19960101 Ver 1_Complete File_19980708

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Wayne McDevitt, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
A4
NCDENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
July 10, 1998
Transylvania County
DWQ Project 960101
APPROVAL of 401 Water Quality Certification and ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS
Mr. David Robinson
NC DOT
PO Box 25201
Raleigh, NC 27611-5201
Dear Mr. Robinson:
You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions and those listed below, for the
purpose of bridge replacement, as you described in your application dated July 2, 1998. After reviewing your
application, we have decided that this impact is covered by General Water Quality Certification Number 3026.
This certification allows you to use Nationwide Permit Number 23 when it is issued by the Corps of Engineers.
In addition, you should get any other federal, state or local permits before you go ahead with your project
including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control, Coastal Stormwater, Non-Discharge and Water
Supply Watershed regulations. This approval will expire when the accompanying 404 or CAMA permit
expires unless otherwise specified in the General Certification.
This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application except as
modified below. If you change your project, you must notify us and you may be required to send us a new
application for a new certification. If the property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of this
Certification and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying with all conditions. If total wetland
fills for this project (now or in the future) exceed one acre, compensatory mitigation may be required as
described in 15A NCAC 2H .0506 (h) (6) and (7). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the
conditions listed in the attached certification and any additional conditions listed below.
Sediment and erosion control measures shall adhere to the design standards for sensitive watersheds
(T 15A: 04B .0024).
If you do not accept any of the conditions of this certification, you may ask for an adjudicatory hearing.
You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this letter. To ask for a hearing, send a written
petition conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes to the Office of Administrative
Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7447. This certification and its conditions are final and
binding unless you ask for a hearing.
This letter completes the review of the Division of Water Quality under Section 401 of the Clean Water
Act. If you have any questions, please telephone John Dorney at 919-733-1786.
pinroward, r. P.E.
l
Attachment
cc: Wilmington District Corps of Engineers
Corps of Engineers Asheville Field Office
Asheville DWQ Regional Office
Mr. John Domey
Central Files
960101.Itr
Division of Water Quality • Non-Discharge Branch
4401 Reedy Creek Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607 Telephone [phone] FAX # [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer • 50% recycled/ 10% post consumer paper
I
JAMES B. HUNT JR.
GOVERNOR
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
Asheville Field Office
151 Patton Ave., Room 143
Asheville, North Carolina 28801
ATTENTION: Mr. Steve Lund
NCDOT Coordinator
Dear Sir:
N(61
O
June 30, 1998
E. NORRIS TOLSON
SECRETARY
WETLANDS GROUP
?R Ql1ALITY SECTIMN
SUBJECT: Transylvania County, Replacement of Bridge No. 57 over Beetree Fork on
NC 215. TIP No. B-2172, State Project No. 8.1000701. Federal Aid
Project No. BRSTP-215(2).
Attached for your information is a copy of the project planning report for the subject
project. The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to replace the
existing structure with a new bridge on existing location along with associated approach
improvements. The new structure will span the stream without center piers. Due to the
lack of a reasonable off-site detour and the large amount of excavation that would be
required to replace the bridge on new location, traffic will be maintained on a temporary
on-site detour south of the existing bridge during construction. The detour will utilize
two 72-inch pipes for the crossing of Beetree Fork.
No jurisdictional wetlands will be impacted by this project. Beetree Fork is a tributary of
North Fork French Broad River, designated Wild Public Mountain Trout Water by the
NC Wildlife Resources Commission. In order to protect water quality within Beetree
Fork during construction, High Quality Waters Erosion control Guidelines will be
implemented. A moratorium on in-stream construction activities will be observed from
November 1 through April 15. Furthermore, work that will disturb the streambed will not
be undertaken during periods of expected precipitation from October 1 through April 30.
Construction shall be accomplished so that wet concrete does not contact stream water.
r
1

