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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19970060 Ver 1_COMPLETE FILE_19960127 r~'.d ".. .:--... 401 \$SUED n 'f f-i f' , STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS GARlJ\ND B. GARRETI JR. GOVERNOR r,o, BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C 27611-5201 SECRETARY Januaryl6, 1997 US Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office 6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120 Raleigh, North Carolina 27615 RECEIVED JAN 2 7 J997 tNVIRONME~! ~~ SGIENCfS '/j ATTENTION: Mr. Michael D, Smith, P,W,S, Chief, North Section Dear Sir: Subject: Warren County, Replacement of Bridge No, 15 over Little Fishing Creek on SR 1509, Federal Project No. BRZ-1509(3), State Project No, 8,2410501, T.I,P, No, B-2872, Please find enclosed three copies of the project planning report for the above referenced project. Bridge No, 15 will be replaced at its existing location with a 43 meter (140 foot) long bridge, Traffic will be maintained on existing secondary roads during construction, No jurisdictional wetland communities will be affected by the proposed project. ~ ~ The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" in accordance with 23 CFR 77 15(b), Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit, bu op.o' ceed under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 33 CFR Appen IX A(B-23). Th provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulat ns will b ed in the construction of the project. We anticipate the 401 General Certification (Categorical Exclusion) will apply to this project, and are providing one copy of the CE document to the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their review, G) ~.r ....."1... 2 If you have any questions or need additional information please call Ms, Alice N, Gordon at 733-7844 Ext. 307, ~ffiJ H. Franklin Vick, P,E" Manager Planning and Environmental Branch HFV Iplr cc: w/attachment Mr, Ken Jolly, Corps of Engineers , Raleigh Field Office Mr. John Dorney, NCDEHNR, Division of Water Quality Mr. Kelly Barger, P,E, Program Development Branch Mr. Don Morton, P,E" Highway Design Branch Mr. A. L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. William 1. Rogers, P,E" Structure Design Unit Mr, Tom Shearin, P,E., Roadway Design Unit Mr. D, A. Allsbrook, P,E., Division 5 Engineer Mr, William T. Goodwin, Jr., P,E" P & E Project Planning Engineer .I .. CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION ACTION CLASSIFICATION FORM TIP Project No. : B-2872 State Project No. : 8.2410501 Federal-Aid Project No. : BRZ-1509(3) A. Proiect Description: (include project scope and location) NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 15 on SR 1509 over Little Fishing Creek in Warren County. The bridge will be replaced with a 43 meter (140 foot) long bridge at the existing location. The new bridge will have a 7.8 meter (26 foot) clear deck width which will provide a 6.6 meter (22 foot) travel way with a 0.6 meter (2 foot) offset on each side. Traffic will be maintained on existing secondary roads during construction. B. Pu(pose and Need: Bridge No. 15 has a sufficiency rating of35.7 out of 100. The deck of Bridge No. 15 is only 6.2 meters (20.2 feet) wide. The existing bridge is posted at 10 tons for single vehicles and 18 tons for truck-tractor semi-trailers. For these reasons Bridge No. 19 needs to be replaced. C: Proposed Improvements: Circle one or more of the following improvements which apply to the project: Type II Improvements 1. Modernization of a highway by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes (e.g., parking weaving, turning, climbing). a. Restoring, Resurfacing, Rehabilitating, and Reconstructing pavement (3R and 4R improvements) b. Widening roadway and shoulders without adding through lanes c. Modernizing gore treatments d. Constructing lane improvements (merge, auxiliary, and turn lanes) e. Adding shoulder drains f. Replacing and rehabilitating culverts, inlets, and drainage pipes, including safety treatments g. Providing driveways pipes h. Performing minor bridge widening ( less than one through lane) I . ~ 2. Highway safety or traffic operations improvement projects including the installation of ramp metering control devices and lighting. a. Installing ramp metering devices b. Installing lights c. Adding or upgrading guardrail d. Installing safety barriers including Jersey type barriers and pier protection e. Installing or replacing impact attenuators f. Upgrading medians including adding or upgrading median barriers g. Improving intersections including relocation and! or realignment h. Making minor roadway realignment 1. Channelizing traffic J. Performing clear zone safety improvements including removing hazards and flattening slopes k. Implementing traffic aid systems, signals, and motorist aid 1. Installing bridge safety hardware including bridge rail retrofit 3. Bridge rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement or the construction of grade separation replace existing at-grade railroad crossings. c. Rehabilitating, reconstructing, or replacing bridge approach slabs Rehabilitating or replacing bridge decks Rehabilitating bridges including painting ( no red lead paint), scour repair, fender systems, and minor structural improvements Replacing a bridge (structure and! or fill) a. b. @ 4. Transportation corridor fringe parking facilities. 5. Construction of new truck weigh stations or rest areas. 6. Approvals for disposal of excess right-of-way or for joint or limited use of right- of-way, where the proposed use does not have significant adverse impacts. 7. Approvals for changes in access control. 8. Construction of new bus storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and located on or near a street with adequate capacity to handle anticipated bus and support vehicle traffic. 9. Rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing rail and bus buildings and ancillary facilities where only minor amounts of additional land are required and there is not a substantial increase in the number of users. 2 .A. " ~j 10. Construction of bus transfer facilities (an open area consisting of passenger shelters, boarding areas, kiosks and related street improvements) when located in a commercial area or other high activity center in which there is adequate street capacity for projected bus traffic. II. Construction of rail storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and where there is no significant noise impact on the surrounding community. 12. Acquisition of land for hardship or protective purposes, advance land acquisition loans under section 3 (b) of the UMT Act. Hardship and protective buying will be permitted only for a particular parcel or a limited number of parcels. These types of land acquisition will not limit the evaluation of alternatives, including shifts in alignment for planned construction projects, which may be required in the NEP A process. No project development on such land may proceed until the NEPA process has been completed. D. Special Proiect Information Environmental Commitments: 1. All standard measures will be implemented to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. 2. High Quality Waters - Soil and Erosion Control Measures will be installed and properly maintained throughout project construction. 3. The existing bridge will be dismantled from the top down. 4. Measures will be taken to keep paint chips and asphalt from the existing bridge from falling into the creek during the bridge removal process. 5. Pilings from the existing bridge will be cut off at the streambed or natural ground elevation. Turbidity curtains or other appropriate means will be used to restrict the movement of any sediment disturbed during this process. 6. The new bridge will be designed with no bents in the creek. If possible, the new bridge will have pile bents. The deck of the new bridge will be evaluated during design to determine if deck drains over the creek can be eliminated. 7. If any in-stream work should be required, a final survey for Tar River spiny mussel will be conducted before construction begins. The NC WRC will be notified of the survey results. If the surveyor discovers endangered mussels, 3 ....... . NCDOT (as an agent of the Federal Highway Administration) will initiate formal consultation proceedings. 