riparian buffer at this site, it is now determined that
this crossing is allowable under Streambank Stabilization. The NCDOT is requesting
that the NCDWQ complete a "no practicable alternatives" determination. The NCDOT
certifies that the criteria documented in Sub-Item (8)(a) of the buffer rules (which find
that there are no practical alternatives to the project) are met. The NCDOT requests an
Authorization Certificate for this project. Information supporting that there are no
practical alternatives for the issuance of this certification is summarized below:
o Improvements must be conducted at the site to provide for adequate safety for
vehicular traffic. The previous Bridge No. 111 was washed out after Hurricane
Floyd. The construction of the project will re-establish this travel corridor.
o The fill slopes have been reduced to 2:1.
o The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best Management Practices
(BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water (HQW) Erosion
Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and protocols to
conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge replacement will
eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel population during
construction and reduce impacts to the Maple Branch and the riparian buffer.
® The amount of rip rap placed along Maple Branch has been reduced to the minimum
amount necessary to provide adequate streambank stabilization.
Summary
The NCDOT proposes to remove a timber abutment that has washed out and is
partially submerged in Maple Branch with an excavator. A turbidity curtain will be
placed around the partially submerged timber abutment before excavation. Additionally,
NCDOT proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch. This will involve
construction of a 3-span cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. The NCDOT will
stabilize the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank. The project is located in the Tar-Pamlico River Basin and is
subject to the Riparian Buffer Rule. Based on this re-evaluation of the impacts to the
riparian buffer at this site, this crossing is allowable. The NCDOT is requesting that the
NCD`VQ complete a "no practicable alternatives" determination and subsequently issue
an Authorization Certificate for this project. A pre-construction notification is attached
with this request. If you have any questions or need additional information, please
contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
Christopher A. Murray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
cc: Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT District Engineer, Henderson
DWQ ID: CORPS ACTION ID: 200120024
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR
RIPARIAN BUFFER IMPACTS
FOR: APPLICATION FOR NCDWQ RIPARIAN BUFFER AUTHORIZATION CERTIFICATION
SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF TfIIS COMPLETED FORM TO: NC DIVISION OF
WATER QUALITY, ATTN: JOHN DORNEY, 2321 CRABTREE BLVD.,
RALEIGH, NC 27604. PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE.
1. OWNER'S NAME: North Carolina Dept. of Transportation, Division 5
2. MAILING ADDRESS: 2612 N. Duke Street
SUBDIVISION NAME
CITY: Durham STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27704
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
SR 1629, Warren County
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER: (HOME) (WORK) [phone]
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENTS NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,
PHONE NUMBER:
Christopher A. Murray, Division 5 Environmental Officer
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Warren - NEAREST TOWN: Inez
SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ECT.) SR 1629
6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Maple Branch RIVER BASIN: Tar-Pamlico
7. (a) 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 ? NO ® IF YES, EXPLAIN:
(b) IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)? YES ? NO
(c) 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?
8. (a) HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS
PROJECT? YES ? NO ® IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND
ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION):
(b) ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE?
YES ? NO ® IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK:
9. (a) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBERS OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND:
(b) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE:
0.0 acres
10. (a) NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING: EXCAVATION:
FLOODING: OTHER :
DRAINAGE : TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.0 acres
(b) (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED,
PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION:
LENGTH BEFORE: See Cover Letter FT AFTER: FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: FT AFTER: FT
(b) (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Streambank stabilization (NWP 13).
11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED
DRAINING TO THE POND? WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED? (ATTACH PLANS; 81/2 BY I I DRAWINGS ONLY)
Replacement of Bridge No. I I I over Maple Branch and streambank stabilization.
PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: Replacement of Bridj!c No. I l l over Maple Branch and
streambank stabilization.
13. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN
WETLANDS (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS)
No impacts to wetlands.
15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND/OR
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY
LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL
HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
DATE CONTACTED:
16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
(SHPO) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA
WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE USE OF PUBLIC
(STATE) LAND? YES ® NO ? (IF NO, GO TO 16)
(a) IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES ? NO
(b) IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE YES ? NO ?
IF ANSWER 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE
CLEARINGHOUSE 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].
18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED
ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OF 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 STREAM (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON
THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE I INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OF I INCH EQUALS 100 FEET
OF THEIR EQUIVALENT.
(b) IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY
PRODUCT.
(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? Forested, sing-le family, residential.
(f) IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE US 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 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 DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED).
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely
GOVERNOR
February 12, 2001
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Wetlands/401 Unit
2321 Crabtree Blvd.
Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Attention: Mr. John Dorney
Supervisor
Lyndo Tippett
SECRETARY
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629
in Warren County.
Reference: USACE Permit Application (January 16, 2001).
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) applied for
applicable permits associated with the replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch
on SR 1629 in Warren County in a letter to the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
on January 16, 2001 (note: a copy of this letter was forwarded to the N.C. Division of
Water Quality (NCDWQ) on the same day). Specifically, the NCDOT requested
authorization under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit (NWP) 13 to perform streambank
stabilization associated with this project. Notification for the use of this NWP to the
USACE is required for this project, as the federally protected dwarf wedgemussel
(Alasmid onta heterodon) has been observed in the vicinity of the project. The Section
401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) No. 3258 (which corresponds to NWP 13) does not
require written application or approval from the NCDWQ as NCDOT intends to comply
with conditions for the WQC. The purpose of this letter is to provide additional
information to the NCDWQ concerning riparian buffer impacts associated with the
project.
Project History
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren
County sustained extensive irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy
rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple Branch. A population of dwarf
wedgemussel, a federally protected species, had been documented within the vicinity of
Bridge No. 111. On October 22, 1999, representatives from the NCDOT, U.S. Fish and
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fat: [phone]
Wildlife Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission
(NCWRC) met at the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure.
It was decided to remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris
removal plan was proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not
Likely to Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by
NCDOT. The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge
debris removal project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their
formally designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing
under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Bridge No. 111 was removed on December
12-13, 1999. Representatives from NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch were present and observed no damage to downstream
habitat as a result of the removal. The NCDOT proposes to pave SR 1629 and replace
Bridge No. 111 (Figure 1).
Impacts to Waters of the United States
The project crosses Maple Branch (DWQ Index No. 28-79-20.5), located in
Subbasin 03-03-04 of the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. This stream has a Best Usage
Classification of Class C NSW.
Proposed Project
The timber abutment on the south bank of Maple Branch has washed out over the
last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the creek bank and is partially
submerged in Maple Branch. The NCDOT proposes to remove this abutment using an
excavator that is stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal.
The NCDOT proposes to construct a 3-span (consisting of 1@ 25 foot, 1@ 50
foot and 1@ 25 foot) cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. This structure will cross
Maple Creek from high ground to high ground as pile bents will be driven into the non-
jurisdictional floodplain on each side of the creek. Deck drains are not located over
Maple Branch in the proposed design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains
located on the end spans above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans.
Additionally, the NCDOT proposes to slope the creek bank, place a silt fence
along the creek bank and line the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. The rip rap placed
under and adjacent to the end spans and along the creek bank will catch and filter runoff
from the project and stabilize the creek bank. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank.
Federally Protected Species
The dwarf wedgemussel has been documented in the vicinity of Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch. A Biological Assessment was completed by NCDOT to fulfill
obligations under Section 7 of the ESA and to address project-related concerns with
respect to the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT has concluded that the construction of
the project will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the dwarf
wedgemussel population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water
(HQ`') Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and
protocols to conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge
replacement will eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel
population during construction. The NCDOT has concluded that project construction is
not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT forwarded a copy of
the Biological Assessment to the USFWS on January 16, 2001 and requested a
concurrence of our findings.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
This project was discussed in a meeting with Jolm Hennessy and Todd St. John of
the NCDWQ on October 31, 2000. Bridge No. 111 and SR 1629 existed as a
transportation facility within the riparian buffer as of July 22, 1997. This project is being
constructed within the footprint of the existing use. Level spreaders will be constructed
where the roadside ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level
spreaders will be directed to divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These
structures will allow the runoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and
restrict sediment and nutrient input into Maple Branch. It was incorrectly determined
in the USACE permit application dated January 16, 2001 that the project is exempt
from the rule.
Construction of the project will result in the placement of 55 feet of rip rap along
the south creek bank and 60 feet of rip rap along the north creek bank. Rip rap will also
be placed under and adjacent to the end spans to filter runoff from the project (See Figure
2). Based on the impacts to the riparian buffer at this site, it is now determined that
this crossing is allowable under Streambank Stabilization. The NCDOT is requesting
that the NCDWQ complete a "no practicable alternatives" determination. The NCDOT
certifies that the criteria documented in Sub-Item (8)(a) of the buffer rules (which find
that there are no practical alternatives to the project) are met. The NCDOT requests an
Authorization Certificate for this project. Information supporting that there are no
practical alternatives for the issuance of this certification is summarized below:
o Improvements must be conducted at the site to provide for adequate safety for
vehicular traffic. The previous Bridge No. 111 was washed out after Hurricane
Floyd. The construction of the project will re-establish this travel corridor.
o The fill slopes have been reduced to 2:1.
o The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best Management Practices
(BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water (HQW) Erosion
Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and protocols to
conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge replacement will
4
eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel population during
construction and reduce impacts to the Maple Branch and the riparian buffer.
o The amount of rip rap placed along Maple Branch has been reduced to the minimum
amount necessary to provide adequate streambank stabilization.
Summary
The NCDOT proposes to remove a timber abutment that has washed out and is
partially submerged in Maple Branch with an excavator. A turbidity curtain will be
placed around the partially submerged timber abutment before excavation. Additionally,
NCDOT proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch. This will involve
construction of a 3-span cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. The NCDOT will
stabilize the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank. The project is located in the Tar-Pamlico River Basin and is
subject to the Riparian Buffer Rule. Based on this re-evaluation of the impacts to the
riparian buffer at this site, this crossing is allowable. The NCDOT is requesting that the
NCDWQ complete a "no practicable alternatives" determination and subsequently issue
an Authorization Certificate for this project. A pre-construction notification is attached
with this request. If you have any questions or need additional information, please
contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
a-c,
Christopher A. Murray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
cc: Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT District Engineer, Henderson
DWQ ID: CORPS ACTION ID: 200120024
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR
RIPARIAN BUFFER IMPACTS
FOR: APPLICATION FOR NCDWQ RIPARIAN BUFFER AUTHORIZATION CERTIFICATION
SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO: NC DIVISION OF
WATER (QUALITY, ATTN: JOHN DORNEY, 2321 CRABTREE BLVD.,
RALEIGH, NC 27604. PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE.
1. OWNER'S NAME: North Carolina Dept. of Transportation, Division 5
2. MAILING ADDRESS: 2612 N. Duke Street
SUBDIVISION NAME
CITY: Durham STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27704
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
SR 1629, Warren County
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER: (HOME) (WORK) [phone]
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENTS NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,
PHONE NUMBER:
Christopher A. Murray. Division 5 Environmental Officer
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Warren -NEAREST TOWN: Inez
SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ECT.) SR 1629
6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Maple Branch RIVER BASIN: Tar-Pamlico
7. (a) 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 ? NO ® IF YES, EXPLAIN:
(b) IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)? YES ? NO
(c) 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?
8. (a) HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS
PROJECT? YES ? NO ® IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND
ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION):
(b) ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE?
