20211442 Ver 1_1007127 ILMA VORTAC CATEX Dec 2020 FAA Signed_20210429

Appendix A
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Categorical Exclusion Determination Checklist
I. General Information
Project/Action Name:
Replacement of the Visual Omnidirectional
Range Tactical Air Navigation System
(VORTAC) for the Wilmington International
Airport
Category [CATEX #]:
Equipment and Instrumentation
Paragraph 5-6.3c
CATEX Preparer:
Karen Dorrell
TitlelOrg:
Sr. Environmental Engineer
Phone Number:
[phone]
CitylCountylState: Castle HaynelNew Hanover/North Carolina
LOC: ILMA
FAC: VORTAC
JCN (if known): 1007127
The ILMA Visual Omnidirectional Range Tactical Air Navigation System (VORTAC) facility is located
approximately 6 miles north/northeast of the Wilmington International Airport. The facility is situated within a
vegetative cleared area, with a 1000-foot radius, surrounded by wetlands.
The proposed project consists of replacing the VORTAC with an elevated Doppler VORTAC. The existing
VORTAC has several radials that are no longer functional due to interference/obstruction from the mature tree
growth located at the edge of the 1000-foot radius cleared area. Converting to a Doppler VOR will raise the
counterpoise up 55 feet in the air and will eliminate any interference from anything on the ground and from
obstructions below 80 ft. at the 1000-foot radius.
The existing VOR antenna, shelter, and propane tank will be removed.
The elevated Doppler VORTAC facility will consist of expanded gravel along the east and west sides of the
existing gravel pad and construction of a 4-foot wide gravel path extending 150 ft. from the east side of the
expanded pad, a new VOR shelter measuring 11.5 ft. x 30 ft., a concrete engine generator (EG) pad measuring
10 ft. by 12 ft., a disconnect/transfer switch rack, relocation of the transformer and back-up emergency
communication (BUEC) antenna, and the installation of new conduit lines from the VOR shelter to the TACAN
monitor (which will be situated in the same location as the existing monitor), to the VOR monitor and relocated
BUEC, and to the disconnect rack and transformer. The elevated Doppler VORTAC will require excavation for
twenty 7 ft. x 7ft. x 1 ft. footings with a base footing depth equal to 24 inches. The relocated BUEC will be 60 ft.
high.
II. Extraordinary Circumstance Analysis*
Yes No Comments/Data Needed
1. Is the action likely to have an adverse effect on cultural
resources protected under the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966, as amended?
The proposed action would not impact
any district, site, building, structure, or
object that is included on or eligible for
the National Register of Historic Places.
Parsons cultural resource staff
conducted a site files search using the
online North Carolina State Historic
Preservation Office HPOWEB
Geographic Information System. No
documented architectural resources are
located within 1/2 mile of the project site.
A wetlands assessment determined the

cleared area surrounding the area of
potential effect (APE) as a zone of
heaviliy saturated soils with little
standing water. Prehistoric or historic
occupations would have occurred on
dry areas surrounding wetlands rather
than within an area of saturated soils.
The area around the APE has
historically been a wetland; therefore,
the probability of the presence of
prehistoric or historic archaeological
sites is unlikely.
The project was reviewed by the North
Carolina Department of Natural and
Cultural Resources, State Historic
Preservation Office (SHPO). The SHPO
is not aware of any historic resources
that would be affected by the project.
(See attachment 4.)
2. Is the action likely to have an impact on properties
protected under Section 4(f) of the Department of
Transportation Act?
X
No public or recreational area or
historic site exists at or near the
proposed project area.
3. Is the action likely to have an impact on natural,
ecological, or scenic resources of Federal, state, tribal or
local significance?
X
The proposed action would not have an
impact on natural, ecological, or scenic
resources of Federal, state, tribal or
local significance.
4. Is this action likely to have an impact on the following
resources:
Resources protected by the Fish and Wildlife
Coordination Act
X
The proposed action would not impact
any threatened or endangered species
as follows:
- The Northern Long-eared Bat is listed
threatened with the United States Fish &
Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the North
Carolina Natural Heritage Program
(NCNHP). The bats spend winters
hibernating in mines and caves. In the
summer the bats roost underneath bark,
or in cavities in both live and dead
trees. The habitat for the bats is not
found at the project site.
- The Eastern Woodrat is listed
threatened with NCNHP. The woodrat
likes moist areas within forests. This
habitat is not at the project area.
-The Piping Plover and Red Knot are
listed as threatened, while the Red -
cockaded Woodpecker is listed
endangered with USFWS and NCNHP.
Piping Plovers prefer wide, open, sandy
beaches while the Red Knot prefers
coastal marine and estuarine habitats
with large areas of exposed intertidal
sediments. These habitat are not
located at the project site.

- Additional animal species were listed
with NCNHP; However, either the
species were not observed or the
specific habitats were not found at the
site.
-The Cooley's Meadowrue, Golden
Sedge, and Rough -leaved Loosestrife
are listed endangered and the Seabeach
Amaranth is listed threatened with the
USFWS and the North Carolina Natural
Heritage Program (NCNHP). Additional
rare plants are listed threatened and
endangered with the NCNHP. The listed
plants were not observed in the project
area. (See attachment 3.)
Wetlands
X
Parsons performed a wetland
delineation in November 2019. Total
wetland impacts will be 0.19 acres. A
United States Army Corps of Engineers,
Nationwide 3 permit will be obtained for
these wetland impacts. (See
attachments 1 and 5.)
Floodplains
X
The proposed project area is not
located within a floodplain. (See
attachment 2.)
Coastal zones
X
The project site is located within a
coastal county. According to the North
Carolina Division of Coastal
Management, a Coastal Area
Management Act (CAMA) permit would
not be required as the wetland impacts
are freshwater and not in a tidal area.
National marine sanctuaries
X
The proposed project site is not located
within a national marine sanctuary.
Wilderness areas
X
The proposed project site is not located
within a wilderness area. The nearest
wilderness area (Pocosin Wilderness) is
located approximately 54 miles
northeast of the project site.
National Resource Conservation Service -designated
prime and unique farmlands
X
The Natural Resources Conservation
Service (NRCS) Web Soil Survey has
designated the soils in the project area
as Farmland of unique importance.
However, the project area is located
entirely within FAA property and is not
being used as farmland. The current
and proposed use of the project area is
for a VORTAC facility.
Energy supply and natural resources
X
The proposed action would not
significantly impact energy supply,
because energy use for construction
would be needed for only a short period
of time.
Resources protected under the Wild and Scenic
Rivers Act and rivers or river segments listed on the
X
The proposed action would not impact
any wild and scenic rivers. The nearest

Nationwide Rivers Inventory (NRI)
wild and scenic river (Lumber River) is
located approximately 63 miles west of
the project site.
Solid waste management
X
Solid waste generated would consist of
construction debris and would not
exceed local landfill capacity.
5. Is the action likely to cause a division or disruption of an
established community, or a disruption of orderly,
planned development, or an inconsistency with
community plans or goals?
X
The proposed action would not disrupt
communities or development plans.
6. Is the action likely to cause an increase in surface
transportation congestion?
X
The proposed action would not cause
an increase in traffic congestion,
because it would involve only a short
period of light construction and would
occur entirely within FAA property. An
increase in surface transportation
would not occur.
7. Is the action likely to have an impact on noise levels in
noise -sensitive areas?
X
The proposed action would not have a
significant impact on noise levels.
Construction activities would be limited
to FAA property and to a short period of
time.
8. Is the action likely to have an impact on air quality or
violate Federal, state, tribal, or local air quality standards
under the Clean Air Act?
X
The proposed action would not impact
air quality or violate air quality
standards. Construction activities
would result in localized and short-term
emissions.
9. Is the action likely to have an impact on water quality,
aquifers, public water supply systems, or state or tribal
water quality standards under the Clean Water Act or the
Safe Drinking Water Act?
X
The proposed action would not impact
water quality, sole source aquifers,
public water supply systems, or water
quality standards.
- Soil disturbance is expected to be
approximately 0.52 acres. A North
Carolina Stormwater Program General
Permit for construction activities would
not be required as the soil disturbance
is not over 1 acre. Best management
practices would be implemented so that
additional wetlands are not impacted.
10. Is the action likely to be highly controversial on
environmental grounds?
X
The proposed action would not have
impacts that would be considered
highly controversial on environmental
grounds. The proposed action would
involve replacing an existing VORTAC
and would take place entirely within
FAA property.
11. Is the action likely to be inconsistent with any Federal,
State, Tribal, or local law relating to the environmental
aspects of the project?
X
No inconsistencies have been
identified.
12. Is the action likely to directly, indirectly, or cumulatively
create a significant impact on the human environment?
X
No significant impacts on the human
environment would be expected.
*Extraordinary circumstances exist when the proposed action (1) involves any of the following circumstances, and (2) may have
significant impacts (FAA Order 1050 I.F para. 5-2 and 40 CFR 1508.4). See the FAA Order 1050.1 F Desk Reference guidance for a

description for the analysis of each extraordinary circumstance.
1. The action qualifies as a categorical exclusion and requires no further environmental review.
(circle one)
2. The action qualifies as a categorical exclusion, but requires further review
other environmental authorities (e.g., additional review under NHPA, C
3. The action requires an EA. (circle one)
4. The action requires an EIS (circle one)
e or more
ircle one)
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
IV. Supporting Documentation and Information
Attachment 1, Wetlands Map
Attachment 2, Floodplain Map
Attachment 3, Information, Planning, and Consultation System (IPAC) Resource List
Attachment 4, North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Letter
Attachment 5, Wetlands/Waters of the U.S. Delineation Report
Attachment 6, VOR Site Layout Plan
V. Technical Reviewer's Categorical Exclusion Determination
I have determined that this project/action is eligible for a categorical exclusion per the environmental review requirements
set forth in FAA Order 1050.1 F.
David D.
Nguyen
Digitally signed by David D.
Nguyen
Date: 2020.12.07 12:50:21
-05 00'
Environmental Engineer/
AJW-2E11 M
Signature of FAA Environmental Professional Title/Org
Printed Name: DAVID D NGUYEN
12/7/2020
Date
VI. Technical Reviewer's Further Environmental Review Determination Based on Extraordinary Circumstances
I have determined that, due to the presence of extraordinary circumstances that have a significant impact on the human
environment, this project/action requires further environmental review in the form of an:
(Check one)
Environmental Assessment, or
Environmental Impact Statement
Signature of FAA Environmental Professional Title/Org
Printed Name:
Date

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October 7, 2019
Wetlands
▪ Estuarine and Marine Deepwater
❑ Estuarine and Marine Wetland
Wetlands Map
❑ Freshwater Emergent Wetland El Lake
• Freshwater Forested/Shrub Wetland n Other
❑ Freshwater Pond . Riverine
This map is Far general reference only. The US Fish and'h5ldliFe
Service is not responsible for the accuracy or cwrrenmess of the
base data shown on this map. Al wetlands related data should
be used in accordance with the layer metadaia found an the
Wetlands Mapper web srte.
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Digital Data Availalde
No Digital Data Available
Unmapped
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The pin displayed on the map is ao approximate
paint selected by the user and does not represent
an authodt th'e property location.
This map complies with FfMA's standards for the use of
digital flood maps if iL is not void as described below.
The hasemap shown complies with FEMA's basemap
accuracy standards
The flood hazard information is derived directlyfrod' the
authoritative RFHL web services provided by FERRA. This map
was exported on it 7.'2014 at 1G_17:09 AM and Apes not
reileot changes or amendmens subsequent to this date and
time_ The NFHL and effective information may change or
become superseded by new data over tine
This map image is void if the one or mote of The following map
elements do not appear. basemap imagery, flood zone labels,
legend, sale bar, map creation date, community identifiers,
FIRM; panel number. and FIRM effective date. Map images for
unmapped and unmademired areas cannot be used for
regulatory purposes.