8. The old concrete footings, retaining walls, and debris found around and under the existing bridge will be left in place unless shifting or removing parts of it will aid in the construction of the new bridge and/or provide a larger water opening. 9. Mr. Tim Savidge ofNCDOT-Planning and Environmental Branch, Mr. David Cox of NC WRC, and Mr. John Alderman ofNC WRC will be contacted by the Resident Engineer when the contractor is ready to begin project construction. Estimated Costs: Construction Right of Way Total $ $ $ 500,000 33.750 533,750 Estimated Traffic: Current Year 2018 300 VPD 600 VPD Proposed Typical Roadway Section: The approach roadway will be 6.6 meters (22 feet) wide with at least 1.2 meter (4 foot) shoulders. Shoulder width will be increased to at least 2.1 meters (7 feet) where guardrail is warranted. Design Speed: 100 krn!h (60 mph) Functional Classification: SR 1509 is classified as a Rural Local Route in the Statewide Functional Classification system. Division Office Comments: The Division Engineer supports the chosen alternate and proposed detour route. 4 ,) E. Threshold Criteria If any Type II actions are involved in the project, the following evaluation must be completed. If the project consists mm:. of Type I improvements, the following checklist does not need to be Completed. ECOLOGICAL YES (1) Will the project have a substantial impact on any unique or D important natural resource? (2) Does the project involve any habitat where federally listed ~ endangered or threatened species may occur? (3) Will the project affect anadromous fish? D (4) If the project involves wetlands, is the amount of pennanent and/or temporary wetland taking less than one-third (1/3) acre and have all practicable measures to avoid and minimize X takings been evaluated? (5) Will the project require use ofU. S. Forest Service lands? D (6) Will the quality of adjacent water resources be adversely impacted D by proposed construction activities? (7) Does the project involve waters classified as Outstanding Water D Resources (OWR) and/or High Quality Waters (HQw)? (8) Will the project require fill in waters of the United States in any D of the designated mountain trout counties? (9) Does the project involve any known underground storage tanks D (UST's) or hazardous materials sites? PERMITS AND COORDINATION YES (10) If the project is located within a CAMA county, will the project significantly affect the coastal zone and/or any "Area of Environmental Concern" (AEC)? D (11 ) Does the project involve Coastal Barrier Resources Act resources? D 5 NO X X D X X x X X NO X X .. (12) Will aU. S. Coast Guard permit be required? D X (13) Will the project result in the modification of any existing D regulatory floodway? X (14) Will the project require any stream relocations or channel D changes? .x SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC YES NO (15) Will the project induce substantial impacts to planned growth or D X land use for the area? (16) Will the project require the relocation of any family or business? D X (17) If the project involves the acquisition of right of way, is the D amount of right of way acquisition considered minor? X (18) Will the project involve any changes in access control? D X (19) Will the project substantially alter the usefulness and! or land D use of any adjacent property? X (20) Will the project have an adverse effect on permanent local D X traffic patterns or community cohesiveness? (21) Is the project included in an approved thoroughfare plan and! or Transportation Improvement Program (and is, therefore, in D conformance with the Clean Air Act of 1990)? X (22) Is the project anticipated to cause an increase in traffic volumes? D X (23) Will traffic be maintained during construction using existing roads, D staged construction, or on-site detours? X (24) Is there substantial controversy on social, economic, or D environmental grounds concerning the project? X 6 .... .. (25) Is the project consistent with all Federal, State, and local laws 0 relating to the environmental aspects of the action? X CUL TURAL RESOURCES YES NO (26) Will the project have an "effect" on properties eligible for or 0 X listed on the National Register of Historic Places? (27) Will the project require the use of Section 4(f) resources (public parks, recreation lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges , 0' historic sites or historic bridges, as defined in Section 4(f) of the X U. S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966)? (28) Will the project involve construction in, across, or adjacent to a river designated as a component of or proposed for inclusion in 0 X the natural Wild and Scenic Rivers? F. Additional Documentation ReQuired for Unfavorable Responses in Part E (Discussion regarding all unfavorable responses in Part E should be provided below. Additional supporting documentation may be attached as necessary.) Response to question 2 on page 5 - Endangered Species Little Fishing Creek, in the project area, is suitable habitat for the Tar River spiny mussel and the Dwarf wedge mussel. Special project commitments and coordination with the USFWS have resulted in a determination that this project is not likely to adversely affect the Tar River spiny mussel or the Dwarf wedge mussel. [See attached memo from USFWS.] 7 ,. , .. G. CE Approval TIP Project No. : B-2872 State Project No. : 8.2410501 Federal-Aid Project No. : BRZ-1509(3) Proiect Description: (include project scope and location) NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 15 on SR 1509 over Little Fishing Creek in Warren County. The bridge will be replaced with a 43 meter (140 foot) long bridge at the existing location. The new bridge will have a 7.8 meter (26 foot) clear deck width which will provide a 6.6 meter (22 foot) travel way with a 0.6 meter (2 foot) offset on each side. Traffic will be maintained on existing secondary roads during construction. Cate~orical Exclusion Action Classification: (Check one) Approved: 10-3(- '" Date 10- 3/,'1' Date IO.31-r~ Date TYPE II (A) X TYPE II (B) ~o/ ~- Assistant Manager Planning & Environmental Branch uJq'fl1~ glo7f Projec{Planning Unit Head ~~~"""" "" ~,,~~ CARa III" ~ ~'<'-~ ......... ~~ ""... ~ ~ "'~ ~~ssld..u -1 ~ $ fj,C) ~I ~~ -:. .. ~ Q...... ~ . :: = f ~,=~I 'A:: = U~.-:~l:::~ ~ :: ~. 21.): ( ;"', :: ;~\ <'J l' ...~::~ .. ,..... ". ^', ('.... . . " -:. '..'.:~ 1.~'IVGI"'o::." ':....~. .:' ~ 'it "... t'" ',,,,~ . \. " "., '~l ..tl:.......'~. ...-.....:'.. ,.... " ., r. Gr"(.\) . " 1111,' \J oJ ",.,.' "'11""'\\ a...}~:( "'~#-. Project Planning Engineer For Type II (B) projects only: tt-- 31-~ Date J)~ c~ Olr' & I/Jk J Pi: f Division~inistrator Federal Highway Administration 8 . . '::----------_._---~ -,. I . I . / . / . / . / . I IIt~' ~\ /.' '1 \ " ~~~~' North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch Warren County Replace Bridge No. 15 on SR 1509 Over Little Fishing Creek B-1872 IStudied Detour Route . Fi ure One . . .. ~i(\ t~ l~~ ~:t~. , ~/ . North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary Division of Archives and History William S. Price, Jr., Director September 14, 1995 Nicholas L Graf Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442 Re: Bridge No. 1 5 on SR 1 509 over Little Fishing Creek, Warren County, B-2872, Federa,l Aid Project BRZ-1509(3), State Project 8.2410501, ER 96-7198 Dear Mr. Graf: On August 29, 1995, Debbie Bevin of our staff met with North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) staff for a meeting of the minds concerning the above project. We reported our available information on historic architectural and archaeological surveys and resources along with our recommendations. NCDOT provided project area photographs and aerial photographs at the meeting. Based upon our review of the photographs and the information discussed at the meeting, we offer our preliminary comments regarding this project. In terms of historic architectural resources, we are aware of no historic structures located within the area of potential effect. We recommend that no historic architectural survey be conducted for this project. There are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area. Based on our present knowledge of the area, it is unlikely that any archaeological resources which may be eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places will be affected by the project construction. We, therefore, recommend that no archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with this project. . Having provided this information, we look forward to receipt of either a Categorical Exclusion or Environmental Assessment which indicates how NCDOT addressed our comments. Tht;' above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800. 