YES ? NO ® IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK:
9. (a) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBERS OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND:
(b) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE:
0.0 acres
10. (a) NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING: EXCAVATION:
FLOODING: OTHER:
DRAINAGE : TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.0 acres
(b) (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED,
PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION:
LENGTH BEFORE: See Cover Letter FT AFTER: FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on nonnal high water contours): FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: FT AFTER: FT
(b) (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Streambank stabilization (NWP 13).
11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED
DRAINING TO THE POND? WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED? (ATTACH PLANS; 81/2 BY I I DRAWINGS ONLY)
Replacement of Bride No. I11 over Maple Branch and streambank stabilization.
PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: Replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and
streambank stabilization.
13. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN
WETLANDS (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS)
No impacts to wetlands.
15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND/OR
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY
LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL
HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
DATE CONTACTED:
16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
(SHPO) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA
WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE USE OF PUBLIC
(STATE) LAND? YES ® NO ? (IF NO, GO TO 16)
(a) IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES ? NO
(b) IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE YES ? NO ?
IF ANSWER 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE
CLEARINGHOUSE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT.
QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE
DIRECTED TO NIS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH
CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH,
NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE [phone].
18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED
ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OF 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 STREAM (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON
THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OF I INCH EQUALS 100 FEET
OF THEIR EQUIVALENT.
(b) IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY
PRODUCT.
(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.
(c) WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY? Forested, single family, residential.
(f) IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE US 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 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 DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED).
Replacement of Bridge No. 111
on SR 1629 over Maple Branch .
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 David McCoy
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
January 16, 2001
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Raleigh Regulatory Field Office
6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120
Raleigh, NC 27609
Attention: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer
NCDOT Coordinator
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and upgrade
SR 1629 in Warren County. Action ID No. 200120024.
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren
County sustained extensive irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy
rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple Branch. A population of dwarf
wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon), a federally protected species, had been
documented within the vicinity of Bridge No. 111. On October 22, 1999, representatives
from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) met at
the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure. It was decided to
remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris removal plan was
proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not Likely to
Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by NCDOT.
The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge debris removal
project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their formally
designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing under the
ESA. Bridge No. 111 was removed on December 12-13, 1999. Representatives from
NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch were
present and observed no damage to downstream habitat as a result of the removal. The
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to pave SR 1629 and
replace Bridge No. 111 (Figure 1). Total project length is 1.9 miles. There is no U.S.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funding for this project.
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durlun, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
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Impacts to Waters of the United States
The project crosses Maple Branch (DWQ Index No. 28-79-20.5), located in
Subbasin 03-03-04 of the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. This stream has a Best Usage
Classification of Class C NSW.
Proposed Project
The timber abutment on the south bank of Maple Branch has washed out over the
last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the creek bank and is partially
submerged in Maple Branch. The NCDOT proposes to remove this abutment using an
excavator that is stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal.
The NCDOT proposes to construct a 3-span (consisting of 1@ 25 foot, 1@ 50
foot and 1@ 25 foot) cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. This structure will cross
Maple Creek from high ground to high ground as pile bents will be driven into the non-
jurisdictional floodplain on each side of the creek. Deck drains are not located over
Maple Branch in the proposed design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains
located on the end spans above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans.
Additionally, the NCDOT proposes to slope the creek bank, place a silt fence
along the creek bank and line the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. The rip rap placed
under and adjacent to the end spans and along the creek bank will catch and filter runoff
from the project and stabilize the creek bank. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank.
Federally Protected Species
The dwarf wedgemussel has been documented in the vicinity of Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch. A Biological Assessment was completed by NCDOT to fulfill
obligations under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act and to address project-related
concerns with respect to the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT has concluded that the
construction of the project will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the
dwarf wedgemussel population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water
(HQW) Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and
protocols to conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge
replacement will eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel
population during construction. The NCDOT has concluded that project construction is
not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT forwarded a copy of
the Biological Assessment to the USFWS on January 16, 2001 and requested a
concurrence of our findings.
-1
Permit Issues
The NCDOT is requesting authorization under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit
(NWP) 13 to perform streambank stabilization. Notification for the use of this NWP to
the USACE is required for this project, as the federally protected dwarf wedgemussel has
been observed in the vicinity of the project. As stated above, the NCDOT has requested
concurrence from the USFWS that the project is not likely to adversely affect the dwarf
wedgemussel at the project. A Pre-Construction Notification is attached to this letter.
The Section 401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) No. 3258 (which corresponds to NWP
13) does not require written application or approval from the N.C. Division of Water
Quality (NCDWQ) as NCDOT intends to comply with conditions for the WQC. A
courtesy copy of the permit application is supplied to NCDWQ.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
This project was discussed in a meeting with John Hennessy and Todd St. Jolm of
the NCDWQ on October 31, 2000. Bridge No. 111 and SR 1629 existed as a
transportation facility within the riparian buffer as of July 22, 1997. This project is being
constructed within the footprint of the existing use. Therefore, it was determined that this
project is exempt from the Rule. Level spreaders will be constructed where the roadside
ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level spreaders will be
directed to divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These structures will
allow the runoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and restrict sediment
and nutrient input into Maple Branch.
Summary
The NCDOT proposes to remove a timber abutment that has washed out and is
partially submerged in Maple Branch with an excavator. A turbidity curtain will be
placed around the partially submerged timber abutment before excavation. Additionally,
NCDOT proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch. This will involve
construction of a 3-span cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. The NCDOT will
stabilize the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank. The NCDOT asks that the streambank stabilization be
authorized under a Section 404 NWP 13. The NCDOT will adhere to all applicable
Section 404 NWP and Section 401 WQC conditions. If you have any questions or need
additional information, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
Christophe . Murray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDWQ, Raleigh
Mr. David Cox, NCWRC, Creedmoor
Mr. Garland Pardue, USFWS, Raleigh
Mr. Ricky Greene, P.E., NCDOT Division Construction Engineer, Durham
Mr. Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT District Engineer, Durham
Dyb'Q ID: CORPS ACTION ID: 200120024
NATIO'i'NWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERNIIT,'I) 13
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR
IMPACTS TO WATERS OF THE U.S.
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). Two (2) COPIES
MUST BE SENT TO THE NC DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY, ATTN:
JOHN DORNEY, 4.101 REEDY CREEP: ROAD, RALEIGH, NC 27607.
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE.
1. OWNER'S NA1l%IE: North Carolina Dent. of Transportation, Division 5
2. NLMLNG ADDRESS: 2612 N. Duke Street
SUBDIVISION NAYIE
CITY: Durham STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27704
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
SR 1629, W?rren County
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER: (HOME) (WORK) [phone]
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENTS NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,
PHONE NUMBER:
Christopher A. hfurray Division 5 Environmental Officer
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Warren - NEAREST TOWN: Inez
SPECIFIC LCCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS,. LANDMARKS, ECT.) SR 1629
6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Maple Branch RIVER BASIN: Tar-Pamlico
7. (a) IS PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER, (SA),
HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER
SUPPLY (WS-1 OR WS-II)? YES ? NO ® IF YES, EXPLAIN:
(b) IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
;MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)? YES [I NO 2]
(c) IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHINA COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF
COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION?
8. (a) HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS
PROJECT? YES [] NO ® IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND
ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION):
(b) ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE?
YES ? NO ® IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK:
9. (a) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBERS OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND:
(b) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE:
0.0 acres
10. (a) NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING: EXCAVATION:
FLOODING: OTHER :
DRAINAGE : TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.0 acres
(b) (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELCCATED,
PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION:
LENGTH BEFORE: See Cover Letter FT AFTER: FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: FT AFTER: FT
(b) (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Streambanlc stabilization (NWP 13).
11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED
DRANING TO THE POND? WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED? (ATTACH PLANS; 81/2 BY 1 I DRAWINGS ONLY)
Replacement of Bridpe No. 111 over Maple Branch and streamban'k stabilization.
PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: Replacement of Bridge No. I i l over Maple Branch and
streambanlc stabilization.
13. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN
WETLANDS (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS)
No impacts to wetlands.
15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND/OR
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY
LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL
HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
DATE CONTACTED:
lb. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
(SHPO) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA
WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE USE OF PUBLIC
(STATE) LAND? YES ® NO ? (IF NO, GO TO 16)
(a) IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES ? NO
(b) IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE YES ? NO ?
IF ANSWER 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE
CLEARINGHOUSE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT.
QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE
DIRECTED TO NIS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH
CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH,
NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE [phone].
13. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED
ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OF FILL MATERIAL INTO
WETLANDS:
(a) WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STRE,."IS, LADES, AND
PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUIYIBERS 14, 13, 21, 26, 29, AND 33).
ALL STREAM (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON
THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE I INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OF 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET
OF THEIR EQUIVALENT.
(b) IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY
PRODUCT.
(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? Forested, single family, residlenti,al.
(f) IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE US MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO:
L ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT,
2. EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF 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 DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED).
µ 1[N[ n
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 David McCoy
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
January 16, 2001
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Raleigh Regulatory Field Office
6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120
Raleigh, NC 27609
Attention: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer
NCDOT Coordinator
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and upgrade
SR 1629 in Warren County. Action ID No. 200120024.
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren
County sustained extensive irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy
rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple Branch. A population of dwarf
wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodorn), a federally protected species, had been
documented within the vicinity of Bridge No. 111. On October 22, 1999, representatives
from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) met at
the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure. It was decided to
remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris removal plan was
proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not Likely to
Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by NCDOT.
The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge debris removal
project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their formally
designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing under the
ESA. Bridge No. 111 was removed on December 12-13, 1999. Representatives from
NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch were
present and observed no damage to downstream habitat as a result of the removal. The
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to pave SR 1629 and
replace Bridge No. 111 (Figure 1). Total project length is 1.9 miles. There is no U.S.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funding for this project.
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
77
Replacement of Bridge iV? ,\
/ ?' No. 111
\ ?V A ?v pit r v on Bnmch
SR 1629 over Xlaple
in ?ti arren County.
FiZ ure 1 1:2=1 OUO
am 34?i\
\, ? ?.` ? i '\ ',,` „ / ? \\ ? \?• .? V' n'r Imo''
_-
i I I J 'SdJ) rGh.i>cl, .J il'C, \
aM 2?} ? \I'i\` ? 1\I IIY/ -
T 77
Bridge No. 111
-, - __?? ?,il ??,? - - \ n ? iI i 'III
?-.
fT-
' _ I
Impacts to Waters of the United States
The project crosses Maple Branch (DWQ Index No. 28-79-20.5), located in
Subbasin 03-03-04 of the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. This stream has a Best Usage
Classification of Class C NSW.
Proposed Project
The timber abutment on the south bank of Maple Branch has washed out over the
last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the creek bank and is partially
submerged in Maple Branch. The NCDOT proposes to remove this abutment using an
excavator that is stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal.
The NCDOT proposes to construct a 3-span (consisting of 1@ 25 foot, 1@ 50
foot and 1@ 25 foot) cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. This structure will cross
Maple Creek from high ground to high ground as pile bents will be driven into the non-
jurisdictional floodplain on each side of the creek. Deck drains are not located over
Maple Branch in the proposed design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains
located on the end spans above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans.
Additionally, the NCDOT proposes to slope the creek bank, place a silt fence
along the creek bank and line the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. The rip rap placed
under and adjacent to the end spans and along the creek bank will catch and filter runoff
from the project and stabilize the creek bank. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank.
