20100284 Ver 1_Monitoring Plan_20100415

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20100284
MONITORING PLAN
Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration - Phase 1
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
Prepared by
Water
BLUE Land
infrastructure. PA
Submitted to
N.C- iWedandn RestkrrA"=9Yafr0m
Q
The North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program
1619 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1619
August 6, 2001
BLWI Project Number 990752
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MONITORING PLAN - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION - PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION .......................................................1
II. VEGETATION ........................................................1
A. Methods ........................................................I
B. Success Criteria ..................................................2
C. Monitoring Timeline ............................................... 2
III. HYDROLOGY .......................................................2
A. Methods ........................................................2
B. Success Criteria ..................................................2
IV. CONCLUSION .........................................................3
APPENDIX A. Planted Wetland Species
APPENDIX B. Planting Plan Map
MONITORING PLAN - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION - PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
INTRODUCTION
The North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program (NCWRP) was established to restore
wetlands, streams and stream side areas throughout the state. The NCWRP has designated
potential restoration areas that will most effectively improve the water quality, flood prevention,
and fisheries and wildlife habitat functions. Wilson Bay is one of these priority areas and the
NCWRP intends to restore some of the wetlands lost through the development of the former
Jacksonville wastewater treatment plant. This project is part of that plan to restore wetland near
Wilson Bay. The City of Jacksonville also plans to create a sturgeon hatchery ("Sturgeon City")
using the tanks and other facilities of the former wastewater treatment plant. The restored
wetlands will provide conditions conducive to the ongoing efforts to reestablish shellfish in the
Bay.
The NCWRP acquired a conservation easement from the City of Jacksonville for the purposes of
this wetland restoration. The easement consists of 3.06 acres of waterfront property at the former
Jacksonville Wastewater Treatment Plant site on Wilson Bay. After analyzing historical
photographs going back to 1938, before the treatment plant was built, it is apparent the easement
area was a tidal wetland. The treatment plant proceeded in later years to fill and dump soil and
debris into the wetland. A small fringe of tidal wetland still exists on the waterfront. The existing
marsh will remain undisturbed. The restoration plans are to excavate the manmade fill piles and
convert the easement area back to its historical state of tidal wetland. This area will be preserved
in a permanent conservation easement.
VEGETATION
Construction and grading work will be completed in the spring of 2001. Once the excavation and
grading work is complete, revegetation will take place. Grasses will be planted first, followed by
shrubs and trees. (See "Project Specifications - Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration Phase I" for
more details on plant material and installation). Successful vegetation establishment is an
essential factor in restoring appropriate wetland functions and sustainability of the site.
Methods
Vegetation monitoring will be led by a trained biologist. Approximately 1% of the total area of
each vegetation community type will be assessed annually to determine overall vegetation status.
Vegetation species, percentage survival and percent cover, as well as overall condition when
compared to the planting plan will be assessed using predetermined plots (Table 1, Appendix A,
Appendix B). Quick visual assessments of the remaining area will also be conducted to insure
that no severely impaired vegetation, bare spots, or large communities of invasive plants exist.
Table 1. Sampling Plots
Communi Type Area (acres) No. o Plots Plot Size
Bay Forest Area 0.28 2 5' x 10'
Cypress-Gum Swam Area 0.07 2 3' x 5'
Salt-Shrub Area 0.49 2 10' x 10'
Brackish Marsh 1.87 8 10' x 10'
page 1
MONITORING PLAN - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION - PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
Success Criteria
Successful revegetation will be realized when 75% vegetative coverage is attained throughout
the site and the plants have survived for five years. Plant survival and coverage is determined by
the percent of material alive based on the planting spacing. Coverage of 25% should be achieved
after the first year, 50% coverage should reached after the third year, and 75% after the 5th year.
If the vegetation establishment does not meet these goals by the specified time the "Wilson Bay
Wetland Restoration Phase I - Management Plan " should be consulted to determine the
appropriate measures to fix the problem.
Monitoring Timeline
Vegetation will be monitored annually for five years beginning in September 2001. A report
outlining findings will be submitted to the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program no
later than two months after each monitoring field visit.
