20081315 Ver 1_Appendix A_20120608

Appendix A Table 1. Summary of measured parameters at creeks monitored for permit requirements associated with PCS Phosphate's Alternative E and Modified Alternative L mine activities.
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
JACKS CREEK
Flow
No monitoring occurred.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Salinity:
Installation of monitors occurred in July. Upstream average monthly
Salinity was more similar between the two stations in 2011 than during the
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
2 sites, monitors take
salinity ranged from a low of 6.5 psu in September to a high of 15.1 psu
combined pre -Mod Alt L years and Mann -Whitney comparisons indicated
readings every 1.5 hrs
in December and downstream average monthly salinity ranged from a
that pre -Mod Alt L salinity at JS1 and JS2 were significantly lower than
low of 7.4 psu in September to a high of 15.5 in December. Upstream
2011.
annual average salinity was 11.4 psu and downstream was 12.5 psu.
Periods of low or constant Tar River flow, which occurred in October and
December, frequently resulted in fewer fluctuations in salinity and depth.
Salinity at both monitors generally paralleled water level fluctuations and
salinity was higher during periods of decreased depths and decreased
river flow. Salinity at the upstream station was more erratic in the July
through September period than the downstream station, but by
November both stations closely patterned salinity at SS1
Wetland water level:
All wells exhibited wetland hydroperiods from 20 (JW7A) to 100 (JWSB)
Of the 10 wells common to both 2011 and 2005 (the last monitoring year)
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
10 wells; 7 take
percent and all wells exhibited standing water for various periods in the
eight recorded shorter hydroperiods in 2011 than in 2005; however, 2005
measurements every 1.5
early part of the growing season and in late summer/early fall. The
received more total rainfall than 2011.
hrs
shortest hydroperiods occurred at the most upstream wells.
Water quality:
Sampling began in November 2011, so no seasonal trends can be
The last year of monitoring was 2005 when sampling occurred monthly.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Two sites sampled once
discussed for 2011 data. Summary of means and ranges are presented
Data (mean and ranges) from November and December 2005 sampling
every two weeks
below.
are presented below.
Water depths (in): 12.0 and 4.0-23.0;
Water depths (in): 17.0 and 11.0-21.0;
Temps (C): 12.9 and 10.0-15.6;
Temps (C): 12.5 and 8.4-18.5;
Salinity: 10.4 and 6.1-16.9;
Salinity: 6.2 and 1.5-9.2;
Conductivity: 13.8 and 7.8-22.5;
Conductivity: 8.54 and 2.00-13.58;
Turbidity: 4.36 and 0.00-18.00;
Turbidity: 9.0 and 4.30-16.60;
DO (mg/L): 6.21 and 4.46-9.18;
DO (mg/L): 5.0 and 2.6-6.7;
pH: 7.02 and 6.05-7.46;
pH: 6.8 and 6.2-7.6;
NH4-N: 0.15 and 0.02-0.77;
NH4-N: 0.078 and 0.025-0.173;
NO3-N: 0.12 and 0.00-0.38;
NO3-N: 0.003 and 0.002-0.004;
DKN: 1.31 and 1.07-1.57;
DKN: 0.901 and 0.805-1.063;
PN: 0.42 and 0.10-0.65;
PN: 0.428 and 0.397-0.465;
PO4-P: 0.015 and 0.004-0.050;
PO4-P: 0.039 and 0.009-0.064;
TDP: 0.04 and 0.02-0.07;
TDP: 0.066 and 0.043-0.080;
PP: 0.19 and 0.08-0.48;
PP: 0.149 and 0.066-0.264;
Chl a: 32.59 and 3.12-86.19;
Chl a: 19.00 and 0.00-37.00;
FLU: 0.39 and 0.33-0.41.
FLU: 0.31 and 0.28-0.36.
Vegetation:
Herbaceous growth appeared limited by standing or flowing water in
Mid -stream transects seem to have experienced more canopy dieback
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Four transects sampled
most transects and both strata were more different than previous years.
than in 2005 when it was last monitored. Two transects showed an
annually
There were fewer dominants and some species appeared as a dominant
increase in species intolerant of brackish conditions (both had the highest
for the first time and some transects had all new dominants. Only one
values to date).
species, broomsedge, had a FAC- or upland status.
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Jacks Creek resulted in a total catch of
Over 13 sample days in 2005, the total CPUE was slightly over twice than
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled weekly
1,945 fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the
that of 2011 although seven more species were captured in 2011 than in
April through June by
vast majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 18 species.
2005. Most abundant species in 2005 were Atlantic croaker, spot, and
otter trawl
Total CPUE was significantly higher than Duck Creek and significantly
Atlantic menhaden while in 2011 the most abundant species were spot,
A-1

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
lower than PA2. Spot represented 45.8 percent of the catch, followed by
pinfish, and Atlantic menhaden. Over the entire range of pre -Mod Alt L
pinfish at 18.3 percent, and Atlantic menhaden at 10.3 percent. The daily
years compared to Muddy Creek, only the 2002 daily Simpson diversity
Simpson diversity score in 2011 was significantly higher than Long Creek
score was significantly different than (higher in Jacks). The Jaccard
and the daily Shannon diversity score was significantly higher than both
coefficient indicated that the 2011 sampling of Jacks Creek and the 2005
Duck and Long Creeks. The Jaccard coefficient indicated in 2011 Jacks
sampling year had less than half of the captured fish species in common
had the most species in common with Little Creek. The Morista-Horn
(0.38). The Morisita-Horn index indicated that the 2011 and 2005
index indicated that community overlap in Jacks and Long Creek in 2011
sampling years of Jacks Creek were rather dissimilar in terms of
were very similar. Salinity at Jacks Creek (surface and bottom) ranged
community overlap (0.33). Salinity in 2005 ranged from 2.9 to 8.4 ppt. The
from 8.3 ppt to 11.8 ppt with a mean of 10.4 ppt. The pH of Jacks Creek
pH of Jacks in 2005 ranged from 6.5 to 8.4. The DO in Jacks in 2005
ranged from 7.1 to 8.5, which is in accordance with state water quality
ranged from 0.28 to 12.97 mg/L. Surface levels of DO experienced one
guidelines for the maintenance of biological integrity (NCDENR 2007).
occurrence (June) lower than 5.0 mg/L in 2005 while at the bottom there
Measurements of DO in Jacks Creek ranged from 3.31 mg/L to 10.8
were six occurrences (one in May, five in June).
mg/L, with a mean concentration of 7.20 mg/L. Mean concentrations of
DO were the highest experienced over the duration of the sampling
period. Surface levels of DO exhibited one occurrence (June) lower than
5.0 mg/L; measurements of bottom parameters indicated three
occurrences (one in April, two in June). Inter -basin comparisons of total
abundance, total CPUE, and indices of community similarity/overlap
between Jacks and Muddy Creek continue to remain statistically
com arable.
Benthos:
Sweeps: taxa richness in 2011 at both stations was the highest over the
2011 EBI at both stations was higher than the means for all previous
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One upstream & one
nine years of monitoring and EBIs were fourth highest.
years.
downstream site
sampled yearly
Ponar (significant differences only): upstream abundance was lower than
Duck Creek but higher than Muddy Creek; downstream abundance was
significantly higher than Long Creek. Upstream Shannon diversity was
higher than Little and Muddy Creeks and downstream Shannon diversity
was higher than Duck and Long Creeks.
Metals sediment:
Concentrations of Cd and Mo in the 2011 sediment from Jacks Creek
The 2011 concentrations of Al, Ag, As, Cr, Cu, Mo and Se were within the
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled yearly
were above background for the sediments from the local area as
range of values obtained for seven years between 1998 and 2005
reported by Trocine and Trefry (1998). The 2011 Cd value of 0.9 pg/g for
whereas the concentration of Cd was —10 percent lower and the
Jacks Creek was below the ERL value and unlikely to yield adverse
concentrations of Fe and Zn were both —3 percent higher than the
biological effects due to Cd. The 2011 concentration for Mo in Jacks
previous range of values. Values in 2011 for As, Cr, and Zn were slightly
Creek was more than 2 standard deviations higher than the range of
higher than the long term means for these metals in Jacks Creek but
values found in the Pamlico River estuary. No ERL or ERM values are
within the range of values. Fe was also slightly higher than the long term
available for Mo. Concentrations of Ag, As, Cr, Cu and Zn in the 2011
mean and just above the range of long term values.
sediment sample were below the ERL
Metals water:
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, and Zn were below values for the limit
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled yearly
of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Value for Se in Jacks
was similar to Drinkwater Creek. Although values for Cr and Cd were
higher than world oceans, they were similar to the other creeks sampled;
however Jacks had the highest Cr value of the sampled creeks. Porter
returned a Fe concentration below the mean of all creeks. For
subsequent sample analysis, a new lab with more sensitive capabilities
is being sought.
JACOBS CREEK
Flow:
No monitoring occurred.
Salinity:
Monitors were installed in July and upstream average monthly salinity
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
2 sites, monitors take
ranged from a low of 8.1 psu in September to a high of 15.Op psu in
readings every 1.5 hours
December while downstream salinity ranged from a low of 8.1 psu in
A-2

