20030135 Ver 1_COMPLETE FILE_20030210

QPPt? NT OF ry?'y United States Department of the Inter* 9?2 227
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H 's FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Qcn
' a Raleigh Field Office ?j'
Post Office Box 3376
yggcH sRaleigh, North Carolina 27636.3726
March 14, 2003
Mr. Raleigh W. Bland
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
Washington Regulatory Field Office
P. O. Box 1000
Washington, North Carolina 27889-1000
Subject: ID No. 200310345, Craig and Catherine Steffee, Pamlico County, NC
Dear Mr. Bland:
This letter provides comments of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service on the subject Public Notice (PN),
dated February 12, 2003. Craig and Catherine Steffee, the applicants, have submitted an application for
processing under the Coastal Area Management Act (LAMA)-Corps permit processing agreement to
construct various erosion control structures on their property adjacent to the Neuse River in Pamlico
County. These comments are submitted in accordance with the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48
Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d) and section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973,
as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543). They are to be used in your determination of compliance with
404(b)(1) guidelines (40 CFR 230) and in your public interest review (33 CFR 320.4) as they relate to
protection of fish and wildlife resources.
The applicants own a 19.9-acre lot south of the community of Pamlico on the north bank of the Neuse
River. The Field Investigation Report (FIR) of the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management
(DCM) states that there are large areas of coastal wetlands along the shoreline and on the property. An
existing area of marl rip rap stabilizes 200 feet of the shoreline near the middle of the property and a
wooden bulkhead exists on the western part. The shoreline is a natural clay bank that shows evidence of
severe erosion, estimated by the applicants to be three feet or greater over the past 12 months. Since
only wind-driven tides affect the project area, low and high water levels are the same and the normal
water level (NWL) is considered to be zero elevation. The FIR does not discuss the occurrence of
submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) at the project site.
The applicant proposes a series of measures to stabilize the shoreline. The text and drawings with the
application indicate that, from east to west, the project would: (1) construct 313 feet of new stone
revetment; (2) construct a marsh toe revetment interspersed with an offshore, stone sill along 283 feet of
shoreline; (3) place stones on top of 200 feet of existing marl rip rap; (4) construct 20 feet of new stone
revetment; and (5) construct a 443-foot section (given elsewhere as 413 feet) of offshore, stone sill that
includes the area where an existing bulkhead would be removed. Overall, approximately 1,059 feet of
shoreline would have new construction, 200 feet of existing rip rap would be augmented, and 300 feet of
existing marsh would be unaffected.
The eastern stone revetment would front an area of pine trees, have a maximum height of five feet, and
be about four feet above normal high water (NHW). The marsh toe revetment would have a maximum
crest elevation of one-half foot above marsh grade. The new offshore, stone sill at all locations would
have a maximum height of four feet, a base width of 14 feet, and a crest elevation of one foot above
NWL (given as one foot above NHW in project drawings). Areas landward of the proposed sills are
currently vegetated with coastal wetland species. The distance between the proposed sills and existing
marsh varies from five to forty feet and would be entirely below the NWL. This area would be filled
with clean sand, graded, and planted with marsh vegetation. The eastern sill would not have a direct,
straight opening to the Neuse River. Near the mouth of an existing "creek," there would be a break in
the sill with two portions overlapping to create a zigzag connection to allow for some water exchange.
Drawings of the western sill do not show any openings facing the Neuse River to the south, but a single,
small opening facing west. This opening would also overlap segments of the sill to create a zigzag path
for water flow. The revetments and sill would be constructed with class II granite stones.
The proposed project would impact a total of 22,537 ft2 (0.517 acre) of river bottom due to stone
placement for the sill (9,142 ft2), sand fill for marsh creation (9,800 ft2), and rip rap placement (3,595
ft2). An additional 24,000 ft2 of uplands would be filled and graded for access road construction.
The Service is concerned that the proposed project would diminish fish and wildlife habitat values by
altering the natural zonal patterns of estuarine shoreline communities in both the short- and long-term.
Primarily in response to global sea level rise, estuarine plant communities have been, and will continue,
gradually moving inland. While estimates vary widely, sea level is currently rising about one foot per
century (Pilkey et al. 1998, p. 45). Such a rise on the flat topography of the lower coastal plain would
result in a landward movement of estuarine wetlands of up to 2,000 feet by the end of this century
(Pilkey et al. 1998, p. 42). Frankenberg (1997, p. 100) states that at the present time upland pines are
being killed off as sea level rise and storms push salty water inland and the gradual replacement of
upland communities with more salt tolerant species is dramatic evidence of sea level rise. Brackish
marshes are generally wave dominated and characterized by irregular storm-tide flooding that generally
causes organic shorelines to erode (Pilkey et al. 1998, pp. 75-76). Preventing the natural shifting of
estuarine plant communities by constructing hard, shoreline stabilization structures will eventually
reduce the area available to certain plant communities and may lead to the disappearance of some
communities at their present location.
Coastal North Carolina bays have estuarine marsh borders and sea grass flats, or areas of SAV, that
provide natural habitats for animals and plants that do not occur as abundantly in unvegetated areas
(Frankenberg 1997, p. 104). Both communities may export organic matter that is eaten by omnivorous
animals in surrounding creeks and bays. The subtidal nature of sea grass flats makes them more
important than marshes as habitat for aquatic species Frankenberg (1997, p. 105). Much of the
productivity of salt marshes, particularly the irregularly flooded needlerush marshes, is incorporated into
marsh soil to produce organic-rich peat rather than food for animals in the surrounding waters. Sea grass
leaves may contain over 350 species of algae and more than 120 species of animals Frankenberg (1997,
p. 105). Four to five times as many species live in the sediment under sea grasses as live in adjacent,
unvegetated areas. Sea grass beds are considered more important for coastal ecosystems than salt marsh
and efforts to preserve such beds will be directly reflected in increased harvests of fish and shellfish
(Frankenberg 1997, p. 105).
Shallow, unvegetated, estuarine bottoms are also important fish habitat. These areas are used by
demersal (bottom dwelling) fish species, such as sturgeons and flounders, which live and feed in bottom
sediment. Shore fishes are abundant in unvegetated shallows, but they often migrate into adjacent weed
beds and marshes, where there is greater protection and an even richer supply of food.
2
The Service is concerned that project plans to fill the area behind the proposed sill appear to artificially
create areas of irregularly flooded marsh at the expense of area that could support other forms of fish
nursery areas such SAV or unvegetated bottoms. Item 4(a)(3) of Form DCM-MP-2 notes that purpose of
the fill is to "establish suitable depth to grow marsh plants." While the applicants indicate in the
following item, 4(b), that fill would not be placed on SAV, the area may still be considered as a potential
location for the important SAV community. Fish nursery areas in North Carolina estuaries are typically
shallow, nearshore areas that support large populations of growing post-larval and juvenile fishes and
shellfish during their first year of life (Copeland et al 1984, p. 53). In the Pamlico River Estuary, north
of the project site, fish nursery areas are generally have mud substrate and/or mud-grass bottoms
(Copeland et al 1984, p. 53). The river bottoms immediately waterward of the project site may serve as a
fish nursery area, irregardless of whether the area is vegetated or unvegetated.