\ 1,6
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
11.0. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
6)
I
` .
The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical
Exclusion" in accordance with 23 CFR 771.1 15(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 13 December 1996, 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 Water Quality Certification No. 3107 (Categorical
Exclusion) will apply to this project, and are providing one copy of the CE document to
the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water
Quality, for their review. Since this project occurs in a designated trout county, a copy of
this document is also being provided to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission for their
review. Please note the special construction conditions included in the Summary of
project commitments.
If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Mr. Lindsey
Riddick at [phone] extension 315.
Sincerely,
J
D. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
W DG/p lr
Attachments
cc: Mr. David Franklin, COE, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ
Mr. Mark Davis, NCWRC
Mr. Whit Webb, P.E., Program Development Branch
Mr. R. L. Hill, P.E., State Highway Engineer - Design
Mr. A. L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit
Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit
Mr. Tom Shearin, P.E., State Roadway Design Engineer
Mr. F. D. Martin, P.E., Division 14 Engineer
_ST rtT
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS GARLAND B. GARRETT JR.
GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201. RALEIGH. N.C. 27611-5201 SECRETARY
March 22, 1996
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Regulatory Field Office
P. 0. Box 1890
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402-1890
ATTENTION: Mr. Cliff Winefordner
Chief, Southern Section
Dear Sir:
Subject: Transylvania County - Replacement of Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over
Beetree Fork; T.I.P. No. B- 2172; State Project No. 8.1000701
The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to replace the
existing structure with a new bridge on existing location, along with
associated approach improvements. The new structure will span the stream
without center piers. This project is being processed as a Categorical
Exclusion in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). We expect to proceed with
this project under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 33 CFR 330 Appendix
A (B-23) issued November 22, 1991, by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The
provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulations will be
followed in the construction of this project.
No jurisdictional wetlands will be affected by the proposed work.
Beetree Fork is a tributary of North Fork French Broad River, designated a
Wild Public Mountain Trout Water by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.
In order to protect water quality within Beetree Fork during construction,
High Quality Waters Erosion Control Guidelines will be implemented. DEHNR's
mandatory buffer zone restrictions in trout waters will also be observed. A
moratorium on in-stream construction activities will be observed from
November 1 through April 15. Furthermore, work that will disturb the stream
bed shall not be undertaken during periods of expected precipitation from
October 1 through April 30. Construction shall be accomplished so that wet
concrete does not contact stream water.
0
March 22, 1996
Page.2
r
In accordance with current procedures for projects located in the
designated trout counties, the concurrence of WRC must be obtained prior to
construction. By copy of this letter, we hereby request that WRC review the
proposed project and provide any comments they find necessary. A copy of the
CE document is included for the WRC review. Please note the special
construction conditions included in the Summary of Project Commitments.
Thank you for your assistance. If you have any questions, please call
Cyndi Bell at [phone], Extension 306.
Sincerely,
H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
HFV/tp
Attachment
cc: Steve Lund, COE, Asheville Field Office
David Yow, WRC, Asheville
John Dorney, DEM, Water Quality Section
Kelly Barger, P. E., Program Development
Don Morton, P. E., Highway Design
A. L. Hankins, P. E., Hydraulics
John L. Smith, Jr., P. E., Structure Design
Tom Shearin, P. E., Roadway Design
F. D. Martin, P. E., Division 14 Engineer
Jeff Ingham, Planning & Environmental
NC 215
Transylvania County
Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over Beetree Fork
Federal Aid No. BRSTP-215(2)
State Project No. 8.1000701
T.I.P. No. B-2172
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
N.C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
APPROVED:
- Z 2- cj,< -11" L -
Date H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
r Plan ing and Environmental Branch
/-31-Y c,
Date Nicholas "L. Graf, P.E., Division Administrator
/Federal Highway Administration
NC 215
Transylvania County
Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over Beetree Fork
Federal Aid No. BRSTP-215(2)
State Project No. 8.1000701
T.I.P. No. B-2172
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
January 1996
Documentation Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By:
."1?4z--
Jeff ham
Project Planning Engineer
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Wayne Iliott
Bridge Project Planning Engineer, Unit Head
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Lubin V. Prevatt, P.E., Assistant Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
SEAL
6916
NC 215
Transylvania County
Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over Beetree Fork
Federal Aid No. BRSTP-215(2)
State Project No. 8.1000701
T.I.P. No. B-2172
1. SUMMARY OF PROJECT
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace
Bridge No. 57 in Transylvania County. It crosses over Beetree Fork (Figure 1). NCDOT
includes this bridge in the 1996-2002 Transportation Improvement Program (T.I.P.) as a
bridge replacement project. NCDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
classify this project as a federal Categorical Exclusion. These agencies expect no
significant environmental impacts.
NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 57 at the existing location as shown in Figure 2.
NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a bridge approximately 25 meters (82
feet) long. The new bridge will provide a 6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus a 0.6-
meter (2.0-foot) wide offset on each side. The project will require approximately 110
meters (360 feet) of roadway approach work. The new roadway approaches will have a
6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus 1.2-meter (4-foot) grassed shoulders at
approximately the same grade as the existing roadway. The completed project will
provide a design speed of approximately 50 km/h (30 mph). During construction, traffic
will be maintained on a temporary on-site detour south of the existing bridge (as shown in
Figure 2). The structure for this detour will be two 1800-millimeter (72-inch) pipes. The
temporary alignment will be approximately 85 meters (280 feet) long and provide a design
speed of approximately 30 km/h (20 mph).
The estimated cost is $467,000, including $450,000 for construction and $17,000
for right of way. The funding shown in the 1996-2002 T.I.P. is $392,000.
II. ANTICIPATED DESIGN EXCEPTIONS
Due to design speed, a design exception may be required for the project.
M. SUMMARY OF PROJECT COMMITMENTS
NCDOT will implement High Quality Waters Erosion Control measures
throughout construction. Silt fences, hay bales, or other appropriate erosion control
devices will be installed prior to any ground disturbance within 15.2 meters (50 feet) of
Beetree Fork. These devices will be maintained throughout construction, or until
sufficient ground cover is established on bare soils.
NCDOT will conform to an in-water construction moratorium from 1 November
to 15 April (furthermore, from 1 October to 30 April, work that will disturb the stream
bed shall not be undertaken during periods of expected precipitation). The existing bridge
will be replaced with a structure that will span the stream without center piers.
Construction will be accomplished so that wet concrete does not contact stream water.
Trees and shrubs removed during construction will be replaced to provide shade and bank
stability. Designated trout waters buffer zones must meet the following provisions:
(a) The 7.5-meter (25 foot) minimum width for an undisturbed buffer zone adjacent to
designated trout waters shall be measured horizontally from the top of the bank.
(b) Where a temporary and minimal disturbance is permitted as an exception by G.S.
113A-57 (1), land-disturbing activities in the buffer zone adjacent to designated
trout waters shall be limited to a maximum of ten percent of the total length of the
buffer zone within the tract to be disturbed such that there is not more than 30
linear meters (100 linear feet) of disturbance in each 305 linear meters (1000 linear
feet) of buffer zone. Larger areas may be disturbed with the written approval of
the Regional Engineer of the Land Quality Section, Division of Land Resources.
(c) No land-disturbing activity shall be undertaken within a buffer zone adjacent to
designated trout waters that will cause adverse temperature fluctuations, as set
forth in 15A NCAC 2B .0211 "Fresh Surface Water Classification and Standards,"
in these waters.
If the project requires relocating the stream extending for a distance in excess of
30.0 meters (100 feet) or 15.0 meters (50 feet) on one side of the crossing, consultation
with the NCWRC will be required. The portion of relocated stream will be designed to
have similar characteristics (depth, width, and substrate) as the original stream. This also
includes re-establishment of streamside vegetation.
This project will be reviewed under Section 26a of the Tennessee Valley Authority
(TVA) Act. The final bridge plans, hydraulic analysis of the effects of the replacement
structure on the 100-year flood elevation, and notice of compliance with the Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 will be forwarded to TVA for approval under Section 26a.
A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM) Section 401
Water Quality General Certification will be obtained prior to issue of the Corps of
Engineers Nationwide permit No. 23.
W. EXISTING CONDITIONS
NCDOT classifies NC 215 as a Rural Major Collector in the Statewide Functional
Classification System.
Near Bridge No. 57, NC 215 is a two lane paved road, 6.6 meters (22 feet) wide
with 1.5-meter (5-foot) grass shoulders. The topography in the project area is
mountainous; therefore the vertical and horizontal alignment in the area are steep and
winding.
In the project area, NC 215 serves travelers through the Pisgah National Forest. It
connects Haywood and Jackson Counties to Transylvania County (see Figure 1). There
are no residences, businesses, schools, or other development along NC 215 in the project
area.
The speed limit on NC 215 is not posted in the project area.
Existing right of way width in the project area is approximately 183 meters (60
feet).
Bridge No. 57 is 13.1 meters (43 feet) long and 6.1 meters (20 feet) wide. The
deck is approximately 4 meters (13 feet) above the stream. Water depth is approximately
0.3 meter (1 foot) in the project area.
NCDOT built Bridge No. 57 in 1936. It has a reinforced concrete floor on I-
beams and vertical reinforced concrete abutments (Figure 3). It carries two lanes of traffic
and is currently unposted.
According to Bridge Maintenance Unit records, the current sufficiency rating of
Bridge No. 57 is 59.1 of a possible 100.0 with an estimated remaining life of five years.
The previous rating was 47.5 prior to recent upgrading.
The current traffic volume is 300 VPD, projected to 500 VPD for the year 2017.
Truck percentages are 1% TTST and 3% dual-tired vehicles.
Traffic Engineering records indicate no accidents occurred in the vicinity of Bridge
No. 57 between 1 July 1992 and 3 June 1995.
The Transportation Director for Transylvania County Schools indicated there are
no school bus crossings of the subject bridge.
V. ALTERNATES
NCDOT studied one alignment for replacing Bridge No. 57. This alignment will
be on existing location. Traffic will be maintained on a temporary detour south of the
existing alignment. NCDOT studied three alternate replacement structures.
Alternate 1 would replace Bridge No. 57 with a two barrel, bottomless culvert.
Each barrel would be 2.4 meters x 2.4 meters (8 feet x 8 feet).
Alternate 2 would replace Bridge No. 57 with a con-span or crown-span structure
of equivalent dimension to the bottomless culvert described in Alternate 1.
Alternate 3 (Recommended) will replace Bridge No. 57 with a bridge
approximately 25 meters (82 feet) long and 7.8 meters (26 feet wide). The replacement
bridge will provide a 6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus a 0.6-meter (2-foot) offset
on each side.
NCDOT reviewed replacement on new location, south of the existing alignment.
This alternate is not practicable due to extensive excavation in the rock mountain south of
the existing alignment.
Closing the road during construction is not a reasonable alternate. There is no
reasonable detour route available to handle traffic.
The "do-nothing" alternate is not practical. The bridge would continue
deteriorating until unusable. This would require closing the road, or continued intensive
maintenance. Rehabilitation of the existing deteriorating bridge is neither practical nor
economical.
VI. COST ESTIMATES
Table 1 shows the estimated costs and component costs of the alternates.
Table l . Cost Estimates
COMPONENT ALTERNATE I ALTERNATE 2 ALTERNATE 3
(RECO
STRUCTURE $ 107,400 $ 145,000 $ 157,900
STRUCTURE REMOVAL 10.000 10,000 10,000
ROADWAY APPROACHES 72.100 72.100 67.300
TEMPORARY DETOUR 60,800 60,800 60,900
MOBILIZATION AND
MISCELLANEOUS
84,700
72.100
93.900
ENGINEERING AND
CONTINGENCIES
65.000
65,000
60,000
TOTAL CONSTRUCTION $ 400.000 $ 425,000 $ 450,000
LRIGHT OF WAY $ 17,000 $ 17,000 $ 17,000
TOTAL COST ESTIMATE $ 417,000 $ 442,000 $ 467,000
VI. RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 57 at the existing location as shown in Figure 2.
NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a bridge approximately 25 meters
(82 feet) long. The new bridge will provide a 6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus a
0.6-meter (2.0-foot) wide offset on each side.
The completed project will provide a design speed of approximately 50 km/h (30
mph). The project will require approximately 110 meters (360 feet) of roadway approach
work. The new roadway approaches will have a 6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus
1.2-meter (4-foot) grass shoulders at approximately the same grade as the existing
roadway. If the design requires guardrail, the shoulders will be 2.2 meters (7 feet) wide.
During construction, traffic will be maintained on a temporary on-site detour south
of the existing bridge (as shown in Figure 2). The structure for this detour will be two
1800-millimeter (72-inch) pipes. The temporary alignment will be approximately 85
meters (280 feet) long and provide a design speed of approximately 30 km/h (20 mph).
NCDOT recommends Alternate 3 because it will be more easily constructed than a
culvert or conspan/crownspan structure and will span the entire stream, which has been
requested by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
The division engineer concurs with the Alternate 3 recommendation.
Construction of Alternate 3 will not increase the 100-year flood elevation by more
than 30 centimeters (12 inches). Figure 4 shows the 100-year flood boundaries.
Construction of Alternate 3 will not place significant amounts of fill in the floodplain area.
Foundation investigations will be required on this project. The investigations will
include test borings in soil and/or rock for in-situ testing as well as obtaining samples for
laboratory testing. This may require test borings in streams and/or wetlands.
NCDOT expects utility conflicts to be low.
VII. NATURAL SYSTEMS CHARACTERISTICS AND EFFECTS
A. Overview
An NCDOT staff biologist conducted research prior to field investigations.
Information sources used in this research of the study area included: U. S. Geological
Survey (USGS) quadrangle maps (Rosman, Sam Knob) and an NCDOT aerial photo of
the project area (1:1200). The biologist obtained water resource information from
publications of the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR,
1993) and from the NC Center for Geographic Information and Analysis (Environmental
Sensitivity Base Map of Transylvania County). Information concerning the occurrence of
federal and state protected species in the study area was gathered from the United States
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) list of protected and candidate species and the N.C.
Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database of rare species and unique habitats.
The biologist conducted general field surveys along the proposed alignment on 13
October 1994 and identified and recorded plant communities and wildlife. The biologist
conducted cursory studies for benthos and mobile aquatic organisms using tactile searches.
The biologist identified and released organisms captured during these searches. The
biologist determined jurisdictional wetlands using delineation criteria prescribed in the
"Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual" (Environmental Laboratory, 1987).
B. Soils and Topography
Table 2 provides an inventory of specific soil types that occur in the project area.
Table 2. Soils in the Proiect Area
Mapping Unit Symbol Percent Slope
Ashe/Edne ille Association AnF 25-45
Suncook loam sand Su 0-5
Note: No hydric soils are present at the project site.
The Ashe/Edneyville soils are intermixed in this mapping unit due to similar
coloration, particle size, rapid drainage characteristics and a relatively shallow depth to
parent material, about 760 millimeters (30 inches). Factors contributing to the
development of this soil are slope, mean annual temperature, and precipitation of the
region.
Suncook loamy sand is found in the narrow floodplain of North Fork French
Broad River. This soil is nearly level and is subject to very frequent flooding of brief
duration. Deposition from flood events has contributed to the development of this soil
type along the river system. These soils have been primarily created by the chemical and
physical weathering of biotite gneiss and other minerals found within the Ashe
Metamorphic Suite and Tallulah Falls Formation.
Transylvania County lies in the mountain physiographic province. The topography
of Transylvania County is characterized by severely sloping hills with associated narrow
floodplains. The project area is dominated by mountain forest cover.
C. Biotic Communities
1. Terrestrial Communities
The two distinct biotic communities identified in the project study area are
maintained roadside and hardwood forest. Many faunal species are highly adaptive and
may populate the entire range of terrestrial communities discussed.
The maintained roadside community is kept in a low-growing, non-successional
state through periodic mowing. This community consists primarily of well maintained
herbaceous vegetation, including fescue, plantain, clover, chickweed, and aster. Species
such as goldenrod, rose, and blackberry occur in less maintained areas. Maintained
roadsides serve primarily as a foraging habitat for various species of birds and mammals
which feed on seeds, berries and roots.
The hardwood forest community is along the river banks, ridges, and side slopes in
the well-drained soils of the area. This forest is well-stratified with some evidence of
disturbance (e.g. access road). The canopy species in dominance are tuliptree, red maple,
and black locust. The understory species are comprised of sapling of the canopy
representatives, as well as rhododendron, and striped maple. Mountain laurel, blueberry,
an&hydrangea are common shrubs found in the area. The herbaceous layer consists of
running cedar, Indian cucumber, and members of the mint family. Dutchman's pipe
appears to be the most common woody vine found in the project area.
Mountain hardwood forests produce a variety of hard and soft mast which
supports many bird species. The diverse layering of vegetation also attracts many different
bird species.
Mammals also use the abundant cover and forage provided by this forest
The stream habitat provides favorable conditions for several salamanders and other
amphibians.
2. Aquatic Communities
Beetree Fork is a tributary of North Fork French Broad River, designated a Wild
Public Mountain Trout Water by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). The
designation of Wild signifies that self-sustaining trout populations exist and no stocking
efforts are attempted in the stream. Although conditions were unfavorable during site
investigation for aquatic species surveys, this water body has been documented as
exhibiting excellent biodiversity.
A diverse fish community exists in this stream system. According the NCWRC,
the clean well oxygenated waters within the project area support a wide variety of fish like
rainbow trout, brown trout, and most commonly, brook trout, which serve as the
6
predominant aquatic predators of the stream. The central stoneroller, creek chub,
longnose dace, blacknose dace, northern hog sucker, and Swannanoa darter are common
in this mountain stream.
The rocky substrate provides excellent habitat for aquatic invertebrate foraging,
cover and breeding. These species are the primary food source for the diverse fish
community present in this system.
3. Summary of Anticipated Community Impacts
Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic
communities described. Any construction-related activities in or near these resources have
the potential to impact biological functions. This section quantifies and qualifies impacts
to the natural resources in terms of area impacted and ecosystems affected. Temporary
and permanent impacts are considered here as well.
The detour alignment will disrupt the habitat that many species are using for either
cover or forage. The proposed project is likely to result in new population dynamics
within the affected communities. The detour alignment will temporarily modify the
forested habitat, displacing mobile species and eliminating those individuals that are unable
to migrate out of the project area.
Species found within the maintained community are predominantly edge-adapted
species which are well adapted to disturbed environments and will likely be minimally
impacted by the proposed construction. Moreover, the habitat loss resulting from the
proposed project will be-replaced, making the impacts short term. The temporary detour
roadway will be removed at the completion of construction, augmenting habitat in the
study area, especially if a variety of native vegetation is planted. This increase in habitat
will be short term in scope due to natural succession.
The construction of the proposed project could cause an initial increase in
sedimentation caused by construction equipment and/or materials. These impacts may be
short term. However, the potential exists for long term degradation of the terrestrial
communities and the high quality water resources of the area. Water quality is likely to be
affected if any demolition of a prominent rock ledge located on the southwest side of the
project crossing occurs. The large amount of debris produced from this type of slope
modification increases the probability of the downslope movement of boulders, rock
fragments, and sediments into the water resource. These influxes of material can
