20200109 Ver 1_PCN Form Submission_20200117

DWR
mrlslon of Water Resources
Pre -Construction Notification (PCN) Form
September 29, 2018 Ver 3
Initial Review
Has this project met the requirements for acceptance in to the review process?*
r Yes
r No
Is this project a public transportation project?*
G Yes r No
Change only if needed.
BIMS # Assigned * Version#*
20200109 1
Is a payment required for this project?*
r No payment required What amout is owed?*
r Fee received r $240.00
r Fee needed - send electronic notification IT $570.00
Reviewing Office * Select Project Reviewer*
Nboresville Regional Office - [phone] Alan Johnson:eads\adjohnson1
Information for Initial Review
1a. Name of project:
Stinger Park
1a. Who is the Primary Contact?*
Jonathan Herman
1b. Primary Contact Email:*
[e-mail]
Date Submitted
1/17/2020
Nearest Body of Water
Long Creek
Basin
Catawba
Water Classification
C
Site Coordinates
Latitude:
35.298381
A. Processing Information
County (or Counties) where the project is located:
Gaston
Is this project a public transportation project?*
r Yes r No
Longitude:
-81.274553
1a. Type(s) of approval sought from the Corps:
W Section 404 Permit (wetlands, streams and waters, Clean Water Act)
r Section 10 Permit (navigable waters, tidal waters, Rivers and Harbors Act)
1b. What type(s) of permit(s) do you wish to seek authorization?
* Nationwide Permit (NWP)
* Regional General Permit (RGP)
7 Standard (IP)
1c. Primary Contact Phone:*
[phone]
U

1c. Has the NWP or GP number been verified by the Corps?
r Yes r No
Nationwide Permit (NWP) Number:
NWP Numbers (for multiple NWPS):
1d. Type(s) of approval sought from the DWR:
W 401 Water Quality Certification - Regular
r Non-404 Jurisdictional General Permit
r Individual Permit
14 - Linear transportation
le. Is this notification solely for the record because written approval is not required?
For the record only for DWR401 Certification:
For the record only for Corps Permit:
F 401 Water Quality Certification - E)iress
r Riparian Buffer Authorization
1f. Is this an after -the -fact permit application?*
r Yes r No
1g. Is payment into a mitigation bank or in -lieu fee program proposed for mitigation of impacts?
r Yes r No
1g. Is payment into a mitigation bank or in -lieu fee program proposed for mitigation of impacts?
r Yes r No
Acceptance Letter Attachment
1h. Is the project located in any of NC's twenty coastal counties?
r Yes r No
1j. Is the project located in a designated trout watershed?
r Yes r No
B. Applicant Information
1d. Who is applying for the permit?
W Owner r Applicant (other than owner)
le. Is there an Agent/Consultant for this project?*
r Yes r No
2. Owner Information
2a. Name(s) on recorded deed:
City of Bessemer City
2b. Deed book and page no.:
DBA889 Pg:2290
2c. Responsible party:
James Inman
2d.Address
Street Address
132 West Virginia Avenue
Address Line 2
City
Bessemer City
Postal / Zip Code
28016-2373
2e. Telephone Number:
[phone]
2g. Email Address:*
[e-mail]
2a. Name(s) on recorded deed:
Gaston County Board of Education
2b. Deed book and page no.:
DB: 4584 Pg: 0714
State / Province / Region
North Carolina
Country
United States
2f. Fax Number:
r Yes r No
r Yes r No
2c. Responsible party

Brent Moore
2d.Address
Street Address
943 Osceola Street
Address tine 2
(Sty
State / Province / legion
Gastonia
North Carolina
Postal / Zip Code
Country
28054
United States
2e. Telephone Number:
2f. Fax Number:
[phone]
2g. Email Address:*
[e-mail]
4. Agent/Consultant (if applicable)
4a. Name:
Jonathan Herman
4b. Business Name:
McGill Associates, P.A.
4c.Address
Street Address
1013 State Farm Road
Address tine 2
(Sty
State / Province / Region
Boone
North Carolina
Postal / Zip Code
Country
28607
United States
4d. Telephone Number: 4e. Fax Number:
[phone]
4f. Email Address:*
[e-mail]
Agent Authorization Letter*
AA Forrn-BC-Signed.pcif 45.98KB
C. Project Information and Prior Project History U
1. Project Information
1b. Subdivision name:
(d appropriate)
1c. Nearest municipality/ town:
Bessemer City
CProject Identification
2a. Property Identification Number:
2b. Property size:
217759 / 151725
37.68 / 27.04
2c. Project Address
Street Address
940 North 9th Street / 1320 North 12th Street
Address tine 2
City
State / Province / legion
Bessemer City
North Carolina
Postal / Zip Code
Country
28016
United States
3. Surface Waters
3a. Name of the nearest body of water to proposed project:*
Long Creek
3b. Water Resources Classification of nearest receiving water:*
C

3c. What river basin(s) is your project located in?*
Catawba
3d. Please provide the 12-digit HUC in which the project is located.
030501020602
4. Project Description and History
4a. Describe the existing conditions on the site and the general land use in the vicinity of the project at the time of this application:*
The project area is located inside the Bessemer City limits in Gaston County, NC. The subject properties and the majority of adjacent properties are zoned RSI12 which is an urban
residential district geared towards higher density residential development and generally served by public utilities. Four singlelfamily residential properties zoned R1 border the western
side of the property along Puetts Chapel Road. The R1 zone is considered a rural residential district generally beyond the existing or anticipated utility service coverage area. Currently,
the project site consists of the ebsting school facilities and forest. Much of the forest was altered due to past timbering activities which resulted in the clearing of vegetation and creation
of timber trails.
Areas of the federally -threatened Dwarf -flowered heartleaf (Hexastylis naniflora) are within the project area and will be impacted by the project. A mitigation plan for these impacts has
been developed and approved by the USFWS. Proposed conservation measures in the mitigation plan resulted in the USFWS concurring with a "may affect, not likely to adversely
affect' determination.
A total 1530 linear feet of potentially jurisdictional streams and 0.33 acres of potentially jurisdictional wetlands have been delineated within the study area (see attached Jurisdictional
Determination Package).
4b. Have Corps permits or DWR certifications been obtained for this project (including all prior phases) in the past?*
r Yes r No r Unknown
4d. Attach an 8 1/2 X 11 excerpt from the most recent version of the USGS topographic map indicating the location of the project site. (for DWR)
USGS MAP. pdf
1.88 MB
4e. Attach an 8 1/2 X 11 excerpt from the most recent version of the published County NRCS Soil Survey map depicting the project site. (for DWR)
Soil_Map.pdf 529.79KB
4f. List the total estimated acreage of all existing wetlands on the property:
0.33 acres
4g. List the total estimated linear feet of all existing streams on the property:
1530 linear feet
4h. Explain the purpose of the proposed project:*
The City of Bessemer City is proposing to build a park to provide recreational opportunities for the community and improve the local economy. Economic developers have learned that
companies will locate in rural areas, but one of the key factors they look at is the quality of life, such as park and recreational amenities, for the employees' families. As an economic
catalyst, parks are important for creating opportunities that improve the environment for business development thus creating jobs, increasing the tax base, and improving economic well)
being and quality of life. Many small communities now utilize parks to generate revenue and boost their local economy by hosting youth athletic competitions. The economic impact of
hosting soccer, baseball, and softball tournaments can be quantified through spending by visitors, participants, and allied businesses. This new stream of outside revenue vdll aid in
creating income and jobs for residents inside the community. From youth to seniors, residents of this community need and desire a combination of recreational and self1help
opportunities to improve their quality of life. The proposed project also includes sewer and water line improvements which will provide needed maintenance to ebsting facilities while
providing service to the new park amenities.
41. Describe the overall project in detail, including indirect impacts and the type of equipment to be used:*
The proposed Stinger Park (Park) is located at 940 North 9th Street and 1320 North 12th Street in Bessemer City, North Carolina. The Park will contain trails, playgrounds, a splash
pad, concessions and restroom buildings, athletic courts and fields, and a facility maintenance building. Stinger Park is a community athletic facility and park to enhance the health and
wellness of local citizens and increase the available recreational opportunities for all ages. The project also includes extensions and upgrades to the existing water and sewer system.
A proposed road and sewer crossing will result in 105 linear feet of temporary impacts and 148 linear feet of permanent impacts to potentially jurisdictional streams (see attached
Impacts Map in Miscellaneous section). Indirect impacts to wetlands, streams, floodplains, wildlife habitat, and other resources are possible if the project causes additional development
in the area.
A pump -around or other flow diversion technique will be installed at the stream crossing prior to construction to ensure that all work occurs in the dry. Following completion of grading,
disturbed areas will be stabilized with temporary erosion control seed and over -seeded with a native seed mix suitable for riparian areas. A fully biodegradable erosion control mat will be
installed along the channel banks susceptible to erosive flows and other disturbed areas will be covered with straw mulch. The proposed 105-foot road culvert will be countersunk below
the existing streambed as required by NWP#14 to allow for the development of natural stream substrate and passage of aquatic organisms.
4j. Please upload project drawings for the proposed project.
COMBINED EROSION CONTROL PLAN SET 12-17-2019.pdf 53.33MB
5. Jurisdictional Determinations
5a. Have the wetlands or streams been delineated on the property or proposed impact areas?*
r Yes r No C Unknown
Comments:
5b. If the Corps made a jurisdictional determination, what type of determination was made?*
r- Preliminary r Approved r Not Verified r Unknown r N/A
Corps AID Number:
5c. If 5a is yes, who delineated the jurisdictional areas?