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
IPaC
IPaC resource list
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
This report is an automatically generated list of species and other resources such as critical habitat (collectively referred to as
trust resources) under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) jurisdiction that are known or expected to be on or near
the project area referenced below. The list may also include trust resources that occur outside of the project area, but that
could potentially be directly or indirectly affected by activities in the project area. However, determining the likelihood and
extent of effects a project may have on trust resources typically requires gathering additional site -specific (e.g.,
vegetation/species surveys) and project -specific (e.g., magnitude and timing of proposed activities) information. min\
Below is a summary of the project information you provided and contact information for the USFWS office(s) with jurisdiction
in the defined project area. Please read the introduction to each section that follows (Endangered Species, Migratory Birds,
USFWS Facilities, and NWI Wetlands) for additional information applicable to the trust resources addressed in that section.
Location
New Hanover County, North Carolina
ani viL
$0,0‘
oto
V\11.11h
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 1/16

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
LocaI office
Raleigh Ecological Services Field Office
t. [phone]
fi [phone]
MAILING ADDRESS
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
PHYSICAL ADDRESS
551 Pylon Drive, Suite F
Raleigh, NC 27606-1487
°lc
1111A.0
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 2/16

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
Endangered species
This resource list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an analysis of project level impacts.
The primary information used to generate this list is the known or expected range of each species. Additional areas of
influence (AOI) for species are also considered. An AOI includes areas outside of the species range if the species could be
indirectly affected by activities in that area (e.g., placing a dam upstream of a fish population, even if that fish does not occur
at the dam site, may indirectly impact the species by reducing or eliminating water flow downstream). Because species can
move, and site conditions can change, the species on this list are not guaranteed to be found on or near the project area. To
fully determine any potential effects to species, additional site -specific and project -specific information is often required. .
Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act requires Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary information whether any
species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of such proposed action" for any project that is
conducted, permitted, funded, or licensed by any Federal agency. A letter from the local office and a species list which fulfills
this requirement can only be obtained by requesting an official species list from either the Regulatory Review section in IPaC
(see directions below) or from the local field office directly.
For project evaluations that require USFWS concurrence/review, please return to the IPaC website and request an official
species list by doing the following:
1. Draw the project location and click CONTINUE.
2. Click DEFINE PROJECT.
3. Log in (if directed to do so).
4. Provide a name and description for your project.
5. Click REQUEST SPECIES LIST.
Listed species and their critical habitats are managed by the Ecological Services Program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS) and the fisheries division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA Fisheries).
Species and critical habitats under the sole responsibility of NOAA Fisheries are not shown on this list. Please contact NOAA
Fisheries for species under their jurisdiction.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 3/16

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
1. Species listed under the Endangered Species Act are threatened or endangered; IPaC also shows species that are
candidates, or proposed, for listing. See the listing status page for more information.
2. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce.
The following species are potentially affected by activities in this location:
Mammals
NAME STATUS
Northern Long-eared Bat Myotis septentrionalis Threatened
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.101
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9045
West Indian Manatee Trichechus manatus Threatened
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat. �i ine mammal
\O
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4469 r Nib
Birds113\:\I
NAME STATU S
Proposed Threatened
Threatened
Threatened
e the critical habitat.
Eastern Black Rail Laterallus jamaicensis ssp. jamaicensis
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10477 Alp
Piping Plover Charadrius melodus
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outsid
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/speci 6039% �+
Red Knot Calidris4nutus rufa
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https:cos.fws.gov/ecp/speci es/1864
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 4/16

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
Red -cockaded Woodpecker Picoides borealis
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/7614
Reptiles
NAM E
American Alligator Alligator mississippiensis
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/776
Green Sea Turtle Chelonia mydas
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6199
Endangered
STATUS
SAT
Threatened 10\
As thilbaull°111(11/4\
Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle Lepidochelys kempii Endangered
There is proposed critical habitat for this species. The location of the critical habitat is
not available.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5523
Leatherback Sea Turtle Dermochelys coriacea‘14!°i
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1493
Loggerhead Sea Turtle Caretta caretta
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/specie 111
Snails
NAME C5lich
r
Endangered
Threatened
STATUS
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 5/16

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
Magnificent Ramshorn Planorbella magnifica
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6216
Flowering Plants
NAM E
Cooley's Meadowrue Thalictrum cooleyi
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3281
Golden Sedge Carex lutea
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6025
Rough -leaved Loosestrife Lysimachia asperulaefolia
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2747
Seabeach Amaranth Amaranthus pumilus
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8549
Critical habitats
Candidate
STATUS
Endangered
Endangered
Endangered
it\illb113 Threatened
Go
Potential effects to critical habitat(s) in this location must be analyzed along with the endangered species themselves.
THERE ARE NO CRITICAL HABITATS AT THIS LOCATION.
‘C5\
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 6/16

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
Migratory birds
Certain birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act .
Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to migratory birds, eagles, and their
habitats should follow appropriate regulations and consider implementing appropriate conservation measures, as described
below.
1. The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918.
2. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940.
Additional information can be found using the following links:
• Birds of Conservation Concern http://www.fws.gov/birds/management/managed-species/ 10\
birds-of-conservation-concern.php
• Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds http://www.fws.gov/birds/managemeNt/proj ssment-tools-
and-guidance/
conservation-measures.php
• Nationwide conservation measures for birds ‘‘0. A v"
http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/pdf/management/nationwidestandardconservationmeasures.pdf
The birds listed below are birds of particular concern either because they occur on the USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern
(BCC) list or warrant special attention in your project location. To learn more about the levels of concern for birds on your list
and how this list is generated, see the FAQ below. This is not a list of every bird you may find in this location, nor a guarantee
that every bird on this list will be found in your project area. To see exact locations of where birders and the general public
have sighted birds in and around your project area, visit the E-bird data mapping tool (Tip: enter your location, desired date
range and a species on your list). For projects that occur off the Atlantic Coast, additional maps and models detailing the
relative occurrence and abundance of bird species on your list are available. Links to additional information about Atlantic
Coast birds, and other important information about your migratory bird list, including how to properly interpret and use your
migratory bird report, can be found below.
For guidance on when to schedule activities or implement avoidance and minimization measures to reduce impacts to
migratory birds on your list, click on the PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE SUMMARY at the top of your list to see when these birds
are most likely to be present and breeding in your project area.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 7/16

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
NAME BREEDING SEASON (IF A BREEDING
Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention
because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain
types of development or activities.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1626
Prairie Warbler Dendroica discolor
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA
and Alaska.
SEASON IS INDICATED FOR A BIRD ON
YOUR LIST, THE BIRD MAY BREED IN YOUR
PROJECT AREA SOMETIME WITHIN THE
TIMEFRAME SPECIFIED, WHICH ISAVERY
LIBERAL ESTIMATE OF THE DATES INSIDE
WHICH THE BIRD BREEDS ACROSS ITS
ENTIRE RANGE. "BREEDS ELSEWHERE"
INDICATES THAT THE BIRD DOES NOT
LIKELY BREED IN YOUR PROJECT AREA.)
04\4 Breeds Sep 1 to Jul 31
Ade 111111b:c111/4
Breeds May 1 to Jul 31
41"111
Prothonotary Warbler Protonotaria citrea Breeds Apr 1 to Jul 31
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA
and Alaska.ikod
Red-headed Woodpecker Melanerpes er A roceialus! Breeds May 10 to Sep 10
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern - roughout i'lrs range in the continental USA
and Alaska.
Wood Thrush Hylocichla mustelina . Breeds May 10 to Aug 31
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA
and Alaska.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 8/16