109 East Jones Street. Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 @ Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. , ~~ ~~ Deputy State Historic Preservation fficer DB:slw ./ / cc: H. F. Vick B. Church T. Padgett V' " .,!.....J u........ V I C1v'- I I.'-' l.. '''--' October 28, 1996 . United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Raleigh Field Office Post Office Box 33726 Raleigh. North Carolina 27636-3726 H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation PO Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611-5201 ATTN: Mr. Bill Goodwin, P.E. SUBJ: B-2872, Bridge Replacement in Warren County Dear Mr. Vick: The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has reviewed your October 1, 1996 letter for the replacement of bridge No. 15 on SR 1509 over Little Fishing Creek, Warren County, North Carolina. Our comments are provided in accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543). Our records indicate that the dwarf-wedge mussel has only been documented in Shocco Creek in Warren County, while the Tar spinymussel has been documented in Little Fishing Creek in Warren County, but not present near the proj ect location. We have reviewed North Carolina Department of Transportation's (NCDOT) eight proposed project commitments for the Tar spinymussel and request that the Service also be notified of any final survey results conducted for in-stream work, as stated in commitment no. 6. Based on NCDOT's implementation of these identified commitments, the Service concurs that this project is not likely to adversely affect the Federally-endangered Tar spinymussel, or any other Federally-listed species or their formally designated critical habitat, or species currently proposed for Federal listing under the Endangered Species Act, as amended. We believe that the requirements of Section 7 of the Act have been satisfied. We remind you that obligations under Section 7 consultation must be reconsidered if: (1) new information reveals impacts of this identified action that may affect listed species or critical habitat in a manner not previously considered; (2) this action is subsequently modified in a manner that was not considered in this review; (3) a new species is listed or critical habitat determined that may be affected by the identified action. Thank you for your continued cooperation with our agency. SinCerelYj , -?'1/. If-{ { (01- Mike Wicker Acting Supervisor FWS!R4:CMartino:cm:10-2B-96:919!B56-4520:WP51\NCDOT\B2B72.NE t "lIldT. ff' t JAMES B. HUNT. JR. GOVERNOR STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS P.O. BOX 25201. RAlEIGH. N.C 27611-5201 R. SAMUEL HUNT III SECRETARY September 30, 1996 ~IEl\IORANDlThI TO: Wayne Elliot, Unit Head Bridge enit A TTE:\"TION: Bill Good\vin, Project :Manager FROl\I: Tim Sa\.idge, Environmenbl Biologist Emironment.ll Unit Sl-BJECT: Section 7 Biological Conclusion for the Federally Endangered Tar spiny musse~ relating to Proposed Replacement of Bridge #- 15 Over Little Fishing Creek on SR 1509, Warren County, State Project # 8.24.10501, TIP # B-2872. REFERE:\CE: Section 7 Field Meeting l\Iinutes, September 25, 1996 prepared by Bill Good\\in The referenced meeting minutes summarized the construction pro\.1sions discussed and agreed upon at the tield meeting held on September 23, 1996. These emironmental Commitments \\ill be adopted by ~CDOT during the construction phase of this project. BIOLOGICAL COl'iCLUSION: Xot Likely to Adversely Affect If pl'O\isions mentioned in the referenced report are strictly adhered to, it can be concluded that construction of this project is not likely to impact the Tar spiny mussel. cc: V. Charles Bruton, Ph.D. Hal Barn, Emironrnental Supet'\1sor File Section 7 Aquatic species issues File B-2872 @ .. ,...... . Replacement of Bridge No. 15 on SR-1509 Over Little Fishing Creek, Warren County TIP No. B-2872 Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1509(3) state project No. 8.2410501 Natural Resources Technical Report B-2872 NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH ENVIRONMENTAL UNIT MARK HARTMAN, ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGIST 4 January 1996 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.1 project Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.2 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.3 Methodology. . . . . .. .., ....... 1 1.4 Terminology and Definitions . . . . . . . . . 4 1.5 Investigator's Credentials . . . . . 4 2.0 Physical Resources. . . . . . . . ., ......... 4 2.1 Soils. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ., 4 2.2 Water Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 2.2.1 Characteristics of Waters . . . . . . 5 2.2.2 Best Usage Classification . . . . . . . . . . 6 2.2.3 Water Quality . . . . . . . . . . . 6 2.2.4 summary of Anticipated Impacts. . . . 6 3.0 Biotic Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 3.1 Terrestrial Communi ties ., ............ 7 3.1.1 Disturbed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3.1.2 piedmont/Low Mountain Alluvial Forest. . . . . 8 3.2 Aquatic Communities. . .o'. . . . . . . . . . 9 3.3 summary of Anticipated Impacts ., . . . . 10 4.0 Jurisdictional Topics . . . . . . . . ., 11 4.1 Waters of the United states. . . . . .. 11 4.1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters11 '4.1.2 summary of Anticipated Impacts. . . . . ., 12 4.1. 3 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ., 12 4.1.4 Avoidance, Minimization, Mitigation . . ., 13 4.2 Rare and Protected Species. . . . . . .. .,. 14 4.2.1 Federally-protected Species . . . . . . ., 14 4.2.2 Federal Candidate and State Listed Species. 16 5.0 References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Area Map . . . . Figure 2. Aerial photo of project site . . . . . 2 . 3 Table Table Table Table LIST OF TABLES 1. Soils in the Project Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2. Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities . . . 10 3. Federally-protected species for Warren County. ., 14 4. Federal Candidate Species for Warren County. . ., 16 . 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION The following Natural Resources Technical Report is submitted to assist in the preparation of a categorical Exclusion (CE) for the proposed project in Warren County (Figure 1). 1.1 Project Description The proposed project involves the replacement of the SR 1509 bridge over Little Fishing Creek. The proposed right-of-way (ROW) for the project is 18.0 m (59.1 ft). The two alternatives proposed for this project are described below (Figure 2). Alternative 1 - In-place replacement of the bridge with an off site detour and a total project length of 150.0 m (492 ft). Alternative 2 - In-place replacement of the bridge with an on- site detour east (downstream) of the bridge and a total project length of 400.0 m (1312 ft). 1.2 purpose The purpose of this technical report is to inventory, catalog and describe the various natural resources likely to be impacted by the proposed action. This report also attempts to identify and estimate the probable consequences of anticipated impacts to these resources. Recommendations are made for measures which will minimize resource impacts. These descriptions and estimates are relevant only in the context of existing preliminary design concepts. If design parameters and criteria change, additional field investigations may need to be conducted. 1.3 Methodology Research was conducted prior to field investigations. Information sources used in this pre-field investigation of the study area include: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle maps (Hollister quad) I National Wetland Inventory (NWI) Map (Hollister quad), NCDOT aerial photographs of project area (1:1200), and soils information obtained from the Warren county office of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Water resource information was obtained from the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources (DEHNR, 1993) and from the NC Center for Geographic Information and Analysis (Environmental Sensitivity Base Map of Warren CountYI 1992). Information concerning the occurrence of federal and state protected species in the study area was gathered from the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) list of protected and candidate species and the N.C. Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats. . , . / . / . / . / , / . . :; @ :\ORTIi CAROLINA DEPARTME-'iT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVlSION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND E.'lVIRONMENT AI. BRANCH WARREN COUNTY REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 15 ON SR I~09 OVER LITTLE FISHING CREEK B-Z812 \Studied Detour Route' --- --~ --..----- - . . . ] o 0;.. AG. I I. ~ r ~ 4 General field surveys were conducted along the proposed alignment by NCDOT biologists Mark Hartman and Tim Savidge on 5 December 1995. Plant communities and their associated wildlife were identified and recorded. Wildlife identification involved using one or more of observation techniques: active searching and capture, visual observations (binoculars), identifying characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds, scat, tracks and burrows). Cursory studies for aquatic organisms were conducted using a hand held dip net; tactile searches for benthic organisms were administered as well. organisms captured during these searches were identified and then released. Jurisdictional wetland determinations were performed utilizing delineation criteria prescribed in the "Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual" (Environmental Laboratory, 1987). 1.4 Terminology and Definitions For the purposes of this document, the following terms are used concerning the limits of natural resources investigated. Project study area (study area) denotes the area bounded by the proposed right-of-way limits. Project vicinity describes an area extending 0.8 km (0.5 mi) on all sides of the project study area. project region is equivalent to an area represented by a 7.5 minute USGS quadrangle map [163.3 sq km (61.8 sq mi)], with the project as the center point. 1.5 Investigator's Credentials Investigator: Mark A. Hartman, Environmental Biologist, NCDOT Education: M.S. Degree Biology, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, Tennessee Expertise: Aquatic Ecology, Natural History 2.0 Physical Resources The project region lies in the Piedmont physiographic provence. The elevation of the study area is approximately 61 m (200 ft). Soil and water resources, which occur in the study area, are discussed below. Soils and availability of water directly influence composition and distribution of flora and fauna in any biotic community. 2.1 Soils The Warren County Soil Survey is in progress; therefore, ~oil mapping is currently unavailable for the project area. Table 1 provides an inventory of specific soil types which may occur in the project area based on an examination of aerial photograpijs, to~ographic maps, NWI maps and a knowledge of area soils (C.D. Col~, Warren County NRCS, 1995). The soils along the ~ ~ ~ 5 Fishing Creek floodplain probably fall into the Chewacla and Wehadkee map units. These soils have slopes of 0-2%, and are frequently flooded. The Chewacla component is somewhat poorly drained and the Wehadkee component is a poorly drained hydric soil. Chewacla and Wehadkee soils are mapped together in an undifferentiated map unit due to the manner in which the soils intermingle on the landscape. Permeability of these soils is moderate, and the seasonal high water table is within a depth of 0.3 m (1.0 ft). Other potential soils include Altavista fine sandy loam (0-3% slope, rarely flooded), Dogue fine sandy loam (0-3% slope, rarely flooded), Riverview fine sandy loam (0-3% slope, occasionally flooded), state fine sandy loam (0-3% slope), and Wahee sandy loam (0-3% slope). These soils are found on river terraces and are usually one terrace above the actual floodplain, or on berms adjacent to stream channels. Table 1 . Soils in the project Area. Unit Symbol specific Map Unit , Slope Class 43 Chewacla and Wehadkee 0-2% H 544A Altavista fine sandy loam 0-3% HI 55A Dogue sandy loam 0-3% HI 52A Wahee sandy loam 0-3% HI Note: "H" denotes hydric soils or soils having hydric soils as a major component. "HI" denotes soils with inclusions of hydric soils or which have wet spots. 2.2 Water Resources This section contains information concerning those water resources likely to be impacted by the project. Water resource information encompasses physical aspects of the resource, its relationship to major water systems, Best Usage standards and water quality of the resources. Probable impacts to these water bodies are also discussed, as are means to minimize impacts. 2.2.1 Waters Impacted and Characteristics Water resources located within the study area are part of the Fishing Creek sub-basin of the Tar River drainage. Two bodies of water will be impacted by this project. The first, a small pond with a surface area of approximately 0.20 ha (0.5 ac) is present in the northwest corner of the project (Figure 1). The eastern edge of the pond is approximately 18.3 m (60.0 ft) from the centerline of the existing road. A fringe of wetland approximately 1.0 m (3.3 ft) wide borders the pond. This water resource will only be directly impacted by alternative 2. The second body of water is Little Fishing Creek. Little Fishing ~ ~ ~ 6 Creek is up to 4.0 m (13 ft) wide and from 0.1 to 1.0 m (0.3 to 3.3 ft) deep. Flow is about 50% pool, 50% run/riffle, and sand and gravel substrates predominate. Little Fishing Creek will be impacted by either alternative. 2.2.2 Best Usage Classification streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the Division of Environmental Management (DEM). Little Fishing Creek is classified as C with a supplemental classification of NSW (Nutrient Sensitive Waters). Class C refers to waters suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation and agriculture. NSW refers to waters which require limitations on nutrient inputs. No High Quality Waters (HQW), Water Supplies (WSI or WSII), or outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) occur within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project site. 2.2.3 Water Quality " The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) is managed by DEM and is part of an ongoing ambient water quality monitoring program which addresses long term trends in water quality. . The program assesses water quality by sampling for selected benthic macro invertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites. Macroinvertebrates are sensitive to very subtle changes in water quality; thus, the species richness and overall biomass of these organisms are reflections of water quality. No BMAN sites are located on Little Fishing Creek. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through the National pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. Any discharger is required to register for a permit. There are no NPDES permitted dischargers on Little Fishing Creek within the bounds of the project region. 2.2.4 Summary of Anticipated Impacts Aquatic communities are sensitive to any changes in the environment. Any action which affects water quality can have an adverse impact on aquatic organisms. Although these actions may be temporary during the construction phase of the project, environmental impacts from these processes may be long term or irreversible. Replacing an existing structure in the same location with a road closure is almost always the preferred environmental approach. Bridge replacement on a new location or a detour bridge usually results in more severe impacts. Physical impacts will be most severe at the point of the bridge replacement~ ~ " - 7 Project construction may result in the following impacts to surface waters: Increased silt loading and sedimentation from erosion of disturbed soils. Changes in light incidence, water clarity and water temperature due to increased sediment load and riparian vegetation removal. Alteration of stream discharge due to silt loading and changes in surface or ground water drainage patterns. Increased potential for release of toxic compounds such as fuel and oil from construction equipment and other vehicles. Precautions must be taken to minimize these and other impacts to water resources in the study area. NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMP) for the Protection of Surface Waters, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds .0024 NCAC Title lSA, Sedimentation Control Program, should be strictly enforced during the construction stage of the project. High Quality Water (HQW) standards should be adhered to throughout construction of this project due to the presence of North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) Proposed Critical Habitat (PCH) designated waters within the project area. Provisions to preclude unnecessary contamination by toxic substances should also be strictly enforced. 