Name (if known): Jon Swaim
Agency/Consultant Company: McGill Associates, P.A.
Other:
5d1. Jurisdictional determination upload
18.01410 -Jurisdictional Determination Package.pdf
6. Future Project Plans
6a. Is this a phased project?*
r Yes r No
6.57MB
Are any other NWP(s), regional general permit(s), or individual permits(s) used, or intended to be used, to authorize any part of the proposed projector related activity?
No
D. Proposed Impacts Inventory
1. Impacts Summary
1a. Where are the impacts associated with your project? (check all that apply):
r Wetlands W Streams -tributaries ❑ Buffers
r Open Waters r Pond Construction
3. Stream Impacts
3a. Reason for impact (?)
3b.lmpact type *
3c. Type of impact*
3d. S. name *
3e. Stream Type *
3f. Type of
3g. S. width *
3h. Impact
❑
(?)
Jurisdiction*
length*
S1
Construction Access
Temporary
Workpad/Causeway
UT-1 to UT -Long Creek
Perennial
Both
5
58
Aver�e(feet)
(lin�rfeet)
$2
Road Fill
Permanent
Fill lffto
UT -Long Creek
Perennial
Both
5
148
Average (feet)
(lirear feet)
S3
Construction Access
Temporary
Workpad/Causeway
UT-1 to UT -Long Creek
Perennial
Both
47
—]
Average (feet)
(linearfeet)
31. Total jurisdictional ditch impact in square feet:
31. Total permanent stream impacts:
148
31. Total stream and ditch impacts:
253
3j. Comments:
31. Total temporary stream impacts:
105
See attached Impacts Map in Miscellaneous section.
E. Impact Justification and Mitigation
1. Avoidance and Minimization
1a. Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed impacts in designing the project:
The road alignment was revised to avoid impacts to wetlands and limit impacts to Dwarf -flowered heartleaf (a Federally threatened plant species)
areas. Adjustments were made to the location of the culvert to also minimize impacts to UT-1 to UT -Long Creek.
The design plans include specifications for disturbed areas to be stabilized with temporary erosion control seed and over -seeded with a native seed
mix suitable for riparian areas. A fully biodegradable erosion control mat is specified to be installed along the channel banks susceptible to erosive
flows and other disturbed areas will be covered with straw mulch. The proposed 105-foot road culvert is designed to be countersunk belowthe existing
streambed as required by NWP#14 to allowfor the development of natural stream substrate and passage of aquatic organisms.
1b. Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed impacts through construction techniques:
Erosion control measures such as silt fence and vegetative slope stabilization will be installed to minimize sediment from washing into jurisdictional
waters. A pump -around or other flow diversion technique will be installed at the stream crossing prior to construction to ensure a dry work area.
Additionally, work will only be performed during dry weather and normal stream flow conditions. All temporarily disturbed stream bed and banks will be
returned to the original, nature conditions.
2. Compensatory Mitigation for Impacts to Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the State
2a. Does the project require Compensatory Mitigation for impacts to Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the State?
r Yes
r No
2b. If this project DOES NOT require Compensatory Mitigation, explain why:
The proposed impacts do not exceed any mitigation thresholds in NWP 14. Stream impacts do not exceed 150 linear feet.

F. Stormwater Management and Diffuse Flow Plan (required by DWR)
1. Diffuse Flow Plan
1a. Does the project include or is it adjacent to protected riparian buffers identified within one of the NC Riparian Buffer Protection Rules?
r- Yes r No
If no, explain why:
The project is in the Catawba River basin. As per the NCDEQ, in the Catawba River Basin buffer rules only apply to the Catawba River mainstem below Lake James and along mainstem
lakes from and including Lake James to the South Carolina border in the Catawba River Basin. (Catawba buffer rules also apply to the South Fork of the Catawba river up to the 569'
elevation of Lake Wylie).
2. Stormwater Management Plan
2a. Is this a NCDOT project subject to compliance with NCDOT's Individual NPDES permit NCS000250?*
r- Yes r No
2b. Does this project meet the requirements for low density projects as defined in 15ANCAC 02H .1003(2)?
r Yes r No
Comments:
G. Supplementary Information
1. Environmental Documentation
la. Does the project involve an expenditure of public (federal/state/local) funds or the use of public (federal/state) land?*
r Yes r No
1b. If you answered "yes" to the above, does the project require preparation of an environmental document pursuant to the requirements of the National or State (North Carolina)
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA /SEPA)? *
r Yes r No
1c. If you answered "yes" to the above, has the document review been finalized bythe State Clearing House?*
r Yes r No
NEPAor SEPA Final Approval Letter
State Clearinghouse Letter.pdf
2. Violations (DWR Requirement)
47.81 KB
2a. Is the site in violation of DWR Water Quality Certification Rules (15A NCAC 2H .0500), Isolated Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H .1300), or DWR Surface Water or Wetland Standards or
Riparian Buffer Rules (15A NCAC 2B .0200)? *
r Yes r No
3. Cumulative Impacts (DWR Requirement)
3a. Will this project result in additional development, which could impact nearby downstream water quality?*
r Yes r- No
3c. Upload a qualitative or quantitative cumulative impact analysis.
Cumulative Impact Analysis.pdf 114.65KB
4. Sewage Disposal (DWR Requirement)
4a. Is sewage disposal required by DWR for this project?*
r Yes r No r- WA
4b. Describe, in detail, the treatment methods and dispositions (non -discharge or discharge) of wastewater generated from the proposed project. If the wastewater will be treated
at a treatment plant, list the capacity available at that plant.
The Stinger Park project includes extensions and upgrades to the ebsting sewer system. Sewer service is supplied to the Stinger Park property by
gravity sewer along the northern and eastern boundaries of the park property. The gravity sewer discharges into Bessemer City's 9th Street Pump
Station, located along the park property's eastern boundary. From this point, sewage is pumped approbmately 1 mile south, across the railroad, and
into another portion of Bessemer City's collection system, which conveys sewage out of town to the south, and discharges into the Two Rivers Utilities
collection system on the south side of Interstate 85. Wastewater is then treated by advanced nutrient removal at Crowders Creek Wastewater
Treatment Plant and discharged into Abernathy Creek. Bessemer City discharges to Two Rivers Utilities (the City of Gastonia) through an interlocal
agreement. Crowders Creek WWTP has a design capacity of 6 million gallons per day.
5. Endangered Species and Designated Critical Habitat (Corps Requirement)
5a. Will this project occur in or near an area with federally protected species or habitat?*