6/2/2020 IPaC: Explore Location
Probability of Presence Summary
The graphs below provide our best understanding of when birds of concern are most likely to be present in your project
area. This information can be used to tailor and schedule your project activities to avoid or minimize impacts to birds. Please
make sure you read and understand the FAQ "Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report" before using or
attempting to interpret this report.
Probability of Presence (■)
Each green bar represents the bird's relative probability of presence in the 10km grid cell(s) your project overlaps during a
particular week of the year. (A year is represented as 12 4-week months.) A taller bar indicates a higher probability of species
presence. The survey effort (see below) can be used to establish a level of confidence in the presence score. One can have
higher confidence in the presence score if the corresponding survey effort is also high.
How is the probability of presence score calculated? The calculation is done in three steps: ‘111-)\
1. The probability of presence for each week is calculated as the number of survey events in the week where the species was
detected divided by the total number of survey events for that week. For example, if in week 12 there were 20 survey
events and the Spotted Towhee was found in 5 of them, the probability of presence of the Spotted Towhee in week 12 is
0.25.
2. To properly present the pattern of presence across the year, the relative probability of presence is calculated. This is the
probability of presence divided by the maximum probability of presence across all weeks. For example, imagine the
probability of presence in week 20 for the Spotted Towhee is 0.05, and that the probability of presence at week 12 (0.25) is
the maximum of any week of the year. The relative probability of presence on week 12 is 0.25/0.25 = 1; at week 20 it is
0.05/0.25 = 0.2.
3. The relative probability of presence calculated in the previous step undergoes a statistical conversion so that all possible
values fall between 0 and 10, inclusive. This is the probability of presence score.
To see a bar's probability of presence score, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar.
Breeding Season ( )
Yellow bars denote a very liberal estimate of the time -frame inside which the bird breeds across its entire range. If there are
no yellow bars shown for a bird, it does not breed in your project area.
Survey Effort (.)
'1/4%
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Vertical black lines superimposed on probability of presence bars indicate the number of surveys performed for that species
in the 10km grid cell(s) your project area overlaps. The number of surveys is expressed as a range, for example, 33 to 64
surveys.
To see a bar's survey effort range, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar.
No Data( )
A week is marked as having no data if there were no survey events for that week.
Survey Timeframe
Surveys from only the last 10 years are used in order to ensure delivery of currently relevant information. The exception to
this is areas off the Atlantic coast, where bird returns are based on all years of available data, since data in these areas is
currently much more sparse.
SPECIES
probability of presence
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL
L.
breeding season I survey effort
AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Bald Eagle 1111 1111 1111 1111 1111 111�
Non -BCC Vulnerable (This
is not a Bird of
Conservation Concern
SN3 I‘
(BCC) in this area, but
warrants attention because
of the Eagle Act or for
potential susceptibilities in
offshore areas from certain
types of development or
activities.)
Prairie Warbler IIII
BCC Rangewide (CON) (This
- -iill IIII 1111 1111
is a Bird of Conservation
Concern (BCC) throughout
its range in the continental
USA and Alaska.)
Prothonotary Warbler
BCC Rangewide (CON) (This
is a Bird of Conservation
Concern (BCC) throughout
its range in the continen
USA and Alaska.)
data
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Red-headed IL
Woodpecker
BCC Rangewide (CON) (This
is a Bird of Conservation
Concern (BCC) throughout
its range in the continental
USA and Alaska.)
Wood Thrush
BCC Rangewide (CON) (This
is a Bird of Conservation
Concern (BCC) throughout
its range in the continental
USA and Alaska.)
- III 1111 1111 1111
- III 1111 '""
Tell me more about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory birds.
'1.11w61-1111L*1114
Nationwide Conservation Measures describes measures that can help avoid and minimize impacts to all birds at any location year round.
Implementation of these measures is particularly important when birds are most likely to occur in the project area. When birds may be
breeding in the area, identifying the locations of any active nests and avoiding their destruction is a very helpful impact minimization measure.
To see when birds are most likely to occur and be breeding in your project area, view the Probability of Presence Summary. Additional
measures and/or permits may be advisable depending on the type of activity you are conducting and the type of infrastructure or bird species
present on your project site.
What does IPaC use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location?
The Migratory Bird Resource List is comprised of USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern (T) and other species that may warrant special
attention in your project location. 1
The migratory bird list generated for your project is derived from data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). The AKN data is based
on a growing collection of survey., banding, and citizen science datasets and is queried and filtered to return a list of those birds reported as
occurring in the 10km grid cell(s) which your project intersects, and that have been identified as warranting special attention because they are a
BCC species in that area, an eagle (Eagle Act requirements may apply), or a species that has a particular vulnerability to offshore activities or
development.
Again, the Migratory Bird Resource list includes only a subset of birds that may occur in your project area. It is not representative of all birds
that may occur in your project area. To get a list of all birds potentially present in your project area, please visit the AKN Phenology Tool.
What does IPaC use to generate the probability of presence graphs for the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location?
The probability of presence graphs associated with your migratory bird list are based on data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN).
This data is derived from a growing collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets .
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Probability of presence data is continuously being updated as new and better information becomes available. To learn more about how the
probability of presence graphs are produced and how to interpret them, go the Probability of Presence Summary and then click on the "Tell me
about these graphs" link.
How do I know if a bird is breeding, wintering, migrating or present year-round in my project area?
To see what part of a particular bird's range your project area falls within (i.e. breeding, wintering, migrating or year-round), you may refer to
the following resources: The Cornell Lab of Ornithology All About Birds Bird Guide, or (if you are unsuccessful in locating the bird of interest
there), the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Neotropical Birds guide. If a bird on your migratory bird species list has a breeding season associated with
it, if that bird does occur in your project area, there may be nests present at some point within the timeframe specified. If "Breeds elsewhere" is
indicated, then the bird likely does not breed in your project area.
What are the levels of concern for migratory birds?
Migratory birds delivered through IPaC fall into the following distinct categories of concern:
vAv
1. "BCC Rangewide" birds are Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) that are of concern throughout their range anywhere within the USA
(including Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands);
2. "BCC - BCR" birds are BCCs that are of concern only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA; and
3. "Non -BCC - Vulnerable" birds are not BCC species in your project area, but appear on your list either because of the Eagle Act requirements
(for eagles) or (for non -eagles) potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities (e.g. offshore
energy development or longline fishing).
Although it is important to try to avoid and minimize impacts to all birds, efforts should be made, in particular, to avoid and minimize impacts to
the birds on this list, especially eagles and BCC species of rangewide concern. For more information on conservation measures you can
implement to help avoid and minimize migratory bird impacts and requirements for eagles, please see the FAQs for these topics.
Details about birds that are potentially affected by offshore projects
For additional details about the relative occurrence and abundance of both individual bird species and groups of bird species within your
project area off the Atlantic Coast, please visit the NortheaslhB an Data Portal. The Portal also offers data and information about other taxa
besides birds that may be helpful to you in your project review. Alternately, you may download the bird model results files underlying the portal
maps through the NOAA NCCOS Integrative Statistical Modeling and Predictive Mapping of Marine Bird Distributions and Abundance on the
Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf project webpage.
Bird tracking data can also provide additional details about occurrence and habitat use throughout the year, including migration. Models relying
on survey data may not include this information. For additional information on marine bird tracking data, see the Diving Bird Study and the
nanotag stuu.. or contact Caleb Spiegel or Pam Loring.
\1
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What if I have eagles on my list?
If your project has the potential to disturb or kill eagles, you may need to obtain a permit to avoid violating the Eagle Act should such impacts
occur.
Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report
The migratory bird list generated is not a list of all birds in your project area, only a subset of birds of priority concern. To learn more about how
your list is generated, and see options for identifying what other birds may be in your project area, please see the FAQ "What does IPaC use to
generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location". Please be aware this report provides the "probability of presence"
of birds within the 10 km grid cell(s) that overlap your project; not your exact project footprint. On the graphs provided, please also look
carefully at the survey effort (indicated by the black vertical bar) and for the existence of the "no data" indicator (a red horizontal bar). A high
survey effort is the key component. If the survey effort is high, then the probability of presence score can be viewed as more dependable. In
contrast, a low survey effort bar or no data bar means a lack of data and, therefore, a lack of certainty about presence of the species. This list is
not perfect; it is simply a starting point for identifying what birds of concern have the potential to be in your project area, when they might be
there, and if they might be breeding (which means nests might be present). The list helps you know what to look for to confirm presence, and
helps guide you in knowing when to implement conservation measures to avoid or minimize potential impacts from your project activities,
should presence be confirmed. To learn more about conservation measures, visit the FAQ "Tell me about conservation measures I can
implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory birds" at the bottom of your migratory bird trust resources page.
.111113111\11.11h
CjOIS
,c5c,
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Marine mammals
Marine mammals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Some are also protected under the Endangered
Species Act' and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
The responsibilities for the protection, conservation, and management of marine mammals are shared by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service [responsible for otters, walruses, polar bears, manatees, and dugongs] and NOAA Fisheries [responsible for
seals, sea lions, whales, dolphins, and porpoises]. Marine mammals under the responsibility of NOAA Fisheries are not
shown on this list; for additional information on those species please visit the Marine Mammals page of the NOAA Fisheries
website.
The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits the take (to harass, hunt, capture, kill, or attempt to harass, hunt, capture or
kill) of marine mammals and further coordination may be necessary for project evaluation. Please contact the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service Field Office shown. P.
1. The Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973.
2. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is a treaty to ensure that
international trade in plants and animals does not threaten their survival in the wild.
3. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce.
The following marine mammals under the responsibility of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are potentially affected by
activities in this location:
NAME
West Indian Manatee Trichechus manatu
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/ties/4469 ,
Facilities
alb
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National Wildlife Refuge lands
Any activity proposed on lands managed by the National Wildlife Refuge system must undergo a 'Compatibility
Determination' conducted by the Refuge. Please contact the individual Refuges to discuss any questions or concerns.
THERE ARE NO REFUGE LANDS AT THIS LOCATION.
Fish hatcheries
THERE ARE NO FISH HATCHERIES AT THIS LOCATION.
o\
Wetlands in the National Wetlands Inventory 6k1:4:4S\
Impacts to NWI wetlands and other aquatic habitats may be subject to regulation under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act,
or other State/Federal statutes.
''.S
For more information please contact the Regulatory Program of the local . rmy Corps of Engineers District.
Please note that the NWI data being shown may be out of date. We are currently working to update our NWI data set. We
recommend you verify these results with a site visit to determine the actual extent of wetlands on site.
This location overlaps the following wetlands:
FRESHWATER FORESTED/SHRUB WETLAN
PSS3/4Bd
A full description for each wetland code can be found at the National Wetlands Inventory website
Data limitations
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The Service's objective of mapping wetlands and deepwater habitats is to produce reconnaissance level information on the location, type and
size of these resources. The maps are prepared from the analysis of high altitude imagery. Wetlands are identified based on vegetation, visible
hydrology and geography. A margin of error is inherent in the use of imagery; thus, detailed on -the -ground inspection of any particular site may
result in revision of the wetland boundaries or classification established through image analysis.
The accuracy of image interpretation depends on the quality of the imagery, the experience of the image analysts, the amount and quality of
the collateral data and the amount of ground truth verification work conducted. Metadata should be consulted to determine the date of the
source imagery used and any mapping problems.
Wetlands or other mapped features may have changed since the date of the imagery or field work. There may be occasional differences in
polygon boundaries or classifications between the information depicted on the map and the actual conditions on site.
Data exclusions
Certain wetland habitats are excluded from the National mapping program because of the limitations of aerial imagery as the primary data
source used to detect wetlands. These habitats include seagrasses or submerged aquatic vegetation that are found in the intertidal and subtidal
zones of estuaries and nearshore coastal waters. Some deepwater reef communities (coral or tuberficid worm reefs) have also been excluded
from the inventory. These habitats, because of their depth, go undetected by aerial imagery.
Data precautions
41°Ic
Federal, state, and local regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over wetlands may define and describe wetlands in a different manner than that
used in this inventory. There is no attempt, in either the design or products of this inventory, to define the limits of proprietary jurisdiction of
any Federal, state, or local government or to establish the geographical scope of the regulatory programs of government agencies. Persons
intending to engage in activities involving modifications within or adjacent to wetland areas should seek the advice of appropriate federal, state,
or local agencies concerning specified agency regulatory programs and proprietary jurisdictions that may affect such activities.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/location/4HMLGF6BXFFJZBBSZSQDRENAHA/resources 16/16

North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Ramona M. Bartos, Administrator
Governor Roy Cooper Office of Archives and History
Secretary Susi H. Hamilton Deputy Secretary Kevin Cherry
August 24, 2020
Karen R. Dorrell
Parsons
3800 Camp Creek Parkway, Building 2400, Suite 106
Atlanta, GA 30331
[e-mail]
Re: Replace Visual Omnidirectional Range Tactical Air Navigation System (VORTAC), 4900 Holly
Shelter Road, Wilmington International Airport, New Hanover County, ER 20-1682
Dear Karen R. Dorrell:
Thank you for your email of July 23, 2020 concerning the above project.
We have conducted a review of the project and are aware of no historic resources which would be affected
by the project. Therefore, we have no comment on the project as proposed.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36
CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
contact Renee Gledhill -Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-814-6579 or
[e-mail]. In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the
above referenced tracking number.
Sincerely,
Akekui-Wi-gA
amona Bartos, Deputy
State Historic Preservation Officer
Location: 109 East Jones Street, Raleigh NC 27601 Mailing Address: 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 Telephone/Fax: [phone]-6199

Wilmington Airport — VORTAC Replacement
New Hanover County, North Carolina
LM
Wetland/Waters of the U.S. Delineation Report
August 2020
Prepared by:
Luke F. Eggering, SPWS
PARSONS
530 Maryville Centre Drive
Suite 400
St. Louis, Missouri 63141

