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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19950735 Ver 1_Complete File_19950719 AM h A6 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 District Engineer Army Corps of Engineers P. O. Box 1890 Wilmington, North Carolina 28402 ATTENTION: Regulatory Branch Dear Sir: May 31, 1995 9573..5 R. SAMUEL HUNT III SECRETARY ° 19 w J;? .. i„; Subject: Burke County, Replacement of Bridge No. 309 over the Henry Fork River on SR 1924 (Old NC 18), Federal Aid Project BRZ-1924(1), State Project No. 8.2851301, TIP No. B-2518. Please find enclosed three copies of the project planning report for the above referenced project. The new bride will constructed in the same location and at the same elevation as the existing bridge. During construction traffic will be detoured onto State Road 1922. The project will require minor fill in surface waters, however the proposed bridge crossing is located in a portion of the river that is not designated trout waters. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose to proceed under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 33 CFR 330 Appendix A (B-23) issued November 22, 1991, by the Corps of Engineers. The provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulations will be followed in the construction of the project. We anticipate that 401 General Certification No. 2745 (Categorical Exclusion) will apply to this project, and are providing one copy of the CE document to the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and. Natural Resources, Division of Environmental Management, for their review. 3 ; 2 If you have any questions or need additional information, please call Mr. Scott P. Gottfried at 733-3141. Sincerely, Franklin Vick, PE, Manager Planning and Environmental Branch HFV/spg cc: w/attachment Mr. Robert Johnson, COE-Asheville Ms. Stephanie Goudreau, NCDEHNR WRC Mr. John Dorney, NCDEHNR, DEM Mr. Kelly Barger, PE, Program Development Branch Mr. Don Morton, PE, Highway Design Branch Mr. A. L. Hankins, PE, Hydraulics Unit Mr. John L. Smith Jr., PE, Structure Design Unit Mr. Tom Shearin, PE, Roadway Design Unit Mr. W.D. Smart, PE, Division 13 Engineer Mr. Rob Hanson, PE, Planning and Environmental Branch Date: 1/93 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION ACTION CLASSIFICATION FORM TIP Project No. B-2518 State Project No. 8.2851301 Federal-Aid Project No. BRZ-1924(1) A. Project Description: To replace bridge number 309 on SR 1924 (Old NC 18) over the Henry Fork River in Burke County. B. Purpose and Need: To replace an obsolete bridge, preventing the closure of the SR 1924 crossing of Henry Fork River. The new bridge will provide greater clear roadway width than the existing bridge, reducing the likelihood of accidents from vehicles striking the bridge rail. Bridge number 309 will be replaced in existing location and SR 1924 will be closed during construction. Traffic will be maintained on existing area roads (see Figure 1 for detour route). Note: Refer to Section D, "Special Project Information" for a list of environmental commitments. C. Proposed Improvements: Circle one or more of the following improvements which apply to the project: Type I Improvements 1. Non-construction activities (program activities) 2. Approval of utility installations along or across a transportation facility 3. Construction of bicycle and pedestrian lanes, paths, and facilities 4. Activities included in the State's "highway safety plan" under 23 USC 402 (programs administered by the Division of Motor Vehicles) 5. Transfer of Federal lands pursuant to 23 USC 317 when the subsequent action is not an FHWA action 6. The installation of noise barriers or alterations to existing publicly owned buildings to provide for noise reduction 7. Landscaping 8. Installation of fencing, signs, pavement markings, small passenger shelters, traffic signals, and railroad warning devices ?. Emergency repairs under 23 USC 125 (Governor Declared Emergency) 0. Acquisition of scenic easements 1.1. Determination of payback under 23 CFR Part 480 for property previously acquired with Federal-aid participation 1.2. Improvements to Px.istin.g rest areas and -.ruck weigh 1 Date: 1/93 stations 13. Ridesharing activities 14. Bus and rail car rehabilitation 15. Alterations to facilities or vehicles in order to make them accessible for elderly and handicapped persons 16. Program administration, technical assistance activities, and operating assistance to transit authorities to continue existing service or increase service to meet changes in routine demand 17. The purchase of vehicles by the applicant where the use of these vehicles can be accommodated by existing facilities or by new facilities which themselves are within a CE 18. Track and railbed maintenance and improvements when carried out within the existing right of way 19. Purchase and installation of operating or maintenance equipment to be located within the transit facility and with,no significant impacts off the site 20. Promulgation of rules, regulations, and directives. Type II Improvements 1. Modernization of a highway by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes (e.g., parking, weaving, turning, climbing). a. Restoring, Resurfacing, Rehabilitating, and Reconstructing pavement (3R and 4R improvements) b. Widening roadway and shoulders without adding through lanes c. Modernizing gore treatments d. Constructing lane improvements (merge, auxiliary, and turn lanes) e. Adding shoulder drains f. Replacing and rehabilitating culverts, inlets, and drainage pipes, including safety treatments g. Providing driveway pipes h. Performing minor bridge widening (less than one through lane) ?,. Highway safety or traffic operations improvement projects including the installation of ramp metering control devices and lighting. a. Installing ramp metering devices b. Installing lights c. Adding or upgrading guardrail d. Installing safety barriers including Jersey 2 Date: 1/93 type barriers and pier protection e. Installing or replacing impact attenuators f. Upgrading medians including adding or upgrading median barriers g. Improving intersections including relocation and/or realignment h. Making minor roadway realignment i. Channelizing traffic j. Performing clear zone safety improvements including removing hazards and flattening slopes k. Implementing traffic aid systems, signals, and motorist aid 1. Installing bridge safety hardware including bridge rail retrofit 3O. Bridge rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement or the construction of grade separation to replace existing at-grade railroad crossings. a. Rehabilitating, reconstructing, or replacing bridge approach slabs b. Rehabilitating or replacing bridge decks c. Rehabilitating bridges including painting (no red lead paint), scour repair, fender systems, and minor structural improvements O Replacing a bridge (structure and/or fill) 4. Transportation corridor fringe parking facilities. 5. Construction of new truck weigh stations or rest areas. 6. Approvals for disposal of excess right-of-way or for joint or limited use of right-of-way, where the proposed use does not have significant adverse impacts. 7. Approvals for changes in access control. 8. Construction of new bus storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and located on or near a street with adequate capacity to handle anticipated bus and support vehicle traffic. 9. Rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing rail and bus buildings and ancillary facilities where only minor amounts of additional land are required and there is not a substantial increase in the number of users. 3 Date: 1/93 10. Construction of bus transfer facilities (an open area consisting of passenger shelters, boarding areas, kiosks and related street improvements) when located in a commercial area or other high activity center in which there is adequate street capacity for projected bus traffic. 11. Construction of rail storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and where there is no significant noise impact on the surrounding community. 12. Acquisition of land for hardship or protective purposes, advance land acquisition loans under section 3(b) of the UMT Act. Hardship and protective buying will be permitted only for a particular parcel or a limited number of parcels. These types of land acquisition qualify for a CE only where the acquisition will not limit the evaluation of alternatives, including shifts in alignment for planned construction projects, which may be required in the NEPA process. No project development on such land may proceed until the NEPA process has been completed. D. Special Project Information: Existing Conditions SR 1924 is classified as a minor collector in the North Carolina Functional Classification System. SR 1924 in the vicinity of bridge number 309 has 4.8 meters (16 feet) of pavement and grassed shoulders varying in width from 0.3 to 2.7 meters (1 to 9 feet). The speed limit for the roadway is unposted (statuatory limit of 55 mph (88 Km/h) applies). The horizontal and vertical alignment of SR 1924 is poor. Many of the curves along the roadway have less than a 65 Km/h (40 mph) design speed. A curve with a design speed of approximately 65 Km/h (40 mph) is located adjacent to bridge number 309 to the south. A curve with a design speed of approximately 50 Km/h (30 mph) is located immediately north of the bridge. Bridge number 309 is a steel and timber beam bridge, with timber decking and asphalt wearing surface. The end bents are timber, while the three interior bents are steel and concrete. The bridge has wooden hand rails. The bridge is 35.4 meters (116 feet) long and 4.8 meters (16 feet) wide face to face of wheel guards. Bridge number 309 was built in 1956 and has an estimated remaining life of four years. The structure's sufficiency 4 Date: 1/93 rating is 27.4 (out of a possible 100). Bridge number 309 is posted at nine tons for both single vehicles and truck tractor