3.0 Biotic Resources Biotic resources include aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This section describes those ecosystems encountered in the study area, as well as the relationships between fauna and flora within these ecosystems. Composition and distribution of biotic communities throughout the project area are reflective of topography, hydrologic influences and past and present land uses. Descriptions of the terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications. These classifications follow Schafale and Weakley (l990) where I possible. Dominant flora and fauna observed, or likely to occur, in each community are described and discussed. Identifications and nomenclature of vascular plants were made following Radford et ale (196B). Fauna observed during field investigations are designated with an asterisk (*). Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are provided for each plant and animal species described. Subsequent references to the same organism will include the common name only. 3.1 Terrestrial Communities The major community type present within the project area is piedmont/Low Mountain Alluvial Forest. A maintained roadside community is also present and tends to grade sharply into the forest community on the east side of the bridge. On the west side, the roadside community grades into an early ~ .~ - . 8 successional/irregularly maintained area. Within the project area, there is also a small pond with a fringe of wetland approximately 1 m (3.3 ft) wide. 3.1.1 Disturbed - Roadside and Early Successional Piedmont Alluvial Forest The roadside shoulders present along the paved sections of the project are dominated by fescue (Festuca spp.) and other grasses. On the west side of the bridge, the roadside community grades sharply into an infrequently maintained, disturbed Early Successional Piedmont Alluvial Forest. Flora found in this area is mainly scrub/shrub and includes Joe-pye-weed (EUpatorium fistulosum), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua)I blackberry (Rubus spp.), pokeweed (Phytolacca americana), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), privet (Ligustrum spp.), American elm (Ulmus americana), and river birch (Betula nigra). Wildlife found in this community type is limited and consists primarily of wide-ranging, adaptable species. other animals may use this area as a corridor for travel between less disturbed habitats, or as a foraging area. Birds potentially found in disturbed habitats include Carolina chickadee (parus carolinen~is), mourning dove (Zenadia macroura), rufous-sided towhee* (Pipilo erythrophthalmus), and European starling (sturnus vulgaris). Mammalian species likely to frequent disturbed habitats include raccoon (Procyon lotor), virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), eastern cottontail (sylvagus floridans), and hispid cotton rat (sigmodon hispidus) 3.1.2 Piedmont/Low Mountain Alluvial Forest The dominant community within the study site is Piedmont Alluvial Forest. This small, usually heterogeneous, community type is sited along river and stream floodplains, and is , seasonally or intermittently flooded. The area surveyed had an open understory and a diverse herb layer. The canopy was made up of loblolly pine (pinus taeda), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), willow oak (Quercus phellos), red maple (Acer rubrum), river birch, and sweet gum. The understory consisted mainly of red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), holly (Ilex opaca) and ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana). Other plant species present included greenbrier (SmilaX spp.), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), grape (Vitis spp.), partridge berry (Mitchella repens), crane-fly orchid (Tipularia discolor), river oats (Uniola latifolia), and wild ginger (Asarum canadense). The Piedmont Alluvial Forests harbor a diverse fauna which may include many species which are semi-aquatic, in addition to exclusively terrestrial species. Amphibians and reptiles likely to be found in this area include upland chorus frog* (psuedacris 1 4It ~ .. 9 triseriata), three-lined salamander (Eurycea guttolineata)I American toad (Buto americanus), green frog (Rana clamitans), eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina), black rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta), rough green snake (Opheodrys aestivus), and northern water snake (Nerodia sipedon). Avian species which may frequent this habitat type include tufted titmouse (parus bicolor), downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens), barred owl (Strix varia), yellow-bellied sapsucker* (Sphyrapicus varius), rufous-Sided towhee, turkey vulture* (Cathartes aura), black vulture* (Coragyps atratus)I great blue heron (Ardea herodias), and belted kingfisher* (Mergaceryle alcyon). Mammalian species likely to frequent this area include raccoon, Virginia opossum, white- tailed deer, eastern cottontail, hispid cotton rat, and muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus). 3.2 Aquatic Communities Two aquatic community types, a,Piedmont Perennial stream and a pond, will be impacted by the proposed project. Faunal composition of the aquatic communities reflects the physical characteristics of the water bodies and condition of the water resources. Terrestrial communities adjacent to a water resource also grea~ly influence aquatic communities. Little Fishing Creek probably supports a variety of small fish species. The presence of a riffle/pool current regime, gravel cobble and sand substrates, and woody debris creates diverse habitats for aquatic organisms. Several species of Unionid are known from Warren County and could inhabit Little Fishing Creek. The Tar River spiny mussel (Elliptio steinstansana) occurs in Little Fishing Creek downstream of the Warren/Halifax County border. The dwarf wedge mussel is found in similar habitats elsewhere in the Tar River basin. Atlantic pigtoe (Fusconaia masoni), notched rainbow (Villosa constricta), yellow lance (Elliptio lanceolata), and common elliptio* (Elliptio spp.) mussels can all be found in Little Fishing Creek. possible piscine inhabitants could include American eel (Anguilla rostrata), rosyside dace (Clinostomus tunduloides)I bluehead chub (Nocomis leptocephalus), creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), and johnny darter (Etheostoma nigrum). The carolina mudpuppy (Necturus lewisi), an aquatic salamander, is also known to occur in Little Fishing Creek within the project vicinity. Little Fishing Creek is listed in the NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) Natural Heritage Areas Priority List (1995) as an important aquatic habitat. The list includes North Carolina's most significant natural areas I and each site is rated as to its significance. Little Fishing Creek has a site significance of "B". This rating indicates that the site is of statewide significance, and contains ecological resources that are among the highest quality occurrences in North Carolina; however, there I , ( 10 may be better quality representations or larger populations elsewhere in the nation, including possibly a few within the state (NHP 1995). The pond will provide habitat for the Eastern mosquitofish* (Garnbusia holbrooki), small sunfish (Lepomis spp.), and bass (Micropterus spp.). In addition it could provide habitat for various turtles and juvenile amphibians. The wetland fringe of the pond provides a safe spawning area for fish and amphibian species. vegetation found in this wetland area includes soft rush (Juncus effusus), tag alder (Alnus serrulata), and button bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis). 