20200597 Ver 1_Draft_PJD_20190911_20200505

September 23, 2019 

Mr. Ross Sullivan   
US Army Corps of Engineers    
Raleigh Regulatory Field Office    
3331 Heritage Trade Drive, Suite 105 
Wake Forest, NC 27587 

Re:  Request for Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination 
Big Branch Sewer Interceptor  
Raleigh, Wake County, NC 

Mr. Sullivan:  

VHB respectfully requests concurrence with the attached request for preliminary jurisdictional determination (JD) 
in association with the proposed City of Raleigh sewer improvement project.  VHB is currently under contract with 
Highfill Infrastructure Engineering, P.C. (Highfill) to provide natural resources inventories, jurisdictional 
assessments and reporting. The proposed project is separated into several study areas located along Big Branch 
Creek from Selby Drive to north of Millbrook Road in Raleigh, NC. The City of Raleigh has mailed landowner 
notification letters and will obtain easements as needed prior to construction. 

The preliminary JD will assist in avoidance and minimization of unavoidable stream or wetland impacts associated 
with design and layout of the proposed project. We have attached the following information to assist with your 
review: 

 Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination request forms 
 Figures 
o 1. USGS topographic map  
o 2. 1970 Soil Survey of Wake County, NC 
o 3A‐3F. Wetland delineation maps 
 USACE wetland and upland data forms 
 NCDWR stream forms 
 NCWAM form 
 Site photographs 
 Landowner notification letter 
 Agent authorization form 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at (919) 741‐5784. We look forward to hearing 
from you soon. 

Sincerely, 
VHB 

David G. Cooper 
Senior Environmental Scientist 

cc:  Eddie Sasser, P.E. ‐ Highfill 

Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 1

This form is intended for use by anyone requesting a jurisdictional determination (JD) from the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District (Corps). Please include all supporting
information, as described within each category, with your request. You may submit your request
via mail, electronic mail, or facsimile. Requests should be sent to the appropriate project
manager of the county in which the property is located. A current list of project managers by
assigned counties can be found on-line at:
http://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Missions/RegulatoryPermitProgram/Contact/CountyLocator.aspx,
by calling 910-251-4633, or by contacting any of the field offices listed below. Once your
request is received you will be contacted by a Corps project manager.
ASHEVILLE & CHARLOTTE REGULATORY
FIELDOFFICES
US ArmyCorps of Engineers
151 Patton Avenue,Room 208
Asheville, North Carolina28801-5006
GeneralNumber: [phone]
Fax Number: [phone]
RALEIGHREGULATORYFIELDOFFICE
US ArmyCorps of Engineers
3331 Heritage Trade Drive, Suite 105
Wake Forest, North Carolina27587
GeneralNumber: [phone]
Fax Number: [phone]
WASHINGTONREGULATORYFIELDOFFICE
US ArmyCorps of Engineers
2407 West Fifth Street
Washington, North Carolina27889
GeneralNumber: [phone]
Fax Number: [phone]
WILMINGTONREGULATORYFIELDOFFICE
US ArmyCorps of Engineers
69 Darlington Avenue
Wilmington, North Carolina 28403
GeneralNumber:910-251-4633
Fax Number: [phone]
INSTRUCTIONS:
All requestors must complete Parts A, B, C, D, E, F and G.
NOTE TO CONSULTANTS AND AGENCIES: If you are requesting a JD on behalf of a
paying client or your agency, please note the specific submittal requirements in Part H.
NOTE ON PART D – PROPERTY OWNER AUTHORIZATION: Please be aware that
all JD requests must include the current property owner authorization for the Corps to
proceed with the determination, which may include inspection of the property when
necessary. This form must be signed by the current property owner(s) or the owner(s)
authorized agent to be considered a complete request.
NOTE ON PART D - NCDOT REQUESTS: Propertyowner authorization/notification for
JD requests associated with North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
projects will be conducted according to the current NCDOT/USACE protocols.
NOTE TO USDA PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS: A Corps approved or preliminary JD
may not be valid for the wetland conservation provisions of the Food Security Act of
1985. If you or your tenant are USDA Program participants, or anticipate participation in
USDA programs, you should also request a certified wetland determination from the local
office of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, prior to starting work.
Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 2
A. PARCEL INFORMATION
Street Address: _______________________________________________
City, State: _______________________________________________
County:
Parcel Index Number(s) (PIN):
B. REQUESTORINFORMATION
Name:
Mailing Address:
_________________________________________
Telephone Number: _________________________________________
Electronic Mail Address: ________________________________________
Select one:
I am the current property owner.
I am an Authorized Agent or Environmental Consultant
1
Interested Buyer or Under Contract to Purchase
Other, please explain. ________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
C. PROPERTY OWNER INFORMATION
2
Name:
Mailing Address:
Telephone Number:
Electronic Mail Address:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
1 Must provide completed Agent Authorization Form/Letter.
2 Documentation of ownership also needs to be provided with request (copy of Deed, County GIS/Parcel/Tax Record).
Multiple,please refer to attached mapping
Raleigh, NC
Wake
Multiple, City of Raleigh Project
David G. Cooper,VHB
Venture 1, 940 Main Campus Drive
Suite 500, Raleigh, NC 27606
[phone]
[e-mail]
Matt Cotton, PE - City of Raleigh
Public Utilities Department. 1 Exchange
Plaza # 620. Raleigh, NC 27601
[phone]
[e-mail]
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Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 3

D. PROPERTY ACCESS CERTIFICATION
3,4
By signing below, I authorize representatives of the Wilmington District,U.S.Army Corps of
Engineers (Corps) to enter upon the property herein described for the purpose of conducting on-
site investigations, if necessary, and issuing a jurisdictional determination pursuant to Section
404 of the Clean Water Act and/or Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. I, the
undersigned, am either a duly authorized owner of record of the property identified herein, or
acting as the duly authorized agent of the owner of record of the property.
Print Name
Capacity: Owner Authorized Agent5
Date
Signature
E. REASON FOR JD REQUEST:(Check as many as applicable)
I intend to construct/develop a project or perform activities on this parcel which would be
designed to avoid all aquatic resources.
I intend to construct/develop a project or perform activities on this parcel which would be
designed to avoid all jurisdictional aquatic resources underCorpsauthority.
I intendto construct/develop a project or perform activities on this parcelwhich may
require authorization from the Corps, andthe JDwould beusedto avoid and minimize
impacts tojurisdictional aquatic resources and as aninitialstep in a future permitting
process.
I intendto construct/develop a project or perform activities on this parcelwhich may
require authorization from the Corps; this request is accompanied by my permit application
and the JD is to be used in the permitting process.
I intendto construct/develop a project or perform activities in a navigable water of the
U.S. which is included on the district Section 10 list and/or is subject to the ebb and flow of
the tide.
A Corps JD is required in order obtain my local/state authorization.
I intend to contest jurisdiction over a particular aquatic resource and request the Corps
confirm that jurisdiction does/does not exist over the aquatic resource on the parcel.
I believe that the site may be comprised entirely of dry land.
Other:___________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
3 For NCDOT requests following the current NCDOT/USACE protocols, skip to Part E.
4 If there are multiple parcels owned by different parties, please provide the following for each additional parcel on a
continuation sheet.
5 Must provide agent authorization form/letter signed by owner(s).
City Project w/ Landowner Notification and Easements if Needed.
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Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 4

F. JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION (JD) TYPE (Select One)
I am requesting that the Corps provide a preliminary JD for the property identified herein.
A Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination (PJD) provides an indication that there may
be “waters of the United States” or “navigable waters of the United States”on a property.
PJDs are sufficient as the basis for permit decisions. For the purposes of permitting, all
waters and wetlands on the property will be treated as if they are jurisdictional “waters of
the United States”. PJDs cannot be appealed (33 C.F.R. 331.2); however, a PJD is
“preliminary” in the sense that an approved JD can be requested at any time. PJDs do
not expire.
I am requesting that the Corps provide an approved JD for the property identified herein.
An Approved Jurisdictional Determination (AJD) is a determination that
jurisdictional “waters of the United States” or “navigable waters of the United
States” are either present or absent on a site. An approved JD identifies the limits of
waters on a site determined to be jurisdictional under the Clean Water Act and/or
Rivers and Harbors Act. Approved JDs are sufficient as the basis for permit
decisions. AJDs are appealable (33 C.F.R. 331.2). The results of the AJD will be
posted on the Corps website. A landowner, permit applicant, or other “affected
party” (33 C.F.R. 331.2) who receives an AJD may rely upon the AJD for five years
(subject to certain limited exceptions explained in Regulatory Guidance Letter 05-
02).
I am unclear as to which JD I would like to request and require additional information
to inform my decision.
G. ALL REQUESTS
Map of Property or Project Area. This Map must clearly depict the boundaries of the
review area.
Size of Property or Review Area acres.
The property boundary (or review area boundary) is clearly physically marked on the site.
+/- 36
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Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 5