Wilmington International Airport — VORTAC Replacement - Introduction
Serving southeastern North Carolina, the Wilmington International Airport
(ILM) provides the southern coast with flight options through Delta
Airlines and American Airlines/US Airways. It offers many non-stop
flights to popular destinations within the U.S., such as Philadelphia and
Washington D.C., and serves over 750,000 passengers per year.
metal gate along an unpaved road about 1,584
feet long (0.3 miles) and is situated within an
approximate 1000-foot radius vegetative cleared
area, surrounded by wetlands. The existing
access road and facility were constructed on fill
approximately 1.5 feet above the surrounding
wetlands and the existing impervious area is
0.24 acres. Large trees and other vegetation
surround the cleared area, obscuring the ILM
VORTAC facility from Holly Shelter Road to the
north (with the exception of the narrow opening
of the access road alignment), from the
industrial/commercial facilities along Barbados
Boulevard to the west and south, from Blue Clay
Road to the east, and from residences along
Sunray Road to the southeast.
The Wilmington
Airport lies within
New Hanover
County, North Carolina in the gulf coastal plain
ecoregion. The airport is north of Smith Creek and its
associated adjacent wetlands. Although historically
the Wilmington Airport was extensively graded during
the development and construction of the airport
facilities, there are some very small remnant areas
that exhibit wetland characteristics.
ILM
The existing Visual Omnidirectional Range Tactical
Air Navigation System (VORTAC) facility (4900 Holly
Shelter Road, Castle Hayne, North Carolina, 28429)
is approximately 5.1 miles northeast of the
Wilmington Airport. VORTAC is a radio -based
navigational aid for aircraft pilots consisting of a co -
located VHF omnidirectional range (VOR) beacon
and a tactical air navigation system (TACAN) beacon.
This project will replace the existing VORTAC with
doppler VORTAC.
The ILM VORTAC facility is accessed through a
fr
\9oo Holly Shelter Rd
.41
Wilmington Airport
Page 1

The purpose of this study was to examine the potential for impacts to waters of the U.S., especially
streams and wetlands, that could be affected by the VORTAC Replacement. The project is needed,
because the existing VOR has several radials that aren't working due to interference most likely due to
mature tree growth out past the 1000-foot radius. Converting to a Doppler VOR will raise the counterpoise
up 55 feet above ground level (AGL) in the air and will eliminate any interference from anything on the
ground and nothing below 80 feet at the 1000-foot radius.
Background
Based on a June 21, 2016 survey of this facility it was noted that the facility was experiencing
performance issues, and Engineering Services was tasked to find a solution. The previous survey had
identified tree growth around the facility as a primary culprit and recommended removing the trees then
rechecking facility performance. If performance was still an issue following flight check, dopplerizing the
facility and raising the counterpoise was recommended.
Following submission of our report, the program office pursued tree removal and had the entirety of the
1000-foot radius clear zone around the facility cleared of all trees and brush. A flight check of the facility
following the tree clearing revealed severe performance issues that rendered the facility unusable, and it
was removed from service.
It is worth noting that performance issues at this facility have long been a problem. Trees have been
cleared a few times in its now almost 60-year lifespan (commissioned in 1960). The VOR siting order
includes a case study of performance problems at the ILM VOR.
Following removal from service, OESG engineers evaluated the site and found that far field trees (at the
edge of the 1000-foot clear zone) were the likely culprit for the performance issues, agreeing with the
assessment Engineering Services provided. OESG engineers modeled the site and found that
dopplerizing the facility and raising the counterpoise to approximately 55 feet AGL would solve the issue.
Engineering Services recommended a counterpoise height of 35-feet less than mature tree height for the
far field trees, and the mature height of Southern White Pine is approximately 80 feet.
The existing VOR antenna and shelter, and propane tank will be removed; the existing transformer and
back-up emergency communication (BUEC) will be relocated. The elevated Doppler VORTAC facility will
consist of expanded gravel/impervious surfaces along the east and west sides of the existing gravel pad
and construction of a 4 foot wide gravel path extending 150 feet from the east side of the expanded pad
(approximately 0.31 acres), a new VOR shelter measuring 11.5 feet x 30 feet, a concrete engine
generator (EG) pad measuring 10 feet by 12 feet, a disconnect/transfer switch rack, relocation of the
transformer and back-up emergency communication (BUEC) antenna, and the installation of new conduit
lines from the VOR shelter to the TACAN monitor (which will be the same location as the existing), to
VOR monitor and relocated BUEC, and to the disconnect/transfer switch rack and transformer. The
elevated Doppler VORTAC will be 55-feet high; the relocated BUEC will be 60-feet high.
Wilmington Airport Page 1

Findings
The existing VORTAC site and proposed VORTAC Replacement location was surveyed for the presence
of waters of the U.S. including wetlands and streams on November 21, 2019. The existing VORTAC
facility and access road, that dates to the early 1960s, is situated in a large flat scrub shrub wetland area.
The facility is on fill material (primarily dirt and gravel) that is elevated slightly from the surrounding
wetland. The footprint of the fill material was mapped using a handheld global positioning unit (GPS), and
data was gathered for soils, hydrology, and vegetation in the surrounding wetland.
Soils Information - Soil Map Units on VORTAC Site
(Adapted from: Soil Survey of New Hanover County, North Carolina. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil
Conservation Service. April 1977)
Based upon the referenced soil survey for New Hanover County, there were four soil map units (Leon
Sand, Dorovan soils, Murville fine sand and Lynn Haven fine sand) listed for the VORTEC site, but only
two soil map units were in the impacted area (Murville fine sand and Lynn Haven fine sand).
Leon sand (Le) This nearly level, poorly drained soil is on rims of depressions, on smooth flats, and in
indefinite patterns on the uplands and stream terraces. Areas are irregular in shape and are 5 to 250
acres in size. Most of the acreage is forested. The rest is used for residential and industrial sites. The
native vegetation on undeveloped sites consists of longleaf pine, pond pine, sweetbay, water oak,
winterberry, gallberry, bracken, and, in the more nearly open areas, a dense cover of pineland three -awn
and creeping blueberry.
Typically, the surface layer is very dark gray sand 3-inches thick. The subsurface layer is light gray sand
13-inches thick. The subsoil is dark reddish brown sand 24-inches thick. The underlying layer, to a depth
of 64 inches, is light gray sand.
The organic -matter content of the surface layer is very low. Permeability is rapid in the surface layer,
moderate to moderately rapid in the subsoil, and very rapid in the underlying layer. Available water
capacity is low, and shrink -swell potential is very low. Reaction is strongly acid throughout, where this soil
has not been limed.
The seasonal high water table is at or near the surface. A seasonal high water table and leaching of plant
nutrients are the main limitations in the use and management of this soil. Most lawn grasses, shrubs, and
trees are easily established and maintained. Some soil conditioners and liberal amounts of fertilizer may
be needed in most areas.
Dorovan soils (DO) These nearly level, very poorly drained soils are in bays and in long, broad areas of
tidal and stream flood plains. All of the acreage is used for woodland and as wildlife habitat. The native
vegetation is red maple, willow, tupelo, cypress, sweetgum, ash, American cyrilla, and greenbrier.
Typically, the surface layer is black muck 4-inches thick. The underlying layer, to a depth of 64 inches, is
black or very dark gray muck. Included with these soils in mapping are small areas of Johnston soils and
Tidal marsh. A few small areas of soils that have thin, continuous mineral layers are also included.
The organic -matter content in the surface layer is very high. Permeability is very slow, available water
capacity is very high, and shrink -swell potential is low. Reaction is very strongly acid or strongly acid
throughout, unless the soils are limed. The seasonal high-water table is at or near the surface. These
soils are frequently flooded for very long periods.
Wilmington Airport Page 2

Flooding and high organic -matter content are the main limitations in the use and management of these
soils. If these soils are drained and tilled, the organic matter decomposes, and the soil subsides.
Dorovan soils are found to the southwest, south, and southeast of the airport all in the floodplain and
adjacent to Smith Creek.
Murville fine sand (Mu) This nearly level, very poorly drained soil is in flat or slightly depressional areas.
Areas are irregular in shape and range from small to very large. Most of the acreage is forested. The rest
is used for residential and industrial sites. The native vegetation is longleaf pine, pond pine, red maple,
water oak, redbay, sweetbay, American cyrilla, greenbrier, and pineland three -awn.
Typically, the surface layer is black fine sand 8-inches thick. The subsoil is black fine sand 37-inches
thick. The underlying material, to a depth of 70 inches, is pale brown fine sand in the upper part, sandy
clay loam and sandy loam in the middle part, and fine sand in the lower part.
Included with this soil in mapping are small areas of Lynn Haven, Leon, and Pamlico soils. Also included
are small areas of soils that have a much thicker subsoil than the Murville soils.
The organic -matter content of the surface layer is low. Permeability is rapid in the surface layer and
moderately rapid in the subsoil. Available water capacity is low, and shrink -swell potential is low. The
seasonal high-water table is at or near the surface. This soil is frequently flooded for brief periods. A
seasonal high-water table and rapid and moderately rapid permeability are the main limitations in the use
and management of this soil.
Lynn Haven fine sand (LY) This nearly level, poorly drained soil is in broad, almost level to flat or
depressional areas on uplands. Areas are irregular in shape and small to large in size. Most of the
acreage is forested. The rest is used for residential and industrial sites. The native vegetation consists of
longleaf pine, pond pine, red maple, water oak, American cyrilla, greenbrier, fetterbush, and pineland
three -awn.
Typically, the surface layer is black fine sand 18-inches thick. The subsurface layer is gray fine sand
6-inches thick. The subsoil is 34-inches thick. It is sand that is black in the upper part, black and dark
brown in the mid-dle part, and dark brown and brown in the lower part. The underlying layer, to a depth of
75 inches, is pale brown sand in the upper part and light brownish gray sandy loam and dark greenish
gray sandy clay in the lower part.
Included with this soil in mapping are small areas of Murville, Leon, and Torhunta soils.
The organic -matter content of the surface layer is low. Permeability is rapid in the surface layer and
moderate and moderately rapid in the subsoil. Available water capacity is low, and shrink -swell potential
is very low. Reaction is strongly acid to extremely acid throughout where this soil has not been limed.
Unless this soil is ar-tificially drained, the seasonal high-water table is at or near the surface during
periods of heavy rainfall. This soil is frequently flooded for brief periods. A seasonal high-water table is
the main limitation in the use and management of this soil. Most lawn grasses, shrubs, and trees are fairly
easily established and main-tained.
The soils at the VORTEC site generally very dark or gray with a matrix of 2.5Y4/1 — 2.5Y6/1. Redox
features ranged from gray/yellow mottling 2.5Y7/2 to bright orange 2.5Y 6/8.
Climate
Climate affects the physical, chemical, and biological relationship in the soil, mainly through the influence
of precipitation and temperature. Water dissolves minerals, is necessary for biological activity, and
Wilmington Airport Page 3