Federally Protected Species
The dwarf wedgemussel has been documented in the vicinity of Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch. A Biological Assessment was completed by NCDOT to fulfill
obligations under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act and to address project-related
concerns with respect to the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT has concluded that the
construction of the project will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the
dwarf wedgemussel population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water
(HQW) Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and
protocols to conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge
replacement will eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel
population during construction. The NCDOT has concluded that project construction is
not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT forwarded a copy of
the Biological Assessment to the USFWS on January 16, 2001 and requested a
concurrence of our findings.
4
Permit Issues
The NCDOT is requesting authorization under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit
(NWP) 13 to perform streambank stabilization. Notification for the use of this NWP to
the USACE is required for this project, as the federally protected dwarf wedgemussel has
been observed in the vicinity of the project. As stated above, the NCDOT has requested
concurrence from the USFWS that the project is not likely to adversely affect the dwarf
wedgemussel at the project. A Pre-Construction Notification is attached to this letter.
The Section 401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) No. 3258 (which corresponds to NWP
13) does not require written application or approval from the N.C. Division of Water
Quality (NCDWQ) as NCDOT intends to comply with conditions for the WQC. A
courtesy copy of the permit application is supplied to NCDWQ.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
This project was discussed in a meeting with John Hennessy and Todd St. John of
the NCDWQ on October 31, 2000. Bridge No. 111 and SR 1629 existed as a
transportation facility within the riparian buffer as of July 22, 1997. This project is being
constructed within the footprint of the existing use. Therefore, it was determined that this
project is exempt from the Rule. Level spreaders will be constructed where the roadside
ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level spreaders will be
directed to divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These structures will
allow the runoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and restrict sediment
and nutrient input into Maple Branch.
Summary
The NCDOT proposes to remove a timber abutment that has washed out and is
partially submerged in Maple Branch with an excavator. A turbidity curtain will be
placed around the partially submerged timber abutment before excavation. Additionally,
NCDOT proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch. This will involve
construction of a 3-span cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. The NCDOT will
stabilize the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank. The NCDOT asks that the streambank stabilization be
authorized under a Section 404 NWP 13. The NCDOT will adhere to all applicable
Section 404 NWP and Section 401 WQC conditions. If you have any questions or need
additional information, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
A
Christophe. Murray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDWQ, Raleigh
Mr. David Cox, NCWRC, Creedmoor
Mr. Garland Pardue, USFWS, Raleigh
Mr. Ricky Greene, P.E., NCDOT Division Construction Engineer, Durham
Mr. Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT District Engineer, Durham
Db''Q ID: CORPS ACTION ID: 200126024
NATIONNNIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE 1''lATI01NIVIDE PERMIT #) 13
PIE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR
IMPACTS TO WATERS OF THE U.S.
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 FORTH TO THE APPROPRIATE FIELD
OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). Two (2) COPIES
MUST BE SENT TO THE NC DI'6TISION OF WATER QUALITY, AT'TN:
JOHN DORNEY, 4.101 REEDY CREED ROAD, RALEIGH, P IC 27607.
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE.
1. OWNER'S NAitiIE: North Carolina Dent. of Transportation, Division 5
2. NLMLING ADDRESS: 2612 N. Duke Street
SUBDIVISION NAME
CITY: Durham STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27704
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
SR 1629, Warren County
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER: (HOME) (WORK) [phone]
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENTS NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,
PHONE NUMBER:
Christopher A Murray Division 5 Environmental Officer
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A N1AP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC NIAP
OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Warren - NEAREST TOWN: Inez
SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUNIBERS,. LANDMARKS, ECT.) SR 1629
6. INIPACTED OR NEAREST STREANI/RIVER: Mare Branch RIVER BASIN: Tar-Pamlico
7. (a) IS PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER, (SA),
HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQ \N% OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER
SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II)? YES ? NO ® IF YES, EXPLAIN:
(b) IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)? YES 0 NO Fl
(c) IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF
COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LLB') DESIGNATION?
8. (a) HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS
PROJECT? YES ? NO ® IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUNIBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND
ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION):
(b) ARE ADDITIONAL PERN IIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE?
YES ? NO ® IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK:
9. (a) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBERS OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND:
(b) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE:
0.0 neres
10. (a) NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING: EXCAVATION:
FLOODING: OTHER :
DRAINAGE : TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.0 acres
(b) (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED,
PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION:
LENGTH BEFORE: See Cover Letter FT AFTER: FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: FT AFTER: FT
(b) (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Streambank stabilization (NWP 13).
11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED
DRAINING TO THE POND? WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED? (ATTACH PLANS; 81/2 BY 11 DRAWINGS ONLY)
Replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and streambank stabilization.
PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: Replacement of Brid1le No. 11 I over Maple Branch and
strrambank stabilization.
13. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN
WETLANDS (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS)
No impacts to wetlands.
15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND/OR
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY
LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL
HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
DATE CONTACTED:
16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
(SHPO) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA
WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE USE OF PUBLIC
(STATE) LAND? YES ® NO ? (IF NO, GO TO 16)
(a) IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES ? NO ?
(b) IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE YES ? NO ?
IF ANSWER 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE
CLEARINGHOUSE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT.
QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE
DIRECTED TO NIS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH
CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH,
NORTH CAROLINA 27603-3003, TELEPHONE [phone].
13. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED
ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OF FILL MATERIAL INTO
WETLANDS:
(a) WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES, AND
PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS 14, 13, 21, 26, 29, AND 33).
ALL STREAM (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON
THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OF 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET
OF THEIR EQUIVALENT.
(b) IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY
PRODUCT.
(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.
(c) WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY? Forested, singic family, residential.
(o IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSEDNIETHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE US MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO:
I. ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT,
2. EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF 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 S NATURE DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED).
va SW[
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 David McCoy
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
January 16, 2001
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
Raleigh Regulatory Field Office
6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120
Raleigh, NC 27609
Attention: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer
NCDOT Coordinator
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and upgrade
SR 1629 in Warren County. Action ID No. 200120024.
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren
County sustained extensive irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy
rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple Branch. A population of dwarf
wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon), a federally protected species, had been
documented within the vicinity of Bridge No. 111. On October 22, 1999, representatives
from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) met at
the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure. It was decided to
remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris removal plan was
proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not Likely to
Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by NCDOT.
The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge debris removal
project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their formally
designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing under the
ESA. Bridge No. 111 was removed on December 12-13, 1999. Representatives from
NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch were
present and observed no damage to downstream habitat as a result of the removal. The
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to pave SR 1629 and
replace Bridge No. 111 (Figure 1). Total project length is 1.9 miles. There is no U.S.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funding for this project.
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durli mn, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
I N,
h' ,.`. --??---\---- T?f bd9 ? \? \? / ? (?? I? / ~ '?! I r^\. ?, 1`? / / ? / III, ? ? ? i" I I ? ?\I?-??-? --- V ? •1/ ? ' 1 r -
Ch?
i \ I ?' /// `I ° /`•. RL' aCeI2?ent
of ?' Bridr
?e No. 111
c_ on SR 1629 oti-er Maple Brunch
in Warren Coiuity.
aM Figure 1 1:21000
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Impacts to Waters of the United States
The project crosses Maple Branch (DWQ Index No. 28-79-20.5), located in
Subbasin 03-03-04 of the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. This stream has a Best Usage
Classification of Class C NSW.
Proposed Project
The timber abutment on the south bank of Maple Branch has washed out over the
last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the creek bank and is partially
submerged in Maple Branch. The NCDOT proposes to remove this abutment using an
excavator that is stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal.
The NCDOT proposes to construct a 3-span (consisting of 1@ 25 foot, 1@ 50
foot and 1@ 25 foot) cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. This structure will cross
Maple Creek from high ground to high ground as pile bents will be driven into the non-
jurisdictional floodplain on each side of the creek. Deck drains are not located over
Maple Branch in the proposed design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains
located on the end spans above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans.
Additionally, the NCDOT proposes to slope the creek bank, place a silt fence
along the creek bank and line the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. The rip rap placed
under and adjacent to the end spans and along the creek bank will catch and filter runoff
from the project and stabilize the creek bank. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank.
Federally Protected Species
The dwarf wedgemussel has been documented in the vicinity of Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch. A Biological Assessment was completed by NCDOT to fulfill
obligations under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act and to address project-related
concerns with respect to the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT has concluded that the
construction of the project will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the
dwarf wedgemussel population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water
(HQW) Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and
protocols to conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge
replacement will eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel
population during construction. The NCDOT has concluded that project construction is
not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT forwarded a copy of
the Biological Assessment to the USFWS on January 16, 2001 and requested a
concurrence of our findings.
4
Permit Issues
The NCDOT is requesting authorization under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit
(NWP) 13 to perform streambank stabilization. Notification for the use of this NWP to
the USACE is required for this project, as the federally protected dwarf wedgemussel has
been observed in the vicinity of the project. As stated above, the NCDOT has requested
concurrence from the USFWS that the project is not likely to adversely affect the dwarf
wedgemussel at the project. A Pre-Construction Notification is attached to this letter.
The Section 401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) No. 3258 (which corresponds to NWP
13) does not require written application or approval from the N.C. Division of Water
Quality (NCDWQ) as NCDOT intends to comply with conditions for the WQC. A
courtesy copy of the permit application is supplied to NCDWQ.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
This project was discussed in a meeting with John Hennessy and Todd St. John of
the NCDWQ on October 31, 2000. Bridge No. 111 and SR 1629 existed as a
transportation facility within the riparian buffer as of July 22, 1997. This project is being
constructed within the footprint of the existing use. Therefore, it was determined that this
project is exempt from the Rule. Level spreaders will be constructed where the roadside
ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level spreaders will be
directed to divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These structures will
allow the runoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and restrict sediment
and nutrient input into Maple Branch.
Summary
The NCDOT proposes to remove a timber abutment that has washed out and is
partially submerged in Maple Branch with an excavator. A turbidity curtain will be
placed around the partially submerged timber abutment before excavation. Additionally,
NCDOT proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch. This will involve
construction of a 3-span cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. The NCDOT will
stabilize the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank. The NCDOT asks that the streambank stabilization be
authorized under a Section 404 NWP 13. The NCDOT will adhere to all applicable
Section 404 NWP and Section 401 WQC conditions. If you have any questions or need
additional information, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
A
Christophurray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
f
cc: Mr. David Franklin. USACE, Wilmington
Mr. John Donley, NCDWQ, Raleigh
Mr. David Cos, NCWRC, Creedmoor
Mr. Garland Pardue, USFWS, Raleigh
Mr. Ricky Greene, P.E., NCDOT Division Construction Engineer, Durham
Mr. Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT District Engineer, Durham
D'''' Iii: CORPS ACTION ID: 2t?0126024
NATIONWIDE PERMMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT ;#) 13
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR
IMPACTS TO WATERS OF THE U.S.
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). Two (2) COPIES
MUST BE SENT TO THE NC DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY, ATTN:
JOHN DORNEY, 4401 REEDY CREED ROAD, RALEIGH, NC 276D7.
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE.
1. OWNER'S NAME: North Carclinn Dent. of Transportation, Division 5
2. NLMLNG ADDRESS: 2612 N. Duke Street
SUBDIVISION NAME
CITY: Durham STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27704
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FRONI
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
SR 1629, Warren County
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER: (HOME) (WORK) [phone]
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENTS NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,
PHONE NUMBER:
Christopher A Murray Division 5 Environmental Officer
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A NIAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Warren - NEAREST TOWN: Inez
SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ECT.) SR 1629
6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREANI/RIVER: Msple Branch RIVER BASIN: Tar-Pamlico
7. (a) IS PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL, SALTWATER, (SA),
HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQlN% OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER
SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II)? YES ? NO E] IF YES, EXPLAIN:
(b) IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)? YES ? NO Ell
(c) 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?