3.3 Summary of Anticipated Impacts Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic resources described. Any construction related activities in or near thes~ resources have the potential to impact biological functions. This section quantifies and qualifies impacts to the natural resources in terms of area impacted and ecosystems affected. Temporary and permanent impacts are considered here as well. Calculated impacts to terrestrial resources reflect the relative abundance of each community present in the study area. Project construction will result in clearing and degradation of portions of these communities. Table 2 summarizes potential quantitative losses to these biotic communities, resulting from project construction. Estimated impacts are derived using the entire proposed ROW width of 18.0 m (59.1 ft) and a project length of 150.0 m (492.1 ft) for alternative 1, or 400.0 m (1312.3 ft) for alternative 2. Often, project construction does not require the entire right of way; therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. Table 2. Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities. community Alternative 1 Alternative 2 ha (ac) ha (ac) Disturbed - Roadside 0.04 (0.10) 0.18 (0.45) Piedmont Alluvial Forest 0.11 (0.28) 0.64 (1.59) Total 0.15 (0.38) 0.82 (2.04) Terrestrial communities found in the study area serve as nesting, feeding, and sheltering habitat for various species of wildlife. Alternative 1 will have the least impact on the natural communities within the project area. Although the current roadside shoulder will most likely be destroyed, a similar community will be present after completion of the project. The construction of an on-site detour (alternative 2) ( ( 1 OW 11 will destroy a larger tract of Piedmont Alluvial Forest than alternative 1. This alternative will reduce available habitat within the construction area. Habitat reduction concentrates wildlife into smaller refuge areas, thus changing competition between species and causing increased starvation, predation and susceptibility to disease. Negative impacts to the aquatic communities from alternative 1 could be relatively small with the proper protective measures. Alternative 2; however, would require the placement and removal of a temporary structure. The in-stream work required for a temporary structure would greatly increase temporary, and possibly permanent perturbations of stream structure and fauna. Alternative 1 is the preferred alternative from a natural resources perspective. It poses the least risk to aquatic organisms and it will cause less disturbance to both terrestrial and aquatic communities, as it involves replacing the bridge in- place and does not involve an on-site detour. 4.0 JURISDICTIONAL TOPICS This section provides descriptions, inventories and impact analysis pertinent to two important issues--rare and protected species, and Waters of the United States. 4.1 Waters of the United states Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United States," as defined in Section 33 of the Code of Federal Register (CFR) Part 328.3. Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR 328.3, are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated conditions. Any action that proposes to place fill into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). 4.1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters Criteria to delineate jurisdictional wetlands include evidence of hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation and hydrology. Wetlands will only be impacted by alternative 2. The only wetland present is a fringe around the pond in the northwest quadrant of the project. Hydrophytic vegetation present in this inundated area includes soft rush, tag alder, and button bush. No soil sample was taken. The North Carolina OEM has instituted a numerical rating system from 0-100 to gauge wetland quality. This rating system is heavily weighted towards water storage, pollutant removal, I ~ .. I' . 12 bank/shoreline stabilization and aquatic life value aspects of a wetland community. other wetland attributes considered are wildlife habitat and recreational, educational, and economic value. The wetland pond fringe area has a rating of 35. 4.1.2 Summary of Anticipated Impacts The replacement of the bridge in place with an off-site detour (alternative 1) will probably not disturb the wetland which fringes the pond. The on-site detour proposed in alternative 2 will impact the pond and approximately 0.02 ha (0.04 ac) of the wetland fringe. This impact estimate includes only wetland directly disturbed by the construction; however I much more wetland might be affected due to changes in pond water levels and siltation from either project alternative. 4.1.3 Permits , , Impacts to jurisdictional wetlands and surface waters are anticipated. In accordance with provisions of section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit will be required from the CaE for the discharge of dredged or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 eFR 330.5(a) (23) is likely to be applicable for ,all impacts to Waters of the United states resulting from the proposed project. This permit authorizes activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded or financed in whole, or part, by another Federal agency or department where that agency or department has determined the pursuant to the council on environmental quality regulation for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act: (1) that the activity, work, or discharge is categorically excluded from environmental documentation because it is included within a category of actions which neither individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and; (2) that the office of the Chief of Engineers has been furnished notice of the agency' or department's application for the categorical exclusion and concurs with that determination. A North Carolina OEM Section 401 Water Quality General certification is also required. Section 401 of the Clean Water Act requires that the state issue or deny water certification for any federally permitted or licensed activity that may result in a discharge into waters o'f the United States. ~ .. ,. . 13 4.1.4 Avoidance, Minimization, Mitigation The COE has adopted, through the Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ), a wetland mitigation policy which embraces the concept of "no net loss of wetlands" and sequencing. The purpose of this policy is to maintain and restore the chemical, biological and physical integrity of Waters of the United states, specifically wetlands. Mitigation of wetland impacts has been defined by the CEQ to include: avoiding impacts (to wetlands), minimizing impacts I rectifying impacts, reducing impacts over time, and compensating for impacts (40 CFR) (1508.20). Each of these three aspects (avoidance, minimization, and compensatory mitigation) must be considered sequentially. Avoidance mitigation examines all appropriate and practicable possibilities of averting impacts to Waters of the United States. According to a 1990 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) snd the COE, in determining "appropriate and practicable" measures to offset unavoidable impacts, such measures should be appropriate to the scope and degree of those impacts and practicable in terms of cost, existing technology, and logistics in light of overall project purposes. Alternative 1 would avoid impact to wetlands within the project area. Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to Waters of the United States. Implementation of these steps will be required through project modifications and permit conditions. Minimization typically focuses on decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of median widths, ROW widths, fill slopes and/or road shoulder widths. Alternative 1 will not destroy any jurisdictional wetlands and will have a smaller deleterious affect on both terrestrial and aquatic communities present within the study area. Therefore alternative 1 should be considered unless an on-site detour is absolutely necessary. Additional means to m1n1m1ze impacts to the waters and wetlands crossed by the proposed project include: strict enforcement of BMPs for the protection of surface waters during the entire life of the project; reduction of clearing and grubbing activity, particularly in riparian areas; reduction or elimination of direct discharge into streams; reduction of runoff velocity; re-establishment of vegetation on exposed areas, with prudent pesticide and herbicide management; minimization of in- stream activity and litter and debris control. Compensatory mitigation is not normally considered until anticipated impacts to Waters of the United States have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent possible. It is recognized that "no net loss of wetlands" functions and values , ~ _ a. .. 