19981026 Ver 1_COMPLETE FILE_20090101

01
NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT AP IR 4
WATER UALITY
April 21, 2000
RE: Additional Information Package for the Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (Project No.
2694-NC)
Dear (See attached list):
In accordance with 18 CFR Section 4.32(8), please find enclosed a copy of the additional
information for relicensing of the Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project requested by FERC. If
you have any questions, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
)? CL,
John C. Wishon,
Nantahala Relicensing Project Manager
11
Mailing List for Queens Creek
Additional Information
W. E. Anderson
NC DWQ
59 Woodfin Place
Asheville, NC 28801
Mr. Joflrey Brooks
NC WRC
P.O. Box 972
Waynesville, NC 28786
Mr. Mark Cantrell
US Fish and Wildlife Service
160 Zillicoa St.
Asheville, NC 28801
Mr. Mark Davis
NC WRC
20830 Great Smoky Mountain Expressway
Waynesville, NC 28786
Mr. John Ellis
US Fish and Wildlife Service
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Mr. Christopher Goudreau
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Rt. 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
Mr. Jim Borawa
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
37 Newcross North
Asheville, NC 28805
Ms. Sally Browning
Nantahala National Forest Service
90 Sloan Road
Franklin, NC 28734
'Mr. Dannie Childers
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
P.O. Box 455
Cherokee, NC 28719
Mr. John Dorney
NC Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources
4401 Reedy Creek Rd
Raleigh, NC 27607
Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley
NC Dept. of Cultural Resources
109 East Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27601-2807
Mr. Clay Griffith
NC SHPO
Archieves and History Western Office 1 Village
Asheville, NC 28801
l
Ms. Nann Guthrie
DEHNR
59 Woodfin Place
Asheville, NC 28801
Dr. Donley Hill
U. S. Dept. of Agriculture Forest Service
190 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, NC 28802
Mr. Bob Johnson
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
151 Patton Avenue Room 143
Asheville, NC 28801-5006
Mr. Scott Loftis
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
20830 Great Smoky Mtn. Exp.
Waynesville, NC 28786
Mr. Jim Mead
DENR
1611 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1611
Ms. Malka Pattison
US Dept. of Interior, BIA
1849 C Street, NW Mail Stop 4513 - MIB
Washington, DC 20240
Ms. Gloria Putnam
Division of Water Quality
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1617
Mr. John Hefner
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Mr. Chris Hoberg
U. S. Environmental Protection Agency - Region 4
61 Forsyth St., SW Atlanta Federal Center - 13th
Atlanta, GA 30303
Mr. Steve Kartalia
FERC
HL 11.1888 1 st St. NE
Washington, DC 20426
Mr. Frank McBride
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury St. Archdale Bldg.
Raleigh, NC 27604
Mr. David Moore
NC SHPO
1 Village Lane Suite 3
Asheville, NC 28803-2677
Ms. Martha Peterson
Office of Rep. Charles H. Tayler
22 South Pack Square Suite 330
Asheville, NC 28801
Mr. Steven Reed
NC Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources
1611 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27611

Ms. Jeanne Riley
U. S. Dept. of Agriculture Forest Service
Rt. 1, Box 16A
Robbinsville, NC 28771
Mr. Dwayne Stuzzman
NC Division of Parks & Recreation
59 Woodfin Place
Asheville, NC 28801
Mr. J. Curtis Weaver
USGS WRD
3916 Sunset Ridge Road
Raleigh, NC 27607
Ms. Mary Roundtree
National Park Service
100 Alabama Street, SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Ms. Amy Wales
Tennessee Valley Authority
1101 Market Street CST 17D
Chattanooga, TN 37402
Mr. David Yow
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
57 Hilltop Road
Asheville, NC 28803-3122

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, NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
APR 2 4
- WfTLF?N
WATER QUI
Additional Information for the
Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
Macon County, North Carolina
FERC No. 2694-NC
NATDAM ID No. N000333
Prepared for:
Nantahala Power and Light,
a Division of Duke Energy Corporation
301 NP&L Loop Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Prepared by:
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
April 2000
11
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I 1. QUEEN'S CREEK RESERVOIR RULE CURVE AND CONSULTATION WITH
TENNESSEE VALLEY AUTHORITY (TVA)

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1

A NANTAHALA
Arm
POWFR AND UGHT
February 2, 2000
' Mr. Gregory W. Lowe
TVA
' River Operations
400 West Summit Hill Dr.
Knoxville, TN 37902
' RE: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC #2694)
Dear Mr. Lowe:
In the relicensing application for Nantahala's Queens Creek Project (FERC No. 2694), a
' reference was made to the Queens Creek Reservoir operations following a "TVA rule curve"
dating back to the early 1950's. A copy of this reference is attached. As part of the relicensing
negotiations Nantahala has proposed to slightly modify the operating rule curve for Queens Creek
reservoir to maintain higher lake levels for more of the year.
' FERC has requested documentation of our discussions with TVA regarding the proposed
modifications to the rule curve (copy attached). In researching our files, we found that, under the
"Original Fontana Agreement"and the "New Fontana Agreement", Nantahala agreed to allow
t TVA to dispatch the Nantahala hydro facilities in exchange for fixed allocations of energy and
capacity. The TVA dispatch for Queens Creek followed the rule curve, and it was assumed by
the consultants helping with preparation of the relicensing application that the curve was furnished
' by TVA. In fact, the rule curve used was the one developed by ALCOA when the project was
constructed.

0

During the 1982 negotiations for a replacement for the New Fontana Agreement, the question of
the need for TVA control of dispatch of Nantahala plants was discussed. TVA indicated that
there was no need for it to have dispatch control over the Nantahala resources because the total
storage of the Nantahala facilities was insignificant relative to the storage of Fontana and would
have no measurable impact on the operation of that facility. All of the Nantahala facilities with
effective storage are upstream of Fontana. For this reason, the 1982 contracts placed no
restrictions or coordination requirements on Nantahala's hydroelectric operations. Since 1982,
Nantahala has dispatched its resources as required to meet changing load and hydrological
conditions without consultation with TVA.
FERC is requesting that Nantahala consult TVA relative to the proposed modifications to the
Queen Creek rule curve. We request a letter from TVA affirming that Nantahala's operations
have no measurable impact on the TVA facilities and that consultation with TVA relative to
changes in operation of Nantahala hydroelectric facilities is not needed. Hopefully, this will

eliminate these questions from the FERC in the future.
' If you need additional information, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,

John C. Wishon, Hydro-relicensing Project Manager

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' The average annual runoff for the basin above Queens Creek Reservoir is 8.3 cfs. The average
annual streamflows and median monthly streamflows based on 49 years of historical records are
' as follows:
' Month Average cfs Median cfs Month Average cfs Median cfs
Jan 11.5 9.8 July 5.5 4.7
Feb. 14.0 11.0 Aug 4.7 3.9
' March 14.9 12.3 Sept 3.7 3.1
April 12.6 11.1 Oct 3.9 3.1
May 9.2 7.9 Nov 4.9 3
8
June 7.0 6.1 Dec 8.1 .
6.2
H.1.2 Coordinate the Operation of the Project with any Upstream or Downst ream Water
' Resource Projects
' Nantahala Power and Light operates the Queens Creek Project to produce electricity for its retail
and wholesale customers. It operates accordingly to seasonal water availability while maintaining
a rule curve elevation. The rule curve calls for the lake level to be maintained at or near elevation
' 2895 msl from May 1 until December 31. The January 1-April 30 drawdown is to aid in spring
flood control. The rule curve was set by TVA in the early 1950s, but the day to day operation of
the project is not coordinated with the TVA.

The first priority is to generate four (4) hours per day, Monday through Friday, at the time of
daily peak load. If peaking will not maintain the rule curve elevation, the plant is operated
additional time at a reduced load to reduce the lake level elevation. During periods of high stream
flow and high elevation, the plant is operated at maximum load 24 hours a day to prevent spilling.
The annual generation for the project is 5,000 megawatt hours.
There are no upstream resource projects. The operation of Queens Creek Project has no effort on
downstream projects.
The Licensee operates the projects in a peaking mode and integrates the generation into the
NP&L system. There are no upstream water resource projects. With respect to downstream
resource projects, the rule curve was set by TVA in the early 1950s, but the day to day operation
is not coordinated with the TVA.
H.1.3 Coordinate the Operation of the Project with the Applicants' or Other Electrical
Systems to Minimize the Cost of Production
Queens Creek and NP&L's 10 additional plants are remotely operated from an operation center in
Franklin, NC. The center is manned 24 hours a day with one (1) operator per shift.
64

1
1 Tennessee Valley Authority, 400 West Summit Hill Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37902-1499
' Janet C. Herrin, P.E.
Vice President
River Operations

March 17, 2000

' Mr. John C. Wishon
Hydro-relicensing Project Manager
Nantahala Power and Light
1 301 NPL Loop
Franklin, North Carolina 28734
' Dear Mr. Wishon:
' Subject: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC #2694)
In response to your February 2 letter, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has
' reviewed materials furnished by Nantahala Power and Light (NPL) pertaining to the
operation of Queens Creek. We have determined that NPL's operation of the Queens
Creek Project has no measurable impact on TVA facilities downstream, and that further
' consultation with TVA during the relicensing process pertaining to the operation of this
project is not needed, including any proposed changes in operating rule curves, water
uses, flood control or dam safety considerations.
Thank you for the opportunity to review and coy ;r nt on the Draft License Application
for Queens Creek.
' Sincerely,
0.;&4?' 62-tV4
Janet C. Herrin
H

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I 2. FEASIBILITY OF PROPOSED MINIMUM FLOW RELEASE THROUGH EXISTING
WYE VALVE AND SUBSEQUENT GAUGING OF RELEASE

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Duke Engineering
I& ServicessM
A Duke Energy Company
400 South Tryon Street
P O Box 1004
Charlotte, NC 28201-1004
April 11, 2000
John Wishon
Nantahala Power & Light Company
301 NP&L Loop Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Re: Queens.Creek Hydro Project
Minimum Flow Equipment Design & Estimates
DE&S File: NPLQCS-T07
Dear Mr. Wishon,
HV00114
704 382-9800
Fax [phone]
Enclosed is the design package detailing the installation of piping and valves to control minimum
flow releases required to comply with state and federal license requirements at Queens Creek.
The design provided on drawing QCO-100-001 was based on the critical combination of loading
and installation cost and will provide an efficient and measurable discharge of 4 cfs. If NP&L
negotiates a minimum discharge near the low end of the 0.7 to 4 cfs range considered for design
purposes, DE&S recommends revising the design of the piping and valve to provide a more
efficient and measurable system at that lower discharge. The design does not include an access
platform for the existing 18-inch control valve or the two new valves. DE&S understands that
NP&L plans to install the system using in-house labor. We have provided installation
specifications, a bill of material and cost estimate for the materials.
Please contact me at [phone], if additional information is required.
Thank your for your continued confidence in our engineering services.
Sincerely,
J. Qhristopher Ey, PE
Hydropower & Water Resources,..',,
' Enclosure
' Specification No. NPL-QCO-100
Rev. 0
April 12, 2000
Nantahala Power & Light
Queens Creek Hydro Station
' Minimum Flow Pipe Modifications Specification
' Mechanical Section
Drawing QCO-100-01 shows the addition of an 8" diameter carbon steel pipe, which will provide -
required minimum continuous flow into Queens Creek. A required minimum flow is to be established
' within the range of 0.7 CFS to 4 CFS. The minimum flow piping connection will be made as an extension
to the existing 18" diameter gate valve at the existing reinforced concrete wye. The pipe will be routed
parallel to the existing penstock and will discharge onto rocks in the same area as the existing 18" gate
l
"
' va
ve discharge. Another 18
gate valve will be installed as required to maintain the current discharge
capability (current means for spilling). The minimum flow discharge piping includes a gate valve, a plug
valve, and a flow orifice.
'
SITE PREPARATION
' Nantahala Power & Light personnel shall remove existing debris from the area in which the
Queens Creek minimum flow piping will be routed. This includes the area from the existing 18"
diameter release valve to the minimum flow discharge area.
'
PIPING
' The casing around the existing 18" gate valve shall be removed to allow for the connection of a
flanged 18"x18"x8" reducing wye to the existing 18" gate valve.
' Another 18" gate valve shall be purchased and bolted onto the downstream side of the 18"x18"x8"
reducing wye. This valve will allow NP&L to maintain the current ca
abilit
to s
ill water f
p
y
p
rom
the reservoir through this valve. See the attached Drawing No. QCO-100-001 for more information
on the location of this valve and required supports.
' A
8" C
b
S
l
i
il
"
"
"
"
n
ar
on
tee
p
pe w
l be bolted to the 8
flanged connection on the 18
x18
x8
reducing
wye.
t Included in the minimum flow piping is an orifice flange set with taps, which will allow for flow
measurement as required.
' The orifice shall be drilled to 60% of the pipe diameter.
¦ Threaded nipples, root valves and plugs shall be installed in the orifice flange taps per the detail
' provided on Drawing QCO-100-001.
¦ A 6" plug valve with manual handwheel operator will be used to regulate the flow of water through
the minimum flow piping.
' All
i
e
valve
f
tti
d
i
h
ll b
p
p
,
s,
i
ngs an
equ
pment s
a
e properly supported and installed per the attached
Drawing QCO-100-001.
' Piping shall be ASTM A106, Grade B.
¦ Fittings shall be A-234 grade A-234.

' Pagel of 3

Specification No. NPL-QCO-100
Rev. 0
April 12, 2000
¦ Flanges shall be A-105.
¦ Piping shall be installed in accordance with ANSI B31.1.
¦ Pipe welding shall comply with ASME Section VIII as required by ANSI B31.1.
¦ Bolting material for piping shall be the following:
Studs: Alloy steel with continuous thread, ASTM A193, B7, Class 2A fit.
Nuts: Alloy
(Heavy lace of threaded rod.)
Hex Head bolts of A193 B7 material may be used in p
¦ Piping shall from tested existing at 100 psig for not less than 10 minutes. This applies to all new 18" diameter gate valve up to the new 6" diameter plug valve. um
flow piping, from the
¦ All materials, equipment and installation work shall comply with the applicable requirements of all lations insuring agencies, institute lState tand local andards used aslaws,
a code by Federal, Stateuor local governs ing 11
society, associations s or or
agencies.
COATINGS & INSULATION
¦ All pipe, hangers, and miscellaneous steel shall be properly cleaned, prepared and coated per the
attached Duke Coating Specification HP-207.
¦ Safety and spill precautions shall be taken concerning the use of materials including cleaners,
solvents and paints.
¦ All new minimum flow piping shall be insulated. Every package of insulation, adhesive, jacketing
and coating shall have the manufacturer's stamp or label attached to it giving the name of the
manufacturer, brand, quality or material and UL or other approved nationally recognized testing
organization label and be FM approved.
¦ Insulation shall be 1-1/2" thick, fiberglass insulation molded from fine glass fibers and have a
factory applied permanent type flame retardant jacket (FRJ).
¦ Adjoining sections shall be butted firmly together and the longitudinal seam of the vapor barrier
jacket shall be sealed with a white fire-resistant vapor barrier lap adhesive.
¦ Ends of the pipe insulation shall be sealed with fire resistant mastic at all flanges, valves and
fittings and at intervals not more than 21 feet on continuous runs of pipe.
¦ Staples are not to be used on the vapor barrier jacket.
¦ An aluminum protective jacket shall be provided. Jacketing for piping shall be furnished in roll
form with moisture barrier and have a 0.016" thickness.
¦ Jacket shall be secured to pipe using 0.020" thick x '/Z" or 1/4" wide aluminum strapping and wing
seals.
¦ All aluminum-jacketed piping is exposed to the weather; therefore, it shall be weather sealed at all
seams, laps, rivets, and screws to prevent moisture penetration.
¦ Aluminum jacketing is to be secured by wing sealed aluminum bands spaced 12" apart.
Page 2 of 3

Specification No. NPL-QCO-100
Rev. 0
April 12, 2000
¦ Bands shall be %" wide on pipe that is 12" diameter or less. Bands shall be '/4" wide on pipe
diameters larger than 12" diameter.

' ¦ For this application of outdoor piping, aluminum jacketing shall have joints overlapping downward
with 2" minimum overla
and water s
l
d
p
ea
e
.
¦ All insulation and jackets on piping/tubing shall be continuous through all hangers, clamps, and
' sleeves. All joints shall be tightly butted.
¦ All exposed edges/surfaces of insulation shall be covered/sealed with aluminum/gray colored
' Insucolor oi- approved equal.
¦ All insulation cements, adhesives, mastic, coatings and lagging fabric shall be non-corrosive to
piping and equipment, compatible with the insulation materials and recommended for use by the
insulation manufacturer.
¦ All insulation materials and integrated insulation assemblies shall have flame spread ratings not
over 25; fuel contributed rating of not over 50 and smoke developed rating not over 50 as
' established by tests in accordance with ASTM E84.
¦ No materials containing asbestos shall be permitted.
I All manufacturer re
d
ti
d
commen
a
ons an
safety precautions shall be observed.

' ¦ All insulation shall to be installed on piping after system test, on clean, dry pipe that is free of rust
and scale.

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Page 3 of 3

PART No. QUANTITY UNIT DESCRIPTION
MATERIAL /SPEC.

1 35 L.F. Carbon Steel Pipe, 8" dia., schedule 40 A
106

(order 40' straight length, 2 - 20' sections) _
____-__-__.____
--- _.--
2 1 EA 18"x 18"x8" 45 degree Reducing Wye, 125 Class, Cl, flanged

3 - --- -. --
1
EA
Isolation Valve, 18" dia., flanged, cast steel, 125#, Powell Gate
Powell Gate Valve Figure 1793
_
Valve or Engineer Approved Equivalent ** Note: Long lead time item & approx. weight 1500lbs.

4 1 EA Weld Neck Flange, 8" dia., 150#, carbon steel A105
5 3 EA 90° Long Radius Elbow, 8" dia., 150#, carbon steel A234
6 1 EA Orifice Flange Set w/ Orifice Plate: Flanges, 300#, 8-inch dia., A105
slip-on, carbon steel. Orifice Plate, stainless steel, drilled for
60% of pipe ID, Purchase Flange Set complete _with _12 Studs

and 24 Nuts _
7 2 EA SS Tube Adpt, 1/2-inch dia., threaded, 304 stainless steel,
- -- -- -- A312
-- - --- -- - - - --------- -- --
(LG to be field determined) ----- -- - - -- - -

8 2 EA Root Valves, 1/2" dia., Apollo ball valve, threaded, bronze Apollo model # 70-103-01

9 - -
2 - -
EA -
-- Pipe - -- Plugs - - - - , -- -dia--. , - ---stainless--I- -- steel- --- - -- - - - -- --
1/2"
threaded,
-A-31-2 ------- - -- - - - -
/ A1 82________
10 2 EA 8"x6" Concentric Reducer, 150#, carbon steel A234
11 1 EA Control Valve, 6" dia., flanged, 150#, Millcentric Plug Valve Milliken Millcentric Plug Valve Figure 601

12 2 EA Weld Neck Flange, 6" dia., 150#, carbon steel A105

(remove raised face on flanges) -----------------------

REVISIONS MINIMUM FLOW MODIFICATIONS

BILL OF MATERIALS NANTAHALA POWER AND LIGHT
NO. CHKD. DATE APPR. DATE DRAWN';
AM
lo CHKD. I ffC // pp QUEENS CREEK HYDRO STATION
-
-
INSP
-' - _-APPR - --
6U
No. QCO - 100 - 01

PART No. QUANTITY UNIT DESCRIPTION MATERIAL / SPEC.
------ -
- ---- ---- ----
13
- ---

- - -
--

14

--
15
16

8

6
EA

A

A -----
Stud, fully thread, alloy steel, 3/4" dia., 5.75"LG

- - -- - - - - --- -
[.750- 1 OLTN-2A x 5.750 LG

---- - - - --- ---
Stud, fully thread, alloy steel, 3/4" dia., 4.25"LG

750-10UN-2A x 4.250 LG

Stud, fully thread, alloy steel, 3/4" dia., 4"LG
--- - ---- ---- -
A193 B7

193 B7

A193 B7
--
[ .750-IOUN-2A x 4.000 LG ]
------------------

---- - ------
- ---- -
16
16
EA
Stud, fully thread alloy steel, 1-1/8" dia., 6"LG
A193 B7
- - -- -

17 - -- - -_ --- -

80
--
EA [ 1.125-8UN-2A x 6.000 LG ]
- -------- - ---
Heavy Hex Nut, 3/4" dia., alloy steel
-- -

r•

-- - - - 18 --- - -

19

- - - - -------
20
-
32

2

1

EA

EA

EA --- -- - --
[.750-1OUN-2B]
Heavy Hex Nut, 1-1/8 dia, alloy steel
1.125-8UN-2B ]
Full Face Gasket, Blue Gard (or equal), 18" dia., 1/8" thick - ------- ----- ---- --- -------

Full Face Gasket, Blue Gard (or equal), 8 dia., 1/8" tic

A 194 r•

------ -----

- - --
21

22 - 2
-- -----

2 EA
----- --

Yds.
Cu Full Face Gasket, Blue Gard (or equal), 6" dia., 1 tic
_ - "-

,_ 000 psi (air en traine
4
.
23 24 EA #4 Rebar (16 @ 3'-6" LG, 8 @ 3'-0" LG) ASTM A615 Gr.-60

-------------------
24 -----------------
3
EA
#3 Spiral Rebar w/ 3" spacers (per drawing details)

60
ASTM A615 Gr.

REVISIONS MINIMUM FLOW MODIFICATIONS
BILL OF MATERIALS NANTAHALA POWER AND LIGHT
ENS CREEK HYDRO STATION
NO. CHKD. DATE

__-.-- APPR. DATE
-- -- - - -
- DRAWN 4 /( G?
- - --, CHKD. j _ %/ OD QUE
QCO - 100 - 01
No
INSP. APPR.
/ i eo
.

PART No. QUANTITY UNIT DESCRIPTION MATERIAL / SPEC.

25 2 EA Tube Steel 4 x 4 x 1/4x6'-O" LG carbon steel (trim infield) ASTM A500 Gr. B
--------- --------------- --------- -

26
_.-
2
EA ------
Flat Bar, 5" x 11 1/2" x 1/2" thick carbon steel
(per plate detail)
--------------
ASTM A36

27 2 EA Fiat Bar, 3" _x I/2" x 25 3/4" LG, carbon steel -- ----- -- - --- - - -
ASTM A36
(rolled per pipe support detail) -- --- - --- - -

-28 - 2 EA_ - 8" Fig. 161 Pipe Protection Saddle Grinnel

29 1 EA Plate, 1/2" x 8" x 2' LG, carbon steel (per valve pedestal detail) ASTM A36
-------

0
--- - - -- - -- -- ---
4
-- ---
EA ----
1/2" x 5 1/2" Kwik Bolt II
--
--
Hilti

31- Field Determined * -- Insulation and Aluminum Jacketing w/ moisture barrier, include * Refer to specification

strapping 0.020" thick x 1/2" or 3/4" wide and win seals _
--- ----- -- ----

32 Field Determined * Exterior Coating for pipe, hangers, structural steel and

- --- -- - -- - -- -- - - - - -
*Refer to specification
miscellaneous steel - - - - -- - --- --

REVISIONS MINIMUM FLOW MODIFICATIONS
BILL OF MATERIALS
NANTAHALA POWER AND LIGHT
NO. CHKD. j DATE -APPR. DATE DRAWN ; CHKD. QUEENS CREEK HYDRO STATION
INSP. APPR. /j No. QCO - 100 - 01

Queens Creek Minimum Flow Addition
Preliminary Budgetary Cost Estimate
Line
Mechanical Size Quantity Units Unit Cost Item Cost Comments

Pipe w/ Coating 8" 35 LF $25 $875
45° Reducing Wye 18"x18"x8" 1 EA $800 $800
Gate Valve 18" 1 EA $3,250 $3,250
Weld Neck Flange 8" 1 EA $115 $115
6" 2 EA $40 $80
90° Elbows 8" 3 EA $76 $228
Orifice Flange Set 8" 1 SET $400 $400
SS Tube Adpt, Roots Valves and Pipe Plugs 1/2" 2 EA $75 $150
Ruducer 8" x 6" 2 EA $100 $200
Plug Valve w/Handwheel operator 6" 1 EA $1,200 $1,200
Studs, Nuts, Gaskets 1811, 81, 6" 1 - $250 $250
Insulation & Aluminum Jacketing 1-1/2" 1 - $200 $200
Subtotal (Mechanical) $7,748
Contingency 30% $2,324.40
I VIAL (Mechanical)
$10,072
Queens Creek Estimate - Mech. Page 1

Queens Creek Minimum Flow Addition
Preliminary Budgetary Cost Estimate
Line
Civil Size Quantity Units Unit Cost Item Cost Comments

Concrete (4000psi) N/A 2 CY $120 $240 Formed & Placed
#4 Rebar (A615 Gr. 60) #4 24 EA $12 $288
43 Spiral Rebar (A615 Gr. 60) 43 3 EA $100 $300
Tube Steel (A500 Gr. B) TS 4x4x'/4x6' 2 EA $25 $50
Flat Bar '/2" x 5" x 11'/2" 2 EA
$20
$40
'/2" x 3" x 253/4" 2 EA $100 $200 Special Fab.
Pipe Protection Saddle (8" Fig. 161) 8" 1 EA $30 $30 GRINNELL
Plate %2" x 8" x 24" 1 EA $40 $40
Kwik Bolt II %2" x 5%2" 4 EA $5 $20 HILTI
Subtotal (Civil) $1,208
Contingency 30% $362
TOTAL (Civil)
$1,570
Queens Creek Estimate - Civil Page 1

' 3. SUMMARIES OF WATER TEMPERATURE AND DISSOLVED OXYGEN STUDIES
' AND FISH POPULATION SURVEYS WITH COMMENTS SUBMITTED BY
ALL CONSULTING AGENCIES

Fish and Wildlife Associates Inc.
' P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
1
' February 22, 2000
' John Ellis
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
' Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
' RE: Summary of water temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles, and reservoir fish surveys for
' Queens Creek Reservoir (FERC #2694-NC)
Dear Mr. Ellis:
' Enclosed are the summaries of water temperature and dissolved oxygen profile studies, and the
reservoir fish surveys conducted on Queens Creek Reservoir in 1999. We are providing these
' results for consultation according to the FERC's request for additional information concerning the
license application of the Queens Creek Project (FERC #2694-NC).
' Please provide your comments within 30 days so that we may process them and provide the
FERC with completed information in a timely manner. If there are any questions about this
request please call me at [phone]. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
' Sincerely,
Stephen J. Brown
' Project Biologist
1 Cc: Michael L. Wilkins, District Ranger, USFS
John Wishon, Nantahala Relicensing Project Manager
Chris Goudreau, Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator, NC WRC

11
11
Fish and Wildlife Associates Inc.
' P.O.Box241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
1
' February 22, 2000
Chris Goudreau
' Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator, NC WRC
Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
1 RE: Summary of water temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles, and reservoir fish surveys for
Queens Creek Reservoir (FERC #2694-NC)
Dear Chris:
' Enclosed are the summaries of water temperature and dissolved oxygen profile studies, and the
reservoir fish surveys conducted on Queens Creek Reservoir in 1999. We are providing these
results for consultation according to the FERC's request for additional information concerning the
' license application of the Queens Creek Project (FERC #2694-NC).
Please provide your comments within 30 days so that we may process them and provide the
' FERC with completed information in a timely manner. If there are any questions about this
request please call me at [phone]. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

r

Sincerely,
Stephen J.Brown
Project Biologist
Cc: John Ellis, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
John Wishon, Nantahala Relicensing Project Manager
Michael L. Wilkins, District Ranger, USFS

Fish and Wildlife Associates Inc.
' P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
t
' February 22, 2000
' Mike Wilkins
District Ranger, Wayah Ranger District
' Nantahala National Forest
90 Sloan Road
Franklin, NC 28734
' RE: Summary of water temperature and dissolved oxygen and reservoir fish sure
profiles, eys for
' Queens Creek Reservoir (FERC #2694-NC)
Dear Mr. Wilkins:
' Enclosed are the summaries of water temperature and dissolved oxygen profile studies, and the
reservoir fish surveys conducted on Queens Creek Reservoir in 1999. We are providing these
t results for consultation according to the FERC's request for additional information concerning the
license application of the Queens Creek Project (FERC #2694-NC).
' Please provide your comments within 30 days so that we may process them and provide the
FERC with completed information in a timely manner. If there are any questions about this
request please call me at [phone]. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
' Sincerely,
Stephen J.Brown
' Project Biologist
t Cc: John Ellis, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
John Wishon, Nantahala Relicensing Project Manager
' Chris Goudreau, Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator, NC WRC

r

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3. Summary of Results of Water Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen, and Additional
Reservoir Fish Surveys
3.1 Queens Creek Reservoir Water Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen Study Completion
Monthly water temperature/dissolved oxygen monitoring was conducted at two sites (Figure 3.1)
on the reservoir between June and October 1999 (Figures 3.2 and 3.3). Water temperatures
ranged from 11.5-24.7 degrees Celsius (C). Surface temperatures peaked during July at 24.7 C.
Dissolved oxygen concentrations exceeded 5.0 mg/1 at depths less than 5 meters throughout the
period. Maximum lake depth was 15.5 meters. Dissolved oxygen profiles indicated that Queens
Creek reservoir was stratified at the dam beginning in July and continuing until turnover occurred
in September. However, stratification was not apparent at the upper site, likely due to the
shallow depth of the upper end of the reservoir.
3.2 Queens Creek Reservoir Fish Population Surveys
Electrofishing and gill netting surveys were conducted by Fish and Wildlife Associates and NC
WRC in May, 1999 (Table 3. 1). Yellow perch was numerically most prevalent of the 11 species
collected. Largemouth bass, bluegill, and redbreast sunfish were also strongly represented in the
sample. Rainbow, brook, and brown trout were collected in May 1999 and, as was the case in
1996, all were of hatchery origin. Gill netting surveys were repeated in October 1999 by Fish and
Wildlife Associates (Table 3.2). Sites for both gill netting surveys are marked on Figure 3.1.
Largemouth bass, yellow perch, rock bass, and flathead catfish were represented in the October
1999 survey. No new species were collected in the October 1999 gill netting samples.

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Figure 3.2. Temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles for Queens Creek reservoir (Upper
site).
26
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- ---------------------------------- - ----------------------------------
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - - - - - -
0 1 2 3 4 5
Depth (m)
June 99 July 99 August 99 September 99 October 99

Figure 3.3. Temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles for Queens Creek reservoir (Dam site)
26 - -
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----------------------------- -- -------
22 - - ------ -- -
- - -- -- -- -- --- - -
20 ------------------------------------------------
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---------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -------- ------ ----------
0
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------- --- ------
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 15.5
Depth (m)
June 99 July 99 August 99 September 99 October 99

Table 3. 1. Fishes collected from Queens Creek Reservoir, Macon County, NC,
May 1999.
Electrofishing Gill Net
Species (individuals) (individuals)

Bluegill
Lepomis macrochirus 23 0
Redbreast sunfish 15 0
Lepomis auritus
Goldfish 9 0
Carassius auratus
Rock bass
Ambloplites rupestris 8 0
Largemouth bass
Micropterus salmoides 33 0
Smallmouth bass
Micropterus dolomieu 3 1
Yellow perch
Perca flavescens 112 2
Brook trout
Salvelinus fontinalis 0 7
Rainbow trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss 0 3
Brown trout
Salmo trutta 0 5
Flathead catfish
Pylodictis olivaris 0 1

Table 3.2. Fishes collected by gill netting from Queens Creek Reservoir, Macon County,
NC, October, 1999.
Species *Individuals

Rock bass
Ambloplites rupestris 2
Largemouth bass
Micropterus salmoides 5
Yellow perch
Perca flavescens 2
Flathead catfish
Pylodictis olivaris 1
* One night gill netting
Three sites were sampled (Dam, Middle, Upper)
Used one surface net and one bottom net at each site
All six gill nets used were experimental

® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission®
' 312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
Route 6, Box 685
' Marion, NC 28752-9229
March 21, 2000
Mr. Stephen Brown
' Fish & Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
' Subject: Additional information concerning reservoir fish surveys and temperature/dissolved oxygen profiles
Nantahala Power & Light Co., Queens Creek Project, FERC No. 2694
' Dear Mr. Brown:
This correspondence is in response to your February 22, 2000 letter requesting agency comments on the referenced
information. Your request stems from a December 22, 1999 letter from the FERC requiring additional information
' on the license application. These comments are provided under provisions of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C.
791a-825r) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
' The 1999 gillnet data are not substantially different from 1996 in terms of abundance or species composition.
Unfortunately, our expectation that the gill nets would adequately sample smallmouth bass was not realized. We
see no need to conduct future sampling with gill nets.
' The electrofishing data was collected using our new high-power boat mounted electrofishing unit. The
electrofishing data included several species not found in the gillnets and the sample indicates that a warmwater
fish assemblage exists in the reservoir. We recommend using this type of gear for any future fish population
sampling that may be conducted by the NCWRC or NP&L in Queens Creek Reservoir.
' Our analysis of the electrofishing data (see attached report) suggest that recruitment of centrarchids may be poor
and we surmise that reservoir operations may be a factor in this regard. Stabilizing reservoir water levels in the
spring may improve spawning conditions for bass and sunfish. Also, limiting the drawdown in the fall and winter
should lessen the impact of predation due to reduced habitat availability for young-of-year fish.
Please update Table 3.1 in your February 22 correspondence to reflect that 271 yellow perch were collected during
' electrofishing. Our report explains that the majority of these fish were not measured individually, but counted and
weighed as a group.
' The temperature and dissolved oxygen data indicate that suitable habitat exists for warmwater fish species
throughout the year. We attempted to collect additional temperature and dissolved oxygen data by installing two
data loggers in the reservoir. Unfortunately, the samplers were stolen, preventing us from determining the
temperature regime in the spring months when spawning occurs.
' Trout habitat disappears in July and August, lessening the chance that stocked trout will survive to subsequent
years. For this reason the NCWRC does not stock trout past June or use fingerling fish, which would require
several years to grow to catchable size.

' FERC No. 2694 Page 2 March 21, 2000
Queens Cr. Reservoir Fish Data
' If you have any questions concerning these comments, please contact me at 828-652-4360.
' Sincerely,
C/ "-14 ,j;4?Loe---
' Christopher Goudreau
Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator
' c: Frank McBride, Scott Loftis, David Yow, Mark Davis (NCWRC)
Fred Tarver (NCDWR)
John Ellis (USFWS)
Donley Hill (USFS)

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11
c:\mydata\word\hydro\npl\queens\reservoir data comments.doc

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Queens Creek Reservoir
Electrofishing Survey
10 May 1999
Scott Loftis and Christopher Goudreau
Fisheries Biologists
' North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Division of Inland Fisheries

u
March 2000

' The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) conducted a survey on Queens Creek Reservoir as
part of the hydropower re-licensing process between the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Nantahala Power
t & Light Company, and other state and federal agencies. It will also provide the NCWRC with information for
future management of the lake.
Currently, the reservoir is designated as a Public Mountain Trout Waters and managed as a put-and-take trout
' fishery. It receives catchable-size trout from April through June. Along with the seasonal trout fishery, the reservoir
provides year around opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of panfish, largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides
and smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu.
' Methods
Boat-mounted electrofishing gear was employed to sample five 200-m shoreline transects, during night-time hours
' (Figure 1). Transects were selected by habitat characteristics and range from rip-rap shoreline to high gradient
banks to shallow mud flats. Cover and substrate consisted of woody material (blow downs and emergent willow),
vegetation and rock. Generally, the woody and vegetative cover was found along deep banks and shallow mud flats,
with rocky material confined along the dam transect.
Catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) was calculated for all species using both distance (1000 m) and electrofishing time
(78.5 min.). Total fish length (mm) and total weight (g) was recorded for all individuals captured, except yellow
' perch Perca flavescens. Lengths were obtained from approximately the first 100 yellow perch; the remainder were
counted and weighed as a group at subsequent transects. Proportional Stock Density (PSD) and Relative Stock
Density-Preferred (RSD-P) were calculated for species with assigned length categories (Anderson and Neumann
1996). Otoliths were dissected from all largemouth and smallmouth bass to provide age and growth information.
' Length frequency distributions were plotted for each species captured as a method of analyzing population size
structure. Relative weights (Wr) were determined for species with standard weight (Ws) equations (Anderson and
Neumann 1996).
Results and Discussion
Catch was dominated by yellow perch and centrarchids (Table 1). Smallmouth bass were not abundant. However,
shoreline electrofishing typically does not adequately sample smallmouth bass populations in steep-sided mountain
reservoirs. Thus, reported densities for smallmouth bass may not be a true estimate of the actual population size.
Largemouth bass catch was second highest, but relatively low when compared with other resources in the region.
' PSD and RSD-P (Table 1) were within the objective ranges for both largemouth bass and bluegill Lepomis
macrochirus under the balanced management strategy (Anderson and Neumann 1996). However, caution should be
used when making inferences concerning smallmouth bass because of the small sample size, and yellow perch
' because minimum size categories assigned do not appear to fit well with yellow perch in this region of the country.
Length frequency distributions were determined for all species captured (Figure 2). Lengths of largemouth bass
ranged from 60 to 515 mm. Relatively few largemouth bass <150 mm were captured. Small bluegill and redbreast
sunfish Lepomis auritus were also uncommon, with both populations generally consisting of intermediate to large
individuals. This may be due to gear efficiency, poor year-class survival, heavy predation, reservoir operations or a
combination of factors.

Each of these factors could be exacerbated by severe reservoir draw-down that persist for long periods or occurs
during periods of nest building and reproductive stages. Reservoir operations can effect predator and prey
populations in two ways. First, if the reservoir water level is low during the spawning season of nest builders like
bass and sunfish, critical spawning habitat (i.e., clean substrate, low gradient shoreline or protective cover) may not
be present. Also, fluctuating lake levels during the spawning season can dewater spawning beds or "flood" them so
that the nests are too deep. Fluctuations may also deposit sediment that can smother incubating eggs. Second,
exaggerated drawdowns for extended periods during the late summer, fall and winter can also reduce year-class
strength, especially in small impoundments. Reduced water volume may result in heavy predation on juvenile
gamefish and forage fish.
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Age and growth estimations were performed on largemouth and smallmouth bass, but only plotted for largemouth
bass (Figure 3 and 4) due to the small sample size of smallmouth bass. Age distributions for largemouth bass are
typically distributed, with a higher frequency of age-1 individuals as compared to other age classes. Missing age
classes may be a reflection of a small sample size, rather than actual absence of these fish in the population. Mean
length-at-age indicated that fish are recruiting to harvestable size at age 3. This growth is typical for largemouth
bass in the region and state.
Largemouth bass have Wr values near 100 (Figure 5) reflecting good condition. It is likely that the Wr for the
individual of 501-mm is an outlier, due to an inaccurate weight. Bluegill Wr values are near 100 and are considered
to be in good condition. All relative weights for yellow perch fall well below 100 and could be associated with fat
content. Hayes and Taylor (1994) reported a 12% increase in mean fat content of yellow perch between June and
August in two Michigan Lakes.
Conclusion
Future management of Queens Creek Reservoir by the NCWRC will continue as a multi-species fishery. Stocking
of catchable brook, brown and rainbow trout from April through June will continue to support the put-and-take trout
fishery during the months of optimal water temperatures. Warm water fisheries will continue to be managed under
standard creel and size limits for black bass and sunfish species. Future survey work should be conducted to better
determine the reproductive success of nest builders, and to further examine the length distributions and age and
growth predator and prey species. Finally, the NCWRC requests that Nantahala Power & Light Company maintain
stable water level operations from May 1 through July 31 to improve spawning conditions for nest building species.
Literature Cited
Anderson, R. O., and R. M. Neumann. 1996. Length, weight, and associated structural indices. Pages 447-482 in
B. R. Murphy, and D. W. Willis, editors. Fisheries techniques, 2"d edition. American Fisheries Society,
Bethesda Maryland
Hayes, D. B., and W. W. Taylor. 1994. Changes in the composition of somatic and gonadal tissues of yellow perch
following white sucker removal. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 123:204-216.

' Table 1. Species composition, total catch, catch-per-unit-effort (number/100 m; number/min.), Proportional Stock
Density (PSD) and Relative Stock Density (RSD-P) for Queens Creek Reservoir, 10 May 1999.
' Species N CPUE (in) CPUE (min.) Stock N PSD RSD-P
Largemouth bass 15 47 27
<305-mm 26 2.6 0.33
>_305-mm 7 0.7 0.09
' Smallmouth bass 3 0.3 0.04 3 100 67
Yellow perch 271 27.1 3.45 55 4
Bluegill 23 2.3 0.29 18 22 6
' Redbreast sunfish 15 1.5 0.19
Rock bass 8 0.8 0.10 5 20
Goldfish 9 0._9 0.11

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Figure 3. Age distribution of largemouth bass collected from queens creetc reservoir to may ivvy.

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Figure 4. Mean length-at-age (± s.d.) of largemouth bass collected from Queens Creek Reservoir 10 May 1999.
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(REVISED 4100)
Table 3.4. Fishes collected from Queens Creek Reservoir, Macon County, NC,
May 1999.
Electrofishing Gill Net
Species (individuals) (individuals)

Bluegill
Lepomis macrochirus 23 0
Redbreast sunfish 15 0
Lepomis auritus
Goldfish 9 0
Carassius auratus
Rock bass
Ambloplites rupestris 8 0
Largemouth bass
Micropterus salmoides 33 0
Smallmouth bass
Micropterus dolomieu 3 1
Yellow perch
Per-ca flavescens 271 2
Brook trout"
Salvelinus fontinalis 0 7
Rainbow trout*
Oncorhynchus mykiss 0 3
Brown trout*
Salmo trutta 0 5
Flathead catfish
Pylodictis olivaris 0 1
*all trout collected were stocked fish

4. SUMMARY OF HOW NP&L QUANTIFIED FLOW CALCULATION
S OF 7Q10 FLOW
' FOR QUEEN'S CREEK AND COMMENTS SUBMITTED FROM ALL CONSULTING-
AGENCIES

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Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
March 9, 2000

C

RE: Additional information concerning mean annual flow calculations for Queens Creek (FERC No.
2694-NC)
Dear (See attached list):
Nantahala Power and Light (NP&L), a Division of Duke Energy, is compiling additional information for the
relicensing of the Queens Creek project pursuant to 18 CFR Section 4.32(g) of the FERC regulations. The
FERC has requested that NP&L consult with the resource agencies concerning discrepancies between
NP&L's calculated mean annual flow for Queens Creek and the mean annual flow reported by the agencies
through consultation with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Enclosed is a summary of how NP&L quantified Queens Creek flow and summaries of calculations for the
7Q 10 for Queens Creek. FERC requests that NP&L submit these summaries along with comments from the
resource agencies concerning these summaries. Please provide me with your comments within 30 days.
Thank you for you cooperation and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
John Boaze
Senior Biologist

' Mr. John Ellis
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
' Mr. Michael L. Wilkins
District Ranger, USFS
Wayah Ranger District
' 90 Sloan Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Mr. Jim Mead
' Dept. of Environmental and Natural
Resources
' P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611
Mr. Chris Goudreau
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
' Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752
1
Mr. Steve Reed
Division of Water Resources
' 1611 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1611
Mr. Jim Blose
NC DENR
Division of Water Quality
' 512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604
' Donley Hill
US Forest Service
P.O. Box 2750
' Asheville, NC 28802
J. Curtis Weaver
' USGS WRD
3916 Sunset Ridge Road
' Raleigh, NC 27607

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Queens Creek streamflow calculation
Streamflow for Queens Creek Lake is calculated weekly. The time period is from the
previous Sunday at midnight to the present Sunday at midnight. Although streamflow
is calculated weekly, the average turbine discharge is calculated daily.
' The procedure for calculating Queens Creek average daily turbine discharge.
' 1. Determine the KWh generated each hour. (Generation will be either normal
load of 1,000 KWh or peaking load of 1,500 KWh)
2. Determine the headwater elevation each hour.
' 3. Using a pre-determined set of discharge values for KWh generation at different
headwater elevations, look-up the discharge value for the generation at the
' headwater elevation as determined in steps 1 and 2.
4. Average the values from step 3 to determine the average daily turbine discharge.
' The formula for calculating Queens Creek streamflow is the following:
(Sum of the average turbine discharges for 7 days of the week + or - difference in day second
' feet of storage from previous Sunday to present Sunday) divided by 7 days in the week.
Example: Assume Queens Creek Plant operated 6 hours a day Monday through Friday
' at 1500 KW each hour. Assume Queens Creek Lake elevation at midnight on the previous
Sunday was 2894.6 and the present elevation is 2895.3. Queens Creek Plant did not
generate on Saturday or Sunday.
' Step 1
Average turbine discharge for Queens Creek Plant is calculated daily as previously described.
Assume 22.1 cubic feet of water is the value associated with generating 1,500 KWh at the
lake elevations we are using in our example.
6 hours of.generation) X (22.1 cubic feet per sec) = average turbine discharge for
24 hours per day each day
' 5.5 cfs = average turbine discharge
Step 2
When Queens Creek Lake was built, storage tables in day second feet were determined
' for each tenth of a foot of lake elevation. Using these storage tables, determine the storage
associated with the previous and present Sunday lake elevations.
Change in storage = storage for 2895.3 - storage for 2894.6
= 251.3 - 243.6
' = 7.7 day sec feet

' Step 3
Total turbine discharge for 7 days = 5.5 cfs + 5.5 cfs + 5.5 cfs + 5.5 cfs
' + 5.5 cfs + 0 cfs + 0 cfs

fl

P
H
= 27.5 cfs
Step 4
Since Queens Creek Lake elevation increased during the week, add the change in storage
to the weekly average turbine discharge.
Streamflow = (Sum of average turbine discharges) + (Change in storage in elevations)
7 days in the week
= 27.5 cfs + 7.7 cfs
7
5.0 cfs

NP&L 7Q10 Calculations for Queens Creek
Period of Record 7Q10
(cfs)
1950-1959 1.0
1960-1969 1.5
1970-1979 1.6
1980-1989 0.3
1990-1998 1.1
Median 7Q10 Flow 1.1
for 3.6 sq. miles of
drainage area
7Q10 Flow for 4.24 1.3
sq. miles of drainage area
OR
Formula from USGS (Curtis Weaver) for calculating 7Q10
Average annual runoff = ([average annual runoff]/square miles drainage)
8.3 cfs/3.6 sq miles
= 2.3 cfs / sq mile
7Q10 =.155 [(average annual runoff) x (sq. miles drainage area)] to 1.01 power
_ .155([2.3][4.24]) to 1.01 power
_ .155(9.97)
= 1.55 cfs
Queens Creek historical streamflow records were used in 7Q10 calculations
a. Average annual Queens Creek streamflow is 8.3 cfs.
b. Queens Creek drainage area at the Dam is 3.6 square miles.

® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission®
312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
Route 6, Box 685
Marion. NC 28752-9229
April 4, 2000

Mr. John Boaze
Fish & Wildlife Associates, Inc.
' P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789

r

C?

f'.
0
0
Subject: Additional information concerning flow calculations
Nantahala Power & Light Co., Queens Creek Project, FERC No. 2694
Dear John:
This correspondence is in response to your March 9, 2000 letter requesting agency comments on the referenced
information. Your request stems from a December 22, 1999 letter from the FERC requiring additional information
on the license application. These comments are provided under provisions of the Federal Power Act (16 U. S. C.
79la-825r) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
Our agency does not have the expertise to correctly calculate mean annual or 7Q10 flows. We direct you to the
N.C. Division of Water Resources and the U.S. Geological Survey for the appropriate formulas.
We have several questions related to your calculations that should be addressed in your response to the FERC.
First, is it likely that the discharge from the lake has changed from the nameplate rating since the turbines were
installed over 50 years ago? If so, how would the flow calculations likely change?
Second, has the stage vs. lake storage table been updated since it was created when the lake was built? It is
possible that sedimentation in the upper end of the lake has reduced storage capacity and results in less discharge
through the turbines for a given drop in lake elevation.
If you have any questions concerning these comments, please contact me at 828-652-4360.
Sincerely,
Christopher Goudreau
Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator
c: Frank McBride, Scott Loftis, David Yow, Mark Davis (NCWRC)
Fred Tarver (NCDWR)
Scott Almond (NCDWQ)
John Ellis (USFWS)
Donley Hill (USFS)
0

Response to questions in the letter dated April 4, 2000 from Chris Goudreau NC WRC
' Question 1: Is it likely that the discharge from the lake has changed from the nameplate rating
since the turbines were installed over 50 years ago?
' Answer 1: The nameplate rating on the turbine was determined to be correct by measuring the
discharge from the unit. The difference in the discharge measured and the rated discharge for the
turbine was negligible. Therefore, NP&L believes that their is no reason to believe the nameplate
rating has changed.

Question 2: Has the stage vs. lake storage table been updated since it was created when the lake
was built?
Answer 2: NP&L does not believe that there is a need to update the stage vs. lake storage tables.
After consultation with NP&L personnel that have observed the lake from its impoundment, it is
the licensee's opinion that there has not been a sedimentation problem in the upper end of the
reservoir that would warrant a change in the stage vs. lake storage table.