r Yes
r No
5b. Have you checked with the USFWS concerning Endangered Species Act impacts?*
r Yes r No
5c. If yes, indicate the USFWS Field Office you have contacted.
Asheville
5d. Is another Federal agency involved?*
r Yes r No
5e. Is this a DOT project located within Division's 1-8?
r Yes r No
5f. Will you cut any trees in order to conduct the work in waters of the U.S.?
r Yes r No
5g. Does this project involve bridge maintenance or removal?
r Yes r No
5h. Does this project involve the construction/installation of a wind turbine(s)?*
r Yes r No
r Unknown
5i. Does this project involve (1) blasting, and/or (2) other percussive activities that will be conducted by machines, such as jackhammers, mechanized pile drivers, etc.?
r Yes r No
If yes, please provide details to include type of percussive activity, purpose, duration, and specific location of this activity on the property.
Percussive Activities.pdf 90.74KB
5j. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact Endangered Species or Designated Critical Habitat?
NC Natural Heritage Program, US Fish and Wildlife Service
Consultation Documentation Upload
C-7.FWS Correspondence.pdf 405.09KB
6. Essential Fish Habitat (Corps Requirement)
6a. Will this project occur in or near an area designated as an Essential Fish Habitat?*
r Yes r No
6b. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact an Essential Fish Habitat?*
NOAA Essential Habitat Mapper
7. Historic or Prehistoric Cultural Resources (Corps Requirement)
7a. Will this project occur in or near an area that the state, federal or tribal governments have designated as having historic or cultural preservation status?*
r Yes r No
7b. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact historic or archeological resources?*
NC Department State Historic Preservation Office GIS Web Service (https://no.maps.arcgis.con/apps/vvebappviewer/indexhtmi?
id=d2d04d8d7e03403f889419526e682529)
7c. Historic or Prehistoric Information Upload
A-16. NCSHPO Map.pdf 387.08KB
C-3.SHPO Correspondence. pdf 180.2KB
C-5. THPO Catawba Correspondence. pdf 203.9KB
8. Flood Zone Designation (Corps Requirement)
8a. Will this project occur in a FEMA-designated 100-yearfloodplain?*
r Yes r No
8c. What source(s) did you use to make the floodplain determination?*
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); see attached Floodplain Map in Miscellaneous section
Miscellaneous
Comments
Miscellaneous attachments not previously requested.
Stinger Park IMPACTS MAP.pdf 361.14KB
A-8. Floodmap.pdf 370.85KB
Signature U
*

R By checking the box and signing below, I certify that:
• I have given true, accurate, and complete information on this form;
I agree that submission of this PCN form is a "transaction" subject to Chapter 66, Article 40 of the NC General Statutes (the "Uniform Electronic Transactions Act');
• I agree to conduct this transaction by electronic means pursuant to Chapter 66, Article 40 of the NC General Statutes (the "Uniform Electronic Transactions Act');
• I understand that an electronic signature has the same legal effect and can be enforced in the same way as a written signature; AND
• I intend to electronically sign and submit the PCN form.
Full Name:
Jonathan M Herman
Signature
Date
1 /17/2020

Or
Shaping Communities Together
mc i l I
AGENT AUTHORIZATION FORM
PROJECT NAME: Bessemer City Stinger Park
PROPERTY LEGAL DESCRIPTION: DB: 4889 PG: 2290
PARCEL ID. 217759
STREET ADDRESS: 940 North 91h Street
Please Print
Property Owner/Representative: City of Bessemer City / James Inman
(If Representative) Title: City Manager
The undersigned, registered property owners of the above noted property, do hereby authorize
Jonathan Herman & Jon Swaim. of McGill Associates P.A.
(Contractor / Agent) (Name of consulting firm)
to act on my behalf and take all actions necessary for the processing, issuance and acceptance of this permit or
certification and any and all standard and special conditions attached.
Property Owner's/Representative's Address (if different than property above):
132 West Virginia Avenue
Bessemer City, North Carolina 28016
Telephone: [phone]
We hereby certify the above information submitted in this application is true and accurate to the best of our
knowledge.
R orizerrd77 Signature
//
Date: Z_
Authorized Signature
Date:
1013 STATE FARM ROAD, BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA 28607 1 828.386.1920 1 www.mcgillassociates.com