S. (a) HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS
PROJECT? YES ? NO © IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND
ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION):
(b) ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY N THE FUTURE?
YES ? NO ® IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK:
9. (a) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBERS OF ACRES N TRACT OF LAND:
(b) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE:
0.0 acre-,
10. (a) NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING: EXCAVATION:
FLOODING: OTHER :
DRAINAGE : TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.0 noes
(b) (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED,
PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION:
LENGTH BEFORE: See Cover Letter FT AFTER: FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: FT AFTER: FT
(b) (2) STREAM CHANNEL IivIPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Streambank stabilization (NWP 13).
11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED
DRAINING TO THE POND? WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED? (ATTACH PLANS; 81/2 BY I 1 DRAWINGS ONLY)
Replacement of Bridge No. 1 I I over Maple Branch and streambank stabilization.
PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: Replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and
streambank stabilization.
13. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN
WETLANDS (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS)
No impacts to wetlands.
15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND/OR
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY
LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL
HABITAT N THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
DATE CONTACTED:
16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
(SHPO) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA
WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE USE OF PUBLIC
(STATE) LAND? YES ® NO ? (IF NO, GO TO 16)
(a) IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES ? NO
(b) IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE YES ? NO ?
IF ANSWER 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE.
CLEARINGHOUSE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT.
QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE
DIRECTED TO NIS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH
CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH,
NORTH CAROLINA 27603-3003, TELEPHONE [phone].
13. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED
ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OF FILL MATERIAL INTO
WETLANDS:
(a) WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES, AND
PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUi4IBERS 14, 18, 21, 26, 29, AND 33).
ALL STREAM (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON
THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OF 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET
OF THEIR EQUIVALENT.
(b) IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY
PRODUCT.
(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? Forested, sin yle family, residential.
(f) IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE US 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 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 S NATURE DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED).
N. C. lll;l'?1H'1'III;N'1' OF'fR?1N.iYOR'I'A'1'lON
TRANSMITTAL SLIP DATE
Z- zG•o
TO:
?0?,„ Ne?l/% ?. REF- NO. OR ROOM. ULDG.
FROM: 1 RLF. NO. OR ROOM. ULDG.

ACTION
NOTE AND FILE J I'CIi OUR CONVLRSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME -_? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS .? I-OR YOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND SEC ME AUOUT TNIS IOR YOUR INFORMATION
? I'LEASL ANSWER L] FOR YOUR COMMLNTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
L] TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMMENTS:
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MS?NF,?
STATE of NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easley P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
GOVERNOR DAVID McCOY
SECRETARY
January 16, 2001
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Attention: Mr. Garland Pardue
Subject: Biological Assessment for dwarf wedgemussel (Aldsmidonta heterodon)
at Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren County.
Dear Sir:
The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to replace Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren County. This bridge sustained extensive
irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy rains, the structure washed out
and fell into Maple Branch. The NCDOT also proposes to upgrade SR 1629.
A population of dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon) has been documented in
the vicinity of this site. Please find attached a Biological Assessment for the dwarf
wedgemussel at this project. The NCDOT has concluded that based on the design of the
project (including precautions that will be taken during construction), the construction of
the project is not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT is
requesting a concurrence of our findings. If you have questions, I can be reached at (919)
560-6081.
Sincerely,
Chris Murray
Division 5 Environmental Officer
cc: John Alderman, NCWRC, Raleigh
Tim Savidge, NCDOT, Raleigh
Jon Nance, P.E., NCDOT, Durham
Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT, Henderson
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] FAX[phone]
BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT FOR DWARF WEDGEMUSSEL,
BRIDGE NO. 111 ON SR 1629 OVER MAPLE BRANCH
WARREN COUNTY
Introduction
The dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon), a federally Endangered species
protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA), has been
documented within the vicinity of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in
Warren County (Figure 1). The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 and to pave SR 1629. The paving is mandated by the
secondary road paving priority rating system mandated by the State of North Carolina
and administered by the NCDOT. The paving of SR 1629 was originally programmed to
be completed during the 1999-2000 construction season. This Biological Assessment is
provided to satisfy NCDOT's obligations under Section 7 of the ESA, and addresses
project-related concerns and probable impacts regarding this species.
Project History and Description
In 1998, the NCDOT Division 5 District 3 Office was notified by representatives
from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the N.C. Wildlife Resource
Commission (NCWRC) that there was a large population of dwarf wedgemussel in
Maple Branch at the project site. Warren County maintenance forces performed drainage
adjustments and installed erosion control measures at that time in an effort to keep silt
from the unpaved roadway from washing into Maple Branch. Specifically, catch basins
were placed in the northwest, southwest and southeast quadrants of Bridge No. 111.
According to personnel from District 3 (Scott Capps, P.E., District Engineer, pers.
comm.), these catch basins are very effective and do not allow sediment from the
roadside ditch to reach Maple Branch.
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 sustained extensive irreparable damage
during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple
Branch. On October 22, 1999, representatives from NCDOT, USFWS and NCWRC met
at the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure. It was decided
to remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris removal plan
was proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not Likely to
Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by NCDOT.
The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge debris removal
project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their formally
designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing under the
ESA. Bridge No. 111 was removed on December 12-13, 1999. Representatives from
NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch were
present and observed no damage to downstream habitat as a result of the removal.
Following Hurricane Floyd, a request was sent to the NCDOT Hydraulics Unit for
a bridge design to replace the damaged structure. The initial bridge design indicated a 3-
span (consisting of 1@25 foot, 1@35 foot and 1@25 foot) cored slab bridge. It was
RI.f\_? ?-
?? ?\ u11? ? .. 1 1 j I r C ??" 1 I
eplacement of Bridge No. 111
SR 1629 over Maple Branch -
T?, _ \ I in Warren County.
Figure 1 1:24'000
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? i i"?- / •_/ ? II I ?/,` / ?l6rgl-• 1 ? ? / / 1 1 \ ti`^ )\• J'/ / 1 ??
I / //? j? ???J?J' v-ij 'ti`,\ \ •?1`'??/ i I I I\ \\ / (1 j 11 f ' \\ l i I !I ,?'', ?' BM k1 _
-,.jl? - /? ? ?/?--.`,l.`-?'-n..'/ ?I''I\?\`` 1 ??J?I j I• ??/:???i I-_ ??)?\? -) II: 1? ;? ?'?? ?' ? r11 ..
'A" Bridge No. 111
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noted that the bents would be close to the stream with only a 35 foot center span. A
second design was recommended which consisted of 1 @60 foot prestressed cored slab
bridge. Following a meeting with representatives from the USFWS, it was determined
that a larger bridge opening be provided that would span Maple Branch. Accordingly, a
final plan is recommended which consists of a 3-span (consisting of 1@25 foot, 1@50
foot and 1@25 foot) cored slab bridge. In the proposed design, deck drains are not
located directly above Maple Branch. The deck drains will be located on the two end
spans located above the floodplain. Existing SR 1629 was previously graded, drained
and stabilized. NCDOT is proposing to pave this roadway; therefore, construction
disturbance from this activity should be minimal. The timber abutment on the south bank
has washed out over the last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the
creek bank and is partially submerged in Maple Branch. The proposed construction
sequence for the project is summarized below:
Substructure of Bridge No. 111
a. Remove existing timber abutment on the bank. The timber abutment on the
south bank will be removed using an excavator with a bucket that will be
stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal. (Note: In a meeting on December
15, 1999, representatives from the USFWS recommended removing the
existing bridge abutments to provide a larger opening under the bridge.)
b. Slope creek bank, place silt fence along creek bank and line creek bank with
Class 2 rip rap.
c. Drive four (4) four-pile bents on each side of the existing creek in the adjacent
floodplain. (Note: piles eliminate the need for digging and constructing
footings.)
d. Form and pour concrete caps for each bent.
Superstructure of Bridge No. 111
a. Set prestressed cored slab.
b. Install concrete barrier rails.
c. Complete bridge approach work.
SR 1629
a. Grade existing shoulders and ditches to meet the proposed typical section.
(Note: this activity will be very minimal, as SR 1629 was previously graded
and stabilized).
b. Install erosion control measures (per appropriate guidelines outlined in BMPs
for the protection of Surface Waters, HQW Erosion Control Guidelines,
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and practicable protocols to
conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge replacement
(North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission 2000) in areas that were
disturbed by shoulder and ditch grading. Additionally, this includes the
placement of Class 2 rip rap under and adjacent to the two end spans located
above the floodplain.
c. Level spreaders be will constructed where the roadside ditches terminate
outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level spreaders will be directed to
divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These structures will
allow the runoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and restrict
sediment and nutrient inputs into Maple Branch.
d. Cut out roadway for placement of stone base.
e. Place 8 inches of Aggregate Base Course.
f. Set up and pave roadway with an asphalt surface treatment.
g. Perform seeding and mulching along roadway (per erosion control
guidelines).
h. Remove up to three trees that extend above the bridge approaches. These
trees will be hand cut, which will allow the stump to remain in place.
Species Description
Federal Status
Dwarf wedgemussel is a member of the Unionidae family of the class Mollusca.
The USFWS designated dwarf wedgemussel as an Endangered species under the
authority of the ESA effective March 14, 1990 (Department of Interior 1990). The dwarf
wedgemussel recovery plan was approved on February 8, 1993 (USFWS 1993).
Characteristics and Life History
The following information was adapted from USFWS (1990, 1993), New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (1998), National Wildlife Federation
(1999a,b) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (2000). The shell of the
dwarf wedgemussel rarely exceeds 1.5 inches in length and has two lateral teeth on the
right valve and one on the left. The shells of young dwarf wedgemussels are greenish
brown with green rays. As the mussel ages, the color of the shell is often obscured by
diatoms or mineral deposits and appears black or brown. The shell often thickens with
age, specifically towards the anterior end.
The dwarf wedgemussel is sexually dimorphic. During mid-summer and early
fall, males release sperm into the water column. Females collect the sperm while
siphoning water for food. The eggs are fertilized and kept within the female until they
are released the following spring. By then, the eggs develop into a glochidium. The
glochidium attaches itself to a fish with the aid of a hook-like appendage. Alasmidonta
sp. typically attach to the fms and soft tissue of the buccal cavity of the appropriate host
fish. Laboratory studies conducted by Michaelson (1993) indicate that likely fish hosts
for the dwarf wedgemussel in North Carolina may include the tessellated darter
(Etheostoma olmstedi) and johnny darter (E. nigrum). Typically, the glochidium receives
little nutrition from the fish, but uses it as a means for dispersal. After several weeks, the
glochidium detaches from the host fish and drops to the stream bottom as a juvenile
4
mussel. The dwarf wedgemussel inhabits clear, moderate flow streams and rivers with
silt, clay, cobble, sandy, or gravelly substrates. In North Carolina, it is often located in
areas with stable creek banks concentrated along logs or in root mats. The dwarf
wedgemussel appears to live about 10-12 years.
