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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20201177 Ver 1_RESPONSE TO COE SAW-2020-01307_20201008Strickland, Bev From: lagnocco, Michael <Michael.lagnocco@stvinc.com> Sent: Thursday, October 8, 2020 3:51 PM To: Roden Reynolds, Bryan K CIV (US) Cc: Johnson, Alan; Kotheimer, Joshua L.; 4020717 Subject: [External] RE: SAW-2020-01307_Unity Classical Academy - Response to Notice of Incomplete Pre -Construction Notification Attachments: SAW-2020-01307 Response to Notice of Incomplete PCN.pdf, SAW-2020-01307 Stream Relocation Plan.pdf, SAW-2020-01307 Stream Relocation Plan Exhibits_20_ 1008.pdf, Unity Classical Charter School DMS CAT03ESA Acceptance.pdf; USFWS_ 20-398_(survey results) Unity Classical Academy -Mecklenburg Co.pdf External email. Do not click links or open attachments unless you verify. Send all suspicious email as an attachment to report.spam@nc.gov Hey Bryan - hope you're doing well; attached is a consolidated response to your comments received SEP 16, 2020; 1 trust that based on our subsequent conversation that we've adequately addressed your comments; please see the attached file entitled SAW-2020-01307 Response to Notice of Incomplete PCN; In summary, the compensatory mitigation plan now consists of a payment to NCDMS as well as the on -site stream relocation plan; we've provided a commitment letter from NCDMS as well as a stand-alone stream relocation plan that includes a planting plan, monitoring plan, and success criteria; we're also providing confirmation of concurrence on T&E issues from FWS; please let me know if you have any comments on what we're providing; we appreciate your ongoing attention to this project. DWR #20201177 Hey Alan - hope you are also doing well; I also trust that the revised grading plan associated with the stream relocation plan has addressed your previous concerns regarding the originally proposed change in elevation at the confluence with the existing stream - the grading plan/relocated stream profile was revised to include a nearly at -grade confluence with the existing channel; in addition, the stream relocation plan includes the following statement- "An underdrain will be installed along the portion of the stream being impacted to help minimize the risk associated with ground water degrading the sub surface under the proposed site improvements" - this has been added to address your previous comment regarding the 170 If section of stream to be filled. Michael A. lagnocco, PWS KsT:Vra 100 k STV Engineers, Inc. michael.iagnoccoa-stvinc.com Office: (704) 372-1885 Mobile: (704) 281-7918 Direct: (704) 816-2513 Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail From: Roden Reynolds, Bryan K CIV (US) <Bryan.K.Roden Reynolds@usace.army.mil> Sent: Wednesday, September 16, 2020 4:10 PM To: Iagnocco, Michael <Michael.lagnocco@stvinc.com> Cc: Johnson, Alan <alan.johnson@ncdenr.gov>; bwhallon@hcollc.com Subject: SAW-2020-01307_Unity Classical Academy (Notice of Incomplete Pre -Construction Notification) Importance: High Mr. Iagnocco, On September 10, 2020, we received the Pre -Construction Notification you submitted on behalf of Performance Charter School Development, LLC on a property located in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. I have completed my initial review of the report and I have determined that it is incomplete. The following information is necessary before I will issue a determination: a. The project proposes permanent stream impacts (i.e. 170 linear feet) which result in the loss of waters occurring within the HUC 103. Any loss of waters, in this