N 12TH STREET AND N 9TH
STREET PROPERTIES
GASTON COUNTY,
NORTH CAROLINA
USGS TOPO MAP
JULY , 2018 A S S O C I A T E SMcGlilPROJECT #
18.01410
ENVIRONMENTAL FINANCE
1 INCH = FEET
GRAPHIC SCALE
0-800 400 800
800
0
1013 STATE FARM ROAD PH. [phone]BOONE, NC 28607
USGS
BESSEMER CITY QUADRANGLE
NORTH CAROLINA - GASTON CO.
7.5 MINUTE SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC) 215 SW
Soil Map—Gaston County, North Carolina
Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Web Soil Survey
National Cooperative Soil Survey
6/27/2018
Page 1 of 33905700390580039059003906000390610039062003906300390640039057003905800390590039060003906100390620039063003906400474800474900475000475100475200475300
474800 474900 475000 475100 475200 475300
35° 18' 4'' N 81° 16' 40'' W35° 18' 4'' N81° 16' 14'' W35° 17' 36'' N
81° 16' 40'' W35° 17' 36'' N
81° 16' 14'' WN
Map projection: Web Mercator Corner coordinates: WGS84 Edge tics: UTM Zone 17N WGS84
0 200 400 800 1200
Feet
0 50 100 200 300
Meters
Map Scale: 1:4,240 if printed on A portrait (8.5" x 11") sheet.
Soil Map may not be valid at this scale.
MAP LEGEND MAP INFORMATION
Area of Interest (AOI)
Area of Interest (AOI)
Soils
Soil Map Unit Polygons
Soil Map Unit Lines
Soil Map Unit Points
Special Point Features
Blowout
Borrow Pit
Clay Spot
Closed Depression
Gravel Pit
Gravelly Spot
Landfill
Lava Flow
Marsh or swamp
Mine or Quarry
Miscellaneous Water
Perennial Water
Rock Outcrop
Saline Spot
Sandy Spot
Severely Eroded Spot
Sinkhole
Slide or Slip
Sodic Spot
Spoil Area
Stony Spot
Very Stony Spot
Wet Spot
Other
Special Line Features
Water Features
Streams and Canals
Transportation
Rails
Interstate Highways
US Routes
Major Roads
Local Roads
Background
Aerial Photography
The soil surveys that comprise your AOI were mapped at
1:24,000.
Warning: Soil Map may not be valid at this scale.
Enlargement of maps beyond the scale of mapping can cause
misunderstanding of the detail of mapping and accuracy of soil
line placement. The maps do not show the small areas of
contrasting soils that could have been shown at a more detailed
scale.
Please rely on the bar scale on each map sheet for map
measurements.
Source of Map: Natural Resources Conservation Service
Web Soil Survey URL:
Coordinate System: Web Mercator (EPSG:3857)
Maps from the Web Soil Survey are based on the Web Mercator
projection, which preserves direction and shape but distorts
distance and area. A projection that preserves area, such as the
Albers equal-area conic projection, should be used if more
accurate calculations of distance or area are required.
This product is generated from the USDA-NRCS certified data as
of the version date(s) listed below.
Soil Survey Area: Gaston County, North Carolina
Survey Area Data: Version 17, Sep 26, 2017
Soil map units are labeled (as space allows) for map scales
1:50,000 or larger.
Date(s) aerial images were photographed: Apr 23, 2014—Nov
28, 2017
The orthophoto or other base map on which the soil lines were
compiled and digitized probably differs from the background
imagery displayed on these maps. As a result, some minor
shifting of map unit boundaries may be evident.
Soil Map—Gaston County, North Carolina
Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Web Soil Survey
National Cooperative Soil Survey
6/27/2018
Page 2 of 3
Map Unit Legend
Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Acres in AOI Percent of AOI
AmB Alamance variant gravelly
loam, 2 to 8 percent slopes
0.0 0.1%
AmD Alamance variant gravelly
loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes
7.6 16.2%
ApB Appling sandy loam, 1 to 6
percent slopes
0.0 0.0%
CfB Cecil-Urban land complex, 2 to
8 percent slopes
2.9 6.2%
ChA Chewacla loam, 0 to 2 percent
slopes, frequently flooded
1.2 2.6%
TaB Tatum gravelly loam, 2 to 8
percent slopes
16.3 34.7%
TaD Tatum gravelly loam, 8 to 15
percent slopes
7.6 16.3%
TaE Tatum gravelly loam, 15 to 25
percent slopes
11.2 23.9%
Totals for Area of Interest 46.9 100.0%
Soil Map—Gaston County, North Carolina
Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Web Soil Survey
National Cooperative Soil Survey
6/27/2018
Page 3 of 3
STATE OF NORTH CAROLiNA
DEPARTMENT OF ADN MSTRATION
ROY COOPER
GOVERNOR
July 26, 2018
Mr. Jonathan Herman
Bessemer City
c/o McGill Associates
Post Office Box 2259
Asheville, North Carolina 28801
MACHELLE SANDERS
SECRETARY
Re: SCH File # 18-E-0000-0327; Proposed project is for the construction of Stinger Park
located at 940 North 9th Street and 1320 North 12th Street in Bessemer City.
Dear Mr. Herman:
The above referenced environmental impact information has been submitted to the State
Clearinghouse under the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act. According to
G.S. 113A-10, when a state agency is required to prepare an environmental document under the
provisions of federal law, the environmental document meets the provisions of the State
Environmental Policy Act. Attached to this letter for your consideration are comments made by
the agencies in the review of this document.
If any further environmental review documents are prepared for this project, they should be
forwarded to this office for intergovernmental review.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call.
Sincerely,
Crys 1 Best
State Environmental Review Clearinghouse
Attachments
cc: Region F
Mailing Address: Telephone: [phone] Location:
NC DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION Fax: [phone] WEST JONES STREET
1301 MAIL SERVICE CENTER COURIER #51-01-00 RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
RALEIGH NC 27699-1301 Email: state. [e-mail]
Website: w.ncadmin.m

CityofBessemerCity
StingerPark
EnvironmentalAssessment
August2018Page36 of46

4.0 CUMULATIVEEFFECTS

ThissectionwillidentifyanddiscusspotentialcumulativeeffectsasaresultoftheproposedProject.
Cumulativeeffectsaregenerallytriggeredwhenanaturalresourceisaffectedbydirectand
secondaryeffectsinconjunctionwithotherprojectsinthestudyarea.Determinationofcumulative
effectscanbeevaluatedusingthefollowingtechniques:modelingcauseandeffectrelationships;
trendsorchangesinanaturalresourceovertime;geographicoverlayofprojectfootprintwith
mappednaturalresources.Thesignificanceofsecondaryandcumulativeeffectswillbeevaluated
foreachofthe14environmentalfeaturesdiscussedinearliersectionsofthisreport.

4.1 LandUse

4.1.1 GeneralLandUse
Utilizationofbuffersalongstreamsandvegetativescreeningorlandscapingwilladequatelyprevent
cumulativeeffectstoadjoininglanduseareas.Erosionandsedimentcontrolmeasureswill
minimizepollutiontosurroundinglowertopographicareasandwaterbodies.
TheParklocationisborderedbyresidentialareasandschools.Byaddingawalkingtrail,thePark
canprovideabetterpedestrianconnectionbetweentheselanduses.TheParkcanbeusedbythe
adjacentprimaryandelementaryschoolforvariouseducationalandrecreationalactivities.Ball
fieldscanbethevenuefortournamentsandotherspecialevents.Nearbyresidentscanutilizethe
Parkforfamilyoutings.Forallthesereasons,theParkwillsupportnearbylanduses.

4.1.2 ImportantFarmland
SincetheproposedParkiswithintheBessemerCitylimitsthesiteisconsideredtoalreadybe
committedtourbandevelopmentandthereforenofarmlandwillbeaffectedorconverted.By
providingworkopportunitiesandavarietyofrecreationalactivitiestheParkmayattractnew
residentsandvisitorstotheregion.Thismaycreateanewdemandforresidentialandcommercial
developmentwhichcouldaffectorconvertareasofimportantfarmland.

4.2 FormallyClassifiedLands
Nocumulativeeffectsareanticipatedforformallyclassifiedlandsasaresultoftheproposedproject.

4.3 Floodplains
ByprovidingworkopportunitiesandavarietyofrecreationalactivitiestheParkmayattractnew
CityofBessemerCity
StingerPark
EnvironmentalAssessment
August2018Page37 of46

residentsandvisitorstotheregion.Thismaycreateanewdemandforresidentialandcommercial
developmentwhichcouldproducegreaterrunoffandencroachintofloodplainareas.Riparian
bufferswillhelpmitigatecumulativeeffectstofloodplains.Sedimentanderosioncontrolmeasures
willminimizeerosionandsedimentpollutiontosurroundinglowertopographicareasand
floodplains.

