20151267 Ver 1_Scoping Comments_20120425

Beverly Eaves Perdue
Governor
MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT
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I�CDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Charles Wakild. P.E.
Director
Apri125, 2012
Pamela R. Williams, Bridge Project Planning Engineer, NCDOT
Michael R. Parker, NCDWQ, Asheville Regional Office ��
Division 13 2011 Bridge Replacement Program Scoping Review Comments
In reply to your request, the NCDWQ offers the following comments for the projects listed below:
Proiect Specific Comments
100117 Bridge No. 117 over the Broad River, NCSR 2776, Buncombe County
Dee Freeman
Secretary
1. The Broad River is classified Gtrout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective
sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
"Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project. .
100222 Bridge No. 222 over Herron Cove Branch, NCSR 2098, Buncombe County
1. Herron Cove Branch is class C-trout waters of the State. NCDWQ recommends that the most
protective sediment and.erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity
violations in trout waters. In addition, atl disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in
accordance with the NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
?. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
"Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
SURFACE WATER PROTECTION SECTION-Asheville Regional Office One 1
2090 U.S. Highway 70, Swannanoa, North Carolina 28778-8211 NOTthCc`1.T01111a
Phone: [phone] i FAX: [phone] f, //
Intemet: www.ncwaterquality.org ��tKt''a`{ t/
An Equal Opporiunity ! Affirmative �ction Employer U

100402 Bridge No. 402 over an unnamed tributary Flat Creek,.NCSR 2806, Buncombe County
The unnamed tributary to Flat Fbrk Creek is classified C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the
most protective sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity
violations in trout waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in
accordance with the NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria far trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
"Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [ 15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
100541 Bridge No. 541 over Glade Creek, NCSR 2788, Buncombe County
Glade Creek is class C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment and
erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout waters. In
addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the NC Division
of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) ideritify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. Iri
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
"Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
110203 Bridge No. 203 over Carroll Creek, NCSR 1405, Burke County
1. Carroll Creek is classified C-trout waters. NCDWQ recorrLmends that the most protective sediment
and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout waters.
In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the NC
Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
"Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
560314 Bridge No. 314 over Calvin Creek, NCSR 1332, Madison County
Calvin Creek is classified C-trout ORW waters. Review of the project reveals the presence of surface
waters classified as C-trout; Outstanding Resource Waters of the State in the project study area. The
water quality classification of C-trout; ORW is one of the highest classifcations in the State.
NCDWQ is extremely concerned with any impacts that may occur to streams with this classification.
It is prefened that these resources be avoided if at all possible. If it is not possible to avoid these
resources, the impacts should be minimized to the greatest extent possible. Given the potential for
impacts to these resources during the project implementation, NCDWQ requests that NCDOT strictly
adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled "Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" (15A
NCAC 04B A124) throughout design and construction of the project. Pursuant to 15A NCAC 2H
.1006 and 15A NCAC 2B .0224, NCDOT will be required to obtain a State Stormwater Permit prior
to construction except in North Carolina's twenty coastal counties. NCDOT will also need to adhere
to the Quality Standards listed in 15A NCAC 2B .0225.
�2)

2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout.
3. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the NC
Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
560514 Bridge No. 514 over Long Branch, NCSR 1410, Madison County
1. Long Branch is classified C-trout ORW waters. Review of the project reveals the presence of surface
waters classified as C-trout; Outstanding Resource Waters of the State in the project study area. The
water quality classification of C-trout; ORW is one of the highest classifications in the State.
NCDWQ is extremely concerned with any impacts that may occur to streams with this classification.
It is preferred that these resources be avoided if at all possible: If it is not possible to avoid these
resources, the impacts should be minimized to the greatest extent possible. Given the potential for
impacts to these resources during the project implementation, NCDWQ requests that NCDOT strictly
adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled "Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" (15A
NCAC 04B .0124) throughout design and construction of the project. Pursuant to 15A NCAC 2H
.1006 and 15A NCAC 2B .0224, NCDOT will be required to obtain a State Stormwater Permit prior
to construction except in North Carolina's twenty coastal counties. NCDOT will also need to adhere
to the Quality Standards listed in 15A NCAC 2B .0225.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout.
3. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the NC
Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
560542 Bridge No. 542 over Big Laurel Creek, NCSR 1504, Madison County
1. Big Laurel Creek is classified C-trout ORW waters. Review of the project reveals the presence of
surface waters classified as C-trout; Outstanding Resource Waters of the State in the project study
area. The water quality classification of Gtrout; ORW is one of the highest classifications in the
State. NCDWQ is extremely concerned with any impacts that may occur to streams with this
classification. It is preferred that these resources be avoided if at all possible. If it is not possible to
avoid these resources, the impacts should be minimized to the greatest extent possible. Given the
potential for impacts to these resources during the project implementation, NCDWQ requests that
NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled "Design Standards in Sensitive
Watersheds" (15A NCAC 04B A124) throughout design and construction of the project. Pursuant to
15A NCAC 2H 1006 and 15A NCAC 2B .0224, NCDOT will be required to obtain a State
Stormwater Permit prior to construction except in North Carolina's twenty coastal counties. NCDOT
will also need to adhere to the Quality Standards listed in 15A NCAC 2B .0225.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout.
3. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the NC
Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
580052 Bridge No. 52 over Little Crooked Creek, NCSR ll05, McDowell County
l. Little Crooked Creek is class C waters.
2. NCDWQ has no specific comments for this bridge project.
(3)