Distribution
The dwarf wedgemussel was once known from approximately 70 localities in 15
major Atlantic Coast drainages since the species' discovery in the early 1800's. Today,
there are over 42 populations of dwarf wedgemussels from nine drainages in New
Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, New York, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina
(National Wildlife Federation 1999b). In North Carolina, the dwarf wedgemussel was
historically known from the mid to upper reaches of the Neuse and Tar-Pamlico River
Basins (North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission 2000).
North Carolina has the greatest number of dwarf wedgemussel sites (North
Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission 2000): Neuse River Basin: Orange County
(Eno River subbasin), Wake County (Swift Creek and Little River subbasins), Johnston
County (Swift Creek, Middle Creek, Little River, and Moccasin Creek subbasins),
Wilson County (Moccasin Creek and Turkey Creek subbasins), Nash County (Turkey
Creek and Moccasin Creek subbasins); Tar River Basin: Person County (Cub Creek,
Shelton Creek and Tar River subbasins), Vance County (Ruin Creek Subbasin),
Franklin County (Cedar Creek, Crooked Creek, Shocco Creek, Fox Creek and Red Bud
Creek subbasins) Warren County (Shocco Creek, Long Branch, and Maple Branch
subbasins), Halifax County (Rocky Swamp subbasin), Nash County (Stony Creek
subbasin). The populations located in Eno River, Middle Creek, Cedar Creek, Rocky
Swamp, Fox Creek and Stony Creek may be extirpated (North Carolina Wildlife
Resource Commission 2000).
Threats
Dwarf wedgemussel faces several threats (USFWS 1990, 1993, New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation 1998, National Wildlife Federation 1999a,b
and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission 2000). The primary source of the
mussel's decline originates above the water line. The ultimate loss of this species from
most of its historical range can be attributed to aquatic habitat pollution from agricultural,
domestic and industrial sites. Many mollusks are sensitive to potassium, zinc, copper,
chlorine, pesticides and fertilizers. Nutrient input, including phosphorous and nitrogen,
can cause organic enrichment and oxygen depletion. The decline of several populations
has been attributed to discharges from golf courses and sewage treatment plants.
Mussel populations have been affected by siltation from road construction,
forestry, agriculture, and the removal of strembank vegetation. Mussels are highly
affected by siltation, as it can scratch shells allowing acids in the water to corrode the
shell as well as clogging feeding organs and gills. High amounts of sediment may
physically bury the substrate to which the mussel is imbeded. Removal of streamside
vegetation has a two-fold effect. The removal of trees and other cover along streams may
change the water temperature by exposing waterways to direct sunlight as well as
increasing the erodability of the exposed banks causing sediment input. Without
adequate erosion control, roadway construction may increase sedimentation and toxicant
loading into streams and increase stream flows above normal expected levels.
The channelization and damming of streams have eliminated much of the dwarf
wedgemussel's former habitat. The installation of dams creates conditions up and down
stream that can alter the natural habitat, making it unsuitable for many aquatic species.
Beaver impoundments may affect dwarf wedgemussel by creating areas of still, turbid
water and increasing sedimentation in these areas (J. Johnson, NCWRC, pers. comm.).
These alterations can include changes in water level, siltation, water temperature, and
natural currents. Importantly, the damming of a stream may preclude migration of the
fish host for dwarf wedgemussel.
The introduction of exotic clam species may harm the habitat of dwarf
wedgemussel and may outcompete native species for shelter and food. The Asian clam
(Corbicula fluminea) has been documented in high densities in North Carolina streams.
The effect of this exotic on the native dwarf wedgemussel is not known at this time.
Many populations of dwarf wedgemussel in North Carolina have been extirpated.
Surviving populations are often small and geographically isolated. This isolation may
limit the exchange of genetic exchange between populations and could lead to inbreeding
problems. Some populations may be too small to maintain long-term genetic viability.
Site Specific Description of Maple Branch
Physical Characteristics
Maple Branch is located within the Tar-Pamlico River Subbasin 03-03-04 as
assigned by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Division of Water Quality (DWQ) section. Maple Branch originates at the intersection of
NC 58 and SR 1640. The stream flows to the southeast for 6.6 miles until its confluence
with Fishing Creek. The channel is proximately 6 to 8 feet wide and greater than 6 feet
deep at Bridge 111 and is much shallower up and downstream. At Bridge 111, the
substrate is primarily silt. Upstream and downstream of the bridge, the substrate is mixed
and comprised of gravel, sand and cobble. The area adjacent to Bridge 1 I 1 has a well-
developed forested riparian buffer. The stream banks of Maple Branch are relatively
stable with many in-stream root mats. The predominant land usage in the Maple Branch
watershed near Bridge 111 is primarily comprised of recently cleared silvicultural land
(that may or may not have been replanted), farm land and very low density residential
housing.
Best Usage Classification and Water Quality Assessment
Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the DWQ. The best
usage classification of Maple Branch (DWQ Index Number 28-79-20.5) is Class C NSW.
Class C waters are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife,
secondary recreation, and agriculture. The supplemental classification NSW refers to
waters needing additional nutrient management due to their being subject to excessive
growth of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation.
The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) monitors ambient
water quality by sampling at fixed sites for selected Benthic macro invertebrates
organisms that are sensitive to water quality conditions. Criteria have been developed to
assign bioclassifications based on the number of taxa present in the intolerant groups
Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT S). There are no BMAN monitoring
sites in the Maple Branch drainage system.
Point sources refer to discharges that enter surface water through a pipe, ditch, or
other defined points of discharge. The term most commonly refers to discharges
associated with wastewater treatment plants. Under Section 301 of the Clean Water Act
of 1977 (CWA), discharge of pollutants into surface waters is prohibited without a permit
from the Environmental Protection Agency. Section 402 of the CWA establishes the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. The DWQ is
responsible for permitting and enforcement of the NPDES program. There are no
NPDES sites located within the Maple Branch drainage system.
Non-point source refers to runoff that enters surface waters through stormwater
flow or no defined point of discharge. There are many types of land use activities that
can serve as sources of non-point source pollution including land development,
construction, crop production, animal feeding lots, failing septic systems, landfills, roads,
and parking lots. Non-point sources that are readily observed at and upstream of Bridge
No. 111 in the Maple Branch drainage system include runoff from agriculture and
silvicultural operations.
The NCDOT, in cooperation with DWQ, has developed a sedimentation control
program for highway projects, which adopts formal BMPs for the protection of surface
waters. In order to minimize impacts to water resources in the entire impact area,
NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters and
High Quality Water (HQW) Erosion Control Guidelines will be strictly enforced during
the entire life of the project. Additional erosion control measures outlined in Design
Standards in Sensitive Watersheds (NCAC T15A:04:B .0024) will be enforced during the
life of the project.
Significance of Maple Branch mussel population
Maple Branch supports the largest population of dwarf wedgemussel in the State
(Natural Heritage Program Element Occurrence No. 31) as well as the Atlantic pigtoe
(Fusconaia masoni) which is a Federal Species of Concern. Additional species observed
in Maple Branch include green lance (Elliptio sp. lance), Elliptio spp. (complanata/
icterina complexes) and notched rainbow (Villosa constrictu). On July 12, 1997, 14 live
dwarf wedgemussels were observed at and upstream of Bridge 111. Personnel from the
NCWRC surveyed the area near Bridge No. 111 in 1999. It was determined that the
range of dwarf wedgemussel extended from 0.1 mile upstream of the bridge to
approximately 1 mile downstream of the bridge (J. Johnson, NCWRC, pers. comm.).
Assessment of project impact on dwarf wedgemussel
Project-related threats to dwarf wedgemussel can be separated into direct,
secondary and cumulative impacts. Direct impacts are those directly attributable to the
construction of the project, such as stream rechannelization, land clearing and erosion.
Secondary impacts are caused by an action and are later in time or removed in distance
but are still reasonably foreseeable (40 CFR 1508.8). Secondary impacts typically
include commercial, residential, and industrial development as well as urban sprawl.
Cumulative impacts are those that result from the incremental impacts of an action when
added to other past and reasonable foreseeable actions (40 CFR 1058.7).
Direct Impacts
Jongedyk and Bank (1999) recently assessed highway runoff and its affects on
receiving waters. Contaminants in highway runoff include heavy metals, inorganic salts,
aromtic hydrocarbons and suspended solids that accumulate on the road surface as a
result of regular highway maintenance and operation activities. Ordinary operations and
the wear and tear of vehicle traffic results in the deposition of oil, grease, rust,
hydrocarbons, rubber particles, lead, zinc, iron, chromium, cadmium, nickel, copper, and
other solid materials on the roadway surface. These materials are often washed off the
roadway during rain events. Surface waters are particularly vulnerable as they are
directly exposed to contaminants released into the air and to direct discharges from point
or non-point sources.
Heavy metals in roadway runoff generally undergo physical, chemical and
biological transformations as they reach adjacent ecosystems (including riparian buffers
and streams). They may be taken up by plants or animals or adsorbed by clay particles.
Studies have indicated that the adverse effect of runoff can be minimized through
structural or non-structural BMPs or a combination of both. Structural BMPs operate by
physically trapping runoff until contaminants settle out or are filtered through underlying
soils. The mechanisms for constituent removal are gravity settling, infiltration of soluble
nutrients through soils or filters or biological or chemical processes. Non-structural
BMPs are source control practices such as street sweeping, land use planning, vegetated
buffer areas and fertilizer application controls.
Localized stormwater runoff at the site is a function of the amount and style of
development at the site. The existing roadway is primarily comprised of hard packed
clay, stone and gravel. Accordingly, infiltration at the existing roadway is very minimal
over this near-impervious surface (R. Wise, NCDOT Soil and Water Engineering
Supervisor, pers. conun).
The existing hard-packed, clay, stone and gravel road would also be prone to
erosion and will contribute to a significant sediment load in the channel. Traffic over the
roadway erodes the substrate, resulting in a fine layer of sediment on the roadway and
adjacent vegetated roadside ditches. During a rain event, this fine layer of sediment
enters the roadside ditch. The NCDOT Roadside Environmental Unit has indicated that
paving a road near a sensitive water channel is preferable to leaving it unpaved (J. Renn,
NCDOT, pers. comm.).
Discharge calculations examining the increased discharge associated with the
proposed paving of SR 1629 with an Asphalt Surface Treatment (AST) were conducted
by Division 5 District Engineer Scott Capps, P.E. (see Appendix A). The calculations
utilized NCDOT Hydraulic Guidelines, more specifically, the Rational Formula, which is
utilized for small drainage areas and accounts for the change in surface type from
compacted gravel to AST pavement. The upgrade of SR 1629 from a gravel road to
paving with AST will increase the stormwater discharge by 1.6 cubic feet per second
(cfs). The erosion control plan that was developed for this roadway project provides for
twice the storage capacity as compared to other secondary road projects. It can be
concluded that the added storage capacity for the erosion control measures will definitely
support the minimal discharge increase of 1.6 cfs. The NCDOT, in conjunction with the
USFWS and NCWRC has previously performed drainage adjustments at the bridge to
eliminate the roadside ditches from discharging directly into Maple Branch. Therefore,
the previous drainage adjustments along with the increased storage capacity for erosion
control and the placement of level spreaders is expanded to accommodate any increase in
discharge associated with paving of SR 1629.
The paving of the roadway and construction of Bridge No. 111 would not
appreciably affect the hydrograph of the system and may, in fact, lessen once constructed.