4.4 Wetlands
Theprojectisdesignedtoavoiddisturbancewithinwetlandareas.However,developmentofthe
site,throughtheconversionofperviousforestedlandtoimpervioussurfaces,canchangethe
hydrologyofawatershedthatdirectswatertowetlandareas.
ByprovidingworkopportunitiesandavarietyofrecreationalactivitiestheParkmayattractnew
residentsandvisitorstotheregion.Thismaycreateanewdemandforresidentialandcommercial
development,whichcouldimpactoffͲsitewetlandareas.

4.5 CulturalResources
Fragmentationofculturalandhistoricdistrictsfromnewresidentialorcommercialdevelopments
mayresultifappropriatemeasuresarenottakentoavoidtheseareas.Nocumulativeeffectsare
anticipatedforculturalandhistoricpropertiesasaresultoftheproposedproject.

4.6 BiologicalResources

4.6.1 GeneralFish,WildlifeandVegetation
Impactstosurroundingterrestrialandaquaticareasduetosoilrunoff,sedimentpollution,andsoil
contaminationwouldbeaddressedthroughStateandFederalregulatoryagencyoversight,
permitting,andplanapprovalwhichwillensureallnecessarystepsaretakentopreventcumulative
effects.
Thefuturelossofnaturalhabitats,disruptionofmigratingfishandwildlifepopulations,habitat
fragmentation,andlossofbiologicaldiversitymightoccurthroughresidential,commercial,and
industrialdevelopment,butcanbeminimizedormitigatedthroughasimilarprocessofregulatory
agencyoversight.

4.7 ListedThreatenedandEndangeredSpecies
ThefederallyendangereddwarfͲfloweredheartleaf(DFHL)occursonthesiteandmaybeimpacted
bytheproposedParkdevelopment.BeyondreducingtheDFHLpopulation,thedevelopmentcan
CityofBessemerCity
StingerPark
EnvironmentalAssessment
August2018Page38 of46

alsocauseremainingpopulationstobecomemoreisolatedandlesslikelytoexpandwhichcanaffect
overallsurvival.Futuredevelopmentwillneedtobemonitoredtoensurethatthreatenedand
endangeredspeciesandtheirhabitatscontinuetobeprotected.

4.8 MigratoryBirdTreatyAct
Nocumulativeeffectsareanticipatedformigratorybirdsasaresultoftheproposedproject.

4.9 BaldandGoldenEagleProtectionAct
Nocumulativeeffectsareanticipatedforbaldandgoldeneaglesasaresultoftheproposedproject.

4.10 InvasiveSpecies
Invasivespecies,bytheirnature,spreadveryrapidlyonceintroducedtoanewarea.Theproposed
projectwillpromotenewdevelopment,whichwillincreaselanddisturbanceinthearea.Land
disturbance,duetothenatureofinvasiveplantstorapidlycolonizeareasofdisturbedsoil,outͲ
competenativespeciesandbecomefirmlyestablishedveryquickly.Federalandstatepolicy
requiressoundtemporaryerosionandsedimentcontrolpracticesonallprojectsthatdisturbsoil.
Thispracticeisparticularlyimportantinpreventingtheintroductionandcontinuedspreadof
invasiveplantspecies.
Theproposedprojectwillpreventtheintroductionofinvasivespeciesbyspecifyinginconstruction
plansthatnonͲinvasiveplantsandseedsmustbeutilizedinallplannedlandscapedareasand
erosioncontrolmeasures.

4.11 WaterResources
Nocumulativeeffectsareanticipatedforgroundwaterresourcesasaresultoftheproposedproject.
TheParkmaycontributetoareductionofthepublicwatersupply,but,ifnecessary,usagecanbe
minimizedbychangestomaintenanceandoperationalpractices.
Aproposedstreamcrossingonthesitewilllikelycauseadirect,permanentstreamimpact.Land
clearingforonandoffsitedevelopmentwilllikelyincreasestreamsedimentationandsoilerosion,
increasestormwaterrunoff,andpermanentlychangewatershedhydrology.However,
developmentwillberegulatedthroughlocal,stateandfederalpermittingprocessestominimizeor
mitigatetheseeffects.

4.12 SocioeconomicsandEnvironmentalJustice
TheParkwillprovidenewandexpandedrecreationalopportunitiesandfacilitiesforlowͲincome
CityofBessemerCity
StingerPark
EnvironmentalAssessment
August2018Page39 of46

andminoritycommunities.Theproposedprojectisalsoanticipatedtosupportdevelopmentin
BessemerCityandGastonCountywhichwillprovideneweconomicopportunitiesforresidents.
Communitycohesion,economicgrowth,taxrevenuesandpropertyvalues,andhealthandwellness
shouldallimprovewiththepotentialopportunitiesaffordedbytheproposedproject.Temporary
impactsassociatedwithconstructionactivitiessuchasincreasedairemissionsandnoisemayaffect
thecommunity.Overall,itisanticipatedthesocial,economic,andrecreationalopportunitiesthe
ParkwillprovidewillresultinanetpositivecumulativeeffectonlowͲincomeandminority
populations.

4.13 AirQuality
Constructionactivitieswilltemporarilyproduceanincreaseinairemissionsfromequipmentand
dust.Theprojectmaycauseapermanentincreaseintransportationemissions,however,thePark
isstrategicallylocatednearschools,churches,residentialcommunities,andthecenterofBessemer
Citywhichmakeswalking,biking,andpublictransportationtotheParkmorelikely.Future
developmentthatresultsfromtheproposedproject,ifproperlyregulated,shouldnotdegrade
regionalairquality.

4.14 Noise
Increasedtraffic,recreationalactivitiesorevents,andParkmaintenancewilllikelyproduceanet
increaseinnoisenoticeabletonearbyresidentsandtheBessemerCityPrimaryandElementary
Schools.Additionaldevelopmentcausedbytheprojectcouldcontributetotrafficnoiseimpactsas
well.However,theParkisstrategicallylocatednearschools,churches,residentialcommunities,
andthecenterofBessemerCitywhichmayreducenoiseimpactsbymakingwalking,biking,and
publictransportationtotheParkpossibleformanynearbyresidentsandstudents.

4.15 Transportation
Theproposedprojectwillsupportresidentialandcommercialdevelopmentandpotentiallyfuture
roadandhighwayconstruction.Changesintransportationpatternsorintensitymaycontributeto
noisepatternsorpresentneworadditionalrisksofcongestionandaccidents.RegulationbyState
andlocalagencieswillmitigatetransportationimpacts.

4.16 Aesthetics
Effortswillbemadetodesign,construct,andmaintaintheproposedParkinsuchawaythatthe
communityandvisitorsfindaestheticallypleasing.Landscapeplantingsandpreservedbufferswillbe
usedtoscreenanyundesiredfeatures.
CityofBessemerCity
StingerPark
EnvironmentalAssessment
August2018Page40 of46

Asdevelopmentinruralareasincreasesinscopeandcomplexity,aestheticorvisualimpactsmaybe
aconcernforthepublic.Landscapesthathaveremainedundisturbedmaybeconsideredfor
development.Rapidsuburbanor“exurban”residentialdevelopmentalsocanplacehomesand
propertiesandproposedutilityorcommunityfacilityprojectsincloseproximitytoeachother.
Mitigationmeasuresinvolvinglandscaping,lighting,signing,architecture,andcontourgradingcould
beincorporatedintoprojectdesigntominimizethesepotentialimpacts.