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
September to a high of 15.6 psu in December. Upstream average annual
salinity was 11.8 psu and downstream was 12.9 psu. Like Jacks Creek,
salinity at the upstream station was more erratic in the July through
September period than the downstream station, but by November both
stations closely patterned salinity at SS1 although the downstream
station began to parallel the SS1 pattern in September.
Wetland water level:
Neither well recorded a wetland hydroperiod even after Hurricane Irene.
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Two wells take readings
The storm did cause a rise in water level to within 12 inches of the
every 1.5 hrs
surface, but after a few days in had fallen below -12.
Water quality:
Sampling began in October 2011, so no seasonal trends can be
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin..
Two sites sampled once
discussed for 2011 data. Summary of means and ranges are presented
every two weeks
below.
Water depths (in): 17.7 and 11.0-28.0;
Temps (C): 13.9 and 9.7-16.1;
Salinity: 14.1 and 11.3-17.0;
Conductivity: 18.1 and 14.4-22.5;
Turbidity: 1.03 and 0.00-2.00;
DO (mg/L): 7.25 and 3.65-10.07;
pH: 7.45 and 6.89-7.85;
NH4-N: 0.02 and 0.01-0.05;
NO3-N: 0.008 and 0.000-0.041;
DKN: 1.25 and 0.84-1.60;
PN: 0.27 and 0.11-0.62;
PO4-P: 0.016 and 0.003-0.042;
TDP: 0.04 and 0.02-0.07;
PP: 0.09 and 0.04-0.13;
Chl a: 13.91 and 3.84-68.89;
FLU: 0.41 and 0.37-0.43.
Vegetation:
Both vegetation strata were sparse. Canopy appeared to have been
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One transect sampled
moderately dense prior to Hurricane Irene.
annually
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Jacobs Creek resulted in a total catch of
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled weekly
1,719 fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the
April through June by
vast majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 16 species.
otter trawl
Total CPUE was the third lowest among all impact creeks and the fifth
highest among all creeks sampled. Total CPUE was significantly higher
than Duck Creek and significantly lower than PA2. Daily Shannon score
was significantly lower than PA2. The Jaccard coefficient indicated that
Jacobs had the most species in common with Little Creek and the
Morista-Horn index indicated that among the control creeks, Jacobs was
also most similar to Little Creek. Pinfish represented 40.0 percent of the
catch, followed by spot at 29.3 percent, and bay anchovy at 10.8
percent. Salinity at Jacobs Creek (surface and bottom) ranged from 10
ppt to 12.4 ppt with a mean of 10.9 ppt. The pH of Jacobs Creek ranged
from 7.2 to 8.8, which is in accordance with state water quality guidelines
for the maintenance of biological integrity (NCDENR 2007).
Measurements of DO in Jacobs Creek ranged from 3.61 mg/L to 12.6
mg/L, with a mean concentration of 8.48 mg/L. Surface levels of DO
exhibited no occurrence lower than 5.0 mg/L; measurements of bottom
parameters indicated one occurrence (June).
A-3

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
Benthos:
Sweeps: taxa richness and EBIs were among the highest for the year
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One upstream & one
among all creeks.
downstream site
sampled yearly
Ponars (significant differences only): upstream abundance was lower
than Duck Creek and downstream abundance was lower than Duck and
Muddy Creeks and higher than Long Creek. Upstream Shannon score
was higher than Little and Muddy Creeks and downstream score was
higher than Long Creek.
Metals sediment:
All metal concentrations were within the range of values found at other
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled yearly
creeks in the area. Concentrations of Al, Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mo, Se and
Zn were within the range of background values found for the Pamlico
River Estuary.
Metals water.
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, Se, and Zn were below values for the
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled yearly
limit of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Although values
for Cr and Cd were higher than world oceans, they were similar to the
other creeks sampled. Jacobs returned the lowest Fe concentration of all
creeks. For subsequent sample analysis, a new lab with more sensitive
ca abilities is being sought.
DRINKWATER CREEK
Flow:
No monitoring occurred.
Salinity:
Installation of the monitors occurred in June. Upstream monthly average
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
2 sites, monitors take
salinity ranged from a low of 5.0 psu in September to a high of 14.5 psu
readings every 1.5 hours
in December. Downstream monthly average salinity ranged from a low of
8.4 in September to a high of 15.6 psu in December. Annual average
salinity was 10.8 at the upstream monitor and 13.1 at the downstream
monitor. Both stations were very similar in their salinity pattern over the
period with monthly average salinities typically 2 to 3 psu higher at the
downstream station. The upstream station had the widest range of
salinity values among all the monitored creeks. Salinity at the upstream
station increases with decreasing Tar River discharge, little to no rainfall,
and rising water depths which are likely estuarine -influenced wind tides
not related to river discharge. When compared to salinity patterns at
SS1, salinity at the two monitors in Drinkwater Creek behaved similarly
to those in Jacks and Jacobs Creek with erratic spikes at the upstream
station early in the data set and a closely parallel pattern by the end of
the year at both stations
Wetland water level:
Two recorded wetland hydroperiods and the third was a few days short
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Three wells take
of a wetland hydroperiod. Hurricane Irene influenced only the well on the
readings every 1.5 hrs
edge of the creek bed.
Water quality:
Sampling began in September 2011, so no seasonal trends can be
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Two sites sampled once
discussed for 2011 data. Summary of means and ranges are presented
every two weeks
below.
Water depths (in): 10.03 and 3.25-20.00;
Temps (C): 17.9 and 11.5-25.2;
Salinity: 6.1 and 0.1-15.8;
Conductivity: 8.6 and 0.2-21.3;
Turbidity: 3.19 and 0.10-9.10;
A-4

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
DO (mg/L): 3.80 and 0.37-9.99;
pH: 6.50 and 5.70-7.70;
NH4-N: 0.04 and 0.01-0.08;
NO3-N: 0.002 and 0.000-0.006;
DKN: 1.39 and 0.88-2.08;
PN: 0.33 and 0.12-0.70;
PO4-P: 0.308 and 0.010-1.015;
TDP: 0.36 and 0.04-1.08;
PP: 0.16 and 0.07-0.36;
Chl a: 28.04 and 6.09-77.75;
FLU: 0.44 and 0.36-0.56.
Vegetation:
Cane is the dominant in both strata along with fowl manna grass in the
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One transect sampled
herb layer. Cane is intolerant of brackish conditions while fowl manna
annually
grass is tolerant. Fairly open moderately dense canopy dominated by
swamp chestnut oak.
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Drinkwater Creek resulted in a total catch
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled weekly
of 1,745 fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species,
April through June by
the vast majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 20
otter trawl
species. Total 2011 CPUE was significantly higher than Duck Creek and
significantly lower than PA2. Spot represented 28.0 percent of the catch,
followed by pinfish at 19.9 percent, and inland silverside at 17.4 percent.
Daily Simpson and daily Shannon scores were both significantly higher
than Long Creek. Salinity at Drinkwater Creek (surface and bottom)
ranged from 10.2 ppt to 12.3 ppt with a mean of 11.0 ppt. The pH of
Drinkwater Creek ranged from 7.3 to 8.9, which is in accordance with
state water quality guidelines for the maintenance of biological integrity
(NCDENR 2007). Measurements of DO in Drinkwater Creek ranged
from 4.22 mg/L to 12.31 mg/L, with a mean concentration of 8.38 mg/L.
Surface levels of DO exhibited no occurrence lower than 5.0 mg/L;
measurements of bottom parameters indicated two occurrences (June).
Benthos:
Sweeps: downstream taxa richness was the highest of all creeks (40)
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One upstream & one
and upstream was among the top; EBIs were also among the higher
downstream site
scores.
sampled yearly
Ponars (significant differences only): upstream abundance was higher
than Muddy Creek and downstream abundance was higher than Long
Creek and PA2. Upstream Shannon score was higher than Little and
Muddy Creeks; the downstream Shannon score was higher than Duck,
Little, and Long Creeks and PA2.
Metals sediment:
All metal concentrations were within the range of values found at other
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled yearly
creeks in the area. Concentrations of Al, Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mo, Se and
Zn were within the range of background values found for the Pamlico
River Estuary.
Metals water.
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, and Zn were below values for the limit
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled yearly
of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Value for Se in
Drinkwater was similar to Jacks Creek. Although values for Cr and Cd
were higher than world oceans, they were similar to the other creeks
sampled. Drinkwater returned a Fe concentration below the mean of all
creeks. For subsequent sample analysis, a new lab with more sensitive
ca abilities is being sought.
A-5