HYDROLOGY
Two types of hydrology exist on-site, groundwater and tidal. The marsh plants require tidal
influences to survive thus tidal hydrology will be deemed successful if the plants are successful.
Groundwater hydrology functions are essential to the "Bay Forest", "Cypress-Gum Swamp", and
the "Salt Shrub" areas (Appendix B).
Methods
Two groundwater monitoring wells will be installed on-site after construction has been
completed. One well will be located in the higher elevation "Bay Forest" area of the site while
the other will be located in the lower elevation "Salt Shrub." Water level readings will be taken
daily, stored using a data logger, and data will be retrieved every year during the monitoring
visit.
Soil temperature will be monitored to determine the length of the growing season. According to
the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Wetlands Delineation Manual (1987), the growing
season is defined as the portion of the year when soil temperature at 19.7 inches below the
surface is higher than biological zero (5 °C). One thermocouple will be installed on-site.
Temperature readings will be taken at various times throughout the day and stored using a data
logger. Data will be retrieved during the annual monitoring visit. Water level and soil
temperature data will be collected for 5 years beginning in summer 2001.
Success Criteria
Hydrologic conditions will be deemed successful if the water table is within 12 inches of the
surface for at least 5% of the growing season for at least 50% of the years in the monitoring
period (USACE 1987). The number of days that make up the 5% must be consecutive. These
conditions will support the introduced wetland vegetation communities and promote microbial
activity. The growing season will be determined by use of soil temperature, as described above.
If problems concerning hydrology are observed, refer to the "Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration
Phase I - Management Plan " to determine the appropriate course of action.
page 2
MONITORING PLAN - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION - PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
CONCLUSION
A monitoring report will be produced following each annual monitoring site visit. Each report
will include a list of any vegetation or hydrology problems which may threaten the ability to
obtain success criteria. If needed, photographs and a map indicating the locations of problem
areas will be included in the report. Revegetation, soil amendments, erosion control, vandalism,
and many more management issues are covered in the "Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration Phase I
- Management Plan. " The monitoring report will refer to the appropriate section in the
management plan whenever corrective actions are deemed necessary to reach success criteria
goals. Each report will detail methods for collecting data, any problems in collecting data, the
results of the data, and how those results compare to success criteria.
page 3
APPENDIX A
Planted Wetland Species
Annendix A. Wetland plant species that will be installed at the restoration site.
COMMUNITY SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME PLANTING
Bay Forest Cyrilla racemiflora Titi scattered
Dionaea muscipula Venus Fly Trap clustered
Gordonia lasianthus Loblolly Bay scattered
Ilex coriacea Sweet Gallberry scattered
Ilex glabra Bitter Gallberry scattered
flex cassine Dahoon scattered
Kalmia angustifolia Lamb-Kill scattered
Lyonia lucida Fetterbush clustered
Magnolia virginiana Sweet Bay scattered
Myrica heterophylla Bayberry scattered
Persea palustris Swamp Bay scattered
Pinus palustris Longleaf Pine scattered
Pinus serotina Pond Pine scattered
Rhododendron viscosum Swamp Azalea scattered
Sarracenia flava Yellow Pitcher Plant clustered
Sarracenia purpurea Purple Pitcher Plant clustered
Salt Shrub Baccharis halimifolia
Hibiscus moscheutos
Iva frutescens
Juniperus virginiana
Kosteletskya virginica
Myrica cerifera
Sea Myrtle throughout
Rose Mallow throughout
Marsh Elder massed
Eastern Red Cedar throughout
Seashore Mallow throughout
Wax Myrtle massed
Brackish Marsh Cladium jamaicense
Juncus roemerianus
Spartina cynosuroides
Spartina patens
Marsh Hummock Baccharis halimifolia
Juniperus virginiana
Myrica cerifera
Tidal Creek Scirpus robustus
Saw Grass grouped
Black Needlerush scattered
Giant Cordgrass grouped
Saltmeadow Cordgrass grouped
Sea Myrtle massed
Eastern Red Cedar throughout
Wax Myrtle throughout
