120-13 MM 2022 NC State Ports Authority

Permit Class
MODIFICATION/MAJOR
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
Department of Environmental Quality
and
Coastal Resources Commission
Permit
for
Permit Number
120-13
RECEIVED
NOV 0 8 P022
ENGINEERING DEPT.
X Major Development in an Area of Environmental Concern
pursuant to NCGS I I3A-118
X Excavation and/or filling pursuant to NCGS 113-229
Issued to North Carolina State Ports Authority PO Box 9002 Wilmington, NC 28402
Authorizing development in Carteret County J to State Port MIID City and the Newport River, in
Morehead City as requested in the permittee's application dtd 7/5/22 (MP-1) & 7/7/22 (MP-2), incl attached
workplan drawings (3) Fig 1,3 of 3 both dtd 612 & Proposed Pipeline Corridor dtd "Rec MP Section MHD 9/9/22".
This permit, issued on October 26, 2022 , is subject to compliance with the application (where consistent
with the permit), all applicable regulations, special conditions and notes set forth below. Any violation of these terms may
)e suo]ect to nnes, imprisonment or civu action; or may cause One Permit, w oe nun auu vo,u.
Excavation Expansion
1) In accordance with commitments made by the permittee and in order to protect juvenile shrimp and
finfish populations, no excavation or filling shall be permitted between April 1 and September 30 of
any year without the prior approval of the Division of Coastal Management, in consultation with
appropriate resource agencies.
2) No excavation shall take place outside of the area indicated on the workplan drawings.
3) Excavation shall not exceed -14 feet below the mean lower low water level. In no case shall the depth
of excavation exceed the depth of connecting waters.
(See attached sheets for additional conditions)
This permit action may be appealed by the pemrittee or other
qualified persons within twenty (20) days of the issuing date.
This permit must be accessible on -site to Department
personnel when the project is inspected for compliance.
Any maintenance work or project modification not covered
hereunder requires further Division approval.
All work must cease when the permit expires on
October 26, 2027
In issuing this permit, the State of North Carolina agrees that
your project is consistent with the North Carolina Coastal
Management Program.
Signed by the authority of the Secretary of UW ana me t;nav
of the Coastal Resources Commission.
Braxton C. Davis, Director
Division of Coastal Management
This permit 0 io conditions are hereby accepted.
Signature

North Carolina State Ports Authority Permit No.120-13
Page 2 of 3
ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS
4) The temporary placement or double handling of excavated or fill materials within waters or vegetated
wetlands is not authorized.
5) No excavated or fill material shall be placed at any time in any vegetated wetlands/marsh or surrounding
waters outside of the alignment of the fill area indicated on the workplan drawings.
6) All mechanized equipment will be regularly inspected and maintained to prevent contamination of
waters and wetlands from fuels, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, or other toxic materials. In the event of a
spill of petroleum products or any other hazardous waste, the permittee shall immediately report it to the
National Response Center at [phone] and provisions of the North Carolina Oil Pollution and
Hazardous Substances Control Act will be followed.
NOTE: The permittee is advised that the dredge template and dredge material disposal site is in
proximity to shellfish resource identified by the NC Division of Marine Fisheries. A turbidity
monitoring plan is recommended to monitor any turbidity plume and its proximity to the
shellfish resource. Contact the NC Division of Marine Fisheries for more information.
Dredee Material Disposal
7) No dredge material shall be placed within 30 feet of the normal high-water line.
8) All excavated materials shall be confined above normal high water and landward of regularly or
irregularly flooded marsh behind adequate dikes or other retaining structures to prevent spillover of
solids into any marsh or surrounding waters. The barriers shall be maintained and functional until the
site is graded and stabilized.
9) The diked disposal area shall be constructed a sufficient distance from the normal high-water level or
any marsh and sufficiently maintained to eliminate the possibility of dike erosion or dredge material
deposition into surrounding wetlands or waters.
10) The disposal area effluent shall be contained by pipe, trough, or similar device to a point at or beyond
the normal low water level to prevent gully erosion and unnecessary siltation.
11) The terminal end of the pipeline shall be positioned at or greater than 50 feet from any part of the dike
and a maximum distance from spillways to allow settlement of suspended sediments.
12) A water control structure shall be installed at the intake end of the effluent pipe to assure compliance
with water quality standards.
13) The dredge material disposal area shall be inspected and approved by a representative of the Division of
Coastal Management prior to the commencement of any dredging activities.

North Carolina State Ports Authority Permit No. 120-13
Page 3 of 3
ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS
Maintenance Clause
14) The Division of Coastal Management shall be notified in writing at least two (2) weeks in advance of
any maintenance excavation work authorized by this permit, and such notification shall include:
A. The number of the original permit.
B. A statement that no dimensional changes are proposed.
C. A copy of the original permit plans with cross -hatching indicating the area to be maintained, the
area to be used for dredge material disposal, and the estimated amount of material to be removed.
The location, design and holding capacity of the dredge material disposal site shall be approved
by a representative of the Division prior to the initiation of any maintenance dredging activities.
D. The date of map revision and the permittee's signature shown anew on the original plan.
General
15) This permit shall not be assigned, transferred, sold, or otherwise disposed of to a third party without the
written approval of the Division of Coastal Management.
16) The permittee and/or his or her contractor shall meet with a representative of the Division prior to
project initiation.
17) All debris associated with the removal or construction of the permitted development shall be contained
within the authorized project area and removed to an appropriate upland location.
18) This Major Modification shall be attached to Permit No. 120-13, which was issued to the permittee on
11/18/13, as well as all subsequent modifications, refinements, and renewals, and copies of all
documents shall be readily available on site when a Division representative inspects the project for
compliance.
19) All conditions and stipulations of the active permit remain in force, under this Major Modification,
unless specifically altered herein.
NOTE: This permit does not eliminate the need to obtain any additional state, federal or local permits,
approvals or authorizations that may be required, including, but not limited to any authorization
required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
NOTE: The Division of Water Resources assigned the proposed project DWR Project No. 2017-01680.
NOTE: An application processing fee of $475 was received by DCM for this project. This fee also
satisfied the Section 401 application processing fee requirements of the Division of Water
Resources.

From:
Bodnar, Greao
To:
Steve Dial; Todd Walton
Subject:
State Ports MHC extension
Date:
Tuesday, October 18, 2022 1:43:00 PM
Attachments:
imaae001.ona
image002.Dna
Afternoon all,
Please accept this email as notification that the project has been extended. The 150 day is
12/29/22. Coordination with USACE is ongoing along with internal review. I hope to have a final
determination after I get a better understanding of how long USACE consultation with their agencies
will take.
Thanks,
Gregg
Gregg Bodnar (he/him/his)
Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
[phone] (NEW OFFICE NUMBER)
Gregg.Bodnar(@ncdenr.eov
Find a Field Rep (amgis.com) 0641;,t
NORTH CAROIINAD_ E Q��
Department or ErnironmenMl 0ua1Ity
Email correspondence to and from this address is subject to the North
Carolina Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties.

DCM Coordinator: &bt- 0g, Permit #: t 2y l 13
MAILING DISTRIBUTION SHEET
Permittee: A(CS PA z
x (C 2 -I`(oZ
Agents: 54.Ity C%l&lrgc
DCM Field Offices
Elizabeth City Washington (with revised work plan drawings)
Morehead City Wilmington (OBJECTIONS )
US ACOE Offices:
Washington: Raleigh Bland (Beaufort, Camden, Chowan, Craven, Hertford, Hyde, Perquimans,
Tyrrell)
Josh Pelletier (Bertie, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Pamlico, Pasquotank, Washington)
Tom Steffan (NC DOT- Beaufort, Carteret, Craven, Pamlico)
Bill Biddlecome (NC DOT -Remainder ECity/Washington District)
Wilmington:
Cultural Resources:
Public Water Supply:
Marine Fisheries:
NC DOT:
Shellfish Sanitation:
State Property:
DEM ,"V*'R:
Washington:
Greg Curry (Brunswick, New Hanover)
Liz Hair (Carteret, Onslow, Pender)
Brad Shaver (NCDOT-Brunswick, New Hanover, Onslow, Pender)
Renee Gledhill -Earley at [e-mail]
Heidi Cox (WIRO)
Kim Harding
David Hams
Shannon Jenkins / Sharon Gupton
Tim Walton / Mike Moser
Sheri Montalvo / Shelton Sullivan
Chris Pullinger — 401
Clif Whitfield (WARD)
Jimmy Harrison
TBD - 401
Roger Thorpe-Stormwater
Garcy Ward- (NCDOT-Beaufort, Bettie, Camden, Carteret, Chowan, Craven, Currituck,
Dare, Gates, Hertford, Hyde, Pamlico, Pasquotank, Perquiman, Tyrrell, Washington)
Wilmington: Holley Snider — 401 (Fender, Brunswick, New Hanover)
John Perry — 401 (Onslow, Carteret)
Christine Hall - Stormwater
Joanne Steenhuis - 401 (NCDOT-Brunswick, New Hanover, Onslow, Pender)
Wildlife Resources: Maria Dunn (WARO) (NCDOT) Travis Wilson
Natural Heritage Program Rodney Butler
LPO: JCC1+1Ai� `lro�

DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
APPLICATION TRANSMITTAL AND PROCESSING RECORD
APPLICANT: NC State Ports Authority COUNTY: Carteret
PROJECT NAME:
LOCATION OF PROJECT: 107 Arendell St, Morehead City
DATE APPLICATION RECEIVED COMPLETE BY FIELD: 7-26-22
FIELD RECOMMENDATION: Attached: Yes To Be Forwarded: Yes
FIELD REPRESENTATIVE: Connell DISTRICT OFFICE: MHC
DISTRICT MANAGER REVIEW: Heather Styron
B) DATE RECEIVED BY MAJOR PERMITS UNIT: FEE REC'D: $475 Click or tap here to enter text.
APPLICATION ASSIGNED TO: Bodnar
PUBLIC NOTICE REC'D: 8-28-22 END OF NOTICE DATE: Click or tap to enter a date.
ADJ. RIP. PROP NOTICES REC'D: DEED REC'D: Yes
C) 75 DAY DEADLINE: 10-15-22 150 DAY DEADLINE: tZ[L9tZZ
EMAIL OUT DATE: 8-23-22 STATE DUE DATE: Click or tap to enter a date.
PERMIT FINAL ACTION: ISSUE DENY
AGENCY
DATE
COMMENTS
RETURNED
OBJECTIONS:
YES NO
NOTES
DCM — Field Rep
dA-0#(s
DCM — LUP Consistency Determination
$ q LL
Local Permit Officer
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x
Corps of Engineers — Regulatory Branch
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DWR-401 Section
a�lo ZZIi33
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DWR— PublicWaterSupply
DEMLR — Stormwater
DEMLR — Sed and Erosion
DOA — State Property Office
151 LZ
Wildlife Resources Commission
to4
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I
Alf o�� Con��jdn yt1C
DMF — Shellfish Section
p` Z`j/ j Z
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DMF — Habitat & Enhancement
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DNCR — Archives & History
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DNCR — Natural Heritage Program
NCDOT
NC Dept of Commerce
MI6-

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZ.ABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
DATE:
TO:
THRU:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
MEMORANDUM
August 23, 2022
Gregg Bodnar
Heather Styron
Brad Connell
Comments and Recommendations - CAMA Major Permit —NC Port Authority, Carteret County
The following is my assessment and consequent recommendations of the above referenced proposal: This proposal impacts
232,400 square feet of Public Trust Area. The proposal is adjacent to a Federal Channel. These waters of the Newport River
are closed to shellfish harvest. This waterbody is not a Primary Nursery Area. The proposed eastward expansion of the mooring
of barges may pose a hazard to navigation within the ICW project area. Assuming that state and federal agencies concur with
the proposal, I recommend the project be authorized as proposed, contingent upon the following conditions:
1. The authorized activity must not cause an unacceptable interference with navigation.
2. The spoil disposal area shall be approved by DCM staff prior to the commencement of work.
3. In order to protect juvenile shrimp and finfish populations, no excavation or filling will be permitted between April 1 and
October 31 of any year without the prior approval of the Division of Coastal Management, in consultation with the Division
of Marine Fisheries.
4. Excavation will not exceed -14 feet below the mean low water level. In no case shall the depth of excavation exceed the
depth of connecting waters.
5. No vegetated wetlands shall be excavated or filled.
6. The temporary placement or double handling of excavated or fill materials within waters or vegetated wetlands is not
authorized.
7. The Division of Coastal Management shall be notified in wrifing at least two (2) weeks in advance of any maintenance
work authorized by this permit, and such notification shall include:
A. The number of the original permit.
B. A statement that no dimensional changes are proposed.
C. A copy of the original permit plans with cross -hatching indicating the area to be maintained, the area to be used for spoil
disposal, and the estimated amount of material to be removed. The location, design and holding capacity of the spoil disposal
site must be approved by a representative of the Division prior to the initiation of any maintenance dredging activities.
D. The date of map revision and the permittee's signature shown anew on the original plan.
NOTE: The permittee's contractor is advised to contact the U.S. Coast Guard at [phone] to discuss operations
and appropriate lighting, markers, etc. for all dredge equipment.
CC: Heather Styron, DCM
o<r�c+nwmr�
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina 28557
2S2.515.5400

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETHS. BISER
Secretary
BRAXPON DAVIS
Director
August 23, 2022
MEMORANDUM:
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 252-515-5416 (Courier 11-12-09)
gregg. bodnar(a) NCDEN R.gov
SUBJECT: CAMA Application Review
Applicant: NC State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major 9120-13
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and
return this form to Grego Bodnar at the address above by'$eptember 20, 2022 If you have any
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Connell 252-515-5415.
when appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
REPLY: x This agency has no objection to the project as
**Additional comments may be attached**
This agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached.
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
PRINT NAME mark Brown
AGENCY Public Water Supply
DATE 8125/22
RECEIVED
AUG 2 9 2022
MP SECTION MHD
North Carolina Department: of Environmental Quality l Division of Coastal Management
Morehead. City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina 28557
a sp+ . O' 2528082808

ROY COOPER
Cotmtar
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
August 23, 2022
NORTH CAROLINA
EnNronmentarQuaUty
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEO - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 252-615,9416 (Courier 11-12-09)
greggbodnarCdINCDEN R.gov
SUBJECT: CAW Application Review
Applicant: NC State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major #120-13
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and
return this form to Greaa Bodnar at the address above by Sepiembef 20 2022 If you have any
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Connell 252515-5415_
when appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
REPLY: This agency has no objection to the project as proposed.
"Additional comments may be attached".
X This agency has no comment on the proposed project_
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached. `
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
PRINT NAME Lee Padrick
AGENCY NC Commerce
Commeercje/
SIGNATURE
DATE
8-23-22
RECEIVED
A U G 2 3 2022
NIP SECTION FWHD
D�Q�� North Carolina Department ofEnvaonmental Quality l Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I hfoorchead City, North CaroMa 28W
mu'
..—N.� 2528082808

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
August23, 2022
MEMORANDUM.
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 252-515-5416 (Courier 11-12-09)
oreac. bodnar(oNCDEN R.00v
SUBJECT: CAMA Application Review
Applicant: NC State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major #120-13
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed_project and
return this form to Greog Bodnar at the address above by'September 20,_2022 If you have any
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Connell 252-515-5415.
when appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
REPLY: This agency has no objection to the project as proposed.
**Additional comments may be attached**
This agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached.,
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
PRINT NAME Rachel Love-Adrick
AGEN_C_Y. Division of Coastal Management
SIGNATURE RECEIVED
DATE et2912022
A U G 2 9 2022
P SECTION MHD
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality l Division of Coastal Management
'J/lQ Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead Clty, North Carolina 28557
252.8082808

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
MEMORANDUM
TO:
fd77PA
SUBJECT:
DATE:
_ .,
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
Gregg Bodnar, Asst. Major Permits Coordinator
Division of Coastal Management
Rachel Love-Adrick, District Plan
Division of Coastal Managemeri
REECEITIVED
AUG 2 9 2022
RIP SECTION WD
Major Permit Modification Request- NC State Ports Authority 120-13
July 11, 2022
Consistency Determination: The request is consistent with/not in conflict with the Town of
Morehead City Land Use Plan certified by the CRC on September 28, 2007.
Overview: The proposal is located 550 feet to the east of Marsh Island, immediately west of the
ICW, and 700 feet north of 107 Arendell Street in Morehead City, Carteret County. This location
is currently developed with six dolphin pilings to support a barge berth (ref Major Permit #120-
13). This mooring facility is for government/commercial use. The adjacent island has been utilized
for the disposal of dredge spoil material.
AECs include PTA and EW. This section of the Newport River has surface water classifications of
SA;HQW. The site is not a Primary NurseryArea, and is closed to taking of shellfish. No Submerged
Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) habitat or shellfish beds were observed in the project area. There is not
a cultural resource in the project area.
Proposed Development: Expand the east side of the mooring facility by excavating 35,000 cubic
yards. The proposed spoil area is yet to be determined. The proposed excavation is to be
accomplished via hydraulic dredging methodology. The proposed excavation would encompass
a 1-acre area, and would remove approximately 10' of benthic habitat in order to connect to the
adjacent-14' nlw depth of the Federal Channel.
Anticipated Impacts: This proposed excavation should not pose a hazard to traditional
navigation. However, the eastward expansion of mooring barges may impact navigation within
the ICW Federal Channel. The proposed excavation would impact 232,400 square feet of Public
Trust Area. Traditional hydraulic dredging methodology would be utilized during the
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality l Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Morehead City, North Carolinaa 28557
2525155400

construction of this project. Turbidity impacts are anticipated during the excavation activities
within the Newport River. However, the applicant is proposing to mitigate these impacts by
conducting the work during the less biologically productive periods of the winter months.
Basis for Determination: The project site is in the Town of Morehead City and is subject to the
2007 Town of Morehead City Core Land Use Plan Update. The Future Land Use Map (FLUM)
designates the site as "Port Mixed Use" and "Conservation/Open Space" (due to the sites location
in Estuarine Waters and Public Trust Area AECs). The land use types are defined as follows:
"Port Mixed Use -classified areas include the existing state port facilities as well as surrounding
properties that are suitable for multiple land uses including industrial, commercial, and high
density residential.
Portions of the area identified as Port Mixed Use are potential growth areas that may develop
primarily as one use type or may evolve into multi -use areas.".
"The Conservation/Open Space classification is intended to delineate areas where traditional
land uses are not desirable or expected to develop. Land development may, however, include
public building and facilities necessary to support existing land uses within the areas classified as
Conservation/Open Space. Lot coverage is limited to 40% and building heights are limited to 35
feet. Land uses within the Conservation/Open Space -designated areas are generally compatible
with the FP, Floodplain zoning district. Public water or sewer utilities are not needed to support
the types and intensities of land uses in these areas. Extensions of water and sewer utilities into
these areas are not expected or encouraged"
The following LUP policies may be applicable to this request:
Policy 1, pg. 94: The Town of Morehead City supports state and federal law regarding land use
and development in AECs.
Policy 5, pg. 94: Morehead City supports the use standards for estuarine and public trust areas
as specified in 15A NCAC .0207.
Policy 11, page 96: The town encourages the continued operation and expansion of the Port of
Morehead City. -
RECEIVED
AUG 2 9 2022
MP SECTION IMHD
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality l Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Morehead City, North Carolina 28557
�wamm wao� /P 2525155400

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
August 23, 2022
MEMORANDUM:
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant.Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office; 252-515-5416 (Courier 11-12-09)
g re g g. b o d n a r(d) N C D E N R. o ov
SUBJECT: CAMA Application Review
Applicant: NG State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major#120-13
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and
return this form to Greg g Bodnar at the address above by (September 20. 2022� If you have any
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Connell 252-5.15-5415.
when appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
REPLY: This agency has no objection to the project as proposed.
"Additional comments may attached"
This agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached.
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
PRINT_NAME V (=/9A/A//C- A/241ec
AGENCY /oo6je✓ oP /yy2C7ic/jV Ciry
SIGNATURE CD�TCt� xE ,_
DATE !� ��a9/.7'0(9 a
it ; (• ;, - + 11 N )J
AUG 2 9 2022
MP SECTION MHD
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City. North Carolina 28557
252.808.2808

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
August 23, 2022
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 2527515-5416 (Courier11-12-09)
gregg. bodnar@NC DEN R.gov
SUBJECT: CAMA Application Review
Applicant: NC State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major #120-13
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and
return this form to Greaa Bodnar at the address above by S j5e !ember 20,;2022! If you have any
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Connell 252-515-5415.
when appropriate,.in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
REPLY: This agency has no objection to the project as proposed.
"Additional comments may be. attached"
_x This agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the.project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached.
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
PRINT, NAME W "Q(.4 4- l 1 Clr
SIGNATURE U)Q4%d).e---QLX4a J
DATE r• ttr.,?!� af;Z-&& Q.
� D.FQ�
osmonau�.�amm,
RECEIVED
AUG 2 9 2022
MIP SECTION NIHI)
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I DlvislonofCoastal Management
Morehead City Office 1400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina 28557
252.808.2808

Received:8/23/2022
Historic Preservation Office
ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
August 23, 2022
MEMORANDUM:
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
ER 13-2062
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 252-515-5416 (Courier 11-12-09)
q regg. bod nar(G) NCD ENR.gov
SUBJECT: CAMA Application Review
Applicant: NC State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major #120-13
Due: 8/31/2022
8/30/2022 no comment —SBA
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and
return this form to Gregg Bodnar at the _address above by'3eptember 20, 202 If you have any
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Connell 252-515-5415.
when appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
REPLY: This agency has no objection to the project as proposed.
"Additional comments may be attached"
X This agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached.
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
PRINT NAME Renee Gledhill -Earley
AGENCY
NC Historic Preservation Office
SIGNATURE P"W.&LA "
DATE
9/2/2022
S E P 2 2022
"P SEC tl iON MHD
D E Q�� North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina 28557
om mm' m n.wmmwm /"� 252.808.2808

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
August 23, 2022
MEMORANDUM:
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 252-515-5416 (Courier 11-12=09)
areao.bodnar(c NCDENR.aov
SUBJECT: CAMA Application Review
Applicant: NC State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major #120-13
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and
return this form to Grew Bodnar at the address above by Septembe120,.2022; If you have any
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Connell 252-515-5415.
when appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
REPLY: t as proposed.
`*Additional"comments may be attached"
Is agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached.
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
P'RMT RAMS Andrew Haines
AGENCY DEQ-DMF-Shellfish Sanitation and Recreational Water Quality
sIG`NA`TURE A.r.Wwwv-az;tw_ for Shannon Jenkins
DATE 9/19/2022 R E C E IV IE
S E P 2 n 2022
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina 2a557
2SZ8082808

ROY COOPER
Govemor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
KATHY B. RAWLS
Director
MEMORANDUM
TO: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ -Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Ave., Morehead City, NC 28557
FROM: Andrew Haines
Shellfish Sanitation and Recreational Water Quality Section
Division of Marine Fisheries, NCDEQ
THROUGH: Shannon Jenkins
Shellfish Sanitation and Recreational Water Quality Section
Division of Marine Fisheries, NCDEQ
DATE: September 19, 2022
SUBJECT: NC State Ports Authority— Major Modification to Major Permit #120-13
The planned spoil disposal site for this project is not specified within the application. Because the
dredge material is being removed from an area that is closed to the harvest of shellfish, discharges
from the dewatering of the spoils into swimming waters between the months of April and October
will cause a swimming advisory to be posted. Additionally, any discharge from the dredge spoils at
any time into areas open for shellfish harvest will cause a temporary harvest closure. It is
requested that our office be notified at 252-726-6827 of the dredging plan and spoil disposal
location prior to any dredging activity so that we can determine at that time if a swimming advisory
or shellfish closure is needed.
RB.CE ED
S E P 2 n 2022
SECTION MHD
State of North Carolina I Division of Marine Fisheries
3441 Arendell Street l P.O. Box 7691 Morehead City North Carolina 28557
252-726-7021

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
August 23, 2022
MEMORANDUM:
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 252-515-5416 (Courier 11-12-09)
gregg. bodnar(d)NCDEN R.gov
SUBJECT: CAMA Application Review
Applicant: NC -State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major #120-13
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and
return this form to Gregg Bodnar at the address above by'SeWembW 20, 2 -2! If you have any
questions'regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Conneli 252-515-5415.
when appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
Y:- This agency has no objection to the project as proposed.
"Additional comments may be attached"
X This agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached.
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
PRINT -NAME James Harrison
AGENCY NCDMF RT CEIVED
SIGNATURE G711 o ff H"rj&�
S E P 2 (1 2022
DATE 19 September 2022
MP SECTION WID
ma,4��A p
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina 28557
252.8082808

TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
KATHY B. RAWLS
Dlrector
Gregg Bodnar, NCDCM Assistant Major Permits Coordinator REEC FIVE®
James Harrison, NCDMF Fisheries Resource Specialist SEP 2 o 2022
Project Name, County
DATE: 19 September 2022
M? SECTu ICN NIND
A North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) Fisheries Resource Specialist has
reviewed the permit application for proposed actions that may impact fish and/or fish habitats.
The applicant, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), is proposing to
modify the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-13 to expand the
current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting area. The north barge fleeting area is
located in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County. The north
fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are awaiting waterborne
transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is primarily associated with the
transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford Steel plant on the
Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over the last several years,
resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action would expand the
north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an additional 4 to 6 loaded
barges.
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River, approximately 600' north of the
northeast corner of the Port terminal facility. The existing fleeting area encompasses 2 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIW W). The authorized depth
of the existing facility matches that of the AIW W at -14' mean lower low water (MLLW) (12'
plus 2' overdredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the
fleeting area. The proposed action would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an
additional 2 acres of subtidal bottom to a depth of -14' MLLW (12' plus 2' overdredge). An
additional acre of new dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the
western margin of the 2-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3 acres
of new dredging and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cubic yards (CY) of material. No new
mooring structures are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate
additional barges in the expansion area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained
through periodic maintenance dredging, expected to occur once every 2-5 years. Existing depths
in the proposed new dredging area range from -4' to -14' MLLW.
The sediments to be removed from the new dredging area are part of a uniform fine sand to silty
fine sand layer that extends from the surface to a depth of -45' MLLW. Construction of the barge
fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical
State of North Carolina I Division of Marine Fisheries
3441 Armdell Street I P.O. Box 769 1 Mmhead aty.North Carolina 28557
252-726-7021

bucket dredge and scow systems. Dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -
owned confined disposal facilities, which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North
Radio Island disposal areas.
The proposed project includes numerous minimization measures. One of these measures, as
noted in the Larval Entrainment section of the Pune 2022 Project Narrative, commits the
proposed project to adhere to a window of 1 October through 31 January. This will aid in
minimization of potential impacts to resources of concern for DMF by avoiding the peak period
of biological activity for most species and habitats.
DMF does not oppose to the proposed project. This conclusion is highly dependent on the
applicant's proposal to adhere to an environmental window. DMF would recommend, though,
any permit/modification issued include this environmental window condition for any future
maintenance events. DMF would also recommend that the applicant include monitoring of
turbidity west of the project footprint due to the historical presence of shell bottom habitat along
the Marsh Island shoreline. A turbidity monitoring plan could also include measures to
implement should any potential turbidity plume shift into close proximity to shell resources.
Ideally, this plan would also include pre -dredge mapping of the shell resources in the area.
Thank you for consideration of our comments and concerns. Please contact Jimmy Harrison at
[phone] or at james.harrisongncdenr.gov with any further questions or concerns.
RECEIVED
SEP 2 ^ 2 22
t'l? %`3"ZCT1CN rOUID
State of North Carolina I Division of Marine Fisheries
3441 Arendell Street I P.O. Box 7691 Morehead City. North Carolina 28557
252-726-7021

North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Ramona M. Banos, Administrator
Governor Roy Cooper
Secretary D. Reid Wilson
September 22, 2022
MEMORANDUM
Office of Archives and History
Deputy Secretary, Darin J. Watets, Ph.D.
TO: Gregg Bodnar i;reeg.bodnarAncdenr.gov
Division of Coastal Management
Department of Environmental Quality
FROM: Ramona Bartos .
SUBJECT: Reconfigure the Southern Barge Fleeting Area & Configure the Northern Barge Fleeting
Area for 4 Larger Barges or 6 Small Barges, Newport River/Bogue Sound, Carteret
County, ER 13-2062
Thank you for your email of September 9, 2022, concerning the above project.
We have conducted a review of the project and are aware of no historic resources which would be affected
by the project. Therefore, we have no comment on the project as proposed.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36
CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
contact Renee Gledhill -Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-814-6579
or environmental environmental.review(d�ncdcr�. In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the
above referenced tracking number.
Location: 109 Fast Jones Sheet, Raleigh NC 27601 Mailing Address! 4617 Mail Service Cente,, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 Telephone/Pax: [phone]/8146898

DocuSign Envelope ID: 6DACF2IA-073A-42AF-6119-D5DOOA17E6EO
ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. B1SER
Secretary
RICHARD E. ROGERS, JR.
Director
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality .
September 20, 2022
DWR #20041238 v7
Carteret County
North Carolina Ports Authority
Attn: Brian Clark
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, NC 28402
Subject: - Approval of Individual 401 Water Quality Certification
Port of Morehead City North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
USACE Action ID. No. SAW 2017-01680
Dear Mr. Clark:
Attached hereto is a copy of Certification No. WQC005183 issued to Brian Clark and the North
Carolina Ports Authority dated September 20, 2022. This approval is for the purpose and design
described in your application. The plans and specifications for this project are incorporated by
reference as part of this Water Quality Certification. If you change your project, you must notify the
Division and you may be required to submit a new application package with the appropriate fee. If
the property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of this Certification and is responsible for
complying with all conditions. [15A NCAC 02H .0507(d)(2)].
This Water Quality Certification does not relieve the permittee of the responsibility to obtain all
other required Federal, State, or Local approvals before proceeding with the project, including
those required by, but not limited to, Sediment and Erosion Control, Non -Discharge, Water Supply
Watershed, and Trout Buffer regulations.
This Water Quality Certification neither grants nor affirms any property right, license, or privilege
in any lands or waters, or any right of use in any waters. This Water Quality Certification does not
authorize any person to interfere with the riparian rights, littoral rights, or water use rights of any
other person and does not create any prescriptive right or any right of priority regarding any usage
of water. This Water Quality Certification shall not be interposed as a defense in any action
respecting the determination of riparian or littoral rights or other rights to water use. No
consumptive user is deemed by virtue of this Water Quality Certification to possess any
prescriptive or other right of priority with respect to any other consumptive user.
Upon the presentation of proper credentials, the Division may inspect the property.
This Water Quality Certification shall expire on the same day as the expiration date of the
corresponding Section 404 Permit. The conditions shall remain in effect for the life of the project,
regardless of the expiration date of this Water Quality Certification.
Z.
uwmawm D .E Q p
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Water Resources
127 Cardinal Drive Ext I Wilmington, North Carolinh 28405
910.796.7215

DocuSign Envelope ID: 6DACF2IA-073A-42AF-8119-D5DOOA17E6EO North Carolina Ports Authority
DW R# 20041238v7
Individual Certification #WQ0005183
Page 2 of 12
Non-compliance with or violation of the conditions herein set forth may result in revocation of this
Water Quality Certification for the project and may also result in criminal and/or civil penalties.
If you are unable to comply with any of the conditions of this Water Quality Certification you must
notify the Wilmington Regional Office within 24 hours (or the next business day if a weekend or
holiday) from the time the permittee becomes aware of the circumstances.
The permittee shall report to the Wilmington Regional Office any noncompliance with, and/or any
violation of, stream or wetland standards [15A NCAC 02B .02001 including but not limited to
sediment impacts to streams or wetlands. Information shall be provided orally within 24 hours (or
the next business day if a weekend or holiday) from the time the permittee became aware of the
non-compliance circumstances.
This approval and its conditions are final and binding unless contested [G.S.143-215.5].
This Certification can be contested as provided in Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General
Statutes by filing a Petition for a Contested Case Hearing (Petition) with the North Carolina Office of
Administrative Hearings (OAH) within sixty (60) calendar days. Requirements for filing a Petition
are set forth in Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes and Title 26 of the North
Carolina Administrative Code. Additional information regarding requirements for filing a Petition
and Petition forms may be accessed at hUp://www.ncoah.com/ or by calling the OAH Clerk's Office
at [phone].
One (1) copy of the'Petition must also be served to the North Carolina Department of
Environmental Quality:
William F. Lane, General Counsel
Department of Environmental Quality
1601 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1601
This letter completes the Division's review under section 401 of the Clean Water Act and 15A NCAC
02H .0500. Please contact John Perry at 910-796-7341 or iohn.perryna ncdenngov if you have any
questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Ooeu5lanetl by:
Toµ '(1wrt�ati
mtbh�tsa�rington
Assistant Regional Supervisor
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
cc: Todd Walton (via email)
Liz Hair, USACE Wilmington Regulatory Field Office (via email)
Todd Bowers, EPA, (via email)
Gregg Bodner, DCM (via email)
DWR 401 & Buffer Permitting Branch Electronic file
Filen=e:20041238v6_NC Ports Authority_1WQC_Carteret CoJu127
101—North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Water Resources
DE Q Il 127 Cardinal Drive Ext. 1 Wilmington, North Caroling 28405
�
�/ 910.796.7215
emvmmnr+a=.mr

From: Hair Sarah E CIV USARMY GESAW (USA)
To: Bodnar. Gregg; Snider. Hollev
Subject: [External] Carteret project updates
Date: Tuesday, October 11, 2022 2:50:29 PM
CAUTION: External email. Do not click links or open attachments unless you verify. Send all suspicious email asap
attachment to 9=11 Spam.
Hi,
Just wanted to touch base and let you know that the following projects will be processed as GP291s:
O'Connor: SAW-2022-02179
Hanson: SAW-2022-02209
McLaughlin: SAW-2022-02208
419 Development: SAW-2022-00098
The MHC Northern barge fleeting area expansion also has not gone out on federal agency
notice yet, and will require consultation with NMFS PRD-I have discussed w/ Todd W.
and he is aware.
Holley: John issued 401 for the project on 9/20/2022, so you don't have to worry about it.
Not sure about how I'm going to process this one:
Biggs: SAW-2022-02193 (basin fill -I didn't really understand the purpose of the project. The
app just said fill).
If there are others hanging out there, please let me know.
Liz
Liz Hair
Regulatory Project Manager
Wilmington District
US Army Corps of Engineers
69 Darlington Avenue
Wilmington, NC 28403
Work Cell: 910-512-4456

ROYCO1,6PEk
CiP4=r
KMADETHS-BI5ET4
Sremary,
BRAXTONDAWS
mroefof ' '
August 23, 2022,
LEMORAPIDUM.
FROM:
SUBJECT -
Applicant,
Project Location:
Proposed Project
NORTH CAR OLINA
Envlrzvzenfaf
cizor) 14. o-+
Gr.egg Bodnar; Assistant Major Ak"Its Coordinator
NCQEQ - Division of Coastal Management
466-pommerce, Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 252-515-5416 (Courier 114.],
aMoo,bodnaf6.NCDENR.aov
LAMA Applfcation Review
State Ports Authority
107 ArendellSt, Carteret County
0A.1jor ModificationI to' Major #120-13,
-Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed projecCand
"in this form to;GnW Bodnar at the address above by 202g;Ifyouhaveany
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad ,Connell -2'5'2'-'5'1'-5-641-'5.
whemappropriate, in-deptWcominents vVtfh supporting data is requested.
This agency has no objectio
"Additional comments may
'This agency has no comment on the proposed projact.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended chariges
:are incorporated. See a#sohe4. b&,6g
thisagency objects to the projectf6er'basons,described in,the attached
comments.
PRINTfdANIE h4e�LA " IN
5 C yetilt cnrolirut DePaaw'mt of plvir�twntal Quality I eiviston af Cimaiial lvl�rAqemlut-
MCI
: I M E M R�
25zilbB,2806

gem Mr-1
APPLICATION for
Malor Development Permit
(last revised 1lZ27I06)
North Carolina DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
1. Primary Applicant Landowner Information
Business Name
North Carolina State Ports Authority
Project Name (if applicable)
Port of Morehead City Northern Barge Fleeting area
Applicant 1: First Name
Brian
MI
E
Last Name
Clark
Applicant 2: First Name
MI
Last Name
If additional applicants, please attach an additional pagels) with names listed.
Mailing Address
PO Box 9002
PO Box
City
Wilmington
State
NC
ZIP
28402
Country
New Hanover
Phone No.
910 - 251 - 5678 ext.
FAX No.
Street Address (it different from above)
City
State
ZIP
Email
2. AgentContractor Information
Business Name
Dial Cordy And Associates Inc.
Agent/ Contractor 1: First Name
MI
Last Name
Steve
Dial
Agent/ Contractor 2: First Name
MI
Last Name
James
Hargrove
Mailing Address
PO Box
City
State
201 North Front St. Suite 307
Wilmington
NC
ZIP
Phone No. 1
Phone No. 2
28401
910 - 251 - 9790 ext.
ext.
FAX No.
Contractor #
Street Address fif drfFerent from above)
City
State
ZIP
Email
[e-mail]; [e-mail]
RECEIVED
<Form continues on back>
JUL 2 6 2022
1711CM4414D CITY
252.808.2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www.necoastaimanagement.net

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 2 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
3. Project Location
County (can be multiple)
Street Address
State Rd. #
Carteret
113 Arendell Street
Subdivision Name
City
State
Zip
Morehead City
NC
28557 -
Phone No.
Lot No.(s) (if many, attach additional page with list)
252 - 726 - 3158 ext.
I I I ,
a. In which NC river basin is the project located?
b. Name of body of water nearest to proposed project
Newport
Newport River
c. Is the water body identified in (b) above, natural or manmade?
d. Name the closest major water body to the proposed project site.
®Natural ❑Manmade ❑Unknown
Bogue Sound, Atlantic Ocean
e. Is proposed work within city limits or planning jurisdiction?
f. If applicable, list the planning jurisdiction or city limit the proposed
®Yes ❑No
work falls within.
Morehead City Limits
4.
Site Description
a.
Total length of shoreline on the tract (ft.)
b. Size of entire tract (sq.ft)
NA
130,680
c.
Size of individual lot(s)
d. Approximate elevation of tract above NHW (normal high water) or
NWL (normal water level)
(If many lot sizes, please attach additional page with a list)
4 to -14 ft ❑NHW or ®NWL
e.
Vegetation on tract
The proposed dredge footprint contains no SAV according to NCDMF's SAV maps. There is a small fringing marsh that is
located adjacent to the Action Area on Marsh Island disposal area; however, it is outside the dredge footprint by —+200 ft.
f.
Man-made features and uses now on tract
The Northern Barge Fleeting area contains a series of six steel pile mooring piles that are currently utilized to secure barges
within the fleeting area. The proposed project is directly adjoent to the western edge of the exisiting fleeting area with no
current or proposed structures.
g.
Identify and describe the existing land uses adiacent to the proposed project site.
The adjacent lands to the south function as wharfs for the USACE and the NCSPA. The single property owner in relative
proximity to the project area is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In an abundance of caution, a notification letter will be
sent to the Morehead City Yacht Club; however, this property is not close to the Project Area. The closest adjacent land is
Marsh Island which contains one of the dredge material management sites proposed for disposal of the dredged material.
h.
How does local government zone the tract?
I. Is the proposed project consistent with the applicable zoning?
Industrial
(Attach zoning compliance certificate, if applicable)
®Yes []No ❑NA
j.
Is the proposed activity part of an urban waterfront redevelopment proposal? []Yes ®No
It.
Hasa professional archaeological assessment been done for the tract? If yes, attach a copy. ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, by whom?
I.
Is the proposed project located in a National Registered Historic District or does it involve a []Yes ®No ❑NA
National Register listed or eligible property?
<Form continues on next page>
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
252-808-2808 :: 9.888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastalmanagement.ne CITY

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 3 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
m. (i) Are there wetlands on the site? ❑Yes ®No
(ii) Are there coastal wetlands on the site? ❑Yes ®No
(III) If yes to either (i) or (ii) above, has a delineation been conducted? ❑Yes ®No
(Attach documentation, if available)
n. Describe existing wastewater treatment facilities.
All proposed activity is located within the Newport River Estuary/Bogue Sound.
o. Describe existing drinking water supply source.
The town of Morehead City gets its drinking water from 5 wells around the county.
p. Describe existing storm water management or treatment systems.
The proposed project would not result in new impervious areas requiring stormwater management and/or treatment
systems.
& Activities and Impacts
a. Will the project be for commercial, public, or private use? ®Commercial IDPublic/Govemment
❑Private/Community
b. Give a brief description of purpose, use, and daily operations of the project when complete.
The North Carolina State Port Authority (NCSPA) at the Port of Morehead City (POMC) is proposing to expand the existing
northern barge fleeting area to accommodate an additional 4-6 barges for the growing import iron business. The expansion
of the fleeting area is necessary due to the doubling of the business over the last few years. The barges typically consist of
300,000 to 500,000 tons of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) or crude iron (pig iron) that is transported from the POMC to the Nucor
Steel Terminal. The barge traffic moves the equivalent of 25,000 truckloads of material each year and is a vital transportation
route for NC commerce. The increase in frequency of barge traffic puts an excessive demand on the fleeting areas thus
warranting expansion. The existing mooring dolphins are structurally able to support doubling the space by docking barges
on the west side of the northern fleeting area and no new moorings structures are being proposed.
The daily operations would include staging barges within the fleeting area. Tug boats would be used to position the barges
before being moored to the steel piles. Periodic maintenance of the barge fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by
the Port -owned water injection dredge.
c. Describe the proposed construction methodology, types of construction equipment to be used during construction, the number of each type
of equipment and where it is to be stored.
New dredging of approximately 35,000 cy of material would be removed via one hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges or
one mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems within the dredge window of October 1 at to January 31 st and placed on
Marsh, Brandt, or the North Radio Island dredge material management areas
d. List all development activities you propose.
There are no development activities proposed.
e. Are the proposed activities maintenance of an existing project, new work, or both? New work for expansion of an existing
barge fleeting area.
f. What is the approximate total disturbed land area resulting from the proposed project? 3 ❑Sq.Ft or ®Acres
g. Will the proposed project encroach on any public easement, public accessway or other area ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
that the public has established use of?
h. Describe location and type of existing and proposed discharges to waters of the state.
It is expected a cutterhead dredge will be used and subsequent water and sediment slurry will be pumped into a dredge
material disposal site. It is also expected that Marsh Island disposal site will be used for the proposed action. The water
associated with the dredge slurry will be decanted through a weir system and discharged back into the waters adjacent to the
project area. All previous permit requirements will be adheared to. R
JUL 26 2022
252-808-2808 :: 1-968-4rCOAST :: www.nccoastalrranayemert.r�JCM-MIiD CITY

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 4 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
1. Will wastewater or stornwater be discharged into a wetland? ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, will this discharged water be of the same salinity as the receiving water? ❑Yes ❑No ®NA
j. Is there any mitigation proposed? []Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, attach a mitigation proposal.
<Form continues on back>
6. Additional Information
In addition to this completed application form, (MP-1) the following items below, if applicable, must be submitted in order for the application
package to be complete. Items (a) — (t) are always applicable to any major development application. Please consult the application
instruction booklet on how to properly prepare the required items below.
a. A project narrative.
b. An accurate, dated work plat (including plan view and cross -sectional drawings) drawn to scale. Please give the present status of the
proposed project Is any portion already complete? If previously authorized work, dearly indicate on maps, plats, drawings to distinguish
between work completed and proposed.
c. A site or location map that is sufficiently detailed to guide agency personnel unfamiliar with the area to the site.
d. A copy of the deed (with state application only) or other instrument under which the applicant claims title to the affected properties.
e. The appropriate application fee. Check or money order made payable to DENR.
f. A list of the names and complete addresses of the adjacent waterfront (riparian) landowners and signed return receipts as proof that such
owners have received a copy of the application and plats by certified mail. Such landowners must be advised that they have 30 days in
which to submit comments on the proposed project to the Division of Coastal Management.
Name Army Reserve Phone No. [phone]
US Army Corps of Engineers
Address 69 Darlington Ave
Wilmington, NC 28403
Name Morehead City Yacht Basin LLC Phone No. [phone]
Address 2645 Temples Point Road
Havelock, NC 28532
Name Phone No.
Address
g. A list of previous state or federal permits issued for work on the project tract. Include permit numbers, perrnimee, and issuing dates.
NCDEQ Major CAMA 120-13 SAW 2013-01747
SAW 2017-01680
h. Signed consultant or agent authorization form, if applicable.
i. Welland delineation, if necessary.
j. A signed AEC hazard notice for projects in oceanfront and inlet areas. (Must be signed by property owner)
k. A statement of compliance with the N.C. Environmental Policy Act (N.C.G.S. 113A 1-10). 9 necessary. If the project involves expenditure
of public funds or use of public lands, attach a statement documenting compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act.
7. Cenfffication and Permission to Enter on Land
I understand that any permit issued in response to this application will allow only the development described in the application.
The project will be subject to the conditions and restrictions contained in the permit.
I certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact grant permission to representatives of state and federal review agencies to
enter on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this permit application and follow-up
monitoring of the project. RECEIVED
I further certify that the information provided in this application is truthful to the best of my knowledge.
JUL 2 6 2022
252-808-2808 :: 1.888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastalmonagement.no6CM-MHD CITY

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 5 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
Date 7/5/2022 Print Name Brian E Clark
Signature
Please indicate application attachments pertaining to your proposed project.
®DCM MP-2 Excavation and Fill Information ❑DCM MP-5 Bridges and Culverts
❑DCM MP-3 Upland Development
❑DCM MP4 Structures Information
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
252-808.2808 :: 1-888.4RCOAST :: www.nccoastaimanagement.net

Form DCM MP-2
EXCAVATION and FILL
(Except for bridges and culverts)
Attach this form to Joint Application for CAMA Major Permit, Form DCM MP-1. Be sure to complete all other sections of the Joint
Application that relate to this proposed project. Please include all supplemental information.
Describe below the purpose of proposed excavation and/or fill activities. All values should be given in feet.
Access
Other
Channel
Canal
Boat Basin
Boat Ramp
Rock Groin
Rock
(excluding
(NLW or
Breakwater
shoreline
NWL)
stabilization
Length
560
Width
415
Avg. Existing
-4 to -14
NA
NA
Depth
MLLW
Final Project
-14 MLLW
NA
NA
Depth
1. EXCAVATION ❑This section not applicable
a. Amount of material to be excavated from below NHW or NWL in b. Type of material to be excavated.
cubic yards. Unconsolidated fine grained sediment
It is expected that the proposed project will remove approximately
35,000 cubic yards of course material from the 3 acre footprint.
c. (i) Does the area to be excavated include coastal wetlandstmarsh d.
(CW), submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), shell bottom (SB),
or other wetlands (WL)? if any boxes are checked, provide the
number of square feet affected.
❑CW ❑SAV ❑SB
❑WL ENone
(ii) Describe the purpose of the excavation in these areas:
The purpose of excavating this area is to expand the existing
northern barge fleeting area to accomadate mooring additional
barges.
High -ground excavation in cubic yards.
NA
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
2. DISPOSAL OF EXCAVATED MATERIAL ❑This section not applicable
a. Location of disposal area. b. Dimensions of disposal area.
Marsh Island, Brant Island, or Northern Radio Island
disposal areas are contenders for the material depending
on the available space at Marsh Island. Marsh Island is the
closest in proximity and therefore the expected disposal
site.
No current demension data is available for the potential
disposal sites.
c. (i) Do you claim titre to disposal area? d. (i) Will a disposal area be available for future maintenance?
EYes ❑No ❑NA EYes ❑No ❑NA
(ii) If no, attach a letter granting permission from the owner. (ii) If yes, where?
e. (1) Does the disposal area include any coastal wetlands/marsh f. (1) Does the disposal include any area in the water?
(CW), submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), shell bottom (SB), []Yes ENo ❑NA
or other wetlands (WL)? If any boxes are checked, provide the
number of square feet affected. (ii) If yes, how much water area is affected?
❑CW _ ❑SAV _ ❑SB _
252-808-2808 :: 1-8884RCOAST :: www.nccoastalmanaaement.net revised: 12/26/06

Form DCM MP-2 (Excavation and Fill, Page 2 of 3)
❑WL _ ®None
(ii) Describe the purpose of disposal in these areas:
❑Bulkhead ❑Riprap ❑Breakwater/Sill ❑Other: Width:
c. Average distance waterward of NHW or NWL: d. Maximum distance waterward of NHW or NWL:
e. Type of stabilization material: f. (1) Has there been shoreline erosion during preceding 12
months?
❑Yes [-]No ❑NA
(it) If yes, state amount of erosion and source of erosion amount
information.
g. Number of square feet of fill to be placed below water level.
Bulkhead backfill _ Riprap
Breakwater/Sill Other
I. Source of fill material.
h. Type of fill material.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
4. OTHER FILL ACTIVITIES ®This section not applicable
(Excluding Shoreline Stabilization)
a. (1) Will fill material be brought to the site? []Yes []No ❑NA b. (1) Will fill material be placed in coastal wetlands/marsh (CW),
If yes,
(ii) Amount of material to be placed in the water
(111) Dimensions of fill area _
(iv) Purpose of fill
5. GENERAL
a. How will excavated or fill material be kept on site and erosion b.
controlled?
The areas proposed for receiving the dredged material are existing
disposal sites that have earthen berms to retain sediment
c. (I) Will navigational aids be required as a result of the project? d.
[]Yes ®No ❑NA
(11) If yes, explain what type and how they will be implemented.
suomergec aquatic vegetation tbAv/, snen ooaom tbol, or
other wetlands (WI-)? If any boxes are checked, provide the
number of square feet affected.
❑CW ❑SAV _ ❑SB
OWL ❑None
(11) Describe the purpose of the fill in these areas:
What type of construction equipment will be used (e.g., dragline,
backhoe, or hydraulic dredge)?
It is anticipated that a hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredge will
be used for this project; however, a mechanical dredge could
be used and periodic maintenance would be accomplished by
the Port -owned water injection dredge.
(1) Will wetlands be crossed in transporting equipment to project
site? []Yes ®No ❑NA
(it) If yes, explain steps that will be taken to avoid or minimize
environmental impacts.
252.808.2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastaimananoment.net revised: 12/26/06

Date
J�y
Project Name
Port of Morehead City Northam Barge Fleeting Area Expanson
Applicant Name
Brian E Clark
Applicant lure
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
252-808-2808 :: 1.8884RCOAST :: w .nccoastalmanaoement.net revised: 12/26I06

Figure 12. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
Port of Morehead City RECEIVE[)ial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

El
n
Legend
-- Profile Location
1R Cana (PALL"
Barge Fleeting Area
Elevation (MLLW)
® Existing Fleeting Area
value
0 Proposed Fleeting Arm
, tom'-Z
O Proposed 3:1 Slope
Law:-30
A -A' Bathynetric Prole Graph
B - B' Bathynetric Profile Graph
EAMing Bethymetiy Profle
41.
Proposed Ba"try Profile
10
1P
9aee Pmposed Fleftng Area Ewsng Fleeting Nee
14
Area1R
0 50 tOD 150 2M 250 300
Distance (feet)
C - C Bathynetric Prdile Graph
-s
_B
Ustelg Bathymatry Rohe
to
Proposed Betlryaeby Profile
12
3.1
14
slma
a
Reposed Flemng Nee Hang Fleebp Nee
15
0 5o 160 15o MO 280 300
Distsnoe (feet)
e
0 150 300 450 SOD
Feet
Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area — Existing and Proposed
Bathymetry
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion RECEIVED June 2022
8
JUL 2 6 2022
111Clu1_i AWn rlry

2690000 2691000
2692000
2693000 1
VED
SEP
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14
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r
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M
aterial Disposal Area
0
0
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Esri. HERE,2arrmin, (c) Ope>Stre�etMap contri r"", HE - E
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contributors, and1the GIS user community
2690000 2691000
2692000
2693000
Dredge Disposal Pipeline Corridor
for Barge Fleeting Area Dredging
0
500 1,000 1,500
2,000
Feet

DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
FIELD INVESTIGATION REPORT
APPLICANT'S NAME: NC State Ports Authority
LOCATION OF PROJECT SITE: The project is located adjacent to an island north of
107 Arendell Street in the Newport River in Morehead City, Carteret County.
Latitude:34°43'31.60"N Longitude: 76141'41.96"W
INVESTIGATION TYPE: CAMA/D&F
INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURE: Date(s) of Site Visit — 8/11/22
Was Applicant or Agent Present No
Photos Taken — No
PROCESSING PROCEDURE: Application Received — cc: 7/26/22
Office — MHC
SITE DESCRIPTION:
(A) Local Land Use Plan — Morehead City
Land Classification from LUP —Developed
(B) AEC(s) Involved: PTA, EW
(C) Water Dependent: Yes
(D) Intended Use: Government
(E) Wastewater Treatment: Existing — none
Planned -none
(F) Type of Development: Existing — mooring dolphins
Planned - dredging
(G) Estimated Annual Rate of Erosion: N/A
Source — N/A
HABITAT DESCRIPTION:
(A) Open Water
(E) Total Area Disturbed: 232,400 ft`
(F) Primary Nursery Area: No
(G) Water Classification: SA; HQW Open: No
(II) Cultural Resources: None
Project Summary: The applicant wishes to excavate in order to expand a mooring
facility within the Newport River for government use in Morehead City, Carteret
County.