transports minerals and organic residue through the soil profile. The amount of water that actually
percolates through the soil is dependent mainly on the amount and duration of rainfall, relative humidity,
evapotranspiration, length of the frost -free period, and soil characteristics. Temperature influences the
kind and growth of organisms and the speed of physical and chemical reaction in the soils.
The climate of New Hanover County is warm and humid. Precipitation is well distributed. The relatively
mild temperatures and the abundant moisture cause rapid decomposition of organic matter and speed up
chemical reactions in the soil. The high rainfall leaches out large amounts of soluble bases, and less
soluble, fine materials are moved deeper in the soil. The average annual rainfall is approximately 53.5
inches, and the average annual growing season is approximately 226 days.
Wetlands and Surface Water Survey
The specific objective of the wetland and surface water survey was to identify potential wetlands and
other waters of the U.S. occurring within and immediately adjacent to the proposed VORTAC
Replacement facility. The wetland resources in terms of wetland type, size, and functional value were
documented.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) extends authorization to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE) to regulate activities that affect waters of the U.S., including wetlands. The USACE issues
Section 404 permits for the discharge of dredged or fill material into wetlands and other waters of the U.S.
Using the guidelines and procedures defined in the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland
Delineation Manual and the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual:
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region (Version 2.0), the presence of wetlands was examined. The
USACE manual and regional supplement provides technical guidance and procedures for identifying and
delineating wetlands that may be subject to regulatory jurisdiction under Section 404 of the Clean Water
Act or Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. The regional supplement addresses regional wetland
characteristics and improves the accuracy and efficiency of wetland -delineation procedures. Wetlands are
defined by the USACE as "areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a
frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of
vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions." Wetlands generally include swamps,
marshes, bogs and similar areas. (USACE, 1987). The USACE three -parameter approach (hydrology,
soils, and vegetation) was applied to make routine wetlands determinations in the field. This approach
requires an on -site inspection of the vegetative composition, soils, and hydrology of an area to make
wetland determinations. At least one positive wetland indicator for each parameter must be evident for a
positive wetland determination. General diagnostic characteristics for each parameter distinguish
wetlands from non -wetland or upland areas. These characteristics are described below for each
parameter.
Potential wetlands were preliminarily identified within the study area by reviewing existing Natural
Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil survey maps (Attachment 1), U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS) 7.5 minute topographic maps (Attachment 2), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National
Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps (Attachment 3), FEMA floodplain mapping (Attachment 4), and aerial
photographs. The USGS maps show the wetland symbol for the project area, and the NWI wetland map
indicates that the area is freshwater forested/shrub wetland (PSS3/4Bd). Field surveys were conducted to
confirm the presence or absence of wetlands within the proposed VORTAC Replacement facility.
Wetland vegetation generally consists of macrophytes that are typically adapted to areas that are at least
periodically inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater. These hydrophytic species, due to
morphological, physiological, and/or reproductive adaptations, have the ability to grow, compete,
Wilmington Airport Page 4

reproduce, and/or persist in anaerobic soil conditions, which develop in wetland soils due to inundation or
prolonged saturation. Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation include more than 50 percent of the dominant
plant species having a regional indicator status of obligate wetland (OBL), facultative wetland (FACW), or
facultative (FAC). In addition, morphological plant adaptations, such as buttressed trunks, adventitious
roots, and floating leaves, are also considered indications of hydrophytic vegetation.
Wetland soils are classified as hydric or possess characteristics that are associated with reducing soil
conditions. Indicators of hydric soils include presence of organic soils (peats or mucks), histic epipedons,
sulfidic materials, gleyed soils, soils with distinct mottles and/or low chroma matrix, and presence of iron
and manganese concretions, among others.
Wetland hydrology is defined by an area that is inundated either permanently or periodically at mean
water depths less than or equal to 6.6 feet, or the soil is saturated to the surface at some time during the
growing season creating reducing soil conditions. Indicators of wetland hydrology include, but are not
limited to, the presence of drainage patterns, sediment deposition, water marks, and visual observations
of inundation or saturation.
Summary Description of Wilmington Airport VORTAC Replacement Wetlands
The existing VORTAC site and proposed VORTAC Replacement location was surveyed for the presence
of waters of the U.S. including wetlands and streams on November 21, 2019. The existing VORTAC
facility and access road, that dates to the early 1960s, is situated in a large flat wetland area. The facility
is on fill material (primarily dirt and gravel) that is elevated slightly from the surrounding wetland. The
footprint of the fill material was mapped using a handheld global positioning unit (GPS), and data was
gathered for soils, hydrology, and vegetation in the surrounding wetland. The wetland data and
photographs are presented in Appendix A.
Vegetation Summary
The vegetation in the effected portion of the VORTEC replacement site has been altered recently as the
entire 1000-foot area around the existing facility was clear-cut to improve the performance of the
VORTAC equipment. Natural succession has already begun in the former forested plant community.
Within small depressions and drainageways, herbaceous plants and shrubs have become established. A
diversity of plants can be seen in these small areas with various sedges, grasses, shrubs, and broadleaf
plants. Typical species included: red maple (Acer rubrum), wax myrtle (Morella cerifera), sweetbay
(Magnolia virginiana), pineland threeawn (Aristida stricta), southern bayberry (Morella caroliniensis), and
bunched beaksedge (Rhynchospora cephalantha).Wetland data sheets and photographs in Appendix A
show the typical vegetation of the area.
Hydrology Summary
With an average precipitation rate of over 53.5 inches of rain per year combined with the extensive
impervious surfaces in the vicinity of the VORTAC site, the primary hydrology for the area is from direct
precipitation and runoff. The generally flat to depressional wetlands appear to remain saturated and/or
inundated for extended periods during the growing season. Evidence in some areas includes the
inundated equipment ruts from clear -cutting equipment and some small inundated depressions.
According to the FEMA mapping (Zone X), overflow flooding from the Northeast Cape Fear River, which
could contribute to the hydrology of this wetland, would be very infrequent.
Wilmington Airport Page 5

Soils Summary
The soils at the VORTEC site generally very dark or gray with a matrix of 2.5Y4/1 — 2.5Y6/1. Redox
features ranged from gray/yellow mottling 2.5Y7/2 to bright orange 2.5Y 6/8. They match the Sandy
Redox (S5) hydric soil indicator.
Wetland Summary
The wetlands on the VORTAC facility property would likely be considered jurisdictional, because they are
adjacent to other waters of the U.S. including unnamed tributaries to the Northeast Cape Fear River.
The VORTAC scrub shrub wetland is over 8 acres in size. As currently designed, the wetland impacts
would be approximately 0.19 acres (temporary wetland impact 0.05 acres + permanent wetland impact
0.14 acres. The existing VORTAC fill is approximately 0.33 acres.
For permitting purposes, Nationwide Permit No. 3 (Maintenance) would likely be applicable. An online
Pre -Construction Notification (PCN) to the Wilmington District Engineer will be prepared, because there
will be a minor amount of fill (i.e. 0.19 acres) in a special aquatic site (wetland).
Wilmington Airport Page 6

Figure 1. Wilmington Airport VORTAC Replacement Wetland Map showing the existing conditions
�' ww
j VORTAC•Systern
VORTAC Replacement Site
New Hanover County, North Carolina
Data Sheet Paint
Survey Area
Wetland
Wilmington Airport
Page 7

Figure 2. Wilmington Airport VORTAC Replacement Plans.
Wilmington Airport Page 8

Attachment 1. Soils Information.
r:
MEM
Sod Map —New Hanover County, North Carolina
(WiilmingtonArgon- Wilmington. North Carolna)
M
MUM
MZIEI
I I 1 I I I I I I 1 I
ZAGM .Mill 111 OEM 'ram ::Lm J®
r ;
My 1:9,710 if [Mod cr A Wilma(11" s BS) shoe 4
Mess
il
0 tI MDr� v -s � EEC�x
Kw, pvpT:., vat, HetM1tt C:lr.r W2594 fxfpe OM LAN Zrne LIA W35234
t•Y Natural Resources
Conserration Service
Web So l Survey
Natonal Cocpe+aove oil purvey
1U25r2D 9
Page 1 of 3
Wilmington Airport
Page 9

Soil Map —Neer Hanover Comity, North Carolina
(Wilmington Aiport - Wilmington, North C arolna)
MAP LEGEND
Area of Interest (AOI) gi. spoil Area
Area ar interest {A019
— 0 Stony Spot
saleC2, Very SAX Spot
Sol Map Urn Polygons
tyei spot
+., Sol Map urri unes
0 sal Map Urti Paints Cotner
.. Sped] Une Features
Special Point Features
Blowout Water Features
Streams and Canals
Borrow PI1
Trans portalcn
` Clay Spot +i-+ RallS
c. Closed Depression
rr Interstate HIprays
Gravel Ph US Roles
Gravelly Spat kiaJorRoads
Landoll
Local Roads
j, Lava Flow
f} Becltwormd
Ad, Marsh nrswamp ■ APO] Phologlaphy
,R Pine cc Quarry
Macellaneous Vwaier
Perennial water
RDA Dutcrop
+ nine spit
Sandy Spot
Severely Eroded Spd
Slrtlhde
SIIde ar Slp
is SodcSPot
MAP INFORMATION
The sail surreys that comprise your AOl were mapped at
1:1 ti,&Hi.
Warning: Soil Map may not be valid at this scale.
Enlargement of maps beyond the scale of mappng can cause
misunderstanding of the detail or mapping and accuracy of soil
foe placement The maps do not show the small areas of
contrasting soils that could have been shown at a more detaied
scale.
Please rely on the bar scale cn each map sheet for map
measurements.
Source of Map: Natural Resources Conry seation Service
Web Soil Survey URL:
Coordinate System: Web Mercator{EPSG:3B57)
Maps from the Web Soil Survey are based on the Web Mercator
projection. which presences diecticn and shape but distorts
distance and area. A projection that preserves area, such as the
Albers equal-area conic projection, should be used if more
accurate calculations of distance ar area are required.
This product is generated tarn the USDA-NRCS certified data as
of the version dates) listed below
below
Soil Survey Area: New Hanover County, North Carolina
Survey Area Data: Version 20, Sep 16, 2019
Soil map units are labeled {as space allows}for map scales
1:50,O00 or larger.
Dates) aerial images were photographed: Nov 21. 201E—Now
2B, 201E
The orthophota or other base map on which the sail Iles were
compled and digitiied probably differs from the background
inagery displayed on these maps. As a result, some mnor
shifting of map whit boundaries may be evident.
USDA
aME
Natural Resources Web Soil Survey
Conservation Service National Cooperative Soil Survey
10J2502019
Page 2 of 3
Wilmington Airport
Page 10

Soil Map —New HanoverCounty, North Carolina
Wilmington Airport - Wilmington,
North Carolina
Map Unit Legend
Map Unit Symbol
Map Unit Name
Acres in AOI
Percent of AOI
Be
Bayrneade fine sand, 1 to 6
percent slopes
2.2
0.8%
DO
Dorovan soils
6.1
2 1%
JO
Johnston soils
2.1
0.7%
Kr
Kureb sand, 1 to 8 percent
slopes
8.4
2.9%
Le
Leon sand
45.3
15.6%
Ly
Lynn Haven fine sand
35.7
12 3%
Mu
Murville fine sand
184.6
63.4%
Se
Seagate fine sand
4.9
1 7%
St
Stallings fine sand
1.8
0.6%
Totals for Area of Interest
291.1
USDA Natural Resources Web Sail Survey
Conservation Service National Cooperative Soil Survey
1012512019
Page 3 of 3
Wilmington Airport
Page 11

Attachment 2. USGS Quadrangle Excerpts.
Castle Hayne, North Carolina Quadrangle, 2016
Scotts Hill, North Carolina Quadrangle, 2019
77'52.30•
2 3337 004 FEET 234 235 34`22'2
-77.8750°
34.3750' 236°°°"`E 37 38
c
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IljC,r
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Wilmington Airport
Page 12