Saltmarsh Bulrush grouped
Gum-Cypress Swamp Cyrilla racemiflora Titi scattered
Leucothoe axillaris Coastal Dog-Hobble scattered
Lyonia lucida Fetterbush massed
Nyssa biflora Swamp Tupelo scattered
Nyssa aquatica Water Tupelo scattered
Persea borbonia Red Bay scattered
Saururus cernuus Lizard Tail scattered
Taxodium distichum Bald Cypress throughout
APPENDIX B
Planting Plan Map
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A:
NORTH CAROLINA WETLANDS RESTORATION
PROGRAM MITIGATION
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS CHECKLIST FOR SECTION 404
PERMIT MITIGATION SITES
(April 2, 1998 version)
Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration - Phase I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
Prepared by
BLULand
E Water
Infrastructure, en
Submitted to
a
N.C. Wetlands Restoration Program
NCDENR WQ-
The North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program
1619 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1619
August 6, 2001
BLWI Project Number 990752
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A:
NORTH CAROLINA WETLANDS RESTORATION PROGRAM MITIGATION
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS CHECKLIST FOR SECTION 404 PERMIT
MITIGATION SITES (April 2, 1998 version)
Appendices included:
Appendix A: Location Map
Appendix B: Set of engineering plans and drawings entitled "Wilson Bay Wetland
Restoration Phase I" dated 01/14/2001 (Sheets 1 through 8)
Appendix C: Reference Marsh Location Map
Appendix D: Photographs
Appendix E: "Project Specifications - Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration Phase I"
Appendix F: "Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration Phase I - Management Plan"
Appendix G: Soil Report
Appendix H: Tide gage data
Appendix I: "Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration Phase I - Monitoring Plan"
Appendix J: "Map of a Topographic Survey of the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration
Program Wilson Bay (Sturgeon City) Wetland Restoration Project (Phase I)"
Standard font indicates original "Appendix All outline, while responses are designated in
bold font.
I. Location Information.
A. Watershed by USGS Hydrologic Map Cataloging Unit Number. White Oak
River Basin (WOK2 #03-05-02) (code: 03030001010050).
B. County.Onslow.
C. Stream name and classification. Wilson Bay fed by New River
(SC HQW NSW).
D. Site identified on USGS Quad sheet or NWI map (7.5 minute) (with quad sheet
name) and UTM coordinates of site. Jacksonville South Quad Sheet,
3846750 meters N, 277500 meters E.
E. Site identified on NRCS Soil Survey with appropriate Sheet Numbers.
Onslow County Soil Survey, Sheet 29.
F. Narrative description of location, including roads, nearest municipality, and
general description of how to get to the site. Jacksonville, near downtown.
US 258 over old bridge, south on Court Street, old treatment plant on the
left.
G. Location map with roads and nearest municipality (not larger than 1" = 400').
Appendix A. Location Map.
page 1 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
II. Project Description (should be stated in terms of goals and objectives).
The City of Jacksonville has plans to create a museum, education complex, and
research facility including a sturgeon hatchery ("Sturgeon City") using the tanks
and other facilities of a former wastewater treatment plant. The goal of this part of
the project is to support ongoing efforts to improve water quality and aquatic
habitat by restoring a portion of the site that has been impacted by the wastewater
treatment plant back to historic brackish marsh. The restored wetland will help
stabilize the shoreline, filter runoff, and provide wildlife and aquatic habitat. After
the wetland is established, the City of Jacksonville plans to create access to the
wetland for public enjoyment and education by building a boardwalk. Another
objective of this marsh restoration project is to buffer the bay from the additional
traffic anticipated from the revitalization efforts of the wastewater treatment plant.
A. Type of mitigation (restoration, creation, enhancement, preservation).
Restoration and preservation.
Cowardin classification and/or stream type (cold water, cool water, or
warm water). E2EM1/SS1P = estuarine intertidal, emergent,
persistent/scrub-shrub broad-leaved deciduous irregularly flooded.
Narrative description of vegetation types to be established or existing. A
fringe of marsh grass exists along the southern shore of the property.
