20100952 Ver 1_Staff Comments_20101220

Strickland, Bev
From: Kulz, Eric
Sent: Monday, December 20, 2010 9:43 AM
To: Xu, Lin
Cc: Tugwell, Todd SAW; Hill, Tammy; Strickland, Bev
Subject: Martin Creek II - Cherokee County (#10-0952)
Lin
DWQ has reviewed the proposed restoration plan for the Martin Creek II project. It appears that the site is a good
candidate for stream restoration, enhancement and preservation and DWQ recognizes the value of preserving the upper
headwater streams that make up this project. With respect to 401 Water Quality Certification, the proposed activities
are not expected to contravene water quality standards. The project is deemed issued.
However, please be advised that DWQ has concerns about the lowest portion of the project, along the Martin Creek
mainstem. The presence of overhead power line easements and the close proximity of a road to Martin Creek are likely
going to affect the credits generated for this portion of the site. The presence of the power line easement limits the
development of a forested riparian zone along the stream; the success criterion for vegetation will likely not be met. In
addition, the periodic clearing and/or herbicide application will negatively affect the quality of this portion of the site.
The close proximity of the road will also result in credit deduction, as a portion of the stream will have little to no buffer
where the road approaches.
The proposed wetland restoration will involve removal of surficial soils to expose soils exhibiting hydric characteristics
which were identified from 14 to 22 inches below land surface. Based on discussions with USACE, these areas may be
considered wetland creation and not restoration, and credits may be adjusted reflecting this determination. In addition,
the majority of the proposed wetland restoration is located within the power line easement, which will affect the
proposed vegetative community. The inability to maintain a forested wetland will likely also affect the credits that can
be generated on this project. The IRT is currently discussing the presence of utility easements and their effects on
mitigation sites.
Eric W. Kulz
Environmental Senior Specialist
N.C. Division of Water Quality
401 Oversight and Express Permitting Unit
1650 MSC
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail correspondence to and from this address may be subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law and may be
disclosed to third parties
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