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
TOOLEY CREEK
Flow:
Monitoring ceased in 2010.
Monitoring ceased in 2010.
Monitoring ceased in 2010. Only one year of post -disturbance
monitoring occurred in Tooley Creek and the watershed has not yet
been reduced by 10 percent. These two factors reduce the value of
a pre- to post -disturbance comparison at this time.
Salinity:
Upstream salinity ranged from a low of 8.0 psu in September to a high of
Due to Hurricane Irene, the lowest salinity in 2011 occurred September
Overall, salinities at both monitors were very similar during 2011 and
2 sites, monitors take
14.5 psu in both November and December. Downstream salinity ranged
instead of February as in 2010. Average annual salinities at both stations
continue to appear to be driven primarily by estuarine influence.
readings every 1.5 hours
from a low of 10.4 psu in May to a high of 15.8 psu in August (monitor
were almost 4 psu higher in 2011 than in 2010.
Mann -Whitney comparisons indicate that post -Mod Alt L salinity is
was removed prior to Hurricane Irene and pier was destroyed in storm-
significantly higher at both Tooley stations than pre -Mod Alt L
no data from September - November). Annual upstream average salinity
salinity. As reflected at South Creek, Pamlico River, and Muddy
was 12.2 psu and downstream was 12.6 psu. Salinities at both monitors
Creek, increased salinity is also occurring at locations away from
were very similar to each other during 2011 and continue to appear to be
any influence or mine activity; a reflection of a regional increase in
driven primarily by estuarine influence. Although short term spikes in
salinity due to climatic factors or sea -level rise.
salinity do occur at TS1, overall salinity at this location appears to have
less variation over the same periods than do the upstream stations at
Jacks, Jacobs, and Drinkwater Creeks which may be a function of the
wider configuration of the creek at the upstream Tooley station and the
fact that among the upstream stations, TS1 is located closest to the
mouth of the creek. While TS2 salinity does pattern closely with SS1 in
the early and mid -year; with the long gap in data due to the hurricane, it
is difficult to make similar comparisons between the salinity at TS2 in the
latter part of the year with salinity at SS1 or PS1 as has been done for
the other creeks. Salinity appears steadier at TS2 than at TS1, but has
slighter larger and more frequent troughs than either SS1 or PS1, as
would be expected by its landscape position.
Wetland water level:
All wells exhibited wetland hydroperiods although one had only a
Longest hydroperiod in 2010 was 52 percent compared to 62.5 percent in
6 wells take
marginal wetland hydroperiod. Wetland hydroperiods began in mid-
2011. Despite the hurricane, less rainfall in the Tooley Creek basin was
measurements every 1.5
March with the start of the growing season or in August or September
recorded in 2011 than in 2010, evidence of droughty conditions.
Post -Mod Alt L means of longest hydroperiod length are lower than
hours
after the hurricane and some persisted to the end of November. None of
Nonetheless, four of the six wells, and likely a fifth which was destroyed,
pre -Mod Alt L at 5 of the 6 wells, although one is only slightly lower.
the wells had wetland hydroperiods the entire season (256 days) -the
had longer hydroperiods in 2011 than in 2010. Only one well recorded a
With only two complete years each of pre- and post- data, the
longest one was 62.5percent.
lower hydroperiod than the same location in 2010.
combined years for pre -Mod Alt L and post -Mod Alt L are not
significantly different.
Wetland water level appears to be influenced by flow, rainfall,
overland sheet flow, and estuarine water level, although all wells are
not affected by all three factors.
Water quality:
Sampling occurred throughout the year. Summary of means and ranges
Sampling occurred throughout the 2010. Summary of 2010 means and
Comparisons of pre- and post -Mod Alt L data are focused on two
3 sites sampled once
are presented below.
ranges are presented below.
(T1 and T3) of the three sampling sites since one site (T2) has no
every 2 weeks
Water depths (in): 10.25 and 1.00-33.00;
Water depths (in): 8.92 and 1.00-32.50;
water during much of the summer. Patterns of change are noted
Temps (C): 17.7 and 3.8-29.9;
Temps (C): 18.4 and 0.2-32.5;
below.
Salinity: 8.2 and 0.0-16.6;
Salinity: 6.3 and 0.1-14.2;
Higher salinity and conductivity in post- Mod Alt L period;
Conductivity: 12.1 and 0.1-27.5;
Conductivity: 9.9 and 0.1-20.9;
Higher DO for site T3 in the post -Mod Alt L period;
Turbidity: 8.41 and 0.00-40.00;
Turbidity: 9.0 and 1.0-24.0 ;
Higher DO for site T1 in the pre -Mod Alt L period;
DO (mg/L): 4.21 and 0.02-11.00;
DO (mg/L): 4.30 and 0.1-11.3;
Site T1 had elevated orthophosphate concentrations in two months
pH: 6.67 and 4.98-8.16;
pH: 6.70 and 5.8-8.0;
in the pre -Mod Alt L period and two months in the post mod -Alt L
NH4-N: 0.07 and 0.01-1.57;
NH4-N: 0.14 and 0.02-0.77;
period.
NO3-N: 0.018 and 0.000-0.764;
NO3-N: 0.033 and 0.001-0.346;
DKN: 1.23 and 0.57-2.45;
DKN: 1.05 and 0.38-2.51;
PN: 0.36 and 0.05-2.54;
PN: 0.30 and 0.05-0.90;
PO4-P: 0.233 and 0.004-1.209;
PO4-P: 0.280 and 0.020-1.029;

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
TDP: 0.28 and 0.02-1.28;
TDP: 0.35 and 0.05-1.25;
PP: 0.26 and 0.05-1.24;
PP: 0.28 and 0.07-1.86;
Chl a: 20.76 and 0.96-192.62;
Chl a: 18.92 and 0.00-194.98;
FLU: 0.39 and 0.25-0.62.
FLU: 0.34 and 0.18-0.46.
Vegetation:
Debris and damage from Hurricane Irene resulted in only two transects
One more species in 2011 in the shrub/vine stratum (four total) than in
Herbaceous diversity has remained low over the monitoring years.
4 transects sampled
to sample in 2011. There were three dominant herbs (sweetscent, cane,
2010 which had the lowest number of species over the study period.
The average number of dominant herbaceous species is slightly
yearly
and annual saltmarsh aster) and four dominant shrubs/vines (palmetto,
Toppled trees from the winds of Hurricane Irene have made the canopy
lower post -Mod Alt L at TW3 and TW6, slightly higher at TW4, and
eastern baccharis, poison ivy, and muscadine). All species were FAC- or
more open than in 2010. The number of dominant species intolerant of
the same at TW1. Lizard's tail used to be a common dominant at
wetter.
brackish conditions increased in 2011 at the two monitored transects.
TW1 and TW3 but has not been dominant in the two post -Mod Alt L
years. In the shrub layer, cane has become dominant in the post -
years but it had always been present in the herbaceous layers in the
earlier years. The average number of dominant shrub species post -
Mod Alt L is lower than before drainage basin reductions at all
transects. Species with an indicator status of FAC- or wetter have
dominated Tooley Creek over the pre- and post -Mod Alt L
monitoring years
Fish:
There were a total of 13 sampling days that yielded a total catch of 1,306
Total Tooley CPUE was not significantly lower than 2010. Species
Total CPUE was the second lowest over the five year sampling
One site sampled weekly
fish, representing 13 species. Total CPUE was the second lowest among
richness increased by one species in 2011 compared to 2010 and
period, preceded by 1999. No significant difference was found
April through June by
all impact creeks and was significantly lower than PA2. Spot was the
abundance decreased more than 5.5 times. Daily Simpson and Shannon
between Tooley Creek and Muddy Creek CPUE for combined post -
otter trawl
most abundant species captured at Tooley Creek, representing 36.7
diversity scores were significantly higher than Muddy Creek in 2010, but
Mod Alt L years, combined pre -Mod Alt L years, or between
percent of the total catch, followed by pinfish at 35.4 percent, and inland
the relationship was not significant in 2011. Both diversity scores slightly
individual sampling years. The number of freshwater species,
silverside at 11 percent. Daily Simpson was significantly higher than
increased in 2011. The Jaccard coefficient indicated that the 2011
including catfish and sunfish, continue to decline as they have
Long Creek and daily Shannon was significantly lower than PA2. The
sampling of Tooley Creek and the 2010 sampling year had less than half
throughout the duration of the study. Total abundance in 2011 was
2011 Jaccard coefficient indicated that 2011 had the most species in
of the captured fish species in common (0.32). The Morisita-Horn index
not significantly different than total abundance in the pre -Mod Alt L
common with the 1999 sample year and with Little Creek among the
indicated that the 2011 and 2005 sampling years of Jacks Creek were
years. In 2011, both Shannon and Simpson were the second highest
2011 control creeks. The Morista-Horn index indicated that community
similar in terms of community overlap (0.78).
over duration of sampling period while species richness was the
overlap was most similar between 2011 and 2001 sample years in
second lowest. Both the pre -Mod Alt L and the post -Mod Alt L daily
Tooley Creek itself and most similar between Long and Little among the
Simpson and daily Shannon scores are significantly higher in Tooley
five control creeks. Salinity at Tooley Creek (surface and bottom) ranged
Creek than in Muddy Creek. Mean concentrations of DO were the
from 10 ppt to 12.7 ppt with a mean of 11.1 ppt. The pH of Tooley Creek
highest experienced over the duration of the sampling period. Tooley
ranged from 7.1 to 8.6, which is in accordance with state water quality
Creek has been similar to the Muddy Creek reference site (total
guidelines for the maintenance of biological integrity (NCDENR 2007).
abundance, CPUE, species richness, diversity trends) over the
Measurements of DO in Tooley Creek ranged from 4.19 mg/L to 10.41
duration of the sampling period. Due to this similarity, after two
mg/L, with a mean concentration of 7.44 mg/L. Surface levels of DO
years of post -disturbance monitoring and a small percentage of
exhibited one occurrence (May) lower than 5.0 mg/L; measurements of
drainage basin reduction (8.7percent), there does not appear to be
bottom parameters indicated three occurrences (one in May, two in
any relation between basin reduction and the sampled fish
June).
community in Tooley Creek.
Benthos:
Sweeps: upstream taxa richness was tied with 1998 for the highest at
Upstream sweep EBI in 2011was higher than 2010 and downstream
Upstream 2011 sweep EBI is slightly higher than the pre -Mod Alt L
One upstream & one
this station and the downstream richness was the second highest over
sweep EBI was lower than 2010. Ponar EBI in 201 lat both stations was
mean for this station and the downstream 2011 EBI was next to
downstream site
the 9-year period. The upstream EBI score ties the highest value in
higher than 2010. Upstream Shannon score in 2011 was lower than 2010
lowest compared to the pre -Mod Alt L years at that station, and
sampled yearly
previous sampling years in this entire creek.
lower than the pre -Mod Alt L mean for this station. Pre -Mod Alt L
upstream ponar abundance was higher than post -mod Alt L. Pre-
Ponars (significant differences only): upstream abundance was lower
Mod Atl L Shannon ponar scores were significantly lower than post -
than Duck and Little Creeks and downstream abundance was higher
Mod Alt L years. Upstream ponar Shannon score was higher in
than Long Creek but lower than Duck Creek. Upstream Shannon score
2011 than the pre -Mod Alt L mean.
was higher than Little and Muddy Creeks and the downstream Shannon
score was higher than Long Creek.
Metals sediment:
Only the concentration of Cd was higher than background values for
The 2011 Ag value of 0.08 pg/g for Tooley Creek was 50 percent lower
The 2011 concentrations of all metals were equal to or below the
One site sampled yearly
sediments from the local area but below the ERL and unlikely to yield
than the value obtained for 2010 and is --12 times lower than the ERL of
pre -Mod Alt L mean for sediments from Tooley Creek with the
adverse biological effects due to Cd. The concentration of Mo in the
1.0 pg/g. Values for Al, Cr, and Zn were slightly higher in 2011 than in
exception of Fe which was 0.04 percent higher in 2011 but within the
2011 sediment sample from Tooley Creek was the lowest value obtained
2010. The value for As was the same as 2010 and the 2011 values for the
range of values for the long term mean.
to date for this site. No ERL or ERM values are available for Mo.
other metals were lower.
Concentrations of As, Cr, Cu and Zn in the 2011 sediment sample were
A-7