Runoff from the roadway would enter the vegetated roadside ditch. Level spreaders will
direct runoff into the heavily forested riparian buffer. This would increase the time delay
between a rainfall event and its appearance into Maple Branch. The transfer of aquatic
roadway runoff through a vegetated system: (1) delays the overland flow of runoff to
surface water since flow over a vegetated surface is slow, (2) promotes infiltration since
the delay provides longer opportunity to infiltrate, and (3) remove water to the
atmosphere by means of transpiration through the plants themselves. Retention systems
are highly effective means for controlling excessive flows of highway runoff. The
proposed design of Bridge No. 111 locates the pile bents in the floodplain, thus
increasing the hydrologic spanning of the creek of "old" Bridge No. 111. All of these
processes contribute to suppressing the hydrograph of the creek (i.e., there is less water
getting into the creek than fell on the land and it is spread out over a long period of time
than the rainfall event) and stormwater discharge.
Secondary Impacts
Currently, there is no structure crossing Maple Branch and SR 1629 is a gravel
roadway. As stated above, the purpose of this project is to replace Bridge No. 111 and
upgrade SR 1629. The construction of Bridge No. 111 will allow vehicle, pedestrian and
bicycle traffic to resume utilizing this established roadway corridor. The existing
roadway is located in a rural portion of Warren County. Traffic previously likely
consisted of a few land owners traveling to and from their houses and from vehicles
associated with ongoing, adjacent silvicultural activities. There are no identifiable traffic
generators such as major employers, schools, shopping centers, new residential
subdivisions or other such destinations and origins nearby in the Maple Branch
watershed.
The paving of unpaved secondary roads may potentially have some impact upon
the immediate vicinity, usually stemming from the placement of an impervious surface
where there was none previously. However, as there are no existing traffic generators in
the area, the paving SR 1629 will not spawn large increases in the levels of traffic. As
the former bridge was washed out during Hurricane Floyd, the replacement bridge will
allow local traffic to once again use the entire road. This will of course result in an
immediate increase in traffic; however, the volume should not greatly exceed the
previous level of traffic before the bridge washed out, unless there are new traffic
generators located nearby (Bob Deaton, NCDOT Community Planner, pers. comm.).
Due to the very rural and undeveloped nature of this section of Warren County, it
is unlikely that the paving of this roadway will increase potential silvicultural or
development pressure along and adjacent to SR 1629 or even increase average daily
traffic.
Cumulative Impacts
There are no other NCDOT construction projects that currently exist or are
proposed in the Maple Branch watershed. However, there is no way to document
privately funded projects such as residential and commercial developments that require
less public review. Sources of impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel population have been
attributed to other non-transportation activities. Beaver impoundments may affect mussel
populations by creating areas of still, turbid water and increased sedimentation. The
NCWRC initiated a beaver control program at Maple Branch in 1999. Reports from
those involved in the program indicate that the program has been successful in removing
beavers from the stream (J. Johnson, NCWRC, pers. comm.). Silvicultural and
agricultural activities are abundant in the drainage system. Toxic runoff and
sedimentation from these activities may have impaired mussel populations at the site.
Flooding conditions associated with Hurricane Floyd caused a major washout
downstream of Bridge No. 111. Dead mussels, including over 30 dwarf wedgemussels,
were observed in the floodplain at the bridge during a survey on October 29, 1999 (T.
Savidge, NCDOT, pers. comm.). Live dwarf wedgemussels were also observed in Maple
Branch during this survey.
10
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NOT LIKELY TO ADVERSELY AFFECT
The NCDOT concludes that the replacement of Bridge No. 111 and the paving of
SR 1629 will not result in direct, secondary or cumulative impacts to the population of
dwarf wedgemussel in Maple Branch. These are discussed below:
Direct Impacts
BMPs for the protection of Surface Waters, HQW Erosion Control Guidelines,
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds, and practicable protocols to conserve the
habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge replacement (North Carolina Wildlife
Resource Commission 2000) will be used during the life of the project. Strict adherence
to these guidelines, along with the proposed bridge, erosion control and roadway design,
will prohibit direct impacts from impacting dwarf wedgemussel populations at the project
site. These issues are addressed below:
• The existing, hard-packed clay, stone and gravel road is a source of
sedimentation and contributes sediment load in the channel. The paving of
SR 1629 will reduce the amount of sedimentation.
• Contaminants in highway runoff (including toxic substances and sediment)
will be washed off the roadway into the roadside ditches. Level spreaders will
constructed where the roadside ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot
riparian buffer. The level spreaders will be directed to divert runoff to the
heavily wooded riparian buffer. These structures will allow the runoff from
the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and restrict sediment and nutrient
inputs into Maple Branch. The effects of the runoff will be minimized as it
flows through these systems as they: (1) trap contaminants as they settle out or
are adsorbed by vegetation, (2) delay the overland flow of runoff to surface
water since flow over a vegetated surface is slow, (3) promotes infiltration
since the delay provides longer opportunity to infiltrate, and (4) remove water
to the atmosphere by means of transpiration through the plants themselves.
• Discharge calculations utilizing NCDOT Hydraulic Guidelines (Rational
Formula) indicate that the upgrade of SR 1629 from a compacted gravel to
asphalt surface treatment pavement will increase the stormwater discharge by
1.6 cfs. The erosion control plan developed for this secondary road provides
twice the typical storage capacity. It has been concluded that previous
drainage adjustments (completed in 1998) along with the increased storage
capacity for erosion control will accommodate any increase in discharge
associated with the paving of SR 1629.
• The old bridge had deck drains that discharged directly into Maple Branch.
Deck drains are not located directly above Maple Branch in the proposed
design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains located on the end
spans located above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans. In addition, Class 2 rip rap will be placed along the
creek banks. The rip rap will catch and filter runoff from the deck drains and
stabilize stream banks.
I1
• The hydrograph of Maple Branch at Bridge 111 has been improved by this
proposed design. The pile bents will be located in the floodplain along Maple
Branch. Previously, the bents were located in the stream and abutments in the
floodplain. This change in design as well as the placement of level spreaders
will suppress the hydrograph and stormwater discharge into the creek.
Secondary Impacts
The paving of SR 1629 will not result in secondary impacts to the dwarf
wedgemussel population in Maple Branch. There are no identifiable traffic generators in
the project vicinity; therefore, it is not anticipated that the paving of the road will increase
traffic along SR 1629.
Cumulative Impacts
There are no anticipated direct or secondary impacts associated with the
replacement of Bridge No. 111 and upgrading of SR 1629. There will be no new impacts
that have affected the dwarf wedgemussel population at the site that have not previously
affected the population. The NCDOT has concluded that the construction of the project
will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the dwarf wedgemussel
population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best Management
Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water (HQW)
Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and protocols to
conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge replacement (North
Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission 2000) will eliminate any potential adverse
impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel population during construction. It can be concluded
that project construction is not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel.
References
Jongedyk, H. and F. Bank. 1999. Is Highway Runoff a Serious Problem? Federal
Highway Technology Brief, U. S. Dept. of Transportation. Internet Page
htt://tiwvti? .ttl?rc,gov/hnr20/runot/nlnoff htm.
Michaelson, D.L. 1993. Life history of the endangered dwarf-wedge mussel,
Alasmidonta heterodon (Lea 1830) (Pelecypoda: Unionidate), in the Tar River,
North Carolina and Aquia Creek, Virginia. MS Thesis, Virginia Polytechnic
Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia. 122 pp.
National Wildlife Federation. 1999a. Science Facts-Dwarf Wedgemussel. Internet Page
http://"ww. nwf. orb,/wildalive/mussel/sciencefacts. htnil.
National Wildlife Federation. 1999b. The Big Picture-Dwarf Wedgemussel. Internet
Page http?8w v vr--,- or-,'?_C Fl le 1T;11ti??'. Qin ?ICtI c_ 1Ti11_.
12
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. 1998. Dwarf Wedge
Mussel Fact Sheet. Internet page
h1todec. state. _n?'_ti?!???.}?tiitc?cl. IIdli_'r'e' t_.httitl.
North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission. 2000. Dwarf wedgemussel. Internet
page http://ww?v.wiitdlife.state. nc.tis/ruondaine;'rn.issel!dwn1 3_:_ht:ni.
United States Department of Interior. March 14, 1990. Endangered and Threatened
Wildlife and Plants Determination of Endangered Status for the Dwarf Wedge
Mussel. Federal Register 5550-9447-9450. Washington, District of Columbia.
United States Fish and Widlife Service. 1993. Dwarf-wedge Mussel (Alasmidonta
heterodon) Recovery Plan. Hadley, Massachusetts. 39 pp.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. Endangered and Threatened Species of
the Southeastern United States (The Red Book).
13
Appendix A
Discharge Calculations and Findings
Following are drainage calculations for the increased discharge (Q) associated
with the proposed paving of SR 1629 with an Asphalt Surface Treatment. The
calculations are made utilizing NCDOT Hydraulic Guidelines, more specifically the
Rational Formula which is utilized for small drainage areas and accounts for the change
in surface type from compacted gravel to AST pavement.
Drainage Area:
STA. 11+77 to STA. 22+10
Length= 1033 ft
STA. 22+10 to STA. 28+60
Length = 650 It
Total Length from Crest to Crest = 1683' Width = 60'
1683*60/43560 = 2.32Ac.
Utilizing the Rational Formula to compute discharge.
Q = C*I*A
Q = Discharge (Cubic Feet per Second)
C = Runoff Coefficient
I = Rainfall Intensity (Assume Time of Concentration (tc) of I0:00min.)
A = Drainage Area (Acres)
Values for the Runoff Coefficient
Type of Surface C
Pavement 0.7 -0.9
Gravel 0.4 -0.6
Grassed, steep slopes 0.3 -0.4
Grassed, flat slopes 0.2 -0.3
Woods 0.1 -0.2
Current Conditions
Q= C*I*A I= 7 (C200.8 CHART) A= 2.32
C must be computed as a weighted value due to differing surface types.
C = 0.5 for gravel surfaces A = 1683*20/43560 = 0.77 Ac.
C = 0.3 for grassed, steep slopes A = 1683*40/43560 = 1.55 Ac.
Cw = 0.5*0.77 + 0.3*1.55
0.77+1.55 = 0.37
Q = 0.37*7*2.32 = 6 cfs
14
Proposed Conditions
The only parameter that changes is the C for the Asphalt Surface Treatment type surface.
C = 0.8 for paved surfaces A = 0.77 Ac.
C = 0.3 for grassed, steep slopes A = 1.55 Ac.
Cw = 0.8*0.77 + 0.3* 1.55
0.77+1.55 = 0.47
Q = 0.47*7*2.32 = 7.6 cfs
Conclusions and Recommendations
By paving, with an Asphalt Surface Treatment, the existing gravel road
(specifically from crest to crest on either side of the bridge) the discharge will increase by
1.6 cfs. This office has already submitted erosion control plans, which provide for twice
the storage capacity as compared to other secondary road projects. (1800 cf of
storage/Ac. vs. 900 cf of storage/Ac.) The added storage capacity for the erosion control
measures will definitely support the minimal discharge increase of 1..6 cfs.
The Department of Transportation, while working with representatives from
USFWS and NCWRC, has previously performed drainage adjustments at the bridge to
eliminate the roadside ditches from discharging directly into Maple Branch. Therefore, it
is the conclusion of this office, that the previous adjustments along with the increased
storage capacity for erosion control and the placement of level spreaders at the site will
accommodate any increase in discharge associated with the paving of SRI 629.
15

1
a„asr?o?
JAN i R 2001 0 10110
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 David McCoy
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
January 16, 2001
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
Raleigh Regulatory Field Office
6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120
Raleigh, NC 27609
Attention: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer
NCDOT Coordinator
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and upgrade
SR 1629 in Warren County. Action ID No. 200120024.