Field Investigation Report:
NC Port Authority
Page 2
Narrative Description:
The proposal is located 550 feet to the east of Marsh Island, immediately west of the ICW, and 700
feet north of 107 Arendell Street in Morehead City, Carteret County. This location is currently
developed with six dolphin pilings to support a barge berth (ref Major Permit 4120-13). This
mooring facility is for government/commercial use. The adjacent island has been utilized for the
disposal of dredge spoil material.
Water depths in the project area range from --4' to —14' nlw. This -14' nlw depth is connecting to the
ICW channel area. The subaqueous substrate is firm with shell. This proposal is located immediately
adjacent to the ICW Federal Channel. There is not a cultural resource in the project area. This
waterbody is approximately 0.5 mile across at this location. These estuarine waters are not classified
as a Primary Nursery Area. Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) is not present at this location. This
section of the Newport River is closed to shellfish harvest and is classified as SA; HQW.
Proposed Development:
The applicant is proposing to excavate 1 acre in order to expand a barge mooring facility within the
Newport River, in Morehead City. The proposed development would take place adjacent to 107
Arendell Street, Carteret County. This proposal is for government/commercial use.
The applicant is proposing to expand the east side of the mooring facility by excavating 35,000 cubic
yards. The proposed spoil area is yet to be determined. The proposed excavation is to be
accomplished via hydraulic dredging methodology. The proposed excavation would encompass an 1-
acre area, and would remove approximately 10' ofbenthic habitat in order to connect to the adjacent -
14' nlw depth of the Federal Channel.
Anticipated Impacts:
This proposed excavation should not pose a hazard to traditional navigation. However, the
eastward expansion of mooring barges may impact navigation within the ICW Federal Channel.
The proposed excavation would impact 232,400 square feet of Public Trust Area. Traditional
hydraulic dredging methodology would be utilized during the construction of this project. The
spoil area impacts are unknown at this time as the spoil site has not yet been determined.
Turbidity impacts are anticipated during the excavation activities within the Newport River.
However, the applicant is proposing to mitigate these impacts by conducting the work during the
less biologically productive periods of the winter months. This waterbody is not classified as a
Primary Nursery Area and the is no SAV present in the project area.
Brad Connell August 23, 2022 Morehead City

NORTH CAROLINA STATE PORTS AUTHORITY
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
NORTHERN BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
JUNE 2022
PROJECT NARRATIVE
Proposed Action
REC`--IVED
JUL 26 Z022
DCM-MHD CITY
The Proposed Action by the North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA) at the Port of
Morehead City is to modify the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-
13 to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting area. The north barge
fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County,
North Carolina (NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges
that are awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is
primarily associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the
Hertford Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled
over the last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The
proposed action would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby
accommodating an additional 4 to 6 loaded barges.
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River —600 feet north of the northeast
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging expected to occur once every 2-5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging
area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new
dredging area are part of a uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface
to a depth of -45-ft MLLW (Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022

area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and
scow systems. Dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities, which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the
disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging,
disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area for
placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
Description of the Action Area
The north barge fleeting area is located -3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, NC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of -3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated bottom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish bRSCEIVED
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
JUL 2 6 2022
Potential Environmental Effects of the Proposed Action DCM-MHD
CITY
A summary of effects on fish and fish habitat within the action area is provided below. An EFH
Assessment and a Biological Assessment that have been prepared for the Corps of Engineers
are available upon request.
Water Column
The proposed dredging and maintenance associated with expanding the northern barge fleeting
area may have minor effects on the estuarine water column through localized sediment
suspension and associated increases in turbidity. The sediments to be excavated from the new
dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would resettle rapidly to the
bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either a cutterhead or bucket dredge
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
2

would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint. Water injection
dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density sediment -
water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to deeper areas.
Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced sediment suspension
is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the bottom (Welp et al. 2017).
It is expected that suspended fine sediments would be rapidly dispersed by currents in the
contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the duration of any adverse effects on water
quality and federally managed species. The proposed project construction window of 1 October
- 31 January would avoid peak periods of larval ingress and estuarine -dependent juvenile
abundance in the vicinity of the action area, thus minimizing the exposure of estuarine and marine
fish and invertebrate species to sediment suspension effects. In the specific case of WID, the
potential for upstream sediment transport into the New River Estuary would be minimized by
conducting WID only on falling tides. Based on these considerations, it is expected that any
adverse effects on water quality and estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species would be
minor and short-term.
Larval Entrainment
In the case of cutterhead pipeline dredging, the proposed action would affect estuarine -dependent
fish and invertebrate species by entraining planktonic eggs and larvae that occur in the vicinity of
the dredge pipe suction field. However, the results of larval entrainment modeling in Beaufort
Inlet indicate that dredge entrainment rates are extremely low regardless of inlet larval
concentrations and the distribution of larvae within the water column (Settle 2003). Even under
worst case model scenarios when the dredge was assumed to be operating 24 hours/day and all
larvae were assumed to be concentrated in the bottom of the navigation channel, projected
entrainment rates barely exceeded 0.1 % of the daily (24-hour) larval flux through the inlet. The
proposed new dredging area is located above Beaufort Inlet in the relatively broad Newport River
Estuary where it is expected that the distribution of planktonic eggs and larvae would be relatively
diffuse. Furthermore, the proposed project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would
avoid the peak larval ingress period at Beaufort Inlet. Based on all of the above considerations,
it is anticipated that the effects of egg/larval entrainment on populations of estuarine -dependent
fish and invertebrate species would be negligible.
Unconsolidated Bottom
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of unconsolidated bottom habitat in the barge
fleeting expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be
increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent maintenance dredging events
would remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing
the availability of prey for federally managed demersal fishes such as summer flounder and
estuarine -dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. However, studies of benthic
community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation channels along the southeastern coast have
reported rapid recovery within two to six months (Van Dolah et al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and
Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of
adjacent undisturbed sediments into the dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism.
Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that
Port of Morehead City RECEIVEDDial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
3 JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

were similar in composition to the extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods. Existing surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform
fine sand layer that extends to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be
expected to alter sediment composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of —10 feet would not
be expected to alter benthic community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed
project construction window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
Based on all of the above considerations, it is anticipated that effects on estuarine unconsolidated
bottom habitats and associated estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species would be
minor and short-term.
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
NCDMF benthic habitat maps do not identify any shell bottom areas within or immediately
adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on shell bottom habitats
would be expected. The only mapped shell bottom area in the vicinity of the project area is a
narrow linear shell bottom feature along the shoreline of Marsh Island —300-ft west of the new
dredging footprint. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be
transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting shell bottom areas through
redeposition. Heavy sediment redeposition can impact oysters by inhibiting larval attachment to
hard substrates and reducing the respiration and feeding rates of juveniles and adults (Wilber and
Clarke 2010). However, according to Colden and Lipcius (2015), eastern oysters that were
subjected to experimental sediment deposition did not exhibit significant mortality or sublethal
effects until at least 70% of the shell height was buried. As previously described, the sediments
to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse fine sands
that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either
a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate
vicinity of the new dredging footprint. Therefore, it is expected that the effects of dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition on oyster reefs and associated estuarine and marine fish
and invertebrate species would be minor and short-term.
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV)
NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately adjacent to the proposed new
dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on SAV would be expected. Small patches of SAV are
identified along the western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the proposed dredging area
(Figure 4). Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be transported
outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting SAV through increases in turbidity and/or
sediment redeposition. However, as previously described, it is anticipated that the predominance
of relatively coarse sand in the new dredging area would limit sediment suspension to the
immediate vicinity of the active work area. Therefore, it is expected that any adverse effects on
SAV and associated estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species from dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition would be minor and short-term.
State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
Port of Morehead City RECEIVEDDial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion I[j June 2022
4 JUL 26 2022
DCM-MH 7 C!TY

There are no Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) or Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs) in the
immediate vicinity of the proposed new dredging area. Designated PNAs that are nearest to the
proposed new dredging area are located -1.3 miles to the northwest in small tributaries of the
Newport River (Calico Creek and Crab Point Bay) (Figure 5). The nearest additional PNAs and
SNAs are located in the Newport River -4 miles upstream of the proposed new dredging area.
No effects on PNAs or SNAs are anticipated.
Port of Morehead City
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-IMHD CITY
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
June 2022
5

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Port of Morehead City
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
June 2022

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Port of Morehead City
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion
9
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JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
June 2022

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ao�m. NM.. FICAO5, V9GF 1161 W9A COWi. N R@Mq\ NCEAR
HI3. O5, � RoeweuaWt 65A GWY, FflkA
InhrmW eM tle GS uer mn^vMY. Sam ENl IENE. Gs�aV Fb.
N(Yw. U.v;5 VGM^9MIMW rp4db�. atl MG6Uw CMw�wRJ
Figure 26. State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MW I :IITY
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
10

References
Colden AM, Lipcius RN (2015) Lethal and sublethal effects of sediment burial on the eastern
oyster Crassostrea virginica. Mar Ecol Prog Ser 527:105-
117. https://doi.org/l0.3354/meps11244
Kirby -Smith, W.W. and J.D. Costlow. 1989. The Newport River Estuarine System. Duke
University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC.
Settle, L. 2003. Assessment of potential larval entrainment mortality to hydraulic dredging of
Beaufort Inlet. Prepared for USACE-Wilmington District for the Morehead City Harbor
Environmental Assessment. May 2003. NOAA/NOS National Centers for Coastal Ocean
Science.
Stickney, R. 1972. Effects of Intracoastal Waterway Dredging on Ichthyofauna and Benthic
Macro- Invertebrates. Technical Report Series. No 72-4. Skidaway Institute of
Oceanography, Savannah, GA. July 1972 60 pp.
Stickney, R. and D. Perlmutter. 1975. Impact of Intracoastal Waterway maintenance dredging
on a mud bottom benthos community. Biol Consery 01/1975; 7(3):211-225.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, and D.M. Knott. 1984. Effects of dredging and open -water disposal
on benthic macro invertebrates in a South Carolina estuary. Estuaries 7, 28-37.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, D.M. Knott, and M.S. Maclin. 1979. Effects of dredging and
unconfined disposal of dredged material on benthic macroinvertebrate communities in
Sewee Bay, SC. Marine Resources Center Technical Report 39. Charleston, SC.
Welp, T.L., M.W. Tubman, D.A. Wilson, and C.E. Pollock. 2017. Water Injection Dredging.
DOER Technical Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center.
Wilber, D.H., W. Brostoff, D.G. Clarke, and G.L. Ray. 2005. Sedimentation: Potential biological
effects from dredging operations in estuarine and marine environments. DOER Technical
Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research
and Development Center.
Port of Morehead City
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
June 2022
11

� .•: • •' Gill' •�
Name of Property Owner Requesting Permit: North Carolina State Ports Authority
Mailing Address: PO Box 9002
Wilmington, NC 28402
Phone Number: [phone]
Email Address: [e-mail]
I certify that I have authorized James Hargrove and Steve Dial of Dial Cordv and
Agent / Contractor
to act on my behalf, for the purpose of applying for and obtaining all CAMA permits
necessary for the following proposed development: Expansion of the northern barge
fleeting area at my property located at 113 Arendell St
in Carteret County.
I furthermore certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact grant permission to
Division of Coastal Management staff, the Local Permit Officer and their agents to enter
on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this
permit application.
Property Owner Information:
Signature
Todd C Walton
Print or Type Name
Sr Environmental Supervisor
Title
06 / 29 12022
Date
This certification is valid through 12/ 31 / 2022
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

NORTH
CAROLINA
P0RTSf
1_
Certified Mail
July 5, 2022
Morehead City Yacht Basin
2645 Temples Point Rd
Havelock NC 28532
Subject: CAMA Permit Request Notification
Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
North Carolina State Ports Authority RECEIVED
Morehead City, Carteret County
Dear Sirs,
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
In pursuance of a North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM)
Major Permit Modification, the NC State Ports Authority (NCSPA) Port of
Morehead City (POMC) is required to notify adjacent riparian property
owners to any proposed development.
Please find a description of the proposed project below along with the
DCM adjacent riparian property owner notification/waiver form and
adjacent riparian property owner statement form. Dial Cordy and
Associates (DC&A) of behalf of Todd Walton at the NCSPA request that a
signed copy of these form be returned to DC&A via email
(Ihargrove(&dialcordy.com) or mailed to Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 N. Front St. Ste 307, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Proposed Action
The Proposed Action by the NCSPA at the POMC is proposing to modify
the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-13
to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting area.
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the Port of
Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina (NC). The north
fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are
awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting
activity at the Port is primarily associated with the transport of imported
iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford Steel plant on the
Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over
the last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting
capacity. The proposed action would expand the north barge fleeting area
from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an additional 4 to 6 loaded
barges.

NORTH
CAROLINA
P0RTSf
t
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River -600 feet
north of the northeast corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The
existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin of
the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of the
existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over
dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed
within the fleeting area. The proposed action would expand the existing
facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom to
a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ftof over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional
1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1
slope along the western margin of the 2.0-acre expansion area. In total,
the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging and the
removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures
are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate
additional barges in the expansion area. The depth of the expansion area
would be maintained through periodic maintenance dredging expected to
occur once every 4-5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging
area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). Construction and
maintenance of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic
pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow
systems. Dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -
owned confined disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt
Island, and North Radio Island disposal areas. Disposal operations for
cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal
area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via
scow to the disposal area for placement via mechanical means or
hydraulic offloading.
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
2.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS ,
SO UE SOUND
P O R J
Sb
E9
=e
n i 1i
ii i^ a
" « Project Location
by " 3 iAn
Figure 1. Project Location and Proposed Action Area
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
3.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
<T
a- —Existing
-l4-ft Fleeting Area
y_- -----Proposed
-14-ft Expansion Area
Marsh lsfantl
Prpposetl 3:1 slope
Port of
Morehead City
Figure 1. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY a

NORTH
CAROLINA
P O R,T S el_
A -A' Bathyrretric Profile Graph
Easling Balhymtry PmrYe
-7
Proposed Baihymetry Profile
0-
2-
Area
3
0 E0 100 150 200 250 300
Distance (feet)
B - B' Bathynetric Profile Graph
&Mmg Balhymetry Profile
-10
Proposed Bathymetry Profile
12
-14
Aea �rOPosetl Fkeurg Aree Fs:tiny Fleeing Nea
dR
5-
0 50 100 160 200 250 360
Distance (feet)
C - C' Bathyaletric Profile Graph
-6
.g
Exi sting Bathym9ry Profile
0
—
2
Prcposetl 8athymatry Profile
Id
31
Sb e
IB
ea Proporetl Fleeing Area En2n9 FleeMg Nei
0 50 100 150 mo 2' 300
Distance (feet)
Legend
—Profile Locatim 111Cordoor(MLLW
Berge Fleeting Area Elevation(MLLW)
® Existing FleetingAfea Value
® Proposed FleetingArea -High:-2
0 150 300 450 EGO
0 Pioposetl 3:1 Slope Law:-30 Feet
Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and
Proposed Bathymetry -!VED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY s.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
Certified Mail
July 5, 2022
Jeremiah Lee Smith, P.E., PMP
Chief, Navigation Branch
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
69 Darlington Ave
Wilmington NC 28403
Subject: CAMA Permit Request Notification
Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
North Carolina State Ports Authority
Morehead City, Carteret County
Dear Mr. Smith
In pursuance of a North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM)
Major Permit Modification, the NC State Ports Authority (NCSPA) Port of
Morehead City (POMC) is required to notify adjacent riparian property
owners to any proposed development.
Please find a description of the proposed project below along with the
DCM adjacent riparian property owner notification/waiver form and
adjacent riparian property owner statement form. Dial Cordy and
Associates (DC&A) of behalf of Todd Walton at the NCSPA request that
a signed copy of these form be returned to DC&A via email
(Ihargrove(a)_dialcordy.com) or mailed to 201 N. Front St. Ste 307,
Wilmington, NC 28401. RECEIVED
Additional information in the form of an Essential Fish Habitat and
Biological Assessment documents are available upon request. JUL 2 6 2022
Proposed Action DCM-MHD CITY
The Proposed Action by the NCSPA at the POMC is proposing to modify
the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-13
to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting
area. The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the
Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina (NC).
The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges
that are awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge
fleeting activity at the Port is primarily associated with the transport of
imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford Steel plant
on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have

NORTH
CAROLINA
P0RTS. �
doubled over the last several years; resulting in increased demand for
barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action would expand the north
barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges.
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River —600 feet
north of the northeast corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The
existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin
of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of
over dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently
installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action would expand the
existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal
bottom to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2).
An additional 1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a
transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the 2.0-acre expansion
area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new
dredging and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new
mooring structures are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are
sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion area. The
depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic
maintenance dredging expected to occur once every 4-5 years. Existing
depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW
(Figure 3). Construction and maintenance of the barge fleeting
expansion area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges
and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems. Dredged material
would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined disposal
facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio
Island disposal areas. Disposal operations for cutterhead dredging
would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal area via floating
and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging,
disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the
disposal area for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic
offloading.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
2.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
P
-0
--.-MnREH=AD
M.1 RT
U1, -------
dd
Figure 1. Project Location and Proposed Action Area
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
93

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
_,
lr
t-=
Existing -1 -ft Fleeting Area
--
Proposed -14-ft Expansion Area
Marsh Island
1���,
—Proposed 3:1 slope
Disposal Area
m
Figure 1. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MFID CITY
:m

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
A -A' Bathyretric Prole Graph
Eusting Bath try Profile
_7
8
—
Pro .ed Bethyrretry Fag.
ID
3:1 5pposetl FleetnBArea Ens4ig FleeargMea
It
2
area
3
0 50 100 160 200 250 WO
Distmoe(feet)
B - B' Bathynetric Prole Graph
- _— Existing BatAymetiy Profile
Proposed eathyn try Profile
-10
-12
-id
9ppe Pm osrJ Fketi Area
Area p r9 E. Ain9 Flee�in9 aea
0 W 100 150 2]0 250 300
Distance (feet)
5-
C-C' Bathyrretric Prole Graph
-g
-g
Exlsfin98ettrym&ry Profile
0
12
Proposed Bathymetry Profile
4
31
srea
IB
RoposE FleetinBAma Cx'mn9 Flewn9A'ea
0 50 im 150 200 250 300'
Distance (fees
Legend
—Pmfile location 1ft Contoor(MLLK e
Barge Fleeting Area Elevation(MLLW)
® Existing Fleeting Area value
® Proposed Fleeting Ares - High:-2
0 150 300 450 600
Proposed 3.1 Slope Low'.-30 Feet
Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and
Proposed Bathymetry
DECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
5.

ROY COOPER
cwe wr
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Director
NORTH CAROLINA
Envlron tal Quality
August 12, 2022
The Carteret News Times
Legal Advertisement Section
5039 Executive Drive
Suite 300
Morehead City, NC 28557
Re: Public Notice - NC Ports Authority
Dear Sir:
Please publish the attached Notice in the August 27, 2022 issue of the News -Times.
The State Office of Budget and Management requires an original Affidavit of Publication prior to
payment for newspaper advertising. Please send the affidavit, an original copy of the
published notice, and an original invoice to Jessica Gibson, NC Division of Coastal
Management, 400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557, Telephone
[phone].
Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you should have any questions, please contact me
at our Morehead City office.
Sincerely,
Brad Connell
Environmental Specialist II
Enclosure
cc: Gregg Bodnar
Heather Styron

ROY COOPER
Govemor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
Dkector
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
NOTICE OF FILING OF
APPLICATION FOR CAMA MAJOR
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
The Department of Environmental Quality hereby gives public notice as required by NCGS
113A-119(b) that application for a development permit in an Area of Environmental Concern as
designated under the CAMA was received on July 26, 2022. According to said application, the NC
Ports Authority proposes to expand an existing mooring berth within the Newport River, adjacent to
107 Arendell Street, Carteret County. A copy of the entire application maybe examined or copied at
the office of Brad Connell, NC Division of Coastal Management, located at 400 Commerce Avenue,
Morehead City, NC, [phone] during normal business hours.
Comments mailed to Braxton C. Davis, Director, Division of Coastal Management, 400
Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, N.C. 28557, prior to September 12, 2022, will be considered in
making the permit decision. Later comments will be accepted and considered up to the time of permit
decision. Project modification may occur based on review and comment by the public and state and
federal agencies. Notice of the permit decision in this matter will be provided upon written request.
PUBLISHED ON: August 27, 2022
neoeeammm�w�+vaa�.m,�
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City office 1400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina 28557
252.808.2808

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAVIS
DPector
August 12, 2022
NC State Ports Authority
c/o Mr. Brian Clark
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, NC 28402
Dear Mr. Clark:
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
The NC Division of Coastal Management hereby acknowledges receipt of your application for
State approval for development located within the Newport River north of 107 Arendell
Street in Morehead City, Carteret County. It was received on July 26, 2022, and appears to
be adequate for processing at this time. The projected deadline for making a decision is
October 10, 2022. An additional 75-day review period is provided by law when such time is
necessary to complete the review. If you have not been notified of a final action by the initial
deadline stated above, you should consider the review period extended. Under those
circumstances, this letter will serve as your notice of an extended review. However, an
additional letter will be provided on or about the 75th day.
If this agency does not render a permit decision within 70 days from July 26, 2022, you may
request a meeting with the Director of the Division of Coastal Management and permit staff to
discuss the status of your project. Such a meeting will be held within five working days from the
receipt of your written request and shall include the property owner, developer, and project
designer/consultant.
NCGS 113A-119(b) requires that Notice of an application be posted at the location of the
proposed development. Enclosed you will find a "Notice of Permit Filing" postcard which
must be posted at the property of your proposed development. You should post this
notice at a conspicuous point along your property where it can be observed from a public
road. Some examples would be: Nailing the notice card to a telephone pole or tree along
the road right-of-way fronting your property, or at a point along the road right-of-way
where a private road would lead one into your property. Failure to post this notice could
result in an incomplete application.
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1400 CommerceAvenoe I Moorehead City, North Carolina 28557
252.808.2808

An onsite inspection will be made, and if additional information is required, you will be
contacted by the appropriate State or Federal agency. Please contact me if you have any
questions and notify me in writing if you wish to receive a copy of my field report and/or
comments from reviewing agencies.
Sincerely,
Owd ew"&
Brad Connell
Coastal Management Representative
Enclosure
CC: Heather Styron, District Manager
Gregg Bodnar, Asst. Major Permits Coordinator
Dial Cordy & Associates Inc., Agent
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City Office 1 400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina 28557
252.808.2808

N0T1(61--;1?j
PROJECT: Excavation within the Newport River
adjacent to 107 Arendell Street in Morehead City,
APPLICANT:
NC State Ports Authority
c/o Brian Clark
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, NC 28402
September 112, 2022
FOR MORE DETAILS CONTACT
THE LOCAL PERMIT OFFICER BELOW:
Brad Connell - DCM
400 Commerce Avenue
Morehead City, NC 28557
[phone]

James Hargrove
From:
Perry, John M <[e-mail]>
Sent:
Wednesday, July 6, 2022 3:03 PM
To:
Todd Walton
Cc:
James Hargrove
Subject:
RE: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion- Port of Morehead City
Thank you Todd. I will be on the lookout for the application in 30 days.
John Perry
Environmental Specialist II
Division of Water Resources
Department of Environmental Quality
127 Cardinal Drive Extension
Wilmington, NC 28405
Office: [phone]
Cell: [phone]
From: Todd Walton <[e-mail]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 2:56 PM
To: Perry, John M <[e-mail]>
Cc: James Hargrove <[e-mail]>
Subject: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion- Port of Morehead City
Good afternoon John,
I would like to submit a Pre -filing Notice for the following project:
Project Name: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
Project Owner: NC State Ports Authority - Port of Morehead City
Project Owner's Address: mailing: PO Box 9002 Wilmington NC 28402. Project address 113 Arendell St, Morehead
City NC 28557
Project County: Carteret
Type of project/Approval Sought: Dredging/ GP291
Anticipated Impacts: new dredging of ^3 acres on the west side of the existing barge fleeting area. I have attached
the project narrative that has drawings and maps within it.
Please let me now if any additional information is needed.
Thanks, RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

Todd C. Walton
NORTH CAROLINA PORTS
Senior Environmental Analyst
910-746-6460 Direct
800-336-2405 Toll Free
noports. com
Email to and from this address is public record and may be disclosed to authorized third parties.
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

DIAL CORDY
r\Nl) ,\SS0 (:IA-I'I-S INC
f- lwil'nul 1,.1 mil ("n 1911ii, it lis
201 N. Front Street, Suite 307
Wilmington, NC 28401
[phone] Fax [phone]
July 14, 2022
Heather Styron
Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
400 Commerce Ave
Morehead City, NC 28557
Subject: Port of Morehead City Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion, CAMA Major Permit
Modification (# 120-13)
Dear Heather Styron,
On behalf of the North Carolina State Ports Authority, Dial Cordy and Associates Inc. is pleased
to submit this CAMA Major Permit modification (# 120-13) to the Division of Coastal Management
for review and permit issuance.
The Port at Morehead City is requesting a modification to the CAMA Major Permit (120-13) to
expand the footprint of the existing northern barge fleeting area. The existing fleeting area
encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW).
The authorized depth of the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft
of over dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting
area. The proposed action would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional
2.0 acres of subtidal bottom to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). An additional
1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western
margin of the 2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of
new dredging and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures
are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in
the expansion area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic
maintenance dredging expected to occur once every 2-5 years using the currently permitted
NCSPA water injection dredge. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -
4 to -14 ft MLLW. Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic
pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems. Dredged
material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined disposal facilities; which
include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal areas. Disposal
operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal area via
floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging, disposal would involve
the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area for placement via mechanical
means or hydraulic offloading. RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

Included with this letter are the following documents for your review and consideration: MP1, MP2
forms and the project narrative for the proposed permit modification to CAMA Major Permit (#
120-13). Riparian land owner notification forms and project descriptions were mailed via certified
letter to the USACE and Morehead City Yacht Club. Also available are the Essential Fish Habitat
Assessment (EFH) and Biological Assessment (BA). The EFH and BA will be delivered to the
USACE Wilmington District office in paper and digital form. We look forward to working with you
to complete the proposed permit modification.
Enclosure
CC: Todd Walton, NCSPA
Liz Hair, USACE, Wilmington District
Heather Coats, NCDCM
Sincerely,
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
' / � D"e
R. Steve Dial
President
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
2
DCM-MHD CITY

*"This is a word processing form to be completed in Microsoft Word`
NC Division of Coastal Management
Major Permit Application Computer Sheet
(11 /1 /2012)
Applicant: NC Port Authority
Date: 8112/22
Project Site County: Carteret
Staff: Brad Connell
District: ❑Elizabeth City ❑Washington
®Morehead City ❑Wilmington
Project Name: barge berth expansion
Date of initial application submittal (EX: 1/8/2007): 7/26/22
Date application "received as complete" in the Field office (EX: 1/8/2007): 7/26/22
Permit Authorization: ❑CAMA ❑Dredge & Fill ®Both
SITE DESCRIPTION/PERMIT INFORMATION
PNA: ❑Yes ®No
Photos Taken: Yes ❑ No®
Setback Required (riparian): ❑Yes M No
Critical Habitat: ❑Yes ®No []Not Sure
15 foot waiver obtained: ❑Yes ®No
Hazard Notification Returned:
❑Yes ®No
SAV: ❑Yes ®No ❑Not Sure
Shell Bottom: ❑Yes ®No ❑ Not Sure
Temporary Impacts: ®Yes ❑No
Sandbags: ❑Yes ®No ❑ Not Sure
Did the land use classification come from
county LUP: ®Yes ❑No
Mitigation Required (optional):
❑Yes ❑No
Moratorium Conditions: ®Yes []No
❑NA
Environmental Assessment Done:
®Yes ❑No ❑ NA
SECONDARY WATER CLASSIFICATION — OPTIONAL (choose MAX of 4)
❑ Future Water Supply (FWS) ❑ Nutrient Sensitive Waters (NSW) I ❑ Swamp Waters (SW)
® High Quality Waters (HOW) I ❑ Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW)
WETLANDSIMPACTED
❑ (404) Corp. of Engineers (Jurisdictional
❑ (LS) Sea lavender (Limonium sp.)
❑ (SS) Glasswort (Salicornia sp.)
wetlands)
❑ (CJ) Saw grass (Cladium jamaicense)
❑ (SA) Salt marsh cordgrass (Spartina
❑ (SY) Salt reed grass (Spartina
alterniflora)
cynosuroides)
❑ (DS) Salt or spike grass (Distichlis
❑ (SC) Bullrush or three square (Scirpus
❑ (TY) Cattail (Typha sp.)
spicata)
sp.)
❑ (JR) Black needlerush (Juncus
❑ (SP) Salt/meadow grass (Spartina
roemerianus)
patens)
APPLICATION FEE
❑ No fee required - $0.00
❑ 111(A) Private w/ D&F up to 1 acre; 3490
❑ III(D) Priv. public or comm w/ D&F to 1
can be applied - $250
acre; 3490 can't be applied - $400
❑ Minor Modification to a CAMA Major
❑ Major Modification to a CAMA Major
® IV Any development involving D&F of
permit - $100
permit - $250
more than 1 acre - $475
❑ Permit Transfer - $100
❑ III(B) Public or commercial w/ D&F to 1
❑ Express Permit - $2000
acre; 3490 can be applied - $400
❑ Major development extension request -
❑ IL Public or commercial/no dredge
$100
and/or fill - $400
❑ 1. Private no dredge and/or fill - $250
❑ III(C) Priv. public or comm w /D&F to 1
acre; 3490 can be applied; DCM needs
DWQ agreement - $400
252-808-2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastalmanaaement.net revised: 02/15/10

NC Division of Coastal Mgt. Application Computer Sheet, Page 3 of 3)
Applicant: NC Ports
Date: 8/23122
Describe below the HABITAT disturbances for the application. All values should match the name, and units of measurement
found in your Habitat code sheet.
Habitat Name
DISTURB TYPE
Choose One
TOTAL Sq. Ft.
(Applied for.
Disturbance total
includes any
anticipated
restoration or
temp impacts)
FINAL Sq. Ft.
(Anticipated final
disturbance.
Excludes any
restoration
and/or temp
impact amount)
TOTAL Feet
(Applied for.
Disturbance
total includes
any anticipated
restoration or
temp impacts)
FINAL Feet
(Anticipated final
disturbance.
Excludes any
restoration and/or
temp impact
amount
Open Water
Dredge ® Fill El Both [I Other ❑
232,400 ft2
232,400 ft2
Dredge ❑ Fill ❑ Bath ❑ Other ❑
Dredge ❑ Fill ❑ Both ❑ Other ❑
Dredge ❑ Fill ❑ Both ❑ Other ❑
Dredge ❑ Fill ❑ Both ❑ Other ❑
Dredge ❑ Fill ❑ Both ❑ Other ❑
Dredge ❑ Fill ❑ Both ❑ Other ❑
252-808-2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: w .nccoastalmananement.net revised: 02/15/10

NC Division of Coastal Mgt. Application Computer Sheet, Page 2 of 3)
Applicant: NC Ports
Date: 8/23/22
Describe below the ACTIVITIES that have been applied for. All values should match the dimension order, and units of
measurement found in your Activities code sheet
TYPE
REPLACE
Activity Name
Number
Choose
Choose
Dimension t
Dimension 2
Dimension 3
Dimension 4
One
One
Excavation
1
New work ®
Replace
560'
415'
Maint ❑
®Y ON
New Work ❑
Replace
Maint ❑
❑ Y ❑ N
New Work ❑
Replace
Maint ❑
❑ Y ❑ N
New Work ❑
Replace
Maint ❑
❑ Y ❑ N
New Work ❑
Replace
Maint ❑
❑ Y ❑ N
New Work ❑
Replace
Maint ❑
❑ Y ❑ N
revised 02/15N 0

NC Division of Coastal Management
Cashier's Official Receipt
-B(
Received From: & 924
Permit No.: r-
Applicant's Name: �1 M
Project Address: i i; 6 A S4. ` r H
21614 A BCD
Date: 20
$ y;Z5-
Check No.:
County:
Please retain receipt for your records as proof of payment for permit issued.
Signature of Agent or Applicant:
Signature of Field Representative:
IIA
Date: n o
Date: Ste^"

MAJOR PERMIT FEE (f—M,IATIIRIX
Applicant: NC cgOtT-e (" r-5 gt.L-410Nr
Selection
Development Type
Fee
DCM %
DWQ %
(14300 4 551000931625 6253)
(243001602 435100095 2341)
I. Private, non-commercial
development that does not
$250
100% ($250)
0% ($0)
involve the filling or
excavation of any wetlands
or open water areas:
II. Public or commercial
❑
development that does not
$400
100% ($400)
0% ($0)
involve the filling or
excavation of any wetlands
or o en water areas:
Major Modification to a
$250
100% ($250)
0% ($0)
CAMA Major permit
III. For development that
involves the filling and/or
excavation of up to 1 acre
of wetlands and/or open
water areas, determine if A,
B, C, or D below applies:
III(A). Private, non-
commercial development, if
$250
100% ($250)
0% ($0)
General Water Quality
Certification No. 4097 (See
attached can be a lied:
III(B). Public or commercial
development, if General
$400
100% ($400)
0% ($0)
Water Quality Certification
No. 4097 (See attached)
can be applied
III(C). If General Water
Quality Certification No.
$400
60% ($240)
40% ($160)
4097 (see attached) could
be applied, but DCM staff
determined that additional
review and written DWQ
concurrence is needed
because of concerns
related to water quality or
aquatic life:
III(D). If General Water
Quality Certification No.
$400
60% ($240)
:140%
40% ($160)
4097 (see attached) cannot
be applied:
IV. For development that
involves the filling and/or
$475
60% ($285)
($190)
excavation of more than
one acre of wetlands and/or
open water areas:

ROY COOPER
Governor
ELIZABETH S. BISER
Secretary
BRAXTON DAMS
Director
August 23, 2022
MEMORANDUM:
NORTH CAROLINA
Environmental Quality
FROM: Gregg Bodnar, Assistant Major Permits Coordinator
NCDEQ - Division of Coastal Management
400 Commerce Avenue, Morehead City, NC 28557
Office: 252-515-5416 (Courier 11-12-09)
g regg. b od n a r(ccil N C D E N R.g o v
SUBJECT: CAMA Application Review
Applicant: NC State Ports Authority
Project Location: 107 Arendell St, Carteret County
Proposed Project: Major Modification to Major #120-13
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and
return this form to Gregg Bodnar at the address above by Septe►nbet 20r 2022 If you have any
questions regarding the proposed project, contact Brad Connell 252-515-5415.
when appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
PRINT NAME
AGENCY
SIGI4ATURE
DATE
This agency has no objection to the project as proposed.
"Additional comments may be attached"
This agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes
are incorporated. See attached.
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached
comments.
Qp
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Coastal Management
Morehead City office i 400 Commerce Avenue I Moorehead City, North Carolina28557
2528082808

DCM Coordinator: Gregg Bodnar
Distributed Yes CpNo
Applicant: C �S Distribution Date: �pv ok
'�
AGENCY
W IRO
WARD
LPO
nit - T o
yJC
Rachel Love Adrick MHC
Rachel Love Adrick Washingon
DCM Planner
Mike Christenbury Wilmington
Charlan Owens Eliz City
US COE:
Liz Hair
Raleigh Bland (Beaufort Camden, Chowon,
(Carteret Onslow, Pender)
Craven, Hertford, Hyde, Perquimans, Tyrrell)
Jordan Jessup (TBD)
Josh Peletier — (Bertie, Currituck, Dare, Gates,
Greg Curry (TDB)
Pamlico, Posquotank, Washington)
USCOE (NC DOT)
(Brunswick, New Hanover)
DOT - Tom Steffans—(Beaufort, Carteret,
DOT Brad Shaver
Craven, Pamlico
(Brunswick, New Hanover, Onslow,
Pender)
Mark Zeigler (Onslow, Pender, New
Community Assistance
Hanover, Brunswick)
Lee Padrick (Beaufort Carteret, Craven, Eliz
Lee Padrick (Beaufort, Carteret, Craven
City, Pamlico, Washington)
Eliz City, Pamlico, Washington
Cultural Resources
Renee Gledhill -Earley
Renee Gledhill -Earley
Div. of Water
Infrastructure
Heidi Cox
Clif Whitfield
Marine Fisheries
Kimberlee Harding
Jimmy Harrison
NC DOT
David Harris
David Harris
Shellfish Sanitation
Shannon Jenkins & Sharon Gupton
Shannon Jenkins & Sharon Gupton
Tim Walton & Mike Moser & Wanda
State Property
Hillard
Tim Walton & Mike Moser & Wanda Hillard
DEMLR/DWR:
Sheri A. Montalvo/Shelton Sullivan
Sheri A. Montalvo/ Shelton Sullivan
(NC DOT)
Kristy Lynn Carpenter
Kristy Lynn Carpenter
DEMLR
Sediment & Erosion
^
Dan Sams `�64p X
Sam! Dumpor
Storm water
Christine Hall CC
Roger Thorpe
DWR 401
Holley Snider (Carteret, New Hanover
Anthony Scarbraugh
Onslow, Pender,)
Chad Coburn (Brunswick)
(NC DOT)
Joanne Steenhuis Brunswick, New
Garcy Ward
Hanover, Onslow, Pender
WRC
Maria Dunn (WARD)
Maria Dunn (WARD)
WRC (NC DOT)
Travis Wilson
Travis Wilson
Natural Heritage Program
Rodney Bulter
Rodney Bulter
S:\Amanda Cannon\Majors\Misc Major Forms\Comment Sheet - sending for comments.docx
Revised: 5/7/2019

ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT ASSESSMENT
NORTH BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
5 July 2022
Prepared for:
North Carolina State Ports Authority
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402
Prepared by:
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 North Front Street, Suite 307
Wilmington, North Carolina 2 8401
DIAL CORDY
AND ASSOCIA I,_S INC RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................1
2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION....................................1
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA..........................................................................6
4.0 Essential Fish Habitat and Managed fisheries IN THE ACTION AREA .............................7
4.1 Federally Managed Species.........................................................................................8
4.1.1 Peneaid Shrimp.....................................................................................................8
4.1.2 Snapper -Grouper Complex....................................................................................8
4.1.3 Summer Flounder..................................................................................................9
4.1.4 Coastal Migratory Pelagics....................................................................................9
4.1.5 Bluefish................................................................................................................10
4.1.6 Smooth Dogfish...................................................................................................1 C
4.2 EFH and HAPC..........................................................................................................11
4.2.1 Estuarine Water Column......................................................................................11
4.2.2 Unconsolidated Bottom........................................................................................11
4.2.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks.............................................................................11
4.2.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation...........................................................................12
4.2.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)........................................................12
4.2.6 State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas..................................................................12
5.0 EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION ON EFH AND MANAGED SPECIES ............ 17
5.1 Estuarine Water Column.............................................................................................17
5.1.1 Sediment Suspension and Turbidity....................................................................17
5.1.2 Larval Entrainment...............................................................................................18
5.2 Unconsolidated Bottom...............................................................................................18
5.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks....................................................................................19
5.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation(SAV)........................................................................19
5.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)...............................................................20
6.0 CONSERVATION MEASURES......................................................................................20
7.0 REFERENCES.......................................................................................................RELIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

LIST OF TABLES
Page
Table 1. EFH and HAPC in the vicinity of the action area...........................................................7
Table 2. Penaeid shrimp salinity requirements and recruitment periods (NCDEQ 2016).............8
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1.
Proposed Action Location Map...................................................................................3
Figure 2.
North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout.............................................................4
Figure 3.
North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry ................5
Figure 4.
NCDMF Shell Bottom Map........................................................................................14
Figure5.
NCDMF SAV Map.....................................................................................................15
Figure 6.
State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas.......................................................................16
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

LIST OF ACRONYMS
°C
Degrees Centigrade
AIWW
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
ASMFC
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
CDF
Confined Disposal Facility
CPE
Coastal Planning & Engineering, Inc.
CWA
Clean Water Act
CY
Cubic Yards
DA
Department of the Army
DMMP
Dredged Material Management Plan
EFH
Essential Fish Habitat
FT
Feet
HAPC
Habitat Areas of Particular Concern
M
Meters
MAFMC
Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management Council
MCH
Morehead City Harbor
MSFCMA
Magnuson -Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
INC
North Carolina
NCAC
North Carolina Administrative Code
NCDEQ
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
NCDMF
North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
NEFSC
Northeast Fisheries Science Center
NMFS
National Marine Fisheries Service
NOAA
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NTU
Nephelometric Turbidity Units
PNA
Primary Nursery Area
PPT
Parts Per Thousand
RHA
Rivers and Harbors Act
SAFMC
South Atlantic Fishery Management Council
SAV
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
SNA
Secondary Nursery Areas
TSS
Total Suspended Solids
USACE
United States Army Corps of Engineers
USC
United States Code
WID
Water Injection Dredging
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
iv

1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Assessment has been prepared in accordance with the
Magnuson -Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSFCMA) to address the
effects of proposed new dredging work at the Port of Morehead City on EFH and federally
managed fisheries. The North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA) has requested
Department of the Army (DA) authorization pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA)
and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act (RHA) to expand the existing north barge fleeting
area in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina
(NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are awaiting
waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is primarily
associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford
Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over the
last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action
would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges. RECEIVED
2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION JUL 26 2022
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River —600 feet north of the Id6-MiefiHD CITY
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging every 2 to 5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to
-14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new dredging area are part of a
uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface to a depth of -45-ft MLLW
(Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ a
hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredge and/or a mechanical bucket dredge and scow system.
Construction dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Construction disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic
delivery to the disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area
for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Gordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
1

injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCiVi-MHD CITY
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
July 2022