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
below the ERL.
Metals water:
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, and Zn were below values for the limit
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Although values for Cr
and Cd were higher than world oceans, they were similar to the other
creeks sampled. Fe concentration in Tooley was above the mean of all
creeks and was the third highest. For subsequent sample analysis, a
new lab with more sensitive capabilities is being sought.
HUDDLES CUT
Flow:
Monitoring ceased in 2009.
Monitoring ceased in 2009
Monitoring ceased in 2009.
Salinity:
Upstream salinity ranged from a low of 7.1 psu at HS1 and 7.5 psu at
Although low water over much of the early part of the year caused gaps in
Salinity within Huddles Cut at HS1 and HS2 over the course of the
3 sites, monitors take
HS2 in September to highs of 12.8 psu at HS1 and 13.6 psu at HS2 in
the salinity data at HS1, it did not record salinity <1 psu as it had in 2010.
study has been the lowest among the three creeks with long-term
readings every 1.5 hours
August. During 2011, annual average salinity was 11.0 psu at the mouth
Hurricane Irene also shifted the lowest recorded salinity in 2011 to
data
(HS3), 9.9 psu at HS2, and 10.3 psu at HS1, the most upstream monitor;
September from late winter/early spring as it was in 2010. Average annual
Pre -Mod Alt L salinities were significantly lower than post -Mod Alt L
however, no data were collected from September through November at
2011 salinity at HS1 was 5.5 psu higher than 2010, was 3 psu higher at
at all three Huddles monitors and pre -Mod Alt L salinities at HS2
HS3 which may have affected the annual average. Salinity spikes
HS2, and 2,8 psu higher at HS3.
were lower than at HS1; however, post -Mod Alt L salinities at HS2
generally corresponded with low Tar River discharge, and usually with
were higher than at HS1. Salinities at both SS1 and PS1 salinity
rainfall events and increased water levels.
control stations for the Huddles pre -Mod Alt L years were
significantly higher than the post -Mod Alt L. Total cumulative
drainage basin reduction within Huddles Cut is 68.5 percent through
2011. Since the drainage area of the west prong of Huddles Cut,
where HS2 is located, is smaller than that of the main prong, it is
possible that the west prong has experienced increased salinity
levels as a result of drainage area reduction. However, salinity in
South Creek, Pamlico River, and Muddy Creek have also increased
over the same years which indicate a regional increase in salinity.
Wetland water level:
In the main prong, most hydroperiods began in March and June or July,
The watershed was reduced by an additional 46.5 acres in 2011.
Total drainage basin reduction from both Alt E and Mod Alt L is 68.5
20 wells take
while in the west prong no hydroperiods occurred in March or June.
On the main prong seven wells showed reduced hydroperiods compared
percent. No further impacts from Mod -Alt L are expected.
measurements every 1.5
All wells in Huddles Cut exhibited wetland hydroperiods although one
to 2010, four increased, and one stayed the same at 100 percent of the
Baseline years 1999 and 2002 were not included in comparison due
hours
exhibited a marginal hydroperiod (HWW9). Three wells experienced a
growing season. However, when compared to 2010 hydroperiods overall,
to lack of data for the majority of the growing season. Although
hydroperiod for the entire growing season. The average longest
55 percent of the wells (11) in Huddles Cut had shorter hydroperiods.
rainfall has been similar to 2000 and 2001, average hydroperiods
hydroperiod length on the west prong was 42 percent of the growing
The wells that exhibited reduced hydroperiods when compared to 2010
have decreased, particularly in the last few years. The number of
season, compared to 62 percent for the wells on the main prong
had an average reduction of 33 percent, less than the average reduction in
wells with wetland hydroperiods which last the entire growing
2010 of 48 percent. Eight wells exhibited longer hydroperiods than 2010.
season has decreased in post -Mod Alt L years (three in 2011 vs
seven in 2010). Reduced hydroperiods in 2007 and 2008 occurred in
conjunction with regional drought conditions; conditions which have
persisted intermittently for various portions of both 2010 and 2011.
When all pre -Mod Alt L years and wells are combined and all post -
Mod Alt L years and wells are combined for the main prong of
Huddles Cut, the mean longest hydroperiod length (days) is not
significantly different (p>0.05); also the case for the western prong
(p>0.05), although the means are lower post -Mod Alt L. The
hydroperiod length (days) for pre -Mod Alt L years of the main prong
versus the west prong are significantly different from each other
(p<0.001) as well as post -Mod Alt L hydroperiod length (days)
between the main and west prongs (p<0.001). This indicates the
main and west prongs represent two systems that were different
from each other from the beginning of monitoring and have
remained different.
WE

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
Wetland water level appears to be influenced by flow, rainfall,
overland sheet flow, and estuarine water level, although all wells are
not affected by all three factors. In recent years, rainfall appears to
have less influence on Huddles Cut hydroperiods.
Water quality:
Sampling occurred throughout the year. Summary of means and ranges
Sampling occurred throughout 2010. Summary of 2010 means and
Patterns of change are noted below.
4 sites sampled once
are presented below.
ranges are presented below.
Sites H3 and H4 showed decreases in water depths during three
every 2 weeks
Water depths (in): 4.95 and 0.75-12.50;
Water depths (in): 4.92 and 0.25-18.00;
and four months; respectively, during the post -Mod Alt L period.
Temps (C): 18.1 and 4.1-32.5;
Temps (C): 16.2 and 1.2-29.4;
Most sites had lower DO values in the post -Mod Alt L period. All four
Salinity: 8.2 and 1.2-14.7;
Salinity: 4.46 and 0.1-10.83;
monitoring sites had higher salinities and conductivity in the post -
Conductivity: 12.6 and 1.7-25.6;
Conductivity: 7.0 and 0.1-18.1;
Mod Alt L period, which is a pattern similar to other monitoring sites
Turbidity: 10.96 and 0.00-120.00;
Turbidity: 38.0 and 1.00-362.00;
during the same period.
DO (mg/L): 3.84 and 0.08-10.89;
DO (mg/L): 2.90 and 0.2-16.5;
pH: 6.51 and 5.11-7.85;
pH: 6.4 and 5.0-8.0;
NH4-N: 0.29 and 0.02-3.52;
NH4-N: 0.40 and 0.02-2.35;
NO3-N: 0.013 and 0.000-0.341;
NO3-N: 0.018 and 0.000-0.082;
DKN: 1.47 and 0.67-3.01;
DKN: 1.46 and 0.52-5.04;
PN: 0.55 and 0.08-4.30;
PN: 0.64 and 0.07-5.84;
PO4-P: 0.328 and 0.032-1.309;
PO4-P: 0.430 and 0.041-2.733;
TDP: 0.37 and 0.07-1.35;
TDP: 0.50 and 0.08-1.86;
PP: 0.29 and 0.05-0.66;
PP: 0.28 and 0.03-1.03;
Chl a: 38.14 and 1.67-380.21;
Chl a: 47.03 and 0.67-421.86;
FLU: 0.41 and 0.19-0.99.
FLU: 0.37 and 0.19-0.68.
Vegetation:
When compared to 2010, the three midstream transects experienced a
The average number of dominant herbaceous species at each
12 transects sampled
Main prong was not sampled due to effects of Hurricane Irene. Poison
decrease in the percentage of dominant species considered solely
transect is similar between pre- and post -Mod Alt L years (years
yearly
ivy, sweetscent, and dog fennel were dominant in two of the transects in
freshwater species in 2011, while the downstream transect experienced an
grouped). Dominant shrub species identified in 2011 were similar to
the west prong, but whorled pennywort was not a dominant in any
increase, the first increase at that transect since 2007. Whorled
the combined previous monitoring years. For percent of species
transect. The overstory at most transects is fairly open with a dense
pennywort was a common dominant in 2010 but not dominant at any
intolerant of brackish conditions, the means of all transects are lower
understory dominated by wax myrtle; however, the wax myrtles are
transects in 2011. Average salinity at all three Huddles Cut monitors was
post -Mod Alt L, but the ranges at three of the four transects are
beginning to die. Dominant overstory trees included red maple, swamp
higher for most months in 2011 compared to 2010 and may have affected
largely within the ranges for pre -Mod Alt L years. Overall, 2011
tupelo, and green ash with a scattering of American elm and laurel oak
some of the herbaceous species present.
showed the lowest percentage of species considered exclusively
along some transects. Overall, 2011 showed the lowest percentage of
fresh water species and one of the smallest ranges of percentages
species considered exclusively fresh water and one of the smallest
compared to other years. Along with 2007, 2011 was one of the
ranges of percentages compared to other years
most different years in the study period in that aquatics present
before were not present or a previous dominant at a transect was no
longer dominant. These differences may be largely driven by
drought in the case of the lack of aquatics and changes in light
availability driven by differences in the amount of open canopy or
nearby mine activities such as timber removal. Average salinity at all
three Huddles Cut monitors was higher for most months in 2011
compared to 2010 and also tended to be higher than all pre -Mod Alt
L years combined. Despite large differences in the frequency and
duration of flooding between downstream and upstream transects,
all transects clearly were dominated by wetland vegetation in all
years.
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Huddles Cut resulted in a total catch of
Total abundance and CPUE for 2011 in Huddles Cut was more similar to
Comparisons of CPUE for individual fish species indicated that spot
One site sampled weekly
9,070 fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the
2010 than 2010 was to 2009. Mummichog, spot, and Atlantic menhaden
catch in 2011 was significantly lower than the combined pre -Mod Alt
April -June with fyke nets
vast majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 23 species.
were most abundant in 2010. Species richness increased from the 19
L years and that pre -Mod Alt L catch was significantly higher than
Catch -per -unit -effort (CPUE) for all fish species in Huddles Cut in 2011
species captured in 2010 to 23 species in 2011. Both Simpson's and
post -Mod Alt L catch. The opposite is true for mummichog, as these
was not significantly different compared to that of the combined pre -Mod
Shannon diversity indices scores for 2010 were slightly higher than 2011.
same comparisons resulted in lower significance. CPUE for striped
Alt L sampling years of 1999-2005 and 2007-2009. Mummichog, striped
The Jaccard coefficient indicated that the 2011 sampling of Huddles Cut
mullet was significantly higher in pre -Mod Alt L years compared to
09