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren
County sustained extensive irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy
rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple Branch. A population of dwarf
wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon), a federally protected species, had been
documented within the vicinity of Bridge No. 111. On October 22, 1999, representatives
from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) met at
the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure. It was decided to
remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris removal plan was
proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not Likely to
Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by NCDOT.
The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge debris removal
project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their formally
designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing under the
ESA. Bridge No. 111 was removed on December 12-13, 1999. Representatives from
NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch were
present and observed no damage to downstream habitat as a result of the removal. The
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to pave SR 1629 and
replace Bridge No. 111 (Figure 1). Total project length is 1.9 miles. There is no U.S.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funding for this project.
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
lke
/J. Replacement of Bridge No. III
!i// < on SR 1629 over Maple Branch J
in Warren County.
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Bridge No. 111
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Impacts to Waters of the United States
The project crosses Maple Branch (DWQ Index No. 28-79-20.5), located in
Subbasin 03-03-04 of the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. This stream has a Best Usage
Classification of Class C NSW.
Proposed Project
The timber abutment on the south bank of Maple Branch has washed out over the
last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the creek bank and is partially
submerged in Maple Branch. The NCDOT proposes to remove this abutment using an
excavator that is stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal.
The NCDOT proposes to construct a 3-span (consisting of 1@ 25 foot, 1@ 50
foot and 1@ 25 foot) cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. This structure will cross
Maple Creek from high ground to high ground as pile bents will be driven into the non-
jurisdictional floodplain on each side of the creek. Deck drains are not located over
Maple Branch in the proposed design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains
located on the end spans above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans.
Additionally, the NCDOT proposes to slope the creek bank, place a silt fence
along the creek bank and line the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. The rip rap placed
under and adjacent to the end spans and along the creek bank will catch and filter runoff
from the project and stabilize the creek bank. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank.
Federally Protected Species
The dwarf wedgemussel has been documented in the vicinity of Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch. A Biological Assessment was completed by NCDOT to fulfill
obligations under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act and to address project-related
concerns with respect to the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT has concluded that the
construction of the project will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the
dwarf wedgemussel population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water
(HQW) Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and
protocols to conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge
replacement will eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel
population during construction. The NCDOT has concluded that project construction is
not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT forwarded a copy of
the Biological Assessment to the USFWS on January 16, 2001 and requested a
concurrence of our findings.
4
Permit Issues
The NCDOT is requesting authorization under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit
(NWP) 13 to perform streambank stabilization. Notification for the use of this NWP to
the USACE is required for this project, as the federally protected dwarf wedgemussel has
been observed in the vicinity of the project. As stated above, the NCDOT has requested
concurrence from the USFWS that the project is not likely to adversely affect the dwarf
wedgemussel at the project. A Pre-Construction Notification is attached to this letter.
The Section 401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) No. 3258 (which corresponds to NWP
13) does not require written application or approval from the N.C. Division of Water
Quality (NCDWQ) as NCDOT intends to comply with conditions for the WQC. A
courtesy copy of the permit application is supplied to NCDWQ.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
This project was discussed in a meeting with John Hennessy and Todd St. John of
the NCDWQ on October 31, 2000. Bridge No. 111 and SR 1629 existed as a,
transportation facility within the riparian buffer as of July 22, 1997. This project is being
constructed within the footprint of the existing use. Therefore, it was determined that this ti
project is exempt from the Rule. Level spreaders will be constructed where the roadside ?
ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level spreaders will be
directed to divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These structures will "
allow the runoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and restrict sediment ?C
and nutrient input into Maple Branch.
Summary
The NCDOT proposes to remove a timber abutment that has washed out and is
partially submerged in Maple Branch with an excavator. A turbidity curtain will be
placed around the partially submerged timber abutment before excavation. Additionally,
NCDOT proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch. This will involve
construction of a 3-span cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. The NCDOT will
stabilize the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank. The NCDOT asks that the streambank stabilization be
authorized under a Section 404 NWP 13. The NCDOT will adhere to all applicable
Section 404 NWP and Section 401 WQC conditions. If you have any questions or need
additional information, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
l c. c
Ll?
Christopher A. ay, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
r
cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDWQ, Raleigh
Mr. David Cox, NC WRC, Creedmoor
Mr. Garland Pardue, USFWS, Raleigh
Mr. Ricky Greene, P.E., NCDOT Division Construction Engineer, Durham
Mr. Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT District Engineer, Durham
1?
DWQ ID: CORPS ACTION ID: 200120024
NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT #) 13
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR
IMPACTS TO WATERS OF THE U.S.
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). Two (2) COPIES
MUST BE SENT TO THE NC DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY, ATTN:
JOHN DORNEY, 4401 REEDY CREEK ROAD, RALEIGH, NC 27607.
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE.
1. OWNER'S NAME: North Carolina Dept. of Transportation, Division 5
2. MAILING ADDRESS: 2612 N. Duke Street
SUBDIVISION NAME
CITY: Durham STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27704
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
SR 1629, Warren County
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER: (HOME) (WORK) [phone]
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENTS NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,
PHONE NUMBER:
Christopher A Murray Division 5 Environmental Officer
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Warren - NEAREST TOWN: Inez
SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ECT.) SR 1629
6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Maple Branch RIVER BASIN: Tar-Pamlico
7. (a) 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 ? NO ® IF YES, EXPLAIN:
(b) IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)? YES ? NO
(c) 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?
. vt
8. (a) HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS
PROJECT? YES ? NO ® IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND
ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION):
(b) ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE?
YES ? NO ® IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK:
9. (a) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBERS OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND:
(b) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE:
0.0 acres
10. (a) NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING: EXCAVATION:
FLOODING: OTHER :
DRAINAGE : TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.0 acres
(b) (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED,
PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION:
LENGTH BEFORE: See Cover Letter FT AFTER: FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: FT AFTER: FT
(b) (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Streambank stabilization (NWP 13).
1 L IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED
DRAINING TO THE POND? WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED? (ATTACH PLANS; 81/2 BY 1 I DRAWINGS ONLY)
Replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and streambank stabilization.
PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: Replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and
streambank stabilization.
13. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN
WETLANDS (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS)
No impacts to wetlands.
15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND/OR
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY
LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL
HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
DATE CONTACTED:
16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
(SHPO) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA
WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED
i
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE USE OF PUBLIC
(STATE) LAND? YES ® NO ? (IF NO, GO TO 16)
(a) IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES ? NO
(b) IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE YES ? NO ?
IF ANSWER 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE
CLEARINGHOUSE 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].
18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED
ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OF 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 STREAM (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON
THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE I INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OF 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET
OF THEIR EQUIVALENT.
(b) IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY
PRODUCT.
(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? Forested, single family, residential.
(1) IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE US 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 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 DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED).

4
dea QA7[o?
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

JAN 18 2001
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely P.O. Box 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 David McCoy
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
January 16, 2001
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
Raleigh Regulatory Field Office 01o118
6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120 Raleigh, NC 27609
Attention: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer
NCDOT Coordinator
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch and upgrade
SR 1629 in Warren County. Action ID No. 200120024.
In September 1999, Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren
County sustained extensive irreparable damage during Hurricane Floyd. Due to heavy
rains, the structure washed out and fell into Maple Branch. A population of dwarf
wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon), a federally protected species, had been
documented within the vicinity of Bridge No. 111. On October 22, 1999, representatives
from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) met at
the bridge site to discuss the removal and replacement of the structure. It was decided to
remove the bridge from the creek as soon as possible. A bridge debris removal plan was
proposed and forwarded to the USFWS on November 15, 1999. A Not Likely to
Adversely Affect determination for the bridge debris removal was proposed by NCDOT.
The USFWS concurred by letter dated November 23, 1999 that the bridge debris removal
project is not likely to adversely affect any Federally-listed species, their formally
designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing under the
ESA. Bridge No. 111 was removed on December 12-13, 1999. Representatives from
NCWRC and NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch were
present and observed no damage to downstream habitat as a result of the removal. The
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to pave SR 1629 and
replace Bridge No. 111 (Figure 1). Total project length is 1.9 miles. There is no U. S.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funding for this project.
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Replacement of Brid
? _?'? ` ? ?-? I ? ?" ? • ? _ ge No. 111 j..
on SR 1629 over Maple Branch
in Warren County.
\\ Figure 1 1:24,000
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:? _J 1 ( I \1 i1 ir/
:
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640` ckupe
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00 ? _ rr ti
?, i / , ?. ?? ?? ?.=f• j ?r ?? IAA\A ` -?? .VA(-ll \ W m v) 16
am I
.?,"V / v.-.?."? '?- - ---? \? ? ? A? l '?/ ?? '- ? l .J I??n 1 ? ? ?'" ? ?/ l./ ?`i• ?` i ?? ??\?'I? II ?I I - - ? /' I? A_ ' i
Bridge No. 111
N
ENI
ii ? i ??? ?? r Ivy ?--?? // ,\ \? I ? ?A ? •1?, i ,- i? ?-1 -- 7 ?ll
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t
Impacts to Waters of the United States
The project crosses Maple Branch (DWQ Index No. 28-79-20.5), located in
Subbasin 03-03-04 of the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. This stream has a Best Usage
Classification of Class C NSW.
Proposed Project
The timber abutment on the south bank of Maple Branch has washed out over the
last summer. Currently, this timber abutment is located on the creek bank and is partially
submerged in Maple Branch. The NCDOT proposes to remove this abutment using an
excavator that is stationed on the roadbed. A turbidity curtain will be placed around the
partially submerged timber before removal.
The NCDOT proposes to construct a 3-span (consisting of 1@ 25 foot, 1@ 50
foot and 1@ 25 foot) cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. This structure will cross
Maple Creek from high ground to high ground as pile bents will be driven into the non-
jurisdictional floodplain on each side of the creek. Deck drains are not located over
Maple Branch in the proposed design. Runoff from the bridge is directed to deck drains
located on the end spans above the floodplain. Class 2 rip rap will be placed under and
adjacent to the end spans.
Additionally, the NCDOT proposes to slope the creek bank, place a silt fence
along the creek bank and line the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. The rip rap placed
under and adjacent to the end spans and along the creek bank will catch and filter runoff
from the project and stabilize the creek bank. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank.
Federally Protected Species
The dwarf wedgemussel has been documented in the vicinity of Bridge No. 111
over Maple Branch. A Biological Assessment was completed by NCDOT to fulfill
obligations under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act and to address project-related
concerns with respect to the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCDOT has concluded that the
construction of the project will reduce existing impacts to the aquatic ecosystem and the
dwarf wedgemussel population. The adherence to proposed design and practicable Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters, High Quality Water
(HQW) Erosion Control Guidelines, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds and
protocols to conserve the habitat of federally protected mussels during bridge
replacement will eliminate any potential adverse impacts to the dwarf wedgemussel
population during construction. The NCDOT has concluded that project construction is
not likely to adversely affect the dwarf wedgemussel. The NCODT forwarded a copy of
the Biological Assessment to the USFWS on January 16, 2001 and requested a
concurrence of our findings.
,k
Permit Issues
The NCDOT is requesting authorization under a Section 404 Nationwide Permit
(NWP) 13 to perform streambank stabilization. Notification for the use of this NWP to
the USACE is required for this project, as the federally protected dwarf wedgemussel has
been observed in the vicinity of the project. As stated above, the NCDOT has requested
concurrence from the USFWS that the project is not likely to adversely affect the dwarf
wedgemussel at the project. A Pre-Construction Notification is attached to this letter.