HUC specifically, have been and will likely continue to require compensatory mitigation. This watershed is highly urban and has a long history of intensive land uses which has resulted in long-term degradation to aquatic resources. In addition, there are currently no private mitigation banks or in -lieu fee sites with credits available to offset losses of aquatic function from private development in this watershed. Therefore, stream credits are purchased through the Expanded Service Area which generally result in the doubling of the determined compensatory mitigation. For example, impacting 170 linear feet of a medium quality stream would result in a compensatory mitigation ratio of 1.75:1; but would be doubled to 3.25:1 for HUC 103. The PCN proposed onsite stream restoration which has potential to reduce or eliminate the double requirement for this HUC but onsite stream restoration will not negate compensatory mitigation entirely. Therefore, please provide a Compensatory Mitigation Plan for the 170 linear feet of stream impacts. b. The PCN lacked confirmation from NCDMS for the purchase of compensatory mitigation credits to offset the permanent loss of waters from the project. Therefore, please include a Compensatory Mitigation Reservation Letter from NCDMS for the permanent stream impacts in the revised PCN. c. The PCN contained a letter from USFWS (dated August 19, 2020) which stated "Service records show historic occurrences for the federally endangered Schweinitz's sunflower in the project vicinity and suitable habitat may be present within the action area for this species. Suitable habitat may also occur onsite for the federally endangered Michaux's sumac and smooth coneflower. To ensure that these species are not inadvertently lost and to inform a prudent effect determination form the appropriate action agency, targeted botanical surveys should be conducted during the optimal window where project -mediated impacts may alter its suitable habitats within the action area." Based on this letter, the Corps will initial consultation with USFWS for the previously mentioned species and will not be able to make an effects determination until the USFWS has the recommended information for them to make their determination. Therefore, please conduct the USFWS recommended targeted botanical surveys where project -mediated impacts may alter suitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower, Michaux's sumac, and smooth coneflower during the optimal survey window and provide this survey and results to the USFWS. d. The PCN lacked a Stream Restoration Plan which includes sufficient detail to analyze the proposed onsite stream enhancement activities. A Stream Restoration Plan would include but not limited to: 1) a narrative write-up on the approach for the site; 2). Post -construction monitoring activities; 3). Success criteria; 4). Planting lists and timing; 5). Etc. As stated in Nationwide Permit 27, "The NWP authorizes the relocation of non -tidal waters, including non -tidal wetlands and streams, on the project site provided there are net increases in aquatic resources functions and services"; however, the Corps is concerned that the proposed stream restorations activities would not provide aquatic uplift from the current conditions onsite (i.e., Stream A is rated as medium by NCSAM). In Bulletin Drawing Sheet 1, Stream A goes from a meandering, sinuous channel to a straightened channel (170 linear feet) and the slight bend in the "new portion of stream (245 linear feet)" with boulder cross vanes. In order to demonstrate aquatic uplift from the stream restoration activities, NCSAM