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
mullet, and spot were the most abundant species captured at Huddles
and the 2010 sampling year had just over half of the captured fish species
2011 but there was no significant difference between pre- and post -
Cut in the 2011 sampling year, with mummichog accounting for 68.5
in common (0.56). The Morisita-Horn index indicated that the 2011 and
years. Conversely, the CPUE for pumpkinseed in the combined pre -
percent of the total catch. Typically, CPUE for both spot and mummichog
2010 sampling years of Huddles Cut were very similar in terms of
Mod Alt L years was not significant compared to 2011 but pre -Mod
dominate total catch and highly influence total CPUE of all species for
community overlap (0.92). Mean salinity almost doubled in 2011
Alt L years were significantly higher than the post -Mod Alt L years.
each year. Although total spot catch was low for 2011, these two species
compared to 2010 (4.9 to 9.2 ppt) and mean DO was slightly lower in 2011
All freshwater species continue to decline since the first sampling
alone accounted for 76.3 percent of the total catch. Salinity ranged from
than in 2010.
year of 1999. Total abundance, CPUE, and species richness
5.7 ppt to 12.1 ppt with a mean of 9.2 ppt. The pH of Huddles Cut in
continue to remain higher than the Muddy Creek control site. After a
2011 ranged from 6.6 to 8.4, which is in accordance with state water
68.5 percent reduction in the drainage basin of Huddles Cut and two
quality guidelines for the maintenance of biological integrity (NCDENR
years of post -Mod Alt L data, there is no statistical relation to
2007). DO at Huddles Cut in 2011 displayed expected seasonal patterns,
drainage basin reduction, as diversity trends were similar at Muddy
with the lowest DO generally recorded in the warmer months. The DO in
Creek, and years between both sites were found to be statistically
Huddles Cut was typically lower upon net retrieval compared to net
comparable. Mean concentrations of DO recorded in post -
deployment. This discrepancy in DO may be partially explained by lack
disturbance years remained higher than those experienced in the
of photosynthesis and lower water levels due to wind tides on the
pre -disturbance sampling years.
mornings of net retrieval. Measurements of DO in Huddles Cut ranged
from 0.77 mg/L to 9.33 mg/L, with a mean concentration of 4.70 mg/L. At
the time of net deployment, there were no occurrences of DO lower than
5.0 mg/L and at net retrieval there were eleven occurrences (four in April,
three in May, four in June) of DO lower than 5.0 mg/L.
Benthos:
Sweeps: upstream taxa richness was the highest over the 8-year period
Downstream sweep taxa richness was tied with 2010 for fewest species.
The mean of EBI 2011 sweep scores for both Huddles Cut stations
One upstream and one
although downstream richness equaled 2000 and 2010 for the fewest
were higher for the two post -Mod Alt L years compared to the six
downstream site
species. Downstream EBI was the highest 2011 score among all creeks
pre -Mod Alt L years.
sampled yearly
and upstream EBI was the second highest over the 8-year period.
When years are compared, no year is significantly different than
either 2010 or 2011 at either ponar station. No significant difference
Ponar s (significant differences only): upstream abundance was lower
was found for combined pre -Mod Alt L years compared to 2011, or
than Duck, Little and Long Creeks and downstream abundance was
combined pre- to post -Mod Alt L years at the upstream ponar
higher than Little and Long Creeks and PA2. Upstream Shannon score
station; however 2011 was significantly higher than the pre -Mod Alt
was higher than Little and Muddy and lower than Duck and Long Creeks
L years. The 2011 abundance was significantly higher at the
and PA2.
downstream Muddy Creek station than at that station in the Huddles
Cut pre -Mod Alt L years. Results from a similar comparison of
u stream stations showed no statistically significant difference.
Metals sediment:
The sample was predominantly quartz sand with little or no clay. Quartz
Sediment was predominantly quartz sand as in 2010 and concentrations
As a result of a shift in recent years to predominantly quartz sand,
One site sampled yearly
sand generally contains very low metal concentrations. All of the 10
were very similar to concentrations obtained in 2010. Eight of the 10
post -Mod Alt L concentrations of Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mo, Se and
metal concentrations for the 2011 sample from Huddles Cut were well
metals slightly decreased (Zn decreased by more than a factor of six), one
Zn in the sediment are more than 20 times lower than
below sediment quality criteria and are of no environmental concern for
increased by a factor of two (Fe), and one stayed the same.
concentrations obtained during pre -Mod Alt L years.
metals.
Metals water:
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, Se, and Zn were below values for the
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
limit of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Values for Cr and
Cd were higher than world oceans but similar to the other creeks
sampled; however, Huddles did return the lowest value for Cr of all
sampled creeks. Fe concentration in Huddles was below the mean of all
creeks. For subsequent sample analysis, a new lab with more sensitive
ca abilities is being sought.
PORTER CREEK
Flow:
The most upstream meter recorded 6 events over 26 calendar days; the
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Two low flow meters
longest consecutive event was 17 days in duration. The downstream
take —72 readings/day
meter in Porter recorded 9 events over 19 calendar days; the longest
consecutive event was 5 days in duration.
A-10

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
Salinity:
Monitors were installed in July. Upstream monthly average salinity
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Two sites, monitors take
ranged from a low of 9.4 psu in October to a high of 13.1 psu in
readings every 1.5 hrs
December. Downstream monthly average salinity ranged from a low of
6.0 psu in September to a high of 13.6 in July. Annual average monthly
upstream salinity was 11.7 and 11.4 at the downstream monitor. With the
exception of July, the two monitors had very similar salinities over the
period with monthly average salinities often nearly equal at the two
locations. Overall salinity in Porter Creek in 2011 appeared similar to
Jacks and the upstream Jacobs stations but less similar to Duck Creek,
which was selected as control creek for Porter Creek based on
geomorphic similarities between the two. Depths at PCS1 were typically
deeper than at PCS2 and salinity at PCS1 usually increased as depth
increased and discharge decreased, indicating estuarine influence from
wind tides; however, when there was local rainfall, salinity would
decrease. The same pattern was true for PCS2, although the troughs
attributable to local rain events were usually less pronounced with
smaller storms than at PCS1.
Wetland water level:
All wells recorded wetland hydroperiods, with the most downstream array
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Nine wells take readings
experiencing the longest hydroperiods. Most hydroperiods were
every 1.5 hrs
between 15 and 16 percent of the growing season.
Water quality:
Sampling began in December 2011, so no seasonal trends can be
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Two sites sampled once
discussed for 2011 data. Summary of means and ranges are presented
every two weeks
below.
Water depths (in): 19.9 and 19.5-20.25;
Temps (C): 13.8 and 13.8-13.8;
Salinity: 7.1 and 0.1-14.0;
Conductivity: 9.2 and 0.1-18.2;
Turbidity: 3.8 and 1.3-6.3;
DO (mg/L): 5.34 and 2.6-8.07;
pH: 6.99 and 6.4-7.57;
NH4-N: 0.02 and 0.01-0.03;
NO3-N: 0.005 and 0.004-0.007;
DKN: 0.78 and 0.49-1.07;
PN: 0.12 and 0.06-0.17;
PO4-P: 0.044 and 0.016-0.071;
TDP: 0.07 and 0.04-0.10;
PP: 0.04 and 0.04-0.04;
Chl a: 3.84 and 0.00-7.69;
FLU: 0.28 and 0.16-0.40.
Vegetation:
Both transects had sparse herbaceous and shrub layers. Neither
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
Two transects sampled
transect had any dominant species with a FAC- or upland status or a
annually
tolerance to brackish conditions. Cane was a dominant in both strata at
both transects. The canopy area near the downstream transect was
affected by Hurricane Irene and had several toppled large trees.
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Porter Creek resulted in a total catch of
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled weekly
665 fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the
April through June by
vast majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 10 species.
otter trawl
Total 2011 CPUE was the lowest among all impact creeks and second
lowest for all creeks. Like all creeks, 2011 CPUE was significantly lower
A-11