This brackish marsh vegetation will be extended further inland and
along the northern shore. Landward, a salt shrub area consisting of
shrubs and herbaceous plants will border the marsh grasses. Along
the western property boundary a cypress-gum swamp community
with shrubs and trees will be created. A bay forest will be created in
the northwest portion of the property. This forest will contain trees,
shrubs, and herbaceous plants. (Community types based upon native
communities and Classification of the Natural Communities of North
Carolina, Third Approximation, NCNHP, NCDEHNR,1990).
Appendix B. Sheet 6 - Plantings.
3. Use of a reference ecosystem in site planning and design and detailed
description of that system.
Photography, USGS maps and on-site investigations were utilized to
find areas which could be studied to create a basis for the restoration
plan. Three areas were found and were investigated to determine
marsh characteristics. Reference Marsh #3, to the west of the
property, was investigated briefly with only a visual inspection. The
other two reference areas, #1 and #2, are located on the city of
Jacksonville property and were investigated in detail. During the
investigation, plant species lists were made, vegetation breaks were
staked and surveyed, and soils were sampled. The reference marshes
contain Spartina cynosuroides with small amounts of Scirpus robustus
page 2 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
and Spartina patens. The salt shrub zone contains Myrica cerifera,
Baccharis halimifolia, Juniperus virginiana, Iva frutescens and
Borrichia frutescens. In general, the marsh is dominated by Spartina
cynosuroides with small salt shrub hummocks throughout. The marsh
limits are 0.8 ft to 2.5 ft (NGVD 29). The restored marsh is modeled
after the information obtained from the reference wetlands. Appendix
C. Reference Marsh Location Map, Appendix D. Photograph 1.
B. Project Size.
Overall site size. 3.06 acres.
2. Acreage of each type of mitigation intended on the site.
Preservation = 0.25 acres; Restoration = 2.81 acres.
Acreage of each vegetation type (by Cowardin classification) intended on
site. EMI: emergent persistent -1.87 acres, SS1: scrub-shrub
broad-leaved deciduous - 0.49 acres, F01: forested broad-leaved
deciduous - 0.35 acres.
By Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina, Third
Approximation (NCNHP, NCDEHNR,1990): bay forest area (F01) -
0.28 acres, cypress-gum swamp area (FO1) - 0.07 acres, salt shrub
area (SS1) - 0.49, brackish marsh (EMI) -1.87 acres. Appendix B.
Sheet 2 - Schematic Layout.
4. Location map showing each mitigation type and vegetation type.
Appendix B. Sheet 2 - Schematic Layout and Sheet 6 - Plantings
C. Wetland and/or stream functions goals and objectives for establishment (if
restoration or enhancement) or existing (if preservation).
Description of how functions are determined or evaluated, methodologies
used, etc. If modeling is used, assumptions, highs, lows, and averages
should be included. Reference marshes and an on-site tide gage were
used to determine functions and community types.
2. Endangered species present or likely in the future or being impacted either
positively or negatively. No endangered species are recognized by the
NC Natural Heritage Program to be in the vicinity and none are likely
to be impacted negatively, however this project is part of a plan
to improve water quality and reintroduce the endangered sturgeon to
Wilson Bay.
page 3 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
3. Description of existing (pre-mitigation project) functions and how the
goals of the mitigation will contribute to desired functions and/or values.
Areas of artificially created upland exist throughout the property due
to past dumping and construction-related activities from the old
wastewater treatment plant. The upland areas have limited the
property's hydrologic connection to tidal influences causing
freshwater wetlands to form landward. A small tidal brackish marsh,
which will be preserved, exists along the shore. The disturbed
mitigation areas will be graded and returned to their historical
function as a brackish marsh. Marsh hummocks and a tidal creek will
be installed to create and enhance wildlife habitat. The increase in
habitat and total wetland area will add up to create an increase in
water quality for Wilson Bay.