Attachment 3. National Wetland Inventory Map
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
August 19. 2020
Wetlands
111 Estuarine and Marine Deepwater
▪ Estuarine and Marine Wetland
Wilmington Airport VORTAC Replacement
❑ Freshwater Emergent Wetland ▪ Lake
Freshwater Forested/Shrub Wetland ❑ Other
❑ Freshwater Pond ❑ Rlverine
This maps fa general reference or*.. The US Fish and Wildlife
Service is not responsible for the acCLraCy or currentness of the
base data shown on this map. All wetlands related data should
be used kh accordance with the layer metadata frond on Vie
Wetlands Mapper web site.
Naumal wetlands 'memory INWI1
Ts page WAS prntluceo by me NM mapper
Wilmington Airport
Page 13

Attachment 4. FEMA Floodplain Information
National Flood Hazard Layer FIRMette
FEMA
AREA OF
17?0.12.3?0014
t'tf.2/1.6f2007
3 72 03231001<
} Pff. 44jJ4F/a01
est
MINIMAL FLOOD
Zone X
NEW H aNO' R
37O!
372032 4200 K
eft-. 2 /16/2007
17201211001-;
ef1.0/20/2010
Red
0 250 500
1000
1,500
Feet
2,000
1:6,1300
77°52'IG"b'; 34°2047-N
Legend
SEE Fl5 REPORT FOR DETAILED LEGEND AND INDEX MAP FOR FIRM PANEL LAYOUT
SPECIAL FLOOD
HAZARD AREAS
Without Base Rood Elevation {BFE)
Zone A, V..A99
With BEE or Depth zone os AO rw. vAR
Regulatory Floodway
OTHER AREAS OF
FLOOD HAZARD
OTHER AREAS
GENERAL
STRUCTURES
OTHER
FEATURES
MAP PANELS
0
0 2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard. Areas
of 1% annual chance flood with average
depth less than one foot or with drainage
areas of less than one square mile zone x
Future Conditions 1% Annual
Chance Flood Hazard zone x
'/rArea with Reduced Flood Risk due to
Levee. See Notes. zone x
7//
Area with Flood Risk due to Levee Zone D
No SCREEN Area of Minimal Flood Hazard zone
11 Effective LOMRs
Area of Undetermined Flood Hazard zoneo
— - Channel. Culvert, or Storm Sewer
mini Levee, Dike, or Floodwall
M2 Cross Sections with 1% Annual Chance
ws Water Surface Elevation
— — Coastal Transect
--^ su --- Base Flood Elevation Line [BM
Limit of Study
Jurisdiction Boundary
--- Coastal Transect Baseline
Profile Baseline
Hydrographic Feature
Digital Data Available
No Digital Data Available
Unmapped
The pin displayed on the map is an approximate
point selected by the user and does not represent
an authoritative property location.
This map complies with FEMA's standards for the use of
digital flood maps if it is not void as described below.
The basemap shown complies with FEMA's baseman
accuracy standards
The flood hazard information is derived directly from the
authoritative NFHL web services provided by FEMA This map
was exported on 8/17/2020 at 1220 PM and does not
reflect changes or amendments subsequent to this date and
time. The NFRL and effective information may change or
become superseded by new data over time_
This map image is void if the ore or more of the following map
elements do not appear: baseman imagery, flood zone labels,
legend, scale bar, map creation date, community identifiers,
FIRM panel number, and FIRM effective date_ Map images for
unmapped and unmodemized areas cannot be used for
regulatory purposes.
Wilmington Airport
Page 14

Appendix A. Wetland Data Sheets and Photographs
Wilmington Airport Page 15

Appendix A
Wetland Datasheets and Photographs
Wilmington Airport VORTAC Replacement
New Hanover County, North Carolina

VORTAC Replacement Site
VORTAC Replacement Site
New Hanover County, North Carolina
Data Sheet Paint
Survey Area
Wetland
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

The existing Wilmington Airport VORTAC tower facility, facing south. The facility is on rock fill
material, and the surrounding area is all wetland habitat.
Access road to the tower facility facing south. The boundary of the large wetland extends all the way
to the roadway fill.
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

Upland Datapoint 1 on the fill just west of the tower, facing west. Notice that the area is maintained
and had recently been sprayed with herbicide.
Photograph of the area just south of the Upland Datapoint 1, facing west.
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region
Project/Site: Wilmington Airport
Applicant/Owner: Wilmington Airport
City/County: New Hanover County Sampling Date: November 21, 2019
Investigator(s): Luke F. Eggering, SPWS Section, Township, Range:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.): Slightly undulating flat
State: NC Sampling Point: Upland Datapoint 1
Local relief (concave, convex, none): concave Slope (%): 0%
Subregion (LRR or MLRA): LRR T Outer Coastal Plain Lat: 34.351641
Soil Map Unit Name: Mu - Murville fine sand
Long: -77.874509 Datum:
NWI classification: PEM
Are climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of the year? Yes X No (If no, explain in Remarks.)
Are vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology significantly disturbed? No Are "normal circumstances" present? Yes X No
Are vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology naturally problematic? No (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS— Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No
Is the Sampled Area within a
Wetland? Yes No X
Hydric Soil Present? Yes No X
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No X
Remarks:
This upland data point was on the VORTAC System tower gravel parking
elevated above the adjacent wetland approximately 12-18 inces above the
area. What little vegetation that is present is herbaceous emergent. The area is
wetland.
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required; check all that apply)
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
_ Surface Water (A1) _ Aquatic Fauna (B13) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
_ High Water Table (A2) _ Marl Deposits (B15) (LRR U) _ Drainage Patterns (B10)
_ Saturation (A3) _ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) _ Moss Trim Lines (B16)
_ Water Marks (B 1) _ Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
_ Sediment Deposits (B2) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8)
_ Drift Deposits (B3) _ Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) _ Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
_ Algal Mat or Crust (B4) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) _ Geomorphic Position (D2)
_ Iron Deposits (B5) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ Shallow Aquitard (D3)
_ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) _ FAC-Neutral Test (D5)
Water -Stained Leaves (B9) Sphagnum moss (D8) (LRR T, U)
Field Observations:
Surface water present? Yes No X Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No X
Water table present? Yes No X Depth (inches):
Saturation present? Yes No X Depth (inches):
(includes capillary fringe)
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
The fill material is elevated above the adjacent wetland. The area is marked as wetland on the Castle Hayne (2016) and Scotts Hill (2019), North Carolina
USGS 7.5 minute quadrangles. It is unclear if the area receives overflow flooding from the Northeast Cape Fear River.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

VEGETATION (Four Strata) - Use scientific names of plants
Sampling Point: upland Datapoint 1
Tree Stratum (Plot Size:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Absolute Dominant Indicator
% Cover Species? Status
Sapliing/Shrub Stratum
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Dominance Test worksheet:
Number of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across all Strata:
Percent of Dominant Species that
are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1 (A)
1 (B)
100.00% (A/B)
0 = Total Cover
50% of total cover: 0 20% of total cover: 0
(Plot Size:
0 = Total Cover
50% of total cover: 0 20% of total cover: 0
Herb Stratum (Plot Size:
1 Andropogon virginicus 30 Y FAC
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
30 = Total Cover
50% of total cover: 15 20% of total cover: 6
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot Size:
1
2
3
4
5
0 = Total Cover
50% of total cover: 0 20% of total cover: 0
Prevalence Index worksheet
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
OBL species 0 x 1 = 0
FACW species 0 x 2 = 0
FAC species 30 x 3 = 90
FACU species 0 x 4 = 0
UPL species 0 x 5 = 0
Column totals 30 (A) 90 (B)
Prevalence Index = B/A = 3.00
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
1 -Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
X 2 - Dominance Test is >50%
X 3 - Prevalence Index is <_3.0'
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be
present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Definitions of Four Vegetation Strata:
Tree - Woody plants, excluding vines 3 in. (7.6 cm) or more
in diameter at breast height (DBH), regardless of height.
Sapling/shrub - Woody plants, excluding vines, less than 3
in. DBH and greater than 3.28 ft (1 m) tall.
Herb - All herbaceous (non -woody) plants, regardless of size,
and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall.
Woody vines - All woody vines greater than 3.28 ft in height.
Hydrophytic
vegetation
present?
Yes X No
Remarks: (If observed, list morphological adaptations below).
The gravel fill was primarily unvegetated and was recently treated with herbicides.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

SOIL
Sampling Point: Upland Datapoint 1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
Matrix Redox Features
(inches) Color (moist)
0 100
Color (moist)
Type' Loc2
Texture Remarks
'Type: C=Concentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains.
2Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix.
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.)
_ Histisol (A1)
_ Histic Epipedon (A2)
_ Black Histic (A3)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
_ Stratified Layers (A5)
_ Organic Bodies (A6) (LRR P, T, U)
_ 5 cm Mucky Mineral (A7) (LRR P, T, U)
_ Muck Presence (A8) (LRR U)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR P, T)
Depleted Below Dark Suface (A11)
_ Thick Dark Surface (Al2)
_ Coast Prairie Redox (A16) (MLRA 150A)
_ Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) (LRR 0, S)
_ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
_ Sandy Redox (S5)
_ Stripped Matrix (S6)
Dark Surface (S7) (LRR P, S, T, U)
_ Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (LRR S, T, U)
_ Thin Dark Surface (S9) (LRR, S, T, U)
_ Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (LRR 0)
_ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
_ Depleted Matrix (F3)
_ Redox Dark Surface (F6)
_ Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
_ Redox Depressions (F8)
_ Marl (F10) (LRR U)
_ Depleted Ochric (F11) (MLRA 151)
_ Iron -Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR 0, P, T)
_ Umbric Surface (F13) (LRR P, T, U)
_ Delta Ochric (F17) (MLRA 151)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18) (MLRA 150A, 150B)
_ Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 149A)
Anomalous Bright Loamy Soils (F20) (MLRA 149A, 153C, 153D)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3:
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR 0)
_ 2 cm Muck (A10) (LRR S)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18) (outside MLRA 150A,B)
Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (LRR P, S, T)
Anomalous Bright Loamy Soils (F20)
(MLRA 153B)
_ Red Parent Material (TF2)
_ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
3lndicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Restrictive Layer (if observed):
Type: rock fill
Depth (inches): surface
Hydric soil present?
Yes No X
Remarks:
The upland data point is on the rock fill for the VORTAC tower.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

Typical habitat east of the tower, facing west. This photograph is approximately 40 feet east of
Wetland Datapoint 1 showing that woody vegetation is more prevalent.
Typical habitat at Wetland Datapoint 1 showing that there are less shrubs in this area proximal to the
existing VORTAC tower facility.
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