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
than PA2. Bay anchovy represented 60 percent of the catch, followed by
spot at 18.4 percent, and Atlantic menhaden at 11.9 percent. Daily
Shannon scores were significantly less than both Little Creek and PA2.
The Jaccard coefficient indicated that Porter had the most species in
common with both Long and Duck Creeks. The Morista-Horn index
indicated that Porter and Muddy were most similar in terms of community
overlap. Salinity at Porter Creek (surface and bottom) ranged from 6.0
ppt to 10.6 ppt with a mean of 8.2 ppt. The pH of Porter Creek ranged
from 6.8 to 8.0, which is in accordance with state water quality guidelines
for the maintenance of biological integrity (NCDENR 2007).
Measurements of DO in Porter Creek ranged from 3.29 mg/L to 10.26
mg/L, with a mean concentration of 6.35 mg/L. Surface levels of DO
exhibited no occurrence lower than 5.0 mg/L; measurements of bottom
parameters indicated six occurrences (one in April, one in May, and four
in June).
Benthos:
Sweeps: taxa richness at both stations was in the mid -range of the other
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One upstream & one
creeks and EBIs were both under 2.0 and among the lower scores.
downstream site
sampled yearly
Ponars (significant differences only): upstream abundance was higher
than Long and Muddy Creeks and downstream abundance was higher
than Long Creek but lower than Duck and Muddy Creeks. Upstream
Shannon score was higher than Little and Muddy Creeks and
downstream Shannon score was lower than all control creeks except
Lon Creek.
Metals sediment:
All metal concentrations were within the range of values found at other
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled yearly
creeks in the area. Concentrations of Al, Ag, As, Cr, Cu, Mo, Se and Zn
were within the range of background values found for the Pamlico River
Estuary. Concentrations of Cd in Porter Creek were above background
values from the Pamlico River Estuary but were below the ERL.
Metals water:
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, and Zn were below values for the limit
2011 was first year of data collection.
No Mod Alt L impacts have occurred in this basin.
One site sampled yearly
of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Value for Se in Porter
was similar to Duck Creek and was the fourth highest of the sampled
creeks. Although values for Cr and Cd were higher than world oceans,
they were similar to the other creeks sampled. Porter returned a Fe
concentration below the mean of all creeks. For subsequent sample
analysis, a new lab with more sensitive capabilities is being sought.
CONTROL CREEKS
SOUTH CREEK
Salinity:
Compared to 2010, salinity patterns followed similar trends to 2010 with
Salinity at SS1 for the two post -Mod Alt L years for Tooley and
1 site, monitor takes
Monthly average salinity ranged from a low of 7.5 psu in September to a
the exception of Hurricane Irene which shifted the normal lowest salinity
Huddles was significantly higher compared to the pre -Mod Alt L
readings every 1.5 hours
high of 15.6 in December and the annual average was 11.6 psu. Salinity
period from February to September.
years for Tooley Creek and significantly lower than Huddles Cut
was very similar to Pamlico River (PS1) and appears predominantly
while the mean and median for 2011 at SS1 was higher than any of
inversely related with Tar River discharge, especially for river increases
the groupings of pre -Mod Alt L years.
or decreases of longer duration. Lowest salinity occurred in September
(7.5 psu) with passage of Hurricane Irene and the highest salinity
occurred in December (15.6 psu); annual average salinity was 11.6 psu.
A-12

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
PA2
Salinity:
The salinity monitor was installed in July. Monthly average salinity
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
2 sites, monitors take
ranged from a low of 8.0 psu in September to a high of 15.4 psu in
readings every 1.5 hours
December and average annual salinity was 12.9 psu. Salinity at the PA2
monitor closely paralleled the downstream Drinkwater Creek monitor for
most months. Salinity at the PA2S1 monitor was less erratic in July and
August than either upstream monitor in Jacks or Jacobs Creek, as would
be expected by its position in the system. Its salinity pattern was similar
to SS1 from July through October, but more closely matches SS1 from
November to December.
Water quality
Sampling began in October 2011, so no seasonal trends can be
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
Two sites sampled once
discussed for 2011 data. Summary of means and ranges are presented
every two weeks
below.
Water depths (in): 22.04 and 10.00-34.00;
Temps (C): 15.5 and 11.2-20.8;
Salinity: 13.7 and 11.4-17.0;
Conductivity: 18.5 and 15.5-22.6;
Turbidity: 1.30 and 0.00-4.80;
DO (mg/L): 6.67 and 0.99-9.94;
pH: 7.38 and 6.76-7.89;
NH4-N: 0.02 and 0.01-0.04;
NO3-N: 0.002 and 0.000-0.004;
DKN: 1.34 and 1.15-1.61;
PN: 0.26 and 0.12-1.19;
PO4-P: 0.015 and 0.003-0.042;
TDP: 0.04 and 0.02-0.08;
PP: 0.10 and 0.04-0.25;
Chl a: 16.02 and 4.49-87.58;
FLU: 0.42 and 0.39-0.47.
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at PA2 resulted in a total catch of 4,649 fish.
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled weekly
A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the vast
April through June by
majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 19 species. The
otter trawl
total 2011 CPUE was the highest among all control creeks and second
highest for all creeks. The CPUE was significantly higher than all five
impact creeks. Eastern mudminnow represented 33.6 percent of the
catch, followed by rainwater killifish at 119.6 percent, and spot at 17.1
percent. Shannon daily diversity scores were PA2 were significantly
higher than Jacobs, Tooley, and Porter Creeks. Salinity at PA2 (surface
and bottom) ranged from 10.3 ppt to 12.8 ppt with a mean of 11.2 ppt.
The pH of PA2 ranged from 7.2 to 8.9, which is in accordance with state
water quality guidelines for the maintenance of biological integrity
(NCDENR 2007). Measurements of DO in PA2 ranged from 2.94 mg/L
to 12.84 mg/L, with a mean concentration of 8.20 mg/L. Surface levels of
DO exhibited two occurrences lower than 5.0 mg/L (June);
measurements of bottom parameters indicated one occurrence (June).
Benthos:
Sweeps: taxa richness and EBIs for PA2 were among the highest for the
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One upstream & one
year among all creeks.
downstream site
sampled yearly
Ponars (significant differences only): downstream abundance was lower
than Drinkwater Creek and Huddles Cut. Upstream Shannon score was
higher than Huddles Cut and downstream was lower than Drinkwater
Creek but higher than Porter Creek.
A-13

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
Metals -sediment:
All metal concentrations in the PA2 sample were low, most likely due to
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
the presence of sandy sediments and all were within the range of values
found at other creeks in the area. Concentrations of Al, Ag, As, Cd, Cr,
Cu, Mo, Se and Zn were within the range of background values found for
the Pamlico River Estuary.
Metals -water:
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, and Zn were below values for the limit
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Value for Se in PA2
was the second highest of the sampled creeks after Muddy. Although
values for Cr and Cd were higher than world oceans, they were similar to
the other creeks sampled. PA2 returned a Fe concentration below the
mean of all creeks. For subsequent sample analysis, a new lab with
more sensitive capabilities is being sought.
LITTLE CREEK
Salinity:
Monitors were installed in June. Upstream monthly average salinity
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
2 sites, monitors take
ranged from a low of 4.2 psu in September to a high of 12.6 psu in
readings every 1.5 hours
December. Downstream monthly average salinity ranged from a low of
7.8 psu in September to a high of 15.7 in December. Average annual
upstream salinity was 9.4 psu and 12.3 psu at the downstream location.
Salinity at the both Little Creek stations appeared to more closely
correspond to rainfall than to variations in Tar River discharge, although
with only half a year of data that may not hold true for all year. Salinity
patterns at the downstream station were more similar to SS1 than the
u stream station by the end of the year.
Water quality:
Sampling began in November 2011, but water was present only in
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
Two sites sampled once
December, so no seasonal trends can be discussed for 2011 data.
every two weeks
Summary of means and ranges are presented below.
Water depths (in): 11.3 and 7.0-17.0;
Temps (C): 13.6 and 10.8-16.5;
Salinity: 13.4 and 8.9-16.0;
Conductivity: 17.2 and 12.7-21.1;
Turbidity: 1.39 and 0.20-2.40;
DO (mg/L): 8.18 and 3.71-9.87;
pH: 7.40 and 6.92-7.65;
NH4-N: 0.03 and 0.01-0.07;
NO3-N: 0.008 and 0.003-0.021;
DKN: 1.22 and 0.99-1.32;
PN: 0.28 and 0.11-0.66;
PO4-P: 0.019 and 0.005-0.047;
TDP: 0.04 and 0.02-0.07;
PP: 0.07 and 0.05-0.08;
Chl a: 15,86 and 4.49-38.77;
FLU: 0.38 and 0.35-0.42.
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Little Creek resulted in a total catch of
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled weekly
1,186 fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the
April through June by
vast majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 18 species.
otter trawl
Total 2011 CPUE was the third highest among all control creeks and was
not significantly different than any of the impact creeks. Shannon daily
scores were significantly higher than Porter Creek but daily Simpson
scores were not significantly different than any of the impact creeks. The
A-14