4.17 HumanHealthandSafety

4.0.1 ElectromagneticFieldsandInterference
Nocumulativeeffectsareanticipatedfromelectromagneticfieldsandinterferenceasaresultofthe
proposedproject.

4.18 EnvironmentalRiskManagement
ParkoperationsshouldadheretoallStateandFederalregulationsinregardstothestorageand
handlingofhazardousmaterials.Parkoperationsinvolvingheavymachineryandpetroleum
productswilloperateinaccordancewithasiteͲspecificSpillPrevention,Control,and
Countermeasure(SPCC)Plan.Nocumulativeeffectsareanticipatedforthisproject.
Stinger Park ‐ Percussive Activities 
Type of Percussive Activity:  Potential percussive activities would be those associated with rock blasting 
for road and park construction.  

Purpose:  The percussive activities will be generated by equipment necessary for the removal of existing 
bedrock. 

Duration:  Approximately 1 month.    

Specific Location:  The location of the percussive activities would occur within the Study Limits area as 
shown on the attached Impacts and Delineation Maps. 

Please note percussive activities are not anticipated but are a possibility for excavated area with shallow 
bedrock. 

E N G I N E E R I N G · P L A N N I N G · F I N A N C E
A S S O C I A T E SMcGlil
1915 EVANS ROAD PH. [phone]CARY, NC 27513 FIRM LICENSE # C-0459
CITY OF BESSEMER
GASTON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
NCSHPO MAP
NOT TO SCALE N
1013 STATE FARM ROAD, BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA 28607  |  828.386.1920  |  www.mcgillengineers.com 
June 11, 2018
Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley
State Historic Preservation Office
4617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-4617

RE: Stinger Park Project
City of Bessemer, Gaston County, North Carolina
Scoping Request

Dear Ms. Gledhill-Earley:

The City of Bessemer is in the process of performing an environmental review pursuant to the
National Environmental Policy Act for the USDA-Rural Development Community Facilities
Loan program in order that it may assess the environmental impacts of the above referenced
project in Gaston County, NC. Please find enclosed figures identifying the project location,
extent, and supporting documentation. McGill Associates, P.A. is requesting comments from
your office regarding State Historic Preservation issues or other concerns relating to this project.

The proposed Stinger Park is located at 940 North 9th Street (parcel #217759) and 1320 North
12th Street (parcel #151725) in Bessemer City, North Carolina. The park will contain four
baseball diamonds for baseball and softball programs, pickleball courts, cornhole pits, football
field, soccer field, and a walking trail around the perimeter of the park. The proposed location is
strategically located between socio-economically distinct neighborhoods and will serve as a
bridge to low, moderate, and above-average income families living in adjoining neighborhoods.
Furthermore, the park is directly connected to Bessemer City Central Elementary and Bessemer
City Primary School and is in walking distance to Bessemer City High School, surrounding
churches, and a community garden. The accessibility of the park will open the door to increased
opportunities for local students and families to engage in recreational and youth development
activities. Stinger Park will bring diverse user groups – youth, adults, seniors, and families –
together to assist in the revitalization and economic prosperity of this small, rural community by
improving the quality of life, spurring development, and generating outside revenue.

Based on search results from the North Carolina Historic Preservation Office GIS Service there
do not appear to be any known historic resources on or near the project site. No archaeological
surveys have been completed on the proposed areas of work.

Probable state and/or federal actions that may be needed to develop the project to include but are
not limited to, the following:
 NCDEQ, Public Water Section - Permit for Water Extension
 NCDEQ, Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources – Erosion Control Permit
 NCDOT Encroachment Agreement
1013 STATE FARM ROAD, BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA 28607  |  828.386.1920  |  www.mcgillengineers.com 
 USACE, Regulatory Permit Program – Nationwide Permit
 Gaston County – Floodplain Development Permit

We look forward to your comments on this matter. If you have any questions, please feel free to
contact me anytime at [phone] or at my email address
[e-mail].

Sincerely,
MCGILL ASSOCIATES, P.A.

JONATHAN M. HERMAN
Environmental Planner I – Environmental

cc: John Vilas – McGill Associates, P.A.

List of attachments:

1. Location Map
2. North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office Map

North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Ramona M. Bartos, Administrator
Governor Roy Cooper Office of Archives and History
Secretary Susi H. Hamilton Deputy Secretary Kevin Cherry
Location: 109 East Jones Street, Raleigh NC 27601 Mailing Address: 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 Telephone/Fax: [phone]-6599

July 12, 2018

Jonathan Herman
McGill Associates, PA
1013 State Farm Road
Boone, NC 28607

Re: Construct Stinger Park, 940 North 9th Street & 1320 North 12th Street, Bessemer City,
Gaston County, ER 18-1370

Dear Mr. Herman:
Thank you for your letter of June 11, 2018, concerning the above project.
We have conducted a review of the project and are aware of no historic resources which would be affected by
the project. Therefore, we have no comment on the project as proposed.

The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR
Part 800.

Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-807-6579 or
[e-mail]. In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the above
referenced tracking number.
Sincerely,

Ramona M. Bartos

1013 STATE FARM ROAD, BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA 28607  |  828.386.1920  |  www.mcgillengineers.com 
June 14, 2018

Ms. Caitlin Totherow
Catawba Indian Nation
THPO Archaeology Department
1536 Tom Steven Road
Rock Hill, South Carolina 29730

RE: Stinger Park Project
Bessemer City, Gaston County, North Carolina
Request for Environmental Scoping

Dear Ms. Totherow:

The City of Bessemer City is in the process of performing an environmental review pursuant to
the National Environmental Policy Act for the USDA – Rural Development Community
Facilities Loan program in order that it may assess the environmental impacts of the above
referenced project in Gaston County, NC. Please find the enclosed figure identifying the project
location. McGill Associates, P.A. is requesting comments from your office regarding potential
issues or other concerns you may have relating to this project.

The proposed Stinger Park is located at 940 North 9th Street (parcel #217759) and 1320 North
12th Street (parcel #151725) in Bessemer City, North Carolina. The park will contain four
baseball diamonds, pickleball courts, cornhole pits, a football field, a soccer field, and a walking
trail around the perimeter of the park. The proposed location is strategically located between
socio-economically distinct neighborhoods and will serve as a bridge to low, moderate, and
above-average income families living in adjoining neighborhoods. Furthermore, the park is close
to surrounding schools, churches, and a community garden. The accessibility of the park will
open the door to increased opportunities for local students and families to engage in recreational
and youth development activities. Stinger Park will bring diverse user groups together to assist
in the revitalization and economic prosperity of this small, rural community by improving the
quality of life, spurring development, and generating outside revenue.

We look forward to your comments on this matter. If you have any questions, please feel free to
contact me anytime at [phone] or at my email address
[e-mail].

1013 STATE FARM ROAD, BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA 28607  |  828.386.1920  |  www.mcgillengineers.com 

Sincerely,
MCGILL ASSOCIATES, P.A.

JONATHAN M. HERMAN
Environmental Planner I – Environmental

cc: John Vilas – McGill Associates, P.A.