Typical habitat east of the tower, facing west. This photograph is approximately 200 feet east of
Wetland Datapoint 1 showing that woody vegetation is more prevalent.
Typical soil sample at Wetland Datapoint 1 showing reducing conditions (S5 Sandy Redox).
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region
Project/Site: Wilmington Airport
Applicant/Owner: Wilmington Airport
City/County: New Hanover County Sampling Date: November 21, 2019
Investigator(s): Luke F. Eggering, SPWS Section, Township, Range:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.): Slightly undulating flat
State: NC Sampling Point: Wet Datapoint 1
Local relief (concave, convex, none): concave Slope (%): 0%
Subregion (LRR or MLRA): LRR T Outer Coastal Plain Lat: 34.351776
Soil Map Unit Name: Mu - Murville fine sand
Long: -77.874203 Datum:
NWI classification: PEM
Are climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of the year? Yes X No (If no, explain in Remarks.)
Are vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology significantly disturbed? No Are "normal circumstances" present? Yes X No
Are vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology naturally problematic? No (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS— Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No
Is the Sampled Area within a
Wetland? Yes X No
Hydric Soil Present? Yes X No
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes X No
Remarks:
This data point was immediately east of the VORTAC System tower and
saturated to the surface by a high groundwater table. The soils are reduced/depleted,
gravel parking area. It is a primarily emergent wetland at the data point, and it is
and the vegetation is stongly hydrophytic.
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required; check all that apply)
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
_ Surface Water (A1) _ Aquatic Fauna (B13) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
_ High Water Table (A2) _ Marl Deposits (B15) (LRR U) _ Drainage Patterns (B10)
X Saturation (A3) X Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) _ Moss Trim Lines (B16)
_ Water Marks (B 1) _ Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
_ Sediment Deposits (B2) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8)
_ Drift Deposits (B3) _ Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) _ Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
_ Algal Mat or Crust (B4) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) _ Geomorphic Position (D2)
_ Iron Deposits (B5) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ Shallow Aquitard (D3)
_ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) _ FAC-Neutral Test (D5)
Water -Stained Leaves (B9) Sphagnum moss (D8) (LRR T, U)
Field Observations:
Surface water present? Yes No X Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes X No
Water table present? Yes X No Depth (inches):
_
Saturation present? Yes X No_ Depth (inches):
(includes capillary fringe)
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
The soils were saturated to the surface. It appears that the hydrology is primarily from a high water table, but it may receive infrequent overflow flooding from
the Northeast Cape Fear River or possibly Prince George Creek. The area is marked as wetland on the Castle Hayne (2016) and Scotts Hill (2019), North
Carolina USGS 7.5 minute quadrangles.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

VEGETATION (Four Strata) - Use scientific names of plants
Sampling Point: Wet Datapoint 1
Tree Stratum (Plot Size:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Absolute Dominant Indicator
% Cover Species? Status
Sapliing/Shrub Stratum
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
50% of total cover: 0
(Plot Size:
Dominance Test worksheet:
Number of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across all Strata:
Percent of Dominant Species that
are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
3 (A)
3 (B)
100.00% (A/B)
0 = Total Cover
20% of total cover: 0
50% of total cover: 0
Herb Stratum (Plot Size:
1 Polygonum sagittatum
0 = Total Cover
20% of total cover: 0
35
2 Aristida stricta
20
3 Andropogon virginicus
15
4 Cyrilla racemiflora
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
5
N
50% of total cover: 37.5
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot Size:
1
2
3
4
5
OBL
FAC
FAC
FACW
75 = Total Cover
20% of total cover: 15
50% of total cover: 0
0 = Total Cover
20% of total cover: 0
Prevalence Index worksheet
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
OBL species 35 x 1 = 35
FACW species 5 x 2 = 10
FAC species 35 x 3 = 105
FACU species 0 x 4 = 0
UPL species 0 x 5 = 0
Column totals 75 (A) 150 (B)
Prevalence Index = B/A = 2.00
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
1 -Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
X 2 - Dominance Test is >50%
X 3 - Prevalence Index is <_3.0'
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be
present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Definitions of Four Vegetation Strata:
Tree - Woody plants, excluding vines 3 in. (7.6 cm) or more
in diameter at breast height (DBH), regardless of height.
Sapling/shrub - Woody plants, excluding vines, less than 3
in. DBH and greater than 3.28 ft (1 m) tall.
Herb - All herbaceous (non -woody) plants, regardless of size,
and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall.
Woody vines - All woody vines greater than 3.28 ft in height.
Hydrophytic
vegetation
present?
Yes X No
Remarks: (If observed, list morphological adaptations below).
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

SOIL
Sampling Point:
Wet Datapoint 1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches)
Matrix Redox Features
Color (moist)
0-14 2.5Y 4.0 / 1
Color (moist)
98 2.5Y 7 / 2 2
14-18 2.5Y 7 / 1 98
Type' Loc2
Texture Remarks
sandy loam
2.5Y 3 / 1 2 sand
'Type: C=Concentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains.
2Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix.
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.)
_ Histisol (A1)
_ Histic Epipedon (A2)
_ Black Histic (A3)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
_ Stratified Layers (A5)
_ Organic Bodies (A6) (LRR P, T, U)
_ 5 cm Mucky Mineral (A7) (LRR P, T, U)
_ Muck Presence (A8) (LRR U)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR P, T)
Depleted Below Dark Suface (A11)
_ Thick Dark Surface (Al2)
_ Coast Prairie Redox (A16) (MLRA 150A)
_ Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) (LRR 0, S)
_ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
X Sandy Redox (S5)
_ Stripped Matrix (S6)
Dark Surface (S7) (LRR P, S, T, U)
_ Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (LRR S, T, U)
_ Thin Dark Surface (S9) (LRR, S, T, U)
_ Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (LRR 0)
_ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
_ Depleted Matrix (F3)
_ Redox Dark Surface (F6)
_ Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
_ Redox Depressions (F8)
_ Marl (F10) (LRR U)
_ Depleted Ochric (F11) (MLRA 151)
_ Iron -Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR 0, P, T)
_ Umbric Surface (F13) (LRR P, T, U)
_ Delta Ochric (F17) (MLRA 151)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18) (MLRA 150A, 150B)
_ Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 149A)
Anomalous Bright Loamy Soils (F20) (MLRA 149A, 153C, 153D)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3:
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR 0)
_ 2 cm Muck (A10) (LRR S)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18) (outside MLRA 150A,B)
Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (LRR P, S, T)
Anomalous Bright Loamy Soils (F20)
(MLRA 153B)
_ Red Parent Material (TF2)
_ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
3lndicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Restrictive Layer (if observed):
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydric soil present?
Yes X No
Remarks:
The soils are strongly reduced and saturated to the surface.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

Wetland Datapoint 2 west of the tower, facing east.
Typical habitat between Upland Datapoint 1 (8 feet to the left, on fill) and Wetland Datapoint 2 (50
feet to the right, in wetland), facing south.
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

Typical wetland habitat west of the tower and approximately 150 feet west of Wetland Datapoint 2
west of the tower, facing east.
Typical soil sample for Wetland Datapoint 2 showing reduced conditions.
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region
Project/Site: Wilmington Airport
Applicant/Owner: Wilmington Airport
City/County: New Hanover County Sampling Date: November 21, 2019
Investigator(s): Luke F. Eggering, SPWS Section, Township, Range:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.): Slightly undulating flat
State: NC Sampling Point: Wet Datapoint 2
Local relief (concave, convex, none): concave Slope (%): 0%
Subregion (LRR or MLRA): LRR T Outer Coastal Plain Lat: 34.351635
Soil Map Unit Name: Ly - Lynn Haven fine sand
Long: -77.874666 Datum:
NWI classification: PEM/PSS
Are climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of the year? Yes X No (If no, explain in Remarks.)
Are vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology significantly disturbed? No Are "normal circumstances" present? Yes X No
Are vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology naturally problematic? No (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS— Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No
Is the Sampled Area within a
Wetland? Yes X No
Hydric Soil Present? Yes X No
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes X No
Remarks:
This data point was west of the VORTAC System tower and gravel parking
saturated to the surface by a high groundwater table. The soils are reduced/depleted,
area. This is a recently cutover emergent/shrub wetland at the data point, and it is
and the vegetation is stongly hydrophytic.
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required; check all that apply)
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
_ Surface Water (A1) _ Aquatic Fauna (B13) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
_ High Water Table (A2) _ Marl Deposits (B15) (LRR U) _ Drainage Patterns (B10)
X Saturation (A3) X Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) _ Moss Trim Lines (B16)
_ Water Marks (B 1) _ Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
_ Sediment Deposits (B2) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8)
_ Drift Deposits (B3) _ Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) _ Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
_ Algal Mat or Crust (B4) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) _ Geomorphic Position (D2)
_ Iron Deposits (B5) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ Shallow Aquitard (D3)
_ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) _ FAC-Neutral Test (D5)
Water -Stained Leaves (B9) Sphagnum moss (D8) (LRR T, U)
Field Observations:
Surface water present? Yes No X Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes X No
Water table present? Yes X No Depth (inches):
_
Saturation present? Yes X No_ Depth (inches):
(includes capillary fringe)
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
The soils were saturated to the surface. It appears that the hydrology is primarily from a high water table, but it may receive infrequent overflow flooding from
the Northeast Cape Fear River or possibly Prince George Creek. The area is marked as wetland on the Castle Hayne (2016) and Scotts Hill (2019), North
Carolina USGS 7.5 minute quadrangles.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

VEGETATION (Four Strata) - Use scientific names of plants
Sampling Point: Wet Datapoint 2
Tree Stratum (Plot Size:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Absolute Dominant Indicator
% Cover Species? Status
50% of total cover: 0
Sapliing/Shrub Stratum (Plot Size:
1 Magnolia virginiana
Dominance Test worksheet:
Number of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across all Strata:
Percent of Dominant Species that
are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
5 (A)
5 (B)
100.00% (A/B)
0 = Total Cover
2
20% of total cover: 0
2 Acer rubrum
2
3 Morella cerifera
4
5
6
7
8
2
50% of total cover: 3
Herb Stratum (Plot Size:
1 Rhynchospora cephalantha
FACW
FAC
FAC
6 = Total Cover
20% of total cover: 1.2
25 Y OBL
2 Aristida stricta
20 Y FAC
3 Andropogon virginicus
10 N FAC
4 Cyrilla racemiflora
8
N FACW
5 Morella caroliniensis
2
N FACW
6 Smilax laurifolia
7
8
9
10
11
12
2
N FACW
67 = Total Cover
50% of total cover: 33.5 20% of total cover: 13.4
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot Size:
1
2
3
4
5
50% of total cover: 0
0 = Total Cover
20% of total cover: 0
Prevalence Index worksheet
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
OBL species 25 x 1 = 25
FACW species 14 x 2 = 28
FAC species 34 x 3 = 102
FACU species 0 x 4 = 0
UPL species 0 x 5 = 0
Column totals 73 (A) 155 (B)
Prevalence Index = B/A = 2.12
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
1 -Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
X 2 - Dominance Test is >50%
X 3 - Prevalence Index is <_3.0'
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be
present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Definitions of Four Vegetation Strata:
Tree - Woody plants, excluding vines 3 in. (7.6 cm) or more
in diameter at breast height (DBH), regardless of height.
Sapling/shrub - Woody plants, excluding vines, less than 3
in. DBH and greater than 3.28 ft (1 m) tall.
Herb - All herbaceous (non -woody) plants, regardless of size,
and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall.
Woody vines - All woody vines greater than 3.28 ft in height.
Hydrophytic
vegetation
present?
Yes X No
Remarks: (If observed, list morphological adaptations below).
The area was recently cutover/cleared for trees and brush.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

