20090611 Ver 1_Reports_20020215

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Natural Systems Report
a Transylvania County SR 1 /9-33
Replacement of Bridge No. 193 over
D Davidson River
T.I.P. No. B-4291
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ARCADIS
December 2001
PREPARED FOR
North Carolina Department of
Transportation
a Natural Systems Report
TIP No. B-4291
SR 4-? 15-33
Transylvania County, North
111 Carolina
Prepared for.
North Carolina Department of
Transportation
D Prepared by.
ARCADIS G&M of North Carolina, Inc.
P.O. Box 31388
Raleigh, North Carolina 27622-1388
2301 Rexwoods Drive - Suite 102
Raleigh, North Carolina 27607-3366
Tel [phone]
Fax [phone]
Our Ref:
NC601032.0000
Oa":
December 2001
a - This document is intended only for the use of
the individual or entity for which it was
prepared and may contain information that is
D - privileged, confidential, and exempt 6om
disclosure under applicable law. Any
dissemination, distribution, or copying of this
document is strictly prohibited.
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1. Introduction 1-1
1.1 Project Description 1-1
1.2 Purpose 1-1
1.3 Methodology 1-2
1.4 Qualifications of Principal Investigators 1-3
2. Physical Resources 2-1
2.1 Geology 2-1
2.2 Soils 2-1
2.3 Water Resources 2-2
2.4 Physical Resources Impacts 2-3
3. Biotic Resources 3-1
3.1 Plant Communities 3-1
3.2 Terrestrial Wildlife 3-2
3.3 Aquatic Habitats and Wildlife 3-3
3.4 Biotic Resource Impacts. 3-3
4. Waters of the United States 4-1
4.1 Surface Waters - 4-1
4.2 Jurisdictional Wetlands 4-1
4.3 Impacts to Waters of the United States 4-1
4.4 Permit Requirements 4-2
4.5 Mitigation 4-2
5. Rare and Protected Species 5-1
6. References 6-1
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Figures
1 Vicinity Map
2 Natural Communities and Surface Waters
Tables
1 Soil Summary - Bridge #193 Replacement (TIP No. B-4291), Transylvania
County, North Carolina
2 Federally Protected Species Known from Transylvania County, North
Carolina
3 Federal Species of Concern Known from Transylvania County, North
Carolina
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- Natural Systems
a Report for B-4291,
Transylvania Co.
- Introduction