580125 Bridge No. 125 over pogback Spring Branch, NCSR 1560, McDowell County
1. Dogback Spring Branch is class C-trout waters of the State. NCDWQ recommends that the most
protective sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity
violations in trout waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in
accordance with the NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
"Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project
580232 Bridge No. 232 over Crooked Creek, NCSR 1101, McDowell County
1. Crooked Creek is class C waters.
2. NCDWQ has no specific comments for this bridge project.
580234 Bridge No. 234 over Brevard Creek, NCSR 1241, McDowell County
1. Brevard Creek is class C waters.
2. NCDWQ has no specific comments for this bridge project.
580338 Bridge No. 338 over Walton Crawley Branch, NCSR 1760, McDowell County
1. Walton Crawley Branch is class C waters.
2. NCDWQ has no specific comments for this bridge project.
600048 Bridge No. 48 over Cane Creek, NCSR 1211, Mitchell County
1. Cane Creek is classified C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment and
erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout waters. In
addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the NC Division
of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
600049 Bridge No. 49 over Cane Creek, NCSR 1206, Mitchell County
1. Cane Creek is classified Gtrout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment and
erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout waters. In
addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the NC Division
of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NGWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
(4)

600084 Bridge No. 84 over Pigeon Roost Creek, NCSR 1349, Mitchell County
Pigeon Roost Creek is classified C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective
sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
600092 Bridge No. 92 over Wiles Creek, NCSR 1330, Mitchell County
Wiles Creek is classified Gtrout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment and
erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbarices within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
600093 Bridge No. 93 over Lyddies Creek, NCSR 1330, Mitchell County
Lyddies Creek is classified C-trout waters., NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment
and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124� throughout design and
construction of the project.
600119 Bridge No. 119 over Bad Creek, NCSR 1326, Mitchell County
1. Bad Creek is classified C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment and
erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended maratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standaxds in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction ofthe project.
(5)

600146 Bridge No. 146 over Big Rock Creek, NCSR 1330,1�'�itchell County
Big Rock Creek is classified C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment
and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
600169 Bridge No. 169 over Grassy Creek, NCSR 1269, Mitchell County
1. Grassy. Creek is classified C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment
and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT w'ill be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [ 15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
800038 Bridge No. 38 over Mountain Creek, NC FIighway 108, Rutherford County
1. Mountain Creek is class C waters.
2. NCDWQ has no specific comments for this bridge project.
800096 Bridge No. 96 over Big Springs Branch, NCSR 1754, Rutherford County
1. Big Springs Branch is classified as C waters.
2. NCDWQ has no specific comments for this bridge project.
990037 Bridge No. 37 over Brush Creek, NCSR 1317, Yancey County
Brush Creek is classified as C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment
and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
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990054 Bridge No. 54 over Falling Waters Branch, NCSR ll00, Yancey County
1. Falling Waters Branch is classified as WS-II HQW waters.
2. NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled "Design
Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and construction of
the project.
3. Review of the project reveals the presence of surface waters classified as WS-II; High Quality Waters
of the State in the project study area. This is one of the highest classifications for water quality.
Pursuant to 15A NCAC 2H .1006 and 15A NCAC 2B .0224, NCDOT will be required to obtain a
State Stormwater Permit prior to construction except in North Carolina's twenty coastal counties.
990134 Bridge No.134 over the Cane River, NCSR 1379, Yancey County
The Cane River is classified as C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective
sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended maratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ wili require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction ofthe project.
990144 Bridge No. 144 over Brush Creek, NCSR 1317, Yancey County
1. Brush Creek is classified as C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment
and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended maratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [ 15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
990163 Bridge No. 163 over poebag Creek, NCSR 1311, Yancey County
1. Doebag Creek is classified as C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective
sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
��)

990200 Bridge No. 200 over Little Whiteoak Creek, NCSR 1168, Yancey County
1. Little Whiteoak Creek is classified as B-trout ORW waters. Review of the project reveals the
presence of surface waters classified as C-trout; Outstanding Resource Waters of the State in the
project study area. The water quality classification of C-trout; ORW is one of the highest
classifications in the State. NCDWQ is extremely concerned with any impacts that may occur to
streams with this classification. It is preferred that these resources be avoided if at all possible. If it
is not possible to avoid these resources, the impacts should be minimized to the greatest extent
possible. Given the potential for impacts to these resources during the project implementation,
NCDWQ requests that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled "Design
Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" (15A NCAC 04B .0124) throughout design and construction of
the project. Pursuant to 15A NCAC 2H .1006 and 15A NCAC 2B .0224, NCDOT will be required to
obtain a State Stormwater Permit prior to construction except in North Carolina's twenty coastal
counties. NCDOT will also need to adhere to the Quality Standards listed in 15A NCAC 2B .0225.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) i�entify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout.
3. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the NC
Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
990230 Bridge No. 230 over Pigpen Creek, NCSR 1333, Yancey County
1. Pig Pen Creek is classified as C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective
sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
2. Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
990231 Bridge No. 231 over Pigpen Creek, NCSR 1333, Yancey County
Pig Pen Creek is classified as C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective
sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
990235 Bridge No. 235 over Brush Creek, NCSR 1317, Yancey County
1. Brush Creek is classified as C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective sediment
and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
�8)