potentially interrupt and/or vary the velocity of the stream causing increased turbidity and
suspended sediment levels, especially during periods of high flow. Coupled with this
potential is the impact of construction activity throughout the remainder of the project
area.
These impacts could potentially last for long periods of time, and most aquatic and
semi-aquatic organisms are extremely sensitive to high sediment loads, as well as
introduced toxins from construction. The installation of the new bridge and its associated
approach work could cause the loss of many of the organisms previously mentioned and
change the water quality at and downstream of the proposed project.
Due to the Trout Waters and significantly sloping landscape in the project area,
High Quality Waters Erosion Control Guidelines will be implemented throughout
construction. The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR)
Sedimentation Commission has mandated the use of buffer zones and their requirements
along trout waters (G.S. 113A-54(b); 113A-54(c)(1); 113A-57(1); Eff. May 1, 1990.
Designated trout waters buffer zones must meet the following provisions:
(a) The 7.5-meter (25-foot) minimum width for an undisturbed buffer zone adjacent to
designated trout waters shall be measured horizontally from the top of the bank.
(b) Where a temporary and minimal disturbance is permitted as an exception by G.S.
113A-57 (1), land-disturbing activities in the buffer zone adjacent to designated
trout waters shall be limited to a maximum of ten percent of the total length of the
buffer zone within the tract to be disturbed such that there is not more than 30
linear meters (100 linear feet) of disturbance in each 305 linear meters (1000 linear
feet) of buffer zone. Larger areas may be disturbed with the written approval of
the Regional Engineer of the Land Quality Section, Division of Land Resources.
(c) No land-disturbing activity shall be undertaken within a buffer zone adjacent to
designated trout waters that will cause adverse temperature fluctuations, as set
forth in 15A NCAC 2B .0211 "Fresh Surface Water Classification and Standards,"
in these waters.
In a biological context, it is recommended that the proposed bridge and approach
construction be conducted as near to the current alignment as possible in order to
minimize biological impacts.
Calculated impacts to terrestrial resources reflect the relative abundance of each
community present in the study area. Project construction will result in clearing and
degradation of portions of these communities. Table 3 summarizes potential quantitative
losses to these biotic communities. The basis for estimated impacts is the entire proposed
right of way width of 24.4 meters (80 feet) which extends for 110 meters (360 feet).
Usually, project construction does not require the entire right of way; therefore, actual
impacts may be less.
Table 3. Antici ated Impacts to Biotic Co unities
COMMUNITY NEW ALIGNMENT
Maintained Roadside <0.1 ha 0.1 ac
Hardwood Forest 0.2 ha 0.5 ac
Total Impacts <0.3 ha 0.6 ac
D. Water Resources
The proposed project is found in the French Broad River Basin. Bridge No. 57
crosses Beetree Fork, a tributary of the North Fork French Broad River. The headwaters
of North Fork French Broad River are approximately 6.0 kilometers (3.75 miles)
northwest of Balsam Grove, which is located 4.6 kilometers (2.75 miles) southeast of the
project. Stream channel width was approximately 3.6 meters (12.0 feet) at the time of the
site visit. The water depth varied from 0.2 meters to 0.9 meters (0.5 feet to 3.0 feet).
Stream level was well below the stream bank capacity. The substrate present ranged from
gravel to boulder and was accompanied by small areas of sand deposition. The flow rate
was very rapid with excellent water clarity. The high flow rate can partially be attributed
to 24 hours of consistent rainfall prior to site visitation.
8
Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the Division of
Environmental Management (DEM). Beetree Fork has a "C Tr HQW" classification. The
"C" classification denotes that the water resource is utilized for the propagation and
survival of aquatic life, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. "Tr"
signifies the water resource as being suitable for natural propagation and maintenance of
stocked trout. The High Quality Waters "HQW" designation is a supplemental
classification indicating waters rated as excellent based on biological, physical and
chemical characteristics through monitoring or special studies.
The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) is managed by DEM
and is part of an ongoing ambient water quality monitoring program which addresses long
term trends in water quality. The program assesses water quality by sampling for selected
benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites. Macroinvertebrates are
sensitive to very subtle changes in water quality; thus, the species richness and overall
biomass reflect water quality. The BMAN rating for North Fork French Broad River is
excellent along NC 215 in Transylvania County.
Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through
the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. A registered
domestic discharger (Ziegler Trout Farm) is on North Fork French Broad River,
approximately 3.2 kilometers (2.0 miles) downstream of the project. This discharger is
unlikely to influence the project waters due to its location on a separate branch of the river
system.
Potential impacts-to the waters of North Fork French Broad River, resulting from
construction-related sedimentation and turbidity, include decreases of dissolved oxygen in
the water and changes in temperature, as a result of vegetation loss and reduction of water
clarity. Alterations of water level, due to interruptions in surface and ground water flow
and increased concentrations of toxic compounds from highway runoff during
construction are other possible impacts that will affect water quality on Beetree Fork. In-
stream activity is anticipated for construction of the spanning structure. The NCWRC has
imposed a 1 November to 15 April moratorium for in-stream construction activities.
High Quality Waters erosion control measures will be implemented throughout
construction.
The project is in the jurisdiction of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA),
Division 2 Land Management Office (Morristown Tenn.). Coordination with TVA
Division 2 office will be necessary.
If the project requires relocating the stream extending for a distance in excess of
30.0 meters (100 feet) or 15.0 meters (50 feet) on one side of the crossing, consultation
with the NCWRC will be required. The portion of relocated stream will be designed to
have similar characteristics (depth, width, and substrate) as the original stream. This also
includes re-establishment of streamside vegetation.
E. Jurisdictional Issues
1. Wetlands and Surface Waters
Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the
United States," as defined in Section 33 of the Code of Federal Register (CFR) Part 328.3.
Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR 328.3, are those areas that are inundated or saturated by
surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under
normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted to life in
saturated conditions. Any action that proposes to place fill into these areas falls under the
jurisdiction of -he U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean
Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344).
Criteria to delineate jurisdictional wetlands include evidence of hydric soils,
hydrophytic vegetation and hydrology based upon the COE 1987 Wetland Delineation
Manual. Proposed construction at Beetree Fork will impact surface waters. No
jurisdictional wetlands occur in the project area.
Transylvania County is one of 25 counties which may contain North Carolina
Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) designated "Trout Waters." General permits
are not available in these counties without consent from the NCWRC. A Nationwide
permit 33 CFR 330.5 (A) 23, for impacts to surface waters of Beetree Fork, is likely to be
applicable if the NCWRC certifies that construction of this project will not adversely affect
these trout waters. This permit authorizes activities undertaken, assisted, authorized,
regulated, funded or financed in whole or in part, by another Federal agency or
department. Projects are categorically excluded from environmental documentation,
because their construction will neither individually or cumulatively have a significant
environmental effect. Final permit decisions he with the Army Corps of Engineers (COE).
A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM) Section 401
Water Quality General Certification is required prior to the issuance of the nationwide
permit No. 23. Section 401 Certification allows surface waters to be temporarily impacted
for the duration of the construction or other land manipulations.
Projects authorized under nationwide permits usually do not require compensatory
mitigation according to the 1989 Memorandum Agreement between the Environmental
Protection Agency and the Department of the Army. Final decisions relative to mitigation
are the responsibility of COE.
2. Federally Protected Species
Federal law (under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended) requires that any action, likely to adversely affect any species classified as
federally-protected, be subject to review by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS). Other species may receive additional protection under separate state laws.
Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act provide protection for
plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T),
Proposed Endangered (PE) and Proposed Threatened (PT). As of 28 March 1995, the
USFWS lists seven federally-protected species for Transylvania County. Following is a list
of these species and their protective status (Table 3) followed by a brief description of
each organism.
10
Table 3. Federally-Protected Species for Transvivania Countv
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS
Alasmidonta raveneliana Appalachian ell-toe PE*
Falco ere inus peregrine falcon E
Glaucom s sabrinus coloratus flying squirrel E
Geum radiatum spreading avens E
G noderma lineare rock gnome lichen PE
Helonias bullata swam ink T
Sarracenia rubra var. 'onesii mountain sweet pitcher plant E
"*" No specimen from Transylvania County found in the past twenty years (1973-1993).
Alasmidonta raveneliana (Appalachian elk-toe) PE
Animal Family: Unionidae
Date Listed: 3 September 1993
Distribution in N.C.: Buncombe, Graham, Haywood, Macon, Mitchell, Swain,
Transylvania, Yancey.
Two known populations of the Appalachian elktoe exist in North Carolina; the
Nolichucky River (including its tributaries of the Cane River and the North Toe River),
and the Little Tennessee River and its tributaries. The Appalachian elktoe has been
observed in gravely substrates often mixed with cobble and boulders, in cracks of bedrock
and in relatively silt-free, coarse sandy substrates.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
Extensive surveys have been conducted by the USFWS and the NCWRC in an
attempt to locate additional populations. No additional populations have been found,
indicating that the previously mentioned populations are the only known groups found in
NC, therefore this project will not impact the Appalachian elktoe.
Falco peregrines (Peregrine falcon) E
Animal Family: Falconidae
Date Listed: 20 March 1984
Distribution in N.C.: Avery, Brunswick, Burke, Carteret, Dare, Hyde, Jackson,
Madison, New Hanover, Rutherford, Surry, Transylvania,
Wilkes, Yancey.
The American peregrine falcon is found throughout the United States in areas with
high cliffs and 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. Nesting occurs from mid-March to May.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
No high cliffs are present to provide adequate nesting habitat, nor are there large
open areas present in the project area for foraging. The lack of suitable habitat in the area
confirms that this project will not affect the peregrine falcon.
Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus (northern flying squirrel) E
Animal Family: Sciurdiae
Date Listed: 1 July 1985
Distribution in N.C.: Avery, Buncombe, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, McDowell,
Mitchell, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Yancey.
There are several isolated populations of the northern flying squirrel in the western
part of North Carolina, along the Tennessee border. This squirrel is found above 1517
meters (5000 ft) in the vegetation transition zone between hardwood and coniferous
forests. Both forest types are used to search for food and the hardwood forest is used for
nesting sites.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
The proposed project will be constructed at an approximate altitude of l l06 m
(3540 ft) above mean sea level. This elevation is well beneath that required by the
northern flying squirrel, therefore there will be no impact to this species as a result of
project construction.
eum radiatum (spreading avens) E
Plant Family: Rosaceae
Federally Listed: 5 April 1990
Flowers Present: June - early July
Distribution in N.C.: Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Mitchell, Stokes,
Transylvania, Watauga, Yancey.
Spreading avens is found only in the North Carolina and Tennessee sections of the
Southern Appalachian Mountains. Spreading avens occurs on scarps, bluffs, cliffs and
escarpments on mountains, hills, and ridges. Known populations of this plant have been
found to occur at elevations of 1535-1541 meters (5060-5080 feet), 1723-1747 meters
(5680-5760 feet), and 1759 meters (5800 feet). Other habitat requirements for this
species include full sunlight and shallow acidic soils. These soils contain a composition of
sand, pebbles, humus, sandy loam, clay loam, and humus. Most populations are pioneers
on rocky outcrops.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
The elevation in the project area is approximately 1106 m (3540 ft), well beneath
the elevation at which spreading avens is known to exist. Moreover, no areas of full
sunlight exist on the rock ledges found in the study area. The proposed project will have
no impact on the spreading avens.
Gymnoderma lineare (Rock gnome lichen) PE
Plant Family: cladoniae
Federally Listed: December 28, 1994
Distribution in N.C.: Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Graham, Haywood, Jackson,
Mitchell, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Yancey.
The rock gnome lichen is a narrow endemic, restricted to areas of high humidity.
These high humidity environments occur on high elevation (> 1220 meters/ 4000 feet)
mountaintops and cliff faces which are frequently bathed in fog, or lower elevation (< 762
meters/2500 feet) deep gorges in the Southern Appalachians. The rock gnome lichen
primarily occurs on vertical rock faces where seepage water from forest soils above flows
12
at (and only at) very wet times. The rock gnome lichen is almost always found growing
with the moss Adreaea in these vertical intermittent seeps. The major threat of extinction
to the rock gnome lichen relates directly to habitat alteration and loss of high elevation
coniferous forests. These coniferous forests usually lie adjacent to the habitat occupied by
the rock gnome lichen. The high elevation habitat occurs in the counties of Ashe, Avery,
Buncombe, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Mitchell, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, and
Yancey. The lower elevation habitat of the rock gnome lichen can be found in the
counties of Jackson, Rutherford and Transylvania.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
The elevation of the project area could support the rock gnome lichen, however
there is no evidence of water seepages on the rock face found within the project area. The
proposed project will not impact the rock gnome lichen.
Helonias ullata (swamp pink) T
Plant Family: Liliaceae
Federally Listed: 9 September 1988
Flowers Present: May (first half)
Distribution in N.C.: Henderson, Jackson, Transylvania.
The North Carolina populations of swamp pink are limited to bogs in the southern
Appalachians in Transylvania, Jackson, and Henderson counties. Swamp pink is found in
freshwater wetland areas including spring seepages, swamps, bogs, meadows, and along
the margins of meandering streams. Soils that it occurs in are described as being slightly
acidic (pH:4.24.9), having a thin layer of decomposed organic matter, underlain by a
black to dark gray silt loam that is slightly sticky, with many small roots and fine mica
chips. Populations are found in areas with varying amounts of shade, but populations in
open areas are less vigorous due to increased competition from other species.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
No bogs or other similar wetland are found in the project area. The construction
of the proposed project will not impact the swamp pink.
Sarracenia rubra var. 'ol nsii (mountain sweet pitcher plant) E
Plant Family: Sarraceniaceae
Federally Listed: 10 March 1988
Flowers Present: May (late)
Distribution in N.C.: Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania.
The mountain sweet pitcher plant is found in bogs and streams in southwestern
North Carolina and northwestern South Carolina. The mountain sweet pitcher plant is
found in mountain bogs and along streamsides. This habitat is characterized by deep,
poorly drained wetlands with soils that are combinations of loam, sand, and silt, with a
high organic content and medium to highly acidic pH. Sites are intermittently exposed to
flooding. This plant is an early successional plant that relies on drought, water fluctuation,
periodic fire, and ice damage to maintain its habitat.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
13
No mountain bogs or similar wetland is in the project area. The proposed project
will have no impact on the mountain sweet pitcher plant.
3. U.S. Forest Service P.E.T.S. Survey
Due to the temporary detour alignment of this bridge crossing and provision of a
wider bridge, new right-of-way must be obtained by NCDOT from the U.S. Forest Service
(USFS). This new right of way will be located in Pisgah National Forest. The USFS
conducted surveys of Protected, Endangered, Threatened, and Sensitive (P.E.T.S.) species
in the area, as well as a general biological investigation.
The USFS survey concluded the project will have no negative effects on any
species federally listed or proposed for listing (this conclusion is based on implementing
the erosion control measures and in-water construction moratorium listed on page 1).
F. Air and Noise
The project is in the Western Mountain Air Quality Control Region. The ambient
air quality for Transylvania County is in compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality
Standards. This project is in an area where the State Implementation Plan (SIP) does not
contain any transportation control measures. 40 CFR part 51 is not applicable, because
the proposed project is located in an attainment area. NCDOT and the FHWA do not
anticipate that it will create any adverse effect on the air quality of this attainment area.
This project is an air quality "neutral" project, so a project level CO analysis is not
required.
The impact on air quality will be insignificant. If the project disposes of vegetation
by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and
regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC
2D.0520. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements of the 1990 Clean Air
Act amendments and the National Environmental Policy Act. The project requires no
additional reports.
The project will not significantly increase traffic volumes. Therefore, each will
have no significant impact on noise levels. Temporary noise increases may occur during
construction.
VIII. CULTURAL RESOURCES CHARACTERISTICS AND EFFECTS
A. Farmland
The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires all federal agencies, or their
representatives, to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on
prime and important farmland soils, as designated by the U. S. Soil Conservation Service
(SCS). Land converted to non-agricultural uses is exempt from the requirements of the
Act. The proposed project is in U.S. Forest Service property; therefore, it is not available
for agricultural use. The project requires no further consideration of potential impacts to
farmland.
14
B. Wild and Scenic Rivers
The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act designates and provides some river areas legal
protection from adverse development and provides a mechanism for management of river
resources.
Beetree Fork is not listed on the 26a/Land Use Criteria Checklist for Scenic
Streams; therefore, NCDOT has determined it is not within the Wild and Scenic Rivers
Act jurisdiction.
C. Historic Architectural and Archaeoloeical Resources
This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, implemented by the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Section 106 requires that if a federally funded, licensed, or permitted project has an effect
on a property listed on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation be given an opportunity to comment.
An NCDOT staff architectural historian reviewed the area of potential effect
(APE) for the subject project using an aerial map and USGS topographic map (in addition,
the project engineer investigated the project in the field). Bridge No. 57 is the only
structure over 50 years of age in the APE. In a letter dated 6 July 1994, the North
Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) stated the bridge is not eligible for the
National Register and no National Register-listed or eligible properties are in the APE (see
Appendix for copy of letter).
There are no known archaeological resources in the project area. The SHPO
indicated the project will not likely affect any archaeological resources that may be eligible
for inclusion on the National Register. The SHPO recommended no survey for
archaeological resources.
Since there are no properties either listed on or eligible for the National Register
within the APE, the project requires no further compliance with Section 106.
C. Section 4(f) Resources
The project is in the Pisgah National Forest, on land owned by the U.S. Forest
Service (USFS). The USFS indicates that the land in the project area is not used for a
park, recreation area, or wildlife or waterfowl refuge. Because these multiple-use lands
do not function primarily for Section 4(f) purposes, the Federal Highway Administration
concludes Section 4(f) does not apply to this area (see Appendix for USFS letter stating
uses of land in project area).
IX. CONCLUSION
Based on the above discussion, NCDOT and FHWA conclude that the project will
cause no significant environmental impacts. Therefore, the project may be processed as a
Categorical Exclusion.
15
FIGURES
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324
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North Carolina Department Of
Transportation
Planning & Environmental Branch
NC 215
BRIDGE NO. 57 OVER BEETREE FORK
TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
B-2172
0 km 1.6 km 3.2
Figure 1
0 miles 1.0 miles 2.0
.r,
North Carolina Department Of
Transportation
,4,- Planning & Environmental Branch
'I. • ?_ o tree NC 215
BRIDGE NO. 57 OVER BEETREE FORK
All
Y TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
1 B_2172
meters 30 meters 60
x 1 Figure 2
i^ ?,;. y ?,? ..S ^ a ,?? • {`?}0 feet 100 feet 200
BRIDGE NO. 57
TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
T. I. P. NO. B - 2172
LOOKING EAST
LOOKING WEST
SIDE VIEW
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4