14 may not be achieved in each and every permit action. Appropriate and practicable compensatory mitigation is required for unavoidable adverse impacts which remain after all appropriate and practicable minimization has occurred. compensatory actions often include restoration, creation and enhancement of Waters of the United States. Such actions should be undertaken in areas adjacent to or contiguous to the discharge site. Projects authorized under Nationwide Permits usually do not require compensatory mitigation according to the 1989 Memorandum Agreement between the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of the Army. 4.2 Rare and protected species Some populations of fauna and flora have been in, or are in, the process of decline either due to natural forces or their inability to coexist with human development. Federal law (under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended) requires that any action, likely to adversely affect a species classified as federally-protected, be subject to review by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). other species may receive a~ditional protection under separate state laws. 4.2.1 Federally-protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE) and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered species Act of 1973, as amended. As of March 30, 1994, the FWS lists the following federally-protected species for Warren County (Table 3). A brief description of each species characteristics and habitat follows. Table 3. Federally-protected species for Warren County Scientific Name Alasrnidonta heterodon Elliptio steinstansana "E" enotes En angere extinct throughout range) . Alasrnidonta beterodon (dwarf wedge mussel) E Animal Family: Unionidae Date Listed: 14 March 1990 Distribution in N.C.: Franklin, Granville, Halifax, Johnston, Nash, Vance, Wake, Warren, Wilson. Common Name Status dwarf wedge mussel Tar River spiny mussel (a species that is in anger 0 all or a significant portion of E E becom~ng its 1 ' , ~ ., - 15 The dwarf wedge mussel is a small mussel having a distinguishable shell noted by two lateral teeth on the right half and one on the left half. The periostracum (outer shell) is olive green to dark brown in color and the nacre (inner shell) is bluish to silvery white. Known populations of the dwarf wedge mussel in North Carolina are found in Middle Creek and the Little River of the Neuse River Basin and in the upper Tar River and Cedar, Crooked, and stony Creeks of the Tar River system. This mussel is sensitive to agricultural, domestic, and industrial pollutants and requires a stable silt free streambed with well oxygenated water to survive. Biological Conclusion: Unresolved Habitat suitable for the dwarf wedge mussel is present within the project site. The NHP has no records of this mussel at the project sitei however this section of Little Fishing Creek has not been surveyed extensively. surveys for this mussel must be completed to determine its presence or absence within the project area. It is anticipated that these surveys will be completed,in the spring of 1996. Elliptio steinstansana (Tar river spiny mussel) E Animal Family: Unionidae Date Listed: 29 July 1985 Distribution in N.C.: Edgecombe, Franklin, Halifax, Nash, Pitt, Vance, Warren. The Tar River spinymussel is endemic to the Tar River drainage basin, from Falkland in Pitt County to Spring Hope in Nash County. populations of the Tar River spinymussel can be found in streams of the Tar River Drainage Basin and of the Swift Creek Drainage Sub-Basin. This mussel requires a stream with fast flowing, well oxygenated, circumneutral Ph water. The bottom is composed of uncompacted gravel and coarse sand. The water needs to be relatively silt-free. It is known to rely on a species of freshwater fish to act as an intermediate host for its larvae. The Tar River spinymussel is a very small mussel. This mussel is named for its spines which project perpendicularly from the surface and curve slightly ventrally. As many as 12 spines can be found on the shell which is generally smooth in texture. The nacre is pinkish (anterior) and bluish-white (posterior). Biological Conclusion undetermined The Tar River spinymussel is present in Little Fishing Creek, but is not known to be present within the project region. . . , " ." '" 16 The creek is considered by the NCWRC to be a PCH for this species. As this portion has not been surveyed extensively for mussel populations, a survey is necessary to determine the presence or absence of this species. 4.2.2 Federal Candidate and State Listed species There are 4 federal candidate (C2) species listed for Warren County. Federal Candidate species are not afforded federal protection under the Endangered Species Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. Candidate 2 (C2) species are defined as organisms which are vulnerable to extinction although no sufficient data currently exist to warrant a listing of Endangered, Threatened, proposed Endangered or Proposed Threatened. -,organisms which are listed as Endangered (E), Threatened (T), or Special Concern (SC) by the North Carolina Heritage Program list of Rare Plant and Animal species are afforded state protection under the state Endangered species Act and the North Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979. Table 4 lists federal candidate species, the species state status (if afforded state protection) and the existence of suitable habitat for each species in the study area. This species list is provided for information purposes as the status of these species may be upgraded in the future. Table 4. Federal Candidate/N.C. Protected species for Warren County Scientific Name Common Name NC Status Habitat Aimophila aestivalis Bachman's sparrow SC no Fusconaia masoni Atlantic pigtoe T yes Elliptio lanceolata Yellow lance T yes Lotus purshianus var. Heller's trefoil C yes helleri * "*" No spec~men ~n Warren County ~n twenty years. A review of the N.C. Natural Heritage program data base of rare species and unique habitats revealed records for the Atlantic pigtoe and yellow lance mussels in the project study area. surveys for these species were not conducted during the site visit, nor were any of these species observed. J_ . . __ .. t.' 17 5.0 REFERENCES American Ornithologists' Union. American birds (6th ed.). Press, Inc. 1983. Check-list of North Lawrence, Kansas, Allen Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers wetlands delineation manual. Technical report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Miss. Lee, D.S., J.B. Funderburg, Jr. and M.K. Clark. 1982. distributional survey of North Carolina mammals. North Carolina Museum of Natural History. A Raleigh, LeGrand, Jr., H.E. 1993. Natural Heritage Program list of the rare animal species of North Carolina. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Martof, B.S., W.M. Palmer, J.R. Bailey and J.R. Harrison III. 1980. Amphibians and reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Menhenick, E.F. 1991. The freshwater fishes of North Carolina. North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Raleigh. NCDEHNR-DEM. 1988. Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) Water Quality Review 1983-1986. NCDEHNR-DEM. 1991. Biological assessment of water quality in North Carolina streams: benthic macroinvertebrate data base and long term changes in water quality, 1983-1990. NCDEHNR-DEM. 1993. Classifications and water quality standards for North Carolina river basins. Raleigh, Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. NCWRC. 1990. Endangered wildlife of North Carolina. Raleigh, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Plant Conservation Program. 1991. List of North Carolina's endangered, threatened and candidate plant species. Raleigh, North Carolina Department of Agriculture. potter, E.F., J.F. Parnell and R.P. Teulings. 1980. Birds of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Radford, A.E., H.E. Ahles and G.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the vascular flora of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. ... ~ . ~ .,. .' .. 