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
Jaccard coefficient indicated Little Creek and Jacks Creek had the most
species in common; the Morista-Horn index indicated that community
overlap was also most similar between these two creeks. Spot
represented 38.1 percent of the catch, followed by bay anchovy at 24
percent, and Atlantic menhaden at 19.7 percent. Salinity at Little Creek
(surface and bottom) ranged from 10.1 ppt to 12.3 ppt with a mean of
10.7 ppt. The pH of Little Creek ranged from 7.3 to 8.9, which is in
accordance with state water quality guidelines for the maintenance of
biological integrity (NCDENR 2007). Measurements of DO in Little Creek
ranged from 2.91 mg/L to 8.66 mg/L, with a mean concentration of 6.45
mg/L. Surface levels of DO exhibited no occurrence lower than 5.0 mg/L;
measurements of bottom parameters indicated three occurrences (one in
April and two in June).
Benthos:
Sweeps: taxa richness was similar to Long Creek, although upstream vs
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One upstream & one
downstream were reversed for which station was higher in the two
downstream site
creeks. EBI scores were also close to Long Creek, but Little Creek's
sampled yearly
scores were both over 2.0.
Ponars (significant differences only): upstream abundance was higher
than Tooley Creek and downstream was lower than Huddles Cut.
Upstream Shannon score was lower than all impact creeks and
downstream Shannon was lower than Drinkwater Creek but higher than
Porter Creek.
Metals sediment:
All metal concentrations were within the range of values found at other
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
creeks in the area. Concentrations of Al, Ag, As, Cr, Cu, Mo, Se and Zn
were within the range of background values found for the Pamlico River
Estuary. Concentrations of Cd in Little Creek were above background
values from the Pamlico River Estuary but were below the ERL.
Metals water.
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, Se, and Zn were below values for the
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
limit of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Although values
for Cr and Cd were higher than world oceans, they were similar to the
other creeks sampled. Little returned a Fe concentration below the mean
of all creeks. For subsequent sample analysis, a new lab with more
sensitive capabilities is being sought.
LONG CREEK
Flow:
No monitoring occurred.
Salinity:
Monitors were installed in July. Upstream monthly average salinity
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
2 sites, monitors take
ranged from a low of 9.6 psu to a high of 15.5 psu in December.
readings every 1.5 hours
Downstream monthly average salinity ranged from a low of 8.3 psu in
September to a high of 15.5 in December. Annual average upstream
salinity was 13.2 psu and 13.1 psu at the downstream station. The two
monitors had very similar salinities over the period with monthly average
salinities often equal at the two locations; likely due to close proximity
between the two monitors. The means and medians were similar to the
other stations.
Wetland water level:
Both wells exhibited wetland hydroperiods. The longest hydroperiod
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
Two wells take readings
occurred between August and November over 41 percent (well 1 B) and
every 1.5 hrs
35 percent well 2B of the growing season.
A-15

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
Water quality:
Sampling began in November 2011, so no seasonal trends can be
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
Two sites sampled once
discussed for 2011 data. Summary of means and ranges are presented
every two weeks
below.
Water depths (in): 18.9 and 16.0-21.0;
Temps (C): 14.6 and 11.7-16.9;
Salinity: 16.1 and 15.2-17.1;
Conductivity: 21.0 and 18.9-23.2;
Turbidity: 1.93 and 0.1-6.5;
DO (mg/L): 8.97 and 7.40-10.10;
pH: 7.90 and 7.80-8.04;
NH4-N: 0.02 and 0.02-0.02;
NO3-N: 0.003 and 0.000-0.005;
DKN: 1.38 and 1.20-1.65;
PN: 0.19 and 0.07-0.34;
PO4-P: 0.008 and 0.005-0.013;
TDP: 0.03 and 0.03-0.03;
PP: 0.06 and 0.03-0.09;
Chl a: 5.81 and 1.92-11.29;
FLU: 0.43 and 0.41-0.45.
Vegetation:
The single transect was dominated by cane and Nepalese browntop in
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One transect sampled
the herbaceous layer and wax myrtle in the shrub and woody vine layer
annually
None of the dominants were FAC- or upland species and only one
species (wax myrtle) was considered tolerant of brackish conditions
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Long Creek resulted in a total catch of
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled weekly
1,613 fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the
April through June by
vast majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 12 species.
otter trawl
Total 2011 CPUE was the second highest among all control creeks and
sixth highest among all creeks; CPUE was not significantly different than
any of the impact creeks. Spot represented 52 percent of the catch,
followed by Atlantic menhaden at 25.2 percent, and bay anchovy at 16.7
percent. Daily Simpson scores were significantly lower in Long Creek
than Jacks, Drinkwater, and Tooley Creeks; daily Shannon scores were
also significantly lower than both Jacks and Drinkwater Creeks. the
Jaccard coefficient indicated that Long and Porter Creek have the most
species in common and these same two creeks were very similar in
community overlap as indicated by Morista-Horn index. Salinity at Long
Creek (surface and bottom) ranged from 9.83 ppt to 13 ppt with a mean
of 11.1 ppt. The pH of Long Creek ranged from 7.1 to 8.7, which is in
accordance with state water quality guidelines for the maintenance of
biological integrity (NCDENR 2007). Measurements of DO in Long Creek
ranged from 2.25 mg/L to 10.3 mg/L, with a mean concentration of 6.65
mg/L. Surface levels of DO exhibited no occurrence lower than 5.0 mg/L;
measurements of bottom parameters indicated five occurrences (one in
Ma and four in June).
Benthos:
Sweeps: - taxa richness was similar to Little Creek, although upstream
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One upstream & one
vs downstream were reversed for which was higher in the two creeks.
downstream site
EBIs were also close to Little Creek, but Long Creek's scores were both
sampled yearly
below 2.0.
Ponars (significant differences only): upstream abundance was higher
than Huddles Cut and lower than Porter Creek and downstream
A-16

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
abundance was lower than all impact creeks. Upstream Shannon score
was higher than Huddles Cut and downstream Shannon score was lower
than all impact creeks.
Metals sediment:
All metal concentrations were within the range of values found at other
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
creeks in the area. Concentrations of Al, Ag, As, Cr, Cu, Mo, Se and Zn
were within the range of background values found for the Pamlico River
Estuary. Concentrations of Cd in Long Creek were above background
values from the Pamlico River Estuary but below the ERL.
Metals water.
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, Se, and Zn were below values for the
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
limit of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Although values
for Cr and Cd were higher than world oceans, they were similar to the
other creeks sampled. Long returned a Fe concentration below the
mean of all creeks. For subsequent sample analysis, a new lab with
more sensitive capabilities is being sought.
PAMLICO SOUND
Salinity:
Average annual salinity at this site in 2011 is almost 4 psu higher than in
Like SS1, Mann -Whitney comparisons indicate PS1 salinity for the
1 site, monitor take
Average monthly salinities at PS1 ranged from a low of 8.2 psu in
2010. Like all monitors, Hurricane Irene shifted the lowest salinity reading
combined Tooley Creek pre -Mod Alt L years was significantly lower
readings every 1.5 hours
September to a high of 15.5 psu in August with the average annual
in 2011 to September, in contrast to February in 2010.
than the two years of post -Mod Alt L data at PS1 while salinity for
salinity at 12.0 psu. Like SS1, the water levels varied but were
the combined Huddles Creek pre -Mod Alt L years was significantly
consistently deep enough for readings and the data set is the second
higher than the post -Mod Alt L data. Long-term monthly and 2011
most complete of all the monitors. Water depths are greatest at this
salinities show a similar pattern to SS1 and the other monitored
station and while salinity increases as discharge decreases and
creeks with long-term data.
decreases with local rainfall, it is inconsistent with changes in depth.
MUDDY CREEK
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Muddy Creek resulted in a total catch of
Total abundance and CPUE for 2011 was 4.5 times lower than 2010.
One site sampled weekly
1,079 fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the
Species richness increased from 13 species captured in 2010 to 17
April through June by
vast majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 17 species.
species in 2011. Spot and pinfish were most abundant in 2010. The
otter trawl
Total 2011 CPUE was the second lowest among all control creeks, third
Jaccard coefficient indicated that the 2011 sampling of Muddy Creek and
Species richness is tied for second highest for all years with 1999
lowest for all creeks, and was not significantly different than any impact
the 2010 sampling year had less than half of the captured fish species in
although total abundance is the second lowest for all 12 years. Both
creek. Spot represented 37 percent of the catch, followed by bay
common (0.43). The Morisita-Horn index indicated that the 2011 and 2010
Simpson and Shannon scores were the highest over the duration of
anchovy at 34 percent, and inland silverside at 11.7 percent. Salinity at
sampling years of Muddy Creek were similar in terms of community
sampling.
Muddy Creek (surface and bottom) ranged from 9.5 ppt to 13.7 ppt with a
overlap (0.67). Both 2011 Simpson's and Shannon's indices scores
mean of 11.4 ppt. The pH of Muddy Creek ranged from 7.2 to 8.5, which
increased from the 2010 sampling year. Mean salinity was almost twice as
The 2011 CPUE for spot is significantly lower compared to the
is in accordance with state water quality guidelines for the maintenance
high in 2011 as in 2010 while DO was comparable between the two years.
combined pre -Mod Alt L years but there is no significance between
of biological integrity (NCDENR 2007). Measurements of DO in Muddy
pre- and post- year for this species. Conversely, for Atlantic
Creek ranged from 3.97 mg/L to 10.22 mg/L, with a mean concentration
menhaden, only the pre- vs post- comparison is significant with the
of 6.89 mg/L. Surface levels of DO exhibited no occurrence lower than
pre- years lower than the post- years. The number of freshwater
5.0 mg/L; measurements of bottom parameters indicated four
species, including catfish and sunfish, continue to decline as they
occurrences (June).
did throughout the duration of the entire sampling period. Daily
Shannon scores for 2011 were significantly higher than the pre -Mod
Alt L years. There was great variability in catch among sampling
occasions and between months; however, juvenile marine transients
generally appeared in the spring at which time trawl catch increased
for several weeks.
Benthos:
Sweeps: taxa richness at the downstream location was the fourth highest
The EBIs for both stations were below 2.0 and similar to 2010.
Annual comparison showed no year to be significantly different than
One upstream & one
over 13-year period and the fifth highest at the upstream location.
either 2010 or 2011 the two post -Mod Alt L years. When the pre -
downstream site
sampled yearly
Upstream EBI was below the mean for all previous years at this station
and was tied for 9th place among all previous years at this station.
Mod Alt L years are combined and compared to 2011 and the pre -
Mod Alt L years are compared to post -Mod Alt L years for either
Downstream EBI was fifth highest for all years and just below long term
station, there was no significant difference for the upstream station;
mean for that station.
however, at the downstream station, 2011 was significantly higher
A-17