SOIL
Sampling Point:
Wet Datapoint 2
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches)
Matrix Redox Features
Color (moist)
0-12 2.5Y 6.0 / 1
Color (moist)
95 2.5Y 7 / 2 5
12-18 2.5Y 7 / 1 100
Type' Loc2
Texture Remarks
sandy loam
sand
'Type: C=Concentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains.
2Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix.
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.)
_ Histisol (A1)
_ Histic Epipedon (A2)
_ Black Histic (A3)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
_ Stratified Layers (A5)
_ Organic Bodies (A6) (LRR P, T, U)
_ 5 cm Mucky Mineral (A7) (LRR P, T, U)
_ Muck Presence (A8) (LRR U)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR P, T)
Depleted Below Dark Suface (A11)
_ Thick Dark Surface (Al2)
_ Coast Prairie Redox (A16) (MLRA 150A)
_ Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) (LRR 0, S)
_ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
X Sandy Redox (S5)
_ Stripped Matrix (S6)
Dark Surface (S7) (LRR P, S, T, U)
_ Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (LRR S, T, U)
_ Thin Dark Surface (S9) (LRR, S, T, U)
_ Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (LRR 0)
_ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
_ Depleted Matrix (F3)
_ Redox Dark Surface (F6)
_ Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
_ Redox Depressions (F8)
_ Marl (F10) (LRR U)
_ Depleted Ochric (F11) (MLRA 151)
_ Iron -Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR 0, P, T)
_ Umbric Surface (F13) (LRR P, T, U)
_ Delta Ochric (F17) (MLRA 151)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18) (MLRA 150A, 150B)
_ Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 149A)
Anomalous Bright Loamy Soils (F20) (MLRA 149A, 153C, 153D)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3:
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR 0)
_ 2 cm Muck (A10) (LRR S)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18) (outside MLRA 150A,B)
Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (LRR P, S, T)
Anomalous Bright Loamy Soils (F20)
(MLRA 153B)
_ Red Parent Material (TF2)
_ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
3lndicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Restrictive Layer (if observed):
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydric soil present?
Yes X No
Remarks:
The soils are strongly reduced and saturated to the surface.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

Wetland Datapoint 3 south of the existing tower, facing north. Note that there is some inundation
near the sample point.
Wetland Datapoint 3 habitat showing very minor undulations and intermittent areas of shallow
ponding, facing east.
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

Wetland Datapoint 3 soil sample (S5 Sandy Redox). Note that in some areas the reduced sandy soils
were a slurry, and it was difficult to get an intact soil core demonstrating the saturation of the area.
Wetland Datapoint 3 showing the complete saturation on the soil auger following the soil data
collection.
Wilmington Airport
New Hanover County, North Carolina
VORTAC Replacement

WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region
Project/Site: Wilmington Airport
Applicant/Owner: Wilmington Airport
City/County: New Hanover County Sampling Date: November 21, 2019
Investigator(s): Luke F. Eggering, SPWS Section, Township, Range:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.): Slightly undulating flat
State: NC Sampling Point: Wet Datapoint 3
Local relief (concave, convex, none): concave Slope (%): 0%
Subregion (LRR or MLRA): LRR T Outer Coastal Plain Lat: 34.350486
Soil Map Unit Name: Ly - Lynn Haven fine sand
Long: -77.874419 Datum:
NWI classification: PSS
Are climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of the year? Yes X No (If no, explain in Remarks.)
Are vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology significantly disturbed? No Are "normal circumstances" present? Yes X No
Are vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology naturally problematic? No (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS— Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes X No
Is the Sampled Area within a
Wetland? Yes X No
Hydric Soil Present? Yes X No
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes X No
Remarks:
This data point was south of the VORTAC System tower and gravel parking
groundwater table. The soils are reduced/depleted, and the vegetation is
area. It is a recently cutover area that is saturated to the surface by a high
stongly hydrophytic.
HYDROLOGY
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required; check all that apply)
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
_ Surface Water (A1) _ Aquatic Fauna (B13) _ Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
_ High Water Table (A2) _ Marl Deposits (B15) (LRR U) _ Drainage Patterns (B10)
X Saturation (A3) X Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) _ Moss Trim Lines (B16)
_ Water Marks (B 1) X Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) _ Dry -Season Water Table (C2)
_ Sediment Deposits (B2) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8)
_ Drift Deposits (B3) _ Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) _ Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
_ Algal Mat or Crust (B4) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) _ Geomorphic Position (D2)
_ Iron Deposits (B5) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ Shallow Aquitard (D3)
_ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7) _ FAC-Neutral Test (D5)
Water -Stained Leaves (B9) Sphagnum moss (D8) (LRR T, U)
Field Observations:
Surface water present? Yes No X Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes X No
Water table present? Yes X No Depth (inches):
_
Saturation present? Yes X No_ Depth (inches):
(includes capillary fringe)
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
The soils were saturated to the surface. It appears that the hydrology is primarily from a high water table, but it may receive infrequent overflow flooding from
the Northeast Cape Fear River or possibly Prince George Creek. The area is marked as wetland on the Castle Hayne (2016) and Scotts Hill (2019), North
Carolina USGS 7.5 minute quadrangles.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

VEGETATION (Four Strata) - Use scientific names of plants
Sampling Point: Wet Datapoint 3
Tree Stratum (Plot Size:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Absolute Dominant Indicator
% Cover Species? Status
50% of total cover: 0
Sapliing/Shrub Stratum (Plot Size:
1 Acer rubrum
Dominance Test worksheet:
Number of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across all Strata:
Percent of Dominant Species that
are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
4 (A)
4 (B)
100.00% (A/B)
0 = Total Cover
8
20% of total cover: 0
2 Morella caroliniensis
5
3 Magnolia virginiana
4
5
6
7
8
2
N
FAC
FACW
FACW
15 = Total Cover
50% of total cover: 7.5 20% of total cover: 3
Herb Stratum (Plot Size:
1 Rhynchospora cephalantha
30
2 Aristida stricta
15
3 Acer rubrum
12
N
4 Smilax laurifolia
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
5
N
OBL
FAC
FAC
FACW
62 = Total Cover
50% of total cover: 31 20% of total cover: 12.4
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot Size:
1
2
3
4
5
50% of total cover: 0
0 = Total Cover
20% of total cover: 0
Prevalence Index worksheet
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
OBL species 30 x 1 = 30
FACW species 12 x 2 = 24
FAC species 35 x 3 = 105
FACU species 0 x 4 = 0
UPL species 0 x 5 = 0
Column totals 77 (A) 159 (B)
Prevalence Index = B/A = 2.06
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
1 -Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
X 2 - Dominance Test is >50%
X 3 - Prevalence Index is <_3.0'
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain)
'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be
present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Definitions of Four Vegetation Strata:
Tree - Woody plants, excluding vines 3 in. (7.6 cm) or more
in diameter at breast height (DBH), regardless of height.
Sapling/shrub - Woody plants, excluding vines, less than 3
in. DBH and greater than 3.28 ft (1 m) tall.
Herb - All herbaceous (non -woody) plants, regardless of size,
and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall.
Woody vines - All woody vines greater than 3.28 ft in height.
Hydrophytic
vegetation
present?
Yes X No
Remarks: (If observed, list morphological adaptations below).
The entire area was recently cleared. Dead limbs and debris are across the site. Most woody vegetation is in the herbaceous layer, but some are in
the shrub layer.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

SOIL
Sampling Point:
Wet Datapoint 3
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches)
Matrix Redox Features
Color (moist)
0-2 10YR 3.0 / 1 98
2-12 2.5Y 5 / 1 95
12-16 2.5Y 6 / 1 100
Color (moist)
7.5YR 6 / 8 2
2.5Y
7 / 2 5
Type' Loc2
Texture Remarks
sandy loam
sandy loam
sandy loam
'Type: C=Concentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains.
2Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix.
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.)
_ Histisol (A1)
_ Histic Epipedon (A2)
_ Black Histic (A3)
_ Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
_ Stratified Layers (A5)
_ Organic Bodies (A6) (LRR P, T, U)
_ 5 cm Mucky Mineral (A7) (LRR P, T, U)
_ Muck Presence (A8) (LRR U)
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR P, T)
Depleted Below Dark Suface (A11)
_ Thick Dark Surface (Al2)
_ Coast Prairie Redox (A16) (MLRA 150A)
_ Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) (LRR 0, S)
_ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
X Sandy Redox (S5)
_ Stripped Matrix (S6)
Dark Surface (S7) (LRR P, S, T, U)
_ Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (LRR S, T, U)
_ Thin Dark Surface (S9) (LRR, S, T, U)
_ Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (LRR 0)
_ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
_ Depleted Matrix (F3)
_ Redox Dark Surface (F6)
_ Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
_ Redox Depressions (F8)
_ Marl (F10) (LRR U)
_ Depleted Ochric (F11) (MLRA 151)
_ Iron -Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR 0, P, T)
_ Umbric Surface (F13) (LRR P, T, U)
_ Delta Ochric (F17) (MLRA 151)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18) (MLRA 150A, 150B)
_ Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 149A)
Anomalous Bright Loamy Soils (F20) (MLRA 149A, 153C, 153D)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3:
_ 1 cm Muck (A9) (LRR 0)
_ 2 cm Muck (A10) (LRR S)
_ Reduced Vertic (F18) (outside MLRA 150A,B)
Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (LRR P, S, T)
Anomalous Bright Loamy Soils (F20)
(MLRA 153B)
_ Red Parent Material (TF2)
_ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
3lndicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Restrictive Layer (if observed):
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydric soil present?
Yes X No
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region - Version 2.0

WETLAND FUNCTIONS & VALUES FORM
Wetland I.D.: Wetland Data Point
Function/Value
Score
Project/Site: Wilmington VORTAC
Comments
Floodwater Alteration/Retention -
Considers the effectiveness (wetland size, water
capacity in wetland, location in watershed,
wetland juxtaposition, etc.) of the wetland in
reducing flood damage and the flow of
floodwaters by attenuation of floodwaters for
prolonged periods following precipitation events.
4
The large wetland flat provides a quality area for
floodwater storage and conveyance.
Sediment, Nutrient, & Toxicant Removal -
Considers the effectiveness (wetland
configuration, vegetative cover, wetland size, etc.)
of the wetland in reducing or preventing
degradation of water quality by trapping
sediments, excess nutrients, and toxicants.
5
The vegetated wetland flat provides a large area for
filtering of sediments and toxicant removal.
Erosion Control and Stabilization -
Considers the effectiveness (vegetative cover,
size, substrate, etc.) of the wetland in reducing
erosion of stream channels or stream banks down
gradient of the wetland, along shorelines if
associated with a lake or tidally influenced water
body, or within the wetland itself.
4
The removal of the trees and brush has converted the
habitat to an emergent scrub shrub habitat which is very
good for stabilizing the soil and preventing erosion.
Wildlife Habitat (Terrestrial) -
Considers the effectiveness (wetland's size,
connectivity with other habitats, wetland
juxtaposition, human -caused disturbance, etc.) of
the wetland to provide habitat for various types
and populations of terrestrial animals.
4
The cutover field provides quality habitat for wildlife
especially white-tailed deer, songbirds, and there is
some shorebird habitat present.
Wildlife Habitat (Aquatic) -
Considers the effectiveness (wetland's size,
substrate, water quality, wetland juxtaposition,
human -caused disturbance, pollution, etc.) of the
wetland to provide habitat for various types and
populations of aquatic animals.
2
There are areas of inundation in the wetland, however it
appears that the those areas dry out at times during the
growing season, thereby limiting the area for aquatic
species.
Visual Quality/Aesthetics -
Considers the visual and aesthetic qualities of the
wetland.
2
The area was recently cleared. The tree tops and
stumps detracted from the aesthetics.
Score
Total Score 21
Potential to Provide Desirable Wetland Functions and Values
0
1
2
3
4
5
None
Poor
Low
Moderate
High
Very High

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