APPENDIX

SWE
North Carolina Department of Cultural
James B. Hunt Jr., Governor
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary
July 6, 1994
Nicholas L. Graf
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
Dei*rtment of Transportation
310 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442
Re: Replace Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over North Fork
French Broad River, Transylvania County, B-2172,
ER 94-8738
Dear Mr. Graf:
U °`
-"Mft.-
v
W.
2
DtVISIGN OF eQ`r/
On June 21, 1994, Robin Stancil of our staff met with North Carolina Department
of Transportation (NCDOT) staff for a meeting concerning the above project. We
reported our available information on historic architectural and archaeological
surveys and resources along with our recommendations. NCDOT provided project
area photographs and aerial photographs at the meeting and for our use
afterwards.
Based upon our review of the photographs and the information discussed at the
meeting, we offer our preliminary comments regarding thip project.
In terms of historic architectural resources, Bridge No. 57 is the only structure
over fifty years of age in the area of potential effect. We believe the bridge is not
eligible for the National Register of Historic Places since it has little historical or
architectural significance. Thus, no National Register-listed or eligible properties
are located in the area of potential effect. We recommend that no historic
architectural survey be conducted for this project.
There are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area. Based
on our present knowledge of the area, it is unlikely that any archaeological
resources which may be eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic
Places will be affected by the project construction. We, therefore, recommend
that no archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with this project.
Having provided this information, we look forward to receipt of either a
Categorical Exclusion or Environmental Assessment which indicates how NCDOT
addressed our comments.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's
Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
109 East Jones Street • Raleigh, North Carulina 27601-2607

r • f,
Nicholas L. Graf
July 6, 1994, Page 2
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions
concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley,
environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763.
Sincerely,
k /Atr)l ?/?
avi Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
DB:slw
Z /
cc: Vick
B. Church
T. Padgett

® North Carolina Wildlife Resources
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
MEMORANDUM
TO YZ H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT
CE!
MAT 1 6 fft
DIVISIC!V OF -t'
HIGHWAYS
;?8en??wcC Q?
FROM: Stephanie E. Goudreau, Mt. Region CoordinatorA-11
Habitat Conservation Program /?!+
DATE: May 12, 1994
SUBJECT: Review of scoping sheet for replacement of Bridge #57
on NC 215 over Beetree Fork, Transylvania County, TIP
#B-2172.
During a telephone conversation on 12 May 1994, Mr. Wayne
Fedora told me that project B-2172 involves a bridge replacement
over Beetree Fork, not the North Fork of the French Broad River
as I indicated in my memorandum to you dated 5 May 1994.
Beetree Fork is a tributary to the North Fork French Broad
River, which is designated as Wild Public Mountain Trout Water by
the North Carolina Wildlife Resources commission on U.S. Forest
Service land and other areas where public access is allowed.
Beetree Fork itself also provides good,habitat for wild rainbow
trout.
The same preliminary recommendations :Wade in my previous
memorandum apply to replacing a bridge over Beetree Fork:
1) The existing bridge should be replaced with another spanning
structure. If possible, the new structure should completely
span the stream without center piers.
2) Construction should be prohibited during the trout spawning
period of November 1 to April 15 in order to protect egg and
fry stages from sedimentation. This includes work in the
stream and within the 25-foot buffer zone.
3) Construction should be accomplished so that wet concrete
does not contact stream water. This will lessen the chance
of altering the stream's water chemistry and causing a fish
kill.
TIP OB-2172 Page 2 May 12, 1994
4) Woody vegetation (trees, shrubs) removed during construction
should be replaced to provide shade and bank stability to
the stream.
5) Temporary ground cover (e.g. hardwood mulch, straw, etc.)
should be placed on all bare soil during construction.
Permanent herbaceous vegetation in these same areas should
be established within 15 days of ground disturbing
activities to provide long term erosion control.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input to the early
planning stages for this project. If we can further assist your
office, please contact me at 704/652-4257.
cc':;z Mr. Micky Clemmons, District 9 Fisheries Biologist
Mr. David Yow, District 9 Environmental Coordinator
Mr. David Cox, Highway Coordinator
??...• United States
Department of
Agriculture
Forest Pisgah
Service Ranger District
1001 Pisgah Highway
Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
File Code: 7700
Date: June 23, 1995
Mr. Wayne Fedora
Plannning and Environmental Branch
NC Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 25201
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201
Dear Wayne:
This is in reference to the bridge replacement project B-2172 on NC 215 in Transylvania County.
The proposed bridge and road location is on National Forest System lands. The National Forest
is managed for a variety of uses. However, the management emphasis for the bridge site is
protecting and enhancing the riparian resources, and providing visually pleasing scenery for
motorists using the highway. There are no developed recreation improvements such as trails or
campgrounds in the immediate vicinity of the site.
The Forest Service is agreeable in concept to constructing a new bridge. We will however, need
to grant an easement. We will also want to know what mitigating measures will be undertaken
during construction to protect the riparian and scenic resources.
Sincerely,
ART ROWE
District Ranger
U? Caring for the Land and Serving People

JAMES B. HUNT JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
GovERNoR P.O. BOX 25201. RALEIGH. N.C. 27611-5201
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
March 22, 1996
A d SUTF v