D. Vegetation.
Pre-mitigation project description of vegetation of site with appropriate
maps. Historical land development activities such as filling and
dumping associated with the construction and operation of the
treatment plant have altered the land surface of the area. By limiting
contact of areas with the waters from Wilson Bay, plant communities
other than brackish marsh, such as non-tidal freshwater wetlands and
uplands, have developed. The artificially created non-tidal freshwater
wetlands are remnants of waste lagoons used by the old wastewater
treatment plant. The upland is mostly comprised of a maintained
grass lawn. A few small areas of red cedar and willow exist
throughout the site. Appendix B. Sheet 3 - Existing Topography and
Demolition and Appendix D. Photographs 2-3.
2. Mitigation site vegetation goals and objectives.
The goal of the project is to restore the disturbed mitigation area to
brackish marsh vegetation. Three small marsh hummocks, as seen in
the reference marsh, with shrubs and trees will be created within the
brackish marsh area. Landward, a salt shrub area, a cypress-gum
swamp community, and a bay forest will be created. These areas will
contain trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants selected for their
respective community types based upon Classification of the Natural
Communities of North Carolina, Third Approximation (NCNHP,
NCDEHNR,1990) and the analysis of the reference marsh area.
These vegetation communities are designed to provide habitat,
promote survival, increase water quality, and provide educational
opportunities. Appendix B. Sheet 6 - Plantings.
page 4 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
E. Wetland Hydrology.
Pre-mitigation project description of hydrology of site with appropriate
maps. Areas of artificially created upland exist throughout the
property due to past dumping and construction-related activities from
the old wastewater treatment plant. The upland areas have limited the
property's hydrologic connection to tidal influences causing
freshwater wetlands to form landward. A tidal brackish marsh exists
along the shore. Currently, stormwater enters the property through a
ditch on the western boundary and surface runoff from the north.
Appendix B. Sheet 3 - Existing Topography and Demolition.
2. Mitigation site hydrology goals and objectives with appropriate maps.
The site will be graded in such a manner as to remove the upland
barriers and facilitate a tidal influence across a larger extent of the
property. Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment
Control.
F. Soils.
1. Pre-mitigation project description of soils of site with appropriate maps.
Soils on site range from loamy sand to sand. In the wetland areas the
soil is saturated to the surface. In soil borings, particles of wetland
vegetation were found six feet under the surface in upland areas. This
combined with dark soil color (10YR 2/1) indicates the historical
surface has been buried under filling or other land disturbances.
Fragments of glass, plastic, metal, and other debris were found while
angering to a depth of six feet. Some larger fragments of asphalt,
marl, concrete and rocks were also encountered.
2. Mitigation site soils goals and objectives with appropriate maps (if
changes in the soils are being made). Unconsolidated fill material will be
removed to 6" below final grade and clean topsoil will be added for
planting. Soil objectives include stability and the ability to support the
growth of the proposed plants. Debris removal will facilitate another
objective of presenting an aesthetically pleasing, safe, and accessible
environment for educational and viewing purposes.
III. Site Preparation Plan.
A. Orientation and scale maps (1" = 50'). Refer to Appendix B. "Wilson Bay
Wetland Restoration Phase I" site plans (Sheets 1-8) and Appendix E.
"Project Specifications - Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration Phase I"
(Specifications).
page 5 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
B. Schematic drawing of proposed changes in topography (3" contours for finished
grades). Grading plan. Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment
Control.
C. Location and elevation of all structures, especially those controlling hydrology.
Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment Control.
D. Construction details for all structures. Appendix B. Sheet 7 - Erosion Control
Details, Specifications.
E. Spot elevations for low points, high points, and structures. All target elevations
and grades mapped. Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment
Control.
F. Construction timetable.
2/20/01 Begin construction - clearing, grubbing, demolition, erosion
and sediment control
2/27/01 Continue construction - begin grading
3/02/01 Continue construction - begin temporary seeding
3/23/01 Finish construction
G. Benchmark locations. Appendix B. Sheet 3 - Existing Topography and
Demolition.
H. Limits of disturbance. Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment
Control.
Areas to be graded and backfilled (or filled). Description of earthwork moving
required including amounts, type of soils moved and locations for borrow or
relocation, sources of topsoils and the nature of these, grading, etc.
Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment Control,
Appendix E. Specifications.
Property boundaries. Appendix B. Sheet 3 - Existing Topography and
Demolition.
K. Specifications for deconsolidation of substrates. Appendix E. Specifications -
Section "Earthwork."
L. Stream/channel dimensions and configurations. See tidal creek on Appendix B.
Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment Control, Sheet 5 -
Profile/Cross-Sections, Sheet 7 - Erosion Control Details.
M. Locations, sizes, nature, of existing or proposed buffers and map. N/A
page 6 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
N. On-site wetland boundaries, existing and after mitigation (proposed). Appendix
B. Existing = Sheet 3 - Existing Topography and Demolition; After
mitigation = Sheet 2 - Schematic Layout.
0. Areas for stockpiling soils. Appendix E. Specifications.
P. Slope stabilization techniques. Erosion control matting used on slopes;
immediate seeding. Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment
Control, Sheet 7 - Erosion Control Details, Appendix E. Specifications.
Q. Maintenance procedures for maintaining slopes, grades, etc. Immediate planting
following grading completion with temporary seeding on any areas where
planting is delayed. Maintenance of erosion control measures as described in
specifications. Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment Control,
Sheet 7 - Erosion Control Details, Appendix E. Specifications.
R. Other important site features and/or considerations. Appendix B. Sheets 1-8,
Appendix E. Specifications.
S. Habitat structures and locations. Marsh hummocks are being planted as seen
in reference marsh as wildlife habitat. Appendix B. Sheet 2 - Schematic
Layout, Sheet 6 - Plantings, Sheet 8 - Planting Details.
IV. Vegetation Plans.
A. Existing vegetation (description, species composition, relative abundance of
dominants and subdominants, forest age, vegetation structure of uplands and
wetlands. The site is a highly disturbed urban area, with a grassed lawn and
minimal wooded areas (red cedar and willow).
B. Vegetation structure to be restored, enhanced, and/or created (description, species
composition, relative abundance of dominants and subdominants, and vegetation
structure of uplands and wetlands) (including buffers). Appendix B. Sheet 6 -
Plantings, and Sheet 8 - Planting Details.
C. Plantings/seedings should be listed to species. Propagules should be listed as to
whether "local" (within 200 miles north and south), and should be verified by a
nursery certificate. Acceptable substitute species. Field collection instructions and
techniques, if field collection is being used for sources. Plant material guarantees.
Appendix B. Sheet 8 - Planting Details, Appendix E. Specifications.
D. If a Reference Ecosystem (RE) is used, the diversity and densities of species
within the RE relative to the target for the mitigation site should be discussed.
The reference marshes, though slightly impacted, are dominated by Spartina
cynosuroides with small zones of Scirpus robustus and Spartina patens. Based
upon the experience of the staff, a larger percentage of Scirpus robustus and
page 7 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
Spartina patens will be planted to increase diversity. The salt shrub
community in the reference marsh is dominated by Juniperus virginiana,
Myrica cerifera, and Baccharis halimifolia, with small amounts of Iva
frutescens and Borrichia frutescens. Due to sight lines, percentages of
Juniperus virginiana will be reduced and be kept to the side of the marsh.
The reference marsh was not utilized in the preparation of the cypress-gum
swamp area and the bay forest area. These areas are being proposed as
transitional zones and for educational viewing purposes.
E. Transition zones between wetland and upland should be discussed with regards to
suitable transition zone species and planting densities, and composition. Within
the bay forest area, a transition will occur from wetter species near the salt
shrub area to drier species upslope. Appendix B. Sheet 6 - Plantings, Sheet 8
- Planting Details.
F. Sources of all plant materials, soils, fertilizers, habitat structures, etc. Plant
materials and fertilizers will be obtained from certified nurseries, while
cleaned topsoil will be obtained from a local source.
G. Landscaping contractor's responsibilities (fertilization, irrigation or watering
requirements, replacing plant mortalities, replanting seeded areas with
transplants, temporarily protecting vegetation from wildlife, number of site
inspections and frequencies). Appendix E. Specifications.