H. REQUESTS FROM CONSULTANTS
Project Coordinates (Decimal Degrees): Latitude: ______________________
Longitude: ______________________
A legible delineation map depicting the aquatic resources and the property/review area.
Delineation maps must be no larger than 11x17 and should contain the following: (Corps
signature of submitted survey plats will occur after the submitted delineation map has been
reviewed and approved).6
ƒNorth Arrow
ƒGraphical Scale
ƒBoundary of Review Area
ƒDate
ƒLocation of data points for each Wetland Determination Data Form or tributary
assessment reach.
For Approved Jurisdictional Determinations:
ƒJurisdictional wetland features should be labeled as Wetland Waters of the US, 404
wetlands, etc. Please include the acreage of these features.
ƒJurisdictional non-wetland features (i.e. tidal/navigable waters, tributaries,
impoundments) should be labeled as Non-Wetland Waters of the US, stream, tributary,
open water, relatively permanent water, pond, etc. Please include the acreage or linear
length of each of these features as appropriate.
ƒIsolated waters, waters that lack a significant nexus to navigable waters, or non-
jurisdictional upland features should be identified as Non-Jurisdictional. Please
include a justification in the label regarding why the feature is non-jurisdictional (i.e.
“Isolated”, “No Significant Nexus”, or “Upland Feature”). Please include the acreage
or linear length of these features as appropriate.
For Preliminary Jurisdictional Determinations:
ƒWetland and non-wetland features should not be identified as Jurisdictional, 404,
Waters of the United States, or anything that implies jurisdiction. These features can be
identified as Potential Waters of the United States, Potential Non-wetland Waters of
the United States, wetland, stream, open water, etc. Please include the acreage and
linear length of these features as appropriate.
Completed Wetland Determination Data Forms for appropriate region
(at least one wetland and one upland form needs to be completed for each wetland type)
____________________________________________________________________________
6 Please refer to the guidance document titled “Survey Standards for Jurisdictional Determinations” to ensure that the
supplied map meets the necessary mapping standards.http://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory-Permit-
Program/Jurisdiction/
35.835519
-78.626184
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Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 6

Completed appropriate Jurisdictional Determination form
x PJDs,please complete a Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination Form7 and include the
Aquatic Resource Table
x AJDs, please complete an Approved Jurisdictional Determination Form
8
Vicinity Map
Aerial Photograph
USGS Topographic Map
Soil Survey Map
Other Maps, as appropriate (e.g. National Wetland Inventory Map, Proposed Site
Plan, previous delineation maps, LIDAR maps, FEMA floodplain maps)
Landscape Photos (if taken)
NCSAM and/or NCWAM Assessment Forms and Rating Sheets
NC Division of Water Resources Stream Identification Forms
Other Assessment Forms
_____________________________________________________________________________
7 www.saw.usace.army.mil/Portals/59/docs/regulatory/regdocs/JD/RGL_08-02_App_A_Prelim_JD_Form_fillable.pdf
8 Please see http://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory-Permit-Program/Jurisdiction/
Principal Purpose:The information thatyouprovide will beusedinevaluating your request to determine
whether thereareany aquatic resources within the project areasubjecttofederaljurisdictionunder the regulatory
authorities referencedabove.
RoutineUses:Thisinformation maybeshared with theDepartmentof Justice andotherfederal, state,and local
government agencies, and the public,andmaybe made available aspartof a public notice as required byfederal
law. Your nameandproperty location wherefederal jurisdiction is to bedetermined will beincluded in the
approved jurisdictional determination (AJD),which will bemade available tothe public on the District's website
andontheHeadquartersUSAGEwebsite.
Disclosure:Submission ofrequested information is voluntary; however, ifinformation is notprovided, the
requestforanAJD cannot beevaluatednorcananAJD be issued.
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Appendix 2 - PRELIMINARY JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION (PJD) FORM
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
A.REPORT COMPLETION DATE FOR PJD:
B.NAME AND ADDRESS OF PERSON REQUESTING PJD:
C.DISTRICT OFFICE, FILE NAME, AND NUMBER:
D.PROJECT LOCATION(S) AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
(USE THE TABLE BELOW TO DOCUMENT MULTIPLE AQUATIC RESOURCES AND/OR
AQUATIC RESOURCES AT DIFFERENT SITES)
State: County/parish/borough: City:
Center coordinates of site (lat/long in degree decimal format):
Lat.:Long.:
Universal Transverse Mercator:
Name of nearest waterbody:
E.REVIEW PERFORMED FOR SITE EVALUATION (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY):
Office (Desk) Determination. Date:
Field Determination. Date(s):
TABLE OF AQUATIC RESOURCES IN REVIEW AREA WHICH “MAY BE”SUBJECT TO REGULATORY
JURISDICTION.
Site
number
Latitude
(decimal
degrees)
Longitude
(decimal
degrees)
Estimated amount
of aquatic resource
in review area
(acreage and linear
feet, if applicable)
Type of aquatic
resource (i.e., wetland
vs. non-wetland
waters)
Geographic authority
to which the aquatic
resource “may be”
subject (i.e., Section
404 or Section 10/404)
Please See Attached Table
David Cooper, VHB, 940 Main Campus Dr. Suite 500 Raleigh NC 27606
NC Wake Raleigh
35.835519 -78.626184
Big Branch Creek
1) The Corps of Engineers believes that there may be jurisdictional aquatic resources in
the review area, and the requestor of this PJD is hereby advised of his or her option
to request and obtain an approved JD (AJD) for that review area based on an
informed decision after having discussed the various types of JDs and their
characteristics and circumstances when they may be appropriate.
2) In any circumstance where a permit applicant obtains an individual permit, or a
Nationwide General Permit (NWP) or other general permit verification requiring “pre-
construction notification” (PCN), or requests verification for a non-reporting NWP or
other general permit, and the permit applicant has not requested an AJD for the
activity, the permit applicant is hereby made aware that: (1) the permit applicant has
elected to seek a permit authorization based on a PJD, which does not make an
official determination of jurisdictional aquatic resources; (2) the applicant has the
option to request an AJD before accepting the terms and conditions of the permit
authorization, and that basing a permit authorization on an AJD could possibly result
in less compensatory mitigation being required or different special conditions; (3) the
applicant has the right to request an individual permit rather than accepting the terms
and conditions of the NWP or other general permit authorization; (4) the applicant can
accept a permit authorization and thereby agree to comply with all the terms and
conditions of that permit, including whatever mitigation requirements t he Corps has
determined to be necessary; (5) undertaking any activity in reliance upon the subject
permit authorization without requesting an AJD constitutes the applicant’s acceptance
of the use of the PJD; (6) accepting a permit authorization (e.g., signing a proffered
individual permit)or undertaking any activity in reliance on any form of Corps permit
authorization based on a PJD constitutes agreement that all aquatic resources in the
review area affected in any way by that activity will be treated as jurisdictional, and
waives any challenge to such jurisdiction in any administrative or judicial compliance
or enforcement action, or in any administrative appeal or in any Federal court; and (7)
whether the applicant elects to use either an AJD or a PJD, the JD will be processed
as soon as practicable. Further, an AJD, a proffered individual permit (and all terms
and conditions contained therein), or individual permit denial can be administratively
appealed pursuant to 33 C.F.R. Part 331. If, during an administrative appeal, it
becomes appropriate to make an official determination whether geographic
jurisdiction exists over aquatic resources in the review area, or toprovideanofficial
delineation of jurisdictional aquatic resources in the review area, the Corps will
provide an AJD to accomplish that result, as soon as is practicable. This PJD finds
that there “may be” waters of the U.S. and/or that there “may be”navigable waters of
the U.S. on the subject review area, and identifies all aquatic features in the review
area that could be affected by the proposed activity, based on the following
information:
SUPPORTING DATA. Data reviewed for PJD (check all that apply)
Checked items should be included in subject file. Appropriately reference sources
below where indicated for all checked items:
Maps, plans, plots or plat submitted by or on behalf of the PJD requestor:
Map: ________________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
Data sheets prepared/submitted by or on behalf of the PJD requestor.
Office concurs with data sheets/delineation report.
Office does not concur with data sheets/delineation report. Rationale: _______BBBBBBBBBBBB.
Data sheets prepared by the Corps:________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
Corps navigable waters’ study: ____________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
U.S. Geological Survey Hydrologic Atlas: ________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
USGS NHD data.
USGS 8 and 12 digit HUC maps.
U.S. Geological Survey map(s). Cite scale & quad name: _________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
Natural Resources Conservation Service Soil Survey. Citation: __________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
National wetlands inventory map(s). Cite name: ________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
State/local wetland inventory map(s): ____________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
FEMA/FIRM maps: ________________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
100-year Floodplain Elevation is: ____BBBBBBBBBBBB.(National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929)
Photographs: Aerial (Name & Date): ______BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
or Other (Name & Date): ______BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
Previous determination(s). File no. and date of response letter:__________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
Other information (please specify): ______________BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The information recorded on this form has not necessarily
been verified by the Corps and should not be relied upon for later jurisdictional
determinations.
Signature and date of Signature and date of
Regulatory staff member person requesting PJD
completing PJD (REQUIRED, unless obtaining
the signature is impracticable)
1
1 Districts may establish timeframes for requestor to return signed PJD forms. If the requestor does not respond
within the established time frame, the district may presume concurrence and no additional follow up is
necessary prior to finalizing an action.
Aquatic resource maps (delineation/flagging)
1:24,000 Raleigh West
1970 Wake Co. soil survey
2017 NCOneMap
Site Photographs
David G. Cooper Digitally signed by David G. Cooper
Date: 2019.09.11 15:43:30 -04'00'
1
Site 
No. Feature ID 
Latitude 
(decimal 
degrees) 
Longitude 
(decimal 
degrees) 
Estimated amount 
of aquatic 
resource in study 
area (acreage & 
linear feet, if 
applicable) 
Type of aquatic 
resource (i.e., 
wetland vs. non‐
wetland waters) 
Geographic 
authority to which 
the aquatic 
resource “may be” 
subject (i.e., Section 
404 or Section 
10/404) 
1 Big Branch Creek  35.835519  ‐78.626184  6,158 lf (2.56 ac.) 
non‐wetland 
perennial stream Section 404 
2 Hogpen Branch Creek  35.854092  ‐78.627771  291 lf (0.11 ac.) 
non‐wetland 
perennial stream Section 404 
3 Stream A (UT to Big 
Branch Creek) 35.827100  ‐78.630590  32 lf (<0.01 ac.) 
non‐wetland 
intermittent stream Section 404 
4 Stream B (UT to Big 
Branch Creek) 35.829640  ‐78.628632  31 lf (<0.01 ac.) 
non‐wetland 
intermittent stream Section 404 
5 Stream C (UT to Big 
Branch Creek) 35.829835  ‐78.628836  134 lf (0.02 ac.) 
non‐wetland 
perennial stream Section 404 
6 Stream D (UT to Big 
Branch Creek) 35.832791  ‐78.627339  74 lf (0.01 ac.) 
non‐wetland 
intermittent stream Section 404 
7 Stream E (UT to Big 
Branch Creek) 35.832858  ‐78.627685  195 lf (0.02 ac.) 
non‐wetland 
perennial stream Section 404 
8 Stream F (UT to Big 
Branch Creek) 35.842722  ‐78.626342 
0 lf (0 ac.) – loc. 
just off study area 
non‐wetland 
perennial stream Section 404 
9 Pond A  35.853463  ‐78.626269  1.74 ac. 
non‐wetland 
impoundment Section 404 
10 Wetland A  35.833100  ‐78.627458  0.75 ac.  wetland  Section 404 
11 Tributary 1 (Soil Survey 
Feature 1) 35.823126  ‐78.629832  142 lf 
non‐wetland 
ephemeral feature Section 404 