NCDENR
JAMES B. HUNT JR.
' GOVERNOR Mr. John Boaze
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
' BILL HOLMAN Whittier, North Carolina 28789
SECRETARY
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
April 4, 2000

' Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-002) mean annual
flow and 7-day, 10-year low-flow calculations
:JOHN N. MORRIS
DIRECTOR Dear Mr. Boaze,
This letter is in response to your letter of 9 March 2000, and Schedule B from
' the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, attached to your 5 January 2000
letter, requesting additional information on mean annual flow (MAF) and 7-day,
10-year low-flow (7Q 10) calculations for Queens Creek. The Division of Water
' Resources (DWR) references Giese and Mason (1993)' to explain our exception
to Nantahala Power and Light's (NP&L) calculation of the MAF and 7Q 10
values.
'
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has a partial-record site (0350526600) on
Queens Creek upstream of the project dam at a drainage area of 2.79 square
' miles. The USGS has calculated the 7Q10 at this site to be 1.3 cubic feet per
second (cfs), or 0.47 cfs/miz, and the mean annual runoff (MAR) to be 3.0

' cfs/miz.
•z
• Ratioing to the Queens Creek dam, with a drainage area of 3.6 ml , the 7Q 10
is 1.69 cfs, and the MAF is 10.8 cfs.
• The mountain hydraulic area 10 (HA10) equation for ungaged sites is
1
1
01
7Q
0 = 0.155 MAF
-
With MAF equal to 10.8 cfs, the 7Q10 is 1.71 cfs, or 0.48 cfs/miz.
• At the confluence of Queens Creek and the Nantahala River, the MAF is 12.6
' cfs [(3.0 cfs/miz) x (4.2 miz)]. The HA 10 equation yields a 7Q 10 of 1.99 cfs.
At the dam, NP&L has calculated a median 7Q 10 of 1.1 cfs, and a MAF of 8.3
' cfs. At the confluence with the Nantahala River, NP&L has calculated the 7Q 10
11 7 .
MAILING ADDRESS: 1611 MAIL SERVICE CENTER, RALEIGH, NC 27699-1611
PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 512 N. SALISBURY STREET, RALEIGH, NC 27604
' PHONE [phone] FAX [phone]
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER - 50% RECYCLED/10% POST-CONSUMER PAPER

Mr. John Boaze
April 4, 2000
Page Two
' to be 1.55 cfs. DWR takes exception to these values for the following reasons:
1. The accuracy of the kilowatt production versus discharge relationship is questionable because
' the rating has not been confirmed since the turbine left the factory 50 years ago.
2. NP&L uses a period of record derived from reservoir levels recorded weekly. A daily time
step is more appropriate to calculate 7Q10.
' 3. NP&L used the HA 10 equation with a MAF derived from generation records, rather than one
using a MAR value from Plate 2 of Giese and Mason (1991), to calculate the 7Q 10 at the
mouth of Queens Creek.
' 4. It is impossible to determine whether the changes in elevation of the reservoir are due to
generation, inflow, precipitation, infiltration or evaporation.
5. The accuracy of the 50-year-old stage-storage relationship for Queens Creek Reservoir is
' questionable.
' The partial record station data is the best information available, and should be used to
determine stream flow characteristics. Flow statistics from the partial record station are
reinforced by results using the regression equation for ungaged sites. NP&L should consult the
USGS regarding the flows based on the partial record station and the procedures for estimating
flows at ungaged sites.

f

n
Please contact me at 919/715-5442, or by e-mail at [e-mail], with questions or
comments.
Sincerely,
Fred R. Tarver III
Environmental Specialist
cc: Curtis Weaver, USGS
Chris Goudreau, NCWRC
John Ellis, USFWS
Donley Hill, USFS
Scott Almond, NCDWQ
I Giese, G.L. and R.R. Mason Jr. 1993. Low-flow characteristics of streams in North Carolina
U.S. Geological Survey Water Supply Paper 2403.

u

' 5. OVERVIEW OF ASSUMPTIONS CALCULATIONS AND VALUES USED TO
' DETERMINE LOSS IN YEARLY GENERATION AND REVENUE AND
PERCENTAGE OF WEEKS WITH INSUFFICIENT WATER TO OPERATE,
SPILL AND MAINTAIN LAKE ELEVATION AT THE QUEEN'S CREEK PROJECT

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Calculations
Conversion of normal average streamflow into MWh generation
A B C D E F G H
QUEENS CREEK LAKE
INFLOW
START OF STREAM REQUESTED NET HOURS EQ.
MONTH STORAGE FLOW RELEASE INFLOW IN OUTFLOW GENERATION
LEVEL (MWh) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) MONTH (MWh) (MWh)
JAN 2888 265 11.4 0 11.4 744 593 593
FEB 2888 265 13.9 0 13.9 672 653 653
MAR 2888 265 14.7 0 14.7 744 765 765
APR 2888 265 12.5 0 12.5 720 634 523
MAY 2895 376 9.1 0 9.1 744 477 477
JUN 2895 376 6.8 0 6.8 720 345 345
JUL 2895 376 5.5 0 5.5 744 288 288
AUG 2895 376 4.7 0 4.7 744 246 246
SEP 2895 376 3.8 0 3.8 720 193 193
OCT 2895 376 3.8 0 3.8 744 199 310
NOV 2888 265 4.9 0 4.9 720 247 247
DEC 2888 265 8.2 0 8.2 744 427 427
Average 8.3 Total 5066 5066
A Agency requested lake levels
B MWh storage for corresponding lake elevation (determined by ALCOA when Queens Creek Lake was built)
C Historical average based on 50 year NPL records
D Requested minimum flow release
E Net inflow = C-D
F Available hours of operation per month
G Generating all the inflow for the month at a given lake elevation
Example for July:
(Streamflow / turbine discharge for lake elevation 2895) X (hours in month)(efficient Generator load)
(5.5 cfs / 14.2 cfs) X (744hr)(1000 MW) = 288 MWh
H Available storage at end of month - available storage at start of month + G = monthly generation

u
H

Calculations
Conversion of normal average streamflow minus agency requested release (3-2-99) into MWh generation
A B C D E F G H
QUEENS CREEK LAKE
INFLOW
START OF STREAM REQUESTED NET HOURS EQ.
MONTH STORAGE FLOW RELEASE INFLOW IN OUTFLOW GENERATION
LEVEL (MWh) (cfs) (cfs) (cis) MONTH (MWh) (MWh)
JAN 2888 265 11.4 3.5 7.9 744 411 411
FEB 2888 265 13.9 4.0 9.9 672 465 465
MAR 2888 265 14.7 4.0 10.7 744 557 557
APR 2888 265 12.5 4.0 8.5 720 431 320
MAY 2895 376 9.1 4.0 5.1 744 267 267
JUN 2895 376 6.8 3.5 3.3 720 167 167
J U L 2895 376 5.5 3.0 2.5 744 131 131
AUG 2895 376 4.7 2.5 2.2 744 115 115
SEP 2895 376 3.8 2.0 1.8 720 91 91
OCT 2895 376 3.8 2.0 1.8 744 94 205
NOV 2888 265 4.9 2.5 2.4 720 121 121
DEC 2888 265 8.2 3.5 4.7 744 245 245
Average 8.3 5.1 Total 3096 3096
A Agency requested lake levels
B MWh storage for corresponding lake elevation (determined by ALCOA when Queens Creek Lake was built)
C Historical average based on 50 year NPL records
D Requested minimum flow release
E Net inflow = C-D
F Available hours of operation per month
G Generating all the inflow for the month at a given lake elevation
Example for July:
(Streamflow / turbine discharge for lake elevation 2895) X (hours in month)(efficient Generator load)
(2.5 cfs / 14.2 cfs) X (744hr)(1000 MW) = 131 MWh
H Available storage at end of month - available storage at start of month + G = monthly generation

Calculations
Conversion of normal average streamflow minus agency requested release (6-7-99) into MWh generation
A B C D E F G H
QUEENS CREEK LAKE
INFLOW
START OF STREAM REQUESTED NET HOURS EQ.
MONTH STORAGE FLOW RELEASE INFLOW IN OUTFLOW GE NERATION
LEVEL (MWh) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) MONTH (MWh) (MWh)
JAN 2888 265 11.4 3.0 8.4 744 437 437
FEB 2888 265 13.9 3.0 10.9 672 512 512
MAR 2888 265 14.7 3.0 11.7 744 609 609
APR 2888 265 12.5 3.0 9.5 720 482 371
MAY 2895 376 9.1 3.0 6.1 744 320 320
JUN 2895 376 6.8 3.0 3.8 720 193 193
JUL 2895 376 5.5 2.0 3.5 744 183 183
AUG 2895 376 4.7 2.0 2.7 744 141 141
SEP 2895 376 3.8 2.0 1.8 720 91 91
OCT 2895 376 3.8 2.0 1.8 744 94 205
NOV 2888 265 4.9 2.0 2.9 720 146 146
DEC 2888 265 8.2 2.0 6.2 744 323 323
Average 8.3 Total 3531 3531
A Agency requested lake levels
a MWh storage for corresponding lake elevation (determined by ALCOA when Queens Creek Lake was built)
C Historical average based on 50 year NPL records
D Requested minimum flow release
E Net inflow = C-D
F Available hours of operation per month
G Generating all the inflow for the month at a given lake elevation
Example for July:
(Streamflow / turbine discharge for lake elevation 2895) X (hours in month)(efficient Generator load)
(3.5 cfs / 14.2 cfs) X (744hr)(1000 MW) = 183 MWh
H Available storage at end of month - available storage at start of month + G = monthly generation

C

C

n
fl

0
1

H
Calculations
Conversion of normal average streamflow minus NP&L suggested release (5-17-99) into MWh generation
A B C D E F G H
QUEENS CREEK LAKE
INFLOW
START OF STREAM SUGGESTED NET HOURS EQ.
MONTH STORAGE FLOW RELEASE INFLOW IN OUTFLOW GENERATION
LEVEL (MWh) (cfs) (cis) (cfs) MONTH (MWh) (MWh)
JAN 2888 265 11.4 0.7 10.7 744 557 557
FEB 2888 265 13.9 0.7 13.2 672 620 620
MAR 2888 265 14.7 0.7 14 744 728 728
APR 2888 265 12.5 0.7 11.8 720 598 487
MAY 2895 376 9.1 0.7 8.4 744 440 440
JUN 2895 376 6.8 0.7 6.1 720 309 309
JUL 2895 376 5.5 0.7 4.8 744 251 251
AUG 2895 376 4.7 0.7 4 744 210 210
SEP 2895 376 3.8 0.7 3.1 720 157 157
OCT 2895 376 3.8 0.7 3.1 744 162 273
NOV 2888 265 4.9 0.7 4.2 720 211 211
DEC 2888 265 8.2 0.7 7.5 744 390 390
Average 8.3 Total 4636 4636
A Agency requested lake levels
B MWh storage for corresponding lake elevation (determined by ALCOA when Queens Creek Lake was built)
C Historical average based on 50 year NPL records
D Requested minimum flow release
E Net inflow = C-D
F Available hours of operation per month
G Generating all the inflow for the month at a given lake elevation
Example for July:
(Streamflow / turbine discharge for lake elevation 2895) X (hours in month)(efficient Generator load)
(4.8 cfs / 14.2 cis) X (744hr)(1000 MW) = 251 MWh
H Available storage at end of month - available storage at start of month + G = monthly generation

' Calculations
Conversion of normal average streamflow minus NP&L suggested release (7-20-99) into MWh generation
A B C D E F G H
QUEEN S CREEK LAKE
' INFLOW
START OF STREAM SUGGESTED NET HOURS EQ.
' MONTH STORAGE FLOW RELEASE
LEVEL (MWh) (cfs) (cfs) INFLOW
(cfs) IN
MONTH OUTFLOW
(MWh) GENERATION
(MWh)

JAN 2888 265 11.4 0.0 11.4 744 593 593
' FEB 2888 265 13.9 0.0 13.9 672 653 653
MAR 2888 265 14.7 0.0 14.7 744 765 765
APR 2888 265 12.5 0.0 12.5 720 634 523
MAY 2895 376 9.1 0.7 8.4 744 440 440
' JUN 2895 376 6.8 0.7 6.1 720 309 309
JUL 2895 376 5.5 0.7 4.8 744 251 251
AUG 2895 376 4.7 0.7 4.0 744 210 210
' SEP 2895 376 3.8 0.7 3.1 720 157 157
OCT 2895 376 3.8 0.7 3.1 744 162 273
NOV 2888 265 4.9 0.0 4.9 720 247 247
' DEC 2888 265 8.2 0.0 8.2 744 427 427
Average 8.3 Total 4848 4848
' A Agency requested lake levels
B MWh storage for corresponding lake elevation (determined by ALCOA w hen Queens Creek Lake was bu
C Historical average based on 50 year NPL records
' D Requested minimum flow release
E Net inflow = C-D
F Available hours of operation per month
' G Generating all the inflow for the month at a given lake elevation
Example for July:
' (Streamflow / turbine discharge for lake elevation 2 895) X (hours in month)(efficient Generator load)
(4.8 cfs / 14.2 cfs) X (744hr)(1000 MW) = 251 MWh
' H Available storage at end of month - available storage at start of month + G = monthly generation

Summary of lost generation for Queens Creek development as related to Agency requested and NP&L
suggested minimum flows.
A Historical average inflow
B Agency requested release (3-2-99)
C Agency requested release (6-7-99)
D NPL recommended release (5-17-99)
E NPL recommended release (7-20-99)
Agency requested release (3-2-99)
Agency requested release (6-7-99)
NP&L suggested release (5-17-99)
NP&L suggested release (7-207-99)
Available
Yearly
Generation
MWh
5066
3096
3531
4635
4848
(A-B)
Yearly
Generation
Loss
MWh
1,970
(A-C)
Yearly
Generation
Loss
MWh
1,535
(A-D)
Yearly
Generation
Loss
MWh
431
(A-E)
Yearly
Generation
Loss
MWh
218
(A-B)/A*100
Yearly
Percentage
Generation
Loss
39%
(A-C)/A*100
Yearly
Percentage
Generation
Loss
30%
(A-D)/A*100
Yearly
Percentage
Generation
Loss
9%
(A-E)/A*100
Yearly
Percentage
Generation
Loss
4%
(A-B)*$16
Yearly
Revenue
Loss
31,520
(A-C)*$16
Yearly
Revenue
Loss
24,560
(A-D)*$16
Yearly
Revenue
Loss
6,896
(A-E)*$16
Yearly
Revenue
Loss
3,488
((A-B)*$16)*30
30 Year
Revenue
Loss
945,600
((A-C)*$16)*30
30 Year
Revenue
Loss
736,800
((A-D)*$16)*30
30 Year
Revenue
Loss
206,880
((A-E)*$16)*30
30 Year
Revenue
Loss
104,640

Assumptions:
1. Queens Creek Lake levels maintained at agency requested levels.
2. Peak plant 4 hours a day Monday through Friday.
Values:
1. Turbine discharge values:
Lake Tail Water Headwater Peaking Turbine
Elevation Elevation Elevation Generation Discharge
2895.00 1906.00 989.00 1.5 MWh 22.1 cfs
2888.00 1906.00 982.00 1.5 MWh 22.3 cfs
Average turbine discharge per day for four hours of peaking
(22.1 cfs X 4 hr)/24 hr
= 3.68 cfs
Average turbine discharge for 7 day (week) period
3.68 cfs (5day/7day)
= 2.6 cfs

2. Requested flow releases.
Agency recommended release (3/2/99) Agency recommended release (6/7/99)
cfs cfs
Jan 3.5 Jan 3.0
Feb 4.0 Feb 3.0
Mar 4.0 Mar 3.0
Apr 4.0 Apr 3.0
May 4.0 May 3.0
Jun 3.5 Jun 3.0
Jul 3.0 Jul 2.0
Aug 2.5 Aug 2.0
Sep 2.0 Sep 2.0
Oct 2.0 Oct 2.0
Nov 2.5 Nov 2.0
Dec 3.5 Dec 2.0
NP&L recommended release
cfs
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
3. Historical flow data (1950 - 1998) was collected weekly based on lake levels
and generation records. Weekly flow values listed in table

Queens Creek weekly stream flow calculations (1950 - 1998)
Jan Feb Mar Apr
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5
1950 12.3 9.5 13.3 35.1 16.9 18.3 25.6 16.1 14.7 17.2 18.0 34.7 14.6 15.0 13.3 9.8 9.2
1951 3.9 6.4 8.3 12.2 8.1 10.1 10.2 8.3 11.8 8.7 16.1 14.0 10.1 29.7 15.6 13.1 11.1 10.0
1952 10.9 16.6 11.0 17.2 20.6 14.7 9.3 7.4 7.8 14.8 24.9 22.4 18.0 11.0 42.1 6.7 6.4
1953 5.8 13.4 7.7 10.8 10.9 8.8 18.2 30.1 15.5 10.1 7.6 7.9 6.1 6.4 7.3 6.9
1954 4.1 3.3 26.5 50.7 12.4 9.9 6.7 7.1 7.3 11.8 9.7 9.8 20.3 15.5 9.3 10.1 7.8
1955 10.2 5.0 4.9 4.2 2.4 16.7 14.3 7.1 18.0 10.2 8.7 11.3 29.3 12.3 27.2 15.6 10.3
1956 3.6 2.9 2.9 2.9 5.0 19.4 14.4 16.3 21.0 17.4 13.1 23.4 13.7 8.4 11.2 18.6 20.6 10.8
1957 6.6 5.3 4.3 13.2 75.3 47.8 17.1 12.4 14.4 10.9 11.7 11.4 9.3 28.3 17.6 10.8 11.4
1958 9.5 6.8 9.5 10.3 11.9 21.6 12.5 7.9 11.6 10.1 9.0 10.1 11.2 9.5 8.1 8.9 11.5
1959 4.7 3.8 7.4 26.6 8.4 6.9 12.0 10.5 7.8 8.2 8.6 8.1 9.3 10.2 9.8 15.6 14.8
1960 7.3 14.2 10.1 9.4 9.1 9.4 13.2 12.1 12.7 14.4 11.2 12.1 12.0 19.9 16.4 10.0 7.6
1961 6.9 6.1 5.3 7.0 5.6 4.5 6.3 7.3 48.9 17.9 23.0 17.2 14.5 12.2 11.6 14.1 10.2
1962 9.8 11.8 11.7 9.5 32.1 17.9 11.1 9.4 40.2 25.5 18.4 19.2 16.5 15.5 14.8 30.0 16.6 12.2
1963 7.0 7.8 9.9 9.5 11.3 10.1 6.8 6.2 6.6 38.1 54.1 20.0 13.6 9.6 7.9 6.0 6.3
1964 6.9 18.9 9.2 22.7 12.0 9.4 10.8 11.4 9.0 24.2 33.7 22.5 28.9 16.3 43.1 16.0 4.8
1965 10.9 12.1 11.4 11.2 10.0 9.9 15.8 11.0 12.5 10.6 9.6 9.2 37.5 20.6 14.5 10.7 9.1
1966 4.3 4.2 4.5 4.8 3.9 4.2 35.1 25.6 11.7 20.0 13.0 9.4 9.4 8.3 7.3 8.0 8.6
1967 9.2 10.0 11.2 7.0 9.8 8.5 6.9 16.8 20.9 11.3 12.7 9.2 7.6 6.3 5.7 5.3 5.4
1968 16.7 20.2 24.5 14.1 11.3 9.7 7.7 7.2 6.1 5.8 7.1 15.0 9.9 9.7 17.0 11.9 8.9 7.8
1969 7.5 4.8 5.6 10.1 32.3 20.7 14.5 7.8 8.6 7.7 7.3 14.2 13.0 9.3 8.2 17.5 11.5
1970 14.8 5.6 4.8 4.7 9.2 9.1 7.4 8.8 5.8 5.9 5.2 8.1 9.0 17.5 9.6 6.7 10.1
1971 6.5 8.3 6.8 20.2 18.1 22.6 15.1 9.8 15.8 13.7 12.0 10.9 11.0 14.4 11.7 9.1 9.7
1972 8.2 11.6 28.5 14.0 10.7 10.7 10.4 10.5 11.3 11.4 9.8 8.7 11.9 17.0 13.4 18.4 13.4
1973 14.1 13.9 11.2 11.0 11.7 15.1 19.6 13.4 7.7 9.8 9.0 37.2 18.9 14.0 14.1 12.2 10.4 16.6
1974 62.4 29.7 17.9 17.1 23.5 21.4 20.7 23.2 15.8 11.2 10.6 16.6 13.0 23.3 26.1 16.7 11.7
1975 12.1 14.2 13.8 21.2 14.4 25.7 14.1 24.0 20.4 14.2 36.0 19.9 45.7 22.1 14.9 11.6 9.3
1976 17.2 10.0 14.0 9.3 14.6 10.4 7.4 9.4 9.4 7.1 11.0 18.4 13.2 22.1 11.5 7.5 6.6
1977 11.1 9.0 8.6 6.5 5.7 4.6 6.1 6.5 11.5 15.0 17.5 12.6 10.4 22.2 50.2 11.7 13.0
1978 8.5 10.4 10.8 11.6 31.6 12.2 10.5 5.0 8.0 4.6 16.1 11.4 11.1 4.3 9.0 6.1 6.6
1979 9.0 19.3 15.1 18.9 15.1 9.2 6.8 7.3 18.1 28.4 21.3 11.2 14.7 7.6 22.2 32.4 16.3 11.1
1980 6.8 6.8 6.6 6.4 9.1 6.7 9.3 7.7 7.5 16.1 14.4 50.2 25.6 16.4 16.2 16.9 11.7

Queens Creek weekly streamflow calculations (1950 - 1998)
Jan IFeb IMar IWeek 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5
1981 2.9 2.5 2.2 3.0 4.8 4.6 12.4 8.6 5.8 6.3 5.6 5.0 6.5 10.4 8.8 7.6 7.9
1982 21.9 24.4 9.4 21.8 34.9 17.5 14.6 21.7 13.9 14.7 13.5 14.3 10.5 9.5 8.8 9.1 9.6
1983 8.1 10.1 7.1 7.1 7.4 15.5 11.6 9.0 9.3 8.0 8.7 10.0 11.2 10.4 28.3 17.9 14.1
1984 16.1 6.4 6.5 6.4 9.5 5.9 6.4 15.8 12.6 18.5 11.4 9.6 15.1 15.4 13.6 11.4 8.9 9.8
1985 6.4 5.7 5.1 2.5 25.3 12.9 9.6 9.9 10.3 7.9 6.6 6.4 6.2 5.7 5.7 5.8
1986 5.3 3.4 4.1 3.4 3.0 3.7 3.8 12.2 4.6 5.6 13.1 11.6 6.1 6.3 4.2 5.3 3.1
1987 5.2 4.7 6.7 11.5 9.6 11.8 6.9 8.9 23.9 14.8 8.9 10.9 8.1 8.8 11.1 9.7 7.6
1988 7.6 4.5 4.8 19.9 6.0 7.4 5.2 3.8 5.2 4.0 5.1 3.7 3.6 4.6 7.8 7.8 6.2
1989 10.6 11.5 22.2 11.4 8.9 8.2 15.5 10.6 17.1 30.7 20.7 14.6 18.1 12.2 18.6 17.1 9.7
1990 19.9 15.0 14.5 20.7 25.9 26.2 47.1 21.9 17.8 17.1 49.6 21.0 14.4 11.0 9.9 7.4 9.5
1991 12.7 13.4 11.3 7.6 6.7 6.1 12.6 34.9 16.5 13.9 13.0 11.4 26.8 16.9 13.5 12.9 11.3
1992 11.4 7.9 6.3 9.6 7.3 5.5 7.7 7.7 17.2 9.3 10.2 11.5 12.6 9.9 7.9 8.7 8.7
1993 16.1 14.3 18.1 16.7 15.5 9.8 8.2 10.3 14.3 16.4 12.0 35.0 17.9 14.2 11.7 10.4
1994 10.3 13.2 14.9 11.8 18.2 10.9 25.2 12.1 15.5 15.2 15.3 10.8 34.3 47.2 20.0 40.3 19.1
1995 5.8 7.0 16.3 16.4 9.5 8.9 6.7 57.1 16.2 13.7 22.3 11.9 9.5 8.1 6.6 6.0 6.2 6.2
1996 9.0 5.9 22.1 35.0 31.4 17.5 11.6 8.0 7.8 38.4 14.4 16.4 16.3 13.4 9.9 9.9 13.7
1997 12.3 16.1 14.8 16.5 14.5 9.8 9.5 28.8 29.2 16.6 21.9 18.4 11.5 12.2 10.1 12.2
1998 4.6 30.4 20.2 26.9 15.3 15.1 3.2 14.5 14.7 11.4 15.9 15.1 11.4 15.1 12.8 14.4 23.1

Queens Creek weekly streamflow calculations (1950 - 1998
May (June
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5
1950 10.6 10.5 9.2 7.5 7.1
1951 9.2 6.4 5.7 5.0
1952 4.9 4.9 4.4 5.2
1953 11.0 17.2 8.5 9.1
1954 6.9 6.6 6.8 5.6 4.8
1955 8.4 7.6 11.7 10.5
1956 11.6 11.0 7.3 5.7
1957 9.1 7.3 7.6 8.5
1958 32.9 19.2 13.6 9.3
1959 9.2 6.3 6.1 6.4
1960 7.4 5.8 6.9 5.2 5.2
1961 7.9 7.9 7.1 10.4
1962 9.3 7.2 6.6 6.5
1963 19.4 8.9 7.8 5.5
1964 16.3 12.2 9.5 7.0
1965 8.6 7.1 6.0 16.6 11.9
1966 17.9 14.3 8.8 8.1 8.1
1967 8.3 12.2 11.9 13.6 12.4
1968 7.2 7.3 11.2 7.6
1969 8.6 7.4 7.2 6.1
1970 10.6 8.2 6.4 4.7
1971 7.2 6.7 10.2 6.9 6.4
1972 10.9 10.4 9.3 9.1 6.8
1973 12.9 15.4 10.9 15.9
1974 10.5 10.1 8.9 9.3
1975 8.9 6.9 7.3 5.8
1976 6.3 7.7 18.2 12.4 12.7
1977 8.0 10.0 6.4 6.4 7.6
1978 7.4 12.1 7.1 6.1
1979 9.4 7.5 6.6 4.3
1980 9.9 7.7 8.6 10.5
12.3 12.9 7.9 13.8
4.1 6.3 7.7 6.9
5.7 4.2 8.3 5.4 3.5
6.1 5.1 4.6 3.6 16.9
6.6 4.6 7.1 4.3
5.3 11.6 9.2 4.2
5.3 4.2 4.1 3.6
8.2 18.7 10.3 9.3
7.0 3.5 5.6 5.2 5.1
11.1 15.1 7.1 4.9 9.2
4.0 5.3 3.5 4.3
8.1 6.9 6.7 8.5
3.1 4.7 4.6 3.9
6.7 4.9 4.8 5.3
5.9 5.5 5.8 4.3 4.1
8.9 7.7 7.3 6.5
5.1 5.1 4.9 4.9
12.3 13.5 7.8 6.7
6.6 6.6 5.5 4.9
4.5 5.2 7.3 6.1 8.3
4.4 9.9 5.4 4.8 3.7
4.7 4.9 7.1 5.1
5.3 4.2 6.1 9.2
22.6 13.3 11.2 11.5
12.8 11.9 8.0 6.1
5.7 4.2 4.9 3.7 3.5
9.9 6.8 8.9 8.0
4.7 4.2 5.7 5.4
5.8 9.2 6.3 4.9
16.1 11.8 8.9 6.0
8.6 5.1 4.9 7.7 6.6
July
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5
5.7 5.2 10.4 7.4
6.2 6.6 4.3 3.8
2.9 2.6 2.9 1.8
3.5 2.9 3.5 3.7
4.0 4.9 3.4 3.7
4.4 4.1 4.8 5.6
3.2 5.2 6.0 6.3
12.5 9.4 6.4 5.6
5.1 15.4 7.7 9.3
10.6 13.2 9.4 7.5
5.0 3.7 3.7 1.5
9.3 7.3 8.0 8.2
5.2 4.7 4.1 2.3
7.9 6.9 6.0 7.1
4.0 4.6 4.7 6.3
6.0 3.6 4.8 4.6
5.3 5.0 3.7 3.4
4.6 13.9 9.9 6.0
4.5 3.2 3.9 3.5
4.5 4.0 3.8 4.3
3.2 3.3 2.5 4.4
5.6 8.0 5.1 15.7
8.4 9.0 5.9 5.9
9.7 8.1 7.8 7.3
5.1 6.5 5.2 4.1
3.7 2.8 2.9 3.3
8.8 9.5 6.9 4.8
4.2 3.4 3.0 3.2
3.4 3.1 3.8 3.1
5.7 8.2 9.9 17.0
5.0 4.9 3.7 3.2
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5
9.8 6.2 4.7 4.4 3.9
4.8 4.5 3.2 3.1 2.0
3.6 4.2 3.6 2.5
4.1 2.4 2.0 3.9
3.5 4.3 3.7 2.9
4.8 3.3 3.1 2.4
4.6 2.8 3.1 2.3 2.3
4.5 4.3 2.7 4.6 3.0
8.4 5.6 4.9 4.8
6.1 4.6 4.3 4.3
2.4 2.7 6.4 4.0
6.1 4.4 4.8 3.4 4.4
4.0 3.4 3.9 3.4 3.1
5.6 6.2 4.5 4.7 4.4
5.6 3.9 9.6 8.2
4.0 3.6 3.5 3.7
4.8 5.2 5.9 4.3
7.0 4.4 4.7 27.6
3.2 3.2 3.2 3.4 2.7
3.3 2.5 2.4 4.4
2.8 3.0 3.1 2.8
23.7 19.9 11.2 6.3
6.2 8.8 10.7 6.6 7.4
9.0 6.7 6.6 5.9 4.8
3.9 4.7 4.7 5.0 3.7
2.1 6.3 3.5 2.7
4.4 3.7 3.5 3.0
3.1 3.7 2.5 4.3
2.7 5.1 13.8 6.1 3.2
17.8 10.9 6.7 5.5 7.2
2.5 2.8 2.7 2.3
2.0
6.8
2.7
4.3
3.2
5.8
3.1
3.6
2.4
5.1
4.5
3.8

Queens Creek weekly streamflow calculations (1950 - 1998)
May June July IWeek 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5
1981 6.2 4.9 4.4 6.5 6.8 13.3 8.8 4.9 4.3 3.2 3.5 3.0 2.8 2.5 3.4 2.3 2.8 2.3
1982 9.9 8.6 6.5 6.1 4.8 5.1 3.8 3.6 4.1 4.1 3.7 3.2 6.9 5.0 16.6 7.0 3.8
1983 9.9 8.2 8.8 19.2 18.7 12.6 9.4 7.4 6.1 6.2 4.8 3.9 4.2 3.2 3.5 3.3 2.3 3.8
1984 30.6 48.6 13.9 11.2 8.6 6.3 6.3 6.6 4.8 6.2 5.7 9.3 9.1 9.9 7.2 6.4 4.5
1985 4.9 5.9 5.4 6.1 3.2 4.5 3.1 5.3 4.5 4.7 2.9 3.2 3.0 3.3 4.4 5.6
1986 4.2 3.7 2.9 2.7 6.7 2.5 3.8 1.7 1.9 2.2 3.5 1.7 2.4 1.8 1.4 1.9 3.0
1987 6.2 4.9 5.4 8.1 9.0 4.8 5.7 5.6 3.7 5.7 3.8 3.1 2.4 2.5 1.8 2.1 1.6 2.7
1988 3.2 5.9 3.9 4.2 2.9 3.3 1.7 1.8 2.4 3.3 1.2 2.6 2.9 2.0 3.4 2.0 3.3 1.2
1989 9.8 17.7 16.5 11.5 10.4 6.7 9.9 20.8 22.0 13.9 18.9 11.8 9.1 6.8 5.7 5.8 5.4
1990 7.5 9.6 7.7 6.9 11.3 6.3 5.5 5.2 3.4 3.9 7.3 5.2 4.3 3.6 3.1 2.7 3.3
1991 13.4 10.6 12.8 10.6 6.7 6.6 5.8 9.7 11.5 6.7 5.7 4.8 5.8 3.9 4.4 7.8 4.3
1992 7.1 11.9 7.4 6.4 6.1 6.8 7.7 6.1 5.0 5.1 4.4 4.6 4.5 3.8 3.5 4.2 4.6 7.8
1993 9.1 8.4 6.4 5.9 5.7 5.4 4.6 4.5 4.1 3.5 3.2 2.8 2.7 2.4 3.7 2.6 2.6 2.5
1994 13.5 11.5 8.6 6.7 6.8 5.1 8.8 6.5 8.7 20.8 8.5 7.9 6.0 9.4 8.3 6.1 14.2 9.8
1995 5.7 6.3 6.3 4.7 4.1 3.8 5.2 3.8 3.4 4.3 3.0 3.5 2.6 2.3 3.0 2.9 2.4
1996 13.5 12.1 11.8 10.8 21.3 16.6 9.3 9.4 6.5 6.3 4.2 3.8 4.4 4.8 5.1 5.3 4.7
1997 19.9 13.8 8.5 7.4 10.3 13.7 11.8 11.6 10.7 8.7 1.8 5.2 7.4 5.2 5.0 4.1 4.1 3.7
1998 11.6 15.6 11.5 4.2 6.5 9.6 17.6 7.3 6.2 6.6 8.7 6.2 5.1 4.5 1.4 2.6 6.0 1.6

Queens Creek weekly stream flow calculations (1950 - 1998 )
Sep Oct Nov Dec
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5
1950 6.1 14.4 8.1 5.3 4.2 3.9 3.4 3.9 3.9 3.9 4.5 4.4 11.0 5.5 4.2
1951 2.6 2.1 2.9 3.2 2.9 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.6 5.2 3.5 4.3 3.8 2.6 5.2 9.7 27.0 12.2
1952 2.5 2.1 2.5 2.9 1.9 2.3 2.3 1.3 1.6 1.6 1.6 2.0 3.0 4.5 3.2 6.9 3.7 3.0
1953 1.8 2.0 1.9 2.7 1.8 1.0 2.3 1.4 1.9 1.5 1.3 2.7 2.5 2.5 7.1 5.0 4.4
1954 3.1 2.4 2.1 2.3 2.3 1.8 2.1 1.6 1.6 2.6 1.5 2.6 3.1 3.2 4.8 4.6 3.8
1955 2.2 2.1 1.6 2.3 2.3 4.2 2.2 2.1 2.4 1.9 2.2 3.7 4.9 4.6 5.9 4.0 3.7
1956 2.0 2.1 1.8 1.8 2.9 2.0 1.8 3.0 3.3 2.8 1.9 2.5 2.4 2.2 2.4 9.4 11.6
1957 2.7 2.1 3.3 3.6 3.3 4.8 3.8 3.1 4.5 3.6 3.6 9.5 23.2 15.4 11.3 11.2 14.5 13.5
1958 4.3 3.3 2.8 3.7 3.1 5.1 2.7 2.5 2.4 2.7 2.9 2.5 2.3 4.0 3.3 3.2 2.9 3.9
1959 6.9 4.7 3.7 3.4 2.9 4.8 5.0 4.4 4.7 7.9 5.0 4.8 14.8 9.6 10.4 9.9 8.7
1960 5.0 3.4 3.3 2.6 3.3 4.6 3.3 3.5 3.0 3.2 3.7 3.2 4.5 4.7 5.1 5.0 6.8
1961 4.4 3.5 2.8 3.3 2.2 3.3 2.2 2.5 2.3 2.6 2.8 3.3 3.4 2.8 6.9 39.3 25.2
1962 2.2 2.0 2.1 3.5 4.0 3.3 1.8 3.2 2.2 2.4 3.5 5.9 8.5 4.5 5.9 2.3 4.3 8.0
1963 3.7 3.3 2.3 2.9 4.6 2.5 2.3 2.4 2.4 2.4 2.9 2.6 2.6 5.1 4.4 6.7 6.1 3.2
1964 3.8 2.9 2.8 2.6 15.9 11.5 7.5 6.0 5.3 4.7 4.3 6.0 9.4 8.0 8.3 7.7 11.7
1965 2.9 3.4 2.8 4.0 6.2 3.8 3.3 3.5 2.5 2.6 3.1 4.9 6.3 5.9 2.0 3.2 3.0
1966 3.3 2.1 4.0 3.6 5.4 4.1 3.9 10.3 6.4 8.1 9.2 9.1 5.9 5.6 10.7 10.1 7.0
1967 15.9 9.8 6.9 5.2 5.5 4.9 4.5 4.0 4.3 8.7 5.2 4.4 7.4 9.1 10.0 9.5 31.8
1968 2.7 2.6 2.2 2.5 2.2 2.9 2.4 2.3 1.8 2.5 2.6 4.4 5.4 3.0 5.8 3.3 7.9 12.0
1969 2.6 3.0 2.1 2.9 3.2 2.3 2.0 2.6 2.2 5.5 3.6 2.3 4.2 3.3 3.2 4.0 4.8 3.7
1970 3.6 1.6 2.4 2.0 1.7 2.3 1.9 2.3 5.6 2.8 3.2 4.1 3.6 2.5 3.1 4.6 12.4
1971 4.7 3.7 5.3 3.9 3.3 2.9 3.2 4.9 3.7 4.3 3.3 2.2 3.8 5.5 12.0 8.6 10.4
1972 3.7 3.0 3.0 4.2 7.7 16.4 6.1 8.0 8.3 9.2 8.6 12.5 11.7 12.1 15.9 28.7 19.8
1973 4.2 4.3 5.1 4.0 3.5 3.5 3.2 2.8 2.5 2.8 2.8 4.0 4.6 11.2 10.6 6.7 19.8
1974 3.8 3.8 2.7 2.8 2.6 2.1 2.1 3.8 2.4 2.2 2.9 3.3 6.8 5.3 6.1 6.4 4.3 15.8
1975 1.9 2.9 3.4 3.4 5.0 2.8 2.9 4.7 4.3 2.9 4.4 8.8 5.1 5.0 5.5 5.1 5.7 8.1
1976 2.4 3.7 2.8 3.3 3.3 6.9 3.8 3.0 5.9 4.3 3.4 3.2 4.2 7.4 8.8 10.6 10.0
1977 2.9 7.9 5.4 3.6 4.1 4.2 4.2 3.2 6.9 9.7 9.0 10.2 8.1 9.5 9.9 8.8 9.4
1978 3.0 2.4 2.7 2.6 2.4 2.1 1.9 2.3 1.9 1.9 1.6 2.7 2.8 5.4 11.1 5.8 6.2
1979 9.2 6.6 4.7 8.2 6.9 5.9 4.7 3.6 8.9 4.7 8.8 16.0 7.3 7.3 10.9 5.7 4.4 6.9
1980 2.0 4.2 3.5 2.6 14.1 4.0 2.3 2.6 2.5 3.5 2.5 3.4 4.0 5.2 3.6 4.6 3.2 3.1

Queens Creek weekly streamflow calculations (1950 - 1998)
Sep Oct IWeek Nov IDec
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5
1981 6.3 4.5 3.2 2.2 2.2 2.4 2.2 3.3 3.1 2.9 2.6 3.4 6.3 9.1 5.2 5.6 12.3
1982 10.8 6.3 4.5 4.4 3.6 4.2 5.1 4.8 4.2 6.0 5.9 5.4 6.1 17.4 16.3 15.0 10.3
1983 1.8 2.9 2.3 2.2 1.8 3.1 2.2 2.0 2.3 2.5 1.8 3.6 5.9 13.3 13.7 9.6 4.0
1984 4.3 3.1 3.4 2.6 2.8 2.4 2.6 2.9 4.2 2.7 3.5 3.6 3.8 6.2 7.5 5.1 6.0 6.9
1985 3.5 3.3 2.9 2.5 2.5 2.7 1.2 1.0 4.1 4.9 5.2 4.6 2.3 5.4 5.8 6.1 3.9 2.8
1986 2.5 1.3 1.4 1.6 1.0 0.9 3.9 4.1 4.6 3.5 4.1 5.6 5.7 17.2 7.9 15.9 9.1 5.8
1987 3.2 2.4 2.6 1.7 2.7 2.1 1.4 2.2 1.0 1.0 2.3 2.4 2.9 2.0 2.2 3.4 4.8
1988 4.2 2.3 2.9 5.7 3.4 1.4 1.8 0.3 4.5 4.4 5.9 7.9 6.1 4.2 3.0 4.6
1989 4.0 4.4 4.8 4.7 29.6 14.8 7.2 6.6 5.4 5.1 8.8 14.0 16.3 9.7 8.7 13.4 10.1
1990 2.5 2.3 3.2 3.9 1.1 2.9 4.5 4.8 7.1 3.2 3.8 3.2 3.0 3.3 3.7 4.0 16.1 18.8
1991 5.2 2.9 3.1 3.3 3.3 3.0 2.6 2.9 2.5 2.5 2.4 2.4 9.1 4.7 18.1 6.1 6.3 9.0
1992 8.8 6.3 4.3 4.4 6.1 6.2 3.8 3.9 4.3 9.8 5.8 6.2 13.2 9.6 8.7 24.4 21.4
1993 2.8 2.1 2.5 2.2 2.9 1.5 1.8 1.7 2.4 3.2 2.2 3.0 10.5 9.0 9.3 6.4 5.7
1994 9.5 6.8 5.6 5.0 4.8 4.8 5.9 6.0 5.3 4.7 5.1 4.4 4.8 7.9 8.9 9.1 5.8
1995 2.3 1.6 3.4 2.5 2.0 15.3 5.5 3.0 3.5 5.2 14.1 7.1 9.0 4.5 4.3 6.1 9.8 7.3
1996 4.9 5.4 3.4 4.1 7.6 7.7 4.0 3.9 4.1 4.4 8.7 6.5 9.4 16.2 16.7 12.1 8.4 8.3
1997 2.7 3.5 2.3 10.1 3.7 3.1 3.1 16.3 8.1 5.5 5.8 3.7 5.5 5.7 5.1 4.8 7.8
1998 2.5 1.5 1.4 1.8 5.1 2.9 15.1 2.0 1.3 1.5 3.6 3.8 1.7 4.7 3.9 3.8 8.7

Calculations for Agency Requested release (3/2/99)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
A Agency requested release (cfs) 3.5 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 2.0 2.5 3.5
B Flow needed for peaking (cfs) 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6
C Flow for lake level control (cfs) 0 0 0 2.4 0 0 -0.2 0.0 0 -1.5 0 0
(April, July and October are Lake
adjustment months)
D Total flow (cfs) needed for
peaking, spilling and lake
management (sum of A+B+C)
E Weeks w/o sufficient inflow
to peak, spill and maintain
agency requested lake elevation
(Number of weeks in streamflow
table < calculated value found in D)
F Number of readings for each
month found in streamflow table
G % Weeks w/o sufficient water to
peak, spill and maintain lake
elevation (E/F*100)
6.1 6.6 6.6 9.0 6.6 6.1 5.4 5.1 4.6 3.1 5.1 6.1
48 22 19 61 62 103 131 161 169 106 140 101
215 196 218 208 213 209 213 217 209 216 212 215
22 11 9 29 29 49 62 74 81 49 66 47

Calculations for Agency Requested release (6/7/99)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
A Agency requested release (cfs) 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0
B Flow needed for peaking (cfs) 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6
C Flow for lake level control (cfs) 0 0 0 2.4 0 0 -0.2 0.0 0 -1.5 0 0
(April, July and October are Lake
adjustment months)
D Total flow (cfs) needed for
peaking, spilling and lake
management (sum of A+B+C)
E Weeks w/o sufficient inflow
to peak, spill and maintain
agency requested lake elevation
(Number of weeks in streamflow
table < calculated value found in D)
F Number of readings for each
month found in streamflow table
G % Weeks w/o sufficient water to
peak, spill and maintain lake
elevation (E/F*100)
5.6 5.6 5.6 8.0 5.6 5.6 4.4 4.6 4.6 3.1 4.6 4.6
40 13 9 46 27 92 90 142 169 106 128 57
215 196 218 208 213 209 213 217 209 216 212 215
19 7 4 22 13 44 42 65 81 49 60 27

Calculations for NP&L Recommended release
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
A NP&L recommended release (cfs) 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7
B Flow needed for peaking (cfs) 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6
C Flow for lake level control (cfs) 0 0 0 2.4 0 0 -0.2 0.0 0 -1.5 0 0
(April, July and October are Lake
adjustment months)
D Total flow (cfs) needed for
peaking, spilling and lake
management (sum of A+B+C)
E Weeks w/o sufficient inflow
to peak, spill and maintain
agency requested lake elevation
(Number of weeks in streamflow
table < calculated value found in D)
F Number of readings for each
month found in streamflow table
G % Weeks w/o sufficient water to
peak, spill and maintain lake
elevation (E/F*100)
2.6 2.6 2.6 5.0 3.3 3.3 3.1 3.3 3.3 1.8 2.6 2.6
4 0 0 5 4 9 27 74 111 16 40 8
215 196 218 208 213 209 213 217 209 216 212 215
2 4 13 34 53 7

' 6. CONSULTATION WITH U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS)
DETERMINING EFFECTS ON THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

n

Fish and Wildlife Associates Inc.
' P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]

January 14, 2000
'
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Attn: Brian Cole
' 160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, NC 28801
' Dear Mr. Cole:
' Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc. is assisting Nantahala Power and Light with the relicensing of
their hydro electric facility at Queens Creek in Macon County. The FERC has requested
additional information on the threatened and endangered species potentially occurring in the area
' (see Attached, item #6). A reply must be submitted by Nantahala Power and Light to the FERC
by April 20, 2000.

The list of T&E species for Macon County submitted with the license included
Clemmys muhlenbergii bog turtle
Cyprinella monacha spotfin chub
Alasmidonta ravenehana Appalachian elktoe
Spiraea virginiana Virginia spiraea
Isotria medeoloides small whorled pogonia
Gymnoderma lineare rock gnome lichen
If any additional T&E species have been added to the list for Macon County, would you please
advise me.
Also included with this letter is the response detailing the methods and results of surveys
conducted. No T&E species were found, so there is no discussion of effects of project
operations, other than general comments. Please review this response and direct comments to me
at the above address or via e-mail at [e-mail]. I will need to include your comments with
the response to the FERC.
Thank you for your assistance with this request.
Sincerely,

Pamela M. Boaze
President
cc: John Ellis, USFWS, Raleigh

' (b) the percentage of weeks with insufficient water to operate, spill, and maintain
the lake elevation provided in Table E-7 on page 47 of your application.
6. In Appendix VII of your license application, you list six federally listed
threatened and endangered (T&E) species known to occur in Macon County, including
' the bog turtle (Clemmvs muhlenbergii), the spotfin chub (C)prinella monacha), the
Appalachian elktoe (Alasmidonta raveneliana), Virginia spiraea (Spiraea ;ii iana), the
small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides), and the rock gnome lichen (Gvmnoderma
' lineare). However, you do not provide sufficient evidence, or a supporting statement
from the FWS, to conclude that these or other listed species do not occur in the project
' area or would not be adversely affected by project operations. We must evaluate the
potential effects of the project on T&E species prior to a license decisio-..
' Therefore, you must consult with the FWS and determine whether the project may
affect any T&E species. If so, please engage a biologist(s) who is knowledgeable in the
identification and biology of these species to survey all areas of potentially suitable
habitat within the project area and adjacent or downstream areas affected by project
operations. You must file the following information:
(a) documentation of consultation with the FWS;

u
(b) a description of the methods and results of any surveys deemed necessary;
(c) a description of the effects of project operations on T&E species found in the
surveyed areas;
(d) detailed plans to protect T&E species found in the surveyed areas; and
(e) the comments of the FWS regarding your response to this request.
7. In section E.7.3 of your license application, you write that the Queens Creek
Hydroelectric Project is consistent with the U.S. Forest Service's Nantahala and Pisgah
National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (1994) and the North Carolina
Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (1995); however, no information is
provided on how the project is consistent with the two plans. You also do not address the
project's consistency with the FWS's "Fisheries USA: the recreational fisheries policy of
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service," undated, Washington, DC. Please describe how the
Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project is consistent with the three plans.
8. It is not clear which of the recreation facilities identified in section E.7.1,
including a car-top boat launch with parking, day-use area with picnic tables and
3

' 6. Threatened and Endangered Species
' a. Documentation of consultation with the FWS
A request for listed species was made to the US Fish and Wildlife Service on March 25, 1996, and
' a response was received on April 15, 1996 (attached). USFWS personnel have been present
during the consultation meetings held throughout. the relicensing process as well as being
informed of all information collected during the field surveys for aquatic and terrestrial resources.
' A letter was also sent on January 13, 2000 soliciting comments on the reply for additional
information (attached).
' b. Description of methods and results of any surveys deemed necessary.
' Field surveys for wetlands, threatened and endangered species, terrestrial resources, and aquatic
resources were conducted beginning in 1996. Nantahala Power and Light does not propose any
changes in the mode of operation of the facility at Queens Creek. Additional water releases may
' be required by the terms of the new license. Therefore, field surveys of the bypass reach were
conducted along the present watercourse and to a distance of 25 feet on either bank. Due to the
steepness of the slope and size of the stream above the impoundment, this was determined to
' include more than the impact zone of any water release upon terrestrial species.
The first field visit was conducted on May 1, 1996. This visit was an on-ground survey of
' terrestrial vegetation, habitat, and wetlands. Two additional visits were made in May 1996 to
cover the entire bypass reach. The forest community is mainly cove hardwood, some areas of
dense rhododendron, and oak-hickory on the slopes away from the streams. No wetlands were
found. No terrestrial species of concern were found.
Additional visits were made in late summer of 1996, spring of 1997, and summer and fall of 1998
to identify species present at all seasons. No threatened or endangered species were found. A
discussion of the habitat and associations for each terrestrial species is attached.

r

Aquatic field surveys of the fish population in Queens Creek bypass were conducted in 1997 and
1999. Most of Queens Creek has a very high gradient. From the mouth of Queens Creek to the
first road crossing, 0.7 miles, is the only section of the bypass reach suitable for fishing. The 1997
survey was conducted at the trail crossing on this lower section of Queens Creek. A three pass
depletion method was used to determine population estimates. Only two species of fish were
caught: rainbow trout and mottled sculpin. The 1999 survey also employed the three pass
depletion method and three sites were surveyed. Four species of fish were caught: brown trout,
rainbow trout, mottled sculpin, and creek chub. No threatened or endangered species were
found. A discussion of the habitat requirements for each listed species as well as the habitat
present is attached.
c. Description of effects of project operations on T&E species found in surveyed areas
No T&E species were found in the surveyed areas. There is no habitat available for the spotfin

' chub, Appalachian elktoe, gnome rock lichen, bog turtle, or Virginia spiraea. There is marginal
habitat available for the small whorled pogonia. Since Nantahala Power and Light does not
' propose any changes in operation, there would not be any effects on any species in the project
area.
d. Plans to protect the ME species found in the surveyed areas
No plans have been formulated as no ME species were found.
' e. Comments of the USFWS regarding this response for additional information
Comments are attached.

0

0

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United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Raleigh Field Office
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726
MJ2 • IZ_U_aZ ,SeN1o2 ?i?lcc sJ
' TO: ?, sh w kti A h-?2 SSOC i ? ?S , T_ r? .
N.C. 28?89
Thank you for your letter requesting information or recommendations from the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This form provides the Service's response
pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, as amended (16 U.S.C.
1531-1543), and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16
U.S.C. 661-667d).
' Re: Q"e2NS, CC-ezk. F?-:2C * 2Gcf ' NC, ImaCPVIJ C-y-
Project Name/Location/County
' f\n--arcV% 2F5; la a6 _%
Date of Incoming Letter Log Number

u
0
V The attached page(s) list(s) the Federally-listed species which
may occur within the project area.
Based on the information provided, it appears that your project site
does not contain suitable habitat for any Federally-listed
endangered or threatened species known to occur in the area.We
believe that the requirements of Section 7 of the Act have been
satisfied. We remind you that obligations under Section 7
consultation must be reconsidered if: (1) new information reveals
impacts of this identified action that may affect listed species or
critical habitat in a manner not previously considered; (2) this
action is subsequently modified in a manner that was not considered
in this review; (3) a new species is listed or critical habitat
determined that may be affected by the identified action.
If the proposed project will be removing pines greater than or equal
to 30 years of age in pine or pine/hardwood habitat, surveys should
be conducted for active red-cockaded woodpecker cavity trees in
appropriate habitat within a 1/2 mile radius of project boundaries.
If red-cockaded woodpeckers are observed within the project area or
active cavity trees found, the project has the potential to affect
the red-cockaded woodpecker, and you should contact this office for
further information.
Av96
Biologic?oj NC2 Date
-Tp-c ?A NIC1??V
Endangered Species Coordinator Date

' REVISED APRIL 19, 1995
2 PAGES
Macon County
' Fishes
Spotfin chub (Hvbopsis monacha) - T
' Clams
Applachain elktoe (Alasmidonta raveneliana) - E
Little-winged pearly mussel (Pegias fabula) - E
' Plants
Small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) - T
Virginia spiraea (Spiraea virginiana) - T
There are species which, although not now listed or officially proposed for listing as endangered or
threatened, are under status review by the Service. These "Candidate"(C1 and C2) species are not legally
' protected under the Act, and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are
formally proposed or listed as threatened or endangered. We are providing the below list of candidate
species which may occur within the project area for the purpose of giving you advance notification. These
species may be listed in the future, at which time they will be protected under the Act. In the meantime,
' we would appreciate anything you might do for them.
Mammals
' Alleghany woodrat (Neotoma magister) C2
Appalachian cottontail (Sivvialqus obscurus) - C2*
Rafinesque s big-eared bat (Plecotus rafinesquii) - C2*
' Birds
Appalachian Bewick's wren (Thrvomanes bewickii altus) - C2*
Cerulean warbler (Dendroica cerulea) - C2
' Olive-sided flycatcher (Contopus borealis) - C2
Amphibians
Green salamander (Aneides aeneus) - C2
' Hellbender (Crvptobranchus alleganiensis) - C2
Reptiles
' Bog turtle (Clemmvs muhlenbergi) - C2
Arachnids
Lost Nantahala cave spider (Nesticus coo eri) - C2
'
Fishes
Olive darter (Percina squamata) - C2
' Crustaceans
Little Tennessee crayfish (Cambarus georgiae) - C2
' Insects
Diana fritillary butterfly (Speveria diana) - C2
Tawny crescent butterfly (Phvcoides batesi) - C2

I
, Macon County (cont'd)

0
0

C

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REVISED APRIL 19, 1995
Plants
A liverwort (Cephaloziella obtusilobula) - C2*
A liverwort (Le)eunea blomauistii) - C2
A liverwort (Loohocolea appalachiana) - C2*
A liverwort (Plaaiochila caduciloba) - C2
A liverwort (Plaaiochila echinata) - C2*
A liverwort (Plaaiochila sharpii) - C2*
A liverwort (Plaaiochila sullivantii) - C2*
A liverwort (Plaaiochila virginica var. caroiiniana) - C2*
Butternut (Jualans cinerea) - C2
Carolina mnium (Mnium carolinianum) - C2*
Carolina trillium (Trillium pusillum var. pusillum) - C2
Divided-leaf ragwort (Senecio millefolium) - C2
Dwarf polydon fern (Grammitis nimbata) - C2
Fraser's loosestrife (Lvsimachia fraseri) - C2
Gray's saxifrage (Saxifraga caroiiniana) - C2
Highlands moss (Schlotheimia lancifolia) - C2
Manhart's sedge (Carex manhartii) - C2
Mountain catchfly (Silene ovata) - C2*
No common name (Brachvmenium andersonii) - C1
Oconee-bells (Shortia galacifolia) - C2
Piratebush (Buckleva distichophylla) - C2
Short-styled oconee-bells (Shortia galacifolia var. brevistvla) - C2
Sweet pinesap (Montroosis odorata) - C2
Wolf's milk spurge (Euphorbia purpurea) - C2
*Indicates no specimen in at least 20 years from this county.

