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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19990489 Ver 1_Complete File_19990514State of North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Wayne McDevitt, Secretary Kerr T. Stevens, Director APPROVAL of 401 Water Quality Certification Mr. Jared Gray N.C. Dot Planning and Environmental Branch P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh N.C. 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Gray: ITk?WAA 4 • NC ENR NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES May 23,1999 Johnston County DWQ Project #7 40 4 You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions, to place fill material in 15 feet streams and 0.2 acres of wetlands or waters for the purpose of constructing a left turn lane at US301 across from North Johnston High School, as you described in your application dated 26 April 1999. After reviewing your application, we have decided that this fill is covered by General Water Quality Certification Number 3100. This Certification allows you to use Regional General Permit Number 031 when the Corps of Engineers issues it. 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. Also 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. If you change your project, you must notify us and send us a new application. If the property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of this Certification and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying with all conditions. If total 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). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed in the attached certification. This approval shall expire when the corresponding Nationwide Permit expires or as otherwise provided in the General Certification. 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 which conforms to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes to the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 276 1 1-7447. 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 Domey at 919-733-1786. cc: Wilmington District Corps of Engineers Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office Raleigh DWQ Regional Office Mr. John Domey Central Files Si erely, Stevens 01 990489.1tr Division of Water Quality • Environmental Sciences Branch Environmental Sciences Branch, 4401 Reedy Creek Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607 Telephone 919-733-1786 FAX # 733-9959 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer • 50% recycled/10% post consumer paper H 3 0m 0 z z c< 0 m mm C7 ? W D r C) i H I m ? .n t3 H z 0c c,C) H F: C) m 2 co D Mom H r C7 H H Cl `~' D C-4 0 O ? z z -- -------- - ---------------------- H O C"7 O C ? z H O C -- -------------------------------- H b U b ul i z m > •n D W w ca tw p 4 Z ---- -- ------- ---------------------- . C) C7 C? D" z z jO T W 0 lM Ul ra ?o 0 n m OD z ? 3 M m OZ I r r° m? D z O0 n O -n n ? mo z .P w C? rri cn v m O to 1 n r_ w ?.a CODES A - CONTRACT S - EXPENSE VOUCHER C - INVOICE U - SEE ATTACHED LISTING, E - STATEMENT F - OTHER I Zvi Toad STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY 26 April, 1999 U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Field Office 6508 Falls of the Neuse Road PAYMENT Suite 120 RECEIVED Raleigh, North Carolina 27615 ATTN: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer NCDOT Coordinator Dear Sir: SUBJECT: Proposed construction of a left turn lane on northbound U.S. 301 in front of North Johnston High School in Johnston County. TIP No. PS-2939, State Project No. 6.310006. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to construct a left turn lane on northbound U.S. 301, in front of North Johnston High School, a distance of 0.4. miles. This work is intended as a safety improvement for traffic turning into the High School. The widening will take place along existing right-of-way, but additional right- f?3 way is needed. Widening of this section will be on the south side of US 301. A 4.5-rneterd?????'f1? ?a (14.9 feet) extension will have to be constructed onto the existing box culvem4 f 1 accommodate the widening. This will require minimal work in Big Branch gee f d?^'i j? adjacent wetlands` ?.' The project will impact one. jurisdictional wetland on the south side of U.S. 30 , on both sides of Big Branch Creek. The proposed widening will impact a total of 0.08 hectare (0.2) acres of these wetlands. Additionally, Big Branch Creek is a perennial stream, a tributary of the Neuse River, and is classified as Class C NSW. No High Quality Waters or Outstanding Resource Waters occur in the project area. r° { Additionally, potential impacts to federally protected species were evaluated by NCDOT biologists. A biological conclusion of "No Effect" were concluded for the following species: red-cockaded woodpecker, Michaux's sumac, dwarfs wedge mussel and Tar spinymussel. Therefore, all obligations under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act will be fulfilled. Enclosed please find the project site map, the preconstruction notification form, and drawings for the above referenced project. The NCDOT anticipates that these activities will be authorized under a Regional General Permit 31. By copy of this letter, we are also requesting a 401 General Water Quality Certification # 3100 (for GP 31) from the NC Division of Water Quality. If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Mr. Jared Gray at (919) 733-7844 extension 329. Sincerely, W. D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch wdg/jg cc: Mr. David Franklin, COE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, Division of Water Quality 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. D. R. Dupree, P.E., Division 4 Engineer 70 21= } NaaYv BIM 'y. _ y \__ H r9Nh ` ? I- t ? \ r9 fJ lp / ?? pEO 9 - /.. I 1\ Mk-? ..- ?k v ? wr w ? •e wt9 -- - ' 39 . rr°4i v. rt ,A1 : On'9 - .? i I _ .:'S ST T[ M ON W rY _ ? / , J _/ 4 e° Wll ^ ? x^ J / '?. a _ rat ? °I AirWrr - Mvrtk 95 w ? } - / - ?s ` ]ere n o ' !l / - R i- ?? ?' \ 5 210 ` 70A </ ` OM ` Plne Lrvel ` r '' f r :Y^9 1 ('? / ? - y AB EJOkoa 7D GOB+Y ._.. ,pt. JuY e9 I o? q --g P•. IS:.ip ?--. - - \ ' s _ '? a]E ? ? ? ( / 1 ef I ? - _ nCY? + LT• ,1 ,as 7 \\ ?yy3+ ? ? An ? Qf O 1 OItS kl ?' \ ; , ? ? .,e P Y \\ / 70 \Yl SBrI 1 / J , ? _ GNiP NO tl R P11E1 B O y , 301 °p _ t - 95 701 t 70 96 Neuse t?' ! 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I 1 I O - 1`L ,?? ` A?? ? • i S I ? - 1 71 - ti .o I, i F it - • i F tt ? r6« YyC y 1 DEM ID: CORPS ACTION ID: NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT #): 31 PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION 'FOR NATIONWIDE PERMITS THAT REQUIRE: 1) NOTIFICATION TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS 2) APPLICATION FOR SECTION 401 CERTIFICATION 3) COORDINATION WITH THE NC DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO THE APPROPRIATE FIELD OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). SEVEN (7) COPIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE N.C. DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). PLEASE PRINT. 1. OWNERS NAME: NCDOT 2. MAILING ADDRESS: P 0 Box 25201 SUBDIVISION NAME: CITY: Raleigh STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27611-5201 PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE): 3. TELEPHONE NUMBER (HOME): (WORK):, 919-733-3141 4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENT'S NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER: David C. Robinson, P.E. 5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE): COUNTY: Johnston NEAREST TOWN OR CITY: Bagley 1 SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ETC.): In front of North Johnston Hiah School on U.S. 301 6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Biq Branch Creek RIVER BASIN: Neuse 7a. IS PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER (SA), HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II)? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, EXPLAIN: 7b. IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)?YES[ ] NO[X] 7c. IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION? 8a. HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS PROPERTY? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION): 8b. ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK: 9a. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND: N/A 9b. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE: 0.2 4 2 10a. NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY: FILLING: 0.2 EXCAVATION: FLOODING: OTHER: DRAINAGE: TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.2 10b. (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED, PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION) : LENGTH BEFORE: N/A FT AFTER: N/A FT WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): N/A FT WIDTH AFTER: N/A FT AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: N/A FT AFTER: N/A FT (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL: CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING: OTHER: Extending the culvert on south side of U.S.301 11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED DRAINING TO THE POND? N/A WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA? N/A 12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TO BE USED (ATTACH PLANS: 8 1/2" X 11" DRAWINGS ONLY): Construction of a left turn lane along existing U.S. 301 section at North Johnston High School. The project will require some shoulder work, grading, drainage work, paving and retaining and extending the existing culvert. Road construction equipment 13. PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: To improve safety of the traveling 10 public and provide safety to the children riding on the school buses. 3 14. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN WETLANDS. (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS): Minimizing the right-of-way that will be needed in order to build the left turn lane. 17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OR THE USE OF PUBLIC (STATE) LAND? YES [X] NO [] (IF NO, GO TO 18) a. IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES [X] NO [] • b. IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE? YES [X] NO [] IF ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TO DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REGARDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT. ti QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO MS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE (919) 733-6369. 18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OR FILL MATERIAL INTO WETLANDS: a. WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES AND PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS 14, 18, 21, 26, 29, AND 38). ALL STREAMS (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OR 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET OR THEIR EQUIVALENT. b. IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY PROJECT. C. IF DELINEATION WAS PERFORMED BY A CONSULTANT, INCLUDE ALL DATA SHEETS RELEVANT TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE DELINEATION LINE. d. ATTACH A COPY OF THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN IF REQUIRED. e. WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY? rural f. IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL? N/A g. SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE. NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE U.S. MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO: 1) ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT, 2) EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (WATER QUALITY) CERTIFICATION, AND . 3) (IN THE TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM. G • lit. ?' ?'/,?ru. z( ? 9 OWNER'S/AGENT'S SIGNATURE DATE k (AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.)) ENDANGERED SPECIES: U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE RALEIGH FIELD OFFICE P.O. BOX 33726 RALEIGH, NC 27636-3726 TELEPHONE (919) 856-4520 HISTORIC RESOURCES: 5 AGENCY ADDRESSES NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE HABITAT CONSERVATION DIVISION PIVERS ISLAND BEAUFORT, NC 28516 TELEPHONE (919) 728-5090 STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE N.C. DIVISION OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY 109 EAST JONES STREET RALEIGH, NC 27601 TELEPHONE (919) 733-4763 STATE REGULATORY AGENCIES: MR. JOHN DORNEY DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH, AND NATURAL RESOURCES 4401 REEDY CREEK ROAD RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27607 TELEPHONE (919) 733-1786 CORPS OF ENGINEERS FIELD OFFICES: RALEIGH REGULATORY FIELD OFFICE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS 6508 FALLS OF THE NEUSE ROAD, SUITE 120 RALEIGH, NC 27615 TELEPHONE (919) 876-8441 WASHINGTON REGULATORY FIELD OFFICE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS POST OFFICE BOX 1000 WASHINGTON, NC 27889-1000 TELEPHONE (919) 975-1616 U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE ASHEVILLE FIELD OFFICE 160 ZILLICOA STREET ASHEVILLE, NC 28801 TELEPHONE(704)665-1195 MR. STEVE BENTON DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH, AND NATURAL RESOURCES POST OFFICE BOX 27687 RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27611-7687 TELEPHONE (919) 733-2293 FAX (919) 733-1495 ASHEVILLE REGULATORY FIELD OFFICE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS 151 PATTON AVENUE, ROOM 143 ASHEVILLE, NC 28801-5006 TELEPHONE (704) 271-4854 WILMINGTON REGULATORY FIELD OFFICE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS POST OFFICE BOX 1890 WILMINGTON, NC 28402-1890 TELEPHONE (910) 251-4511 DATA FORM ROUTINE W';TLAND DETERMINATION (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Project/Site: S aq - 3°? Date: lal 8 Ina. Applicant/Owner: Ale O 0 County: Investigator: State: N . G Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? ?JYej? No Community ID:/G„ " Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes 'No Transect ID: ? z C If Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes J Plot ID: DPE` Z -- needed, explain on reverse.) J VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator 2. ?.r'/tII/(4n rs, `^ ?t l• ice, t PGj 3.? Skllu )G 4. S e ^ a Wif , G N UwPc' A(JV ?+ r 6. L.l1Vi?Gi'Y4, S{y(?f i I:w f P(iy Percent of-Dominant Species that are OBL. FACW at FAC (excluding FAC-). Remarks: ` . ?(PVGi ?Y^(? bT HYDROLOGY Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator 9. 10. 11. 13. 14. 15. - 6. . IJd, C' ) I e- _ Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): Wetland Hydrology Indicators: _ Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Primary Indicators: _ Aerial Photographs Inundated _ Other _ _ Saturated in Upper 12 Inches ?No Recorded Data Available _ Water Marks _ Drift Lines _ Sediment Deposits Field Observations: _ Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators (2 or more required): Depth of Surface Water: (in.) _ Oxidized Root Channels in Upper. 12 Inches _ Water-Stained Leaves Depth to Free Water in Pit: (in.) _ Local Soil Survey Data _ FAC-Neutral Test Depth to Saturated Soil: (in.) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: A04 1'?'qoq t i SOILS Map Unit Name (Series and Phase): ?'7b' 5 D a Drainage Class: Ln, cra 4e.L 111-aQ> q Taxonomy (Subgroup): " ' w Feld Observations r[ Confirm Mapped Type? Yes No Profile Description: Depth inches Horizon Matrix Color (Munsell Moist) Mottle Colors (Munsell Moist) Mottle Texture, Concretions, Abundance/Contrast Structure etc -L , . 16 ?'I P < r, fin 7.5-7 g5- Z"5(-7 . Hydric Soil Indicators: Remeeks: WETLAND DETERMINATION Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Wetland Hydrology Present? Hydric Soils Present? _ Histosol _ Histic Epipedon _ Sulfidic Odor _ Aquic Moisture Regime _ Rsducin Conditions _ Gleyed or Low-Chroma Colors _ Concretions _ High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils _ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils _ Listed on Local Hydr-c Soils List _ Listed or. National I-:y'dre Soils List Other (Explain in Remarks) No (Circle) (Circle) Yes d Yes ilp o Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? Yes G7 eo 1 ? i,r ftv?}Ir? Remarks: + ' sl t? ' r G/ ?° 1 ? it ? - DATA FORM ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION 0 987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) F'- Project/Site: aq • ? Date: (a Its -a Applicant/Owner: C 0 --` County r V!S' o n1 Investigator: State: 1J .t; Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? rs' No Community ID: We k,,, J Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes 'N Transect ID: I C Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes 'Nd Plot ID:v ?l ? (If needed, explain on reverse.) VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator 1. t"'U e e r SD 9. 2. Lea w a? c ?,o H 10. 3. J 1?e1 [: S l O f M y r" l e• n ie (-- 11. 4. /V4 Ss • '? /v a flee ?qG} 12. S. Nysss 5 4/v-1Ne(A CIA d ? ? 13. 8. A,on inev/A c w ?? ?AL 14. 7. is. 8. 16. Percent pfipormaent.Species that are .OBL, FACW or•FAC ,,. *'(excluding`FAC-). b0 Remarks: p(-L?e4 Q ?, U ? ? ? ? ? HYDROLO -s X ' ,,_,,,d! orded Data (Describe in Remarks): Wetland Hydrology Indicators: _ Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Primary Indicators: _ Aerial Photographs -Inundated _ Other ?Saturated in Upper 12 Inches -4o Recorded Data Available Water Marks r:.. •;. _ Drift Lines _ Sediment Deposits Field Observations: y/Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators (2 or more required): Repth of Surface Water: (in.) _ 9xidized Root Channels in Upper. 12 Inches - , WWater-Stained Leaves Depth to Free Water in Pit: q (in.) 'Local Soil Survey Data FAC-Neutral Test Depth to Saturated Soil: (in.) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) Rsmallcs: 1 SOILS Map Unit Name (Series and Phase): Drainage Class. Taxonomy (Subgroup): ??...`? Field Observations L ,wJ ?. r :,, r , ?5 Confirm Mapped Type? Yes No Profile Description: Depth Matrix Color Mottle Colors Mottle Texture, Concretions, inches Horizon (Munsell Moist! (Munsell Moist) Abundance/Contrast Structure, etc. Nydric Soil Indicators: Histosol _ Concretions _ Histic Epipedon _ High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils _ Sulfidic Odor _ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils - Aquic Moisture Regime _ Listed on Local Hydric Soils List Reducing Conditions _ Listed on National Hydric Soils List YGleyed or Low-Chrome Colors _ Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: lot, I's to'v -r WETLAND DETERMINATION Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? (t No (Circle) (Circle) Wetland Hydrology Present? No Hydric Soils Present? V No Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? Ye No I? Remarks: v t f,j P11 MST?p STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORMS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY 26 April, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: Charles Bruton, Assistant Branch Manager Natural Systems Unit FROM: Jared Gray, Environmental Biologist Natural Systems Unit SUBJECT: Proposed construction of a left turn lane on northbound US 301 at North Johnston High School in Johnston County. T.I.P. No. PS-2939, State Project No. 6.310006. ATTENTION: Gordon Cashin, Unit Head Natural Systems Unit This attached Natural Resources Technical Report provides inventories and descriptions of natural resources within the project area, and estimates of impacts likely to occur to these resources as a result of project construction. Pertinent information on wetlands and federally protected species is also provided. This project involves the construction of a left turn lane along the existing US 301 section at North Johnston High School (Figure 1). The project will require some shoulder work, grading, and drainage work, paving and retaining and extending the existing culvert. The existing right-of-way for the project area is 18.3 m (60.0 ft). The proposed right-of-way adds an additional 6.1-m (20.0 ft) to the southern section of the project site. The total length of the project is 0.65 km (0.41 mi.). DEFINITIONS Definitions for areal descriptions used in this report are as follows: Project Study Area denotes the area bounded by proposed ROW limits; Project Vicinity describes an area extending 0.8km (0.5 mi.) on all sides of the project study area; and Project Region is equivalent to an area represented by a 7.5 USGS quadrangle map. WATER RESOURCES Jurisdictional surface waters are located within the project study area, which lies within the Neuse River Basin (Figure 2). Big Branch Creek, which is culverted under US 301 and the nearby railroad cross the project. Big Branch Creek was approximately 2.1 m (7.0 ft) wide and had an average depth of 1.2 m (4.0 ft) at this location. The waters of Big Branch Creek were very turbid at the time of the survey, yielding a visibility of about 0.3-m (1.0-ft). Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the DWQ. The classification of Big Branch Creek (Index No. 27-57-18.5) is C NSW. The Class C uses include aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation and agriculture. The supplemental classification of NSW denotes Nutrient Sensitive Waters, which requires limitations on nutrient inputs. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Service (NPDES) program. Any discharger is required to register for a permit. There are no point source dischargers affecting the project study area. Neither High Quality (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-II) Nor Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) occur within 1.61km (1.0mi.) of the project study area. The DWQ has initiated a whole basin approach to water quality management for the 17 river basins within the state. To accomplish this goal the DWQ collects biological, chemical and physical data that can be used in basinwide assessment and planning. All basins are reassessed every five years. Prior to the implementation of the basinwide approach to water quality management, the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (managed by the DWQ) assessed water quality by sampling for benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites throughout the state. There are no BMAN monitoring sites on Big Branch Creek located within 1.6km (1.0mi.) of the project study area on US 301. The NCDOT, in cooperation with the DWQ, has developed a sedimentation control program for highway projects which adopts formal Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the protection of surface waters. Removal of vegetation and soil agitation during project construction will result in soil erosion. In order to minimize impacts to water resources in the entire impact area, NCDOT'S (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters must be strictly enforced during the entire construction process. The project study area falls in the coastal plain and crosses a perennial stream, anadromous fish passage guidelines, must be adhered to during project construction. BIOTIC RESOURCES The project study area was visited by NCDOT biologists Jared Gray, Chris Murray and Gordon Cashin on December 8, 1998. Three distinct terrestrial communities were identified during the field visit; Maintained/Disturbed Community, Mixed Hardwood/Pine Upland Community and the Headwater Forest Community are the three community types found on the project site. Maintained/Disturbed Community The Maintained/Disturbed Community is made up of several sub- communities, which are roadside shoulder, maintained yard and irregularly maintained powerline corridor. The flora associated with this community includes fescue (Festuca sp.), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), white clover (Trifolium repens), red clover (Trifolium pratense), English plantain (Plantago lanceolata), henbit (Lamium amplexicaule), and crown vetch (Vicia dasycarpa). Mixed Hardwood/Pine Upland Community Mixed Hardwood/Pine Upland Community is found very extensively on the southeastern and southwestern ends of project area. The flora associated with community includes tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), post oak (Quercus stellata), loblolly pine (Pinus teada), sweet gum (Liquidambarstyraciflua), red maple (Acer rubrum), and cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea). Headwater Forest Community The Headwater Forest Community lies adjacent to the banks of Big Branch Creek. Stormwater runoff and intermittent flooding of Big Branch Creek drive this community. This community's flora consists of sedge (Carex sp.), rattlebox (Ludwigia sp.), needle rush (Juncus roemerianus), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica) and giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea). Wildlife Wildlife that may frequently use these communities for cover, foraging and nesting include: opossum (Didelphis virginiana), short-tailed shrew (Blarina brevicauda telmalestes), red bat (Lasiurus borealis), mink (Mustela vison), raccoon (Procyon lotor), gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura). Impacts to Biotic Communities Construction of the subject project will impact the biotic resources described in this report. 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. Calculated impacts to terrestrial resources reflect the relative abundance of each community present within the study area. Project construction will result in clearing and degradation of portions of these communities. Table 1 summarizes potential quantitative losses to these biotic communities, resulting from project construction. Estimated impacts are derived using the entire proposed right-of-way width of 24.4-m (80.0 ft). Usually, project construction does not require the entire right-of-way; therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. TABLE 1. Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Impacts Communitv Impacts Maintained/Disturbed Community 1.2 (2.9) Mixed Hardwood/Pine Upland .31 (.77) Headwater Forest Community .09 (.21) Totals 1.6 (3.0) Values cited are in hectares (acres) JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES Surface Waters and Wetlands Surface waters and jurisdictional 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 material into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. 1344). Criteria to determine the presence of jurisdictional wetlands include evidence of hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation and hydrology. Jurisdictional wetlands are located within the project study area. There are two jurisdictional wetlands on the project study area; they lie adjacent to Big Branch Creek, one to the east and one to the west. The total impacts to the two jurisdictional wetlands will be 0.08 hectares (0.20 acres). Also, Big Branch Creek is jurisdictional surface water located in the project study area. The linear feet of impacts to Big Branch Creek will be 4.5 m (14.9 ft.). The extension of the culvert in Big Branch Creek will result in impacts to jurisdictional surface waters. Additionally, widening the roadway will result in impacts to both wetland areas. Permits Since impacts to Waters of the United States are anticipated, this project in accordance with provisions of section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit will be required from the COE. A Section 404 Wilmington District General Permit No. 198200031 is likely to be applicable for all impacts to Waters of the United States, including wetlands and surface waters from the proposed project. This permit authorizes the discharge of dredged or fill material in Waters of the United States including wetlands, associated with the construction, maintenance and repair of bridges spanning navigable waters and Waters of the United States, including cofferdams abutments, foundation seals, piers, approach fills, detour fills, box culvert installation and temporary construction and access fills, as part of work conducted by the North Carolina Department Of Transportation (NCDOT) of other state, federal or local government entity, in the state of North Carolina. A North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) Section 401 Water Quality General Certification is required prior to the issuance of the Section 404 Wilmington District General Permit No. 198200031. Federally-Protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act. As of January 15, 1999, four species are listed for Johnston County (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). A summary of each species' natural history and distribution follows (Table 2) TABLE 2. Federally Listed Species for Johnston Countv Common Name Scientific Name Status Dwarf wedge mussel Alasmidonta heterodon Endangered Tar spinymussel Elliptio steinstansana Endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis Endangered Michaux's sumac Rhus michauxii Endangered "E" denotes Endangered (a species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range). Alasmidonts heterodon (dwarf wedge mussel) Animal Family: Unionidae Date Listed: March 14, 1990 The dwarf wedge mussel is a small mussel having a distinguishable shell noted by two lateral teeth on the right half and one on the left half. The periostracum (outer shell) is olive green to dark brown in color and the nacre (inner shell) is bluish to silvery white. Known populations of the dwarf wedge mussel in North Carolina are found in Middle Creek and the Little River of the Neuse River Basin and in the upper Tar River and Cedar, Crooked, and Stony Creeks of the Tar River system. This mussel is sensitive to agricultural, domestic, and industrial pollutants and requires a stable silt free streambed with well- oxygenated water to survive. Biological Conclusion No Effect According to NCNHP database for rare species and unique habitat Big Branch Creek flows into the Little River approximately (1.5 mi.) downstream from the project. The Little River has known populations of the dwarf wedge mussel. Tim Savidge and Jared Gray surveyed for the dwarf wedge mussel on April 8, 1999. Although, downstream of the project looked like suitable habitat there were no dwarf wedge mussel found in the project area. This project will not affect the dwarf wedge mussel downstream as long as, NCDOT BMP'S guidelines are followed. Elliptio steinstansana (Tar spinymussel) Animal Family: Unionidae Date Listed: August 29, 1985 The Tar spinymussel is endemic to the Tar River drainage basin, from Falkland in Pitt County to Spring Hope in Nash County. Populations of the Tar River spinymussel can be found in streams of the Tar River Drainage Basin and of the Swift Creek Drainage Sub-Basin. This mussel requires a stream with fast flowing, well-oxygenated, circumneutral pH water. The bottom is composed of uncompacted gravel and coarse sand. The water needs to be relatively silt-free. It is known to rely on a species of freshwater fish to act as an intermediate host for its larvae. The Tar spinymussel is a very small mussel. This mussel is named for its spines, which project perpendicularly from the surface and curve slightly ventrally. As many as 12 spines can be found on the shell which is generally smooth in texture. The nacre is pinkish (anterior) and bluish-white (posterior). Biological Conclusion No Effect A mussel survey for the Tar spiny mussel in Big Branch Creek was done on April 08, 1999 by NCDOT biologist Jared Gray and Tim Savidge. There were no Tar spinymussels found during the survey. The substrate observed during the survey was made up of silt, sand and clay. Also, observed was the fact that Big Branch Creek was a slow moving, blackwater stream, probably not well - oxygenated and may have a low pH. The project will not affect the Tar spinymussel. Picoides borealis (red-cockaded woodpecker) Animal Family: Picidae Date Listed: October 13, 1970 The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has plumage that is entirely black and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the nape in the male. The back of the RCW is black and white with horizontal stripes. The breast and underside of this woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The RCW has a large white cheek patch surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat. The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf pine (Pinus alp ustris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be appropriate habitat for the RCW. These birds nest exclusively in trees that are >60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the RCW is up to 200.0 ha (500.0 ac). This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in colonies from 3.6-30.3 m (12.0-100.0 ft) above the ground and average 9.1- 15.7 m (30.0-50.0 ft) high. A large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the tree can identify them. The RCW lays its eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38 days later. Biological Conclusion No Effect Suitable nesting and foraging habitat for the RCW, in the form of old growth pine forest, is not located in the project study area. There were no pines of sufficient size and density located in the project study area or nearby vicinity. A review of NCNHP database of rare species and unique habitats revealed no known populations of RCW within1.0 km (1.0 mi.) of the project study area. This project will not effect the red-cockaded woodpecker. Rhus michauxii (Michaux's sumac) Plant Family: Anacardiaceae Federally Listed: September 28, 1989 Flowers Present: June Michaux's sumac is a densely pubescent rhizomatous shrub. The bases of the leaves are rounded and their edges are simply or doubly serrate. The flowers of Michaux's sumac are greenish to white in color. Fruit, which develop from August to September on female plants, are a red densely short-pubescent drupe. This plant occurs in rocky or sandy open woods. Michaux's sumac is dependent on some sort of disturbance to maintain the openness of its habitat. It usually grows in association with basic soils and occurs on sand or sandy loams. Michaux's sumac grows only in open habitat where it can get full sunlight. Michaux's sumac does not compete well with other species, such as Japanese honeysuckle, with which it is often associated. Biological Conclusion No Effect A plant by plant survey for Michaux's sumac was conducted in the project study area on April 23, 1999 by NCDOT biologists Eric Black, Chris Murray, and Jared Gray, in the areas of suitable habitat such as irregularly maintained shoulder and forested maintained ecotones. Prior to conducting this survey, a known Michaux's sumac population was visited to familiarize ourselves with the species. Survey methodology involved was driving the length of the project looking for areas with suitable habitat. Once the survey area was determined, habitat was found and surveyed on foot by the above mentioned biologists. Although habitat was located, no Michaux's sumac was found anywhere within the project study area. The NCNHP database of rare species and unique habitat does not list any populations of Michaux's sumac within the project vicinity. Therefore, this project will not impact Michaux's sumac. Federal Species of Concern and State Listed Species There are eight Federal Species of Concern (FSC) listed for Johnston County. Federal Species of Concern are not afforded federal protection under the ESA and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or, listed as Threatened or Endangered. Federal Species of Concern are defined as those species, which may or may not be listed in the future. These species were formally candidate species, or species under consideration for listing for which there was insufficient information to support a listing of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered and Proposed Threatened. Organisms which are listed as Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Significantly Rare (SR) or Special Concern (SC) by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) list of rare plant and animal species are afforded state protection under the State Endangered Species Act and the North Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979. Table 3 lists Federal Candidate and State listed species, the species state status (if afforded state protection) and the existence of suitable habitat for each species in the study area. This species list is provided for information purposes as the status of these species may be upgraded in the future. Table 3. Federal Species of Concern and State Listed Species for Johnston Countv Scientific Name Common Name State Status Habitat Lasmigona subviridis Green floater E Yes Procambarus medialis Tar river crayfish SR Yes Elliptio lanceolata Yellow lance T Yes Fusconaia mason Atlantic pigtoe T Yes Lampsilis cariosa Yellow lampmussel T Yes Solidago vema Spring-flowering goldenrod E/PT No Tofieldia glabra Carolina asphodel C No Trillium pusillum Carolina least trillium E No 1) Endangered is a species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or significant portion of its range). 2) Threatened species are species that are likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. 3) Significantly Rare are species which has not been listed by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission as an Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern species, but which exists in the state in small numbers and has been determined by the N. C 4) Endangered/Proposed Threatened is a species, which has been formally proposed for listing as Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern, but has not yet completed the legally mandated listing process. 5) Candidate is a species, which is very rare in North Carolina, generally with 1- 20 populations in the state, generally substantially, reduced in numbers by habitat destruction. Surveys for the above mentioned species were not conducted during the site visit, nor were these species observed during the site visit. The Natural Heritage Program database showed that there is critical aquatic habitat within 1.6 km (1.0 mi.) of the project study area. Big Branch Creek flows into the Little River Aquatic Habitat Area. The BMP's should be followed in order to protect the stability of aquatic life in Big Branch Creek, and that of the Little River Aquatic Habitat Area. Please contact me if you have any further questions regarding this project. C: File PS-2939 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA a° ?? c DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATTION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 F RRIS Toe"S GOVERNOR TARYe May 17 1 ?N ? y 999 a R .w? MEMORANDUM TO: A. L. Hankins Hydraulics Unit FROM: Jared Gray, Environmental Biologist Natural Systems Unit SUBJECT: Proposed construction of a left turn lane on northbound US 301 at North Johnston High School in Johnston County. T.I.P. No. PS-2939, State Project No. 6.310006. Enclosed is a map of the project showing the wetland boundaries and areas of wetlands to be filled or disturbed. This map was left out of the original permit package, please insert this map as page three in the drawing section of your permit package. If you have any questions referring to the permit or this drawing please call, Jared Gray at (919) 733-7844 ext. 329. C: PS-2939 rr ? r? T ?k v? V) = N ? cz rc)? O + n ? N I Rl z rn IRM r 73 r a a ? U z i w - C z o z l D L r -?- N z v A LS: \S -t- ? x ti I / Ap A V a I ??'? I / mN A I I - ^v Ln v I i 0 tin •o I ? I ? I I I r A X I C'S CAI CD M c) O cn i pp F .} I i I 4 112 I ' ? +J J I I I j j 1 j l i ?? I I I I - 4-L I I m ? Z y I I m r I ? -Ir I I - ?I n I I 'T I II y ?,. I ? ?II(? I I Tp I ti ? Gaw.N? STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORMS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY May 17, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: Whit Webb Program Development FROM: Jared Gray, Environmental Biologist Natural Systems Unit SUBJECT: Proposed construction of a left turn lane on northbound US 301 at North Johnston High School in Johnston County. T.I.P. No. PS-2939, State Project No. 6.310006. Enclosed is a map of the project showing the wetland boundaries and areas of wetlands to be filled or disturbed. This map was left out of the original permit package, please insert this map as page three in the drawing section of your permit package. If you have any questions referring to the permit or this drawing please call, Jared Gray at (919) 733-7844 ext. 329. C: PS-2939 n; r? r-ri s rT1 r7l y ZN Zt ? FT, N R o °b c r C r>, V) r r n a is U1 P 'r D Z ? z i C ? Z o W f L o ? W W C> Z. L Al r z ¢ A ?? v 9 L ?2T A X iti to m_X N ^U y A 1 X S M n Cif r? , f, F ?n I I \ I ?i I I? I I i i I I ^vr: I jns --rl I I r I I I H I /? CA l o } of - a - O cn l ao I; ? I I -? ' + I , m T i - ? i y+ ?I I i rn ? -? co rn I I z y 1- m _ I -Ir I I I I ? .7 I II ? I I ` .II,F. j I FE I j I _ ?. I I n ?p f Z°,swe? STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY 26 April, 1999 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Field Office 6508 Falls of the Neuse Road Suite 120 Raleigh, North Carolina 27615 ATTN: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer NCDOT Coordinator Dear Sir: SUBJECT: Proposed construction of a left turn lane on northbound U.S. 301 in front of North Johnston High School in Johnston County. TIP No. PS-2939, State Project No. 6.310006. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to construct a left turn lane on northbound U.S. 301, in front of North Johnston High School, a distance of 0.4. miles. This work is intended as a safety improvement for traffic turning into the High School. The widening will take place along existing right-of-way, but additional right-of- way is needed. Widening of this section will be on the south side of US 301. A 4.5-meter (14.9 feet) extension will have to be constructed onto the existing box culvert to accommodate the widening. This will require minimal work in Big Branch Creek and adjacent wetlands. The project will impact one jurisdictional wetland on the south side of U.S. 301, on both sides of Big Branch Creek. The proposed widening will impact a total of 0.08 hectare (0.2) acres of these wetlands. Additionally, Big Branch Creek is a perennial stream, a tributary of the Neuse River, and is classified as Class C NSW. No High Quality Waters or Outstanding Resource Waters occur in the project area. Additionally, potential impacts to federally protected species were evaluated by NCDOT biologists. A biological conclusion of "No Effect" were concluded for the following species: red-cockaded woodpecker, Michaux's sumac, dwarfs wedge mussel and Tar spinymussel. Therefore, all obligations under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act will be fulfilled. Enclosed please find the project site map, the preconstruction notification form, and drawings for the above referenced project. The NCDOT anticipates that these activities will be authorized under a Regional General Permit 31. By copy of this letter, we are also requesting a 401 General Water Quality Certification # 3100 (for GP 31) from the NC Division of Water Quality. If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Mr. Jared Gray at (919) 733-7844 extension 329. Sincerely, /)/"' C- - L,;L ?- W. D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch wdg/jg cc: Mr. David Franklin, COE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, Division of Water Quality 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. D. R. Dupree, P.E., Division 4 Engineer I e A 70 ? al WhitIy Its ° ? ? , Loa.u MITI C eex Hemh4 • rw °IE ??l _- ,y 5 I I ST T ` PRI O N r'- +! a ?' r0ar' o \lE 4 County/ T ` p i ? .. Airpdt _ , ` 21 ? S< 95 - °I u > o 4 ra'N ? ? q \ Em r ? 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RA MN ? ? 1 ? t V' r n n w. i If'r le DEM ID: CORPS ACTION ID: NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT #) 31 PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR NATIONWIDE PERMITS THAT REQUIRE: 1) NOTIFICATION TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS 2) APPLICATION FOR SECTION 401 CERTIFICATION 3) COORDINATION WITH THE NC DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO THE APPROPRIATE FIELD OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). SEVEN (7) COPIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE N.C. DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). PLEASE PRINT. 1. OWNERS NAME: NCDOT 2. MAILING ADDRESS: P 0 Box 25201 SUBDIVISION NAME: CITY: Raleigh STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 27611-5201 PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE): 3. TELEPHONE NUMBER (HOME): (WORK): 919-733-3141 4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENT'S NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER: David C. Robinson, P.E. 5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE): COUNTY: Johnston NEAREST TOWN OR CITY: Bagley 1 SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ETC.): In front of North Johnston Hiah School on U.S. 301 6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: Big Branch Creek RIVER BASIN: Neuse 7a. IS PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER (SA), HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II)? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, EXPLAIN: 7b. IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)?YES[ ] NO[X] 7c. IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION? 8a. HAVE ANY SECTION 404.PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS PROPERTY? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION): 8b. ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK: 9a. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND: N/A 9b. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE: 0.2 2 10a. NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY: FILLING: 0.2 EXCAVATION: FLOODING: OTHER: DRAINAGE: TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED: 0.2 10b. (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED, PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION): LENGTH BEFORE: N/A FT AFTER: N/A FT WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): N/A FT WIDTH AFTER: N/A FT AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: N/A FT AFTER: N/A FT (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL: CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING: OTHER: Extending the culvert on south side of U.S.301 11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED DRAINING TO THE POND? N/A WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA? N/A 12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TO BE USED (ATTACH PLANS: 8 1/2" X 11" DRAWINGS ONLY): Construction of a left turn lane along existing U.S. 301 section at North Johnston High School. The project will require some shoulder work, grading, drainage work, paving and retaining and extending the existing culvert. Road construction equipment 13. PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: To improve safety of the traveling public and provide safety to the children riding on the school buses. 3 14. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN WETLANDS. (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS): Minimizing the right-of-way that will be needed in order to build the left turn lane. 17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OR THE USE OF PUBLIC (STATE) LAND? YES [X] NO [] (IF NO, GO TO 18) a. IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES [X] NO [ b. IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE? YES [X] NO [] IF ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TO DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REGARDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT. QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO MS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE (919) 733-6369. 18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OR FILL MATERIAL INTO WETLANDS: a. WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES AND PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS 14, 18, 21, 26, 29, AND 38). ALL STREAMS (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OR 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET OR THEIR EQUIVALENT. b. IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY PROJECT. C. IF DELINEATION WAS PERFORMED BY A CONSULTANT, INCLUDE ALL DATA SHEETS RELEVANT TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE DELINEATION LINE. d. ATTACH A COPY OF THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN IF REQUIRED. e. WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY? rural f. IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL? N/A g. SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE. NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE U.S. MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO: 1) ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT, 2) EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (WATER QUALITY) CERTIFICATION, AND 3) (IN THE TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM. z6b?i? OWNER'S/AGENT'S SIGNATURE DATE (AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.)) ENDANGERED SPECIES: U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE RALEIGH FIELD OFFICE P.O. BOX 33726 RALEIGH, NC 27636-3726 TELEPHONE (919) 856-4520 HISTORIC RESOURCES: 5 AGENCY ADDRESSES NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE HABITAT CONSERVATION DIVISION PIVERS ISLAND BEAUFORT, NC 28516 TELEPHONE (919) 728-5090 STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE N.C. DIVISION OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY 109 EAST JONES STREET RALEIGH, NC 27601 TELEPHONE (919) 733-4763 STATE REGULATORY AGENCIES: MR. JOHN DORNEY DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH, AND NATURAL RESOURCES 4401 REEDY CREEK ROAD RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27607 TELEPHONE (919) 733-1786 CORPS OF ENGINEERS FIELD OFFICES: RALEIGH REGULATORY FIELD OFFICE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS 6508 FALLS OF THE NEUSE ROAD, SUITE 120 RALEIGH, NC 27615 TELEPHONE (919) 876-8441 WASHINGTON REGULATORY FIELD OFFICE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS POST OFFICE BOX 1000 WASHINGTON, NC 27889-1000 TELEPHONE (919) 975-1616 U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE ASHEVILLE FIELD OFFICE 160 ZILLICOA STREET ASHEVILLE, NC 28801 TELEPHONE(704)665-1195 MR. STEVE BENTON DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH, AND NATURAL RESOURCES POST OFFICE BOX 27687 RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27611-7687 TELEPHONE (919) 733-2293 FAX (919) 733-1495 ASHEVILLE REGULATORY FIELD OFFICE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS 151 PATTON AVENUE, ROOM 143 ASHEVILLE, NC 28801-5006 TELEPHONE (704) 271-4854 WILMINGTON REGULATORY FIELD OFFICE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS POST OFFICE BOX 1890 WILMINGTON, NC 28402-1890 TELEPHONE (910) 251-4511 DATA FORM ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Project/Site: P S ?q -3? Date: (al 8 laQ Applicant/Owner: /lie 0 0 County: _0?11Sav,J Investigator: G n y , Ca y„ State: N G Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? ?)Ye No Community ID: Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes NQ Transect ID: z c Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes J Plot ID: c fE, Z (If needed, explain on reverse.) J VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator Ogg s. Percent of Dominant Species that are OSL. FACW or FAC (excluding FAC-). Remarks: ` pp-Ua /r^(L° HYDROLOGY Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator 9. 10. 11. 13. 14. - 15. 16. _ Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): Wetland Hydrology Indicators: _ Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Primary Indicators: _ Aerial Photographs Inundated Other _ -Saturated in Upper 12 Inches ?No Recorded Data Available _ Water Marks _ Drift Lines _ Sediment Deposits Field Observations: _ Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators (2 or more required): Depth of Surface Water: (in.) _ Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 Inches . _ Water-Stained Leaves Depth to Free Water in Pit: (in.) _ Local Soil Survey Data _ FAC-Neutral Test Depth to Saturated Soil: (in.) - Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: A04 (.1'V04 r SOILS Map Unit Name (Series and Phase): 17b ? ? S ? D a s Drainage Class: era 4, c ?T•, A 1 Taxonomy (Subgroup): '1 C Conk Field Observations _ Confirm Mapped Type? Yes No Profile Descri otion• Depth Matrix Color inches Horizon (Munsell Moist) Mottle Colors Mottle Texture, Concretions, (Munsell Moist) Abundance/Contrast Structure etc -q -7, s yIzs1,6 . . 1 _ 16 t? (tr? Jn . Z-sC-7 6I? P , Hydric Soil Indicators: _ Histosol i - Histic Epipedon Sulfidic Odor _ Concretions _ High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils _ _ Aquic Moisture Regime _ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils Listed on Local Hydros Soils List Reducing Conditio:os _ Gleyed or Low-Chrome Colors _ _ Listed or. National Eydr'c Soils Lis: _ Other (Explain in Remarks) Reme?ks: 1 ? e- t, WETLAND DETERMINATION Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? <:&,) (Circle) Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes (Circle) Hydric Soils Present? Yes iAo Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? Yes Remarks: C? t' C-1 i DATA FORM ROUTINE WET LAND DETERMINATION 0 987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) t Project/Site: aq E'd Date: 1'01-M q% Applicant/Owner: C 0-r County: ai.???onl Investigator: . ?? State: .G Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? Y@s' No Community ID: Lnl_ Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes 'N? Transect ID: I c Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes No Plot ID: N ?t t (If needed, explain on reverse.) VEGETATION HYDROLO Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator 1. 1"nreK 4• •/?_ s. 2.I w. 10. 3. J yrl[v c r or Mtr"l an is _?? ?IIL- 11. 4. /yti 45. ?? /v u f(rc ?_RG} 12. S. CIA f J 13. 6. At 0A lnn./A ? i e. A w , tea w 14. 7. 15. 8. 16. Percent pf ppinloant.Species that are OBL. FACW or•FAC cT? y , (excluding FAC-). l? 'F V0 Remarks: p('L/N?P?,Q Uf??t,? o r. ' ? orded Data (Describe in Remarks): Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Stream, Lake, or ride Gauge Primary Indicators: _ Aerial Photographs -Inundated _ Other ?aturated in Upper 12 Inches *,,do Recorded Data Available _ Water Marks - Drift Lines _ Sediment Deposits Feld Observations: y/Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators (2 or more required): Pepth of Surface Water: (in.) - 9xidized Root Channels in Upper 12 Inches t St i ed L Depth to Free Water in Pit: q _(in.) a er- a n eaves --:7?Locsl Soil Survey Data FAC-Neutral Test Depth .to Saturated Soil: (in.) - Other (Explain in Remarks) , Rematics: r- w P? ICIA SOILS Map Unit Name ?l (Series and Phase): I S Drainage Class: f F • ` Taxonomy (Subgroup): 1' L Y grouP• ; Field Observations L , wJ 41 ?r 12 - c 0 1 Confirm Mapped Type? Yes No Profile Description- Depth Matrix Color inches Horizon (Munsell Moist) Mottle Colors Mottle Texture, Concretions, (Munsell Moist) Abundance/Contrast Structure, etc. Hydric Soil Indicators: _ Histosol Concretions _ Histic Epipedon Sulfidic Odor _ _ High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils -- Aquic Moisture Regime _ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils _ _ Reducing Conditions _ Listed on Local Hydric Soils List _ Listed on National H;xlric Soils List -A,--Gleyed or Low-Chrome Colors _ Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: I-I Ll t 50// I'S PS.« ' ?, ' WETLAND DETERMINATION Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Y No (Circle) Wetland Hydrology Present? No (Circle) Hydric Soils Present? V No. Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? Ye No Remarks: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORMS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY 26 April, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: Charles Bruton, Assistant Branch Manager Natural Systems Unit FROM: Jared Gray, Environmental Biologist Natural Systems Unit SUBJECT: Proposed construction of a left turn lane on northbound US 301 at North Johnston High School in Johnston County. T.I.P. No. PS-2939, State Project No. 6.310006. ATTENTION: Gordon Cashin, Unit Head Natural Systems Unit This attached Natural Resources Technical Report provides inventories and descriptions of natural resources within the project area, and estimates of impacts likely to occur to these resources as a result of project construction. Pertinent information on wetlands and federally protected species is also provided. This project involves the construction of a left turn lane along the existing US 301 section at North Johnston High School (Figure 1). The project will require some shoulder work, grading, and drainage work, paving and retaining and extending the existing culvert. The existing right-of-way for the project area is 18.3 m (60.0 ft). The proposed right-of-way adds an additional 6.1-m (20.0 ft) to the southern section of the project site. The total length of the project is 0.65 km (0.41 mi.). DEFINITIONS Definitions for areal descriptions used in this report are as follows: Project Study Area denotes the area bounded by proposed ROW limits; Project Vicinity describes an area extending 0.8km (0.5 mi.) on all sides of the project study area; and Project Region is equivalent to an area represented by a 7.5 USGS quadrangle map. WATER RESOURCES Jurisdictional surface waters are located within the project study area, which lies within the Neuse River Basin (Figure 2). Big Branch Creek, which is culverted under US 301 and the nearby railroad cross the project. Big Branch Creek was approximately 2.1 m (7.0 ft) wide and had an average depth of 1.2 m (4.0 ft) at this location. The waters of Big Branch Creek were very turbid at the time of the survey, yielding a visibility of about 0.3-m (1.0-ft). Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the DWQ- The classification of Big Branch Creek (Index No. 27-57-18.5) is C NSW. The Class C uses include aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation and agriculture. The supplemental classification of NSW denotes Nutrient Sensitive Waters, which requires limitations on nutrient inputs. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Service (NPDES) program. Any discharger is required to register for a permit. There are no point source dischargers affecting the project study area. Neither High Quality (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-II) Nor Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) occur within 1.6km (1.0mi.) of the project study area. The DWQ has initiated a whole basin approach to water quality management.for the 17 river basins within the state. To accomplish this goal the DWQ collects biological, chemical and physical data that can be used in basinwide assessment and planning. All basins are reassessed every five years. Prior to the implementation of the basinwide approach to water quality management, the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (managed by the DWQ) assessed water quality by sampling for benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites throughout the state. There are no BMAN monitoring sites on Big Branch Creek located within 1.6km (1.0mi.) of the project study area on US 301. The NCDOT, in cooperation with the DWQ, has developed a sedimentation control program for highway projects which adopts formal Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the protection of surface waters. Removal of vegetation and soil agitation during project construction will result in soil erosion. In order to minimize impacts to water resources in the entire impact area, NCDOT'S (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters must be strictly enforced during the entire construction process. The project study area falls in the coastal plain and crosses a perennial stream, anadromous fish passage guidelines, must be adhered to during project construction. BIOTIC RESOURCES The project study area was visited by NCDOT biologists Jared Gray, Chris Murray and Gordon Cashin on December 8, 1998. Three distinct terrestrial communities were identified during the field visit; Maintained/Disturbed Community, Mixed Hardwood/Pine Upland Community and the Headwater Forest Community are the three community types found on the project site. Maintained/Disturbed Community The Maintained/Disturbed Community is made up of several sub- communities, which are roadside shoulder, maintained yard and irregularly maintained powerline corridor. The flora associated with this community includes fescue (Festuca sp.), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), white clover (Trifolium repens), red clover (Trifolium pratense), English plantain (Plantago lanceolata), henbit (Lamium amplexicaule), and crown vetch (Vicia dasycarpa). Mixed Hardwood/Pine Upland Community Mixed Hardwood/Pine Upland Community is found very extensively on the southeastern and southwestern ends of project area. The flora associated with community includes tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), post oak (Quercus stellata), loblolly pine (Pinus teada), sweet gum (Liquidambarstyraciflua), red maple (Acerrubrum), and cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea). Headwater Forest Community The Headwater Forest Community lies adjacent to the banks of Big Branch Creek. Stormwater runoff and intermittent flooding of Big Branch Creek drive this community. This community's flora consists of sedge (Carex sp.), rattlebox (Ludwigia sp.), needle rush (Juncus roemerianus), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica) and giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea). Wildlife Wildlife that may frequently use these communities for cover, foraging and nesting include: opossum (Didelphis virginiana), short-tailed shrew (Blarina brevicauda telmalestes), red bat (Lasiurus borealis), mink (Mustela vison), raccoon (Procyon lotor), gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura). Impacts to Biotic Communities Construction of the subject project will impact the biotic resources described in this report. 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. Calculated impacts to terrestrial resources reflect the relative abundance of each community present within the study area. Project construction will result in clearing and degradation of portions of these communities. Table 1 summarizes potential quantitative losses to these biotic communities, resulting from project construction. Estimated impacts are derived using the entire proposed right-of-way width of 24.4-m (80.0 ft). Usually, project construction does not require the entire right-of-way; therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. TABLE 1. Anticipated Impacts to Biotic I vv11 n 1 lul 11ty 111 IPCHAb Maintained/Disturbed Community 1.2 (2.9) Mixed Hardwood/Pine Upland .31 (.77) Headwater Forest Community .09 (.21) Totals 1.6 (3.0) Values cited are in hectares (acres) JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES Surface Waters and Wetlands Surface waters and jurisdictional 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 material into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. 1344). Criteria to determine the presence of jurisdictional wetlands include evidence of hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation and hydrology. Jurisdictional wetlands are located within the project study area. There are two jurisdictional wetlands on the project study area; they lie adjacent to Big Branch Creek, one to the east and one to the west. The total impacts to the two jurisdictional wetlands will be 0.08 hectares (0.20 acres). Also, Big Branch Creek is jurisdictional surface water located in the project study area. The linear feet of impacts to Big Branch Creek will be 4.5 m (14.9 ft.). The extension of the culvert in Big Branch Creek will result in impacts to jurisdictional surface waters. Additionally, widening the roadway will result in impacts to both wetland areas. Permits Since impacts to Waters of the United States are anticipated, this project in accordance with provisions of section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit will be required from the COE. A Section 404 Wilmington District General Permit No. 198200031 is likely to be applicable for all impacts to Waters of the United States, including wetlands and surface waters from the proposed project. This permit authorizes the discharge of dredged or fill material in Waters of the United States including wetlands, associated with the construction, maintenance and repair of bridges spanning navigable waters and Waters of the United States, including cofferdams abutments, foundation seals, piers, approach fills, detour fills, box culvert installation and temporary construction and access fills, as part of work conducted by the North Carolina Department Of Transportation (NCDOT) of other state, federal or local government entity, in the state of North Carolina. A North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) Section 401-Water Quality General Certification is required prior to the issuance of the Section 404 Wilmington District General Permit No. 198200031. Federally-Protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act. As of January 15, 1999, four species are listed for Johnston County (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). A summary of each species' natural history and distribution follows (Table 2) TABLE 2. Federallv Listed Species for Johnston Countv Common Name Scientific Name Status Dwarf wedge mussel Alasmidonta heterodon Endangered Tar spinymussel Elliptio steinstansana Endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis Endangered Michaux's sumac Rhus michauxii Endangered "E" denotes Endangered (a species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range). Alasmidonta heterodon (dwarf wedge mussel) Animal Family: Unionidae Date Listed: March 14, 1990 The dwarf wedge mussel is a small mussel having a distinguishable shell noted by two lateral teeth on the right half and one on the left half. The periostracum (outer shell) is olive green to dark brown in color and the nacre (inner shell) is bluish to silvery white. Known populations of the dwarf wedge mussel in North Carolina are found in Middle Creek and the Little River of the Neuse River Basin and in the upper Tar River and Cedar, Crooked, and Stony Creeks of the Tar River system. This mussel is sensitive to agricultural, domestic, and industrial pollutants and requires a stable silt free streambed with well- oxygenated water to survive. Biological Conclusion No Effect According to NCNHP database for rare species and unique habitat Big Branch Creek flows into the Little River approximately (1.5 mi.) downstream from the project. The Little River has known populations of the dwarf wedge mussel. Tim Savidge and Jared Gray surveyed for the dwarf wedge mussel on April 8, 1999. Although, downstream of the project looked like suitable habitat there were no dwarf wedge mussel found in the project area. This project will not affect the dwarf wedge mussel downstream as long as, NCDOT BMP'S guidelines are followed. Elliptio steinstansana (Tar spinymussel) Animal Family: Unionidae Date Listed: August 29, 1985 The Tar spinymussel is endemic to the Tar River drainage basin, from Falkland in Pitt County to Spring Hope in Nash County. Populations of the Tar River spinymussel can be found in streams of the Tar River Drainage Basin and of the Swift Creek Drainage Sub-Basin. This mussel requires a stream with fast flowing, well-oxygenated, circumneutral pH water. The bottom is composed of uncompacted gravel and coarse sand. The water needs to be relatively silt-free. It is known to rely on a species of freshwater fish to act as an intermediate host for its larvae. The Tar spinymussel is a very small mussel. This mussel is named for its spines, which project perpendicularly from the surface and curve slightly ventrally. As many as 12 spines can be found on the shell which is generally smooth in texture. The nacre is pinkish (anterior) and bluish-white (posterior). Biological Conclusion No Effect A mussel survey for the Tar spiny mussel in Big Branch Creek was done on April 08, 1999 by NCDOT biologist Jared Gray and Tim Savidge. There were no Tar spinymussels found during the survey. The substrate observed during the survey was made up of silt, sand and clay. Also, observed was the fact that Big Branch Creek was a slow moving, blackwater stream, probably not well - oxygenated and may have a low pH. The project will not affect the Tar spinymussel. Picoides borealis (red-cockaded woodpecker) Animal Family: Picidae Date Listed: October 13, 1970 The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has plumage that is entirely black and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the nape in the male. The back of the RCW is black and white with horizontal stripes. The breast and underside of this woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The RCW has a large white cheek patch surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat. The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf pine (Pinus alustris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be appropriate habitat for the RCW. These birds nest exclusively, in trees that are >60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the RCW is up to 200.0 ha (500.0 ac). This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in colonies from 3.6-30.3 m (12.0-100.0 ft) above the ground and average 9.1- 15.7 m (30.0-50.0 ft) high. A large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the tree can identify them. The RCW lays its eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38 days later. Biological Conclusion No Effect Suitable nesting and foraging habitat for the RCW, in the form of old growth pine forest, is not located in the project study area. There were no pines of sufficient size and density located in the project study area or nearby vicinity. A review of NCNHP database of rare species and unique habitats revealed no known populations of RCW withinl .0 km (1.0 mi.) of the project study area. This project will not effect the red-cockaded woodpecker. Rhus michauxii (Michaux's sumac) Plant Family: Anacardiaceae Federally Listed: September 28, 1989 Flowers Present: June Michaux's sumac is a densely pubescent rhizomatous shrub. The bases of the leaves are rounded and their edges are simply or doubly serrate. The flowers of Michaux's sumac are greenish to white in color. Fruit, which develop from August to September on female plants, are a red densely short-pubescent drupe. This plant occurs in rocky or sandy open woods. Michaux's sumac is dependent on some sort of disturbance to maintain the openness of its habitat. It usually grows in association with basic soils and occurs on sand or sandy loams. Michaux's sumac grows only in open habitat where it can get full sunlight. Michaux's sumac does not compete well with other species, such as Japanese honeysuckle, with which it is often associated. Biological Conclusion No Effect A plant by plant survey for Michaux's sumac was conducted in the project study area on April 23, 1999 by NCDOT biologists Eric Black, Chris Murray, and Jared Gray, in the areas of suitable habitat such as irregularly maintained shoulder and forested maintained ecotones. Prior to conducting this survey, a known Michaux's sumac population was visited to familiarize ourselves with the species. Survey methodology involved was driving the length of the project looking for areas with suitable habitat. Once the survey area was determined, habitat was found and surveyed on foot by the above mentioned biologists. Although habitat was located, no Michaux's sumac was found anywhere within the project study area. The NCNHP database of rare species and unique habitat does not list any populations of Michaux's sumac within the project vicinity. Therefore, this project will not impact Michaux's sumac. Federal Species of Concern and State Listed Species There are eight Federal Species of Concern (FSC) listed for Johnston County. Federal Species of Concern are not afforded federal protection under the ESA and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or. listed as Threatened or Endangered. Federal Species of Concern are defined as those species, which may or may not be listed in the future. These species were formally candidate species, or species under consideration for listing for which there was insufficient information to support a listing of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered and Proposed Threatened. Organisms which are listed as Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Significantly Rare (SR) or Special Concern (SC) by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) list of rare plant and animal species are afforded state protection under the State Endangered Species Act and the North Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979. Table 3 lists Federal Candidate and State listed species, the species state status (if afforded state protection) and the existence of suitable habitat for each species in the study area. This species list is provided for information purposes as the status of these species may be upgraded in the future. Table 3. Federal Species of Concern and State Listed Species for Johnston County Scientific Name Common Name State Status Habitat Lasmigona subviddis Green floater E Yes Procambarus medialis Tar river crayfish SR Yes Elliptio lanceolata Yellow lance T Yes Fusconaia masoni Atlantic pigtoe T Yes Lampsilis cariosa Yellow lampmussel T Yes Solidago vema Spring-flowering goldenrod E/PT No Tofieldia glabra Carolina asphodel C No Trillium pusillum Carolina least trillium E No 1) Endangered is a species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or significant portion of its range). 2) Threatened species are species that are likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. 3) Significantly Rare are species which has not been listed by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission as an Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern species, but which exists in the state in small numbers and has been determined by the N. C 4) Endangered/Proposed Threatened is a species, which has been formally proposed for listing as Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern, but has not yet completed the legally mandated listing process. 5) Candidate is a species, which is very rare in North Carolina, generally with 1- 20 populations in the state, generally substantially, reduced in numbers by habitat destruction. Surveys for the above mentioned species were not conducted during the site visit, nor were these species observed during the site visit. The Natural Heritage Program database showed that there is critical aquatic habitat within 1.6 km (1.0 mi.) of the project study area. Big Branch Creek flows into the Little River Aquatic Habitat Area. The BMP's should be followed in order to protect the stability of aquatic life in Big Branch Creek, and that of the Little River Aquatic Habitat Area. Please contact me if you have any further questions regarding this project. C: File PS-2939