³800 0 800400FeetLegendStudy AreaFigure1Hogpen Branch CreekUSGS Topographic MapBig Branch Sewer ProjectWake County, NC2013 Raleigh East & Raleigh West QuadranglesPRODUCED FORPRODUCED BYPond AStream FSubject stream located outsidestudy area.Stream E
³800 0 800400FeetLegendStudyFigure2NOTES:1. Streams B and D located in the field are not shown on the Soil Survey and are notsubject to Neuse buffers.Pond ASubjectSoil Survey MapBig Branch Sewer ProjectWake County, NC1970 Wake County Soil Survey,Map Sheets 39 & 49PRODUCED FORPRODUCED BYHog Pen BranchStream FPerennial/SubjectBig BranchSubject stream located outsidestudy area.Big BranchStream EPerennial/SubjectSubject stream located outsidestudy area.Stream CPerennial/SubjectStream AIntermittent/SubjectFeature 1Score 18.25Ephemeral/Under ReviewBig Branch
2602803402402203 6 0
3203804202403202803203402603203 2 0 2802202202 2 0
3602803203402603402402602803603 2 0 3002004002002 0 0
300200200200400300300300200300300800 0 800400FeetLegendStudy AreasStream - Perennial, SubjectStream - Intermittent, SubjectStream - Intermittent, Not SubjectEphemeral Feature, PotentiallySubjectWetlandSheet IndexFigure3ABig Branch Creek,Stream FFIG. 3B³Delineation Map - OverviewBig Branch Sewer ProjectWake County, NC2017 NCOneMap AerialPRODUCED FORPRODUCED BYFIG. 3CFIG. 3DFIG. 3EFIG. 3FBig Branch Creek,Hogpen Branch Creek,Pond ABig Branch CreekBig Branch Creek,Streams D and E,Wetland ABig Branch Creek,Streams B and CSoil Survey Feature 1,NCDWR Score 18.25Big Branch Creek,Stream ANOTES:1. Potential aquatic resources are subject to verification by the USACE and NCDWR.2. Field delineations performed by VHB September 9-10, 2019.3. All features are shown approximately. This is not a survey.4. See notes and flag labels on detail Figures 3B - 3F and Insets.^Upland Data Point
FLINT RIDGE PL32034030030080 0 8040FeetLegendStudy AreaStream & Pond - Perennial,SubjectFigure3BNOTES:1. Potential aquatic resources are subject to verification by the USACE and NCDWR.2. Field delineations performed by VHB September 9-10, 2019.3. All features are shown approximately. This is not a survey.Hog Pen Branch Creek³Delineation MapBig Branch Sewer ProjectWake County, NC2017 NCOneMap AerialPRODUCED FORPRODUCED BYPond ABig Branch CreekNo channel foundin this vicinity.
COMPTON RDFAULKNER PLQUAIL HOLLOW DRREDINGTON DRCONVERS E DRLANGFORD PL2602802 4 0 70 0 7035FeetLegendStudy AreaStream - Perennial, SubjectFigure3C³Delineation MapBig Branch Sewer ProjectWake County, NC2017 NCOneMap AerialPRODUCED FORPRODUCED BYNOTES:1. Potential aquatic resources are subject to verification by the USACE and NCDWR.2. Field delineations performed by VHB September 9-10, 2019.3. All features are shown approximately. This is not a survey.Big Branch CreekStream F
QUAIL HOLLOW DR24040 0 4020FeetLegendStudy AreaStream - Perennial, SubjectFigure3DBuffered Stream located outsidework area.³Delineation MapBig Branch Sewer ProjectWake County, NC2017 NCOneMap AerialPRODUCED FORPRODUCED BYNOTES:1. Potential aquatic resources are subject to verification by the USACE and NCDWR.2. Field delineations performed by VHB September 9-10, 2019.3. All features are shown approximately. This is not a survey.Big Branch Creek
I 440 EBI 440 WBBARRETT DRNAVAHO DRST ALBANS DRCHESWICK DRO A K L A N D D R
MERTON DRQUAIL HOLLOW DRWAKE TOWNE DRCOMPUTER DRB R O W N IN G P L
O A K L A N D D R240220
2602 8 0
260220240220260280200 0 200100FeetFigure3EINSET 1³Delineation MapBig Branch Sewer ProjectWake County, NC2017 NCOneMap AerialPRODUCED FORPRODUCED BYStream CStream BBig Branch CreekWetland AStream DStream EBig Branch CreekMATCH LINE FIG. 3F
NOTES:1. Potential aquatic resources are subject to verification by the USACE and NCDWR.2. Field delineations performed by VHB September 9-10, 2019.3. All features are shown approximately. This is not a survey.WA9WA8WA7WA6WA5WA4WA3WA2WA26WA25WA24WA23WA22WA20WA19WA18WA17WA16WA15WA14WA13WA10WA12TTCHANNELWA11TTCHANNELWA1TTSTUDYAREAWA27TTSTUDYAREA220220INSET 1, 1" = 80'2 2 0
220LegendStudy AreaStream - Perennial, SubjectStream - Intermittent, SubjectStream - Intermittent, Not SubjectWetlandBig Branch CreekWetland AStream DStream EINSET 2, 1" = 50'Stream CStream BBig Branch CreekSB-01 START CHANNELSC-07 TIETO PIPEINSET 2
E SIX FORKS RDO A K L A N D D RSELBY DRBELVIN DRPLANTATION RDC A L IB R E C H A S E D R
CHESWICK DRANDERSON DRHINES DRI 440 EBMANORCREST CTRUCKER STWAKE TOWNE DR220240260260240200200200200200 0 200100FeetLegendStudy AreaStream - Perennial, SubjectStream - Intermittent, SubjectEphemeral Feature, PotentiallySubjectFigure3FBig Branch Creek³Delineation MapBig Branch Sewer ProjectWake County, NC2017 NCOneMap AerialPRODUCED FORPRODUCED BYSoil Survey Feature 1NCDWR Score 18.25Stream ABig Branch CreekNOTES:1. Potential aquatic resources are subject to verification by the USACE and NCDWR.2. Field delineations performed by VHB September 9-10, 2019.3. All features are shown approximately. This is not a survey.220CHESWICK DRStream ASA-01 TIETO PIPEStream A continuesoutside work area,enters pipes.Big BranchCreekINSET 1^Upland Data PointINSET 1, 1" = 70'
Project/Site:Sampling Date:
Applicant/Owner:State:Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
Landform (hillside, terrace, etc.):
Subregion (LRR or MLRA):Lat:Long:
Soil Map Unit Name:
X
Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology Yes X
Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS – Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
X No
X No X
X No
X
X X
X
Yes X
Yes X
Yes X X
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA SHEET – Eastern Mountains and Piedmont Region
See ERDC/EL TR-07-24; the proponent agency is CECW-CO-R
OMB Control #: 0710-xxxx, Exp: Pending
Requirement Control Symbol EXEMPT:
(Authority: AR 335-15, paragraph 5-2a)
Microtopographic Relief (D4)
FAC-Neutral Test (D5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9)
Aquatic Fauna (B13)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1)
NoYes
1
No
No
Water Table Present?
Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required; check all that apply) Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Moss Trim Lines (B16)
Dry-Season Water Table (C2)
Crayfish Burrows (C8)
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
True Aquatic Plants (B14)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
HYDROLOGY
Geomorphic Position (D2)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Thin Muck Surface (C7)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Iron Deposits (B5)
City/County:Big Branch Sewer Wake
WA
2019-09-09
City of Raleigh NC
No
Section, Township, Range:RaleighD. Cooper, H. Smith
1ConcaveTerrace
Datum:NAD83-78.62745835.833100 LRR P, MLRA 136
N/ANWI classification:ChA - Chewacla/Wehadkee soils, 0-2% slopes, frequently flooded
Slope (%):Local relief (concave, convex, none):
Yes NoAre climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?(If no, explain in Remarks.)
significantly disturbed?
naturally problematic?
Are “Normal Circumstances” present?
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
Remarks:
There are adjacent areas similar in appearance, but within which soil does not have 2" of low-chroma matrix with redox in upper portion of profile,
and lower portion of profile is entirely "bright". These areas were not flagged within Wetland A.
A portion of Wetland A is within a sewer line and its vegetation is maintained.
Is the Sampled AreaYes
Yes
Yes
Hydric Soil Present?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Nowithin a Wetland?Yes
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift Deposits (B3)
Remarks:
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
8
0
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
No
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Surface Water Present?
Field Observations:
ENG FORM 6116-4-SG, JUL 2018 Eastern Mountains and Piedmont – Version 2.0
X
Sampling Point:
(Plot size:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.(A/B)
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:
Sapling Stratum (Plot size:x 1 =
1.x 2 =
2.x 3 =
3.x 4 =
4.x 5 =
5.Column Totals:(B)
6.
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:
Shrub Stratum (Plot size:X
1.
2.4 - Morphological Adaptations1 (Provide supporting
3.
4.
5.
6.
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:
Herb Stratum (Plot size:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:X
Remarks: (Include photo numbers here or on a separate sheet.)
Herb – All herbaceous (non-woody) plants, including
herbaceous vines, regardless of size, and woody
plants, except woody vines, less than approximately
3 ft (1 m) in height.
Woody Vine – All woody vines, regardless of height.
VEGETATION (Five Strata)– Use scientific names of plants.WA
Tree Stratum 10m )
Absolute
% Cover
Dominant
Species?
Indicator
Status Dominance Test worksheet:
Ulmus rubra 5 No FAC Number of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:Acer rubrum
Pinus taeda 20 Yes FAC 8 (B)
30 Yes FAC 7 (A)
Liquidambar styraciflua 20 Yes FAC Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Percent of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:87.5%
Prevalence Index worksheet:75 =Total Cover
OBL species 0 0
38 15
FACU species 40
Carpinus caroliniana
340110(A)
Total % Cover of:
10
5 Yes FAC
Multiply by:
FACW species
Prevalence Index = B/A =3.09
UPL species 0 0
0 0
FAC species 100 3005Yes
Ligustrum sinense 10 Yes FACU
2 - Dominance Test is >50%
3 - Prevalence Index is ≤3.01
10 Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
FAC
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
Acer negundo
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation1 (Explain)
10 Yes FAC
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
10m )
Lindera benzoin
10 4
1Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be
present, unless disturbed or problematic.
No herbs at data point.
20 =Total Cover Definitions of Five Vegetation Strata:
3 1
Shrub - Woody Plants, excluding woody vines,
approximately 3 to 20 ft (1 to 6 m) in height.
5 =Total Cover
Toxicodendron radicans 5 Yes FAC
)
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?Yes No
10m )
10m )
10m
Tree – Woody plants, excluding woody vines,
approximately 20 ft (6 m) or more in height and 3 in.
(7.6 cm) or larger in diameter at breast height (DBH).
Sapling – Woody plants, excluding woody vines,
approximately 20 ft (6 m) or more in height and less
than 3 in. (7.6 cm) DBH.
=Total Cover
5 2
=Total Cover
ENG FORM 6116-4-SG, JUL 2018 Eastern Mountains and Piedmont – Version 2.0
X
Depth (inches):X
Sampling Point:
Yes
Restrictive Layer (if observed):
Remarks:
Hydric Soil Present?
Type:
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Stratified Layers (A5)
Loc2
100
Loamy/Clayey
Loamy/Clayey
90 C
Color (moist)
Matrix
10YR 5/6
10YR 4/2 10YR 4/6
3-12
0-3
WASOIL
Type1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Redox FeaturesDepth
(inches)Color (moist)Remarks
1Type: C=Concentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, MS=Masked Sand Grains.2Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix.
%
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
%
Prominent redox concentrations
Texture
10 M
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Iron-Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR N,Other (Explain in Remarks)
3Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
Umbric Surface (F13) (MLRA 122, 136)
Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 148)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)MLRA 136)
Dark Surface (S7)unless disturbed or problematic.Red Parent Material (F21) (MLRA 127, 147, 148)
No
Hydric Soil Indicators:
Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (MLRA 147, 148)
Thin Dark Surface (S9) (MLRA 147, 148)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Redox Depressions (F8)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (MLRA 136)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
2 cm Muck (A10) (MLRA 147)
Coast Prairie Redox (A16)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3:
(MLRA 147, 148)
Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19)
(MLRA 136, 147)
Very Shallow Dark Surface (F22)
Red Parent Material (F21)
(outside MLRA 127, 147, 148)
2 cm Muck (A10) (LRR N)
ENG FORM 6116-4-SG, JUL 2018 Eastern Mountains and Piedmont – Version 2.0
Project/Site:Sampling Date:
Applicant/Owner:State:Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
Landform (hillside, terrace, etc.):
Subregion (LRR or MLRA):Lat:Long:
Soil Map Unit Name:
X
Are Vegetation , Soil X , or Hydrology Yes X
Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS – Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
X No
No X X
X No
X
Yes X
Yes X
Yes X X
Pore linings observed only in 1 boring. Others in the vicinity had no indicators of hydrology whatsoever.
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift Deposits (B3)
Remarks:
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
No
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Surface Water Present?
Field Observations:
Yes NoAre climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?(If no, explain in Remarks.)
significantly disturbed?
naturally problematic?
Are “Normal Circumstances” present?
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
Remarks:

Is the Sampled AreaYes
Yes
Yes
Hydric Soil Present?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Nowithin a Wetland?Yes
City/County:Big Branch Sewer Wake
UPL1
2019-09-09
City of Raleigh NC
No
Section, Township, Range:RaleighD. Cooper, H. Smith
1ConcaveTerrace
Datum:NAD83-78.628837 35.819281 LRR P, MLRA 136
N/ANWI classification:ChA - Chewacla/Wehadkee soils, 0-2% slopes, frequently flooded
Slope (%):Local relief (concave, convex, none):
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
True Aquatic Plants (B14)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Situated between creek, retaining wall, and fill slope. Very small depressional area.
HYDROLOGY
Geomorphic Position (D2)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Thin Muck Surface (C7)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Iron Deposits (B5)
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA SHEET – Eastern Mountains and Piedmont Region
See ERDC/EL TR-07-24; the proponent agency is CECW-CO-R
OMB Control #: 0710-xxxx, Exp: Pending
Requirement Control Symbol EXEMPT:
(Authority: AR 335-15, paragraph 5-2a)
Microtopographic Relief (D4)
FAC-Neutral Test (D5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9)
Aquatic Fauna (B13)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1)
NoYes
No
No
Water Table Present?
Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required; check all that apply) Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Moss Trim Lines (B16)
Dry-Season Water Table (C2)
Crayfish Burrows (C8)
ENG FORM 6116-4-SG, JUL 2018 Eastern Mountains and Piedmont – Version 2.0
Sampling Point:
(Plot size:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.(A/B)
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:
Sapling Stratum (Plot size:x 1 =
1.x 2 =
2.x 3 =
3.x 4 =
4.x 5 =
5.Column Totals:(B)
6.
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:
Shrub Stratum (Plot size:X
1.X
2.4 - Morphological Adaptations1 (Provide supporting
3.
4.
5.
6.
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:
Herb Stratum (Plot size:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:
Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
50% of total cover:20% of total cover:X
=Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?Yes No
10m )
10m )
10m
100
Tree – Woody plants, excluding woody vines,
approximately 20 ft (6 m) or more in height and 3 in.
(7.6 cm) or larger in diameter at breast height (DBH).
Sapling – Woody plants, excluding woody vines,
approximately 20 ft (6 m) or more in height and less
than 3 in. (7.6 cm) DBH.
=Total Cover
=Total Cover
50 20
None
)
Shrub - Woody Plants, excluding woody vines,
approximately 3 to 20 ft (1 to 6 m) in height.
Persicaria pensylvanica 10 No FACW
Juncus effusus 5 No FACW
Microstegium vimineum 85 Yes FAC
5 =Total Cover Definitions of Five Vegetation Strata:
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation1 (Explain)
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
10m )
3 1
1Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be
present, unless disturbed or problematic.
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
Ligustrum sinense 5 Yes FACU
2 - Dominance Test is >50%
3 - Prevalence Index is ≤3.01
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Multiply by:
FACW species
Prevalence Index = B/A =2.91
UPL species 0 0
15 30
FAC species 90 270
Prevalence Index worksheet:5 =Total Cover
OBL species 0 0
3 1
FACU species 20
None
320110(A)
Total % Cover of:
5
Percent of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:66.7%
3 (B)
2 (A)
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Remarks: (Include photo numbers here or on a separate sheet.)
Herb – All herbaceous (non-woody) plants, including
herbaceous vines, regardless of size, and woody
plants, except woody vines, less than approximately
3 ft (1 m) in height.
Woody Vine – All woody vines, regardless of height.
VEGETATION (Five Strata)– Use scientific names of plants.UPL1
Tree Stratum 10m )
Absolute
% Cover
Dominant
Species?
Indicator
Status Dominance Test worksheet:
Acer negundo 5 Yes FAC Number of Dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
ENG FORM 6116-4-SG, JUL 2018 Eastern Mountains and Piedmont – Version 2.0
Depth (inches):X
Dark Surface (S7)unless disturbed or problematic.Red Parent Material (F21) (MLRA 127, 147, 148)
No
Hydric Soil Indicators:
Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (MLRA 147, 148)
Thin Dark Surface (S9) (MLRA 147, 148)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Redox Depressions (F8)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (MLRA 136)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
2 cm Muck (A10) (MLRA 147)
Coast Prairie Redox (A16)
Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3:
(MLRA 147, 148)
Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19)
(MLRA 136, 147)
Very Shallow Dark Surface (F22)
Red Parent Material (F21)
(outside MLRA 127, 147, 148)
2 cm Muck (A10) (LRR N)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Iron-Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR N,Other (Explain in Remarks)
3Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
Umbric Surface (F13) (MLRA 122, 136)
Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 148)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)MLRA 136)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
%
M10
Texture
10
UPL1SOIL
7-12 10YR 5/6
Type1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
100
Redox FeaturesDepth
(inches)Color (moist)Remarks
1Type: C=Concentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, MS=Masked Sand Grains.2Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix.
%
Matrix
C10YR 5/2
10YR 5/4 10YR 5/3
10YR 5/65-7
0-5
Loc2
90
Loamy/Clayey
Loamy/Clayey
Loamy/Clayey
90
Color (moist)
Sampling Point:
Yes
Restrictive Layer (if observed):
Remarks:
Hydric Soil Present?
Type:
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Stratified Layers (A5)
ENG FORM 6116-4-SG, JUL 2018 Eastern Mountains and Piedmont – Version 2.0
NC DWQ Stream Identification Form Version 4.11
Date: 9-9-2019
Evaluator: D. Cooper, H. Smith
Total Points: 18.25
Stream is at least intermittent if ≥ 19 or perennial
if ≥ 30*
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = 7.5)Absent Weak
1a. Continuity of channel bed and bank 0 1
2. Sinuosity of channel along thalweg 0 1
3. In-channel structure: ex. riffle-pool, step-pool,
riffle-pool sequence 0 1
4. Particle size of stream substrate 0 1
5. Active/relict floodplain 0 1
6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1
7. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1
8. Headcuts 0 1
9. Grade control 0 0.5
10. Natural valley 0 0.5
11. Second or greater order channel
ᵃ artificial ditches are not rated; see discussions in manual
B. Hydrology (Subtotal = 5)
12. Presence of Baseflow 0 1
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria 0 1
14. Leaf litter 1.5 1
15. Sediment on plants or debris 0 0.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles 0 0.5
17. Soil-based evidence of high water table?
C. Biology (Subtotal = 5.75)
18. Fibrous roots in streambed 3 2
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed 3 2
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)0 1
21. Aquatic Mollusks 0 1
22. Fish 0 0.5
23. Crayfish 0 0.5
24. Amphibians 0 0.5
25. Algae 0 0.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed FAC=0.5 FACW=0.75 SAV=2.0 Other=0
NC Division of Water Quality - Methodology For Identification of Intermittent and
Perennial Streams and Their Orgins v. 4.11
OBL=1.5
1.5
3
3
0
0
1
Strong
3
Other:
e.g. Quad Name :
Longitude: -78.629832°
Yes = 3
1.5
1.5
3
3
1.5
1
1
2
2
1
0.5
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
No = 0 Yes = 3
1.5
1.5
0
2
No = 0
2
2 3
3
3
3
3
3
3
Sketch:
*perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
1.5
Notes: Much of this feature, which is shown on the Soil Survey, is filled with riprap.
Project/Site: Big Branch Sewer, Soil Survey Feature 1
County: Wake
Stream Determination (Circle one)
Ephemeral Intermittent Perennial
Latitude: 35.823126°
1
1 1.5
1
Moderate
2
2
2
NC DWQ Stream Identification Form Version 4.11
Date: 9-9-2019
Evaluator: D. Cooper, H. Smith
Total Points: 29
Stream is at least intermittent if ≥ 19 or perennial
if ≥ 30*
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = 14)Absent Weak
1a. Continuity of channel bed and bank 0 1
2. Sinuosity of channel along thalweg 0 1
3. In-channel structure: ex. riffle-pool, step-pool,
riffle-pool sequence 0 1
4. Particle size of stream substrate 0 1
5. Active/relict floodplain 0 1
6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1
7. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1
8. Headcuts 0 1
9. Grade control 0 0.5
10. Natural valley 0 0.5
11. Second or greater order channel
ᵃ artificial ditches are not rated; see discussions in manual
B. Hydrology (Subtotal = 6.5)
12. Presence of Baseflow 0 1
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria 0 1
14. Leaf litter 1.5 1
15. Sediment on plants or debris 0 0.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles 0 0.5
17. Soil-based evidence of high water table?
C. Biology (Subtotal = 8.5)
18. Fibrous roots in streambed 3 2
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed 3 2
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)0 1
21. Aquatic Mollusks 0 1
22. Fish 0 0.5
23. Crayfish 0 0.5
24. Amphibians 0 0.5
25. Algae 0 0.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed FAC=0.5 FACW=0.75 SAV=2.0 Other=0OBL=1.5
*perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
Notes: Shown on Soil Survey.
Sketch:
1 1.5
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
1 0
1 0
0.5 0
1 1.5
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
Stream Determination (Circle one)
Ephemeral Intermittent Perennial
Other:
e.g. Quad Name :
Moderate Strong
2 3
NC Division of Water Quality - Methodology For Identification of Intermittent and
Perennial Streams and Their Orgins v. 4.11
Project/Site: Big Branch Sewer, Stream A Latitude: 35.827100°
County: Wake Longitude: -78.630590°
NC DWQ Stream Identification Form Version 4.11
Date: 9-9-2019
Evaluator: D. Cooper, H. Smith
Total Points: 11.5