would need to be conducted on the new stream (415 linear feet) to determine its quality (i.e., this evaluation of stream quality would likely need to be conducted multiple times for multiple years during post construction monitoring activities). Since the existing Stream A rated at medium quality, the new stream would need to rate at medium to high quality to demonstrate aquatic uplift. Based on the current proposal, the Corps is not confident the stream would rate at medium or high because nearly half of the new stream in a straight line ditch, there would be no to a very limited wooded buffer, loss of sinuosity, etc. PLEASE NOTE: The Corps is unable to make an effects determination, meet the requirements of the Endangered Species Act, and move forward with the NWP authorization until the issue (i.e., target surveys during the optimal survey window) with the USFWS is resolved. Please ensure the Corps is CC'd on any email transactions between the applicant/agent and the USFWS. The current rate schedules for a linear foot of stream channel is $558.81. This project could have a compensatory mitigation bill ranging from $166,245.98 (170 linear feet at 1.75:1) to $308,742.53 (170 linear feet at 3.25:1). This information can be found at the following link (https://deg.nc.gov/about/divisions/mitigation- services/dms-customers/fee-schedules) Please provide the information requested above in ONE consolidated response within 30-days of the date of this correspondence. If you do not respond within 30-days, the request will be administratively canceled. Please contact me via telephone or e-mail if you have any questions. You may also consider withdrawing your current PCN which would allow you additional time to satisfy all the above additional information requests. A revised PCN can be resubmitted at a later date which addresses all these issues. Thanks, Bryan Roden -Reynolds, PWS Regulatory Project Manager U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District Charlotte Regulatory Field Office 8430 University Executive Park Drive Charlotte, NC 28262 Office: (704)510-1440 Redesigned and rebuilt: visit our new website at www.stvinc.com The information contained in this electronic message is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are informed that any dissemination, copying or disclosure of the material contained herein, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify STV and purge this message. SAW-2020-01307 Unity Classical Academy Response to Notice of Incomplete PCN The following information and attachments are provided in response to the comments STV received in an email dated September 16, 2020 to the Pre -Construction Notification we submitted on behalf of Performance Charter School Development, LLC on a property located in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. The Corps comments are labeled a. through d. below: The project proposes permanent stream impacts (i.e. 170 linear feet) which result in the loss of waters occurring within the HUC 103. Any loss of waters, in this HUC specifically, have been and will likely continue to require compensatory mitigation. This watershed is highly urban and has a long history of intensive land uses which has resulted in long-term degradation to aquatic resources. In addition, there are currently no private mitigation banks or in -lieu fee sites with credits available to offset losses of aquatic function from private development in this watershed. Therefore, stream credits are purchased through the Expanded Service Area which generally result in the doubling of the determined compensatory mitigation. For