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
than the pre -Mod Alt L years but pre- and post- years were similar.
Ponars (significant differences only): upstream abundance was lower
2011 abundance in Muddy Creek was significantly higher at the
than Jacks, Drinkwater, and Porter Creeks and downstream abundance
downstream Muddy Creek station than at that station in the Huddles
was higher than Jacobs, Tooley, and Porter Creeks. Upstream Shannon
Cut or Tooley Creek pre -Mod Alt L years.
score was lower than all the impact creeks and downstream Shannon
was higher than Huddles Cut and Porter Creek.
Metals sediment:
Overall, Al, Cd, Cu and Mo were the only metals present in the 2011
Seven of the 10 metals decreased and three increased from last year. All
Concentrations of all 10 metals in the sediment sample collected
One site sampled yearly
Muddy Creek sediment at concentrations that were slightly above
values were within the range of the 2010 values.
during 2010 from Muddy Creek were within the range of previous
background levels for the local area. However, the Cd and Cu levels
values obtained for sediment from the creek; only Al and Fe were
were less than the ERL value (there is no ERL value for Al or Mo). The
slightly higher than the long term means.
concentration of Ag was higher than reported for average marine
sediment and continental crust. However, the Ag value for the creek was
similar to values from control areas in the Pamlico River where the
average was 0.2 ± 0.03 pg/g and Ag concentrations in typical samples
from the Pamlico River have been higher than in the various creek
samples. Therefore, an Ag value of 0.11 pg/g appears to be natural for
the area.
Metals water.
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, and Zn were below values for the limit
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Value for Se was
above the world ocean value and the highest of all sampled creeks.
Although values for Cr and Cd were higher than world oceans, they were
similar to the other creeks sampled. Muddy returned a Fe concentration
below the mean of all creeks. For subsequent sample analysis, a new
lab with more sensitive capabilities is being sought.
DUCK CREEK
Flow:
The two most upstream meters recorded 8 and 5 flow events
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
Two flow meters take
respectively with 23 and 20 calendar days of flow; the longest
—72 readings per day
consecutive flow event recorded was 9 days in duration. The two most
downstream meters 7 and 27 events respectively with 64 and 113
calendar days of flow; the longest consecutive flow event was 61 days in
duration.
Salinity:
Monitors were installed in July. Upstream monthly average salinity
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
2 sites, monitors take
ranged from a low of 2.6 psu in September to a high of 11.4 psu in
readings every 1.5 hours
December. Downstream monthly average salinity ranged from a low of
8.4 in October to a high of 10.1 in July. Average annual upstream salinity
was 8.0 psu and 9.3 psu at the downstream monitor, making this creek
the least saline of all monitored creeks; however, the data set does not
contain the entire year. Salinities did not track closely between the
monitors in Duck Creek with the most upstream monitor showing higher
monthly averages in July (although only barely higher) and in both
November and December. Like most other upstream monitors, 2011
salinity at DKCS1 fluctuated more frequently and with greater range than
at DKCS2 and corresponded quickly to local rain events recorded at the
Duck Creek gauge. However, variations in discharge from the river did
not seem to be reflected.
Wetland water level:
All eight wells exhibited wetland hydroperiods with longest periods
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
Eight wells take readings
ranging from 19.5 to 35.2 percent of the growing season. Only one well
every 1.5 hrs
(DKCW1) contained the longest hydroperiod in the spring (March
through May), while all other occurred between August and November.
om

Appendix A. (continued).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
Water quality:
Sampling began in December 2011, so no seasonal trends can be
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
Two sites sampled once
discussed for 2011 data. Summary of means and ranges are presented
every two weeks
below.
Water depths (in): 4.63 and 4.5-4.75;
Temps (C): 14.5 and 14.2-14.8;
Salinity: 11.6 and 11.3-11.9;
Conductivity: 15.6 and 15.1-16.0;
Turbidity: 2.00 and 1.10-2.90;
DO (mg/L): 8.95 and 8.84-9.06;
pH: 7.64 and 7.34-7.93;
NH4-N: 0.02 and 0.01-0.02;
NO3-N: 0.000 and 0.000-0.000;
DKN: 0.85 and 0.59-1.10;
PN: 0.21 and 0.17-0.24;
PO4-P: 0.009 and 0.003-0.014;
TDP: 0.03 and 0.02-0.03;
PP: 0.05 and 0.05-0.05;
Chl a: 14.58 and 10.89-18.26;
FLU: 0.33 and 0.29-0.37.
Vegetation:
All transects had sparse herbaceous and shrub layers and a moderately
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
Four transects once
dense canopy dominated by a variety of wetland tree species including
annually
laurel oak, swamp chestnut oak, red maple, green ash, sweet gum, and
tulip poplar. The herb and shrub/woody vine layers at three of the four
transects were dominated by cane. Almost all dominant species were
intolerant of brackish conditions -only one species at one transect, netted
chain fern, was considered tolerant
Fish:
A total of 13 sampling days at Duck Creek resulted in a total catch of 364
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled weekly
fish. A variety of freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater species, the vast
April through June by
majority juveniles, were captured, representing a total of 12 species.
otter trawl
Total 2011 CPUE was the lowest among all creeks and was significantly
lower than Jacks, Jacobs, and Drinkwater Creeks. Atlantic menhaden
represented 35.4 percent of the catch, followed by spot at 25.5 percent,
and bay anchovy at 25 percent. Daily Shannon scores in Duck were
significantly lower than Jacks. The Jaccard coefficient indicated that
Duck had the most species in common with Porter Creek and the
Morista-Horn index indicated that community overlap was most similar
between Duck and Jacks Creeks. Salinity at Duck Creek (surface and
bottom) ranged from 2.8 ppt to 9.3 ppt with a mean of 5.7 ppt. The pH of
Duck Creek ranged from 6.1 to 8.0, which is in accordance with state
water quality guidelines for the maintenance of biological integrity
(NCDENR 2007). Measurements of DO in Duck Creek ranged from 2.62
mg/L to 9.13 mg/L, with a mean concentration of 5.85 mg/L. Surface
levels of DO exhibited two occurrences lower than 5.0 mg/L (May and
June); measurements of bottom parameters indicated five occurrences
two in April, two in May, and one in June).
Benthos:
Sweeps: upstream taxa richness was among the highest and
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One upstream & one
downstream richness was within the mid -range; EBIs were below 2.0.
downstream site
sampled yearly
Ponars (significant differences only): upstream abundance was higher
than Jacks, Jacobs, and Tooley Creeks and Huddles Cut and
downstream abundance was higher than Jacobs, Tooley, and Porter
Creeks. Upstream Shannon score was higher than Huddles Cut and
A-19

Appendix A. (concluded).
2011
2011 compared to previous monitoring year
Post -Mod Alt L data compared to pre -Mod Alt L data
downstream Shannon score was higher than Porter Creek and lower
than Jacks and Drinkwater Creeks.
Metals sediment:
All metal concentrations were within the range of values found at other
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
creeks in the area. Concentrations of Al, Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mo, Se and
Zn were within the range of background values found for the Pamlico
River Estuary.
Metals water.
Concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, and Zn were below values for the limit
2011 was first year of data collection.
2011 was first year of data collection.
One site sampled yearly
of quantification (LOQ) for the test run by the lab. Value for Se was
above the world ocean value but less than Muddy Creek. Although
values for Cr and Cd were higher than world oceans, they were similar to
the other creeks sampled. Duck returned the highest Fe concentration of
all creeks. For subsequent sample analysis, a new lab with more
sensitive capabilities is being sought.
A-20