1. Introduction
a ARCADIS G&M of North Carolina, Inc. (ARCADIS G&M) has been retained by the
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to complete natural resources
investigations associated with the replacement of Bridge No. 193 over the Davidson
River in Transylvania County, North Carolina. The following Natural Systems Report
is submitted to assist in the preparation of the Categorical Exclusion (CE) for the
proposed project.
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15-33
The proposed project, TIP No. B-4291, will replace Bridge No. 193 on SR +6} over
the Davidson River in Transylvania County, North Carolina (Figure 1). The bridge is
currently in poor, condition and in need of replacement. Rehabilitation of the existing
a structure does not appear to be a feasible option due to its age and condition. This
replacement will result in a safer structure, consistent with federal and state bridge
standards.
N
o alternatives for the proposed project have been defined; therefore, an area
approximately 1,200 feet (367 meters) long and 500 feet (152 meters) wide
a encompassing nearly 13 acres (5 hectares) was studied. Approximately 350 linear feet
(106.7 meters) of the Davidson River is contained within the project study area. The
project vicinity is defined as a larger area, approximately one-half mile on all sides of
the study area. The project region is the area more or less represented on a standard
7.5-minute U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic quadrangle map.
Since no alternatives have been selected, impacts to Waters of the United States cannot
be determined. However, bridge demolition activities will strictly follow NCDOT's
a Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal (BMPs-BDR). As
per the BMPs-BDR, all methods of demolition shall be considered and implemented
where practical, other than dropping the bridge in the water.
1.2 Purpose
a The purpose of this technical report is to inventory, catalog, and describe the natural
systems within the study area. Recommendations are made for measures which will
minimize resource impacts, as well as preliminary determinations of permit needs and
a mitigation options. These descriptions and estimates are based on the existing project
area. If the criteria change, additional field investigations will be conducted.
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Introduction
1.3 Methodology
a Field investigations along the project study area were conducted by qualified biologists
from ARCADIS G&M during the month of August 2001. Pedestrian surveys were
undertaken to determine natural resource conditions and to document natural
m communities, wildlife, and the presence of protected species or their habitats.
W Published information regarding the project area and region was derived from a
number of resources including: USGS 7.5-minute topographical quadrangle map
(Pisgah Forest, North Carolina), United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
National Wetland Inventory (NWI) map, NCDOT aerial photomosaics of the project
area (1 "=100% and Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS) soil survey maps
of Transylvania County. Water resources information was obtained from publications
of the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ). Information concerning
Q the occurrence of federal and state protected species within the project area and vicinity
was gathered from the USFWS list of protected species (March, 2001) and the North
Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database of rare species and unique
m habitats (July, 2001).
Dominant plant species were identified in each strata for all natural communities
encountered. Plant community descriptions are based on those classified in Schafale
and Weakley (1990), where applicable. For the context of this report, community
classifications have been modified in some instances to better reflect field
observations. Names and descriptions of plant species generally follow Radford et al.
(1968), unless more current information is available. Animal names and descriptions
follow Martof et al. (1980), Stokes (1996), Rohde et al. (1994), and Webster et al.
(1985). Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are provided
for each plant and animal species listed. Subsequent references to the same organism
include the common name only.
During surveys, wildlife identification involved a variety of observation techniques:
active searching and capture, visual observations (both with and without the use of
binoculars), and observing the characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds, scats, tracks, and
burrows). Organisms captured during these searches were identified and released
Q without injury. Quantitative water sampling was not undertaken to support existing
data.
Jurisdictional wetland determinations were performed using the three-parameter
approach as prescribed in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual
(Environmental Laboratory, 1987). Supplementary.technical literature describing the
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Introduction
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parameters of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and hydrological indicators was
also utilized. Wetland functions were evaluated according to the Division of Water
Quality's Rating System, 4w version (1995).
1.4 Qualifications of Principal Investigators
Investigator: Martha M. Register, Staff Scientist
Education: MS, Botany, North Carolina State University
BS, Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University
Experience: ARCADIS G&M, November 1997 to present
Environmental Biologist, Robert J. Goldstein & Associates,
July 1995 to November 1997
Expertise: NEPA investigations, Section 7 investigations, wetland delineation
Investigator: Layna E. Thrush, Staff Scientist
Education: BA, Political Science, Florida State University
Graduate Studies, Forestry, North Carolina State University
Experience: ARCADIS G&M, May 2001 to present
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Physical Resources
2. Physical Resources
Transylvania County is situated in the southeastern portion of the Blue Ridge
physiographic province. The geography of the county consists predominantly of gently
sloping to very steep uplands. Narrow, nearly level floodplains are along most of the
streams. The elevation in the project area is approximately 2,100 feet (636 meters)
above Mean Sea Level (MSL) as depicted on the Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, US GS
topographic quadrangle map.
Q 2.1 Geology
The geologic features underlying the project area are associated with the Chauga Belt,
specifically the Henderson Gneiss. The Henderson Gneiss is a medium-gray, biotite
granite augen gneiss composed of microline, oligoclase, quartz, biotite, and small
amounts of muscovite, edpidote, and titanite (Carolina Geological Society, 1994).
2.2 Soils
The process of soil development depends on both biotic and abiotic influences. These
influences include past geologic activities, nature of parent materials, environmental
and human influences, plant and animal activity, time, climate, and topographic
position. One soil association is present in the project area, the Rosman-Toxaway-
Transylvania association. Soil associations are defined as landscapes that exhibit
distinctive proportional patterns of soils consisting of one or more major soils and at
least one minor soil. The soils within an association generally vary in slope, depth,
stoniness, drainage, and other characteristics (USDA, 1974).
Based on information obtained from USDA (1974), the Rosman-Toxaway-
Transylvania association is comprised of nearly level, well-drained to very poorly
drained soils that have a loam and fine sandy loam subsoil or silty clay loam along the
floodplains. The association occupies approximately eight percent of the county. It
consists of about 32 percent Rosman soils, 27 percent Toxaway soils, eight percent
Transylvania soils, and 33 percent soils of minor extant. These soils are found
primarily along floodplains and are subject to very brief but frequent flooding. The
Q minor soils in the association include Augusta, Delanco, Ponzer, Suncook, and
Brevard. Augusta and Delanco soils occur primarily on stream terraces while Brevard
occurs on toe slopes, in coves and on stream terraces and Ponzer and Suncook occur on
floodplains. Table 1 identifies each soil mapping unit found in the project area.
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Table 1. Soil Summary - Bridge #193 Replacement, T.I.P. No. B-4291,
Transylvania County, North Carolina
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'-SymbolF ?i?>
• Soil Umt Name Slope z? k j'I,? f a Geneal ChaiecterisUS ..., ,!'
Ro Rosman fine sandy loam <5% Well to moderately well-drained soils
found on nearly level stream
floodplains. Subject to very frequent,
but brief flooding.
Tn Tmaway silt loam <5% Very poorly drained found on nearly
level stream floodplains. Subject to
very frequent, but brief flooding.
Hydric soils are defined as soils that are saturated, flooded, or ponded long enough
during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions that favor the growth and
regeneration of hydrophytic vegetation (Cowardin et al., 1979). Hydric soils cover
approximately 50 percent of the study area and include Toxaway silt loam (NRCS,
1991).
2.3 Water Resources
Streams, creeks, and tributaries within the project region are part of the French Broad
River Basin, the ninth largest river basin in the state. The entire river basin is located
within the Southern Appalachian Mountain region of western North Carolina. Waters
associated with this basin eventually empty into the Gulf of Mexico, via the Ohio,
Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers. The headwaters of the French Broad River begin at
the confluence of the West Fork and North Fork French Broad Rivers near the town of
Rosman, North Carolina.
Davidson River is the only surface water in the project area (Figure 2). The project
area is located northwest of the confluence of the Davidson River and the French
Broad River. It is situated in NCDWQ Subbasin 04-03-03 and USGS Hydrologic Unit
06010105. The Davidson River is identified by the NCDWQ Stream Index # 6-34-21.
The study area contains approximately 500 linear feet (152 meters) of the Davidson
River. It is approximately 35 to 45 feet (11 to 14 meters) wide and 1 to 4 feet (0.3 to 1
meters) deep through the project area. The streambed consists of cobble, gravel and
sand with a few interspersed boulders. The water was cloudy and had moderate
sediment deposition.
The North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) classifies surface waters of
the state based on their intended best uses. Davidson River and its tributaries are
classified as "C " waters. Class C denotes waters suitable for all general uses including
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O aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and
m agriculture.
No High Quality Waters (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-II), or Outstanding
w Resource Waters (ORW) occur within the project vicinity.
o The Ambient Monitoring System (AMS) is a network of stream, lake, and estuarine
water quality monitoring stations strategically located for the collection of physical and
chemical water quality data. The type of water quality data or parameters collected is
determined by the waterbodies' classification and corresponding water quality
standards. The AMS determines the "use support" status of waterbodies, meaning how
well a waterbody supports its designated uses. The waters in the project area have an
exceptionally low pH that negatively affects the water-quality and are therefore
considered Partially Supporting. However, approximately one mile upstream the
water-quality improves and the waters are classified as Supporting.
Benthic macroinvertebrate sampling on Davidson River was taken upstream of the
project study area in 1992 and 1997. The water-quality bioclassification was rated as
Excellent in both years (NCDWQ, 2000). However, this rating does not reflect the
water-quality in the project area. The water-quality, as mentioned above, declines in
o the reach of the Davidson River included in the project area.
Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are regulated through the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. Dischargers are
required by law to register for a permit. According to NCDWQ (2000), there are eight
permitted NPDES dischargers in the subbasin; all are minor dischargers (<1.0 MGD)..
Seven of the eight dischargers are located in Henderson County. The remaining
discharger, Sliding Rock Recreational Area, is located approximately seven miles
upstream from the project area in Transylvania County. There are no dischargers
located on the Davidson River.
2.4 Physical Resources Impacts
The proposed project is expected to impact both soils and topography. The topography
n is relatively flat with little change in elevation. The possible construction of a new
Iill, bridge and/or road improvements is likely to require the removal of soils and the
placement of fill.
The primary sources of water-quality degradation in urban areas are point-source
discharges and stormwater runoff. Precautions should be taken to minimize impacts to
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water resources in the project vicinity. Aquatic organisms are very sensitive to
discharges and inputs resulting from construction. Appropriate measures must be
® taken to avoid spillage and control runoff. Potential impacts associated with
construction of the proposed project include the following: increased sedimentation,
soil compaction, and loss of shading due to vegetation removal. Measures to minimize
0 these potential impacts include the formulation of an erosion and sedimentation control
plan provision for waste material and storage, stormwater management measures, and
appropriate road-maintenance measures. NCDOT's Best Management Practices for
Protection of Surface Waters (BMPs-PSW) and Sedimentation Control guidelines
should be strictly enforced during the construction stages of the project.
The Davidson River at the project is not classified as C-Tr, but Transylvania County is
located in one of the 25 mountain counties designated by the North Carolina Wildlife
Resources Commission (NCWRC) as containing Mountain Trout Waters (MTWs).
a Therefore, NCDOT will coordinate with NCDWQ and strictly adhere to North
Carolina regulation entitled, "Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" (15A NCAC
04B .0024) throughout design and construction of the project.
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Biotic Resources