example, impacting 170 linear feet of a medium quality stream would result in a compensatory mitigation ratio of 1.75:1; but would be doubled to 3.25:1 for HUC 103. The PCN proposed onsite stream restoration which has potential to reduce or eliminate the double requirement for this HUC but onsite stream restoration will not negate compensatory mitigation entirely. Therefore, please provide a Compensatory Mitigation Plan for the 170 linear feet of stream impacts. Response: The compensatory mitigation plan for permanent impacts to 170 if of intermittent stream on -site has been revised to consist of an on -site stream relocation plan detailed below as well as a payment made to the NCDMS. The PCN lacked confirmation from NCDMS for the purchase of compensatory mitigation credits to offset the permanent loss of waters from the project. Therefore, please include a Compensatory Mitigation Reservation Letter from NCDMS for the permanent stream impacts in the revised PCN. Response: The Compensatory Mitigation Reservation Letter from NCDMS is attached; the applicant is offering a payment of 1.75:1 based on Stream A rating medium quality according to NCSAM and taking into consideration the stream relocation plan. c. The PCN contained a letter from USFWS (dated August 19, 2020) which stated "Service records show historic occurrences for the federally endangered Schweinitz's sunflower in the project vicinity and suitable habitat may be present within the action area for this species. 900 WEST TRADE STREET, SUITE 715 PROVIDING QUALITY SERVICE SINCE 1912 1 CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28202-1144 (704) 372-1885 FAX:(704) 372-3393 Suitable habitat may also occur onsite for the federally endangered Michaux's sumac and smooth coneflower. To ensure that these species are not inadvertently lost and to inform a prudent effect determination form the appropriate action agency, targeted botanical surveys should be conducted during the optimal window where project -mediated impacts may alter its suitable habitats within the action area." Based on this letter, the Corps will initial consultation with USFWS for the previously mentioned species and will not be able to make an effects determination until the USFWS has the recommended information for them to make their determination. Therefore, please conduct the USFWS recommended targeted botanical surveys where project -mediated impacts may alter suitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower, Michaux's sumac, and smooth coneflower during the optimal survey window and provide this survey and results to the USFWS. Response: The targeted botanical surveys were completed on August 26, 2020, within the optimal survey window for Schweinitz's sunflower, Michaux's sumac, and smooth coneflower. Plant by plant surveys were completed on the subject property within areas of appropriate habitat. The findings of the surveys, including biological conclusions, were included as an attachment in the Supplemental Information section of the ePCN submittal. Subsequent to this comment, STV forwarded the findings of our botanical surveys as well as the copy of the PCN to Byron Hempstead with the USFWS on September 24, 2020. The Service's response dated September 30, 2020 provides concurrence with the MANLAA determination from the Corps; see attached. d. The PCN lacked a Stream Restoration Plan which includes sufficient detail to analyze the proposed onsite stream enhancement activities. A Stream Restoration Plan would include but not limited to: 1) a narrative write-up on the approach for the site; 2). Post -construction monitoring activities; 3). Success criteria; 4). Planting lists and timing; 5). Etc. As stated in Nationwide Permit 27, "The NWP authorizes the relocation of non -tidal waters, including non -tidal wetlands and streams, on the project site provided there are net increases in aquatic resources functions and services"; however, the Corps is concerned that the proposed stream restorations activities would not provide aquatic uplift from the current conditions onsite (i.e., Stream A is rated as medium by NCSAM). In Bulletin Drawing Sheet 1, Stream A goes from a meandering, sinuous channel to a straightened channel (170 linear feet) and the slight bend in the "new portion of stream (245 linear feet)" with boulder cross vanes. In order to demonstrate aquatic uplift from the stream restoration activities, NCSAM would need to be conducted on the new stream (415 linear feet) to determine its quality (i.e., this evaluation of stream quality would likely need to be conducted multiple times for multiple years during post construction monitoring activities). Since the existing Stream A rated at medium quality, the new stream would need to rate at medium to high quality to demonstrate aquatic uplift. Based on the current proposal, the Corps is not confident the stream would rate at medium or high because nearly half of the new stream in a straight line ditch, there would be no to a very limited wooded buffer, loss of sinuosity, etc. Response: The stream relocation plan is attached which includes the grading plan, planting plan, post -construction monitoring plan and success criteria. The stream relocation plan is further supplemented by the mitigation payment to the NCDMS to complete the compensatory mitigation for the 1701f of permanent stream impact on the site. NGS MONUMENT "BOUND" NC GRID NAD 83 MEASURED AND USED N=497,312.21 E=1,399.555.48 ELEV=684.18 NAVD 88 / � D ��,y,q x A $,�k�l� m o iC �9���61 \� `� m 1SAND FILTER ILTER \ CLEAN STORMWATER WITH : / CONVEYANCE DISCHARGE OF TREATED 50 51 STORMWATER DISCHARGE / STORMWATER OF PERVIOUS RUNOFF DIRECTED TO RELOCATED INTERMITTENT STREAM I sd RETAINING Z && WALL ° z S08'45 30 601.6 LOT 156 L OVERLAND FLOW OF LOT 157 PERVIOUS RUNOFF DIRECTED TO RELOCATED INTERMITTENT STREAM LEGEND: STREAM A STREAM IMPACT STREAM RELOCATION WETLAND A FLOODPLAIN BOUNDARY J 2 A FH u EeK ROpD CEDE CR pY 160 of -WAY STEEL HIGNW" RIGHTG 32g & R1p8 N G61 j5U NBLIC O 86: j35p2 V00, 4 nOT ��� ��-- OAS* UPPER LIMIT OF RELOCATED / EXTENDED STREAM RETAINING �\ WALL CV-5 170 LF OF RELOCATED , �\ STREAM PLUS 245 LF OF ADDITIONAL CHANNEL BOULDER LOT 147LOT 149 CROSS -VANES .6 LOT 14s LOT 151 i� cOVENTR MAP 1 I y z I MB. 35, PG. 345 A � * O O O N O I� O r O CNN 0 J, -w _ • • " i/l m . �_ 9 • ///llll -- VilxJU/ / WETLAND A 5,960 SF z / 0.135 ACRES O JJJ �I 1N . FLOODPLAIN J O � ��► Q O z , . I Q a�a 1001 .. U U 11 Un z PROPOSED )I LLJ Q SANITARY / I 011 SEWER Q C D z = z z O O O rf TO ,\= 4j rET INING J\ U O O CV-1 WALL cn _J J \ :��nnn.� �� LIJ CV-4CV-2 — (n LLJ 62 1 INTERMITTENT STREAM A - 279 LF \� or�4° �+ S1 STREAM IMPACT FROM FILL 170 LF LOT 145 LOT 1a3 �m I MITIGATION FOR THE IMPACT WILL \ • ` Q LOT 144 LOT 142 la I INVOLVE RELOCATION OF THE �_ Q cOVENTR MAP 2 CHANNEL ON SITE o Z MB. 35, G. 545 I i3 ��. �dAP 2 ME • MB. 3 PG. 545 p :D O U� PH EE F,g UPPER LIMIT OF EXISTING INTERMITTENT STREAM mgg �e,i I!dom MECKLENBURG COUNTY DB. 29465, PG. 495 GREENWAY MB. 56, PG. 626 PIN: 219-061-31 8 SANITARY SEWER CONNECTION TO (u BE BORE AND J JACK 2' BENEATH STREAM BED I �I �I I� _ 1 p "� SS ¢ JO C a, o .� C 5S Y m o I w GENERAL NOTES: 1. INSTALL COIR FIBER MATTING FOR BANK STABILIZATION ALONG ENTIRE LENGTH OF RELOCATED / NEW STREAM o x CHANNEL. a 2. INSTALL RIPARIAN SEEDING FROM NORMAL WATER LEVEL TO 1' BEYOND TOP OF BANK ON BOTH SIDES OF THE NEW CHANNEL. ® 100 0 50 100 200 1 " = 100' 650 .w• 630 620 .•• SCALE: 1 " = 50' z w z c� J a J W -H z O� z + O _ U w w PROP. BOULDER CROSS —VANE, TYP. EX. GRADE � EX. GRADE (� EX. CHANNEL) ----------------------- PROP.GRADE--/ (� PROPOSED CHANNEL) 0+00 SCALE: 1 " = 10' 1 +00 650 M• 630 620 610 .•• 650 .�• 630 620 mom I SCALE: 1 " = 50' PROP. BOULDER CROSS —VANE, TYP. ----------- EX. GRADE ------ ---- PROP. GRADE (� PROPOSED CHANNEL) 2+00 SCALE: 1 " = 10' 650 640 630 620 610 .o 65C I LI 63C 62C 61C M SCALE: 1 " = 50' PROP. BOULDER CROSS —VANE, TYP. EX. GRADE------ EX. GRADE ==cc---- ------------- --------- PROP. GRADE (� PROPOSED CHANNEL) 3+00 SCALE: 1 " = 10' 4+00 650 e Lf 630 620 610 650 640 630 620 .•• SCALE: 1 " = 50' PROP. GRADE--/ (� PROPOSED CHANNEL) SCALE: 1 " = 10' 5+00 650 m 630 620 J 600 5+20 BANKFULL (SEE NOTE 3 )- COARSE- BACKFILL (SEE NOTE 8) J�A X6 FLOODPLAIN SILL (TYPICAL) B X14 X3 -RIGHT VANE ARM INTERCEPT CONTROL POINT ELEVATION (SEE NOTE 3) X4 - POOL CONTROL POINT ELEVATION 1 FLOW STREAM BANK, 11 TYPICAL TOE OF BANK, TYPICAL 1/3 X5 1/3 X5 1/3 X5 -X1 - CROSS VANE INVERT CONTROL POINT ELEVATION X8 _ BANKFULL (SEE NOTE 3) X1 - CROSS VANE - - INVERT CONTROL - - - POINT ELEVATION _ (SEE NOTE 2) VARIES COARSE 0'-X11 X2 OR X3 - LEFT OR BACKFILL RIGHT VANE ARM INTERCEPT FLOW X12 (SEE NOTE 10E)- CONTROL POINT ELEVATION r 7 - -- j _f 7-�= _ _� X15 X4 - POOL CONTROL \L/\� J.7 POINT POINTT ELEVATION X13 (SEE NOTE 2) X16 ��j�//' -7 /\ " / \\ /` FLOW ��XLL �T C������, POOL �\ �<'x V� x HEADER AND FOOTER BOULDERS," \ A' TYPICAL (SEE NOTE 6) PROFILE VIEW f \ \ FILTER FABRIC, , TYPICAL (SEE NOTE 7) CV-1 CV-2 CV-3 CV-4 CV-5 CV-6 \ \ POOL 10 \ , 617.00 619.00 622.00 625.00 628.00 631.00 B' 617.16 617.16 619.16 619.16 622.16 622.16 625.16 625.16 628.16 628.16 631.16 631.16 1 / 616.16 618.16 621.16 624.16 627.16 630.16 \ X2 - LEFT VANE ARM INTERCEPT CONTROL POINT STREAM BED ELEVATION (SEE NOTE 3) BANKFULL WIDTH X5 PLAN VIEW BANKFULL STREAM BANK FILTER FABRIC (SEE NOTE 7) COARSE BACKFILL (SEE NOTE 8) \ HEADER BOULDER (SEE NOTE 6) X17DOTER BOULDER (SEE NOTE 6) 2xX15 /VA/ X15 STREAM BED - POOL TOE OF BANK 0' TO 1/3 X5 X14 VANE ARM SECTION A - A' X5 X7 f 1/3 X5 1/3 X5 . 1/3 X5 X7 X3 FLOODPLAIN-/ SILL, TYPICAL FILTER FABRIC X2 \ Xl \� \ �� HEADER BOULDER, TYPICAL FOOTER BOULDER, TYPICAL CROSS SECTION B-B' DIMENSIONS VARIABLE VALUES TYPICAL UNIT DESCRIPTION X1 FT. (NAVD) CROSS VANE INVERT CONTROL POINT ELEVATION X2 FT. (NAVD) LEFT VANE ARM INTERCEPT CONTROL POINT ELEVATION X3 FT. (NAVD) RIGHT VANE ARM INTERCEPT CONTROL POINT ELEVATION X4 FT. (NAVD) POOL CONTROL POINT ELEVATION X5 6 FT. BANKFULL WIDTH X6 8 FT. VANE ARM LENGTH X7 3 FT. FLOODPLAIN SILL LENGTH X8 3 FT. LENGTH OF COARSE BACKFILL X9 12 IN. D50 OF COARSE BACKFILL X10 30 DEGREES VANE ARM ANGLE WITH STREAM BANK X11 12" IN. OR FT. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TOP OF BANK (BANKFULL) AND VANE ARM INTERCEPT POINT X12 2% PERCENT VANE ARM SLOPE X13 24"-36" IN. OR FT. BOULDER LENGTH X14 24" IN. OR FT. BOULDER WIDTH X15 8" IN. OR FT. BOULDER THICKNESS X16 2 FT. MAXIMUM POOL DEPTH X17 6 IN. HEADER BOULDER SET BACK NOTES: 1. A BOULDER CROSS VANE IS A GRADE CONTROL IN -STREAM STRUCTURE THAT DIRECTS STREAM FLOW AWAY FROM THE STREAM BANKS AND IN TOWARD THE CENTER OF THE CHANNEL. 