P. 0. Box 1890
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402-1890
ATTENTION: Mr. Cliff Winefordner
Chief, Southern Section
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Regulatory Field Office
Dear Sir:
GARLAND B. GARRETT J R.
SECRETARY
RECEIVED
MAR 2 5 1996
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
Subject: Transylvania County - Replacement of Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over
Beetree Fork; T.I.P. No. B- 2172; State Project No. 8.1000701
The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to replace the
existing structure with a new bridge on existing location, along with
associated 41 oach improvements. The new structure will span the stream
without center piers. This project is being processed as.a Categorical
Exclusion ifi accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). We expect to proceed with
this project under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 33 CFR 330 Appendix
A-.(13=23) issued November 22, 1991, by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The
provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulations will be
followed in the construction of this project.
No jurisdictional wetlands will be affected by the proposed work.
Beetree Fork is a tributary of North Fork French Broad River, designated a
Wild Public Mountain Trout Water by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.
In order to protect water quality within Beetree Fork during construction,
High Quality Waters Erosion Control Guidelines will be implemented. DEHNR's
mandatory buffer zone restrictions in trout waters will also be observed. A
moratorium on in-stream construction activities will be observed from
November 1 through April 15. Furthermore, work that will disturb the stream
bed shall not be undertaken during periods of expected precipitation from
October 1 through April 30. Construction shall be accomplished so that wet
concrete does not contact stream water.
9
March 22, 1996
Page 2
In accordance with current procedures for projects located in the
designated trout counties, the concurrence of WRC must be obtained prior to
construction. By copy of this letter, we hereby request that WRC review the
proposed project and provide any comments they find necessary. A copy of the
CE document is included for the WRC review. Please note the special
construction conditions included in the Summary of Project Commitments.
Thank you for your assistance. If you have any questions, please call
Cyndi Bell at [phone], Extension 306.
Sincerely,
H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
HFV/tp
Attachment
cc: Steve Lund, COE, Asheville Field Office
David Yow, WRC, Asheville
John Dorney, DEM, Water Quality Section
Kelly Barger, P. E., Program Development
Don Morton, P. E., Highway Design
A. L. Hankins, P. E., Hydraulics
John L. Smith, Jr., P. E., Structure Design
Tom Shearin, P. E., Roadway Design
F. D. Martin, P. E., Division 14 Engineer
Jeff Ingham, Planning & Environmental
%.
NC 215
Transylvania County
Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over Beetree Fork
Federal Aid No. BRSTP-215(2)
State Project No. 8.1000701
T.I.P. No. B-2172
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
AND
N.C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
APPROVED-
- 22-91!(
Date H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
r Plan ing and Environmental Branch
Date Nicholas "L. Graf, P.E., Division Administrator
/Federal Highway Administration
NC 215
Transylvania County
Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over Beetree Fork
Federal Aid No. BRSTP-215(2)
State Project No. 8.1000701
T.I.P. No. B-2172
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
January 1996
Documentation Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By:
Jeff ham
Project Planning Engineer
/I/ q
Wayne ]liott
Bridge Project Planning Engineer, Unit Head
-Z2-961'
Lubin V. Prevatt, P.E., Assistant Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
A?ROI
SEAL _
6916
N V.
PR??o?•
NC 215
Transylvania County
Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over Beetree Fork
Federal Aid No. BRSTP-215(2)
State Project No. 8.1000701
T.I.P. No. B-2172
1. SUMMARY OF PROJECT
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace
Bridge No. 57 in Transylvania County. It crosses over Beetree Fork (Figure 1). NCDOT
includes this bridge in the 1996-2002 Transportation Improvement Program (T.I.P.) as a
bridge replacement project. NCDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
classify this project as a federal Categorical Exclusion. These agencies expect no
significant environmental impacts.
NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 57 at the existing location as shown in Figure 2.
NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a bridge approximately 25 meters (82
feet) long. The new bridge will provide a 6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus a 0.6-
meter (2.0-foot) wide offset on each side. The project will require approximately 110
meters (360 feet) of roadway approach work. The new roadway approaches will have a
6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus 1.2-meter (4-foot) grassed shoulders at
approximately the same grade as the existing roadway. The completed project will
provide a design speed of approximately 50 km/h (30 mph). During construction, traffic
will be maintained on a temporary on-site detour south of the existing bridge (as shown in
Figure 2). The structure for this detour will be two 1800-millimeter (72-inch) pipes. The
temporary alignment will be approximately 85 meters (280 feet) long and provide a design
speed of approximately 30 km/h (20 mph).
The estimated cost is $467,000, including $450,000 for construction and $17,000
for right of way. The funding shown in the 1996-2002 T.I.P. is $392,000.
H. ANTICIPATED DESIGN EXCEPTIONS
Due to design speed, a design exception may be required for the project.
III. SUMMARY OF PROJECT COMMITMENTS
NCDOT will implement High Quality Waters Erosion Control measures
throughout construction. Silt fences, hay bales, or other appropriate erosion control
devices will be installed prior to any ground disturbance within 15.2 meters (50 feet) of
Beetree Fork. These devices will be maintained throughout construction, or until
sufficient ground cover is established on bare soils.
NCDOT will conform to an in-water construction moratorium from 1 November
to 15 April (furthermore, from 1 October to 30 April, work that will disturb the stream
bed shall not be undertaken during periods of expected precipitation). The existing bridge
will be replaced with a structure that will span the stream without center piers.
Construction will be accomplished so that wet concrete does not contact stream water.
Trees and shrubs removed during construction will be replaced to provide shade and bank
stability. Designated trout waters buffer zones must meet the following provisions:
(a) The 7.5-meter (25 foot) minimum width for an undisturbed buffer zone adjacent to
designated trout waters shall be measured horizontally from the top of the bank.
(b) Where a temporary and minimal disturbance is permitted as an exception by G. S.
113A-57 (1), land-disturbing activities in the buffer zone adjacent to designated
trout waters shall be limited to a maximum of ten percent of the total length of the
buffer zone within the tract to be disturbed such that there is not more than 30
linear meters (100 linear feet) of disturbance in each 305 linear meters (1000 linear
feet) of buffer zone. Larger areas may be disturbed with the written approval of
the Regional Engineer of the Land Quality Section, Division of Land Resources.
(c) No land-disturbing activity shall be undertaken within a buffer zone adjacent to
designated trout waters that will cause adverse temperature fluctuations, as set
forth in 15A NCAC 2B .0211 "Fresh Surface Water Classification and Standards,"
in these waters.
If the project requires relocating the stream extending for a distance in excess of
30.0 meters (100 feet) or 15.0 meters (50 feet) on one side of the crossing, consultation
with the NCWRC will be required. The portion of relocated stream will be designed to
have similar characteristics (depth, width, and substrate) as the original stream. This also
includes re-establishment of streamside vegetation.
This project will be reviewed under Section 26a of the Tennessee Valley Authority
(TVA) Act. The final bridge plans, hydraulic analysis of the effects of the replacement
structure on the 100-year flood elevation, and notice of compliance with the Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 will be forwarded to TVA for approval under Section 26a.
A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM) Section 401
Water Quality General Certification will be obtained prior to issue of the Corps of
Engineers Nationwide permit No. 23.
IV. EXISTING CONDITIONS
NCDOT classifies NC 215 as a Rural Major Collector in the Statewide Functional
Classification System.
Near Bridge No. 57, NC 215 is a two lane paved road, 6.6 meters (22 feet) wide
with 1.5-meter (5-foot) grass shoulders. The topography in the project area is
mountainous; therefore the vertical and horizontal alignment in the area are steep and
winding.
In the project area, NC 215 serves travelers through the Pisgah National Forest. It
connects Haywood and Jackson Counties to Transylvania County (see Figure 1). There
are no residences, businesses, schools, or other development along NC 215 in the project
area.
The speed limit on NC 215 is not posted in the project area.
Existing right of way width in the project area is approximately 18.3 meters (60
feet).
Bridge No. 57 is 13.1 meters (43 feet) long and 6.1 meters (20 feet) wide. The
deck is approximately 4 meters (13 feet) above the stream. Water depth is approximately
0.3 meter (1 foot) in the project area.
NCDOT built Bridge No. 57 in 1936. It has a reinforced concrete floor on I-
beams and vertical reinforced concrete abutments (Figure 3). It carries two lanes of traffic
and is currently unposted.
According to Bridge Maintenance Unit records, the current sufficiency rating of
Bridge No. 57 is 59.1 of a possible 100.0 with an estimated remaining life of five years.
The previous rating was 47.5 prior to recent upgrading.
The current traffic volume is 300 VPD, projected to 500 VPD for the year 2017.
Truck percentages are 1% TTST and 3% dual-tired vehicles.
Traffic Engineering records indicate no accidents occurred in the vicinity of Bridge
No. 57 between I July 1992 and 3 June 1995.
The Transportation Director for Transylvania County Schools indicated there are
no school bus crossings of the subject bridge.
V.ALTERNATES
NCDOT studied one alignment for replacing Bridge No. 57. This alignment will
be on existing location. Traffic will be maintained on a temporary detour south of the
existing alignment. NCDOT studied three alternate replacement structures.
Alternate 1 would replace Bridge No. 57 with a two barrel, bottomless culvert.
Each barrel would be 2.4 meters x 2.4 meters (8 feet x 8 feet).
Alternate 2 would replace Bridge No. 57 with a con-span or crown-span structure
of equivalent dimension to the bottomless culvert described in Alternate 1.
Alternate 3 (Recommended) will replace Bridge No. 57 with a bridge
approximately 25 meters (82 feet) long and 7.8 meters (26 feet wide). The replacement
bridge will provide a 6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus a 0.6-meter (2-foot) offset
on each side.
NCDOT reviewed replacement on new location, south of the existing alignment.
This alternate is not practicable due to extensive excavation in the rock mountain south of
the existing alignment.
Closing the road during construction is not a reasonable alternate. There is no
reasonable detour route available to handle traffic.
The "do-nothing" alternate is not practical. The bridge would continue
deteriorating until unusable. This would require closing the road, or continued intensive
maintenance. Rehabilitation of the existing deteriorating bridge is neither practical nor
economical.
VI. COST ESTIMATES
Table 1 shows the estimated costs and component costs of the alternates.
Table 1. Cost Estimates
COMPONENT ALTERNATE] ALTERNATE2 ALTERNATE3
(RECOM
STRUCTURE $ 107,400 $ 145,000 $ 157,900
STRUCTURE REMOVAL 10,000 10,000 10,000
ROADWAY APPROACHES 72.100 72,100 67.300
TEMPORARY DETOUR 60,800 60,800 60,900
MOBILIZATION AND
MISCELLANEOUS
84,700
72,100
93,900
ENGINEERING AND
CONTINGENCIES
65,000
65,000
60,000
TOTAL CONSTRUCTION $ 400,000 $ 425.000 $ 450,000
RIGHT OF WAY $ 17,000 $17,000 $ 17,000
TOTAL COST ESTIMATE $ 417,000 $ 442,000 $ 467,000
VI. RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 57 at the existing location as shown in Figure 2.
NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a bridge approximately 25 meters
(82 feet) long. The new bridge will provide a 6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus a
0.6-meter (2.0-foot) wide offset on each side.
The completed project will provide a design speed of approximately 50 km/h (30
mph). The project will require approximately 110 meters (360 feet) of roadway approach
work. The new roadway approaches will have a 6.6-meter (22-foot) wide travelway plus
1.2-meter (4-foot) grass shoulders at approximately the same grade as the existing
roadway. If the design requires guardrail, the shoulders will be 2.2 meters (7 feet) wide.
During construction, traffic will be maintained on a temporary on-site detour south
of the existing bridge (as shown in Figure 2). The structure for this detour will be two
1800-millimeter (72-inch) pipes. The temporary alignment will be approximately 85
meters (280 feet) long and provide a design speed of approximately 30 km/h (20 mph).
NCDOT recommends Alternate 3 because it will be more easily constructed than a
culvert or conspan/crownspan structure and will span the entire stream, which has been
requested by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
The division engineer concurs with the Alternate 3 recommendation.
Construction of Alternate 3 will not increase the 100-year flood elevation by more
than 30 centimeters (12 inches). Figure 4 shows the 100-year flood boundaries.
Construction of Alternate 3 will not place significant amounts of fill in the floodplain area.
Foundation investigations will be required on this project. The investigations will
include test borings in soil and/or rock for in-situ testing as well as obtaining samples for
laboratory testing. This may require test borings in streams and/or wetlands.
NCDOT expects utility conflicts to be low.
VII. NATURAL SYSTEMS CHARACTERISTICS AND EFFECTS
A. Overview
An NCDOT staff biologist conducted research prior to field investigations.
Information sources used in this research of the study area included: U. S. Geological
Survey (USGS) quadrangle maps (Rosman, Sam Knob) and an NCDOT aerial photo of
the project area (1:1200). The biologist obtained water resource information from
publications of the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR,
1993) and from the NC Center for Geographic Information and Analysis (Environmental
Sensitivity Base Map of Transylvania County). Information concerning the occurrence of
federal and state protected species in the study area was gathered from the United States
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) list of protected and candidate species and the N.C.
Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database of rare species and unique habitats.
The biologist conducted general field surveys along the proposed alignment on 13
October 1994 and identified and recorded plant communities and wildlife. The biologist
conducted cursory studies for benthos and mobile aquatic organisms using tactile searches.
The biologist identified and released organisms captured during these searches. The
biologist determined jurisdictional wetlands using delineation criteria prescribed in the
"Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual" (Environmental Laboratory, 1987).
B. Soils and Topography
Table 2 provides an inventory of specific soil types that occur in the project area.
Table 2. Soils in thePro?ect Area
Mapping Unit Symbol Percent Slope
Ashe/Edne ille Association AnF 25-45
Suncook loam sand Su 0-5
Note: No hydric soils are present at the project site.
The Ashe/Edneyville soils are intermixed in this mapping unit due to similar
coloration, particle size, rapid drainage characteristics and a relatively shallow depth to
parent material, about 760 millimeters (30 inches). Factors contributing to the
development of this soil are slope, mean annual temperature, and precipitation of the
region.
Suncook loamy sand is found in the narrow floodplain of North Fork French
Broad River. This soil is nearly level and is subject to very frequent flooding of brief
duration. Deposition from flood events has contributed to the development of this soil
type along the river system. These soils have been primarily created by the chemical and
physical weathering of biotite gneiss and other minerals found within the Ashe
Metamorphic Suite and Tallulah Falls Formation.
Transylvania County lies in the mountain physiographic province. The topography
of Transylvania County is characterized by severely sloping hills with associated narrow
floodplains. The project area is dominated by mountain forest cover.
C. Biotic Communities
1. Terrestrial Communities
The two distinct biotic communities identified in the project study area are
maintained roadside and hardwood forest. Many faunal species are highly adaptive and
may populate the entire range of terrestrial communities discussed.
The maintained roadside community is kept in a low-growing, non-successional
state through periodic mowing. This community consists primarily of well maintained
herbaceous vegetation, including fescue, plantain, clover, chickweed, and aster. Species
such as goldenrod, rose, and blackberry occur in less maintained areas. Maintained
roadsides serve primarily as a foraging habitat for various species of birds and mammals
which feed on seeds, berries and roots.
The hardwood forest community is along the river banks, ridges, and side slopes in
the well-drained soils of the area. This forest is well-stratified with some evidence of
disturbance (e.g. access road). The canopy species in dominance are tuliptree, red maple,
and black locust. The understory species are comprised of sapling of the canopy
representatives, as well as rhododendron, and striped maple. Mountain laurel, blueberry,
and hydrangea are common shrubs found in the area. The herbaceous layer consists of
running cedar, Indian cucumber, and members of the mint family. Dutchman's pipe
appears to be the most common woody vine found in the project area.
Mountain hardwood forests produce a variety of hard and soft mast which
supports many bird species. The diverse layering of vegetation also attracts many different
bird species.
Mammals also use the abundant cover and forage provided by this forest.
The stream habitat provides favorable conditions for several salamanders and other
amphibians.
2. Aauatic Communities
Beetree Fork is a tributary of North Fork French Broad River, designated a Wild
Public Mountain Trout Water by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). The
designation of Wild signifies that self-sustaining trout populations exist and no stocking
efforts are attempted in the stream. Although conditions were unfavorable during site
investigation for aquatic species surveys, this water body has been documented as
exhibiting excellent biodiversity.
A diverse fish community exists in this stream system. According the NCWRC,
the clean well oxygenated waters within the project area support a wide variety of fish like
rainbow trout, brown trout, and most commonly, brook trout, which serve as the
6
predominant aquatic predators of the stream. The central stoneroller, creek chub,
longnose dace, blacknose dace, northern hog sucker, and Swannanoa darter are common
in this mountain stream.
The rocky substrate provides excellent habitat for aquatic invertebrate foraging,
cover and breeding. These species are the primary food source for the diverse fish
community present in this system.
3. Summary of Anticipated Community Impacts
Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic
communities described. Any construction-related activities in or near these resources have
the potential to impact biological functions. This section quantifies and qualifies impacts
to the natural resources in terms of area impacted and ecosystems affected. Temporary
and permanent impacts are considered here as well.
The detour alignment will disrupt the habitat that many species are using for either
cover or forage. The proposed project is likely to result in new population dynamics
within the affected communities. The detour alignment will temporarily modify the
forested habitat, displacing mobile species and eliminating those individuals that are unable
to migrate out of the project area.
Species found within the maintained community are predominantly edge-adapted
species which are well adapted to disturbed environments and will likely be minimally
impacted by the proposed construction. Moreover, the habitat loss resulting from the
proposed project will be replaced, making the impacts short term. The temporary detour
roadway will be removed at the completion of construction, augmenting habitat in the
study area, especially if a variety of native vegetation is planted. This increase in habitat
will be short term in scope due to natural succession.
The construction of the proposed project could cause an initial increase in
sedimentation caused by construction equipment and/or materials. These impacts may be
short term. However, the potential exists for long term degradation of the terrestrial
communities and the high quality water resources of the area. Water quality is likely to be
affected if any demolition of a prominent rock ledge located on the southwest side of the
project crossing occurs. The large amount of debris produced from this type of slope
modification increases the probability of the downslope movement of boulders, rock
fragments, and sediments into the water resource. These influxes of material can
potentially interrupt and/or vary the velocity of the stream causing increased turbidity and
suspended sediment levels, especially during periods of high flow. Coupled with this
potential is the impact of construction activity throughout the remainder of the project
area.
These impacts could potentially last for long periods of time, and most aquatic and
semi-aquatic organisms are extremely sensitive to high sediment loads, as well as
introduced toxins from construction. The installation of the new bridge and its associated
approach work could cause the loss of many of the organisms previously mentioned and
change the water quality at and downstream of the proposed project.
Due to the Trout Waters and significantly sloping landscape in the project area,
High Quality Waters Erosion Control Guidelines will be implemented throughout
construction. The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR)
Sedimentation Commission has mandated the use of buffer zones and their requirements
along trout waters (G.S. 113A-54(b); 113A-54(c)(1); 113A-57(1); Eff. May 1, 1990.
Designated trout waters buffer zones must meet the following provisions:
(a) The 7.5-meter (25-foot) minimum width for an undisturbed buffer zone adjacent to
designated trout waters shall be measured horizontally from the top of the bank.
(b) Where a temporary and minimal disturbance is permitted as an exception by G.S.
113A-57 (1), land-disturbing activities in the buffer zone adjacent to designated
trout waters shall be limited to a maximum of ten percent of the total length of the
buffer zone within the tract to be disturbed such that there is not more than 30
linear meters (100 linear feet) of disturbance in each 305 linear meters (1000 linear
feet) of buffer zone. Larger areas may be disturbed with the written approval of
the Regional Engineer of the Land Quality Section, Division of Land Resources.
(c) No land-disturbing activity shall be undertaken within a buffer zone adjacent to
designated trout waters that will cause adverse temperature fluctuations, as set
forth in 15A NCAC 2B .0211 "Fresh Surface Water Classification and Standards,"
in these waters.
In a biological context, it is recommended that the proposed bridge and approach
construction be conducted as near to the current alignment as possible in order to
minimize biological impacts.
Calculated impacts to terrestrial resources reflect the relative abundance of each
community present in the study area. Project construction will result in clearing and
degradation of portions of these communities. Table 3 summarizes potential quantitative
losses to these biotic communities. The basis for estimated impacts is the entire proposed
right of way width of 24.4 meters (80 feet) which extends for 110 meters (360 feet).
Usually, project construction does not require the entire right of way; therefore, actual
impacts may be less.
Table 3. Anticinated Imnacts to Biotic Communities
COMMUNITY NEW ALIGNMENT
Maintained Roadside <0.1 ha 0.1 ac
Hardwood Forest 0.2 ha 0.5 ac
Total Impacts <0.3 ha 0.6 ac
D. Water Resources
The proposed project is found in the French Broad River Basin. Bridge No. 57
crosses Beetree Fork, a tributary of the North Fork French Broad River. The headwaters
of North Fork French Broad River are approximately 6.0 kilometers (3.75 miles)
northwest of Balsam Grove, which is located 4.6 kilometers (2.75 miles) southeast of the
project. Stream channel width was approximately 3.6 meters (12.0 feet) at the time of the
site visit. The water depth varied from 0.2 meters to 0.9 meters (0.5 feet to 3.0 feet).
Stream level was well below the stream bank capacity. The substrate present ranged from
gravel to boulder and was accompanied by small areas of sand deposition. The flow rate
was very rapid with excellent water clarity. The high flow rate can partially be attributed
to 24 hours of consistent rainfall prior to site visitation.
Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the Division of
Environmental Management (DEM). Beetree Fork has a "C Tr HQW" classification. The
"C" classification denotes that the water resource is utilized for the propagation and
survival of aquatic life, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. "Tr"
signifies the water resource as being suitable for natural propagation and maintenance of
stocked trout. The High Quality Waters "HQW" designation is a supplemental
classification indicating waters rated as excellent based on biological, physical and
chemical characteristics through monitoring or special studies.
The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) is managed by DEM
and is part of an ongoing ambient water quality monitoring program which addresses long
term trends in water quality. The program assesses water quality by sampling for selected
benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites. Macroinvertebrates are
sensitive to very subtle changes in water quality; thus, the species richness and overall
biomass reflect water quality. The BMAN rating for North Fork French Broad River is
excellent along NC 215 in Transylvania County.
Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through
the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. A registered
domestic discharger (Ziegler Trout Farm) is on North Fork French Broad River,
approximately 3.2 kilometers (2.0 miles) downstream of the project. This discharger is
unlikely to influence the project waters due to its location on a separate branch of the river
system.
Potential impacts to the waters of North Fork French Broad River, resulting from
construction-related sedimentation and turbidity, include decreases of dissolved oxygen in
the water and changes in temperature, as a result of vegetation loss and reduction of water
clarity. Alterations of water level, due to interruptions in surface and ground water flow
and increased concentrations of toxic compounds from highway runoff during
construction are other possible impacts that will affect water quality on Beetree Fork. In-
stream activity is anticipated for construction of the spanning structure. The NCWRC has
imposed a l November to 15 April moratorium for in-stream construction activities.
High Quality Waters erosion control measures will be implemented throughout
construction.
The project is in the jurisdiction of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA),
Division 2 Land Management Office (Morristown Tenn.). Coordination with TVA
Division 2 office will be necessary.
If the project requires relocating the stream extending for a distance in excess of
30.0 meters (100 feet) or 15.0 meters (50 feet) on one side of the crossing, consultation
with the NCWRC will be required. The portion of relocated stream will be designed to
have similar characteristics (depth, width, and substrate) as the original stream. This also
includes re-establishment of streamside vegetation.
E. Jurisdictional Issues
1. Wetlands and Surface Waters
Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the
United States," as defined in Section 33 of the Code of Federal Register (CFR) Part 328.3.
Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR 328.3, are those areas that are inundated or saturated by
surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under
normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted to life in
saturated conditions. Any action that proposes to place fill into these areas falls under the
jurisdiction of! he U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean
Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344).
Criteria to delineate jurisdictional wetlands include evidence of hydric soils,
hydrophytic vegetation and hydrology based upon the COE 1987 Wetland Delineation
Manual. Proposed construction at Beetree Fork will impact surface waters. No
jurisdictional wetlands occur in the project area.
Transylvania County is one of 25 counties which may contain North Carolina
Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) designated "Trout Waters." General permits
are not available in these counties without consent from the NCWRC. A Nationwide
permit 33 CFR 330.5 (A) 23, for impacts to surface waters of Beetree Fork, is likely to be
applicable if the NCWRC certifies that construction of this project will not adversely affect
these trout waters. This permit authorizes activities undertaken, assisted, authorized,
regulated, funded or financed in whole or in part, by another Federal agency or
department. Projects are categorically excluded from environmental documentation,
because their construction will neither individuaiiy or cumulatively have a significant
environmental effect. Final permit decisions lie with the Army Corps of Engineers (COE).
A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM) Section 401
Water Quality General Certification is required prior to the issuance of the nationwide
permit No. 23. Section 401 Certification allows surface waters to be temporarily impacted
for the duration of the construction or other land manipulations.
Projects authorized under nationwide permits usually do not require compensatory
mitigation according to the 1989 Memorandum Agreement between the Environmental
Protection Agency and the Department of the Army. Final decisions relative to mitigation
are the responsibility of COE.
2. Federally Protected Species
Federal law (under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended) requires that any action, likely to adversely affect any species classified as
federally-protected, be subject to review by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS). Other species may receive additional protection under separate state laws.
Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act provide protection for
plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T),
Proposed Endangered (PE) and Proposed Threatened (PT). As of 28 March 1995, the
USFWS lists seven federally-protected species for Transylvania County. Following is a list
of these species and their protective status (Table 3) followed by a brief description of
each organism.
10
Tahle 3 Federallv-Protected Snecies for Transvlvania Countv
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS
Alasmidonta raveneliana Appalachian elktoe PE*
Falco ere rinus peregrine falcon E
Glaucom s sabrinus coloratus flying squirrel E
Geum radiatum spreading avens E
G mnoderma lineare rock gnome lichen PE
Helonias bullata swam ink T
Sarracenia rubra var. 'onesii mountain sweet pitcher plant E
No specimen from Transylvania County found in the past twenty years (1973-1993).
Alasmidonta raveneliana (Appalachian elktoe) PE
Animal Family: Unionidae
Date Listed: 3 September 1993
Distribution in N.C.: Buncombe, Graham, Haywood, Macon, Mitchell, Swain,
Transylvania, Yancey.
Two known populations of the Appalachian elktoe exist in North Carolina; the
Nolichucky River (including its tributaries of the Cane River and the North Toe River),
and the Little Tennessee River and its tributaries. The Appalachian elktoe has been
observed in gravely substrates often mixed with cobble and boulders, in cracks of bedrock
and in relatively silt-free, coarse sandy substrates.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
Extensive surveys have been conducted by the USFWS and the NCWRC in an
attempt to locate additional populations. No additional populations have been found,
indicating that the previously mentioned populations are the only known groups found in
NC, therefore this project will not impact the Appalachian elktoe.
Falco peregrinus (Peregrine falcon) E
Animal Family: Falconidae
Date Listed: 20 March 1984
Distribution in N.C.: Avery, Brunswick, Burke, Carteret, Dare, Hyde, Jackson,
Madison, New Hanover, Rutherford, Surry, Transylvania,
Wilkes, Yancey.
The American peregrine falcon is found throughout the United States in areas with
high cliffs and 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. Nesting occurs from mid-March to May.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
No high cliffs are present to provide adequate nesting habitat, nor are there large
open areas present in the project area for foraging. The lack of suitable habitat in the area
confirms that this project will not affect the peregrine falcon.
Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus (northern flying squirrel) E
Animal Family: Sciurdiae
Date Listed: 1 July 1985
11
Distribution in N.C.: Avery, Buncombe, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, McDowell,
Mitchell, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Yancey.
There are several isolated populations of the northern flying squirrel in the western
part of North Carolina, along the Tennessee border. This squirrel is found above 1517
meters (5000 ft) in the vegetation transition zone between hardwood and coniferous
forests. Both forest types are used to search for food and the hardwood forest is used for
nesting sites.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
The proposed project will be constructed at an approximate altitude of 1106 m
(3540 ft) above mean sea level. This elevation is well beneath that required by the
northern flying squirrel, therefore there will be no impact to this species as a result of
project construction.
Geum radiatum (spreading avens) E
Plant Family: Rosaceae
Federally Listed: 5 April 1990
Flowers Present: June - early July
Distribution in N.C.: Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Mitchell, Stokes,
Transylvania, Watauga, Yancey.
Spreading avens is found only in the North Carolina and Tennessee sections of the
Southern Appalachian Mountains. Spreading avens occurs on scarps, bluffs, cliffs and
escarpments on mountains, hills, and ridges. Known populations of this plant have been
found to occur at elevations of 1535-1541 meters (5060-5080 feet), 1723-1747 meters
(5680-5760 feet), and 1759 meters (5800 feet). Other habitat requirements for this
species include full sunlight and shallow acidic soils. These soils contain a composition of
sand, pebbles, humus, sandy loam, clay loam, and humus. Most populations are pioneers
on rocky outcrops.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
The elevation in the project area is approximately 1106 m (3540 ft), well beneath
the elevation at which spreading avens is known to exist. Moreover, no areas of full
sunlight exist on the rock ledges found in the study area. The proposed project will have
no impact on the spreading avens.
Gymnoderma lineare (Rock gnome lichen) PE
Plant Family: cladoniae
Federally Listed: December 28, 1994
Distribution in N.C.: Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Graham, Haywood, Jackson,
Mitchell, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Yancey.
The rock gnome lichen is a narrow endemic, restricted to areas of high humidity.
These high humidity environments occur on high elevation (> 1220 meters/ 4000 feet)
mountaintops and cliff faces which are frequently bathed in fog, or lower elevation (< 762
meters/2500 feet) deep gorges in the Southern Appalachians. The rock gnome lichen
primarily occurs on vertical rock faces where seepage water from forest soils above flows
12
at (and only at) very wet times. The rock gnome lichen is almost always found growing
with the moss Adreaea in these vertical intermittent seeps. The major threat of extinction
to the rock gnome lichen relates directly to habitat alteration and loss of high elevation
coniferous forests. These coniferous forests usually lie adjacent to the habitat occupied by
the rock gnome lichen. The high elevation habitat occurs in the counties of Ashe, Avery,
Buncombe, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Mitchell, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, and
Yancey. The lower elevation habitat of the rock gnome lichen can be found in the
counties of Jackson, Rutherford and Transylvania.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
The elevation of the project area could support the rock gnome lichen, however
there is no evidence of water seepages on the rock face found within the project area. The
proposed project will not impact the rock gnome lichen.
Helonias bullata (swamp pink) T
Plant Family: Liliaceae
Federally Listed: 9 September 1988
Flowers Present: May (first half)
Distribution in N.C.: Henderson, Jackson, Transylvania.
The North Carolina populations of swamp pink are limited to bogs in the southern
Appalachians in Transylvania, Jackson, and Henderson counties. Swamp pink is found in
freshwater wetland areas including spring seepages, swamps, bogs, meadows, and along
the margins of meandering streams. Soils that it occurs in are described as being slightly
acidic (pH:4.2-4.9), having a thin layer of decomposed organic matter, underlain by a
black to dark gray silt loam that is slightly sticky, with many small roots and fine mica
chips. Populations are found in areas with varying amounts of shade, but populations in
open areas are less vigorous due to increased competition from other species.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
No bogs or other similar wetland are found in the project area. The construction
of the proposed project will not impact the swamp pink.
Sarracenia rubra var. 'off nsii (mountain sweet pitcher plant) E
Plant Family: Sarraceniaceae
Federally Listed: 10 March 1988
Flowers Present: May (late)
Distribution in N.C.: Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania.
The mountain sweet pitcher plant is found in bogs and streams in southwestern
North Carolina and northwestern South Carolina. The mountain sweet pitcher plant is
found in mountain bogs and along streamsides. This habitat is characterized by deep,
poorly drained wetlands with soils that are combinations of loam, sand, and silt, with a
high organic content and medium to highly acidic pH. Sites are intermittently exposed to
flooding. This plant is an early successional plant that relies on drought, water fluctuation,
periodic fire, and ice damage to maintain its habitat.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
13
No mountain bogs or similar wetland is in the project area. The proposed project
will have no impact on the mountain sweet pitcher plant.
3. U.S. Forest Service P.E.T.S. Surve
Due to the temporary detour alignment of this bridge crossing and provision of a
wider bridge, new right-of-way must be obtained by NCDOT from the U. S. Forest Service
(USFS). This new right of way will be located in Pisgah National Forest. The USFS
conducted surveys of Protected, Endangered, Threatened, and Sensitive (P.E.T.S.) species
in the area, as well as a general biological investigation.
The USFS survey concluded the project will have no negative effects on any
species federally listed or proposed for listing (this conclusion is based on implementing
the erosion control measures and in-water construction moratorium listed on page 1).
F. Air and Noise
The project is in the Western Mountain Air Quality Control Region. The ambient
air quality for Transylvania County is in compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality
Standards. This project is in an area where the State Implementation Plan (SIP) does not
contain any transportation control measures. 40 CFR part 51 is not applicable, because
the proposed project is located in an attainment area. NCDOT and the FHWA do not
anticipate that it will create any adverse effect on the air quality of this attainment area.
This project is an air quality "neutral" project, so a project level CO analysis is not
required.
The impact on air quality will be insignificant. If the project disposes of vegetation
by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and
regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC
2D.0520. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements of the 1990 Clean Air
Act amendments and the National Environmental Policy Act. The project requires no
additional reports.
The project will not significantly increase traffic volumes. Therefore, each will
have no significant impact on noise levels. Temporary noise increases may occur during
construction.
VIII. CULTURAL RESOURCES CHARACTERISTICS AND EFFECTS
A. Farmland
The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires all federal agencies, or their
representatives, to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on
prime and important farmland soils, as designated by the U. S. Soil Conservation Service
(SCS). Land converted to non-agricultural uses is exempt from the requirements of the
Act. The proposed project is in U. S. Forest Service property; therefore, it is not available
for agricultural use. The project requires no further consideration of potential impacts to
farmland.
14
B. Wild and Scenic Rivers
The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act designates and provides some river areas legal
protection from adverse development and provides a mechanism for management of river
resources.
Beetree Fork is not listed on the 26a/Land Use Criteria Checklist for Scenic
Streams; therefore, NCDOT has determined it is not within the Wild and Scenic Rivers
Act jurisdiction.
C. Historic Architectural and Archaeological Resources
This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, implemented by the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Section 106 requires that if a federally funded, licensed, or permitted project has an effect
on a property listed on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation be given an opportunity to comment.
An NCDOT staff architectural historian reviewed the area of potential effect
(APE) for the subject project using an aerial map and USGS topographic map (in addition,
the project engineer investigated the project in the field). Bridge No. 57 is the only
structure over 50 years of age in the APE. In a letter dated 6 July 1994, the North
Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) stated the bridge is not eligible for the
National Register and no National Register-listed or eligible properties are in the APE (see
Appendix for copy of letter).
There are no known archaeological resources in the project area. The SHPO
indicated the project will not likely affect any archaeological resources that may be eligible
for inclusion on the National Register. The SHPO recommended no survey for
archaeological resources.
Since there are no properties either listed on or eligible for the National Register
within the APE, the project requires no further compliance with Section 106.
C. Section 4(f) Resources
The project is in the Pisgah National Forest, on land owned by the U.S. Forest
Service (USFS). The USFS indicates that the land in the project area is not used for a
park, recreation area, or wildlife or waterfowl refuge. Because these multiple-use lands
do not function primarily for Section 4(f) purposes, the Federal Highway Administration
concludes Section 4(f) does not apply to this area (see Appendix for USFS letter stating
uses of land in project area).
IX. CONCLUSION
Based on the above discussion, NCDOT and FHWA conclude that the project will
cause no significant environmental impacts. Therefore, the project may be processed as a
Categorical Exclusion.
15
FIGURES
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North Carolina Department Of
i Transportation
Planning & Environmental Branch
NC 215
BRIDGE NO. 57 OVER BEETREE FORK
TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
B-2172
0 km 1.6 km 3.2
11 Figure 1
0 miles 1.0 miles 2.0
BRIDGE NO. 57
TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
T. I. P. NO. B - 2172
LOOKING
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FIGURE 3
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APPENDIX