The Section 401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) No. 3258 (which corresponds to NWP
13) does not require written application or approval from the N.C. Division of Water
Quality (NCDWQ) as NCDOT intends to comply with conditions for the WQC. A
courtesy copy of the permit application is supplied to NCDWQ.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
This project was discussed in a meeting with John Hennessy and Todd St. John of
the NCDWQ on October 31, 2000. Bridge No. 111 and SR 1629 existed as a
transportation facility within the riparian buffer as of July 22, 1997. This project is being
constructed within the footprint of the existing use. Therefore, it was determined that this
project is exempt from the Rule. Level spreaders will be constructed where the roadside
ditches terminate outside of the 50 foot riparian buffer. The level spreaders will be
directed to divert runoff to the heavily wooded riparian buffer. These structures will
allow the runoff from the ditches to be converted to diffuse flow and restrict sediment
and nutrient input into Maple Branch.
Summary
The NCDOT proposes to remove a timber abutment that has washed out and is
partially submerged in Maple Branch with an excavator. A turbidity curtain will be
placed around the partially submerged timber abutment before excavation. Additionally,
NCDOT proposes to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch. This will involve
construction of a 3-span cored slab bridge over Maple Branch. The NCDOT will
stabilize the creek bank with Class 2 rip rap. Approximately 55 feet of rip rap will be
placed along the south creek bank and approximately 60 feet of rip rap will be placed
along the north creek bank. The NCDOT asks that the streambank stabilization be
authorized under a Section 404 NWP 13. The NCDOT will adhere to all applicable
Section 404 NWP and Section 401 WQC conditions. If you have any questions or need
additional information, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
Christopher A. 1Vlu?ray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer

cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDWQ, Raleigh
Mr. David Cox, NC WRC, Creedmoor
Mr. Garland Pardue, USFWS, Raleigh
Mr. Ricky Greene, P.E., NCDOT Division Construction Engineer, Durham
Mr. Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT District Engineer, Durham

DWQ ID: CORPS ACTION ID: 200120024
NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT #) 13
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR
IMPACTS TO WATERS OF THE U.S.
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). Two (2) COPIES
MUST BE SENT TO THE NC DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY, ATTN:
JOHN DORNEY, 4401 REEDY CREEK ROAD, RALEIGH, NC 27607.
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE.
1. OWNER'S NAME: North Carolina Dept. of Transportation, Division 5
2. MAILING ADDRESS: 2612 N. Duke Street
SUBDIVISION NAME
CITY: Durham STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27704
PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM
MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE):
SR 1629, Warren County
3. TELEPHONE NUMBER: (HOME) (WORK) [phone]
4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENTS NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,
PHONE NUMBER:
Christopher A Murray Division 5 Environmental Officer
5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE):
COUNTY: Warren - NEAREST TOWN: Inez
SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ECT.) SR 162
6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Maple Branch RIVER BASIN: Tar-Pamlico
7. (a) 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 ? NO ® IF YES, EXPLAIN:
(b) IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL
MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)? YES ? NO
(c) 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?
'4
8. (a) HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS
PROJECT? YES ? NO ® IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND
ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION):
(b) ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE, FUTURE?
YES ? NO ® IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK:
9. (a) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBERS OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND:
(b) ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE:
0.0 acres
10. (a) NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY:
FILLING: EXCAVATION:
FLOODING: OTHER :
DRAINAGE : TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.0 acres
(b) (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED,
PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION:
LENGTH BEFORE: See Cover Letter FT AFTER: FT
WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): FT
AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: FT AFTER: FT
(b) (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL:
CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING:
OTHER: Streambank stabilization (NWP 13).
11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED
DRAINING TO THE POND? WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA?
12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED? (ATTACH PLANS; 81/2 BY I 1 DRAWINGS ONLY)
Replacement of Bridge No. I I I over Maple Branch and streambank stabilization.
PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: Replacement of Bridge No. I I1 over Maple Branch and
streambank stabilization.
13. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN
WETLANDS (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS)
No impacts to wetlands.
15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND/OR
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY
LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL
HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
DATE CONTACTED:
16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER
(SHPO) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA
WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED
f
17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE USE OF PUBLIC
(STATE) LAND? YES ® NO E] (IF NO, GO TO 16)
(a) IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF TIIE NORTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES ? NO
(b) IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE YES ? NO ?
IF ANSWER 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE
CLEARINGHOUSE 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].
18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED
ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OF 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 STREAM (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON
THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE I INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OF I INCH EQUALS 100 FEET
OF THEIR EQUIVALENT.
(b) IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY
PRODUCT.
(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? Forested, single family, residential.
(f) IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL?
SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE.
NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE US MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO:
I. ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT,
2. EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
CERTIFICATION, AND
3. (IN TIIE 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 S NATURE DATE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM
THE OWNER IS PROVIDED).
% N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
TRANSMITTAL SLIP DATE
q. I .?
TO: REF. NO. OR ROOM,8 DO.
1 «
FRO : R[F. NO. OR ROOM, !B ?DG.
r
AC MN
? NOT[ AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR APPROVAL'.
? NOT[ AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS ? FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEAS[ ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION - ? INVESTIGATE AND IfE?ORT
COMMENTS:

1

a. ?4,
w
?Q aw. w•?
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Michael F. Easely
GOVERNOR
April 25, 2001
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
Raleigh Regulatory Field Office
6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120
Raleigh, NC 27609
Attention: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer
NCDOT Coordinator
Lyndo Tippett
SECRETARY
Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629
in Warren County. USACE Action ID No. 200120024; DWQ Project No.
010216.
References: (1) Biological Assessment for dwarf wedgemussel (NCDOT, January 16,
2001)
(2) Biological Opinion for project issued by USFWS (USFWS, February
21, 2001)
(3) Biological Opinion for project rescinded by USFWS (USFWS, March
6, 2001)
(4) Biological Opinion for project re-issued for replacement of Bridge No.
111 by USFWS (USFWS, March 6, 2001)
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has previously
proposed to replace Bridge No. 111 over Maple Branch on SR 1629 as well as upgrade
and pave SR 1629 in Warren County. The dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon),
a federally Endangered species protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended (ESA), has been documented in Maple Branch within the vicinity of the
proposed project study area.
A Biological Assessment (BA) for the dwarf wedgemussel at Bridge No. 111 over
Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren County was submitted to the United States Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS) on January 16, 2001. The BA discussed the proposed
replacement of Bridge No. 111 and the paving of SR 1629. Additionally, the BA
discussed the project history, proposed design of the roadway (SR 1629) and replacement
bridge, and site-specific description of Maple Branch at the project site. The BA
provided an assessment of project impacts on dwarf wedgemussel (including direct,
Division 5, 2612 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
secondary and cumulative impacts) and erosion control plan. The NCDOT concluded
that the replacement of Bridge No. 111 and the paving of SR 1629 are Not Likely To
Adversely Affect the dwarf wedgemussel.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC), in
correspondence via e-mail dated February 20, 2001, requested an on-site meeting to
discuss stormwater control measures at the site. The NCWRC noted that the measures, as
described in the BA, may not be sufficient to control stormwater and prevent a predicted
increase in discharge. The USFWS, in a letter dated February 21, 2001, stated that based
on the information presented in the BA, the Service concurs with the project,
implemented as described, is "Not Likely To Adversely Affect" the dwarf wedgemussel.
In a subsequent letter dated March 6, 2001, the USFWS noted the comments from the
NCWRC and rescinded the previous concurrence until an on-site meeting could be
conducted to resolve outstanding concerns.
Accordingly, an on-site meeting was conducted on March 22, 2001. Personnel
from the USFWS, NCWRC and NCDOT attended the meeting. During the meeting, the
NCDOT decided to pursue separate concurrence for the replacement of Bridge No. 111
and the paving of SR 1629. This decision was agreed to in principal during the meeting
by the regulatory agencies. The NCDOT agreed to implement additional project
conditions relevant to the replacement of Bridge No. 111. These commitments were
addressed in a letter to the USFWS (and forwarded to appropriate regulatory agencies) on
April 5, 2001. The USFWS, in a letter dated April 23, 2001, concurred that the
replacement of Bridge No. 111 is "Not Likely To Adversely Affect" the dwarf
wedgemussel. A copy of this letter is attached.
By copy of this letter, the NCDOT is notifying the USACE that the USFWS
believes that Section 7 of the ESA has been satisfied. The NCDOT is requesting that you
provide documentation indicating that construction can commence on this project. If you
have any questions, I can be reached at [phone] or crtlurray(u)d_ot suite nc_ .Lis.
Sincerely,
Christopher A. Murray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
cc: Scott Capps, P.E., NCDOT, Henderson
Dallie Bagwell, NCDOT, Raleigh
John Alderman, NCWRC, Pittsboro
David Cox, NCWRC, Creedmoor
Tim Savidge, NCDOT, Raleigh
Logan Williams, NCDOT, Raleigh
Jon Nance, P.E., NCDOT, Durham
John Dorney, NCDWQ, Raleigh
r
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Raleigh Field Office
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726
April 23, 2001
Mr. Chris Murray, P.W.S.
Environmental Officer
NCDOT Division 5
2612 N. Duke Street
Durham, North Carolina 27704
Dear Mr. Murray:
Thank you for your April 5, 2001 letter regarding the proposed replacement of Bridge 111,
over Maple Branch on SR 1629 in Warren County. You referenced our letter of
February 21, 2001, providing concurrence with your determination of "Not Likely To
Adversely Affect" the dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon) population in Maple
Branch and our letter of March 6, 2001, rescinding that concurrence until issues raised by
the Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) were addressed. This revised report is
provided in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (16
U.S.C. 661-667d) and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16
U.S.C. 1531-1543).
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) presented the results of a
survey for the dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon) in Maple Branch at the site
where Bridge No. 111 will be replaced and SR 1629 re-paved. Subsequent to our response
of February 21, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) received additional
information that the WRC had concerns about the long-term protection of the existing
mussel population that occurs at the work site. In particular, there was concern that paving
the existing dirt road will increase surface runoff to Maple Branch, potentially posing a
threat to the existing mussel population.
Based on receipt of this additional information, the Service rescinded its previous
concurrence until such time as the NCDOT and the appropriate agencies could have an on-
site meeting to resolve outstanding concerns. A meeting was held at the site on March 22,
2001 and the results summarized in your April 5, 2001 letter. Based on the results of that
meeting and the additional conditions agreed to by NCDOT as outlined in that letter,
including the separation of the bridge replacement and paving components, the Service
concurs with the determination that this project is "Not Likely To Adversely Affect" the
dwarf wedgemussel.
N
We believe that the requirements of Section 7 of the Act have been satisfied. We remind
you that obligations under Section 7 consultation must be reconsidered if. (1) new
information reveals impacts of this identified action that may affect listed species or critical
habitat in a manner not previously considered; (2) the action is subsequently modified in a
manner that was not considered in this review; (3) a new species is listed or critical habitat
determined that may be affected by the identified action.
If you have any questions regarding these comments, contact Tom McCartney at
[phone], extension 32.
Sincerely,
Dr. Garland B. Pardue
Ecological Services Supervisor
cc: COE, Raleigh, NC (Eric Alsmeyer)
FWS/R4:TMcCartney:TM:04/23/01:919/856-4520 extension 32:\bridgl l l.upd