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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20081022 Ver 1_Reports_20020228M F8 Natural Resources Technical Report i Replacement of Bridge No. 65 on SR 1513 Over Rabbit Creek y Macon County, North Carolina State Project No. 8.2970801 TIP Project No. B-4179 North Carolina Department of Transportation Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch 1 f 1 1 i 1 February 2002 /IAORTH 1 r 1 Natural Systems Report Macon County, SR 1513 Replacement of Bridge No. 65 over Rabbit Creek TIP No. B-4179 Prepared for. North Carolina Department of Transportation Prepared by. ARCADIS G&M of North Carolina, Inc. P.O. Box 31388 Raleigh, North Carolina 27622-1388 2301 Rexwoods Drive - Suite 102 Raleigh, North Carolina 27607-3366 Tel 919 782 5511 Fax 919 782 5905 Our Ref.: NC601032.0000 Date: February 2002 This document is intended only for the use of the individual or entity for which it was prepared and may contain information that is privileged, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. Any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this document is strictly prohibited. 1 1 1 t f 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 r t 1. Introduction 1-1 1.1 Project Description 1-1 1.2 Purpose 1-1 1.3 Methodology 1-2 1.4 Qualifications of Principal investigators 1-3 2. Physical Resources 2-1 2.1 Geology 2-1 2.2 Soils 2-1 2.3 Water Resources 2-2 2.4 Physical Resources Impacts 2-4 3. Biotic Resources 3-1 3.1 Plant Communities 3-1 3.2 Terrestrial Wildlife 3-2 3.3 Aquatic Habitats and Wildlife 3-3 3.4 Biotic Resource Impacts 3-3 4. Waters of the United States 4-1 4.1 Surface Waters 4-1 4.2 Jurisdictional Wetlands 4-1 4.3 Impacts to Waters of the United States 4-1 4.4 Permit Requirements 4-2 4.5 Mitigation 4-2 5. Rare and Protected Species 5-1 6. References 6-1 Table of Contents 1 t t r r Figures 1 Vicinity Map. 2 Natural Systems and Surface Waters. Tables 1 Soil Summary - Bridge #65 Replacement (TIP No. B-4179), Macon County, North Carolina. 2 Federally Protected Species Known from Macon County, North Carolina 3 Federal Species of concern Known from Macon County, North Carolina Table of Contents 1 1. Introduction ARCADIS G&M of North Carolina, Inc. (ARCADIS G&M) has been retained by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to complete natural resources investigations associated with the replacement of Bridge No. 65 on SR 1513 over Rabbit Creek in Macon County, North Carolina. The following Natural Systems Report is submitted to assist in the preparation of the Categorical Exclusion (CE) for the proposed project. 1 1.1 Project Description The proposed project, TIP No. B-4179 will replace Bridge No.65 over Rabbit Creek in Macon County, North Carolina (Figure 1). The project study area is in a rural area northeast of the Town of Franklin, and approximately 1 mile east of Lake Emory, an impoundment of the Little Tennessee River. The bridge is currently in poor condition and in need of replacement. Rehabilitation of the existing structure does not appear to be a feasible option due to its age and condition. This replacement will result in a safer structure, consistent with federal and state bridge standards. No alternatives for the proposed project have been defined. Therefore, an elliptical- shaped study area approximately 800 feet (244 meters) long and 135 feet (41 meters) wide and encompassing nearly 2.5 acres (1.0 hectare) was studied. Approximately 600 linear feet (182.9 meters) of Rabbit Creek are contained within the project study area. The project vicinity is defined as a larger area, approximately one-half mile (0.6 km) on all sides of the study area. The project region is the area more or less represented on a standard 7.5-minute U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic quadrangle map. Since no alternatives have been identified, impacts to Waters of the United States cannot be determined. However, bridge demolition activities will strictly follow NCDOT's Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal (BMPs- BDR). As per the BMPs-BDR, all methods of demolition shall be considered and implemented where practical, other than dropping the bridge in the water. 1 1.2 Purpose The purpose of this technical report is to inventory, catalog, and describe the natural systems within the study area. Recommendations are made for measures which will minimize resource impacts, as well as preliminary determinations of permit needs and Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Introduction 1-1 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Introduction I mitigation options. These descriptions and estimates are based on the existing project area. If the criteria change, additional field investigations will be conducted. 1.3 Methodology Field investigations along the project study area were conducted by qualified biologists from ARCADIS G&M during the month of August 2001. Pedestrian surveys were undertaken to determine natural resource conditions and to document natural communities, wildlife, and the presence of protected species or their habitats. 1 Published information regarding the project area and region was derived from a number of resources including: USGS 7.5-minute topographical quadrangle map (Corbin Knob, North Carolina), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Wetland Inventory (NWI) map, NCDOT aerial photomosaics of the project area (1"=100% and Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS) soil survey maps of Macon County. Water resources information was obtained from publications of the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ). Information concerning the occurrence of federal and state protected species within the project area and vicinity was gathered from the USFWS list of protected species (March, 2001) and the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database of rare species and unique habitats (July, 2001). Dominant plant species were identified in each strata for all natural communities encountered. Plant community descriptions are based on those classified in Schafale and Weakley (1990), where applicable. For the context of this report, community classifications have been modified in some instances to better reflect field observations. Names and descriptions of plant species generally follow Radford et al. (1968), unless more current information is available. Animal names and descriptions follow Martof et al. (1980), Stokes (1996), Rohde et al. (1994), and Webster et al. (1985). Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are provided for each plant and animal species listed. Subsequent references to the same organism include the common name only. During surveys, wildlife identification involved a variety of observation techniques: active searching and capture, visual observations (both with and without the use of binoculars), and observing the characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds, scats, tracks, and burrows). Organisms captured during these searches were identified and released without injury. Quantitative water sampling was not undertaken to support existing data. 1-2 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Introduction Jurisdictional wetland determinations were performed using the three-parameter approach as prescribed in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory, 1987). Supplementary technical literature describing the parameters of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and hydrological indicators was also utilized. Wetland functions were evaluated according to the Division of Water Quality's Rating System, 4`h version (1995). 1.4 Qualifications of Principal Investigators Investigator: Martha M. Register, Scientist Education: MS, Botany, North Carolina State University BS, Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University Experience: ARCADIS G&M, November 1997 to present Environmental Biologist, Robert J. Goldstein & Associates, July 1995 to November 1997 Expertise: NEPA investigations, Section 7 investigations, wetland delineation 1 1 1 1 1 1-3 r Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Physical Resources 2. Physical Resources Macon County is situated in the south-central portion of the Mountain physiographic region. The geography of the county consists of mountains, rolling hills, floodplains and stream terraces. The project is located in the greater Little Tennessee River valley between the Nantahala Mountains to the west and the Cowee Mountains to the east. Elevations in the project area range from approximately 2,065 feet (630 meters) above Mean Sea Level (MSL) to 2,080 feet (634 meters) above MSL as depicted on the Corbin Knob, North Carolina USGS topographic quadrangle map. 2.1 Geology The Mountain physiographic province of North Carolina is composed of parent material dating back 500 million to one billion years. This parent material is associated with the Blue Ridge Belt. This complex mixture of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock has been squeezed, fractured, faulted, and twisted into folds. The Blue Ridge Belt is well known for its deposits of feldspar, mica, and quartz-basic materials used in the ceramic, paint, and electronic industries. The project vicinity is specifically located within the Coweeta Group. This formation is composed of migmatic rocks interspersed with biotite-garnet gneiss and amphibolite. Rock formations contain locally abundant quartz and aluminosilicates (N.C. Division of Land Resources, 1985). 2.2 Soils The process of soil development depends on both biotic and abiotic influences. These influences include past geologic activities, nature of parent materials, environmental and human influences, plant and animal activity, time, climate, and topographic position. One soil association is present in the project area, the Evard-Cowee-Saunook association. Soil associations are defined as landscapes that exhibit distinctive proportional patterns of soils consisting of one or more major soils and at least one minor soil. The soils within an association generally vary in slope, depth, stoniness, drainage, and other characteristics (NRCS, 1996). Based on information obtained from NRCS (1996), the Evard-Cowee-Saunook association is comprised of strongly sloping to very steep, well-drained soils that have a predominately loamy subsoil. The association occupies approximately 38 percent of the county. It is about 41 percent Evard soils, 18 percent Cowee soils, 11 percent Saunook soils, and 30 percent minor soils. These soils are found primarily along low mountains that have long side slopes and narrow ridgetops. The minor soils in the 2-1 r t 1 t I r I I 1 I association include Trimont, Dellwood, Nikwasi, Reddies, Cullasaja, Tuckasegee, Chestnut, Edneyville and Fannin. Trimont soils are found on north- to east-facing side slopes; Dellwood, Nikwasi and Reddies soils on floodplains; Cullasaja and Tuckasegee soils in coves; Chestnut and Edneyville soils on intermediate mountains; and Fannin soils on low mountains. Table 1 identifies each soil mapping unit found in the project area and its general characteristics. Table 1. Soil Summary - Bridge #65 Replacement (TIP No. B-4179) Macon County, North Carolina Symbol Soil Unit Name Slope General Characteristics EvD Evard-Cowee complex 15%-30% Moderately steep, very deep, well drained to moderately well drained soils. Found on side slopes and ridgetops in the low mountains. ReA Reddies fine sandy loam, 0%-3% Nearly level to gently sloping, very deep, moderately frequently flooded well drained soils, found on floodplains of small streams. Scc Saunook loam 8%-15% Strongly sloping, very deep, well drained soils. Found in drainageways and on toe slopes in the low mountains. Hydric soils are defined as soils that are saturated, flooded, or ponded long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions that favor the growth and regeneration of hydrophytic vegetation (Cowardin et al., 1979). According to the NRCS (1996), there are no mapped hydric soils in the project study area. 2.3 Water Resources Streams, creeks, and tributaries within the project region are part of the Little Tennessee River Basin. The basin originates in Georgia and encompasses approximately 1,800 square miles (4,662 square kilometers). It flows northwestward from Georgia into North Carolina, and finally into Tennessee where it converges with the Tennessee River. Waters associated with this basin eventually empty into the Gulf of Mexico via the Mississippi River. Nearly half of the land within the basin is federally owned and consists predominantly of undeveloped forested land. Most of the remaining privately owned lands are also forested. Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Physical Resources 2-2 1 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Physical Resources The project study area is situated in NCDWQ Subbasin 04-04-01. Rabbit Creek is the only surface water in the project area and is identified by the NCDWQ Stream Index # 2-23 (Figure 2). Rabbit Creek is approximately 15 to 20 feet (4.6 to 6.1 meters) wide and 1 to 3 feet (0.3 to 0.9 meters) deep in the project area. The stream appears to be channelized and straightened. The banks are approximately 10 feet (3.0 meters) high and appear to be eroded. The stream bed consists of cobble, gravel, sand, and silt. The water was cloudy with a heavy sediment load and a moderate flow. NCDWQ classifies surface waters of the state based on their intended best uses. Rabbit Creek is classified as "C-Tr" waters. Class C denotes waters suitable for all general uses including aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. "Tr" denotes trout waters which are suitable for natural trout propagation and the maintenance of stocked trout. No High Quality Waters (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-11), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) occur within the project vicinity. The Ambient Monitoring System (AMS) is a network of stream, lake, and