List of attachments:
1. LOCATION MAP
Catawba Indian Nation
Tribal Historic Preservation office
1536 Tom Steven Road
Rock Hill, South Carolina 29730
Office 803-328-2427
Fax [phone]
July 11, 2018
Attention Jonathan M. Herman
McGill Associates
1013 State Farm Road
Boone, NC 28607
Re. THPO # TCNS # Project Description
2018-371-10 Stinger Park Project — Bessemer City, Gaston County, NC
Dear Mr. Herman,
The Catawba have no immediate concerns with regard to traditional cultural properties,
sacred sites or Native American archaeological sites within the boundaries of the
proposed project areas. However, the Catawba are to be notified if Native American
artifacts and 1 or human remains are located during the ground disturbance phase
of this project.
If you have questions please contact Caitlin Rogers at 803-328-2427 ext. 226. or e-mail
[e-mail].
Sincerely,
f
Wenonah G. Haire
Tribal Historic Preservation Officer

################################################LEGEND
Study Limits
Property Limits
Stream Limits
Wetland Limits
OVERVIEW MAP SCALE: 1 INCH = 500 FEET
20 0 10 20 40
201 INCH = FEETGRAPHIC SCALE
IMPACTS MAP
GASTON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
CITY OF BESSEMER CITY
STINGER PARK
M. CATHEY
D. CHAPMAN
J. SWAIM
J. HERMAN
1OFFICE MANAGER
PROJECT MANAGER
DELINEATOR
REVIEWER
SHEET
1/9/2019 19.01134
DATE PROJECT #L:\HICKORY\PROJECTS\2017 PROJECTS\ENVIRONMENTAL\17.01411 - BESSEMER CITY PARK\JD\DELINEATION MAP.DWG PLOT DATE 1/17/2020 9:46 AM JONATHAN M. HERMANmcgillassociates.com
1013 State Farm Road
Boone, NC 28607
828.386.1920
NC Firm License # C-0459
PERMANENT IMPACT - S2
148 L.F.
STUDY
LIMITS
AQUATIC RESOURCE IMPACT TABLE
SYMBOL IMPACT TYPE AMOUNT
Total Temporary Stream Impacts 105 L.F.
Total Permanent Stream Impacts 148 L.F.
PROPERTY
LINE
UT-LONG
CREEK
(472 L.F.)
UT-1 TO
UT-LONG
CREEK
(1,059 L.F.)
IMPACT
AREA
TEMPORARY IMPACT - S3
47 L.F.
TEMPORARY IMPACT - S1
58 L.F.
UT-1 TO UT-LONG CREEK
ZONE X
ZONE X
ZONE X
BESSEMER CITY PRIMARY SCHOOL
H
ELE
N AVE
N
U
E
TONCIN AVENUE
APPLE LANE
SUNSET LANE
N 9TH STREETPUETTS CHAPEL ROADCENTRAL AVENUE
JACOURT LANEWILTON COURT775
789.7
791.3
796.7
778.5
793.8 787.3782.8
771.9
7
6
7.3
UnnamedTributary2toLongCreekUnnamedStream
797
792
790
783
794
787
7
7
9
771
775
786²0 0 .0 25 0 .05 0 .0 75 0 .1M i l es
STINGER PARK FLOOD MAP PROJECT NO.17.01411
PROPOSED STINGER PARK SITE
GASTON COUNTYNORTH CAROLINAJUNE 22, 2018
Legend
Streams and Rivers
Cross Section and Surface W ater Elevation
Roads
Base Flood Elevation
Floodway
Zone AE
0.2 % Annual Flood Hazard
Project Site
Street and parcel data was collected from the Gaston CountyGIS data inventory on June 21, 2018. Floodplain data, publishedin Nov. 12, 2017 by the Federal Emergency ManagementAgency (FEMA), was collected on June 21, 2018.
1013 STATE FARM ROAD, BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA 28607  |  828.386.1920  |  www.mcgillengineers.com 
June 14, 2018

Mr. Byron Hamstead
The US Fish & Wildlife Service
Asheville Ecological Services Field Office
160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, North Carolina 28801

RE: Stinger Park Project
Bessemer City, Gaston County, North Carolina
Request for Environmental Scoping

Dear Mr. Hamstead:

The City of Bessemer City is in the process of performing an environmental review pursuant to
the National Environmental Policy Act for the USDA – Rural Development Community
Facilities Loan program in order that it may assess the environmental impacts of the above
referenced project in Gaston County, NC. Please find the enclosed figures identifying the project
location and other project information. McGill Associates, P.A. is requesting comments from
your office regarding potential Threatened and Endangered Species issues or other concerns
relating to this project.

The proposed Stinger Park is located at 940 North 9th Street (parcel #217759) and 1320 North
12th Street (parcel #151725) in Bessemer City, North Carolina. The park will contain four
baseball diamonds, pickleball courts, cornhole pits, a football field, a soccer field, and a walking
trail around the perimeter of the park. The proposed location is strategically located between
socio-economically distinct neighborhoods and will serve as a bridge to low, moderate, and
above-average income families living in adjoining neighborhoods. Furthermore, the park is close
to surrounding schools, churches, and a community garden. The accessibility of the park will
open the door to increased opportunities for local students and families to engage in recreational
and youth development activities. Stinger Park will bring diverse user groups together to assist
in the revitalization and economic prosperity of this small, rural community by improving the
quality of life, spurring development, and generating outside revenue.

As part of the process, Rural Development has asked us to gather information regarding
Federally-listed species, critical habitat, and migratory birds from your office. We request a list
of any Federally-listed or proposed threatened or endangered species and designated or proposed
critical habitat that may be present in the project area. In addition, please advise us of any
present concerns you may have related to possible effects of the project on such species or
critical habitat, as well as any other wildlife concerns. If additional information or studies are
needed let me know. We look forward to your comments on this matter.

1013 STATE FARM ROAD, BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA 28607  |  828.386.1920  |  www.mcgillengineers.com 
Please feel free to contact me at our office phone number of [phone] or my email address
[e-mail].

Sincerely,
MCGILL ASSOCIATES, P.A.

JONATHAN M. HERMAN
Environmental Planner I – Environmental

Cc: John Vilas – McGill Associates, P.A.

List of attachments:
1. LOCATION MAP
2. AERIAL MAP
3. GASTON COUNTY ENDANGERED SPECIES, THREATENED SPECIES, FEDERAL
SPECIES OF CONCERN, AND CANDIDATE SPECIES

1
Jonathan Herman
From:Hamstead, Byron <[e-mail]>
Sent:Wednesday, June 20, 2018 8:39 AM
To:Jonathan Herman
Cc:John Vilas; Munzer, Olivia
Subject:Re: [EXTERNAL] RE: Stinger Park Project
Attachments:Protected Plant Species--Declaration of Restrictive Covenants DRAFT.doc; DFHL MITIGATION PLAN
rev 111215 (1).pdf
Hi Jonathan, 

You indicated that the federally threatened dwarf‐flowered heartleaf (Hexastylis naniflora) is present onsite and may be 
within or near project impact areas.  I ask that you provide the following info: 

1) Map delineating plant population boundaries in relation to the project impact areas.  For this, a project design would 
have to be complete (or nearly so). 
2) Enumerate the total number of plants/clumps onsite. 
3) Enumerate the number of plants/clumps that would be impacted.  Impacts to populations/individuals may include 
things like reducing canopy cover/increasing sun exposure.  

The information above would then be used to develop a mitigation plan.  Attached is an example mitigation plan that 
John Vilas (cc'd herein) and others worked out for another site.  Also attached is a draft declaration of restrictive 
covenants for that site.  I think that one resulted in a may affect, not likely to adversely affect determination.  I wonder if 
the City would be interested in putting up some educational signage at the park for this, maybe other species that would 
benefit the school and community?  If so, that might be a component of the mit. plan. 

Also, potential impacts to the federally endangered Schweinitz's sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii) should be 
assessed.  Service records do not show any records for this species in the project area, but suitable habitats may be 
present onsite: forest openings, utility line rights of way, roadsides, forest edges, fence lines, and other transitional 
habitats.  Surveys should be conducted during the optimal survey window for this species (August ‐ first frost) 
in areas where suitable habitat for this species would be impacted.  

Lastly, do you know if this one will require a corps permit?   

Please let me know if you have any q's or if I can assist further.  I am happy to help however I can. 

Regards, 
Byron 

Byron Hamstead 
Fish and Wildlife Biologist 
USFWS Asheville Field Office 
160 Zillicoa St., Suite B 
Asheville, NC, 28801 

1
Jonathan Herman
From:Jonathan Herman
Sent:Wednesday, July 25, 2018 10:07 AM
To:Hamstead, Byron
Cc:John Vilas; Munzer, Olivia
Subject:RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: Stinger Park Project
Attachments:STINGER PARK DFHL MAP 7-24-18.pdf
Hello Byron, 

I appreciate the response regarding the Stinger Park project and apologize I’m just now getting back to you.  We have 
been considering various alternatives to the site layout to minimize or avoid impacts to dwarf‐flowered heartleaf (DFHL), 
as well as wetlands and streams.  The latest plan (see attachment) avoids wetland impacts, and minimizes stream and 
heartleaf impacts.  I anticipate we will need a Corps permit for the stream crossing.   

In terms of DFHL, the goal is to minimize impacts to a degree that we could get a may affect, not likely to adversely 
affect determination.  For the attached plan, approximately 91% of the DFHL habitat areas would not be directly 
affected by the construction of this project.  Approximately 60 DFHL plants would incur direct impacts.   Indirect impacts 
to DFHL plants and habitat may occur within 30 feet of clearing limits, which would leave 83% of the total habitat area 
unaffected.  I was wondering if you could provide feedback on whether we could get a may affect, not likely to adversely 
affect determination with this plan, and, if not, what changes could be made to meet this goal.  I have forwarded your 
suggestion about educational signage to the project engineer for consideration as part of a mitigation plan.  

Lastly, we will also review the site for suitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower and conduct a survey if needed.  

If you have any questions or need additional information feel free to contact me at 828‐386‐1920 or 
[e-mail]. 

Regards, 

Jonathan M. Herman 
Environmental Planner I 

1013 State Farm Road | Boone, NC 28607 
Phone:  [phone] | Fax:  [phone] 
[e-mail] | www.mcgillengineers.com 

From: Hamstead, Byron [mailto:[e-mail]]  
Sent: Wednesday, June 20, 2018 8:39 AM 
To: Jonathan Herman <[e-mail]> 
Cc: John Vilas <[e-mail]>; Munzer, Olivia <[e-mail]> 
Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] RE: Stinger Park Project 

Hi Jonathan, 

1
Jonathan Herman
From:Jonathan Herman
Sent:Monday, July 30, 2018 2:21 PM
To:Hamstead, Byron
Cc:Munzer, Olivia; John Vilas
Subject:RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: Stinger Park Project
Hello Byron: 

Per your request, we have assessed the proposed Stinger Park site for occurrences and suitable habitat for Schweinitz's 
Sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii).  Please see the findings below:  

1. Schweinitz’s sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii) – Federal Status:  Endangered 

Habitat Description: Schweinitz’s Sunflower occurs in full to partial sun and is found in areas with poor soils, such as 
thin clays that vary from wet to dry. It is believed that this species once occurred in natural forest openings or 
grasslands. Many of the remaining populations occur along roadsides. 

Findings and Conclusions: No species occurrences within project area noted during a field investigation performed 
on July 20, 2018 by McGill Associates P.A. In addition, no suitable habitat was found within the proposed project 
area during the field investigation. The majority of the site was logged within the past 10 years and is still in the early 
successional stage of dense scrub vegetation. 

If you have any questions or need additional information feel free to contact me at 828‐386‐1920 or 
[e-mail]. 

Regards, 

Jonathan M. Herman 
Environmental Planner I 

1013 State Farm Road | Boone, NC 28607 
Phone:  [phone] | Fax:  [phone] 
[e-mail] | www.mcgillengineers.com 

From: Jonathan Herman  
Sent: Friday, July 27, 2018 4:09 PM 
To: 'Hamstead, Byron' <[e-mail]> 
Cc: 'Munzer, Olivia' <[e-mail]> 
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: Stinger Park Project 

Byron: 
I apologize for another follow‐up email but wanted to provide some further clarification regarding the DFHL impacts at 
the Stinger Park project site.   

1
Jonathan Herman
From:Jonathan Herman
Sent:Wednesday, August 01, 2018 3:01 PM
To:'Hamstead, Byron'
Cc:John Vilas; 'Munzer, Olivia'
Subject:RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: Stinger Park Project
Byron, 

I understand that you spoke with John Vilas from my office and have requested the total population and anticipated 
impacted population of Dwarf‐flowered heartleaf (DFHL) at the Stinger Park site in Bessemer City, NC.   

McGill Associates staff were at the site today to do the inventory and determined there is a total DFHL population of 
2,510 on the site.  Of those, we anticipate 113 plants, or 4.5% of the total DFHL population, will be directly or indirectly 
impacted by the proposed Park project. 

As I understand it, this is all the additional information you need at this time.  If you need further information or have 
any questions, do not hesitate to contact me. 

Regards, 

Jonathan M. Herman 
Environmental Planner I 

1013 State Farm Road | Boone, NC 28607 
Phone:  [phone] | Fax:  [phone] 
[e-mail] | www.mcgillengineers.com 

From: Jonathan Herman  
Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2018 10:07 AM 
To: Hamstead, Byron <[e-mail]> 
Cc: John Vilas <[e-mail]>; Munzer, Olivia <[e-mail]> 
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: Stinger Park Project 

Hello Byron, 

I appreciate the response regarding the Stinger Park project and apologize I’m just now getting back to you.  We have 
been considering various alternatives to the site layout to minimize or avoid impacts to dwarf‐flowered heartleaf (DFHL), 
as well as wetlands and streams.  The latest plan (see attachment) avoids wetland impacts, and minimizes stream and 
heartleaf impacts.  I anticipate we will need a Corps permit for the stream crossing.   

In terms of DFHL, the goal is to minimize impacts to a degree that we could get a may affect, not likely to adversely 
affect determination.  For the attached plan, approximately 91% of the DFHL habitat areas would not be directly 
affected by the construction of this project.  Approximately 60 DFHL plants would incur direct impacts.   Indirect impacts 
to DFHL plants and habitat may occur within 30 feet of clearing limits, which would leave 83% of the total habitat area