Stream is at least intermittent if ≥ 19 or perennial
if ≥ 30*
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = 5.5)Absent Weak
1a. Continuity of channel bed and bank 0 1
2. Sinuosity of channel along thalweg 0 1
3. In-channel structure: ex. riffle-pool, step-pool,
riffle-pool sequence 0 1
4. Particle size of stream substrate 0 1
5. Active/relict floodplain 0 1
6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1
7. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1
8. Headcuts 0 1
9. Grade control 0 0.5
10. Natural valley 0 0.5
11. Second or greater order channel
ᵃ artificial ditches are not rated; see discussions in manual
B. Hydrology (Subtotal = 2)
12. Presence of Baseflow 0 1
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria 0 1
14. Leaf litter 1.5 1
15. Sediment on plants or debris 0 0.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles 0 0.5
17. Soil-based evidence of high water table?
C. Biology (Subtotal = 4)
18. Fibrous roots in streambed 3 2
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed 3 2
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)0 1
21. Aquatic Mollusks 0 1
22. Fish 0 0.5
23. Crayfish 0 0.5
24. Amphibians 0 0.5
25. Algae 0 0.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed FAC=0.5 FACW=0.75 SAV=2.0 Other=0OBL=1.5
*perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
Notes: Not shown on USGS or Soil Survey.
Sketch:
1 1.5
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
1 0
1 0
0.5 0
1 1.5
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
Stream Determination (Circle one)
Ephemeral Intermittent Perennial
Other:
e.g. Quad Name :
Moderate Strong
2 3
NC Division of Water Quality - Methodology For Identification of Intermittent and
Perennial Streams and Their Orgins v. 4.11
Project/Site: Big Branch Sewer, Ephemeral Form Upstream of SB-
01 Start Channel Latitude: 35.829591°
County: Wake Longitude: -78.628570°
NC DWQ Stream Identification Form Version 4.11
Date: 9-9-2019
Evaluator: D. Cooper, H. Smith
Total Points: 20.5
Stream is at least intermittent if ≥ 19 or perennial
if ≥ 30*
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = 8.5)Absent Weak
1a. Continuity of channel bed and bank 0 1
2. Sinuosity of channel along thalweg 0 1
3. In-channel structure: ex. riffle-pool, step-pool,
riffle-pool sequence 0 1
4. Particle size of stream substrate 0 1
5. Active/relict floodplain 0 1
6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1
7. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1
8. Headcuts 0 1
9. Grade control 0 0.5
10. Natural valley 0 0.5
11. Second or greater order channel
ᵃ artificial ditches are not rated; see discussions in manual
B. Hydrology (Subtotal = 6.5)
12. Presence of Baseflow 0 1
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria 0 1
14. Leaf litter 1.5 1
15. Sediment on plants or debris 0 0.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles 0 0.5
17. Soil-based evidence of high water table?
C. Biology (Subtotal = 5.5)
18. Fibrous roots in streambed 3 2
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed 3 2
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)0 1
21. Aquatic Mollusks 0 1
22. Fish 0 0.5
23. Crayfish 0 0.5
24. Amphibians 0 0.5
25. Algae 0 0.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed FAC=0.5 FACW=0.75 SAV=2.0 Other=0OBL=1.5
*perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
Notes: Not shown on USGS or Soil Survey.
Sketch:
1 1.5
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
1 0
1 0
0.5 0
1 1.5
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
Stream Determination (Circle one)
Ephemeral Intermittent Perennial
Other:
e.g. Quad Name :
Moderate Strong
2 3
NC Division of Water Quality - Methodology For Identification of Intermittent and
Perennial Streams and Their Orgins v. 4.11
Project/Site: Big Branch Sewer, Stream B Latitude: 35.829640°
County: Wake Longitude: -78.628632°
NC DWQ Stream Identification Form Version 4.11
Date: 9-9-2019
Evaluator: D. Cooper, H. Smith
Total Points: 32
Stream is at least intermittent if ≥ 19 or perennial
if ≥ 30*
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = 12)Absent Weak
1a. Continuity of channel bed and bank 0 1
2. Sinuosity of channel along thalweg 0 1
3. In-channel structure: ex. riffle-pool, step-pool,
riffle-pool sequence 0 1
4. Particle size of stream substrate 0 1
5. Active/relict floodplain 0 1
6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1
7. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1
8. Headcuts 0 1
9. Grade control 0 0.5
10. Natural valley 0 0.5
11. Second or greater order channel
ᵃ artificial ditches are not rated; see discussions in manual
B. Hydrology (Subtotal = 10.5)
12. Presence of Baseflow 0 1
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria 0 1
14. Leaf litter 1.5 1
15. Sediment on plants or debris 0 0.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles 0 0.5
17. Soil-based evidence of high water table?
C. Biology (Subtotal = 9.5)
18. Fibrous roots in streambed 3 2
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed 3 2
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)0 1
21. Aquatic Mollusks 0 1
22. Fish 0 0.5
23. Crayfish 0 0.5
24. Amphibians 0 0.5
25. Algae 0 0.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed FAC=0.5 FACW=0.75 SAV=2.0 Other=0OBL=1.5
*perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
Notes:
Sketch:
1 1.5
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
1 0
1 0
0.5 0
1 1.5
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
Stream Determination (Circle one)
Ephemeral Intermittent Perennial
Other:
e.g. Quad Name :
Moderate Strong
2 3
NC Division of Water Quality - Methodology For Identification of Intermittent and
Perennial Streams and Their Orgins v. 4.11
Project/Site: Big Branch Sewer, Stream C Latitude: 35.829835°
County: Wake Longitude: -78.628836°
NC DWQ Stream Identification Form Version 4.11
Date: 9-9-2019
Evaluator: D. Cooper, H. Smith
Total Points: 25.25
Stream is at least intermittent if ≥ 19 or perennial
if ≥ 30*
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = 8.5)Absent Weak
1a. Continuity of channel bed and bank 0 1
2. Sinuosity of channel along thalweg 0 1
3. In-channel structure: ex. riffle-pool, step-pool,
riffle-pool sequence 0 1
4. Particle size of stream substrate 0 1
5. Active/relict floodplain 0 1
6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1
7. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1
8. Headcuts 0 1
9. Grade control 0 0.5
10. Natural valley 0 0.5
11. Second or greater order channel
ᵃ artificial ditches are not rated; see discussions in manual
B. Hydrology (Subtotal = 10.5)
12. Presence of Baseflow 0 1
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria 0 1
14. Leaf litter 1.5 1
15. Sediment on plants or debris 0 0.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles 0 0.5
17. Soil-based evidence of high water table?
C. Biology (Subtotal = 6.25)
18. Fibrous roots in streambed 3 2
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed 3 2
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)0 1
21. Aquatic Mollusks 0 1
22. Fish 0 0.5
23. Crayfish 0 0.5
24. Amphibians 0 0.5
25. Algae 0 0.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed FAC=0.5 FACW=0.75 SAV=2.0 Other=0OBL=1.5
*perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
Notes: Not shown on USGS or Soil Survey. No channel located upstream of flag SD-01 Start Channel (within Wetland A).
Sketch:
1 1.5
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
1 0
1 0
0.5 0
1 1.5
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
Stream Determination (Circle one)
Ephemeral Intermittent Perennial
Other:
e.g. Quad Name :
Moderate Strong
2 3
NC Division of Water Quality - Methodology For Identification of Intermittent and
Perennial Streams and Their Orgins v. 4.11
Project/Site: Big Branch Sewer, Stream D Latitude: 35.832791°
County: Wake Longitude: -78.627339°
NC DWQ Stream Identification Form Version 4.11
Date: 9-9-2019
Evaluator: D. Cooper, H. Smith
Total Points: 31.25
Stream is at least intermittent if ≥ 19 or perennial
if ≥ 30*
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = 12)Absent Weak
1a. Continuity of channel bed and bank 0 1
2. Sinuosity of channel along thalweg 0 1
3. In-channel structure: ex. riffle-pool, step-pool,
riffle-pool sequence 0 1
4. Particle size of stream substrate 0 1
5. Active/relict floodplain 0 1
6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1
7. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1
8. Headcuts 0 1
9. Grade control 0 0.5
10. Natural valley 0 0.5
11. Second or greater order channel
ᵃ artificial ditches are not rated; see discussions in manual
B. Hydrology (Subtotal = 9.5)
12. Presence of Baseflow 0 1
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria 0 1
14. Leaf litter 1.5 1
15. Sediment on plants or debris 0 0.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles 0 0.5
17. Soil-based evidence of high water table?
C. Biology (Subtotal = 9.75)
18. Fibrous roots in streambed 3 2
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed 3 2
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)0 1
21. Aquatic Mollusks 0 1
22. Fish 0 0.5
23. Crayfish 0 0.5
24. Amphibians 0 0.5
25. Algae 0 0.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed FAC=0.5 FACW=0.75 SAV=2.0 Other=0OBL=1.5
*perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
Notes: Stream has been filled in with sandy sediment. Very shallow channel.
Sketch:
1 1.5
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
1 0
1 0
0.5 0
1 1.5
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
Stream Determination (Circle one)
Ephemeral Intermittent Perennial
Other:
e.g. Quad Name :
Moderate Strong
2 3
NC Division of Water Quality - Methodology For Identification of Intermittent and
Perennial Streams and Their Orgins v. 4.11
Project/Site: Big Branch Sewer, Stream E Latitude: 35.832858°
County: Wake Longitude: -78.627685°
NC DWQ Stream Identification Form Version 4.11
Date: 9-9-2019
Evaluator: D. Cooper, H. Smith
Total Points: 38
Stream is at least intermittent if ≥ 19 or perennial
if ≥ 30*
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = 17.5)Absent Weak
1a. Continuity of channel bed and bank 0 1
