20191665 Ver 1_WRC Comments_20191213

Moore, Andrew W
From:
Leslie, Andrea J
Sent:
Friday, December 13, 2019 11:10 AM
To:
Moore, Andrew W
Subject:
Casa Bella Shoreline Stabilization Project - NCWRC comments
Hi Andrew -
I have reviewed the information sent to me on the Casa Bella Shoreline Stabilization Project, which proposes to stabilize
150 ft of shoreline with stacked stone and a riprap base on Lake Nantahala in Macon County.
We do not object to the project as long as it addresses an active and appreciable shoreline erosion problem. However, the
photos provided show erosion at a few spots and generally a gently sloping bank; we recommend that any shoreline
hardening be limited to an actively eroding area. The shoreline is covered with mature trees and shrubs, and downed trees
lay along the shore, providing important habitat for wildlife. Fallen trees and other large woody debris along the shoreline
are especially important, providing cover for various sunfish, largemouth bass, and other fishes in the lake. In addition,
trees and shrubs above the waterline not only stabilize banks but also serve as habitat for wildlife such as song birds.
We offer the following recommendations to minimize impacts to terrestrial and aquatic wildlife:
1. Any shoreline stabilization should be limited the area of appreciable erosion.
2. Large woody debris should be left in place or moved temporarily and replaced after stabilization work is complete.
3. We recommend that the landowner retain as many shoreline trees and shrubs as possible.
4. We recommend the use of bioengineering techniques over hardening. Regardless of the method used to stabilize the
bank, we recommend that native trees and shrubs be planted within the project footprint.
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project. Please contact me if you have any questions about
these comments or need further assistance.
Andrea
Andrea Leslie
Mountain Habitat Conservation Coordinator
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
645 Fish Hatchery Rd., Building B
Marion, NC 28752
828-803-6054 (office)
828-400-4223 (cell)
www.ncwildlife.org
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