Habitat Requirements for Listed Species in Macon County

The following discussion of each species presents the results of surveys, literature review
and interviews with U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff .
- Alasmidonta raveneliana Appalachian elktoe
Habitat Requirements: This mussel is currently known to exist in the Tuckasegee, Nolichucky,
and Little Tennessee Rivers. Information from the USFWS indicates that this mussel is found in
relatively shallow medium-sized creeks and rivers with cool, well oxygenated, moderate to fast
flowing water. It has been found in substrates consisting of gravel, cobble and boulder.
Occasionally, it has been found in cracks in bedrock and in sandy substrates. The host species is
not known, but laboratory experiments indicate that the banded sculpin can be used as a host.
Nothing is known about the specific feeding habits, but it is assumed to be similar to other
freshwater mussels.
Project area habitat: Queens Creek is a small second order stream, classified as a class C trout
' stream. This stream is too cold and shallow to provide suitable habitat for this mussel. No
mussels were noted during the aquatic field surveys.
1 Clemmvs muhlenbc&ai, bog turtle
' Habitat requirements: The bog turtle prefers marshy meadows, spring seepages, and bogs. This
secretive animal prefers areas with small slow moving rivulets. It requires flooded muddy areas
for estivation and hibernation.
' Project area habitat: There were no wetlands or bogs in the project area. No habitat for this
species was found.

CWrinella monacha_ spotfin chub
Habitat Requirements: The spotfin chub is known to occur in the Little Tennessee River between
Lake Emory and Fontana Lake. It inhabits warm, typically clear medium sized streams and rivers.
This fish is an insectivore and feeds diurnally in benthic areas of slow to swift current over various
substrates with little siltation. The species has been observed associated with sand, gravel, rubble,
boulder, and bedrock substrates. The spotfin chub is a fractional crevice spawner with females
spawning repeatedly during the breeding season and depositing their eggs in boulder crevices.
Project area habitat: Queens Creek is a small trout stream. It is too cold and small to provide
suitable habitat for the spotfin chub. No spotfin chubs were collected during the field surveys.

G,ymnoderma lineare_ rock gnome lichen
Habitat Requirements: This species grows in areas of high humidity on vertical rock faces.
Usually this species is found at high elevations, but may also occur on boulders or rock
outcroppings in deep river gorges at lower elevations.

u

Project Area Habitat: Queens Creek bypass extends from 1900 feet in elevation at the mouth to
3000 feet at the base of the dam. The only area with vertical rock faces is the large cascade. This
area has considerable rhododendron growth shading the rock faces and is not suitable for this
species. This species was not found during the field surveys.
Isotria medeoloides, small whorled pogonia
Habitat Requirements: The small-whorled pogonia is found on wooded slopes and along streams
at mid-elevations. It may be found in widely varying habitats from white pine stands to open dry
deciduous woods to rich cove hardwood forests. All sites have low shrub and sapling density. It
is found in association with other orchids and is also frequently found where galax or leucothoe
are growing.
Project area habitat: There is limited habitat available for this plant in the project area. Density of
growth is the main limiting factor. This species was not found during the field surveys, although
some of the associated species were. If this species is present, it will not be impacted by the
project as the water rise in the streams will not be great enough to flood much area.
spiraea virginiana, Virginia spiraea
Habitat Requirements: Virginia spiraea grows along rocky flood-scoured riverbanks and is
known to occur along the Little Tennessee River above Lake Emory. This plant prefers mostly
open areas with little competition. It is easily crowded out by rapidly spreading species such as
multiflora rose. The plant reproduces most effectively by asexual methods during periods of
flooding when small portions of the rootwad break apart. These rootwad fragments establish
downstream if suitable habitat is encountered.
Project area habitat: No habitat exists in the project area for this plant. Vegetation density is too
great and the stream is too small. This species was not found during the field surveys.

1 FISH AND WILDLIFE ASSOCIATES, INC.
TELEPHONE LOG
To: File
From: Pamela M. Boaze
' Date: February 16, 2000
I received a call from Mark Cantrell, Biologist, USFWS today. He wanted to discuss the
' threatened and endangered species additional information request from the FERC for the Queens
Creek license application.
' Mr. Cantrell indicated that the updated list of threatened and endangered species for Macon
County could be found on the internet. He said that both the noonday snail and the Indiana bat
' should be added to the list. The noonday snail has been found at the terminus of Winding Stairs
Road which is near the confluence of Queens Creek and the Nantahala River. One Indiana bat has
been found wintering in Blowhole Cave in the Nantahala Gorge area.
' Mr. Cantrell requested that these two species be addressed in the additional information and be
reviewed by him prior to the submittal to the FERC.
We agreed that no additional correspondence would be needed in order for me to address these
two (2) new species.
1

H

Ms. Pamela M. Boaze
' Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, North Carolina 28789
Dear Ms. Boaze:
March 8, 2000
' Subject: FERC Project No. 2694, Queen's Creek Project, Nantahala Power and Light, Macon
County, North Carolina
' We received your January 14, 2000, request for updated lists of federally endangered and
threatened species and your subsequent concurrence of February 21, 2000. The following
comments are provided in accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
' amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) (Act).
' The subject hydroelectric facility is operated under FERC license and includes a 78-foot-high,
382-foot-long dam; a 4- by 4-foot horizontal intake structure; a 6,250-foot-long penstock leading
to a concrete and steel powerhouse with a single generator; and a 37-acre impoundment that
' extends 0.7 mile upstream. Average annual generation is estimated to be approximately 5,000
megawatt hours.
' We have reviewed our records and visited the project site and agree that no endangered species
are located within the impact area of the project. Therefore, we believe the requirements under
Section 7 of the Act are fulfilled. However, obligations under Section 7 of the Act must be
' reconsidered if. (1) new information reveals impacts of this identified action that may affect
listed species or critical habitat in a manner not previously considered, (2) this action is
subsequently modified in a manner that was not considered in this review, or (3) a new species is
' listed or critical habitat is determined that may be affected by the identified action.

0
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Asheville Field Office
160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, North Carolina 28801

Mark Cantrell
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, NC 28801
Dear Mark:
February 21, 2000
Per our telephone conversation, 2/16/00, the noonday snail, Mesodon clarki nantahala, and the
Indiana bat, Myotis sodalis, will be added to the list of federal threatened and endangered species
to be considered in the Queens Creek license (Macon County, NC). Attached is the additional
information concerning anticipated impacts to each of these species due to changes from
relicensing the Queens Creek facility. Please review the enclosed information and send the
comments to my attention at the above address. I will need your comments by April 17, 2000 for
inclusion in the Additional Information packet being prepared for the FERC.
Thank you.

Sincerely,

Pamela M. Boaze
President
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]

H
Habitat Requirements for Listed Species in Macon County
' Two additional species have been added to the federal threatened and endangered species for
Macon County.
M,yotis sodalis, Indiana bat
' Habitat Requirements: Limestone caves are the usual winter hibernaculum with temperatures
ranging from 37 to 43 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer roosts are trees with shaggy bark, hollows,
and >9 inches dbh. Preferred species include oaks, maples, ash, and hickory. Summer foraging
' occurs in riparian and floodplain areas with 50 to 70% canopy cover. Males forage over longer
distances and roost in caves during the summer.
t Project Area: The project area does not have any suitable habitat for winter roosts. There are
caves in the Nantahala Gorge, but not in the project area. To date, only one bat has been found in
a cave in the gorge. Trees suitable for summer roosts are not available immediately adjacent to
' Queens Creek, but are found on the adjoining hillsides. Canopy cover is quite dense along the
stream course, making it less desirable for bat foraging.
' Mesodon clarki nantahala, Noonday snail
' Habitat Requirements: The preferred habitat is damp woods, mainly oak-hickory with rock
outcroppings. It is found only in the Nantahala Gorge, Swain County, North Carolina. The snail
' is usually found in thick vegetation, beneath rocks, or in moist leaf litter. Several specimens have
been found at the terminus of Winding Stairs Road on Forest Service land.
' Project Area: There is suitable habitat in the project area where the pipeline runs from the dam to
the powerhouse. Nantahala Power and Light does not own land around the lake, and Queens
Creek below the dam flows through USDA Forest Service lands. No changes are proposed in the
' project which would impact the snail habitat.

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u
' If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Mark Cantrell of our staff at 828/258-3939,
Ext. 227. In any future correspondence concerning this matter, please reference our Log Number
4-2-99-002.

cc:
Sinc ely,
i
Brian P. Cole
State Supervisor
Mr. John Wishon, Nantahala Power and Light, 301 NP&L Loop Road, Franklin, NC 28734
' Mr. Ron McKitrick, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 2125 Presidential Parkway,
Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30340
Field Supervisor, FWS, Raleigh Field Office, Raleigh, NC (Attention: Mr. John Ellis)

H

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' 7. INFORMATION DESCRIBING CONSISTENCY OF QUEEN'S CREEK PROJECT
WITH U.S. FOREST SERVICE'S NANTAHALA AND PISGAH NATIONAL FOREST
' LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN,
THE NC STATEWIDE COMPREHENSIVE OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN,
AND THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE'S "FISHERIES USA" PLAN

r

7. Consistency with Comprehensive Management Plans
U. S. Forest Service's Nantahala and Pisgah National Forest Management Plan (1994)
The Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC #2694-NC) is consistent with all aspects of the
Nantahala and Pisgah National Forest Management Plan. The operation of the Queens Creek
Project has no detrimental affect on any of the specified management activities (visual resource
' management, trails management, wildlife and fish resource management, and vegetation
management) for the applicable management area (4C) for the Queens Creek Project.
Management area 4C emphasizes visually pleasing scenery and habitats for wildlife requiring older
forests. The Queens Creek Project operations are compliant with this management emphasis
having no detrimental affects on the aesthetic value of the management area.
' Additionally, Nantahala Power and Light has consulted with the U.S. Forest Service at all stages
of this relicensing process to insure consistency with the Forest Service's Nantahala and Pisgah
National Forest Management Plan.
' North Carolina Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (NC SCORP. 1995)
The NC SCORP focuses mainly on large lakes Q: 100 acres) in its statewide recreational analyses.
Queens Creek Reservoir (37 acres) is located between Nantahala Lake (1610 acres) and Fontana
Reservoir (10,530 acres). These lakes provide abundant recreational opportunities for residents
' of western North Carolina. Queens Creek Reservoir is utilized by a small number of anglers and
paddlers increasing the need for recreational access and facilities. NP&L in consultation with the
resource agencies will develop a small tote-and-float boat access and parking area. Additionally,
' NP&L will develop a small handicapped fishing pier and bank fishing area. These facilities should
provide adequate access and recreational opportunities for the limited number of lake users as
commissioned by the NC SCORP. NP&L has consulted with and will continue to consult with all
' North Carolina natural resource agencies in developing recreational opportunities associated with
the Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project.
US FWS's Fisheries USA: The Recreational Fisheries Policy of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife
Service
' Nantahala Power and Light has served with the US FWS as an active partner in maintaining viable
fisheries within and below Queens Creek Reservoir. NP&L has worked actively with the US
' FWS and other resource agencies to develop recreational facilities to make Queens Creek
Reservoir more accessible for small boats, bank anglers and handicapped anglers. Consistent with
the US FWS's recreational fisheries plan, NP&L has consulted with and will continue to consult
' with the US FWS during all stages of the relicensing process of the Queens Creek Project
concerning recreational fisheries issues.

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t 8. OVERVIEW OF BOTH EXISTING AND PROPOSED RECREATIONAL AND
RESTROOM FACILITIES INCLUDING A BUDGET AND
' CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE

8. Existing and Proposed Recreational and Restroom Facilities
' There is an undeveloped small boat access area at the head of Queens Creek Lake. No other
recreational facilities exist. Due to the limited number of area users no restroom facilities exist or
are proposed.
' The proposed recreational facilities and their associated estimated costs are given in the following
e-mail (4/3/00).

u

From: Charles J Borawa on 04/03/2000 09:39 AM
To: [e-mail]
cc:
Subject: Queens Creek
I guess you are no longer at the AP&L address so here is a note I tried to send you last week.
---------------------- Forwarded by Charles J Borawa/Corp/DukePower on 04/03/2000 09:38 AM
' From: Charles J Borawa on 03/30/2000 04:35 PM
To: Jeffrey G Lineberger/Corp/DukePower@DukePower, John C Wishon/Cust/DukePower@DukePower
cc: Joseph W Carriker/Corp/DukePower@DukePower, George A
Gal leher/Pla nn ing/Du kePower@DukePower, Richard
1 Conley/NantahalaPowerAndLight@NantahalaPowerAndLight
Subject: Queens Creek
' Joe Carriker and I reviewed the facilities Richard Conley said were proposed for the Queens Creek project
and agree that a figure of $75,000 would be a good rough estimate to use for the final installation of the
facilities. The following is a list of the proposed facilities to be installed on the Queens Creek reservoir.
' Site 1
• 5-6 picnic tables and trash cans
' • A 10'x 30' T-shaped handicapped accessible fishing pier extending about 20' from the bank (using
recycled plastic for portions of the pier similar to the Gaston Shoals pier)
• Approximately 200' of packed gravel (or stone dust with Soil Cement) handicapped accessible trail 60"
' wide leading to the fishing pier from the old roadbed ending in the reservoir
• A gravel parking lot for 6 cars
• Clearing and grading costs
• An entrance sign
• A Part 8 sign
• Other signs
' Site 2
• A graveled parking lot for 4-6 cars
• A graveled walkway from the parking lot to the lake for the tote and float facility
' • Minimal grading costs
• An entrance sign
• A Part 8 sign
' • Other signs
If these projects go out for bid they will need survey work, engineering drawings and material
specifications in order to obtain comparible bids. There may be a premium for the contract based on the
remote location of the site. Contact with the NCWRC may produce some matching funding or labor
supply for the projects.

1
' 9. DETAILS CONCERNING HISTORICAL PROPERTY LOCATED OFF-SITE
AT THE NANTAHALA SUBSTATION COMPLEX

Fish and Wildlife Associates Inc.
' P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
January 14, 2000
David Brook
Historic Preservation Office
' Department of Cultural Resources
4617 Mail Service Center
' Raleigh, NC 27699-4617
Dear Mr. Brook:
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc. is assisting Nantahala Power and Light with the relicensing of
their hydro electric facility at Queens Creek in Macon County. The FERC has requested
' additional information on the Cultural Resources (see Attached, item 99). A reply must be
submitted by Nantahala Power and Light to the FERC -by April 20, 2000.
' The license covers only the Queens Creek facility and does not include the Nantahala River
facility. However, the Queens Creek power house is located on Nantahala River near the
Nantahala Substation Complex. No changes in operational mode are proposed by Nantahala
Power and Light. There may be water releases into the Queens Creek bypass which would result
in less generation and hence, less water released from the Queens Creek powerhouse.
' Please provide me with information to answer 9(a). From a conversation with David Moore of
the Western Office, I understand that the Nantahala Substation Complex is being considered for
t historic property eligibility. I do not know whether this includes the Queens Creek facility or the
status of this investigation. Thank you for your assistance with this request.

Sincerely,

Pamela M. Boaze
President
cc: David Moore, Asheville
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t

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handicapped-accessible pier(s), will be provided at the two areas listed as impoundment-
access points for boats in Figure E-7 on page 33 of your license application. In section
E.7.1 there is no mention of restroom facilities at impoundment access points, including
toilet facilities accessible to persons with disabilities. Please provide the following:
(a) the type of recreational and restroom facilities to be provided at each access
area, or for restrooms, reasons why they are not planned; and
(b) a budget, including capital, operating, and maintenance costs, and a
construction schedule for both the existing and proposed recreational facilities,
including restroom facilities.
i, At section E.5.; Cultural Resources, the application states in part, "since no
changes are proposed to the facilities, relicensing will not affect the historic property
located off site at the Nantahala Substation Complex." An historic property that is a
hydropower project, or part of one, can be affected in many different ways during the
term of a 30-year license, including through neglect of the historic property. Therefore,
please consult with the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources and provide us
descriptions, including appropriate maps, drawings, photographs, and narrative of:
(a) the characteristics of the historic property located off-site at the Nantahala
Substation Complex that make this historic property eligible for inclusion in the
National Register of Historic Places;
(b) the historic property's location with respect to other project features (e.g.,
project reservoir, dam, powerhouse, and boundary); and
' (c) the historic property's project-specific function.
C

U
C

10. To address the potential effects of license denial, please provide:
(a) the probable source or sources of replacement capacity and energy to
Nantahala Power & Light; and
(b) the financial impact to it's customers if replacement power must be obtained
from alternative sources.
11. Please provide a one-line diagram of the project's electrical system, including
Z written description of the following:
4

??,,,. STA7£ o,.?
V ,Q
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
David L. S. Brook, Administrator
James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Director
February 8, 2000
Pamela M. Boaze
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
PO Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-002-NC) license application
' deficiencies, Macon County, ER 00-8613
Dear Ms. Boaze:
' Thank you for your letter of January 14, 2000, concerning the above project.
' The Nantahala Power and Light Substation Complex (MA 353) consists of the three-story stone
substation building, frame community building, and four frame worker's cottages. The property
was placed on the Study List in 1994 at the completion of a county-wide survey of Macon
' County. The property is an intact example of a hydroelectric power complex including not only
the powerhouse but also a community building and worker's cottages that served the employees
in this remote section of the county. Hydroelectric power is an important component of the
' western region's economic and industrial history, and as such the property appears to be eligible
under Criterion C for its architecture and engineering.
' The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act
and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section
106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800.

11

0
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above
comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-
4763.
Sincerely,
David Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
DB:scb
ADMINISTRATION
ARCHAEOLOGY
RESTORATION
SURVEY & PLANNING
Location Mailing Address Telephone/Fax
507 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 [phone] 733-8653
421 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4619 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4619 [phone] 715-2671
515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4613 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4613 [phone] 715-4801
515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4618 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4618 [phone] 715-4801
1 VJ0 STnTF W
1 ''ZoWMJMil?
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
' State Historic Preservation Office
David L. S. Brook, Administrator
' James B. Hunt Jr, Governor
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary
March 1, 2000
1

u

Thomas D. Smitherman
Vice President, Production, Transmission, and Distribution
Nantahala Power & Light Co.
301 NP&L Loop Rd.
Franklin, NC 28734
Division of Archives and History
Jeffrey J. Crow, Director
Re: New minor license for Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project, Macon, County, ER 00-8869
Dear Mr. Smitherman:
Thank you for your recent request concerning the above project,
We have conducted a review of the project and are aware of no properties of architectural,
historic, or archaeological significance which would be affected by the project, Therefore, we
have no comment on the project as currently proposed.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act
' and the Advisory Council on Historic Preserv'ation's Regulations for Compliance with Section
106 codified at 36 CYR Part 800.
' Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above
comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919!733-
4763.
Sincerely,
David Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
' DB:scb

Location r4alling Address Telephone/l+ax
ADMIN'IMATION 507 N.'Blount St., Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 [phone] 733.5653
ARCHAEOLOGY 421 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4619 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699.4619 (919) 7,33-7342 715.2671
RESTORATION 515 N. Blount St., Xalaiglt NC 4613 Mail Service Cenw, Raleigh NC 27699-4613 [phone] 715-4301
SERVEY a PLANNING 515 N. Blotarr St., Raleigh NO 4618 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4618 [phone] • 715-4301
Fish and Wildlife Associates Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
' March 4, 2000
' Renee Gledhill-Early
Historic Preservation Office
Department of Cultural Resources
' 4617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-4617
' Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-002-NC) license application
deficiencies, Macon County, ER 00-8613
Dear Ms. Gledhill-Early:
' As we discussed in our telephone conversation, I would like to know if the Queens Creek
Powerhouse is considered a part of the Nantahala Substation Complex. Enclosed are
photographs and a map of the approximate location of the two powerhouses, the substation, and
the cottages. The Queens Creek Reservoir is not in close proximity to the powerhouse as can be
seen on the topographic map.
' Concerns about the historic property will be addressed in the relicensing of Nantahala dam, but
must still be addressed in reference to the Queens Creek license. If the State Historic
Preservation Office agrees, the Queens Creek powerhouse is a separate, although adjacent, entity
' and continuation to operate the Queens Creek facility will not impact the Nantahala Substation
Complex.
' Thank you for your assistance.
r

Sincerely,

Pamela M. Boaze
President

Queens Creek
Queens Creek Powerhouse and Nantahala Substation Complex

1
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North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
David L. S. Brook, Administrator
James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Director
March 17, 2000
Pamela M. Boaze
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
PO Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-002-NC) license application deficiencies,
Macon County, ER 00-8613

Dear Ms. Boaze:
Thank you for your letter of March 4, 2000, concerning the above project.
The Queens Creek Powerhouse is not a part of the Nantahala Substation Complex, a property on the study
list for the National Register of Historic Places.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36
CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763.
Sincerely,
' David Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
DB:scb

Location Mailing Address Telephone/Fax
ADMINISTRATION 507 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 [phone] 733-8653
ARCHAEOLOGY 421 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4619 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4619 [phone] 715-2671
RESTORATION 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4613 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4613 [phone] 715-4801
SURVEY & PLANNING 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4618 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4618 [phone] 715-4801
n

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' 10. POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF LICENSE DENIAL INCLUDING REPLACEMENT
CAPACITY AND FINANCIAL IMPACT ON NP&L CUSTOMERS
0

0

C'?

' 10. Potential Effects of License Denial Including Replacement Capacity and Financial
Impact on NP&L Customers
' If the license for the Queens Creek Project is denied, the replacement capacity and energy will be
purchased from Duke Power. The Licensee believes that Duke Power has the capability as well
as the transmission facilities to provide alternative power for the Queens Creek Project. Such
additional generation will most likely require increased use of fossil fuels. The cost impact due to
the absence of the Queens Creek Project to the licensee's customers will be the differential cost if
' purchased power and generated power, which is estimated to be $295,000 a year. This
differential cost will be forwarded directly to the NP&L customers through a change in the rate
schedules.

0

0

t 11. DIAGRAM AND WRITTEN DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT'S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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Written explanation of the Queens Creek one line diagram
1. Queens Creek generator buss begins at the Queens Creek Plant
and crosses the Nantahala River by-pass, Wayah Road and the
Nantahala Plant tailrace to the Nantahala Plant Substation. The
buss terminates at an oil circuit breaker in the Nantahala Plant
Substation.
2. Queens Creek generator buss extends overhead on five wood
poles approximately 675 feet to the Nantahala Plant Substation.
Queens Creek buss voltage is 2.2 Kv.
3. Queens Creek transformers:
a. bank of 3 single-phased
b. 600 kVA rating
c. 2.2 Kv secondary voltage
d. 13.2 Kv primary voltage

12. SCHEDULE AND COST ESTIMATE OF KNOWN REHABILITATION OR
REPLACEMENT OF PROJECT FACILITIES

1 12. Rehabilitation and/or Replacement of Project Facilities
' The Licensee has no plans for replacement or rehabilitation of project facilities. Therefore, this is
not applicable to the Licensee for the Queens Creek Project.
n

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1

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13. A DERIVATION OF REMAINING UNDEPRECIATED AND UNAMORTIZED NET
' INVESTMENT FOR THE QUEEN'S CREEK PROJECT

C

0

Queens Creek Project: Cost and Depreciation
The original cost of the project facilities in service as of December 31, 1999 was $586,449.00.
The calculated accumulated depreciation as of that date was $457,251.00, leaving a net
' undepreciated balue of $129,198.00.

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t 14. SUMMARY OF TOTAL CAPITALIZED LICENSING COSTS FOR THE QUEEN'S
' CREEK PROJECT

0

1
1 Queens Creek Project: Total Capitalized Licensing Costs
The total cost of licensing according to the NP&L Office of the Chief Accountant is
$113,424.00. These costs are capitalized and amortized over the life of the license.
G

0

0
' 15. SUMMARY OF ANNUAL PROJECT COSTS FOR OPERATION AND
MAINTENANCE
' INSURANCE INCLUDING USER AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES

Annual project costs (in 1998 $) for operation, maintenance, and insurance. User fees are
not applicable to the Queens Creek project.
Insurance
Taxes
$422.00
$1,638.00
Maintenance and Materials $4,515.00
O&M Labor (inc. fringes) $22,489.00
Operation and Maintenance $21,173.59
Sub-total- $29,064.00
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O.Box241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
September 30, 1999
Mr. John R. Dorney ?
Divis ion of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Branch
4401 Reedy Creek Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27626-0535

Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC #2694)
CC f=
401 Certification
Dear Mr. Dorney:
On behalf of Nantahala Power and Light, we would like to formally withdraw the request for 401
Certification dated October 1, 1998. In view of comments made by your agency during phone
conversations on September 27 and 28 stating that 401 Certification will be denied because it was
not accompanied by an environmental assessment (EA) which must be completed by the FERC,
we respectfully withdraw the 401 application at this time. Please confirm receipt of this
correspondence and withdrawal of the application by letter. If you have any questions, please
contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
a s
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Steve Reed, NC DWR
Richard Conley, NP&L
09/30/1999 14:30 8284976213 FISH & WILDLIFE PAGE 01
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O.Box241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
September 30, 1999
Mr. John R. Dorney
Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Branch
4401 Reedy Creek Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27626-0535
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC #2694)
401 Celti6catiom
Deal' Mr. Dorney:
On behalf of Nantahala Power and Light, we would lice to formally withdraw the request for 401
Certification dated October 1, 1998. In view of comments made by your agency during phone
conversations on September 27 and 28 stating that 401 Certification will be denied because it was
not accompanied by an cnvironmentad assessment (EA) which must be completed by the FERC,
we respectfully withdraw the 401 application at this time. Please confirm recent of this
correspondence and withdrawal of trite application by letter. If you have any questions, please
contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Steve Reed, NC DWR
Richard Conley, NPdtL
09/30/1999 14:49 8284976213 FISH & WILDLIFE PAGE 01
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O.Box241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
September 30, 1999
Mr. John Dorney
N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
Division of EnvironmenW Management
4401 Reedy Creek Road
Raleigh, NC 27607
Dear Mr. Dorney:
I have enclosed a completed Pre-con,?tniction Notification Form (PCN) as part of the Federal
Energy Regulatory Conm*sion's (FERC) relicensing process for the Queens Creek Project
operated by Nantahala Power dot Light.
The effective date of the original (minor) license was May 1, 1965 and the expiration of this
license is effective October 20, 2001. On February 28,1997, a First Stage Consultation package
was completed and distn'bnted for review from the pertinent agencies. In July 1998, a Draft
License Application was distributed for review. On September 27, 1999, the License Application
was submitted to FERC and distributed to all interested parties. The original application for the
401 Certification was filed on October 1, 1998. However, as advised by your office, it has been
withdrawn as of September 30, 1999 due to the need for an Environmental Assessment (EA).
This document will be prepared by the FERC at a later date.
I have enclosed seven (7) copies ofthe PCN which you said you would distribute to the
appropriate depmumits within the state.
If you should need any finther information, please contact me at your convenience.
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Attached List
Post4r Fax Note 7671

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Phone # Phone R
Fax 0 Fax #
09/30/1999 14:49 8284976213 FISH & WILDLIFE PAGE 02
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09/30/1999 14:49 8284976213 FISH & WILDLIFE PAGE 03

L;0MY_30_ 3, =?c.) : 17 Mlles WNW of Franklin NC count road
14.12 aenroximat_aly 1 mile west of the intersection with road 1414.
FrQlect location at Oueens Creek river mile 1 ,5. C1 Queens creek

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. LET=
5
09/30/1999 14:49 8284976213 FISH & WILDLIFE PAGE 07

ATTACHMENT A:
Nantahala Power and Light Company is in the process of relieensiug its Queens Creek
hydroelectric project with the Federal Energy Regulatory Cor .fission (FERC Project Number
2964). Queens Creek is a small project located in Macon County, 17 miles WNW of Franklin,
North Carolina. Dam construction was completed in 1948 and power generation began in 1949,
continuing to the present. The project consists of an earth and rock-fill dam, a 37-acre reservoir,
a side-channel spillway, a penstock and reservoir drain, a powerhouse containing one 1440-kW
generator, and associated facilities. The power generated at this project is used by the power
company for public utility purposes.
The reservoir created by the dam inundated approximately 4000 feet of stream channel. The
reservoir and stream currently have trout populations supported by state hatchery operations.
During initial construction, no wetland areas were affected and the continued operation of this
facility will not impact any wetlands.
09/30/1999 14;.49 8284976213 FISH & WILDLIFE
r r
PAGE 08
6IJ
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AA® NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
October 11, 1999
Ms. Gloria Putnam
Division of Water Quality
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 276994617
Dear Ms. Putnam:
?????IIBBD
1023 1999
WATSR QUALITY
I,ANNtNG BRANCH
ooo
informal hydroelectric relicensing
Nantahala Power and Light (NP&L) will `host ,an
meeting to discuss with the public, state and federal resource agencies, and Indian Tribes,
their plans for the relicensing of the 11 dams that they own. All of these dams are
grouped into one of seven (7) project licenses that have to be renewed, within the next six
(6) years. The meeting will consist of an overview of the relicensing process, how the
public and governmental agencies participate, project by project description review, an
update on the recent Settlement Agreement between the resource agencies and NP&L,
and a discussion of possible issues that will need to be addressed in the relicensing
program.
The meeting will be held at the NP&I, Headquarters Building located at 301 NP&L Loop
(across from Holt Ford Motor Company on US 441 North) in Franklin, NC. There will
be two (2) meetings, the first will start at 9:00 A.M. on November 17, 1999, and for those
that cannot make the morning meeting, a second meeting with the same agenda will be
held at 7:30 P.M. on the same day and at the same location.
An information pack containing background information and a description of each
project will be mailed to you within the next two (2) weeks.
If you have any questions. about they meeting arrangements; please contact Richard
Conley, NP&L Coordinator, Hydro Regulatory Affairs at [phone] or John L.
Boaze, Relicensing Consultant at [phone].
Sincerely,
Richard Conley,
.Coordinator, Hydro Regulatory Affairs
301 NP&L Loop, Franklin; North Carolina 28734 / 828-369-4513
I.
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O.Box241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
September 30, 1999

Mr. John R. Dorney enL_
Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Branch -- ?`
4401 Reedy Creek Rd.

Raleigh, NC 27626-0535

Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC #2694) ?- ?--`
401 Certification
Dear Mr. Dorney:
On behalf of Nantahala Power and Light, we would like to formally withdraw the request for 401
Certification dated October 1, 1998. In view of comments made by your agency during phone
conversations on September 27 and 28 stating that 401 Certification will be denied because it was
not accompanied by an environmental assessment (EA) which must be completed by the FERC,
we respectfully withdraw the 401 application at this time. Please confirm receipt of this
correspondence and withdrawal of the application by letter. If you have any questions, please
contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Steve Reed, NC DWR
Richard Conley, NP&L

Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O.Box241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
September 30, 1999 ___.

Mr. John R. Dorney 3? ;
Division of Water Quality f
Environmental Sciences Branch
? r
4401 Reedy Creek Rd.
0 ?
Raleigh, NC 27626-0535 `

Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC #2694)
401 Certification
Dear Mr. Dorney:
On behalf of Nantahala Power and Light, we would like to formally withdraw the request for 401
Certification dated October 1, 1998. In view of comments made by your agency during phone
conversations on September 27 and 28 stating that 401 Certification will be denied because it was
not accompanied by an environmental assessment (EA) which must be completed by the FERC,
we respectfully withdraw the 401 application at this time. Please confirm receipt of this
correspondence and withdrawal of the application by letter. If you have any questions, please
contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Steve Reed, NC DWR
Richard Conley, NP&L
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
[phone]
September 30, 1999
Mr. John R. Dorney
Division of Water Quality "- - -
Environmental Sciences Branch
4401 Reedy Creek Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27626-0535

Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC #2694) 5
401 Certification
Dear Mr. Dorney:
On behalf of Nantahala Power and Light, we would like to formally withdraw the request for 401
Certification dated October 1, 1998. In view of comments made by your agency during phone
conversations on September 27 and 28 stating that 401 Certification will be denied because it was
not accompanied by an environmental assessment (EA) which must be completed by the FERC,
we respectfully withdraw the 401 application at this time. Please confirm receipt of this
correspondence and withdrawal of the application by letter. If you have any questions, please
contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Steve Reed, NC DWR
Richard Conley, NP&L
NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
September 24, 1999
Mr. John Dorney
N. C. Division of Water Quality
Non-Discharge Branch
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27669-1621
RE: Public Notice for Water Quality Certification of Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
Dear Mr. Dorney:
Nantahala Power and Light has reviewed the draft 401 water quality certification for
Queens Creek reservoir and would like to go on record as being opposed to the releases
requested in Condition 4. During the negotiation process between Nantahala Power and
Light and the resource agencies, NP&L performed an analysis of the impacts resulting
from the proposed release. This release represents a 39% loss of generation annually and
could ultimately result in shutting down the Queens Creek project. The loss of
generation W4.11, necessitate the purchasing of replacement power which will probably be
generated from a non renewable source of energy. Purchase of power from an external
service source will result in an increase in rates to Nantahala's customers.
Due to the potential adverse impacts to area recreation and in the interest of Nantahala's
59,000 rate payers, we would like to request that a public hearing be held to solicit
comments from all interested parties in the Nantahala service area.
Enclosed you will find a summary of the negotiations amongst Nantahala Power and
Light, the resource agencies, and other interested parties.
Sincerely,
Thomas D. Smitherman
Vice President - Production,
Transmission and Distribution
TDS/ckb
Enclosure

State of, North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division,:of.Water Quality___,
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman,.Secreta..
Kerr T.-Stevens, Director
Mr. Tom Smitherman
Nantahala Power and Light Company
301 NP&L Loop Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Dear Mr. Smitherman:
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
September 3, 1999 _ c
Subject: Draft 401 Water Quality Certification
Queens Creek Hydroelectric Plant
DWQ# 970178 FERC No. 2694
Please find the attached copy of the draft 401 Water Quality Certification for the subject
project.
If you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact Mr. John Dorney at (919)
733-9646 or me at [phone].
Sincerely,
Todd St. John, E
Environmental Engineer
cc: Mr. John Dorney, Wetlands Unit
Asheville Regional Office
Mr. Jim Mead, DWR

4401 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27607 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper .

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
Tom Smitherman
Nantahala Power and Light Company
301 NP&L Loop Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Dear Mr. Smitherman:
Re: Certification Pursuant to Section 401 of the Federal Clean Water Act,
Proposed relicensing of Queen's Creek hydroelectric plant.
WQC Project #97,p178 FERC Project No. 2694
Macon County
Attached hereto is a copy of Certification No.3244 issued to the Nantahala Power and Light
Company dated September 3, 1999.
If we can be of further assistance, do not hesitate to contact us.
NCDENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
September 3, 1999
OR4?
Sincerely,
Ken T. Stevens
Attachments
970178.wgc
cc: File Copy
Asheville DWQ Regional Office
Central Files
Fred Tarver, DWR
Frank McBride, WRC
John Boaze, Fish and Wildlife
Jim Blowse, DWR
Ted Bisterfield, US EPA
Secretary, FERC

Division of Water Quality - Non-Discharge Branch
1621 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1621 Telephone [phone] FAX # [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer - 50% recycled/10% post consumer paper

ORA
NORTH CAROLINA 401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATION
THIS CERTIFICATION is issued in conformity with the requirements of Section 401
Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217 of the United States and subject to the North Carolina Division
of Water Quality (DWQ) Regulations in 15 NCAC 2H, Section .0500. It is issued to Nantahala
Power and Light Company in Macon County pursuant to an application filed on the 5' day of
October 1999 to relicense the Queens Creek hydroelectric project.
. The application provides adequate assurance that the discharge into the waters of Queens
Creek in conjunction with the proposed development will not result in a violation of applicable
Water Quality Standards and discharge guidelines. Therefore, the State of North Carolina
certifies that this activity will not violate the applicable portions of Sections 301, 302, 303, 306,
307 of PL 92-500 and PL 95-217 if conducted in accordance with the application and conditions
hereinafter set forth.
This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you submitted in your
application, as described in the Public Notice. If you change your project, you must notify us
and send us a new application for a new certification. If the property is sold, the new owner must
be given a copy of the Certification and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying
with all conditions. If total wetland fills for this project (now or in the future exceed one acre,
compensatory mitigation may be required as described in 15A NCAC 2H .0506 (h) (6) and (7).
For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed below. In addition, you
should get any other federal, state or local permits before you go ahead with your project
including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control, Coastal Stormwater, Non-discharge
and Water Supply watershed regulations.
Condition(s) of Certification:
Appropriate sediment and erosion control practices which equal or exceed those
outlined in the most recent version of two manuals. Either the "North Carolina
Sediment and Erosion Control Planning and Design Manual" or the "North Carolina
Surface Mining Manual" (available from the Division of Land Resources in the
DEHNR Regional or Central Offices). The control practices shall be utilized to prevent
exceedances of the appropriate turbidity water quality standard (50 NTUs in all fresh
water streams and rivers not designated as trout waters; 25 NTUs in all lakes and
reservoirs, and all saltwater classes; and 10 NTUs in trout waters);
2. All sediment and erosion control measures placed in wetlands or waters shall be
removed and the natural grade restored after the Division of Land Resources has
released the project;
3. Measures shall be taken to prevent live or fresh concrete from coming into contact with
waters of the state until the concrete has hardened;

OR-A-Fr
4. Minimal flows shall be released from the dam as follows in order to protect downstream
aquatic life: January-3.5 cfs; February to May-4.0 cfs; June-3.5cfs; July-3.0 cfs;
August-2.5 cfs; September and October-2.0 cfs; November-2.5 cfs and December-3.5
cfs.
Violations of any condition herein set forth shall result in revocation of this Certification
and may result in criminal and/or civil penalties. This Certification shall become null and void
unless the above conditions are made conditions of the Federal 404 and/or coastal Area
Management Act Permit. This Certification shall expire upon expiration of the 404 or CAMA
permit.
If this Certification is unacceptable to you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon
written request within sixty (60) days following receipt of this Certification. This request must
be in the form of a written petition conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General
Statutes and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C.
27611-7447. If modifications are made to an original Certification, you have the right to an
adjudicatory hearing on the modifications upon written request within sixty (60) days following
receipt of the Certification. Unless such demands are made, this Certification shall be final and
binding.
This the 34 day of September 1999
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
Kerr T. Stevens
WQC # 3244
NC WILDLIFE-MARION Fax:[phone] Sep 27 '99 1222 P.02
® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission®
312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 276044188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
September 27, 1999
Mr. John Dorney
DENR - DWQ Non-Discharge Branch
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1621
SUBJECT: Queens Creek (FERC No. 2694) 401 Water Quality Certification
Dear Mr. Donny:
This correspondence responds to your agency's September 3, 1999 public notice requesting comments on the
subjcet project. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is authorized to comment and
make recommendations regarding impacts on wildlife and fisheries resources in accordance with provisions of the
Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 79la et seq.) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended;
16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
The NCWRC supports the proposed 4ol Certification with the listed minimum flow requirements. Thank you for
the opportunity to review and comment on this matter. If you have auy questions concerning these comments,
please contact me at 828-652-4360.
Sincerely,
Christopher Goudreau
Hydropower Relicensin?g Coordinator
c: Frank McBride, Scott Loftin, Mark Davis (NCWRC)
Fred Tarver (NCDWR)
John Ellis (USFWS)
Donley Hill (USFS)
Richard Conley (NP&L)
r ? q, r _ V Cf
L w 'rolL:1
® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission®
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
September 27, 1999
Mr. John Dorney
DENR - DWQ, Non-Discharge Branch
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1621
SUBJECT: Queens Creek (FERC No. 2694) 401 Water Quality Certification
Dear Mr. Dorney:
This correspondence responds to your agency's September 3, 1999 public notice requesting comments on the
subject project. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is authorized to comment and
make recommendations regarding impacts on wildlife and fisheries resources in accordance with provisions of the
Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 791a et seq.) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended;
16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
The NCWRC supports the proposed 401 Certification with the listed minimum flow requirements. Thank you for
the opportunity to review and comment on this matter. If you have any questions concerning these comments,
please contact me at 828-652-4360.
Sincerely,
CVO
Christopher Goudreau
Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator
c: Frank McBride, Scott Loftis, Mark Davis (NCWRC)
Fred Tarver (NCDWR)
John Ellis (USFWS)
Donley Hill (USFS)
Richard Conley (NP&L)
SEP.24.1999 3:59PM NP&L ENGINEERING •-,
NANTAHALA
301 NML Loop
Franklin, NC 2$734
Phone Number: (828)3694500
Fax Number: [phone]
Date:
Time Sent:
Operator:
R-oQ_ -2.4
Y"
To: MMn, . %? 4%?..?
Fax#:
NO.974, P.1
Frozn:?? r? l?C_
Ph #:
Comments: '

IMPORTANT - Thi: transmission (including all attached pages) is intended only for u.--e
of the named addressee(s) and may contain information that is privileged or exempt from
disclosure under applicable law. If you are not a named addressee, you are hereby
notified that any use, dissemination, distribution or copying of this transmission is strictly
prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please destroy all copies and
notify us immediately at [phone].
If you do not receive all pages, or if they are not legible, please call us immediately at
[phone] and ask to speak with
Number Of Pages Including Cover: 2-
""°'""SEP.24.1999-r~ 3:59PM--- --•NP&L ENGINEERING.-w-----.-_ N0.974 P.
NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
September 24, 1999
Mr. John Dorney
N. C. Division of Water Quality
Non-Discharge Branch
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27669-1621
RE: Public Notice for Water Quality Certification of Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
Dear Mr. Dorney:
Nantahala Power and Tight has reviewed the draft 401 water quality certification for
Queens Creek reservoir and would like to go on record as being opposed to the releases
requested in Condition 4. During the negotiation process between Nantahala Power and
Light and the resource agencies, NP&L performed an analysis of the impacts resulting
from the proposed release. This release represents a 39% loss of generation annually and
could ultimately result in shutting down the Queens Creek project. The loss of
generation will necessitate the purchasing of replacement power which will, probably be
generated from a non renewable source of energy. Purchase of power from an external
service source will result in an increase in rates to Nantahala's customers.
Due to the potential adverse impacts to area recreation and in the interest of Nantahala's
59,000 rate payers, we would like to request that a public hearing be held to solicit
comments from all interested parties in the Nantahala service area.
Enclosed you will find a summary of the negotiations amongst Nantahala Power and
Light, the resource agencies, and other interested parties.
Sincerely,
Thomas D. Smitherman
Vice President - Production,
Transmission and Distribution
TDS/ckb
Enclosure
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
NTVA
IT
NCDENR
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
September 3, 1999
Mr. Tom Smitherman
Nantahala Power and Light Company
301 NP&L Loop Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Subject: Draft 401 Water Quality Certification
Queens Creek Hydroelectric Plant
DWQ# 970178 FERC No. 2694
Dear Mr. Smitherman:
Please find the attached copy of the draft 401 Water Quality Certification for the subject
project.
If you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact Mr. John Dorney at (919)
733-9646 or me at [phone].
Sincerely,
Todd St. John, E
Environmental Engineer
cc: Mr. John Dorney, Wetlands Unit
Asheville Regional Office
Mr. Jim Mead, DWR
4401 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27607 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper
SEP-23-99 09:59 AM The Hishlander 704 526 3656 P.01
•.••a ?,,?,Jl uI a YUu11AV,1' 111011ds, Uts:ause it doL,51111
are more believers when people age than ever before,,,
choose to believe on their own," But he said, SOW." Smith said when pr
Twenty-four years. Of re- People have to engage in negative cnergr
searching has shown Smith a Mich is stror gertE than ltefbarc livities. generally they dun'
Y goon, or they feel guilty,
LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBi O HEARING h
mont
s of October and November.
Associations accepting bids are; .' 19990or be barred from their n

Take notice that a public hearing Country Club Estates
will be held In the Conference Room Association
I ery thereafter. Debtors of
Deceased are asked to make
,
nc.; Deer Run
of the Town Hall at 7:00 p.m. on property Owner's Association, Inc.;
Tuesday
September 14
1999 mediate payment to the At
named Ancillary Personal R,
,
,
, Eagles Ridge Condominium
wherein the Town of Highlands Association. Inc.; Holly Forest sentative at the same address.
D

Zoning Board of Adjustment will Association; River Run Townhouse ATED: August 30. 1999.
consider the following cases: (1)
Application for Variance for High- Association, inc.; The Woods
Association, Inc.; Chestnut Rid
e Eliza4eth Mayer Riser
M

lands Village Square Association,
located at North Fifth St
e
t
d g
Townhouse Association, Inc.; and
L ayor & Riser, PLLC
Attorneys at Law
r
e
an
Oak Street; a request for a variance aurel Terrace Property Owners
Assxiatlon In Cashiers
NO 511 Smallwood Avenue

to Article 400 of The Town of , -
, Post Office Box 750

Highlands Zoning Ordinance to
permit a freestanding sign at this
l
i
8/31 /7 1 ,1900 4x Nlghlands, NC 28741
[phone]
ocat
on. Any member of the public
may attend the hearing and shall be NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION
OF WATER QUALITY 9/3, 9110, 9/17.9/24; 1999, 4x c
allotted reasonable time in which to
offer testimony and/or recom- NOTICE TO CREDITORS

mendations concerning this
application to the Board PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby
given that Nantahala Power and AND DEBTORS OF
BETTY ANNE SIMMONS
. Light Company in Franklin, North
Charlie W. McDowell, Chairman
Zoning Board D Adjustment Carolina, has applied to the North
Carolina Division of Water Quality Any persons, firma, or corp
lions having claims against E
for a Water Quality Certification pur• Anne Simmons, Deceased, are
9!8 1999 suant to Section 401 of the Federal titled to exhibit them to Ch;
Clean Wates Act and Water Quality
Commission rules I
15A NCAC 21 E112aboth Moyle, Personal As
sentative of th
D
'

REQUEST FOR BIDE n
3
0101, 15A NCAC 28 .0231 and e
eceased
s Eat
at the address of the Eats

The following pro
ert
own 15A NCAC 2H 0500. The activity
for th
C
tifi
ti
i undersigned attorney, on or be
N
b
p
y
ers e
er
ca
on
s sought Ic roll- ovem
er 18, 1909, or be bat
associations in Sapphire Valley will
be accepting bids for grpunds cense the Queens Creek hydroelec.
tric project with the Federal Energy from their recovery thereat
Debtors of the Deceased are as
maintenance for the calendar year
2000. Bid specifications may be Regulatory Commission in Madison
County. DWO Intends to Issue a o make'Immedlate payment to
bove-named Personal Repro*
obtained by contacting Kay
Sherburn, Property manager, at 401 Certification with a requirement
for a minimum low flow release alive at the same address.
DATED: August 12
1999
[phone]. Bids must be in which would vary from 2.0 cis In. ,
writing, according to the bid speclf!- August to October and 4.0 cis from Elizabeth Mayer Riser
cations and sealed. All bids must be February to May. Mayor 9 Riser, PLLC
received In the Property
Management Office at 70 Sapphire The public Is invited to comment
on the above mentioned application Attorneys at Law
511 Smallwood Avenue
Valley Road, Sapphire, NO 28774, to the Division of Water Quality. Post Office Box 750
prior to October 1, 1999. Sealed Comments shall be In writing and Highlands, NO2874f
bids will be opened at each
' shall be received by the Division no [phone],
Association's budget meeting during later than September 27,
1099.
October, Associations accepting
bids are ,
Comments should be sent to the -0 /17,_ 8124, 8/31, 9/71 1999, 4x ch
;
Country Club Estates
Association, Inc.; Deer Run N.C., Division of Water Quality, Non-
Discharge Branch, 1621 Mail
Serve Center
Ralei
h
NO 27
369
NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Property Owner's Association, Inc.;
Ea
les Rid ,
g
,
1
-,
1821, Attn: John Donley (919.733- AND DEBTORS OF
ELLEN M. BRITTON
g
ge Condominium
Association, Inc.; Holly Forest
Association; River Run To
h 1786; Fax: [phone]). A copy
of the application and draft Certifies.
ti
i
Any persons, firma, or corpot
wn
ouse
Association, Inc.; and Laurel on
s on file at the Division offkoA at lions having claims against Ellen
Asheville, North Carolina (Asheville Britton
Deceased
are notified
Terrace Property Owner's
Association, Inc. In Cashiers, N.C. , ,
,
Regional Office, fax [phone]) exhibit them to Jana Britton Kra
during normal business hours
d

8/31, 917, 9/14
9/21
1999
4x an
may be Inspected by the public, neillary Personal Representative
o Deceased's Ancillary Estate,
,
,
,
ch t e address of the Ancillary Estaeo
i

REQUEST FOR BIDS Karr T.
tov9no
Director nuersignee attorney, on or befo
ovember 18, 1999, or be barrc

The following property owners N.C. Division of Water Quality rom their recovery thereafte
ebtors of the Deceased are ask(
associations in Sapphire Valley will
be accepting bids for snow/ice re- 1 999 U ch to make immediate payment to it

moval for the winter of 1999/2000.
Bid specifications per associatio above-named Ancillary Person
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Representative at the same at
n
mnV he nhi-itnn,l 1.,, ....i...,:. v-.. AND DEBTORS OF dr
..,...--... . . ess.
?K?K?C?K?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?K?C?C?C?C?K?C?K?K?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C??C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?K?C?K?C?C??C>IC?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?C?K?C?C?C?CIKIK?C?%K?C??C?C?C?C?C?C?C1C?1nK _?ilt
P, 01 ---sow
TRANSACTION REPORT
SEP-03-1999 FRI 01:23k
DATE START RECEIVER TX TIME PAGES TYPE NOTE M#;P
?c
tc SEP-03 0121 PM 88285263658 1'38" 3 SEND OK 510 ?c
TOTAL 1M 38S PAGES: 3 ?Ic
?C?C?K?C??K?K??K?C?K??C?C?C?K?C?C?K?K?K?C?C?C?K?K?C?K?C?C?C?C?C?K?K?K?C?K?C?K?C?K?C?C?C?c?C?K?C?C?C?C?K?K?C?C?CMc?K?C>IC?C?K?C?C???K?K?K?C?C?K?C?C?C?K?K?K?C?K?K?C?C?C?K?KtC?K?K?C???Kl?K?4c ?1c ?Ic
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B, Hunt, Jr., Govemor
Bill Holman, Secretary
Kerr T. Stevens, Director
The Highlander
PO Box 249
Highlands, NC 28741
ALM Legal Ad Department
Dear Sir:
1 •?
NCDENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENviRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
September 3, 1999
Post-it' F=ax Note 7671 oa?? FP#. 9A?, ?
To -?(-- lJ
t a ?? From Jr , 11,46
CoMept. Co.
Phony: # Phone N
1
Fax# 6 Fn,0
Re: Public Notices
Please publish the attached Public Notice one time in the sections set aside for Legal
Advertisements in your newspaper. The publication should run on or before September 8, 1999,
Please send the invoice for the publications and three copies of the affidavit of publication to the
address given below. Payment cannot be processed without the affidavit of publication.
N.C. Divisipn of Water Quality
iA4
AG?11?'AllrNCDENR
JAMES B. HUNTJR.:
GOVERNOR
WAYNE MCDEVITT
SECRETARY
JOHN N. MORRIS
DIRECTOR
4„- r
SE? f 2
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
August 30, 1999
Mr. John Dorney
Division of Water Quality - Wetlands Unit
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1621
RE: Queens Creek Dam 401 Certification
Queens Creek, Macon County
Dear Mr. Dorney:
The Division of Water Resources has determined that the flows listed below must
be required from Queens Creek Dam into Queens Creek for 401 certification.
Certification is a requirement for the relicensing of the Queens Creek
Hydroelectric Project--Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Project
Number 2694--by Duke Power's Nantahala Power and Light Company (NPL)
with the FERC.
The following flow determinations are based on an Instream Flow Incremental
Methodology (IFIM) study that was developed and implemented by NPL and
state and federal resource agencies. The following flow releases will provide the
minimum acceptable habitat for the study's target species: rainbow trout, mottled
sculpin, macroinvertebrates.
Janu February March Aril May June
3.5 cfs 4.0 cfs 4.0 cfs 4.0 cfs 4.0 cfs 3.5 cfs
July August September October November December
3.0 cfs 2.5 cfs 2.0 cfs 2.0 cfs 2.5 cfs 3.5 cfs
Please contact me by phone [phone]) or e-mail
(fred [e-mail]) if you have any additional questions.
Si rely,
Fred R Tarver, III
Environmental Specialist I
P.O. BOX 27687, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 2761 1-7687
PHONE [phone] FAX [phone]
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY /AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER - SO% RECYCLED/10% POST-CONSUMER PAPER
Mr. John Dorney
August 30, 1999
Page 2
cc: Frank McBride, Scott Loftis, Mark Davis, Chris Goudreau - N.C. Wildl. Res. Com.
John Ellis - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
John Sutherland, Steve Reed, Jim Mead - Division of Water Resources
Donley Hill - U.S. Forest Service
Jim Blose - Division of Water Quality
Ted Bisterfeld - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
.f a
T-0 -, <? - -?t vv,, /
70.