r
North Carolina Department of Cultural
James B. Hunt Jr., Governor
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary
July 6, 1994
Nicholas L. Graf
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
Dei*rtment of Transportation
310 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442
Re: Replace Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 over North Fork
French Broad River, Transylvania County, B-2172,
ER 94-8738
Dear Mr. Graf:
1
, !1W
C)NIS1GN OF
On June 21, 1994, Robin Stancil of our staff met with North Carolina Department
of Transportation (NCDOT) staff for a meeting concerning the above project. We
reported our available information on historic architectural and archaeological
surveys and resources along with our recommendations. NCDOT provided project
area photographs and aerial photographs at the meeting and for our use
afterwards.
Based upon our review of the photographs and the information discussed at the
meeting, we offer our preliminary comments regarding this project.
In terms of historic architectural resources, Bridge No. 57 is the only structure
over fifty years of age in the area of potential effect. We believe the bridge is not
eligible for the National Register of Historic Places since it has little historical or
architectural significance. Thus, no National Register-listed or eligible properties
are located in the area of potential effect. We recommend that no historic
architectural survey be conducted for this project.
There are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area. Based
on our present knowledge of the area, it is unlikely that any archaeological
resources which may be eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic
Places will be affected by the project construction. We, therefore, recommend
that no archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with this project.
Having provided this information, we look forward to receipt of either a
Categorical Exclusion or Environmental Assessment which indicates how NCDOT
addressed our comments.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's
Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
109 EaSt Jones Street • Raleigh. Korth Carolina 27601-3807