estuarine water quality monitoring stations strategically located for the collection of physical and chemical water quality data. The type of water quality data or parameters collected is determined by the water bodies' classification and corresponding water quality standards. The AMS determines the "use support" status of water bodies, meaning how well a water body supports its designated uses. The waters in the project area are currently rated as Supporting-Threatened (ST). Waters designated "ST" fully support their intended uses but may not in the future unless pollution prevention measures are incorporated. There was no benthic macroinvertebrate sampling conducted in the Rabbit Creek watershed. A lake monitoring investigation was conducted in 1994 at Lake Emory, an impoundment of the Little Tennessee River. Rabbit Creek empties into Lake Emory about one mile (1.6 km) downstream of the project area. The study revealed decreases in levels of suspended solids, nutrients and chlorophyll a from an earlier study conducted in 1988. However, it also was observed that the lake appeared to be filling in and becoming a wetland. This was attributed to poor upstream erosion control and correlated with high measured levels of suspended and floating solids (NCDWQ, 1997). Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are regulated through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. Dischargers are required by law to register for a permit. According to NCDWQ (1997), there are 44 permitted NPDES dischargers in Subbasin 04-04-01. The Holly Springs Golf Village 2-3 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Physical Resources (<0.5 MGD), located on Cat Creek within one mile (1.6 km) upstream of the project location, is the only NPDES discharger near the project area. 2.4 Physical Resources Impacts The proposed project is expected to impact both soils and topography. The local topography is relatively flat with little change in elevation. The proposed construction of a new bridge or associated road improvements will require the removal of soils and the placement of fill material along the creek. The sources of water degradation in rural areas are a primary quality gnculture and construction. Proposed replacement of the bridge will disturb the soil and may remove some of the forested lands. This may cause water quality degradation from runoff and sedimentation. Also, impervious areas such as a bridge can introduce other elements of degradation to water resources. These elements include hydrocarbons, toxic substances, debris, and other pollutants. Anticipated impacts to water resources include: additional substrate destabilization, bank erosion, increased turbidity, altered flow rates, and possible temperature fluctuations within the stream channel caused by the removal of streamside vegetation. 1 Precautions should be taken to minimize impacts to water resources in the project vicinity. Aquatic organisms are very sensitive to discharges and inputs resulting from construction. Appropriate measures must be taken to avoid spillage and control runoff. Potential impacts associated with construction of the proposed project include the following: increased sedimentation, soil compaction, and loss of shading due to vegetation removal. Measures to minimize these potential impacts include the formulation of an erosion and sedimentation control plan provision for waste material and storage, stormwater management measures, and appropriate road-maintenance measures. NCDOT's Best Management Practices for Protection of Surface Waters (BMPs -PSW) and Sedimentation Control guidelines should be strictly enforced during the construction stages of the project. The Rabbit Creek is classified as C-Tr, and Macon County is one of 25 designated western Carolina counties known to have Mountain Trout Waters (MTWs). Therefore, NCDOT will coordinate with NCDWQ and strictly adhere to the "Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" (15A NCAC 04B .0024) throughout design and construction of the project. 1 2-4 1 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Biotic Resources 3. Biotic Resources This section describes the existing vegetation and associated wildlife that occur within the project area. The project area is composed of different vegetative communities based on topography, soils, hydrology, and disturbance. These systems are interrelated and in many aspects interdependent. Potential impacts affecting these communities are also discussed. Scientific nomenclature and common name (when applicable) are provided for each plant and animal species listed. Subsequent references to the same organism include only the common name. 3.1 Plant Communities ARCADIS G&M observed three plant communities in the project study area: montane alluvial forest, disturbed acid cove forest, and disturbed/agricultural lands. These communities are described in greater detail below and presented in Figure 2. Rabbit Creek has a 15- to 30-foot (4.6 to 9.2 meters) wide alluvial wooded buffer throughout the project area. This alluvial community can best be characterized as a variation of Montane Alluvial Forest (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). These forests occur along stream and river floodplains at moderate to high elevations. They are palustrine and flood on an intermittent basis. According to Schafale and Weakley (1990), the Montane Alluvial Forest may be eroded or disturbed by catastrophic floods. Flood-carried sediment undoubtedly provides nutrient input to this community and also serves as a natural disturbance factor. In the project area, the tree species included tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), red maple (Ater rubrum), black walnut (Juglans nigra) and black cherry (Prunus serotina). Shrub species along the stream banks j included tag alder (Alnus serrulata), privet (Ligustrum sinense), yellow root (Xanthorhiza simplicissima), thorn bush (Rosa rugosa), blackberry (Rubus spp), and silky dogwood (Corpus amomum). The herb layer included thoroughwort (Eupatorium purpureum), creeping grass (Microstegium vimineum), jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea), honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), and greenbriar (Smilax rotundifolia). The forest community on the north-facing slope in the southeastern corner of the project area is best classified as Acid Cove Forest. These communities tend to be relatively stable, unevenly aged, climax forests. Wind tends to be the causal agent of disturbance in this community, with reproduction occurring in the canopy gaps. In protected locations the trees may live for several centuries. This forest type is closely related to the better known Rich Cove Forest. The acid type tends to be located on convex slopes, support more acid-tolerant species, present a thicker ericaceous shrub 3-1 layer, and thus has a reduced but still diverse herbaceous layer. In the project area the community is has been highly disturbed by human activity and is dominated by pines including white pine (Pinus strobus), scrub pine (P. virginiana), and pitch pine (P. rigida). Other canopy trees are a mix of hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), scarlet oak (Quercus coccinea), red oak (Q. rubra), white oak (Q. alba), red maple, and tulip poplar. The understory includes mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia), Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia). The final areas observed in the project area are urban disturbed sites around residences and fallow agricultural lands. The residential lawns consist of maintained, cultivated grasses and horticultural plantings. Trees and shrubs in the yards include red maple, white pine, and rhododendron. The agricultural lands did not appear to have been cultivated for several years and were overgrown with weedy species including blackberry, Queen-Ann's-lace (Daucus carota), goldenrod (Solidago nemoralis and S. altissima), elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), and ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia). 3.2 Terrestrial Wildlife The project study area has a mix of open and wooded habitats and a readily available supply of water. The numerous mast-producing trees and fruiting shrubs provide a steady supply of food. Evidence of or direct sighting of animal species are indicated with an "*" in this report. No direct wildlife sightings were made during field reconnaissance in the project area, however, the tracks and scat of several species were observed. e The mammals in the project vicinity, like the reptiles and birds noted above, are likely to be varied. Typical mammals in wooded areas with some openings include red and gray squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus and Sciurus carolinensis), opossum (Didelphis virginiana), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), raccoon* (Procyon lotor), skunks (Mephitis mephitis), white tailed deer* (Odocoileus virginianus), feral hogs (Sus scrofa), grey fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), woodland voles (Microtus pinetorum), deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), and woodchuck (Marmota monax). The area is likely to have an abundance of reptiles such as the ground skink (Scincella lateralis), broadhead and five-lined skinks (Eumeces laticeps and E. fasciatus), eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina), eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis), northern brown snake (Storeria dekayi), Queen snake (Regina septemvittata), northern copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen), rough green snake (Opheodrys Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Biotic Resources 3-2 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Biotic Resources aestivus), and the midland water snake (Nerodia sipedon pleuralis). Amphibians are likely to be represented by Fowler's toad (Bufo woodhousii), American toad (Bufo americanus), spring peeper (Hyla crucifer), wood frog (Rana sylvatica), green frog (Rana clamitans melanota), red-spotted newt (Notophthalmus viridescens virdescens), dusky salamander (Desmognathus fuscus), mountain dusky salamander (Desmognathus ocrophaeus), and Jordan's salamander (Plethodon jordani). A wide variety of birds are likely to be present in the area. They include tufted titmouse (Parus bicolor), Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus), hooded warbler (Wilsonia citrina), pileated woodpecker (Cryocopus pileatus), yellow-bellied sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius), American red-start (Setophaga ruticilla), black-and- white warbler (Mniolta varia), and scarlet tanager (Piranger olivacea). Game species such as woodcock (Scolopax minor), ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus) and wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) may also be present. Predatory birds such as red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), barred owl (Strix varia), and eastern screech owl (Otus asio) are also likely to be found in the project vicinity. 3.3 Aquatic Habitats and Wildlife The quality of aquatic habitat in Rabbit Creek at this location is expected to be low due to the apparent channelization of the stream and heavy sediment load. High, vertical banks prevented direct observation of fish species. The most-likely fish to be in the project area are redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus), bluegill (L. marcochirus), mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki), creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus), and eastern silvery minnow (Hybognathus regius). During field investigations, rocks were overturned throughout riffle and run sections within the creek immediately around the bridge area. Only one dead stonefly* (Order: Plecoptera) larvae was observed. W Other aquatic species likely include several of the previously mentioned amphibian, reptilian, and mammal species. Salamanders, frogs, turtles, and muskrat are a few of the species that inhabit both terrestrial and aquatic communities. Aquatic surveys by qualified biologist from NCDOT are pending. 3.4 Biotic Resource Impacts Because no preliminary concepts for demolition and replacement of the bridge over Rabbit Creek have been formulated, project impacts cannot be calculated at this time. 3-3 1 t 1 r 1 1 Within the study area, montane alluvial woodland covers approximately 0.43 acres (0.17 hectares), disturbed acid cove forest occupies approximately 0.59 acres (0.24 hectares), and urban disturbed and agricultural lands communities occupy approximately 0.89 acres (0.33 hectares). The remaining acreage in the project area includes the road surface and the unvegetated stream channel. Loss of wildlife is an unavoidable aspect of development. Temporary fluctuations in population of animal species which utilize these communities are anticipated during the course of construction. Slow-moving, burrowing, and/or subterranean organisms will be directly impacted by construction activities, while mobile organisms will be displaced to adjacent communities. Competitive forces in the adapted communities will result in a redefinition of population equilibria. Aquatic organisms are acutely sensitive to changes in their environment and environmental impacts from construction activities may result in long term or irreversible effects. Impacts usually associated within-stream construction include increased channelization and scouring of the streambed. In-stream construction alters the substrate and impacts adjacent stream-side vegetation. Such disturbances within the substrate lead to increased siltation, which can clog the gills and/or feeding mechanisms of benthic organisms, fish, and amphibian species. Siltation may also cover benthic macroinvertebrates with excessive amounts of sediment that inhibit their ability to obtain oxygen. These organisms are slow to recover and usually do not, once the stream has been severely impacted. The removal of stream-side vegetation and placement of fill material during construction enhances erosion and possible sedimentation. Quick revegetation of these areas helps to reduce the impacts by supporting the underlying soils. Erosion and sedimentation may carry soils, toxic compounds, trash, and other materials into the aquatic communities at the construction site. As a result, bars may form at and downstream of the site. Increased light penetration from the removal of stream-side vegetation may increase water temperatures. Warmer water contains less oxygen, thus reducing aquatic life that depends on high oxygen concentrations. Due to the potential for water quality impacts during construction, NCWRC suggests in-stream construction moratorium to limit the effects on fishery resources. Scott Loftis (NCWRC, 9/25/01) indicated that Rabbit Creek is currently not known to support trout species. This is in-spite of its "Tr" classification by NCDWQ. If species of trout are present the following in-stream construction moratoriums would apply: October 15 to March 31 for brown and brook trout, January 1 to April 15 for rainbow trout, and October 15 to April 15 if all three trout species are present. If small mouth Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Biotic Resources 3-4 l Systems Natura Report for B-4179, Macon County Biotic Resources bass and red breasted sunfish were present the moratorium of May 12 to June 30 would apply. Qualified biologists from NCDOT will assess the stream for the above- mentioned species. Once the fish have been identified as being supported by the stream, NCDOT will coordinate with NCWRC and the appropriate moratorium will be applied. t I t 1 I 1 3-5 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Waters of the United States 4. Waters of the United States Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires regulation of discharges into "Waters of the United States." The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) is the principal administrative agency of the Clean Water Act; however, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has the responsibility for implementation, permitting, and enforcement of the provisions of the Act. The USACE regulatory program is defined in 33 CFR 320-330. Water bodies, including lakes, rivers, and streams, are subject to jurisdictional consideration under the Section 404 program. Wetlands are also identified as "Waters of the United States." Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR 328.3, are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Any action that proposes to place fill into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the USACE under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). 4.1 Surface Waters The NCDWQ defines a perennial stream as a clearly defined channel that contains water for the majority of the year. These channels usually have some or all of the following characteristics: distinctive stream bed and bank, aquatic life, and groundwater flow or discharge. Rabbit Creek is the only perennial stream identified in the project area. Detailed stream characteristics, including specific water-quality designations, are presented in Section 2.3 Water Resources. 4.2 Jurisdictional Wetlands There are no jurisdictional wetlands associated with the project study area. 4.3 Impacts to Waters of the United States Since no alternatives have been selected, impacts to Waters of the United States cannot be determined. However, some impacts to Rabbit Creek may be anticipated for bridge abutments and channel stabilization. There are no jurisdictional wetlands in the project area; thus, there are no impacts to jurisdictional wetlands associated with this bridge replacement. 4-1 1 r 1 1 I f 1 1 A t Bridge demolition activities will strictly follow NCDOT's Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal (BMPs-BDR). As per the BMPs-BDR, all methods of demolition shall be considered and implemented where practical, other than dismantling the bridge in the water. Information regarding the existing bridge structure and the potential amount of fill from demolition activities is not available at this time and will be supplied by NCDOT in the CE document for the project. 4.4 Permit Requirements Impacts to "Waters of the United States" come under the jurisdiction of the USACE. Permits will be required for highway encroachment into wetland communities. The Nationwide Permit #23 (Approved Categorical Exclusions) should cover the impacts to jurisdictional streams in the project area. Nationwide Permit No. 33 (Temporary Construction, Access, and Dewatering) may be needed for temporary construction access if that is not addressed in the NEPA document. A final permitting strategy cannot be developed until a design alternative is selected. A Section 401 General Water Quality Certification is also required for any activity which may result in a discharge into "Waters of the United States" or for which an issuance of a federal permit or license is issued. Certifications are administered through the NCDWQ. Final determination of permit applicability lies with the USACE. NCDOT will coordinate with the USACE after the completion of final design to obtain the necessary permits. Macon County is listed by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) as a county with Mountain Trout Waters (MTWs). No discharge activities will be authorized by Nationwide Permits within MTW counties without a letter of approval from the NCWRC and written concurrence from the Wilmington District Engineer. 1 4.5 Mitigation 1 1 The USACE has adopted, through the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), a mitigation policy which embraces the concepts of "no net loss of wetlands" and sequencing. The purpose of this policy is to restore and maintain the chemical, biological, and physical integrity of "Waters of the United States," specifically wetlands. Mitigation of wetland impacts has been defined by the CEQ to include: avoidance of impacts (to wetlands), minimizing impacts, rectifying impacts, reducing Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Waters of the United States 4-2 1 t r 1 t 1 I I I 1 I r impacts over time, and compensating for impacts (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these three aspects (avoidance, minimization, and compensatory mitigation) must be considered in sequential order. Avoidance mitigation examines all appropriate and practicable possibilities of averting impacts to Waters of the United States. According to a 1990 Memorandum of Agreement (MOE) between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the USACE, in determining "appropriate and practicable" measures to offset unavoidable impacts, such measures should be appropriate to the scope and degree of those impacts and practicable in terms of cost, existing technology, and logistics in light of overall project purposes. No jurisdictional wetlands will be impacted; however, some unavoidable impacts to surface waters will result from project construction. Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to Waters of the United States. Implementation of these steps will be required through project modifications and permit conditions. Minimization typically focuses on decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of median widths, right-of-way widths, fill slopes, and/or road shoulder widths. The following methods are suggested to minimize adverse impacts to Waters of the United States: Strictly enforce Best Management Practices (BMPs) to control sedimentation during project construction. 2. Minimize clearing and grubbing activity. 3. Decrease or eliminate discharges into Rabbit Creek. 4. Reestablish vegetation on exposed areas with judicious pesticide and herbicide management. Minimize "in-stream" activity. 6. Use responsible litter control practices. Compensatory mitigation is not normally considered until anticipated impacts to Waters of the United States have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent possible. It is recognized that " no net loss of wetlands" functions and values may not be achieved in each and every permit action. Appropriate and practicable Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Waters of the United States 4-3 1 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Waters of the United States compensatory mitigation is required for unavoidable adverse impacts which remain after all appropriate and practicable minimization has been required. Compensatory actions often include restoration, creation and enhancement of Waters of the United States, specifically wetlands. Such action should be undertaken in areas adjacent to or contiguous to the discharge site. Nationwide Permits usually do not require mitigation according to the Memorandum of Agreement (MOE) between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the USACE. Prior to the use of any nationwide permit within any of the 25 designated counties of North Carolina that contain trout waters, notification must be given to the Wilmington District Engineer along with a written statement of compliance with all of the conditions of the applicable nationwide permit. This notification will include comments and recommendations from NCWRC. A plan to provide compensatory mitigation for all unavoidable adverse impacts to the mountain trout waters must be included in the information sent to the NCWRC. However, final mitigation requirements are determined by the USACE. 1 1 1 4-4 t I 1 1 1 I 5. Rare and Protected Species Some populations of fauna and flora have been, or are, in the process of decline due to either natural forces or their inability to coexist with humans. Federal law (under the provisions of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended) requires that any action likely to adversely affect a species classified as federally-protected be subject to review by the USFWS. Other species may receive additional protection under separate laws. As of March 2001, the USFWS identified three endangered species, three threatened species, and one threatened species due to similarity of appearance (T[S/A]), as potentially occurring in Macon County. Table 2 lists these federally protected species and their status. Descriptions of these species and their habitats are discussed below. Table 2: Federally Protected Species Known from Macon County, North Carolina Scientific Name Common Name Federal Status State Status Vertebrates C/emmysmuhlenbergii Bog turtle T(S/A) T Cyprinella monacha Spotfin chub T T Myotissodalis Indiana bat E E Invertebrates Alasmidontaraveneliana Appalachian elktoe E E Pegias fabula Little-wing peadymussel E E Vascular Plants lsotria medeoloides Small-whorled pogonia T E Spiraea virginiana Virginia spiraea T E Notes: FSC - Federal Species of Concern; E - Endangered; T - Threatened; SC - Special Concern; C - Candidate; P - Proposed; SR = Significantly Rare; EX - Extirpated Bog Turtle (Clemmys muhlenhergii) Federal Status: THREATENED (SIMILAR APPEARANCE) State Status: THREATENED Bog turtles are small (3 to 4.5-inch [7.6 to 11.4-centimeter]) reptiles with a weakly keeled carapace (upper shell) that ranges in color from light brown to ebony. This Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Rare and Protected Species 5-1 1 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Rare and Protected Species species is easily distinguished from other turtles by a large, conspicuous, bright orange to yellow blotch on each side of its head. Bog turtles are semi-aquatic and inhabit muddy, bog-like habitats. They can be found during the spring mating season from June to July and at other times from April to October when the humidity is high and temperatures are in the 70s (° F). Bog turtle habitat consist of bogs, swamps, marshy meadows, and other wet environments, specifically those which exhibit soft muddy bottoms. In November 1987, the northern population of the bog turtle (from New York south to Maryland) was listed as federally threatened, and the southern population (from Virginia south to Georgia) was listed as federally threatened due to similarity of appearance. The T(S/A) designation bans the collection and interstate or international commercial trade of bog turtles from the southern population. The southern populations are not protected under Section 7 of the ESA. Suitable habitat for the bog turtle, consisting of wet muddy areas, is not present in the project study area. Review of NCNHP maps indicated no known populations of this species within one mile (1.6 km) of the project area. This species will not be impacted as a result of project construction. Spotfin chub (Cyprinella monacha) Federal Status: THREATENED State Status: THREATENED This small fish, approximately 2.6 to 4.2 inches (44 to 90 mm) long, has a slender flattened body, with a long snout that extends over the mouth, and a small barbel at the corner of the mouth. Juveniles, females, and nonbreeding males have tan-, gray-, or olive-colored backs, bright silvery sides, and white bellies. The spotfm chub spawns from mid-May to early September. Females deposit eggs in crevices between rocks, and males fertilize the eggs and stay to defend the eggs by swimming repeatedly over the nest site. Most spotfin chubs reach sexual maturity at two years of age and do not do not live past three years of age. The spotfin inhabits clear water over gravel, boulders, and bedrock in large creeks and medium-sized rivers having moderate current. The fish is rarely seen over sand, and this species appears to avoid silty areas. The spotfin feeds by sight and taste on tiny insect larvae that occur on the stream bottom. The spotfin chub is restricted to a few tributary systems of the Little Tennessee River drainage. Its habitat has been destroyed 5-2 1 1 1 a I 1 r 1 or seriously altered due to impounded waters, forestry activities, and various waste inputs (Rohde, 1994). The USFWS has a critical habitat designation for this fish. In Macon County the critical habitat includes the Little Tennessee River main stem from the backwaters of Fontana Lake upstream to the North Carolina-Georgia state line. Biological Conclusion: Unresolved Rabbit Creek in the study area is a cloudy to muddy stream with a heavy sand and silt load. This stream is not likely to support this fish. NCNHP has no records of any known populations of the spotfin chub within a 1-mile (1.6 km) radius of the project area. Aquatic surveys by qualified biologist from NCDOT are pending. They will be conducted at least one year prior to the scheduled construction let date. Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) Federal Status: ENDANGERED State Status: ENDANGERED The Indiana bat is 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) long, with mouse-like ears, plain nose, dull grayish fur on the back and lighter cinnamon-brown fur on the belly, with a wingspan of 9.5 to 10.5 inches (24.1 to 26.7 cm). These bats hibernate for the winter in limestone caverns and abandoned mines, usually near water and in large colonies. The bats roost during the summer months in snags or in shaggy-barked live trees near water and exposed to the sun. These "roost trees" can be found within riparian areas, bottomland hardwoods, and upland hardwoods (Russo, 2000). Biological Conclusion: Unresolved Wooded riparian and bottomland hardwood areas are present within the study area; therefore, suitable habitat is available within the study area for the Indiana bat. NCNBP has no records of any known populations of the Indiana bat within a 1-mile radius of the project area. ARCADIS G&M biologists did not observe any bats; however, a survey needs to be conducted to determine the presence or absence of the Indiana bat within the project area. Surveys by qualified biologists will be conducted at least one year prior to the scheduled construction let date. Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Rare and Protected Species 5-3 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Rare and Protected Species Appalachian elktoe (Alasmidonta raveneliana) Federal Status: ENDANGERED State Status: ENDANGERED The Appalachian elktoe is a kidney-shaped freshwater mussel endemic to the upper Tennessee River system in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. The adult shell reaches to 3.5 inches (9 cm) in length and is usually dark brown with prominent to obscure greenish rays. This mussel inhabits relatively shallow medium-sized creeks and rivers with moderate to fast flowing water. It is generally found in gravelly substrates mixed with cobble and boulders or occasionally in silt-free, coarse sandy substrates. Reproduction is similar to that of other freshwater mussels, and the banded sculpin (Cottus carolinea) has been identified as a host species for developing glochidia. In February 2001, the USFWS proposed designated critical habitat areas for this species. In Macon County the proposed critical habitat area includes the main stem of the Little Tennessee River from the dam at Lake Emory downstream to the backwaters of Fontana Reservoir. Biological Conclusion: Unresolved Rabbit Creek is an appropriate habitat for this mussel, but the altered nature of the channel and the heavy sand load likely preclude their presence. Review of NCNBP maps indicated no known populations of this species within one mile (1.6 km) of the project area. The project area is not part of the proposed designated critical habitat areas. Aquatic surveys by qualified biologists from NCDOT will be conducted in the project area at least one year prior to the scheduled construction let date. Little-wing pearlymussel (Pegias fabula) Federal Status: ENDANGERED I State Status: ENDANGERED The little-wing pearlymussel is a mollusk which is found in the drainage basins of the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers. No current populations are known to exist in North Carolina; however, there is an obscure record of a population in Macon County. The shells are small, rarely exceeding 1.4 inches (35 mm) in length. The beak consists of heavy, subconcentric ridges, these being most prominent and persistent on the posterior ridges. The inside of the shells are whitish to salmon colored. The little-wing 5-4 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Rare and Protected Species pearlymussel inhabits cool, clear, high-gradient streams. It is usually found lying on top of or partially imbedded in sand and fine gravel between cobbles in only 6 to 10 inches (15.2 to 25.4 cm) of water, often in riffles. Host fish for this mussel include the greenside darter (Etheostoma blennioides) and the emerald darter (E. baileyi) (Parmalee and Bogan, 1998). Biological Conclusion: Unresolved Rabbit Creek is an appropriate habitat for this mussel, but the altered nature of the channel and the heavy sand load likely preclude their presence. The project area is in the Little Tennessee River basin, and not the Tennessee or Cumberland River basins where the mussel is known to live. No populations are known from outside of these later two basins. NCNHP has no records of any known populations of the little-wing pearlymussel within a 1-mile (1.6 km) radius of the project area. Aquatic surveys by qualified biologists from NCDOT will be conducted in the project area at least one year prior to the scheduled construction let date. Small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) Federal Status: THREATENED State Status: ENDANGERED Small whorled pogonia is a small perennial member of the Orchidaceae. These plants arise from long slender roots with hollow stems terminating in a whorl of five or six light green leaves. The single flower is approximately one inch (2.5 cm) long, with yellowish-green to white petals and three longer green sepals. This orchid blooms in late spring from mid-May to mid-June. Populations of this plant are reported to have extended periods of dormancy and to bloom sporadically. This small spring ephemeral orchid is not observable outside of the spring growing season. Biological Conclusion: Unresolved Habitat for this species is open, dry, deciduous woods with acid soils, which is available in the southern portion of the project area. Review of NCNHP maps indicated no known populations of this species within one mile (1.6 km) of the project area and no specimens were observed during field surveys. However, the surveys were conducted outside of the spring growing season. Additional surveys for this species will be conducted by biologists from ARCADIS G&M during the spring of 2002. It is currently unknown if this orchid inhabits the project area. 5-5 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Rare and Protected Species Virginia spiraea (Spiraea virginiana) Federal Status: THREATENED State Status: ENDANGERED Virginia spiraea is a perennial shrub, 2 to 10 feet (0.6 to 3.0 meters) tall, with arching, upright stems. The plants may grow alone or in dense clumps. The leaf shape typically appears as a narrow ellipse, with a tapered base, and a short bur at the end of the tip. The leaf margins are entire to simply crenate-serrate. The underside of the leaf is smooth with a whitish bloom. The flowers contain five white and very short petals and grow in flat-topped clusters at the ends of a branching stalk. Flowering occurs during June through July and fruiting occurs through September. The Virginia spiraea ! fruit is small, dry, smooth, and glossy. This plant grows in sunny flood-scoured, high- gradient rocky riverbanks, braided areas of lower stream reaches, gorges and canyons, as well as disturbed right-of-ways (Russo, 2000). Biological Conclusion: No Effect Habitat needed to support the Virginia spiraea is present within the project area along Rabbit Creek. ARCADIS G&M's biologists conducted plant-by-plant surveys for Virginia spiraea around the existing bridge location. No individuals were observed. NCNHP does not list any known occurrences of the species within a 2-mile (3.2-km) radius of the project area. No impacts are expected to any population of Virginia spiraea from the proposed project Federal Species of Concern There are thirty federal species of concern listed by the USFWS for Macon County. These species are not protected under the provisions of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. Federal species of concern area defined as species under consideration for listing for which there is insufficient information to support listing as threatened or endangered (formerly C2 candidate species). The status of these species may be upgraded at any time, thus they are included here for consideration. The NCNHP lists of July 2001 included these species and identified additional species receiving protection under state laws. Protections afforded to species listed under state law are not applicable to this project. Table 3 lists the federal species of concern, their state status, and the existence of suitable habitat within the project area. A review of NCNHP maps depicting known populations of these federal species of concern found no populations within a one-mile (1.6-km) radius of the project study area. 5-6 1 t 1 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Rare and Protected Species Table 3 Federal Species of Concern Known from Macon County, North Carolina. a 1 1 1 1 1 1 Scientific Name Common Name Federal Status State Status Available Habitat Vertebrates Aimophila aestiualis Bachman's sparrow FSC SC No Aneidesaeneus Green salamander FSC E No Contopusborealis Olive-sided flycatcher FSC SC No Corynorhiusrafinesquii Rafinesque's big-eared bat FSC SC Yes Cryptobranchus alleganiensis Hellbender FSC Sc Yes Dendroica cerulea Cerulean warbler FSC SR Yes Moxostoma sp. 1 Sicklefin redhorse FSC SR No Neotoma floridana haematoreia Southern Appalachian woodrat FSC SC Yes Percina squamata Olive darter FSC SC No Sylvilagus obscurus Appalachian cottontail FSC SR Yes Thryomanes bewickii altus Appalachian Bewick's wren FSC E No Invertebrates Macromia margarita Margarita River skimmer FSC SR Yes Nesticus cooperi Lost Nantahala cave spider FSC SR No Phyciodes batesii maconensis Tawny crescent FSC SR Yes Skistodiaptomus carolinensis Carolina skistodiaptomus FSC SR No Speyeria diana Diana fritillary butterfly FSC SR Yes Vascular Plants Buckleya distichophylla Piratebush FSC E No Euphorbiapurpuma Glade spurge FSC C Yes Grammitis nimbata West Indian dwarf polypody FSC E No luglans cinerea Butternut FSC -- Yes Lysimachia fraseri Fraser's loosestrife FSC E Yes 5-7 1 1 t Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County Rare and Protected Species Scientific Name Common Name Federal Status State Status Available Habitat Monotropsis odorata Sweet pinesap FSC C Yes Saxifraga caroliniana Carolina saxifrage FSC C No Senecio millefolium Divided-leaf ragwort FSC T No Silene ovata Mountain catchfly FSC C No Nonvascular Plants Cephaloziella obtusilobula a liverwort FSC -- No Plagiochila sharpii a liverwort FSC C No Plagiochila sullivantiivar. sullivantii a liverwort FSC C No Plagiochila virginicavar. caroliniana a liverwort FSC C No Porella japonica var. appalachiana a liverwort FSC -- No Notes: FSC - Federal Species of Concern E - Endangered T - Threatened SC - Special Concern C - Candidate P - Proposed; SR - Significantly Rare 1 1 5-8 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County References 6. References Cowardin, L. M., V. Carter, F. C. Golet and E. T. LaRoe, 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitat of the United States. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. Environmental Laboratory, 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual, Technical Report Y-87-1. U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Miss. 100 pp. + appendices. Martof B. S. Palmer W. M. Bailey, J. R. and J. R. Harrison III 1980. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. 264 pp. Natural Resources Conservation Service, 1996. Soil Survey of Macon County North Carolina, written by D. J. Thomas. United States Department of Agriculture. North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (NCDEM), 1995. Guidance for Rating the Values of Wetlands in North Carolina - 4th Version. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Raleigh, North Carolina. North Carolina Division of Land Resources, 1985. Geologic map of North Carolina. North Carolina Geological Survey, Raleigh, North Carolina. North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 1997. Little Tennessee River Basinwide Water Quality Management Plan. Division of Environmental Management, Raleigh, North Carolina. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, 2001. Element Occurrence List for Macon County, North Carolina. North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation, Raleigh, North Carolina. Parmalee, P. W. and A. E. Bogan, 1998. The Freshwater Mussels of Tennessee. The University of Tennessee Press, Knoxville, Tennessee. 328 pp. Radford A. E. Ahles H. E. and C. R. Bell 1968. Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. 1183 pp. 6-1 Natural Systems Report for B-4179, Macon County References Rodhe, F. C., R. G. Arndt, D. G. Lindquist, and J. P. Parnell, 1994. Freshwater Fishes of the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Russo, Mary, 2000. Threatened and Endangered Species in Forests of North Carolina. International Paper Company. Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley, 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina, A Third Approximation. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, Division of Parks and Recreation, Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources, Raleigh, North Carolina. Stokes, Donald and Lillian, 1996. Stokes Field Guide to Birds, Eastern Region. Little, Brown, and Company, New York, New York. 471 pp. United States Fish and Wildlife Service, 2001. Macon County Endangered Species, Threatened Species and Federal Species of Concern. United States Department of Interior. Webster, W.D., Parnell, J.F., and W.C. Biggs, 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas, ' Virginia, and Maryland. 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