The proposed rock revetment on the eastern side of the property seeks to prevent the encroachment of
estuarine marsh into the area currently occupied by pines. However, this structure would also alter
natural vegetation zonal patterns and eventually diminish shallow fish nursery habitat. While the sloping
face of the revetment would absorb some wave energy, a portion of the wave energy would be directed
back into the river. The reflected wave energy would erode the base of the revetment and lead to deeper
water in front of the revetment. In turn, the deeper water would allow stronger waves to strike the
revetment, further increasing erosion, and lead to even deeper, less productive waters in front of the
structure.
The marsh toe revetment and stone sills with crests above the NWL would create a barrier between the
marsh and the river. This barrier would impede the natural flooding of the existing marsh. The crest of
the marsh toe revetment is planned for one-half foot above marsh grade. The crest of the stone sill would
be one foot above NHW. These crest elevations would interfere with the exchange of water and aquatic
organisms between the river and the marsh. The limited openings currently proposed hinder the normal
ingress and egress of aquatic organisms and reduce the size of the nursery area provided by the marsh.
The relatively smooth surface of granite stones is not the best surface to form a substrate for sessile
aquatic organisms. Attachment would be enhanced by the use of marl which is a natural material with an
irregular surface. Marl is composed of calcium carbonate and would be rapidly colonized by aquatic
organisms, such as oyster spat. If marl is not used as the primary material, the sill material could be
covered with a layer of oyster shells or marl to enhance attachment.
The Service has reviewed available information on Federally threatened or endangered species known to
occur in Pamlico County. We have also reviewed information from the North Carolina Natural Heritage
Program (NCNHP) database on the reported occurrence of these species in the project area. Our review
indicates that the Federally endangered West Indian manatee (Trichechus manaeus) may occur near the
project site. The NCNHP database shows that a manatee has been reported in the Neuse River southeast
of Oriental. However, project diagrams show that the maximum, overall height of the stone sill would be
four feet and one foot above NHW. These figures indicate that the sill would be built in water with a
maximum depth of approximately three feet. Such water is considered too shallow for use by manatees.
Therefore, based on project plans contained in the application, we believe the proposed work is not likely
to adversely affect the manatee.
Based on information contained in the permit application and FIR, the Service has identified no
endangered or threatened species, nor critical habitats that would be adversely affected by the proposed
3
action. Therefore, we believe that the Corps' requirements under section 7(a)(2) of the ESA would be
satisfied. However, the Corps' 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; or, (3) a new species is listed or critical habitat determined that may be
affected by the identified action.
The Service does not believe that all feasible efforts to avoid and minimize aquatic habitat impacts have
been considered. The Service believes that certain design features and construction techniques could be
employed to minimize adverse environmental impacts while still providing some temporary respite from
water encroachment produced by global sea level rise. These measures include:
1. To create the most conducive surface for attachment by sessile plants and animals, the stone sill
should preferably be constructed with marl or, if not, at least covered with marl or oyster shells;
2. By reflecting wave energy back into the river, the five-foot stone revetment proposed on the
eastern side of the property would be detrimental to existing shallow water habitat, whether
vegetated or unvegetated. The reflected wave energy would gradually produce less productive
deeper water. This shoreline should be protected by a sill similar to that stone sill proposed for
other sections of the project area and a revetment should not be used;
3. For the same reasons, the marsh toe revetment should be eliminated and replaced by a marl, or
stone covered with marl or oyster shell;
4. The alignment of the sill should follow the line of existing vegetation. This design would
minimize the conversion of shallow riverine bottoms to coastal marsh, reversing the natural
landward movement of estuarine plant communities. The area between the sill and existing
vegetation that would be below the NWL should not be filled with sand. This area below the
NWL would serve as potential fish nursery habitat; and,
5. To maintain a more natural biological and hydrological connection between the river and the
marsh, the sill should have drop-downs, or gaps, to facilitate water exchange. The sill on the
sides of these drop-downs may have some overlap to reduce the wave energy moving directly
into the marsh. To ensure adequate exchange of water and aquatic organisms, at least ten percent
of the sill should consist of the drop-downs as measured by the bottom width of the dropdown
openings. While the floor of each drop-down should have some marl or stone to prevent erosion,
the depth of the material should be the minimal amount necessary to prevent erosion. As a
general guideline, we believe the stone or marl base of the drop-downs should not occupy more
than 25% of the normal water column. This design feature would allow free exchange of water
for 75% of the depth at the NWL. For this project, if the sill is constructed where the NWL is
three feet deep, the highest covering of marl or stone of each drop-down should be at a depth of
at least 2.25 feet below the NWL (3.0 x 0.75). In other words, the rock armoring the bottom of
the dropdown should not block more than 25% of the water column at the opening.
At this time, the Service does not recommend the issuance of a permit for this project. In accordance
with the 404(b)(1) guidelines impacts to the waters of the United States should avoided and minimized to
the maximum extent practical. We believe that significant design changes could reduce adverse
4
environmental impacts and even lead to some enhancement of fish and wildlife resources. The Service
would welcome the opportunity to review revised project plans.
The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on this permit application. Please advise us of any
action taken by the Wilmington Corps District. If you have questions regarding these comments, please
contact Howard Hall at 919-856-4520 (Ext. 27) or by e-mail at howard hall@..fws.gov.
Sincerely,
cow
Garland B. Pardue, Ph.D.
Ecological Services Supervisor
Literature cited:
Copeland, B. J., R. G. Hodson, and S. R. Riggs. 1984. The Ecology of the Pamlico River, North
Carolina: An Estuarine Profile. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. FWS/OBS-82/06. 83 pp.
Frankenberg, D. 1997. The nature of North Carolina's southern coast: barrier islands, coastal waters,
and wetlands. The University of North Carolina Press. Chapel Hill. 250 pp.
Pilkey, O. H., W.J. Neal, S.R. Riggs, C.A. Webb, D.M. Bush, D.F. Pilkey, J. Bullock, and B.A. Cowan.
1998. The North Carolina Shore and Its Barrier Islands: Restless Ribbons of Sand. Durham,
NC: Duke University Press, 318 p.
cc: Kathy Matthews, US EPS, Athens, GA
Ron Sechler, NMFS, Beaufort, NC
Doug Huggett, NC Division of Coastal Management, Raleigh, NC
David McHenry, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, Washington, NC
Z_Mk. John Dorney, NC Division of Water Quality, Raleigh, NC
Tracy Skrabal, NC Coastal Federation. Wilmington, NC
IN REPLY REFER TO
Regulatory Division
Action ID No. 200310345 and State Permit No. 50-03
Craig H. Steffee
300 East Horne Avenue
Farmville, North Carolina 27828
Dear Mr. Steffee:

Reference your revised application for a Department of the Army (DA) permit to construct an
offshore rock sill, place riprap material, and fill and grade an area for marsh planting, on property
located off State Road 1317, adjacent to the Neuse River, near Oriental, in Pamlico County,
North Carolina.
Your proposal has been reviewed and found to be consistent with the provisions and
objectives of General Permit No. 198000291. Therefore, you may commence construction
activity in strict accordance with applicable State authorization and the approved plan. Failure
to comply with the State authorization or conditions of the general permit could result in civil
and/or administrative penalties.
If any change in your work is required because of unforeseen or altered conditions or for any
other reason, plans revised to show the change must be sent promptly to this office and the North
Carolina Division of Coastal Management prior to performing any such change or alteration.
Such action is necessary as revised plans must be reviewed and the authorization modified.
Questions or comments may be addressed to Mr. Raleigh Bland, Washington Field Office,
Regulatory Division, telephone [phone], extension 23.
Sincerely,
Nt*V?l
Raleigh Bland, P.W.S.
Regulatory Project Manager
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Washington Regulatory Field Office
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, North Carolina 27889-1000
April 29, 2003
wRIANUS/
401 GROUP
414y P? 20
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-2-
Copies Furnished:
Mr. John Domey R
Division of Environmental Management
North Carolina Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650
Mr. Ronald J. Mikulak, Chief
Wetlands Regulatory Section
Water Management Division
United States Environmental Protection Agency
61 Forsyth Street, SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Mr. Doug Huggett
Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
1638 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1638
Mr. Garland B. Pardue
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
Fish and Wildlife Enhancement
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726
Mr. Ron Sechler
National Marine Fisheries Service
Pivers Island
Beaufort, North Carolina 28516
-3-
Mr. David Rackley
NMFS, Habitat Conservation Division
219 Fort Johnson Road
Charleston, South Carolina 29412-9110
Mr. Ted Tyndall, District Manager
Morehead City Regional Office
North Carolina Division of Coastal Management
Hestron Plaza II, 151-B Highway 24
Morehead City, North Carolina 28557
IN REPLY REFER TO
Regulatory Division
Action ID No. 200310345
Mr. Doug Huggett
Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
1638 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1638
Dear Mr. Huggett:
WETLANDS1401 GROUp
APR 3 ?on3
WATER QUALITY SECTION
Reference the application of Craig H. Steffee for a Department of the Army (DA) permit
to construct an offshore rock sill, place rock riprap material, and fill and grade an area for marsh
planting, on property located off State Road 1317, adjacent to the Neuse River, near Oriental,
in Pamlico County, North Carolina.
The Federal agencies have completed review of the proposal as presented by the application
and your field investigation report.
We recommend that the following conditions be included in the State authorization:
1. The proposed revetment at the eastern end of the property shall, at its junction
with the proposed adjacent sill, form an overlap to allow an additional entry point for
aquatic organisms behind the sill.
2. Oyster shell shall be placed over the sill and revetment structures in 2004 to
enhance oyster attachment.
The use of backfill material will be limited to the volume necessary to provide
an adequate planting substrate for the establishment of tidal wetlands.
4. The permittee understands and agrees that, if future operations by the United
States require the removal, relocation, or other alteration, of the structure or work herein
authorized, or if, in the opinion of the Secretary of the Army or his authorized representative,
said structure or work shall cause unreasonable obstruction to the free navigation of the
navigable waters, the permittee will be required, upon due notice from the Corps of Engineers,
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Washington Regulatory Field Office
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, North Carolina 27889-1000
April 1, 2003
-2-
to remove, relocate, or alter the structural work or obstructions caused thereby, without
expense to the United States. No claim shall be made against the United States on account
of any such removal or alteration.
5. No vegetated wetlands will be excavated or filled.
6. The temporary placement or double handling of excavated or fill materials within
waters or vegetated wetlands are not authorized.
7. The riprap material will be clean and free of any pollutants except in trace quantities.
Metal products, organic materials, or unsightly debris will not be used.
8. The permittee will maintain the authorized work in good condition and in
conformance with the terms and conditions of this permit. The permittee is not relieved
of this requirement if he abandons the permitted activity without having it transferred
to a third party.
9. The activity will be conducted in such a manner as to prevent a significant
increase in turbidity outside the area of construction or construction-related discharge.
Increases such that the turbidity in the waterbody is 50 NTU's or less in all rivers not
designated as trout waters by the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management
(NCDEM), 25 NTU's or less in all saltwater classes and in all lakes and reservoirs, and
10 NTU's or less in trout waters, are not considered significant.
Questions or comments may be addressed to Mr. Raleigh Bland, Washington Field Office,
Regulatory Division, telephone [phone], extension 23.
Sincerely,
y
q_A' U,
Raleigh Bland, P.W.S.
Regulatory Project Manager
-3-
Copies Furnished:
Mr. John Dorney
Water Quality Section
vision of Environmental Management
North Carolina Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650
Mr. Garland B. Pardue
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Fish and Wildlife Enhancement
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726
Mr. Ron Sechler
National Marine Fisheries Service
Habitat Conservation Service
Pivers Island
Beaufort, North Carolina 28516
Mr. David Rackley
NMFS, Habitat Conservation Division
219 Fort Johnson Road
Charleston, South Carolina 29412-9110
Mr. Ronald J. Mikulak, Chief
Wetlands Regulatory Section
Water Management Division
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
61 Forsyth Street, SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Mr. Ted Tyndall, District Manager
Morehead City Regional Office
North Carolina Division of Coastal Management
Hestron Plaza II, 151-B Highway 24
Morehead City, North Carolina 28557
? WATF
\O?? RQL Michael F. Easley
Governor
Cq William G. Ross, Jr., Secretary
y Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, PE, Director
Division of Water Quality
April 4, 2003
DWO Project # 03-0135
Pamlico County
Page 1 of 2
Craig H. & Catherine S. Steffee
300 East Horne Avenue
Farmville, NC 27828
Subject Property: 2460 Orchard Creek Road (SR1317), Oriental, NC 28571
Neuse River [03-04-10, 29-(118), SA HQW (high quality) NSW (nutrient sensitive)]
APPROVAL of 401 Water Quality Certification (GC3351) and AUTHORIZATION CERTIFICATE per the Neuse River
Buffer Protection Rules (15A NCAC 213.0233) with ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Steffee:
You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions, to place fill material (stone) within 0.52 acres of
waters and approximately 0.55 acres of buffers to construct the proposed shoreline stabilization and marsh creation
project at the subject property as described in your application received by the Division of Water Quality (DWQ)
Wetlands/401 Unit on February 10, 2003. After reviewing your application, we have determined that the water impacts
are covered by the Division of Water Quality (DWQ) General Water Quality Certification Number 3351. This Certification
allows you to General Permit No. 198000291 when issued by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). This letter shall
also act as your approved Authorization Certificate for impacts to the protected riparian buffers per 15A NCAC 2B .0259.
In addition, you should get or otherwise comply with any other federal, state and local requirements before you go ahead
with your project including (but not limited to) erosion and sediment control regulations and CAMA. Also, this approval will
expire when the accompanying 404 permit expires unless otherwise specified in the General Certification.
This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application. If you change your project,
you must notify us and you may be required to send us a new application. If the property is sold, the new owner must be
given a copy of this Certification and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying with all conditions. If total
fills for this project (now or in the future) exceed one acre of wetland or 150 linear feet of stream, compensatory mitigation
may be required as described in 15A NCAC 2H .0506 (h). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions
listed in the attached certification and any additional conditions listed below.
Conditions:
1. Buffer Replanting
Replanting of vegetation within disturbed areas located within 30 feet of the shoreline or coastal wetland
(whichever is more landward) associated with the shoreline stabilization project installation, repair,
replacement and/or maintenance approved under this authorization must be done in an "in kind" manner
immediately following construction. (Example: Disturbed areas with pre-existing grassed lawns must be
replanted with grass. Disturbed areas with pre-existing trees or woody vegetation must be replanted with
trees and woody vegetation. Disturbed areas with pre-existing forest vegetation must be replanted with
forest vegetation including at least two different native hardwood tree species at a density sufficient to
provide 320 trees per acre at maturity. This density can usually be achieved by planting approximately 436
(10 x 10 spacing) to 681 (8 x 8 spacing) trees per acre.)
2. Diffuse Flow
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919-733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/
Page 2 of 2
An additional condition is that all stormwater shall be directed as diffuse flow at non-erosive velocities through the
protected stream buffers and will not re-concentrate before discharging into the stream as identified within 15A NCAC
2B .0259(5).
3. Certificate of Completion
Upon completion of all work approved within the 401 Water Quality Certification or applicable Buffer Rules, and any
subsequent modifications, the applicant is required to return the attached certificate of completion to the 401/Wetlands
Unit, North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC, 27699-1650.
If you do not accept any of the conditions of this Certification (associated with the approved water impacts), you may ask
for an adjudicatory hearing. You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this letter. To ask for a hearing,
send a written petition, which conforms to Chapter 1508 of the North Carolina General Statutes to the Office of
Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7447. This certification and its conditions are final and
binding unless you ask for a hearing.
Any disputes over determinations regarding this Authorization Certificate (associated with the approved buffer impacts)
shall be referred in writing to the Director for a decision. The Director's decision is subject to review as provided in
Articles 3 and 4 of G.S. 1508.
This letter completes the review of the Division of Water Quality under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act and the Tar-
Pamlico riparian buffer protection rule as described within 15A NCAC 2B .0259. If you have any questions, please
telephone Bob Zarzecki at 919-733-9726.
Sincerely,
Attachment: GC 3351
Cc: Doug Huggett, DCM
USACE Washington Regulatory Field Office
Tom Steffens, DWQ Washington Regional Office
File Copy
Central Files
DWO030135
April 1, 2003
bz
mailbox :///C l/W INNT/Profi les/bob_zarzecki/Application%20Data/Mo...
Subject: Re: Projects
From: Bob Zarzecki <[e-mail]>
Date: Fri, 04 Apr 2003 07:57:54 -0500
To: Tom Steffens <Tom. Steffens@ ncmai 1. net>
Tom:
Wow! ...that was fast ...sure is a change from the past ...thanks for the incredibly
quick response... don't worry about Haverty this morning ...it's been a year, it can
wait until next week-I'll write up the other four this morning... thanks again.
- Bob
Tom Steffens wrote:
Bob,
03-0135 Steffee - site visit , ok to issue w/condition to mitigate for
buffer impacts behind riprap on south end of project.
03-0195 C&D Landfill... I've commented on this before (ref. 17Feb), but I
guess it got lost in transmission, Issue n/c
03-0167 Smith ...Issue n/c
03-0166 Geewax... I haven't seen this one yet, I reveiwed all the
applications in my box last night and this morning ...wait it just showed up
in the wrong box ( temporary secretaries .... sheesh! whats a guy to do?) I
don't see on the plans how high the bulkhead is, and I recall no real need on
that shoreline..... it was a very gentle to flat grade if I remember
rightly .... I think.... HOLD for height info and justification for need. (I
could see them easily building a 5 foot high bulkhead and backfilling with
the spoils, removing the existing spartina thats there now)
02-0210... Haverty.. This one is a more than a year old, and would have been
handled by Deborah, I can find no records either. Are you sure this one
wasn't withdrawn? I will call the applicant to see whits up, though ttier
paperwork is lacking the specifics I agree that they would come in under the
General. Hang loose for a little while and I will get back to you later this
am.
toms
Bob Zarzecki wrote:
Tom,
Please send comments on Steffee and the tardies this morning if you can.
I have some unexpected time that I was hoping to clear my desk of some
paperwork. Thanks.
- Bob
030135 Steffee
0301.66 Geewax - Mike put down the wrong stream index ...thi_s project is
on Ocracoke adjacent the dredge/pier site that you and I conducted SAV
surveys on...I don't have a problem with most of it...however, from what
I recall I don't see the need for the bulkhead... I'll follow you lead on
this ...(60days - April 14th)
030195 Dare C&D Landfill - existing landfill... propose to construct a
2nd entrance... crossing a canal and two "ditches"...looks ok to issue n/c
03-01.67 Smith - just down the road from you of.fic.e...looks like an
eroded shoreline between two existing bulkheads ...ok to issue :'
1 of 1 4/4/03 7:58 AM
A T ::A
L
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Coastal Management
Michael F. Easley, Governor Donna D. Moffitt, Director William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
February 7, 2003
MEMORANDUM:
TO: Mr. John R. Dorney
Environmental Biological Supervisor
Division of Water Quality .: v
FROM:
SUBJECT
Applicant:
Project Location
Doug Huggett
Major Permits Processing Coordinator
CAMA/DREDGE & FILL Permit Application Review
Craig and Catherine Steffee
O?
clGp
Pamlico County, off NCSR 1317 at 2460 Orchard Creek Road, on the Neuse River,
near Oriental.
Proposed Project: Proposes to install 653' of offshore rock sill, 313' of rock riprap and to place riprap
waterward of 93' of existing marsh. The area landward of the proposed sill would
be filled and graded for planting of marsh species. A 10' X 1000' access road
across high ground is also proposed.
Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and return this form by
February 28, 2003. If you have any questions regarding the proposed project, please contact Tracey
Wheeler at [phone]. When appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested.
REPLY: This agency has no objection to the project as proposed.
This agency has no comment on the proposed project.
This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes are
incorporated. See attached.
This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached comments.
151-B Hwy. 24, Hestron Plaza II, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557
SIGNED Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone]OAtfllernet: www.nccoastalmanagement.net
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer - 50% Recycled 110% Post Consumer Paper
DCM % DWQ %
Development Type FEE (14300 1601 435100093 1625 6253) (24300 1602 435100095 2341)
1. Private, non-commercial
development that does not involve 5250 100%($250) 0% (SO)
the filling or excavation of any
wetlands or open water areas:

II. Public or commercial development +r
that does not involve the filling or $400 100%($400) 0% (SO)
excavation of any wetlands or open
water areas:
III. For development that involves the
filling and/or excavation of up to 1
acre of wetlands and/or open water
areas, determine if A, B, C, or D
below applies:
III(A). For Private, non-commercial
development, If General water Quality 5250 100% (S250) 0% (SO)
Certification No.3301 (see attached)
can be applied:
111(8): For public or commercial
development, if General water Quality 5400 100%($400) 0% (SO)
Certification No.3301 (see attached)
can be applied:
III(C). If General Water Quality
Certification No. 3301 (see attached)
could be applied, but DCM staff
determined that additional review and 5400 60%(S240) 40% (S160)
written DWQ concurrence is needed
because of concerns related to water
quality or aquatic life:
III(D). If General Water Quality
Certification No. 3301 (see attached) 5400 60%(S240) 40% (5160)
can not be applied:
IV. For development that involves
the filling and/or excavation of mor $475 60%(S285) 40% (S19O)
than one acre of wetlands and/or
open water areas:
Form DCM-MP-1
APPLICATION
(To be completed by all applicants) !)f ?: ;
-[1Q2
b. City, town, community or landmark
021?Kf?4G N ? 28bT
1. APPLICANT
c. Street address or secondary road number
2+40 01qC14AR0 C2EEK PoAIj
a. Landowner:
Name CRAIC* t l. f CA7/{ERINE .S S6FF E6
Address 300 EAST r4or2NE Aye,4dE
City FXKM O U E State N C
Zip 07(?28 Day Phone 252- 522 - 145
Fax [phone]
e- MM I CNC Srr FFEF0A/i: TS64P6-• NET'
b. Authorized Agent:
S? X3/7
d. Is proposed work within city loft or planning
jurisdiction? Yes V No
e. Name of body of water nearest project (e.g. river,
creek, sound, bay) N EJS? ?E?2
SEE AZAcKED MAP
3. DESCRIPTION AND PLANNED USE
OF PROPOSED PROJECT
Name WILLIAM T TATS T-
Address 334 WivDDiv4 Woobs WAY'
City 6-A 0 Fo P- i State C
2 g- 16 Day Phone [phone]--
Zip Fax [phone]
6--mail VVZAiST 6)CC.R2•CaM
c. Project name (if any)
A
NOTE. Perndt will be issued in name of landowner(s), and/or
projed name.
2. LOCATION OF PROPOSED
PROJECT
a. County 'PAML (C 0
List all development activities you propose (e.g.
building a home, motel, marina, bulkhead, pier, and
excavation and/or filling activities.
• deal ?romr E mc-a
• uNG IGG SAND Fitt,
An/D MAQs -l (,AAMN
• /1/Nl_C NAA1ecr o/' eysrIiN4 k?Fwi7J eAlr
b. Is the proposed activity maintenance of an existing
project, new work, or both? I 6774
c. Will the project be for public, private or commercial
use? F'Ra ?AT E-
d. Give a brief description of purpose, use, methods of
construction and daily operations of proposed
project. If more space is needed, please attach
additional pages.
72#1 S Sf?OK G G/ N E /,L TG-Cr'l oly p9aJ C c r
W141, GoNTQaI ?AAIK CRe 5 to Al
A441V4 TNT A/EcJSE RI?F2 AND
PRoPo 4 Arr CoAV'AL M42sN 1?1, 4NTS.
:5!?'e-A kIhE-6 DF5C2(PriaN 1.-Pi?44j*45
Form DCM-MP-1

4. LAND AND WATER
CHARACTERISTICS
m. Describe existing wastewater treatment facilities.
.SOPrie- 7-Miit AMD J)gAtAl FiEL,
a. Size of entire tract 19.9 Ac2Es
7-wd cars
b. Size of individual lot(s) 1*.c9 Aced's y 9.8AcrtO
c. Approximate elevation of tract above MHW or
NWL ¢ - 7 f1
d. Soil type(s) and texture(s) of tract
ri'Ne swvo AA/40 c[aY
e. Vegetation on tract LAW.Al,, AN&// i_If4ss
AND /JiNt:' ?aREsT'
f. Man-made features now on tract
¢o' x 80' 2 - SfdRI( ME?"Ac $tJr[Dtni G
g. What is the CAMA Land Use Plan land
classification of the site? (corsair the ioew rand use plan.)
Conservation Transitional
Developed Community
X_ Rural Other
GV/lfc2 15 CGAstrF?6b CaNSER?Arir
h. How is the tract zoned by local government?
IZU2A L_
i. Is the proposed o?ect consistent with the applicable
zoning? Yes No
(Attach toning caonpUance cerWficau, if appifcabk)
j. Has a professional archaeological assent been
done for the tract? Yes No
If yes, by whom?
k. Is the project located in a National Registered
Historic District or oes it involve a National
Register listed or g;le property?
Yes No
1. Are there wetlands on the site? Y Yes No
Coastal (marsh) ? Other
If yes, has a delineation been conducted9 d o
(AnaA dommenradon, If aaail k)
n.• Describe location and type of discharges to waters
of the state. (For example, surface runoff, sanitary
wastewater, industrial/commercial effluent, "wash
down" and residential discharges.)
.S02GAcE RUAlOPr-
o. Describe existing drinking water supply source.
vVEL L
5. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
In addition to the completed application form, the
following items must be submitted:
A copy or the deed (with state application only) or
other instrument under which the applicant claims title
to the affected properties. If the applicant is not
claiming to be the owner of said property, then
forward a copy of the deed or other instrument under
which the owner claims title, plus written permission
from the owner to carry out the project.
• An accurate, dated work plat (including plan view
and cross-sectional drawings) drawn to scale in black
ink on an 8 1/2" by 11" white paper. (Refer to
Coastal Resources Commission Rule 7J.0203 for a
detailed description.)
Please note that original drawings are preferred and
only high quality copies will be accepted. Blue-line
prints or other larger plats are acceptable only if an
adequate number of quality copies are provided by
applicant. (Contact the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers regarding that agency's use of larger
drawings.) A site or location map is a part of plat
requirements and it must be sufficiently detailed to
guide agency personnel unfamiliar with the area to the
Form DCM-MP-1
site. Include highway or secondary road (SR)
numbers, landmarks, and the like.
• A Stormwater Certification, if one is necessary.
• A list of the names and complete addresses of the
adjacent waterfront (riparian) landowners and
signed return receipts as proof that such owners
have nx*lved a copy of the application and plats
by owtified mail. Such landowners must be advised
that they have 30 days in which to submit comments
on the proposed project to the Division of Coastal
Management. Upon signing this form, the applicant
further certifies that such notice has been provided.
Name JosapN L. YouNt,
Address 512 ORcHARO e-ReCK ROA
Phone ORiENrAL-f G 285 T I
252-249-2237
r
Name i' mLICn LoMMVN#7Y 604tE4E rufOAnw
Address F. O - FOX 185
2 9?
Phone `9ANfs i3a2 a f4 C- 2 85
252 - 2 t-9 -18.5/
•
or
work on the project tract. Include permit numbers,
permittee, and issuing dates.
CA ENfrAA . Pe ?-M17- 412 932- c
C R--.14 ='Kk-r tt y" S e-IrFCE 4114-199
Ca PY h it-ACtlE9
• A check for $2N'm-ade payable to the Department of
Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
(DEHNR) to cover the costs of processing the
application. :?4- T 5 , o o
• A signed AEC hazard notice for projects in
oceanfront and inlet areas. NIA
• A statement of compliance with the N.C.
Environmental Policy Ad (N.C.G.S. 113A - 1 to
10) If the project involves the expenditure of public
funds or use of public land's, attach a statement
documenting compliance with the North Carolina
Environmental Policy Act.