H. Plant handling instructions, seeding instructions, and planting techniques.
Appendix B. Sheet 8 - Planting Details, Appendix E. Specifications.
Planting timetable.
3/16/01 Begin planting
7/13/01 End planting
J. Schematic drawing of proposed vegetation distribution, spacing, and structure.
Appendix B. Sheet 6 - Plantings, Sheet 8 - Planting Details.
K. Areas to be vegetated identified on topo plans by species and planting methods.
Appendix B. Sheet 6 - Plantings, Sheet 8 - Planting Details.
L. Criteria for acceptable plant material. Appendix E. Specifications.
M. Special plant conditioning requirements (brackish/salt marsh species).
Appendix E. Specifications.
N. Details of proposals for slope stabilization by vegetation. Appendix E.
Specifications.
page 8 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
0. Exotic and/or nuisance plant control methods. Appendix F. Wilson Bay
Wetland Restoration Phase I - Management Plan.
P. Vegetative buffer descriptions. N/A
V. Soils plans.
A. Soils description and mapping (taxonomy, texture, color, structure, permeability,
organic content, sampling map, etc.). Soils on-site are comprised of
unconsolidated fill material with bricks, glass, sludge, concrete, etc. Upland
areas are compacted as well, due to heavy equipment use.
B. Schematic drawing of soils profile and spatial distribution. See previous
statement (Section V Part A).
C. Soil amendment details. Six inches of clean topsoil will be added. Plants will be
fertilized with slow-release Osmocote 10-10-10. Ten grams (10g) will be
added to each hole for marsh grasses.
D. Sedimentation and erosion control plan. Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion
and Sediment Control, Sheet 7 - Erosion Control Details, Appendix E.
Specifications.
E. Fertility sampling (on mitigation site and on RE if applicable) and discussion of
fertility results relative to the needs and requirements of the plantings proposed.
Soil samples from twelve locations on the site were sent to the North Carolina
Department of Agriculture Agronomic Division Laboratory. One near
surface sample was taken in the on-site upland, one in the freshwater
wetland area, and one in the reference tidal marsh. The final three near
surface samples were taken in the on-site tidal marsh. Six more samples were
taken in the unconsolidated fill at a depth that approximately corresponds to
the proposed grade. Nutrient levels are sufficient to support vegetation,
however, six inches of clean, limed topsoil will be added along with
slow-release Osmocote 10-10-10 fertilizer to promote healthy growth of the
plants. Appendix G. Soil Test Report.
F. Discussion of appropriateness of soils for the target vegetation and wetland.
Clean topsoil will be brought in and fertilized to promote good initial growth
of the vegetation. Over time, the new hydrology will allow the wetland to
build up organic materials on its own.
G. If PC farmland is used for a site, a discussion of presence, impacts, and remedies
for plow pans, field crowns, herbicide residues and carryover, and the drainage
system imposed on the farmland. N/A
page 9 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
VI. Hydrology Plans.
A. A description (written and shown on plans) of the existing water regime on the
site, including water budget, sources, volume, velocity, duration and frequency of
inundation and/or saturation, drainage area, seasonal highs and lows for each
source, rating of each source as primary, secondary, etc., and average depths of
surface and/or subsurface water. The primary source of hydrologic influence is
Wilson Bay. The tidal creek will extend and restore the hydrologic
connection of the wetland with the bay. Appendix H. Tide gage data.
B. Stream gage/staff gage data and monitoring well data where flooding provides
hydrologic input to the site. Appendix H. Tide gage data.
C. Field verification of hydrologic regime. Reference marsh and tide gage data.
D. Depth to water table and dates and methods of measurement with map showing
locations of measurements. Tidal data only.
E. Duration of water table within 12 inches of the surface of the ground in
consecutive days and dates and methods of measurement (including map showing
variations across site). See jurisdictional wetlands on Appendix B. Sheet 3 -
Existing Topography and Demolition.
F. Map of stream channels, dimensions, and configuration. See tidal creek on
Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and Sediment Control, Sheet 5 -
Profile/Cross-Sections, Sheet 7 - Erosion Control Details.