2. Sinuosity of channel along thalweg 0 1
3. In-channel structure: ex. riffle-pool, step-pool,
riffle-pool sequence 0 1
4. Particle size of stream substrate 0 1
5. Active/relict floodplain 0 1
6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1
7. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1
8. Headcuts 0 1
9. Grade control 0 0.5
10. Natural valley 0 0.5
11. Second or greater order channel
ᵃ artificial ditches are not rated; see discussions in manual
B. Hydrology (Subtotal = 9)
12. Presence of Baseflow 0 1
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria 0 1
14. Leaf litter 1.5 1
15. Sediment on plants or debris 0 0.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles 0 0.5
17. Soil-based evidence of high water table?
C. Biology (Subtotal = 11.5)
18. Fibrous roots in streambed 3 2
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed 3 2
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)0 1
21. Aquatic Mollusks 0 1
22. Fish 0 0.5
23. Crayfish 0 0.5
24. Amphibians 0 0.5
25. Algae 0 0.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed FAC=0.5 FACW=0.75 SAV=2.0 Other=0OBL=1.5
*perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
Notes:
Sketch:
1 1.5
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
1 0
1 0
0.5 0
1 1.5
1 1.5
No = 0 Yes = 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
Stream Determination (Circle one)
Ephemeral Intermittent Perennial
Other:
e.g. Quad Name :
Moderate Strong
2 3
NC Division of Water Quality - Methodology For Identification of Intermittent and
Perennial Streams and Their Orgins v. 4.11
Project/Site: Big Branch Sewer, Stream F Latitude: 35.842722°
County: Wake Longitude: -78.626342°
Notes on Field Assessment Form (Y/N)
Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N)
Wetland is intensively managed (Y/N)
Assessment area is located within 50 feet of a natural tributary or other open water (Y/N)
Assessment area is substantially altered by beaver (Y/N)
Assessment area experiences overbank flooding during normal rainfall conditions (Y/N)
Assessment area is on a coastal island (Y/N)
Sub-function Rating Summary
Function Sub-function Metrics
Hydrology Surface Storage and Retention Condition
Sub-Surface Storage and Retention Condition
Water Quality Pathogen Change Condition
Condition/Opportunity
Opportunity Presence? (Y/N)
Particulate Change Condition
Condition/Opportunity
Opportunity Presence? (Y/N)
Soluble Change Condition
Condition/Opportunity
Opportunity Presence? (Y/N)
Physical Change Condition
Condition/Opportunity
Opportunity Presence? (Y/N)
Pollution Change Condition
Condition/Opportunity
Opportunity Presence? (Y/N)
Habitat Physical Structure Condition
Landscape Patch Structure Condition
Vegetation Composition Condition
Function Rating Summary
Function Metrics/Notes
Hydrology Condition
Water Quality Condition
Condition/Opportunity
Opportunity Presence? (Y/N)
Habitat Condition
Overall Wetland Rating
Rating
LOW
LOW
NO
NO
YES
YES
NO
YES
NC WAM Wetland Rating Sheet
Wetland Type
Wetland Site Name Wetland A
D. Cooper/VHBHeadwater Forest
Date
Assessor Name/Organization
2019-09-09
Accompanies User Manual Version 5.0
LOW
HIGH
HIGH
YES
LOW
LOW
LOW
Rating
LOW
MEDIUM
NA
HIGH
HIGH
YES
NA
YES
NA
NA
MEDIUM
HIGH
YES
HIGH
YES
LOW
NA
HIGH
Big Branch Sewer, Wetland A
within maintained sewer easement.
USACE AID#:NCDWR #:
Yes No
Evidence of stressors affecting the assessment area (may not be within the assessment area)
Please circle and/or make note on last page if evidence of stressors is apparent. Consider departure from reference, if
appropriate, in recent past (for instance, approximately within 10 years). Noteworthy stressors include, but are not limited
to the following.
•
•
•
•
Is the assessment area intensively managed?Yes No
Regulatory Considerations - Were regulatory considerations evaluated? Yes No If Yes, check all that apply to the assessment area.
Anadromous fish
Federally protected species or State endangered or threatened species
NCDWR riparian buffer rule in effect
Abuts a Primary Nursery Area (PNA)
Publicly owned property
N.C. Division of Coastal Management Area of Environmental Concern (AEC) (including buffer)
Abuts a stream with a NCDWQ classification of SA or supplemental classifications of HQW, ORW, or Trout
Designated NCNHP reference community
Abuts a 303(d)-listed stream or a tributary to a 303(d)-listed stream
What type of natural stream is associated with the wetland, if any? (check all that apply)
Blackwater
Brownwater
Tidal (if tidal, check one of the following boxes) LuLunar Wind Both
Is the assessment area on a coastal island?Yes No
Is the assessment area's surface water storage capacity or duration substantially altered by beaver?Yes No
Does the assessment area experience overbank flooding during normal rainfall conditions?Yes No
1. Ground Surface Condition/Vegetation Condition – assessment area condition metric
Check a box in each column. Consider alteration to the ground surface (GS) in the assessment area and vegetation structure
(VS) in the assessment area. Compare to reference wetland if applicable (see User Manual). If a reference is not applicable,
then rate the assessment area based on evidence of an effect.
GS
A A Not severely altered
B B Severely altered over a majority of the assessment area (ground surface alteration examples: vehicle tracks, excessive
sedimentation, fire-plow lanes, skidder tracks, bedding, fill, soil compaction, obvious pollutants) (vegetation structure
alteration examples: mechanical disturbance, herbicides, salt intrusion [where appropriate], exotic species, grazing,
less diversity [if appropriate], hydrologic alteration)
2. Surface and Sub-Surface Storage Capacity and Duration – assessment area condition metric
Check a box in each column. Consider surface storage capacity and duration (Surf) and sub-surface storage capacity and
duration (Sub). Consider both increase and decrease in hydrology. A ditch ≤ 1 foot deep is considered to affect surface water only,
while a ditch > 1 foot deep is expected to affect both surface and sub-surface water. Consider tidal flooding regime, if applicable.
Surf
A A Water storage capacity and duration are not altered.
B B Water storage capacity or duration are altered, but not substantially (typically, not sufficient to change vegetation).
C C Water storage capacity or duration are substantially altered (typically, alteration sufficient to result in vegetation
change) (examples: draining, flooding, soil compaction, filling, excessive sedimentation, underground utility lines).
3. Water Storage/Surface Relief – assessment area/wetland type condition metric (skip for all marshes)
Check a box in each column for each group below . Select the appropriate storage for the assessment area (AA) and the wetland
type (WT).
AAWT
3a.A A Majority of wetland with depressions able to pond water > 1 foot deep
B B Majority of wetland with depressions able to pond water 6 inches to 1 foot deep
C C Majority of wetland with depressions able to pond water 3 to 6 inches deep
D D Depressions able to pond water < 3 inches deep
3b.A Evidence that maximum depth of inundation is greater than 2 feet
B Evidence that maximum depth of inundation is between 1 and 2 feet
C Evidence that maximum depth of inundation is less than 1 foot
Hydrological modifications (examples: ditches, dams, beaver dams, dikes, berms, ponds, etc.)
Latitude/Longitude (deci-degrees)
Habitat/plant community alteration (examples: mowing, clear-cutting, exotics, etc.)
Surface and sub-surface discharges into the wetland (examples: discharges containing obvious pollutants, presence of nearby
Sub
VS
septic tanks, underground storage tanks (USTs), hog lagoons, etc.)
Precipitation within 48 hrs?
Signs of vegetation stress (examples: vegetation mortality, insect damage, disease, storm damage, salt intrusion, etc.)
35.833100 / -78.627458
NC WAM WETLAND ASSESSMENT FORM
Accompanies User Manual Version 5
Big Branch Creek
D. Cooper/VHB
Wetland A
2019-09-09Date of Evaluation
Wetland Site Name
Assessor Name/Organization
Nearest Named Water Body
Project Name
Wetland Type Headwater Forest
Level III Ecoregion
03020201
RaleighNCDWR RegionCounty
Neuse
Wake
USGS 8-Digit Catalogue Unit
Piedmont
River Basin
Applicant/Owner Name City of Raleigh
Big Branch Sewer Interceptor
Big Branch Sewer, Wetland A
within maintained sewer easement.
4. Soil Texture/Structure – assessment area condition metric (skip for all marshes)
Check a box from each of the three soil property groups below. Dig soil profile in the dominant assessment area landscape
feature. Make soil observations within the 12 inches. Use most recent National Technical Committee for Hydric Soils guidance for
regional indicators.
4a.A Sandy soil
B Loamy or clayey soils exhibiting redoximorphic features (concentrations, depletions, or rhizospheres)
C Loamy or clayey soils not exhibiting redoximorphic features
D Loamy or clayey gleyed soil
E Histosol or histic epipedon
4b.A Soil ribbon < 1 inch
B Soil ribbon ≥ 1 inch
4c.A No peat or muck presence
B A peat or muck presence
5. Discharge into Wetland – opportunity metric
Check a box in each column. Consider surface pollutants or discharges (Surf) and sub-surface pollutants or discharges (Sub).
Examples of sub-surface discharges include presence of nearby septic tank, underground storage tank (UST), etc.
Surf Sub
A A Little or no evidence of pollutants or discharges entering the assessment area
B B Noticeable evidence of pollutants or discharges entering the wetland and stressing, but not overwhelming the
treatment capacity of the assessment area
C C Noticeable evidence of pollutants or discharges (pathogen, particulate, or soluble) entering the assessment area and
potentially overwhelming the treatment capacity of the wetland (water discoloration, dead vegetation, excessive
sedimentation, odor)
6. Land Use – opportunity metric (skip for non-riparian wetlands)
Check all that apply (at least one box in each column). Evaluation involves a GIS effort with field adjustment. Consider sources
draining to assessment area within entire upstream watershed (W S), within 5 miles and within the watershed draining to the