- Nicholas L. Graf I
July 6, 1994, Page 2
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions
concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley,
environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763.
Sincerely,
r '
avi Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
MsIw
1 /
cc:' "H. F. Vick
B. Church
T. Padgett

P Noah Carolina Wildlife Resources
MEMORANDUM
TO- H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT
DATE: May 12, 1994
SUBJECT: Review of scoping sheet for replacement of Bridge #57
on NC 215 over Beetree Fork, Transylvania County, TIP
#B-2172.
During a telephone conversation on 12 May 1994, Mr. Wayne
Fedora told me that project B-2172 involves a bridge replacement
over Beetree Fork, not the North Fork of the French Broad River
as I indicated in my memorandum to you dated 5 May 1994.
FROM: Stephanie E. Goudreau, Mt. Region Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Program
Beetree Fork is a tributary to the North Fork French Broad
River, which is designated as Wild Public Mountain Trout Water by
the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission on U.S. Forest
Service land and other areas where public access is allowed.
Beetree Fork itself also provides good,habitat for wild rainbow
trout.
The same preliminary recommendations made in my previous
memorandum apply to replacing a bridge over Beetree Fork:
1) The existing bridge should be replaced with another spanning
structure. If possible, the new structure should completely
span the stream without center piers.
2) Construction should be prohibited during the trout spawning
period of November 1 to April 15 in order to protect egg and
fry stages from sedimentation. This includes work in the
stream and within the 25-foot buffer zone.
3) Construction should be accomplished so that wet concrete
does not contact stream water. This will lessen the chance
of altering the stream's water chemistry and causing a fish
kill.
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
TIP OB-2172 Page 2 May 12, 1994
?4) Woody vegetation (trees, shrubs) removed during construction
should be replaced to provide shade and bank stability to
the stream.
5) Temporary ground cover (e.g. hardwood mulch, straw, etc.)
should be placed on all bare soil during construction.
Permanent herbaceous vegetation in these same areas should
be established within 15 days of ground disturbing
activities to provide long term erosion control.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input to the early
planning stages for this project. If we can further assist your
office, please contact me at 704/652-4257.
cc,?3 Mr. Micky Clemmons, District 9 Fisheries Biologist
Mr. David Yow, District 9 Environmental Coordinator
Mr. David Cox, Highway Coordinator

?.+?"?. United States
Department of
Agriculture

Forest Pisgah
Service Ranger District
1001 Pisgah Highway
Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
File Code: 7700
Mr. Wayne Fedora
Plannning and Environmental Branch
NC Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 25201
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201
Dear Wayne:
Date: June 23, 1995
This is in reference to the bridge replacement project B-2172 on NC 215 in Transylvania County.
The proposed bridge and road location is on National Forest System lands. The National Forest
is managed for a variety of uses. However, the management emphasis for the bridge site is
protecting and enhancing the riparian resources, and providing visually pleasing scenery for
motorists using the highway. There are no developed recreation improvements such as trails or
campgrounds in the immediate vicinity of the site.
The Forest Service is agreeable in concept to constructing a new bridge. We will however, need
to grant an easement. We will also want to know what mitigating measures will be undertaken
during construction to protect the riparian and scenic resources.
Sincerely,
ART ROWE
District Ranger

U? Caring for the Land and Serving People

N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

TRANSMITTAL SLIP D E
4113194
TO: REF. NO. OR ROOM, SLOG.
E(: c C a?aY,n? DE M
FROM: REF. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG.
t
`
IICl1. 67
ACTI ON
? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? FER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MV SIGNATU RE ? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMMENTS:

APR 1 41994
WETLANDS Gl;n

?_ .._. -
?._

e n. SUi[ n
n uy
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT, JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
GOVERNOR RO. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
April 13, 1994
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Eric Galamb
DEM - DEHNR, 6th Floor
R. SAMUEL HUNT I I I
SLCRLIARY
FROM: H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheet for Replacement of Bridge No.
57 on NC 215 over- Nom--Far-Ic-F->cenc
Transylvania County, B-2172 frees o
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 r .DRoo ocedure is to have an early "meeting
of the minds" as to the Rope that should be performed and thereby
enable us to better im dement ect. A scoping meeting for this
project is scheduled. f r May 1at 9:30 A. M. in the Planning and
Environmental Branch C nferencRoom 434). You may provide us with
your comments at the m ting ohem to us prior to that date.
Tha nk 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 Wayne Fedora, Project Planning Engineer, at 733-7842.
WF/pl r -w-
Attachment
T/ Y
Can - ?Wv
C), K +? s et X01. 6L
C-3 -?e, ?-)
[%?42
T .
BRIDGE
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
DATE 03/29/94
REVISION DATE:
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT STAGE
PROGRAMMING:
PLANNING: X
DESIGN:
TIP PROJECT: B-2172
F. A. PROJECT: BRSTP- 2 1 5(
STATE PROJECT: 8.1000701
DIVISION: Fourteen
COUNTY: Transylvania
ROUTE: NC 215
PURPOSE: REPLACE OBSOLETE BRIDGE
DESCRIPTION: NC 215, BRIDGE #57. TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
KEPL CE IDGE OVER NORTH FORK FRENCH BROAD RIVER
136 -
y rs
3
COMMENTS:
,j o CaPr?s U ?s
QUAD I ET: SAM KNOB
USGS Q
METHOD OF REPLACEMENT:
1. EXISTING LOCATION - ROAD CLOSURE
2. EXISTING LOCATION - ONSITE DETOUR
3. RELOCATION _
4. OTHER: EXISTING LOCATION - PHASED CONSTRUCTION
WILL THERE BE SPECIAL FUNDING PARTICIPA'T'ION BY MUNICIPALITY,
DEVELOPERS, OR OTHERS? YES NO _ X
IF YES, BY WHOM AND WHAT AMOUNT: ($) __ (%)

BRIDGE
PROJECT SLOPING SHEET
TRAFFIC: CURRENT 300 VPD; DESIGN YEAR _ loo
TTST % DT _ TYPICAL ROADWAY SECTION:
EXISTING STRUCTURE: LENGTH 13.1_ Meters WI.DTI
43.0 Feet
PROPOSED STRUCTURE:
BRIDGE - LENGTH
OR
CULVERT - LENGTH
Z° (q
VPD
6.1 Meters
20.1 Feet
Meters WID'T'H Meters
Feet Feet
Meters
Feet
DETOUR STRUCTURE:
BRIDGE - LENGTH Meters
-- ---- -- ----
Feet
OR
PIPE - SIZE Millimeters
Inches
CONSTRUCTION COST (INCLUDING ENGINEERING AND
CONTINGENCIES) ..................... $
RIGHT OF WAY COST (INCLUDING RELOCATION, UTILITIES,
AND ACQUISITION) ................... $
FORCE, ACCOUNT ITEMS .................................. $
TOTAL COST ....................................... $
TIP CONSTRUCTION COST ................................ $ 375,000
TIP RIGHT OF WAY COST ................................ $ _ 13000
SUB TOTAL ........................................... $ 388,000
PRIOR YEARS COST ..................................... $
TIP TOTAL COST ........................................ $ __388_,000
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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL
BRANCH
BRIDGE NO. 57
ON NC 215 OVER NORTH
FORK FRENCH BROAD RIVER
TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
T. I. P. NO. B - 2172 FIG. 1
0 kilometers 1.6 0 miles 1
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1 MILE ROAD CLASSIFICATION •?
f Heavy-duty Pcor motor road ....
Medium-duty •....... Wagon and jeeptrack? a'>?*? ?'e:: Q
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ILL. Light duty Foot tniig{? .
MO. KENTUCKY VA. ?^! uieS'38;4YY.`?tn t
I

N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

TRANSMITTAL SLIP lJZ*194
TO:
Be i c G&\,%,a? REF. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG.
1)-EM
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FROMI REP. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG.
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ACTION
? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO MR ? PER YOUR REOUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? F YOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND BEE ME ABOUT THIS FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMM LNTS:

MAY 2 6 4
WETLANDS GROUP
WATER LIALITY SECTION
l
4'r:1

M STAN o
y.n?q
JAMES B. HUNT, )R.
GOVERNOR
May 24, 1994
MEMORANDUM TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
P. O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
Mr. Eric Galamb
DEM - DEHNR, 6th Floor
Wayne Fedora
Planning and Environmental Branch
R. SAMUEI. HUNT II I
SKIM AKY
Scoping Meer tiny for Replacement of Bridge No. 57 on
NC 215 over Beetree Fork, Transylvania County, B-2172
The Planning and Environmental Branch held a Scoping meeting on May 11,
1994 to initiate the subject project.
The participants decided on one alternate for replacement: replace on
new location south of the existing alignment. There are three options for the
replacement structure: 1) a two barrel, bottomless culvert with 2.4-meter x
2.4-meter (8.0-foot x 8.0-foot) barrels; 2) an equivalent Con-span or
Crown-span structure; and 3) a cored-slab bridge, approximately 25 meters
(82 feet) long and 7.2 meters (24 feet) wide. The replacement structure will
provide a 6.0-meter (20-foot) wide travelway plus a 0.6-meter (2.0-foot) wide
offset on each side.
Roadway Design is preparing a cost estimate for each replacement option.
In terms of historic architectural resources, there are no historic
structures in the project area. Because Bridge No. 57 is more than 50 years
old SHPO will send comments on whether it meets historic criteria. The SHPO
indicates there are no recorded archaeological sites in the project area and
requires no survey for archaeological resources.
The Division of Environmental Management (DEM) classifies Beetree Fork
as Class C, High Quality Waters. Mr. Galamb stated that DEM prefers a
bottomless culvert or a conspan structure and recommended the most stringent
erosion control.
Beetree Fork is a tributary to the North Fork French Broad River, which
the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) designates as Wild
Public Mountain Trout Water. Beetree Fork also provides good habitat for wild
trout.
N
May 24, 1994
Page 2
The current NCDOT schedule is to begin right of way acquisition on
July 19, 1996 and to let to contract on July 15, 1997.
Attached is a list of the meeting participants and the updated scoping
sheets for the project.
WF/plr
Attachments
Attendance Sheet for Scoping Meeting B-2172:
Betty Yancey
Jerry Snead
Ray Moore
Debbie Barbour
W. S. Cox
Richie Hines
Don Wilson
Eric Galamb
Wendi Oglesby
Wayne Fedora
Kenney McDowell
Right-of-Way
Hydraulics
Structure Design
Roadway Design
Roadway Design
Roadway Design
Location and Surveys
DEM
Traffic Control
Planning and Environmental
Planning and Environmental
BRIDGE
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
DATE 03f 291.4
REVISION DATE: 0-5-241-94__._-___
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT STAGE
PROGRAMMING:
PLANNING: x__ -_-
DESIGN: --
TIP PROJECT:
F. A. PROJECT:
STATE PROJECT:
DIVISION:
COUNTY
ROUTE:
B-2172
BRSTP-215(2)
8.1000701-
Fourteen
Transylvania
NC 215
PL1R1?OSE : REPLACE OBSOLETE BRIDGE
1)1?SCI:IPTION: NC 215, BRIDGE #57, TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
REPLACE BRIDGE OVER NORTH FORK FRENCH BROAD RIVER
COMMENTS:
IJSGS QUAD SHEET': SAM KNOB
METHOD OF REPLACEMENT:
1 . 1,:X I ST I NG LOCATION - ROAD CLOSURE
2. EXISTING LOCATION - ONSITE DETOUR
3. RELOCATION X
4. OTHER:
WILL THERE BE SPECIAL FUNDING PARTICIPATION BY MUNICIPALITY,
1)1-:VELOPII\'S . OR OTHERS? YES NO ----_X_--
I F YES. BY WHOM AND WHAT AMOUNT: ($) ._-------_-_-, O
BRIDGE
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
TRAFFIC: CURRENT 300 VPD; DESIGN YEAR _ 500 VPD
TTST 1 % DT 3 %
TYPICAL ROADWAY SECTION:
EXISTING STRUCTURE: LENGTH 13.1 Meters WIDTH -__6.-1__ Meters
43.0 Feet 20.1 Feet
PROPOSED STRUCTURE:
BRIDGE - LENGTH 25 Meters WID'T'H Meters
82 Feet 24 Feet
OR
CULVERT - LENGTH 2.4 x 2.4 Meters
8.0 x 8.0 Feet
OR
CONSPAN - SIZED EQUIVALENT TO BOX CULVERT
CONSTRLJC'TION COST (INCLUDING ENGINEERING AND
CONTINGENCIES) ..................... - -- ----
RIGH'T' OF WAY COST (INCLUDING RELOCATION, UTILITIES,
AND ACQUISITION) ...................
FORCE ACCOUNT ITEMS .................................. $ ---
TO'T'A1, COST ....................................... $
TIP CONSTRUCTION COST ................................ $ 3-75,000
TIP RIGHT OF WAY COST ................................ -- ._13-,_Q00
SUB TOTAL ............................................ $ ------- 3-8-8-,-00.0.
PRIOR YEARS COST ..................................... $ - -- --
TIP TOTAL COS'I......................................... $ --388000
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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL
13RANCI-I
BRIDGE NO. 57
ON NC 215 OVER NORTH
FORK FRENCH BROAD RIVER
TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
T. I. P. NO. B - 2172 FIG. 1
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`i ROAD CLASSIFICATION
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Medium duty Wagon and jeep track
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U S out t r Sta "?,. n.
KENTUCKY VA.
MO. 1W.711.
?Pl?? -
STATE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201. RALEIGH. N.C. 276!1-5201
GOVERNOR
October 16, 1998
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
Regulatory Field Office
151 Patton Avenue, Roori 143
Asheville, North Carolina 28801-5006
Attention: Mr. Steve Lund
NCDOT Coordinator
Dear Sir:
Subject: Transylvania County, Replacement of Bridge No. 57 over Beetree Fork on
NC 215; State Project No. 8.1000701; TIP No. B-2172; USACE ID
199830966; DWQ Pro'ject No. 960101.
The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) issued a Section 404 Nationwide Permit
23 (Categorical Exclusion) for the subject project on October 1, 1996. The North
Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) applied for the renewal of the
Nationwide Permit and a Division of Water Quality (DWQ) 401 Water Quality
Certification on June 30, 1998. The new Water Quality Certification was issued on
July 30, 1998 and a new Nationwide Permit No. 23 was issued by the USACE on
August 14, 1998. The NCDOT also submitted a request for modification of the existing
permit, due to a design change, on September 21. 1998.
However, information provided in the September 21, 1998 letter was not correct. The
Subject line described TIP project B-3051 instead of the intended project, B-2172.
Additionally, the letter stated that a temporary detour would be built utilizing two 72-inch
pipes. This is incorrect. As stated in the Environmental Consultation, which was
attached to the September 21, 1998 letter, the new culvert will be 155 feet in length and
will be built in stages to accommodate the traffic shift onto the on-site detour. Therefore,
the two 72-inch pipes will not be necessary. Please note that this is only an error in the
letter and that all information provided in the Environmental Consultation remains
unchanged. A copy of the Environmental Consultation is again included for reference.

gnwz*
E. NoRRis TOLSON
SECRETARY
If -

The NCDOT requests that the USACE modify the existing Nationwide Permit 23 in
accordance with the new design. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality
Certification No. 3107 will apply to this project. Therefore, we are also submitting a
copy of this letter to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their review.
if you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Mr. Lindsey
Riddigk Aj-(9,19) 733-7844, extension 315.
Sincerely,
William D. Gilmore, P. d/, Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
WDG/plr
cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorsey, DWQ, Raleigh
Mr. William Rogers, P. E., Structure Design
Mr. Mark Davis, WRC
Mr. Whit Webb, P. E., Program Development
Mr. Len Hill, P. E., Highway Design
Mr. A. L. Hankins, P. E., Hydraulics Unit
Mr. Tom Shearin, P. E., Roadway Design
Mr. F. D. Martin, P. E., Division 14 Engineer
Nnrtl, Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission=
` 312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
MEMORANDUM
TO: Jeff Ingham- project planning Engineer
planning and Environmental Branch. NCDOT
FROM: Mark S. Davis. Mountain Region Coordinator
,
Habitat Conservation Progran,
DATE: February 2. 1998
SUBJECT: TIP Project No. B-2172. Replacement of Bridge No. on NC 215 over Beetree
Fork a tributary to North Fork French Broad River, Transvivania Count'.
During a telephone conversation on Februae uested co i urrn ce North 2. 1998. Mr. Jeff Ingham of the from the North
Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) q
Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) to revise (TVA) Oric?nal plans call
order to expedite concurrence from the Tennessee valley Authority
for the replacement of Bridge No. 57 with another sp ?n?Tru box ulvertCDO Be F rk.
install a 14' x 10' "bottomless" double barrel reinforced
The NCWRC does not object to the "bottomless" culvert since fish passage and natural stream
bed materials should not be affected by this design..
Beetree Fork is a tributary to the North Fork French Broad River, which is managed by
the NCWRC as Wild Trout Water. Beetree For also
ims todthabitat for othewil r aq inbow
trout. The NCWRC is concerned about potential project Pact
resources in this drainage; however, we do not object to the project modifications provided the
following conditions are met by the applicant:
1. Adequate sedimentation and erosion control measures must be implemented and
maintained on the project site to avoid impacts to downstream aquatic resources.
2. The box culvert should be cotstructed in where work area. Sand constructp° Band
other diversion structures should be used possible to
excavation in flowing water.
TIP No. B-2172 Paae 2 February 2. 1993
3. Construction should be accomplished so that wet concrete does not contact stream
water. This will lessen the chance of altering the stream's water chemistry and causing
a fish kill. Several private trout hatcheries lie downstream of the project site and
NCDOT could be held libel if there is a concrete spill and subsequent fish kill.
4. Construction within the 25-foot buffer zone is prohibited during the trout spawning
period of November 1 to April 15 in order to protect the egg and fry stages from
sedimentation.
5. Woody vegetation (trees, shrubs) removed during construction should be replaced to
provide shade and bank stability to the stream.
6. Temporary or permanent herbaceous vegetation should be planted on all bare soil
within 15 days of ground disturbing activities to provide long-term erosion control.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input to the early planning stages for thi:
project. If we can further assist your office, please contact me at [phone].
cc: Mr. David Baker. Permit Coordinator, COC=
M
North Caron'-.,: DF Transportation
PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTATION FORM
1. D. No. B-Z 172
I
GENERAL JNFORNIATION
a. Consultation Phase:
b. Project Description:
CONSTRUCTION
Replace Bridge No. 57 on NC 215 ON
Beetree Fork in Transylvania County
c. State Project:
Federal Proicc':
Document Type
II. CONCLUSIONS
8.1000701
BRSTP-21 (=' 1
Categorical Exclusion
Right-of-Way Consultatior
Nn . ONISICN
RECD AUG 51998
OIV AUMPI
ASST. UN A&MIN
,PETARY
5F
T
7N4 ?acn IN. As3
BRtOGE I ASST. 3R. 1 -1
RLTY cFC. I iRLN SP
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PL - A ,
PM op?--? --i
E? 7R
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A

I - `)n
Ei-a-uted as required by 23 C"FR
The above environmental document has been rteonl saes entialav the same as t e
771. It was determined that the current proposed ac
original proposed action. Proposed changes. if any, ardnoted b environmental impacts were
has been determined that anticipated social, economic.
accurately described in the above referenced docume t mess noted otherwise herein.
Therefore. the original Administration Action remains
T 'T-
III. CHANGES IN PROPOSED ACTION AN the existing The recommendation in the right of way consultation recommendawtion replacechanged to a
bridge with a con span structure. The replacement culvert- it as een
barrell -1.3 meter by 3 meter (14 foot by 10 fooelrt must besused becauseh hes kew angle of
determined that a cast in place bottomless cul
structure-
the road and creek is too great to accomplish construction
North Carolina Wildlife Resource
The
new culvert will not span the entire stream. Th
Commission has been consulted and does not object to the bottomless culvert provided
the measures in the project commitments are followed.
The recommendation in the Categorical Exclusion called for on ite maim nano of
traffic using a temporary detour structure consisting of two 1300
millimeter Inch) bridg es. The recommendation also called for the permanent stru ctturehte ew e to Since
the
the recommendation has been changed d structure bottomless
l not benecessary. The bottomless
structure, a separate temporary detour 1n? ill be built
I
stages in order maintain traffic on the existing roadway
minimize hea area affected by the project.
lessen the amount of cuts and fills required and
EFFECTv-as
In the original categorical exclusion, a biological conclusion er gone falcon (Falco
peregrine
rendered for the Appalachian elktoe (Alasmidonta raveneliana),
pereainus), flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus), spreading avens (Geum
swamp pink (Helonias bullata),
radiatum), rock gnome lichen (Gymnoderma lineare), the v turtle
mountain sweet pitcher plant (Sarraceu occurrences of he I ppa ach n elk-toe have since
(Clemmys muhlenbergii). Because ne
been discovered, NCDOT biologists resurveyed d aiidhhe biologacal conchusioneremains "NO
August to, 1998. The species was not f
EFFECT." The biological conclusions of NO EFFECT deined i species. Categorical
Exclusion remain valid for all other threatened and endangered p
IV. LIST OF PROJECT COMMITMENTS
NCDOT will implement High Qualitv Waters Erosion Control measures throughout
lt fences. hav bales, or other appropriate erosion control devices will r,
construction. Si
installed prior to any around disturbance within 15.2 meters (50 feet) of Beetree 1 or,.
These devices will be maintained throughout construction. or until sufficient around
cover is established on bare soils.
The box culvert will be constructed in a dry `'voto m and b e constructi flexible onipe and
or other diversion structures should be used where possible
excavation in flowing water.
Construction within the 25-foot buffer zone is prohib"o d ton Othe tr ut spa h i ork,
period of 1 November to 15 April (furthermore. from 1 October
f?expected
will disturb the stream bed shall not be undertaken during- periods o
precipitation). stre Construction will be accomplished so that wet chemistry and causing a
g
ill lessen the chance of altering the stream
water. This w
kill. site and NCDOT
kill. Several private trout hatcheries lie downstream of the
fish
could be held libel if there is a concrete spill and subsequent fish
TemPorary or permanent herbaceous vegetation will be planted on all term eros one are sol l
within 1 ? days of ground disturbing activities to provide long ,
and shrubs removed during construction will be replaced t Mowing shade and
Trees
bank stability. Designated trout waters buffer zones must meet the provisions:
nimum width for an undisturbed lly from the top of buffer n ?he bard,.-
(a) The 7.5-meter (25 foot) m1 anl:.
to desi?Tnated trout waters shall be measured horizonta
lo
M
(b) Where a temporary and minimal disturbance is permitted as an exception by G.S.
113A-37 (I), land-disturbing activities in the buffer zone adjacent to designated
nath
trout waters shall be limited to a maximum of to that percent of he total ehan of the
buffer zone within the tract to be disturbed such
30 linear meters (100 linear feet) of disturbance in each 303 linear meters wh the written
(1000 linear feet) of buffer zone.
approval of the Regional Engineer of Larger the L?andmQualt}' S1ectionaDiv lion of Land
Resources.
(c) No land-disturbing activity shall be un adver e temperaturebufflfer zone
set
designated trout waters that will cause
forth in 13A NCAC 2B .0211 "Fresh Surface Water Classification and
Standards."
If the project requires relocating the stream eaten of the cr osingcconsultation with
30 meters (100 teed or 13 meters (50 feet) on one sid
the NCWRC will be required. The portion of relocated he stream w on inaill be desi n id to have
similar characteristics (depth. width. and substrate
includes re-establishment of streamside vegetation. Val on'tv
This project will be reviewed under Section of the
f the effects of thelreplacement
(TV,-A0 Act. The final.bridee plans, hydraulic analysis o
under Historic
structure on the 100-year flood elevation. and notice a mpliance with the
Preservation Act of 1966 will be forwarded to TV. for ppval
The project has been coordinated with the North Carolina Division of Water Quality
DWQ). NCDOT will obtain a Corps of Engineers Nationwide permit No. 23 prior to the
(
start of construction.
V. COORDINATION
Planning and Environmental Branch personnel have discussed current project
proposals with others as follows:
Hydraulic Design Engineer:
Roadway Design Engineer:
NC WRC Section:
Marshall Clawson, P.E. 7-17-98
Date
Greg Brew. P.E. 7-17-98
Date
Mark Davis
2-2-98
__--
Date
1. .
VI. N. C. D. O. T. CONCURKENC
Date
Pro' c ng ,ineer
S - 2-f-
anager of r Planning and Environmental Branch Date
,M
Date
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration