20201025 Ver 1_USFWS Comments_20200921

Strickland, Bev
From: Quast, Karla L <[e-mail]>
Sent: Monday, September 21, 2020 11:05 AM
To: Leslie, Andrea J; Homewood, Sue; Amanda Fuemmeler
Cc: Hamstead, Byron A
Subject: [External] Fw: Sibelco Quartz Tailings project
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
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Good Afternoon,
This email is in regards to the Services communication effort for the Sibelco Quartz Tailings
Project. Last Tuesday, September 15th, we attempted to contact Tyson Kurtz with some clarifying
questions regarding T&E species. Below is a copy of that message. An update will be provided as
soon as we have a response. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.
Thank you,
KCWLC I Q "Cot
Administrative Assistant
Asheville Field Office
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, South Atlantic/Gulf Region
160 Zillicoa St.
Asheville, NC 28801
karla quast(o-)_fws.gov
office 828/258-3939, ext. 42232
cell 828/230-7836
From: Quast, Karla L <[e-mail]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 15, 2020 8:15 AM
To: [e-mail] <[e-mail]>
Subject: Sibelco Quartz Tailings project
Hello Tyson Kurtz,
Our office is currently reviewing the proposal for Sibelco Quartz Tailings project. We have a few
clarifying questions on specific species.
Bog Turtle: We have multiple records of Bog Turtle observations within the vicinity of the project area.
The wetland described in the application sounds suitable however, CEC made a 'not likely to
adversely affect' determination. Could we get a more in-depth description of the wetland? Since the

survey's were accomplished in January our recovery biologist is specifically concerned with the soil
type. The WAM describes "a peat or muck presence."
Gray Bat and Virginia Big Eared Bat: Both utilize mines, rock shelters, various types of natural caves,
and buildings for roosting. How exactly will the project avoid impact these species? Was a thorough
search for caves, including small fracture type caves, accomplished? Are any of these other features
present on the property?
Thank you,
KCWLC I Q "Cot
Administrative Assistant
Asheville Field Office
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, South Atlantic/Gulf Region
160 Zillicoa St.
Asheville, NC 28801
karla quast(o-)_fws.gov
office 828/258-3939, ext. 42232
cell 828/230-7836
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