assessment area (5M), and within 2 miles and within the watershed draining to the assessment area (2M). Effective riparian buffers
are considered to be 50 feet wide in the Coastal Plain and Pied mont ecoregions and 30 feet wide in the Blue Ridge Mountains ecoregion.
WS 5M 2M
A A A ≥ 10% impervious surfaces
B B B Confined animal operations (or other local, concentrated source of pollutants)
C C C ≥ 20% coverage of pasture
D D D ≥ 20% coverage of agricultural land (regularly plowed land)
E E E ≥ 20% coverage of maintained grass/herb
F F F ≥ 20% coverage of clear-cut land
G G G Little or no opportunity to improve water quality. Lack of opportunity may result from little or no disturbance in
the watershed or hydrologic alterations that prevent dainage and/or overbank flow from affectio the
assessment area.
7. Wetland Acting as Vegetated Buffer – assessment area/wetland complex condition metric (skip for non-riparian wetlands)
7a. Is assessment area within 50 feet of a tributary or other open water?
Yes No If Yes, continue to 7b. If No, skip to Metric 8.
7b. How much of the first 50 feet from the bank is weltand? (Wetland buffer need only be present on one side of the water body. Make
buffer judgment based on the average width of wetland. Record a note if a portion of the buffer has been removed or disturbed.)
A ≥ 50 feet
B From 30 to < 50 feet
C From 15 to < 30 feet
D From 5 to < 15 feet
E < 5 feet or buffer bypassed by ditches
7c. Tributary width. If the tributary is anastomosed, combine widths of channels/braids for a total width.
≤ 15-feet wide > 15-feet wide Other open water (no tributary present)
7d. Do roots of assessment area vegetation extend into the bank of the tributary/open water?
Yes No
7e. Is tributary or other open water sheltered or exposed?
Sheltered – adjacent open water with width < 2500 feet and no regular boat traffic.
Exposed – adjacent open water with width ≥ 2500 feet or regular boat traffic.
8. Wetland Width at the Assessment Area – wetland type/wetland complex condition metric (evaluate WT for all marshes
and Estuarine Woody Wetland only; evaluate WC for Bottomland Hardwood Forest, Headwater Forest, and Riverine Swamp
Check a box in each column. Select the average width for the wetland type at the assessment area (WT) and the wetland complex at the
assessment area (WC). See User Manual for WT and WC boundaries.
WT WC
A A ≥ 100 feet
B B From 80 to < 100 feet
C C From 50 to < 80 feet
D D From 40 to < 50 feet
E E From 30 to < 40 feet
F F From 15 to < 30 feet
G G From 5 to < 15 feet
H H < 5 feet
Forest only)
Big Branch Sewer, Wetland A
within maintained sewer easement.
9. Inundation Duration – assessment area condition metric (skip for non-riparian wetlands
Answer for assessment area dominant landform
A Evidence of short-duration inundation (< 7 consecutive days
B Evidence of saturation, without evidence of inundation
C Evidence of long-duration inundation or very long-duration inundation (7 to 30 consecutive days or mor
10. Indicators of Deposition – assessment area condition metric (skip for non-riparian wetlands and all marshes
Consider recent deposition only (no plant growth since deposition
A Sediment deposition is not excessive, but at approximately natural levels
B Sediment deposition is excessive, but not overwhelming the wetland
C Sediment deposition is excessive and is overwhelming the wetland
11. Wetland Size – wetland type/wetland complex condition metric
Check a box in each column. Involves a GIS effort with field adjustment. This metric evaluates three aspects of the wetland area: th
size of the wetland type (WT), the size of the wetland complex (WC), and the size of the forested wetland (FW) (if applicable, see Us
Manual). See the User Manual for boundaries of these evaluation areas. If assessment area is clear-cut, select “K” for the FW colum
WT FW (if applicable)
A A A ≥ 500 acres
B B B From 100 to < 500 acres
C C C From 50 to < 100 acres
D D D From 25 to < 50 acres
E E E From 10 to < 25 acres
F F F From 5 to < 10 acres
G G G From 1 to < 5 acres
H H H From 0.5 to < 1 acre
I I I From 0.1 to < 0.5 acre
J J J From 0.01 to < 0.1 acre
KKK< 0.01 acre or assessment area is clear-cu
12. Wetland Intactness – wetland type condition metric (evaluate for Pocosins only
A Pocosin is the full extent (≥ 90%) of its natural landscape size
B Pocosin is < 90% of the full extent of its natural landscape size
13. Connectivity to Other Natural Areas – landscape condition metric
13a.Check appropriate box(es) (a box may be checked in each column). Involves a GIS effort with field adjustment. This
evaluates whether the wetland is well connected (Well) and/or loosely connected (Loosely) to the landscape patch, the contiguo
metric naturally vegetated area and open water (if appropriate). Boundaries are formed by four-lane roads, regularly maintained util
line corridors the width of a four-lane road or wider, urban landscapes, fields (pasture open and agriculture), or water > 300 feet wid
A A ≥ 500 acres
B B From 100 to < 500 acres
C C From 50 to < 100 acres
D D From 10 to < 50 acres
E E < 10 acres
F F Wetland type has a poor or no connection to other natural habitat
13b.Evaluate for marshes only.
Yes No Wetland type has a surface hydrology connection to open waters/stream or tidal wetlands
14. Edge Effect – wetland type condition metric (skip for all marshes and Estuarine Woody Wetland
May involve a GIS effort with field adjustment. Estimate distance from wetland type boundary to artificial edges. Artificial edges includ
non-forested areas ≥ 40 feet wide such as fields, development, roads, regularly maintained utility line corridors and clear-cuts. Consid
the eight main points of the compass. Artificial edge occurs within 150 feet in how many directiions? If the assessment area is clear-cu
select option "C."
A 0
B 1 to 4
C 5 to 8
15.Vegetative Composition – assessment area condition metric (skip for all marshes and Pine Flat
A Vegetation is close to reference condition in species present and their proportions. Lower strata composed of appropria
species, with exotic plants absent or sparse within the assessment area
B Vegetation is different from reference condition in species diversity or proportions, but still largely composed of native specie
characteristic of the wetland type. This may include communities of weedy native species that develop after clearcutting o
clearing. It also includes communities with exotics present, but not dominant, over a large portion of the expected strat
C Vegetation severely altered from reference in compositionor expected species are unnaturally absent (planted stands of non
characteristic species or at least one stratum inappropriately composed of a single species)or exotic species are dominant in
at least one stratum.
16.Vegetative Diversity – assessment area condition metric (evaluate for Non-tidal Freshwater Marsh only
A Vegetation diversity is high and is composed primarily of native species (<10% cover of exotics
B Vegetation diversity is low or has > 10% to 50% cover of exotics
C Vegetation is dominated by exotic species (>50% cover of exotics
Well
WC
Loosely
Big Branch Sewer, Wetland A
within maintained sewer easement.
17.Vegetative Structure – assessment area/wetland type condition metric
17a. Is vegetation present?
Yes No If Yes, continue to 17b. If No, skip to Metric 18.
17b.Evaluate percent coverage of assessment area vegetatio for all marshes only. Skip to 17c for non-marsh wetlands.
A ≥ 25% coverage of vegetation
B < 25% coverage of vegetation
17c.Check a box in each column for each stratum. Evaluate this portion of the metric for non-marsh wetlands. Consider structure
in airspace above the assessment area (AA) and the wetland type (WT) separately
A A Canopy closed, or nearly closed, with natural gaps associated with natural processe
B B Canopy present, but opened more than natural gap
C C Canopy sparse or absent
A A Dense mid-story/sapling laye
B B Moderate density mid-story/sapling laye
C C Mid-story/sapling layer sparse or absen
A A Dense shrub layer
B B Moderate density shrub laye
C C Shrub layer sparse or absen
A A Dense herb layer
B B Moderate density herb laye
C C Herb layer sparse or absen
18. Snags – wetland type condition metric (skip for all marshes)
A Large snags (more than one) are visible (> 12-inches DBH, or large relative to species present and landscape stabilit
B Not A
19. Diameter Class Distribution – wetland type condition metric (skip for all marshes
A Majority of canopy trees have stems > 6 inches in diameter at breast height (DBH); many large trees (> 12 inches DBH) a
present.
B Majority of canopy trees have stems between 6 and 12 inches DBH, few are > 12-inch DBH
C Majority of canopy trees are < 6 inches DBH or no trees
20. Large Woody Debris – wetland type condition metric (skip for all marshes
Include both natural debris and man-placed natural debris
A Large logs (more than one) are visible (> 12 inches in diameter, or large relative to species present and landscape stabilit
B Not A
21.Vegetation/Open Water Dispersion – wetland type/open water condition metric (evaluate for Non-Tidal Freshwater
Marsh only)
Select the figure that best describes the amount of interspersion between vegetation and open water in the growing season. Pattern
areas indicate vegetated areas, while solid white areas indicate open wate
A BCD
22. Hydrologic Connectivity – assessment area condition metric (evaluate for riparian wetlands and Salt/Brackish Marsh only
Examples of activities that may severely alter hydrologic connectivity include intensive ditching, fill, sedimentation, channeliza
diversion, man-made berms, beaver dams, and stream incision. Documentation required if evaluated as B, C, o
A Overbank and overland flow are not severely altered in the assessment area
B Overbank flow is severely altered in the assessment area
C Overland flow is severely altered in the assessment area
D Both overbank and overland flow are severely altered in the assessment area
AAWT
Notes CanopyMid-StoryShrubHerbBig Branch Sewer, Wetland A
within maintained sewer easement.
Big Branch Sewer Interceptor VHB Project No. 38978.00
Site Photographs Page 1 of 4
Big Branch Sewer Interceptor
Raleigh, Wake County, NC
Site Photographs – Taken September 9 & 10, 2019

Big Branch, looking upstream at southern end of project
(Fig. 3F)
Big Branch, looking upstream at northern end of project below
Pond A (Fig. 3B)

Hogpen Branch, upstream of Pond A (Fig. 3B) Pond A (Fig. 3B)

Soil Survey Feature 1 (NCDWR 18.25), looking upstream
(Fig. 3F)
Soil Survey Feature 1 (NCDWR 18.25), looking downstream
(Fig. 3F)
Big Branch Sewer Interceptor VHB Project No. 38978.00
Site Photographs Page 2 of 4
Stream A within study area, looking upstream at flag
SA-01 TIE TO PIPE (Fig. 3F)

Stream A, looking upstream immediately upstream of study
area, typical of intermittent stream (NCDWR 29) (Fig. 3F)

Looking upstream of Stream B START flag (NCDWR 11.5)
(Fig. 3E)
Stream B, looking downstream from deep headcut at flag
SB-01 START CHANNEL (Fig. 3E)

Stream C, looking upstream from flag SC-01 TIE TO CREEK
(Fig. 3E)
Stream C, looking upstream toward flag SC-07 TIE TO PIPE
(Fig. 3E)
Big Branch Sewer Interceptor VHB Project No. 38978.00
Site Photographs Page 3 of 4
Looking upstream of Stream D START flag (no channel)
(Fig. 3E)
Stream D, looking downstream from flag
SD-01 START CHANNEL (Fig. 3E)

Stream E, looking upstream from flag
SE-01 TIE TO STUDY AREA (Fig. 3E)
Stream E, looking upstream from flag
SE-07 TIE TO CREEK (Fig. 3E)

Stream F, looking upstream toward flag
SF-01 TIE TO STUDY AREA (Fig. 3C)
Stream F, looking downstream toward flag
SF-02 TIE TO CREEK (Fig. 3C)
Big Branch Sewer Interceptor VHB Project No. 38978.00
Site Photographs Page 4 of 4
Wetland A within sewer easement at flag WA-06 (Fig. 3E) Wetland A at flag WA-27 TIE TO STUDY AREA (Fig. 3E)

One Exchange Plaza
1 Exchange Plaza, Suite 1020
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
City of Raleigh
Post Office Box 590 • Raleigh
North Carolina 27602-0590
(Mailing Address)
Printed on Recycled Paper
Municipal Building
222 West Hargett Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601

City Of Raleigh
NORTH CAROLINA

August 6, 2019

RE: NOTICE OF ENTRY ONTO LAND

Dear Property Owner or Resident:

As you may know, the City of Raleigh (the “City”) is planning to replace the existing sewer pipe
in your area as part of the Big Branch Interceptor Project. To investigate and design the Project
properly, the City and/or its agents, such as engineers, surveyors or geologists, will need to
perform environmental site work, consisting of wetland delineation and flagging.. This work is
scheduled to begin on or after Monday August 26, 2019. Highfill Infrastructure Engineering is
the design consultant and will be coordinating this work with the City.

North Carolina General Statutes §§ 40A-11 and 136-120 authorize the City to enter your land
after proper notice to make surveys, borings, examinations, and appraisals to carry out the
Project. The City, however, prefers to first seek your permission as a courtesy, to expedite the
process, and to address any concerns you might have. The City respectfully requests your
cooperation in allowing the City and/or its agents to enter upon your land to do this examination
and design work.

Enclosed for your review and signature is a standard form, granting the City and its agents the
temporary right to go on your land (but not inside any of your buildings) for the limited purposes
set out in the form. If it is acceptable to you, please sign and return it to me at your earliest
convenience.

It is important to note that any individuals entering your property based on this notice or the
enclosed form are instructed to protect all property that they encounter and to cooperate fully
with you to prevent or minimize incidental damage to trees, shrubs, etc. If tenants are living at
your property listed in this letter, then please share the contents of this letter with them.

Later, if further research and site investigations indicate that the City needs to acquire easements
on your property for the Project, then the City will engage you in negotiations and seek to
purchase those easements based upon an estimate of fair market value

One Exchange Plaza
1 Exchange Plaza, Suite 1020
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
City of Raleigh
Post Office Box 590 • Raleigh
North Carolina 27602-0590
(Mailing Address)
Printed on Recycled Paper
Municipal Building
222 West Hargett Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601

If you have any questions or need any additional information, please feel free to contact me at
[phone], email: [e-mail], or Eddie Sasser, Project Manager, Highfill
Infrastructure at [phone], email: [e-mail]. Additionally, the following link
may be used to obtain updates on the project status:

https://www.raleighnc.gov/projects/content/PubUtilAdmin/Articles/Projects/CIP/BigBranchInter
ceptor.html

Thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter.

Sincerely,

Matt Cotton, P.E.
Construction Projects Administrator

Cc: Eddie Sasser, P.E. – Highfill Infrastructure Engineering

AGENT AUTHORIZATION FORM
CITY OF RALEIGH
Project Name: Big Branch Interceptor Project
Project Location: Raleigh, Wake County
Date: September 2019
The City of Raleigh, undersigned, does hereby authorize:
The Professional Engineers and Scientists VHB
of
(Contractor /Agent)
(Name of consulting firm)
to act on my behalf and
take
all actions
necessary
for
the processing, issuance and acceptance of
permits or certifications
and
any and all
standard
and
special conditions attached.
City of Raleigh
Public Utilities Department
Capital Improvement Program
1 Exchange Plaza #620
Raleigh, 27601
[phone]
I hereby certify the above information submitted in this application is true and accurate to the
best of my knowledge.
Matthew Cotton, P.E. Date
Construction Projects Administrator