0E i; inn(
6. CERTIFICATION AND PERMISSION
TO ENTER ON LAND
I understand that any permit issued in response to this
application will allow only the development described in
the application. The project will be subject to conditions
and restrictions contained in the permit.
I certify that to the best of my knowledge, the proposed
activity complies with the State of North Carolina's
approved Coastal Management Program and will be
conducted in a manner consistent with such program.
I certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact,
grant permission to representatives of state and federal
review agencies to enter on the aforementioned lands in
connection with evaluating information related to this
permit application and follow-up monitoring of the
project.
I further certify that the information provided In this
application is truthful to the best of my knowledge.
This is the rkday of Jece#"deF ja2 o d2
Print Name CRAIC, 1-1 . 5TEFFEE
Signature 22
Imndow"er or Audioriud Anew
Please indicate attachments pertaining to your proposed
project.
X DCM MP -2 Excavation and Fill Information
9 DCM MP-3 Upland Development
DCM MPd Structures Information
DCM MP-5 Bridges and Culverts
DCM MP-6 Marina Development
NOT- Please sign and dote each attachment in the
gwce provtded at the bottom of each form.
Expenditure of public funds will be in strict
compliance with the North Carolina Environmental
Policy Act (N.C.G.S. 113A sections 1 to 10).
Cmi H. Steff
Form DCM-MP-2
EXCAVATION
AND FILL
(Except bridges and culverts)
Attach this form to Joint Application for CAMA Major
Permit, Form DCM-MP-1. Be sure to complete all
other sections of the Joint Application that relate to this
proposed project.
Describe below the purpose of proposed excavation or
fill activities. All values to be given in feet.
Average Fiaal
Existing Project
Access
channel
(MLW) or (NWL)
Canal
Boat
basin
Boat
ramp
Rock
groin
Rock S I LL
breakwater
t4AtZS14 _56
Other SANS
(Excluding FILL
shoreline
stabilization)
Length Width Depth Depth

&S31 14-1

0.5
C&A,4 ( CA ma-ty v c3 fre<rd'40 ?Ro P?*rc r r

1. EXCAVATION W1
a. Amount of material to be excavated from below
MHW or NWL in cubic yards
b. Type of material to be excavated
c. Does the area to be excavated include coastal
wetlands (marsh), submerged aquatic vegetation
(SAVs) or other wetlands? Yes No
d. Highground excavation in cubic yards
2. DISPOSAL OF EXCAVATED
MATERIAL `% t'J/A I
a. Location of disposal area
b. Dimensions of disposal area
c. Do you claim title to disposal area?
Yes No
If no, attach a letter granting permission from the
owner.
d. Will a disposal area be available for future
maintenance? Yes No
If yes, where?
D-1-A nllUC
Form DCM-MP-2
e. Does the disposal area include any coastal wetlands
(marsh), SAVs or other wetlands?
Yes No
f. Does the disposal include any area in the water?
Yes No
3. SHORELINE STABILIZATION
a. Type of shoreline stabilizatio
Bulkhr Ripra
EA%r HI4 I+ C7RauND MARSH ? oC
b. Length 3 3 ' ? q 3'
c. Average distance waterward of MHW or NWL
t o' 5
d. Maximum distance waterward of MHW or NWL
lot
e. Shoreline erosion during preceding 12 months
3 FEer o2 GrREh'WR-
(Source of inf0"Wdon) pl e PEK7Y Q W N c 2 Q Bs ere mvn a N s
f. Type of bulkhead or riprap material
(f LASS. ] 19An1,re 57-Wa
g. Amount of fill in cubic yards to be placed below
water level
(1) Riprap t 5o cY
(2) Bulkhead backfill A
h. Type of fill material Crass Z7 <'9 AN i r6-
i. Source of fill material OuARQY MATt='RiAL.
4. OTHER FILL ACTIVITIES
(Excluding Shoreline Stabilization)
a. Will 1 material be brought to site?
Yes No
If yes, i;l0
(1) Amount of material to be placed in the
water 550 C Y
(2) Dimensions of fill area
490'&v4 x a- 44o'w1oc = 9,8ao sF
(3) Purpose of fill F S rA du s N
Suiwi.g beri-N To GQaw/N aH 71ANrS
b. Will fill material be placed in coastal wetlands
(marsh), SAVs or other wetlands?
Yes 7'?'- No
If yes,
(1) Dimensions of fill area
(2) Purpose of fill
5. GENERAL
a. How will excavated or fill material be kept on site
and erosion controlled?
- Urz,B1 t) ITY C.uf2TAItj ^Nb SrONE SILO.
AL014 WiTtf MUSH PLANTS
b. What type of construction equipment will be used
(for example, dragline, backhoe, or hydraulic
dredge)?
Ac14NaC
c. Will wetlands be crassed in transporting equipment
to project site? X_ Yes No
If yes, explain steps that will be taken to lessen
environmental impacts.
cao 4TS Wii c BE US 6 b 7"0
/N/AtIZE - 1SrveQANCF -
(f RAI4 . YT==C C F
Applkant or Pro?ed Name
/j'
l I - ? -
SWUture
2/Zy/2oo2
Date
Form DCM-MP-3
UPLAND
DEVELOPMENT
C??,? 4 Cf?rh??12?IJhr Sr?F?Ea ??oP?=?rrr .

(Construction and/or land disturbing activities)
Attach this form to Joint Application for CAMA Major
Permit, Form DCM-MP-1. Be sure to complete all
other sections of the Joint Application that relate to this
proposed project.
a. Type and number of buildings, facilities, units or
structures proposed A4 N 6r'
b. Number of lots or parcels z
c. Density (give the number of residential units and the
units per acre)
1 Rgs1boycE oN 19. 9 ACRC- S
d. Size of area to be graded, filled or disturbed
including roads, ditches, etc.
1jb66 cF of lo' p/ioE (e,vsr,eucnwv Acec ss
766 6F o F Zo' wiOE 41t A01kofem r
e. If the proposed project will disturb more than one
acre of land, the Division of Land Resources must
receive an erosion and sedimentation control plan at
least 30 days before land disturbing activity begins.
If applicable, has a sedimentation and erosion
control plan been submitted to the ision of Land
Resources? -Yes No
If yes, date submitted
h. Projects that require a CAMA Major Development
Permit may also require a Stormwater Certification.
Has a site development plan been submitted to the
Division of Environm tal Management for review?
Yes No
If yes, date submitted
i. Describe proposed npethod of sewage disposal.
A
j. Have the facilities described in Item i. above
received state or local approval? A
(Attach appropriate documentation)
k. Describe location and type of proposed discharges to
waters of the state (for example, surface runoff,
sanitary wastewater, industrial/commercial effluent,
"wash down" and residential discharges).
SuRGACE ,Qvl?ur'F
1. Describe proposed drinking water supply source
. (e.g. well, community, public system, etc.)
f. List the materials (such as marl, paver stone,
asphalt, or concrete) to be used for paved surfaces.
IloNE
g. Give the percentage of the tract within 75 feet of
MHW or NWL, or within 575 feet in the case of an
Outstanding Resource Water, to be covered by
impervious and/or built-upon surfaces, such as
pavement, buildings, rooftops, or to be used for
vehicular driveways or parking. BONE
Yes ? No
m. Will water be impounded?
If yes, how many acres? _
n. If the project is a oceanfront development when
was the lot(s) platted and recorded. ; A
c-,em4 y. srErr EC
Applicant or Project Name
21" N,S
Signature
I"- 00 Z.
Date
COPS
2U
CAMA AND DREDGE AND FILL
GENERAL N° 021532 -c-
PERMIT as authorized by the State of North Carolina
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources and the Coastal Resources Commission
in an area of environmental concern pursuant to 15A NCAC U1H.+lit> ' 01 H-. Qc_r?; C>1 0 .t3r•o•
Applicant Name C_ZAIG? hND kA y ?jTE c ?S? 153-_`3,-n
Phone Number
Address
City t ?tt?LC State rv<- Zip_? ,;? 13
Project Location (County, State Road, Water Body, etc.) Ems' tom c;.FF `TH-c icc• ?v?l-) LOcz;>
A0 3P$% EfLSTCF Ltar? r?iu? A-t?? Cs2C-xfr2il CF??.
Type of Project Activity (tJ_i_,?t Pr 5 1 x Cowl ;xr. ?ke2 I?xSrrtu- A I5 ? - 4t7 ?
?FFMP. INSTnL-? AP?R?+s to E1 Y -7 CO F-r . nF ?cc t p 7?? I ?7 Gy FL,A, eC4rL,_ r?TA3c t f
PROJECT DESrC-R'IPTTIION SKETCH \? \ (SCALE: t,:x^c )
Pier(dock)length - s 6--JEFO : ( ® r1 tiJi; p ?` \ ??
t?U?t_r'ri rtN 11\\JJ
C .?'?C.oA7Cr? MA?at
Groin length IVO L t?jZL7?Af? It ?° 5 °'?X(dl ?IL
number 'N-ficff mkt-1%_1tA ltiSrr?jlc??!5 rc'? ? I ? ?
Bulkhead length ttll?1N?, ??F1+1 . I --? MQ
max. distance offshore U Fr,_
SX.A FLAP Le Nr__
Basin, channel dimensions,,r<,
cubic yards
Boat ramp dimensions is EE
G
Other 2 1?6
7t uxk-5
sF7
.4

` ` l G V1.1Nt1?,
r ,
r '?F?PtD
? r
r
To Yc:Wt i. f?EFFE 2a? jy
This permit is subject to compliance with this application, site
drawing and attached general and specific conditions. Any
violation of these terms may subject the permittee to a fine,
imprisonment or civil action; and may cause the permit to be-
come null and void.
This permit must be on the project site and accessible to the
permit officer when the project is inspected for compliance.
The applicant certifies by signing this permit that 1) this pro-
ject is consistent with the local land use plan and all local
ordinances, and 2) a written statement has been obtained from
adjacent riparian landowners certifying that they have no
objections to the proposed work.

applicant's signature
permit officer's signature
issuing date expiration date
attachments d? ? I I(DD ( o-7 H . 1 44 .1?OC?
In issuing this permit the State of North Carolina certifies that C7? Cht t ??
this project is consistent with the North Carolina Coastal application fee
Management Program.
LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF SHORELINE PROTECTION / MARSH RESTORATION PROJECT
Craig H. and Catherine S. Steffee Property at 2460 Orchard Creek Road near Oriental, North Carolina
The property is located on two parcels approximately 5 miles east of Oriental, NC off Orchdr&Creek Rd.'
Project Description looking from east to west consists of
• Construction of a new stone revetment along
approximately 313 feet of eroded embankment.
• Construction of approximately 283 feet of stone sill and
intermittent marsh toe revetment with grading and
marsh planting behind the new stone sill.
• Repairs to an existing stone revetment including the
addition of 1-foot of topping stone.
• Extension of the existing revetment for 20 feet to west.
• Demolition and removal of existing wood bulkhead and
construction of approximately 443 ft. of new stone sill.
The area behind the sill will be filled from zero to 2 ft.
with sand along with marsh plantings to propagate new
marsh vegetation. The embankment along the landward
side of this section of shoreline will be shaped to a
4H:1 V slope and planted with upland vegetation.
• Turbidity curtain will be used to contain the work area.
• Areas disturbed by construction equipment will be
seeded and mulched to re-establish vegetative cover.
55 Straight Rd.
SR 1321
Orchard Creek Rd.
SR 1317
7 " Neuse River
Oriental, NC
Steffee Property
2460 Orchard Creek Rd.
/
General Area Sketch SR 1317
Steffee Property Mail Box
Label 2460
Orchard Creek Rd. \

New 20 ft. P/L
Extension of
Existing Revetment \
\ New Stone
\ Revetment
Existing \
Revetment

Orchard Creek Rd. \ \ -.
?•
40x80 Metal ?1
Building

\ s
r
J/ New Sill
See Detail Dwg.
See Detail Dwg.
Property -WEST 1 _? ' Property-EAST
New Stone Sill,
Remove
Intermittent
Remnant Revetment &
Bulkhead Marsh Plants
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DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
FIELD INVESTIGATION REPORT
1. APPLICANT'S NAME: Craig and Catherine Steffee
PROJECT NAME:
2. LOCATION OF PROJECT SITE: Pamlico County off NCSR 1317 at 2460 Orchard Creek Rd on the Neuse
River near Oriental.
Photo Index - 2000: 78-854 R:18-14 1995: 78-585 M:11-15
State Plane Coordinates - X: 2,711,600 Y: 487,600
Broad Creek Quadrangle Lower Left
GPS File #
3. INVESTIGATION TYPE: CAMA & D&F
4. INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURE: Dates of Site Visit - 19 November 2002
Was Applicant Present - Yes, agent
5. PROCESSING PROCEDURE: Application Received - 27 December 2002
Office - Morehead City
6. SITE DESCRIPTION:
(A) Local Land Use Plan - Pamlico County
Land Classification From LUP - Rural with Services (Land), Conservation (Water)
(B) AEC(s) Involved: PTA, EW, CS
(C) Water Dependent: Yes
(D) Intended Use: Private
(E) Wastewater Treatment: Existing - Septic Tank
Planned - N/A
(F) Type of Structures: Existing - Single-family residence and pier
Planned - Offshore stone revetment and riprap
(G) Estimated Annual Rate of Erosion: 3 feet
Source - Applicant
7. HABITAT DESCRIPTION: [AREA]
DRFDnFD FILLET) OTHER
(A) Vegetated Wetlands
(B) Non-Vegetated Wetlands 22,537 ft2
Creek Bottom
(C) Other 24,000 ft2
Uplands Filled and graded
(D) Total Area Disturbed: 46,537 ft` 1.07 ac
(E) Primary Nursery Area: No
(F) Water Classification: SA HQW NSW Open: No
8. PROJECT SUMMARY: Applicant proposes to install 653' of offshore rock sill, 313' of rock riprap and to
place riprap waterward of 93' of existing marsh. The area landward of the proposed sill would be filled
and graded for planting of marsh species. A 10' by 1,000' access road across high ground is also
proposed.
Craig and Catherine Steffee
Pamlico County
Project Setting
The applicant owns a 19.9-acre tract of land adjacent to the Neuse River in the Community of
Pamlico, in Pamlico County, North Carolina. The property is on the north bank of the Neuse River,
and has an elevation of approximately 5.5 feet above the normal water level. There are extensive
uplands on the property, bordered by coastal wetlands along the shoreline. There is a narrow ditch
that drains a coastal wetland along the western side of the property. There is a large steel building
that houses a single-family residence and a garage and a private pier that provides moorings for two
vessels. The high ground is vegetated with a mix of pine trees and scattered hardwoods. There is a
small area of maintained lawn near the pier. An existing area of marl riprap stabilizes 200' of the
shoreline near the middle of the property. There are large areas of coastal wetlands on the property.
These areas extend as fingers into the property for approximately 400 feet on the west side of the lot
and approximately 150 on the east side. The wetlands areas are dominated by S artina alterniflora,
Juncos roemerianus, and Spartina paten s.
The project area is bordered on the east by an undeveloped wooded area owned by the
Pamlico Community College Foundation that is vegetated with pine trees, shrubs and small
hardwood trees. Tine shoreline is protected by extensive riprap. The property to the west is also
heavily wooded and undeveloped. The shoreline is a natural clay bank that show evidence of severe
erosion. The Neuse River forms the southern property line, and NCSR 1317 forms the northern
property boundary.
The Neuse River is classified SA HQW NSW by the Environmental Management
Commission and is not open to shell fishing at this location. The property is located in the Neuse
River Basin, and is subject to the Environmental Management Commission's (EMC) Neuse River
Basin Nutrient Sensitive Waters Management Strategy.
Project Description
The applicant proposes to install a rock riprap sill approximately 30 ft waterward of the
NWL. The sill would have a maximum base width of 14 feet and a crest width of 2 feet. It would
project 1 foot above the nonnal water level, with a side slope of 1.5:1. The proposed sills would be
placed waterward of areas that are currently vegetated with coastal wetland species, and the areas
between the existing marsh and the sill would be graded and filled to a height appropriate to support
marsh plantings. Fill material would be clean sand. At the ends of the proposed sills, 93 ft. of riprap
would be placed abutting the existing marsh substrate to provide protection to the eroding marsh.
The proposed sill would be constructed in two sections, one 240 ft. long section adjacent to the
coastal wetlands on the eastern side of the property, and one 413 ft. long section adjacent to the
marsh on the western side of the lot. The eastern sill would have one opening to allow tidal flow in
an existing creek.
The applicant proposes to install riprap along the high ground shoreline at the western
border of the property. The riprap would placed adjacent to 313 linear feet of shoreline and the toe
would extend a maximum of 10 ft. waterward of the normal water level. A 10' by 1,000'
construction road is proposed on the high ground to allow access for construction vehicles and for
Craig and Catherine Steffee
Pamlico County
Page 2
the transportation of rock to the project area.
Anticipated Impacts
The project as proposed would impact 46,537 ft2. Construction of the stone sills would result in the
filling of approximately 9,142 ft2 of shallow river bottom. Placement of fill landward of the sills for
the planting of coastal wetland species would cause the conversion of 9,800 ft2 of shallow water
habitat to coastal wetlands. Placement of the proposed riprap and marsh protection riprap would
result in the filing of an additional 3,595 ft2. A 10' by 1,000' construction road is proposed on high
ground to provide access to the project area. Localized short-term turbidity increases will result from
constriction activities.
Tracey L. Wheeler - 7 February 2003

IN REPLY REFER TO
Regulatory Division
Action ID No. 200310345
Craig H. Steffee
300 East Horne Avenue
Farmville, North Carolina 27828
Dear Mr. Steffee:
FEB 4 i
On July 24, 2000, we renewed General Permit No. 198000291 (copy enclosed), which
provides Federal authorization for construction activities that receive authorization from
the State of North Carolina.
A review of your application received February 10, 2003, for Department of the Army (DA)
authorization to construct an offshore rock sill, place riprap material, and fill and grade an area
for marsh planting, on property located off State Road 1317, adjacent to the Neuse River, near
Oriental, in Pamlico County, North Carolina, indicates it to be a candidate for Federal
authorization under this general permit. Accordingly, the administrative processing of your
application will be accomplished by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management.
Comments from Federal review agencies will be furnished to the State.
If your application must be withdrawn from this general permit process for any reason, you
will be informed regarding its further management. If there are no unresolved differences in
State-Federal positions or policies, the final action taken on your application by the State will
result in your receiving written notice from us that your application is consistent with the general
permit and you may commence your activity. Only after receiving such confirmation should you
begin work.
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Washington Regulatory Field Office
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, North Carolina 27889-1000
February 12, 2003
-2-
You# application, pursuant to Section 10 of the River and Harbor Act and Section 404
of'tH6,,Clean W er *-.-has been assigned Action ID No. 200310345 and will be coordinated
by Mit.'Ral land i-n our Washington Regulatory Field Office. Mr. Bland is available at
telephone (252)„975-1616, extension 23.
Sincerely,
Q4U, ?"
Raleigh Bland, P.W.S.
Regulatory Project Manager
Enclosure
Copies Furnished (without enclosure):
Mr. Doug Huggett
Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
1638 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1638
John Dorney
Water Quality Section
ivision of Environmental Management
North Carolina Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650
Mr. Ted Tyndall, District Manager
Morehead City Regional Office
North Carolina Division of Coastal Management
Hestron Plaza II, 151-B Highway 24
Morehead City, North Carolina 28557
IN REPLY REFER TO
Regulatory Division
Action ID No. 200310345
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Washington Regulatory Field Office
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, North Carolina 27889-1000
February 12, 2003
Mr. John Dorney
Division of Environmental Management
North Carolina Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650
Dear Mr. Dorney:
C?
ar?.l1..? ? f
Please reference the application of Craig Steffee for Department of the Army (DA)
authorization and a State Water Quality Certification to construct a rock sill, place riprap
material, and fill and grade an area for marsh planting, on property located off State Road 1317,
adjacent to the Neuse River, near Oriental, in Pamlico County, North Carolina. Your receipt of
this letter verifies your acceptance of a valid request for certification in accordance with Section
325.2(b)(ii) of our administrative regulations.
We are considering authorizing the proposed activity pursuant to Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act, and we have determined that a water quality certification is required under
the provisions of Section 401 of the same law. A Department of the Army permit will not be
granted until the certification has been obtained or waived.
In accordance with our administrative regulations, in most cases, 60 days after receipt
of a request for certification is a reasonable time for State action. Therefore, if you have
not acted on the request, or asked for an extension of time, by April 14, 2003, the District
Engineer will deem that waiver has occurred.
-2-
Questions or comments may be addressed to Mr. Raleigh Bland, Washington Regulatory
Field Office, Regulatory Division, telephone [phone], extension 23.
Sincerely,
?VQ014
Raleigh Bland, P.W.S.
Regulatory Project Manager
Copies Furnished:
Mr. Doug Huggett
Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
1638 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1638