2. Should NC. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended moratoria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
990276 Bridge No. 276 over Left Prong Still Fork Creek, NCSR ll64, Yancey County
Left Prong Still Fork Creek is classified as C ORW waters. Review of the project reveals the
presence of surface waters classified as C; Outstanding Resource Waters of the State in the project
study area. The water quality classification of C-trout; ORW is one of the highest classifications in
the State. NCDWQ is extremely concerned with any impacts that may occur to streams with this
classification. It is preferred that these resources be avoided if at all possible. If it is not possible to
avoid these resources, the impacts should be minimized to the greatest extent possible. Given the
potential for impacts to these resources during the project implementation, NCDWQ requests that
NCDOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled "Design Standards in Sensitive
Watersheds" (15A NCAC 04B .0124) throughout design and construction of the project. Pursuant to
15A NCAC 2H .1006 and 15A NCAC 2B .0224, NCDOT will be required to obtain a State
Stormwater Permit prior to construction except in North Carolina's twenty coastal counties. NCDOT
will also need to adhere to the Quality Standards listed in 15A NCAC 2B .0225.
990293 Bridge No. 293 over Bald Mountain Creek, NCSR 1411, Yancey County
Bald Mountain Creek is classified as C-trout waters. NCDWQ recommends that the most protective
sediment and erosion control BMP's be implemented to reduce the risk of turbidity violations in trout
waters. In addition, all disturbances within trout buffers shall be conducted in accordance with the
NC Division of Land Resources and NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Should NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) identify these waters as naturally reproducing
trout waters, NCDOT will be required to observe the NCWRC recommended marataria for trout. In
addition, NCDWQ will require that NCDOT strictly adfiere to North Carolina regulations entitled
Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" [15A NCAC 04B .0124] throughout design and
construction of the project.
General Comments Re�arding BridEe Replacement Proiects
1. NCDWQ is very concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from these projects.
NCDOT shall address these concerns by describing the potential impacts that may occur to the
aquatic environments and any mitigating factors that would reduce the impacts.
2. If foundation test borings are necessary; it shall be noted in the document Geotechnical work is
approved under Genera1401 Certification Number 3687/Nationwide Permit No. 6 for Survey
Activities.
3. Any Bridge considered a Low Impact Bridge Project must fall under Nationwide Permit No. 3 to
qualify for Low Impact; otherwise, standard permitting procedures will be required. Example
(Regional General Permit No. 31, Nationwide Permit No. 23, Nationwide Permit No. 13, etc.)
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4. NCDOT is respectfully reminded that all impacts, including but not limited to, bridging, fill,
excavation and clearing, and rip rap to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and riparian buffers need to
be included in the final impact calculations. These impacts, in addition to any construction impacts,
temporary or otherwise, also need to be included as part of the 401 Water Quality Certification
Application.
5. Where streams must be crossed, NCDWQ prefers bridges be used in lieu of culverts. However, we
realize that economic considerations often require the use of culverts. Please be advised that culverts
should be countersunk to allow unimpeded passage by fish and other aquatic organisms. Moreover,
in areas where high quality wetlands or streams are impacted, a bridge may prove preferable. When
applicable, NCDOT should not install the bridge bents in the creek, to the maximum extent
practicable.
6. Whenever possible, NCDWQ prefers spanning structures. Spanning structures usually do not require
work within the stream or grubbing of the stream banks and do not require stream channel
realignment. The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges shall allow for human and
wildlife passage beneath the structure. Fish passage and navigation by canoeists and boaters shall not
be blocked. Bridge supports (bents) should not be placed in the stream when possible.
7. Bridge deck drains shall not discharge directly into the stream. Stormwater shall be directed across
the bridge and pre-treated through site-appropriate means (grassed swales, pre-formed scour holes,
vegetated buffers, etc.) before entering the stream. Please refer to the most cunent version of
NCDWQ's Stormwater Best Management Practices.
8. Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands or streams.
9. Strict adherence to the most recent version of NCDOT's Best Management Practices For Bridge
Demolition and Removal approved by the US Army Corps of Engineers is a condition of the 401
Water Quality Certification.
10. Bridge piles and bents shall be constructed using driven piles (hammer or vibratory) or drilled shaft
construction methods. More specifically, jetting or other methods of pile driving are prohibited without
prior written approval from NCDWQ first.
11. No drill slurry or water that has been in contact with uncured concrete shall be allowed to enter surface
waters. This water shall be captured, treated, and disposed of properly.
12. All pile driving or drilling activities shall be enclosed in turbidity curtains unless otherwise approved by
NCDWQ in this certification.
13. All bridge construction shall be performed from the existing bridge, temporary work bridges, temporary
causeways, or floating or sunken barges. If work conditions require barges, they shall be floated into
position and then sunk. The barges shall not be sunk and then dragged into position. Under no
circumstances should barges be dragged along the bottom of the surface water.
14. All work in or adjacent to stream waters shall be conducted in a dry work area. Approved BMP
measures from the most current version of NCDOT Construction and Maintenance Activities manual
such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams and other diversion structures shall be used to prevent
excavation in flowing water.
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�
15. If concrete is used during construction, a dry work area shall be maintained to prevent direcf contact
between curing concrete and stream water. Water that inadvertently contacts uncured concrete shall
not be discharged to surface waters due to the potential for elevated pH and possible aquatic life and
fish kills.
16. Heavy equipment shall be operated from the banks rather than in the stream channel in order to
minimize sedimentation and reduce the introduction of other polfutants into the stream. This equipment
shall be inspected daily and maintained to prevent contamination of surface waters from leaking fuels,
lubricants, hydraulic fluids, or other toxic materials.
17. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction
contours and elevations. Disturbed areas shall be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and
appropriate native woody species shall be planted. When using temporary structures the area shall be
cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized
equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact allows the area to re-vegetate naturally and
minimizes soil disturbance.
18. Bonow/waste areas should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practical. Impacts to wetlands in
borrow/waste areas will need to be presented in the 401 Water Quality Certification and could
precipitate compensatory mitigation.
19. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction
contours and elevations. Disturbed areas shall be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and
appropriate native woody species shall be planted. When using temporary structures the area shall be
cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized
equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact allows the area to re-vegetate naturally and
minimizes soil disturbance.
20. Unless otherwise authorized, placement of culverts and other structures in waters and streams shall be
placed below the elevation of the streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than
48 inches, and 20 percent of the culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than 48 inches, to
allow low flow passage of water and aquatic life. Design and placement of culverts and other
structures including temporary erosion control measures shall not be conducted in a manner that may
result in dis-equilibrium of wetlands.or streambeds or banks, adjacent to or upstream and down
stream of the above structures. The applicant is required to provide evidence that the equilibrium is
being maintained if requested in writing by NCDWQ. If this condition is unable to be met due to
bedrock or other limiting features encountered du.ring construction, please contact NCDWQ for
guidance on how to proceed and to determine whether or not a permit modification will be required.
21. If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they shall be designed to mimic natural stream cross section
as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation, floodplain benches, and/or
sills may be required where.appropriate. Widening the stream channel should be avoided. Stream
channel widening at the inlet or outlet end of structures typically decreases water velocity causing
sediment deposition that requires increased maintenance and disrupts aquatic life passage.
22. Sediment and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be implemented and
maintained in accordance with the most recent version of North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control
Planning and Design Manual and the most recent version of NCS000250.
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23. In most cases, the NCDWQ prefers the replacement of the existing structure at the same ]ocation with
road closure. If road closure is not feasible, a temporary detour shall be designed and l.ocated to avoid
wetland impacts, minimize the need for clearing and to avoid destabilizing stream banks. If the
structure will be on a new alignment, the old structure shall be removed and the approach fills removed
from the 100-year floodplain. Approach fills shall be removed and restored to the natural ground
elevation. The area shall be stabilized with grass and planted with native tree species. Tall fescue shall
not be used in riparian areas.
Thank you for requesting out input at this time. NCDOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water Quality
Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality standards are met
and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require additional information,
please contact Mike Parker at 828-296-4500.
cc: Lori Beckwith, USACE, Asheville Field Office
Garry Moore, NCDOT, Division 13 Bridge Manager
Roger Bryan, NCDOT, Division 13 Environmental Officer
Marla Chambers, NCWRC
Dave McHenry, NCWRC
Transportation Permitting Unit
NCDOT 2012 Bridge Replacement Scoping Comments
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