G. Modeling and assumptions, including highs, lows, and averages. Assumptions
include low rainfall inputs, however, when rainfall does occur the New River
tends to be flashy. Based on the reference marsh vegetation, a small
adjustment was made to the tide data.
H. Discussion of water budget regarding its appropriateness for the targeted wetland.
Based on the tide data, a tidal influence will occur in the brackish marsh
area. The salt shrub area will be intermittently wet based upon its elevation.
1. Description, location, and plans of any water control structures and devices.
The tide gate is located on Appendix B. Sheet 4 - Grading/Erosion and
Sediment Control, and Sheet 7 - Erosion Control Details.
VII. Stream Plans - All plans for stream restoration shall be developed in accordance with
Rosgen methodologies and/or in consultation with the N.C. Wildlife Resources
Commission. N/A
page 10 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE 1
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
VIII. Monitoring Plan.
A. Detailed description of success criteria for vegetation, soils, hydrology, and
functions, including timelines and targets to be met relative to the timeline.
Include a discussion of why the success criteria are appropriate and will measure
success. Successful revegetation will be realized when 75% vegetative
coverage is attained throughout the site and the plants have survived for five
years. Groundwater levels and soil temperature will be measured to
determine the site's new hydrologic regime. As per the US Army Corps of
Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (1987), an area is considered to have
an aquic regime if the water level is within 12" of the surface for 5% of the
growing season. The growing season is defined as the portion of the year
when soil temperature at 19.7 inches below the surface is higher than
biological zero (5°C). Vegetation establishment is an important factor in
promoting appropriate wetland functions and sustainability of the site. Soils
should consist of 6" of stable topsoil, properly compacted. It is important to
monitor erosion, because severe loss of sediment could lead to the flooding
out of the marsh. Appendix I. "Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration Phase I -
Monitoring Plan."
B. Detailed description of methods of measuring success criteria, including
contractors and individuals and their qualifications for collecting data and
performing monitoring measures. The NC Wetlands Restoration Program and
BLUE: Land, Water, Infrastructure, PA will be conducting the monitoring.
Vegetation monitoring will be led by a trained biologist. Approximately 1%
of the total area of each vegetation community type will be assessed annually
to determine overall vegetation status. Vegetation species, percentage
survival and percent cover, as well as overall condition when compared to
the planting plan (Appendix B. Sheet 6) will be assessed using predetermined
plots. Quick visual assessments of the remaining area will also be conducted
to insure that no severely impaired vegetation, bare spots, or large
communities of invasive plants exist. Water levels will be assessed using two
monitoring wells, and soil temperature will be monitored using a buried
thermocouple. Appendix I. "Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration Phase I -
Monitoring Plan."
C. "As-built" report within 30 days of completion of the initial construction and
planting. Appendix J. "Map of a Topographic Survey of the North Carolina
Wetlands Restoration Program Wilson Bay (Sturgeon City) Wetland
Restoration Project (Phase I)"
D. Observations and measurements of natural regeneration on the site as opposed to
the constructed and planted conditions. Actual measurements have not been
completed at the site yet. Brief observations to date indicate wetland
vegetation growth is advancing as expected.
page 11 of 12
RESPONSE TO APPENDIX A - WILSON BAY WETLAND RESTORATION PHASE I
Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina
E. Detailed description of monitoring schedule.
Year 1 Post-Construction monitoring - September 2001
Year 2 Post-Construction monitoring - September 2002
Year 3 Post-Construction monitoring - September 2003
Year 4 Post-Construction monitoring - September 2004
Year 5 Post-Construction monitoring - September 2005
F. Fauna monitoring methods and periods. N/A
G. Timetable for reporting monitoring results and to whom reports are made.
Monitoring reports will be submitted to N.C. Wetlands Restoration Program
no more than two months after the monitoring field visit is complete each
year (November, years 1 through 5).
IX. Maintenance and Contingency Plans. Appendix F. Wilson Bay Wetland Restoration -
Phase I Management Plan.
page 12 of 12