BOGUE SOUND +
0
0
P 0 R T
L
E
9
13
n
a
a
a
•,
FAUF RT
.�
•'HE
V Q'
Nd`kej
,_.a n ad __i dE -
�-a,\.`.x-sf .o .. a�y�p• „-.
7
h ._ • a
�
x
�
rm
Y ItC r
4
_..i fa a
ft x
q a N �N. �p tl x 19
Y
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N q
PI2Y
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...q q
n
f y
f
• dY
a 1 �r SY Otf q f8p
Y
Y
d 1S4 L9FSRN:C0.. sww N� x
Figure 1. Proposed Action Location Map
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 Z022
DCM-MHD CITY
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
3

Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

49
Y
5-
O -
A - A' Bathynetric Profile Graph
Cisance (feet)
B - B' Bathyrretric Profile Graph
Feting Bet pn*y Prd1s
10
Proposed Bethymetry Profls
12
14
Ue
Area Propssetl Fketlie Mea 6usp9 Flee4q Mea
811
5-
0 60 100 160 210 260 300
Distance(feet)
C-C BatirAmtrle Pre le Graph
_
Usting Bethyrrwtry Prose
-a
10
Proposed Baeryr etry Rags
12
3:1
14
e
18
Rapasra Fleeft Mara i3dtinp Fle"Mee
0 6o 100 160 2D0 250 300
new= (feet)
— Profile Location — 1t Contour (MLL" e
Barge Fleeting Area Elevation (MLLW)
® Usting Fleeting Area Value
® Proposed Fleeting Area ' High:-2
0 150 300 450 500
® Proposed 3:1 Slope Low : -30 Feet
Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry
IECEIVED
OL 26 2022
-AHD CITY
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA
The north barge fleeting area is located —3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, NC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of —3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated bottom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish beds,
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DClvi-,AHD CITY
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
6

4.0 ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT AND MANAGED FISHERIES IN THE ACTION AREA
The action area encompasses marine and estuarine habitats that are designated as EFH and/or
Habitat Areas of Particular Concern (HAPCs) in Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) developed
by the South Atlantic Fisheries Management Council (SAFMC), Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management
Council (MAFMC), and/or the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (Table 1). The
MSFCMA defines EFH as "those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding,
feeding, or growth to maturity." HAPCs comprise a more specific subset of EFH that are
considered to be especially critical due to factors such as rarity, susceptibility to human -induced
degradation, and/or high ecological importance. Federally managed species and associated
EFH/HAPCs that occur in the vicinity of the action area are described in the sections below.
Table 1. EFH and HAPC in the vicinity of the action area.
SPECIES/GROUP EFHIHAPC
SAFMC EFH
Tidal Estuarine Emergent Wetlands
Penaeid Shrimp
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
SubtidaUlntertidal Non -vegetated Flats
Tidal Estuarine Emergent Wetlands
Tidal Creeks
Snapper -Grouper
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
Unconsolidated Bottom
Coastal Migratory Pelagics
Primary Nursery Areas
Coastal Inlets
SAFMC HAPC
Penaeid Shrimp
Primary Nursery Areas
Coastal Inlets
Primary Nursery Areas
Snapper -Grouper
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
Coastal Inlets
Coastal Migratory Pelagics
Coastal Inlets
High Salinity Estuaries (Bogue Sound)
MAFMC EFH
Summer Flounder
Estuaries with salinities >0.5 ppt
Bluefish
Estuaries
Atlantic Butterfish
Inshore pelagic habitats
MAFMC HAPC IRECE
Summer Flounder
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
NMFS EFH JUL 2
Highly Migratory Species (Smooth Dogfish)
Estuaries
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
7
IVED
2022
D CITY

4.1 Federally Managed Species
4.1.1 Peneaid Shrimp
Federally managed penaeid shrimp in NC include brown shrimp (Farfantepenaeus aztecus), pink
shrimp (F. duorarum), and white shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus). Adults spawn offshore in high
salinity oceanic waters during the winter or spring, and the ocean -spawned larvae and post -larvae
are transported by currents to inshore estuarine nursery habitats where they maintain a benthic
existence (SAFMC 1981). Larval and post -larval estuarine recruitment periods vary among the
three species (Table 2). Penaeid shrimp tolerate a wide range of salinities (Table 2) and are most
abundant in shallow mud -silt habitats where they congregate at the highly productive marsh -water
interface. As their size increases, shrimp move toward higher -salinity ocean waters, eventually
migrating offshore in the fall. The action area encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH
and HAPCs for all life stages of penaeid shrimp; including estuarine tidal marshes, subtidal and
intertidal non -vegetated flats, coastal inlets, submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), and state
designated Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) and Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs).
Table 2. Penaeid shrimp salinity requirements and recruitment periods (NCDEQ 2016).
Species
Salinity (ppt)
Juvenile Recruitment
Brown Shrimp
2-35
February - March
Pink Shrimp
0-35
June - October
White Shrimp
2-35
April - May
4.1.2 Snapper -Grouper Complex
CEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
The snapper -grouper complex is an assemblage of 59 species that share a common association
with hardbottom or reef habitats during part of their life cycle. Snappers (Lutjanidae), groupers
(Serranidae), porgies (Sparidae), and grunts (Haemulidae) generally inhabit offshore reef and
hardbottom habitats; whereas, nearshore ocean hardbottoms along the NC coast have cooler
temperatures and a fish community dominated primarily by black sea bass (Centropristis striata),
scup (Stenotomus chrysops), and associated temperate species (Sedberry and Van Dolah 1984).
Most snapper -grouper species are associated with offshore reef and hardbottom habitats
throughout their life cycle; however, a few species such as black sea bass, gag (Mycteroperca
microlepis), gray snapper (Lutjanus griseus), and lane snapper (L. synagris) use estuarine
nursery habitats for juvenile development (SAFMC 1998, NCDMF 2006). Juveniles of these
estuarine -dependent species emigrate from the estuary to nearshore hardbottom habitats in the
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fall, and eventually move to offshore reef and hardbottom habitats. Moser at al. (1999) reported
that juvenile gag, red grouper, and black grouper recruited to the lower Newport River Estuary
and Bogue Sound from mid -April to early June and remained through early November. Juveniles
were found only in polyhaline habitats near inlets, initially occupying SAV beds for 3-4 months
before moving to complex structural habitats such as estuarine jetties. Caridean shrimp
comprised 51% of the total food volume consumed, with Penaeid shrimp and fish contributing
21% and 16% of the total volume, respectively. Amphipods and copepods were frequently
consumed, but comprised only a small percentage of the overall volume. The action area
encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH and HAPCs for the juvenile life stages of
estuarine -dependent snapper -grouper species; including estuarine tidal marsh, tidal creeks,
unconsolidated bottom, SAV, oyster reefs, and state -designated PNAs and SNAs. RECEIVED
4.1.3 Summer Flounder JUL 26 2022
The geographic range of the summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) includes shallow ep&%IAHD CITY
and outer continental shelf waters along the Atlantic Coast from Nova Scotia to Florida (Packer
at al. 1999). Adult summer flounder exhibit strong seasonal inshore -offshore movements;
concentrating in estuaries and sounds from late spring through early fall before migrating offshore
to the outer continental shelf where spawning occurs during the fall and early winter. Larvae and
post larvae recruit to estuarine nursery habitats from October to May and eventually settle to the
bottom and bury into the sediment where development to the juvenile life stage is completed.
Late larval and juvenile flounder actively prey on crustaceans, copepods, and polychaetes
(NEFSC 1999). Juveniles prefer sandy shell substrates; but also inhabit marsh creeks, mud flats,
and seagrass beds. Juveniles often remain in North Carolina estuaries for 18 to 20 months.
Adults prefer sandy substrates, but also use seagrass beds, tidal marsh creeks, and sand flats
(ASFMC 2011 c and d, NEFSC 1999). The action area encompasses habitats that are designated
as EFH and HAPCs for larval, juvenile, and adult summer flounder; including estuarine waters
with salinities >0.5 ppt and SAV.
4.1.4 Coastal Migratory Pelagics
The coastal migratory pelagics management unit includes Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus.
maculates), king mackerel (S. cavalla), and cobia (Rachycentron canadum). Adult Spanish
mackerel spawn in groups over the inner continental shelf; beginning in April off the Carolinas.
Larvae are most commonly found in nearshore ocean waters at shallow depths less than 30 ft.
Most juveniles remain in nearshore ocean waters, but some use high salinity estuaries (e.g.,
Bogue Sound) as nursery habitats. Adult Spanish mackerel spend most of their lives in the open
ocean but are also found in tidal estuaries and coastal waters (ASMFC 2011 a, 2011 b, Mercer at
al. 1990). King mackerel are primarily a coastal species, with smaller individuals of similar size
forming schools over reefs and areas of bottom relief, and larger solitary individuals preferring
anthropogenic structures and wrecks. Cobia are found over the continental shelf and in high
salinity estuaries; preferring waters in the vicinity of reefs and artificial structures such as pilings
and buoys. Cobia spawning along NC occurs primarily in offshore ocean waters during May and
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June; however, spawning has also been observed in estuaries and shallow bays, with the young
moving offshore soon after hatching (SAFMC 1983 and 2011). In Bogue Sound, Spanish
mackerel and cobia larvae are common in the seawater (>25 ppt) salinity zone, while adults and
juveniles are abundant to common in both the seawater and mixing (0.5-25 ppt) zones (Nelson et
al 1991). The action area encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH and HAPCs for
coastal migratory pelagics; including high salinity estuaries, coastal inlets, SAV, and state -
designated PNAs and SNAs.
4.1.5 Bluefish
The bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix) is a migratory, pelagic species found in temperate and semi-
tropical continental shelf waters around the world with the exception of the north and central
Pacific. In North America, bluefish range from Nova Scotia to Florida in the Atlantic Ocean and
from Florida to Texas in the Gulf of Mexico. Spawning in the South Atlantic Bight occurs near the
shoreward edge of the Gulf Stream primarily during April and May. Larval development occurs in
the upper water column over the outer continental shelf, with transitional pelagic juveniles
eventually moving to nearshore ocean and estuarine waters that serve as the principal nursery
habitats for juvenile development (Kendall and Watford 1979). Estuarine juveniles are most
commonly associated with sandy unconsolidated bottom habitats; but also use mud/silt bottom,
SAV, marine macroalgae, oyster reefs, and tidal marshes (Shepherd and Packer 2006).
Juveniles are common in high salinity estuaries along the southern NC coast during summer and
fall, where they are usually associated with salinities of 23 to 33 ppt; however, juveniles are found
at salinities as low as 3 ppt (Fahay et al. 1999). Designated inshore EFH for juvenile and adult
bluefish along the southern NC coast includes estuaries below MHW.
4.1.6 Smooth Dogfish
The smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis) is a small, migratory, demersal shark species of inshore and
continental shelf waters from Massachusetts to northern Argentina in the Atlantic Ocean. The
species is viviparous, with pupping occurring in estuarine waters from Virginia to Massachusetts
(McCandless et al. 2007). Pups are born during spring and summer, and juveniles remain in
estuarine nursery areas until fall. Larger juveniles occupy deeper estuarine waters before joining
adults on the continental shelf. Juveniles in estuarine nursey areas prey on polychaetes, decapod
shrimp, crabs, bivalves, and small estuarine fish (Able and Fahay 2010). Adults undertake
seasonal migrations between inshore pupping grounds and offshore wintering grounds on the on
the outer continental shelf (Branstetter 2002; Able and Fahay 2010). Adults migrate inshore
during the spring when water temperatures reach 6 to 7 °C, and move offshore during the early
fall as water temperatures decrease (Compagno 1984). Inshore estuarine waters in the vicinity of
the action area are designated as EFH for all life stages of the smooth dogfish.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
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4.2 EFH and HAPC
4.2.1 Estuarine Water Column
The north barge fleeting area is located -3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lowermost
polyhaline reach of the Newport River Estuary. Just below the fleeting area, the estuary
converges with Bogue Sound, Back Sound, and Beaufort Inlet. Beaufort Inlet extends -2.5 miles
from the Port of Morehead City to the Atlantic Ocean. Beaufort Inlet is an important transport
corridor for the planktonic eggs and larvae of estuarine -dependent fishes and invertebrates that
spawn offshore as adults and reside in estuarine nursery areas during juvenile development.
Successful recruitment of ocean -spawned planktonic larvae to estuarine nursery areas is
dependent on passive ocean -to -sound transport through a relatively small number of narrow tidal
inlets. Larvae spawned offshore are transported shoreward by the prevailing currents, eventually
accumulating in the nearshore ocean zone where they are picked up by long -shore currents and
transported to inlets (Churchill et al. 1999). Temporal patterns of larval transport through Beaufort
Inlet were described by Hettler and Chester (1990). Overall larval densities within the inlet were
highest from late May to early June and lowest in November. Species richness was also highest
(32 taxa) from late May to early June and lowest (3 taxa) in November.
4.2.2 Unconsolidated Bottom
Intertidal and shallow subtidal unconsolidated bottom habitats provide abundant food resources
for estuarine -dependent juveniles in an environment that is relatively inaccessible to large
predators via shallow depths (SAFMC 1998). Shallow unconsolidated bottom habitats support
highly productive benthic microalgal communities. Benthic microagal primary production, along
with imported primary production in the form of phytoplankton and detritus, supports highly
productive benthic infaunal invertebrate communities that comprise the prey base for most
estuarine -dependent demersal fishes; including summer flounder and estuarine -dependent
species of the snapper -grouper complex. Penaeid shrimp are most abundant in shallow
unconsolidated bottom habitats at the highly productive shallow bottom -marsh interface (NCDEQ
2016). Unconsolidated bottom habitats consisting of fine sand to silty fine sand comprise al[ofCEIVED
the benthic habitat within the proposed new dredging area (Catlin Engineers 2013).
JUL 26 2022
4.2.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
DCM-MHD CITY
Shell bottom habitats include oyster reefs, aggregations of non -reef building shellfish species
[e.g., clams and scallops (Argopecten irradians, A. gibbus)], and surface concentrations of broken
shells (shell hash). Oysters are the dominant reef -building species of estuarine shell bottom
habitats in NC. Non -reef building shellfish species that occur at densities sufficient to provide
structural habitat for other organisms include scallops, pen shells (Atrina seratta, A. rigida), and
rangia clams (Rangia cuneata) (SAFMC 2009). Shell bottom habitats function as important
nursery and foraging areas for estuarine -dependent juveniles. Shell bottom structure provides
refuge from predation and concentrates macroinvertebrates that comprise the prey base for many
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estuarine -dependent juvenile fishes (NCDEQ 2016). NCDMF benthic habitat maps depict a
narrow linear zone of shell bottom habitat -300 feet west of the proposed new dredging area
along the shoreline of Marsh Island (Figure 4). Additional mapped shell bottom habitats are
distributed throughout the surrounding Newport River Estuary.
4.2.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) in NC estuaries encompasses a number of bed -forming
rooted aquatic vascular plants (NCDEQ 2016). SAV beds occur on subtidal and occasionally
intertidal sediments in sheltered estuarine waters. Environmental requirements include
unconsolidated sediments for root and rhizome development, adequate light reaching the bottom,
and moderate to negligible current velocities (Thayer et al. 1984, Ferguson and Wood 1994).
SAV beds provide important structural fish habitat and perform important ecological functions
such as primary production, sediment and shoreline stabilization, and nutrient cycling (NCDEQ
2016). SAV habitats are important nursery areas for the juveniles of estuarine -dependent
species; including species of the snapper -grouper complex, bluefish, summer flounder, and
penaeid shrimp. NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately adjacent to
the proposed new dredging area (Figure 5). Small patches of SAV are identified along the
western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the proposed dredging area. Additional mapped SAV
habitats are distributed throughout the surrounding Newport River Estuary.
4.2.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)
Along with shallow unconsolidated bottom areas, salt and brackish marshes along the NC coast
function as important nursery habitats for federally managed species such as summer flounder,
penaeid shrimp, and estuarine dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. Penaeid
shrimp are considered critically linked to marsh edge habitat (SAFMC 1998). The majority of the
state designated fish nursery areas in NC encompass shallow soft bottom areas and associated
fringing tidal marshes (NCDEQ 2016). Tidal marshes in the lower polyhaline Newport River
Estuary are dominated by monospecific zones of smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and
black needlerush (Juncus romerianus). No tidal marshes are present within the proposed new
dredging area. The nearest tidal marshes are located -300 feet west of the proposed dredging
footprint along the shoreline of Marsh Island. The tidal marsh along the eastern shoreline. fCEIVED
Marsh Island consists of an approximately 400-ft-wide zone of smooth cordgrass.
JUL 26 2022
4.2.6 State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
DCM-MHD CITY
Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) are defined as "those areas in the estuarine system where initial
post -larval development takes place" [15 North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC) 31
.0101(b)(20)(E)]. PNAs support uniform populations of very early juveniles and are typically
located in the upper reaches of the estuarine system. Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs) are
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defined as "those areas in the estuarine system where later juvenile development takes place."
Secondary Nursery Areas support uniform populations of developing subadults that have moved
from PNAs to the lower portions of the estuarine system. For most estuarine -dependent species,
larval settlement occurs in the uppermost reaches of shallow tidal creek systems (Weinstein 1979,
Ross and Epperly 1985). The abundance of juveniles in estuarine nursery areas generally peaks
between April and July (Ross and Epperly 1985). PNAs and SNAs are designated as HAPC for
shrimp, coastal migratory pelagics, and estuarine dependent species of the snapper -grouper
complex. Designated PNAs that are nearest to the proposed new dredging area are located —1.3
miles to the northwest in small tributaries of the Newport River (Calico Creek and Crab Point Bay)
(Figure 6). The nearest additional PNAs and SNAs are located in the Newport River —4 miles
upstream of the proposed new dredging area.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
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Barge Fleeting Expansion Area 1:23,222
DMF Shell Bottom Habitat - Shell Bodom 0 0]5 03 0.6 hail
- Intertidal Firm Non-vegelaletl Shell
- C - Sublidal Solt Non -vegetated Shell - U - Inladidal Hard VegsWed Shell 0 025 0,5 1 km
G - Sublidal Flrm Non -vegetated Shell
— K - Sublidal Hard Non -vegetated Shell
= O - Inledldal Fam Vegetated Shell
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5w,m: EM.A,ds Da G. NGA NAeA. CCI NRUwem NCEPe.
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JUL 26 2022
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Figure 5. NCDMF SAV Map
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
EIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Dial Gordy and Associates Inc.
July 2022
15

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Figure 6. State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
EIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
July 2022
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5.0 EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION ON EFH AND MANAGED SPECIES
This assessment considers potential effects on EFH/HAPCs and federally managed species that
may occur through the following impact mechanisms: physical disturbance and modification of
benthic habitat within the dredging footprint, sediment suspension and redeposition, and larval
entrainment. Analyses of potential effects on EFH/HAPCs and federally managed species are
presented according to habitat type.
RECEIVED
5.1 Estuarine Water Column
JUL 2 6 2022
5.1.1 Sediment Suspension and Turbidity DCM-MHD CITY
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity may affect the
behavior (e.g., feeding, predator avoidance, habitat selection) and physiological functions (e.g.,
photosynthesis, gill -breathing, filter -feeding) of marine fishes and invertebrates (Michel at al.
2013). The extent and duration of dredging -induced sediment suspension are influenced by
sediment composition at the dredge site, the type of dredge employed, and hydrodynamic
conditions at the dredge site (Wilber et al. 2005). Sediment suspension by cutterhead dredges is
generally confined to the near bottom water column in the immediate vicinity of the rotating
cutterhead assembly (LaSalle et al. 1991). Based on sediment resuspension data collected
during navigation dredging projects, Hayes at al. (2000) and Hayes and Wu (2001) reported
average cutterhead dredge sediment resuspension rates ranging from 0.003 to 0.135% of the fine
silt/clay fraction. Mechanical dredges (bucket and clamshell) generally have higher sediment
suspension rates due to the washing of material out of the bucket as it is withdrawn from the
bottom and moved through and above the water column (LaSalle at al. 1991). Water injection
dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density sediment -
water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to deeper areas.
Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced sediment suspension
is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the bottom (Welp at al. 2017).
Regardless of dredge type, prolonged sediment suspension and extensive turbidity plumes are
primarily associated with the suspension of fine silt/clay particles that have relatively slow settling
velocities, whereas sands and gravels that make up the coarse -grained sediment fraction resettle
rapidly in the immediate vicinity of the dredge (Schroeder 2009). As previously described, the
sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse
sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by
either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate
vicinity of the new dredging footprint. It is expected that suspended fine sediments would be
rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the
duration of any adverse effects on water quality and federally managed species. The proposed
project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would avoid peak periods of larval ingress
and estuarine -dependent juvenile abundance in the vicinity of the action area, thus minimizing
the exposure of federally managed species to sediment suspension effects. In the specific case
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of WID, the potential for upstream sediment transport into the New River Estuary would be
minimized by conducting WID only on falling tides. Based on these considerations, it is expected
that any adverse effects on water quality and federally managed species would be minor and
short-term.
5.1.2 Larval Entrainment
Cutterhead pipeline dredges have the potential to entrain fishes and invertebrates during all life
cycle phases; including adults, juveniles, larvae, and eggs. Among adult and juvenile fishes,
demersal species that inhabit the near -bottom water column environment are most likely to be
entrained (Refine and Clarke 1998); although studies have also reported the entrainment of
pelagic fishes in small numbers (McGraw and Armstrong 1990). Entrainment studies indicate
that dredging elicits an avoidance response by demersal and pelagic species and that most
juvenile and adult fishes are successful at avoiding entrainment (Larson and Moehl 1990, McGraw
and Armstrong 1990). Planktonic eggs and larvae that lack avoidance capabilities are more
vulnerable to entrainment by hydraulic dredges, especially during ingress periods when they are
concentrated in inlets. The results of a long-term sampling program at Beaufort Inlet indicate that
larval densities within the inlet are highest from late May to early June and lowest in November
(Hettler and Chester 1990).
In the case of cutterhead pipeline dredging, the proposed action would affect federally managed
estuarine -dependent species by entraining planktonic eggs and larvae that occur in the vicinity of
the dredge pipe suction field. However, the results of larval entrainment modeling in Beaufort
Inlet indicate that dredge entrainment rates are extremely low regardless of inlet larval
concentrations and the distribution of larvae within the water column (Settle 2003). Even under
worst case model scenarios when the dredge was assumed to be operating 24 hours/day and all
larvae were assumed to be concentrated in the bottom of the navigation channel, projected
entrainment rates barely exceeded 0.1 % of the daily (24-hour) larval flux through the inlet. The
proposed new dredging area is located above Beaufort Inlet in the relatively broad Newport River
Estuary where it is expected that the distribution of planktonic eggs and larvae would be relatively
diffuse. Furthermore, the proposed project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would
avoid the peak larval ingress period at Beaufort Inlet. Based on all of the above considerations,
it is anticipated that the effects of egg/larval entrainment on populations of federally managed
species would be negligible. RECEIVED
5.2 Unconsolidated Bottom JUL 26 2022
Dt '1f-I IHD CITY
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of unconsolidated bottom habitat in the barge
fleeting expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be
increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent periodic maintenance dredging
events would remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily
reducing the availability of prey for federally managed demersal fishes such as summer flounder
and estuarine -dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. Depending on shoaling rates,
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the affected benthic infaunal communities would experience recurring maintenance dredging
impacts every 2 to 5 years. Studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah at al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of -10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction window
(01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate recruitment periods; thus
facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment. Based on all of the above
considerations, it is anticipated that effects on estuarine unconsolidated bottom habitats and
associated federally managed species would be minor and short-term.
5.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
As previously described, NCDMF benthic habitat maps do not identify any shell bottom areas
within or immediately adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on
shell bottom habitats would be expected. The only mapped shell bottom area in the vicinity of the
project area is a narrow linear shell bottom feature along the shoreline of Marsh Island -300-ft
west of the new dredging footprint. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process
may be transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting shell bottom areas
through redeposition. Heavy sediment redeposition can impact oysters by inhibiting larval
attachment to hard substrates and reducing the respiration and feeding rates of juveniles and
adults (Wilber and Clarke 2010). However, according to Colden and Lipcius (2015), eastern
oysters that were subjected to experimental sediment deposition did not exhibit significant
mortality or sublethal effects until at least 70% of the shell height was buried. As previously
described, the sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of
relatively coarse fine sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that
sediment suspension by either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be
confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint and the contiguous AIWW
channel. Therefore, it is expected that the effects of dredging -induced sediment suspension and
redeposition on oyster reefs and associated federally managed species would be minor and short-
term. RECEIVED
5.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
As previously described, NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately
adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on SAV would be expected.
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Small patches of SAV are identified along the western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the
proposed dredging area. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be
transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting SAV through increases in
turbidity and/or sediment redeposition. However, as previously described, it is anticipated that
the predominance of relatively coarse sand in the new dredging area would limit sediment
suspension to the immediate vicinity of the active work area. Therefore, it is expected that any
adverse effects on SAV and associated federally managed species from dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition would be minor and short-term.
5.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)
As previously described, the only tidal marshes in the vicinity of proposed new dredging area are
located -300 feet west of the dredging footprint along the shoreline of Marsh Island. Therefore,
the proposed action would not be expected to have any effect on tidal marshes.
6.0 CONSERVATION MEASURES
The following conservation measures would be implemented to avoid or minimize potential effects
on EFH/HPAC and federally managed species:
• Dredging would be conducted within a 1 October to 31 January construction window.
• Water injection dredging (WID) would be conducted only on falling tides.
• Good Engineering Practices (GEPs) and Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be
applied to all dredging activities.
• Dredged material delivery pipelines would be routinely inspected for pressurized leaks,
and any leaks that are found would be immediately repaired.
• Dredging contractors would be required to maintain spill control plans and waste
management plans for all dredging fleet equipment.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
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RECEIVED
JUL �), 6 n22
7.0 REFERENCES oCM-MHD CITY
Able, K.W. and M.P. Fahay. 2010. Ecology of estuarine fishes: temperate waters of the western
North Atlantic. Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins University Press; 2010. 566p.
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). 2011a. Managed Species Spanish
Mackerel, Species Profile. Washington, D.C. Accessed March 2011.
ASMFC. 2011b. Managed Species Spanish Mackerel, Habitat Fact Sheet. Washington, D.C.
Accessed March 2011.
ASMFC. 2011c. Managed Species Summer Flounder, Habitat Fact Sheet. Washington, D.C.
Accessed March 2009.
ASMFC. 2011d. Managed Species Summer Flounder, Species Profile. Washington, D.C.
Accessed March 2009.
Branstetter, S. 2002. Smooth Dogfish/Mustelus canis canis (Mitchill 1815). In: B.B. Collette BB,
Klein-MacPhee G, editors, Fishes of the Gulf of Maine, 3rd ed. Washington: Smithsonian
Institution Press; 2002. P 37-38.
Churchill, J.H., R.B. Forward, R.A. Luettich, J.L. Hench, W.F. Hettler, L.B. Crowder, and B.O.
Blanton. 1999. Circulation and Larval Fish Transport within a Tidally Dominated Estuary.
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Cleary W.J. and A.C. Knierim. 2001. Turbidity and suspended sediment characterizations: Nixon
Channel dredging and beach rebuilding, Figure Eight Island, NC. Report submitted to
Figure Eight Beach Homeowners Association, Figure Eight Island, NC, 33 pp.
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Project Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). Prepared for the Town of Emerald
Isle and submitted to the Army Corps of Engineers. April 2004.
Colden, A.M. and R.N. Lipcius. 2015. Lethal and sublethal effects of sediment burial on the
eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 527: 105-117.
Compagno, L.J.V. 1984. FAO species catalogue. Vol.4. Sharks of the world. An annotated and
illustrated catalogue of shark species known to date. Part 1. Hexanchiformes to
Lamniformes.
Ferguson, R.L. and L.L. Wood. 1994. Rooted Vascular Aquatic Beds in the Albemarle -Pamlico
Estuarine System. NMFS, NOAA, Beaufort, NC, Project No. 94-02, 103 pp.
Hayes, D. and P.Y. Wu. 2001. Simple approach to TSS source strength estimates. In
Proceedings of the WEDA XXI Conference, Houston, TX, June 25-27, 2001.
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Hayes, D., T. Crockett, T. Ward, and D. Averett. 2000. Sediment resuspension during cutterhead
dredging operations. Journal of Waterway, Port, Coastal, and Ocean Engineering
126(3):153-161.
Hettler, W.F. and A.J. Chester. 1990. Temporal Distribution of Ichthyoplankton near Beaufort
Inlet, North Carolina. Marine Ecology Progress Series 68: 157-168.
Kendall, A.W.J. and L.A. Walford. 1979. Sources and distribution of bluefish, Pomatomus
saltatrix, larvae and juveniles off the east coast of the United States. Fishery Bulletin
77:213-227.
Kirby -Smith, W.W. and J.D. Costlow. 1989. The Newport River Estuarine System. Duke
University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC.
Larson, K. and C. Moehl. 1990. Fish entrainment by dredges in Grays Harbor, Washington. In:
Effects of dredging on anadromous Pacific Coast fishes. C. A. Simenstad, ed.,
Washington Sea Grant Program, University of Washington, Seattle, 102-12.
LaSalle, M.W., D.G. Clarke, J. Homziak, J.D. Lunz, and T.J. Fredette. 1991. A framework for
assessing the need for seasonal restrictions on dredging and disposal operations.
Technical Report D-91-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg,
MS.
McCandless, C.T., N.E. Kohler, and H.L. Pratt Jr. editors. Shark nursery grounds of the Gulf of
Mexico and the East Coast waters of the United States. Bethesda: American Fisheries
Society, Symposium 50; 2007. 402 p.
McGraw, K.A. and D.A. Armstrong. 1990. Fish Entrainment by Dredges in Grays Harbor,
Washington. pp. 113-131. In: C.A. Simenstad (ed.). Effects of Dredging on Anadromous
Pacific Coast Fishes. Workshop Proceedings, University of Washington Sea Grant, FL.
Mercer, L. P., L.R. Phalen, and J.R. Maiolo. 1990. Fishery Management Plan For Spanish
Mackerel, Fisheries Management Report No. 18 of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries
Commission Washington, DC. North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and
Natural Resources Morehead City, NC, and East Carolina University Department of
Sociology and Anthropology, Greenville, NC. November 1990.
Michel, J., A.C. Bejarano, C.H. Peterson, and C. Voss. 2013. Review of biological and
biophysical impacts from dredging and handling of offshore sand. OCS Study BOEM
2013-0119 Herndon, Virginia: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy
Management.
RECEIV`ialid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC). 1990. Fishery Management Plan for the
Bluefish Fishery, Prepared by Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic
JUL 26 2022 State Marine Fisheries Commission in cooperation with the National Marine Fisheries
Service, the New England Fishery Management Council, and the South Atlantic
)CM-MHD CITY Management Council. Dover, Delaware. Updated February 2009; Accessed March 2011.
Nelson, D.M., E.A. Irlandi, L.R. Settle, M.E. Monaco, and L. Coston-Clements. 1991. Distribution
and Abundance of Fishes and Invertebrates in Southeast Estuaries. ELMR Rep. No. 9.
NOAA/NOS Strategic Environmental Assessments Division, Silver Spring, MD. 167 p.
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Habitat Protection Plan. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
Resources, NCDMF.
NCDMF. 2006. Stock status of important coastal fisheries in North Carolina. NCDMF, Morehead
City, NC.
NEFSC. 1999. Essential Fish Habitat Source Document: Summer Flounder, Paralichthys
dentatus, Life History and Habitat Characteristics. Woods Hole, Massachusetts.
September 1999.
Reine, K.J. and D.G. Clark. 1998. Entrainment by Hydraulic Dredges - A Review of Potential
Impacts. U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Research And
Development Center, Vicksburg, MS, DOER Tech Notes Collection (TN DOER -El).
Ross, S.W. and S.P. Epperly. 1985. Chapter 10: Utilization of shallow estuarine nursery areas
by fishes in Pamlico Sound and adjacent tributaries, North Carolina. p. 207-232 in A.
YanezAranciba (ed.). Fish Community Ecology in Estuaries and Coastal Lagoons:
Towards and Ecosystem Integration. DR (R) UNAM Press, Mexico, 654 pp.
Schroeder, P.R. 2009. USACE Technical Guidelines for Practicing the 3Rs of Environmental
Dredging. In: Proceedings of the Western Dredging Association Twentyninth Technical
Conference and 40th Annual Texas A&M Dredging Seminar, Tempe, AZ, June 2009.
Sedberry, G.R. and R.F. Van Dolah. 1984. Demersal fish assemblages associated with hard
bottom habitat in the South Atlantic Bight of the USA. Environ. Biol. Fish. 11(1).
Settle, L. 2003, Assessment of potential larval entrainment mortality to hydraulic dredging of
Beaufort Inlet. Prepared for USACE-Wilmington District for the Morehead City Harbor
Environmental Assessment. May 2003. NOAA/NOS National Centers for Coastal Ocean
Science.
Shepherd, G.R. and D.B. Packer. 2006. Essential Fish Habitat Source Document:
Bluefish, Pomatomus saltatrix, Life History and Habitat Characteristics 2nd edition. NOAA
Technical Memorandum, NMFS-NE-198:100.
South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (SAFMC). 2011. Regulations by Species, Cobia.
Accessed March 2011.
SAFMC. 2009. Fishery Ecosystem Plan of the South Atlantic Region. SAFMC, Charleston, SC.
SAFMC. 1998. Final Habitat Plan for the South Atlantic Region: Essential Fish Habitat
Requirements for Fishery Management Plans of the South Atlantic Fishery Management
Council. SAFMC, Charleston, SC.
SAFMC. 1983. Fishery Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement Regulatory
Impact Review Final Regulations for Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources (Mackerels) In
The Gulf of Mexico And South Atlantic Region. South Atlantic Fishery Management
Council Charleston, SC; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council Tampa, FL.
February 1983.
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SAFMC. 1981. Profile of the penaeid shrimp fishery in the South Atlantic, South Atlantic Fishery
Management Council, 1 Southpark Cir., Ste 306, Charleston, S.C. 29407, 321 pp.
Stickney, R. 1972. Effects of Intracoastal Waterway Dredging on Ichthyofauna and Benthic
Macro- Invertebrates. Technical Report Series. No 72-4. Skidaway Institute of
Oceanography, Savannah, GA. July 1972 60 pp.
Stickney, R. and D. Perlmutter. 1975. Impact of Intracoastal Waterway maintenance dredging
on a mud bottom benthos community. Biol Consery 01/1975; 7(3):211-225.
Thayer, G.W., W.J. Kenworthy, and M.S. Fonseca. 1984. The Ecology of Eelgrass Meadows of
the Atlantic coast: A Community Profile. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, FWS/OBS-84/02,
147 pp.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, and D.M. Knott. 1984. Effects of dredging and open -water disposal
on benthic macroinvertebrates in a South Carolina estuary. Estuaries 7, 28-37.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, D.M. Knott, and M.S. Maclin. 1979. Effects of dredging and
unconfined disposal of dredged material on benthic macroinvertebrate communities in
Sewee Bay, SC. Marine Resources Center Technical Report 39. Charleston, SC.
Weinstein, M.P. 1979. Shallow marsh habitats as primary nurseries for fishes and shellfish, Cape
Fear River. NC. Fisheries Bulletin 2: 339-357.
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DOER Technical Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center.
Wilber, D.H., W. Brostoff, D.G. Clarke, and G.L. Ray. 2005. Sedimentation: Potential biological
effects from dredging operations in estuarine and marine environments. DOER Technical
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and Development Center.
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24 JUL 26 Z022
July 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
NORTH BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
5 July 2022
Prepared for:
North Carolina State Ports Authority
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402
Prepared by:
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 North Front Street, Suite 307
Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
w DIAL CORDY `,r
AND ASSOCIATES IN('
RECENED
pL 2 6 NZ2
DCM-MHD CITY

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0
INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................1
2.0
LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION....................................2
3.0
DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA..........................................................................2
4.0
EFFECTS THE PROPOSED ACTION ON LISTED SPECIES AND CRITICAL
HABITATS........................................................................................................................
6
4.1
Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon..................................................................................6
4.1.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat.............................................................................6
4.1.2 Occurrence in the Action Area...............................................................................7
4.1.3 Factors Affecting the Species................................................................................7
4.1.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon......................8
4.1.5 Determination of Effect..........................................................................................9
4.2
Sea Turtles.................................................................................................................10
4.2.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat...........................................................................10
4.2.2 Occurrence in the Action Area.............................................................................12
4.2.3 Factors Affecting the Species..............................................................................13
4.2.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Sea Turtles.....................................................15
4.2.5 Conservation Measures.......................................................................................16
4.2.6 Determination of Effect........................................................................................16
5.0
REFERENCES...............................................................................................................17
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

LIST OF TABLES
Page
Table 1. Species and critical habitats considered in this assessment..........................................1
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1. Proposed Action Location Map...................................................................................3
Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout.............................................................4
Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry ................5
Figure 4. Loggerhead Turtle Critical Habitat.............................................................................14
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Biological Assessment Dial Gordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

LIST OF ACRONYMS
%
Percent
°C
Degrees Celsius
AIWW
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
ASSRT
Atlantic Sturgeon Status Review Team
CWA
Clean Water Act
CY
Cubic Yards
DPS
Distinct Population Segment
ESA
Endangered Species Act
FIR
Federal Register
FT
Feet
GEPs
Good Engineering Practices
BMPs
Best Management Practices
MCH
Morehead City Harbor
MLLW
Mean Lower Low Water
INC
North Carolina
NCDMF
North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
NCSPA
North Carolina State Ports Authority
NMFS
National Marine Fisheries Service
PPT
Parts per Thousand
RHA
Rivers and Harbors Act
SAV
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
SSSRT
Shortnose Sturgeon Status Review Team
USACE
United States Army Corps of Engineers
USFWS
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
WID
Water Injection Dredging
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Biological Assessment has been prepared in accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered
Species Act (ESA) to address the effects of proposed new dredging work at the Port of Morehead
City on listed species and critical habitats. The North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA)
has requested Department of the Army authorization pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water
Act (CWA) and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act (RHA) to expand the existing north barge
fleeting area in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North
Carolina (NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are
awaiting waterbome transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is primarily
associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford
Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over the
last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action
would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges. This assessment considers listed species and critical habitats
under the jurisdiction of the NMFS that occur or may occur in the vicinity of the Port of Morehead
City; including the Atlantic sturgeon, shortnose sturgeon, loggerhead sea turtle, green sea turtle,
Kemps ridley sea turtle, leatherback sea turtle, hawksbill sea turtle, and loggerhead nearshore
reproductive critical habitat (Table 1).
Table 1. Species and critical habitats considered in this assessment.
Species/Critical Habitat
ESA
Listing Status
Effect
Determination
Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
Endangered
MANLAA
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
Threatened
MANLAA
Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Endangered
MANLAA
Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmoche/ys imbricata)
Endangered
MANLAA
Kemp's Holley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
Endangered
MANLAA
Shortnose sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum)
Endangered
MANLAA
Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus)
Endangered
MANLAA
Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Critical Habitat
NE
MANLAA = May affect, not likely to adversely affect; NE = No Effect R EC E
IVED
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DCM-MHD CITY
Biological Assessment Dial Gordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River -600 feet north of the northeast
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging every 2 to 5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to
-14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new dredging area are part of a
uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface to a depth of -45-ft MLLW
(Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ a
hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredge and/or a mechanical bucket dredge and scow system.
Construction dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Construction disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic
delivery to the disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area
for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA
The north barge fleeting area is located -3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, NC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of -3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated bottom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish bed
ECEIVED
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
JUL 26 2022
r"f-U-NIHD CIT'
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

rWr
BOGUE SOUND
a
8
f
Locadw
M-0
is
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------
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Figure 1. Proposed Action Location Map
Biological Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2027
DCM-MHD CITY
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
July 2022
3

Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
JUL 26 2022
DCN!-MHD CITY
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

IF
ORA
A - A' Bathymetric Prole Graph
Distance (feet)
B - B' Bathymetric Profile Graph
�Eusting Beth
10
Proposed Bathymetr
12
14.1Area
14
1R
Slope Proposed Fleftr Area 6d=ng Flee
0 50 too 150 ZX
Distance (feet)
C - C' Bathymetric Prole Graph
-s
Usung Bothymetry Profs
O'l
Proposed Batlrymeay Raba
12
3:1
14
Reposetl FleeEna Mee FzsErg Fleeure Nee
16
0 50 100 150 260 2503601
Q -28 Q Distance (Teel)
—
� n
Legend
Profile Location It Contour(MLL) e
Barge Fleeting Area Elevation (MLLW)
® busting Fleeting Area Value
® Proposed Fleetingyrea Hlqh'-Z
0 150 300 450 600
Proposed 3:1 Slope " Low:-30 Feet
IVED
Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry, 2 6 2022
DGs o-MHD CITY
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
5

4.0 EFFECTS THE PROPOSED ACTION ON LISTED SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITATS
4.1 Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
4.1.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat
DCM-MHD CITY
Shortnose Sturgeon
The shortnose sturgeon was listed as endangered throughout its range on 11 March 1967 (32 FIR
4001). The species inhabits large Atlantic coast rivers from the St. Johns River in northeastern
Florida to the Saint Johns River in New Brunswick, Canada. Adults in southern rivers are
estuarine anadromous, foraging at the saltwater -freshwater interface and moving upstream to
spawn in the early spring. Shortnose sturgeon spend most of their lives in their natal river systems
and rarely migrate to marine environments. Spawning habitats include river channels with gravel,
gravel/boulder, rubble/boulder, and gravel/sand/log substrates. Spawning in southern rivers
begins in later winter or early spring and lasts from a few days to several weeks. Juveniles occupy
the saltwater -freshwater interface, moving back and forth with the low salinity portion of the salt
wedge during summer. Juveniles typically move upstream during the spring and summer and
move downstream during the winter, with movements occurring above the saltwater -freshwater
interface. In southern rivers, both adults and juveniles are known to congregate in cool, deep
thermal refugia during the summer. The shortnose sturgeon is a benthic omnivore that feeds on
crustaceans, insect larvae, worms, and mollusks. Juveniles randomly vacuum the bottom and
consume mostly insect larvae and small crustaceans. Adults are more selective feeders, feeding
primarily on small mollusks (NMFS 1998). No critical habitat has been designated for the
shortnose sturgeon.
Atlantic Sturgeon
The Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus) was listed under the ESA in 2012 as five
Distinct Population Segments (DPSs); including the endangered New York Bight, Chesapeake
Bay, Carolina, and South Atlantic DPSs and the threatened Gulf of Maine DPS (77 FIR 5914, 77
FIR 5880). The Carolina DPS encompasses subpopulations from the Roanoke, Tar/Pamlico,
Cape Fear, Waccamaw, Pee Dee, and Santee -Cooper Rivers in NC and South Carolina. Atlantic
sturgeon spawn in freshwater, but spend most of their adult life in the marine environment.
Spawning adults generally migrate upriver in the spring/early summer, although a fall spawning
migration may also occur in some southern rivers. Spawning is believed to occur in flowing water
between the salt front and fall line of large rivers. Post -larval juveniles move downstream into
brackish waters and eventually move to estuarine waters where they reside for a period of months
or years. Subadult and adult Atlantic sturgeons emigrate from rivers into coastal waters, where
they may undertake long range migrations. Migratory adult and subadult sturgeon are typically
found in shallow (40-70 ft) nearshore waters with gravel and sand substrates. Although extensive
mixing occurs in coastal waters, Atlantic sturgeons return to their natal river to spawn [Atlantic
Sturgeon Status Review Team (ASSRT) 2007]. In 2017, NMFS designated critical habitat for the
Atlantic sturgeon in large spawning river systems throughout the five DPSs (82 FIR 39160).
Critical habitat for the Carolina DPS was designated in the Roanoke, Tar -Pamlico, Neuse, Cape
Fear, and Pee Dee Rivers of NC and South Carolina.
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

4.1.2 Occurrence in the Action Area
Shortnose Sturgeon
Shortnose sturgeon were thought to be extirpated from NC waters until an individual was captured
in the Brunswick River in 1987 (Ross et al. 1988). Subsequent gill -net studies (1989-1993)
confirmed the presence of a small population in the lower Cape Fear River (Moser and Ross
1995). In 1998, the NC Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMF) reported the capture of a shortnose
sturgeon in western Albemarle Sound (Armstrong and Hightower 1999). Surveys in the Neuse
River during 2001 and 2002 failed to capture any shortnose sturgeon (Oakley and Hightower
2007). The current distribution of the shortnose sturgeon in NC is thought to include only the
Cape Fear and Pee Dee Rivers, and no spawning populations have been confirmed in the state
[Shortnose Sturgeon Status Review Team (SSSRT) 20101. Occurrence data specific to the
action area vicinity are lacking. Based on its restriction primarily to large rivers, and more
specifically riverine waters above the saltwater -freshwater interface, shortnose sturgeon
occurrences within the high salinity waters of the action area (i.e., lower Newport River Estuary
and Beaufort Inlet) are considered unlikely. The occurrence of a transient individual within the
action area cannot be entirely discounted, as genetic studies indicate that some individuals move
between the various populations (Quattro et al. 2002, Wirgin et al. 2005).
Atlantic Sturgeon
Extant spawning populations of the Atlantic sturgeon in NC are currently known from the
Roanoke, Tar -Pamlico, Cape Fear, and potentially the Neuse River systems (ASSRT 2007).
Laney et al. (2007) analyzed Atlantic sturgeon incidental capture data from winter tagging cruises
along the NC and Virginia coasts. Cruises conducted in nearshore ocean waters from Cape
Lookout to Cape Charles, Virginia captured 146 Atlantic sturgeons between 1988 and 2006.
Captures typically occurred over sand substrate in nearshore waters that were less than 60 feet
deep. Laney et al. (2007) concluded that shallow nearshore ocean waters along the NC coast
represent an important winter (January -February) habitat and aggregation area for adult and
subadult Atlantic sturgeon. Occurrence data for estuarine waters in the vicinity of the action area
are lacking; however, based on the work by Laney et al. (2007), it is assumed that adult and
subadult Atlantic sturgeon may occur in the vicinity of Beaufort Inlet during the winter months. %CEIVED
critical habitat has been designated in the vicinity of the action area.
JUL 2 6 2022
4.1.3 Factors Affecting the Species
DCM-MHD CIT`t
Historical overharvesting contributed to drastic declines in shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon
populations. Commercial exploitation of shortnose sturgeons continued into the 1950s, and
Atlantic sturgeons were commercially exploited throughout most of the 201h century (NMFS 1998,
ASSRT 2007). Although directed commercial harvest is no longer permitted, by -catch mortality
associated with other fisheries remains a major threat. By -catch mortality associated with the
shad and shrimp fisheries and water quality degradation in nursery habitats are the primary
threats currently facing southeastern sturgeon populations (Collins et al. 2000). Dams that block
access to spawning grounds are a major stressor in some southern river systems, including the
Cape Fear River. Additional stressors include ship strikes and dredging (ASSRT 2007). Potential
dredging effects include direct impacts on benthic habitats and food resources, hydrological
modifications, turbidity and siltation, contaminant resuspension, and entrainment in hydraulic
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

dredge intake pipelines. A total of 18 Atlantic sturgeons were taken by hopper dredges during
federal navigation dredging along the South Atlantic Coast from October 1990 to March 2012,
including two at Wilmington Harbor (USAGE 2014). No dredge takes have been reported at
Morehead City Harbor.
4.1.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon
This assessment evaluates potential effects on shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon that may occur
through the following impact mechanisms: physical disturbance and modification of soft bottom
foraging habitat within the dredging footprint, sediment suspension and redeposition, and
entrainment by hydraulic dredges. RECEIVED
4.1.4.1.1 Direct Impacts on Soft Bottom Foraging Habitat
JUL 2 6 2022
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of soft bottom habitat in the barge f0 i*MHD CITY
expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be increased to -
14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent periodic maintenance dredging events would
remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing the
availability of potential prey for shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon. Depending on shoaling rates,
the affected benthic infaunal communities would experience recurring maintenance dredging
impacts every 2 to 5 years. Studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah at al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah at al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of —10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction and
maintenance window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
4.1.4.1.2 Sediment Suspension and Redeposition
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity can affect the
behavior (e.g., feeding, predator avoidance, habitat selection) and physiological functions (e.g.,
gill -breathing) of marine fishes (Michel at al. 2013). The extent and duration of dredging -induced
sediment suspension are influenced by sediment composition at the dredge site, the type of
dredge employed, and hydrodynamic conditions at the dredge site (Wilber et al. 2005). Sediment
suspension by cutterhead dredges is generally confined to the near bottom water column in the
immediate vicinity of the rotating cutterhead assembly (LaSalle et al. 1991). Based on sediment
resuspension data collected during navigation dredging projects, Hayes at al. (2000) and Hayes
and Wu (2001) reported average cutterhead dredge sediment resuspension rates ranging from
0.003 to 0.135% of the fine silt/clay fraction. Mechanical dredges (bucket and clamshell) generally
have higher sediment suspension rates due to the washing of material out of the bucket as it is
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withdrawn from the bottom and moved through and above the water column (LaSalle at al. 1991).
Water injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high
density sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity
to deeper areas. Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced
sediment suspension is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the
bottom (Welp et al. 2017). Regardless of dredge type, prolonged sediment suspension and
extensive turbidity plumes are primarily associated with the suspension of fine silt/clay particles
that have relatively slow settling velocities, whereas sands and gravels that make up the coarse -
grained sediment fraction resettle rapidly in the immediate vicinity of the dredge (Schroeder 2009).
As previously described, the sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist
predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is
expected that sediment suspension by either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge
would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint. It is expected
that suspended fine sediments would be rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW
navigation channel, thus limiting the duration of any adverse effects on water quality.
4.1.4.1.3 Entrainment
Hydraulic dredging operations can potentially impact shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon directly
through entrainment in the dredge intake pipe. Although shortnose sturgeon have been taken by
both hopper and cutterhead dredges in rivers along the North Atlantic Coast, no dredge takes
have occurred along the South Atlantic Coast. The shortnose sturgeon is typically found in the
upper portions of rivers above the freshwater -saltwater interface, which reduces the potential for
dredge interactions. Based on the absence of reported dredge interactions along the South
Atlantic Coast, its restriction primarily to the upper portions of rivers, and the low probability of
occurrence in the action area; it is anticipated that the risk of direct injury to shortnose sturgeon
from dredging operations would be negligible. Atlantic sturgeon have been taken by both hopper
and cutterhead dredges during federal navigation dredging operations along the eastern US coast
(USAGE 2014b). However, all confirmed Atlantic sturgeon takes (n=5) by cutterhead dredges
occurred in the upper Delaware River during the winter in an area that is known to contain dense
aggregations of sturgeon that are resting on the bottom and exhibiting little movement. Analyses
of cutterhead dredge intake velocities and sturgeon swimming capabilities indicate that the risk of
entrainment is limited to juveniles within 1.0 meter of the dredge pipe intake (NMFS 2012). NMFS
has determined through previous separate navigation dredging consultations that mechanical
dredges are extremely unlikely to overtake or adversely affect sturgeon (NMFS 2020). Any
occurrences of Atlantic sturgeon in the vicinity of the action area would likely consist of adults or
subadults that would be able to avoid the dredge pipeline suction field. Based on the absence of
reported cutterhead dredge interactions along the South Atlantic Coast and the absence of
suitable juvenile nursery habitats in the vicinity of the action area, it is anticipated that the risk�CEIVED
direct injury to Atlantic sturgeon from dredging operations would be negligible.
JUL 26 2022
4.1.5 Determination of Effect
DCM-MHD CITI
The risk of direct injury to sturgeon from dredging is considered negligible, and the proposed
action would have only minor short-term effects on potential foraging habitats and water quality.
Therefore, it is determined that the proposed action may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect
shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon.
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4.2 Sea Turtles
RECEIVED
4.2.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat
Loggerhead Sea Turtle
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
The loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) was initially listed under the ESA as threatened
throughout its range on 28 July 1978 (43 FR 32800). In 2011, the loggerhead's ESA status was
revised to threatened and endangered based on the recognition of nine DPSs. Distinct population
segments encompassing populations in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, South Atlantic Ocean,
Southwest Indian Ocean, and Southeast Indo-Pacific Ocean were reclassified as threatened;
while the remaining five populations in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, North
Pacific Ocean, South Pacific Ocean, and North Indian Ocean were reclassified as endangered.
Nesting in the US occurs along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from southern Virginia to Texas, but
is concentrated from NC through Alabama (NMFS and USFWS 2008). Post-hatchlings initially
reside in neritic (continental shelf) waters where they inhabit convergence zones with
accumulations of floating material such as sargassum. After a period of weeks or months, post-
hatchlings enter oceanic waters and begin a juvenile oceanic phase of development. Oceanic
phase juveniles appear to move with the predominant ocean gyres for several years before
returning to neritic waters where juvenile development continues to adulthood. In the US, juvenile
neritic phase loggerheads inhabit essentially all continental shelf waters along the Atlantic and
Gulf of Mexico coasts; including protected estuarine waters (sounds and bays). Adults primarily
inhabit offshore continental shelf waters from New York south through Florida and in the Gulf of
Mexico. Adult loggerheads are less likely than juveniles to utilize enclosed shallow estuarine
waters that have limited ocean access; however, shallow estuaries with expansive ocean access
comprise important foraging habitats for both juveniles and adults (NMFS and USFWS 2008).
Green Sea Turtle
The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) was initially listed as endangered and threatened under
the ESA on 28 July 1978 (43 FR 32800). Breeding populations in Florida and along the Mexican
Pacific Coast were listed as endangered, while all other populations throughout the species' range
were listed as threatened. In 2011, the green sea turtle's ESA status was revised to threatened
and endangered based on the recognition of eight DPSs (81 FR 20057). All green sea turtles in
the North Atlantic were listed as threatened under the North Atlantic Ocean DIPS. Nesting in the
US is primarily limited to Florida, although nesting occurs in small numbers along the southeast
coast from Georgia to NC and the Gulf Coast of Texas. In US waters, green sea turtles are
distributed along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts from Massachusetts to Texas (NMFS and USFWS
2007a). Post-hatchlings migrate to oceanic waters and begin an oceanic juvenile phase of
development. Oceanic phase juveniles appear to move with the predominant ocean gyres for
several years before returning to neritic waters where juvenile development continues to
adulthood. Neritic phase juveniles inhabit shallow estuarine waters and nearshore waters that
are rich in seagrasses and/or marine macroalgae. Adults generally occur in relatively shallow
foraging habitats with abundant seagrasses and macroalgae, but may enter the oceanic zone
when migrating between foraging grounds and nesting beaches. No critical habitat has been
designated for the green sea turtle in the continental US.
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HhULIVLU
JUL 26 2022
Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle
DCM-MHD CITY
Kemp's ridley turtles (Lepidochelys kempii) occur primarily in coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico
and the western North Atlantic Ocean. Data indicate that adults utilize coastal habitats of the Gulf
of Mexico and the southeastern United States. Adults inhabit nearshore waters and are
commonly found over crab -rich sandy or muddy bottoms. Nesting is limited primarily to the
northeastern coast of Mexico, although rare nesting events have been recorded from the
southeastern United States. Hatchlings migrate to the oceanic zone where they are carried by
currents into various areas of the Gulf of Mexico and the North Atlantic Ocean. At approximately
two years of age, juveniles leave the oceanic zone and move to coastal benthic habitats in the
Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean along the eastern United States. During this stage,
juveniles occupy protected coastal waters such as bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters that are
less than 165 ft. deep. Juveniles utilize a wide range of bottom substrates, but apparently depend
on an abundance of crabs and other invertebrates (NMFS and USFWS 2007c).
Leatherback Sea Turtle
The leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), federally endangered, occurs in all oceans of the
world and has the largest geographic range of any turtle. Nesting occurs on beaches throughout
tropical and subtropical regions, and foraging turtles are distributed north and south into sub -polar
regions. Major nesting areas in the western North Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea include
Florida, St. Croix, the United States Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Panama, Columbia,
Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Surinam, and French Guiana. Adults and sub -adults migrate
seasonally to foraging areas in the northern latitudes, and during the summer and fall; the highest
densities of leatherback turtles in the north Atlantic are located in Canadian waters (NMFS and
USFWS 2007e). Although leatherback turtles are commonly known as highly pelagic animals,
recent telemetry studies have documented high use foraging sites in continental shelf and slope
waters (James at al. 2005). Leatherback turtles undertake extensive migrations between northern
foraging grounds and tropical and subtropical nesting beaches. Little is known of the distribution
and developmental habitat requirements of hatchling, juvenile, and sub -adult leatherback turtles
(NMFS and USFWS 2007e).
Hawksbill Sea Turtle
Hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricate), federally endangered, are distributed circumglobally
in tropical, and to a lesser extent, subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.
Nesting occurs on ocean beaches throughout the tropics and subtropics. In the continental United
States, hawksbill turtles have been reported from all of the Gulf States and along the east coast
as far north as Massachusetts; however, sightings north of Florida are rare. Major nesting areas
in the western North Atlantic Ocean include the insular Caribbean, the Yucatan Peninsula in
Mexico, and Panama. Nesting in the continental United States is primarily restricted to the
southeastern coast of Florida and the Florida Keys (NMFS and USFWS 1993). Hatchlings are
carried by ocean currents to the oceanic zone where they reside in major ocean gyres. Once a
carapace length of eight to 12 inches is reached, juveniles leave the oceanic zone and move to
nearshore habitats. Juveniles and adults are most commonly associated with coral reef habitats;
however, additional habitats may include other hardbottom habitats, seagrass beds, algal beds,
mangrove bays and creeks, or mud flats. As immature turtles increase in size, they occupy a
series of habitats, with larger turtles showing some preference for deeper sites. Post pelagic
juveniles and adults utilize a variety of food items that include sponges and other invertebrates,
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as well as marine macroalgae (NMFS and USFWS 2007d). Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC
waters (Epperly et al. 1995a) and are primarily associated with coral reef habitats (NMFS and
USFWS 2007c). Coral reef habitats along the NC coast are restricted to deep offshore waters
>20 miles from shore (Maclntyre and Pilkey 1969, Maclntyre 2003).
RECEIVED
4.2.2 Occurrence in the Action Area
Loggerhead, Green, and Kemps Ridley
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
North Carolina's sounds and estuaries provide important developmental and foraging habitats for
post -pelagic juvenile loggerhead, green, and Kemp's ridley turtles. Most of the information
regarding the inshore distribution of marine turtles in North Carolina has been generated by
studies in the Pamlico -Albemarle estuarine complex, where large numbers of loggerhead, green,
and Kemp's ridley turtles are incidentally captured each year during commercial fishing
operations. All three species are represented primarily by juveniles, with few reported captures
of older juveniles and adults (Epperly et al. 2007). Juveniles of all three species move inshore
during the spring and disperse throughout the sounds during the summer. Juveniles leave the
sounds and move offshore during the late fall and early winter. Aerial surveys have shown a
strong relationship between turtle sea distribution and sea surface temperature. Goodman et al.
(2007) conducted aerial turtle surveys and sea surface temperature monitoring in Core Sound,
Pamlico Sound, and adjacent nearshore ocean waters from July 2004 to April 2006. All but one
of the 92 turtle observations occurred in waters where sea surface temperatures were above 11
degrees Celsius (°C). All sightings in the sounds occurred between 16 April and 20 November,
and all sightings in the nearshore ocean occurred between 23 April and 27 November. The winter
distribution of turtles offshore of Cape Hatteras was also correlated with sea surface temperatures
above 11°C (Epperly et al. 1995c). In a similar study by Coles and Musick (2000), turtle
distribution offshore of Cape Hatteras was restricted to sea surface temperatures >_13.3°C.
Leatherback and Hawksbill
The leatherback sea turtle is primarily a pelagic species of deep, offshore waters. Leatherbacks
are known to occur in nearshore ocean waters during certain times of the year, but rarely enter
interior estuarine waters. Epperly et al. (1995b) reported the appearance of significant numbers
of leatherback turtles in nearshore ocean waters during May, coincident with the appearance of
jellyfish prey. Aerial surveys by Goodman et al. (2007) along the Outer Banks coastline recorded
only one leatherback in the nearshore ocean during the summer. Epperly et al. (1995a) reported
the occurrence of three leatherback turtles in Core and Pamlico Sounds during December 1989.
Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC and they rarely enter estuarine waters (Epperly et al. 1995a).
A total of nine hawksbill turtle stranding incidents were reported along North Carolina beaches
between 1998 and 2009 (Seaturtle.org 2011). Strandings were reported during the months of
January, March, April, and November. Epperly et al. (1995b) reported the incidental capture of
one hawksbill turtle in Pamlico Sound.
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Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Nearshore ocean waters along Bogue Banks from the MHW line out to 1.6 kilometers (km) are
designated as nearshore reproductive critical habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle (Figure 4).
Nearshore marine critical habitat units represent reproductive habitat along nesting beaches that
is used by hatchlings for egress to the open ocean and by nesting females for movements
between beaches and the open ocean during the nesting season. Critical nearshore reproductive
habitat PCEs include: 1) nearshore waters directly off the highest density nesting beaches and
their adjacent beaches, 2) waters sufficiently free of obstructions and artificial lighting to allow
transit through the surf zone to open water, and 3) waters with minimal manmade structures that
could promote predators, disrupt wave patterns necessary for orientation, and/or create excessive
longshore currents (79 FIR 39855).
4.2.3 Factors Affecting the Species
Threats that are common to all marine turtle species in estuarine and marine environments
include fisheries by -catch, vessel strikes, marine debris ingestion or entanglement, and
entrainment by hydraulic dredges (NMFS and USFWS 2007a-e). Threats associated with
fisheries by -catch include entrapment in trawls and entanglement in a wide variety of other fishing
gear. Shrimp trawling is the most detrimental fishing practice and the greatest overall
anthropogenic cause of loggerhead turtle mortality. Mortality associated with shrimp trawling is
estimated to be ten times that of all other anthropogenic activities combined. Vessel strikes are
also a common cause of turtle mortality. Of all loggerhead turtle strandings that were reported
from 1997 through 2005, 14.9% exhibited signs of vessel strikes. Marine turtles are vulnerable
to direct injury by hopper dredges as a result of being entrained in the dredge intake pipe during
the sediment extraction process. The Wilmington District USACE reported takes of 30
loggerhead, four Kemp's ridley, and three green sea turtles by hopper dredges in the vicinity of
Wilmington Harbor from 1992-2013 (USACE 2016). Most of the reported takes in the vicinity of
Morehead City Harbor (MCH) occurred during late November through mid -December and mid -
March through April. Takes of hawksbill and leatherback sea turtles by dredges have not been
reported along the southeastern US coast. Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC waters (Epperiy
et al. 1995a) and are primarily associated with coral reef habitats (NMFS and USFWS 2007c).
Coral reef habitats along the NC coast are restricted to deep offshore waters >20 miles from shore
(Maclntyre and Pilkey 1969, Macintyre 2003).
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
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Figure 4. Loggerhead Turtle Critical Habitat
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JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
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4.2.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Sea Turtles
This assessment considers potential effects on sea turtles that may occur through the following
impact mechanisms: physical interactions with dredging equipment, physical disturbance and
modification of benthic foraging habitat within the dredging footprint, and sediment suspensiopECF_IVED
and redeposition.
JUL 26 2022
4.2.4.1.1 Dredge Interactions
DCM-MHD CIl
The proposed dredging window of 1 October - 31 January encompasses periods of warmer water
temperatures (October and November) when loggerhead, green, and Kemps ridley sea turtles
are likely to be present in the vicinity of the action area. Construction and maintenance of the
barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) and/or mechanical
bucket dredges. Sea turtle takes by cutterhead dredges have not been reported along the
southeastern US coast, and only one take by a mechanical dredge has been reported over the
past several decades (NMFS 2012). In prior separate consultations with the Wilmington District,
NMFS has made the determination that hydraulic cutterhead and mechanical navigation dredging
activities are not likely to adversely affect sea turtles (NMFS 2012). Therefore, it is expected that
the risk of sea turtle -dredge interactions resulting in injury or mortality would be negligible.
4.2.4.1.2 Impacts on Benthic Foraging Habitat
Based on a review of NCDMF benthic habitat maps, there are no SAV or shell bottom habitats in
the immediate vicinity of the proposed new dredging area. New dredging would directly impact
3.0 acres of potential soft bottom foraging habitat in the barge fleeting expansion area. Existing
bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial
construction and subsequent maintenance dredging events would remove the existing benthic
infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing the availability of potential prey for
sea turtles. However, studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah et al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of —10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction and
maintenance window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
4.2.4.1.3 Sediment Suspension
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity may affect sea turtle
behaviors such as foraging and habitat selection. As previously described, the sediments to be
excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would
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resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either a
cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity
of the new dredging footprint. Furthermore, it is expected that suspended fine sediments would
be rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the
duration of any behavioral effects on sea turtles.
4.2.5 Conservation Measures
The following conservation measures would be implemented to avoid or minimize potential effects
sea turtles:
• Construction and maintenance dredging would be conducted within a 1 October to 31
January project window.
• Water injection dredging (WID) would be conducted only on falling tides.
• Good Engineering Practices (GEPs) and Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be
applied to all dredging activities.
• Dredged material delivery pipelines would be routinely inspected for pressurized leaks,
and any leaks that are found would be immediately repaired.
• Dredging contractors would be required to maintain spill control plans and waste
management plans for all dredging fleet equipment.
4.2.6 Determination of Effect
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
Loggerhead, Green, Kemps Ridley, Leatherback, and Hawksbill Sea Turtles
DCM-+ViHD CITY
The proposed dredging window of 1 October- 31 January encompasses periods of warmer water
temperatures (October and November) when all five listed sea turtles could potentially occur in
the vicinity of the action area. However, the risk of direct injury to sea turtles from dredging is
considered negligible, and the proposed action would have only minor short-term effects on
potential foraging habitats and water quality. Therefore, it is determined that the proposed action
may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the loggerhead, green, Kemps ridley, leatherback,
and hawksbill sea turtles.
Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Nearshore reproductive critical habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle is located -3 miles from the
proposed new dredging area along the oceanfront shoreline of Atlantic Beach. Therefore, it is
determined that the proposed action would have no effect on nearshore reproductive critical
habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle.
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RECEIVED
JUL 26 NZZ
5.0 REFERENCES DCM-MHD CITY
Atlantic Sturgeon Status Review Team (ASSRT). 2007. Status Review of Atlantic sturgeon
(Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus). Report to National Marine Fisheries Service,
Northeast Regional Office. February 23, 2007. 174 pp.
Armstrong, J.L. and J.E. Hightower. 1999. Potential for restoration of the Roanoke River
population of Atlantic sturgeon. Applied Ichthyology 18:475-480.
Coles, C.C. and J.A. Musick. 2000. Satellite Sea Surface Temperature Analysis and Correlation
with Sea Turtle Distribution off North Carolina. Copeia 2000: 551-554.
Collins, M.R., D.C. Walling, L.E. Zimmerman, R.F. Van Dolah. 2000. Savannah Harbor Biological
Monitoring: Fish, Shellfish, and Benthos. Final report to U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Atlanta, GA.
Epperly, S.P., J. Braun, and A.J. Chester. 1995a. Aerial surveys for sea turtles in North Carolina
inshore waters. Fishery Bulletin 93: 254-261.
Epperly, S.P., J. Braun, and A. Veishlow. 1995b. Sea turtles in North Carolina waters.
Conservation Biology 9: 384-394.
Epperly, S.P., J. Braun, A.J. Chester, E.A. Cross, J.V. Merriner, and P.A. Tester. 1995c. The
winter distribution of sea turtles in the vicinity of Cape Hatteras and their interactions with
the summer flounder trawl fishery. Bull. Mar. Sci. 56: 547-568.
Epperly, S.P., J. Braun -McNeill, and P.M. Richards. 2007. Trends in catch rates of sea turtles in
North Carolina, USA. Endangered Species Research 3: 283-293.
Goodman, M.A., J.B. McNeill, E. Davenport, and A.A. Hohn. 2007. Protected species aerial
survey data collection and analysis in waters underlying the R-5306A Airspace: Final
report submitted to U.S. Marine Corps, MCAS Cherry Point. NOAA Technical
Memorandum NMFSSEFSC-551.
Kirby -Smith, W.W. and J.D. Costlow. 1989. The Newport River Estuarine System. Duke
University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC.
Laney, R.W., J.E. Hightower, B.R. Versak, M.F. Mangold, W.W. Cole Jr, S.E. Winslow. 2007.
Distribution, habitat use, and size of Atlantic sturgeon captured during cooperative winter
tagging cruises, 1988-2006. Am. Fish. Soc. Symp. 56, 167-182.
LaSalle, M.W., D.G. Clarke, J. Homziak, J.D. Lunz, and T.J. Fredette. 1991. A framework for
assessing the need for seasonal restrictions on dredging and disposal operations.
Technical Report D-91-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg,
MS.
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Maclntyre, I.G. 2003. A Classic Marginal Coral Environment: Tropical Coral Patches off North
Carolina, USA. Coral Reefs 22: 474.
Maclntyre, I.G. and O.H. Pilkey. 1969. Tropical Reef Corals: Tolerance of Low Temperatures
on the North Carolina Continental Shelf. Science 166: 374-375.
Michel, J., A.C. Bejarano, C.H. Peterson, and C. Voss. 2013. Review of biological and
biophysical impacts from dredging and handling of offshore sand. OCS Study BOEM
2013-0119 Herndon, Virginia: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy
Management.
Moser, M.L. and S.W. Ross. 1995. Habitat use ad movements of shortnose and Atlantic
sturgeons in the Lower Cape Fear River, North Carolina. Transactions of the American
Fisheries Society 124:225-234.
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). 2020. South Atlantic Regional Biological Opinion for
Dredging and Material Placement Activities in the Southeast United States.
NMFS. 2012. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Listing Determinations for
Two Distinct Population Segments of Atlantic Sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus)
in the Southeast. 77 FIR 5914.
NMFS. 1998. Recovery Plan for Shortnose Sturgeon, Acipenser brevirostrum. Prepared by the
Shortnose Sturgeon Recovery Team for the National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver
Spring, Maryland. 104 pp.
NMFS and United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2008. Recovery Plan for the
Northwest Atlantic Population of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta), Second
Revision. National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service. Atlanta, GA.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007a. Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta) 5-Year Review: Summary
and Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, Silver
Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, Jacksonville Ecological
Services Field Office, Jacksonville, FL.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007b. Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) 5-Year Review: Summary and
Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, Silver
Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, Jacksonville Ecological
Services Field Office, Jacksonville, FL.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007c. Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kemph) 5-Year Review:
Summary and Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected
Resources, Silver Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southwest Region,
Albuquerque, NM.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007d. Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) 5-Year Review:
Summary and Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected
RECEIVED
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion 18 JUL 2 6 2022 July 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

Resources, Silver Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region,
Jacksonville Ecological Services Field Office, Jacksonville, FL.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007e. Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) 5-Year Review:
Summary and Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected
Resources, Silver Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region,
Jacksonville Ecological Services Field Office, Jacksonville, FL.
NMFS and USFWS. 1993. Recovery Plan for Hawksbill Turtles in the U.S. Caribbean Sea,
Atlantic Ocean, and Gulf of Mexico. National Marine Fisheries Service, St. Petersburg,
FL.
Oakley, N.C. and J.E. Hightower. 2007. Status of shortnose sturgeon in the Neuse River, North
Carolina. American Fisheries Society Symposium 56:273-284.
Quattro, J.M., T.W. Greig, D.K. Coykendall, B.W. Bowen, and J.D. Baldwin. 2002. Genetic issues
in aquatic species management: the shortnose sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum) in the
southeastern United States. Conservation Genetics 3: 155-166.
Ross, S.W., F.C. Rohde, and D.G. Lindquist. 1988. Endangered, threatened, and rare fauna of
North Carolina, part 2. A re-evaluation of the marine and estuarine fishes, North Carolina
Biological Survey, Occasional Papers 1988-7 Raleigh, North Carolina.
Seaturtle.org. 2017. Sea turtle rehabilitation and necropsy database, North Carolina stranding
reports. On-line: http://www.seaturtle.org.
Schroeder, P.R. 2009. USACE Technical Guidelines for Practicing the 3R's of Environmental
Dredging. Proceedings of the Western Dredging Association Twenty-ninth Technical
Conference and 40th Annual Texas A&M Dredging Seminar, Tempe, AZ, June 2009.
Shortnose Sturgeon Status Review Team (SSSRT). 2010. A biological assessment of shortnose
sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum). Report to National Marine Fisheries Service,
Northeast Regional Office.
Stickney, R. 1972. Effects of Intracoastal Waterway Dredging on Ichthyofauna and Benthic
Macro- Invertebrates. Technical Report Series. No 72-4. Skidaway Institute of
Oceanography, Savannah, GA. July 1972 60 pp.
Stickney, R. and D. Perlmutter. 1975. Impact of Intracoastal Waterway maintenance dredging
on a mud bottom benthos community. Biol Consery 01/1975; 7(3):211-225.
United States Army Corps of Engineers (USAGE). 2016. Sea Turtle Protection and Data
Warehouse. Available at: http://ei.erdc.usace.army.mil/seaturtles/.
USACE. 2014. Section 7(a)(2) and 7(d) Endangered Species Act Jeopardy Analysis of the Effect
on Atlantic Sturgeon of Navigation Channel Maintenance Dredging and Dredging of
Offshore Borrow Sources for Beach Sand Placement on the South Atlantic Coast (21 April
2014). USACE, South Atlantic Division, Atlanta, GA.
RECEIVED
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion JUL 26 2OZ2 July 2022
19
DCM-MHD CITY

Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, D.M. Knott, and M.S. Maclin. 1979. Effects of dredging and
unconfined disposal on macrobenthic communities in Sewee Bay, South Carolina. Tech.
Rep. 39. South Carolina Marine Resources Center, Charleston, SC.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, and D.M., Knott. 1984. Effects of dredging and open water
disposal on benthic macroinvertebrates in a South Carolina estuary. Estuaries 7:28-37.
Welp, T.L., M.W. Tubman, D.A. Wilson, and C.E. Pollock. 2017. Water Injection Dredging.
DOER Technical Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center.
Wilber, D.H., W. Brostoff, D.G. Clarke, and G.L. Ray. 2005. Sedimentation: Potential biological
effects from dredging operations in estuarine and marine environments. DOER Technical
Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research
and Development Center.
Wirgin, I., C. Grunwald, E. Carlson, J. Stabile, D.L. Peterson, and J. Waldman. 2005. Range -
wide population structure of shortnose sturgeon, (Acipenser brevirostrum), based on
sequence analysis of the mitochondrial DNA control region. Estuaries Vol. 28(3): 406-
421.
Biological Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
July 2022
20

AGENT AUTHORIZATION FOR CAMA PERMIT APPLICATION
Name of Property Owner Requesting Permit: North Carolina State Ports Authority
Mailing Address: PO Box 9002
Wilmington, NC 28402
Phone Number: [phone]
Email Address: [e-mail]
I certify that I have authorized James Hargrove and Steve Dial of Dial Cordy and
Associates Inc.
Agent / Contractor
to act on my behalf, for the purpose of applying for and obtaining all CAMA permits
necessary for the following proposed development: Expansion of the northern baroe
fleeting area at my property located at 113 Arendell St
in Carteret County.
I furthermore certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact grant permission to
Division of Coastal Management staff, the Local Permit Officer and their agents to enter
on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this
permit application.
Property Owner Information:
Signature
Todd C Walton
Print or Type Name
Sr Environmental Supervisor
Title
06 / 29 / 2022
Date
This certification is valid through 12/ 3112022
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

DIAL CORDY
AND ASSOCIATES INC
Fir irtmullenral C(H1stilKAIhS
201 N. Front Street, Suite 307
Wilmington, NC 28401
[phone] Fax [phone]
July 14, 2022
Heather Styron
Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
400 Commerce Ave
Morehead City, NC 28557
Subject: Port of Morehead City Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion, CAMA Major Permit
Modification (# 120-13)
Dear Heather Styron,
On behalf of the North Carolina State Ports Authority, Dial Cordy and Associates Inc. is pleased
to submit this CAMA Major Permit modification (# 120-13) to the Division of Coastal Management
for review and permit issuance.
The Port at Morehead City is requesting a modification to the CAMA Major Permit (120-13) to
expand the footprint of the existing northern barge fleeting area. The existing fleeting area
encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW).
The authorized depth of the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft
of over dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting
area. The proposed action would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional
2.0 acres of subtidal bottom to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). An additional
1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western
margin of the 2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of
new dredging and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures
are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in
the expansion area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic
maintenance dredging expected to occur once every 2-5 years using the currently permitted
NCSPA water injection dredge. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -
4 to -14 ft MLLW. Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic
pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems. Dredged
material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined disposal facilities; which
include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal areas. Disposal
operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal area via
floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging, disposal would involve
the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area for placement via mechanical
means or hydraulic offloading.
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

Included with this letter are the following documents for your review and consideration: MP1, MP2
forms and the project narrative for the proposed permit modification to CAMA Major Permit (#
120-13). Riparian land owner notification forms and project descriptions were mailed via certified
letter to the USACE and Morehead City Yacht Club. Also available are the Essential Fish Habitat
Assessment (EFH) and Biological Assessment (BA). The EFH and BA will be delivered to the
USACE Wilmington District office in paper and digital form. We look forward to working with you
to complete the proposed permit modification.
Enclosure
CC: Todd Walton, NCSPA
Liz Hair, USACE, Wilmington District
Heather Coats, NCDCM
Sincerely,
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
R. Steve Dial
President
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

NORTH CAROLINA STATE PORTS AUTHORITY
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
NORTHERN BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
JUNE 2022
PROJECT NARRATIVE
Proposed Action
The Proposed Action by the North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA) at the Port of
Morehead City is to modify the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-
13 to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting area. The north barge
fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County,
North Carolina (NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges
that are awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is
primarily associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the
Hertford Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled
over the last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The
proposed action would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby
accommodating an additional 4 to 6 loaded barges.
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River -600 feet north of the northeast
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging expected to occur once every 2-5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging
area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new
dredging area are part of a uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface
to a depth of -45-ft MLLW (Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion
Port of Morehead City RECEIVF1aI Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
1 JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and
scow systems. Dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities, which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the
disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging,
disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area for
placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
Description of the Action Area
The north barge fleeting area is located —3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, NC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of —3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated bottom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish beds,
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
Potential Environmental Effects of the Proposed Action
A summary of effects on fish and fish habitat within the action area is provided below. An EFH
Assessment and a Biological Assessment that have been prepared for the Corps of Engineers
are available upon request.
Water Column
The proposed dredging and maintenance associated with expanding the northern barge fleeting
area may have minor effects on the estuarine water column through localized sediment
suspension and associated increases in turbidity. The sediments to be excavated from the new
dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would resettle rapidly to the
bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either a cutterhead or bucket dredge
Port of Morehead City HEULIV1=10 Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
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DCM-MHD CITY

would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint. Water injection
dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density sediment -
water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to deeper areas.
Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced sediment suspension
is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the bottom (Welp et al. 2017).
It is expected that suspended fine sediments would be rapidly dispersed by currents in the
contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the duration of any adverse effects on water
quality and federally managed species. The proposed project construction window of 1 October
- 31 January would avoid peak periods of larval ingress and estuarine -dependent juvenile
abundance in the vicinity of the action area, thus minimizing the exposure of estuarine and marine
fish and invertebrate species to sediment suspension effects. In the specific case of WID, the
potential for upstream sediment transport into the New River Estuary would be minimized by
conducting WID only on falling tides. Based on these considerations, it is expected that any
adverse effects on water quality and estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species would be
minor and short-term.
Larval Entrainment
In the case of cutterhead pipeline dredging, the proposed action would affect estuarine -dependent
fish and invertebrate species by entraining planktonic eggs and larvae that occur in the vicinity of
the dredge pipe suction field. However, the results of larval entrainment modeling in Beaufort
Inlet indicate that dredge entrainment rates are extremely low regardless of inlet larval
concentrations and the distribution of larvae within the water column (Settle 2003). Even under
worst case model scenarios when the dredge was assumed to be operating 24 hours/day and all
larvae were assumed to be concentrated in the bottom of the navigation channel, projected
entrainment rates barely exceeded 0.1 % of the daily (24-hour) larval flux through the inlet. The
proposed new dredging area is located above Beaufort Inlet in the relatively broad Newport River
Estuary where it is expected that the distribution of planktonic eggs and larvae would be relatively
diffuse. Furthermore, the proposed project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would
avoid the peak larval ingress period at Beaufort Inlet. Based on all of the above considerations,
it is anticipated that the effects of egg/larval entrainment on populations of estuarine -dependent
fish and invertebrate species would be negligible.
Unconsolidated Bottom
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of unconsolidated bottom habitat in the barge
fleeting expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be
increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent maintenance dredging events
would remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing
the availability of prey for federally managed demersal fishes such as summer flounder and
estuarine -dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. However, studies of benthic
community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation channels along the southeastern coast have
reported rapid recovery within two to six months (Van Dolah et al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and
Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of
adjacent undisturbed sediments into the dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism.
Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that
Port of Morehead City RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
3
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

were similar in composition to the extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods. Existing surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform
fine sand layer that extends to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be
expected to alter sediment composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of -10 feet would not
be expected to alter benthic community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed
project construction window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
Based on all of the above considerations, it is anticipated that effects on estuarine unconsolidated
bottom habitats and associated estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species would be
minor and short-term.
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
NCDMF benthic habitat maps do not identify any shell bottom areas within or immediately
adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on shell bottom habitats
would be expected. The only mapped shell bottom area in the vicinity of the project area is a
narrow linear shell bottom feature along the shoreline of Marsh Island -300-ft west of the new
dredging footprint. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be
transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting shell bottom areas through
redeposition. Heavy sediment redeposition can impact oysters by inhibiting larval attachment to
hard substrates and reducing the respiration and feeding rates of juveniles and adults (Wilber and
Clarke 2010). However, according to Colden and Lipcius (2015), eastern oysters that were
subjected to experimental sediment deposition did not exhibit significant mortality or sublethal
effects until at least 70% of the shell height was buried. As previously described, the sediments
to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse fine sands
that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either
a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate
vicinity of the new dredging footprint. Therefore, it is expected that the effects of dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition on oyster reefs and associated estuarine and marine fish
and invertebrate species would be minor and short-term.
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV)
NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately adjacent to the proposed new
dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on SAV would be expected. Small patches of SAV are
identified along the western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the proposed dredging area
(Figure 4). Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be transported
outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting SAV through increases in turbidity and/or
sediment redeposition. However, as previously described, it is anticipated that the predominance
of relatively coarse sand in the new dredging area would limit sediment suspension to the
immediate vicinity of the active work area. Therefore, it is expected that any adverse effects on
SAV and associated estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species from dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition would be minor and short-term.
State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
Port of Morehead City Rt_GtavtuDial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
4 JUL 2 6 202"L
DCM-MHD CITY

There are no Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) or Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs) in the
immediate vicinity of the proposed new dredging area. Designated PNAs that are nearest to the
proposed new dredging area are located -1.3 miles to the northwest in small tributaries of the
Newport River (Calico Creek and Crab Point Bay) (Figure 5). The nearest additional PNAs and
SNAs are located in the Newport River -4 miles upstream of the proposed new dredging area.
No effects on PNAs or SNAs are anticipated.
Port of Morehead City
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion
RECEIVED
5
JUL 26 2022
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Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
June 2022

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Port of Morehead City RECEIVEDDial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
f JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

Figure 12. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
Port of Morehead City RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
7 JUL 26 202Z
DCM-MHD CITY

A- A Bathymetric Profile Graph
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Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area — Existing and Proposed
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Port of Morehead City RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
8
JUL 26 2022
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Port of Morehead City RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
9
JUL 26 2022
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Port of Morehead City RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
JUL 2 6 ZOZZ
DCM-MHD CITY

References
Colden AM, Lipcius RN (2015) Lethal and sublethal effects of sediment burial on the eastern
oyster Crassostrea virginica. Mar Ecol Prog Ser 527:105-
117. https://doi.org/10.3354/mepsll244
Kirby -Smith, W.W. and J.D. Costlow. 1989. The Newport River Estuarine System. Duke
University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC.
Settle, L. 2003. Assessment of potential larval entrainment mortality to hydraulic dredging of
Beaufort Inlet. Prepared for USACE-Wilmington District for the Morehead City Harbor
Environmental Assessment. May 2003. NOAA/NOS National Centers for Coastal Ocean
Science.
Stickney, R. 1972. Effects of Intracoastal Waterway Dredging on Ichthyofauna and Benthic
Macro- Invertebrates. Technical Report Series. No 72-4. Skidaway Institute of
Oceanography, Savannah, GA. July 1972 60 pp.
Stickney, R. and D. Perlmutter. 1975. Impact of Intracoastal Waterway maintenance dredging
on a mud bottom benthos community. Biol Consery 01/1975; 7(3):211-225.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, and D.M. Knott. 1984. Effects of dredging and open -water disposal
on benthic macroinverteb rates in a South Carolina estuary. Estuaries 7, 28-37.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, D.M. Knott, and M.S. Maclin. 1979. Effects of dredging and
unconfined disposal of dredged material on benthic macroinvertebrate communities in
Sewee Bay, SC. Marine Resources Center Technical Report 39. Charleston, SC.
Welp, T.L., M.W. Tubman, D.A. Wilson, and C.E. Pollock. 2017. Water Injection Dredging.
DOER Technical Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center.
Wilber, D.H., W. Brostoff, D.G. Clarke, and G.L. Ray. 2005. Sedimentation: Potential biological
effects from dredging operations in estuarine and marine environments. DOER Technical
Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research
and Development Center.
Port of Morehead City RECEIVED
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion
11
JUL 26 2022
and Associates Inc.
June 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

James Hargrove
From:
Perry, John M <[e-mail]>
Sent:
Wednesday, July 6, 2022 3:03 PM
To:
Todd Walton
Cc:
James Hargrove
Subject:
RE: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion- Port of Morehead City
Thank you Todd. I will be on the lookout for the application in 30 days.
John Perry
Environmental Specialist II
Division of Water Resources
Department of Environmental Quality
127 Cardinal Drive Extension
Wilmington, NC 28405
Office: [phone]
Cell: [phone]
From: Todd Walton <[e-mail]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 2:56 PM
To: Perry, John M <[e-mail]>
Cc: lames Hargrove <[e-mail]>
Subject: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion- Port of Morehead City
Good afternoon John,
I would like to submit a Pre -filing Notice for the following project:
Project Name: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
Project Owner: NC State Ports Authority - Port of Morehead City
Project Owner's Address: mailing: PO Box 9002 Wilmington NC 28402. Project address 113 Arendell St, Morehead
City NC 28557
Project County: Carteret
Type of project/Approval Sought: Dredging/ GP291
Anticipated Impacts: new dredging of ^3 acres on the west side of the existing barge fleeting area. I have attached
the project narrative that has drawings and maps within it.
Please let me now if any additional information is needed.
Thanks,
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 Z022
DCM-MHD CITY

Todd C. Walton
NORTH CAROLINA PORTS
Senior Environmental Analyst
910-746-6460 Direct
800-336-2405 Toll Free
ncoorts.com
Email to and from this address is public record and may be disclosed to authorized third parties.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

Gm MP-1
APPLICATION for
major Development Permit
(last revised 12/27/06)
North Carolina DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
1. Primary Applicant/ Landowner Information
Business Name
North Carolina State Ports Authority
Project Name (if applicable)
Port of Morehead City Northern Barge Fleeting area
Applicant 1: First Name
Brian
MI
E
Last Name
Clark
Applicant 2: First Name
MI
Last Name
If additional applicants, please attach an additional page(s) with names listed.
Mailing Address
PO Box 9002
PO Box
city
Wilmington
State
NC
ZIP
28402
Country
New Hanover
Phone No.
910-251-5678 ext.
FAX No.
Street Address (if different from above)
city
State
ZIP
Email
2. Agent/Contractor Information
Business Name
Dial Cordy And Associates Inc.
Agent(Contractor 1: First Name
MI
Last Name
Steve
Dial
Agent/ Contractor 2: First Name
MI
Last Name
James
Hargrove
Mailing Address
PO Box
city
State
201 North Front St. Suite 307
Wilmington
INC
ZIP
Phone No. 1
Phone No. 2
28401
910 - 251 - 9790 ext.
ext.
FAX No.
Contractor #
Street Address (if different from above)
city
State
ZIP
Email
[e-mail]; [e-mail]
<Form continues on back>
REGEIVtU
JUL 26 2022
252-808-2808 .. 1-888-4RCOAST .. www.nccoastalQ uon`C.jrfek

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 2 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
3. Project Location
County (can be multiple)
Street Address
State Rd. #
Carteret
113 Arendell Street
Subdivision Name
city
State
Zip
Morehead City
NC
28557 -
Phone No.
Lot No.(s) (if many, attach additional page with list)
252 - 726 - 3158 ext.
I I I ,
a. In which NC river basin is the project located?
b. Name of body of water nearest to proposed project
Newport
Newport River
c. Is the water body identified in (b) above, natural or manmade?
d. Name the closest major water body to the proposed project site.
®Natural ❑Manmade ❑Unknown
Bogue Sound, Atlantic Ocean
e. Is proposed work within city limits or planning jurisdiction?
f. If applicable, list the planning jurisdiction or city limit the proposed
®Yes ❑No
work falls within.
Morehead City Limits
4.
Site Description
a.
Total length of shoreline on the tract (ft.)
b. Size of entire tract (sq.fL)
NA
130,680
c.
Size of individual lot(s)
d. Approximate elevation of tract above NHW (normal high water) or
NWL (normal water level)
(If many lot sizes, please attach additional page with a list)
-4 to -14 ft ❑NHW or ®N WL
e.
Vegetation on tract
The proposed dredge footprint contains no SAV according to NCDMF's SAV maps. There is a small fringing marsh that is
located adjacent to the Action Area on Marsh Island disposal area; however, it is outside the dredge footprint by —+200 ft.
I.
Man-made features and uses now on tract
The Northern Barge Fleeting area contains a series of six steel pile mooring piles that are currently utilized to secure barges
within the fleeting area. The proposed project is directly adjcent to the western edge of the exisiting fleeting area with no
current or proposed structures.
g.
Identify and describe the existing land uses adiacent to the proposed project site.
The adjacent lands to the south function as wharfs for the USACE and the NCSPA. The single property owner in relative
proximity to the project area is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In an abundance of caution, a notification letter will be
sent to the Morehead City Yacht Club; however, this property is not close to the Project Area. The closest adjacent land is
Marsh Island which contains one of the dredge material management sites proposed for disposal of the dredged material.
h.
How does local government zone the tract?
I. Is the proposed project consistent with the applicable zoning?
Industrial
(Attach zoning compliance certificate, if applicable)
®Yes ❑No ❑NA
j.
Is the proposed activity part of an urban waterfront redevelopment proposal? ❑Yes ®No
k.
Hasa professional archaeological assessment been done for the tract? If yes, attach a copy. ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, by whom?
I.
Is the proposed project located in a National Registered Historic District or does it Involve a ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
National Register listed or eligible property?
<Form continues on next page>
JUL 26 2022
252.808-2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastaimanagement.net

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 3 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
m. (1) Are there wetlands on the site? ❑Yes SNo
(11) Are there coastal wetlands on the site? []Yes SNo
(Ili) If yes to either (i) or (ii) above, has a delineation been conducted? []Yes SNo
(Attach documentation, if available)
n. Describe existing wastewater treatment facilities.
All proposed activity is located within the Newport River Estuary/Rogue Sound.
o. Describe existing drinking water supply source.
The town of Morehead City gets its drinking water from 5 wells around the county.
p. Describe existing storm water management or treatment systems.
The proposed project would not result in new impervious areas requiring stormwater management and/or treatment
systems.
5. Activities and Impacts
a. Will the project be for commercial, public, or private use? ®Commercial SPubliclGovemment
❑Private/Community
b. Give a brief description of purpose, use, and daily operations of the project when complete.
The North Carolina State Port Authority (NCSPA) at the Port of Morehead City (POMC) is proposing to expand the existing
northern barge fleeting area to accommodate an additional 4-6 barges for the growing import iron business. The expansion
of the fleeting area is necessary due to the doubling of the business over the last few years. The barges typically consist of
300,000 to 500,000 tons of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) or crude iron (pig iron) that is transported from the POW to the Nucor
Steel Terminal. The barge traffic moves the equivalent of 25,000 truckloads of material each year and is a vital transportation
route for NC commerce. The increase in frequency of barge traffic puts an excessive demand on the fleeting areas thus
warranting expansion. The existing mooring dolphins are structurally able to support doubling the space by docking barges
on the west side of the northern fleeting area and no new moorings structures are being proposed.
The daily operations would include staging barges within the fleeting area. Tug boats would be used to position the barges
before being moored to the steel piles. Periodic maintenance of the barge fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by
the Port -owned water injection dredge.
c. Describe the proposed construction methodology, types of construction equipment to be used during construction, the number of each type
of equipment and where it is to be stored.
New dredging of approximately 35,000 cy of material would be removed via one hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges or
one mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems within the dredge window of October 1 st to January 31 st and placed on
Marsh, Brandt, or the North Radio Island dredge material management areas
d. List all development activities you propose.
There are no development activities proposed.
e. Are the proposed activities maintenance of an existing project, new work, or both? New work for expansion of an existing
barge fleeting area.
f. What is the approximate total disturbed land area resulting from the proposed project? 3 ❑Sq.Ft or SAcres
g. Will the proposed project encroach on any public easement, public accessway or other area ❑Yes SNo ❑NA
that the public has established use of?
h. Describe location and type of existing and proposed discharges to waters of the state.
It is expected a cutterhead dredge will be used and subsequent water and sediment slurry will be pumped into a dredge
material disposal site. It is also expected that Marsh Island disposal site will be used for the proposed action. The water
associated with the dredge slurry will be decanted through a weir system and discharged back into the waters adjacent to the
project area. All previous permit requirements will be adheared to.
JUL 26 2022
252.808.2808 .. 1-888-4RCOAST .. www,nccoastaimanagement.net
DCM-MHD CITY

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 4 of 5)
� Y
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
i. Will wastewater or stommwaler be discharged into a wetland? ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, will this discharged water be of the same salinity as the receiving water? []Yes []No ®NA
j. Is there any mitigation proposed? ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, attach a mitigation proposal.
<Form continues on back>
6. Additional Information
In addition to this completed application form, (MP-1) the following items below, if applicable, must be submitted in order for the application
package to be complete. Items (a) — (f) are always applicable to any major development application. Please consult the application
Instruction booklet on how to properly prepare the required items below.
a. A project narrative.
b. An accurate, dated work plat (including plan view and cross -sectional drawings) drawn to scale. Please give the present status of the
proposed project. Is any portion already complete? If previously authorized work, clearly indicate on maps, plats, drawings to distinguish
between work completed and proposed.
c. A site or location map that is sufficiently detailed to guide agency personnel unfamiliar with the area to the site.
d. A copy of the deed (with state application only) or other instrument under which the applicant claims title to the affected properties.
e. The appropriate application fee. Check or money order made payable to DENR.
I. A list of the names and complete addresses of the adjacent waterfront (riparian) landowners and signed return receipts as proof that such
owners have received a copy of the application and plats by certified mail. Such landowners must be advised that they have 30 days in
which to submit comments on the proposed project to the Division of Coastal Management.
Name Army Reserve Phone No. [phone]
US Army Corps of Engineers
Address 69 Darlington Ave
Wilmington, NC 28403
Name Morehead City Yacht Basin LLC Phone No. [phone]
Address 2645 Temples Point Road
Havelock, NC 28532
Name Phone No.
Address
g. A list of previous state or federal permits issued for work on the project tract. Include permit numbers, permittee, and issuing dates.
NCDEQ Major CAMA 120-13 SAW 2013-01747
SAW 2017-01680
h. Signed consultant or agent authorization form, if applicable.
i. Welland delineation, if necessary.
j. A signed AEC hazard notice for projects in oceanfront and Inlet areas. (Must be signed by property owner)
k. A statement of compliance with the N.C. Environmental Policy Act (N.C.G.S. 113A 1-10), if necessary. If the project involves expenditure
of public funds or use of public lands, attach a statement documenting compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act.
1 7. Certification and Permission to Enter on Land
I understand that any permit issued in response to this application will allow only the development described in the application.
The project will be subject to the conditions and restrictions contained in the permit.
I certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact grant permission to representatives of state and federal review agencies to
enter on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this permit application and follow-up
monitoring of the project.
I further certify that the information provided in this application is truthful to the best of my knowledge. ;\: ED
252.808.2808 .. 1-888-4RCOAST .. www.nccoastaimanagement.net
AHD CITY

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 5 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
Date 7/5/2022 Print Name Brian E Clark_
Signature Z
Please indicate application attachments pertaining to your proposed project.
SDCM MP-2 Excavation and Fill Information ❑DCM MP-5 Bridges and Culverts
❑DCM MP-3 Upland Development
❑DCM MP-4 Structures Information
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCIV.-MHD CITY
282-808-2808 :e 9.888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoostaimanagement.net

Form DCM MP-2
EXCAVATION and FILL
(Except for bridges and culverts)
Attach this form to Joint Application for CAMA Major Permit, Form DCM MP-1. Be sure to complete all other sections of the Joint
Application that relate to this proposed project. Please include all supplemental information.
Describe below the purpose of proposed excavation and/or fill activities. All values should be given in feet.
Access
Other
Channel
Canal
Boat Basin
Boat Ramp
Rock Groin
Rock
(excluding
(NLW or
Breakwater
shoreline
NWL)
stabilization
Length
560
Width
415
Avg. Existing
-4 to -14
NA
NA
Depth
MLLW
Final Project
14 MLLW
NA
NA
Depth
1. EXCAVATION
a. Amount of material to be excavated from below NHW or NWL in
cubic yards.
It is expected that the proposed project will remove approximately
35,000 cubic yards of course material from the 3 acre footprint.
c. (1) Does the area to be excavated Include coastal wetlands/marsh
(CW), submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), shell bottom (SB),
or other wetlands (WL)? If any boxes are checked, provide the
number of square feet affected.
❑CW ❑SAV ❑SB
❑WL ®None
(ii) Describe the purpose of the excavation in these areas:
The purpose of excavating this area is to expand the existing
northern barge fleeting area to aanmadate mooring additional
barges.
2. DISPOSAL OF EXCAVATED MATERIAL
a. Location of disposal area.
Marsh Island, Brant Island, or Northern Radio Island
disposal areas are contenders for the material depending
on the available space at Marsh Island. Marsh Island is the
closest in proximity and therefore the expected disposal
site.
c. (I) Do you claim titre to disposal area?
®Yes ❑No ❑NA
(it) If no, attach a letter granting permission from the owner
e. (i) Does the disposal area include any coastal webands/marsh
(CW), submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), shell bottom (SB),
or other wetlands (WL)? If any boxes are checked, provide the
number of square feet affected.
❑CW _ ❑SAV _ ❑SB
[I This section not applicable
b. Type of material to be excavated.
Unconsolidated fine grained sediment
d. High -ground excavation in cubic yards.
NA
El This section not applicable
Dimensions of disposal area.
No current demension data is available for the potential
disposal sites.
d. (I) Will a disposal area be available for future maintenance?
®Yes ❑No ❑NA
(ii) If yes, where?
f. (I) Does the disposal Include any area in the water?
[]Yes ®No ❑NA
(ti) If yes, how much water area is affected?
252-808-2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastalmanagement.net revised: 12/26/06
n /�.• .., ,ems ...�...

F6rm DCM MP-2 (Excavation and Fill, Page 2 of 3)
❑WL _ ®None
(it) Describe the purpose of disposal in these areas:
❑Bulkhead ❑Riprap ❑Breakwater/Sill []Other: Width:
c. Average distance waterward of NHW or NWL: d. Maximum distance waterward of NHW or NWL:
e. Type of stabilization material: f. (i) Has there been shoreline erosion during preceding 12
months?
❑Yes []No ❑NA
III) If yes, state amount of erosion and source of erosion amount
information.
g. Number of square feet of fill to be placed below water level. h. Type of fill material.
Bulkhead backfill Riprap
Breakwater/Sill Other
I. Source of fill material.
4. OTHER FILL ACTIVITIES ®This section not applicable
(Excluding Shoreline Stabilization)
a. (i) Will fill material be brought to the site? ❑Yes []No ❑NA b. (1) Will fill material be placed in coastal wetlands/marsh (CW),
If yes, submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), shell bottom (SB), or
(ii) Amount of material to be placed in the water other wetlands (WL)? If any boxes are checked, provide the
number of square feet affected.
(III) Dimensions of fill area ❑CW ❑SAV ❑SB
(iv) Purpose of fill ❑WL []None
(11) Describe the purpose of the fill in these areas:
5. GENERAL
a. How will excavated or fill material be kept on site and erosion
controlled?
The areas proposed for receiving the dredged material are existing
disposal sites that have earthen berms to retain sediment.
c. (i) Will navigational aids be required as a result of the project?
[-]Yes ®No ❑NA
(ii) If yes, explain what type and how they will be implemented.
What type of construction equipment will be used (e.g., dragline,
backhoe, or hydraulic dredge)?
It is anticipated that a hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredge will
be used for this project; however, a mechanical dredge could
be used and periodic maintenance would be accomplished by
the Port -owned water injection dredge.
d. (i) Will wetlands be crossed in transporting equipment to project
site? []Yes ®No []NA
(ii) If yes, explain steps that will be taken to avoid or minimize
environmental impacts.
11 11 26 4
99
252-808.2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastalmanaaement.net revised: 12/26/06
DCM-MHD CITY

Date
Jv�y '>L , ZozL
Project Name
Port of Morehead City Northam Barge Fleeting Area Expanson
Applicant Name
Brian E Clark
Applicant Signature
RECEIVED
JUL 26 Z0N
25Z808.2808 :: 1-888.4RCOAST :: www.necoastalmanagement.net DCM-MHD CITY revised: 12126/06

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORT l
1_
Certified Mail
July 5, 2022
Jeremiah Lee Smith, P.E., PMP
Chief, Navigation Branch
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
69 Darlington Ave
Wilmington NC 28403
Subject: CAMA Permit Request Notification
Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
North Carolina State Ports Authority
Morehead City, Carteret County
Dear Mr. Smith
In pursuance of a North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM)
Major Permit Modification, the NC State Ports Authority (NCSPA) Port of
Morehead City (POMC) is required to notify adjacent riparian property
owners to any proposed development.
Please find a description of the proposed project below along with the
DCM adjacent riparian property owner notification/waiver form and
adjacent riparian property owner statement form. Dial Cordy and
Associates (DC&A) of behalf of Todd Walton at the NCSPA request that
a signed copy of these form be returned to DC&A via email
(Ihargrove(&dialcordy.com) or mailed to 201 N. Front St. Ste 307,
Wilmington, NC 28401.
Additional information in the form of an Essential Fish Habitat and
Biological Assessment documents are available upon request.
Proposed Action
The Proposed Action by the NCSPA at the POMC is proposing to modify
the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-13
to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting
area. The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the
Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina (NC).
The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges RECEIVED
that are awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge
fleeting activity at the Port is primarily associated with the transport of JUL 26 2022
imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford Steel plant
on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have DCM-MHD CITY

NORTH
CAROLINA
POR�`l
doubled over the last several years; resulting in increased demand for
barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action would expand the north
barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges.
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River -600 feet
north of the northeast corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The
existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin
of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of
over dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently
installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action would expand the
existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal
bottom to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2).
An additional 1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a
transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the 2.0-acre expansion
area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new
dredging and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new
mooring structures are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are
sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion area. The
depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic
maintenance dredging expected to occur once every 4-5 years. Existing
depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW
(Figure 3). Construction and maintenance of the barge fleeting
expansion area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges
and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems. Dredged material
would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined disposal
facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio
Island disposal areas. Disposal operations for cutterhead dredging
would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal area via floating
and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging,
disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the
disposal area for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic
offloading.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
2.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
if
O
P 0 A
Vi
0 EHEA
UF Rf
BWUE SOUND
'Ni
K
P4 W L..
41
Figure 1. Project Location and Proposed Action Area
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCm-MHD CITY

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
Figure 1
North Barge Fleeting Area
G� r
RECFIvEB
JUl 2 6
2022 A-
DGM-MHB CITY

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
DI
r
A-Ar Bathy. .mb c Profile Graph
Edsd, BaOrymeay PooMe
-7
—
Pm ed Batlryneby P1e51e
-t
-11
3:1 Flopoaetl FleengMe Bitbq Fkebq Ma
12
area
-t3
0 w 10n 150 210 2k 350
Distance (feet)
B - B' Bathynetric Profile Graph
5
0
5dsgn9 BaNymetr
16
0 50 100 150 200 250 360
Distanee (feet)
y Profile
-10
-12
Praposetl Baltrymetry Profla
9ape
C-Ca Bathynetric Profile Graph
1
5-
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Distance (leap
Free. Loran. — 1a Goat. (MI-I.M.)
Fleeting Area Elevation(MLLW)
® Ustlng Fleeting Hem Value
® Proposetl Fleeting Hem _- Hlgh:-2
OPmPosed 3:1 aoPe - W-' Low:-30
m
ftl
0 150 300 450 800
Feel
Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area -Existing and
Proposed Bathymetry RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY e.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTr-
Certified Mail
July 5, 2022
Morehead City Yacht Basin
2645 Temples Point Rd
Havelock NC 28532
Subject: CAMA Permit Request Notification
Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
North Carolina State Ports Authority
Morehead City, Carteret County
Dear Sirs,
In pursuance of a North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM)
Major Permit Modification, the NC State Ports Authority (NCSPA) Port of
Morehead City (POMC) is required to notify adjacent riparian property
owners to any proposed development.
Please find a description of the proposed project below along with the
DCM adjacent riparian property owner notification/waiver form and
adjacent riparian property owner statement form. Dial Cordy and
Associates (DC&A) of behalf of Todd Walton at the NCSPA request that a
signed copy of these form be returned to DC&A via email
(Ihargrove(u�dialcordy.com) or mailed to Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 N. Front St. Ste 307, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Proposed Action
The Proposed Action by the NCSPA at the POMC is proposing to modify
the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-13
to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting area.
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the Port of
Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina (NC). The north
fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are
awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting
activity at the Port is primarily associated with the transport of imported
iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford Steel plant on the
Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over
the last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting RECEIVED
capacity. The proposed action would expand the north barge fleeting area
from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an additional 4 to 6 loaded JUL 26 2022
barges.
DCM-MHD CITY

NORTH
CAROLINA
P0RTSf
Z_
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River -600 feet
north of the northeast corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The
existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin of
the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of the
existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over
dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed
within the fleeting area. The proposed action would expand the existing
facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom to
a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional
1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1
slope along the western margin of the 2.0-acre expansion area. In total,
the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging and the
removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures
are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate
additional barges in the expansion area. The depth of the expansion area
would be maintained through periodic maintenance dredging expected to
occur once every 4-5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging
area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). Construction and
maintenance of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic
pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow
systems. Dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -
owned confined disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt
Island, and North Radio Island disposal areas. Disposal operations for
cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal
area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via
scow to the disposal area for placement via mechanical means or
hydraulic offloading.
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY 2.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
ROGUE SOUND
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Figure 1, Project Location and Proposed Action Area
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
3.
DCM-MHD CITY

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
Marsh Wand
Disposal Area
44-ft Fleeting Area
-14-ft Expansion Area
3:1 slope
Figure 1. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY 4.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
7
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0 50 10a 160 250 250 360
Distance (feet)
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Distance (feet)
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0 150 900 450 800
Feet
Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area -Existing and
Proposed Bathymetry
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY s.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS�-
Figure 1. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY a.

ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT ASSESSMENT
NORTH BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
5 July 2022
Prepared for:
North Carolina State Ports Authority
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402
Prepared by:
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 North Front Street, Suite 307
Wilmington, North Carolina 2 8401
DIAL CORUY
0 AN]) ASSOCIA'I'HS IN('.
ru.
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................1
2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION....................................1
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA..........................................................................6
4.0 Essential Fish Habitat and Managed fisheries IN THE ACTION AREA .............................7
4.1 Federally Managed Species.........................................................................................8
4.1.1 Peneaid Shrimp.....................................................................................................8
4.1.2 Snapper -Grouper Complex....................................................................................8
4.1.3 Summer Flounder..................................................................................................9
4.1.4 Coastal Migratory Pelagics....................................................................................9
4.1.5 Bluefish................................................................................................................10
4.1.6 Smooth Dogfish...................................................................................................10
4.2 EFH and HAPC..........................................................................................................11
4.2.1 Estuarine Water Column......................................................................................11
4.2.2 Unconsolidated Bottom........................................................................................11
4.2.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks.............................................................................11
4.2.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation...........................................................................12
4.2.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)........................................................12
4.2.6 State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas..................................................................12
5.0 EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION ON EFH AND MANAGED SPECIES ............
17
5.1 Estuarine Water Column.............................................................................................17
5.1.1 Sediment Suspension and Turbidity....................................................................17
5.1.2 Larval Entrainment...............................................................................................18
5.2 Unconsolidated Bottom...............................................................................................18
5.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks....................................................................................19
5.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation(SAV)........................................................................19
5.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)...............................................................20
6.0 CONSERVATION MEASURES......................................................................................20
7.0 REFERENCES...............................................................................................................21
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVEIMal Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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DCM-MHn rtTV

LIST OF TABLES
Page
Table 1. EFH and HAPC in the vicinity of the action area...........................................................7
Table 2. Penaeid shrimp salinity requirements and recruitment periods (NCDEQ 2016).............8
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1.
Proposed Action Location Map...................................................................................3
Figure 2.
North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout.............................................................4
Figure 3.
North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry ................5
Figure 4.
NCDMF Shell Bottom Map........................................................................................14
Figure5.
NCDMF SAV Map.....................................................................................................15
Figure 6.
State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas.......................................................................16
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
iii JUL 2 6 2022
nrM-MHD CITY

LIST OF ACRONYMS
°C
Degrees Centigrade
AIWW
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
ASMFC
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
CDF
Confined Disposal Facility
CPE
Coastal Planning & Engineering, Inc.
CWA
Clean Water Act
CY
Cubic Yards
DA
Department of the Army
DMMP
Dredged Material Management Plan
EFH
Essential Fish Habitat
FT
Feet
HAPC
Habitat Areas of Particular Concern
M
Meters
MAFMC
Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management Council
MCH
Morehead City Harbor
MSFCMA
Magnuson -Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
NC
North Carolina
NCAC
North Carolina Administrative Code
NCDEQ
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
NCDMF
North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
NEFSC
Northeast Fisheries Science Center
NMFS
National Marine Fisheries Service
NOAA
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NTU
Nephelometric Turbidity Units
PNA
Primary Nursery Area
PPT
Parts Per Thousand
RHA
Rivers and Harbors Act
SAFMC
South Atlantic Fishery Management Council
SAV
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
SNA
Secondary Nursery Areas
TSS
Total Suspended Solids
USACE
United States Army Corps of Engineers
USC
United States Code
WID
Water Injection Dredging
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
iv JUL 26 2M
DCM-MHD PITY

1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Assessment has been prepared in accordance with the
Magnuson -Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSFCMA) to address the
effects of proposed new dredging work at the Port of Morehead City on EFH and federally
managed fisheries. The North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA) has requested
Department of the Army (DA) authorization pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA)
and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act (RHA) to expand the existing north barge fleeting
area in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina
(NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are awaiting
waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is primarily
associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford
Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over the
last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action
would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges.
2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River -600 feet north of the northeast
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging every 2 to 5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to
-14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new dredging area are part of a
uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface to a depth of -45-ft MLLW
(Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ a
hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredge and/or a mechanical bucket dredge and scow system.
Construction dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Construction disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic
delivery to the disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area
for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
1 JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVEDDial Gordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
2 JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

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Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
RECEIVED Dial
3
JUL 2 6 2022
nrr,A_eeun riry
and Associates Inc.
July 2022

Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
July 2022
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHn CITV

I�f
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— Profile Location 1ft Comour(MLLWj
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Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
RECEIVE P" Cordy and Associates Inc.
July 2022
5
JUL 2 6 2022
r)rRA-noun rlTV

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA
The north barge fleeting area is located —3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, NC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of —3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated bottom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish beds,
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
July 2022
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DCM-MHD CITY

4.0 ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT AND MANAGED FISHERIES IN THE ACTION AREA
The action area encompasses marine and estuarine habitats that are designated as EFH and/or
Habitat Areas of Particular Concern (HAPCs) in Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) developed
by the South Atlantic Fisheries Management Council (SAFMC), Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management
Council (MAFMC), and/or the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (Table 1). The
MSFCMA defines EFH as "those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding,
feeding, or growth to maturity." HAPCs comprise a more specific subset of EFH that are
considered to be especially critical due to factors such as rarity, susceptibility to human -induced
degradation, and/or high ecological importance. Federally managed species and associated
EFH/HAPCs that occur in the vicinity of the action area are described in the sections below.
Table 1. EFH and HAPC in the vicinity of the action area.
SPECIES/GROUP
EFH/HAPC
SAFMC EFH
Tidal Estuarine Emergent Wetlands
Penaeid Shrimp
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Subtidal/Intertidal Non -vegetated Flats
Tidal Estuarine Emergent Wetlands
Tidal Creeks
Snapper -Grouper
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
Unconsolidated Bottom
Coastal Migratory Pelagics
Primary Nursery Areas
Coastal Inlets
SAFMC HAPC
Penaeid Shrimp
Primary Nursery Areas
Coastal Inlets
Primary Nursery Areas
Snapper -Grouper
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
Coastal Inlets
Coastal Migratory Pelagics
Coastal Inlets
High Salinity Estuaries (Bogue Sound)
MAFMC EFH
Summer Flounder
Estuaries with salinities >0.5 ppt
Bluefish
Estuaries
Atlantic Butterfish
Inshore pelagic habitats
MAFMC HAPC
Summer Flounder
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
NMFS EFH
Highly Migratory Species (Smooth Dogfish)
Estuaries
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion RECEIVED
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JUL 26 2022

4.1 Federally Managed Species
4.1.1 Peneaid Shrimp
Federally managed penaeid shrimp in NC include brown shrimp (Farfantepenaeus aztecus), pink
shrimp (F. duorarum), and white shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus). Adults spawn offshore in high
salinity oceanic waters during the winter or spring, and the ocean -spawned larvae and post -larvae
are transported by currents to inshore estuarine nursery habitats where they maintain a benthic
existence (SAFMC 1981). Larval and post -larval estuarine recruitment periods vary among the
three species (Table 2). Penaeid shrimp tolerate a wide range of salinities (Table 2) and are most
abundant in shallow mud -silt habitats where they congregate at the highly productive marsh -water
interface. As their size increases, shrimp move toward higher -salinity ocean waters, eventually
migrating offshore in the fall. The action area encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH
and HAPCs for all life stages of penaeid shrimp; including estuarine tidal marshes, subtidal and
intertidal non -vegetated flats, coastal inlets, submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), and state
designated Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) and Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs).
Table 2. Penaeid shrimp salinity requirements and recruitment periods (NCDEQ 2016).
Species
Salinity (ppt)
Juvenile Recruitment
Brown Shrimp
2-35
February - March
Pink Shrimp
0-35
June - October
White Shrimp
2-35
April - May
4.1.2 Snapper -Grouper Complex
The snapper -grouper complex is an assemblage of 59 species that share a common association
with hardbottom or reef habitats during part of their life cycle. Snappers (Lutjanidae), groupers
(Serranidae), porgies (Sparidae), and grunts (Haemulidae) generally inhabit offshore reef and
hardbottom habitats; whereas, nearshore ocean hardbottoms along the NC coast have cooler
temperatures and a fish community dominated primarily by black sea bass (Centropristis striata),
scup (Stenotomus chrysops), and associated temperate species (Sedberry and Van Dolah 1984).
Most snapper -grouper species are associated with offshore reef and hardbottom habitats
throughout their life cycle; however, a few species such as black sea bass, gag (Mycteroperca
microlepis), gray snapper (Lutjanus griseus), and lane snapper (L. synagris) use estuarine
nursery habitats for juvenile development (SAFMC 1998, NCDMF 2006). Juveniles of these
estuarine -dependent species emigrate from the estuary to nearshore hardbottom habitats in the
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Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
a JUL 26 2022
_......Aun (^ITY

fall, and eventually move to offshore reef and hardbottom habitats. Moser at W. (1999) reported
that juvenile gag, red grouper, and black grouper recruited to the lower Newport River Estuary
and Bogue Sound from mid -April to early June and remained through early November. Juveniles
were found only in polyhaline habitats near inlets, initially occupying SAV beds for 3-4 months
before moving to complex structural habitats such as estuarine jetties. Caridean shrimp
comprised 51% of the total food volume consumed, with Penaeid shrimp and fish contributing
21% and 16% of the total volume, respectively. Amphipods and copepods were frequently
consumed, but comprised only a small percentage of the overall volume. The action area
encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH and HAPCs for the juvenile life stages of
estuarine -dependent snapper -grouper species; including estuarine tidal marsh, tidal creeks,
unconsolidated bottom, SAV, oyster reefs, and state -designated PNAs and SNAs.
4.1.3 Summer Flounder
The geographic range of the summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) includes shallow estuaries
and outer continental shelf waters along the Atlantic Coast from Nova Scotia to Florida (Packer
at al. 1999). Adult summer flounder exhibit strong seasonal inshore -offshore movements;
concentrating in estuaries and sounds from late spring through early fall before migrating offshore
to the outer continental shelf where spawning occurs during the fall and early winter. Larvae and
post larvae recruit to estuarine nursery habitats from October to May and eventually settle to the
bottom and bury into the sediment where development to the juvenile life stage is completed.
Late larval and juvenile flounder actively prey on crustaceans, copepods, and polychaetes
(NEFSC 1999). Juveniles prefer sandy shell substrates; but also inhabit marsh creeks, mud flats,
and seagrass beds. Juveniles often remain in North Carolina estuaries for 18 to 20 months.
Adults prefer sandy substrates, but also use seagrass beds, tidal marsh creeks, and sand flats
(ASFMC 2011 c and d, NEFSC 1999). The action area encompasses habitats that are designated
as EFH and HAPCs for larval, juvenile, and adult summer flounder; including estuarine waters
with salinities >0.5 ppt and SAV.
4.1.4 Coastal Migratory Pelagics
The coastal migratory pelagics management unit includes Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus.
maculates), king mackerel (S. cavalla), and cobia (Rachycentron canadum). Adult Spanish
mackerel spawn in groups over the inner continental shelf; beginning in April off the Carolinas.
Larvae are most commonly found in nearshore ocean waters at shallow depths less than 30 ft.
Most juveniles remain in nearshore ocean waters, but some use high salinity estuaries (e.g.,
Bogue Sound) as nursery habitats. Adult Spanish mackerel spend most of their lives in the open
ocean but are also found in tidal estuaries and coastal waters (ASMFC 2011 a, 2011 b, Mercer at
al. 1990). King mackerel are primarily a coastal species, with smaller individuals of similar size
forming schools over reefs and areas of bottom relief, and larger solitary individuals preferring
anthropogenic structures and wrecks. Cobia are found over the continental shelf and in high
salinity estuaries; preferring waters in the vicinity of reefs and artificial structures such as pilings
and buoys. Cobia spawning along NC occurs primarily in offshore ocean waters during May and
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
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July 2022
g JUL 26 20%:2
DCM-MHD CITY

June; however, spawning has also been observed in estuaries and shallow bays, with the young
moving offshore soon after hatching (SAFMC 1983 and 2011). In Bogue Sound, Spanish
mackerel and cobia larvae are common in the seawater (>25 ppt) salinity zone, while adults and
juveniles are abundant to common in both the seawater and mixing (0.5-25 ppt) zones (Nelson et
al 1991). The action area encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH and HAPCs for
coastal migratory pelagics; including high salinity estuaries, coastal inlets, SAV, and state -
designated PNAs and SNAs.
4.1.5 Bluefish
The bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix) is a migratory, pelagic species found in temperate and semi-
tropical continental shelf waters around the world with the exception of the north and central
Pacific. In North America, bluefish range from Nova Scotia to Florida in the Atlantic Ocean and
from Florida to Texas in the Gulf of Mexico. Spawning in the South Atlantic Bight occurs near the
shoreward edge of the Gulf Stream primarily during April and May. Larval development occurs in
the upper water column over the outer continental shelf, with transitional pelagic juveniles
eventually moving to nearshore ocean and estuarine waters that serve as the principal nursery
habitats for juvenile development (Kendall and Walford 1979). Estuarine juveniles are most
commonly associated with sandy unconsolidated bottom habitats; but also use mud/silt bottom,
SAV, marine macroalgae, oyster reefs, and tidal marshes (Shepherd and Packer 2006).
Juveniles are common in high salinity estuaries along the southern NC coast during summer and
fall, where they are usually associated with salinities of 23 to 33 ppt; however, juveniles are found
at salinities as low as 3 ppt (Fahay et al. 1999). Designated inshore EFH for juvenile and adult
bluefish along the southern NC coast includes estuaries below MHW.
4.1.6 Smooth Dogfish
The smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis) is a small, migratory, demersal shark species of inshore and
continental shelf waters from Massachusetts to northern Argentina in the Atlantic Ocean. The
species is viviparous, with pupping occurring in estuarine waters from Virginia to Massachusetts
(McCandless et al. 2007). Pups are born during spring and summer, and juveniles remain in
estuarine nursery areas until fall. Larger juveniles occupy deeper estuarine waters before joining
adults on the continental shelf. Juveniles in estuarine nursey areas prey on polychaetes, decapod
shrimp, crabs, bivalves, and small estuarine fish (Able and Fahay 2010). Adults undertake
seasonal migrations between inshore pupping grounds and offshore wintering grounds on the on
the outer continental shelf (Branstetter 2002; Able and Fahay 2010). Adults migrate inshore
during the spring when water temperatures reach 6 to 7 °C, and move offshore during the early
fall as water temperatures decrease (Compagno 1984). Inshore estuarine waters in the vicinity of
the action area are designated as EFH for all life stages of the smooth dogfish.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
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DCM-MHD CITY

4.2 EFH and HAPC
4.2.1 Estuarine Water Column
The north barge fleeting area is located -3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lowermost
polyhaline reach of the Newport River Estuary. Just below the fleeting area, the estuary
converges with Bogue Sound, Back Sound, and Beaufort Inlet. Beaufort Inlet extends -2.5 miles
from the Port of Morehead City to the Atlantic Ocean. Beaufort Inlet is an important transport
corridor for the planktonic eggs and larvae of estuarine -dependent fishes and invertebrates that
spawn offshore as adults and reside in estuarine nursery areas during juvenile development.
Successful recruitment of ocean -spawned planktonic larvae to estuarine nursery areas is
dependent on passive ocean -to -sound transport through a relatively small number of narrow tidal
inlets. Larvae spawned offshore are transported shoreward by the prevailing currents, eventually
accumulating in the nearshore ocean zone where they are picked up by long -shore currents and
transported to inlets (Churchill et al. 1999). Temporal patterns of larval transport through Beaufort
Inlet were described by Hettler and Chester (1990). Overall larval densities within the inlet were
highest from late May to early June and lowest in November. Species richness was also highest
(32 taxa) from late May to early June and lowest (3 taxa) in November.
4.2.2 Unconsolidated Bottom
Intertidal and shallow subtidal unconsolidated bottom habitats provide abundant food resources
for estuarine -dependent juveniles in an environment that is relatively inaccessible to large
predators via shallow depths (SAFMC 1998). Shallow unconsolidated bottom habitats support
highly productive benthic microalgal communities. Benthic microagal primary production, along
with imported primary production in the form of phytoplankton and detritus, supports highly
productive benthic infaunal invertebrate communities that comprise the prey base for most
estuarine -dependent demersal fishes; including summer flounder and estuarine -dependent
species of the snapper -grouper complex. Penaeid shrimp are most abundant in shallow
unconsolidated bottom habitats at the highly productive shallow bottom -marsh interface (NCDEQ
2016). Unconsolidated bottom habitats consisting of fine sand to silty fine sand comprise all of
the benthic habitat within the proposed new dredging area (Catlin Engineers 2013).
4.2.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
Shell bottom habitats include oyster reefs, aggregations of non -reef building shellfish species
[e.g., clams and scallops (Argopecten irradians, A. gibbus)], and surface concentrations of broken
shells (shell hash). Oysters are the dominant reef -building species of estuarine shell bottom
habitats in NC. Non -reef building shellfish species that occur at densities sufficient to provide
structural habitat for other organisms include scallops, pen shells (Atrina seratta, A. rigida), and
rangia clams (Rangia cuneata) (SAFMC 2009). Shell bottom habitats function as important
nursery and foraging areas for estuarine -dependent juveniles. Shell bottom structure provides
refuge from predation and concentrates macroinvertebrates that comprise the prey base for many
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estuarine -dependent juvenile fishes (NCDEQ 2016). NCDMF benthic habitat maps depict a
narrow linear zone of shell bottom habitat -300 feet west of the proposed new dredging area
along the shoreline of Marsh Island (Figure 4). Additional mapped shell bottom habitats are
distributed throughout the surrounding Newport River Estuary.
4.2.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) in NC estuaries encompasses a number of bed -forming
rooted aquatic vascular plants (NCDEQ 2016). SAV beds occur on subtidal and occasionally
intertidal sediments in sheltered estuarine waters. Environmental requirements include
unconsolidated sediments for root and rhizome development, adequate light reaching the bottom,
and moderate to negligible current velocities (Thayer et al. 1984, Ferguson and Wood 1994).
SAV beds provide important structural fish habitat and perform important ecological functions
such as primary production, sediment and shoreline stabilization, and nutrient cycling (NCDEQ
2016). SAV habitats are important nursery areas for the juveniles of estuarine -dependent
species; including species of the snapper -grouper complex, bluefish, summer flounder, and
penaeid shrimp. NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately adjacent to
the proposed new dredging area (Figure 5). Small patches of SAV are identified along the
western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the proposed dredging area. Additional mapped SAV
habitats are distributed throughout the surrounding Newport River Estuary.
4.2.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)
Along with shallow unconsolidated bottom areas, salt and brackish marshes along the NC coast
function as important nursery habitats for federally managed species such as summer flounder,
penaeid shrimp, and estuarine dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. Penaeid
shrimp are considered critically linked to marsh edge habitat (SAFMC 1998). The majority of the
state designated fish nursery areas in NC encompass shallow soft bottom areas and associated
fringing tidal marshes (NCDEQ 2016). Tidal marshes in the lower polyhaline Newport River
Estuary are dominated by monospecific zones of smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and
black needlerush (Juncus romerianus). No tidal marshes are present within the proposed new
dredging area. The nearest tidal marshes are located -300 feet west of the proposed dredging
footprint along the shoreline of Marsh Island. The tidal marsh along the eastern shoreline of
Marsh Island consists of an approximately 400-ft-wide zone of smooth cordgrass.
4.2.6 State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) are defined as "those areas in the estuarine system where initial
post -larval development takes place" [15 North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC) 31
.0101(b)(20)(E)]. PNAs support uniform populations of very early juveniles and are typically
located in the upper reaches of the estuarine system. Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs) are
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defined as "those areas in the estuarine system where later juvenile development takes place."
Secondary Nursery Areas support uniform populations of developing subadults that have moved
from PNAs to the lower portions of the estuarine system. For most estuarine -dependent species,
larval settlement occurs in the uppermost reaches of shallow tidal creek systems (Weinstein 1979,
Ross and Epperly 1985). The abundance of juveniles in estuarine nursery areas generally peaks
between April and July (Ross and Epperly 1985). PNAs and SNAs are designated as HAPC for
shrimp, coastal migratory pelagics, and estuarine dependent species of the snapper -grouper
complex. Designated PNAs that are nearest to the proposed new dredging area are located —1.3
miles to the northwest in small tributaries of the Newport River (Calico Creek and Crab Point Bay)
(Figure 6). The nearest additional PNAs and SNAs are located in the Newport River —4 miles
upstream of the proposed new dredging area.
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5.0 EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION ON EFH AND MANAGED SPECIES
This assessment considers potential effects on EFH/HAPCs and federally managed species that
may occur through the following impact mechanisms: physical disturbance and modification of
benthic habitat within the dredging footprint, sediment suspension and redeposition, and larval
entrainment. Analyses of potential effects on EFH/HAPCs and federally managed species are
presented according to habitat type.
5.1 Estuarine Water Column
5.1.1 Sediment Suspension and Turbidity
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity may affect the
behavior (e.g., feeding, predator avoidance, habitat selection) and physiological functions (e.g.,
photosynthesis, gill -breathing, filter -feeding) of marine fishes and invertebrates (Michel et al.
2013). The extent and duration of dredging -induced sediment suspension are influenced by
sediment composition at the dredge site, the type of dredge employed, and hydrodynamic
conditions at the dredge site (Wilber et al. 2005). Sediment suspension by cutterhead dredges is
generally confined to the near bottom water column in the immediate vicinity of the rotating
cutterhead assembly (LaSalle et al. 1991). Based on sediment resuspension data collected
during navigation dredging projects, Hayes et al. (2000) and Hayes and Wu (2001) reported
average cutterhead dredge sediment resuspension rates ranging from 0.003 to 0.135% of the fine
silt/clay fraction. Mechanical dredges (bucket and clamshell) generally have higher sediment
suspension rates due to the washing of material out of the bucket as it is withdrawn from the
bottom and moved through and above the water column (LaSalle et al. 1991). Water injection
dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density sediment -
water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to deeper areas.
Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced sediment suspension
is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the bottom (Welp et al. 2017).
Regardless of dredge type, prolonged sediment suspension and extensive turbidity plumes are
primarily associated with the suspension of fine silt/clay particles that have relatively slow settling
velocities, whereas sands and gravels that make up the coarse -grained sediment fraction resettle
rapidly in the immediate vicinity of the dredge (Schroeder 2009). As previously described, the
sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse
sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by
either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate
vicinity of the new dredging footprint. It is expected that suspended fine sediments would be
rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the
duration of any adverse effects on water quality and federally managed species. The proposed
project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would avoid peak periods of larval ingress
and estuarine -dependent juvenile abundance in the vicinity of the action area, thus minimizing
the exposure of federally managed species to sediment,,,sgpension effects. In the specific case
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of WID, the potential for upstream sediment transport into the New River Estuary would be
minimized by conducting WID only on falling tides. Based on these considerations, it is expected
that any adverse effects on water quality and federally managed species would be minor and
short-term.
5.1.2 Larval Entrainment
Cutterhead pipeline dredges have the potential to entrain fishes and invertebrates during all life
cycle phases; including adults, juveniles, larvae, and eggs. Among adult and juvenile fishes,
demersal species that inhabit the near -bottom water column environment are most likely to be
entrained (Refine and Clarke 1998); although studies have also reported the entrainment of
pelagic fishes in small numbers (McGraw and Armstrong 1990). Entrainment studies indicate
that dredging elicits an avoidance response by demersal and pelagic species and that most
juvenile and adultfishes are successful at avoiding entrainment (Larson and Moehl 1990, McGraw
and Armstrong 1990). Planktonic eggs and larvae that lack avoidance capabilities are more
vulnerable to entrainment by hydraulic dredges, especially during ingress periods when they are
concentrated in inlets. The results of a long-term sampling program at Beaufort Inlet indicate that
larval densities within the inlet are highest from late May to early June and lowest in November
(Heftier and Chester 1990).
In the case of cutterhead pipeline dredging, the proposed action would affect federally managed
estuarine -dependent species by entraining planktonic eggs and larvae that occur in the vicinity of
the dredge pipe suction field. However, the results of larval entrainment modeling in Beaufort
Inlet indicate that dredge entrainment rates are extremely low regardless of inlet larval
concentrations and the distribution of larvae within the water column (Settle 2003). Even under
worst case model scenarios when the dredge was assumed to be operating 24 hours/day and all
larvae were assumed to be concentrated in the bottom of the navigation channel, projected
entrainment rates barely exceeded 0.1% of the daily (24-hour) larval flux through the inlet. The
proposed new dredging area is located above Beaufort Inlet in the relatively broad Newport River
Estuary where it is expected that the distribution of planktonic eggs and larvae would be relatively
diffuse. Furthermore, the proposed project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would
avoid the peak larval ingress period at Beaufort Inlet. Based on all of the above considerations,
it is anticipated that the effects of egg/larval entrainment on populations of federally managed
species would be negligible.
5.2 Unconsolidated Bottom
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of unconsolidated bottom habitat in the barge
fleeting expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be
increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent periodic maintenance dredging
events would remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily
reducing the availability of prey for federally managed demersal fishes such as summer flounder
and estuarine -dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. Depending on shoaling rates,
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the affected benthic infaunal communities would experience recurring maintenance dredging
impacts every 2 to 5 years. Studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah et al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of -10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction window
(01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate recruitment periods; thus
facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment. Based on all of the above
considerations, it is anticipated that effects on estuarine unconsolidated bottom habitats and
associated federally managed species would be minor and short-term.
5.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
As previously described, NCDMF benthic habitat maps do not identify any shell bottom areas
within or immediately adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on
shell bottom habitats would be expected. The only mapped shell bottom area in the vicinity of the
project area is a narrow linear shell bottom feature along the shoreline of Marsh Island -300-ft
west of the new dredging footprint. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process
may be transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting shell bottom areas
through redeposition. Heavy sediment redeposition can impact oysters by inhibiting larval
attachment to hard substrates and reducing the respiration and feeding rates of juveniles and
adults (Wilber and Clarke 2010). However, according to Colden and Lipcius (2015), eastern
oysters that were subjected to experimental sediment deposition did not exhibit significant
mortality or sublethal effects until at least 70% of the shell height was buried. As previously
described, the sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of
relatively coarse fine sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that
sediment suspension by either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be
confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint and the contiguous AIWW
channel. Therefore, it is expected that the effects of dredging -induced sediment suspension and
redeposition on oyster reefs and associated federally managed species would be minor and short-
term.
5.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV)
As previously described, NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately
adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on SAV would be expected.
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Small patches of SAV are identified along the western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the
proposed dredging area. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be
transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting SAV through increases in
turbidity and/or sediment redeposition. However, as previously described, it is anticipated that
the predominance of relatively coarse sand in the new dredging area would limit sediment
suspension to the immediate vicinity of the active work area. Therefore, it is expected that any
adverse effects on SAV and associated federally managed species from dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition would be minor and short-term.
5.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)
As previously described, the only tidal marshes in the vicinity of proposed new dredging area are
located —300 feet west of the dredging footprint along the shoreline of Marsh Island. Therefore,
the proposed action would not be expected to have any effect on tidal marshes.
6.0 CONSERVATION MEASURES
The following conservation measures would be implemented to avoid or minimize potential effects
on EFH/HPAC and federally managed species:
• Dredging would be conducted within a 1 October to 31 January construction window.
• Water injection dredging (WID) would be conducted only on falling tides.
• Good Engineering Practices (GEPs) and Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be
applied to all dredging activities.
• Dredged material delivery pipelines would be routinely inspected for pressurized leaks,
and any leaks that are found would be immediately repaired.
• Dredging contractors would be required to maintain spill control plans and waste
management plans for all dredging fleet equipment.
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7.0 REFERENCES
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North Atlantic. Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins University Press; 2010. 566p.
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Mackerel, Species Profile. Washington, D.C. Accessed March 2011.
ASMFC. 2011b. Managed Species Spanish Mackerel, Habitat Fact Sheet. Washington, D.C.
Accessed March 2011.
ASMFC. 2011c. Managed Species Summer Flounder, Habitat Fact Sheet. Washington, D.C.
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ASMFC. 2011d. Managed Species Summer Flounder, Species Profile. Washington, D.C.
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Branstetter, S. 2002. Smooth Dogfish/Mustelus canis canis (Mitchill 1815). In: B.B. Collette BB,
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Hayes, D., T. Crockett, T. Ward, and D. Averett. 2000. Sediment resuspension during cutterhead
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McGraw, K.A. and D.A. Armstrong. 1990. Fish Entrainment by Dredges in Grays Harbor,
Washington. pp. 113-131. In: C.A. Simenstad (ed.). Effects of Dredging on Anadromous
Pacific Coast Fishes. Workshop Proceedings, University of Washington Sea Grant, FL.
Mercer, L. P., L.R. Phalen, and J.R. Maiolo. 1990. Fishery Management Plan For Spanish
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Michel, J., A.C. Bejarano, C.H. Peterson, and C. Voss. 2013. Review of biological and
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North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ). 2016. North Carolina Coastal
Habitat Protection Plan. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
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City, NC.
NEFSC. 1999. Essential Fish Habitat Source Document: Summer Flounder, Paralichthys
dentatus, Life History and Habitat Characteristics. Woods Hole, Massachusetts.
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by fishes in Pamlico Sound and adjacent tributaries, North Carolina. p. 207-232 in A.
YanezAranciba (ad.). Fish Community Ecology in Estuaries and Coastal Lagoons:
Towards and Ecosystem Integration. DR (R) UNAM Press, Mexico, 654 pp.
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bottom habitat in the South Atlantic Bight of the USA. Environ. Biol. Fish. 11(1).
Settle, L. 2003. Assessment of potential larval entrainment mortality to hydraulic dredging of
Beaufort Inlet. Prepared for USACE-Wilmington District for the Morehead City Harbor
Environmental Assessment. May 2003. NOAA/NOS National Centers for Coastal Ocean
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Shepherd, G.R. and D.B. Packer. 2006. Essential Fish Habitat Source Document:
Bluefish, Pomatomus saltatrix, Life History and Habitat Characteristics 2nd edition. NOAA
Technical Memorandum, NMFS-NE-198:100.
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Accessed March 2011.
SAFMC. 2009. Fishery Ecosystem Plan of the South Atlantic Region. SAFMC, Charleston, SC.
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Council. SAFMC, Charleston, SC.
SAFMC. 1983. Fishery Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement Regulatory
Impact Review Final Regulations for Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources (Mackerels) In
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February 1983.
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SAFMC. 1981. Profile of the penaeid shrimp fishery in the South Atlantic. South Atlantic Fishery
Management Council, 1 Southpark Cir., Ste 306, Charleston, S.C. 29407, 321 pp.
Stickney, R. 1972. Effects of Intracoastal Waterway Dredging on Ichthyofauna and Benthic
Macro- Invertebrates. Technical Report Series. No 72-4. Skidaway Institute of
Oceanography, Savannah, GA. July 1972 60 pp.
Stickney, R. and D. Perlmutter. 1975. Impact of Intracoastal Waterway maintenance dredging
on a mud bottom benthos community. Biol Consery 01/1975; 7(3):211-225.
Thayer, G.W., W.J. Kenworthy, and M.S. Fonseca. 1984. The Ecology of Eelgrass Meadows of
the Atlantic coast: A Community Profile. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, FWS/OBS-84/02,
147 pp.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, and D.M. Knott. 1984. Effects of dredging and open -water disposal
on benthic macroinvertebrates in a South Carolina estuary. Estuaries 7, 28-37.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, D.M. Knott, and M.S. Maclin. 1979. Effects of dredging and
unconfined disposal of dredged material on benthic macroinvertebrate communities in
Sewee Bay, SC. Marine Resources Center Technical Report 39. Charleston, SC.
Weinstein, M.P. 1979. Shallow marsh habitats as primary nurseries for fishes and shellfish, Cape
Fear River. NC. Fisheries Bulletin 2: 339-357.
Welp, T.L., M.W. Tubman, D.A. Wilson, and C.E. Pollock. 2017. Water Injection Dredging.
DOER Technical Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center.
Wilber, D.H., W. Brostoff, D.G. Clarke, and G.L. Ray. 2005. Sedimentation: Potential biological
effects from dredging operations in estuarine and marine environments. DOER Technical
Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research
and Development Center.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion RECEIVED
24
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July 2022
JUL 2 6 2022

BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
NORTH BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
5 July 2022
Prepared for:
North Carolina State Ports Authority
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402
Prepared by:
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 North Front Street, Suite 307
Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
DIAL CORDY
AND ASSOC1A'I ES INC
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 ZOZZ
DCM-MHD CITY

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0
INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................1
2.0
LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION....................................2
3.0
DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA..........................................................................2
4.0
EFFECTS THE PROPOSED ACTION ON LISTED SPECIES AND CRITICAL
HABITATS........................................................................................................................6
4.1
Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon..................................................................................6
4.1.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat.............................................................................6
4.1.2 Occurrence in the Action Area...............................................................................7
4.1.3 Factors Affecting the Species................................................................................7
4.1.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon......................8
4.1.5 Determination of Effect..........................................................................................9
4.2
Sea Turtles.................................................................................................................10
4.2.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat...........................................................................10
4.2.2 Occurrence in the Action Area.............................................................................12
4.2.3 Factors Affecting the Species..............................................................................13
4.2.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Sea Turtles.....................................................15
4.2.5 Conservation Measures.......................................................................................16
4.2.6 Determination of Effect........................................................................................16
5.0
REFERENCES...............................................................................................................17
RECEIVED
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DCM-MHD CITY
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Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

LIST OF TABLES
Page
Table 1. Species and critical habitats considered in this assessment..........................................1
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1. Proposed Action Location Map...................................................................................3
Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout.............................................................4
Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry ................5
Figure 4. Loggerhead Turtle Critical Habitat.............................................................................14
RECEIVED
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LIST OF ACRONYMS
%
Percent
°C
Degrees Celsius
AIWW
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
ASSRT
Atlantic Sturgeon Status Review Team
CWA
Clean Water Act
CY
Cubic Yards
DPS
Distinct Population Segment
ESA
Endangered Species Act
FIR
Federal Register
FT
Feet
GEPs
Good Engineering Practices
BMPs
Best Management Practices
MCH
Morehead City Harbor
MLLW
Mean Lower Low Water
NC
North Carolina
NCDMF
North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
NCSPA
North Carolina State Ports Authority
NMFS
National Marine Fisheries Service
PPT
Parts per Thousand
RHA
Rivers and Harbors Act
SAV
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
SSSRT
Shortnose Sturgeon Status Review Team
USACE
United States Army Corps of Engineers
USFWS
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
WID
Water Injection Dredging
Biological Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
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July 2022
iii
UUL 2 6 2022

1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Biological Assessment has been prepared in accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered
Species Act (ESA) to address the effects of proposed new dredging work at the Port of Morehead
City on listed species and critical habitats. The North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA)
has requested Department of the Army authorization pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water
Act (CWA) and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act (RHA) to expand the existing north barge
fleeting area in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North
Carolina (NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are
awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is primarily
associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford
Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over the
last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action
would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges. This assessment considers listed species and critical habitats
under the jurisdiction of the NMFS that occur or may occur in the vicinity of the Port of Morehead
City; including the Atlantic sturgeon, shortnose sturgeon, loggerhead sea turtle, green sea turtle,
Kemps ridley sea turtle, leatherback sea turtle, hawksbill sea turtle, and loggerhead nearshore
reproductive critical habitat (Table 1).
Table 1. Species and critical habitats considered in this assessment.
Species/Critical Habitat
Listing ESAStatusDeteEffe
rm nations
Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
Endangered
MANLAA
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
Threatened
MANLAA
Green sea turtle (Che/onia mydas)
Endangered
MANLAA
Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate)
Endangered
MANLAA
Kemp's ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
Endangered
MANLAA
Shortnose sturgeon (Acipenserbrevirostrum)
Endangered
MANLAA
Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus)
Endangered
MANLAA
Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Critical Habitat
NE
I MANLAA = May affect, not likely to adversely affect; NE = No Effect
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2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River —600 feet north of the northeast
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging every 2 to 5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to
-14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new dredging area are part of a
uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface to a depth of -45-ft MLLW
(Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ a
hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredge and/or a mechanical bucket dredge and scow system.
Construction dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Construction disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic
delivery to the disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area
for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA
The north barge fleeting area is located —3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, INC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of —3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated bottom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish beds,
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
Biological Assessment REGE ial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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JUL 26 2022

Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
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DCM-MHD CITY

A -A' Bathynretric Profile Graph
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Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
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Inr-M-MHD CITY

4.0 EFFECTS THE PROPOSED ACTION ON LISTED SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITATS
4.1 Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon
4.1.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat
Shortnose Sturgeon
The shortnose sturgeon was listed as endangered throughout its range on 11 March 1967 (32 FR
4001). The species inhabits large Atlantic coast rivers from the St. Johns River in northeastern
Florida to the Saint Johns River in New Brunswick, Canada. Adults in southern rivers are
estuarine anadromous, foraging at the saltwater -freshwater interface and moving upstream to
spawn in the early spring. Shortnose sturgeon spend most of their lives in their natal river systems
and rarely migrate to marine environments. Spawning habitats include river channels with gravel,
gravel/boulder, rubble/boulder, and gravel/sand/log substrates. Spawning in southern rivers
begins in later winter or early spring and lasts from a few days to several weeks. Juveniles occupy
the saltwater -freshwater interface, moving back and forth with the low salinity portion of the salt
wedge during summer. Juveniles typically move upstream during the spring and summer and
move downstream during the winter, with movements occurring above the saltwater -freshwater
interface. In southern rivers, both adults and juveniles are known to congregate in cool, deep
thermal refugia during the summer. The shortnose sturgeon is a benthic omnivore that feeds on
crustaceans, insect larvae, worms, and mollusks. Juveniles randomly vacuum the bottom and
consume mostly insect larvae and small crustaceans. Adults are more selective feeders, feeding
primarily on small mollusks (NMFS 1998). No critical habitat has been designated for the
shortnose sturgeon.
Atlantic Sturgeon
The Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus) was listed under the ESA in 2012 as five
Distinct Population Segments (DPSs); including the endangered New York Bight, Chesapeake
Bay, Carolina, and South Atlantic DPSs and the threatened Gulf of Maine DPS (77 FR 5914, 77
FR 5880). The Carolina DPS encompasses subpopulations from the Roanoke, Tar/Pamlico,
Cape Fear, Waccamaw, Pee Dee, and Santee -Cooper Rivers in NC and South Carolina. Atlantic
sturgeon spawn in freshwater, but spend most of their adult life in the marine environment.
Spawning adults generally migrate upriver in the spring/early summer, although a fall spawning
migration may also occur in some southern rivers. Spawning is believed to occur in flowing water
between the salt front and fall line of large rivers. Post -larval juveniles move downstream into
brackish waters and eventually move to estuarine waters where they reside for a period of months
or years. Subadult and adult Atlantic sturgeons emigrate from rivers into coastal waters, where
they may undertake long range migrations. Migratory adult and subadult sturgeon are typically
found in shallow (40-70 ft) nearshore waters with gravel and sand substrates. Although extensive
mixing occurs in coastal waters, Atlantic sturgeons return to their natal river to spawn [Atlantic
Sturgeon Status Review Team (ASSRT) 2007]. In 2017, NMFS designated critical habitat for the
Atlantic sturgeon in large spawning river systems throughout the five DPSs (82 FR 39160).
Critical habitat for the Carolina DPS was designated in the Roanoke, Tar -Pamlico, Neuse, Cape
Fear, and Pee Dee Rivers of NC and South Carolina.
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4.1.2 Occurrence in the Action Area
Shortnose Sturgeon
Shortnose sturgeon were thought to be extirpated from NC waters until an individual was captured
in the Brunswick River in 1987 (Ross et al. 1988). Subsequent gill -net studies (1989-1993)
confirmed the presence of a small population in the lower Cape Fear River (Moser and Ross
1995). In 1998, the NC Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMF) reported the capture of a shortnose
sturgeon in western Albemarle Sound (Armstrong and Hightower 1999). Surveys in the Neuse
River during 2001 and 2002 failed to capture any shortnose sturgeon (Oakley and Hightower
2007). The current distribution of the shortnose sturgeon in NC is thought to include only the
Cape Fear and Pee Dee Rivers, and no spawning populations have been confirmed in the state
[Shortnose Sturgeon Status Review Team (SSSRT) 2010]. Occurrence data specific to the
action area vicinity are lacking. Based on its restriction primarily to large rivers, and more
specifically riverine waters above the saltwater -freshwater interface, shortnose sturgeon
occurrences within the high salinity waters of the action area (i.e., lower Newport River Estuary
and Beaufort Inlet) are considered unlikely. The occurrence of a transient individual within the
action area cannot be entirely discounted, as genetic studies indicate that some individuals move
between the various populations (Quattro et al. 2002, Wirgin et al. 2005).
Atlantic Sturgeon
Extant spawning populations of the Atlantic sturgeon in NC are currently known from the
Roanoke, Tar -Pamlico, Cape Fear, and potentially the Neuse River systems (ASSRT 2007).
Laney et al. (2007) analyzed Atlantic sturgeon incidental capture data from winter tagging cruises
along the NC and Virginia coasts. Cruises conducted in nearshore ocean waters from Cape
Lookout to Cape Charles, Virginia captured 146 Atlantic sturgeons between 1988 and 2006.
Captures typically occurred over sand substrate in nearshore waters that were less than 60 feet
deep. Laney et al. (2007) concluded that shallow nearshore ocean waters along the NC coast
represent an important winter (January -February) habitat and aggregation area for adult and
subadult Atlantic sturgeon. Occurrence data for estuarine waters in the vicinity of the action area
are lacking; however, based on the work by Laney et al. (2007), it is assumed that adult and
subadult Atlantic sturgeon may occur in the vicinity of Beaufort Inlet during the winter months. No
critical habitat has been designated in the vicinity of the action area.
4.1.3 Factors Affecting the Species
Historical overharvesting contributed to drastic declines in shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon
populations. Commercial exploitation of shortnose sturgeons continued into the 1950s, and
Atlantic sturgeons were commercially exploited throughout most of the 20'" century (NMFS 1998,
ASSRT 2007). Although directed commercial harvest is no longer permitted, by -catch mortality
associated with other fisheries remains a major threat. By -catch mortality associated with the
shad and shrimp fisheries and water quality degradation in nursery habitats are the primary
threats currently facing southeastern sturgeon populations (Collins et al. 2000). Dams that block
access to spawning grounds are a major stressor in some southern river systems, including the
Cape Fear River. Additional stressors include ship strikes and dredging (ASSRT 2007). Potential
dredging effects include direct impacts on benthic habitats and food resources, hydrological
modifications, turbidity and siltation, contaminant resuspension, and entrainment in hydraulic
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dredge intake pipelines. A total of 18 Atlantic sturgeons were taken by hopper dredges during
federal navigation dredging along the South Atlantic Coast from October 1990 to March 2012,
including two at Wilmington Harbor (USAGE 2014). No dredge takes have been reported at
Morehead City Harbor.
4.1.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon
This assessment evaluates potential effects on shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon that may occur
through the following impact mechanisms: physical disturbance and modification of soft bottom
foraging habitat within the dredging footprint, sediment suspension and redeposition, and
entrainment by hydraulic dredges.
4.1.4.1.1 Direct Impacts on Soft Bottom Foraging Habitat
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of soft bottom habitat in the barge fleeting
expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be increased to -
14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent periodic maintenance dredging events would
remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing the
availability of potential prey for shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon. Depending on shoaling rates,
the affected benthic infaunal communities would experience recurring maintenance dredging
impacts every 2 to 5 years. Studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah et al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of -10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction and
maintenance window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
4.1.4.1.2 Sediment Suspension and Redeposition
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity can affect the
behavior (e.g., feeding, predator avoidance, habitat selection) and physiological functions (e.g.,
gill -breathing) of marine fishes (Michel et al. 2013). The extent and duration of dredging -induced
sediment suspension are influenced by sediment composition at the dredge site, the type of
dredge employed, and hydrodynamic conditions at the dredge site (Wilber et al. 2005). Sediment
suspension by cutterhead dredges is generally confined to the near bottom water column in the
immediate vicinity of the rotating cutterhead assembly (LaSalle et al. 1991). Based on sediment
resuspension data collected during navigation dredging projects, Hayes et al. (2000) and Hayes
and Wu (2001) reported average cutterhead dredge sediment resuspension rates ranging from
0.003 to 0.135% of the fine silt/clay fraction. Mechanical dredges (bucket and clamshell) generally
have higher sediment suspension rates due to the washing of material out of the bucket as it is
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withdrawn from the bottom and moved through and above the water column (LaSalle at al. 1991).
Water injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high
density sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity
to deeper areas. Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced
sediment suspension is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the
bottom (Welp at al. 2017). Regardless of dredge type, prolonged sediment suspension and
extensive turbidity plumes are primarily associated with the suspension of fine silt/clay particles
that have relatively slow settling velocities, whereas sands and gravels that make up the coarse -
grained sediment fraction resettle rapidly in the immediate vicinity of the dredge (Schroeder 2009).
As previously described, the sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist
predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is
expected that sediment suspension by either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge
would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint. It is expected
that suspended fine sediments would be rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW
navigation channel, thus limiting the duration of any adverse effects on water quality.
4.1.4.1.3 Entrainment
Hydraulic dredging operations can potentially impact shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon directly
through entrainment in the dredge intake pipe. Although shortnose sturgeon have been taken by
both hopper and cutterhead dredges in rivers along the North Atlantic Coast, no dredge takes
have occurred along the South Atlantic Coast. The shortnose sturgeon is typically found in the
upper portions of rivers above the freshwater -saltwater interface, which reduces the potential for
dredge interactions. Based on the absence of reported dredge interactions along the South
Atlantic Coast, its restriction primarily to the upper portions of rivers, and the low probability of
occurrence in the action area; it is anticipated that the risk of direct injury to shortnose sturgeon
from dredging operations would be negligible. Atlantic sturgeon have been taken by both hopper
and cutterhead dredges during federal navigation dredging operations along the eastern US coast
(USAGE 2014b). However, all confirmed Atlantic sturgeon takes (n=5) by cutterhead dredges
occurred in the upper Delaware River during the winter in an area that is known to contain dense
aggregations of sturgeon that are resting on the bottom and exhibiting little movement. Analyses
of cutterhead dredge intake velocities and sturgeon swimming capabilities indicate that the risk of
entrainment is limited to juveniles within 1.0 meter of the dredge pipe intake (NMFS 2012). NMFS
has determined through previous separate navigation dredging consultations that mechanical
dredges are extremely unlikely to overtake or adversely affect sturgeon (NMFS 2020). Any
occurrences of Atlantic sturgeon in the vicinity of the action area would likely consist of adults or
subadults that would be able to avoid the dredge pipeline suction field. Based on the absence of
reported cutterhead dredge interactions along the South Atlantic Coast and the absence of
suitable juvenile nursery habitats in the vicinity of the action area, it is anticipated that the risk of
direct injury to Atlantic sturgeon from dredging operations would be negligible.
4.1.5 Determination of Effect
The risk of direct injury to sturgeon from dredging is considered negligible, and the proposed
action would have only minor short-term effects on potential foraging habitats and water quality.
Therefore, it is determined that the proposed action may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect
shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon.
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4.2 Sea Turtles
4.2.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat
Loggerhead Sea Turtle
The loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) was initially listed under the ESA as threatened
throughout its range on 28 July 1978 (43 FIR 32800). In 2011, the loggerhead's ESA status was
revised to threatened and endangered based on the recognition of nine DPSs. Distinct population
segments encompassing populations in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, South Atlantic Ocean,
Southwest Indian Ocean, and Southeast Indo-Pacific Ocean were reclassified as threatened;
while the remaining five populations in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, North
Pacific Ocean, South Pacific Ocean, and North Indian Ocean were reclassified as endangered.
Nesting in the US occurs along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from southern Virginia to Texas, but
is concentrated from NC through Alabama (NMFS and USFWS 2008). Post-hatchlings initially
reside in neritic (continental shelf) waters where they inhabit convergence zones with
accumulations of floating material such as sargassum. After a period of weeks or months, post-
hatchlings enter oceanic waters and begin a juvenile oceanic phase of development. Oceanic
phase juveniles appear to move with the predominant ocean gyres for several years before
returning to neritic waters where juvenile development continues to adulthood. In the US, juvenile
neritic phase loggerheads inhabit essentially all continental shelf waters along the Atlantic and
Gulf of Mexico coasts; including protected estuarine waters (sounds and bays). Adults primarily
inhabit offshore continental shelf waters from New York south through Florida and in the Gulf of
Mexico. Adult loggerheads are less likely than juveniles to utilize enclosed shallow estuarine
waters that have limited ocean access; however, shallow estuaries with expansive ocean access
comprise important foraging habitats for both juveniles and adults (NMFS and USFWS 2008).
Green Sea Turtle
The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) was initially listed as endangered and threatened under
the ESA on 28 July 1978 (43 FIR 32800). Breeding populations in Florida and along the Mexican
Pacific Coast were listed as endangered, while all other populations throughout the species' range
were listed as threatened. In 2011, the green sea turtle's ESA status was revised to threatened
and endangered based on the recognition of eight DPSs (81 FIR 20057). All green sea turtles in
the North Atlantic were listed as threatened under the North Atlantic Ocean DPS. Nesting in the
US is primarily limited to Florida, although nesting occurs in small numbers along the southeast
coast from Georgia to NC and the Gulf Coast of Texas. In US waters, green sea turtles are
distributed along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts from Massachusetts to Texas (NMFS and USFWS
2007a). Post-hatchlings migrate to oceanic waters and begin an oceanic juvenile phase of
development. Oceanic phase juveniles appear to move with the predominant ocean gyres for
several years before returning to neritic waters where juvenile development continues to
adulthood. Neritic phase juveniles inhabit shallow estuarine waters and nearshore waters that
are rich in seagrasses and/or marine macroalgae. Adults generally occur in relatively shallow
foraging habitats with abundant seagrasses and macroalgae, but may enter the oceanic zone
when migrating between foraging grounds and nesting beaches. No critical habitat has been
designated for the green sea turtle in the continental US.
RECFIVFn
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle
Kemp's ridley turtles (Lepidochelys kempii) occur primarily in coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico
and the western North Atlantic Ocean. Data indicate that adults utilize coastal habitats of the Gulf
of Mexico and the southeastem United States. Adults inhabit nearshore waters and are
commonly found over crab -rich sandy or muddy bottoms. Nesting is limited primarily to the
northeastern coast of Mexico, although rare nesting events have been recorded from the
southeastern United States. Hatchlings migrate to the oceanic zone where they are carried by
currents into various areas of the Gulf of Mexico and the North Atlantic Ocean. At approximately
two years of age, juveniles leave the oceanic zone and move to coastal benthic habitats in the
Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean along the eastern United States. During this stage,
juveniles occupy protected coastal waters such as bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters that are
less than 165 ft. deep. Juveniles utilize a wide range of bottom substrates, but apparently depend
on an abundance of crabs and other invertebrates (NMFS and USFWS 2007c).
Leatherback Sea Turtle
The leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), federally endangered, occurs in all oceans of the
world and has the largest geographic range of any turtle. Nesting occurs on beaches throughout
tropical and subtropical regions, and foraging turtles are distributed north and south into sub -polar
regions. Major nesting areas in the western North Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea include
Florida, St. Croix, the United States Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Panama, Columbia,
Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Surinam, and French Guiana. Adults and sub -adults migrate
seasonally to foraging areas in the northern latitudes, and during the summer and fall; the highest
densities of leatherback turtles in the north Atlantic are located in Canadian waters (NMFS and
USFWS 2007e). Although leatherback turtles are commonly known as highly pelagic animals,
recent telemetry studies have documented high use foraging sites in continental shelf and slope
waters (James at al. 2005). Leatherback turtles undertake extensive migrations between northern
foraging grounds and tropical and subtropical nesting beaches. Little is known of the distribution
and developmental habitat requirements of hatchling, juvenile, and sub -adult leatherback turtles
(NMFS and USFWS 2007e).
Hawksbill Sea Turtle
Hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricate), federally endangered, are distributed circumglobally
in tropical, and to a lesser extent, subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.
Nesting occurs on ocean beaches throughout the tropics and subtropics. In the continental United
States, hawksbill turtles have been reported from all of the Gulf States and along the east coast
as far north as Massachusetts; however, sightings north of Florida are rare. Major nesting areas
in the western North Atlantic Ocean include the insular Caribbean, the Yucatan Peninsula in
Mexico, and Panama. Nesting in the continental United States is primarily restricted to the
southeastern coast of Florida and the Florida Keys (NMFS and USFWS 1993). Hatchlings are
carried by ocean currents to the oceanic zone where they reside in major ocean gyres. Once a
carapace length of eight to 12 inches is reached, juveniles leave the oceanic zone and move to
nearshore habitats. Juveniles and adults are most commonly associated with coral reef habitats;
however, additional habitats may include other hardbottom habitats, seagrass beds, algal beds,
mangrove bays and creeks, or mud flats. As immature turtles increase in size, they occupy a
series of habitats, with larger turtles showing some preference for deeper sites. Post pelagic
juveniles and adults utilize a variety of food items that include sponges and other invertebrates,
Biological Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
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as well as marine macroalgae (NMFS and USFWS 2007d). Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC
waters (Epperly et al. 1995a) and are primarily associated with coral reef habitats (NMFS and
USFWS 2007c). Coral reef habitats along the NC coast are restricted to deep offshore waters
>20 miles from shore (Maclntyre and Pilkey 1969, Maclntyre 2003).
4.2.2 Occurrence in the Action Area
Loggerhead, Green, and Kemps Ridley
North Carolina's sounds and estuaries provide important developmental and foraging habitats for
post -pelagic juvenile loggerhead, green, and Kemp's ridley turtles. Most of the information
regarding the inshore distribution of marine turtles in North Carolina has been generated by
studies in the Pamlico -Albemarle estuarine complex, where large numbers of loggerhead, green,
and Kemp's ridley turtles are incidentally captured each year during commercial fishing
operations. All three species are represented primarily by juveniles, with few reported captures
of older juveniles and adults (Epperly et al. 2007). Juveniles of all three species move inshore
during the spring and disperse throughout the sounds during the summer. Juveniles leave the
sounds and move offshore during the late fall and early winter. Aerial surveys have shown a
strong relationship between turtle sea distribution and sea surface temperature. Goodman et al.
(2007) conducted aerial turtle surveys and sea surface temperature monitoring in Core Sound,
Pamlico Sound, and adjacent nearshore ocean waters from July 2004 to April 2006. All but one
of the 92 turtle observations occurred in waters where sea surface temperatures were above 11
degrees Celsius (°C). All sightings in the sounds occurred between 16 April and 20 November,
and all sightings in the nearshore ocean occurred between 23 April and 27 November. The winter
distribution of turtles offshore of Cape Hatteras was also correlated with sea surface temperatures
above 11°C (Epperly et al. 1995c). In a similar study by Coles and Musick (2000), turtle
distribution offshore of Cape Hatteras was restricted to sea surface temperatures >_13.3°C.
Leatherback and Hawksbill
The leatherback sea turtle is primarily a pelagic species of deep, offshore waters. Leatherbacks
are known to occur in nearshore ocean waters during certain times of the year, but rarely enter
interior estuarine waters. Epperly et al. (1995b) reported the appearance of significant numbers
of leatherback turtles in nearshore ocean waters during May, coincident with the appearance of
jellyfish prey. Aerial surveys by Goodman et al. (2007) along the Outer Banks coastline recorded
only one leatherback in the nearshore ocean during the summer. Epperly et al. (1995a) reported
the occurrence of three leatherback turtles in Core and Pamlico Sounds during December 1989.
Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC and they rarely enter estuarine waters (Epperly et al. 1995a).
A total of nine hawksbill turtle stranding incidents were reported along North Carolina beaches
between 1998 and 2009 (Seaturtle.org 2011). Strandings were reported during the months of
January, March, April, and November. Epperly et al. (1995b) reported the incidental capture of
one hawksbill turtle in Pamlico Sound.
Biological Assessment --
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Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Nearshore ocean waters along Bogue Banks from the MHW line out to 1.6 kilometers (km) are
designated as nearshore reproductive critical habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle (Figure 4).
Nearshore marine critical habitat units represent reproductive habitat along nesting beaches that
is used by hatchlings for egress to the open ocean and by nesting females for movements
between beaches and the open ocean during the nesting season. Critical nearshore reproductive
habitat PCEs include: 1) nearshore waters directly off the highest density nesting beaches and
their adjacent beaches, 2) waters sufficiently free of obstructions and artificial lighting to allow
transit through the surf zone to open water, and 3) waters with minimal manmade structures that
could promote predators, disrupt wave patterns necessary for orientation, and/or create excessive
longshore currents (79 FR 39855).
4.2.3 Factors Affecting the Species
Threats that are common to all marine turtle species in estuarine and marine environments
include fisheries by -catch, vessel strikes, marine debris ingestion or entanglement, and
entrainment by hydraulic dredges (NMFS and USFWS 2007a-e). Threats associated with
fisheries by -catch include entrapment in trawls and entanglement in a wide variety of other fishing
gear. Shrimp trawling is the most detrimental fishing practice and the greatest overall
anthropogenic cause of loggerhead turtle mortality. Mortality associated with shrimp trawling is
estimated to be ten times that of all other anthropogenic activities combined. Vessel strikes are
also a common cause of turtle mortality. Of all loggerhead turtle strandings that were reported
from 1997 through 2005, 14.9% exhibited signs of vessel strikes. Marine turtles are vulnerable
to direct injury by hopper dredges as a result of being entrained in the dredge intake pipe during
the sediment extraction process. The Wilmington District USACE reported takes of 30
loggerhead, four Kemp's ridley, and three green sea turtles by hopper dredges in the vicinity of
Wilmington Harbor from 1992-2013 (USAGE 2016). Most of the reported takes in the vicinity of
Morehead City Harbor (MCH) occurred during late November through mid -December and mid -
March through April. Takes of hawksbill and leatherback sea turtles by dredges have not been
reported along the southeastern US coast. Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC waters (Epperly
et al. 1995a) and are primarily associated with coral reef habitats (NMFS and USFWS 2007c).
Coral reef habitats along the NC coast are restricted to deep offshore waters >20 miles from shore
(Maclntyre and Pilkey 1969, Maclntyre 2003).
Biological Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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Figure 4. Loggerhead Turtle Critical Habitat
RECEIVED
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion 14 'JUL 2 6 2022 July 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

4.2.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Sea Turtles
This assessment considers potential effects on sea turtles that may occur through the following
impact mechanisms: physical interactions with dredging equipment, physical disturbance and
modification of benthic foraging habitat within the dredging footprint, and sediment suspension
and redeposition.
4.2.4.1.1 Dredge Interactions
The proposed dredging window of 1 October - 31 January encompasses periods of warmer water
temperatures (October and November) when loggerhead, green, and Kemps ridley sea turtles
are likely to be present in the vicinity of the action area. Construction and maintenance of the
barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) and/or mechanical
bucket dredges. Sea turtle takes by cutterhead dredges have not been reported along the
southeastern US coast, and only one take by a mechanical dredge has been reported over the
past several decades (NMFS 2012). In prior separate consultations with the Wilmington District,
NMFS has made the determination that hydraulic cutterhead and mechanical navigation dredging
activities are not likely to adversely affect sea turtles (NMFS 2012). Therefore, it is expected that
the risk of sea turtle -dredge interactions resulting in injury or mortality would be negligible.
4.2.4.1.2 Impacts on Benthic Foraging Habitat
Based on a review of NCDMF benthic habitat maps, there are no SAV or shell bottom habitats in
the immediate vicinity of the proposed new dredging area. New dredging would directly impact
3.0 acres of potential soft bottom foraging habitat in the barge fleeting expansion area. Existing
bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial
construction and subsequent maintenance dredging events would remove the existing benthic
infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing the availability of potential prey for
sea turtles. However, studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah at al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of —10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction and
maintenance window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
4.2.4.1.3 Sediment Suspension
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity may affect sea turtle
behaviors such as foraging and habitat selection. As previously described, the sediments to be
excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would
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resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either a
cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity
of the new dredging footprint. Furthermore, it is expected that suspended fine sediments would
be rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the
duration of any behavioral effects on sea turtles.
4.2.5 Conservation Measures
The following conservation measures would be implemented to avoid or minimize potential effects
sea turtles:
• Construction and maintenance dredging would be conducted within a 1 October to 31
January project window.
• Water injection dredging (WID) would be conducted only on falling tides.
• Good Engineering Practices (GEPs) and Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be
applied to all dredging activities.
• Dredged material delivery pipelines would be routinely inspected for pressurized leaks,
and any leaks that are found would be immediately repaired.
• Dredging contractors would be required to maintain spill control plans and waste
management plans for all dredging fleet equipment.
4.2.6 Determination of Effect
Loggerhead, Green, Kemps Ridley, Leatherback, and Hawksbill Sea Turtles
The proposed dredging window of 1 October - 31 January encompasses periods of warmer water
temperatures (October and November) when all five listed sea turtles could potentially occur in
the vicinity of the action area. However, the risk of direct injury to sea turtles from dredging is
considered negligible, and the proposed action would have only minor short-term effects on
potential foraging habitats and water quality. Therefore, it is determined that the proposed action
may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the loggerhead, green, Kemps ridley, leatherback,
and hawksbill sea turtles.
Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Nearshore reproductive critical habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle is located -3 miles from the
proposed new dredging area along the oceanfront shoreline of Atlantic Beach. Therefore, it is
determined that the proposed action would have no effect on nearshore reproductive critical
habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle.
Biological Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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5.0 REFERENCES
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(Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus). Report to National Marine Fisheries Service,
Northeast Regional Office. February 23, 2007. 174 pp.
Armstrong, J.L. and J.E. Hightower. 1999. Potential for restoration of the Roanoke River
population of Atlantic sturgeon. Applied Ichthyology 18:475-480.
Coles, C.C. and J.A. Musick. 2000. Satellite Sea Surface Temperature Analysis and Correlation
with Sea Turtle Distribution off North Carolina. Copeia 2000: 551-554.
Collins, M.R., D.C. Walling, L.E. Zimmerman, R.F. Van Dolah. 2000. Savannah Harbor Biological
Monitoring: Fish, Shellfish, and Benthos. Final report to U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Atlanta, GA.
Epperly, S.P., J. Braun, and A.J. Chester. 1995a. Aerial surveys for sea turtles in North Carolina
inshore waters. Fishery Bulletin 93: 254-261.
Epperly, S.P., J. Braun, and A. Veishlow. 1995b. Sea turtles in North Carolina waters.
Conservation Biology 9: 384-394.
Epperly, S.P., J. Braun, A.J. Chester, E.A. Cross, J.V. Merriner, and P.A. Tester. 1995c. The
winter distribution of sea turtles in the vicinity of Cape Hatteras and their interactions with
the summer flounder trawl fishery. Bull. Mar. Sci. 56: 547-568.
Epperly, S.P., J. Braun -McNeill, and P.M. Richards. 2007. Trends in catch rates of sea turtles in
North Carolina, USA. Endangered Species Research 3: 283-293.
Goodman, M.A., J.B. McNeill, E. Davenport, and A.A. Hohn. 2007. Protected species aerial
survey data collection and analysis in waters underlying the R-5306A Airspace: Final
report submitted to U.S. Marine Corps, MCAS Cherry Point. NOAA Technical
Memorandum NMFSSEFSC-551.
Kirby -Smith, W.W. and J.D. Costlow. 1989. The Newport River Estuarine System. Duke
University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC.
Laney, R.W., J.E. Hightower, B.R. Versak, M.F. Mangold, W.W. Cole Jr, S.E. Winslow. 2007.
Distribution, habitat use, and size of Atlantic sturgeon captured during cooperative winter
tagging cruises, 1988-2006. Am. Fish. Soc. Symp. 56, 167-182.
LaSalle, M.W., D.G. Clarke, J. Homziak, J.D. Lunz, and T.J. Fredette. 1991. A framework for
assessing the need for seasonal restrictions on dredging and disposal operations.
Technical Report D-91-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg,
MS.
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Maclntyre, I.G. 2003. A Classic Marginal Coral Environment: Tropical Coral Patches off North
Carolina, USA. Coral Reefs 22: 474.
Maclntyre, I.G. and O.H. Pilkey. 1969. Tropical Reef Corals: Tolerance of Low Temperatures
on the North Carolina Continental Shelf. Science 166: 374-375.
Michel, J., A.C. Bejarano, C.H. Peterson, and C. Voss. 2013. Review of biological and
biophysical impacts from dredging and handling of offshore sand. OCS Study BOEM
2013-0119 Herndon, Virginia: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy
Management.
Moser, M.L. and S.W. Ross. 1995. Habitat use ad movements of shortnose and Atlantic
sturgeons in the Lower Cape Fear River, North Carolina. Transactions of the American
Fisheries Society 124:225-234.
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). 2020. South Atlantic Regional Biological Opinion for
Dredging and Material Placement Activities in the Southeast United States.
NMFS. 2012. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Listing Determinations for
Two Distinct Population Segments of Atlantic Sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus)
in the Southeast. 77 FR 5914.
NMFS. 1998. Recovery Plan for Shortnose Sturgeon, Acipenser brevirostrum. Prepared by the
Shortnose Sturgeon Recovery Team for the National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver
Spring, Maryland. 104 pp.
NMFS and United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2008. Recovery Plan for the
Northwest Atlantic Population of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta), Second
Revision. National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service. Atlanta, GA.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007a. Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta) 5-Year Review: Summary
and Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, Silver
Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, Jacksonville Ecological
Services Field Office, Jacksonville, FL.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007b. Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) 5-Year Review: Summary and
Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, Silver
Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, Jacksonville Ecological
Services Field Office, Jacksonville, FL.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007c. Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kemph) 5-Year Review:
Summary and Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected
Resources, Silver Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southwest Region,
Albuquerque, NM.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007d. Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) 5-Year Review:
Summary and Evaluation. National Marine F0rjtq�ice, Office of Protected
Biological Assessment
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Resources, Silver Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region,
Jacksonville Ecological Services Field Office, Jacksonville, FL.
NMFS and USFWS. 2007e. Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) 5-Year Review:
Summary and Evaluation. National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected
Resources, Silver Spring, MD and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region,
Jacksonville Ecological Services Field Office, Jacksonville, FL.
NMFS and USFWS. 1993. Recovery Plan for Hawksbill Turtles in the U.S. Caribbean Sea,
Atlantic Ocean, and Gulf of Mexico. National Marine Fisheries Service, St. Petersburg,
FL.
Oakley, N.C. and J.E. Hightower. 2007. Status of shortnose sturgeon in the Neuse River, North
Carolina. American Fisheries Society Symposium 56:273-284.
Quattro, J.M., T.W. Greig, D.K. Coykendall, B.W. Bowen, and J.D. Baldwin. 2002. Genetic issues
in aquatic species management: the shortnose sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum) in the
southeastern United States. Conservation Genetics 3: 155-166.
Ross, S.W., F.C. Rohde, and D.G. Lindquist. 1988. Endangered, threatened, and rare fauna of
North Carolina, part 2. A re-evaluation of the marine and estuarine fishes, North Carolina
Biological Survey, Occasional Papers 1988-7 Raleigh, North Carolina.
Seaturtle.org. 2017. Sea turtle rehabilitation and necropsy database, North Carolina stranding
reports. On-line: http://www.seaturtle.org.
Schroeder, P.R. 2009. USACE Technical Guidelines for Practicing the 3R's of Environmental
Dredging. Proceedings of the Western Dredging Association Twenty-ninth Technical
Conference and 40th Annual Texas A&M Dredging Seminar, Tempe, AZ, June 2009.
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sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum). Report to National Marine Fisheries Service,
Northeast Regional Office.
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Macro- Invertebrates. Technical Report Series. No 72-4. Skidaway Institute of
Oceanography, Savannah, GA. July 1972 60 pp.
Stickney, R. and D. Perlmutter. 1975. Impact of Intracoastal Waterway maintenance dredging
on a mud bottom benthos community. Biol Consery 01/1975; 7(3):211-225.
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on Atlantic Sturgeon of Navigation Channel Maintenance Dredging and Dredging of
Offshore Borrow Sources for Beach Sand Placement on the South Atlantic Coast (21 April
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Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, D.M. Knott, and M.S. Maclin. 1979. Effects of dredging and
unconfined disposal on macrobenthic communities in Sewee Bay, South Carolina. Tech.
Rep. 39. South Carolina Marine Resources Center, Charleston, SC.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, and D.M., Knott. 1984. Effects of dredging and open water
disposal on benthic macroinvertebrates in a South Carolina estuary. Estuaries 7:28-37.
Welp, T.L., M.W. Tubman, D.A. Wilson, and C.E. Pollock. 2017. Water Injection Dredging.
DOER Technical Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center.
Wilber, D.H., W. Brostoff, D.G. Clarke, and G.L. Ray. 2005. Sedimentation: Potential biological
effects from dredging operations in estuarine and marine environments. DOER Technical
Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research
and Development Center.
Wirgin, I., C. Grunwald, E. Carlson, J. Stabile, D.L. Peterson, and J. Waldman. 2005. Range -
wide population structure of shortnose sturgeon, (Acipenser brevirostrum), based on
sequence analysis of the mitochondrial DNA control region. Estuaries Vol. 28(3): 406-
421.
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nrAA •Aun nwry

Name of Property Owner Requesting Permit: North Carolina State Ports Authority
Mailing Address: PO Box 9002
Wilmington, NC 28402
Phone Number: [phone]
Email Address: [e-mail]
I certify that I have authorized James Hargrove and Steve Dial of Dial Gordy and
Associates Inc. ,
Agent I Contractor
to act on my behalf, for the purpose of applying for and obtaining all CAMA permits
necessary for the following proposed development: Exoansion of the northern barge
fleeting area at my property located at 113 Arendell St
in Carteret County.
I furthermore certify that l am authorized to grant, and do in fact grant permission to
Division of Coastal Management staff, the Local Permit Officer and their agents to enter
on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this
permit application.
Property Owner Information:
Signature
Todd C Walton
Print or Type Name
Sr Environmental Supervisor
Title
06 / 29 12022
Date
This certification is valid through 12/ 31 / 2022 RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

DIAL COFZDY
AND ASSOCIATES INC
/'Filldrl Nlrl -twil ClNISWKr/lts
201 N. Front Street Suite 307
Wilmington, NC 28401
[phone] Fax [phone]
July 14, 2022
Heather Styron
Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
400 Commerce Ave
Morehead City, NC 28557
Subject: Port of Morehead City Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion, CAMA Major Permit
Modification (# 120-13)
Dear Heather Styron,
On behalf of the North Carolina State Ports Authority, Dial Cordy and Associates Inc. is pleased
to submit this CAMA Major Permit modification (# 120-13) to the Division of Coastal Management
for review and permit issuance.
The Port at Morehead City is requesting a modification to the CAMA Major Permit (120-13) to
expand the footprint of the existing northern barge fleeting area. The existing fleeting area
encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW).
The authorized depth of the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft
of over dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting
area. The proposed action would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional
2.0 acres of subtidal bottom to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). An additional
1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western
margin of the 2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of
new dredging and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures
are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in
the expansion area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic
maintenance dredging expected to occur once every 2-5 years using the currently permitted
NCSPA water injection dredge. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -
4 to -14 ft MLLW. Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic
pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems. Dredged
material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined disposal facilities; which
include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal areas. Disposal
operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal area via
floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging, disposal would involve
the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area for placement via mechanical
means or hydraulic offloading.
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-AA,Hr) CITY

Included with this letter are the following documents for your review and consideration: MP1, MP2
forms and the project narrative for the proposed permit modification to CAMA Major Permit (#
120-13). Riparian land owner notification forms and project descriptions were mailed via certified
letter to the USACE and Morehead City Yacht Club. Also available are the Essential Fish Habitat
Assessment (EFH) and Biological Assessment (BA). The EFH and BA will be delivered to the
USACE Wilmington District office in paper and digital form. We look forward to working with you
to complete the proposed permit modification.
Enclosure
CC: Todd Walton, NCSPA
Liz Hair, USACE, Wilmington District
Heather Coats, NCDCM
Sincerely,
Dial Coorrddy and Associates Inc.
R. Steve Dial
President
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHI) CITY

NORTH CAROLINA STATE PORTS AUTHORITY
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
NORTHERN BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
JUNE 2022
PROJECT NARRATIVE
Proposed Action
The Proposed Action by the North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA) at the Port of
Morehead City is to modify the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-
13 to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting area. The north barge
fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County,
North Carolina (NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges
that are awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is
primarily associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the
Hertford Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled
over the last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The
proposed action would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby
accommodating an additional 4 to 6 loaded barges.
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River —600 feet north of the northeast
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging expected to occur once every 2-5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging
area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new
dredging area are part of a uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface
to a depth of -45-ft MLLW (Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion
RFrFIVED
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Ju%2022
1 JJUUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHr? riry

area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and
scow systems. Dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities, which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the
disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging,
disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area for
placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
Description of the Action Area
The north barge fleeting area is located —3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, NC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of —3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated bottom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish beds,
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
Potential Environmental Effects of the Proposed Action
A summary of effects on fish and fish habitat within the action area is provided below. An EFH
Assessment and a Biological Assessment that have been prepared for the Corps of Engineers
are available upon request.
Water Column
The proposed dredging and maintenance associated with expanding the northern barge fleeting
area may have minor effects on the estuarine water column through localized sediment
suspension and associated increases in turbidity. The sediments to be excavated from the new
dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would resettle rapidly to the
bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either a cutterhead or bucket dredge
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
z JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint. Water injection
dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density sediment -
water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to deeper areas.
Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced sediment suspension
is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the bottom (Welp at al. 2017).
It is expected that suspended fine sediments would be rapidly dispersed by currents in the
contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the duration of any adverse effects on water
quality and federally managed species. The proposed project construction window of 1 October
- 31 January would avoid peak periods of larval ingress and estuarine -dependent juvenile
abundance in the vicinity of the action area, thus minimizing the exposure of estuarine and marine
fish and invertebrate species to sediment suspension effects. In the specific case of WID, the
potential for upstream sediment transport into the New River Estuary would be minimized by
conducting WID only on falling tides. Based on these considerations, it is expected that any
adverse effects on water quality and estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species would be
minor and short-term.
Larval Entrainment
In the case of cutterhead pipeline dredging, the proposed action would affect estuarine -dependent
fish and invertebrate species by entraining planktonic eggs and larvae that occur in the vicinity of
the dredge pipe suction field. However, the results of larval entrainment modeling in Beaufort
Inlet indicate that dredge entrainment rates are extremely low regardless of inlet larval
concentrations and the distribution of larvae within the water column (Settle 2003). Even under
worst case model scenarios when the dredge was assumed to be operating 24 hours/day and all
larvae were assumed to be concentrated in the bottom of the navigation channel, projected
entrainment rates barely exceeded 0.1% of the daily (24-hour) larval flux through the inlet. The
proposed new dredging area is located above Beaufort Inlet in the relatively broad Newport River
Estuary where it is expected that the distribution of planktonic eggs and larvae would be relatively
diffuse. Furthermore, the proposed project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would
avoid the peak larval ingress period at Beaufort Inlet. Based on all of the above considerations,
it is anticipated that the effects of egg/larval entrainment on populations of estuarine -dependent
fish and invertebrate species would be negligible.
Unconsolidated Bottom
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of unconsolidated bottom habitat in the barge
fleeting expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be
increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent maintenance dredging events
would remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing
the availability of prey for federally managed demersal fishes such as summer flounder and
estuarine -dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. However, studies of benthic
community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation channels along the southeastern coast have
reported rapid recovery within two to six months (Van Dolah at al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and
Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of
adjacent undisturbed sediments into the dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism.
Van Dolah at al. (1984) also attributed relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that
Port of Morehead City RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
3
JUL 26 2022
nro-vwn r 1TV

were similar in composition to the extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods. Existing surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform
fine sand layer that extends to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be
expected to alter sediment composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of -10 feet would not
be expected to alter benthic community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed
project construction window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
Based on all of the above considerations, it is anticipated that effects on estuarine unconsolidated
bottom habitats and associated estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species would be
minor and short-term.
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
NCDMF benthic habitat maps do not identify any shell bottom areas within or immediately
adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on shell bottom habitats
would be expected. The only mapped shell bottom area in the vicinity of the project area is a
narrow linear shell bottom feature along the shoreline of Marsh Island -300-ft west of the new
dredging footprint. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be
transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting shell bottom areas through
redeposition. Heavy sediment redeposition can impact oysters by inhibiting larval attachment to
hard substrates and reducing the respiration and feeding rates of juveniles and adults (Wilber and
Clarke 2010). However, according to Colden and Lipcius (2015), eastern oysters that were
subjected to experimental sediment deposition did not exhibit significant mortality or sublethal
effects until at least 70% of the shell height was buried. As previously described, the sediments
to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse fine sands
that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either
a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate
vicinity of the new dredging footprint. Therefore, it is expected that the effects of dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition on oyster reefs and associated estuarine and marine fish
and invertebrate species would be minor and short-term.
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV)
NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately adjacent to the proposed new
dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on SAV would be expected. Small patches of SAV are
identified along the western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the proposed dredging area
(Figure 4). Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be transported
outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting SAV through increases in turbidity and/or
sediment redeposition. However, as previously described, it is anticipated that the predominance
of relatively coarse sand in the new dredging area would limit sediment suspension to the
immediate vicinity of the active work area. Therefore, it is expected that any adverse effects on
SAV and associated estuarine and marine fish and invertebrate species from dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition would be minor and short-term.
State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
IUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

There are no Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) or Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs) in the
immediate vicinity of the proposed new dredging area. Designated PNAs that are nearest to the
proposed new dredging area are located -1.3 miles to the northwest in small tributaries of the
Newport River (Calico Creek and Crab Point Bay) (Figure 5). The nearest additional PNAs and
SNAs are located in the Newport River -4 miles upstream of the proposed new dredging area.
No effects on PNAs or SNAs are anticipated.
Port of Morehead City
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion
Dial Gordy and Associates Inc.
June 2022
5JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

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Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
s JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

Figure 12. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
Port of Morehead City REC;L!VED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
7 JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

N]
A-l4 BathyrretricProfile Graph
B - B' Bathyrretric Profile Graph
o_
Distance (flee)
— Profile Location 1ft Contour (MLLN
Barge Fleeting Area Elevation(MLLW)
® F)isting Fleeting Nea Value
® Proposed Fleeting Nee High:-2
O Proposed 3:1 Sole Low : -30
F_daainp B.thyrn.hy Pto61.
Proposed B.tlym.try RaNs
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0 50 10D 150 200 250 300
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Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area —Existing and Proposed
Bathymetry
RECEIVED
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
a JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

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Port of Morehead City R E C PH : ' -- Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion June 2022
9 JUL 2 6 Z022
DCM-MHD rITY

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Figure 26. State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
Port of Morehead City Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion RECEIVED June 2022
10
'JUL 2 6 2022

References
Colden AM, Lipcius RN (2015) Lethal and sublethal effects of sediment burial on the eastern
oyster Crassostrea virginica. Mar Ecol Prog Ser 527:105-
117. https://doi.org/10.3354/mepsll244
Kirby -Smith, W.W. and J.D. Costlow. 1989. The Newport River Estuarine System. Duke
University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC.
Settle, L. 2003. Assessment of potential larval entrainment mortality to hydraulic dredging of
Beaufort Inlet. Prepared for USACE-Wilmington District for the Morehead City Harbor
Environmental Assessment. May 2003. NOAA/NOS National Centers for Coastal Ocean
Science.
Stickney, R. 1972. Effects of Intracoastal Waterway Dredging on Ichthyofauna and Benthic
Macro- Invertebrates. Technical Report Series. No 72-4. Skidaway Institute of
Oceanography, Savannah, GA. July 1972 60 pp.
Stickney, R. and D. Perlmutter. 1975. Impact of Intracoastal Waterway maintenance dredging
on a mud bottom benthos community. Biol Consery 01/1975; 7(3):211-225.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, and D.M. Knott. 1984. Effects of dredging and open -water disposal
on benthic macroinvertebrates in a South Carolina estuary. Estuaries 7, 28-37.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, D.M. Knott, and M.S. Maclin. 1979. Effects of dredging and
unconfined disposal of dredged material on benthic macroinvertebrate communities in
Sewee Bay, SC. Marine Resources Center Technical Report 39. Charleston, SC.
Welp, T.L., M.W. Tubman, D.A. Wilson, and C.E. Pollock. 2017. Water Injection Dredging.
DOER Technical Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center.
Wilber, D.H., W. Brostoff, D.G. Clarke, and G.L. Ray. 2005. Sedimentation: Potential biological
effects from dredging operations in estuarine and marine environments. DOER Technical
Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research
and Development Center.
Port of Morehead City
Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion
RECEIVED Dial
11
'JUL 2 6 2022
nr�A A.,t tm
and Associates Inc.
June 2022

James Hargrove
From: Perry, John M <[e-mail]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 3:03 PM
To: Todd Walton
Cc: James Hargrove
Subject: RE: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion- Port of Morehead City
Thank you Todd. I will be on the lookout for the application in 30 days.
John Perry
Environmental Specialist II
Division of Water Resources
Department of Environmental Quality
127 Cardinal Drive Extension
Wilmington, NC 28405
Office: [phone]
Cell: [phone]
From: Todd Walton <[e-mail]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 2:56 PM
To: Perry, John M <[e-mail]>
Cc: James Hargrove <[e-mail]>
Subject: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion- Port of Morehead City
Good afternoon John,
I would like to submit a Pre -filing Notice for the following project:
Project Name: Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
Project Owner: NC State Ports Authority - Port of Morehead City
Project Owner's Address: mailing: PO Box 9002 Wilmington NC 28402. Project address 113 Arendell St, Morehead
City NC 28557
Project County: Carteret
Type of project/Approval Sought: Dredging/ GP291
Anticipated Impacts: new dredging of —3 acres on the west side of the existing barge fleeting area. I have attached
the project narrative that has drawings and maps within it.
Please let me now if any additional information is needed.
Thanks,
RECEIVED
'JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

Todd C. Walton
NORTH CAROLINA PORTS
Senior Environmental Analyst
910-746-6460 Direct
800-336-2405 Toll Free
ncoorts.com
Email to and from this address is public record and may be disclosed to authorized third parties.
RECEIVED
IJUL 26 2022
DCIt,4-njurt r-1ry

Form DCM MP-2
EXCAVATION and FILL
(Except for bridges and culverts)
Attach this form to Joint Application for CAMA Major Permit, Form DCM MP-1. Be sure to complete all other sections of the Joint
Application that relate to this proposed project. Please include all supplemental information.
Describe below the purpose of proposed excavation and/or fill activities. All values should be given in feet.
Access
Other
Channel
Canal
Boat Basin
Boat Ramp
Rock Groin
Rock
(excluding
(NLW or
Breakwater
shoreline
NWL)
stabilization
Length
560
Width
415
Avg. Existing
-4to-14
NA
NA
Depth
MLLW
Final Project
14 MLLW
NA
NA
Depth
11. EXCAVATION ❑This section not applicable
K11
In
or
cubic yards.
It is expected that the proposed project will remove approximately
35,000 cubic yards of course material from the 3 acre footprint.
b. Type of material to be excavated.
Unconsolidated fine grained sediment
c. (i) Does the area to be excavated include coastal wetlandstmarsh d.
(CW), submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), shell bottom (SB),
or other wetlands (WL)? If any boxes are checked, provide the
number of square feet affected.
❑CW ❑SAV ❑SB
❑WL ®None
(it) Describe the purpose of the excavation in these areas:
The purpose of excavating this area is to expand the existing
northern barge fleeting area to aommadate mooring additional
barges.
High -ground excavation in cubic yards.
NA
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
2. DISPOSAL OF EXCAVATED MATERIAL ❑This section not applicable
a. Location of disposal area. b. Dimensions of disposal area.
Marsh Island, Brant Island, or Northern Radio Island No current demension data is available for the potential
disposal areas are contenders for the material depending disposal sites.
on the available space at Marsh Island. Marsh Island is the
closest in proximity and therefore the expected disposal
site.
c. (1) Do you daim title to disposal area?
®Yes ❑No ❑NA
(it) If no, attach a letter granting permission from the owner.
d. (i) Will a disposal area be available for future maintenance?
®Yes ❑No ❑NA
(it) If yes, where?
e. (i) Does the disposal area include any coastal wetlands/marsh f. (i) Does the disposal include any area in the water?
(CW), submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), shell bottom (SB), ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
or other wetlands (WL)? If any boxes are checked, provide the
number of square feet affected. (11) If yes, how much water area is affected?
❑CW _ ❑SAV ❑SB _
252-BGS-2808 :: 1-888.4RCOA3T :: www.nccoastalmanamement.net revised: 12126/06

Form DCM MP-2 (Excavation and Fill, Page 2 of 3)
OWL _ ®None
(ii) Describe the purpose of disposal in these areas:
3. SHORELINE STABILIZATION ®This section not applicable
(If development is a wood groin, use MP-4 — Structures)
a. Type of shoreline stabilization:
❑Bulkhead ❑Riprap ❑BreakwaterlSill ❑Other:
c. Average distance waterward of NHW or NWL:
e. Type of stabilization material:
g. Number of square feet of fill to be placed below water level.
Bulkhead backfill _ Riprap
Breakwater/Sill Other
i. Source of fill material.
b. Length:
Width:
d. Maximum distance waterward of NHW or NWL:
f. (1) Has there been shoreline erosion during preceding 12
months?
❑Yes ❑No ❑NA
(ii) If yes, state amount of erosion and source of erosion amount
information.
h. Type of fill material.
4. OTHER FILL ACTIVITIES ®This section not applicable
(Excluding Shoreline Stabilization)
a. (i) Will fill material be brought to the site? ❑Yes ❑No ❑NA b. (i) Will fill material be placed in coastal wetlands/marsh (CW),
If yes,
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), shell bottom (SB), or
other wetlands (WL)? If any boxes are checked, provide the
(it) Amount of material to be placed in the water _
number of square feet affected.
(iii) Dimensions of fill area _
❑CW ❑SAV ❑SB
(iv) Purpose of fill
OWL ❑None
(it) Describe the purpose of the fill in these areas:
r
5. GENERAL
a. How will excavated or fill material be kept on site and erosion
b. What type of construction equipment will be used (e.g., dragline,
controlled?
backhoe, or hydraulic dredge)?
The areas proposed for receiving the dredged material are existing
It is anticipated that a hydraulic pipeline (cufterhead) dredge will
disposal sites that have earthen berms to retain sediment.
be used for this project; however, a mechanical dredge could
be used and periodic maintenance would be accomplished by
the Port -owned water injection dredge.
c. (1) Will navigational aids be required as a result of the project?
d. (1) Will wetlands be crossed in transporting equipment to project
❑Yes ®No ❑NA
site? ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
(ti) If yes, explain what type and how they will be implemented.
(ii) If yes, explain steps that will be taken to avoid or minimize
environmental impacts.
OUL 26
90
2
9
252-808-2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastalmanaaement.net revised: 12/26/06
r)rv- 'I"- -my

Date
JAI -7- ; Z�zz-
Project Name
Port of Morehead City Northern Barge Fleeting Area Expanson
Applicant Name
Brian E Clark
Applicant Signature
RECEIVED
252-808.2808 1: 1-8884RCOAST :: w .nccoastalnnanaaennent.net
nrP A ..riJr. r+rry
revised: 12/26/06

IN UP4
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
(last revised 12127/06)
North Carolina DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
1. Primary Applicant/ Landowner Information
Business Name
North Carolina State Ports Authority
Project Name (if applicable)
Port of Morehead City Northern Barge Fleeting area
Applicant 1: First Name
Brian
MI
E
Last Name
Clark
Applicant 2: First Name
MI
Last Name
If additional applicants, please attach an additional page(s) with names listed.
Mailing Address
PO Box 9002
PO Box
city
Wilmington
State
NC
ZIP
28402
Country
New Hanover
Phone No.
910 - 251 - 5678 ext.
FAX No.
Street Address (d different from above)
City
State
ZIP
Email
2. Agent/Contractor Information
Business Name
Dial Cordy And Associates Inc.
Agent/ Contractor 1: First Name
MI
Last Name
Steve
Dial
Agent/ Contractor 2: First Name
MI
Last Name
James
Hargrove
Mailing Address
PO Box
city
State
201 North Front St. Suite 307
Wilmington
NC
ZIP
Phone No. 1
Phone No. 2
28401
910 - 251 - 9790 ext.
ext.
FAX No.
Contractor #
Street Address (if different from above)
city
State
ZIP
Email
[e-mail]; [e-mail]
R E C E I V
<Form continues on back>
A
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD
252 808-2808 .. 1-888-4RCOAST .. www.nccoastaimanagement.net

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 2 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
3. Project Location
County (can be multiple)
Street Address
State Rd. #
Carteret
113 Arendell Street
Subdivision Name
City
State
Zip
Morehead City
NC
28557 -
Phone No.
Lot No.(s) (d many, attach additional page with list)
252 - 726 - 3158 ext.
I I , ,
a. In which NC river basin is the project located?
b. Name of body of water nearest to proposed project
Newport
Newport River
c. Is the water body identified in (b) above, natural or manmade?
d. Name the closest major water body to the proposed project site.
®Natural ❑Manmade ❑Unknown
Bogue Sound, Atlantic Ocean
e. Is proposed work within city limits or planning jurisdiction?
f. If applicable, list the planning jurisdiction or city limit the proposed
®Yes ❑No
work falls within.
Morehead City Limits
4.
Site Description
a.
Total length of shoreline on the tract (ft.)
b. Size of entire tract (sq.ft.)
NA
130,680
c.
Size of individual lots)
d. Approximate elevation of tract above NHW (normal high water) or
NWL (normal water leveo
(if many lot sizes, please attach additional page with a list)
-4 to -14 ft ❑NHW or ®NWL
e.
Vegetation on tract
The proposed dredge footprint contains no SAV according to NCDMF's SAV maps. There is a small fringing marsh that is
located adjacent to the Action Area on Marsh Island disposal area; however, it is outside the dredge footprint by —+200 ft.
f.
Man-made features and uses now on tract
The Northern Barge Fleeting area contains a series of six steel pile mooring piles that are currently utilized to secure barges
within the fleeting area. The proposed project is directly adjcent to the western edge of the exisiting fleeting area with no
current or proposed structures.
g.
Identify and describe the existing land uses adjacent to the proposed project site.
The adjacent lands to the south function as wharfs for the USACE and the NCSPA. The single property owner in relative
proximity to the project area is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In an abundance of caution, a notification letter will be
sent to the Morehead City Yacht Club; however, this property is not close to the Project Area. The closest adjacent land is
Marsh Island which contains one of the dredge material management sites proposed for disposal of the dredged material.
h.
How does local government zone the tract?
i. Is the proposed project consistent with the applicable zoning?
Industrial
(Attach zoning compliance certificate, if applicable)
®Yes ❑No ❑NA
j.
Is the proposed activity part of an urban waterfront redevelopment proposal? []Yes ®No
k.
Hasa professional archaeological assessment been done for the tract? if yes, attach a copy. ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, by whom?
1.
Is the proposed project located in a National Registered Historic District or does it involve a []Yes ®No ❑NA
National Register listed or eligible property?
IC
<Form continues on next page> JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
252-808.2808 :: 1-888-4111COAST :: wwv„. c coastal management. net

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 3 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
m. (I) Are there wetlands on the site? ❑Yes ®No
(11) Are there coastal wetlands on the site? ❑Yes ®No
(III) If yes to either (1) or (ii) above, has a delineation been conducted? ❑Yes ®No
(Attach documentation, if available)
n. Describe existing wastewater treatment facilities.
All proposed activity is located within the Newport River Estuary/Bogue Sound.
o. Describe existing drinking water supply source.
The town of Morehead City gets its drinking water from 5 wells around the county.
p. Describe existing storm water management or treatment systems.
The proposed project would not result in new impervious areas requiring stormwater management and/or treatment
systems.
5. Activities and Impacts
a. Will the project be for commercial, public, or private use? ®Commercial ®PubliGlGovemment
❑Private/Community
b. Give a brief description of purpose, use, and daily operations of the project when complete.
The North Carolina State Port Authority (NCSPA) at the Port of Morehead City (POMC) is proposing to expand the existing
northern barge fleeting area to accommodate an additional 4-6 barges for the growing import iron business. The expansion
of the fleeting area is necessary due to the doubling of the business over the last few years. The barges typically consist of
300,000 to 500,000 tons of Direct Reduced Iron (DR]) or crude iron (pig iron) that is transported from the POW to the Nucor
Steel Terminal. The barge traffic moves the equivalent of 25,000 truckloads of material each year and is a vital transportation
route for NC commerce. The increase in frequency of barge traffic puts an excessive demand on the fleeting areas thus
warranting expansion. The existing mooring dolphins are structurally able to support doubling the space by docking barges
on the west side of the northern fleeting area and no new moorings structures are being proposed.
The daily operations would include staging barges within the fleeting area. Tug boats would be used to position the barges
before being moored to the steel piles. Periodic maintenance of the barge fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by
the Port -owned water injection dredge.
c. Describe the proposed construction methodology, types of construction equipment to be used during construction, the number of each type
of equipment and where it is to be stored.
New dredging of approximately 35,000 cy of material would be removed via one hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges or
one mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems within the dredge window of October 1 at to January 31 st and placed on
Marsh, Brandt, or the North Radio Island dredge material management areas
d. List all development activities you propose.
There are no development activities proposed.
e. Are the proposed activities maintenance of an existing project, new work, or both? New work for expansion of an existing
barge fleeting area.
I. What is the approximate total disturbed land area resulting from the proposed project? 3 ❑Sq.Ft or ®Acres
g. Will the proposed project encroach on any public easement, public accessway or other area ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
that the public has established use of?
h. Describe location and type of existing and proposed discharges to waters of the state.
It is expected a cutterhead dredge will be used and subsequent water and sediment slurry will be pumped into a dredge
material disposal site. It is also expected that Marsh Island disposal site will be used for the proposed action. The water
associated with the dredge slurry will be decanted through a weir system and discharged back into the waters adjacent to the
project area. All previous permit requirements will be adheared to. D
HII % A 2022
252.808-2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www. nccoasta l manage m ent.net
DCM-MHD CITY

Foam DCM MP-1 (Page 4 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
I. Will wastewater or stornwater be discharged into a wetland? ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, will this discharged water be of the same salinity as the receiving water? ❑Yes ❑No ®NA
j. Is there any mitigation proposed? ❑Yes ®No ❑NA
If yes, attach a mitigation proposal.
<Form continues on back>
6. Additional Information
In addition to this completed application form, (MP-1) the following items below, if applicable, must be submitted in order for the application
package to be complete. Items (a) — (0 are always applicable to any major development application. Please consult the application
insbuction booklet on how to properly prepare the required items below.
a. A project narrative.
b. An accurate, dated work plat (including plan view and cross -sectional drawings) drawn to scale. Please give the present status of the
proposed project Is any portion already complete? If previously authorized work, clearly indicate on maps, plats, drawings to distinguish
between work completed and proposed.
c. A site or location map that is sufficiently detailed to guide agency personnel unfamiliar with the area to the site.
d. A copy of the deed (with state application only) or other instrument under which the applicant claims title to the affected properties.
e. The appropriate application fee. Check or money order made payable to DENR.
f. A list of the names and complete addresses of the adjacent waterfront (riparian) landowners and signed return receipts as proof that such
owners have received a copy of the application and plats by certified mail. Such landowners must be advised that they have 30 days in
which to submit comments on the proposed project to the Division of Coastal Management.
Name Army Reserve Phone No. [phone]
US Army Corps of Engineers
Address 69 Darlington Ave
Wilmington, NC 28403
Name Morehead City Yacht Basin LLC Phone No. [phone]
Address 2645 Temples Point Road
Havelock, NC 28532
Name Phone No.
Address
g. A list of previous state or federal permits issued for work on the project tract. Include permit numbers, pemrittee, and issuing dates.
NCDEQ Major CAMA 120.13 SAW 2013-01747
SAW 2017-01680
h. Signed consultant or agent authorization form, lt applicable.
I. Wetland delineation, if necessary.
j. A signed AEC hazard notice for projects in oceanfront and inlet areas. (Must be signed by property owner)
It. A statement of compliance with the N.C. Environmental Policy Act (N.C.G.S. 113A 1-10), if necessary. If the project involves expenditure
of public funds or use of public lands, attach a statement documenting compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act.
7. Certification and Permission to Enter on Land
I understand that any permit issued in response to this application will allow only the development described in the application.
The project will be subject to the conditions and restrictions contained in the permit.
I certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact grant permission to representatives of state and federal review agencies to
enter on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this permit application and follow-up
monitoring of the project. RECEIVED
I further certify that the information provided in this application is truthful to the best of my knowledge.
2 6 2022
252.808-2808 :: 1-888.4RCOAST :: www.necoastaimanagement.net
DCf,R--rIi CITY

Farm DCM MP-1 (Page 5 of 5)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
Date 7/5/2022 Print Name Brian E Clark_
Signature
Please indicate application attachments pertaining to your proposed project.
®DCM MP-2 Excavation and Fill Information ❑DCM MP-5 Bridges and Culverts
❑DCM MP-3 Upland Development
❑DCM MP-4 Structures Information
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
252-808.2808 .. 1.888.4RCOAST .. www.necoastaimanagement.net

NORTH
CAROLINA
P0RTS /
Certified Mail
July 5, 2022
Jeremiah Lee Smith, P.E., PMP
Chief, Navigation Branch
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
69 Darlington Ave
Wilmington NC 28403
Subject: CAMA Permit Request Notification
Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
North Carolina State Ports Authority
Morehead City, Carteret County
Dear Mr. Smith
In pursuance of a North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM)
Major Permit Modification, the NC State Ports Authority (NCSPA) Port of
Morehead City (POMC) is required to notify adjacent riparian property
owners to any proposed development.
Please find a description of the proposed project below along with the
DCM adjacent riparian property owner notification/waiver form and
adjacent riparian property owner statement form. Dial Cordy and
Associates (DC&A) of behalf of Todd Walton at the NCSPA request that
a signed copy of these form be returned to DC&A via email
(Ihargroveta)dialcordy.com) or mailed to 201 N. Front St. Ste 307,
Wilmington, NC 28401.
Additional information in the form of an Essential Fish Habitat and
Biological Assessment documents are available upon request.
Proposed Action
The Proposed Action by the NCSPA at the POMC is proposing to modify
the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-13
to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting
area. The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the
Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina (NC).
The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges RECEIVED
that are awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge
fleeting activity at the Port is primarily associated with the transport of
imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford Steel plant JUL 2 6 2022
on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have
DCM-MHD ChTY

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS^•-
1_
doubled over the last several years; resulting in increased demand for
barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action would expand the north
barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges.
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River —600 feet
north of the northeast corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The
existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin
of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of
over dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently
installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action would expand the
existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal
bottom to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2).
An additional 1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a
transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the 2.0-acre expansion
area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new
dredging and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new
mooring structures are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are
sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion area. The
depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic
maintenance dredging expected to occur once every 4-5 years. Existing
depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW
(Figure 3). Construction and maintenance of the barge fleeting
expansion area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredges
and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow systems. Dredged material
would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined disposal
facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio
Island disposal areas. Disposal operations for cutterhead dredging
would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal area via floating
and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical dredging,
disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the
disposal area for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic
offloading.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY 2.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
s
.. Nam..- - arm - ...n • BEFNFO"!�� • QJ4. T : TN
ROGUE SOUND
5 �l �hf\! Si \ate O B.Y PnP i
« r Y
Project Lowtbn
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.........a n5
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Figure 1. Project Location and Proposed Action Area
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS-®
Figure 1. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
a.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORE =�-
2692400 2692600
6
A - A' Bathyrretri
o
c Profile Graph
Batliymetry
r
1
12
Pmpmed BeCrynwtry Profile
-11 FlRasaE Ma9Arn BaupFYoy Am
Ana
-13
g�w 100 150 an 2W 3]0
[Sstanrc (feet)
Bethymeey Profile
Propmtl Bnlhymelry Profile
ed Betlrymetry Profile
72
Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and
Proposed Bathymetry RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY 5.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORT ��
Certified Mail
July 5, 2022
Morehead City Yacht Basin
2645 Temples Point Rd
Havelock NC 28532
Subject: CAMA Permit Request Notification
Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
North Carolina State Ports Authority
Morehead City, Carteret County
Dear Sirs,
In pursuance of a North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM)
Major Permit Modification, the NC State Ports Authority (NCSPA) Port of
Morehead City (POMC) is required to notify adjacent riparian property
owners to any proposed development.
Please find a description of the proposed project below along with the
DCM adjacent riparian property owner notification/waiver form and
adjacent riparian property owner statement form. Dial Cordy and
Associates (DC&A) of behalf of Todd Walton at the NCSPA request that a
signed copy of these form be returned to DC&A via email
(Ihargroveadialcordy.com) or mailed to Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 N. Front St. Ste 307, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Proposed Action
The Proposed Action by the NCSPA at the POMC is proposing to modify
the existing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major Permit 120-13
to expand the current dredge footprint of the northern barge fleeting area.
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River at the Port of
Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina (NC). The north
fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are
awaiting waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting
activity at the Port is primarily associated with the transport of imported
iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford Steel plant on the
Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over
the last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting
capacity. The proposed action would expand the north barge fleeting area
from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an additional 4 to 6 loaded
barges.
RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

CAROLINA
P0RT�.
Description of the Proposed Action
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River -600 feet
north of the northeast corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The
existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres along the western margin of
the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of the
existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over
dredge). A series of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed
within the fleeting area. The proposed action would expand the existing
facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom to
a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional
1.0 acre of new dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1
slope along the western margin of the 2.0-acre expansion area. In total,
the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging and the
removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures
are proposed, as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate
additional barges in the expansion area. The depth of the expansion area
would be maintained through periodic maintenance dredging expected to
occur once every 4-5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging
area range from -4 to -14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). Construction and
maintenance of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic
pipeline (cutterhead) dredges and/or mechanical bucket dredge and scow
systems. Dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -
owned confined disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt
Island, and North Radio Island disposal areas. Disposal operations for
cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic delivery to the disposal
area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via
scow to the disposal area for placement via mechanical means or
hydraulic offloading.
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY2.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS .`-,
M E A
/L
F
F
r
.UE SOUND
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e
4
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Figure 1. Project Location and Proposed Action Area
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY s.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTS
Z_
Msrsh Island
Disposal Area
-Exfsgng -id-ft Fleeting Area
Proposod 14-fl Expanslon Area
proposed 3:1 slope
Figure 1. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY 4.

NORTH
CAROLINA
PORTSf
1-1
l
A -A' Bathyrnetric Profile Graph
E)Wng Sathymetry Prole
_ _2
P and Bathymeby Raffle
5 '
-10
11
RlgvaN FladgMe [m49FkeenOarta
-1z
Ma
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_
0 EO 100 t50. M) 2:U 300
Dstance(teet)
Legend
— Profile Location — 1fi Gm ., (MLLN
Barge Fleeting Area Elevation(MLLW)
® Eaiebng Fleeting Prea Value
® Pmp Fleeting/v. : Hlgh:-2
Proposed 3:1 Slope - - - Law: JU
B - B' Bathyrretric Profile Graph
Eda , Bathymeby Profile
-70
-12
A,
Propoaae Ba"noby Rofile
Arez PeopoxaE Fketi�q Arta Ev eYIB Fleecy Mn
_aa
-
U 50 100 150 MO m 3]0
Distance (feet)
C - C Bathyrretric Profile Graph
A
Eiurin9 Bathymelry Praia
10
2
Prepaad Bairymeby Rolle
16
a1
Ill
RopeaG FleGYIp Mea E+15K9 Meet, Mee
0 W 100 150 200 230 300I
Distance (teat) J
e
0 150 300 450 600
Feet
Figure 3. Northern Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and
Proposed Bathymetry RECEIVED
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY a'

ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT ASSESSMENT
NORTH BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
5 July 2022
Prepared for:
North Carolina State Ports Authority
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402
Prepared by:
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 North Front Street, Suite 307
Wilmington, North Carolina 2 8401
I A/\,L CORDY RECEIVED
\SSOCIATGS INC
JUL 26 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................1
2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION....................................1
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA..........................................................................6
4.0 Essential Fish Habitat and Managed fisheries IN THE ACTION AREA .............................7
4.1 Federally Managed Species.........................................................................................8
4.1.1 Peneaid Shrimp.....................................................................................................8
4.1.2 Snapper -Grouper Complex....................................................................................8
4.1.3 Summer Flounder..................................................................................................9
4.1.4 Coastal Migratory Pelagics....................................................................................9
4.1.5 Bluefish................................................................................................................10
4.1.6 Smooth Dogfish...................................................................................................10
4.2 EFH and HAPC..........................................................................................................11
4.2.1 Estuarine Water Column......................................................................................11
4.2.2 Unconsolidated Bottom........................................................................................11
4.2.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks.............................................................................11
4.2.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation...........................................................................12
4.2.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)........................................................12
4.2.6 State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas..................................................................12
5.0 EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION ON EFH AND MANAGED SPECIES ............
17
5.1 Estuarine Water Column.............................................................................................17
5.1.1 Sediment Suspension and Turbidity....................................................................17
5.1.2 Larval Entrainment...............................................................................................18
5.2 Unconsolidated Bottom...............................................................................................18
5.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks....................................................................................19
5.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation(SAV)........................................................................19
5.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)...............................................................20
6.0 CONSERVATION MEASURES......................................................................................20
7.0 REFERENCES...............................................................................................................21
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
IJUL 2 6 2022 July 2022
Dc�$-*Amo r iTy

LIST OF TABLES
Page
Table 1. EFH and HAPC in the vicinity of the action area...........................................................7
Table 2. Penaeid shrimp salinity requirements and recruitment periods (NCDEQ 2016).............8
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1. Proposed Action Location Map...................................................................................3
Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout.............................................................4
Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry ................5
Figure 4. NCDMF Shell Bottom Map........................................................................................14
Figure 5. NCDMF SAV Map.....................................................................................................15
Figure 6. State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas.......................................................................16
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

LIST OF ACRONYMS
°C
Degrees Centigrade
AIWW
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
ASMFC
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
CDF
Confined Disposal Facility
CPE
Coastal Planning & Engineering, Inc.
CWA
Clean Water Act
CY
Cubic Yards
DA
Department of the Army
DMMP
Dredged Material Management Plan
EFH
Essential Fish Habitat
FT
Feet
HAPC
Habitat Areas of Particular Concern
M
Meters
MAFMC
Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management Council
MCH
Morehead City Harbor
MSFCMA
Magnuson -Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
NC
North Carolina
NCAC
North Carolina Administrative Code
NCDEQ
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
NCDMF
North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
NEFSC
Northeast Fisheries Science Center
NMFS
National Marine Fisheries Service
NOAA
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NTU
Nephelometric Turbidity Units
PNA
Primary Nursery Area
PPT
Parts Per Thousand
RHA
Rivers and Harbors Act
SAFMC
South Atlantic Fishery Management Council
SAV
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
SNA
Secondary Nursery Areas
TSS
Total Suspended Solids
USACE
United States Army Corps of Engineers
USC
United States Code
WID
Water Injection Dredging
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Assessment has been prepared in accordance with the
Magnuson -Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSFCMA) to address the
effects of proposed new dredging work at the Port of Morehead City on EFH and federally
managed fisheries. The North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA) has requested
Department of the Army (DA) authorization pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA)
and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act (RHA) to expand the existing north barge fleeting
area in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North Carolina
(NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are awaiting
waterborne transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is primarily
associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford
Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, INC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over the
last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action
would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges.
2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River —600 feet north of the northeast
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging every 2 to 5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to
-14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new dredging area are part of a
uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface to a depth of -45-ft MLLW
(Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ a
hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredge and/or a mechanical bucket dredge and scow system.
Construction dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Construction disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic
delivery to the disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area
for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
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injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
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Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion
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RECEIVED
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DCM-MHr) CITY

Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
f. ,
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[)CM-MHD CITE`

2602400 2092500
A - A' Bathymetric Profile Graph
CO
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Distance (feet)
B - B' Bathyrretric Profile Graph
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Am P 9 Fisting FleeOn9 Area
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Barge Fleeting Area Elevation (MLLW)
® Busting Fleeting Area Value
® Proposed Fleeting Area - High : -2
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® Proposed 3:1 Slope Low : -30 Feet
Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry
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DCNA-"Hn CIT,i

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA
The north barge fleeting area is located —3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, NC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of —3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated bottom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish beds,
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
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4.0 ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT AND MANAGED FISHERIES IN THE ACTION AREA
The action area encompasses marine and estuarine habitats that are designated as EFH and/or
Habitat Areas of Particular Concern (HAPCs) in Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) developed
by the South Atlantic Fisheries Management Council (SAFMC), Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management
Council (MAFMC), and/or the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (Table 1). The
MSFCMA defines EFH as "those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding,
feeding, or growth to maturity." HAPCs comprise a more specific subset of EFH that are
considered to be especially critical due to factors such as rarity, susceptibility to human -induced
degradation, and/or high ecological importance. Federally managed species and associated
EFH/HAPCs that occur in the vicinity of the action area are described in the sections below.
Table 1. EFH and HAPC in the vicinity of the action area.
SPECIES/GROUP
EFH/HAPC
SAFMC EFH
Tidal Estuarine Emergent Wetlands
Penaeid Shrimp
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Subtidal/Intertidal Non -vegetated Flats
Tidal Estuarine Emergent Wetlands
Tidal Creeks
Snapper -Grouper
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
Unconsolidated Bottom
Coastal Migratory Pelagics
Primary Nursery Areas
Coastal Inlets
SAFMC HAPC
Penaeid Shrimp
Primary Nursery Areas
Coastal Inlets
Primary Nursery Areas
Snapper -Grouper
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
Coastal Inlets
Coastal Migratory Pelagics
Coastal Inlets
High Salinity Estuaries (Bogue Sound)
MAFMC EFH
Summer Flounder
Estuaries with salinities >0.5 ppt
Bluefish
Estuaries
Atlantic Butterfish
Inshore pelagic habitats
MAFMC HAPC
Summer Flounder
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
NMFS EFH
Highly Migratory Species (Smooth Dogfish)
Estuaries
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4.1 Federally Managed Species
4.1.1 Peneaid Shrimp
Federally managed penaeid shrimp in NC include brown shrimp (Farfantepenaeus aztecus), pink
shrimp (F. duorarum), and white shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus). Adults spawn offshore in high
salinity oceanic waters during the winter or spring, and the ocean -spawned larvae and post -larvae
are transported by currents to inshore estuarine nursery habitats where they maintain a benthic
existence (SAFMC 1981). Larval and post -larval estuarine recruitment periods vary among the
three species (Table 2). Penaeid shrimp tolerate a wide range of salinities (Table 2) and are most
abundant in shallow mud -silt habitats where they congregate at the highly productive marsh -water
interface. As their size increases, shrimp move toward higher -salinity ocean waters, eventually
migrating offshore in the fall. The action area encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH
and HAPCs for all life stages of penaeid shrimp; including estuarine tidal marshes, subtidal and
intertidal non -vegetated flats, coastal inlets, submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), and state
designated Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) and Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs).
Table 2. Penaeid shrimp salinity requirements and recruitment periods (NCDEQ 2016).
Species
Salinity (ppt)
Juvenile Recruitment
Brown Shrimp
2-35
February - March
Pink Shrimp
0-35
June - October
White Shrimp
2-35
April - May
4.1.2 Snapper -Grouper Complex
The snapper -grouper complex is an assemblage of 59 species that share a common association
with hardbottom or reef habitats during part of their life cycle. Snappers (Lutjanidae), groupers
(Serranidae), porgies (Sparidae), and grunts (Haemulidae) generally inhabit offshore reef and
hardbottom habitats; whereas, nearshore ocean hardbottoms along the NC coast have cooler
temperatures and a fish community dominated primarily by black sea bass (Centropristis striata),
scup (Stenotomus chrysops), and associated temperate species (Sedberry and Van Dolah 1984).
Most snapper -grouper species are associated with offshore reef and hardbottom habitats
throughout their life cycle; however, a few species such as black sea bass, gag (Mycteroperca
microlepis), gray snapper (Lutjanus griseus), and lane snapper (L. synagris) use estuarine
nursery habitats for juvenile development (SAFMC 1998, NCDMF 2006). Juveniles of these
estuarine -dependent species emigrate from the estuary to nearshore hardbottom habitats in the
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fall, and eventually move to offshore reef and hardbottom habitats. Moser et al. (1999) reported
that juvenile gag, red grouper, and black grouper recruited to the lower Newport River Estuary
and Bogue Sound from mid -April to early June and remained through early November. Juveniles
were found only in polyhaline habitats near inlets, initially occupying SAV beds for 3-4 months
before moving to complex structural habitats such as estuarine jetties. Caridean shrimp
comprised 51% of the total food volume consumed, with Penaeid shrimp and fish contributing
21% and 16% of the total volume, respectively. Amphipods and copepods were frequently
consumed, but comprised only a small percentage of the overall volume. The action area
encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH and HAPCs for the juvenile life stages of
estuarine -dependent snapper -grouper species; including estuarine tidal marsh, tidal creeks,
unconsolidated bottom, SAV, oyster reefs, and state -designated PNAs and SNAs.
4.1.3 Summer Flounder
The geographic range of the summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) includes shallow estuaries
and outer continental shelf waters along the Atlantic Coast from Nova Scotia to Florida (Packer
at al. 1999). Adult summer flounder exhibit strong seasonal inshore -offshore movements;
concentrating in estuaries and sounds from late spring through early fall before migrating offshore
to the outer continental shelf where spawning occurs during the fall and early winter. Larvae and
post larvae recruit to estuarine nursery habitats from October to May and eventually settle to the
bottom and bury into the sediment where development to the juvenile life stage is completed.
Late larval and juvenile flounder actively prey on crustaceans, copepods, and polychaetes
(NEFSC 1999). Juveniles prefer sandy shell substrates; but also inhabit marsh creeks, mud flats,
and seagrass beds. Juveniles often remain in North Carolina estuaries for 18 to 20 months.
Adults prefer sandy substrates, but also use seagrass beds, tidal marsh creeks, and sand flats
(ASFMC 2011c and d, NEFSC 1999). The action area encompasses habitats that are designated
as EFH and HAPCs for larval, juvenile, and adult summer flounder; including estuarine waters
with salinities >0.5 ppt and SAV.
4.1.4 Coastal Migratory Pelagics
The coastal migratory pelagics management unit includes Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus.
maculates), king mackerel (S. cavalla), and cobia (Rachycentron canadum). Adult Spanish
mackerel spawn in groups over the inner continental shelf; beginning in April off the Carolinas.
Larvae are most commonly found in nearshore ocean waters at shallow depths less than 30 ft.
Most juveniles remain in nearshore ocean waters, but some use high salinity estuaries (e.g.,
Bogue Sound) as nursery habitats. Adult Spanish mackerel spend most of their lives in the open
ocean but are also found in tidal estuaries and coastal waters (ASMFC 2011a, 2011b, Mercer et
al. 1990). King mackerel are primarily a coastal species, with smaller individuals of similar size
forming schools over reefs and areas of bottom relief, and larger solitary individuals preferring
anthropogenic structures and wrecks. Cobia are found over the continental shelf and in high
salinity estuaries; preferring waters in the vicinity of reefs and artificial structures such as pilings
and buoys. Coble spawning along NC occurs primarily in offshore ocean waters during May and
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June; however, spawning has also been observed in estuaries and shallow bays, with the young
moving offshore soon after hatching (SAFMC 1983 and 2011). In Bogue Sound, Spanish
mackerel and cobia larvae are common in the seawater (>25 ppt) salinity zone, while adults and
juveniles are abundant to common in both the seawater and mixing (0.5-25 ppt) zones (Nelson et
al 1991). The action area encompasses habitats that are designated as EFH and HAPCs for
coastal migratory pelagics; including high salinity estuaries, coastal inlets, SAV, and state -
designated PNAs and SNAs.
4.1.5 Bluefish
The bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix) is a migratory, pelagic species found in temperate and semi-
tropical continental shelf waters around the world with the exception of the north and central
Pacific. In North America, bluefish range from Nova Scotia to Florida in the Atlantic Ocean and
from Florida to Texas in the Gulf of Mexico. Spawning in the South Atlantic Bight occurs near the
shoreward edge of the Gulf Stream primarily during April and May. Larval development occurs in
the upper water column over the outer continental shelf, with transitional pelagic juveniles
eventually moving to nearshore ocean and estuarine waters that serve as the principal nursery
habitats for juvenile development (Kendall and Walford 1979). Estuarine juveniles are most
commonly associated with sandy unconsolidated bottom habitats; but also use mud/silt bottom,
SAV, marine macroalgae, oyster reefs, and tidal marshes (Shepherd and Packer 2006).
Juveniles are common in high salinity estuaries along the southern NC coast during summer and
fall, where they are usually associated with salinities of 23 to 33 ppt; however, juveniles are found
at salinities as low as 3 ppt (Fahay et al. 1999). Designated inshore EFH for juvenile and adult
bluefish along the southern NC coast includes estuaries below MHW.
4.1.6 Smooth Dogfish
The smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis) is a small, migratory, demersal shark species of inshore and
continental shelf waters from Massachusetts to northern Argentina in the Atlantic Ocean. The
species is viviparous, with pupping occurring in estuarine waters from Virginia to Massachusetts
(McCandless et al. 2007). Pups are born during spring and summer, and juveniles remain in
estuarine nursery areas until fall. Larger juveniles occupy deeper estuarine waters before joining
adults on the continental shelf. Juveniles in estuarine nursey areas prey on polychaetes, decapod
shrimp, crabs, bivalves, and small estuarine fish (Able and Fahay 2010). Adults undertake
seasonal migrations between inshore pupping grounds and offshore wintering grounds on the on
the outer continental shelf (Branstetter 2002; Able and Fahay 2010). Adults migrate inshore
during the spring when water temperatures reach 6 to 7 °C, and move offshore during the early
fall as water temperatures decrease (Compagno 1984). Inshore estuarine waters in the vicinity of
the action area are designated as EFH for all life stages of the smooth dogfish.
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4.2 EFH and HAPC
4.2.1 Estuarine Water Column
The north barge fleeting area is located -3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lowermost
polyhaline reach of the Newport River Estuary. Just below the fleeting area, the estuary
converges with Bogue Sound, Back Sound, and Beaufort Inlet. Beaufort Inlet extends -2.5 miles
from the Port of Morehead City to the Atlantic Ocean. Beaufort Inlet is an important transport
corridor for the planktonic eggs and larvae of estuarine -dependent fishes and invertebrates that
spawn offshore as adults and reside in estuarine nursery areas during juvenile development.
Successful recruitment of ocean -spawned planktonic larvae to estuarine nursery areas is
dependent on passive ocean -to -sound transport through a relatively small number of narrow tidal
inlets. Larvae spawned offshore are transported shoreward by the prevailing currents, eventually
accumulating in the nearshore ocean zone where they are picked up by long -shore currents and
transported to inlets (Churchill at al. 1999). Temporal patterns of larval transport through Beaufort
Inlet were described by Hettler and Chester (1990). Overall larval densities within the inlet were
highest from late May to early June and lowest in November. Species richness was also highest
(32 taxa) from late May to early June and lowest (3 taxa) in November.
4.2.2 Unconsolidated Bottom
Intertidal and shallow subtidal unconsolidated bottom habitats provide abundant food resources
for estuarine -dependent juveniles in an environment that is relatively inaccessible to large
predators via shallow depths (SAFMC 1998). Shallow unconsolidated bottom habitats support
highly productive benthic microalgal communities. Benthic microagal primary production, along
with imported primary production in the form of phytoplankton and detritus, supports highly
productive benthic infaunal invertebrate communities that comprise the prey base for most
estuarine -dependent demersal fishes; including summer flounder and estuarine -dependent
species of the snapper -grouper complex. Penaeid shrimp are most abundant in shallow
unconsolidated bottom habitats at the highly productive shallow bottom -marsh interface (NCDEQ
2016). Unconsolidated bottom habitats consisting of fine sand to silty fine sand comprise all of
the benthic habitat within the proposed new dredging area (Catlin Engineers 2013).
4.2.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
Shell bottom habitats include oyster reefs, aggregations of non -reef building shellfish species
[e.g., clams and scallops (Argopecten irradians, A. gibbus)], and surface concentrations of broken
shells (shell hash). Oysters are the dominant reef -building species of estuarine shell bottom
habitats in NC. Non -reef building shellfish species that occur at densities sufficient to provide
structural habitat for other organisms include scallops, pen shells (Atrina seratta, A. rigida), and
rangia clams (Rangia cuneata) (SAFMC 2009). Shell bottom habitats function as important
nursery and foraging areas for estuarine -dependent juveniles. Shell bottom structure provides
refuge from predation and concentrates macroinvertebrates that comprise the prey base for many
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estuarine -dependent juvenile fishes (NCDEQ 2016). NCDMF benthic habitat maps depict a
narrow linear zone of shell bottom habitat —300 feet west of the proposed new dredging area
along the shoreline of Marsh Island (Figure 4). Additional mapped shell bottom habitats are
distributed throughout the surrounding Newport River Estuary.
4.2.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) in NC estuaries encompasses a number of bed -forming
rooted aquatic vascular plants (NCDEQ 2016). SAV beds occur on subtidal and occasionally
intertidal sediments in sheltered estuarine waters. Environmental requirements include
unconsolidated sediments for root and rhizome development, adequate light reaching the bottom,
and moderate to negligible current velocities (Thayer at al. 1984, Ferguson and Wood 1994).
SAV beds provide important structural fish habitat and perform important ecological functions
such as primary production, sediment and shoreline stabilization, and nutrient cycling (NCDEQ
2016). SAV habitats are important nursery areas for the juveniles of estuarine -dependent
species; including species of the snapper -grouper complex, bluefish, summer flounder, and
penaeid shrimp. NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately adjacent to
the proposed new dredging area (Figure 5). Small patches of SAV are identified along the
western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the proposed dredging area. Additional mapped SAV
habitats are distributed throughout the surrounding Newport River Estuary.
4.2.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)
Along with shallow unconsolidated bottom areas, salt and brackish marshes along the NC coast
function as important nursery habitats for federally managed species such as summer flounder,
penaeid shrimp, and estuarine dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. Penaeid
shrimp are considered critically linked to marsh edge habitat (SAFMC 1998). The majority of the
state designated fish nursery areas in NC encompass shallow soft bottom areas and associated
fringing tidal marshes (NCDEQ 2016). Tidal marshes in the lower polyhaline Newport River
Estuary are dominated by monospecific zones of smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and
black needlerush (Juncus romerianus). No tidal marshes are present within the proposed new
dredging area. The nearest tidal marshes are located —300 feet west of the proposed dredging
footprint along the shoreline of Marsh Island. The tidal marsh along the eastern shoreline of
Marsh Island consists of an approximately 400-ft-wide zone of smooth cordgrass.
RECEIVED
4.2.6 State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
JUL 2 6 2022
E) -NIHD CIT
Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs) are defined as "those areas in the estuarine system where initia
post -larval development takes place" [15 North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC) 31
.0101(b)(20)(E)]. PNAs support uniform populations of very early juveniles and are typically
located in the upper reaches of the estuarine system. Secondary Nursery Areas (SNAs) are
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defined as "those areas in the estuarine system where later juvenile development takes place."
Secondary Nursery Areas support uniform populations of developing subadults that have moved
from PNAs to the lower portions of the estuarine system. For most estuarine -dependent species,
larval settlement occurs in the uppermost reaches of shallow tidal creek systems (Weinstein 1979,
Ross and Epperly 1985). The abundance of juveniles in estuarine nursery areas generally peaks
between April and July (Ross and Epperly 1985). PNAs and SNAs are designated as HAPC for
shrimp, coastal migratory pelagics, and estuarine dependent species of the snapper -grouper
complex. Designated PNAs that are nearest to the proposed new dredging area are located —1.3
miles to the northwest in small tributaries of the Newport River (Calico Creek and Crab Point Bay)
(Figure 6). The nearest additional PNAs and SNAs are located in the Newport River —4 miles
upstream of the proposed new dredging area.
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DCM-MHD CITY

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REC;E?VED
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DC°Ad-A,"-I!? CITY

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- Secondary Nursery Areas
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NLS. GSEM GwDdf MM M��W 4M1A OWY. iEM Barge Fleeting Expansion Area
nw�. pus u aa.se«us <uwa...e �. cis u.fu,w.nry
Figure 6. State -Designated Fish Nursery Areas
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5.0 EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION ON EFH AND MANAGED SPECIES
This assessment considers potential effects on EFH/HAPCs and federally managed species that
may occur through the following impact mechanisms: physical disturbance and modification of
benthic habitat within the dredging footprint, sediment suspension and redeposition, and larval
entrainment. Analyses of potential effects on EFH/HAPCs and federally managed species are
presented according to habitat type.
5.1 Estuarine Water Column
5.1.1 Sediment Suspension and Turbidity
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity may affect the
behavior (e.g., feeding, predator avoidance, habitat selection) and physiological functions (e.g.,
photosynthesis, gill -breathing, filter -feeding) of marine fishes and invertebrates (Michel et al.
2013). The extent and duration of dredging -induced sediment suspension are influenced by
sediment composition at the dredge site, the type of dredge employed, and hydrodynamic
conditions at the dredge site (Wilber et al. 2005). Sediment suspension by cutterhead dredges is
generally confined to the near bottom water column in the immediate vicinity of the rotating
cutterhead assembly (LaSalle et al. 1991). Based on sediment resuspension data collected
during navigation dredging projects, Hayes et al. (2000) and Hayes and Wu (2001) reported
average cutterhead dredge sediment resuspension rates ranging from 0.003 to 0.135% of the fine
silt/clay fraction. Mechanical dredges (bucket and clamshell) generally have higher sediment
suspension rates due to the washing of material out of the bucket as it is withdrawn from the
bottom and moved through and above the water column (LaSalle et al. 1991). Water injection
dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density sediment -
water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to deeper areas.
Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced sediment suspension
is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the bottom (Welp et al. 2017).
Regardless of dredge type, prolonged sediment suspension and extensive turbidity plumes are
primarily associated with the suspension of fine silt/clay particles that have relatively slow settling
velocities, whereas sands and gravels that make up the coarse -grained sediment fraction resettle
rapidly in the immediate vicinity of the dredge (Schroeder 2009). As previously described, the
sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse
sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by
either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate
vicinity of the new dredging footprint. It is expected that suspended fine sediments would be
rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the
duration of any adverse effects on water quality and federally managed species. The proposed
project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would avoid peak periods of larval ingress
and estuarine -dependent juvenile abundance in the vicinity of the action area, thus minimizing
the exposure of federally managed species to sediment suspension effects. In the specific case
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of WID, the potential for upstream sediment transport into the New River Estuary would be
minimized by conducting WID only on falling tides. Based on these considerations, it is expected
that any adverse effects on water quality and federally managed species would be minor and
short-term.
5.1.2 Larval Entrainment
Cutterhead pipeline dredges have the potential to entrain fishes and invertebrates during all life
cycle phases; including adults, juveniles, larvae, and eggs. Among adult and juvenile fishes,
demersal species that inhabit the near -bottom water column environment are most likely to be
entrained (Refine and Clarke 1998); although studies have also reported the entrainment of
pelagic fishes in small numbers (McGraw and Armstrong 1990). Entrainment studies indicate
that dredging elicits an avoidance response by demersal and pelagic species and that most
juvenile and adult fishes are successful at avoiding entrainment (Larson and Moehl 1990, McGraw
and Armstrong 1990). Planktonic eggs and larvae that lack avoidance capabilities are more
vulnerable to entrainment by hydraulic dredges, especially during ingress periods when they are
concentrated in inlets. The results of a long-term sampling program at Beaufort Inlet indicate that
larval densities within the inlet are highest from late May to early June and lowest in November
(Hettler and Chester 1990).
In the case of cutterhead pipeline dredging, the proposed action would affect federally managed
estuarine -dependent species by entraining planktonic eggs and larvae that occur in the vicinity of
the dredge pipe suction field. However, the results of larval entrainment modeling in Beaufort
Inlet indicate that dredge entrainment rates are extremely low regardless of inlet larval
concentrations and the distribution of larvae within the water column (Settle 2003). Even under
worst case model scenarios when the dredge was assumed to be operating 24 hours/day and all
larvae were assumed to be concentrated in the bottom of the navigation channel, projected
entrainment rates barely exceeded 0.1 % of the daily (24-hour) larval flux through the inlet. The
proposed new dredging area is located above Beaufort Inlet in the relatively broad Newport River
Estuary where it is expected that the distribution of planktonic eggs and larvae would be relatively
diffuse. Furthermore, the proposed project construction window of 1 October - 31 January would
avoid the peak larval ingress period at Beaufort Inlet. Based on all of the above considerations,
it is anticipated that the effects of egg/larval entrainment on populations of federally managed
species would be negligible.
5.2 Unconsolidated Bottom
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of unconsolidated bottom habitat in the barge
fleeting expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be
increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent periodic maintenance dredging
events would remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily
reducing the availability of prey for federally managed demersal fishes such as summer flounder
and estuarine -dependent species of the snapper -grouper complex. Depending on shoaling rates,
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
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the affected benthic infaunal communities would experience recurring maintenance dredging
impacts every 2 to 5 years. Studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah et al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of —10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction window
(01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate recruitment periods; thus
facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment. Based on all of the above
considerations, it is anticipated that effects on estuarine unconsolidated bottom habitats and
associated federally managed species would be minor and short-term.
5.3 Oyster Reefs and Shell Banks
As previously described, NCDMF benthic habitat maps do not identify any shell bottom areas
within or immediately adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on
shell bottom habitats would be expected. The only mapped shell bottom area in the vicinity of the
project area is a narrow linear shell bottom feature along the shoreline of Marsh Island —300-ft
west of the new dredging footprint. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process
may be transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting shell bottom areas
through redeposition. Heavy sediment redeposition can impact oysters by inhibiting larval
attachment to hard substrates and reducing the respiration and feeding rates of juveniles and
adults (Wilber and Clarke 2010). However, according to Colden and Lipcius (2015), eastern
oysters that were subjected to experimental sediment deposition did not exhibit significant
mortality or sublethal effects until at least 70% of the shell height was buried. As previously
described, the sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of
relatively coarse fine sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that
sediment suspension by either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be
confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint and the contiguous AIWW
channel. Therefore, it is expected that the effects of dredging -induced sediment suspension and
redeposition on oyster reefs and associated federally managed species would be minor and short-
term.
5.4 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV)
As previously described, NCDMF SAV maps do not identify any SAV within or immediately
adjacent to the proposed new dredging area. Thus, no direct impacts on SAV would be expected.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
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Small patches of SAV are identified along the western shoreline of Marsh Island opposite the
proposed dredging area. Fine sediments that are suspended by the dredging process may be
transported outside of the active dredging area, potentially affecting SAV through increases in
turbidity and/or sediment redeposition. However, as previously described, it is anticipated that
the predominance of relatively coarse sand in the new dredging area would limit sediment
suspension to the immediate vicinity of the active work area. Therefore, it is expected that any
adverse effects on SAV and associated federally managed species from dredging -induced
sediment suspension and redeposition would be minor and short-term.
5.5 Estuarine Emergent Wetlands (Tidal Marsh)
As previously described, the only tidal marshes in the vicinity of proposed new dredging area are
located -300 feet west of the dredging footprint along the shoreline of Marsh Island. Therefore,
the proposed action would not be expected to have any effect on tidal marshes.
6.0 CONSERVATION MEASURES
The following conservation measures would be implemented to avoid or minimize potential effects
on EFH/HPAC and federally managed species:
• Dredging would be conducted within a 1 October to 31 January construction window.
• Water injection dredging (WID) would be conducted only on falling tides.
• Good Engineering Practices (GEPs) and Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be
applied to all dredging activities.
• Dredged material delivery pipelines would be routinely inspected for pressurized leaks,
and any leaks that are found would be immediately repaired.
• Dredging contractors would be required to maintain spill control plans and waste
management plans for all dredging fleet equipment.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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7.0 REFERENCES
Able, K.W. and M.P. Fahay. 2010. Ecology of estuarine fishes: temperate waters of the western
North Atlantic. Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins University Press; 2010. 566p.
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). 2011a. Managed Species Spanish
Mackerel, Species Profile. Washington, D.C. Accessed March 2011.
ASMFC. 2011b. Managed Species Spanish Mackerel, Habitat Fact Sheet. Washington, D.C.
Accessed March 2011.
ASMFC. 2011c. Managed Species Summer Flounder, Habitat Fact Sheet. Washington, D.C.
Accessed March 2009.
ASMFC. 2011d. Managed Species Summer Flounder, Species Profile. Washington, D.C.
Accessed March 2009.
Branstetter, S. 2002. Smooth Dogfish/Mustelus canis canis (Mitchill 1815). In: B.B. Collette BB,
Klein-MacPhee G, editors, Fishes of the Gulf of Maine, 3rd ed. Washington: Smithsonian
Institution Press; 2002. P 37-38.
Churchill, J.H., R.B. Forward, R.A. Luettich, J.L. Hench, W.F. Hettler, L.B. Crowder, and B.O.
Blanton. 1999. Circulation and Larval Fish Transport within a Tidally Dominated Estuary.
Fisheries Oceanography 8: 173-189.
Cleary W.J. and A.C. Knierim. 2001. Turbidity and suspended sediment characterizations: Nixon
Channel dredging and beach rebuilding, Figure Eight Island, NC. Report submitted to
Figure Eight Beach Homeowners Association, Figure Eight Island, NC, 33 pp.
Coastal Planning & Engineering, Inc. (CPE). 2004. Bogue Inlet Channel Erosion Response
Project Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). Prepared for the Town of Emerald
Isle and submitted to the Army Corps of Engineers. April 2004.
Colden, A.M. and R.N. Lipcius. 2015. Lethal and sublethal effects of sediment burial on the
eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 527: 105-117.
Compagno, L.J.V. 1984. FAO species catalogue. Vol.4. Sharks of the world. An annotated and
illustrated catalogue of shark species known to date. Part 1. Hexanchiformes to
Lamniformes.
Ferguson, R.L. and L.L. Wood. 1994. Rooted Vascular Aquatic Beds in the Albemarle -Pamlico
Estuarine System. NMFS, NOAA, Beaufort, NC, Project No. 94-02, 103 pp.
Hayes, D. and P.Y. Wu. 2001. Simple approach to TSS source strength estimates. In
Proceedings of the WEDA XXI Conference, Houston, TX, June 25-27, 2001.
RECEIVED
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DCM-MHD CITY