semi-trailers. Proposed Improvements The new bridge structure will be approximately 46 meters (150 feet) long and have a clear deck width of 9.1 meters (30 feet). It will be constructed in approximately the same location and at the same elevation as the existing bridge. Proposed approach work will be limited to approximately 60 meters (200 feet) from either end of the new structure. The proposed bridge approaches will be 7.2 meters (24 feet) wide, with 2.4 meter (8-foot) grassed shoulders. No change in the speed limit along SR 1924 is proposed as a part of this project. The proposed roadway alignment meets a 65 Km/h (40 mph) design speed. This design speed is consistent with adjoining portions of SR 1924, however, a design exception may be required for this project due to the low design speed. Proposed Detour SR 1924 in the immediate area of the bridge will be closed during construction of the new structure. Through traffic will be detoured onto SR 1922, which intersects with SR 1924 approximately 0.8 kilometers (0.5 mile) south of bridge number 309 and then onto SR 1918, which intersects with SR 1924 approximately 2.1 kilometers (1.3 miles) north of the bridge. The proposed detour route is shown on Figure 1. The total length of the proposed detour is 6.3 kilometers (3.9 miles). The distance along SR 1924 between SR 1922 and SR 1918 is 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles). Schedule and Cost The project is included in the 1995-2001 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Right of way acquisition is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 1995 and construction is scheduled for fiscal year 1996. The estimated cost of the project is $558,000, including $33,000 for right of way acquisition and $525,000 for construction. The estimated cost included in the TAP is $358,000, including $33,000 for right of way acquisition and $325,000 for construction. Environmental Commitments NCDOT will implement all practical measures to minimize and wood impacts to the nat.ura) and human environment. The most stringent provisions of NCDOT's best management practices for protection of surface waters will be followed during the construction of this project due to the Henry Fork 5 Date: 1/93 River's classification as an outstanding resource water. Hazardous spill catch basins will be constructed as part of the project. Runoff from the proposed bridge will not be discharged directly into the Henry Fork River, but will be directed to the hazardous spill catch basins. Burke County Emergency Services will be notified prior to the closure of SR 1924. A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nationwide permit 23 will be required for the project. A Section 401 water quality certification will be required from the N.C. Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources prior to the issuance of the Nationwide permit. Burke County is a designated "trout" county. A letter of concurrence from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission will be obtained during the project permitting process, prior to issuance of the Nationwide 23 permit. E. Threshold Criteria If any Type II actions are involved in the project, the following evaluation must be completed. If the project consists only of Type I improvements, the following checklist does not need to be completed. ECOLOGICAL (1) Will the project on any unique or (2) Does the project federally listed species may occu YES NO have a substantial impact ? X important natural resource? involve habitat where endangered or threatened F] X r? (3) Will the project affect anadromous fish? n X (4) If the project involves wetlands, is the amount of permanent and/or temporary wetland taking less than one-third x (1/3) of an acre AND have all practicable measures to avoid and minimize wetland takings been evaluated? 6 Date: 1/93 YES NO (5) Will the project require the use of ? X U. S. Forest Service lands? (6) Will the quality of adjacent water resources be adversely impacted by ? X proposed construction activities? (7) Does the project involve waters classified as Outstanding Water Resources (OWR) and/or I X] High Quality Waters (HQW)? (8) Will the project require fill in waters of the United States in any of the designated r X1 mountain trout counties? (9) Does the project involve any known underground storage tanks (UST's) or ? X hazardous materials sites? PERMITS AND COORDINATION (10) If the project is located within a CAMA county, will the project significantly ? X affect the coastal zone and/or any "Area of Environmental Concern" (AEC)? (11) Does the project involve Coastal Barrier ? X Resources Act resources? (12) Will a U. S. Coast Guard permit be F-1 X required? (13) Will the project result in the modification ? X of any existing regulatory floodway? (14) Will the project require any stream relocations or channel changes? SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC (15) Will the project induce substantial impacts t_o planned growth or land use for the area.? (16) Will the project require the relocation of any family or business? 1-1 X -0 X F-1 X 7 Date: 1/93 YES NO (17) If the project involves the acquisition of right of way, is the amount of right of way X acquisition considered minor? (18) Will the project involve any changes in X access control? (19) Will the project substantially alter the usefulness and/or land use of adjacent ? X property? (20) Will the project have an adverse effect on permanent local traffic patterns or ? X community cohesiveness? (21) Is the project included in an approved thoroughfare plan and/or Transportation X ? Improvement Program (and is, therefore, in conformance with the Clean Air Act of 1990)? (22) Is the project anticipated to cause an ? X increase traffic volumes? (23) Will traffic be maintained during construction using existing roads, staged X ? construction, or on-site detours? (24) Is there substantial controversy on social, economic, or environmental grounds ? X concerning the project? (25) Is the project consistent with all Federal, State, and local laws relating to the environmental aspects of the action? CULTURAL RESOURCES (26) Will the project have an "effect" on properties eligible for or listed on the National Register of Historic Places? (27) Will the project require the use of Section 4(f) resources (public parks, recreation lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, historic sites, or historic bridges, as defined in Section 4(f) of the U. S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966)? x? ?x F-1 X 8 Date: 1/93 YES NO (28) Will the project involve construction in, across, or adjacent to a river designated ? X as a component of or proposed for inclusion in the Natural System of Wild and Scenic Rivers? F. Additional Documentation Required for Unfavorable Responses in Part E (7) The Henry Fork River, from the Morganton water intake to Laurel Creek has a water quality classification of Class C ORW (Outstanding Resource Waters). More stringent erosion control measures are required for work near streams classified as outstanding resource waters. Hazardous spill catch basins are required at all crossings of outstanding resource waters. NCDOT will implement all additional water quality protection measures required for construction near outstanding resource waters. (8) Burke County is a designated "trout" county. A letter of concurrence from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission will be required before a Department of the Army wetland permit can be issued. The proposed bridge crossing is located downstream of a portion of the Henry Fork River which is a designated public mountain trout water. In the project area, however, the Henry Fork River is not a designated public mountain trout water. No impacts to public mountain trout waters are anticipated as a result of the subject project. I- Date: 1/93 G. CE Approval TIP Project No. B-2518 State Project No. 8.2851301 Federal-Aid Project No. BRZ-1924(1) Project Description: Replacement of bridge number 309 on SR 1924 (Old NC 18) over the Henry Fork River in Burke County. Categorical Exclusion Action Classification: (Check one) TYPE I TYPE II(A) X TYPE II(B) Approved: /1-22-74- Date ,W Manager Planning & Environmental Branch i/ a z 9 xt?s ! • f??-- Da a Project Planning Unit Head 1f_ZZ-9y Q?46 ti, Date Pr ject Planning Engineer For Type II(B) projects only: Date Fop, Division Administrator Federal Higbwa.y Admin:; s i:.ration 10 r f told lNe_I,k.k ??? ? ?kTebleko? r +• c1e 10 64 Lukr ek Hit A..dn....\ e1 v elde. Morganton Ale b! B Rit VI km 0 1 2 0 1 mile NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL. BRANCH BURKE COUNTY SR 1924, BRIDGE NO. 309 OVER HENRY FORK RIVER T. I. P. PROJECT B - 2518 I FIG. 1 STUDIED DETOUR ? ROUTE Proposed Replacement of Bridge No. 309 On SR 1924 Over Henry Fork River Burke County TIP # B-2518 State Project No. 8.2851301 F.A. Project No. BRZ-1924(1) Natural Resources Technical Report B-2518 NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH ENVIRONMENTAL UNIT RUBY PHARR, ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT OCTOBER 8, 1994 TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................. 0 Introduction 1 ................................................ 1 . 1.1 ....... Project Description ....................................... ................................................ 1 2 1 Purpose ..................................................... ................................................ 1 . 1.3 Study Area .................................................... ................................................ 1 1 4 1 Physiography and Soils ................................. ................................................ . 1.5 Methodology ................................................ ................................................ 2 2.0 Water Resources ..................................................................................................... 3 2.1 Waters Impacted ........................................................................................... 3 2.1.1 Stream Characteristics .................................................................... 3 2.1.2 Best Usage Classification ................................................................ 3 2.1.3 Water Quality ................................................................................. 4 2.2 Anticipated Impacts: Water Resources ......................................................... 4 3.0 Biotic Resources ..................................................................................................... 4 3.1 Terrestrial Communities ................................................................................ 5 3.1.1 Man-Dominated Community .......................................................... 5 3.1.2 Dry-Mesic Oak-Hickory Forest ...................................................... 6 3.1.3 Piedmont/Low Mountain Alluvial Forest ........................................ 7 3.2 Aquatic Community ...................................................................................... 7 3.3 Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities ................................................... 8 3.3.1 Terrestrial .......................................................................................8 3.3.2 Aquatic Community ........................................................................ 9 4.0 Special Topics ..................................................................................................... 9 4.1 Waters of the United States ........................................................................... 9 4. 1.1 Permits ......................................................................................... 10 4.1.2 Mitigation .................................................................................... 10 4.2 Rare or Protected Species ........................................................................... 10 4.2.1 Federally Protected Species .......................................................... 11 4.2.2 Federal Candidate and State Protected Species ............................. 15 5.0 References ................................................................................................... 17 1.0 INTRODUCTION The following report is submitted to assist in preparation of a Categorical Exclusion (CE) for the proposed replacement of bridge #309 on SR 1924 over Henry Fork River in Burke County. Included are inventories of natural resources occurring within the project area and identification of environmental concerns which must be addressed in the planning stages of this project. 1.1 Project Description This project involves removal and replacement of Bridge No. 309 at its existing location. It is anticipated that road closure will be used for this project. Traffic will be maintained on an off-site detour. The plan calls for replacing the existing 5 m (16 ft) of pavement with 2.7 m (1 to 9 ft) grassed shoulders with 6.5 m (22 ft) of pavement and 2 m (6 ft) grassed shoulders. Proposed right-of-way (ROW) is 18 m (60 ft). Some realignment of existing roadway may be involved. Project length is 300 m (1000 ft). 1.2 Purpose The purpose of this document is to inventory, catalog and describe the natural resources identified within the project vicinity and estimate potential impacts to these resources. Recommendations are made for measures to minimize resource impacts. 1.3 Study Area The proposed project site lies approximately 10 miles southeast of Morganton in the South Mountains of Burke County (Figure 1). This location is a rural setting including power line right-of-ways, two driveways, a cultivated field and some forested areas. Industry, Agriculture and Recreation are primary land uses in the county. South Mountain State Park is also located in Burke County. 1.4 Physiography and Soils Burke County is in the central-western Piedmont of the Southern Appalachian Mountains Physiographic Province. Topography in the area ranges from moderately sloping to steep hills and associated narrow bottomland floodplains. Elevation is approximately 347.1 m (1157 ft) to 372.0 m (1240 ft). No published soil survey is available for Burke County. Soils information was btained from Connie Adams of the Burke County Soil. Conservation Service. Five soil Types are mapped in the study area (Table 1). r ar?T , Linville dge Nils M T I N""WI 1 ford ""NrZ ?r' ai1Elt N r„rav ta,,, a + 11 Mil 64 M r*xtly/ d + lot + - ` r 10 It + + 5 'I y,® jonn B *Morganton Or 11 R / E + 11 PI1/ C?rOV1 km 0 11? 2 I? 0 mile 1 4 i NORTAROLfNA DEPARTMENT OF TRANS! SPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH BURKE COUNTY SR 1924, BRIDGE NO. 309 OVER HENRY FORK RIVER T. I. P. PROJECT B - 2518 I FIG. 1 1 2 TABLE 1 SOIL SUMMARY, BURKE COUNTY Name Slope % Classification Colvard Var. Ostin complex 0-5 Non-hydric Braddock Fine Sandy Loam 2-8 Non-hydric Brevard Fine Sandy Loam 8-15 Non-hydric Evard-Cowee Complex 8-15 Non-hydric Cliffield-Pigeonroost Complex 30-50 Non-hydric Colvard var. Ostin complex soils consists of about 45 percent Colvard variant soils and 35 percent Ostin soils. Colvard variant soils are very deep and well drained on flood plains. They formed in loamy alluvium. Ostin soils are very deep and well drained to moderately well drained. They formed in coarse textured alluvium. These soils are subject to occasional flooding for very brief periods. Braddock Fine Sandy Loam soils are very deep, well drained soils on high Terraces, foot slopes, benches, and coves. They formed in colluvium or old alluvium. Brevard Fine Sandy Loam soils are very deep, well drained soils on high terraces, foot slopes, benches, and coves. They formed in colluvium or old alluvium. Evard-Cowee Complex stony soils consist of about 55-65 percent Evard soils and 30-50 percent Cowee soils. Evard soils are very deep, well drained soils on upland ridges and side slopes. They formed in residuum from felsic high-grade metamorphic rocks such as granite, schist, and gneiss Cowee soils are moderately deep with a loamy surface with gravel mixed in and a loamy subsoil. Cliffield-Pigeonroost Complex soils are very stony. This complex consists of about 50 to 60 percent Cliffield soils and about 20-30 percent Pigeonroost soils. Cliffield soils are moderately deep, well drained soils on ridges and side slopes. They formed in residuum from felsic high-grade metamorphic rocks such as sillimanite schist or quartz- mica schist. Pigeonroost soils and moderately deep, well drained soils on ridges or side slopes. They formed in residuum from felsic high-grade metamorphic rocks such as granite, gneiss and schist. 1.5 Methodology Preliminary resource information was gathered and reviewed prior to the site visit. Information sources include U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) relief maps, (Morganton 3 South and Valdese Quads), Soil Conservation Services (SCS) soils map of the area, NCDOT aerial photograph of project area (1:100), North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM) water quality classifications for the Catawba River, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) list of protected species, N.C. Natural Heritage Program (NC-NHP) database of uncommon and protected species and unique habitats, and North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) personnel. Field surveys were conducted along the proposed project alignment on October 1, 1994. Plant communities were identified and recorded. Wildlife was identified using a number of observation techniques; active searching, visual observations, (binocular), and recording the identifying signs of Wildlife (sounds, scat, tracks, and burrows). Cursory surveys of aquatic communities were made by observation. 2.0 WATER RESOURCES This section describes the physical characteristics, Best Usage Standards, and water quality of the water resources likely to be impacted by the proposed project. Probable impacts to these water bodies are also discussed. 2.1 Waters Impacted Henry Fork joins Jacob Fork to form the South Fork of the Catawba River approximately 51.2 km (32 mi) downstream from bridge #309. A small unnamed creek flows southeast parallel to SR 1924 to enter Henry Fork approximately 7.5 m (25 ft) east of bridge #309. 2.1.1 Stream Characteristics Henry Fork flows west to east at the project site and is approximately 7.5 m (25 ft) wide, with depths ranging from 0.3 m (1 ft) to 1.2 m (4 ft). The substrate is composed of sand with scattered cobble interspersed with flat rock shoals. Siltation is present but slight. The field investigation was conducted on a rainy day when the river was receiving active run-off and the water was only slightly turbid. Flow was moderately high. The unnamed tributary is approximately 1.4 m (3.5 ft) wide and 0.15 m (0.5 ft) to 0.3 m (1.0 ft) deep. The substrate is mixed gravel and cobble. 2.1.2 Best Usage Classification The reach of Henry Fork from the Morganton water intake to Laurel Creek which includes this project site has been assigned the Best Usage Classification of Class C ORW. Class C designates waters suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, 4 fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. The ORW classification identifies Outstanding Resource Waters which are unique and special waters of exceptional or national recreational or ecological significance which require special protection to maintain existing uses. Best Usage Classification of the small tributary to Henry River would have the same Best Usage Class as Henry Fork - CORW. Outstanding Resource Waters are protected by High Quality Waters (HQW) sedimentation controls. HQW design requires stringent erosion control measures which include Type A sediment basins. When construction is completed, these basins are to be converted to hazardous-spill catch basins. Bridge design must assure that run-off from the bridge must be directed into the hazardous spill basins. 2.1.3 Water Quality The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) assesses water quality by sampling for selected benthic macroinvertebrate organisms. The species richness and overall biomass are reflections of water quality. In April of 1988, the MAN conducted a special ORW survey of the Henry Fork catchment. The survey found Henry Fork from SR 1918 Ext. to NC 18 to have an excellent Bioclass rating. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) lists no discharges for the project area. 2.2 Anticipated Impacts: Water Resources Potential impacts to water resources in the project area could occur from substrate disturbance, sedimentation and increased turbidity, as well as non-point discharge of toxic substances from construction machinery. A decrease of dissolved oxygen and changes in water temperature may occur as a result of removal of streamside canopy. Increased sediments may clog gills, and smother the eggs of aquatic organisms. If wet concrete is allowed to come into contact with river water, there is a possibility of causing a fish kill. The NCWRC reports that the "Henry Fork supports good populations of smallmouth bass and redbreast sunfish that provide fishing for anglers. Stringent erosion and sedimentation control measures adequate to protect fisheries resources should be installed". 3.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES Ecosystems described in the following sections include communities of associated flora and fauna. These descriptions include the dominant plants and animals in each community and their relationships with each other. Scientific nomenclature and common name (when applicable) are used for species described. Subsequent references to the v,ame species will use common name only. 5 Animal species which were observed directly or indirectly during the field survey are denoted with an (*). Complete listings of the flora and fauna which may occur in the study area can be found in one or more of the technical references listed in Section 5.0. 3.1 Terrestrial Communities Three distinct biotic community types were identified in the project impact zone, however, there is some degree of overlap between communities, particularly the faunal components. Many terrestrial animals utilize a variety of habitats and may occur throughout the entire area. 3.1.1 Man-Dominated Community This highly disturbed community includes maintained roadsides, a powerline corridor, and a cultivated field. Many of the plants in these areas are "weedy" species adapted to disturbed or maintained areas. The low-growing roadside vegetation includes fescue grasses estuca spp.), elephant's foot (Elehanto_pus tomentosus), ox-eye daisy (Cbasanthemum leucanthemum), plantains Planta o rugelii, P. lanceolata), knotweeds (Polygon um ssp.) and dandelions (Taraxacum officinale). A steep rocky road cut northwest of Bridge # 309 is dominated by Japanese honeysuckle onicera 'a? Ponca) and other common vines, but also contains seedlings and small stump sprouts of area canopy trees - river birch Betula nigra), yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), bitternut hickory (Caryg cordiformis), and Virginia pine Pinus virginiana); subcanopy tress - sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) and red bud Cercis canadensis); and shrubs - rosebay rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) and mountain laurel K( Wn a latifoli ). This moist northeast facing bank also has a wide variety of herbaceous species, including Christmas fern (Polystichum acrosticoides), ebony spleenwort (Asplenium platyneuron), bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), wild geranium Geranium maculatum), rue anemone (Thalictrum thalictroides), robin's-plantain Eri eron pulchellus), and trailing arbutus (Epig,aea re ens). The maintained powerline corridor through a low moist area by the river contains root sprouts of previously named species plus hop horn beam O( sgya virginiana), persimmon Dios os vir ig nian a), wild cherry Prunus serotina), willow Salix niga), hazel-nut Co lu Americana) and sumacs Rhus hina, R. copallina). The dense growth of herbs and vines includes: wingstem (Verbesina occidentalis), Joe-Pye-Weed (Eupatorium maculatum), thistle Carduus altissima), asters Aster ssp.), ragwoods Ambrosia trifida, A. artemisiifolia), ironweed Vemonia noveboracensis), blackberry Rubus sp.) goldenrods Solida o ssp.), Japanese honeysuckle, greenbriar Smilax rotundifolia), Virgin's bower Clematis viraniana), and grape Vitis spp.) 6 South of the bridge the powerline corridor has been completely cleared and is now dominated by sparse grasses: fescue escue elati r), broom-straw (Andropogon d St. John's ggparius), and serica (Less edeza cuneata). Gerardia A alinis tenufolia) an wort (Hyyericu_m mutilum). The disturbed Man-dominated Community provides a variety of habitats and numerous opportunistic animal species utilize these areas as foraging zones and nesting sites. Various species of reptiles, birds, and mammals may venture into these areas to feed on seeds, berries, roots, and insects. These species include: Carolina chickadee Parus carolinensis), northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), northern mockingbird Mimus Qolylottos), American crow Corvu brachyrhynchos), Carolina wren (T othorus ludovicianus) and white-throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis). Red- tailed hawks Buteo jamacensis) may soar above the open areas to feed on prey such as small mammals, reptiles and insects. Bluebirds S( ialia sialis) may forage for insects in these open areas. Snakes such as the black racer Columber constrictor) and eastern garter snakes may also feed on insects and small mammals in this habitat. Mammals.frequenting this community may include white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virainanus virg nianus), Virginia opossum Didel his vir i ana), mice (Perom sY cus spp.), striped skunk Me hitis me hitis), raccoon Proc on lotor) and eastern cottontail (Sylvilague floridanus) may forage along roadways. These animals often become roadkills which then attrack scavenger species such as turkey vulture Cathartes aura) and common crow* Corvus brachyrhynchos). 3.1.2 Dry-Mesic-Oak-Hickory Forest This is the most abundant forested community type occurring in the project ROW. This community occurs mainly on the northeastern side of the roadway on steep slopes grading toward Henry Fork River and the small unnamed tributary along SR 1924. The closed canopy is dominated by white oak (QLuercus alba) and also includes red oak uercus rubra), hickory (Carta spp.), pine Pinus sp.) and yellow poplar. Subcanopy species include red maple Acer rubrum), flowering dogwood Corvus florid a), American holly (Ilex opaca), and sourwood. A sparse shrub layer includes strawberry bush 'Euon?mus americana), and rosebay rhododendron. Herbs are very scarce. The Dry-Mesic-Oak-Hickory Forest located southwest of the existing roadway has a more gentle slope but also has been more disturbed in the past as is evidenced by the increased incidence of pines, Pinus spp.) locust Robinia pseudoacacia), and yellow poplar, as well a slightly more open canopy. Shrubs are also more common, including horse sugar (Symplocos tinctoria), mountain laurel, and rosebay rhododendron. The sparse herb layer is also more varied including Hexastylis sp., partridge berry (Mitchell 7 re ens), autumn coralroot, (Corallorhiza wisteriana), wild yam Di corea villo a), bellwort (Uvularia u Indian pipe (Monotropa uniflora), green briar (a_x sp.), and grapefern (Bonchium dissectum). Faunal diversity is expected to be low in this community near the roadway. No vertebrate species were observed during the field investigation. Blue jays (Cvanocitta cristata), white-breasted nuthatch S( itta carolinensis) carolina chickadee, downy woodpecker icoi a cen ), pileated woodpecker (Dryocopuus ilk eatus), red-eyed vireo Vireo olivaceous) and blue-gray gnatcatcher Polio tila caerulea). Other vertebrate species likely to occur in this community include: grey squirrel Sciurus carolinensis), Virginia opossum, grey treefrogs (Hula spp.) and the eastern pipstrelle Pi strellus subflavus). 3.1.3 Piedmont/Low Mountain Alluvial Forest This palustrine community exists in the narrow flood plain adjacent to Henry Fork and along its unnamed tributary. The dominant canopy trees are river birch, sycamore Platanoccidentalis), bitternut hickory, and black walnut Lu lans nigra). Subcanopy species include flowering dogwood, sourwood, hop hornbeam, American holly, and sassafras Sa safras albidum). Shrubs include highland dog-hobble (Leucothoe fontanesiana), rosebay rhododendron, red bud, and hazelnut. A sparse herb layer includes spotted jewelweed (Impatiens ca ensi ), geum (Geum canadense), violets Viola spp.), golden ragwort Senecio aureus). Vines include grape Vitis sp.) and poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). This narrow corridor along the waterways would be utilized by many of the species already listed. Portions of this community have been disturbed and would be limited in its ability to support a unique faunal community. 3.2 Aquatic Community The vegetation along this stream should provide a good supply of terrestrial dedritus to provide food chain energy. The dedritus is decomposed by bacteria or consumed by macroinvertebrates, such as acquatic insects. Aquatic invertebrates are a major component of stream ecosystems, as primary and secondary consumers, and as prey species for organisms higher in the food chain. Aquatic invertebrates, including crayfish (Cambaridae) and insects are present in Henry Fork. 8 1. Gamefish such as smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), redbreast sunfish e omi auritu ), and trout (Oncorh nchus mykiss) (Salmo trutta) are present in Henry Fork, according to Bob Brown, N.C. Inland Fisheries Biologist. Other species likely to be at this site include striped jumprock (Moxostoma rupiscartes), bluehead chub Nocomis latocenhalus), rosyside dace (Clinostomus funduloides), stoneroller (CaMostorn anomalum), white sucker (Catostomus commersoni), suckermouth redhorse (Moxostoma patmi? osum), and Santee chub C rinella zanema). Representatives of all vertebrate classes are integral parts of the aquatic community. Salamanders present may include the northern dusky salamander (Desmognathus fuscus) and the two-lined salamander cea bislineata). Frogs that prey on aquatic insects may include pickerel frog (Rana alp ustris) and bullfrog (R. catesbeian a). Reptiles would be represented by the queen snake Re ina septenvittata), northern water snake Nerodia si edon) and snapping turtle Ch( elydra serpentina). These snakes feed on crayfish, small fish, amphibians. The snapping turtle feeds on plant material, aquatic invertebrates, and carrion. Belted kingfishers (Meeaceryle alycon) nests within stream banks and feeds on small fish. Mammals likely to be closely associated with the aquatic community include the semiaquatic muskrat Ondatra zibethicus), raccoon, and mink Mustela vison mink) muskrats are primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic plant roots and tubers but may also feed on shellfish when present. Raccoons and mink utilize a variety of aquatic foods. 3.3 Anticipated Impacts: Biotic Communities Biotic community impacts, resulting from project construction are being addressed separately as terrestrial impacts and aquatic impacts. However, it is important to understand that construction impacts may not be restricted to the community in which the construction activity occurs. All measures possible should be taken to ensure no ,ediment leaves the construction site. 3.3.1 Terrestrial The natural communities that once occurred in the project area have been mented and reduced as a result of previous development. However, since the ,,xoposed construction plans to follow the sarne route as the existing, roadway and Gt;( and maintain the same 60 ft right-of-way that now exists, little additional disturbance or 9 fragmentation of habitat will occur. According to the aerial photograph's indications, the project length extends approximately 195.0 m (650 ft) with a proposed right-of-way of 18 m (60 ft). TABLE 2. Estimated Impacts to Terrestrial Communities Community Type Hectare (acre) Man-Dominated 0.06 (0.14) Dry-Mesic Oak-Hickory Forest 0.04 (0.1) Piedmont/Low Mountain Alluvial Forest 0.24 (0.6) Total 0.34 (0.84) 3.3.2 Aquatic The aquatic component of the project area recieves some siltation from fields along its banks. Project construction is likely to increase sediment loads in Henry Fork temporarily. Any erosion along the small unnamed tributary that flows at the foot of the current road fill will also add to the sediment load in Henry Fork. Construction-related sedimentation can be harmful to local populations of invertebrates which form an important part of the food chains for both aquatic and terrestrial animals. Less mobile organisms may be covered and smothered by the sediment. Local fish populations can also be harmed by construction-related activities. Increased sedimentation and suspended particulates can smother fish eggs, reduce the water's oxygen carrying capacity, change the temperature of the water, reduce depth of light penetration in the water column, and alter spawning habits. The NCWRC stated that they were "especially concerned with protecting this habitat for smallmouth bass from sedimentation and other degradation. "Bridge construction must be accomplished so that wet concrete does not come in contact with river water in order to reduce the possibility of causing a fish kill." Other concerns at this site would relate to the possibility of increased concentrations of toxic compounds (gasoline, oil, etc.) reaching the stream from construction machinery. Best Management Practices (BMW's) for protection of surface waters must be strictly followed to insure the biological integrity and water quality of this stream. 4.0 SPECIAL TOPICS 4.1 Waters of the United States Wetlands and surface waters fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United States" as defined in 33 CFR 328.3 and in accordance with provisions of section 10 404 of The Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344) and are regulated by the U.S. Army Corps. of Engineers (COE). Potential wetland communities were evaluated using the criteria specified in the 1987 "U.S. Army Corps. of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual". For an area to be a "wetland," the following three specifications must be met: 1) presence of hydric soils, 2) presence of hydrophytic vegetation, and 3) evidence of hydrology, or hydrological indicators, including: saturated soils, stained oxidized rhizospheres, matted vegetation, high water marks on trees, buttressed tree bases, and surface roots. . No wetland communities were identified within this project ROW. Construction of the proposed project will have no impacts on any jurisdictional wetlands. 4.1.1 Permits Construction is likely to be authorized by provisions of General Nationwide permit 33 CFR 330.5 (A)-23. Burke County is one of 25 counties designated as having trout waters. Projects in these counties must be reviewed and approved by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission prior to the issuance of the COE permit. Also, Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) requires that the state issue or deny water quality certification for any federally permitted or licensed activity that may result in a discharge to the waters of the United States prior to issuance of COE permits. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission states that this construction site lies downstream of the section of Henry Fork that is Hatchery Supported Designated Public Mountain Trout Water's consequently, trout are not an issue at this site. 4.1.2. Mitigation Since this project will likely be authorized under a Nationwide permit, mitigation for impacts to surface waters is generally not required by the COE. A final determined regarding mitigation requirements rests with COE. 4.2 Rare or Protected Species Federal law requires that any action, which has the potential to have a detrimental impact to the survival and well-being of any species classified as federally protected, is subject to review by the FWS and/or the National Marine Fisheries service, under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended. Endangered species receive additional protection under separate state statutes. In North Carolina protection of plant species falls under N.C. General statutes (G.S.) 106-202.12 to 106- 202.19 of 1979. Wildlife protection falls under G.S. 113-331 to 113-337 of 1987. 11 4.2.1 Federally Protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE) and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of The Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) lists 6 federally protected species for Burke County as of July 8, 1994. These species are listed in Table 2. A discussion of each species follows. TABLE 3 Federally Protected Species for Burke County Scientific Name Common Name Status BIRDS Falco peregrinus anatum American peregrine falcon E PLANTS Geum ra iatum* Spreading avens E Isotria medeoloides Small whorled pogonia E Hexast?s naniflora Dwarf-flowered heartleaf T Hedyotis 12mmured var montana Roan Mt. Bluet E Hudsonia montan a Mountain golden-heather T Liatris helleri Heller's blazing star T E (Endangered): A taxon that is threatened with extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. T (Threatened): A taxon that is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future. * Indicates no specimen from Burke County in at least 20 years. Falco peregrinus anatum (American peregrine falcon) E Animal Family: Falconidae Date Listed: 10113/70; 6/2/70; 3/20/70 Distribution in N.C.: Avery, Burke, Jackson, Madison, Surry, Transylvania, Wilkes. The American peregrine falcon is a raptor found throughout the United States in areas with high cliffs, high ledges and adjacent open land for foraging. Nesting for the falcons is generally on high cliff ledges but they may also nest in broken off tree tops in the eastern deciduous forest and on skyscrapers and bridges in urban areas. 12 Prey for the peregrine falcon consists of small mammals and birds. They occupy a range from 0.6 to 311 sq lams (.25 to 120 sq mi) depending on the availability of food. The hunting range usually extends 16 km (10 mi) from the nest. Nesting occurs from mid-March to May. The anatum subspecies of the peregrine falcon is intermediate in coloring. The back is dark gray and the underside is off-white to tannish with dark barring. This subspecies appears slightly larger than the tundriu subspecies and has a wider black wedge forming the side of the helmet. Males of this species grow to an average length of 0.4 m (16 in) and females average 0.5 m (2C in) in length. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: No effect. The majority of the study area is supported by disturbed vegetation and does not support suitable habitat for the American peregrine falcon. No impacts to the American peregrine falcon will occur from proposed construction., Geum radiatum (spreading avens) E Plant Family: Rosaceae Federally Listed: April 5, 1990 Flowers Present: June - early July Distribution in N.C.: Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Mitchell, Stokes, Transylvania, Watauga, Yancey. This species is found only in the North Carolina and Tennessee sections of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Known populations in Burke County have been extirpated and populations in other counties have shown a serious decline. Stems of this perennial herb grow from horizontal rhizomes and obtain a height of 0.2-0.5 m (S-20 in). The stems are topped with an indefinite cyme of bright yellow radially symmetrical flowers. Basal leaves are odd-pinnately compound, terminal leaflets are kidney shaped and much larger than the lateral leaflets, which are reduced or absent. Leaflets have lobed or uneven margins and are serrate, with long petioles. Stem leaves are smaller than the basal, rounded to obovate, with irregularly cut margins. Fruits are hemispheric aggregates of hairy achenes that are 7-9 mm (0.3-0.4 in) in diameter. Spreading avens occurs on scarps, bluffs, cliffs, and escarpments on mountains, hills, and ridges. Habitat requirements for this species include full sunlight, high elevations, and shallow acidic soils. The spreading avens is found in soils composed of sand, pebbles, humus, sandy loam, clay loam, and humus. Most populations are pioneers on rocky outcrops. 13 BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: No effect. The study area does not support suitable habitat for spreading avens. No impacts to spreading avens will occur from proposed construction. Isotria medeoloides (small-whorled pogonia) E Plant Family: Orchidaceae Federally Listed: September 10, 1982 Flowers Present: mid-May through mid-June Distribution in N.C.: Burke, Harnett, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Surry. The small-whorled pogonia was known historically from Maine to Georgia, with the exception of Delaware, along the eastern seaboard and in Michigan, Illinois, and Missouri. In North Carolina it is found in the Nantahala National Forest, Macon County and near the town of Flat Rock, Henderson County. This perennial orchid has long pubescent roots and a hollow stem 0.1 to 0.3 m (4 to 12 in) tall. Stems terminate in a whorl of five or six light green, elliptical leaves that are somewhat pointed. Leaves measure approximately 80 x 40 mm (3 x 2 in). One or two light green flowers are produced at the end of the stem. Flowers have short sepals that are only 25 mm (1 in) long. The small-whorled pogonia grows in "second growth deciduous" or deciduous- coniferous forests, with an open canopy, open shrub layer, and sparse herb layer. It prefers acidic soils. Flowering is inhibited in areas where there is relatively high shrub coverage or high sapling density. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: No effect. The study area does not support suitable habitat for small-whorled pogonia. No impacts to small-whorled pogonia will occur from proposed construction. Hexas lis naniflora (dwarf-flowered heartleaf) T Plant Family: Aristolochiaeae Federally Listed: April 14, 1989 Flowers Present: mid-March through mid-May Distribution in N.C.: Burke, Catawba, Cleveland, Lincoln, Rutherford The dwarf-flowered heartleaf is found only in eight northern piedmont counties in North Carolina and the adjacent portions of South Carolina. . ? ??? ?/ _ ? .14, ?`'/ ice) / - `_ /' I .,1 r? / I - I _ '??•-• u? •f 99 rf? o. s 400, ??)(''/?t?l".? ?i'??,`'??\?•?,?.?`\ ;`;?;:; ol? 9R1DGE:NO.•309 .. - / _ ??:, .. _ ?_ ??? . e .\ ? I • i Vii,.. . `'`.\ . ; , ?` i? 1 ///^ ? ("? - ?'. ni ? ?'? , x/.760, \ ^ f.a ?' ±rr'+ ?: ? - ^l ,s - _? _•, ? , 1.0 10 vl- Q.i \ 1 ,-• L!•` ?1:??--_ . (•\` (, .-?. ?`\ ?`? 1 `_ - •??' ii/\^?-') Vim` a-b AIN ?utler// /Gro ?Z 'dam" / ? ?d? ?_- - ? ? - ? ? ? - _-' - ?- - - /' . f. iit ? '??• .\i•" .'`'' 14 This plant has heart-shaped leaves, supported by long thin petioles that grow from a subsurface rhizome. It rarely exceeds 0.15 m (6 in) in height. The leaves are dark green in color, evergreen, and leathery. Flowers are small, inconspicuous, jugshaped, and dark brown in color. They are found near the base of the petioles. Fruits mature from mid-May to early July. Dwarf-flowered heartleaf populations are found along bluffs and their adjacent slopes, in boggy areas next to streams and creekheads, and along slopes of nearby hillsides and ravines. It grows in acidic soils in regions with a cool moist climate. Regional vegetation is described as upper piedmont oak-pine forest and as part of the southeastern mixed forest. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: No effect The study area does contain suitable habitat for dwarf-flowered heartleaf. A survey was conducted. No impacts to dwarf-flowered heartleaf will be likely to occur from proposed construction. Hudsonia montana (mountain golden heather) T Plant Family: Cistaceae Federally Listed: October 20, 1980 Flowers Present: mid to late June Distribution in N.C.: Burke, McDowell Mountain golden heather is a low, needle-leaved shrub that is yellow-green in color. It usually grows in clumps 0.1-0.2 m (4-8 in) across and 0.2 m (6 in) high, it sometimes occurs in clumps that are a 0.3 m (12 in) or more across. The leaves from the previous year are retained and appear scale-like on the older branches. Leaves are from 3-7 mm (0.1-0.3 in) long and appear awl-shaped and thread-like. It forms solitary, terminal, lanceolate flowers that are nearly three centimeters across. These yellow flowers have five blunt-tipped petals and 20 to 30 stamens. Fruit capsules have three projecting points at the tips, are roundish, and are found on 13 mm (0.5 in) stalks. Hudsonia montana occurs in weathered rocky soils on mountain tops. It can be found on exposed quartzite ledges in an ecotone between bare rock and heath balds dominated by sand myrtle (Leiophyllum sp.) which merge into pine forest. Plants do live in partially shaded areas, but do not appear to be as healthy as those found in open areas. Critical habitat has been designated in Burke County, North Carolina. 15 BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: No effect The study area does not support suitable habitat for this species. No impact to mountain golden heather will occur from proposed construction. 4.2.2 Federal Candidate and State Protected Species There are eleven federal candidate (C2) species listed for Burke County. Candidate 2 (C2) species are defined as taxa for which there is some evidence of vulnerability, but for which there are not enough data to warrant a listing of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, or Proposed Threatened at this time. These species are mentioned here for information purposes, should they become protected in the future. Surveys for these species were not conducted during site visits, nor were any of these species observed. The North Carolina status of these species is also listed in Table 3. Plants or animals with stte designations of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), or Special Concern (SC), are given protection by the State Endangered Species Act and the N.C. Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979, administered and enforced by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. State designation of E-SC (Endangered-Special Concern) may be collected from the wild and sold under specific regulations. Propagated material only of Special Concern species which are also listed as Endangered or Threatened may be traded or sold under specific regulations. The Watch Category 5 (W5 - rare because of severe decline) includes species which have declined sharply in North Carolina, but which do not appear yet to warrant site-specific monitoring. 16 TABLE 3. Federal Candidate and State Listed Species - Burke County Common Name Status Habitat (Scientific Name) Federal State Mammals_ Eastern woodrat C2 SC NO Neotoma florid magis Clams Brook floater (mussel) C2 T YES (Alasmidont varicosa) Plants A liverwort C2 C NO (Cephaloziella obtusilobula)* Butternut C2 W5 YES Ju lans cinerea) Sweet pinesap C2 C YES (Monotropsis odorata)* A liverwort C2 E NO (Plagiochila caduciloba)* A liverwort C2 C NO (Plagiochila sullivandi var. spinigera)* A liverwort C2 C NO (Plagiochila sullivantii var. sullivantii)* Rock skullcap C2 C NO (Scutellaria saxatilis) Oconee - bells C2 E-SC NO Shortia galacifolia)* Short - styled oconee - bells C2 E-SC NO Shortia galacifolia var. brevislyla)* No specimen from Burke County found in at least 20 years. A search of the NC-NHP data base of rare plants and animals revealed one record of Santee chub C rinella zanema), which is classified as SR (Significantly Rare) in North Carolina, having been collected at Bridge # 309. Species which are classified as SR are not afforded State protection. This species was not surveyed for nor was it observed during the field investigations. 17 5.0 REFERENCES Borror, D.J., N.F. Johnson, C.A. Triplehorn. 1989. An Introduction to the study of Insects. New York, Saunders College. Cowardin, L.M. et. al., 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Daniels, R.B., H.J. Kleiss, S.W. Buol, H.J. Byrd, and J.A. Phillips. 1984. Soil Systems in North Carolina. North Carolina Agricultural Research Service. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina. Environmental Laboratory. 1987. "Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual," Technical report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vickburg, Miss. Federal Interagency Committee for Wetland Delineation. 1989. "Federal Manual for Delineating and Identifying Jurisdictional Wetlands." U.S. Army Corps of Engineering, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and USDA Soil Conservation Service. Washington, D.C. Cooperative Technical Publication. 76 pp. plus appendices. Lee, D.S., J.B. Funderburg, Jr. and M.K. Clark. 1982. A Distributional Survey of North Carolina Mammals. Raleigh, North Carolina Museum of Natural History. LeGrand, Jr., H.E., and Stephan P. Hall. 1993. "Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Animal Species of North Carolina." North Carolina Natural Heritage Program Martof, B.S., W.M. Palmer, J.R. Bailey and J.R. Harrison III. 1980. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Carolinas and Viry-inia. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Menhenick, E.F. 1991. The Freshwater Fishes of North Carolina. N.C. WRC., Raleigh. NCDEHNR-DEM, 1991. Biological Assessment of Water Quality in North Carolina Streams: Benthic Macroinvertebrate Data Base and Long Tern Changes in Water Quality, 1983-1990. 18 NCDEHNR-DEM. 1993. "Classifications and Water Quality Standards Assigned to the i a Waters of the Roanoke River Basin". Raleigh, Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. NCWRC. 1990. "Endangered Wildlife of North Carolina". Raleigh, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Plant Conservation Program. 1991. "List of North Carolina's Endangered, Threatened and Candidate Plant Species". Raleigh, North Carolina Department of Agriculture. Potter, E.F., J.F. Parnell and R.P. Teulings. 1980. Birds of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill, The University.of North Carolina Press. Reed, Porter B., Jr. 1986. "1986 Wetland Plant List for North Carolina". St. Petersburg, Fla. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Radford, A.E., H.E. Ahles and G.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classifications of The Natural Communities of North Carolina. Third Approximation. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, Division of Parks and Recreation, NCDEHNR. U.S. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway Administration. 1981. :Effects of Highways on Wildlife". Report # FHWA/RD-81/067. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1979. Classifications of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States., U.S., Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. Weakley, A.S. 1991. "Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Plant Species of North Carolina". North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Weakley, A.S. 1993. "Natural Heritage Program List of The Rare Plant Species of North Carolina". North Carolina Natural Heritage Program: Division of Parks and Recreation; Department of Environment. Health and Natural Resources. Weakley, Alan S. Flora of the Carolinas and Virginia. 1994. Working draft. N.C. Natural Heritage Program. N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TRANSMITTAL SLIP DATE 9 TO: REP. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG. Erl'r_ GABarn / yl?. ?nVir: an4 FROM: REF. NO. OR ROOM, ¦LDG. ?.. J, Woav, NCDOY Nr ACTION ? NOT[ AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION ? NOT[ AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST ? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FO YOUR APPROVAL ? NOT[ AND SEE M[ ABOUT THIS POR YOUR INFORMATION ? PLEAS[ ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS ? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE ? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT COMMENTS: ?j?a' ,?r. i? I 0 1993 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA WEf.,ANLSu ki)j d? WATFR IiAU%,?,_,,Y c;?=Ciltlf+l , DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT, JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS R. SWIM. HUNT I I I GOVERNOR RO. BOX 25201: RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 SE:CRUTARY September 7, 1993 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Eric Galamb DEM - DEHNR, 6th Floor FROM: L. J. Ward, P. E., Manager (_?Z Planning and Environmental Branch 00 ??? ?`? SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheer the Replacement of Bridge Number 309 on SR 1924" over the Henry Fork River, Burke County, Federal-Aid Project BRZ-1924(1), State Project 8.2851301, TIP Project B-2518 Attached for your review and comments are the Scoping sheets for the subject project (See attached map for project location). The purpose of these sheets and the related review procedure is to have an early "meeting of the minds" as to the scope of work that should be performed and thereby enable us to better implement the project. A Scoping meeting for this project is scheduled for October 12, 1993 at 10:00 A. M. in the Planning and Environmental Branch Conference Room (Room 470). You may provide us with your comments at the meeting or mail them to us prior to that date. Thank you for your assistance in this part of our planning process. If there are any questions about the meeting or the scoping sheets, please call Jay McInnis, Project Planning Engineer, at 733-7842. JAM/plr , Attachment -201 r, C,14 76. 2 ?b /lead fTN t,) ,. ?A44,s 04 , - 9 o! r r t nlle idle Is ? Mc-Y.&H e bldM? t NP dY ? Table Roc1E° r?nl, Em.. 10 ?_ 1 ak Hd?ir.r g R.. I E/ NJrlrurr n Pl ^Mt ?ro.e 8 km 0 1 2 0 1 mile NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH BURKE COUNTY SR 1924, BRIDGE NO. 309 OVER HENRY FORK RIVER T. I. P. PROJECT B - 2518 FIG. 1 BRIDGE PROJECT SCOPING SHEET Date: 9/5/93 Revision Date: Project Development Stage Programming: Planning 1 Design TIP No.: B-2518 State Project No.: 8.2851301 F. A. Project No.: BRZ-1924(1) Division: 13 County: Burke Route.: SR 1924 Purpose of Project: Replace obsolete: bridge Description of Project: Proposed Project involves removal and replacement of Bridge No. 309 on SR 1924 over the Henry Fork River in Burke County. Method of Replacement: 1. Existing Location - road closure: Y 2. Existing Location - on-site detour: 3. Relocation: 4. Other: Will there be special funding participation by municipality, developers. or other? Yes: No: X If yes, by whom and amount: ($): , (s): Page 1 BRIDGE PROJECT SLOPING SHEET Traffic: Current: 700 VPD Design Year: 1,260 VPD TTST: % DT: % Typical Roadway Section: (existing) 16 feet of pavement with one to nine-foot grassed shoulders Existing Structure: Length: 35 meters Width: 5.4 meters 116 feet 18 feet Proposed Structure: S /IMP Bridge - Length: 35 meters Width: 8.meters : 116 feet 28 feet or Culvert - Size: @: meters by: meters feet feet Detour Structure: Bridge - Length: meters Width: meters feet feet or Pipe - Size: millimeters inches Construction Cost (including engineering and contingencies ................................ $325,000 Right of Way Cost (including rel., util,. and acquisition) ................................. $33,000 Force Account Items ................................. Total Cost ........................................ $355,000 TIP Construction Cost ................................ $325,000 TIP Right of Way Cost ................................ $33,000 TIP Total Cost ....................................... $355,000 Page 2 BRIDGE PROJECT SC,'OPItiG SHEET Additional Comments: Two possible detour routes were driven during a visit to the project site. The first route would involve detouring traffic onto SR 1922 south of bridge no. 309, then onto SR 1915 where traffic would return to SR 1924 north of the bridge. The second detour involves using SR 1917, rather, than SR 1918, to return to SR 1924. C Using SR 1922/SR 1918, the length of the detour route would be 3.9 miles. The distance alon SR 1924 is 2.8 miles. 11 Using SR 1922/SR 1917 the length of the detour route would be 3.5 miles. The distance along SR 1924 is 2.7 miles. These possible detour routes are mentioned for information purposes. The decision regarding whether or not to use an on or off-Site detour will be made after considering costs and following coordination with the Division and other Units. Prepared By: Jay McInnis Date: 8-5-93 J, nu RIDGE n•? ?• ?I 19 10}4 EAK \ rnRYNUT -/ - - DETOUR 1 F 2 -- -- - DETOUR 1. • - - - - DETOUR Page 3 BRIDGE PROJECT SCOPING SHEET THE ABOVE SCOPING HAS BEEN REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: HIGHWAY DESIGN ROADWAY DESIGN STRUCTURES DESIGN SERVICES GEOTECHNICAL HYDRAULICS LOC. & SURVEYS PHOTOGRAMMETRY PREL. EST. ENGR. PLANNING & ENVIRON. RIGHT OF WAY R/W UTILITIES TRAFFIC ENGINEERING PROJECT MANAGEMENT COUNTY MANAGER INIT. DATE BOARD OF TRANS. MEMBER SECONDARY ROADS OFF. MGR., PROGRAM & POLICY PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT CONSTRUCTION BRANCH ROADSIDE ENVIRONMENTAL MAINTENANCE BRANCH BRIDGE MAINTENANCE CHIEF ENGINEER-OPER. CHIEF ENGINEER-PRECONS. DIVISION ENGINEER STATEWIDE PLANNING BICYCLE COORDINATOR. FHWA DEPT. OF CULT. RES. INIT. DATE CITY/MUNICIPALITY OTHERS: DEPT. OF EH & NR SCOPE SHEET FOR LOCAL OFFICIALS WILL BE SENT TO DIVISION ENGINEER FOR HANDLING. COMMENTS OR REMARKS: (IF YOU ARE NOT IN AGREEMENT WITH PROPOSED PROJECT SCOPING, NOTE YOUR PROPOSED REVISIONS IN COMMENTS AND REMARKS SECTION AND INITIAL AND DATE AFTER COMMENTS.) PAGE 4 N. C. DEPARTMENT OF'TBANSPORTATION TRANSMITTAL SLIP DATE 11-1 -?3 TO: REF. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG. Ev?r, &e"6 OEHNIR1 OEM. FROM: REF. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG. t t ? m i 03OT ay "Al c d F I l ACTION ? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION ? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST ? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? F R YOUR APPROVAL ? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS "OR YOUR INFORMATION ? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS ? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE ? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT COMMENTS: O NOV - 31993 WETLANCS ('. R,_ WATER U! U I VS' A JAMES B. HUNT, )R. GOVERNOR STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MEMORANDUM TO: November 1, 1993 FROM: SUBJECT: ? d "` 5U1F ? o h DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 File Jay McInnis Project Planning Engineer R. SAMUEL HUNT I I I SECRETARY Bridge No. 309 on SR 1924 over Henry Fork River, Burke County, Federal-Aid Project BRZ-1924(1), State Project 8.2851301, TIP Project B-2518 The scoping meeting for the subject project was held on October 12, 1993 in room 470 of the Highway Building. The following people were in attendance: Eric Galamb Betty C. Yancey Ahmad Mubaslat Joel Howerton Jerry Snead Chris Mathis Tony Houser Brad Stipes Danny Rogers R. M. Girolami Rob Hanson Jay McInnis DEHNR-Division of Environmental Management Right of Way Traffic Control Traffic Control Hydraulics Hydraulics Roadway Design Roadway Design Program Development Structure Design Planning and Environmental Planning and Environmental The subject project proposes to replace Bridge No. 309 on SR 1924 over Henry Fork River in Burke County. Two alternatives for replacing the bridge were discussed. One alternative would involve replacing the bridge in the same location. An off-site detour would be used for this alternative. Two detour routes have been identified. Detour 1 would utilize SR 1922 and 1918. The total length of this detour is 3.9 miles. Detour 2 would utilize SR 1922 and SR 1917. The total length of this detour is 3.5 miles. Detour 2 would require traffic to cross a bridge on SR 1917 that is posted at eight tons, which is one ton less than the posting of Bridge No. 309. G) 4W November 1, 1993 Page 2 The second alternative for replacing the bridge would involve relocating an approximately 1,000-foot portion of SR 1924 to the south. The existing structure would be used to maintain traffic. The Hydraulics Unit recommended replacing Bridge No. 309 in the same location and at the same elevation. This would avoid encroaching on a tributary to Henry Fork located northeast of the bridge. The Roadway Design Unit also recommended replacing the bridge in its existing location. Although relocating the bridge to the south would improve the alignment of SR 1924 somewhat, a curve with a design speed less than 40 MPH would still exist north of the bridge. The consensus of the meeting was to replace the structure in its existing location with some approach work to improve the horizontal alignment. Construction limits for the project would extend 200 feet on either end of the bridge. Henry Fork River has a water quality classification of C. However, the project area is shown on a GIS map as being in a potential high quality water zone. Per conversation with David Foster (DEHNR), this means the area is within one mile of a stream with high quality water. David stated the potential high quality water zones were only temporarily shown on the GIS maps in order to show areas where high quality waters might be present, and are now no longer included on the maps. Based on this, unless the classification of the subject section of the Henry Fork River changes, only normal erosion control measures will be required. The Henry Fork River is not classified as a trout stream. However, Burke County is a trout county. Therefore, a letter of concurrence from the Wildlife Resources Commission will be required as part of the Section 404 permit process. JAM/rfm cc: Scoping participants DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS 5O P.O. BOX 1890 n WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402-1890 REPLY TO ATTENTION OF December 1, 1995 Regulatory Branch Action ID No. 199504510 and Nationwide Permit No. 23 (Approved Categorical Exclusions); TIP No. B-2518 Mr. Frank Vick 0, State of North Carolina ?`f9 Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Vick: Reference your May 31, 1995 application for Department of the Army (DA) authorization to replace Bridge #309 over the Henry Fork River, on S.R. 1924 (Old NC 18), south of Morganton, in Burke County, North Carolina. The bridge will be replaced on existing location and S.R. 1924 will be closed during construction. Traffic will be maintained on existing area roads. Your plans call for replacing the existing 16 feet of pavement with 22 feet of pavement and 6 feet of grassed shoulders. Some realignment of existing roadway may be involved. Project length is 1,000 feet. It is anticipated that there will be a minimal impact to the waters of Henry Fork as a result of the project. No wetlands will be impacted. For the purposes of the Corps of Engineers' Regulatory Program, Title 33, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 330.6, published in the Federal Register on November 22, 1991, lists nationwide permits. Authorization, pursuant to Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, was provided for activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded or financed, in whole or in part, by another Federal agency or department where that agency or department has determined, pursuant to the CEQ Regulation for the Implementing the Procedural Provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act, that the activity, work or discharge is categorically excluded from environmental documentation because it is included within a category of actions which neither individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and the office of the Chief of Engineers has been furnished notice of the agency's or department's application for the categorical exclusion and concurs with that determination. Your work is authorized by this nationwide permit provided it is accomplished in strict accordance with the enclosed conditions, those conditions outlined in the July 17, 1995 WRC comment letter (which you have already received), and provided you receive a Section 401 water quality certification from the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (NCDEM). You should contact Mr. John Dorney, telephone (919) 733-1786, regarding water quality certification. This nationwide permit does not relieve you of the responsibility to obtain other required State or local approval. This verification will be valid until the nationwide permit is modified, reissued or revoked. All the nationwide permits are scheduled to be modified, reissued or revoked prior to 21 January 1997. It is incumbent upon you to remain informed of changes to the nationwide permits. We will issue a public notice announcing the changes when they occur. Furthermore, if you commence or are under contract to commence this activity before the date the nationwide 16. permit is modified or revoked, you will have twelve months from the date of the modification or revocation to complete the activity under the present terms and conditions of this nationwide permit. Questions or comments may be addressed to Mr. Steve Chapin in the Asheville Regulatory office at (704) 271-4856. Sincerely, Robert W. Johnson Office Manager Enclosure Copies Furnished (without enclosure): (./Mr. John Dorney Division of Environmental Management North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources 4401 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, North Carolina 27607 Ms. Stephanie Briggs State of North Carolina Department of Transportation Planning and Environmental Branch Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 ..,t go- DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS 5U P.O. BOX 1890 -, WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402-1890 IF REPLY TO ATTENTION OF December 1, 1995 -- Regulatory Branch Action ID No. 199506065 and Nationwide Permit No. 23 (Approved Categorical Exclusions) Mr. Frank Vick State of North Carolina Department of Transportation Planning and Environmental Branch Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Vick: Reference your September 26, 1995 application for Department of the Army (DA) authorization to replace Bridge Number 72 over North Toe River, on S.R. 1164, near Minneapolis, in Avery County, North Carolina. The bridge will be replaced with a new bridge approximately 33 feet west of the existing structure's centerline. The roadway grade of the new structure will be approximately the same as the existing bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. No wetlands will be impacted by the project and it is anticipated that minimal adverse impacts to the waters of the North Toe River will occur during construction. This project has been coordinated with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC). For the purposes of the Corps of Engineers' Regulatory Program, Title 33, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 330.6, published in the Federal Register on November 22, 1991, lists nationwide permits. Authorization, pursuant to Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, was provided for activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded or financed, in whole or in part, by another Federal agency or department where that agency or department has determined, pursuant to the CEQ Regulation for the Implementing the Procedural Provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act, that the activity, work or discharge is categorically excluded from environmental documentation because it is included within a category of actions which neither individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and the office of the Chief of Engineers has been furnished notice of the agency's or department's application for the categorical exclusion and concurs with that determination. Your work is authorized by this nationwide permit provided it is accomplished in strict accordance with the enclosed conditions, those conditions outlined in the October 13, 1995 WRC comment letter (which you have already received), and provided you receive a Section 401 water quality certification from the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (NCDEM). You should contact Mr. Jahn Dorney, telephone (919) 733-1786, regarding water quality certification. This nationwide permit does not relieve you of the responsibility to obtain other required State or local approval. This verification will be valid until the nationwide permit is modified, reissued or revoked. All the nationwide permits are scheduled to be modified, reissued or revoked prior to 21 January 1997. It is incumbent upon you to remain informed of changes to the nationwide permits. We will issue a public notice announcing the changes when they occur. Furthermore, if you commence or are under contract to commence this activity before the date the nationwide permit is modified or revoked, you will have twelve months from the date of the modification or revocation to complete the activity under the present terms and conditions of this nationwide permit. Questions or comments may be addressed to Mr. Steve Chapin in the Asheville Regulatory office at (704) 271-4856. Sincerely, Robert W. Johnson Office Manager Enclosure Copies Furnished (without enclosure): Ar. John Dorney Division of Environmental Management North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources 4401 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, North Carolina 27607 Ms. Stephanie Briggs State of North Carolina Department of Transportation Planning and Environmental Branch Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201