Z- I (? ?14Z .-3
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
August 30, 1999
Mr. John Dorney
Division of Water Quality - Wetlands Unit
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1621
RE: Queens Creek Dam 401 Certification
Queens Creek, Macon County
Dear Mr. Dorney:
The Division of Water Resources has determined that the flows listed below must
be required from Queens Creek Dam into Queens Creek for 401 certification.
Certification is a requirement for the relicensing of the Queens Creek
Hydroelectric Project--Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Project
Number 2694--by Duke Power's Nantahala Power and Light Company (NPL)
with the FERC.
The following flow determinations are based on an Instream Flow Incremental
Methodology (IFIM) study that was developed and implemented by NPL and
state and federal resource agencies. The following flow releases will provide the
minimum acceptable habitat for the study's target species: rainbow trout, mottled
sculpin, macroinvertebrates.
January February March April May June
3.5 cfs 4.0 cfs 4.0 cfs 4.0 cfs 4.0 cfs 3.5 cfs
July August September October November December
3.0 cfs 2.5 cfs 2.0 cfs 2.0 cfs 2.5 cfs 3.5 cfs
Please contact me by phone [phone]) or e-mail
(fred [e-mail]) if you have any additional questions.
Si rely,
Fred R Tarver, III
Environmental Specialist I
P.O. BOX $7667. RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 4761 1-7697
PHoNa 919-789-4064 FAX [phone]
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER- 50% RECYCLED/10% POST-CONSUMER PAPER

Mr. John Dorney
August 30, 1999
Page 2
cc: Frank McBride, Scott Loftis, Mark Davis, Chris Goudreau - N.C. Wildl. Res. Com.
John Ellis - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
John Sutherland, Steve Reed, Jim Mead - Division of Water Resources
Donley Hill - U.S. Forest Service
Jim Blose - Division of Water Quality
Ted Bisterfeld - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Resources
James B. Hunt, Jr., Govemor
Wayne McDevitt, Secretary
John N Morris, Director
'?
1 A•
NCDENR
Nc m-i CAPRouMA pePARTMENT or
E MROMMENT Amo N.WURAL RESOURCES
FAX TRANSMISSION
TO: -70-6 o E`?
FAX NUMBER: AWO
'??5
FROM: ?i? 8`1; "9
FAX NUMBERS: [phone] or [phone]
Total Number of Pages Sent Including This Cover Sheet: _2_
If you do not receive all pages or if the transmission is not legible, please call [phone].
MESSAGE:
I
CAE V-- WORD - ?uC, -40l CJFQ-`T't

19?

11?P
. a
% 06/09/1999 08:22 8294976213 FISH & WILDLIFE AYAc-) Vu., PACE 02

SYNOPSIS OF ISSUES AND PROPOSALS
QUEENS CREEK RESF<RVOIIL RELICENSING
b/7/99
The following studies have been performed at the agencies' request as part of the reliconsing of
Queens Creek Reservoir:
fishery survey
i nstrew flow over 4125 feet of Queens Creek (mouth to road crossing)
threatened and endangered species survey of by-pass reach
tanaperetureldissolved oxygen profile
fish survey of Queens Creek Reservoir
calculation of intake velocities
total carbon testing
At the match 1999 meeting, the resource agencies presented their recormnendations for a
settlement agreement. The agencies requested water be released from Queens Creek Reservoir
into Queens Creek throughout the year
January 3.5 August 2.5
Feb-May 4.0 Sep-Oct 2.0
June 3.5 November 2.5
July 3.0 December 3.5
The agencies based their request on an average annual flow in Queens Creek of!?)fa. NP&L
cared the average annual flow from actual records to be 8.3 ch.
NPU made a counter offer. 't'his included:
no change in release of water into Quem Creek
maintenance of the lake at BA pool year round starting in 2000
enhancement of the recreational facilities around the lake
Full pool would provide suitable spawning habitat for smaihnouth bass and allow more
recreational use ofthe lake. Recreational faadities which arc under consideration include a boat
ramp, a day use area, a pier, and bank fishing access.
After considering the NP&L offer, the resource agencies came back with the following comments:
Liked the idea of recmtionel enhancement
Keep lake at full pool May through August
No change in release is totally unacceptable
Full pool requirement was conditional, subject to modification after additional temperature data
has been collected.
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
G'. ?? February 26, 1999
NCDEHR
MEMORANDUM
JAMES B. HUNTJR.
GOVERNOR
WAYNE MCDEVITT
SECRETARY
JOHN N. MORRIS
-: DIRECTOR

TO: Chris Goudreau - NC Wildlife Resources Comniis
Mark Davis - NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Scott Loftis - NC Wildlife Resources Commission
John Ellis - US Fish and Wildlife Service
Richard Conley - Nantahala Power & Light
John Boaze - Fish and Wildlife Associates
FROM: Jim Mead, Division of Water Resources P'/"
SUBJECT: Queens Creek Time Series Analysis
The Division of Water Resources (DWR) has completed additional analyses that
hopefully will make it easier to interpret the time series output from the IFIM
study for Queens Creek. The bar charts and spread sheet we sent via overnight
mail on 2/24/99 looked at six alternatives that consisted of combinations of
different minimum releases that varied by month. This was helpful to DWR in
getting a quick idea of how the stream responded to different flows on a seasonal
basis. However, this initial analysis and output is rather difficult to use for
evaluating a complete range of release alternatives for each month.
We therefore performed time series analysis on eight simple minimum release
alternatives - each one using the same release for all months. The minimum
releases range from 1.5 to 5 cfs at 0.5 cfs increments. These additional runs were
done for the following species and life stages: adult mottled sculpin; adult and
spawning rainbow trout; and high gradient benthos diversity. The remaining.
species/life stages are less sensitive to changes in flow.
We have attached a spreadsheet and bar charts with the results of this additional
work. Using this information it should be possible to evaluate a range of
minimum releases for a particular species/life stage on a monthly basis. A
preliminary flow regime which may vary by month can then be determined for
that species/life stage. An overall flow regime could then be developed by
considering the needs of all species and life stages.
I hope the new spreadsheet and charts help clarify the results of the time series
analysis. We will be glad to answer any questions at our meeting next Tuesday.
attachments
cc: Steve Reed and Fred Tarver, DWR
P.O. BOX 27687, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 2761 1-7687
PHONE [phone] FAX [phone]F-
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY /AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER -50q RECYCLED/I 0% POST-CONSUMER PAPER
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% Change in Index C Compared to Natural Conditions
(Index C.= average of lowest 50% of monthly habitat values)
20%
10%---
0%-
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-20%-
-25%
-
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-40%
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0 Min. Rel. = 4.5 cfs Min. Rel. = 3 cfs D Min. Rel. = 1.5 cfs
Min. Rel. = 41cfs Min. Rel. = 2.5 cfs IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII Preliminary Recommendation
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% Change in Index C Compared to Natural Conditions
(Index C = average of lowest 50% of monthly habitat values)
20%
0%
-20%
-25%
-40%
-60%
-80%
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a Min. Rel. = 4.5 cfs
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Min. Rel. = 3.5 cfs
I Min. Rel. = 3 cfs
Min. Rel. = 2.5 cfs
Min. Rel. = 2 cfs
pMin. Rel. =1.6cfs
Preliminary Recom menda
Mottled Sculpin Adult Life Stage - Queens Creek IFIM Study
% Change in Index C Compared to Natural Conditions
(index C = average of lowest 50% of monthly habitat values)
20%
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Min. Rel. = 4 cfs ® Min. Rel. = 2.5 cfs IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII Preliminary Recommendation,,
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-10% -
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-25% -
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High Gradient Benthos Diversity - Queens Creek IFIM Study
% Change in Index C Compared to Natural Conditions
(Index C = average of lowest 50% of monthly habitat values)
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LA? Min. Rel. = 4 cfs 11111111 Min. Rel. = 2.5 cfs NIUIUIIIUIIIIIIII Preliminary Recommendation
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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
February 24, 1999 /-?
FEB 2 7
MEMORANDUM
TO: Roger Bryan, Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc. `°°" W" ROU t1y?SE?TON
FROM: Fred Tarver, Division of Water Resources -ql
SUBJECT: Queens Creek Dam (FERC#2694) Relicensing IFIM Study
The Division of Water Resources has completed time series analysis on data
collected from Queens Creek. Included in this package are graphs relating
weighted usable area to discharge for the species of concern and bar charts
relating flow to percent reduction from the median of the lowest half of monthly
habitat values (Index C). Also included is a brief synopsis of the Queens Creek
study.
The package will be the basis for discussions concerning the need for a minimum
flow in the by-passed reach of Queens Creek from the dam to the confluence with
the Nantahala River. The meeting to discuss instream flows is scheduled for
March 2, 1999, in Franklin, NC.
Contact me at 919/715-5442 or by e-mail at [e-mail] if
you have any questions.
attachments
cc: John Sutherland, Jim Mead, Steve Reed - DWQ
Chris Goudreau, Mark Davis, Scott Loftis - WRC
John Ellis, USFWS
Richard Conley, NPL
J Domey, Jim Blose - DWQ
91
P.O. BOX 27687, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 2761 1-7687
PHONE [phone] FAX [phone]
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY /AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER - 50% RECYCLED/10% POST-CONSUMER PAPER
QUEENS CREEK INSTREAM FLOW STUDY FOR THE
FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION RELICENSING APPLICATION OF
NANTAHALA POWER AND LIGHT QUEENS CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT
(FERC PROJECT NUMBER 2694)
Division of Water Resources
February 24, 1999
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc. (FWA), in cooperation with the Division of Water Resources
(DWR), Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC), the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), and U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service (USFWS), completed a study of instream flow and aquatic habitat using the
Instream Flow Incremental Methodology (IFIM). The purpose of the study was to determine the
relationship of aquatic habitat to releases from the Nantahala Power and Light (NPL) hydroelectric
dam located on Queens Creek. The study is a component of the relicensing application for the
hydropower project, and will be the basis for discussions concerning the need for releases from the
project.
Representatives from FWA and DWR participated in all field activities. WRC staff participated in
habitat mapping and transect selection. USFWS staff assisted with habitat mapping and data
collection. All parties accepted the habitat suitability indices (HSI) constructed for the indicator
species--rainbowtrout, mottled sculpin, mayfly, stonefly, caddisfly, general benthos diversity. The
HSI's for macroinvertebrates and general benthos diversity were provided by Dr. Jim Gore. The
HSI's for rainbow trout were from previous IFIM studies with slight modifications. The HSI's for
mottled sculpin were compiled by DWR under the guidance of Dr. Gary Grossman, a mottled
sculpin authority from the University of Georgia, Athens.
FWA provided DWR with the initial hydraulic calibration of the physical habitat simulation
(PHAB SIM) model and HSI runs that produced the habitat versus flow relationships for each of the
species' life stages. DWR re-calibrated and again ran the PHABSIM model. DWR provided FWA
with the re-calibrated model for their inspection and concurrence.
DWR performed time series analysis to evaluate the effects of the existing project operation and
alternative release scenarios. DWR performed time series analysis on those species and life stages
which showed the most significant response to changes in flow. Plots of the habitat versus flow
relationships are attached for all species and life stages. Those with flatter curves were not analyzed
further. The species and life stages selected for time series analysis were: rainbow trout adult,
juvenile, fry, spawning; mottled sculpin adult/juvenile, fry, spawning; mayfly nymph; caddisfly
larva; and high and low gradient benthos diversity.
The first step in the time series analysis was to generate a record of natural, without-project stream
flows. The natural historical flow record at the dam was estimated by NPL using generation records
and lake level measurements. The estimated flow record produced by NPL contained the monthly
median of weekly means by month from 1950 through 1998. The minimum median is 1.4 cfs
(SEP86), and the maximum median is 30.2 cfs (APR94).
The flows provided by NPL were ratioed by drainage area from the dam (3.6 miZ) to the study site
location (4.0 miZ) to produce a record of pre-project, "natural" flows. The flows under existing
conditions were produced by ratioing the natural inflow at the dam (3.6 miZ) to reflect only the
intervening tributary drainage between the dam and the study site (0.4 miZ). After initial
examination of the results, DWR generated several different minimum release alternatives for
habitat evaluation (see attached spreadsheet). These are minimum releases in addition to any
intervening inflow.
The different scenarios of monthly median flows for each year were converted to habitat values for
each species and life stage of concern using the habitat versus flow relationships. The computer
program used by DWR then performs various analyses on the habitat record for each species and
life stage, for each flow scenario. A statistic referred to as "Index C" is generated to compare
habitat levels under different scenarios. Index C is the average of all habitat occurrences that are
less than or equal to the median habitat level, calculated for each month of the year.
Examination of habitat provided for life stages by various flow scenarios indicated that rainbow
trout spawning, mottled sculpin adult and high gradient benthos diversity were the life stages most
sensitive to changes in flow. Bar charts for these three life stages, plus rainbow trout adults, are
attached to illustrate the percent change in Index C under various flow scenarios. The bottom border
for each cell in each stacked bar represents the percent change in Index C for the month for each
discharge when compared to the natural condition.
To simplify the comparison of different minimum release alternatives, DWR plans to re-run the
analyses with each alternative having only one release for all months. This will allow easier
comparison of flow alternatives for each month, that can then be combined to arrive at an overall
flow regime for the year.
2
Queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing - Instream Flow Study NC DENR Div Water Resources
Queens Creek By-Pass
Insect (E-P-T) Species Diversity WUA vs. CFS
3500
3000
a?
a?
a)
11 2500
a
0
0
0
ti
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Cr
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500
1500
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1-4-1-t-T-14-4'
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
Dischage (cfs) (cu. ft. per second)
High Gradient Low Gradient
0
02/24/99
Queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing - Instream Flow Study NC DENR Div Water Resources
Queens Creek By-Pass
E-P-T WUA vs. CFS
4500
4000
y 3500 - - - - -
m
0
0
w

0 3000
0
o - -
_
w
- -
2500 -
w
- -
a 2000 -
-
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-
-
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- - - - - - - -
j 1500 - - -- - - - - - - - - - - -

rn
1000
--
--
-
--
-
-
--
500 - - ..: . - -- - - -- -- -
0 r _
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
Discharge (cfs) (cu. ft. per second)
-e- Mayfly (E) -x- Stonefly (P) Caddisfly (T)
02/24/99
Queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing - Instream Flow Study NC DENR Div Water Resources
Queens Creek By-Pass
Mottled Sculpin Life Stage WUA vs. CFS
16000
15500
15000
14500
14000
13500
13000
12500
12000
11500
N
0 11000
0 10500
10000
a 9500
9000
_a 8500
q-r 8000
7500
7000
i 6500
6000
5500
] 5000
4500
4000
rn 3500
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
0
0
Spawning f Fry Juvenile & Adult
02/24/99
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
Discharge (cfs) (cu. ft. per second)
Queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing - Instream Flow Study NC DENR Div Water Resources
Queens Creek By-Pass
Rainbow Trout Life Stage WUA vs. CFS
5000 -
4500 - -- -
4000 - - - - -- -
3500 - - - --- -- - - - - - - - -- - - -
3000
2500 --- - - - -- - - - -
2000 - -- - - - - - - -- - - -- -- - - - -
- - - - -
1 -- -
L++t TIT
1000 --
f
500 - - - - - - -- - - - - -- - - -- - - - -- - -
0 - - -- -
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
Discharge (cfs) (cu. ft. per second)
Spawning -v- Fry +4 Juvenile Adult
02/24/99
Queen's Creek IFIM Study - Time Series Analysis
Changes in Index C Compared to Pre-Project Conditions DWR 2199

MONTH HIGH GRAD. BENTHOS DIVERSITY
EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3 ALT 4 ALT 5
%CHANGE %CHANGE %CHANGE %CHANGE %CHANGE %CHANGE
JAN -88.9"% 25.7% 2.9% 28.9% -19.29/6 19.2%
FEB -86.6% 18.5% 0.1% -28.4% -20.6% -20.6%
MAR -84.5% 20.2% 3.0°% -25.5% -17.8% -17.8%
APR -86.8% -1.7°x6 -1.7% -29.8% -22.1% -22.1%
MAY -90.7% -7.9% -7.9% -36.9% -27.8% -27.8%
JUN -91.9% 6.3% 6.3% -30.2% -17.5% -17.5%
JUL -92.2% -18.1% -18.1% -18.1% -45.5% -32.2%
AUG -92.0% -0.9% -0.9°% -0.9% -34.5% -18.3%
SEP -91.6% 15.3% 15.3% 15.3% -24.2% -5.3%
OCT -91.2% 30.6% 30.6% 30.6% -14.4% 7.1%
NOV -91.9% 1.8% 1.8% 1.6% -32.9% -16.1%
DEC -91.7°% 8.6% 8.6% -28.7°% -15.7% -15.7%

IONTH RAINBOW TROUT ADULT
EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3
% CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANC
AN -52.8% 1.31/0 7.3 4.3"A
FEB -48.3% 0.1% 6.8% -5.1%
MAR -45.8% 0.1% 7.4% -3.9%
APR -48.6% 6.2% 6.2% -5.6%
MAY -54.5% 5.0% 5.0% -8.6%
JUN -59.4% 5.2% 5.2% -10.1%
JUL -60.8% -6.2% -6.2% -6.2%
AUG -01.0°% 0.2% 0.2% 0.2°%
SEP -60.9% 5.8% 5.8% 5.8%
OCT -60.6% 10.4% 10.4°% 10.4%
NOV -01.0°% 1.2% 1.2°% 1.2°%
DEC -59.2% 6.0% 6.0% -9.3%
SCULPIN ADULT
EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3
FEB -69.6% 5.6% -13.4% -26.7%
MAR -68.4°% 2.3°% -15.7°% -28.1°%
APR -69.7°% -13.8% -13.8% -27.0%
MAY -72.7% -6.9% -0.9°% -22.6%
JUN -75.4% 3.2% 3.2% -15.5°%
JUL -77.3% -8.5% -8.5% -8.5%
AUG -78.5% 0.8% 0.8% 0.8°%
SEP -79.1% 8.7% 8.7% 8.7%
OCT -79.4% 15.9% 15.9% 15.9%
NOV -78.6°% 2.2% 2.2% 2.2%
DEC -75.6°% 3.3% 3.3°% -15.4°%
ALT 4
% CHANC
-1.2%
-0.5°%
0.5%
-1.1%
-3.5%
-4.6%
-18.6%
-13.5%
-8.8%
-5.0%
-12.6%
-3.8%
ALT 4
o CHANC
-17.7%
-22.4%
-24.3%
-22.8%
-17.5%
-9.3%
-25.9%
-19.1%
-13.2%
-7.8%
-18.1%
-9.2%
MAYFLY CADDIS FLY LOW GRAD. BENTHOS DIVERSITY
EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3 EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3 EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3
% CHANGE _ %CHANGE %CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE
- % CHANGE % CHANGE_. % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE_
46.5°k 4.964--- -9.66/6 - 59A -- -43.06A - -? 7.3/0 - 16.9% 8.0°k X8.1% 7.564
3.9°h
-13.1%
40.0% 4.8% 10.1% 3.1% -35.6% 8.1% 18.5% 10.9% -63.5% 5.2% 3.1% -12.2%
-36.8% 5.2% 10.7% 4.2% -31.9% 8.9% 19.6% 12.6% -60.6% 5.6% 4.1% -10.6%
40.7% 8.7% 8.7% 1.8% -36.9% 16.1% 16.1% 8.5% -63.9% 2.1% 2.1% -13.0%
49.6% 4.7% 4.7% -3.2% 47.6% 9.2% 9.2% 0.5% -70.6% -1.2% -1.2% -17.6%
-56.5% 4.2% 4.2% 4.7°% -55.6% 6.4% 6.4% -3.4% -74.2% 4.1% 4.1% -15.0%
-00.3°% -3.4% -3.4°% -3.4% -59.9% -3.1% -3.1% -3.1% -75.8% -8.9% -8.9% -8.9%
-62.5% 0.5% 0.5% 0.5% -62.1% 0.5% 0.5% 0.5% -76.2% 0.5% 0.5% 0.5%
-63.4% 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% -63.1% 5.1% 5.1% 5.1% -76.3% 8.3% 8.3% 8.3%
-63.9% 8.8% 8.8% 8.8% -03.6°% 9.0°% 9.0% 9.0% -76.2% 15.2% 15.2% 15.2%
-62.6% 1.5% 1.5% 1.5% -62.3% 1.4% 1.4% 1.4% -76.2% 1.8% 1.8% 1.8%
-56.3% 5.2% 5.2% -3.8% -54.7% 9.1% 9.1% -0.9% -74.2% 5.0% 5.0% -14.3%
RAINBOW TROUT JUVI RAINBOW TROUT FRY
ALT 5 EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3 EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3
6 CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE
---- % CHANGE _% CHANGE
- -
-.1.26/6- --25.16/o k 7.600/a 14.9% 14.4% 5.2°% 8.3 /o 14.6" 17.1 /o
-0.5% -14-4% 9.9°% 17.4% 17.2% 14.4% 10.9% 17.6% 20.1%
0.5% -9.4% 11.2% 18.9% 18.8% 18.3% 12.3% 19.2% 21.7%
-1.1% -17.3% 13.6% 13.6% 13.1% 10.0% 13.2% 13.2% 15.7%
-3.5%
4.6%
-12.0%
-0.2°%
-1.1%
3.1%
-5.3°%
-3.8%
ALT 5
% CHANGE
-17.79/6 -
-22.4%
-24.3%
-22.8%
-17.5°%
-9.3°%
-16.6%
-8.4%
-1.5°%
4.8%
-7.2%
-9.2%
Alternative 1: January thru March minimum release = 10 cfs
April thru June, and December minimum release = 5 cfs
July thru November minimum release = 3 cis
Alternative 2: January thru June, and December minimum release = 5 cfa
July thm November minimum release = 3 cis
Alternative 3: All months minimum release = 3 cis
-30.9% 8.0% 8.0% 7.2%
-42.4% 4.5% 4.5% 3.6%
-50.0% 1.5°% 1.5% 1.5%
-55.3% 1.1% 1.1% 1.1%
-58.4% 1.7% 1.7°% 1.7%
-60.5% 2.1% 2.1% 2.1%
-55.7% 1.7°% 1.7% 1.7°%
-41.1% 7.1% 7.1% 6.3%
SCULPIN FRY
EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3
%CHANGE_ %CHANGE_%CHANGE _ % CHANGE
-73.4% -7.4% -7.4% -23.5%
-76.0% 3.3% 3.3% -16.0°%
-77.8% -8.8% -8.8% -8.8%
-78.8% 0.8% 0.8% 0.8%
-79.3% 8.8°% 8.8% 8.8%
-79.6% 16.1% 16.1% 16.1%
-78.9% 2.2% 2.2% 2.2%
SCULPIN SPAWNING
EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3
%CHANGE_%CHANGE %CHANGE %CHANGE
-66.6% 2.1% -13.8% -25.5°%
-67.9% -12.2% -12.2% -24.7%
-71.2% -6.0% -6.0% -21.1°%
Alternative 4: January thru June, and December minimum release = 3.5 cis
July thru November minimum release = 2 cfs
Alternative 5: January thru June, and December minimum release = 3.5 cfs
July thru November minimum release = 2.5 cfs
Alternative 6: January thru March minimum release = 4.5 cis
April thnt June minimum release = 3.5 cis
July minimum release = 3 cis
August and November minimum release = 2.5 cis
September and October minimum release = 2 cfs
December minimum release - 4 cis
RAINBOW TROUT SPAWNING
EXISTING ALT 1 ALT 2 ALT 3 ALT 4 ALT 5 ALT 6
% CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE % CHANGE
-
-100.0°% 52 9 % -14.1%
-62.4%
-51.8°h
J51.8 1k -26.9K---
-99.1% 22.5% -32.4% -68.5°% -59.5% -59.5% -38.7%
-99.3% 0.7% 45.3% -73.4% -65.5% -65.5% -49.6%
-100.0% 18.6% 18.6% -52.5°% -39.0% -39.0% -20.3%
Rainbow Trout Adult Life Stage - Queens Creek IFIM Study
% Change in Index C Compared to Natural Conditions
(Index C = average of lowest 50% of monthly habitat values)
20%
10%
0%
-10%
-20%
-25%
-30%
-40%
-50%
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Min. Rel. = 5 cfs Min. Rel. = 3 cfs D Min. Rel. = 2 cfs
D Min. Rel. = 3.5 cfs Min. Rel. = 2.5 cfs Preliminary Recommendation

0
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Rainbow Trout Spawning Life Stage - Queens Creek IFIM Study
% Change in Index C Compared to Natural Conditions
(Index C = average of lowest 50% of monthly habitat values)
20%
10%
0%
-10%
-20%
-25%
-30%
-40%
-50%
-60%
-70%
IIIIIIIII Min. Rel. = 5 cfs Min. Rel. = 3.5 cfs ?ouH Preliminary Recommendation
U Min. Rel. = 4.5 cfs = Min. Rel. = 3 cfs
Min. Re I. = 4 cfs

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DEC JAN FEB MAR
Mottled Sculpin Adult Life Stage - Queens Creek IFIM Study
% Change in Index C Compared to Natural Conditions
(Index C = average of lowest 50% of monthly habitat values)
20%
10%
0%
-10%
-20%
-25%
-30%
-40%
-50%

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JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
IIIIIIIII Min. Rel. = 5 cfs ov: Min. Rel. = 3 cfs D Min. Rel. = 2 cfs
0 Min. Rel. = 3.5 cfs Min. Rel. = 2.5 cfs Preliminary Recommendation

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20%
10%
0%
-10%
-20%
-25%
-30%
-40%
-50%
High Gradient Benthos Diversity - Queens Creek IFIM Study
% Change in Index C Compared to Natural Conditions
(Index C = average of lowest 50% of monthly habitat values)

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JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DE(
IIIIE Min. Rel. = 5 cfs i':4 Min. Rel. = 3 cfs D Min. Rel. = 2 cfs
0 Min. Rel. = 3.5 cfs Min. Rel. = 2.5 cfs IIIIIIIIII Preliminary Recommendation

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- 1999
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wcTLrNOS clt0U"1-r
WATFR QUALITY iU:"
Q',- . 'CA
® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Cornmission®
312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
February 2, 1999
Mi•. John Boaze
Fish & Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
Subject: Additional Comments - Second Stage Consultation
Nantahala Power & Light Co., Queens Creek Project, FERC No. 2694
Dear John:
This correspondence is a follow-up to the December 1, 1998 second stage consultation meeting. The North
Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) requested additional information and studies from Nantahala
Power & Light (NP&L). Likewise, NP&L asked for justification for these requests. The WRC is authorized to
comment and make recommendations regarding impacts on wildlife and fisheries resources in accordance with
provisions of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 791 a-825r) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat.
401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
Reservoir Water Level Data
We request daily lake level measurements for the period of April 1 to June 30 for each of the last 10 years (1989-
1998). The WRC is interested in increasing populations of bass and sunfish species in Queens Creek Lake for use
by the angling public. The current rule curve calls for water levels to rise about 15 feet during this time period,
which is also when Centrarchids spawn and incubate eggs. Daily measurements will provide information on the
rate of change in lake levels. The 10-year period is expected to include years of wet, dry and normal weather
conditions. Comparisons will be made to published articles describing nesting success under conditions of
changing water levels. This method will provide a quick and inexpensive approach to determine how lake level
fluctuations may impact fish spawning and reproduction of species using littoral areas. Duke Power Company has
used it on Lake James, North Carolina to adjust lake level management for improving walleye spawning
eenditions.
We also request daily lake level measurement data for the April 1 - June 30 period for 1999 and 2000. Minimum,
maximum and mean daily surface water temperatures (within 5 feet of the surface) should be provided for the same
period at two locations - near the inflow of Queens Creek and near the dam. The combined information will
provide a better account of conditions in the lake during the spawning period.
Reservoir Fish Data
More data on the status of the fish populations is required to determine if water level fluctuations are impacting
reservoir fish populations. Our goal is to improve the self-sustaining populations of game fish, including
smallmouth bass, to provide additional recreational fishing opportunities. Even though smallmouth bass were not
originally stocked by the WRC, which is often the case for many species in streams and lakes in the state, we will
FERC No. 2694 Page 2 February 2, 1999
,Queens„Cr ditional Comments hydro\nphqueensIdoc
manage them when possible. The data collected during 1996 provides an idea of the species assemblage, but.
addiiioi@Fiii o?rmation is needed to look at population levels and growth rates.
We recommend nighttime shoreline electrofishing and additional gill netting (Table 1). We understand'thatrlow
conductivity in the lake may make electrofishing difficult. The WRC is getting a new boat designed; ifor t. hese
conditions that can be used for this sampling. Electrofishing will be the most effective method for sampling
young-of-year and juvenile game fish.
The data will help the WRC to assess project impacts to the fish populations and properly manage the resident
game fish in the lake:- The sites should be adequately marked so future samples may be collected at the same
locations. Other studies may be conducted by the WRC in the future to adjust size and creel limits, consider
stocking, or alter habitat conditions.
Stream Fish Data
Baseline data are required for assessing changes in the flow regime in t e bypass reach Our goal is to improve the
self-sustaining population of rainbow trout to provide additional recreat nal fishing pportunities.
The data collected in 1997 were from one site near the mouth of Queens Creek. WRC sampling standards call for
three sites per stream so that within-stream variability can be estimated. Differences in fish densities and standing
crops of up to 50% have been noted among sites for streams similar to Queens Creek (data provided in Table 2).
Specific. sampling, details are provided in Table 1. These data will be used as a baseline_for assessing changes in
the flow regime in the bypass reach.
Boat Ramp Design Specifications
The WRC's design specifications for constructing and installing a boat ramp and floating dock have been
requested from the Division of Engineering Services. Questions concerning this matter should be directed to Mr.
Gordon Myers, Division of Engineering.Services, at 919-715-3155 ext. 276.
We look forward to discussing these issues at the March 2, 1999 meeting. If you have any questions concerning
these comments, please contact me at 828-6524360.
Sincerely,
Christopher Goudreau
Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator
c: Frank McBride, WRC
Gordon Myers, WRC
John Ellis, USFWS
Fred Tarver, DWR
John Dorney, DWQ
Secretary, FERC
FERC No. 2694 Page 3 February 2, 1999
Queens Cr. Additional Comments hydro\npl\queens2.doc
Table 1. Details of sampling and data analysis requested for Queens Creek project.
Lake Electrofishing
Dates One night during period of May 10-14
WRC personnel 1-2.
Gear WRC boat electrofisher
Location 5 200-m sites; 1 near inflow, 2 mid-lake (one each shore), 2 near dam (one each shore)
Data collection Length and weight of all fish; scales and otoliths from 10 fish per 25-mm class for
game fish
Data analysis CPUE (number per 100 m); length frequency distributions (25-mm class); relative
weight; age distribution; length-at-age; relative stock densities (PSD, RSD-P)
Other Copy of raw data and field notes
Lake Gill Netting
Dates One night each during periods of May 10-14 and October 18-22
WRC personnel 1-2
Gear 6 experimental gill nets; 3 surface and 3 bottom; mesh sizes (bar) should include 1.0",
1.5", 2.0", 2.5'; WRC has nets available to assist
Location One pair (surface and bottom) in each 1/3 of lake (lower middle, upper)
Data collection Length and weight of all fish; scales and otoliths from 10 fish per 25-mm class for
game fish
Data analysis CPUE (number per net night); length frequency distribution (25-mm class); age
distribution; length-at-age; relative stock densities (PSD, RSD-P)
Other Copy of raw data and field notes
Stream Electrofishing
Dates One day during period of July 26 - August 13s,
WRC personnel 1-2
Gear 3-pass backpack electrofishing (1 unit per every 3 in average width); block nets at
upper and lower boundaries
Location 3 100-m sites; near mouth (same as 1997), mid-way to road (below trio.), below, road),
Data collection Length and weight of each individual trout; number and total weight of non-trout (for
each pass)
Data analysis Population estimates of density and standing crop for all species; density and standing
crop estimates for trout should be calculated by size classes -:5100 mm, 101-178 mm,
179-305 mm, 306-406 mm, >406 mm; length frequency distributions by 10-mm

Other classes
Copy of raw data and field notes
Table 2. Density and standing crop estimates for rainbow trout from Curtis Creek, McDowell County, 1990 -
and
1995. Other speeies eelleeted at site 1 hielude faritetil darter, > sucker, st,ipedjtnnVoek, white
brown trout. Of these only fantail darter were numerous. Stream elevation of the sites ranged from 2000 - 2150
feet above MSL. All sites within 0.5 stream miles.

Year
1 Density (number/ha)
2 3
Mean
1 Standin
2 g crop (kg/ha)
3
Mean
1990 1241 1597 1027 1288 26.6 41.8 19.5 29.3
1991 1677 1858 1560 1698 32.3 28.7 24.8 28.6
1992 1285 1605 1715 1535 34.1 45.2 40.2 39.8
1993 2258 3168 2846 2758 47.1 63.1 57.7 55.9
1994 1096 640 552 763 25.0 13.7 11.4 16.7
1995 1869 1596 1055 1507 25.4 28.9 18.5 24.3
JP ti
Nor& Carolina Wildlife Resources Commissionp
312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
February 4, 1999 c
Mr. John Boaze
Fish & Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
Subject: Information Request - Nantahala and Tuckasegee Projects Settlement Agreement
Nantahala Power & Light Co., FERC Projects 2686, 2692 and 2698
Dear John:
This correspondence is in response to your request for information as required by the.FERC on the above
referenced projects. Most of the information is provided in the following tables.
I have provided sampling type and years for recent WRC surveys. Also, we understand that you conducted a
number of stream fish samples in 1998 to gather baseline data for assessing the effects'of changes in the flow
regime on fish populations.
Stocking of catchable trout consists of rainbow trout (40%), brook trout (40%) and brown trout (20%). These fish
typically range in size from 9 - 16 inches, with an average of over 10 inches. Fingerling trout stocked in Wolf and
Tanasee lakes were rainbow trout (50%) and brown trout (50%).
We do not know of any wetlands or significant wildlife habitats within the areas directly affected by the proposed
minimum flows. There were beavers below the Nantahala dam several years ago, but they were trapped out
because of NP&L's concerns about dam safety.
If you have any questions concerning these comments, please contact me at 828-652-4360.
Sincerely,
Christopher Goudreau
Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator
c: Frank McBride, WRC
John Ellis, USFWS
Steve Reed, DWR
John Dorney, DWQ
Secretary, FERC
11
Nantahala Project, P-2692
Section Fishing Activity Fish Resources Fish_Stockin
?Nantahala Lake No quantitative estimate. Considered low to Sampling: gillnetting and boat electrofishing (1996-198); trammel Approximately 4,500 _
moderate. Plan to conduct creel survey in nets, gill nets and cove rotenone (1957-59), trap nets (1996). threadfin shad annually.,
1999-2000. Species: rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass,
largemouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, black crappie, white crappie,
bluegill, redbreast sunfish, rock bass, green sunfish, warmouth,
channel catfish, whitetail shiner, white sucker, northern hogsucker,
chubs ., shiners ., redhorse s p.
Nantahala R. from No quantitative estimate. Considered low Designated as Hatchery Supported trout water. Sampling: backpack Not stocked because of
dam to Dicks Cr. because of lack of flow and overgrown nature electrofishing (1978, 1988). Species: sculpin, stoneroller, northern lack of flow and
of channel. hogsucker, creek chub, mirror shiner, rock bass, redbreast sunfish, overgrown nature of
blacknose dace, rainbow trout, brown trout. Wild trout population channel.
considered fair-poor due to lack of flow.
Nantahala R. from Quantitative estimate from 1992: Managed as Hatchery Supported trout water. Sampling: backpack 2,000 trout annually.
Dicks Cr. to Apr. 1 - Jun. 21 = 1,477 angler hours electrofishing (1988). Species: sculpin, stoneroller, northern Stocking season is
Whiteoak Cr. Additional angler effort expended July - hogsucker, creek chub, mirror shiner, rock bass, rainbow trout. Wild March - August.
Sept., but not measured. Most effort is April trout population considered fair-poor.
- May.
Nantahala R. from Quantitative estimates from 1997: Managed as Delayed Harvest trout water. Sampling: backpack 17,000 trout annually.
Whiteoak Cr. to Oct. 1 - Feb. 28 = 5,400 angler hours electrofishing (1979, 1981, 1988, 1996). Species: rainbow trout, Stocking season is
powerhouse Mar. 1 - Jun. 1 = 11,700 angler hours brown trout, sculpin, northern hogsucker, creek, chub, longnose dace, October - August.
Jun. 1- Jun. 30 = 3,800 angler hours mirror shiner, rosyside dace, redhorse sp., blacknose dace, rock bass,
Additional angler effort expended July - stoneroller. Wild trout population considered good-fair.
Sept., but not measured.
Nantahala R from No quantitative estimate. Due to high flows Managed as Hatchery Supported trout water. No samples conducted, 5,000 trout annually.
powerhouse to L. during the day for rafting, this section has a but known to contain wild rainbow trout and brown trout in good Stocking season is
Fontana special regulation that allows night fishing to numbers based on reliable angler reports. March - August.
reduce safety concerns and conflict with
rafters.
Dicks Cr. No quantitative estimate. Considered low. Managed as Wild trout water upstream of dam. Sampling: backpack None.
electrofishing (1988). Species: rainbow trout. Wild trout population
considered fair. Limited habitat below dam due to lack of flow.
Whiteoak Cr. No quantitative estimate. Considered low. Managed as Wild trout water on Forest Service land upstream of None.
g kI978, 1983). Species:
brook trout, rainbow trout, blacknose dace. Wild trout population
considered good. Limited habitat below dam due to lack of flow.
West Fork Tuckasegee Project, P-2686
Section. Fishing Activity
Fish Resources
Fish Stocking
Thorpe Lake No quantitative estimate. Considered- Sampling: trammel nets (1972-78), gill nets (1972-83, 1998), Approximately 4,500`
moderate. Plan to conduct creel survey in rotenone (1983). -Species: threadfin shad; gizzard shad, brown trout, threadfin shad annually.
2000. rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, black
crappie, white crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, golden shiner,
whitetail shiner, river chub, white sucker, northern hogsucker,
bullheads ., redhorse s p.
W. Fork Tuckasegee No quantitative estimate. Considered low. Not designated as trout water. Sampling: backpack electrofishing None.
R from Thorpe dam (1988). Species: rainbow trout, brown trout, blacknose dace. Wild
to Shoal Cr. trout population considered good.
W. Fork Tuckasegee No quantitative estimate. Considered Managed as Hatchery Supported trout water. Sampling: backpack 3,000 trout annually.
R. from Shoal Cr. to moderate. electrofishing (1978, 1988). Species: sculpin, stoneroller, Tennessee Stocking season is
Little Glenville dam shiner, longnose dace, northern hogsucker, river chub, mirror shiner, March - August.
rock bass, blacknose dace, rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout,
warpaint shiner, darter sp. Wild trout population considered fair-
poor.
W. Fork Tuckasegee No quantitative estimate. Considered low. Not designated as trout water. Not sampled by WRC. None.
R from Little
Glenville dam to E.
Fork Tuckase ee R
Tuckasegee R. from No quantitative estimate. Considered Managed as Hatchery Supported trout water. Sampling: by TVA 11,000 trout annually.
forks to NC 107 moderate. (1975, 1976). Species: rainbow trout, brown trout, rock bass, Stocking season is
bridge at Love Field redbreast sunfish, bluegill, river chub, warpaint shiner, Tennessee March - August.
shiner, mirror shiner, blacknose dace, northern hogsucker, black
redhorse, Tuckasegee darter, greenfin darter, gilt darter, spotted
darter, mottled sculpin, banded sculpin. Game fish populations
considered good.
Tuckasegee R. below No quantitative estimate. Considered ' Managed as Delayed Harvest trout water. Not sampled by WRC. 15,000 trout annually.
NC 107 bridge at moderate to high. Stocking season is
Love Field October - August.
East Fork Tuckasegee Project, P-2698
Section Fishing Activity Fish Resources Fish Stocking
Tanasee Creek Lake No quantitative estimate. Considered light to Managed as Hatchery Supported trout water. Sampling: rotenone Approximately 5,000 -
moderate. and trammel nets (1964-65). Species: rainbow trout, brown trout, fingerling trout every 4-
brook trout, white sucker, rock bass; bluegill, blacknose dace. 5 years.
Probably also contains redbreast sunfish, gizzard shad, largemouth
bass, smallmouth bass, whitetail shiner.
Wolf Creek Lake No quantitative estimate. Considered light to Managed as Hatchery Supported trout water. Sampling: rotenone, Approximately 8,000
moderate. gill nets and trammel nets (1957, 1963-65, 1978). Species: rainbow fingerling trout every 4-
trout, brown trout, brook trout, blacknose dace, white sucker, 5 years.
goldfish, bluegill, whitetail shiner, rock bass, redbreast sunfish,
smallmouth bass. Probably also contains gizzard shad, largemouth
bass.
Bear Creek Lake No quantitative estimate. Considered Managed as Hatchery Supported trout water. Sampling: gill nets 4,800 trout annually.
moderate. Plan to conduct creel survey in (1998). Species: threadfin shad, gizzard shad, rainbow trout, brook Stocking season is
2000. trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish, black March - August.
bullhead, whitetail shiner. Approximately 2,500
threadfin shad annually.
Cedar Cliff Lake No quantitative estimate. Considered light to Not designated as trout water. Sampling: rotenone, gill nets and None.
moderate. trammel nets (1957-59, 1964-65). Species: rainbow trout, river
chub, whitetail shiner, mirror shiner, blacknose dace, creek chub,
white sucker, northern hogsucker, rock bass, bluegill, smallmouth
bass, largemouth bass, white crappie, black crappie, redhorse sp.
Probably also contains gizzard shad, redbreast sunfish.
E. Fork Tuckasegee No quantitative estimate. Considered light. Not designated as trout water. Sampling: backpack electrofishing None.
R. from Cedar Cliff (1973). Species: stoneroller, river chub, northern hogsucker,
dam to West Fork blacknose dace, warpaint shiner, fatlips minnow, silver shiner,
Tuckasegee darter, greenfin shiner (?), banded darter (?),
smallmouth bass. Game fish populations considered poor.
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF`
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
P
JW '
January 12,.1999
W.4 W, s lift
Mn RogerBryan
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box-141
Whittier; North Carolina 28789
RE: Fish. Habitat Suitability Indices
Queens Creek Hydropower Dam. Relicensing (FERC No.2694)
Nantahala Power and Light
Macon County, North Carolina
Dear Roger,
I have enclosed.rainbow trout and-mottled. sculpin habitat suitability indices
(HSI) for use in modeling of Queens Creek. The paper and computer diskette
attachments provide HSI's for depth, velocity, and substrate/cover for the four
life stages--adult, spawning, fry, juvenile--of the two species. The diskette also
contains *.fil files to use with the IFG4 program.
The sculpin HSI's are the same as those attached to the June 18, 1998, letter
from the Division of Water Resources (DWR) to Fish and Wildlife Associates,
Incorporated (FWA). The trout HSI's are the same as those used for previous
Nantahala Power and Light project relicensing studies and match the HSI's
provided by FWA, except:
• gravel and boulder substrate/cover codes forrainbow trout fry were modified
by N.C. Wildlife Resources. Commission based on professional judgement;
For rainbow trout spawning, the suitability value is 1 rather than a ee
per second-velocity and 82 feet of depth. This matches values found in the.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service "blue: book."'
In addition to modeling, trout and sculpin, macroinvertebrates: should also be
modeled-, with the HSI's FWA possesses. DWR requests that FWA provide us
' Raleigh, R.F., T. Hickman, R.C.. Solomon, and P.C.. Nelson- 19844. Habitat
suitability information. Rainbow trout . U.S. Fish Wildl. Serv. FWS/OBS-
82110.60. 64 pp.
P.O. BOX 27687, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 276 1 1-7687
PHONE [phone] FAX [phone]
..? AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER - 50% RECYCLED/1 0% POST-CONSUMER PAPER
Mr. RogerBrya -
RE Queens Creek fish habitat suitability indices
1/12199 - -
Page 2
wiathe:substrate classifications associatedwith_the:substrate codes for macroinvertebrates. The
codes provided: by, Jim Gore- on October 20, 1998,. and October 5, 1.995,. do not match all of the
codes-used- with the Queens Creek. IFG4 deck- An. explanation of the codes will eliminate any
confusion.
Please: do not use the enclosed HSI's with the IFG4 deck- that FWA sent to DWR in August,
1998_ We will send our suggestions for re-calibrating: the IFG4 deck soon. The re-calibrated
deck should be used with these HSI's to model Queens Creek_
Please contact me if you have questions or comments at 919-715-5442, or by electronic mail at
[e-mail].
Sincerely,
Fred Tarver,..III
Environmental Specialist
Enclosure
cc: John Sutherland, DWR
Chris Goudreau, )MC
JohnEllis,v USFWS
JimBlose, DWQ
r Meet y; DWQ
Sally Browning, USFS

RAINBOW TROUT, QUEENS-CREEK PROJECT, NCWRC 1998
H 100001 6 6 12 0 RAINBOW TROUT SPAWNING
V-100001-0.00 0.00 0.90 0.00 1.60 1.00 3.00 1.00 110 0.00100.00 0.00
D 100001 0.00 0.00 0.60 0.00 0.70 1.00 8.20 1.00 8.30 0.00100.00 0.00
S 1.00001 0.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 2'00 0.00 3.00 0.10 4.00 0.30 5.00 1.00
S 100001 6.00 0.20 TOO 0.00 8:00 0.00 8.50 0.00 9.00 0.00100.00 0.00
H 1.QOOO2 8 12 12 0 RAINBOW TLMUT FRY
V -100002 0.00 1.00 0°.49;' OMr 0:99'0.19 1.48 0.04 1.97 0.01 2.46 0.01
V,100002 2.95 0.00200.00 0:00
D 100002 0..00 0.00 0.10 0.11 0.50 1.00 1.64 1.00 2.46 0.29 3.28 0.13
D_ OOOO2 4.10 0.04 4-.9Z 0.02 5:74 0.01 7.38 0.01 8.20 0.00100.00 0.00
S 100002 0.00 1.00 0.00 2:00 0.02 3.00 0.01 4.00 0.17 5.00 0.80
S 100002 6:00 1.00 7.00 0.25 8:00 0.18 8.50 0.80 9.00 1.00100.00 0.00
H 100003 12 3 12 0 RAINBOW TROUT JUVENILE
V 100003 0.00 0.38 0.25 0.96- 0.38 1.00 0.50 0.97 0.75 0.68 1.00 0.48
V 100003 1.50 0.22 2.00 O.OT 2.50 0.02 2.75 0.01 3.00 0.00100.00 0.00
D 100003 0.00 0.00 1.50 1.00100.00 1.00
S100003 0.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 2.00 0.00 3.00 0.02 4.00 0.20 5.00 0.40
S100003 6.00 1.00 7.00 0.80 8.00 0.50 8.50 0.90 9.00 1.00100.00 0.00
Ii LO-0004 8 412 0 RAINBOW TROUT ADULT
V-100004 0.00 0.80 0.50 1.00 2.00 1.00 2.46 0.02 2.95 0.02 3.44 0.01
V 100004 3.50 0.00100.00 0.00
a TO0004 0.00 0.00 1.00 1.00 10.00 1.00100.00 1.00
S100004 0.00 0.00 1.00 0.01 2.00 0.01 3.00 0.15 4.00 0.50 5.00 0.70
S100004 6.00 1.00 7.00 1.00 8.00 0.80 8.50 0.90 9.00 1.00100.00 0.00
MOTTLED SCULPIN, QUEENS CREEK PROJECT, LIT.REV./GROSSMAN/NCWRC, 1998
H 11101 4 411 0 MOTTLED SCULPIN SPAWNING
V 11101 0.00` 0.00 0.66 1.00 8.00 1.00100.00 1.00 -
D 11.101 0.00 0.00 0.1'T 1.00- 6.00 1.00100.00 1.00
S 11:101 0.00 0-.00 1.001 0.00' 2-00 0.00 3.00 0.00 4.00 0.00 5.00 1.00
S 11:101 6.00. 1.00 7.00 1.00- 8:00. 0.00 9.00 0.00100:00 0.00
H 11102` 4 411 0 MOTTLED, SCULPIN PRY
V 11.102 0.00 0.00 0.66- 1.00'8.00 1.00100.00 1.00
D` 11102 0.00 0.00 OAT 1.00 6.00 1.00100.00 1.00
S 11102 0.00, 0:00 1.00 1.00 2.00 1.00 3.00 1.00- 4:00 1.00 5.00 1.00
S 11102 6.00 100 7.00 1.00- 8-.00 0.00 9.00 1.00100.00 0.00
H 11:103 4 411. 0 MOTTLED SCULPIN JUVENILE
V 11103= 0.00 0.00 0.66 1.00 8.00 1.0010.0.00 1.00
D 11103 0.00 0.00 0.17' 1.00 6.00 1.00100.00 1.00
S 111,03 0.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 2.00 0.25 3.00 0.25" 4.00 0.50 5.00 1.00
S 11103 6.00 1.00 7.00 1.00 8.00 1.00 9.00 1.00100.00 0.00
H 11104 4 4 11 0 MOTTLED SCU LPIN ADULT
V 11104 0.00 0.00 0.66 1.00 8.00 1.00100.00 1.00
D 11104 0.00 0.00 0.17 1.00 6.00 1.00100.00 1.00
S 111.04 0.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 2.00 0.25 3.00 0.25 4.00 0.50 5.00 1.00
S 11104 6.00 1.00 7.00 1.00 8.00 1.00 9.00 1.001.00.00 0.00
Queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing Instream Flow Study
RAINBOW TROUT- ADULT (ALL MONTHS)
DEVELOPED' BY: GOUDREAU, BORAWA, REED (9/93)
ORIGINAL SOURCE USFWS"BLUE'BGOK
VELOCITY
X (tet/sec) Y (value)
0 0.8
0.5 1
2 1
2.46 0.02.
2.95 0.02-
3.44 0.01
3.5 0
100 0
DEPTH
X (feet) Y (value)
0 0
1 1
10 1
100 1
NC DENR Div Water Resources
1
0.8 i
j 0.s
i
0.4 ---- -
0.2
0
0 0.5 2 2.46 2.95 3.44 3.5 100
VELOCITY (feet per sec)
1
0.8 -- --- -- --
lu 0.6
M
j 0.4
0.2
0
0 1 10 100
DEPTH (feet)
SUBSTRATE/COVER
X (code) Y (value) 1