3. Biotic Resources
This section describes the existing vegetation and associated wildlife that occur within
m the project area. The project area is composed of different vegetative communities
based on topography, soils, hydrology, and disturbance. These systems are interrelated
a and in many aspects interdependent. Potential impacts affecting these communities are
also discussed. Scientific nomenclature and common name (when applicable) are
provided for each plant and animal species listed. Subsequent references to the same
m organism include only the common name.
3.1 Plant Communities
ARCADIS G&M observed three plant communities in the project study area: alluvial
forest, fallow field, and urban/maintained land. These communities are described in
m greater detail below and presented in Figure 2.
I?UI 'Me alluvial forest co??unity is situated in the eastern portion of the project study area
on both sides of SR land also includes a 10-foot (3 meter) buffer on the Davidson
River. The tree canopy in this community is broken with gaps interspersed throughout
the area. This alluvial forest community can best be characterized as a variation of
Montane Alluvial Forest (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). These forests occur along
stream and river floodplains at moderate to high elevations. They are palustrine and
flood on an intermittent basis. According to Schafale and Weakley (1990), the
Montane Alluvial Forest may be eroded or disturbed by catastrophic floods. Flood-
carried sediment undoubtedly provides nutrient input to this community and also
serves as a natural disturbance factor. These forests occur throughout the mountain
region except in the lower valleys. In the project area, the tree species included tulip
poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), black walnut (Juglans nigra), sycamore (Platanus
occidentalis), black cherry (Primus serotina), ash (Fraxinus spp.), black locust
Q (Robinia pseudo-acacia), and black willow (Salix nigra). The shrub and vine species
included privet (Ligustrum sinense), blackberry (Rubes argutus), multi-flora rose
a (Rosamultii fora), kudzu (Pueraria lobata), choke cherry (Prunus virginiana), grape
(Vitis spp.), Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), and Japanese honeysuckle
(Lonicera japonica). The herbs included thoroughwort (Eupatorium purpureum),
jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea), wild sweet
William (Phlox maculata), creeping grass (Microstegium vimineum), and goldenrod
(Solidago spp.).
0 A fallow field was observed in the southwestem portion of the project study area. The
fallow field in this project area is owned by a shooting range and is not a maintained
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Biotic Resources
area. The fallow field community can be characterized by the presence of weeds and
small shrubs. In the project area, the species included purple top (Tridens flavus),
blackberry, sunflower (Helianthus spp.), nightshade (Solanum americanum), virgins
bower (Clematis virginiana), foxtail grass (Setaria spp.), Queen Anne's lace (Daucus
carota), and ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia).
The remainder of the project ss y area, which includes the northwestern portion and
the right-of-way along SRd-3H4; can be characterized as Urban/Maintained Lands.
® The recycling center in the northwestern portion is covered by impervious surface with
little to no vegetation. The right-of-way along SR r-1&t-is maintained by periodic
mowing and contains grass species. 1593
a 3.2 Terrestrial Wildlife
Terrestrial wildlife in the area is limited due to the highly modified state of the
surrounding lands. These areas are likely to support domestic predators and introduce
species that reduce habitat suitability for many native species. No direct wildlife
sightings were made during field reconnaissance. The species listed are those likely to
inhabit urban areas, fallow fields, and moderate woodland buffers.
Reptiles in the area are likely limited to a few small, secretive species such as the
eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis), northern brown snake (Storeria
dekayi), ground skink (Scincella lateralis), broadhead skink (Eumeces fasciatus), and
the midland water snake (Nerodia sipedon pleuralis). Amphibians are likely to be
represented by only a few species such as Fowler's toad (Bufo woodhousei) which is
distasteful to predators, and arboreal species such as the gray treefrog (Hyla
chrysoscelis).
Q The predominant birds will be those adapted to open and disturbed habitats. They
include the introduced house sparrow (Passer domesticus), and starling (Sturnus
vulgaris), and the native cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), robin (Turdus migratorius),
D eastern bluebird (Sialia sialis), white-throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis),
Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), and
northern mockingbird (Mimus polygottos). Other less abundant bird species of open
a areas include bobwhite (Colinus virginianus), eastern meadowlark (Sturnella magna),
killdeer (Charadrius vociferous), American kestrel (Falco sparverius), and red-tailed
hawk (Buteo jamaicensis).
a The mammals in the project vicinity, like the reptiles and birds noted above, are likely
to be those adapted to open and disturbed habitats. Typical mammals in urban areas
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- Biotic Resources
and fallow fields included eastern harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys humilis), gray
squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), and cotton rat
(Sigmodon hispidus). The eastern cottontail (Sylvilagusfloridanus), raccoon (Procyon
lotor), opossum (Didelphis virginiana), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), and white tailed deer
(Odocoileus virginianus), which frequent the fields bordered by woody vegetation.
3.3 Aquatic Habitats and Wildlife
The quality of aquatic habitat in Davidson River at this location is expected to be
moderate due to urban areas associated with the surrounding Town of Pisgah Forest
and the amount of sediment deposition. High banks and the proximity of a shooting
range prevented direct observation of fish species. The most-likely fish to be in the
project area are rosyside dace (Clinostomus funduloides), fieryblack shiner (Cyprinella
pyrrhomelas), bluehead chub (Nocomis leptocephalus), silver redhorse (Mozostoma
anisurum), striped jumprock (Scartomyson rupiscartes), and redbreast sunfish
(Lepomis auritus). Benthic macroinvertebrate sampling was not conducted in the
project area. However, NCDOT will complete an aquatic survey.
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3.4 Biotic Resource Impacts
Design alternative have yet to be identified for this project, therefore no estimated area
of impact to these natural communities has been calculated at this time.
Approximately 5.5 acres (2 hectares) of alluvial forest, and 2.5 acres (1 hectare) of
fallow field are located in the study area.
Loss of wildlife is an unavoidable aspect of development. Temporary fluctuations in
population of animal species that utilize these communities are anticipated during the
course of construction. Slow-moving, burrowing, and/or subterranean organisms will
be directly impacted by construction activities, while mobile organisms will be
displaced to adjacent communities. Competitive forces in the adapted communities
will result in a redefinition of population equilibria.
Aquatic organisms are acutely sensitive to changes in their environment and
environmental impacts from construction activities may result in long term or
irreversible effects. Impacts usually associated with in-stream construction include
increased channelization and scouring of the streambed. In-stream construction alters
the substrate and impacts adjacent streamside vegetation. Such disturbances within the
a substrate lead to increased siltation, which can clog the gills and/or feeding
mechanisms of benthic organisms, fish, and amphibian species. Siltation may also
cover benthic macroinvertebrates with excessive amounts of sediment that inhibit their
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Biotic Resources