Hayes, D., T. Crockett, T. Ward, and D. Averett. 2000. Sediment resuspension during cutterhead
dredging operations. Journal of Waterway, Port, Coastal, and Ocean Engineering
126(3):153-161.
Hettler, W.F. and A.J. Chester. 1990. Temporal Distribution of Ichthyoplankton near Beaufort
Inlet, North Carolina. Marine Ecology Progress Series 68: 157-168.
Kendall, A.W.J. and L.A. Walford. 1979. Sources and distribution of bluefish, Pomatomus
saltatrix, larvae and juveniles off the east coast of the United States. Fishery Bulletin
77:213-227.
Kirby -Smith, W.W. and J.D. Costlow. 1989. The Newport River Estuarine System. Duke
University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC.
Larson, K. and C. Moehl. 1990. Fish entrainment by dredges in Grays Harbor, Washington. In:
Effects of dredging on anadromous Pacific Coast fishes. C. A. Simenstad, ed.,
Washington Sea Grant Program, University of Washington, Seattle, 102-12.
LaSalle, M.W., D.G. Clarke, J. Homziak, J.D. Lunz, and T.J. Fredette. 1991. A framework for
assessing the need for seasonal restrictions on dredging and disposal operations.
Technical Report D-91-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg,
MS.
McCandless, C.T., N.E. Kohler, and H.L. Pratt Jr. editors. Shark nursery grounds of the Gulf of
Mexico and the East Coast waters of the United States. Bethesda: American Fisheries
Society, Symposium 50; 2007. 402 p.
McGraw, K.A. and D.A. Armstrong. 1990. Fish Entrainment by Dredges in Grays Harbor,
Washington. pp. 113-131. In: C.A. Simenstad (ed.). Effects of Dredging on Anadromous
Pacific Coast Fishes. Workshop Proceedings, University of Washington Sea Grant, FL.
Mercer, L. P., L.R. Phalen, and J.R. Maiolo. 1990. Fishery Management Plan For Spanish
Mackerel, Fisheries Management Report No. 18 of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries
Commission Washington, DC. North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and
Natural Resources Morehead City, INC, and East Carolina University Department of
Sociology and Anthropology, Greenville, NC. November 1990.
Michel, J., A.C. Bejarano, C.H. Peterson, and C. Voss. 2013. Review of biological and
biophysical impacts from dredging and handling of offshore sand. OCS Study BOEM
2013-0119 Herndon, Virginia: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy
Management.
Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC). 1990. Fishery Management Plan for the
Bluefish Fishery, Prepared by Mid -Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic
State Marine Fisheries Commission in cooperation with the National Marine Fisheries
Service, the New England Fishery Management Council, and the South Atlantic
Management Council. Dover, Delaware. Updated February 2009; Accessed March 2011.
Nelson, D.M., E.A. Irlandi, L.R. Settle, M.E. Monaco, and L. Coston-Clements. 1991. Distribution
and Abundance of Fishes and Invertebrates in Southeast Estuaries. ELMR Rep. No. 9.
NOAA/NOS Strategic Environmental Assessments Division, Silver Spring, MD. 167 p.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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DCM-MHD CITY

North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ). 2016. North Carolina Coastal
Habitat Protection Plan. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
Resources, NCDMF.
NCDMF. 2006. Stock status of important coastal fisheries in North Carolina. NCDMF, Morehead
City, NC.
NEFSC. 1999. Essential Fish Habitat Source Document: Summer Flounder, Paralichthys
dentatus, Life History and Habitat Characteristics. Woods Hole, Massachusetts.
September 1999.
Reine, K.J. and D.G. Clark. 1998. Entrainment by Hydraulic Dredges - A Review of Potential
Impacts. U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Research And
Development Center, Vicksburg, MS, DOER Tech Notes Collection (TN DOER -El).
Ross, S.W. and S.P. Epperly. 1985. Chapter 10: Utilization of shallow estuarine nursery areas
by fishes in Pamlico Sound and adjacent tributaries, North Carolina. p. 207-232 in A.
YanezAranciba (ed.). Fish Community Ecology in Estuaries and Coastal Lagoons:
Towards and Ecosystem Integration. DR (R) UNAM Press, Mexico, 654 pp.
Schroeder, P.R. 2009. USACE Technical Guidelines for Practicing the 3Rs of Environmental
Dredging. In: Proceedings of the Western Dredging Association Twentyninth Technical
Conference and 40th Annual Texas A&M Dredging Seminar, Tempe, AZ, June 2009.
Sedberry, G.R. and R.F. Van Dolah. 1984. Demersal fish assemblages associated with hard
bottom habitat in the South Atlantic Bight of the USA. Environ. Biol. Fish. 11(1).
Settle, L. 2003. Assessment of potential larval entrainment mortality to hydraulic dredging of
Beaufort Inlet. Prepared for USACE-Wilmington District for the Morehead City Harbor
Environmental Assessment. May 2003. NOAA/NOS National Centers for Coastal Ocean
Science.
Shepherd, G.R. and D.B. Packer. 2006. Essential Fish Habitat Source Document:
Bluefish, Pomatomus saltatrix, Life History and Habitat Characteristics 2n1 edition. NOAA
Technical Memorandum, NMFS-NE-198:100.
South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (SAFMC). 2011. Regulations by Species, Cobia.
Accessed March 2011.
SAFMC. 2009. Fishery Ecosystem Plan of the South Atlantic Region. SAFMC, Charleston, SC.
SAFMC. 1998. Final Habitat Plan for the South Atlantic Region: Essential Fish Habitat
Requirements for Fishery Management Plans of the South Atlantic Fishery Management
Council. SAFMC, Charleston, SC.
SAFMC. 1983. Fishery Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement Regulatory
Impact Review Final Regulations for Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources (Mackerels) In
The Gulf of Mexico And South Atlantic Region. South Atlantic Fishery Management
Council Charleston, SC; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council Tampa, FL.
February 1983.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment RECEIVED Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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SAFMC. 1981. Profile of the penaeid shrimp fishery in the South Atlantic. South Atlantic Fishery
Management Council, 1 Southpark Cir., Ste 306, Charleston, S.C. 29407, 321 pp.
Stickney, R. 1972. Effects of Intracoastal Waterway Dredging on Ichthyofauna and Benthic
Macro- Invertebrates. Technical Report Series. No 72-4. Skidaway Institute of
Oceanography, Savannah, GA. July 1972 60 pp.
Stickney, R. and D. Perlmutter. 1975. Impact of Intracoastal Waterway maintenance dredging
on a mud bottom benthos community. Biol Consery 01/1975; 7(3):211-225.
Thayer, G.W., W.J. Kenworthy, and M.S. Fonseca. 1984. The Ecology of Eelgrass Meadows of
the Atlantic coast: A Community Profile. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, FWS/OBS-84/02,
147 pp.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, and D.M. Knott. 1984. Effects of dredging and open -water disposal
on benthic macroinvertebrates in a South Carolina estuary. Estuaries 7, 28-37.
Van Dolah, R.F., D.R. Calder, D.M. Knott, and M.S. Maclin. 1979. Effects of dredging and
unconfined disposal of dredged material on benthic macroinvertebrate communities in
Sewee Bay, SC. Marine Resources Center Technical Report 39. Charleston, SC.
Weinstein, M.P. 1979. Shallow marsh habitats as primary nurseries for fishes and shellfish, Cape
Fear River. NC. Fisheries Bulletin 2: 339-357.
Welp, T.L., M.W. Tubman, D.A. Wilson, and C.E. Pollock. 2017. Water Injection Dredging.
DOER Technical Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army
Engineer Research and Development Center.
Wilber, D.H., W. Brostoff, D.G. Clarke, and G.L. Ray. 2005. Sedimentation: Potential biological
effects from dredging operations in estuarine and marine environments. DOER Technical
Notes Collection (ERDC TN-DOER-E20). Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research
and Development Center.
Essential Fish Habitat Assessment
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BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
NORTH BARGE FLEETING AREA EXPANSION
PORT OF MOREHEAD CITY
5 July 2022
Prepared for:
North Carolina State Ports Authority
PO Box 9002
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402
Prepared by:
Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
201 North Front Street, Suite 307
Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
DIAL CORDY
AN[) ASSO(.IATIi S_ INC
IIM MYY1NlINtl flnKltllftlN.Y --
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0
INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................1
2.0
LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION....................................2
3.0
DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA..........................................................................2
4.0
EFFECTS THE PROPOSED ACTION ON LISTED SPECIES AND CRITICAL
HABITATS........................................................................................................................6
4.1
Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon..................................................................................6
4.1.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat.............................................................................6
4.1.2 Occurrence in the Action Area...............................................................................7
4.1.3 Factors Affecting the Species................................................................................7
4.1.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon ......................8
4.1.5 Determination of Effect..........................................................................................9
4.2 Sea Turtles.................................................................................................................10
4.2.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat...........................................................................10
4.2.2 Occurrence in the Action Area.............................................................................12
4.2.3 Factors Affecting the Species..............................................................................13
4.2.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Sea Turtles.....................................................15
4.2.5 Conservation Measures.......................................................................................16
4.2.6 Determination of Effect........................................................................................16
5.0
REFERENCES...............................................................................................................17
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

0
LIST OF TABLES
Page
Table 1. Species and critical habitats considered in this assessment..........................................1
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1. Proposed Action Location Map...................................................................................3
Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout.............................................................4
Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry ................5
Figure 4. Loggerhead Turtle Critical Habitat.............................................................................14
RECEIVED
JUL 2 6 2022
DCM-MHD CITY
Biological Assessment Dial Cordy and Associates Inc.
Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022

LIST OF ACRONYMS
%
Percent
°C
Degrees Celsius
AIWW
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
ASSRT
Atlantic Sturgeon Status Review Team
CWA
Clean Water Act
CY
Cubic Yards
DPS
Distinct Population Segment
ESA
Endangered Species Act
FIR
Federal Register
FT
Feet
GEPs
Good Engineering Practices
BMPs
Best Management Practices
MCH
Morehead City Harbor
MLLW
Mean Lower Low Water
NC
North Carolina
NCDMF
North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
NCSPA
North Carolina State Ports Authority
NMFS
National Marine Fisheries Service
PPT
Parts per Thousand
RHA
Rivers and Harbors Act
SAV
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
SSSRT
Shortnose Sturgeon Status Review Team
USACE
United States Army Corps of Engineers
USFWS
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
WID
Water Injection Dredging
Biological Assessment
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Biological Assessment has been prepared in accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered
Species Act (ESA) to address the effects of proposed new dredging work at the Port of Morehead
City on listed species and critical habitats. The North Carolina State Ports Authority (NCSPA)
has requested Department of the Army authorization pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water
Act (CWA) and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act (RHA) to expand the existing north barge
fleeting area in the Newport River at the Port of Morehead City (Port) in Carteret County, North
Carolina (NC). The north fleeting area is a temporary mooring facility for loaded barges that are
awaiting waterbome transport to inland destinations. Barge fleeting activity at the Port is primarily
associated with the transport of imported iron (direct reduced iron and pig iron) to the Hertford
Steel plant on the Chowan River in Cofield, NC. Iron imports at the Port have doubled over the
last several years; resulting in increased demand for barge fleeting capacity. The proposed action
would expand the north barge fleeting area from 2 to 4 acres, thereby accommodating an
additional 4 to 6 loaded barges. This assessment considers listed species and critical habitats
under the jurisdiction of the NMFS that occur or may occur in the vicinity of the Port of Morehead
City; including the Atlantic sturgeon, shortnose sturgeon, loggerhead sea turtle, green sea turtle,
Kemps ridley sea turtle, leatherback sea turtle, hawksbill sea turtle, and loggerhead nearshore
reproductive critical habitat (Table 1).
Table 1. Species and critical habitats considered in this assessment.
Species/Critical Habitat
ESA
Listing Status
Effect
Determination
Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
Endangered
MANLAA
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
Threatened
MANLAA
Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Endangered
MANLAA
Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Endangered
MANLAA
Kemp's ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempfi)
Endangered
MANLAA
Shortnose sturgeon (Acipenserbrevirostrum)
Endangered
MANLAA
Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus)
Endangered
MANLAA
Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Critical Habitat
NE
I MANLAA = May affect, not likely to adversely affect; NE = No Effect
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Newport River Barge Fleeting Area Expansion July 2022
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2.0 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
The north barge fleeting area is located in the Newport River -600 feet north of the northeast
corner of the Port terminal facility (Figure 1). The existing fleeting area encompasses 2.0 acres
along the western margin of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW). The authorized depth of
the existing facility matches that of the AIWW at -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge). A series
of six steel pile mooring piles are currently installed within the fleeting area. The proposed action
would expand the existing facility westward by dredging an additional 2.0 acres of subtidal bottom
to a depth of -14 ft MLLW (12 + 2 ft of over dredge) (Figure 2). An additional 1.0 acre of new
dredging would be required to construct a transitional 3:1 slope along the western margin of the
2.0-acre expansion area. In total, the proposed action would require 3.0 acres of new dredging
and the removal of an estimated 35,000 cy of material. No new mooring structures are proposed,
as the existing mooring piles are sufficient to accommodate additional barges in the expansion
area. The depth of the expansion area would be maintained through periodic maintenance
dredging every 2 to 5 years. Existing depths in the proposed new dredging area range from -4 to
-14 ft MLLW (Figure 3). The sediments to be removed from the new dredging area are part of a
uniform fine sand to silty fine sand layer that extends from the surface to a depth of -45-ft MLLW
(Catlin Engineers 2013). Construction of the barge fleeting expansion area would employ a
hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) dredge and/or a mechanical bucket dredge and scow system.
Construction dredged material would be placed in one of the existing Port -owned confined
disposal facilities; which include the Marsh Island, Brandt Island, and North Radio Island disposal
areas. Construction disposal operations for cutterhead dredging would involve direct hydraulic
delivery to the disposal area via floating and/or submerged pipeline. In the case of mechanical
dredging, disposal would involve the transport of dredged material via scow to the disposal area
for placement via mechanical means or hydraulic offloading. Periodic maintenance of the barge
fleeting expansion area would be accomplished by the Port -owned water injection dredge. Water
injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high density
sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity to
deeper areas. A pipe manifold with a series of water injection nozzles is used to inject water into
the sediment bed. The use of water injection dredging for maintenance of the Port's existing
berths, fleeting areas, and turning basins is currently authorized under the Port's existing CAMA
Major Permit.
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION AREA
The north barge fleeting area is located -3 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the lower Newport
River Estuary between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, NC. The lower Newport
River Estuary is a shallow, tidally -controlled system with an average depth of -3 feet MLLW.
Mean tidal range in the lower estuary is 3.1 feet, and salinities approach those of seawater (34
ppt) (Kirby -Smith and Costlow 1989). The proposed new dredging area is located between the
AIWW federal navigation channel and the Marsh Island disposal area. The AIWW navigation
channel is maintained at a width of 250 feet and depth of 12 + 2 ft MLLW. The Marsh Island
disposal area consists of diked uplands that are partially surrounded by unconfined tidal
saltmarsh. Benthic habitats within the proposed new dredging area consist of sandy
unconsolidated boftom. The surrounding Newport River Estuary contains a complex assemblage
of intertidal and shallow subtidal estuarine habitats; including sandy shoals, shellfish beds,
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, and tidal saltmarsh.
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P 0 R
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Figure 1. Proposed Action Location Map
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Figure 2. North Barge Fleeting Area Expansion Layout
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rfri,A_k@,HD CITE'

A
29
Legend
Profile Locatim 1ft Contour(MLLWj
Barge Fleeting Area Elevation Ill
® Existing Fleeting Area Value
0 Proposed Fleeting Area - High:-2
Proposed 3.1 Slope Low:-30
A -A' Bathymetric Profile Graph
Distance (feet)
B - B' Bathyttetric Profile Graph
_
F�astmg Baetymetry PrdN
10
Proposed Bathymecy Rolle
12
14
Slope V Proposed Fk rgArea Evsbq FlemgArea
Area
16
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Distance (fact)
C - C' Bathymetric Profile Graph_
-6
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to-
Proposed Be ftmetry Profile
12
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a
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0 50 100 150 200 250 31*
Distance (feet)
0 150 3W 450 600
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Figure 3. North Barge Fleeting Expansion Area - Existing and Proposed Bathymetry
:''NEI.
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4.0 EFFECTS THE PROPOSED ACTION ON LISTED SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITATS
4.1 Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon
4.1.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat
Shortnose Sturgeon
The shortnose sturgeon was listed as endangered throughout its range on 11 March 1967 (32 FR
4001). The species inhabits large Atlantic coast rivers from the St. Johns River in northeastern
Florida to the Saint Johns River in New Brunswick, Canada. Adults in southern rivers are
estuarine anadromous, foraging at the saltwater -freshwater interface and moving upstream to
spawn in the early spring. Shortnose sturgeon spend most of their lives in their natal river systems
and rarely migrate to marine environments. Spawning habitats include river channels with gravel,
gravel/boulder, rubble/boulder, and gravel/sand/log substrates. Spawning in southern rivers
begins in later winter or early spring and lasts from a few days to several weeks. Juveniles occupy
the saltwater -freshwater interface, moving back and forth with the low salinity portion of the salt
wedge during summer. Juveniles typically move upstream during the spring and summer and
move downstream during the winter, with movements occurring above the saltwater -freshwater
interface. In southern rivers, both adults and juveniles are known to congregate in cool, deep
thermal refugia during the summer. The shortnose sturgeon is a benthic omnivore that feeds on
crustaceans, insect larvae, worms, and mollusks. Juveniles randomly vacuum the bottom and
consume mostly insect larvae and small crustaceans. Adults are more selective feeders, feeding
primarily on small mollusks (NMFS 1998). No critical habitat has been designated for the
shortnose sturgeon.
Atlantic Sturgeon
The Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus) was listed under the ESA in 2012 as five
Distinct Population Segments (DPSs); including the endangered New York Bight, Chesapeake
Bay, Carolina, and South Atlantic DPSs and the threatened Gulf of Maine DPS (77 FIR 5914, 77
FIR 5880). The Carolina DPS encompasses subpopulations from the Roanoke, Tar/Pamlico,
Cape Fear, Waccamaw, Pee Dee, and Santee -Cooper Rivers in NC and South Carolina. Atlantic
sturgeon spawn in freshwater, but spend most of their adult life in the marine environment.
Spawning adults generally migrate upriver in the spring/early summer, although a fall spawning
migration may also occur in some southern rivers. Spawning is believed to occur in flowing water
between the salt front and fall line of large rivers. Post -larval juveniles move downstream into
brackish waters and eventually move to estuarine waters where they reside for a period of months
or years. Subadult and adult Atlantic sturgeons emigrate from rivers into coastal waters, where
they may undertake long range migrations. Migratory adult and subadult sturgeon are typically
found in shallow (40-70 ft) nearshore waters with gravel and sand substrates. Although extensive
mixing occurs in coastal waters, Atlantic sturgeons return to their natal river to spawn [Atlantic
Sturgeon Status Review Team (ASSRT) 2007]. In 2017, NMFS designated critical habitat for the
Atlantic sturgeon in large spawning river systems throughout the five DPSs (82 FIR 39160).
Critical habitat for the Carolina DPS was designated in the Roanoke, Tar -Pamlico, Neuse, Cape
Fear, and Pee Dee Rivers of NC and South Carolina.
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4.1.2 Occurrence in the Action Area
Shortnose Sturgeon
Shortnose sturgeon were thought to be extirpated from NC waters until an individual was captured
in the Brunswick River in 1987 (Ross et al. 1988). Subsequent gill -net studies (1989-1993)
confirmed the presence of a small population in the lower Cape Fear River (Moser and Ross
1995). In 1998, the NC Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMF) reported the capture of a shortnose
sturgeon in western Albemarle Sound (Armstrong and Hightower 1999). Surveys in the Neuse
River during 2001 and 2002 failed to capture any shortnose sturgeon (Oakley and Hightower
2007). The current distribution of the shortnose sturgeon in NC is thought to include only the
Cape Fear and Pee Dee Rivers, and no spawning populations have been confirmed in the state
[Shortnose Sturgeon Status Review Team (SSSRT) 2010]. Occurrence data specific to the
action area vicinity are lacking. Based on its restriction primarily to large rivers, and more
specifically riverine waters above the saltwater -freshwater interface, shortnose sturgeon
occurrences within the high salinity waters of the action area (i.e., lower Newport River Estuary
and Beaufort Inlet) are considered unlikely. The occurrence of a transient individual within the
action area cannot be entirely discounted, as genetic studies indicate that some individuals move
between the various populations (Quattro et al. 2002, Wirgin et al. 2005).
Atlantic Sturgeon
Extant spawning populations of the Atlantic sturgeon in NC are currently known from the
Roanoke, Tar -Pamlico, Cape Fear, and potentially the Neuse River systems (ASSRT 2007).
Laney et al. (2007) analyzed Atlantic sturgeon incidental capture data from winter tagging cruises
along the NC and Virginia coasts. Cruises conducted in nearshore ocean waters from Cape
Lookout to Cape Charles, Virginia captured 146 Atlantic sturgeons between 1988 and 2006.
Captures typically occurred over sand substrate in nearshore waters that were less than 60 feet
deep. Laney et al. (2007) concluded that shallow nearshore ocean waters along the NC coast
represent an important winter (January -February) habitat and aggregation area for adult and
subadult Atlantic sturgeon. Occurrence data for estuarine waters in the vicinity of the action area
are lacking; however, based on the work by Laney et al. (2007), it is assumed that adult and
subadult Atlantic sturgeon may occur in the vicinity of Beaufort Inlet during the winter months. No
critical habitat has been designated in the vicinity of the action area.
4.1.3 Factors Affecting the Species
Historical overharvesting contributed to drastic declines in shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon
populations. Commercial exploitation of shortnose sturgeons continued into the 1950s, and
Atlantic sturgeons were commercially exploited throughout most of the 201 century (NMFS 1998,
ASSRT 2007). Although directed commercial harvest is no longer permitted, by -catch mortality
associated with other fisheries remains a major threat. By -catch mortality associated with the
shad and shrimp fisheries and water quality degradation in nursery habitats are the primary
threats currently facing southeastern sturgeon populations (Collins et al. 2000). Dams that block
access to spawning grounds are a major stressor in some southern river systems, including the
Cape Fear River. Additional stressors include ship strikes and dredging (ASSRT 2007). Potential
dredging effects include direct impacts on benthic habitats and food resources, hydrological
modifications, turbidity and siltation, contaminant resu sion, and entrainment in hydraulic
GEI
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dredge intake pipelines. A total of 18 Atlantic sturgeons were taken by hopper dredges during
federal navigation dredging along the South Atlantic Coast from October 1990 to March 2012,
including two at Wilmington Harbor (USAGE 2014). No dredge takes have been reported at
Morehead City Harbor.
4.1.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Shortnose and Atlantic Sturgeon
This assessment evaluates potential effects on shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon that may occur
through the following impact mechanisms: physical disturbance and modification of soft bottom
foraging habitat within the dredging footprint, sediment suspension and redeposition, and
entrainment by hydraulic dredges.
4.1.4.1.1 Direct Impacts on Soft Bottom Foraging Habitat
New dredging would directly impact 3.0 acres of soft bottom habitat in the barge fleeting
expansion area. Existing bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be increased to -
14 ft MLLW. Initial construction and subsequent periodic maintenance dredging events would
remove the existing benthic infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing the
availability of potential prey for shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon. Depending on shoaling rates,
the affected benthic infaunal communities would experience recurring maintenance dredging
impacts every 2 to 5 years. Studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah et al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surficial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of —10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction and
maintenance window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
4.1.4.1.2 Sediment Suspension and Redeposition
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity can affect the
behavior (e.g., feeding, predator avoidance, habitat selection) and physiological functions (e.g.,
gill -breathing) of marine fishes (Michel et al. 2013). The extent and duration of dredging -induced
sediment suspension are influenced by sediment composition at the dredge site, the type of
dredge employed, and hydrodynamic conditions at the dredge site (Wilber et al. 2005). Sediment
suspension by cutterhead dredges is generally confined to the near bottom water column in the
immediate vicinity of the rotating cutterhead assembly (LaSalle at al. 1991). Based on sediment
resuspension data collected during navigation dredging projects, Hayes at al. (2000) and Hayes
and Wu (2001) reported average cutterhead dredge sediment resuspension rates ranging from
0.003 to 0.135% of the fine silt/clay fraction. Mechanical dredges (bucket and clamshell) generally
have higher sediment suspension rates due to the washing of material out of the bucket as it is
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withdrawn from the bottom and moved through and above the water column (LaSalle et al. 1991).
Water injection dredging (WID) injects water at low pressure into sediments; producing a high
density sediment -water mixture known as a density current that flows along the bottom via gravity
to deeper areas. Monitoring results for multiple projects in the US indicate that WID-induced
sediment suspension is principally confined to the lower water column within 2 to 5 feet of the
bottom (Welp at al. 2017). Regardless of dredge type, prolonged sediment suspension and
extensive turbidity plumes are primarily associated with the suspension of fine silt/clay particles
that have relatively slow settling velocities, whereas sands and gravels that make up the coarse -
grained sediment fraction resettle rapidly in the immediate vicinity of the dredge (Schroeder 2009).
As previously described, the sediments to be excavated from the new dredging area consist
predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is
expected that sediment suspension by either a cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge
would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity of the new dredging footprint. It is expected
that suspended fine sediments would be rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW
navigation channel, thus limiting the duration of any adverse effects on water quality.
4.1.4.1.3 Entrainment
Hydraulic dredging operations can potentially impact shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon directly
through entrainment in the dredge intake pipe. Although shortnose sturgeon have been taken by
both hopper and cutterhead dredges in rivers along the North Atlantic Coast, no dredge takes
have occurred along the South Atlantic Coast. The shortnose sturgeon is typically found in the
upper portions of rivers above the freshwater -saltwater interface, which reduces the potential for
dredge interactions. Based on the absence of reported dredge interactions along the South
Atlantic Coast, its restriction primarily to the upper portions of rivers, and the low probability of
occurrence in the action area; it is anticipated that the risk of direct injury to shortnose sturgeon
from dredging operations would be negligible. Atlantic sturgeon have been taken by both hopper
and cutterhead dredges during federal navigation dredging operations along the eastern US coast
(USAGE 2014b). However, all confirmed Atlantic sturgeon takes (n=5) by cutterhead dredges
occurred in the upper Delaware River during the winter in an area that is known to contain dense
aggregations of sturgeon that are resting on the bottom and exhibiting little movement. Analyses
of cutterhead dredge intake velocities and sturgeon swimming capabilities indicate that the risk of
entrainment is limited to juveniles within 1.0 meter of the dredge pipe intake (NMFS 2012). NMFS
has determined through previous separate navigation dredging consultations that mechanical
dredges are extremely unlikely to overtake or adversely affect sturgeon (NMFS 2020). Any
occurrences of Atlantic sturgeon in the vicinity of the action area would likely consist of adults or
subadults that would be able to avoid the dredge pipeline suction field. Based on the absence of
reported cutterhead dredge interactions along the South Atlantic Coast and the absence of
suitable juvenile nursery habitats in the vicinity of the action area, it is anticipated that the risk of
direct injury to Atlantic sturgeon from dredging operations would be negligible.
4.1.5 Determination of Effect
The risk of direct injury to sturgeon from dredging is considered negligible, and the proposed
action would have only minor short-term effects on potential foraging habitats and water quality.
Therefore, it is determined that the proposed action may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect
shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon.
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4.2 Sea Turtles
4.2.1 Status, Distribution, and Habitat
Loggerhead Sea Turtle
The loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) was initially listed under the ESA as threatened
throughout its range on 28 July 1978 (43 FIR 32800). In 2011, the loggerhead's ESA status was
revised to threatened and endangered based on the recognition of nine DPSs. Distinct population
segments encompassing populations in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, South Atlantic Ocean,
Southwest Indian Ocean, and Southeast Indo-Pacific Ocean were reclassified as threatened;
while the remaining five populations in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, North
Pacific Ocean, South Pacific Ocean, and North Indian Ocean were reclassified as endangered.
Nesting in the US occurs along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from southern Virginia to Texas, but
is concentrated from NC through Alabama (NMFS and USFWS 2008). Post-hatchlings initially
reside in neritic (continental shelf) waters where they inhabit convergence zones with
accumulations of floating material such as sargassum. After a period of weeks or months, post-
hatchlings enter oceanic waters and begin a juvenile oceanic phase of development. Oceanic
phase juveniles appear to move with the predominant ocean gyres for several years before
returning to neritic waters where juvenile development continues to adulthood. In the US, juvenile
neritic phase loggerheads inhabit essentially all continental shelf waters along the Atlantic and
Gulf of Mexico coasts; including protected estuarine waters (sounds and bays). Adults primarily
inhabit offshore continental shelf waters from New York south through Florida and in the Gulf of
Mexico. Adult loggerheads are less likely than juveniles to utilize enclosed shallow estuarine
waters that have limited ocean access; however, shallow estuaries with expansive ocean access
comprise important foraging habitats for both juveniles and adults (NMFS and USFWS 2008).
Green Sea Turtle
The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) was initially listed as endangered and threatened under
the ESA on 28 July 1978 (43 FIR 32800). Breeding populations in Florida and along the Mexican
Pacific Coast were listed as endangered, while all other populations throughout the species' range
were listed as threatened. In 2011, the green sea turtle's ESA status was revised to threatened
and endangered based on the recognition of eight DPSs (81 FIR 20057). All green sea turtles in
the North Atlantic were listed as threatened under the North Atlantic Ocean DIPS. Nesting in the
US is primarily limited to Florida, although nesting occurs in small numbers along the southeast
coast from Georgia to NC and the Gulf Coast of Texas. In US waters, green sea turtles are
distributed along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts from Massachusetts to Texas (NMFS and USFWS
2007a). Post-hatchlings migrate to oceanic waters and begin an oceanic juvenile phase of
development. Oceanic phase juveniles appear to move with the predominant ocean gyres for
several years before returning to neritic waters where juvenile development continues to
adulthood. Neritic phase juveniles inhabit shallow estuarine waters and nearshore waters that
are rich in seagrasses and/or marine macroalgae. Adults generally occur in relatively shallow
foraging habitats with abundant seagrasses and macroalgae, but may enter the oceanic zone
when migrating between foraging grounds and nesting beaches. No critical habitat has been
designated for the green sea turtle in the continental US.
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Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle
Kemp's ridley turtles (Lepidochelys kempii) occur primarily in coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico
and the western North Atlantic Ocean. Data indicate that adults utilize coastal habitats of the Gulf
of Mexico and the southeastern United States. Adults inhabit nearshore waters and are
commonly found over crab -rich sandy or muddy bottoms. Nesting is limited primarily to the
northeastern coast of Mexico, although rare nesting events have been recorded from the
southeastern United States. Hatchlings migrate to the oceanic zone where they are carried by
currents into various areas of the Gulf of Mexico and the North Atlantic Ocean. At approximately
two years of age, juveniles leave the oceanic zone and move to coastal benthic habitats in the
Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean along the eastern United States. During this stage,
juveniles occupy protected coastal waters such as bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters that are
less than 165 ft. deep. Juveniles utilize a wide range of bottom substrates, but apparently depend
on an abundance of crabs and other invertebrates (NMFS and USFWS 2007c).
Leatherback Sea Turtle
The leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), federally endangered, occurs in all oceans of the
world and has the largest geographic range of any turtle. Nesting occurs on beaches throughout
tropical and subtropical regions, and foraging turtles are distributed north and south into sub -polar
regions. Major nesting areas in the western North Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea include
Florida, St. Croix, the United States Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Panama, Columbia,
Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Surinam, and French Guiana. Adults and sub -adults migrate
seasonally to foraging areas in the northern latitudes, and during the summer and fall; the highest
densities of leatherback turtles in the north Atlantic are located in Canadian waters (NMFS and
USFWS 2007e). Although leatherback turtles are commonly known as highly pelagic animals,
recent telemetry studies have documented high use foraging sites in continental shelf and slope
waters (James et al. 2005). Leatherback turtles undertake extensive migrations between northern
foraging grounds and tropical and subtropical nesting beaches. Little is known of the distribution
and developmental habitat requirements of hatchling, juvenile, and sub -adult leatherback turtles
(NMFS and USFWS 2007e).
Hawksbill Sea Turtle
Hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricate), federally endangered, are distributed circumglobally
in tropical, and to a lesser extent, subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.
Nesting occurs on ocean beaches throughout the tropics and subtropics. In the continental United
States, hawksbill turtles have been reported from all of the Gulf States and along the east coast
as far north as Massachusetts; however, sightings north of Florida are rare. Major nesting areas
in the western North Atlantic Ocean include the insular Caribbean, the Yucatan Peninsula in
Mexico, and Panama. Nesting in the continental United States is primarily restricted to the
southeastern coast of Florida and the Florida Keys (NMFS and USFWS 1993). Hatchlings are
carried by ocean currents to the oceanic zone where they reside in major ocean gyres. Once a
carapace length of eight to 12 inches is reached, juveniles leave the oceanic zone and move to
nearshore habitats. Juveniles and adults are most commonly associated with coral reef habitats;
however, additional habitats may include other hardbottom habitats, seagrass beds, algal beds,
mangrove bays and creeks, or mud flats. As immature turtles increase in size, they occupy a
series of habitats, with larger turtles showing some preference for deeper sites. Post pelagic
juveniles and adults utilize a variety of food items that include sponges and other invertebrates,
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as well as marine macroalgae (NMFS and USFWS 2007d). Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC
waters (Epperly et al. 1995a) and are primarily associated with coral reef habitats (NMFS and
USFWS 2007c). Coral reef habitats along the NC coast are restricted to deep offshore waters
>20 miles from shore (Maclntyre and Pilkey 1969, Maclntyre 2003).
4.2.2 Occurrence in the Action Area
Loggerhead, Green, and Kemps Ridley
North Carolina's sounds and estuaries provide important developmental and foraging habitats for
post -pelagic juvenile loggerhead, green, and Kemp's ridley turtles. Most of the information
regarding the inshore distribution of marine turtles in North Carolina has been generated by
studies in the Pamlico -Albemarle estuarine complex, where large numbers of loggerhead, green,
and Kemp's ridley turtles are incidentally captured each year during commercial fishing
operations. All three species are represented primarily by juveniles, with few reported captures
of older juveniles and adults (Epperly et al. 2007). Juveniles of all three species move inshore
during the spring and disperse throughout the sounds during the summer. Juveniles leave the
sounds and move offshore during the late fall and early winter. Aerial surveys have shown a
strong relationship between turtle sea distribution and sea surface temperature. Goodman et al.
(2007) conducted aerial turtle surveys and sea surface temperature monitoring in Core Sound,
Pamlico Sound, and adjacent nearshore ocean waters from July 2004 to April 2006. All but one
of the 92 turtle observations occurred in waters where sea surface temperatures were above 11
degrees Celsius (°C). All sightings in the sounds occurred between 16 April and 20 November,
and all sightings in the nearshore ocean occurred between 23 April and 27 November. The winter
distribution of turtles offshore of Cape Hatteras was also correlated with sea surface temperatures
above 11°C (Epperly et al. 1995c). In a similar study by Coles and Musick (2000), turtle
distribution offshore of Cape Hatteras was restricted to sea surface temperatures >_13.3°C.
Leatherback and Hawksbill
The leatherback sea turtle is primarily a pelagic species of deep, offshore waters. Leatherbacks
are known to occur in nearshore ocean waters during certain times of the year, but rarely enter
interior estuarine waters. Epperly et al. (1995b) reported the appearance of significant numbers
of leatherback turtles in nearshore ocean waters during May, coincident with the appearance of
jellyfish prey. Aerial surveys by Goodman et al. (2007) along the Outer Banks coastline recorded
only one leatherback in the nearshore ocean during the summer. Epperly et al. (1995a) reported
the occurrence of three leatherback turtles in Core and Pamlico Sounds during December 1989.
Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC and they rarely enter estuarine waters (Epperly et al. 1995a).
A total of nine hawksbill turtle stranding incidents were reported along North Carolina beaches
between 1998 and 2009 (Seaturtle.org 2011). Strandings were reported during the months of
January, March, April, and November. Epperly et al. (1995b) reported the incidental capture of
one hawksbill turtle in Pamlico Sound.
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Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Nearshore ocean waters along Bogue Banks from the MHW line out to 1.6 kilometers (km) are
designated as nearshore reproductive critical habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle (Figure 4).
Nearshore marine critical habitat units represent reproductive habitat along nesting beaches that
is used by hatchlings for egress to the open ocean and by nesting females for movements
between beaches and the open ocean during the nesting season. Critical nearshore reproductive
habitat PCEs include: 1) nearshore waters directly off the highest density nesting beaches and
their adjacent beaches, 2) waters sufficiently free of obstructions and artificial lighting to allow
transit through the surf zone to open water, and 3) waters with minimal manmade structures that
could promote predators, disrupt wave patterns necessary for orientation, and/or create excessive
longshore currents (79 FR 39855).
4.2.3 Factors Affecting the Species
Threats that are common to all marine turtle species in estuarine and marine environments
include fisheries by -catch, vessel strikes, marine debris ingestion or entanglement, and
entrainment by hydraulic dredges (NMFS and USFWS 2007a-e). Threats associated with
fisheries by -catch include entrapment in trawls and entanglement in a wide variety of other fishing
gear. Shrimp trawling is the most detrimental fishing practice and the greatest overall
anthropogenic cause of loggerhead turtle mortality. Mortality associated with shrimp trawling is
estimated to be ten times that of all other anthropogenic activities combined. Vessel strikes are
also a common cause of turtle mortality. Of all loggerhead turtle strandings that were reported
from 1997 through 2005, 14.9% exhibited signs of vessel strikes. Marine turtles are vulnerable
to direct injury by hopper dredges as a result of being entrained in the dredge intake pipe during
the sediment extraction process. The Wilmington District USACE reported takes of 30
loggerhead, four Kemp's ridley, and three green sea turtles by hopper dredges in the vicinity of
Wilmington Harbor from 1992-2013 (USACE 2016). Most of the reported takes in the vicinity of
Morehead City Harbor (MCH) occurred during late November through mid -December and mid -
March through April. Takes of hawksbill and leatherback sea turtles by dredges have not been
reported along the southeastern US coast. Hawksbill sea turtles are rare in NC waters (Epperly
et al. 1995a) and are primarily associated with coral reef habitats (NMFS and USFWS 2007c).
Coral reef habitats along the NC coast are restricted to deep offshore waters >20 miles from shore
(Maclntyre and Pilkey 1969, Maclntyre 2003).
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Figure 4. Loggerhead Turtle Critical Habitat
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4.2.4 Effects of the Proposed Action on Sea Turtles
This assessment considers potential effects on sea turtles that may occur through the following
impact mechanisms: physical interactions with dredging equipment, physical disturbance and
modification of benthic foraging habitat within the dredging footprint, and sediment suspension
and redeposition.
4.2.4.1.1 Dredge Interactions
The proposed dredging window of 1 October - 31 January encompasses periods of warmer water
temperatures (October and November) when loggerhead, green, and Kemps ridley sea turtles
are likely to be present in the vicinity of the action area. Construction and maintenance of the
barge fleeting expansion area would employ hydraulic pipeline (cutterhead) and/or mechanical
bucket dredges. Sea turtle takes by cutterhead dredges have not been reported along the
southeastern US coast, and only one take by a mechanical dredge has been reported over the
past several decades (NMFS 2012). In prior separate consultations with the Wilmington District,
NMFS has made the determination that hydraulic cutterhead and mechanical navigation dredging
activities are not likely to adversely affect sea turtles (NMFS 2012). Therefore, it is expected that
the risk of sea turtle -dredge interactions resulting in injury or mortality would be negligible.
4.2.4.1.2 Impacts on Benthic Foraging Habitat
Based on a review of NCDMF benthic habitat maps, there are no SAV or shell bottom habitats in
the immediate vicinity of the proposed new dredging area. New dredging would directly impact
3.0 acres of potential soft bottom foraging habitat in the barge fleeting expansion area. Existing
bottom depths ranging from -4 to -13 ft MLLW would be increased to -14 ft MLLW. Initial
construction and subsequent maintenance dredging events would remove the existing benthic
infaunal invertebrate community, thereby temporarily reducing the availability of potential prey for
sea turtles. However, studies of benthic community recovery in shallow estuarine navigation
channels along the southeastern coast have reported rapid recovery within two to six months
(Van Dolah et al. 1984 and 1979, Stickney and Perlmutter 1975, and Stickney 1972). These
studies indicate that recolonization via slumping of adjacent undisturbed sediments into the
dredged channel is an important recovery mechanism. Van Dolah et al. (1984) also attributed
relatively rapid recovery to rapid infilling by sediments that were similar in composition to the
extracted material and avoidance of spring benthic invertebrate recruitment periods. Existing
surricial sediments in the new dredging footprint are part of a uniform fine sand layer that extends
to a depth of -45 ft MLLW, thus the proposed action would not be expected to alter sediment
composition. Maximum bottom depth increases of -10 feet would not be expected to alter benthic
community composition within the new dredging area. The proposed project construction and
maintenance window (01 October - 31 January) would avoid peak benthic invertebrate
recruitment periods; thus facilitating relatively rapid recovery with the onset of spring recruitment.
4.2.4.1.3 Sediment Suspension
Dredging -induced sediment suspension and associated increases in turbidity may affect sea turtle
behaviors such as foraging and habitat selection. As previously described, the sediments to be
excavated from the new dredging area consist predominantly of relatively coarse sands that would
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resettle rapidly to the bottom. Thus, it is expected that sediment suspension by either a
cutterhead, bucket, or water injection dredge would primarily be confined to the immediate vicinity
of the new dredging footprint. Furthermore, it is expected that suspended fine sediments would
be rapidly dispersed by currents in the contiguous AIWW navigation channel, thus limiting the
duration of any behavioral effects on sea turtles.
4.2.5 Conservation Measures
The following conservation measures would be implemented to avoid or minimize potential effects
sea turtles:
• Construction and maintenance dredging would be conducted within a 1 October to 31
January project window.
• Water injection dredging (WID) would be conducted only on falling tides.
• Good Engineering Practices (GEPs) and Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be
applied to all dredging activities.
• Dredged material delivery pipelines would be routinely inspected for pressurized leaks,
and any leaks that are found would be immediately repaired.
• Dredging contractors would be required to maintain spill control plans and waste
management plans for all dredging fleet equipment.
4.2.6 Determination of Effect
Loggerhead, Green, Kemps Ridley, Leatherback, and Hawksbill Sea Turtles
The proposed dredging window of 1 October - 31 January encompasses periods of warmer water
temperatures (October and November) when all five listed sea turtles could potentially occur in
the vicinity of the action area. However, the risk of direct injury to sea turtles from dredging is
considered negligible, and the proposed action would have only minor short-term effects on
potential foraging habitats and water quality. Therefore, it is determined that the proposed action
may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the loggerhead, green, Kemps ridley, leatherback,
and hawksbill sea turtles.
Loggerhead Nearshore Reproductive Critical Habitat
Nearshore reproductive critical habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle is located —3 miles from the
proposed new dredging area along the oceanfront shoreline of Atlantic Beach. Therefore, it is
determined that the proposed action would have no effect on nearshore reproductive critical
habitat for the loggerhead sea turtle.
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