18 Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the natural communities of North Carolina. Third Approximation. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, Division of Parks and Recreation, NCDEHNR. u.s. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource conservation Service. North Carolina Agriculture Experiment station. u.s. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1979. Classifications of wetlands and deepwater habitats of the United states., u.s. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. Weakley, A.S. 1993. Natural Heritage Program list of the rare plant species of North Carolina. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell and W.C. Biggs. 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas, Virginia and Maryland. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina ~ress. ,oil: .. --t JAMES B, HUNT JIt GOVERNOR STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS r,o, BOX 25201. RALEIGH. N,C. 27611-5201 R. SAMUEL HUNT I I I SIClUIARY July 27, 1995 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Eric Galamb OEM - OEHNR - Water Quality Lab FROM: H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch Review of Scoping Sheets for Warren County, SR 1509, Replacement of Bridge No. 15 over Little Fishing Creek, Federal-Aid Project No. BRZ-1509(3), State Project No. 8.2410501, TIP No. B-2872 SUBJECT : Attached for your review and comments are the scoping sheets for the subject project (See attached map for project location). The purpose of these sheets and the related review procedure is to have an early "meeting of the minds" as to the scope of work that should be performed and thereby enable us to better implement the project. A scoping meeting for this project is scheduled for August 29, 1995 at 10:00 a.m. in the Planning and Environmental Branch Conference Room (Room 434). You may provide us with your comments at the meeting or mail them to us prior to that date. Thank you for your assistance in this part of our planning process. If there are any questions about the meeting or the scoping sheets, please call Bill Goodwin, Project Planning Engineer, at 733-3141, Ext. 238. WTG/pl r 03V30Y L ,/L.,,- (I /,1/ 2'1-/7-25 Attachment (/tItXi, I) 1\ \ /V\ L f- , ?J{ I/WI"P 5 f {, ^ I tlk / J I .k..y ~ ~ rdt,\ kA Ir> frgp-- . - Vi," /.Jiif k&., (~ 0"; J, I If .1 1/ '-11 I) ( I.. r 1-.11 '1 (/ t - () c _I.., .U< -t' /j'tNi , T('l'~ ,.{fe' . ' <k ~~~ JJ~ wJ;'~ - -' Cv;tl~' uy\ - ". " , J\tUL(1'" I / J 11 ,~ ( '" '-, ~ ta~ (i,\~I'tj W!~;: ~ ,w---t . kl1 ~f { ~(" ,1~' ~ \ 1 /ttv-t jWov ~ ,-<h J (s '~;. (i) c ;J -) (J BRIDGE PROJECT SCOPIl\G SHEET TIP PROJECT: B-2872 F. A. PROJECT: BRZ-1509(3) ST ATE PROJECT: _8.2419J_OL_________ 7/21'95 DI\'ISIOT\: __EJYE________ COl1'.'TY: _\l~'\lsRE~_____ RennE: _.liRJ~92.___._.____ DESCRIPTION: BRIDGE NO.1S OVER LITTLE FISHING CREEF-:.. O~ SR 1509 PROJECT PCRPOSE: REPLACE QJ:3S0LEJE BRIDGE PROJECT U.S.G.S. QUAD SHEET(S): HOLLISTER OUAD ROADWAY CLASSIFICATION: LOCAL ROUTE CONSTRUCTION COST (INCLUDING ENGINEERING AND CONTENGENCIES) . RIGHT OF WAY COST (INCLUDING RELOCATION. UTILmES, A"ID ACQ1TISmON) "" $ ?,??O,OOO " $ ??"lO.OOO TOTAL COST .,.,,'''''''''''''''''''''''''' ,,,,,,,,,,.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.,, $ ?no,ooo TIP CONSTRUCTION COST ,,",,'"''''',,'',''''''' ' "",, " "," , ,,",,"""'"''''''',,''' $ 345.000 TIP RIGI-IT OF WAY COST """""""""." ,,,,,,,,,,,.,,,,,,.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, """ '"'''''''''' """",'" $ 30.000 PRIOR YEARS COST ,,,",, ""'" ,,,,,.,,,,,,,,, " "" " """ " " "",",, """ " "."." "",, " """ ,,,,,,,,.,, .""""."".,, $ 0,000 TIP TOTAL COST ."",,,,,,,,,,,,,.,,.,,,,,,,,,,,,,....,,,,,,.,,,,.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,."."""...,.,,,,,,.,,,..,,,,,,,,,,,,,.....,,,,,, $ 375,000 ~1~lV t. 4 ~~OSED ROADWAY TYPICAL SECTION: n\'o LANE SH.QllL,J2EB, SECTION /'lee \dt""Js METHOD OF REPLACEMENT: ~ no l' ~i '~ lL~ I. EXISTING LOCATION - ROAD CLOSURE --------------m-------n-------------uJa" VV--. \ 1 2, EXISTING LOCATION - ON-SITE DETOUR ------u----------------------n-------nO ftt)~ M.~ ,q 3. RELOCATION OF STRUCTURE n______nn_____U____nm___m_______mn___mm__ 0 hJ "1 q~ EXISTING STRUCTURE ~H ~ t;o 117 I 1""'1 ),,7 11~) 11r~ ~ \~! WILL THERE BE SPECIAL FUNDING PARTICIPATION BY MUNICIPALITY, DEVELOPERS, OR OTHERS? YES OR@(CIRCLE ONE) IF YES, BY WHOM? WHAT AMOUNT? $ OR ~/O TRAFFIC: CURRENT TIST :;;0 VPD~ DESIGN YEAR DUAL % 000 .,"'-t-O C-V VPD % EX1STING ROADWAY TYPICAL SECTION: 1WO LANE SHOULDER SECTION 4, OTHER ___ n_nu___________________ 0 LENGTH 357 METERS .llL FEET WIDTH _~ METERS 20 FEET PROPOSED STRUCTURE: LENGTH METERS FEET WIDTIl METERS FEET '. ~..~. .t.~ ,. ----- -. ~~._._._._---_._._._._. ~ . / . / . / . . . @ NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH WARREN COUNTY REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 15 ON SR 1509 OVER LITTLE FISHING CREEK B-2872 o --- - ... - -- - FIG. 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JOP'BJ lU'B~g!ll8!s 'B gq Il!M ~Iq'B~ ~!ldo l~qg ~ql . 60~ 1 lIS JO lS~M (l~gJ 09) SJglgW SI hIgl'BW!xOJdd'B pgl'B~OI s~u!I J~Mod ~s'Bqd ~I8u!s OSl'B ~1'B gJ~ql z; .... 3 Alternate Two - The existing bridge will be removed and replaced in place. Traffic will be maintained during construction using an on-site detour structure located just west of the existing bridge. Construction cost estimates for this project are as follows: Construction Right of Way Total Alternate One $ 500,000 $ 30,000 $ 530,000 Alternate Two $ 900,000 $ 30,000 $ 930,000 A third construction alternate, replacing the structure just east of the existing bridge on new location; was found to be unfeasible due to a bend in the creek just downstream of the existing bridge. An alignment with an acceptable design speed could not be achieved within reasonable proximity of the existing bridge. The current project schedule calls for right of way acquisition to begin in May 1997 and construction to begin in May 1998, WTG/plr Attachment cc/att: Scoping Meeting Participants .~ - " ." , <, . .... " ~ .' ".~ ;' . , BRIDGE PROJECT SCOPING SHEET Revised 10/2/95 TIP PROJECT: B-2872 F. A. PROJECT: BRZ-1509(3) STATE PROJECT: 8.2410501 DMSION: COUNTY: ROUTE: FIVE WARREN SR 1509 DESCRlPTION: BRIDGE NO.15 OVER LITTLE FISHING CREEK. ON SR 1509 PROJECT PURPOSE: REPLACE OBSOLETE BRIDGE PROJECT U.S.G.S. QUAD SHEET(S): HOLLISTER QUAD ROADWAY CLASSIFICATION: LOCAL ROUTE CONSTRUCTION COST (INCLUDING ENGINEERING AND CONTENGENCIES) .................,...,....,.. $ 500,000 RIGHT OF WAY COST (INCLUDING RELOCATION, UTIIl11ES, AND ACQUISmON) .........,......... $ 30,000 TOTAL COST "............,...".,.........""....",........""..,..,."",'..,.,......'"..",...,..". """""..., ,..,.....,...,,,.., $ 530,000 TIP CONSTRUCTION COST ..........,......,..,................,........,....,.............................................,..'.., $ 345,000 TIP RIGlIT OF WAY COST ,..........,....,..,......,......,..........,......,."..........,................,..,,,..,,............ $ 30,000 PRIOR YEARS COST ,.",...........,...,..,......,..,..."..,."",.,......"....,"'"."....".."..",.""",....,....,.."...."., $ 0,000 TIP TOTAL COST ..........,..................,.....".............,...........,..,,'"".......,..,,,....,,,,,,.,,...,..,,,,..,.,,,.,... $ 375,000 WILL THERE BE SPECIAL FUNDING PARTICIPATION BY MUNICIPALITY, DEVELOPERS, OR OTHERS? YES OR @<CIRCLE ONE) IF YES, BY WHOM? WHAT AMOUNT? $ OR % TRAFFIC: CURRENT 300 TIST 1 % VPD; DESIGN YEAR DUAL 2 % 600 VPD EXISTING ROADWAY TYPICAL SECTION: TWO LANE SHOULDER SECTION '~ - PROPOSED ROADWAY TYPICAL SECTION: TWO LANE SHOULDER SECTION METHOD OF R,f:PLACEMENT: 1. EXISTING LOCATION - ROAD CLOSURE ____m_______m___________m__mm___]g 2. EXISTING LOCATION - ON-SITE DETOUR _________________________m__m____m_O 3, RELOCATION OF STRUCTIJRE ____n_________m__m_m____mmm_____m____m__ 0 4. OTHER ----------~--------------- 0 EXISTING STRUCTURE: LENGTH ~ METERS llL FEET LENGTH ~ METERS ~ FEET WIDTH 6.1 ' METERS 20 " FEET WIDTH 7,8 METERS 26, FEET PROPOSED STRUCTURE: r- wY /P' j 1 .. ~ ~._._._-_.-.-._._._--- / ~ I . I . I . I ~ I . ./ . . @ NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENtAL BRANCH ' WARREN COUNTY REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 15 ON SR 150~. OVER LITTLE FISHING CREEK ....'.' 8-2872 [Studied Detour Route . . . o P'I -'" FIG. rJ/