0 0 j j
TERR-VEG[DETRITUS 1 0.01 0
8
.
MUD\CLAY 2 0.01

SILT 3 0.15:
0':6` i
„a
SAND 4 G. GRAVEL. 5 O.T y 0 4

COBBLE 6 1
1 j
BEDROCK 8 0.8
PROXIMAL-COVER 8'.5 0.9
0
COVER' 9 1 0 1' 2 3 4 5, 67 T 8: 8:5. 9' 100
100 0 SUBSTRATE/ COVER CODE
*UNDERCUTBANK
*OVERHEAD VEG
*OVERHEAD COVER
*INSTREAM COVER
01/12/99
Queens Creek Hydropower, Relicensing-.- Instream Flow Study NC DENR Div Water'Resources„
RAINHO ,_TROUT- SPAWNING (DEC -MAR)
DBZELOPE HY G.OUDREAU,,13ORAWA, REED (9/93)
ORCGINAL.SOURG.Er USFWS BLUEBOOK
VELOCITY
X (feetfsec) Y (value.)
0 0.
0.9 0
16 1
3 1
3.1 0
100 0
DEPTH
X (feet) Y (value)
0 0
06 0
07 1
8.2 1
8-.3: 0
1:00 0
SUBSTRATE/COVER
X (code) Y (value)
0 0
TERR VEG/DETRITUS 1 0
MUDCCIAY' 2 0
SILT 3 0.1::
SAND, _ 4 11.3-
GRAVEL 5 1
COBBLE ff 0.2
BOULDER. 7 0
BEDROCK 8 0.
PROXIMALCOVER 8.5 Q
COVER" 9 0
100 0'
*UNDERCUT BANK
*OVERHEAD VEG
*OVERHEAD COVER:.
*INSTREAM`COVER--
01/12/99,
1
OC8
_. 0.6
0.4
0.2-
i
0
0 0.9 1.6 3 3.1 100
VELOCITY (feet per sec)
1
I
0.8
111 0.6
I I
0.4
I ?
02
0 1 2 3 4 5: 6, T 8: &S. 9< t00
SUBSTRATE/- COVEN CODE.
Queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing. Instream Flow Study NC DENR Div Water ResourceE
RAINBOW TROUT JUVENILE (ALL MONTHS)
DEVELOPED:-B-Y:-GO.UDREAU,.BORAWAr_REED (9/93)_
ORIGINAL_SO.URC:E-USFWS. BLUE BOOK
VELOCITY
X (feet/sec) Y (value)
0 0.38
0:25_ 0.96
G.38' 1
0.5 0.97
0.75 0.68
1 0.48
1.5 0.22
2 0.07
2.5 0.02
2.75 0.01
3 0
100 0
DEFTH
X (feet) Y (value)
0 0
1.5 1
100 1
SUBSTRATEZCOVER

X (code) Y (value)
0 0
TERRIVEG/DETRFTUS 1 0
MUDiCLAY 2 0
SILT 3 0.02
SAND 4 0.2.
GRAVEL. 5 0.4
COBBLE 6 1
BOULDER 7 0.8
BEDROCK 8 0.5
PROXIMAL COVER 8.5 0.9.
COVER* 9 1'
100 0
*UNDERCUT BANK
*OVERHEAD VEG
*OVERHEAD COVER
*INSTREAM COVER
1
08
LU 0.6:
> 0.4.
I
I
i
0.2
Q' ! ? I
0 1 2 3 4 .5 6 7 8 8.5 9 100`
SUBSTRATE/ COVER CODE
01/12/99
Queens Creek Hydropower- Relicensing Instream Flow Study.
NC. DENR Div- Water Resources-
RAINBOWTROUT-FRY (.IAN,-APR)
DEVECOPEMBY: GOUDREAU, BORAWA, REED (9/93)
A` ODIFIE12 EY" N= C"_WLDUFE RESOURCES- COMMISSION (12/98.)
ORCGINAL.V8iC U9CE._USFVVS1BLUEBOOK
VELQC[TY
. (feedseeff -(vaiuey

0.49- 0:78
0.98: 0:19
-, = 1'.48: "; B:Q4
1.997 0.01
2.45 0.01
2:95 0
100: 0
0.8
i
Lu 0.6 --
j 0:4
0.2 I --
0
0 0.49 0:9& 1.48 1.97 2.46 2.95 100
VELOCITY (feet persec)
utr 111
X (feet) Y- (value)

0 0
0.1 0.11
0.5 1 0.8
1.64 1
2.46 0.29 w 06
3.28:_ . 0-13
4.1= Q.04
4.92 Q.02. 0.2 -
5-74 0.01
7:38. 0.01
01-
82 0
100 0

SUBSTRATE/C OVER
X (code) Y (value-)-
0
0
0
TERR:VEGMETRITUS 1 ` 0'
MUDCCCAY - 2 0.02:
sIL r 3, 0:01;
s,?w 4 0.17
GRAVEL` 5 0.8
caee?E, 6. 1
BOULDER 7 0.25
BEDROCK a 0.18
PROXIMAL COVER 8.5 0.8
COVER* 9 1
100 0
01112/990.&'
*UNDERCUT BANK
*OVERHEAD VEG
*OVERHEAD COVER'
'INSTREAM COVER
? i i I
W, 0.&
0.2 i
i
0: i
0 1 2 3` 4 5 6 7 & 85 9 100
SUBSTRATE/ COVER CODE
Queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing - Instream Flow Study N.C. DENR Div Water Resources
MOTTLED. SCULPIN--ADULT (ALL MONTHS)
SOURCE?::LITERANTURE REVFE1fU; GARY GROSSMM (U- of GA)
VELOCITY
X (feet/sec) Y (value)
0 0
0.66 1
8 1
100 1
DEPTH
X (feet) Y (value)
0 0
0.17 1
-6 1
100 1
SUBSTRATE/COVER
X (code) Y (value)
0 0
TERR: VEG/DETRITUS 1 Q
MUD /CLAY 2 0.25

SILT 3 0.25 1
SAND 4 0.5
GRAVEL 5 1 0
75
.
COBBLE 6 1
BOULDER' T 1
BEDROCK: 8 1 j
COVER- 9! 1
z
0:25 4
100; 0
*UNDERCUT BANK
*OVERHEAD VEGETATION G A 0 4
0` 1 Z 3` 4 5 6 T 8 9 100
*OVERHEAD COVER SUBSTRATECOVER CODE
*INSTREAM COVER
1
0.75
3 0.5
0.25
0
0 0.66 8 100
VELOCITY (feet: per second)
i
1.00
0.75
W
_31 0.50
Q
0.25
0.00
0 0.17 6 100
DEPTH (feet)
01/12/99
Queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing - Instream Flow Study R.C. DENR' Div Water Resources.
MOTTLED'SC.ULPIN= SPAWNING (1- MARCH--31 MAY)
SOURCE: LITERATURE REVIEW GARY'GROSSMAN (U.ofGA)
VELOCITY
X (feet/sec) Y (value)
0 0
0.66; 1
6` 1'
100 1`
DEPTH
X. (feet) Y (value)
0 0
0.17 1
6 1
1"00 1
1
0.75
w
a 0.5 j
0.25
0
0 0.66 8 100
VELOCITY (feet- per second)
1.00
i
j 0.75
W.
0.50
> 0.25
0.00
SUBSTRATEICOVER 0 0.17 6 100
X (code) Y (value) DEPTH (feet)
0 0
TERRESTRIAL.VEGETATION / 1 0
MUD /CLAY 2 0
SILT 3 0-
SAND-:- 4 0:
GRAVEL _ 5
- 1
COBBLE 6 1`.
BOULDER' 7 1
BEDROCK. 8 0
COVER" 91, 0:
f oG 0'
*UNDERCUTBANK
*OVERHEAD VEGETATION'
*OVERHEAD COVER
*INSTREAM COVER
1
0.75
u.L
0.5
Q
0.25
0
0 1 2 3' 4 5: fi T a 9 100
SUBSTRATE P GOV-ER,000E
01/12/99
t
.(queens Creek Hydropower Relicensing Instream Flow Study N.C. DENR Div Water Resources
MOTTLED. SGULPIN - JUVENILE (ALL MONTHS)
SOURCE: LITERATURE REVIEW, GARY GROSSMAN (U. of GA)
VELOCITY
X (feet/sec) Y (value)
0 0
0.66 1
8 1
100 1
DEPTH
X (feet) Y (value)
0 0
0.17 1
6 1
100 1
SUBSTRATE/COVER
X (code) Y (value)
0 0,
1
0.75
w
0.5
0.25
0
0 0.66 8 100
VELOCITY (feet per second)
1.00
0.75
W.
0.50
0.25
0.00 LZ
0 0.17 6 100
DEPTH (feet)
TERR. VEG. /DE-MIT 1 0
1
MUD /CLAY 2 0.25
SILT 3 0.25
SAND- 4 0.5- 0
75
.
GRAVEL 5 1
COBBLE: .6 1 U. 0
5
B91469614 7- 1 .
BEDROCK 8 1"
Z
0.25 0-4
COVER 9 1
100 0.
"UNDERCUT BANK 0
"OVERHEAD VEGETATION 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 100
"OVERHEAD COVER SUBSTRATE/ COVER CODE.
"INSTREAM COVER:
01/12/99,
QueensCreek Hydropower Relicensing: -I nstream Flow Study N.C. DENR Div Water Resources
MOTTEED-SCULPIN = FRY (MAY - NOVEMBER)
SOURCE- LITEE-TUBE-IRMEW GAR GROSSMAN' (U of GA)
VELOCITY
X (feettsec) Y (value)
0 0
0.66 1
8" 1
100 1
DEPTH
1 ?
0.75 "
W.
-31 0.5
0.25
0
0 0.66 8 100
VELOCITY (feet per second)
X (feet) Y (value)
0 0
0.17 1
6 1
100 1
SUBSTRATE/COVER
X (code) Y (value)
0 0
TERR. VEG. /DETRITUS 1 1
MUD /CLAY 2. 1
SILT 3 1`
SAND 4 1
GRAVEL.. 5' 1
COBBLE - 6
BOULDER 7. f
BEDROCK G
COVER 9 1`
100 0
*UNDERCUT BANK
*OVERHEAD VEGETATION'
*OVERHEAD COVER"
*INSTREAM COVER
1
-- -_0.75 _
LU
3 0.5
0.25
0
G. t 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9= 100
SUBSTRATE/ COVER CODE
01/12/99
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Wayne McDevitt, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
Mr. Tom Smitherman,
Vice-President of Transmission
Nantahala Power and Light Company
301 NP&L Loop Rd.
Franklin, NC 28734
Dear Mr. Smitherman:
A
14
NCDENR
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
October 27, 1998
Re: FERC Project No. 2694
Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
Macon County
DWQ # 981026
The Division of Water Quality has reviewed your submittal for a 401 Certification for the subject FERC
project. Your application is not complete because the project has not received approval from the NEPA
Clearinghouse, and the Division of Water Resources has not received enough information to determine the
minimum release flow that will be required. The above issues need to be resolved in order for DWQ to
decide whether this project is approvable.
If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Todd St. John or me at 919-733-1786. Until the above issues
are resolved, I will place this project on hold for incomplete information (15A NCAC 2H.0507(a)(4)).
cc: Asheville Regional Office '
Todd St. John
Central Files
Fred Tarver, DWR
Melba McGee, DENR
Franklin T. McBride, WRC
John "____ -L _n W.,a,.`e Asseei*tes, ine. P9 Box 24i, Whifter, NG-28,' 89
4401 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27607 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, N.C. 28789
[phone]
OCT 5 October 1, 1998
Mr. John Dorney
N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
Division of Environmental Management
4401 Reedy Creek Road
Raleigh, NC 27607
Dear Mr. Dorney:
c?1 C6
I have enclosed a completed Pre-construction Notification Form (PCN) as part of the Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission's relicensing process for the Queens Creek Project operated by
Nantahala Power & Light Company. The Commission requires the applicant to provide a 401
Certification or a copy of a request for 401 Certification prior to the final license application. We
are helping NP&L meet this requirement.
The effective date of the original (minor) license was May 1, 1965 and the expiration of this
license is effective September 20, 2001. On February 28, 1997, a First Stage Consultation
package was completed and distributed for review from the pertinent agencies. In July 1998, a
Draft License Application was distributed for review.
As per your request, I have enclosed seven (7) copies of the PCN which you said you would
distribute to the appropriate departments within the state.
If you should need any further information, please contact me at your convenience.
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
• Quality service at a reasonable price •

gv70?
DcI..i =D : CCR°S ACC'=CN =D :
^? QUc':_D (?4CV=DE itA-=CMv=D E ?°_7?l!=; r)

P -CONSTRUCT 70N NOT ? V ' Q?T APPLIC T 7 C
OOj
FOR NA-7CNFiIDZ FZ?M TS T. T REQli :c?.

?) NaT? :G=CN TIO = C.R?S CF ... 14` d
Z) r17°2.=C?,_,CN ?CR^T=CN 401 CCRT? ?op
r) CCCRDCN n_ NC D.v.SyCY CF C: bAd
?_ OF CE OF T'z--- COR?S CF ENG=_ .: =S (S--Z AG'NCT ACCRrSS'S S7=7)
(i) COP=zS S'r.CGl' o HE =NT TO THE N.C. DZv_..=vN CE
(SE_ AGZNC'r 1?DREScS S?E-y} rAc pc?7..
Nantahala Power and Light Company
M?___nTG _?DR°-? . 301 NP&L Loop Road
C_71_1 .
Franklin
c^ :: NC
Z_? CCGE:
28734
?.CJZ L C C CN ?OGRES', =?iC;iiD=?tG S?cD='; =CN ?i=_?E (-- RL_T_ __,CV

(WC ?.r) : (704 ) 369-451 4
R= SeC?IS=?= _
a - 7O" =C??7.... AGEV.? , S Neu_ C?.
-CNE NL'Lv_SER: Tom Smitherman, Vice President of Transmission,
Distrihu ion, and Operations 301 NP&L Loco Road Franklin NC
LCC ,=CN OF WORK (2R0V=DE A MZ=, P-ME-R 3LY A CCPY CE GJCJ TOFCC?=_ :=C
Yam OR AZ=L F OTOG;,-APH"r SC LE) :
CCCV," : Macon N?? DES = TOWN OR Beechertown
Hewitt Ouadrangle (USGS 1.24000) Map Attached

i
s . Ec. F .c Lcc . =crr (7N;
C:.DD E RCPT
rT?"?E:?S, Ir?TD1??{S, ETC.) . 17 miles WNW of Franklin, NC county road
1412 aporoximately 1 mile west of the intersection with road 1414
Project location at Queens Creek river mile 1.5.
c'. u_1CT?D CR Queens Creek
R=,T- Nantahala/Little Tennessee
ia. D N-c_.R w
(S=-) WN ---aS (: Qw) , CUTS--?VD -- G R_SCMCZ W:_-_RS (CRv) , rv
-` _ ?:,' CR •N5-_=) . v=., rX I NC C I -- Y= =-" L7
C--=`T . Prod ec i
located on a stream with a trout ?)nnul ati on SiiStai nPrl by gtocki nq
7-C . 7fZ ':'.__ W 'T NCR- : C...CL=V? D_ ! __ _Cri C F CC._S?
u=_?T c`??VT = .?_ c E 1 _c?-_rrm.? c?rrcE:??r (_ _: } ? vac I No rx I
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4
18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED W_T= THIS A22LIC:?T-0N I-
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29, AND 38) ALL STR..'-1uS (I?iTyRNITTE??1T PVD PER ?Nr?7T) ON THE PROPERTY
MUST BE SHOWM ON THE MAP. YA2 SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INC. EQU?_.•S SO FEET OR 1
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1) ISSUANC'T OF A SZCT70N 404 CORPS OF F.NGI??ERS P°_RMTT, -
2) EITH=R THE ISSUANC7 OR WA_J?R OF A 401 DiJiS;ON OF
ENVIROD+?*-'NTA%. MANAGF.:fENtT (FiAT:R QUALIT`_') CERTIFICATION, AIM
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OW-NERIS/AGENT'S S IGNATURE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
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THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.))
DATE
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ATTACHMENT A:
Nantahala Power and Light Company is in the process of relicensing its Queens Creek
hydroelectric project with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC Project Number
2964). Queens Creek is a small project located in Macon County, 17 miles WNW of Franklin,
North Carolina. Dam construction was completed in 1948 and power generation began in 1949,
continuing to the present. The project consists of an earth and rock-fill dam, a 37-acre reservoir,
a side-channel spillway, a penstock and reservoir drain, a powerhouse containing one 1440-kW
generator, and associated facilities. The power generated at this project is used by the power
company for public utility purposes.
The reservoir created by the dam inundated approximately 4000 feet of stream channel. The
reservoir and stream currently have trout populations supported by state hatchery operations.
During initial construction, no wetland areas were affected and the continued operation of this
facility will not impact any wetlands.
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State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Wayne McDevitt, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
A[4
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NCDENR
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
September 29, 1998
Mr. David P. Boergers, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
88 First Street N.E.
Washington, DC 20426
Subject: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
401 Certification
FERC No. 2694
Nantahala Power and Light Company
Macon County, NC
DWQ# 970178
Dear Mr. Boergers:
Please find the attached correspondence documenting the request to withdraw the
application for the subject 401 Certification. The applicant has not reapplied as of this date. This
information is for your files regarding this project.
If you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact Mr. Todd St. John at (919)
733-1786 ext. 261.
R. D y
Inds Unit Supervi r
cc: Mr. Tom Smitherman, Nantahala Power and Light Co.
Mr. Fred Tarver, DWR
1
attachments
4401 Reedy Creek Road_ RalPinh Nr; 97Rm ToIn-k^-- n.-
-:
® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
FROM: Franklin T. McBride, ManagerL
Habitat Conservation Program
DATE: September 28, 1998
SUBJECT: State Clearinghouse Project No. 99-0062, Draft License Application for Queens
Creek Hydroelectric Project by Nantahala Power and Light Company, Macon
County, FERC Project No. 2694
This correspondence responds to a request by you for our review and comments regarding the
above referenced project. The document has been reviewed by North Carolina Wildlife
Resources Commission (NCWRC) biologists familiar with the project area. Our comments
regarding impacts on wildlife and fisheries resources are provided in accordance with provisions
of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 791a et seq.) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act
(48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
Nantahala Power and Light (NP&L) does not propose any charges to the facilities or operations
of the project. We find the Draft License Application to be inadequate in its reporting of the
methods, data and conclusions of the studies conducted for us to properly review the project's
environmental impacts. Overall, the NCWRC believes that the applicant has not explored a full
range of operational options, including run-of--river or various minimum flow scenarios. Also,
except for some recreational facilities, there is no provision for any enhancements or mitigation
for project impacts. Due to the deficiencies and disagreements noted below, we are informing
the Federal Enemy Regulatory Commission, Director of the Office of Hydropower Licensing of
our request for^ajoint meeting with vNh to ala Power § 4 3 and ? ?t and other resource agencies to
Specifically, we have the following comments on various sections of the Draft License
Application:
Section 2.1
The normal pool elevation described in Table 1.1 (3,025 feet), and on page 8 (2,895 feet) do not
agree. The elevation of the spillway should be provided, and any distinctions between the full
pool elevation or "normal" pool elevation should be made.
In our initial comments (July 26, 1996) we requested information on how reservoir level
fluctuation might be adversely impacting fisheries populations. Although we stated that
fluctuating lake levels were not a concern in our First Stage Consultation letter (May 9, 1997)
because we were interested in managing the reservoir as a Hatchery Supported (put and take)
Queens Creek Draft License Application Page 2 September 28, 1998
FERC No. 2694
trout water, evidence has since arisen that a good smallmouth bass fishery is developing in the
reservoir (May 13, 1998 letter to John Boaze).
Since smallmouth bass and other centrarchids are nest builders, their reproductive success is
susceptible to changes in water level. The applicant should provide hourly data on the
reservoir's surface elevation. The amount of fluctuation that occurs in the reservoir's surface
elevation should be provided on a daily, monthly and annual basis. Also, the frequency and
duration that the actual surface elevation exceed or fall short of the rule curve should be
provided. Because the time of spawning and the length of incubation are dependent on water
temperature, daily surface water temperatures also should be obtained in conjunction with the
water level data.
Exhibit D
The applicant states that it does not produce enough energy to meet demand, therefore loss of
Queens Creek would be detrimental. However, the draft application does not discuss the
applicant's efforts to reduce demand or purchase power from other producers. These items
should be explored in the license application. Currently, NP&L has "some of the lowest
electrical rates in the country" (page 13).
The table on page 15 equates the amount of water "spilled" at the dam with an outright loss of
generation. The applicant should discuss the range of options of producing power with any water
released at the dam, including costs, physical constraints, and energy produced.
The text on page 16 states that "[o]nly a lack of water prevented Queens Creek from generating"
all available hours. This statement is misleading. The mean annual flow is listed by the
applicant as 8.3 cfs, and the turbine operates in the range of 14.1 to 22.1 cfs. This fact
necessitates that water must be stored at times. How and when power is generated is a
management decision. However, Queens Creek is located on a small watershed and can not be
expected to produce energy at all times unless operational procedures are modifies.
Section 3.2
We disagree with the applicant's position that the absence of industry and development upstream
of the lake equates with good/excellent water quality. The applicant should provide data to
support this claim.
The description of the lake water quality survey does not describe the location of the temperature
and dissolved oxygen profile. A map showing the sample location should be provided. We
agree with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS; May 14, 1997 letter) that requested
profiles be collected from several locations in the reservoir includm near the headwaters and
near the intake structure. The use of a single location does!
t provide sufficient data to
determine the extent of the water quality conditions in the le.
The September 1996 the profile only collected data down to 8 meters. An explanation for the
lack of data below this depth should be provided. Also, the profiles should be referenced to the
full and elevation. This is needed in order to determine the relationship of the thermocline and
ow dissolved oxygen eves to the elevation o the --dam intake.
The stream flow data presented in Table 3.1 does not include an overall mean values by month
for the period of record. Also, these data should be provided in graphical form as per FERC's
Hydroelectric Project Relicensing Handbook. A discussion of how the average streamflow of
8.3 cfs should be provided.
Section 3.2.2
The NC Division of Water Resources (NCDWR) has requested additional information from the
applicant in order to adequately assess the data and conclusions of the instream flow study. Until
this information is provided, the NCWRC cannot properly comment on this issue. We will be in
consultation with the NCDWR and USFWS on this matter.
Queens Creek Draft License Application Page 3 September 28, 1998
FERC No. 2694
We disagree with the applicant's approach of relying on a single stream fish sample to reject the
need for a minimum flow release. We discuss this issue in detail in our comments on Section
3.3.2.
Section 3.2.3
Until the water quality and water quantity issues are resolved, the Section 401 Water Quality
Certification should not be issued or waived. If the time perid for `default' waiver is nearly
expired, the Water Quality Certification should be denied and the applicant should reapply after
these issues are resolved.
Section 3.3.1
The applicant does not describe the methods used to sample the fish community in the reservoir.
It appears that no electrofishing was conducted and that only 3 net-nights of gillnet effort was
expended. The locations of the net sets are not described, nor are the types of nets (surface or
bottom, number and length of panels, mesh sizes). Also, the applicant states that gill netting was
performed in July and November, but the data in Table 3.4 only provides information for the July
sample. If the November data was collected it should be included.
The draft application also states that "[s]everal carp (goldfish) were visually observed within the
lake." Since these are different species, the statement should be revised to inform which species
is correct. Finally, we request the raw data and length frequency distributions of each species of
the data already collected.
We believe the applicant has not adequately surveyed the reservoir fish community. An effort of
3 gill nets set for one night in July is not acceptable. Additional sampling, including
electrofishing, should be conducted. The NCWRC should be provided with a detailed sampling
plan and be invited to assist with the sampling.
Section 3.3.2
A fish population survey of Queens Creek based on a single sample at a site 100 meters upstream
of its confluence with the Nantahala River is not acceptable. The NCWRC believes that at least
two other sites should be sampled in order to adequately characterize the fishery resources in the
stream away from the influence of the Nantahala River. One site should be located halfway
between the Nantahala River and Winding Stairs Road, and the other site near Winding Stairs
Road. The site 100 meters above the Nantahala River should also be resampled. All three
samples should be conducted in August in order to compare them with previous data collected by
the NCWRC.
The high density of young-of-year rainbow trout during the May 1997 sample may have been
due to a number of factors. The lower portion of Queens Creek may be acting as a spawning site
and nursery stream by fish from the Nantahala River. The flows in Queens Creek during the
spawning and incubation period for rainbow trout (December 1996 - April 1997) were above
average and led to higher than normal year class strength.
The high abundance estimates do not necessarily indicate that the rwnhow trout papillatinJ3 ig in
goo shape. Although the abundance was high during the sample, the standing crop was very
low compared to other streams in the vicinity (Table 3). The high abundance during May is
very likely to drop as.natural mortality occurs an
d as young-of--year and adult fish migrate
downstream from the spawning area. This is likely to occur during periods of low flow,
especially if no minimum flows are released at the dam.
In order to better understand the data summary presented in the draft application, the applicant
should provide the NCWRC with the raw data, length frequency graphs of the rainbow trout,
length-weight relationships for rainbow trout, and standing crop estimates of young-of-year trout,
adult trout and mottled sculpin.
Queens Creek Draft License Application Page 4 September 28, 1998
FERC No. 2694
Section 3.3.4
The applicant contends that "impingement and entrainment at the project should be very limited
to non-existent" because the average calculated intake velocity is low and dissolved oxygen is
low at the intake during the late summer. Since the low dissolved oxygen period only lasts for
about two months, fish may be using the intake area 10 months out of the year. Impingement
and entrainment may be even more likely during months when the high dissolved oxygen levels
coincide with low water temperatures, which reduce fish swimming speeds and their ability to
avoid the intake.
The application should also provide information on how the trash rack is cleaned and the
frequency of the cleaning. If the trash rack becomes clogged, the average velocity will increase,
as will the maximum point velocity.
The applican t should determine the percent offish (b species) in the lake susceptible to assing
through the intake screen. Also, the swimming speeds offish (by species and fish length should
be compared to intake velocities at various temperatures. These analyses should be conducted on
the fish population data requested in our comments on Section 3.3.1.
Section 3.4
The sources and methods used to compile lists of the animal, vegetation, wetlands and threatened
and endangered species should be provided. It is not clear if all lists were based on actual
surveys by the applicant or from existing sources, such as the Natural Heritage program. The
credentials of the people who conducted any actual surveys should be provided.
Section 3.7
The NCWRC agrees with the applicant's plan to construct a boat ramp and day use area on the
reservoir. The location of these facilities should be provided on a map. These facilities should
be completed within three years after a new license has been issued.
Section 3.8
The NCWRC agrees with the applicant's plan to maintain a 10-foot vertical buffer zone around
the lake. Provisions should be made to monitor the status of the buffer zone and restore any
vegetation removed by natural causes or adjacent landowners.
The prohibition of docks, piers or other structures should be expanded to exclude bank
stabilization using bulk heads or riprap. While we agree with the applicant's plan not to perform
any dredging (Section 3.6), it maybe necessary in certain situations and should be allowed,
provided a Corps of Engineers 404 permit is obtained.
A management plan for the transmission lines and penstock corridors should be provided. We
recommend that any clearing or use of herbicides be done in consultation with the U.S. Forest
Service.
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project. If there are any questions
regarding these comments, please contact - .
c: Chris Goudreau, NCWRC
John Ellis, USFWS
Fred Tarver, NCDWR
John Dorney, NCDWQ
David Boergers, FERC
ates Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Raleigh Field Office
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636 3726
October 9, 1998
Coordinator, Hydro Regulatory Affairs
Nantahala Power and Light Company
301 NP&L Loop
Franklin, NC 28734
Dear Mr. Conley:
?x ae?
Thank you for the July 9, 1998, letter requesting U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service)
comments regarding the Draft License Application for the Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
(Draft) (FERC #2694) located in Macon County, North Carolina. These comments are provided
in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as
amended, 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.), the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C.
1531-1543), and the Federal Power Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 79 la-825r).
The Service has reviewed the Draft License Application and has concerns regarding its
adequateness. Some of the conclusions are not supported by the information included in the
document. No alternatives to the current operating scenario are analyzed, nor mitigation of
impacts proposed, except for an enhancernent of public access to the reservoir.
Following are Service comments:
Table 1.1
The Normal Elevation for Queens Creek Reservoir is listed as 3025 while within Section 2.1 and
figure 2. 1 l is given as 2,695 .
Section 2.1
More explanation of the drawdown for spring flood control should be provided. The project
receives drainage frorn a 3.6 square mile area. The need to draw the reservoir down 15 feet to
prevent flooding should be explained. The magnitude of flooding which would occur without the
drawdown should be given, as well as the associated damages. Furthermore, the purpose and
need of flood control should be addressed, as only one structure is present between the dam and
Queens Creek's confluence with the Nantahala River. Aquatic ecosystems depend on periods of
high flow to maintain activities such as bedload transport. This section should also identify
impacts to the bypass reach associated with the lack of periodic floods, as well as proposed
methods to mitigate these impacts. The impacts of the drawdowns upon the reservoir fishery
should also be determined and adequate mitigation proposed to offset these impacts.
Exhibit D
The Draft states that NP&L must currently purchase much of its electricity from Duke Power
Company, the owner of NP&L, and that the energy requirements have grown an average of 2.6%
annually for the past 15 years. The Draft does not mention any efforts by NP&L to increase their
power production capabilities, thus decreasing the amount of power they must purchase.
Furthermore, an analysis should be completed to project the costs to produce or replace power
generated at Queens Creek over the term of the new license period. This analysis should include
price projections based on a competitive market.
The analysis of generation lost by releasing water at Queens Creek Lake should also include an
analysis of the potential to recover a portion of this loss by utilizing a minimum release turbine
located at the base of Queens Creek Dam. A minimum release turbine would allow a release to be
made into the bypass reach to enhance the aquatic ecosystem and to generate power. The
analysis should include the cost to construct and operate the turbine, the amount of power it
would produce and its associated value. It should also show the additional percentage of time at
which power could be produced by the Queens Creek Project, which over the last 30 years was
not operated 46.4% of the time it was available due to a "lack of water." A minimum release
turbine designed to generate at a low flow rate could increase the percentage of the time the
Project can generate since the estimated average annual flow is 8.3 cfs. The rationale to install or
not to install a minimum release turbine should be developed into an alternative operating scenario
which the FERC will discuss in the environmental assessment.
Section 3.1
The actual length of the bypassed stream should be included in the description of the Project area.
Section 3.2
Data used to support the statement that water quality is "good/excellent" should be provided.
Mile ere is no industry an little development above the reservoir, there are agricultural areas
which may lead to nonpoint pollution.
The maximum lake depth is listed as 15 meters. However, in Section 3.3.4 it states that the intake
is located at a depth of 58 feet (1.7.85 meters). This should be corrected.
2
In order to more accurately interpret the dissolved oxygen and water temperature data, the
reservoir levels should also be included. A map of the sampling location should also be included.
The Service continues to believe that more than one sampling location is needed to characterize
the water quality in the reservoir.
Information explaining how the streamflow data were calculated using generation records and
reservoir levels should be included.
Section 3.2.2 & Appendix I
Within the Introduction to Appendix I, it states, "All commenting agencies agreed that an
instrearn flow study was appropriate ... and therefore NP&L conducted the study in
consultation with the resource agencies." The Service disagrees with this statement. The
agencies, Fish and Wildlife Associates (FWA) and NP&L did reach agreement on: species to
model; number of transects, and discharges at which to collect data. The agencies were not
involved in the development of the habitat suitability indices for the species nor provided an
opportunity to review the indices before the models were run. This, along with the requests for
additional background information by the NC Division of Water Resources on August 20, 1998 u.
and September 28, 1998 comments, clearly illustrate that the study was not "conducted in
consultation with the resource agencies." Without adequate information, the Service cannot
provide specific comments on the Instream Flow Study and its conclusions.
The Service questions the inferences that the fish populations in the bypass reach of Queens Creek
exceed those of other unregulated streams in the area. The bypass was sampled in May while the
unregulated streams were sampled in July and AugList. The study notes that natural mortality
would need to be assessed to perform a direct comparison. This was not done, yet comparisons
are drawn. Other factors such as in-migration of fish from other systems to utilize available
spawning and nursery areas, out-migration during periods of lower flows, and environmental
conditions which may have affected year class strength should also be compared between streams.
A comparison of species diversity should be conducted. More background information regarding
the streams and sample sites within any streams used for comparison should be included, for
example: discharge; gradient; altitude, proximity to a larger river or stream; etc.
Section 3.2.3
This should be amended to show that the request for 401 Certification was submitted but then
withdrawn.

Section 3.3.1
The text states that gill netting was performed in July and November, however Table 3.4 only
shows the results of the July sampling effort. A map should be included showing the location of
the areas which were sampled. More information needs to be provided regarding the sampling
methods which were used in order to assess the adequacy of the survey.
It should be distinguished whether carp or goldfish observed.
The reservoir is managed as a hatchery supported trout fishery, however, sampling results show
that populations of other game fish are also present. Bank fishing for resident species is listed as a
recreational activity in the reservoir. The effects of fluctuating lake levels upon reservoir fish
should be included, as well as, methods to rnitigate for impacts to these species.
Section 3.3.2
The report states that the bypass section of Queens Creek is managed as Wild Trout Waters.
Project operations should not impair the ability of this stream to. function as a self sustaining
ecosystem.
Again, comparisons of this stream cannot be made to the streams sampled in the Bonner report
without more work to identify the similarities and differences between streams and the time of the
year sampling occurred.
Section 3.3.4
Again, it should be clarified what the maximum lake depth and the depth of the intake are.
Furthermore, Drawing 2 in Appendix II shows the trashrack to be located at elevation 2850 ft. If
this is accurate and the surface elevation is 2895 ft., the intake is at a depth of 45 feet (13.85 m).
The depth of the intake should be clarified, as well as the depth of the trashracks.
The Draft concludes that due to intake depth, bar spacing, and water velocity at the intake,
impingement and entrainment potential is limited. Although the bar spacing is such that it should
serve to limit impingement and entrainment of larger fish, the other factors are not supported.
While the calculate ve oci ties are acc f
unoccluded space on the trash rack. Frequency of blockages and frequency and methods of
cleaning the racks should be included.
The information regarding the depth of the intake in relation to dissolved oxygen levels and water
temperatures is not adequate to conclude that fish would avoid the intake and thus impingement
and entrainment potential is minimized. Data collected at the sample site show dissolved oxygen
levels dropping below 5 mg/1 at a depth of 13 m only during August and September. A map
indicating the location of the dissolved oxygen and water temperature monitoring should be
4
1
7
DEM ZZ : 9 7 0 Lb 8CCR2S AC': _CN _D :
?C,.4-%=7 (?RCV_DE Nn'=-CNW _DL ?L'am-^_ 74):
PRE' -CONSTRUCTION NOTIr'!
FvR N?TIONW?DE P°FM4.TS T?: REQG.R:.:
2)
3)
NCTf :G?CN ':'7 = CCFl3S CF
Ap,p ==_CN ?CR C =CN 401 C
C CCSM --',MC=CN n NC D= v D
PLiCAT7(:)N
Se ?7i 2'^ CR =G=NAL =2"° OF =---s F Csm :a
^: OE= =C? OF COR2S CF NG????S (5? AG'-;NC'! ACORM.S --S SS ?D) SZ ? ?T
(7) COP=?S S'r.CULD CZ SZNT TO THE N.C. D=J=.=CIi OF 7"r RCNI--,
(SZ . AG IC'_' ?CDR°?ScS Sc?D?) c?-?er ?q_-?7^.
Nantahala Power and Light Company
2 VZ77._YiG :.nCR_C-. 301 NP&L Loop Road
C='".
Franklin
S^ _,S NC
Z_? CCDE.
28734
^-CN ??DG-c . -?IC:.ut?=?TG SJcD='i =CN N:_*_? (- '----a:' .-.CN•
3. TS??__,CNE Nu?5,._. (-CCU=) .
[phone]
N?uD_ CR F,=SeC.IS=D=C CCR?C??__- C: ----_ DC: =S D,
CNB VL7Lv-EE,.: Tom Smitherman Vice President cf Transmission
nistrihu ion,, and Operations, 301 NP&L Looo Road Franklin NC
?97-Idr [phone] -
5. LCC m=CN OF WORK (PROVIDE A Y?_, PS...=R.?=L! A C-py OF GSCS TOPCC?? - =-C
m!u? OR AZR-?? c ACT^vG:., pHy W77%Z SC?LE.)
CCGNT": Macon N???ESC mCW?i OR C__`!: Beechertown
Hewitt Quadrangle (USGS 1.24000) Map Attached -

i
s ? ?c=: =c ?cc_ _ =crr (_VC???E ?c??
rl?: ?EIS, L; 1ilDY-ARFS, ETC.) : 17 miles WNW of Franklin, NC county road
1412 approximately 1 mile west of the intersection with road 1414
Project location at Queens Creek river mile 1.5.
C- NS. ST?=:u/:?=sEti. Queens Creek
Nantahala/Little Tennessee
a. DRc?Lc_ ='GC=---? N-__? t"M--__, c _sc=-_-:*_ TRccT, T== = S_ 7.T c _-:
Sv -TRE (CRW)
Su-?L`' ,'S-_ GnriS =) Y-S (XI NC ( I `_'_ -{=-=?1 Project is
located on a stream with a trout population sustained by stocking
rte. -- _7IC1j_.-_ it -!_-_Cr?
C? =:v i:CV=:1'^?? C^NCEZ?1 (--C) ? `_'? : ( j NC fX j
UGC T-J W7-'-: ? C.?S(:^rL-ri'^`_ (c;....,
_ _ GC CC-__ _r-L C:3C-y:'__ ) W-,Z _- ir_= _?1U US .:r?i (-U,)
--NA--
8a. _.f- s= =crr 40 ,4 -_?u=.s
(XI r--.CV=:)V C_=Cr1 =.D.
-_,?I=CGS p ???-- : `iD r_V'! ?CD=_=CN?= _NzGFLf_"=CN (=?iC-vuG c_C=^CCc! C= d0_
31- . r? ?1027' =CrTr_ P- ?i-QVES:, E:{=_.._-? FOR T =D _ yQ211 '_"::-
cu;utcE? NC (XI 77 Y-S, DESC3_Sc FiC?{:
GE AC? _S -,_1?D 99 acres
?:_CT OF :_r
Via. _`_"_'CD TC-Z_, NL'r!?E- 7N T
TCT-?_, NUM 2R CE AC?. CE wcT-??iDS LCC:__-i? GL PrtC?-C^ S
zero
2
?Oa. Nu .z R OF AC -7. -S OC. WZ: NDS _`?_= CTEDBy THE PROPCScD PriOvLC'' H:.
L LL_NG : 0 E:{C_-d =_ _CN : 0
GD=NG :
0
TOTAL A=RZS TO BE 0
Df?.???TAC-z : 0
_ob. (:) 5----? C._ ?TVr i0 flS 1`__fC3C=°_D B'_' T::B PFiOPGSBD FQOv?. _ ( _
DCC,??D, ??^V=DE Dl -NCD B=' ED=C? LVD P__ _D? R DCG .'20N) .
BEFORE: see attachment ?F"'
T,;?= Br?OR- (bases cr- r_cr-al h_c wrte: ccr.zoc=s) r•^

C IZE C -7S W7!! . u :,T 77-,CM: ?L
CFA?T C ??TNr.= -?_CC?---CN. °_:.C?u==dT Ot P?_= TAT C 1NDL.
C-Zi3?-Nngcl c:CC?_'v:_T=CN. ccNSTP.GC^=(3N CF D /^CCD.NG.

HE
? -- CCNS':?LC'='7CN OF =CND =? cG.CPOS77, rrvHA '" IS T-==- S__Z=E ? Or T ---_•
n=_??5 BC DG_t.:N_ITG TO THE FCND:' see attachment
TS T _ ] PCC SCR CD
12. DESCF.??:'?CN OF 2402CSTO WC&V 7NC7uD=NG D=SCiSS=ON OF TY?," OF
r1rC ?V3 C?? cQG-72-m- NT TO BE QsLD ( =T3C? P?u VS : S 1/ X 1' " DF.l;v=NGs
ON-,'_') ; see attachment
s PrR?CsC CE PRCPOSED WCRK: see attachment
3
14, STATE R=?SCNS wr.' IT _S Hc.L__JCD ?"=== T=S AC:'='v==_' MUST BE C_R_:D
OCT _N Wr _:,.?VDS (_NCLUDE ANA Mr_:_SCRES T__ _N TO MZN ??
-_Z'r WE;L.-VD
:MPACTS) , --NA--
? `ECG ?3 R_°QG=Pc?D TC CCNT CT THE'r U.S. t -SH UND WILDL=- _ S_: V=C
(GStvS) ?VD/CR N2:='=CN?L I 3! =NE r=Sc:?R=CS S 1V=CC (NIA= ) (SE_ AGMTC',
?DDR_°SSES S'r.=.:) R=C.=RD=VC- T:__ PgCSE`ICC CE ?V`_' _?CE =L!'_' L=S _EC OR
PROPOSED cCR L-STING ;,ND??NG?;_D CR T.:RNED 5:= OR CR-'
__`T T::_ PER:'__T ?,Z:L_ _' -- ----.._ZD ='' T-z7 PRCPCSED 2RCJ DA"E
CON15 April 1996 (?__ _C RSPC?TSE.
_RCN6. YOG _ RE;?G_RiD TO CONTC: THE S. STOR.C PR;SERV "=CN CF._CER
(SrrC) (Szc. r_G:NCY ADCREE SZS S'___) RL_ ?.D_NG THE PR?ESZ_Nc:-- G- a_S':'OF._C
?RC2T__RT'_r'_E`S IN T:-":, 2E?M-Res._ 4+r-_C u?_v ----- _ZD S" mt.- =RCcCcED
P RC1 E_. D?__ CCNT?.CTED : ?2 4 rF February 1997
1-7. DOES T PPiCJ:C" TNVCLV= AN. Z.{?°_.TD_TGe.° OF PrJ3C :v?DS OR T.:= GSL C
PUBLIC (S='____) LrVD?
Y° _S (l NO [XJ (_= NO, GO TO 18)
a. YES, DOES THE PROJE _ REQG=R2 PRZ? ???T_CN OF AV E?iv=RCNi?=tiT=-.
DCCv_ENT PGRSvz= TO THE REQGT_.='?=:TiS OF THE NCRT C? ROLIN?_ ENV=RON-y-ElIT'"
PCLIC'! ACT?
YES ( I NO (l
b. :.? YES, r?(z THE OCCZ-VIENT BEEN RZlDDMLD T RCGGE THE NORTH C? RCLINA
-
DEr3=T`A=N'" OF A2- M7_N_STR_-__CN C-z-Z 7-13
YES (l NO (l
__ ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBV_-=_ ?_°PRCPR_ T° DCCUNSE:N'?'AT-=CN FROM T::E
STATE CiE??=NG.CQSE. TO p_V.S_CN CF E:TV_RCNi,4EjT. TAL I?-??t?GW..: - REG??DIVG
CCMPL_3"L NCE wTTH THE NORTH C?ROLTNA ENV=RCNMENTAL PCLIC'_' ACT .
AGES^=0N5 R G: D:NG THE' ST.TE C= R=NG-r_CGSE REV=Zn 2RCCESS SHOULD BE
R
p1REC:ED TO MS. C_-_RYS BAGGcTT, DIRECTOR S= TE C=RINGaOGSE, NORT`_:
C?ROLINA DEP?RT`SENT OF ArlV-,NTST=a=TON, '11-5 WEST uCN '3 S I REE'r, R_a.LZTG_,
NORT'H . C?RCLTNA 27603-8003, TELE2HONE [phone].
4
18. THEE FOLLOW-NG ITEiV-S SHOULD BE -INCLUDED WITH. THIS APPLICATION I_
PROPOSED ACT=VITY IVVOLVES THE D=SCH?RG£ 0- LXCAVAT£D OR FILL M-1TER-TAL
INTO WETLANDS :
a . wETL;uND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS , STREAMS, L..? KZS
V__ NUMBERS 14, 18, 21, 25,
AND PCNDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATION-WIDE PE-. -,
29, AN!) 38) . ALL STREA.iIS (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANcNT) ON THE PROPERTY
Y--QS': BE SFOW"N ON THE MAP. MA? SCALES S'.OUT?D BE 1 INC EQUALS 50 FEET OR i
INCH EQUALS 100 .FEET OR TfiEI3 EQU7v2l Z.NT .
h . I- AVATLA?LE, REPRESF-MrAT=VE PHCTOG Ul__V . OF wETLrNDS TO BE
:HPACT ED BY P ROB e.CT
T'V
c. DEL=NEAT-,ON 'tiP.S PERFORMED BY A C0NSv T_.;i_NT, _NCLUDE ALL DAT
S'r'EETS RELEVANT TO THE 2LACE:?S•rNT OF THE DELINEATION LIME.
Gj. ATTAC A COPY OF THE STORY-WATER MANAGMIENT PT-.A-,T IF REQU_R°_D.
e. W A2 IS LAUD USE OF SURROUNDING PRCPEz3.TY?

717 APPL==E, tni_AT IS PROPCSED vKE7HC1) OF SZ AGE 0IS2C77 C} SIGNED AND DATED AGENT- A G':' CR=Zl-7CN J-=TER, -- A2. ,=CAY'_

NOTW'TT_2?14DS OR WATE RS OF THE li . S . Y-.;, Z NOT BE _'?=A(ZTED PR CR TO
1) ISSUALNCE OF A SaCTICN 404 CCR.PS OF ENGINtzRS FER IT, -
2) EIT H:R THE ISSUANCE OR '-:, R CF A 401 D1VI.S-..ION Or
E. V I-- ICI -f-EN, `LL MANAGZ: ? NI T (HATER QUALITY) C=RT I = I C AT I ON , A-14-
3) ( T T't- Txr..YTY CCASTLIL COUNT= CNL -) , A LET" MR FROM THE
NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF CC ST:,L M=NAGsMENT STATING Tw. PROPOSED
ACT IVI '-" IS CONSIST' N. T WITH THE NORTH CkROLI-+A COAST; M? y?=Czu-ITT
PROGRAM.
OWNERIS/AGENT'S SIGVATLtRE
(AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY
IF a T"ORTZ,ATTON LETTER FRCM
THE OWNER I S FROVIDED (18 c .) )
DA T_
5
ATTACHMENT A:
Nantahala Power and Light Company is in the process of relicensing its Queens Creek
hydroelectric project with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC Project Number
2964). Queens Creek is a small project located in Macon County, 17 miles WNW of Franklin,
North Carolina. Dam construction was completed in 1943 and power generation began in 1949,
continuing to the present. The project consists of an earth and rock-fill dam, a 37-acre reservoir,
a side-channel spillway, a penstock and reservoir drain, a powerhouse containing one 1440-kW
generator, and associated facilities. The power generated at this project is used by the power
company for public utility purposes.
The reservoir created by the dam inundated approximately 4000 feet of stream channel. The
reservoir and stream currently have trout populations supported by state hatchery operations.
Durina initial construction, no wetland areas were affected and the continued operation of this
facility will not impact any wetlands.
°'
04
B r a o c Al,
tip, p! ?aaaaS V? a IIIJJJ , 3 I`-•J: ` ^ ?• ? ? ?. ?_?
CL n.
14
Q1C1 tee. 7 r'' ??/` , r-/? f.'? 1-•' _ _ /? ??? .. \ -
?.7-? G1N i
C\I
/'nom Cf1*'m 2 ?v
CN, E,
Ilk
`ate. \??'\ \.?/?' ti / \ , \ ? r? / _-\, f•'------.?\ . ??-.? i 1
• L
_ - z ,tea ? \\ •\` ?? m C !?\?Z 1,, ? ' - _'\ ? i
' ~ \ `C -\ I
' - "? `.? ?? • 1 ? ? ? `?? ?? ( ? ? ? w -? ? 'v'ii Y
' ? ? ? / -'? ,?.\ • °bo ? y I -? - .• -- 'rte--?J ??..j^? \ .\ \ ? ,?1?1 ?.
'=-v? \ b6' .p l'' ? i ? "' y T?%OI1.Y?tFJ7? 3-i11 Ntl YQ2lddY ? ai
?, '?^ ??\ `?'o'?' •*Mp' /%? .!1 or -.? ?1 73NNnL Y7VWV.JN 'N
OLP
L t \C3
-. ?•r. .•'1 u r
7E.! IM : 9701I !8 C_-R=S AC-: CN _::):
N? =?Civ'w=1E ?c??-_ R-;(?RCv=]E
Pte: -CONS T RUCT ON NOT777
rvtn Nr?.__CI`1w 7 -C S 7Z: FZi1G_.t: .
1) NC':'? :CL=CN --,7 ccz-3s cr
?C.l. 401 C
GGC_ i??=CN r%___ NC =i=
P-2 L'! CAT ON
OCT 5 k P ?Iyll
?__.? C.=-=C' CF = C^R2S C_ G +'- <S (5? hG?iC'? r'?DR=.SS'S 5?==) 5? 1 _:d
(7) C^P 5'r.CGi.D BT Sc:i'^ TO Tt-. CL 7ti IN-y-r'•I'='?_,
Nantahala Power and Li crht Companv
301 NP&L Loop Road

Franklin
NC
Z_? CCCV.
28734
_?.C???._ =::,C -=-CV ..CCU.=._ =?iC_.uC=?TG SOc?=?i=?=C?i ?T:_•f= (-- ?'-----...1^ _-.C;{
YLL-sizz
(704) 369-d514
'• -- --=?=C:=.=.r.. ?_r_?T...,c ?T=i'?° C°. R...?C.I`.==._= C: r_-%-._.. .,
Tom Smitherman Vice President of Transmission
nistrihit-ion. and Operations 301 NP&L Loop Road Franklin. NC
7R7?ar [phone] --
wCR:. a COp`! C; uSCS "CGCG:??.C
-C:^?
-- -CST OF
71
C^Gy'_" : Macon N?_.°_SC TCw?' OR Beechertown
.SC?_=J_?=CST V=_!?.
Hewitt Ouadranale (USGS 1.24000) Map Attached

-:C_). 17 miles WNW of Franklin, NC county road
*tv?=c1S, L t`?
1412 approximately 1 mile west of the intersection with road 1414.
Proiect location at Queens Creek river mile 1.5.
Queens Creek
A.__. S=?T.
Nantahala/Little Tennessee
N4IG :R 'N-___._, : C TRCC ,
rN:__C3S ( QW) CG:'S =?iG R G CS 'ry=--_= 5 (CR W) , W=---
c?_=?? 'N.-) V_S (X1 ETC C 1 ?_----'_-_ya. Prc»ac i
v
located on a ? rPam with a trout- annulation 5ustainPCj by ctn inQ_
'y 77
CCD1C.?UT 1 ;iC iX j
=. `i
--NA--
°? ccZ-_--CN 40 ?5.Z-i-CGS_'1 --J -IZ- CIi
NC (X1 -- Y._, .?.CV=?? _7 _CD1 __. C7
_-.?1_?GS :_V'? .?n---CDi?- -??:C.G?.r? ^=C;T (=VC_CL= CCU:" C=
C=- --- - =---C :T) .
-Z 7
NO LXI YES, DESC=_?G NCc,{:
9a. S___^ T -rJ N-M-IBE-2 C. AC:,=- =V T:.-\^ CF L??Tu• 99 acres
NUM CF AC?. C? Svr,
zero
??? N ?C 0. sC C W7 \TDS _u=?C:°_D
yG .

0

0

'_' - cgGPCS?D ??C?= c --
:Oc. --
=-SG ___Ggr see attachment
--'?^'=' =•C,C,? ?cSZC Ci. I:C? c? Cl- Wc?.?C C.:i?C:L'??) T
. _ ___..
7 7 c, y
i
?L=
cczli
C.
D= CCNs-RCC =Cti OF -CND _=.C=CScD, n..=^ C_
N _-Rs D Dc-_,V_N G TC T _Z ?CNZ see attachment
, -s --
DE: .7_ __CN Cc =?.C?CSDD CFV =?iCDu =VG u=scuss=Ori C°
:"!Vs . S 1/2 ' X ? r;i=NG?
see attachment
?G?_CSC C: _9.C2CSDD WCR<: see attachment
3
14. R _SCNS rnr_Y _S ?G 1_ y i C0 T =__ T '-'7z ;?C-_ J T' i?SGS ='
CGT ;N YY?T:c- DS Y-=- Sv:.... JL w-ETLA- D
==TS) --NA--
YCG ?? : QG__=D TO C;'NT.IC. "H- G.S. C.: ??IL 7Y__tLTa?__ .S?1J_c?
('JS c wS ) r?-\TD/CR \11- _CNr ?+c : _S x__.. 5:RV _C -r (Niv_ I (c__ =_Gr.:TC'_
_ ;V____ _^=VG L:Tn CF.
"'-
CONT:_CT?.. 15 April 1996 (= _-= C RC..2C,q _-
YCG = R=•;?G=wD TC CCN^_._C_ T=- ST___? ._=ST^ CSC _ =5c_,J :"=CN C= ---
(,,.=C) (c _ AGENCY C: tZ-7?Z-C--7C
TN THE CT :Z
?24 Februarv 1997
_7 . DGc_ T_ _ p?.CJ?.._ :VVCLTT ?_? __C__ND=1".i?._ C? _TJC_.C _?:?5 C•:, T _ GS_ C_
(1 NO kCj (__ NC, GC TO I -Z)
CL L? l•+ -_-
:`CCr?IT _'? tSv:VT TC _" =_=iv ==CNi
Y?S [1 NO 11
`'?S, _.S y :_. LCC :`+T n??N :tomr ;vc:) T CCGr. T _ NCRT:= C::, L_N.
0.
__ PVS;rD3 TO 17b =S Y? , T ?N SU=M-. CCC-'
CLc_:-i=NG'r_CGSE-. T_CVD=7i-S=CN C.-
C^I?DLS:V(Z° ;v_Tz T _ NCRT:: C ?.C SV:_ E`?i _RCN'N::., pCLICY ?ACT .
?GcS T=CNS RDG: R0S'1G T_ S .. _ . C:, _ :N- G zCGS Z- RE 7 -7- PRCC'ESS ScCciz)
Q'CO TO MS . C _.'_'S flr_GCD_? , J=_.CC?tCF. S ---_ Ci:=: ?=VG'r.CGSD, NCR:'.:
r I,.CL_V- DE_1F.TMENT OF 1JCDI:._.- .ST'.R_.`T,
NOF C:t-RCL7,T:_ 7-7601--800-1, 4

i? T ?_. C'?L=v4Y_NG TG Sc0U Z B _NC:,uDEJ NI__:: T:.A?DL_C_ GN 1_
P4.O2OSED ACT="%T" :N'JCLv _S T::_ D=SCHA_RGa C- E_YCAVATL'D OR ---7-'Z L T?
_NTC W GTI.MDS
a . rrIG_Z??VD DE- _NZ:-T Via? S a- . r _,T- S ST RE. Auc ? r_?
:s ?CW_NG n :. TD.. LS
?ND PONDS ON THE PROPE=RTY (FOR NA_=CNw=DE NLi-BERS 14, 18, 2=, 25,
PSD 3a). LL S'TRZ?uS (.N_= =TTr.?TT AND ON THEE -OROPERTY
mrs'' BE S'r_ONN ON '"::_ Mme? . MA? SC-ALZS SHOULD BE 1 _NC DQGA_ S ? 0 _ _D_ CP, 1
'7?? VT.
=NC EQUALS 100 OR T.._._3 EQQ7
._? = 3LG, RE2RESr.:T'2: JD P:?CTGG CE W=iAmNDS TG
h. Z-7 7
MV-PACT ED C i P RC, Z CT C. 17 DED7 --': T_CN rgA_S PER=vr?`?ED 3Y A CONSUL-7NCrUDE ALL :,=-i
T::_ DEL:N _ION L.N?.
Sc:LCTS RELLV??T: Tv ?'::' =T_c?C-,rt.-jgT OF
c_ A _T C A COP`! Gr T::_ STCRI'_?vATER M3LN G-?EINT'' ??=V __ :`. QG=R= ).
e . w - -- ?STD USE OF SURROUNDING _ RC P ER _ Y ?
--NA--
_ • _- ==--?-?=1 'n r °?.C?CSEC uE_ CD G: =T IO Sc;v:_G% D=S?OS;_,?

Y c= CF, ji=RS OF T.._ U.S. Y,.? NCT EL 71.1- TC .
1) _SSZ: _\+CE CF r1 S?C'T;CN 404 CUP`S OF" .NGL'_v=.. pt *(_T,
=J_=
2) y_'T _=.R T:._ 7SCR W?=,T--R C' tj. 40. DSON OF
M-_XG=`A'NT (riT2R QC?ti_I"_') C':cTD=DG'TTCN, P?+?
( T-=- 'r'X?V I'L' CO?1S n? CCG'T= , S CN'? _') , L " 7:T.,
NGR?_?rC_? O:?I?+.=? D=vTS=CN Or CO T ?L?? =.G==mil S AT_.NG T - PrcCFCSCD
:.CT 1T ?ter T._`. C:Z1C C ?'Ei?m r/l'_T':7 T:E NCRT:_ C:?_RCi'LTNITA CCAS TAL Y-,.iN .CZli_, INT
FRGGr?`? .

(?G=N- I S S G,U:L_TURZE VA:iJ7D 0NL"
_ T.H_CR_?,:%_: 7 GN LETTER TROM
.) )
TT:? OW?'E T?Z , :?OV DED (18c,
ATTACHMENT A:
Nantahala Power and Light Company is in the process of relicensing its Queens Creek
hydroelectric project with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC Project Number
2964). Queens Creek is a small project located in Macon County, 17 miles WNW of Franklin,
North Carolina. Dam construction was completed in 1943 and power generation began in 1949,
continuing to the present. The project consists of an earth and rock-fill dam, a 37-acre reservoir,
a side-channel spillway. a penstock and reservoir drain, a powerhouse containing one 1440-kW
generator, and associated facilities. The power generated at this project is used by the power
company for public utility purposes.
The reservoir created by the dam inundated approximately 4000 feet of stream channel. The
reservoi.r and stream currently have trout populations supported by state hatcher- operations.
During initial construction, no wetland areas were affected and the continued operation of this
facilitv will not impact any wetlands.
YJ C L .t-%
77
00
13 r
x 9?trLp`l o ?z f, B r,y Seri
TLC ?f 1 ,J• _ - - ?" -
MCI
`-`mil ? ?y. }\??.\--/ \ 5 ,•? . .. °' ,,,,?.\? /" ?., ."? f?? J f?? rr ? ? ???/? \\ i ' ..? i _i ? = H
/. . `\
lot
"'
y '. OILY-:FT-7 ?"'rvl ?C42?cdb' ar 77, Y•l Yl•dY1N b•N
included to determine the applicability of the sample site data to conditions that would occur in
close proximity to the intake. The Service requested a sample site be located near the intake in its
May 141 1997 review of the First Stage Consultation Report. Water surface elevations should
also be included for each day sampled to allow more accurate interpretation of the relationship
between water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels at various depths and the depth of the
intake structure.
Section 3.7.1
The Service believes NP&L's proposal to construct a public boat ramp and a day-use area will
enhance public access to the Project.
Section 3.8.1
A management plan for the transmission lines and penstock corridors should be developed in
consultation with the U.S. Forest Service and included in this section.
Section 3.8.3
The Service would like to commend Nantaliala Power and Light for prohibiting land disturbing
activities within its 10-foot vertical buffer. The Service recommends that NP&L also prohibit
vegetation removal within the buffer area. The Shoreline Management Plan (SNP) should also
include a plan to monitor and enforce the SMP if and when the adjacent property begins to be
developed to ensure compliance.
As was stated in my May 14, 1997, letter, an analysis of all possible alternatives should be
completed by the FERC and the applicant. These would include, but not be limited to, the
following:
Baseline - The Project would be decommissioned and the dam and pipeline removed.
Present Operating Regime - The Project would operated as described in the draft
application.
Present Operating Regirne with a Bypass Flow - The Project would be operated as
described in the draft application, except it would be modified to release a flow into the
bypass reach.
Run of River - The Project would operate in a run of river mode where inflow into Queens
Creek Reservoir equals outflow from the Project.
Run of River with a Bypass Flow - The Project would operate in a nun of river mode
where inflow into Queens Creek Reservoir equals outflow from a combination of the
powerhouse and a release into the bypass reach.
The alternatives with a bypass flow should include information requested in this letter regarding
utilizing a minimum release turbine.
5
Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft. We look forward to continuing
to work with NP&L in the relicensing of the Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project. If you have
any questions, please contact John Ellis at the above address or at [phone], ext. 26.
Sincerely
John M. Hefner
Ecological Services Supervisor
FWS/R4:JEllis:JEE:10-7-98:919-856-4520, ext. 26:B:gnsdrftapp
cc:
WRC, Creedmoor, NC (Frank McBride)
DWR, Raleigh, NC (F.Tarver)
DWQ, Raleigh, NC (John Dorney)
FERC, Washington, DC ( Lois Cashell)
USFS, Nantahala National Forest, Franklin, NC (Mike Wilkins)
EPA, Atlanta, GA (Heinz Mueller)
FWS, Asheville, NC (Brian Cole)
6
AEMORANDUM
TO: John Dorney Regional Contact: . I--'. A J f--s ,n
Non-Discharge Branch WO Supervisor:
Date: D f
SUBJECT: WETLAND STAFF REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Facility Name QUEENS CREEK PROJECT-NANTA POWER&
Project Number 97 0178
Recvd From APP
Received Date 10/5/98 Recvd By Region
Project Type HYDROPOWER
County MACON
County2
Region Asheville
Certificates Stream
Permit Wetland Wetland Wetland Stream Class Acres Feet
Type Type Impact Score Index Prim. Supp. Basin Req. Req.
FBRC F P _Y -@N F 2-57-51 I `- Tr 040403 ?-
f ^r-o 7 o _NF_ F_ f"F_ f_ r_ F_
Mitigation Wetland
MitigationType Type Acres Feet
Is Mitigation required? 0 Y t0 N
Did you request more info? 0 Y 0 N
Is Wetland Rating Sheet Attached? 0 Y 0 N
Have Project Changes/Conditions Been Discussed With Applicant? 0 Y 0 N
? t5
i
X?
T 2 10
Comments: Recommendation: • Issue 0 Issue/Cond 0 Deny
_ Re"ss.,,::r, 4kt rl? C ?_ Sko?. IJ nn7 close! Wa i- r?`CJy a 1.1%r 6501 cA..u, _$,
t5p e,,:. I ".4o nS TIf #_ rFa?.?i?c Inn nel QVPdo' nUS ?JU.CP_ ?trs?? ?PaxS.
cc: Regional Office
Central Office Page Number 1
10/16/1998 12:08 4
•ftWORANDUM
TO: John Donley
Nora-Discharge Branch
SUBJECT:
PAGE 04
Regional Contact: . E. A 4?!??S_00
WO Supervisor:
Date: IAYZLIK
WETLAND STAFF REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Facility Name (QUEENS CREEK PROMO"!`-MANTA, POWERM
Project Number 97 0178
Recvd From APP
Received Date 10/5/98 Recvd By- Rion
Project Type WDRO POWER
Certificates
Permit Wetland Wetiand Wetland Strum
Type Type Impact Score Indsx
County MACON
County2
Region Asheville
Btworn
class Acres Feet
Prim. Cupp. basin A641- Req.
i,i:>ZC: ? d Y 0 N ?- 2-57-51 r C Tr 040403 F_ F_
Mitigation Wetland
MitigationType Type Acres Foot
...... ?..: .?_ _.• .................. :.._: ,.,_tldi.. •.:•.acJm?lru a9t ASP ., ••., .
?nw o
is mitigation required? O y ON
Did you request more Info? O Y ON
Is Wetiand Rating Sheet Attached? O Y ON
Have Project Changes/Conditions Been Discussed With Applicant? 0 Y 0 N
Comments: Recommendation: i, Issue O Issue/Cond O Deny
ICP:_t? JLt, f1 1z e- f:?;wn. ?r.??...auj nn-t• Q41eAtw !•1.1?
f F e.. i Y .•...n ?+- Tl6 e .Fs r- i {, S n v 'L d v ,w I ?' n d .r ('j u.r a r.)

cc: Regional Office Page Number 1
Contral Office
Mr. John Hefner 9 7 0 1 ` 8
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Asheville Regulatory- Field Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
151 Patton Avenue
Room 143
Asheville, NC 28801-5006
Mr. Brian Cole
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Asheville Field Office
160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, NC 28801
Mr. John Dorney
NC DENR
Division of Environmental Management
4401 Reedy Creek Road
Raleigh, NC 27607
n

r

NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
Nantahala Power and Light
Hydroelectric Projects
FERC Relicensing
Preliminary Meeting Handbook
November 179 1999
Nantahala Power and Light
301 NP&L Loop Road
Franklin, NC 28734

0

Nantahala Power and Light
Hydroelectric Projects
' FERC Relicensing
Preliminary Meeting Handbook
' Table of Contents
1 Introduction

' Nantahala Power and Light Service Area Map
NP&L Hydroelectric developments in the Little Tennessee

t River watershed and the TVA Fontana Project Map
Relicensin of NP&L Projects (Important Dates
g )
' Standard FERC 3-Stage Consultation Process
Bryson Project
' Bryson Development Fact Sheet
Environmental Information
' USGS Topographical Maps
Dillsboro Project
Dillsboro Development Fact Sheet
' Environmental Information
USGS Topographical Maps
Franklin Project
Franklin Development Fact Sheet
Environmental Information
1 USGS Topographical Maps
' Mission Project
Mission Development Fact Sheet
Environmental Information
USGS Topographical Maps
West Fork Project
Thorpe Development Fact Sheet
Tuckasegee Development Fact Sheet
Environmental Information
' USGS Topographical Maps

Nantahala Project
Nantahala Development Fact Sheet
Environmental Information
USGS Topographical Maps
East Fork Project
Tennessee Creek Development Fact Sheet
Bear Creek Development Fact Sheet
Cedar Cliff Development Fact Sheet
Environmental Information
USGS Topographical Maps
Nantahala and Tuckasegee Projects Settlement Agreement

0

INTRODUCTION
Beginning early in 2000, Nantahala Power and Light will begin the process of relicensing seven
(7) of its eight (8) hydroelectric projects. The following projects will be included in this process.
1. Bryson located on the Oconaluftee River in Swain County includes the Ela Dam and
Reservoir.
2. Dillsboro located on the Tuckasegee River in Jackson County includes the Dillsboro Dam
and Reservoir.
3. Franklin located on the Little Tennessee River in Macon County includes the Lake
Emory Dam and Reservoir.
4. Mission located on the Hiawassee River in Clay County includes the Mission Dam and
Reservoir.
5. West Fork located on the West Fork of the Tuckasegee River in Jackson County includes
the Thorpe Dam and Lake Glenville Reservoir and Tuckasegee Dam and Reservoir.
6. Nantahala located on the Nantahala River in Macon County includes the Nantahala Dam
and Reservoir, White Oak Dam and Diversion Pond, Dicks Creek Dam and Diversion
Pond, and the Diamond Valley Dam and Diversion Pond.
7. East Fork located on the East Fork of the Tuckasegee River in Jackson County includes
the Tennessee Creek Dam and Reservoir, Wolf Creek Dam and Reservoir, Bear Creek
Dam and Reservoir, and Cedar Cliff Dam and Reservoir.
These seven projects represent 97.1 MW of installed generating capacity or about 99.5 present of
Nantahala Power and Light's total generating capacity. This is approximately fifty (50) percent
of the energy sold by Nantahala. Any loss of this hydroelectric generation will result in
Nantahala purchasing its replacement from a higher cost, probably non-renewable, power source.
' The purpose of this preliminary meeting is to introduce all interested parties to the relicensing
process, to explain how the process works, and to describe each of the seven (7) projects that will
be up for relicensing. We will also review the Minimum Flow Settlement Agreement that was
finalized in 1998 for the Nantahala Project as well as the East Fork and West Fork Projects. We
will solicit input from attendees as to what issues and concerns they would like to see addressed
in the relicensing process.

M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M i M
NANTAHALA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY SERVICE AREA
75
40 ,
40 Knoxville

Nantahala Power & Ughl Sen?ir-r A r=n
4-1-ane Highways
2-1-ane Highways
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Regional Jet Airport

County Airport
SCC Southwestem Community College
z
TCC TO County Community College TENNESSEE

WCU Western Carolina University N. CAROLINA
A Dams
M
Asheville
ri
ti
40
26
Spartanbu
Greenville 86
V
40

1"
Gtee
Oa0'
.kp G,
V l
Nantahala Power & Light
Hydroelectric developments in the Little
Tennessee River Watershed and the TVA
Fontana Project
QUEENS NANTAI
CREEK i
y/
a
1 ?
v v I /
? a I
O' v r J
r
I ?
I i
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DILLSBORO
i FRANKLIN
BRYSON
THORPE
3491
TENNESSEE
/- CREE
WOLF CREEK
3080
3032
3027
3012
I ?
r
I /
I /
BEAR
CREEK 2560
I r
I /
I
TUCKASEGEE CEDAR CLIFF
Tuckasegee
River
FONTANA Notes: Mission project is on the Hiawasee River.
Relative water volumes are displayed by
reservoir size.
i
Powerhouses Reservoirs Pipelines &
tunnels
- 2330
- 2278
- 2003
-2000
-1970
-1829
Elevation
Relicensing of NP&L Projects (Important Dates)
Project FERC No. License Expiration Deadline for Letter of Intent
Dillsboro 2602 July 17, 2005 January 17, 2000
Bryson (Ela) 2601 July 22, 2005 January 22, 2000
Franklin (Emory) 2603 July 22, 2005 January 22, 2000
Mission 2619 August 4, 2005 February 4, 2000
East Fork 2698 January 23, 2006 July 23, 2000
Tennessee Cr.
Wolf Cr.
Bear Cr.
Cedar Cr.
West Fork 2686 January 28, 2006 July 28, 2000
Tuckasegee
Thorpe (Glenville)
Nantahala 2692 February 6, 2006 August 6, 2000
Nantahala
Dicks Cr.
White Oak Cr.
Diamond Valley

Stage 1
ISCD Issued
Joint Meeting 30-60 days
later
Comments
Study Requests due 60
days after meeting (-
Applicant Notifies
FERC of APEA
Waiver Request
Standard FERC 3-Stage
Consultation Process
Stage 2
Conduct Studies
Draft Application Issues
with Study Results
Comments on proposal and
any additional studies due
within 90 days
Stage 3
Final Application Files
FERC Tendering Notice
(additional studies)
Comments
Additional Study Requests
I due within 60 days of
tendering notice ?--
Applicant forms agency/
NGO work group
Communications Protocol
MOU with Cooperating
agencies r-
FERC
Waiver Response
Stage 1
ISCD Issued
Joint Meeting
30-60 days later
NEPA Scoping
SD-1 Issued
OR
Applicant-Prepared
EA Process
ARC Review
Deficiencies Resolved
Acceptance Letter
Intervention Notice
Comments
Interventions due within
60 days after notice
NEPA Scoping
SD-l Issued
Public Meetings within 60
days after SD-1 issued
Comments due on scoping
30 days after meetings
SD-2 if needed
FERC issues additional
Comments
Study Requests due information request
within 60 days after Additional information
filed and reviewed
meeting
Conduct Studies Ready for EA Notice
Study Results Issued Comments
Final Conditions due
Comments within 60 days
Additional Study Requests
due within 60 days
PDEA and Draft FERC Notice
Application Issued Interventions
Preliminary Conditions Final Conditions ?,....
NEPA Scoping due within 90 days Acceptance Letter FERC issues DEA
SD-1 Issued DEA and Final Comments due in 30 days
FERC issues FEA
Application Filed licensing Decision

BRYSON DEVELOPMENT
FACT SHEET
y
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JAV
-Nor

Power on Line: 1925 Unit 1
1929 Unit 2
Station purchased by Nantahala
Power and Light Company from
Town of Bryson City in 1942
Drainage Area: 188 sq. mi. (from TVA)
Average Annual Runoff: 512 cfs - based on
runoff at Cherokee and
Birdtown and long term mean
of Tuchasegee at Bryson
Reservoir Area: 42.9 acres (Useful storage is
negligible)
Powerhouse: 2 Units
Total Installed Capacity: 980 kw
Station Capability: Max. head 1,100 kw
Dam: Concrete Multiple Arch
Conduit: Penstock
Turbine Type: Vertical Francis
1 BRYSON DEVELOPMENT - FERC No. 2601
' Bryson Development (Ela Reservoir) is a 42.9 acre impoundment located on the Oconaluftee
River in Swain County, NC. The reservoir is utilized for recreational fishing and production of
hydroelectric power. The 108 mil watershed is drained by the Oconaluftee River and its
' tributaries.
I

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I
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Temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles, recorded from June to September 1999, indicated a
lack of stratification. This is typical of increased flows associated with a run-of-river operation.
In August 1999, surface temperatures ranged from 20.1 to 22.0°C, and dissolved oxygen
concentrations ranged from 7.0 to 9.0 mg/l.
Electrofishing and gillnetting surveys conducted by Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) indicated
a coolwater fishery in the lake. The fishery consisted of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass,
rainbow trout, redbreast sunfish, bluegill and rockbass. Nongame species collected from the lake
included silver shiner, whitetail shiner, river chub, warpaint shiner, mirror shiner, golden redhorse,
black redhorse, northern hogsucker, and white sucker.

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Name: BRYSON CITY Location: 035'26'13+4" N 083° 23' 55.9" W
Date: 10/28/99 Caption: Bryson Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 2000 feet FERC No. 2601
Map 1 of 2
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc.
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Name: WHITTIER Location: 035° 26' 32.1 N 083° 21' 05.7" W
Date: 10/28/99 Caption: Bryson Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 2000 feet FERC No. 2601
Map2of2
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc

DILLSBORO DEVELOPMENT
FACT SKEET
a.
Power on Line: Station purchased by Nantahala Power and Light
Company from Dillsboro and Sylva Electric Company
on July 31, 1957. Rehabilitated and placed in
operation on January 3, 1958.
Drainage Area: 290 sq. mi.
Average Annual Runoff: 640 cfs
Reservoir Area: 13.9 acres (Useful storage is negligible)
Powerhouse: 2 Units
Total Installed Capacity: 281.5 KVA
Station Capability: 300 kw
Dam: Cyclopean and Stone Masonary
Conduit: Open Flume
Turbine Type: Unit 1: Smith - Kaplan
Unit 2: Type - Z (Francis)
DILLSBORO PROJECT - FERC No. 2602
I The Dillsboro development is a small 13.9 acre impoundment located on the Tuckasegee River in
Jackson County, NC. The reservoir is utilized primarily for recreational fishing and production of
' hydroelectric power. The 290 mi'` watershed is drained by the Tuckasegee River and its many
tributaries.
' In September 1999, surface temperatures ranged from 19.3 to 19.7°C with a dissolved oxygen
concentration of 8.3 mg/1. Temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles, recorded from June to
September 1999, revealed no stratification in the reservoir. Flow through the reservoir probably
' created mixing which made stratification impossible.
' The Dillsboro reservoir fishery is currently managed by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission
(NC WRC) as delayed harvest trout water.

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Name: GREENS CREEK Location: 035° 21'21.4" N 083° 16' 10.0" W
Date: 10/28/99 Caption: Dillsboro Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 1600 feet FERC No. 2602
Map 1 of 2
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc.
I

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Name: SYLVA SOUTH Location: 035' 21'18.7" N 083' 13'51.3" W
Date: 10/28/99 Caption: Dillsboro Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 1600 feet FERC No. 2602
Map 2 of 2

Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc

FRANKLIN DEVELOPMENT
FACT SHEET
Power on Line: 1925
Station purchased by Nantahala Power
and Light Company from Town of
Franklin on November 28, 1933.
Drainage Area: 310 sq. mi. (from TVA)
i Average Annual Runoff. 749 cfs
+q . Based on runoff at Prentiss and
Needmore and long term mean
at Needmore
' Reservoir Area: 198 acres (Useful storage is negligible)
Powerhouse: 2 Units

Total Installed Capacity: 1,040 kw
Station Capability: Max. head 1,200 kw
Dam: Concrete Gravity
Conduit: Open Flume
Turbine Type: Vertical Propeller

1 FRANKLIN PROJECT - FERC No. 2603
' I'he Franklin Development (Lake Emory) is a 198 acre impoundment located on the Little
Tennessee River in Macon County, NC. Lake Emory is utilized primarily for recreational fishing
' and production of hydropower. The 310 mi'- watershed is drained by the Little Tennessee River
and its various tributaries.
' In August 1999, surface temperatures ranged from 22.0 to 23.1 °C, and dissolved oxygen
concentrations ranged from 6.1 to 7.0 mg/l. Temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles on Lake
Emory revealed no stratification in any section of the reservoir. Increased flow through the lake
' probably caused mixing which made stratification impossible.
' Electrofishing and gillnetting surveys, conducted by TVA, indicated a limited fishery that included
largemouth bass, redbreast sunfish, green sunfish, bluegill, and warmouth. Nongame fish species
collected from the reservoir included common carp, golden redhorse, black redhorse, snail
' bullhead, and white sucker.
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?i .YSTA TiE PR,SON
7i16 ?.?. .?: CAMP i o 'Sz, rn RAINKLIN 1,
r J "" :) ?' ''.?7 J_ r' : • (2113)
` 1 4 ?{oG? •Fra nklii, 4 - , ..•
1
?ryn
Name. FRANKLIN Location: 035' 12' 04.5" N 083° 23' 43.0" W
Date: 10/29/99 Caption: Franklin Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 1600 feet FERC No. 2603
Map 1 of 2
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc.

• auga Bch .
"OL y; Creek
•ti? • - • .:-fir . ...v.
w . V Ar.7 Z ? +l
X13 Berry Mill -• ?j " d ? " a?00 ; ?.. ?
'Ridge- Cre-AtCh
'ovkrerS BFND' ,I
DAM
Ridge
sch
400,
-
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99 N? --
,,_:. `L,? . • e bbl ,.. ,r. ? . .tt. r . .
'30 /i

_`..33 `.•., ...? ,•.
llo:ly Springs
b. .
{
2 ;..t,7 ..
•} 2158 { C a
i / '
?<<iileh?.?n Ch - j ?•.as,t. Ftap1}??in•_??
Name: CORBIN KNOB Location: 035' 12'40.7" N 083' 21'19.7" W
Date: 10/29/99 Caption: Franklin Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 1600 feet FERC No. 2603
Map2of2

Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc
M = ? M M= M M M ? M? ? r?? ? M
MISSION DEVELOPMENT
FACT SHEET
Power on Line: December 2, 1924 Units 1 and 2
January 25, 1943 Unit 3
Station purchased by Nantahala Power
and Light Company from Town of
Andrews on December 27, 1929
Drainage Area: 292 sq. mi.
Average Annual Runoff: 680 cfs
Based on long term mean at
Chatuge and Murphy, N.C.
841 cfs (Daily Hydraulic
Report)
Reservoir Area: 61.4 acres (Useful storage is negligible)
Powerhouse: 3 Units
Total Installed Capacity: 1,800 kw
Station Capability: Max. head 2,200 kw
Darn: Ambursen
Conduit Lengths: 34.93 ft. - 8'-0" diameter penstock
Turbine Type: Vertical Francis
I
MISSION PROJECT - FERC No. 2619
1 Mission Reservoir is a 61.4 acre impoundment located on the Hiwassee River in Clay and
Cherokee Counties, NC. The reservoir is utilized for recreational fishing and production of
' hydroelectric power. The 292 mi' watershed is drained by the Hiwasee River and its tributaries.
I

I

I

Environmental data will be made available at a later date.

41
NW,
VABM 2046 \?A / ?1[J7••'• ,r /' 1 '?-4 ! ` ,? J
:\? `•`?5??? ?. `l.
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r (
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i
r _j
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-a'. • ? (. Green .. ^?\'? ?- ?? \? ? ? :=J \? { V j /
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7874 i `, _ . ?" \ i`\?br-? Gv.=; 'f/'??A•' ? _ - ,'
,?1°$ICIe¢rPStrnd Ch ?.F 77
+3w Wiggins Top
Name: PEACHTREE Location: 035' 03' 37-4" N 083° 55' 06.8" W
' Date: 10/29/99 Caption: Mission Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 2000 feet FERC No. 2619
Map 1 of 1
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc.

THORPE DEVELOPMENT
FACT SHEET
Date Completed: Power on line: October 14, 1941
Dam Closure: February 12, 1941
Drainage Area: 36.7 sq. mi.
Average Annual Runoff: 103 efs
Reservoir Area: 1,462 acres
Powerhouse. 1 Unit
Total Installed Capacity: 21,600 kw
Station Capability: Max. head 23,200 kw
Dam: Earth and Rock fill
Conduit Lengths: Tunnel: 15,485.98 feet
Penstock: 800.57 feet to
lace of gate valve
Total: 16,286.55 feet
Turbine Type: Horizontal Impulse
i M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M
TUCKASEGEE DEVELOPMENT
FACT SHEET
Date Completed: Power on Line: May 26, 1950
Dam Closure: May 24, 1950
Drainage Area: 54.7 sq. mi.
Average Annual Runoff: 158 cfs
Reservoir Area: 7.9 acres
Powerhouse: 1 Unit
Total Installed Capacity: 3,000 kw
Station Capability: Max. head 3,000 kw
Dam: Concrete Arch
Conduit Lengths: Tunnel: 3,246.21 feet to Surge Shaft
Penstock: 197.82 feet to Scroll Case
Total: 3,444.03 feet
Turbine Type: Vertical Francis
1 WEST FORK PROJECT (Tuckasegee) - FERC No. 2686
' Thorpe Development
Thorpe Development (Thorpe Lake) is a 1462 acre reservoir located on the West Fork
' Tuckasegee River in Jackson County, NC. The reservoir is utilized for recreational fishing,
swimming, and boating, as well as producing hydroelectric power. The 36.7 mil watershed is
drained by the West Fork Tuckasegee River, Norton Creek, Hurricane Creek, Cedar Creek, Mill
' Creek, and Pine Creek.
The reservoir is oligotrophic indicated by total phosphorous concentration of 0.01 mg/1, total
' organic nitrogen concentration of 0.07 mg/1 and a chlorophyll a measurement of 44g/l. In August
1995, surface temperatures ranged from 25.5 to 26.0°C, and dissolved oxygen ranged from 8.1 to
8.4 mg/l.. Temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles, measured from July through October
1999, indicated that Thorpe Reservoir was stratified during summer and early fall. Mixing
became evident in the upper lake in the September profiles.
' Historically, Thorpe Lake has supported a diverse fishery consisting of rainbow and brown trout,
largemouth and smallmouth bass, black and white crappie, walleye, and sunfish. Nongame fish
species also observed in the reservoir include golden shiner, white shiner, river chub, northern
hogsucker, white sucker, a redhorse species, threadfin shad and gizzard shad.
' Thorpe Reservoir is classified as WS-III B by the NC Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (NC DENR) Division of Water Quality.

Tuckasegee Development
Tuckasegee Development (Little Glenville Reservoir) is a small 7.9 acre reservoir located on the
West Fork Tuckasegee River downstream of Thorpe Lake in Jackson County, NC. The reservoir
is utilized for recreational fishing, boating and hydroelectric power. The watershed is drained by
the West Fork Tuckasegee River and its tributaries.
I Little Glenville Reservoir is managed by the NC WRC as hatchery supported trout water.

T F14
{' \ ?/ Jt 1r W• a i 'Foils /-?
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I r

Name: GLENVILLE Location: 035° 13'00.8" N 083° 08' 57.9" W
Date: 10/29/99 Caption: West Fork Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 2000 feet FERC No. 2686
Map 1 of 2
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc.

\ J So ?rt
Irv `a
A."
3891
(htiml F&II.• it •:." ? '- Chestnut I
Mtn
;i Creel 7r 10
W. r Opt / ?? .. ? (_?'? r. '. ? ? ;,/- .• i {' / C.`
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1 + ' ? j , Iii l ' (' o r \t + - ,l I ppr•
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Knob'
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I

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Cll . _? Cti . ?i
` ' °° (.). ?' • ?/ i! ??_.?_ , ? ' ??? -? 1 ?_.__-sb°° l l' e " _ r5,. r . 3691
Name: GLENVILLE Location: 035° 10' 11.8" N 083° 09' 19.3" W
Date: 10/29/99 Caption: West Fork Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 2500 feet FFRC No. 2686
Map2of2
I
I

I
I
Copyright (C) 1997.

NANTAHALA DEVELOPMENT
FACT SHEET
Date Completed: Power on line: July 6, 1942
Dam Closure: January 30, 1942
?Y 'V _
.,.tits
4V t
[4_? 'T ?. ,fix 17"
S
Drainage Area: 108.3 sq. mi. (with Dicks Creek
and White Oak)
Average Annual Runoff- 350 cfs (with Dicks Creek
and White Oak)
Reservoir Area: 1,605 acres
Powerhouse: 1 unit
Total Installed Capacity: 43,200 kw
k = t Station Capability: Max. head 47,000 kw
Dam. Nantahala - Earth and Rock Fill
p. ' ' Dicks Creek - Concrete
White Oak -Concrete
Conduit Lengths: Nantahala - Tunnel: 27,663.12 feet of Surge Shall:
Penstock: 1,991.23 feet to Scroll Case
Total: 29,654.35 feet
Dicks Creek - Tunnel: 0
Pipeline: 3.874.87
Total: 3,874.87
White Oak - Tunnel: 2,045
Pipeline: 9,400
Total: 11,445
Turbine Type: Vertical Francis
. ?k6y fib A s1-?rr??.?•?? ,,?'?... .??. . , ? r., ? ?
,} { 4 T
Dicks Creek
sfr".v ? ? -. • K
s ,tom; ,
Diamond Valley

NANTAHALA PROJECT - FERC No. 2692
Nantahala Development (Nantahala Lake, Whiteoak Creek, Dicks Creek, Diamond Valley)
includes 1605 acres of impoundments located on the Nantahala River in Macon County, NC. The
' reservoirs are utilized for recreational fishing, swimming, boating and production of hydroelectric
power. The 108.3 mi` watershed is drained by the Nantahala River, Wolf Creek, Jarrett Creek,
Wine Spring Creek, Whiteoak Creek, and Dicks Creek.
' Nantahala Lake is oligotroPhic indicated by measurements of total phosphorus (0.02 mg/1), total
organic nitrogen (0.1 mg/1), and chlorophyll a (1 ug/1) in August 1994. Surface temperatures
ranged from 24.5 to 24.7°C, with dissolved oxygen concentrations ranging from 7.1 to 7.3 mg/1
in August 1999. Temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles recorded from July to September
1999 indicated that Nantahala Reservoir was stratified during summer and early fall.
Although Nantahala Lake is clear and exhibits low productivity, the lake has supported an
extremely diverse fishery. Historically, the fishery has consisted of salmonids (rainbow trout and
' kokanee salmon), bass (largemouth and smallmouth), panfish (redbreast sunfish, bluegill, green
sunfish, warmouth, black crappie, and white crappie), walleye, yellow perch, and channel catfish.
Nongame fish species observed in Nantahala Lake included whitetail shiner, white sucker, silver
redhorse, and northern hogsucker.
I Nantahala Lake is classified as B TR by the NC DENR Division of Water Quality. The lake is
managed by the NC WRC as wild trout water.

I

I

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- 40 254 iK1CH ..R °3EOLJ 1LAL BUR CY_ 0'A t 2 b N ] IYBA 83'3 T 30
' 2?DwOGm . E .
Name: TOPTON Location: 035' 08' 59.5" N 083' 38'59-2" W
' Date: 10/29/99 Caption: Nantahala Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 2000 feet FERC No. 2692
Map3of3
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc.

TENNESSEE CREEK DEVELOPMENT
PACT SHEET
Date Completed: Wolf Creek: Power on Line: May 19, 1955
Dam Closure: March 22, 1955
East Fork: Power on Line: May 19, 1955
Dam Closure: April 18, 1955
Drainage Area: 40.1 sq. mi.
Average Annual Runoff: 138 cfs

mow-
Wolf Creek
1 Reservoir Area:
Powerhouse: 1 Unit
Wolf Creek 183 acres
East Fork 40 acres
Total 223 acres
? ?'Total Installed Capacity: 9,800 kw
•? > :^ Station Capability: Max. head 10,200 kw
Dam: Earth Face Rock Fill
Conduit Lengths: Tunnel:
Wolf Creek to Tunnel Junction:
East Fork to Tunnel Junction:
Main Tunnel (to Portal)
Steel Pipeline: Portal to Unit
Total
Turbine Type: Vertical Francis
1,704 feet
968 feet
2,051 feet
2,468 feet
7,191 feet

BEAR CREEK DEVELOPMENT
FACT SHEET
Date Completed: Power on Line: March 26, 1954
Dam Closure: October 8, 1953
Dam Completed: November 28, 1953
Drainage Area: 75.3 sq. mi.
Average Annual Runoff: 230 efs
Reservoir Area: 476 acres
Powerhouse: 1 Unit
Total Installed Capacity: 9,000 kw
Station Capability: Max. head 10,180 kw
Dam- Earth Face Rock Fill
Conduit Lengths: Tunnel and Penstock: 1,484 feet
Turbine Type: Vertical Francis

CEDAR CLIFF DEVELOPMENT
FACT SHEET
ii J [
y
? ;o F
r
ff s a .t ? ? ? ??° a
,r

i„
?. .yam ?''•?' ?ti.?.e '1:
Y * ? 'air
r0i:

Date Completed: Power on Line: August 22, 1952
Dam Closure: April 26, 1952
Drainage Area: 80.7 sq. mi.
Average Annual Runoff: 239 cfs
Reservoir Area: 121 acres
Powerhouse: 1 Unit
Total Installed Capacity: 6,375 kw
Station Capability: Max. head 7,200 kw
Dam: Earth Face Rock Fill
Conduit Lengths: "Funnel and Penstock: 1,138 feet
Turbine Type: Vertical Francis

' EAST FORK PROJECT (Tuckasegee) - FERC No. 2698
' Tennessee Creek Development
' The Tennessee Creek Development (Tennessee Creek Lake and Wolf Creek Lake) includes 223
acres of impoundments located on the East Fork Tuckasegee River and Wolf Creek in Jackson
' County, NC. The two reservoirs are utilized for recreational fishing and production of
hydroelectric power. The 40.1 mil watershed is drained by the Tuckasegee River, Wolf Creek,
Tennessee Creek, and numerous tributaries.
' Wolf Creek Lake is oligotrophic indicated by measurements of total phosphorus (0.01 mg/1), total
organic nitrogen (0.115 mg/1), and chlorophyll a (10 ,cg11) in August 1988. In August 1998, Wolf
' Creek Lake surface temperatures ranged from 24.7 to 24.9°C, and dissolved oxygen
concentrations ranged from 6.7 to 7.3 mg/1. Temperature and oxygen profiles in Wolf Creek
Lake from July through October 1998 indicated stratification in middle to late summer with a fall
' turnover occurring during October.
The coolwater fishery hi Wolf Creek Lake included smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, bluegill,
' redbreast sunfish, rockbass, walleye, and brown trout. Nongame fish species observed include
white sucker, whitetail shiner, and goldfish. Wolf Creek Lake is managed as hatchery supported
trout water.
' In August 1999, Tennessee Creek Lake surface temperatures ranged from 23.9 to 24.0°C and
dissolved oxygen concentrations ranged from 7.7 to 7.8 mg/1. Historically, Tennessee Creek Lake
' has supported a primarily coolwater fishery consisting of brook trout, brown trout, rock bass, and
bluegill. Tennessee Creek Lake is managed by NC WRC as hatchery supported trout water.
' Bear Creek Development
' Bear Creek Development (Bear Creek Lake) is a 476 acre reservoir located on the East Fork
Tuckasegee River in Jackson County, NC. The reservoir is utilized for recreational fishing,
boating, swimming and production of hydroelectric power. The 75.3 mil watershed is drained by
' the Tuckasegee River, Bear Creek, Gladie Creek, Robinson Creek, Flat Creek, Sols Creek and
Neddie Creek.
' The reservoir is oligotrophic indicated by measurements of total phosphorus (0.03 mg/1), total
organic nitrogen (0.12 mg/1), and chlorophyll a (2yg/1). In August 1994, surface temperatures
' ranged from 23.3 to 23.5 °C with dissolved oxygen ranging from 8.1 to 8.3 mg/1. Temperature
and dissolved oxygen profiles, recorded from June to September 1999, indicated that stratification
began to break down early in the fall with turnover imminent.
' Historically, Bear Creek Lake has supported a diverse fishery including brown and rainbow trout,
largemouth and smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish, bluegill, rockbass, and white crappie.

' Nongame fish species include white sucker, warpaint shiner, northern hogsucker, river chub, and
brown bullhead.
Bear Creek Lake is classified as WS-III B TR by the NC DENR Division of Water Quality. The
reservoir is managed by NC WRC as hatchery supported trout water.
Cedar Cliff Development
' Cedar Cliff Development (Cedar Cliff Lake) is a 121 acre impoundment located on the East Fork
Tuckasegee River in Jackson County, NC. The reservoir is utilized mostly for recreational
fishing, boating, and production of hydroelectric power. The 80.7 mil watershed is mostly
forested and is drained by the Tuckasegee River and Kiesee Creek.
t The reservoir is oligotrophic indicated by measurements of total phosphorus (0.01 mg/1), total
organic nitrogen (0.05 mg/1), and chlorophyll a (5 yg11). In July 1988, surface temperatures
t ranged from 24.7 to 26.7°C, and dissolved oxygen concentrations ranged from 6.4 to 9.2 mg/1.
Temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles recorded from July to September 1999 indicated that
stratification was similar to Bear Creek with mixing evident in September and fall turnover
' imminent.
Historic fish surveys indicated a coolwater fishery present in Cedar Cliff Lake including brown
' and brook trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish, bluegill, and rockbass.
Nongame fish observed in the reservoir included river chub, whitetail shiner, mirror shiner,
blacknose dace, northern hogsucker, and a redhorse species.
Cedar Cliff Lake is classified as B TR by the NC DENR Division of Water Quality. The reservoir
is managed by the NC WRC as hatchery supported trout water.
t

I

3908
C.CWartA
?y Caney FO
7'30'

y -_ Johres• C
t
}"? BrOnch Panther
Knob \ J + /
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3903
Ceda
- ;' -Ch
Mtn
5015, ------ ...i .- -- ._ ,
83°07'30• 7TC.000 F: LT - -- '-' (l8 ?f19 11

Name: TUCKASEGEE Location: 035' 16'29.2" N 083' 06'03.0" W
Date: 10/29/99 Caption: East Fork Development
Scale: 1 inch equals 2000 feet FERC No. 2698
Map 1 of 4
I
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a
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3078
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Ir.
12111
f Grassy <
\ Gap„ - labs Boardtree ?kot)
S'47
Seetree
Knob Knob
i g Goat
Knob
?4)f
Bridge
r,?,A Lower Rock
Isinglass

r
0
o
J
\`?/? s Tri
e ', Knob
?.
Buxzardl" i
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Rodst ?
i f l K c-•, I j
\\l ?'11 a?
Defeat r ` f ovof .'. Q <
J
V';.
Fox Knob O
' I Name: BIG RIDGE
Date: 10/29/99
Scale 1 inch equals 2000 feet

12
1.
i(1\ 1

Location: 035' 13'31.5" N 083' 01' 30.5" W
Caption: East Fork Development
FERC No. 2698
Map3of4
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc.
1

fl

g 3 ° oo• 1t9B0°" 1J20 121 57'30' 122
iT ? 1 .
Horse5hde - +$
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_ tanasee I
9100 .r\.
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SM LR 906
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Creek
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A 1" P
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71
Wolf Mountain 1 )Y'
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1#91. BM LR 907 `\ =; `? _ OPRY
7
Rock Bri dgA x.3268 ?f ^1 i ROUnd f 1
hR i
Name: LAKE TOXAWAY Location: 035' 13'31.2" N 082' 58'28.9" W
Date 10/29/99 Caption: East Fork Development
Scale 1 inch equals 2000 feet FERC No. 2698
Map4of4
Copyright (C) 1997, Maptech, Inc.

' UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
BEFORE THE
FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION
Nantahala Power & Light Company ) Project No. 2692 (Nantahala R.)
Project No. 2698 (E. Fork Tuckasegee R.)
Project No. 2686 (W. ForkTuekasegee R.)
' NANTAHALA & TUCKASEGEE PROJECTS SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
' This Settlement Agreement ("Agreement") is made by Nantahala Power & Light
Company ("NP&L"), the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
Resources ("NCDENR"), the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service
' (" USDAFS"), and the United States Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife Service
("USDIFWS") (collectively referred to herein as "Parties").
This Agreement is made in connection with the requirements of Article 32 of
Project 2692 (Nantahala River) which require NP&L to conduct studies to determine the
need for a minimum flow release or other operational modifications at the Nantahala
' project to ensure protection and enhancement of fishery and wildlife resources, the
...maintenance of water quality, and the accommodation of downstream recreational,
activities. Article 32 of Project 2686 (West Fork Tuckasegee River) and Article 27 of
' Project 2698 (East Fork Tuckasegee River) require NP&L to conduct studies to determine
the minimum flov release needed to ensure protection and enhancement of fishery and
.wildlife resources, and the maintenance of water duality. The purpose of this Agreement
r is to set forth the terms and conditions which the Parties agree will satisfy the
requirements of these license articles.
' This Agreement is subject in every particular to the terms set forth below in their
entirety and is made with the understanding that each term is in consideration and support
of every other ten-n.
'
The Parties agree as follows;
z.
'
'
s continued
1, The commission should approve this agreement for NP&L
operation and maintenance of the Projects on terms and conditions which are set out in
' this Agreement and should satisfy outstanding minimum flow conditions imposed upon
NP&L as licensee of the projects.
' 2. With respect to Project 2698 (East Fork Tuckasegee River), NP&L will
release a minimum instantaneous flow of 10 efs into the East Fork of the Tuckasegee
River to provide a continuous flow in the two miles of stream between Cedar Cliff
t powerhouse and the confluence with the West Fork of the Tuckasegee.
3. NP&L will provide up to $30,000 to the USDAFS for the rehabilitation of the
outlet works for a cold water release at Balsam Lake in mitigation for the Wolf Creek
' bypass.

I

4. With respect to Project 2686 (West Fork Tuckasegee River), NP&L will
release a minimum instantaneous flow of 20 cfs or the stream flow entering Little
Glenville Lake from the West Fork of the Tuckasege:. River, whichever is less, into the
West Fork of the Tucka.segee River to provide a continuous flow in the two miles of
stream between Little Glenville powerhouse and the confluence with the East Fork of the
Tuekasegee River.
5. NP&L will install and maintain calibrated staff gages on the West and East
Forks of the Tuckasegee River downstream of the Little Glenville and Cedar Cliff
powerhouses at agreed upon locations.
6. With respect to Project 2692 (Nantahala River):
A. NP&L will no longer divert flow from Dicks Creek. NP&L tivill release 8
cfs from the White Oak pipeline into Dicks Creek from July 1 to November 15. These
releases will provide additional flow in the Nantahala River below Dicks Creels. No
stream flow monitoring, such as gages, will be required.
B. For downstream recreational purposes, 606 cfs (3.18 on the USGS
established gage) is the preferred acceptable flow that will accommodate downstream
recreational activities. For short periods of time, a min='um threshold flow of 538 cfs
(3,06 on the USGS established gage) can be tolerated, NP&L will provide flow for the
recreational activities except during maintenance, emergencies, or extended periods of
drought.
7. The Parries represent that this Agreement provides improvement for fish,
wildlife; ,water quality, and accommodates recreation as required for Project 2692
(Nantahala 'River), Project 2686 (West Form Tuckasegee River), and Project 2698 (East
Fork Tuckasegee River).
8. If the Commission should fail to approve this Agreement in its entirety, any
party to this Agreement may, within 30 days of the Commission's action, withdraw its
support of this Agreement by written notice to the other Parties and to the Commission
specifying the inconsistencies between this Agreement and the Commission's order to
which it objects and, in such event, this Agreement shall be of no force and effect.
WHEREFORE, this Agreement dated as of March 27, 1998 is hereby executed
by the following parties:
' NANTAHALA POWER & LIGHT COMP:AIxIY
Presiden. D Ate
' NORTH CAR A DEPAR'T'MENT OF ONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
By
' Secretary Date

USDA, FOREST SERVICE
Forest Supervisor, Nat' a Forester Date
In North Carolina
USDI, FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
BY ?' "3 /yam 5
Fie 4 Supervisor Date
4 ?
NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
September 24, 1999
Mr. John Dorney
N. C. Division of Water Quality
Non-Discharge Branch
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27669-1621
RE: Public Notice for Water Quality Certification of Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
Dear Mr. Dorney:
Nantahala Power and Light has reviewed the draft 401 water quality certification for
Queens Creels reservoir and would like to go on record as being opposed to the releases
requested in Condition 4. During the negotiation process between Nantahala Power and
Light and the resource agencies, NP&L performed an analysis of the impacts resulting
from the proposed release. This release represents a 39% loss of generation annually and
could ultimately result in shutting down the Queens Creek project. The loss of
generation will necessitate the purchasing of replacement power which will probably be
generated from a non renewable source of energy. Purchase of power from an external
service source will result in an increase in rates to Nantahala's customers.
Due to the potential adverse impacts to area recreation and in the interest of Nantahala's
59,000 rate payers, we would like to request that a public hearing be held to solicit
comments from all interested parties in the Nantahala service area.
Enclosed you will find a summary of the negotiations amongst Nantahala Power and
Light, the resource agencies, and other interested parties.
Sincerely,
Thomas D. Smitherman
Vice President - Production,
Transmission and Distribution
TDS/ckb
Enclosure

N.C. Department of Water Resources
No comments received.
E.9.2.2 Summary of Negotiation Meetings with Resource Agencies and NGOs
As part of the effort to reach a Settlement Agreement amongst NP&L, the resource agencies, and
the NGOs, a series of meetings was held with all parties in 1999 to review and discuss each
party's proposals for recreational development, lake levels, and instream flow needs. Minutes of
the meeting as taken by the NP&L consultant, a list of attendees, a copy of each letter notifying
everyone of the meetings, and correspondence received concerning negotiations are included in
Appendix XI. A summary of each meeting is as follows:
March 2. 1999
After a review of the methods used to evaluate the IFIM study, the resource agencies offered the
following flow recommendations based on pre-project conditions and watershed yields of 12.6 cfs
calculated using a USGS model and data from a different stream:
Month Recommended Flow* Month Recommended Flow*
Jan 3.5 July 3.0
Feb 4.0 Aug 2.5
March 4.0 Sept 2.0
April 4.0 Oct 2.0
May 4.0 Nov 2.5
June 3.5 Dec 3.5
* This release is to be from the dam in addition to the flow that is already there.
When compared to existing conditions in Queens Creek, the resource agencies request increased
the WUA in Queens Creek by as much as 305 % for some life stages of the target organisms at
certain times of the year. However, to date, the resource agencies have refused to recognize the
fact that the analysis should be based on existing conditions, not pre-project conditions. Their
analysis using pre-project conditions is presented in Table E-5 and Figures E-8 - E-11.
This proposal was evaluated by NP&L staff for impact to the water budget and economic
feasibility. The analysis is presented in Tables E-6 and E-7 and Figure E-12. The Queens Creek
project generates 5000 MWh and the agency request represents a loss of 1962 MWh.
Examination of the flow data from 1950 to 1998 showed that there was insufficient water to peak,
spill, and maintain lake elevations ranging from 9 to 81 percent of the time. Analysis of the rule
curves show that the lake would go dry if the agency requested release was provided.
In addition to the economic loss to the Licensee, the 12.6 cfs value derived from the USGS model
was questioned. NP &L data from 49 years of actual records of monitoring Queens Creek
Reservoir surface elevations and load levels for the generator indicated that the average annual
flow was 8.3 cfs. To further verify this relationship, the generator was set to run with an
39

Table E-5.
Queens Creek WIA Study -Time Series Analysis DWR 5128199
Changes in Index C• for Differewt Mirdmum Releases Compared to Pre-Prdje<ct C.Onditlons
HIGH GRAVEKT BEATMOS EXVERSITy
EXISnRG 5 ds 4.5cfs 4 Cf5 as ds 3 ds 2.5 ds 2 cfs 1-5 ds 0.7 ds
ONTH % CW.44GE 1o- CHAHC£ 75 CR4NGE % CK304GE •f. Crae.NCE % CK*4?GE % CRANGE 75 G>W GE T-C1'_Q4GE % c.HAkh_
drab -8d.5S6 2.914 -4.4% -11-frA -19.2% -28.9X -4fl_4Y? -51.1'4 -6'1.0'4 -76.7%
EEB -86-656 C11ki -6.5 13.650 246% •23.4'x, -393% -48.8X -`9.554 -74.1%
MAR -84 rs9S 3.a"A -3-4% _10.61A
-1:.8`so
25 59?
-35 89D
-?7:?
?7`Yo
71.5`.5
APR -8Ei:9% -1.7% -0-3% -15.2% -22.1% -29_8° -40..+°a`o 503% -601% -74.61h
00-AY -90.7% -7.94A 44.6% 4.6% -21-3% -27_ E3•'A -36.9% -47. f'A -5&.9% _65.6% _a0.0%
JLM -91.156 6.30A -1.6*A -9.6% -E7.51A -30.256 -41.91,5 -53.0'6 -62.9'A -80.2%
jut -rQ.2'b 27-6% 17.7-% 5.2% -2.2% 41110A -022% -45.5% -57.5`,e -78.3%%
4LAG -?320`311 5&.9% 44.7'71 32.S'*A 16.6% -0.9% 18.3%10 34.5°x. -49.714 -75.1-%
SirP -91.6 8 84.0% 69.7%1 55.e% 37.9% 15.3% -242% A2Z3% -72,01X
OCT -91-2% 109.S% 93.5% 77.7` 56.4% ao_6% 7.11x. -14.4% -05.2% -09.0%
'•iG1f -91.936 61.3% 46.6% %-7% 217% 4.814 -16,1% -32.945 -48.6% Tai o?
DEC -91.7'h &64-1 D.4°b 7.6% 15.7:9 28.7'X, 40.7% -52.0% -82.152 15.6
RAINOCOA1 TROUT ADULT
EYUSTING 5 cfs 4.5 ds 4 cfs 3.5 ds 3 cts 2s ds 2 ds 1.5 ds 0..1 cl:

iC;1TH
% CHAY+GE
sG G:alr-E
52 ctw=E
56 t4 ANCE
C}w?IGE
S CW04C,E
` _
X_C}WA n C}lAr; Gt1411r
ls?f? -528` 7.3`4. 5.d3b 27`)6 -1.Z;?c S.J,6 -11_$x -i7-7° -24?`k• -37.3'
FEB -4823% 6-8% 5.256 2.S% -0.5% 5.154 -1 -16.11A -22.3% -34.4 `.
MAR -45.6°•6 7.4% S-7% 3.6'.6 G L!5% -3.9:x• -9.21'4 •14.7°.6 •20.6'.5 -0 24 `N
APR -46.6`5 6.214 y.6% 2.3% -1.1% -5.6% -16.6'.6 G?.8'b -39.63
MAY -54
5`11 5.0% 3.9 % 0-4% -3.54.E -6.6'.6 -14-1% -19.8`:1 -26-3% -3g.35r
JUN .
-59_4: 52`1'0 3.155 -0.194 -0.6.x`0 -1011°5 -15.5°p 21_x`6 -28.4`k` x!2_",`5
JUL -60.8 , S0.7S6 8.4 14 4,6A -0.,314 -62% -72.0'4 -18.6°6 -26.2',6 41.6,
AUG _61.0% T9.01113 16.3% 12.440 6.,5%1 0.2'X. -6.211.6 -13.5X. -21.9% -38951
SE's X3.956 26.2`x'. 23.1'4 185` 12.5"A 5.8% -1.111h -6.854
OCT -60.6`1. 328% 28.6'x, 23.7400 17.3% 10.414 3.1'6 S.OYe -14_6`:0 -ZA2
}I -61.0% 20.4% 17.540 13.2'.5 7.6'A 1.224 -38 S0
3EC -592% 6.0% 4-0% 0.7',6 -92% -14.6X, -20.936 •27.9,6 -42.8`.,-
AKOT-4'LED SCULPIN ADULT
EXISTING 5ds 4.5 ds 4 cds 3.5 cfs 3 ds 2.5 ds 2 ds 1.5 ds G.7 c=
MONTH % CtGttY:E ?' CriAI.*? ? C}i?J4GE `b C}{?}Y E % mw+GE % -UW*GE %CK04CE % a'ANGE % Cti4NGE S CAW'
JAN 056
-72 _
3`?
7 10.3`!. -13.790 -17.15 22.6',6
FEE .
•89
6'6 .
•13.4`x`0 -16.1% -26.74A -31-6% -37.7,0 44.6`?0 -57.0•.
h1-+R .
4'x.
-63 -15.7% -18-3% -21.1% -24-3% 28.1 % -329% 38.5% -44.S%, -56.7"
`
APR .
7%
-69 43.8'h •16.590 •19.4x14 -22.8'6 -44-.,V -57.2
'
7AAY _
7%
-72 906
-6 - W.0% -13.4% - 17.5% -22.6 , 35.6% -43.5`4 .
-572
.
JUN .
d'6
75 .
3.2% -4.4% -9.3'11 t5.5'b -2?Ji'Y. 20,61A -40.2'x. -55.9
,
JUL ,
3 %
-77 12.9° 99. cr% 4.3% -1.4% -54.2
"
A JG .
5%
-78 25-5% 20_3% 15.634 6.9% am -8.4% -19.1% -30.14 51.2
SEP .
-79
14x, 35.636 30.9% 24.9'15 17-5°1. 8.7% -1.5% -132% -26.1%
-
OCT .
496
-79 45
4% 40.0% 33.524 25.54,6 15.9-90 -7.8% -21.61A -45.9
N01V .
614
-78 .
27.3% 22.71A 1771% 10.4`y. 229% -7.2'1. 41B.1 % __11;3.1'X• ga.7
. 3.3% -0.21,5. -4. VA -9.2% -15.4'x.
?
-22.6°%
.0. a5b
X02% ,
`14.0
* This table is a copy of the fax received from the resource agencies,
showing their IFIM results based on pre-project conditions.
40
i .r
Table E-5. Continued.
W7.64.
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estimated 14.1 cfs flow and the actual flow was measured in the trailrace. The calculated flow in
the tailrace was 13.54 cfs (Appendix )UI ) as compared to the estimated 14.1 cfs that was being
released. Therefore, we reasonably believe that the flows calculated from the 49 years of actual
data are accurate.
As a result of this overall analysis, NP&L declined to accept the resource agency proposal based
on the loss of generation. To. implement their proposal would cost NP&L approximately 39
percent of the generation at Queens Creek.
As an alternative, NP&L offered the following mitigation package:
1. Maintain the lake at full pool year-a-round starting in 2000. (Except during
emergencies and maintenance)
2. Provide an access area for bank fishing and a disabled person fishing pier.
3. Provide a boat ramp for the lake.
In response to this proposal, the resource agencies indicated that they liked the recreational
enhancement. The agencies further agreed that the lake should be kept full from May 1 through
August 31. However, no release of water into Queens Creek below the dam was totally
unacceptable.
Mu 17, 1999
By letter of May 17, 1999, NP&L presented a counter proposal to release 0.7 cfs from the dam,
year-round. This release along with the present flow in the creek would provide for
approximately 1.2 c£s at the top of the study area and the 7Q 10 of 1.4 cfs at the mouth of Queens
Creek. No recreation package was offered with this proposal. The benefits of this release in
terms of increase in WA over existing conditions are presented in Appendix XIII. While the
annual cost of this release to the Licensee was calculated to be $6,864, the total cost over 30
years would be $205,920.
June 9. 1999
The purpose of this meeting was to continue our discussions with regard to the NP&L proposal
of May 17, 1999 and to review the resource agencies' revised proposed Settlement Agreement.
As a counter offer, the agencies presented the following:
Lake level-Within one (1) foot of full pool elevation May 1-July 31
Within one (2) foot of full pool elevation-August 1-October 31
Maximum of seven (7) feet draw down November 1-April 30
The flow release at the dam into Queens Creek would be as follows:
Three (3) cfs - January 1-June 30
Two (2) cfs - July 1-December 31
49
The agencies requested that the Licensee make this release for five (5) years. At the end of this
time, a co-operative management team would evaluate this release scenario on the fish and
benthic community. After this evaluation, another (lower) release would be made for five (5)
years and again the co-operative management team would evaluate the results of this study.
Evaluation by NP&L staff for impact to the water budget and economic feasibility is presented in
Tables E-6 - E-7 and Figure E-13. To comply with this five (5) year evaluation proposal, the
Licensee would have a loss of 1,529 Kwh and $24,464 in lost revenue per year for a total of
7,645 Kwh and $122,320 in lost revenue over the (5) five year period. This loss is in addition to
the cost of the study which has been estimated to be between $80,000 to $100,000 (Appendix
IV).
The resource agencies position on this Settlement Agreement was that, if the Licensee did not
concur with it, then the agencies would return to their March 2, 1999 proposal for flows below
the dam. In addition, they would request the recreational package and the lake levels that were
proposed in June.
During a break in the meeting, the landowners around Queens Creek Reservoir presented NP&L
with 13 letters from individuals opposing the development of a public boating launch, camping
facilities, or the use of motorized boats on the lake (Appendix XV).
Jul 20 , 1999
The Licensee notified each of the participants (Appendix XI) that their latest Settlement
Agreement proposal is as follows:
Queens Creek Reservoir
May 1-July 31, maintain a pool elevation within one (1) foot of full pool
August 1-November 1, maintain a pool elevation within two (2) feet of full pool
November 1-April 30, no more than seven (7) feet of drawdown
(Exception: emergencies and maintenance)
Develop the following recreational facilities to meet the needs of the people of our
service area and all other parts of western North Carolina- (1) a public bank fishing
area; (2) an access area that would allow for the launching of small "tote and float"
type craft; (3) a handicapped accessible fishing pier.
Queens Creek-
May 1 through Nov 1 release at the dam of 0.7 cfs
This package provides recreation, the 7Q10 release at the mouth of Queens Creek year round,
and an increase in WUA for all target species (Table E-8).
50

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51
Table E-8. Increase in WUA for target species in Queens Creek as related to NP&L's proposed release
of 0.7 cfs from May 1 to November 1 compared to existing conditions.
WUA NP&L's WUA at Increase
Target Species at 0.5 cfs proposed proposed in
(e)dsting) release release WUA

Rainbow Trout (Spawning) 0 0.7 0 0%
Rainbow Trout Fry 1857.72 0.7 2023.13 9%
Rainbow Trout Juveniles 826.55 0.7 971.94 17%
Rainbow Trout Adults 1634.81 0.7 1869.86 14%
Mottled Sculpin (Spawning) 1530.80 0.7 2039.31 33%
Mottled Sculpin Fry 1929.79 0.7 2538.38 32%
Mottled Sculpin Juv/Adult 1960.85 0.7 2590.88 32%
Ephemeroptera 1708.57 0.7 2008.18 17%
Plecoptera 142.70 0.7 188.09 32%
Trichoptera 1421.43 0.7 1673.90 18%
Macroinvertebrate Comm Diversity 667.49 0.7 827.51 24%
52
August 20. 1999
The consensus at this meeting was that the resource agencies would not accept the Licensee's
proposal as presented in the July 20, 1999 letter. Rather the agencies would revert back to the
March 2, 1999 recommendation, plus the recreational benefits. At this point everyone agreed to
disagree and submit the license to the FERC.
E.9.2.3 Request for Additional Studies/Information Following the 2nd Stage
Consultation Meeting
Following a review of the comments from the 2nd Stage Consultation Package on December 1,
1998, the resource agencies felt that additional studies were needed in three different areas: (1)
additional temperature and dissolved oxygen data from the lake; (2) additional fish sampling on
the lake; (3) expanded fish sampling in Queens Creek.
On April 8, 1999, an additional request was made by the NC WRC to conduct an intake velocity
study at Queens Creek Reservoir to verify the calculated intake velocities.
The supporting correspondence for the studies is included in Appendix XVI and the status of each
of these requests is as follows:
Additional temperature and dissolved oxygen data from the lake
June 19, 1996-USFWS requested an instream flow study and indicated that other studies
may be needed after further review of the project
June 20, 1996-NC WRC Preliminary Comments regarding the Queens Creek Project-
"The applicant should provide information on water quality in the reservoir,
specifically temperature and dissolved oxygen"
July 26, 1996-NC WRC advised NP&L that during the relicensing process they
would be "interested in temperature and dissolved oxygen parameters in
reservoirs"
July-October 1996-FWA collected temperature and dissolved oxygen data at one (1)
station in this 37-acre lake.
May 14, 1997-USFWS requested three (3) additional years of temperature and dissolved
oxygen data in addition to the 1996 effort. They wanted stations at several
locations and a 60-day review period of the draft study plan in order to conduct
site visits of the sample locations, if needed.
June 11, 1997-At the First Stage Consultation Meeting, both the NC WRC and USFWS
agreed to collecting one more year of temperature and dissolved oxygen data on
53
Queens Creek Reservoir. It would be done at the same location and with the same
technique as that used in the 1996 sample. After the 1997 data collections were
completed, it would be reviewed by all parties and a decision would be made
whether to do more sampling. USFWS agreed to forego the 60-day review time
and use the same site and techniques as used in 1996.
December 1, 1997-FWA submitted the 1996-1997 temperature and dissolved oxygen data
to the agencies, including the NC WRC and the USFWS, for review and
comment. FWA concluded that both years were similar and that additional data
would not be needed. If needed, the agencies were requested to provide
justification for their request. No comments were received from this request.
October 9, 1998-USFWS requested a map of the temperature and dissolve(4 oxygen
sample location and suggested that more than one location be sampled.
December 1, 1998-It was pointed out that the data from the 1996-1997 sampling was
circulated for comments and none were received. The Licensee agreed to sample
the 37-acre lake again in 1999 at three (3) locations and provide the data in the
License Application as additional information.
February 2, 1999-NC WRC requested minimum, maximum and mean daily surface water
temperatures for the period April l-June 30, 1999 and 2000. This task has been
completed for 1999. Data for 1999 and 2000 will be submitted as additional
information when completed. NC WRC also requested historical daily lake level
measurements from the past 10 years (1989-1998) as well as daily lake level
measurements for 1999 and 2000. Historic data were submitted for review. Data
for 1999 and 2000 will be submitted as additional information after collection.
Summer 1999-The temperature and dissolved oxygen studies will continue through
October 1999 and the results will then be submitted to all parties for review and
comment.
Additional fish samnlins in Queens Creek Reservoir
June 20, 1996-NC WRC Preliminary Comments regarding the Queens Creek Project-
The applicant should conduct quantitative fish sampling in Queens Creek
Reservoir.
July 26, 1996-NC WRC advised NP&L that during the relicensing process the NC WRC
would like to have a current list of fish species and relative abundance in the reservoir.
July 1996- FWA conducted electofishing and gill netting in Queens Creek Reservoir.
May 14, 1997-USFWS requested sampling to include invertebrates and fish above Queens
Creek Reservoir and a nearby stream.
54
June 11, 1997-At the First Stage Consultation Meeting, there was no reference to Queens
Creek Reservoir fish sampling.
December 1, 1998 The NC WRC requested additional sampling on Queens Creek
Reservoir to assist them in evaluating the impact of water level fluctuations on the fish
population.
February 2, 1999-The NC WRC requested more data to determine if water level
fluctuations are impacting reservoir fish populations. A proposed sample
schedule was attached. The May 1999 gill netting and electrofishing sampling
have been completed and the data is being tabulated. The fall sample is scheduled
for the week of October 18, 1999.
Expanded fish sa=lina in Queens Creek
June 20, 1996-NC WRC Preliminary Comments regarding the Queens Creek Project-
The applicant should conduct quantitative fish sampling in Queens Creek
downstream of the dam.
July 26, 1996-NC WRC advised NP&L that during the relicensing process the NC WRC
would like to have a current list of fish species and relative abundance in the adjacent
stream sections.
May 8, 1997-NC WRC approved using the Southern Division, AFS guidelines for
sampling trout streams. Requested information as to the length frequency,
standing crop, and density of trout by species.
May 1997- FWA conducted an electofishing sample of Queens Creek using Standardized
Sampling Guidelines published by the Trout Committee of the Southern Division
of the American Fisheries Society. These guidelines call for a minimum of a 100-
meter reach that over "representative" stream reaches will contain the major
habitat types.
December 1, 1998-The NC WRC objected to the use of only one (1) sample site on
Queens Creek. They were of the opinion that there should be a three (3) samples
taken in the 4125 feet of stream
February 2, 1999-The NC WRC provided the Licensee with guidelines for sampling
Queens Creek.
July 26, 1999-The fish samples were taken from Queens Creek. The sampling was a joint
effort between the NC WRC and FWA.
55
Intake velocity study
June 20, 1996-The NC WRC provided the Licensee with information regarding their
criteria for low-head dam intake velocities and requested information as to bar
spacing, velocity, and turbine type.
July 26, 1996-The NC WRC requested an estimate of potential for the intake to adversely
impact fish populations. Advised the Licensee that studies may be needed to
assess the impact of impingement and entrainment.
May 9, 1997-In comments on the First Stage Consultation Package, the NC WRC
commented that the bar spacing of one (1) inch on the intake structure met their
crite--ia of less than a maximum of 2.5 inches.
The NC WRC requested that the Licensee provide calculated intake velocities at
two power plant operating scenarios: average generation capacity with both units
operating (Queens Creek only has one (1) unit), and the generation capacity
having maximum efficiency with both units operating. Also, they requested a
description of the methods used to calculate these velocities. If the NC WRC
criterion of 1.5 feet per second intake velocity is exceeded, then additional studies
would be required.
May 14, 1997-The USFWS requested as built drawings for the intake and screen,
information regarding the screen configuration and placement, the size of the
cross bars; the current condition of the bar mesh screen; the total amount of
unoccluded intake area; and the calculations used to determine the intake
velocity. The Service was unable to fully evaluate the potential for impacts.
July 1998-The Licensee included all the requested information in the Draft License
Application.
October 9, 1998-The USFWS concurred that the calculated intake velocities were
acceptat le. They further noted that water velocities will vary with the amount of
unoccluded space on the trash rack. Frequency of blockages and frequency and
methods of cleaning the rack should be included in the Licensee Application.
December 1, 1998-NP&L advised the resource agencies that the calculated intake velocity
at designed operating criteria of Queens Creek was 0.64 feet per second at 22 cfs
and the maximum operating intake that is used for the project is 0.41 feet per
second at 14 cfs.
Both the NC WRC and the USFWS indicated that they would wiihdraw their
request for additional intake velocity studies on Queen Creek Hydroelectric
Project.
56
February 8, 1999-FWA asked for a formal withdrawal of the impingement/entrainment
study requests for the Queens Creek Project.
March 2, 1999-Conversation with Chris Goudreau, Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator,
NC WRC and John Ellis, Biologist, USFWS about the February 8, 1999 letter to
them. They advised the Licensee that they were re-evaluating their position
that no additional intake velocity studies were necessary.
March 10, 1999- FWA requested supporting data for the request to conduct additional
studies relating to the intake velocity measurements at Queens Creek intake.
April 8, 1999-NC WRC provided their reasoning for requesting additional studies on
intake velocities and suggested that the USGS doppler flow meter be used to take
these measurements.
April 21, 1999-FWA contacted Ms. Jean Robbins, Hydrologist, USGS concerning the use
of USGS equipment to conduct this study. Ms. Robbins stated that she would arrange
for one of her Technicians to meet with NP&L and inspect the area with regard to
access, etc.
July 7, 1999- USGS Technician visited the site with a representative from NP&L to
determine whether the USGS doppler flow meter could be used to assess the intake
velocity.
September 3, 1999-Call from Ms. Robbins. She was of the opinion that the doppler flow
meter would not work on this project.
E.10 DISCUSSION OF DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE APPLICANT'S
PROPOSAL AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE AGENCIES
NP&L has negotiated in good faith with the resource agencies and NGOs to reach an acceptable
mitigation package for the Queens Creek Project. Each proposal and counter proposal has been
carefully considered and evaluated for environmental benefits and economic feasibility. The
resulting proposal put forward by NP&L considers all requests and presents a compromise
amongst competing demands for the water.
NP&L's proposal to provide recreation facilities, keep the lake full at the rule curve proposed by
the resource agencies, and release water below the dam to provide the 7Q10 (based on NP&L's
historical records) in lower Queens Creek is the best use of the available water. Day use facilities
would enhance recreation on Queens Creek Reservoir by providing a handicapped accessible pier
and a "tote and float" launch area. The landowners requested that no overnight camping be
allowed due to a lack of sanitary facilities, littering, and noise at night. The USFWS requested
that the lake be restricted to non-motorized boats, while the NC WRC did not want to restrict
57
motorized boat traffic. The decision to limit use to small boats and day use was deemed a
r suitable compromise.
NP&L proposes to keep the lake at full pool following the rule curve put forth by the resource
agencies for two reasons. Queens Creek Reservoir has a developing smallmouth bass fishery
which would be enhanced by additional habitat for spawning and fry. The landowners requested
full pool for the lake during the summer and.fall with a draw down in the winter for flood control.
Although Queens Creek below the dam does not support a significant recreational fishery, it
serves as a refugia for young trout and thus contributes to the fishery in the Nantahala River.
NP&L calculated the 7Q10 for Queens Creek using USGS formulas and the flow data which
NP&L has collected at Queens Creek for the past 49 years. A release of 0.7 cfs at the dam from
May 1 - November 1 along with the flow from tributaries below the dam will provide the 7Q 10
flow at the confluence with the Nantahala River.
Evaluation of the water budget showed that it is possible to keep lake levels at full pool during the
summer, release water downstream, and provide peak generation under normal conditions.
NP&L's proposal may necessitate reductions in the ability to provide peak generation during low
flows. Under normal water conditions, this will result in a 4% loss of generation for the project
and a loss of $104,160 in revenues over the life of the license.
The only point of disagreement between NP&L and the resource agencies is the amount of water
to be released into Queens Creek below the dam. NP&L's proposal is an equitable compromise
based on environmental concerns and economic considerations. It allows for provision of 7Q10
at the confluence as requested by NC DWR to increase WUA as well as enhancement of the lake
fishery. These benefits come at an economic cost not only to NP&L, but also to an economically
depressed region of the United States. However, the company's proposal is an equitable
compromise of all interests involved.
58
NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
January 21, 1999
Ref: Nantahala Power and Light Company
Draft License Application
Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
FERC No. 2694
NATDAM No. NC00333
Dear: See Attached List
Nantahala Power and Light Company would like to hold a joint meeting with the resource
agencies concerning the instream flow study conducted on Queens Creek. The meeting
will focus on all aspects of the study and will attempt to resolve stream flow issues for the
project. The meeting will include a round table discussion of alternative operating
scenarios and bypass flows. The consultation meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday,
March 2, 1999 at 9 a.m. at the Nantahala Power and Light Company Office in Franklin,
North Carolina.
If you have any questions, or if I can be of further assistance, please feel free to call me at
[phone].
Sincerely,
Richard Conley
Coordinator, Hydro Regulatory Affairs
cc: John Boaze
202
s
NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
July 28, 1999
RE: Queens Creek
FERC Project No. 2694
Dear: See attached mailing list:
Due to conflicting schedules, the meeting set for August 2, 1999 at 1:30 pm has been canceled.
We have rescheduled the meeting for August 20, 1999 at 9:00 am at Nantahala Power and Light.
We look forward to seeing each of you then.
Sincerely,

Richard Conley,
Coordinator,
Hydro Regulatory Affairs
203
Mailing List - NP&L Queens Creek Meeting
Mr. John Ellis
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box' 3726
Raleigh, NC. 27636-3726
Mr. Franklin T. McBride, Manager
Habitat Conservation Program
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604-1188
Mr. Chris Goudreau
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
320 South Garden Street
Marion, INC 28752
Mr. Mark Davis
Habitat Conservation Program
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
20830 Great Smoky Mtn. Expressway
Waynesville, NC 28786
Mr. Fred Tarver
Aquatic Ecology Branch
NC Division of Water Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611-7687
Mr. Ted Blisterfield
USEPA, Region 4
Office of Environmental . ssessment
Atlanta Federal Center
100 Alabama Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA 3 03 03-3104
Mr. Michael L. Wilkins
District Ranger, USFS
Wayah Ranger District
90 Sloan Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Mr. Jim B to se
NC DENR
Division of Water Quality
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Office of the Secretary
Dockets - Room lA
888 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20426
Dr. Gary Duven, Director
Wesser Institute of Ecology
P.O. Box 177
Almond, NC 28708
Donley Hill
US Forest Service
P.O. Box 2750
Asheville, NC 28802
Mr. Steve Reed
Dept. of Environmental and Natural
Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611
Mr. Jim Mead
Dept. of Environmental and Natural
Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611
Mr. Scott Loftis
NC Wildlife Resource Commission
20830 Great Smoky Mountains Expressway
Waynesville, NC 28786
Bobby Queen
P.O. Box 1042
Andrews, NC 28901
Karen McKay
3801 Winding Stairs Road
Andrews, NC 28901
204
Nantahala Power & Light Company/Agency Meeting
2nd Stage Consultation - March 2, 1999
Queens Creek Relicensing
Minutes of the Meeting
Attendance sheet is attached.
Boaze The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the instream flow study and resolve that
issue. Also we will discuss the impingement and entrainment study. Fred, will you
tell us about your analysis and recommendations (IFIM).
Tarver An IFIM was performed on Queens Creek, starting in 1996. Eight transects were
selected from the mouth of Queens Creek to the 2000 foot elevation. The
transects corresponded to different habitat types, high gradient riffle, moderate
gradient riffle, pool, run. The species to be evaluated were rainbow trout, mottled
sculpin, and macroinvertebrates. The benthic macroinvertebrates included
mayflies, stoneflies, caddis flies, and a general group of benthic organisms. For the
fish species, all four life stages were analyzed. The rainbow trout curves were
generated by the Wildlife Resources Commission, the benthic curves by Jim Gore,
and the mottled sculpin curves were generated by myself using information from
the published literature and Gary Grossman's personal knowledge. The HSI
curves were agreed upon by the participants.
We evaluated the transects, took discharge measurements at low and mid flow.
The majority of flow is controlled by the dam. Fish and Wildlife Associates
created the IFG4 decks with the help of Tim Gore. We did production runs and
looked at a range of discharges. A flow regime was produced. The flows of
interest are low flow (0.8 cfs), mid flow (5.4 cfs), and high flow (8 cfs). We must
have historical period of record for the stream. There is no gauge on Queens
Creek, so we used records from NP&L to do a natural flow record. The flow
record went from 1 to 30. NP&L provided a weekly mean. DENR asked for a
median of the weekly flows by month.
Bryan I'd like to make a correction. There were 11 transects. Also, there was a
misinterpretation of the Community Diversity Curve. This curve covers all aquatic
insects, not just EPTs.
Mead This has been a joint study in both design and execution.
Tarver The time scries takes the historical flow record and us used to predict by month
what habitat will be provided for each species at each life stage. We ran a natural
times series and compared the project flows to the natural scenario.
Boaze Please define high gradient versus low gradient.
205
.farver Jim Gore defined this in his letter, describing when it is appropriate to use high and
low. See attached letter.
Browning Please copy that for us.
Tarver We looked at the months of concern for each life stage of each species. For adults
and juveniles, that was all months. For rainbow trout spawning, it was December
through March. For rainbow trout fry, it is January through April. For mottled
sculpin, it is all months for adults and juveniles. It is May through November for
sculpin fiy; and for spawning sculpin, it is March through May.
Bryan The differences for mottled sculpin are solely derived from differences in substrate.
Velocities are the same.
Tarver The sculpin are concerned more with food resource rather than velocity or
substrate. Index A is the values between 10% and 90% exceedance. Index B is
the values up to 50% exceedance, and Index C is 50% to 100% exceedance.
Bryan What are existing flows by month? Did you base those by drainage areas?
Tarver Median monthly flows using 4.0 drainage area
January 1.1
February 1.3
March 1.3
April 1.3
May 0.9
June 0.7
July 0.5
August 0.4
September 0.4
October 0.4
November 0.4
December 0.4
Mead We looked at what happens to the habitat over a range of 1.5 cfs to 5 cfs.
Bryan The curves are actual conditions at the site. The tables are not the same, have
minimum releases.
Tarver It comes down to whether or not you agree with the procedure. How valuable is
the species?
Boaze What is your recommendation for release from Queens Creek reservoir?
Tarver Conditions change from month to month. We don't need to pick one number.
206
Boaze Based on your presentation, the bugs will take care of themselves. No release is
required.
Mead Well, it varies from month to month. The rainbow trout adults are the least
sensitive species. If we hold to the 20% target, spawning takes the biggest hit.
Bryan Let's take a look at professional judgement and what is actually found in the field.
Spawning is obviously successful in Queens Creek under the present conditions.
Tarver These are t
January
Feb - May
June
July
August
Sep - Oct
November
December
he releases that the agencies arrived at for Queens Creek.
3.5
4.0
3.5
3.0
2.5
2.0
2.5
3.5
Boaze This is the release from the dam in addition to what is already there.
Tarver Yes. For December through March, trout spawning was a factor of consideration.
February through April, the mottled sculpin was a factor. For the remainder of the
year, it was the macroinvertebrates.
5 minute break for John Boaze and John Wishon to confer
Reed Are you going to tell us your recommendation?
Boaze Ours are in dollars, not cfs. Lets take a look at the economics. What you asked
for would make the project useless to Nantahala Power and Light. It would mean
about $1 million of lost generation.
Mead 12 cfs was the average flow used
Wishon Our average came up to 8 cfs
Boaze Chris, do you have a preference to maintain the lake pool or maintain the stream
Goudreau Not at this point
Boaze We have to weigh each option against generation. For example, the lake needs to
be kept full for smallmouth bass.
Reed What were your figures?
207
Wishon It depends on the months. We didn't look at peaking.
Boaze Over the life of the license, 30 years, it would cost $1 million.
Reed What is your proposal?
Boaze We'd like to have zero release and maintain the lake at full pool year round. The
stream would remain as is. N- T&L would also enhance recreational facilities
around the lake. NP&L would lose generation under the full pool option.
Reed What type of recreational facilities?
Boaze We have one letter opposed to recreational development from the Wesser Institute
of Ecology.
Conley The Wesser Institute wanted no camping, no boat ramp, etc. He plans to start a
petition.
Boaze Based on the data we collected, Queens Creek is serving as a nursery for young
rainbow trout.
Bryan David Yow is shifting some time to Queens Creek Reservoir. Would you ask the
public whether they are interested in the creek or the lake?
Conley There are a lot of people who use the lake.
Boaze Some of the things we are considering include bank fishing and parking. We
would work with Scott Loftis to develop a recreation program for Queens Creek
Reservoir. We would also do a handicap fishing pier.
Conley There are places we could put in a trail.
Loftis Is this NP&L property?
Boaze Yes. NP&L would have to give up generation.
Wishon Also, we would have to spill some water.
Tarver Even when you are generating?
Wishon Yes
Boaze Boat ramp, pier, trails
208
Conley Picnic area
Bryan Are the agencies in agreement on the proposed scenario'
The agency personnel consulted to consider the NP&L proposal.
Reed After lengthy discussion, the agencies agreed that. they like the idea of recreational
enhancement. We agreed that the lake should be kept mull from May 1 through
August 31. We might modify this after the temperature data is collected.
Probably looking at +/- 6". No release into the stream is totally unacceptable. We
want to adjourn and come back on this issue.
Boaze Okay. Lets leave here with the understanding that we agree to disagree. John
(Ellis), what about the entrainment/impingement study?
Ellis How is the intake structure positioned. We want a field verification of the
calculated velocities.
Boaze We supplied engineering calculations of this velocity. We need more information
on why you want the field verification. You need to tell us how you want the
study done.
Ellis We want field verification of the velocity intakes. The calculation on paper are not
always what happens.
Boaze You need to make more justification. When do you want to get back together.
Reed Zero release is not an alternative. It does not provide any enhancement for a river
that has been impacted for the last 50 years.
Boaze Do we agree to waive 30 days notice. How about April 13 or 20?
Group agreed to mt:et again on April 6 at 9 am.
209
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@ A A NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY
May 3, 1999
Ref: Nantahala Power and Light Company
Instream Flow Study
Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
FERC No. 2694
NATDAM No. NC00333
Dear: See Attached List
Nantahala Power and Light Company would like to hold the second joint meeting with
the resource agencies concerning the instream flow study conducted on Queens Creek.
The meeting will focus on resource agency minimum flow proposals and licensee
proposals concerning instream flow issues for the project. NP&L anticipates the meeting
to be the final discussion meeting on instream flow issues prior to submission of a license
application. The consultation meeting has been rescheduled for Wednesday, June 9, 1999
at 9 a.m. at the Nantahala Power and Light Company Office in Franklin, North Carolina.
The previous date of May 18, 1999 has been cancelled due to schedule conflicts.
If you have any questions, or if I can be of further assistance, please feel free to call me at
[phone].
Sincerely,
4
Richard Conley
Coordinator, Hydro Regulatory Affairs
cc: John Boaze
211
Mailing List - NP&L Queens Creek Instream Flow Meeting
Mr. John Ellis
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O.. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726 .
Mr. Franklin T. McBride, Manager
Habitat Conservation Program
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604-1188
Mr. Chris Goudreau
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
Mr. Mark Davis
Habitat Conservation Program
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
20830 Great Smoky Mtn. Expressway
Waynesville, NC 28786
Mr. Fred Tarver
Aquatic Ecology Branch
NC Division of Water Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611-7687
Mr. Ted Bisterfeld
USEPA, Region 4
Office of Environmental Assessment
Atlanta Federal Center
100 Alabama Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA 30303-3104
Mr. Michael L. Wilkins
District Ranger, USFS
Wayah Ranger District
90 Sloan Road
Franklin, NC 28734
212

Mr. Jim Blose
NC DENR
Division of Water Quality
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Office of the Secretary
Dockets - Room 1 A
888 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20426
213
Queens Creek Meeting
June 9, 1999
Boaze Welcome. License application must be filed on or before September 30, 1999.
Since there are some new folks here today, would everyone introduce themselves.
We are especially glad to have landowners here. They have the biggest stake in
this decision as they have to live with it on a day to day basis along with the power
company.
A synopsis of the issues and proposals to date was passed out. The studies and the
offer /counter offers were explained. In May 1999, NP&L made an alternate
proposal that they would release 0.7 cfs below the dam. This figure was chosen
based on 50% of the 7Q10 which is 1.4 cfs. A release of 0.7 cfs plh,s intervening
flows would give us 1.4 cfs at the mouth of Queens Creek.
The floor was opened to comments.
Duven Is Queens Creek a generational facility? What is NP&L releasing now?
Boaze Yes it is a generational facility. There is leakage but no lease into Queens Creek
below the dam.
Mead Explain where the water comes back into the system.
Boaze The water diverted from Queens Creek is released at the Nantahala Power facility
into the Nantahala River.
Wishon Explained how rule curve works and how the generation is done.
Smitherman The lake was built in 1950. John would you take 2-3 minutes now to explain the
relicensing process.
Boaze FERC oversees all generation facilities except COE, TVA, etc. Licenses are
issued to generate power for periods of 20-50 years. During relicensing, FEI,_C
looks at both sides, generation vs. environmental impact. They balance good vs.
impacts. We are here to try to work out a balance. The state and federal agencies
represent the environment and the power company represents the business needs.
Smitherman NP&L generates some of the electricity used in a 5 county area. We buy the rest,
i.e. what we are unable to generate. Rates are set by cost for purchased and
generated electricity. Our rates are competitive because of hydrogeneration. We
generate 50% of what is needed. The power company's position is simple: we
want to conserve the water. Environmental laws say we must consider the fish
habitat. These agencies here are legally charged with protecting the environment.
So we are here today to negotiate an agreement.
214
Boaze If we do not reach an agreement, each side presents their case and FERC as
referee makes a decision.
Smitherman Everybody has wants. Lake owners want lake full. Others want water in the
creek. We want water to generate electricity.
Duven The fiirst I heard about the relicensing project was when I talked to Richard.
Queens Creek is unique in that it is mostly privately owned. Our main concerns
are the boat ramp and camping. This is a small community and we don't want
camping. Queens Creek Reservoir is small and not appropriate for motor boats.
Queens Creek Reservoir is ideal for swimming and fishing. People who live
around lake don't want campers.
Boaze NP&L has no authority to regulate motorized water craft. County and or state is
the agency that controls that. There was never any talk about a campground. We
talked about working with the land owners to get a county ordinance to prohibit
motor vehicles. Also we discussed a tote and float ramp rather than a regular boat
ramp. NOC is using the dam for parking. Then, NP&L has no access to dam.
NP&L would like to put in safe parking area.
Smitherman The Power Company gets batted around. For privilege of using water to make
electricity, we must meet recreational demands of community, meet needs of
resource agencies, and keep rates low. The Power Co. has to pay for all this.
NP&L is looking for everyone to be reasonable.
Duven Who would spearhead this.
Smitherman Depends on how hard headed the agencies are.
Boaze No matter what agreement is reached, it will cost the Power Company lost
generation. The agency requested release will dry up lake.
Reed The release bv itself will not. The release while keeping generation at t x same
level will make lake go dry.
Ellis We like the tote and float idea.
Mead You could put in concrete stanchions to keep motorized craft out.
Ellis Need to decide whether want to allow electric motors.
Queen The point is that large boats are dangerous. Who is responsible if there are
injuries. Queens Creek Reservoir is way out of the way; it takes a long time to get
assistance. Also there is no law enforcement on the lake.
215
Smitherman The people sitting in this room are very responsible. Your concerns will be
integral part of what is decided.
Boaze These meetings are open to the public. They come under the NC open meeting
law. Sometimes we break for-discussion. You are welcome to stay or go out with
us when this occurs. We do not discourage anyone from participating in any part
of the negotiations.
Asked for comments.
Mead Numbers asked for by month were not abased on any particular average annual
flow. We went for a particular habitat goal which is a percent of pre project
conditions. We don't know if 12 or 8.3 cfs is the average annual flow. Flows
were calculated on flows provided by NP&L.
Smitherman The agencies are only interested in fish habitat. They are not interested in if fish
are there, or if you fish, or if there is access.
Duven Does stream fish habitat impact lake habitat?
Mead Explained 3 demands for water.
Queen I have lived here all my life. There were no fish in creek till you got to Winding
Stair Road. Then you could get a few fish out of river.
Loftis What was the fish population above lake like before the lake was built?
Queen There used to be much more water in creek because there were more agriculture
fields. The only fish in the creek were knotty heads, no specs (speckled trout).
Duven How much electricity is generated at Queens Creek?
Wishon 1 megawatt. Compared to Nantahala, it is 47 times smaller.
Smitherman I'll gi?,e you some interesting numbers. The number of barrels of oil needed to
generate what would be lost by this release is 64 million barrels of oil over the life
of the license.
Reed I have a question about 7Q10 - 1.3 or 1.4. We thought it was 1.98.
BryanBoaze Explained USGS used a 7Q9 and got the number 1.98. John Wishon recalculated
the 7Q10 using the formula supplied by USGS.
Reed What are the environmental and ecological benefits of 0.7 cfs.
Boaze 0.7 cfs will meet the 7Q 10 at the mouth of Queens Creek. The release requested
216
by the agencies would result in a 40% loss of generation. The 0.7 cfs release gives
an 11% loss.
Smitherman If we release water, we can't keep the lake full. If we keep the lake full, we can't
release and economically operate. I don't think we should put water downstream
because the increase in fish habitat would not realistically give us anything. Fish
and recreational improvement in the reservoir is more beneficial than the amount of
habitat in the stream/
Boaze We are only talking about 4125 feet of stream. Our proposal provides more
recreational opportunities.
Duven The recreational benefits of full pool outweigh the downstream benefits.
McKay One end of the lake is shallow. Grasses grow heavy and tall. Then it floods and
the lake becomes full of algae. This is not good.
Reed If we went with full pool, would you pull down the lake in winter.
Smitherman Yes, in lieu of a release.
Queen If lake was kept full, there's no grass problem. From old house, lots of soil has
filled in.
Smitherman The law specifies certain things must be done. Regulators feel responsible for
putting water back in stream. In my mind, that is not always the most logical thing
to do.
Queen Remember must keep it (lake) down some. Get washout at dam.
Conley That has been taken out. It is an open spillway now.
10 Minute Break
Boaze Mr. Duven gave me 12 - 15 letters from property owners stating that they want
Queens Creek Reservoir restricted to non-motorized boats. Steve has reguested a
breakout session. At this time, NP&L and FWA will leave
Boaze What did you all decide? Complete agreement is not necessary at this point.
Reed It will require some refinement. We do have a consensus on the following:
Lake level - Queens Creek Reservoir full pool May 1 - July 31
within 1' of full pool elevation
Aug 1 - Nov 1, within 2' of full pool
remainder Nov - Apr, T max draw down
217

Boaze What management objective are you looking at
Reed Multiple
Boaze Are going to quit stocking rainbow?
Loftis No.
Reed Minimum Releases
Adaptive management response, try something and measure
3 cfs Jan - June
2 cfs July - December
Do this for five years, then re-evaluate fish and benthos. This is measured at dam.
Start as soon as have an adequate baseline. After 5 years, a co-operative
management team will evaluate. Then a different release will be tried. Will try
lower release even if get a response of change in fish.
Confine the flows tried to box 3.0 - 1.4. Use 1.4 cfs as the 7Q10 at the dam. Will
use whatever USGS says the 7Q10 is at the dam.
Boaze We will be comparing kilowatt hours to pounds of fish
Meed Not just fish, benthos also.
Reed It gives us a measure of how we are doing. We had an interest in crop in lake vs.
lake levels.
Duven Recreational - non-issue by replacing with no access signs and boulders.
Boaze We will have to put in some parking places
Mead Will not make a formal restriction of non-motorized. Restrict through access.
Boaze We'll have to do an economic analysis.
Reed I want to add that if there is no negotiated settlement, then the agencies will revert
to our original proposal.
Boaze FERC will want to use exist conditions not pre project.
Reed Semantics. There are other things involved besides habitat, recreational issues.
Bryan What evaluation criteria for fish and bug communities.
Mead Might be same starting points from some data from Wisconsin.
218
Smitherman Let us analyze; see how hard this would be on us
Boaze When shall we schedule the next meeting - August 17th
One other item: We will be scheduling a prefiling meeting in October to relicense
all other (12) facilities.
219

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NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY
July 1, 1999
Ref Nantahala Power and Light Company
Instream Flow Study
Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
FERC No. 2694
NATDAM No. NC00333
Dear: See Attached List
Nantahala Power and Light Company would like to hold the third joint meeting with the resource
agencies concerning the instream flow study conducted on Queens Creek. The meeting will
focus on resource agency minimum flow proposals and licensee proposals concerning instream
flow issues for the project. NP&L anticipates the meeting to be the final discussion meeting on
instream flow issues prior to submission of a license application. The consultation meeting is
scheduled for Monday, August 2, 1999 at 1:30 p.m. at the Nantahala Power and Light Company
Office in Franklin, North Carolina.
If you have any questions, or if I can be of further assistance, please feel free to call me at (828)
369-4513.
Siinpcerelyy,, Q
Richard Conley
Coordinator, hydro Regulatory Affairs
cc: John Boaze
221
NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
July 28, 1999
RE: Queens Creek
FERC Project No. 2694
Dear: See attached mailing list:
Due to conflicting schedules, the meeting set for August 2, 1999 at 1:30 pm has been canceled.
We have rescheduled the meeting for August 20, 1999 at 9:00 am at Nantahala Power and Light.
We look forward to seeing each of you then.
Sincerely,

Richard Conley,
Coordinator,
Hydro Regulatory Affairs
222
Mailing List - NP&L Queens Creek Meeting
Mr. John Ellis
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Mr. Franklin T. McBride, Manager
Habitat Conservation Program
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604-1 1 88
Mr. Chris Goudreau
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
320 South Garden Street
Marion, NC 28752
Mr. Mark Davis
Habitat Conservation Program
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
20830 Great Smoky Mtn. Expressway
Waynesville, NC 28786
Mr. Fred Tarver
Aquatic Ecology Branch
NC Division of Water Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611-7687
Mr. Ted Blister-field
USEPA, Region 4
Office of Environmental Assessment
Atlanta Federal Center
100 Alabama Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA 30303-3104
Mr. Michael L. Wilkins
District Ranger, USFS
Wayah Ranger District
90 Sloan Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Mr. Jim Blose
NC DENR
Division of Water Quality
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Office of the Secretary
Dockets - Room 1 A
888 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20426
Dr. Gary Duven, Director
Wesser Institute of Ecology
P.O. Box 177
Almond, NC 28708
Donley Hill
US Forest Service
P.O. Box 2750
Asheville, NC 28802
Mr. Steve Reed
Dept. of Environmental and Natural
Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611
Mr. Jim Mead
Dept. of Environmental and Natural
Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611
Mr. Scott Loftis
NC Wildlife Resource Commission
20830 Great Smoky Mountains Expressway
Waynesville, NC 28786
Bobby Queen
P.O. Box 1042.
Andrews, NC 28901
Karen McKay
3801 Winding Stairs Road
Andrews, NC 28901
223
NP&L / Resource Agencies Meeting
August 20, 1999
Boaze Introductions and hand outs
The license must be filed by 9-30-99 and it will contain a settlement
agreement or a statement that we agreed to disagree
In the by-pass area, we are concerned with lower 4125 feet. The lower
end of the bypass is a nursery for rainbow trout. Trout move out of the
Nantahala River to spawn. Scott Loftis and I have discussed the results
from the recent electrofishing. We have spring and fall spawners. The
fishery in Queens Creek is basically rainbow trout and mottled sculpin
population in the lower end, creek chubs in upper end.
Reviewed the proposals and counter proposals from the previous
meetings. In March, the agencies proposed 24 cfs releases. NP&L looked
at the cost to make these releases and decided that they were not in best
interests of the customers. NP&L counter proposal involved no release
into Queens Creek bypass. Instead, NP&L proposed a package of
recreation development on Queens Creek Reservoir and full pool for the
lake. The agencies liked the recreation package, but without a release to
the bypass, it was unacceptable. The agencies came back with a counter
proposal of recreational development and a five-year release and study
plan. The first five years were a 3 & 2 cfs release.
NP&L made a counterproposal to follow the rule curve, release 0.7 cfs
May 1 - Nov 1, and provide recreational Enhancement - #1,2,3 (see
handout).
Wagoner What are enhancements? I've been picking up garbage around the lake
left by campers.
Boaze Not a campground. NP&L will put in a ramp and pier for day use.
Wagoner Who does maintenance?
Boaze Mark, don't these get turned over to the state?
Goudreau Not always. Sometimes the power company takes care of the facilities.
Smitherman John, explain why we are here for those who don't know how this works.
Boaze [Presented a short discussion on FERC licensing and relicensing]
Flaig What is the length of a license?
Boaze 30 years
Flaig What if there are changes?
Boaze [Explained about articles in license. How each article is specific and
outlines what power company must study or do]
Flaig Most people are concerned about the lake level.
Boaze Everything that is being decided ties into the water budget.
Duven Can lake owners submit their opinions to FERC?
224
Boaze After the license is filed, you have the right to file as an intervenor. You
are placed on FERC's mailing list and can write directly to FERC.
Reed You can make comments now.
Boaze Steve does that all time, i.e., files as an intervenor. Steve is spokesperson
for the resource agencies.
Johns The Forest Service has the ability to condition the license under Section
408. Under Section 401, other conditions may be imposed.
Boaze Are you going to make a recommendation separately from the US Fish
and Wildlife Service?
Johns No. We have separate authority if no agreement is reached.
Reed We have met and reviewed your latest proposal. Mead contacted USGS.
The USGS says that the 7Q10 is 2.0 cfs at mouth and 1.7 cfs at dam.
A release of 0.7 cfs still represents a loss of spawning and adult habitat.
This release results in unacceptably high losses of habitat. We still want 3
and 2 cfs releases with a 5 year evaluation. If we don't have an
agreement, we will recommend lake level requirement as same proposed
June 9 and recreational enhancements proposed on June 20. We will give
same recommendation for releases to FERC as we proposed in March.
Wishon For the 7Q 10 calculation, the USGS took 4 points from comparative
stream that weren't even the same size. We took 49 years of actual stream
flow on Queens Creek. We think this is more accurate.
Reed NP&L can do battle with USGS over this issue.
Smitherman What is wrong with Wishon's logic?
Reed Take your argument to USGS
Smitherman How do we resolve this difference? We disagree. We think USGS is
inaccurate. USGS is dealing with a model. We have accurate data.
Reed It is not my position to decide how to calculate 7 Q 10.
Smitherman It is your job to make a decision based on actual data. These values are
important.
Reed Talk to John Curtis or Gene at USGS.
Smitherman Okay. Put this in the record. I want an accurate base to start with.
Reed It would be good to resolve this before the license is filed. Wishon has
data of lake level and amount of water used for generation.
Boaze What are you looking for in adaptive management approach?
Goudreau I'll turn that question over to Steve Reed
Reed We are looking for habitat at 30% loss. The agencies have not discussed
what thresholds or what amount of enhancement we want.
Boaze I proposed this to Dr. Jim Gore. He says WUA and biomass have not been
correlated. Obviously there are errors in the model, as we have lots of
spawning, but supposedly very little habitat
BREAK
225
Boaze We are dealing with a water budget, how to divide the available water
amongst all the competing demands. We will pass around John Wishon's
graphs showing 49 years worth of data and what would happen to the lake
level under the agencies' requested release.
Reed When was the last time the efficiency rating of that turbine was checked?
Wishon I don't know
Boaze Looking at Wishon's chart, you can see what percent of weeks over the
past 49 years there was insufficient water to make the requested release.
Smitherman We took your requests and prepared the water budget. We gave up some
generation and kept our peaking power. Let me explain why we need to
keep the peaking power. Tuesday of this week, there was a very high
demand for electricity because of the heat. NP&L, Duke, and TVA had to
run at capacity to get the voltage levels back up. This was the first time
we've had a voltage sag since I've been here. We are really remote to the
rest of the country. Our peak generation is very important to maintaining
voltage here in this area. In this geographical area, it is more significant
when we give up generation than it is in other parts of the country. We
cannot put in coal generation or nuclear here. We can only rely on hydro.
We analyzed the water available and tried to see if we could make it work,
i.e. keep the lake up and release and help peaking power.
Wishon I did not fudge on peaking. I did it at four hours, five days per week.
Smitherman I wanted to be reasonable.
Wishon I used your lake elevations and your requests for release. In October,
there is a lower % of weeks, because half the water is coming from lake
draw down.
Duven Is the problem in September the lake or the inflow
Boaze The inflow
Smitherman East or west, the load is changing constantly. We have to buy half our
energy. We have to have generation to balance voltage.
Flaig Is it not economically feasible to buy more power those 3-4 months?
Smitherman Where we are located, the peaking capacity is abnormally influential in
regulating the voltage.
Duven For our information, you are trying to keep lake up, release and generate.
But you can't do all three, because there isn't water. What are you (Steve
Reed) mandated to do?
Reed The agencies are mandated to maintain aquatic habitat for organisms that
live there. Our agency does not want to see a stream dry up.
Duven You are putting your emphasis on the stream. But what about the lake?
Where are you putting your resource to the best benefit. If you try to do
them all, you do nothing.
Ellis The bugs, fish, and habitat belong to all the people. Now with relicensing
we can look at value of all the resources given today's value.
Boaze We are not talking about fish and bugs, but rather habitat. FERC does not
look at preproject, but at what is there in 1999. We are not looking at the
number of bugs and fish. We are looking at habitat. Considering our
discussion about 7Q 10, Wishon had a conversation with John Curtis of
226
USGS. Curtis admitted that the calculation of the 7Q10 was highly
speculative and a case could be made for our numbers.
Smitherman Let me save us some time. I say this respectfully with consideration of the
laws and what you are mandated to do. We will not agree with your
recommendations.
Reed We respectfully do not agree with you.
Boaze For record, you are proposing is 2 and 4 cfs. And... (comment not
completed)
Reed We are going with the March 99 recommendations.
Wagoner What's wrong with keeping lake at full pool?
Boaze Ask Reed
Reed There's no release below dam
Wagoner There's nothing down there.
Boaze Submit your comments to FERC.
Smitherman Looking at Queens Creek bypass, there is only 0.8 miles where it is
fishable. It is not practical or reasonable in the overall scheme to use the
water for such a limited resource.
Wagoner I vote for full lake
Duven The camping situation is a concern. I want to address the Forest Service
too. Since the last meeting, people have been illegally camping. Also, on
Forest Service land. Macon County has a law against camping where
there are no sanitation facilities. It has become a problem to NP&L and
the Forest Service.
Browning There is no law that says you can't camp.
Wagoner No, there is a law.
Browning The Forest Service closure order will put in a regulation that, on Forest
Service land, you cannot camp within 300' of river. Also it will include
no camping on the opposite side of US 19.
Wagoner The law says anyone allowing camping on their land must provide
sanitary facilities.
Smitherman Richard Conley is in charge of keeping this under control. In the
relicensing process, we are required to provide so much public access. We
have completed a plan for 5 lakes aid working on it.
Duven What is your policy on camping?
Smitherman Richard will check it. We will stop it.
Wagoner Campers leave all their trash, kill the grass and tear up banks. If you put
something in, you need maintenance.
Boaze We have reached the point where we will submit the license. We agree to
disagree. We'll go to FERC and see how we can resolve it. One other
thing, we have scheduled a meeting on October 27, 1999 to discuss all
other projects. We will discuss what we have and know. It will not
replace the First Stage consultation. We will relicense all the lakes at the
227
same time. Two meetings will be held at NP&L on Oct. 27, one at 9am,
and one at 7:30pm.
Hill I have a question about the percentage of weeks without sufficient water.
It occurs to me that there might be more information buried in there. If we
looked at the data, we could see by how much was there a shortage. This
would tell us by how far the objective was missed.
Smitherman Are you saying you want to reopen this issue?
Hill Probably isn't pertinent.
SmithermanBoaze - How many days do you want to not give water to fish?
Tarver You filed a 401. You have one year to check on this.
Meeting adjourned.
228
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United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Raleigh Field Office
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726
June 19, 1996
Mr. John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
Dear Mr. Boaze:
Thank you for allowing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) to visit the Queens Creek
Hydroelectric Project (FERC # 2694) on May 7, 1996. The visit allowed John Ellis, the
biologist who will be working on this project, an opportunity to see the project. Initial concerns
are with the absence of a minimum flow being released from the project's dam into the bypassed
reach of Queens Creek and the affects this is having on aquatic habitat in Queens Creek.
Therefore the Service will recommend that an instream flow study be conducted in the bypass
reach of Queens Creek as part of the relicensing process. The need for other studies may
develop as the formal relicensing process begins, but the lack of a minimum release into the
bypassed reach is currently our primary concern.
Once again, thank you for the opportunity to visit the site. The Service looks forward to
working further with Fish and Wildlife Associates and Nantahala Power in the relicensing
process for the (queens Creek Project. If you have any questions, please feel free to con -ct me,
or John Ellis, at the above address, or at [phone].
Sincerely,
fohn M. Hefner
Supervisor
FWS/R4:JEllis:JEE: 6-18-96:919-856-4520 .126: B: QUEENREC
® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
June 20, 1996
Mr. John Boaze
Fish and Wildlife .jssociates, Inc.
P. O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
SUBJECT: Preliminary comments regarding the Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project operated by
Nantahala Power and Light Company, FERC Project No. 26940-NC, Macon County.
Dear Mr. Boaze:
Thank you for arranging the recent site visit to Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project on 7 May
1996. Although Nantahala Power and Light Company has not yet initiated first stage consultation, as
their consultant you requested a follow-up letter from us identifying our preliminary concerns regarding
this project. We are pleased to provide you with this information, with the understanding that we will
provide more detailed comments during formal consultation.
Bypassed Reach
We are concerned about instream flows in Queens Creek between the dam and the Nantahala
River. An instream flow study should be conducted in Queens Creek in order to determine what
instream flow maintains aquatic habitat for target species. Study sites and target species should be
agreed upon by the applicant, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, the North Carolina
Division of Water Resources, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Tailrace
The applicant should address the potential for adverse impacts to aquatic organisms from water
level fluctuations in the tailrace, which is in the Nantahala River.
Reservoir
The applicant should provide information on water level fluctuations in Queens Creek Lake.
Depending on the fish species present in the reservoir, water level fluctuations could be a concern.
232
2694-NC Page 2 6/20/96
Water Quality
The applicant should provide information on water quality in the reservoir, specifically
temperature and dissolved oxygen and any other parameters identified by resource agencies during
formal consultation. Information on temperature and dissolved oxygen in the bypassed reach should also
be provided by the applicant.
Fish Sampling
Quantitative fish sampling should be conducted in Queens Creek Lake and in Queens Creek
downstream of the dam to estimate populations of fish species present.
Impingement and Entrainment
We are concerned with the potential for impingement and entrainment (I&E) of fish at the
hydroelectric project. The NCWRC criteria for minimizing potential for I&E at low head, warmwater
hydroelectric projects include a maximum intake rack bar spacing of 2.5 inches and a maximum point
water velocity at the intake of 1.5 feet per second. It is likely that we will not consider Queens Creek
Hydroelectric Project to be a low head, warmwater project; therefore, more stringent criteria may apply
The applicant should provide information regarding bar spacing, velocity, and turbine type.
Recreation
We are interested in increasing opportunities for recreation at Queens Creek Lake. Possible
improvements may include a boat ramp and a bank fishing area.
Again, thank you for allowing us to provide you with. this preliminary information. We look
forward to working with you throughout the relicensing process and anticipate providing you with more
detailed comments once formal consultation is initiated. If you have any questions regarding these
comments, please contact Ms. Stephanie Goudreau at 704/652-4257.
Sincerely,
& Franklin T. McBride, Manager
Habitat Conservation Program
cc Mr. Steve Reed, DWR
Mr. John Ellis, USFWS
233
E North Carolina WAdhfe Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
July 26, 1996
Mr. John Boaze
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P. O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
SUBJECT: Request for information on Nantahala Power and Light reservoirs and adjacent streams
Dear Mr. Boaze:
This correspondence responds to requests by you for fish stocking records, other fisheries data,
and water quality information for several Nantahala Power and Light reservoirs and adjacent streams.
I have attached trout stocking records for the last five years for the following reservoirs and
streams: Tuckasegee River, West Fork Tuckasegee River, Bear Creek Lake, Wolf Creek Lake, Tanasee
Creek Lake, Nantahala River (Hatchery Supported section), Nantahala River (Delayed Harvest section).
These are the only reservoirs and streams out of the ones you listed that are currently being stocked with
trout by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. In general, the stocking ratio on these
reservoirs and streams is 40 percent brook trout, 40 percent rainbow trout, and 20 percent brown trout.
In addition, I have attached fisheries data and water quality information for the following
reservoirs: Glenville (Thorpe), Wolf Creek, Cedar Cliff, Tanasee Creek, and Bear Creek. We do not
have information available for Nantahala Lake or Queens Creek Lake.
During the relicensing process, we anticipate requesting the following information:
1) Inventories - Include aquatic, terrestrial, and wetland habitats on project properties.
2) Fisheries Data - Include a current list of fish species and relative abundance in reservoirs and
adjacent stream sections of interest to the resource agencies.
3) Water (duality - Include reservoirs and adjacent stream sections of interest to the resource
agencies. Our staff is specifically interested in temperature and dissolved oxygen parameters in
reservoirs and tailraces. Please note that the North Carolina Division of Water Quality is the
lead agency on water quality issues.
234
Nantahala Power and Light Page 2 July 26, 1996
4) Impingement and Entrainment - Estimate potential to adversely impact fisheries populations.
Studies may be necessary depending on existing conditions at each reservoir (bar spacing,
maximum point velocity at intake, turbine type, etc.).
5) Reservoir'Level Fluctuation - Estimate potential to adversely impact fisheries populations.
6) Downstream Flow Regime - Estimate potential to adversely impact fisheries populations.
Instream flow studies may be required; however, the North Carolina Division of Water
Resources is the lead agency on water quantity issues.
7) Bypassed Reaches - Instream flow studies may be necessary for any bypassed reaches that have
not yet been studied. We already indicated that an instream flow study will likely be required for
the bypassed reach at Queens Creek. Again, the North Carolina Division of Water Resources
would be the lead agency.
Please note that these comments are preliminary and may be modified and expanded upon based
on additional information made available during formal consultation. We appreciate the chance to
provide this information to you prior to formal consultation; however, we will likely provide additional
comments during the consultation process.
At this point, we plan to continue managing Bear Creek Lake, Tanasee Creek Lake, and Wolf
Creek Lake as Hatchery Supported Designated- Public Mountain Trout Water. These waters will
continue to be stocked regularly. In addition, we plan to continue managing these lakes and all others
mentioned above for the warmwater fisheries currently existing in these reservoirs. We have state-wide
management plans in place for trout and black bass that guide our activities with regard to these species.
If you need copies of these documents, please contact our Raleigh office at 919/733-3633 to request
them.
In response to the relicensing process, our biological staff plans to develop formal regional
management plans for these waters. We will keep you informed as these become available.
Thank you again for the opportunity to comment on these projects. If you have any questions
regarding these comments, please contact me at 704/652-4257.
Sincerely,
LA_jz
Stephanie E. Goudreau
Mountain Region Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Program
cc w/o attachments: Mr. Steve Reed, DWR
Mr. John Ellis, USFWS
235
Nantahala Power and Light Page 3 July 26, 1996
Number of trout stocked in Nantahala Power and Light reservoirs and associated waters
Data supplied by Pisgah Fish Hatchery, July 1996
STREAM 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
(thru 6/96),
Tuckasegee River 12,776 13,177 11,000 20,422 19,124
Bear Creek Lake 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,415 5,192
Wolf Creek Lake 15,005 0 0 0 0
(fingerlings)
Tanasee Creek Lake 12,005 0 0 0 0
(fingerlings)
West Fork 3,000 0 0 0 0
Tuckasegee River (fingerlings)
Nantahala River 2,625 2,250 1,500 1,472 1,548
(Hatchery Supported)
Nantahala River 11,255 14,255 14,900 12,733 11,861
(Delayed Harvest)
236
i

tray "1 L, 'VI r _ J Ili0 . UU 41 t . U1
North Carolina Wilcife Resources Commission
512.N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 276044188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Ftiliwood, Executive Director
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
FROM: Franklin T. McBride, Manager
I labitat Conservation Program
DATE: May 9, 1997
SUBJECT: State (;learinghouse Project No. 97-0544, First State Consultation Package for the
Relicensing of Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project by Nantahala Power and Light
Company, Macon County, FERC Project No. 2694-NC .
This correspondence responds to a request by you for our review and comments regarding
the First Stage Consultation package for the relicensing of the Queens Creek Hydroelectric
Project. Biological staff of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC:)
conducted site visits on 7 May 1996 and 2 April 1997 with representatives of the North Carolina
Division of Water Resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Fish and Wildlife Associates, and
Nantahala Power and Light Company.
The NC.WV' is authorized to comment and make recommendations which relate to the
impacts of this project on fish and wildlife through the Federal License of Water Resource
Project Act (Fcdcral Puwe- Act-16 U.S.C. 791a et seq.), and the Fish and Wildlife C:oordinat.on
Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). We have the following comments
regarding the First Stake Consultation package:
Section 1.1. Pa--c 1
We note that the bars on the intake structure are spaced 1 inch apart, '11lis me-ts our criterion for
bar spacing, which is a maximum of 2.5 inches apart.
Table 1.1. Puc 3
'Turbine type (Kaplan, Francis, Pelton, other) should be included in this table.
'?I•,
et
237
FERC No. 2694-NC Page 2 May 8, 1997 .
Section 3.3.1, Page 6
This paragraph should be clarified to read that the NCWRC has designated Queens Creek Lake
as Hatchery Supported Public Mountain Trout Water. Also, the NCWRC stocked 1,000 brook
trout annually in the lake between 1987 and 1993 rather than 100.
Section 3.6.2. Yasze 17
Based on our site visit and the topographical map for the project area, more than hall' of the 0.7-
mile Queens Creek bypass reach below the dam is suitable for anglers. Its relatively small size
and heavy vegetative cover in some areas are little different from many of the streams ?n North
Carolina that the NCWRC has designated as Public Mountain Trout Water. Habitat for trout is
good in this section of bypass reach, and we observed several trout during our ruccnt site. visit.
Only the upper section closest to the dam is too steep for anglers with its many cascades and
waterfalls.
Section 4.2.1, Page 18_
We are pleased that the applicant has started an instream flow study in the bypass reach of
Queens Creek and appreciate the opportunity for our staff to participate in the study.
Section 4.12, Pace 18
Rased on our recent site visit, we do not believe that dissolved oxygen and temperature are
concerns in the bypass reach dice to its steep gradient just below the dam and its undisturbed
riparian vegetation along the entire bypass reach. Therefore, we do not believe that the applicant
needs to collect this information in the bypass reach.
Section 4,2.3, Page 18
We are pleased that the applicant plans to conduct quantitative fish sampling in the bypass reach
of Queens Creek. The proposed sampling methodology recommended by the Trout Committee
of the Southern Division of the American Fishery Society is acceptable. We ask that a copy of
this document he included in the appendix. The NCWRC requests that the following inflormation
be included in the data summary: length frequency, standing crop, and density of trout by
species.
Section 4,2.4, page 18
Our standard criterion for intake velocity is a maximum flow of 1.5 feet per second. The
NCWRC requests that the applicant provide calculated intake velocities at two power plant
operating scenarios: average generation capacity with both units operating, and the generation
capacity having maximum efficiency with both units operating. We would also like a description
of the methods used to calculate these velocities. If our criterion is exceeded, the applicant
should do one of the following:
1. Conduct site-specific studies showing turbine mortality and entrainment potential.
2. Modity the configuration of the intake so that our criterion is met, or
238
nor s r r7LLJ LhNr- I tL y l'J 19Zi,) `J iM13L U f 1? J ^IO . UV V
i
i
-FERC No. 2694-NC: Page 3 May 9, 199 7
i
3. Show that turbine mortality and entrainment potential are not significant due to
certain factors at the facility. Due to the depth of the intake (58 feet), a dissolved
oxygen profile could possibly alleviate this concern.
Section 4,2.5, Page 19
We are pleased that the applicant plans to study ways to improve recreational access to Queens
Creek Lake. We would prefer construction of a boat ramp that would allow anglers to launch
boats from trailers. "In addition, we would like improved bank fishing areas around the lake.
There is already fairly good access to the part of the bypass reach with the best available trout
habitat; therefore, we are not concerned with improved access to the bypass reach.
Section 4.2.6, Page 19
After consulting with staff of the North Carolina Division of Water Resources, we do not believe
that an instream flow study will be necessary in the tailrace. As indicated in the First Stage
Consultation package, the tailrace is in the Nantahala River rather than in Queens Creek.
Section 4.2.7, Page 19
(Queens Creek Lake will continue to be managed as Hatchery Supported trout water, therefore,
fluctuating lake: levels are not a concern.
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this prcjcct. We look forward
to working with you throughout the relicensing process. If you have any questions regarding
these comments, please contact Mr. Mark Davis [phone] or Ms. Stephanie Goudreau
[phone].
cc: Mr. Stcvc Reed, DWR
Mr. John Fllis, FWS
Lois D. Cashel I, h'hRC, Washington, D.C.
239

MAY
_ _« =Pik:LIP!,.•!C
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Balogh Fcid officc
Post of5ce Box 33726
1-J4 4h. North Carolina 27636.3726
May -14, 1997
Honorable Lois D. Cashell
Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 First Street, N.E.
Washington, D. C. 20426
Re; First Stage Consultation Report Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC m2694)
Dear Secretary Cashell:
Enclosed are the original and eight copies of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service comments on
Nantahala Power and Light's February 1997 report entitled "Relicensing First Stage Consultation
Package, Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project, Project No.2694-NC" Please include these
comments in the docket for the Queens Creek Project (FERC 012694).
The Service has reviewed the "Relicensing First Stage Consultation Package, Queens Creek
Hydroelectric Project, Project No-2694-NC," the relicensing application and attended the April 1,
1997, public meeting. These comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the Fish
and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.), the Endangered
Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543), and the Federal Power Act, as
amended (16 U.S.C. 791a-825r).
The Project, located on Queens Creek in Macon County, North Carolina, consists of a 37 acre
reservoir, an earth and rock-fill dam, a 6,590 ft. long penstock which provides 935 ft. of head to a
powerhouse containing a horizontal impulse turbine with a nameplate rated capacity of 2,250
horsepower. The Project operates in a peaking mode according to seasonal water availability
while maintaining a reservoir rule curve elevation. The average annual generation for the project
is 5,000 Megawatt hours. The project was completed in 1948 and first licensed on May 1, 1965,
The Project is operated by the applicant, Nantahala Power and Light Company, a subsidiary of
Duke Power Company, to produce electricity for its retail and wholesale customers. The
project's first priority is to operate at a maximum load at the time of Duke Power's daily system
peak load for four hours a day, Monday through Friday. The plant is operated at other times to
maintain the reservoir's rule curve and to prevent spilling. The applicant proposes no alternatives
other than maintaining the present operating mode.
240
i1FY ?; 1`:41?PM NPeL
? « =?ANhLlil.ilt?
The Queens Creek Project represents a discontinuity of the Queens Creek ecosystem. The
Federal Power Act authorizes the Service to provide requirements for fish passage, and
recommendations for the protection and enhancement of fish and wildlife resources when
reviewing hydroelectric projects. The Service believes relative studies should be conducted to
quantify, to the extent practicable, the ecological impacts of the project on the
hydrobio-eeochemical integrity of the Queens Creek ecosystem. The studies will help define the
baseline for decision making, quantify perturbances to the
mitigation required. Following are comments on the First Stage Consultation Reeoort Band `e of
recommendations for studies to be conducted.
Section 4.2.1 Instream Flow Study
The impacts of completely dewatering perennial stream channels for 50 years are severe and
adverse. Under the current, and proposed, flow regime, the only water entering into the
approximately 1.5 mile long bypassed reach is from leakage of Queens Creek Dam or from
inflow from the drainage area below the dam. The results of the study should be analyzed to
determine the appropriate instream flows necessary to restore and maintain the natural aquatic
ecosystem (which includes, but is not limited to, nutrient fluctuations and export, bedload
transport, invertebrate production, and fish growth) of Queens Creek, while allowing power
production.
Section 4.2.2 Water Quality Sampling
To determine temperature and dissolved oxygen variations in Queens Creek Reservoir, data
should be collected for 3 years in addition to the 1996 sampling effort. The data will reflect
variability and provide a realistic assessment of water quality, In addition to the equipment and
procedures used, the study plan should include a schedule of data collection. and locations of
data collection points. Data should be collected from several locations in the reservoir including
near the headwaters, near the intake structure, and in any "worst case" locations. The Service
should be provided a 60 day review period of the draft study plan in order to conduct site visits
of the sampling locations, if needed.
The Service requests water quality sampling be conducted in the bypass reach. Water quality
sampling should also be conducted upstream of Queens Creek Reservoir to determine a baseline
for water quality in Queens Creek. Parameters to be sampled should include, at the least: stream
discharge; dissolved oxygen levels; water temperature; and total carbon. A rain gage should also
be installed and monitored to determine seasonal variations in throughflow, stream discharge,
and water quality.
Section 4.2.3 Fish Sampling
The fish sampling should include aquatic invertebrates. In order to establish the Project's
ecological baseline, sites should be selected for sampling of fish and aquatic invertebrates above
Queens Creek Reservoir and, if practicable, at a nearby, unregulated stream.
241
r1H'r ?1 _ , 1- 41PI NF&L ,
=FrkLIN, ri,-
Section 4.2.4 Impingement and Entrainment
The applicant does not plan to conduct any studies of impingement and entrainment. The intake
is 4 ft. by 4 ft, with a 1 in. bar mesh screen and a calculated intake velocity of 1,38 ft/see (John
BOaze, comments for the record, 4/1/97 Public meeting), Tlme applicant should prepare a report
including: as-built drawings for the intake and screen; information regarding the screen
configuration and placement; the size of the cross bars,
screen; the total amount of unoccluded intake area; and ththe cu=nt condition of the bar mesh
e calculations used for determining
1.38 ft/sec intake velocity. This information will be used to evaluate the potential for f stti..
impingement and entrainment. At this time, the Service is unable to determine if a site-specific
intake velocity study will need to be conducted. The Service presumes that entrainment
mortality from the Project is 100%.
Section 4.2.5 Recreation
Due to the limited size of Queens Creek Reservoir, and to enhance the array of regional
recreational activities, the applicant should study the benefits and casts of excluding internal
combustion engines from Queens Creek Reservoir, The Service also recommends that the
applicant develop a shoreline management plan for the area controlled around the reservoir. A
natural vegetated buffer with, very limited clearing should be maintained on project lands, and no
private docks should be permitted, ft leases are granted to adjacent landowners for access to the
reservoir.
The FERC and the applicant should evaluate all possible alternatives for the Queens Creek
Project, these would include, but not be limited to, the following:
• Baseline - The Project would be decommissioned and the dam and pipeline removed.
• Present Operating Regime - The Project would operate as described in the application
package.
• Present Operating Regime with a Bypass Flow - The Project would operate as described
in the application package, except it would be modified to release a flow into the bypass
reach.
• Run of River - The Project would operate in a run of river mode where inflow info
Queens Creek Reservoir equals outflow from the Project. The analysis of this alternative
should include scenarios where all outflow is through the powerhouse, as well as, from a
combination of a bypass release and a powerhouse release.
Both the'"Present Operating Regime With a Bypass Flow" and the "Run of River" alternatives
should include scenarios with fish passage from Queens Creek Reservoir to the bypass reach and
without fish passage.
Once again, thank you for the opportunity to provide comments on this project. We look forward
to working with the FERC and the applicant in the relicensing process for the Queens Creek
242

Hydroelectric Project. If you have any questions, please contact me, or John Ellis at the above
address, or at [phone], exp. 26,
Sincerely,
37
ohn A Hefner
Field Supervisor
FWS/R4:JEllis:JEE:5-14-97:919-856-4520 ext. 26:B:queens I st
243
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, N.C. 28789
[phone]
December 1, 1997
Mr. John Domey
NC Division of Water Quality
Enviromental Sciences Branch
4404 Reedy Creek Rd.
Raleigh. NC 27607
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-NC)
Dear Mr. Dorney:
The results of the requested study of temperature and dissolved oxygen concentrations within
Queen Creek Reservoir for the July-October 1997 period are enclosed. The figures also present
the results of 1996 temperature/dissolved oxygen monitoring for comparison. Thermal
stratification and dissolved oxygen patterns appeared similar between years. It is our opinion
that the two years are very similar and that additional studies are not needed. If your agency
feels that additional studies are necessary, please provide us with the justification. If you have
any other questions, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Richard Conley, Hydro-Relicensing Coordinator, NP&L
Mike Wilkins, USFS
Steve Reed, NC DVvR
John Ellis, US FWS
Mark Davis, NC WRC
Ted Bisterfeld, US EPA
244
• QU'llit SCf-ViCC :u a reasonahkC pncc
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, N.C. 28 789
[phone]
December 1, 1997
Mr. Ted Bisterfeld
US EPA, Region 4
Atlanta Federal Center
100 Alabama Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA 30303-3104
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-NC)
Dear Mr. Bisterfeld:
The results of the requested study of temperature and dissolved oxygen concentrations within
Queen Creek Reservoir for the July-October 1997 period are enclosed. The figures also present
the results of 1996 temperature/dissolved oxygen monitoring for comparison. Thermal
stratification and dissolved oxygen patterns appeared similar between years. It is our opinion
that the two years are very similar and that additional studies are not needed. If your agency
feels that additional studies are necessary, please provide us with the justification. If you have
any other questions, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Richard Conley, Hydro-Relicensing Coordinator, NP&L
Mike Wilkins, USFS
Steve Reed, NC DWR
John Ellis, US FWS
Mark Davis, NC IN-RC
John Dorney, NC DWQ
245
• QualiL .lervice a[ a ICalormhiz pricc
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 24 i
Wl Ittier, N.C. 28 789
(704) V-7-6505
December 1, 1997
Mr. Mark Davis
Habitat Conservation Program
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Old Fish Hatchery
20830 Great Smoky Mtn. Expressway
Waynesville, NC 28786
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-NC)
Dear Mark:
The results of the requested study of temperature and dissolved oxygen concentrations within
Queen Creek Reservoir for the July-October 1997 period are enclosed. The figures also present
the results of 1996 temperature/dissolved oxygen monitoring for comparison. Thermal
stratification and dissolved oxygen patterns appeared similar between years. It is our opinion
that the two years are very similar and that additional studies are not needed. If your agency
feels that additional studies are necessary, please provide us with the justification. If you have
any other questions, please contact me at (704) 497-6?0?.
Sincerely,
L??
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Richard Conley, Hydro-Re licensing Coordinator, NP&L
Mike Wilkins, USFS
Steve Reed, NC D WR
John Ellis, US FWS
Ted Bisterfeld, US EPA
John Dorney, NC DWQ
246
• (2ualirv sea ice a[ CL re:urnl;ii;l? price

Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Wnittier, N.C. 28789
(704) 497-6:505
December 1, 1997
Mr. John Ellis
US Fish and Wildlife Service
P.0. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-NC)
Dear John:
The results of the requested study of temperature and dissolved oxygen concentrations within
Queen Creek Reservoir for the July-October 1997 period are enclosed. The figures also present
the results of 1996 temperature/dissolved oxygen monitoring for comparison. Thermal
stratification and dissolved oxygen patterns appeared similar between years. It is our opinion
that the two years are very similar and that additional studies are not needed. If your agency
feels that additional studies are necessary, please provide us with the justification. If you have
any other questions, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
, /./ ?' ?'Z -, ? ? -J ?'
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Richard Conley, Hydro-Relicensing Coordinator, NP&L
Mike Wilkins, USFS
Steve Reed, NC DWR
Mark Davis, NC WRC
Ted Bisterfeld, US EPA
John Dorney, NC DWQ
247
• Qualitc sCn icc ac a reasonahle pact
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier. N.C. 28 789
[phone]
December 1, 1997
Mr.Steve Reed
NC Division of Water Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611-7687
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-NC)
Dear Steve:
The results of the requested study of temperature and dissolved oxygen concentrations within
Queen Creek Reservoir for the July-October 1997 period are enclosed. The figures also present
the results of 1996 temperature/dissolved oxygen monitoring for comparison. Thermal
stratification and dissolved oxygen patterns appeared similar between years. It is our opinion
that the two years are very similar and that additional studies are not needed. If your agency
feels that additional studies are necessary, please provide us with the justification. If you have
any other questions, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
114 L 1L C/G `y?
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Richard Conley, Hydro-Relicensing Coordinator, NP&L
Mike Wilkins, USFS
John Ellis, US FWS
Mark Davis, NC WRC
Ted Bisterfeld, US EPA
John Dorney, NC DWQ
248
• Quzlir. per: ict :u resonai?le pnc:e
Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier. N.C. 28 789
(704) 49-7-6505
December 1, 1997
Mr. Mike Wilkins
District Ranger, Wayah Ranger District
Nantahala National Forest
90 Sloan Road
Franklin. NC 28734
Re: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2694-NC)
Dear Mr. Wilkins:
The results of the requested study of temperature and dissolved oxygen concentrations within
Queen Creek Reservoir for the July-October 1997 period are enclosed. The figures also present
the results of 1996 temperature/dissolved oxygen monitoring for comparison. Thermal
stratification and dissolved oxygen patterns appeared similar between years. It is our opinion
that the two years are very similar and that additional studies are not needed. If your agency
feels that additional studies are necessary, please provide us with the justification. If you have
any other questions, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
John L. Boaze
Senior Biologist
cc: Richard Conley, Hydro-Relicensing Coordinator, NP&L
Steve Reed, NC DWR
John Ellis, US FWS
Mark Davis, NC WRC
Ted Bisterfeld, US EPA
John Dorney, NC DWQ
249
• QL1'.1 t'%' Scr.lCC::u a re:uonahikf pnc c
? w
Queens Creek Reservoir
July
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
26
24
22
?j 20
18
0
a -
E
16
14
12
10
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Depth (m)
1996 1997
13
12
11
10
9
m
8
c
aD
m 7
T
X
O
0 6
a?
0
5
0
4
3
2
1
0
Figure 1. Water temperature and dissolved oxygen for Queens Creek Reservoir,
July 1996 and 1997. 250
? y
Queens Creek Reservoir
August
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
24
22
20
U_
m
?5 18
m
C
CL
16
14
12
10
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1!D
Depth (m)
1996 1997
10
9
8
7
m
E
c 6
m
a?
X 5
m
4
0
m
3
2
1
G
Figure 2. Water temperature and dissolved oxygen for Queens Creek Reservoir,
August 1996 and 1997. 251

Queens Creek Reservoir
September
24
22 ...... .... _ .........
20
U \ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
a?
?i 18 ?.__.._-_ .. .... .._
io
`m
a
E 16
14
12
10
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
1
am
E
c
d
OJ
T
X
O
N
O
N
N
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Depth (m)
1996 1997
Figure 3. Water temperature and dissolved oxygen for Queens Creek Reservoir,
September 1996 and 1997. 252
? y
Queens Creek Reservoir
October
20
a 18
m
N
Q
E
9 16
14
-------------

Figure 4. Water temperature and dissolved oxygen for Queens Creek Reservoir,
October 1996 and 1997. 253
0 1 2 3 4 -5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
10,' CT.,12. 1998 141? _27P 1 SNP' «L ENGIMEEPING - -VV
USFWS-R U1GR, YC NO. 93-5 P. Z002
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Raleigh Fuld OfEce
Yost Office B= 38726
Rakigh, Nosth Caroftaa 37636-3726
October 9, 1998
Mr. Richard Conley
Coordinator, Hydro Regulatory Affairs
Nanmhala Power and Light Company
301 NP&L Loop
Franklin, NC 28734
Dear Mr. Conley:
Thank you for the July 9, 1998, letter requesting U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service)
comments regarding the Draft License Application for the Queen` Creek Hydroelectric Project
(Draft) (FERC #2694) located in Macon County, North Carolina. These comments are provided
in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stet. 401, as
amended. 16 U,S.C. 661 et seq.), the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C.
1531-1543), and the Federal Power Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 791a-825r).
The Service has reviewed the Draft License Application and has concerns regarding its
adequateness. Some of the conclusions are not supported by the information included in the
document. No alternatives to the current o0erating scenario are analyzed, nor mitigation of
impacts proposed, except for an enhancement of public access to the reservoir.
Following are Service comments:
Table 1.1
The Normal Elevation for Queens Creek keservoir is listed as 3425 while within Section 2.1 and
Figure 2.1 it is given as 2,895 ft.
Section 2.1
More explanation of the drawdow„ for spring tIaad control should he provided. The project
receives drainage from a 3,6 square mile area, The need to draw the reservoir down 15 feet to
prevent flooding should be explained, The magnitude of flooding which would occur without the
drawdown should be given, as well as the associ ?toed damages, Furthermore, the purpose and
need of flood control should he addressed, as only one stricture is present between the darn and
Queens Creek's confluence with the Naritahala Rivet. Aquatic ecosystems depend on periods of
?Ip;:XT. 12. 1998 1,10: 279h1[ 1 tLffKL ENGINEERING USF{YS-RAIEIGH,hC r{`"' ?`? P. ? ? 00.1
high flow to maintain activities such as bedload transport. This section should also identify
impacts to the bypass reach associated with the lack of periodic floods, as well as proposed
methods to mitigate these impacts, The impacts of the drawdowns upon the reservoir fishery
should also be determined and adequate mitigation proposed to offset these impacts,
Exhibit D
The Draft states that NP&L must currently purchase much of its electricity from Duke Power
Company, the owner of NP&L, and that the energy requirements have gown an average of 2.6%
annually for the past 15 years. The Draft does not mention any efforts by NP&L to increase their
power production capabilities, thus decreasing the amount of power they must purchase.
Furthermore, an analysis should be completed to project the costs to produce or replace power
generated at Queens Creek over the Term of the new license period, This analysis should include
price projections based on a competitive market.
The analysis of generation lost by releasing water at Queens Creek Lake should also include an
analysis of the potential to recover a portion of this loss by utilizing a minimum release turbine
located at the base of Queens Creek Dam. A minimum release turbine would allow a release to be
made into the bypass reach to enhance the aquatic ecosystem and to generate power. The
analysis should include the cost to construct and operate the turbine, the amount of power it
would produce and its associated valuc. It should also show the additional percentage of time at
which power could be produced by the Queens Creek Project, which over the last 30 years was
not operated 46.4% of the time it ww available due to a "lack of water." A miititnutn release
turbine designed to generate at a low flow rate could increase the percentage of the time the
Project can generate since the estimated average annual flow is 8.3 cfs. The rationale to install or
not to install a minimum release turbine should be developed into an alternative operating scenario
which the FERC will discuss in the environmental assessment.
Section 3.l
The actual length of the b,,nassed strewn should be included in the description of the Project :tea,
Section 3.2
Data used to support the statement that water quality is "goodlexceIicnt" should be provided.
While there is no industry and Little development above the reservoir, there are agricultural areas
which may lead to nonpoint pollution,
The maximum lake depth is fisted as 15 meters. However, in Section 3.3.4 it states that the intake
is located at a depth of s8 feel (17.84 meters). This should be corrected.
255
2
100 .- I ocT. 12 . 1998 , 1,122Am'M 1 b y NP&L ENGINEERING NO. 935 P.5
la OVV YVJO t;SM-R LEIG$.NC 2004
'
In order to more accurately interpret the dissolved oxygen and water temperature data, the
reservoir levels should also be included. A map of the sampling location should also be included.
The Service continues to believe that more than one sampling location is needed to characterize
the water quality in the reservoir.
Information explaining how the streamflow data were calculated using beneration records and
reservoir levels should be included.
Section 3.2.2 & Appendix i
Within the Introduction to Appendix 1, it states, "All commenting agencies agreed :hat an
instream flow study was appropriate ... and therefore NP&L conducted the study in
consultation with the resource agencies." The Service disagrees with this statement, The
agencies, Fish and Wildlife Associates (FWA) and NP&L did reach agreement on: species to
model; number of transeetx: and discharges at which to collect data. The agencies were not
involved in the development of the habitat suitability indices for the specie=s nor provided an
opportunity to review the indices before the models were rt.in. This, along with the requests for
additional background information by the NC Division of Water Resources on August 20, 1998
and September 29. 1998 comments, clearly illustrate that the study was not %conducted in
consultation with the resource agencies." Without adequate information, the Service cannot
provide rpecifc comments on the t nstrcam Flew Study and its conclusions.
The Service questions the inferences that the fish populations in the bypass reach of Queens Creek
exceed those of other unregulated streams in the area. The bypass was sampled in May while the
unregulated streams were sampled in July and August. The study notes that natural mortality
would need to be assessed to perform a direct comparison. This was not done, yet comparisons
are drawn. Other factors such as in-migration of fish from other systems to utilize available
spawning and nursery areas, OUT-Migration during periods of lower flows, and environmental
conditions which may have affected year class strength should also be compared between streams.
A comparison of species diversity should be conducted. More backgTo'And infonnation regarding
the streams and sample sites within any streams used for comparison should be included, for
example: discharge; gradient; altitudc: proximity to a larger river or stream: etc.
Section 3.2.3
This should be amended to Show that the request for 401 Certification was submitted but then
withdrawn.
256
l0i0cT._12.199jeIJGJ:?' Ajj'1 1 LNP&L ENGINEERING USFTS?RALEIGH.NC NO. 93S, P.6 2005
Section 3.3.1
The text states that gill netting was }performed in July and November, however Table 3.4 only
shows the results of the July sampling effort. A map should be included showing the location of
the areas which were sampled. More information needs to be provided 'regarding the sampling
methods which were used in order to assets the adequacy of the survey,
It should be distinguished whether carp or goldfish observed,
The reservoir is managed as a hatchery supported trout fishery, however, sampling results show
that populations of other game fish are alsn present. Bank Ashing for resident species is listed as a
recreational activity in the reservoir. The effects of fluctuating lake levels upon reservoir fish
should be included, as well as, methods to mitigate for impacts to these species.
Section 3.3.2
The report states that the bypass, section of Queens Creek is managed as Wild Trout Waters.
Project operations should not impair the ability of this stream to function as a self sustaining
ecosystem.
Again, comparisons of this stream cannot be made to the streams sampled in the Bonner report
without more work to identify the similarities and differerims between streams and the time of the
year sampling occurred.
Section 3.3.4
Again, it should be clarified what the maximum lake depth and the depth of the intake are.
Furthermore, Drawing 2 in Appendix If shows the trashrack to be located at elevation 2850 ft, If
this is accurate and the surface elevation is 2895 ft., the intake is at a depth of 45 feet (13.85 m).
The depth of the intake should be clarified, as well as the depth of the trashracks.
The Du-aft concludes that die to intake depth, bar spacing, and water velocity at the intake,
impingement and entrainment potential is limited. Although the bar spacing is such that it should
serve to limit impingement and entrainment of lamer fish, the other factors are not supported.
While the calculated velocities are acceptable, water velocities will vary with the amount of
unoeeluded space on the trash rack. Frequency of blockages and frequency and methods of
cleaning the racks should be included.
The information regarding the depth of the intake in relation to dissolved oxygen levels and water
temperatures is net adequate to conclude that Fish would avoid the intake and thus impingement
and entrainment potential is minimized. Data collected at the sample site show dissolved oxygen
levels dropping below S mg/l at a depth of 13 m only during August and September. A map
indicating the location of the dissolved oxygcru2y)ti water temperature monitoring should be
4
GCT. 1'2. 1998 1 41.: ' 2' e PIP&L ENG I NEER I NG T
'l 0i.. 0.' _' _.? 1 i_. LSFW S-R4LEIG8,\C Z006
included to determine the applicability aF'the sample site data to conditions that would occur in
close proximity to the intake. The Service requested a sample site be located near the intake in its
May 14, 1997 review of the First Stage Consultation Report. Water surface elevations should
also be included for each day sampled to allow more accurate interpretation of the relationship
'between water -amperature and dissolved oxygen levels at various depths and the depth of the
intake structure.
Section 3.7.1
The Service believes NP&L's proposal to construct a public boat ramp and a day-use area will
enhance public access to the Project.
Section 3.8.1
A management plan for the transmission lines and penstock corridors should be developed in
consultation with the U.S. Forest Service and included in this section,
Section 3.8.3
The Service would like to commend Nantahala Power and Light for prohibiting land disturbing
activities within its 10-foot vertical buffer. The Service recommends that NKP&L also prohibit
vegetation removal within the buffer arwi. The Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) should also
include a plan to monitor and enforce cite SMP if and when the adjacent propetzy begins to be
developed to ensure compliance.
As was stated in my May 14, 1997, letter, an analysis of all possible alternatives should be
completed by the FERC and the applicant. These would include, but not be limited to, the
following,
Baseline - The Project would be decommissioned and the dam and pipeline removed.
Present Operating Regime - The Project would opcrated as described in the draft
application-
Preaent Operating Regime with a Bypass Flow - The Project would be operated as
described in the draft application, except it would be modified to release a flow into the
bypass reach.
Run of River - The Project would opel'ate in a run of river mode where inflow into Queens
Creek Reservoir equals outflow front the Project.
Run of River with a Bypass Flow - The Project would operate in a run of river mode
where inflow into Queens Creel. Reservoir- equals outflow from a combination of the
powerhouse and a release into the bypass reach.
The alternatives with a bypass tlow should include information requested in this letter regarding
utilizing a minimum release turbine. 258
-11 r10.935 P.8 Z007
16,OCT :1E. 1998 14. q 30Aa z LttS ENGINEEP.ING USFiFS-RALEIGH, NC

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments on the Dram. We look forward to continuing
to work with NP&L in the reiicensing of the Queens Creels Hydroelectric Project.- If you have
any questions, please contact John Ellis at the above address or at (919) 8564520, ext, 26.
Sincerely
Sohn M. Hefner
Ecological Services Supervisor
1~WS/R4:JEllis:JEE:10.7-98;019-856-4520, ext. 26;B:gnsdrhapp
cc:
WRC, Creedmoor, NC (Frank McBride)
DV;& Raleigh, NC (F.Tarver)
DWQ, Raleigh, NC (John Dorney)
FERC; Washington, DC ( Lois Cashel])
USFS, Nantahala National Forest, Franklin, NC (Mike Wilkins)
EPA, Atlanta, GA (Heinz Mueller)
FWS, Asheville, NC (Brian Cole)
259
6

® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission®
312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
February 2, 1999
Mr. John Boaze
Fish & Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241
Whittier, NC 28789
Subject: Additional Comments - Second Stage Consultation
Nantahala Power & Light Co., Queens Creek Project, FERC No. 2694
Dear John:
This correspondence is a follow-up to the December 1, 1998 second stage consultation meeting. The North
Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) requested additional information and studies from Nantahala
Power & Light (NP&L). Likewise, NP&L asked for justification for these requests. The WRC is authorized to
comment and make recommendations regarding impacts on wildlife and fisheries resources in accordance with
provisions of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 791a-825r) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat.
401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
Reservoir Water Level Data
We request daily lake level measurements for the period of April 1 to June 30 for each of the last 10 years (1989-
1998). The WRC is interested in increasing populations of bass and sunfish species in Queens Creek Lake for use
by the angling public. The current rule curve calls for water levels to rise about 15 feet during this time period,
which is also when Centrarchids spawn and incubate eggs. Daily measurements will provide information on the
rate of change in lake levels. The 10-year period is expected to include years of wet, dry and normal weather
conditions. Comparisons will be made to published articles describing nesting success under conditions of
changing water levels. This method will provide a quick and inexpensive approach to determine now lake level
fluctuations may impact fish spawning and reproduction of species using littoral areas. Duke Power Company has
used it on Lake James, North Carolina to adjust lake level management for improving walleye spawning
conditions.
We also request daily lake level measurement data for the April 1 - June 30 period for 1999 and 2000. Minimum,
maximum and mean daily surface water temperatures (within 5 feet of the surface) should be provided for the same
period at two locations - near the inflow of Queens Creek and near the dam. The combined information will
provide a better account of conditions in the lake during the spawning period.
Reservoir Fish Data
More data on the status of the fish populations is required to determine if water level fluctuations are impactmg
reservoir fish populations. Our goal is to improve the self-sustaining populations of game fish, including
smallmouth bass, to provide additional recreational fishing opportunities. Even though smallmouth bass were not
originally stocked by the WRC, which is often the case for many species in streams and lakes in the state, we will
260
FERC No. 2694 Page 3 February 2, 1999
Queens Cr. Additional Comments hydro\npl\queens2.doc
Table 1. Details of sampling and data analysis requested for Queens Creek project.
Lake Electrofishing
Dates One night during period of May 10-14
WRC personnel 1-2
Gear WRC boat electrofisher
Location 5 200-m sites; 1 near inflow, 2 mid-lake (one each shore), 2 near dam (one each shore)
Data collection Length and weight of all fish; scales and otoliths from 10 fish per 25-mm .class for
game fish
Data analysis CPUE (number per 100 m); length frequency distributions (25-mm class); relative
weight; age distribution; length-at-age; relative stock densities (PSD, RSD-P)
Other Copy of raw data and field notes
Lake Gill Netting
Dates One night each during periods of May 10-14 and October 18-22
WRC personnel 1-2
Gear 6 experimental gill nets; 3 surface and 3 bottom; mesh sizes (bar) should include 1.0",
1.5", 2.0", 2.5"; WRC has nets available to assist
Location One pair (surface and bottom) in each 1/3 of lake (lower middle, upper)
Data collection Length and weight of all fish; scales and otoliths from 10 fish per 25-mm class for
game fish
Data analysis CPUE (number per net night); length frequency distribution (25-mm class); age
distribution; length-at-age; relative stock densities (PSD, RSD-P)
Other Copy of raw data and field notes
Stream Electrofishing
Dates One day during period of July 26 - August 13
WRC personnel
Gear 1-2
3-pass backpack eectrofishing (1 unit per every 3 in average width); block nets at

Location upper and lower boundaries
3 100-m sites; near mouth (same as 1997), mid-way to road (below trib.), below road)
Data collection Length and weight of each individual trout; number and total weight of non-trout (for

Data analysis each pass)
Population estimates of density and standing crop for all species; density and standing
crop estimates for trout should be calculated by size classes - _<100 mm, 101-178 mm,
179-305 mm, 306-406 mm, >406 mm; length frequency distributions by 10-mm
classes
Other Copy of raw data and field notes
Table 2. Density and standing crop estimates for rainbow trout from Curtis Creek, McDowell County, 1990 -
1995. Other species collected at site 1 include fantail darter, stoneroller, striped jumprock, white sucker, and
brown trout. Of these only fantail darter were numerous. Stream elevation of the sites ranged from 2000 - 2150
feet above MSL. All sites within 0.5 stream miles.

Year
1 Density (number/ha)
2 3
Mean
1 Standing crop (kg/ha)
2 3
Mean
1990 1241 1597 1027 1288 26.6 41.8 19.5 29.3
1991 1677 1858 1560 1698 32.3 28.7 24.8 28.6
1992 1285 1605 1715 1535 34.1 45.2 40.2 39.8
1993 2258 3168 2846 2758 47.1 63.1 57.7 55.9
1994 1096 640 552 763 25.0 13.7 11.4 16.7
1995 1869 1596 1055 1507 25.4 28.9 18.5 24.3
261

Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc.
P.O. Box 241 6926 Valley View Place
Whittier, NC 28789 Cheyenne, WY 82009
[phone] [phone]
February 8, 1999
Mr. John Ellis
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Ref: Queens Creek Hydroelectric Project
Impingement/Entrainment
Dear John:
We would like to request a formal withdrawal (in writing) of the
impingement/entrainment study requests for the Queens Creek Project. During the
December 1, 1998 meeting, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and the US Fish and
Wildlife Service indicated that an impingement/entrainment study was not needed for the
project.
If you have any questions, please contact me at [phone].
Sincerely,
R Z'r
Roger D. Bryan
Project Biologist
cc: Richard Conley, NP&L
Chris Goudreau, NC WRC
262
C
NANTAHALA
POWER AND LIGHT
March 10, 1999
Re: Queens Creek Hydro Electric Project
FERC# 2694-NC
Dear: See Attached List:
Due to an unforeseen commitment, the joint meeting with all interested parties to continue
discussions with regard to the proposed mitigation features associated with the above referenced
project scheduled for April 6, 1999 at 9:00 am has been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a
later date.
Meanwhile, I would appreciate receiving, within the next 30 days the resource agencies
supporting data for the request to conduct additional studies relating to the intake velocity
measurements at the Queens Creek intake.
If you have any questions, please contact me at [phone]
Sincerely,
Richard Conley
Coordinator, Hydro Regulatory Affairs
263
APR 13 '99 01 : 5 =FPM NP? i FRANKLIN. NC
IZ2
North Carolina Wildlife Resources CommissionE
312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
Route 6, Box 685
Marion, NC 28752-9229
April 8, 1999
Mr. Richard Conley
Nantahala Power and Light Co.
301 NP&L Loop Road
Franklin, NC 28734
Subject: Intake Velocities
Nantahala Power & Light Co., Queens Creek Project. F'ERC No. 2694
Dear Richard:
This correspondence is in response to your March 10, 1999 letter in which you requested supporting data for the
request to conduct additional studies relating to the intake velocity measurements at the Queens Creek intake. The
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is authorized to comment and make recommendations regarding
impacts on wildlife and fisheries resources in accordance with provisions of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C.
791 a-825x) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
We are not requesting additional swdies, but require field data to verify the average velocity calculations based on
intake size and discharge. We would like confirmation that maximum point velocities in front of the trashrack at
maximum discharge (22.1 cfs) do not exceed 1.5 feet per second. While the average calculated velocity may be
less than 1.5 feet per second, the physical lay out of the intake, or occlusions to it, may result in areas with high
velocity. This can only be determined by measuring velocities at a number of points in front of each face of the
intake structure.
The data should be acquired according to the attached protocol. We understand that the U.S. Geological Survey
has a doppler flow meter that may be available to assist in obtaining this information.
If you have any questions concerning these comments, please contact me at 828.652.4360.
Sincerely,
Christopher Goudreau
Hydropower Relicensing Coordinator

c: Frank McBride. WRC 264
John Ellis, USFWS
?(D ion of Water Quafit
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North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
PO Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 / Phone: [phone]

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IAIR ENTRAINED) - - ~ - E
3' CLR - 8-•4 BARS ! 45• 23 E
P R R A (TYP"1 ~ II 24 USES 3t SPACER R '
a ~ CHAMFER SCALES N° T° S° SCALES N, T. S.
~ (TYP,I
z'-e"
II II ~
, € 8" MIN. FLOW MATER 1 ~ DISCHARGE LINE 1 3z
SCALES N. T. S. - - - - -
SCALE~ N. T. S. ' 32 ~
i , ~ l
~ 8' DIR. 90° ELLS 5

I p 2 le" SAN - X e ~ cLASS Iz5 D
C I GED 45 RED. WYE 8" 150 L8. FS WN FLG. 4 14 U 20
REMOVE RAISED FACE
II II
SCALES N° T° S. GENERAL NOTES FOR PIPE SUPPORTS
/
1. Design, detailing, fabrication, and
VA VE PEDESTAL / L SEE DETAIL I erection of structural steel shall conform to the
~ 8•HARGE LINE WATER re uirements of the " S ecif ication For Structural olsc q p
~ 14'-0' 7'$ s'-s• 1 3z Steel Buildings" dated June 1, 1989, and the
3 NEW 18' CLASS l25 / ~ FLG. CAST IRON VALVE / / "Code Of Standard Practice for Steel Buildin s and 9
/ ~ s• 150 Le. FS WN FLG. 12 t5 U zl ~ Bridges" dated September 1, 1986, b the American REMOVE RAISED FACE I y
Institute Of Steel Construction, Inc. (Reference
19 l8 l6 ~ ~ 8' 300 LB C.S. SLIP-ON 6 1 8 9 ~ 3'-6' ORIFICE FLANGE SET e 9 ~ AISC 9th Edition)
I m
2 18' X 18' X 8: CLASS l25 , ~ " ~ SEE DETAIL C I FLANGED 45 RED. WYE ` / Y ~ 8 DIR. 90° ELLS WITH 5 1 32 1 32 1 3Z 8' X 6' ~ a ~ 8" DIA, X 12" LONG € 8' MIN. FLOW WATER ~ le 6. W. RED. x s• 10 ' I " 2. All structural steel shall be ASTM A-36 M. RED. PIPE SUPPORT ,
/ ~ PIPE SECTION IN RISER e• x s• IO SEE DETAILS unless otherwise noted. All tube steel shall be s. W. RED' ASTM A-500 Grade B.
9 11 13 ~ ` . ~ DISCHARGE LINE C 1 ' I C
I EXISTING t " GATE VALVE - -------i -•-*---r----------- - • - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - L - - i - " - - - - - - 1 I
5 3. All reinforcing shall meet the I
~ l~' INSULATION ' ALUMINUM JACKETING 31 PIPE SUPPORT ' requirements of ASTM A615 Gr, 60. All
SEE DETAILS TOE OF ROCK MALL 6' ~ FI Ir ~ , s• 125 LB C.I. I reinforcin shall be free of r FLANGED PLUG g ust, scale, dirt,
I I CI CONTROL VALVE 11 I I paint, oil, or other f ores n material.
/ 2'-3~' 16" 8" 150 LB. FS WN FLG. ~ 2'-0" I g I 1B, ,
REMOVE RAISED FACE 4 l4 I7 20 ' / ~ ~ ' 4, All welds shall be made usin E70xx low g
/ ' I hydrogen electrodes, and shall Conform to the
i~ ` / American Welding Society's "Structural Weldin g
i Code, " AWS D 1. 1, as amended to date.
/ `
i~ / ` , ~ ~ 5. Concrete shall be procured and laced p
i ~i i , , , in accordance with standard ACI ractice and p
, , i , shall be class designation A 1 with a com ressive
i i i , i , p strength f'c = 4, 000 psi. Concrete shall have
i , i , air entrainment of 4 - 6%. The concrete slum
i , i , i , p shall be between 3 and 5 inches.
~ ,
i 6. Vibrating equipment shall be used to B
B _ compact the placed concrete. Do not over vibrate
I~ ~ i the concrete as separation of the aggregate ma
-•-----•-----------•-•-------r~ - I y occur.
I~ it
-J1 7. All piping and structural steel shall be rimed
P and coated in accordance with the Duke Power
H dro Coatin S ecif ication HP-207.
to cA~10 ~r ~ q~1 y 9 p 0~~
0 F~ss~p ~ o ti , 40 ti 8,For a list of materials refer to Minimum Flow Modifications
~ ~ SEpI ~ s it 3 Bill of Materials No. OCO-100-01, rev, 0.
•
~ v eHG EE's • t~ ~
C IN ~ . E~ 9. For additional specif icatlons refer to NP&L Queens Creek E ~
.ti RSt Minimum Flow Pipe Modif ications S ecif ication No. p
r.. NP&L-OCO-100.
fN I, e~
PE SEAT SEAL
CONFIDENTIAL ~ PROPRIETARY OF DUKE ENGINEERING & SERVICES BAR IS ON DRAWN BYE NANTAHALA POWER AND LIGHT
E q INCH ON ~ E. H. CAODELL QUEENS CREEK HYDRO STATION a
• ORIGINAL DESIGNED BYE
u e n ineer~n DRAWING E. H, CADOELL
• ° ~ ervices.~ sEa~ « C CHECKED Y. MINIMUM FLOW PIPIN AN PP RT
0 1 • A Dakr Bneryy Company ~ js~ G D SU 0
ees • ~ APP 0 Y~
~'~Gn4t~' 400 SOUTfI TRYON STREET I F NOT ONE p • It~
n n nn v .nn . T Alf`LJ f1Al TLI T /1 4t~w ..?lA ...tA
Y. U. MA 1UU4 liven uiv ini ~N ' `•~ow
-CNARGOTTE N.C. 29201.1004 SHEET ADJUST ^'Y 0 3/23/e RELEASEO FOR IMPLEMENTATION TES SCALES NOTED DRAWING NO. o REV. OCO-100-001 ORIGI AL -
SCALE NOTES/REFERENCE DRAWINGS REFERENCE FILES/X-REFS. SEA REVISIONS DRN CHKD APPR CIVIL ELEC MECH 0 0o SEAL NO. DATE INSPECTION PROJECT NO. SHEET NO. 1 OF 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1