ability to obtain oxygen. These organisms are slow to recover and usually do not, once
the stream has been severely impacted.
The removal of streamside vegetation and placement of fill material during
construction enhances erosion and possible sedimentation. Quick revegetation of these
areas helps to reduce the impacts by supporting the underlying soils. Erosion and
sedimentation may carry soils, toxic compounds, trash, and other materials into the
aquatic communities at the construction site. As a result, bars may form at and
downstream of the site. Increased light penetration from the removal of stream side
vegetation may increase water temperatures. Warmer water contains less oxygen, thus
reducing aquatic life that depends on high oxygen concentrations.
Due to potential water-quality impacts, the NCWRC requests a moratorium on in-
stream construction. The moratorium applies if the following species are supported by
the stream: brown and brook trout (October 15 to March 31), rainbow trout (January 1
to April 15), brown, brook and rainbow trout (October 15 to April 15), and small
mouth bass and red breasted sunfish (May 12 to June 30). Qualified biologists from
NCDOT will assess the stream for the above-mentioned species. Once the fish have
been identified, as being supported by the stream the appropriate moratorium will be
applied.
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Waters of the United
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4. Waters of the United States
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires regulation of discharges into "Waters of
the United States." The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) is the
principal administrative agency of the Clean Water Act; however, the U.S. Army
® Corps of Engineers (USACE) has the responsibility for implementation, permitting,
and enforcement of the provisions of the Act. The USACE regulatory program is
defined in 33 CFR 320-330. .
Water bodies, including lakes, rivers, and streams, are subject to jurisdictional
consideration under the Section 404 program. Wetlands are also identified as "Waters
of the United States." Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR 328.3, are those areas that are
inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration
sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of
0 vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Any action that
proposes to place fill into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the USACE under
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344).
4.1 Surface Waters
The NCDWQ defines a perennial stream as a clearly defined channel that contains
water for the majority of the year. These channels usually have some or all of the
following characteristics: distinctive streambed and bank, aquatic life, and
groundwater flow or discharge. Davidson River is the only perennial stream identified
in the project area. Detailed stream characteristics, including specific water-quality
designations, are presented in Section 2.3 Water Resources.
4.2 Jurisdictional Wetlands
There are no jurisdictional wetlands associated with the project study area. According
to the NRCS (1991) hydric soils cover approximately 50 percent of the study area. The
three-parameter wetland identification approach was used to assess the area. No
evidence of wetland hydrology or dominant wetland vegetation was present.
4.3 Impacts to Waters of the United States
Since no alternatives have been selected, impacts to Waters of the United States cannot
D be determined. However, some impacts to the Davidson River channel maybe
anticipated for bridge abutments and associated channel stabilization.
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Waters of the United
ert States
Bridge demolition activities will strictly follow NCDOT's Best Management Practices
for Bridge Demolition and Removal (BMPs-BDR). As per the BMPs-BDR, all
methods of demolition shall be considered and implemented where practical, other than
dismantling the bridge in the water. Information regarding the existing bridge structure
and the potential amount of fill from demolition activities is riot available at this time
® and will be supplied by NCDOT in the CE document for the project.
There are no jurisdictional wetlands in the project area; thus, there are no impacts to
m jurisdictional wetlands associated with this bridge replacement.
4.4 Permit Requirements
Impacts to "Waters of the United States" come under the jurisdiction of the USACE.
Permits will be required for highway encroachment into wetland communities. The
Q Nationwide Permit #23 (Approved Categorical Exclusions) should cover the impacts to
jurisdictional streams in the project area. Nationwide Permit No. 33 (Temporary
Construction, Access, and Dewatering) may be needed for temporary construction
access if that is not addressed in the NEPA document. A final permitting strategy
cannot be developed until a design alternative is selected.
A Section 401 General Water Quality Certification is also required for any activity
which may result in a discharge into "Waters of the United States" or for which an
issuance of a federal permit or license is issued. Certifications are administered
through the NCDWQ.
Final determination of permit applicability lies with the USACE. NCDOT will
ll! coordinate with the USACE after the completion of final design to, obtain the necessary
ll! permits.
Q Transylvania County is listed by the NCWRC as a county with Mountain Trout Waters
(MTWs). No discharge activities will be authorized by Nationwide Permits within
MTW counties without coordination with the NCWRC and written concurrence from
the Wilmington District Engineer.
o 4.5 Mitigation
The USACE has adopted, through the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), a
O mitigation policy which embraces the concepts of "no net loss of wetlands" and'
sequencing. The purpose of this policy is to restore and maintain the chemical,
biological, and physical integrity of "Waters of the United States," specifically
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Q wetlands. Mitigation of wetland impacts has been defined by the CEQ to include:
avoidance of impacts (to wetlands), minimizing impacts, rectifying impacts, reducing
impacts over time, and compensating for impacts (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these
three aspects (avoidance, minimization, and compensatory mitigation) must be
considered in sequential order.
Avoidance mitigation examines all appropriate and practicable possibilities of averting
impacts to Waters of the United States. According to a 1990 Memorandum of
® Agreement (MOE) between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and
the USACE, in determining "appropriate and practicable" measures to offset
unavoidable impacts, such measures should be appropriate to the scope and degree of
those impacts and practicable in terms of cost, existing technology, and logistics in
light of overall project purposes. No jurisdictional wetlands will be impacted;
however, some unavoidable impacts to surface waters will result from project
construction.
U Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce
the adverse impacts to Waters of the United States. Implementation of these steps will
be required through project modifications'and permit conditions. Minimization
typically focuses on decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the
reduction of median widths, right-of-way widths, fill slopes, and/or road shoulder
widths. The following methods are suggested to minimize adverse impacts to Waters
of the United States:
1. Strictly enforce Best Management Practices (BMPs) to control sedimentation
during project construction.
2. Clearing and grubbing activity should be minimized.
3. Decrease or eliminate discharges into Davidson River.
4. Reestablishment of vegetation on exposed areas with judicious pesticide and
herbicide management.
5. Minimization of "in-stream" activity.
6. Use responsible litter control practices.
Compensatory mitigation is not normally considered until anticipated impacts to
Waters of the United States have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent
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Transylvania Co.
Waters of the United
States
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Natural Systems
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Transylvania Co.
Waters of the United
a States
D possible. It is recognized that " no net loss of wetlands" functions and values may not
be achieved in each and every permit action. Appropriate and practicable
compensatory mitigation is required for unavoidable adverse impacts which remain
after all appropriate and practicable minimization has been required. Compensatory
actions often include restoration, creation and enhancement of Waters of the United
States, specifically wetlands. Such action should be undertaken in areas adjacent to or
contiguous to the discharge site.
Nationwide Permits usually do not require mitigation according to the Memorandum of
Agreement (MOE) between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and
the USACE. However, prior to the use of any nationwide permit within any of the 25
designated counties of North Carolina that contain trout waters, notification must be
given to the Wilmington District Engineer along with a written statement of
compliance with all of the conditions of the applicable nationwide permit. This
Q notification will include comments and recommendations from NCWRC. A plan to
provide compensatory mitigation for all unavoidable adverse impacts to the mountain
trout waters must be included in the information sent to the NCWRC.
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Transylvania Co.
Rare and Protected
Species
5. Rare and Protected Species
Some populations of fauna and flora have been, or are, in the process of decline due to
either natural forces or their inability to coexist with humans. Federal law under the
provisions of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended
requires that any action likely to adversely affect a species classified as federally
protected be subject to review by the USFWS. Other species may receive additional
protection under separate laws. As of March 3, 2001, the USFWS identified six
Q endangered species, two threatened species, one threatened species due to similarity of
appearance (T[S/A]), and twenty-six federal species of concern as potentially occurring
in Transylvania County. Table 2 lists the federally protected species and their state
n status. Descriptions of these species and their habitats are discussed below.
A Table 2: Federally Protected Species known from Transylvania County,
U North Carolina
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,?gSaentific Name ?°
i§'?•t•''itrv w ?.? y,`.`t+rf,' iCommon Name ?.s
s?z:; 'fit »ie, '.,? aFederal?'gg
4'u'+r;.3tatu5 __gg State?i#
y,5tatu5.
Vertebrates
Clemmys muhlenbergii Bog turtle T(S/A) T
Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus Carolina northern flying squirrel E E
Invertebrates
Alasmidonta raveneliana Appalachian elktoe E E
Epioblasma capsaeforma Oyster mussel E EX
Vascular Plants
Geum radiatum Spreading avens E E-SC
Nelonias bullata Swamp pink _ T T-SC
Samacentajonesii Mountain sweet pitcher plant E E-SC
lstotna medeoloides Small-whorled pogonia T E
Nonvascular Plants
Gymnoderma lineare Rock gnome lichen E T
Notes: FSC - Federal Species of Concern; E - Endangered; T-Threatened; SC -Special Concern; C -Candidate; P-
Proposed; SR = Significantly Rare; EX- Extirpated
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Transylvania Co.
Rare and Protected
Species
Bog Turtle (Clemmys muhlenbergh)
Federal Status: THREATENED (SIMILAR APPEARANCE)
In State Status: THREATENED
Bog turtles are small (3 to 4.5-inch [7.6 to 11.4-centimeter]) reptiles with a weakly
keeled carapace (upper shell) that ranges in color from light brown to ebony. This
species is easily distinguished from other turtles by a large, conspicuous, bright orange
to yellow blotch on each side of its head. Bog turtles are semi-aquatic and inhabit
muddy, bog-like habitats. They can be found during the spring mating season from
June to July and at other times from April to October when the humidity is high and
temperatures are in the 70s. Bog turtle habitat consist of bogs, swamps, marshy
meadows, and other wet environments, specifically those which exhibit soft muddy
bottoms.
O In November 1987, the northern population of the bog turtle (from New York south to
Maryland) was listed as federally threatened, and the southern population (from
Virginia south to Georgia) was listed as federally threatened due to similarity of
appearance. The T(S/A) designation bans the collection and interstate or international
commercial trade of bog turtles from the southern population. The southern
populations are not protected under Section 7 of the ESA.
W Suitable habitat for the bog turtle is not present in the project study area. Review of
NCNHP maps indicated no known populations of this species within one mile of the
project area. This species will not be impacted as a result of project construction.
® Carolina northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus)
Federal Status: ENDANGERED
State Status: ENDANGERED
a The northern flying squirrel is a small nocturnal mammal that inhabits the high
elevation ecotone between coniferous and northern hardwood forest. This high
® elevation habitat usually occurs above 5,500 feet (1,676 meters) elevation. These
squirrels are 10 to 12 inches (25 to 35 centimeters) long and weigh 3 to 5 ounces (0.09
to 0.17 kg). Adults are gray with alight brown to reddish cast on their backs and light
gray to white or buff undersides. The broad tails and folds of skin between the wrist
and ankles form wing-like surfaces that enable these animals to glide downward from
tree to tree or tree to ground. These mammals eat a wide variety of foods such as
lichens, mushroom, seeds, nuts, insects and fruits. These squirrels nest in tree cavities
such as woodpecker holes and usually produce one litter in the early spring.
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Transylvania Co.
Rare and Protected
O Species
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
Suitable habitat does not exist within the project area. The hardwood forest to
evergreen forest ecotone is not available and the elevation of the site, at 2,100 feet (636
meters) above MSL, is well below that preferred by the species. Review of NCNHP
maps indicated no known populations of this species within one mile of the project
area. No impacts to this species from project construction are anticipated.
Appalachian elktoe (Alasmidonta raveneliana)
Federal Status: ENDANGERED
State Status: ENDANGERED
The Appalachian elktoe is a kidney-shaped freshwater mussel endemic to the upper
Tennessee River system in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. The adult
shell reaches to 3.5 inches (9 cm) in length and is usually dark brown with prominent
to obscure greenish rays. This mussel inhabits relatively shallow medium-sized creeks
and rivers with moderate to fast flowing water. It is generally found in gravelly
substrates mixed with cobbles and boulders or occasionally in silt-free, coarse sandy
substrates. Reproduction is similar to that of other freshwater mussels, and the banded
sculpin (Cottus carolinea) has been identified as a host species for developing
glochidia. Historically, this mussel was found in the French Broad River system,
including French Broad main stem and the Little River in Transylvania County.
m Surveys conducted in the French Broad River system from 1986 through the spring of
IWl! 1992 failed to locate any specimens of the Appalachian elktoe. In February 2001, the
USFWS proposed the designation of critical habitat for this mussel. In Transylvania
County, the Little River from the Cascade Lake Power Plant downstream to its
confluence with the French Broad River is proposed critical habitat area.
Biological Conclusion: Unresolved
Shallow medium-sized creeks with fast flowing water and clean, silt-free, gravel
n substrates are readily available in the project area. Review of NCNHP maps indicated
U no known populations of this species within one mile of the project area. Proposed
critical habitat area is not located in the project study area. Surveys by a qualified
Q NCDOT biologist of the study area are pending. It is currently unknown if this mussel
u inhabits the study area.
®,
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Rare and Protected
Species
Oyster mussel (Epioblasma capsaeformis)
Federal Status: ENDANGERED
n State Status: EXTIRPATED
The oyster mussel is a small, up to 2.1 inches (5 cm) in length, freshwater mussel. Its
distinguishing characteristic pronounced development of the posterior-ventral region in
the females. The outer shell or perostracum is dull to sub-shiny yellowish to green
with numerous thin dark green rays. The inside shell or nacre is whitish to bluish-
white in color. This mussel inhabits small to mediums sized streams with a coarse
sand to boulder substrate (no mud) and moderate to swift currents.
Biological Conclusion: Unresolved
The oyster mussel has not been collected in North Carolina since 1913 and NCNHP
maps indicated no known populations of it within one mile of the project area.
However, it was known to inhabit the French Broad River in Buncombe County.
Suitable habitat does exist for this species. Surveys by a qualified NCDOT biologist of
the study area are pending.
Spreading avens (Geum radiatum)
Federal Status: ENDANGERED
State Status: ENDANGERED (Special Concern)
Spreading avens is a perennial herb of the Rosaceae family. The densely pubescent
plant forms a basal rosette arising from horizontal rhizomes. The basal leaves are
kidney-shaped, serrate, and three to six inches wide. The inflorescence is an indefinite
cyme supporting a few, large (1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in diameter), yellow flowers.
Flowering occurs from June through September. This plant is found in sunny locations
such as high elevation rocky balds, pockets of soil on nearly vertical cliffs, and shrub-
free (due to rock or ice falls) grassy areas at the base of cliffs. These sunny/rocky
openings are surrounded by spruce-fu (Picea rubens-Abies fraseri) forests that
m . generally occur above 5,500 feet (1,667 meters) elevation.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
The highest elevation in the study area is approximately 2,100 feet (636 meters) above
MSL, well below the high elevation habitats where this plant grows. Review of
NCNHP maps indicated no known populations of this species within one mile of the
project area. Appropriate sunny habitats for this species, such as rocky balds or
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vertical cliffs were not observed in the project area. This species will not be affected
by project construction.
Rock gnome lichen (Gymnoderma lineare)
Federal Status: ENDANGERED
State Status: THREATENED
Rock gnome lichen is a squamulose lichen of the reindeer moss family. This species is
the only member of its genus occurring in North America. It occurs in small (usually
less than one square yard), dense colonies of narrow, strappy, leaf-like pads. These
strap-like lobes are usually blue-gray on the upper surface and generally shiny white on
the lower surfaces. The fruiting bodies are borne at the tips of the strap-like lobes and
are black, in contrast to the red to brown fruiting bodies of other reindeer moss lichens.
These lichens fruit from July through September. The rock gnome lichen is endemic to
the southern Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. They primarily
inhabit vertical rock faces in areas of high humidity such as river gorges or areas
frequently bathed in fog. Most populations occur above an elevation of 5,000 feet
(1515 meters).
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
The study area lacks high humidity environments such as deep river gorges or other
seepy wet rock faces. The highest elevation in the study area is approximately 2,100
feet (636 meters) above MSL, well below the elevations preferred by this species.
Review of NCNHF maps indicated no known populations of this species within one
mile of the project area. This species will not be affected by project construction.
Swamp pink (Helonias bullata)
Federal Status: THREATENED
State Status: THREATENED (Special Concern)
Swamp pink is a relatively large evergreen plant of the Liliaceae family. It has large
(to 12 in.(30 cm)), deep green, oblanceolate leaves that form a distinctive basal rosette.
Flowering occurs in early spring from March to May with the flowers borne at the top
of a tall (to 6 feet (2 meters)) stem. The flowers are clusters of 30 to 50 fragrant, pink
blooms. Although it reproduces through seed production, new plants usually arise
through clonal growth. These plants grow in a variety of wetland habitats and are
usually found in dense colonies. Due to its large size, distinct appearance and
Natural Systems
Report
Transylvania Co.
Rare and Protected
Species
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Transylvania Co.
Rare and Protected
m - Species
evergreen leaves, this plant is readily identifiable outside of its spring flowering season
(Patrick et al., 1995) .?'
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
This species inhabits a variety of wetland habitats. There were no wetlands identified
in the project area. Review of NCNHP maps indicated no known populations of this
species within one mile of the project area. Project construction will not affect swamp
pink.
Small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides)
Federal Status: THREATENED
State Status: ENDANGERED
Small whorled pogonia is a small perennial member of the Orchidaceae. These plants
arise from long slender roots with hollow stems terminating in a whorl of five or six
light green leaves. The single flower is approximately one inch (2.5 cm) long, with
yellowish-green to white petals and three longer green sepals. This orchid blooms in
late spring from mid-May to mid-June. Populations of this plant are reported to have
extended periods of dormancy and to bloom sporadically. This small spring ephemeral
orchid is not observable outside of the spring growing season.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
Habitat for this species is open, dry, deciduous woods with acid soils, which are not
available in the project area. Review of NCNHP maps indicated no known populations
of this species within one mile of the project area. Project construction will not impact
this species.
Bunched arrowhead (Sagittaria fasciculata)
Federal Status: ENDANGERED
State Status: ENDANGERED
Bunched arrowhead is an emergent, perennial aquatic herb. It has long (to one foot
(0.3 meters)), narrow (to two inches (5 cm)), spatulate leaves that arise from a short
stem at the base of the plant to form a loose basal rosette. The flowers are white and
borne at the end of a long stalk above the water from May to July. Due to is large size
and distinct appearance, this plant is readily identifiable outside of its late spring
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Natural Systems
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Transylvania Co.
Rare and Protected
Species
flowering season. This species inhabits swampy wetland habitats with ponded water,
especially seepage areas with little net flow and mucky bottoms.
Q Biological Conclusion: No Effect
a Wet habitats are not available in the study area. Review of NCNBP maps indicated no
known populations of this species within one mile of the project area. Project
construction will not impact this species.
Mountain sweet pitcher plant (Sarracenia jonesir)
Federal Status: ENDANGERED
State Status: ENDANGERED (Special Concern)
Mountain sweet pitcher plant is a perennial, carnivorous herb. Its leaves form pitchers
that are hollow, trumpet shaped, and dull green with criss-crossing maroon to purple
veination. The deep maroon flowers are three to four inches (7.5 to 10 cm) wide and
home singly at the top of a stalk in the spring, usually in May. Due to its distinct
Q appearance, this plant is readily identifiable outside of its spring flowering season.
This species inhabits wet bogs with mucky surfaces and sandy bottoms.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
Mucky bog habitat is not available in the project area. Review of NCNBP maps
indicated no known populations of this species within one mile of the project area. No
impacts will occur to this species due to project implementation.
Q Federal Species of Concern
Q There are twenty-six federal species of concern listed by the USFWS for Transylvania
County. These species are not protected under the provisions of Section 7 of the
Endangered Species Act. Federal species of concern area defined as species under
consideration for listing for which there is insufficient information to support listing as
threatened or endangered (formerly C2 candidate species). The status of these species
may be upgraded at any time, thus they are included here for consideration. The
Q NCNFIP lists of July 2001 included these species and identified an additional seventeen
species receiving protection under state laws. Protections afforded to species listed
under state law are not applicable to this project. Table 3 lists the federal species of
a concern, their state status, and the existence of suitable habitat within the project area.
A review of NCNHP maps depicting known populations of these federal species of
concern shows a known population of Diana fritillary butterfly (Speyeria diana)
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Rare and Protected
Species

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approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 km) due south of the project study area, along the
floodplain of the French Broad River. No other FSC populations were found within a
one-mile (1.6-km) radius of the project study area.
Table 3: Federal Species of Concern known from Transylvania County, North
Carolina.

?
nSdenUfitc ' Name
'

'Common Name ??.i ><t

Federal F.aTtR.v

States5?

` r" Habitat Regwrements.?c ?4..
..
: liabnat
e°
•°-r,
S53. ,z?- e w: u " :?,?,
r . `?
'
`
Statu
i
.G_.
,?
.L?
s
y
Vertebrates
Aegotius acadicus Southern Appalachain saw-whet owl FSC SC Spruce-fir forest or mixed spruce- No
hardwood forest for nesting
Aneides aeneus Green salamander FSC E Shaded, damp crevices in cliffs or rock No
outcrops
Conynorhius rafinesquii Rafinesque's big-eared bat FSC SC Roosts near water in old buildings, Yes
hollow trees, caves, and under bridges
Cryptobranchus aLLeganiensis Hellbender FSC SC Large, clear, fast-flowing streams Yes
Loxia cumrostra Southern Appalachian red cross-bill FSC -- Coniferous forest, especially spruce No
forest for nesting
Meotoma ftondana haematoreia Southern Appalachian woodrat FSC SC Rocky places in deciduous or mixed Yes
forest
Poeale atncapi/La pradica Southern Appalachian black-capped FSC SC High-elevation forest, especially No
chickadee spruce-fir forest
Sphyrapicus vanusappataciensis Southern Appalachian yellow-bellied FSC - Mature, open hardwoods with Yes
sapsucker scattered dead trees
SyM'tagus transitionahs New England cottontail FSC SR Dense cover in montane woods and Yes
tickets
Ihryomanes bewickiiattus Appalachian Bewick's wren FSC E High elevation woodland borders and Yes
openings, farmland, and brushy fields
-Invertebrates
Cambarusrebunus French Broad crayfish FSC - Streams of the Upper French Broad No
drainage
Cymocythere davata Oconee. crayfish ostracod FSC SR Symbiotic on crayfish in mountain Yes
rivers and streams
Macromia margarita Margarita River skimmer FSC SR Mountain rivers and streams in Yes
forested watersheds
Speyer& diana Diana fritillary butterfly FSC SR Rich woods and adjacent openings; Yes
Host plants - biota spp.
Waftoncythereacuto
I
Transylvania crayfish ostracod
FSC
SR
Symbiotic on crayfish in mountain
Yes
rivers and streams

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Transylvania Co.
Rare and Protected
Species
n Saeritifrc Named -s

PrMv.. .r WJ^? -4l1Ntt )i?R. v -` ?ammon.Nae rte. ?
- v '32
nL M ?
}v,... {e - z . ?t 1'?fj .1e deraly

r"Status L'
uL:9 i State r

,§Status
?v ? 'y Habitat Reqwr mentr

y[?k., ms's-,' '""
r r»' Uri. } > .a 3S;':..4Y'bYVe

rAvadable?
:.
Vascular Plants -
Abiesfrasen Fraser fir FSC -- Spruce-fir forests No
Asteravitus Alexanders rock aster FSC C Thin soils surrounding granite flatrocks No
Hexasrylisrhombiformis French Broad heartleaf FSC C Cove forests Yes
luglans onerea Butternut FSC -- Cove forests and rich woods Yes
Lysimachia frasen Fraser's lcosestrife FSC E Moist woodland edges, stream banks,
and roadsides Yes
Monotropsis odorata Sweet pinesap FSC C Dry forests and bluffs especially with
heaths No
Shortia galacifolia var. ga/acifolia Southern Oconee-bells FSC E-SC Streambanks, slopes and outcrops in
humid gorges Yes
Nonvascular Plants
Bryocrumo v%V%c0/o/ Gorge moss FSC E Streambanks in humid gorges and
waterfall spray zones No
Plagiochila sharpii a liverwort FSC C Damp rockfaces in humid gorges and
high elevation rocky summits No
Plagiochila sullivantii var. sullivantii aliverwort FSC -- Moist rocks in water fall spray zones
and spruce-fir forest Yes
Plagiochila virginica var,
caroliniana a liverwort FSC C Moist rockfaces, especially waterfall
spray zones No
Notes: FSC- Federal Species of Concern:E - Endangered; T- Threatened;SC - Special Concern; C - Candidate;P -
Proposed; SR = Significantly Rare
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O 6. References
Cowardin, L. M., V. Carter, F. C. Golet and E. T. LaRoe, 1979. Classification of
Wetlands and Deepwater Habitat of the United States. Fish and Wildlife
Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.
Carolina Geological Society, 1994. The Geology of the Carolinas. The University of
Tennessee Press, Knoxville, TN. p. 3.
Environmental Laboratory, 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual,
Technical Report Y-87-1. U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment
F1 Station, Vicksburg, Miss. 100 pp. + appendices.
Martof, B. S., Palmer, W. M., Bailey, J. R., and J. R. Harrison 111, 1980. Amphibians
and Reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia. The University of North Carolina
Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 264 pp.
a National Audubon Society, 1979. Field Guide to North American Reptiles and
Amphibians. Alfred A. Knopf, New York, NY. 743 pp.
North Carolina Division of Water Quality(NCDWQ), 2000. French Broad Basinwide
Water Quality Management Plan. Department of Environmental Management
(NCDEM), Water Quality Section.
North Carolina Geological Survey (NCGS), 1991. Geologic Map of North Carolina.
Printed 1991, reprinted 1996.
North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, 2001. Element Occurrence List for
Transylvania County, North Carolina. North Carolina Division of Parks and
Recreation, Raleigh, North Carolina.
Parmalee, P. W; and A. E. Bogan, 1998. The Freshwater Mussels of Tennessee. The
T. S., J. R. Allison, and G. A. Krakow. 1995. Protected Plants of Georgia.
Georgia Natural Heritage Program, Wildlife Resources Division, Department
of Natural Resources, Social Circle, GA.
O Radford, A. E., Ahles,?H. E., and C. R. Bell, 1968. Manual of the Vascular Flom of the
Carolinas. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 1183 pp.
0
University of Tennessee Press, Knoxville,
TN. 328 pp
Natural Systems
Report
Transylvania Co.
References
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Natural Systems
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Transylvania Co.
References
,O
Rodhe, F. C., R. G. Arndt, D. G. Lindquist, and J. P. Pamell, 1994. Freshwater Fishes
of the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware. The University of North
Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC.
Rosgen, D. L., 1996. Applied River Morphology. Wildland Hydrology, Pagosa
Springs, CO.
Schafale, M. P. and A. S. Weakley, 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities
of North Carolina, A Third Approximation. North Carolina Natural Heritage
Program, Division of Parks and Recreation, Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources, Raleigh, NC.
Stokes, Donald and Lillian, 1996. Stokes Field Guide to Birds, Eastern Region. Little,
Brown, and Company, New York, NY. 471 pp.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 1974. Soil Survey of Transylvania
County, written by J. M. King, J. W. Turpin, and D. D. Bacon. Soil
Conservation Service, now the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service, 2001. Transylvania County Endangered
Species, Threatened Species and Federal Species of Concern. United States -
Department of Interior.
I„ Webster, W. D., Parnell, J. F., and W. C. Biggs, 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas,
Ili Virginia, and Maryland. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill,
NC. 255 pp.
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Figures
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