2. ELEVATION CONTROL POINTS SHALL BE DESIGNATED AT THE UPSTREAM INVERT (CENTER) OF THE CROSS VANE TO ESTABLISH PART OF THE PROFILE. POOL ELEVATION CONTROL POINTS OR EXCAVATION TO A SPECIFIED MAXIMUM POOL DEPTH SHALL BE DESIGNATED TO ESTABLISH THE REMAINING PROFILE. SURVEY OF CONTROL POINTS SHALL BE REQUIRED TO ESTABLISH ACCURATE CROSS VANE INSTALLATION WITHIN THE TOLERANCE SPECIFIED BY THE DESIGNER. 3. THE VANE ARM SHALL INTERCEPT THE STREAM BANK AT A HEIGHT EQUAL TO BETWEEN % BANKFULL STAGE AND BANKFULL STAGE. ELEVATION CONTROL POINTS MAY BE ESTABLISHED AT THE LEFT AND RIGHT STREAM BANK/VANE ARM INTERCEPT POINTS. THE VANE ARM INTERCEPT LOCATION MAY BE OTHERWISE DESCRIBED BY ITS RELATIONSHIP TO BANKFULL STAGE OR BY THE LENGTH AND SLOPE OF THE VANE ARM. BANKFULL IS NOT NECESSARILY THE TOP OF THE STREAM BANK SLOPE. 4. IF PLANS DESIGNATE THE USE OF MULTIPLE BOULDER CROSS VANES, A TABLE OF ALL STATION LOCATIONS AND CONTROL POINT ELEVATIONS SHALL BE PROVIDED IN THIS DETAIL OR PROVIDED ELSEWHERE IN THE PLANS AND REFERENCED HEREIN. 5. TYPICAL RIFFLE AND POOL CROSS SECTIONS SHALL BE PROVIDED ELSEWHERE IN THE PLANS TO ESTABLISH THE DIMENSIONS OF THE CHANNEL GRADING INTO WHICH THE BOULDER CROSS VANES ARE TO BE INSTALLED. 6. THE CROSS VANE SHALL BE CONSTRUCTED WITH FLAT -SIDED BOULDERS OF A SIZE (LENGTH, WIDTH, AND DEPTH) AS SPECIFIED BY THE DESIGNER. 7. FILTER FABRIC OF A TYPE AND SIZE SPECIFIED BY THE DESIGNER SHALL BE USED TO SEAL THE GAPS BETWEEN THE BOULDERS AND UNDER THE COARSE BACKFILL MATERIAL. THERE SHALL BE NO FILTER FABRIC VISIBLE IN THE FINISHED WORK; EDGES SHALL BE FOLDED, TUCKED, OR TRIMMED AS NEEDED. 8. COARSE BACKFILL OF THE BOULDER CROSS VANE SHALL BE OF A TYPE, SIZE, AND GRADATION AS SPECIFIED BY THE DESIGNER. COARSE BACKFILL SHALL BE PLACED TO A THICKNESS EQUAL TO THE DEPTH OF THE HEADER AND FOOTER BOULDERS AND SHALL EXTEND OUT FROM THE VANE ARMS TO THE STREAM BANK AND UPSTREAM A DISTANCE SPECIFIED BY THE DESIGNER. 9. THE INVERT (CENTER) OF THE BOULDER CROSS VANE SHALL BE CONSTRUCTED FIRST, FOLLOWED BY ONE VANE ARM AND THEN THE OTHER VANE ARM. THE FLOODPLAIN SILLS SHALL BE CONSTRUCTED LAST. 10. BOULDER CROSS VANE SHALL BE BUILT TYPICALLY AS FOLLOWS: A. OVER -EXCAVATE STREAM BED TO A DEPTH EQUAL TO THE TOTAL THICKNESS OF THE HEADER AND FOOTER BOULDERS. B. PLACE FOOTER BOULDERS. THERE SHALL BE NO GAPS BETWEEN BOULDERS. C. INSTALL FILTER FABRIC. D. PLACE COURSE BACKFILL BEHIND THE FOOTER BOULDERS. E. INSTALL HEADER BOULDERS ON TOP OF AND SET SLIGHTLY BACK FROM THE FOOTER BOULDERS (SUCH THAT PART OF THE HEADER BOULDER IS RESTING ON THE COARSE BACKFILL). HEADER BOULDERS SHALL SPAN THE SEAMS OF THE FOOTER BOULDERS. THERE SHALL BE NO GAPS BETWEEN BOULDERS. THE SLOPE OF THE VANE ARM IS MEASURED ALONG THE VANE ARM WHICH IS INSTALLED AT AN ANGLE TO THE STREAM BANK AND PROFILE. F. PLACE COARSE BACKFILL BEHIND HEADER BOULDERS ENSURING THAT ANY VOIDS BETWEEN THE BOULDERS ARE FILLED. 11. IF ANY EROSION CONTROL MATTING IS SPECIFIED FOR USE IN THE VICINITY OF THE VANE ARM INTERCEPT POINTS AND FLOODPLAIN SILLS ALL MATTING EDGES SHALL BE NEATLY SECURED AROUND THE BOULDERS. PLANT INFORMATION TAG BOTANIC NAME COMMON NAME SIZE BENI BETULA NIGRA RIVER BIRCH 2" MIN. EACH CANE CCRS CERCIS CANADENSIS 'RISING SUN' RISING SUN REDBUD 2" FAGR FAGUS GRANDIFLORA AMERICAN BEECH 2" ILAF FOSTER HOLLY ILEX x ATTENUATA'FOSTERI' 8' JUVI JUNIPERUS VIRGINIANA EASTERN RED CEDAR 8' LIST LIQUIDAMBAR STYRACIFLUA SWEETGUM 2" HAVI HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA WITCH -HAZEL 36" HT/SPD COAM CORNUS AMOMUM SILKY DOGWOOD 36" HT/SPD PHOP PHYSOCARPUS OPULIFOLIUS NINEBARK 36" HT/SPD RASM RIPARIAN SEED MIX TURF ANNUALRYE � , I -- ��—•-•-•-•--- -•-•- -- 1��% •--- --•--•---•-•-•-•- -. r- - - - - - - - -mow A 11 22 COAM HAVI �I E= 5 L �_ 6 19 10 FAGR TURF RASM ILAF JUVI CCRS SOT 145 SOT 143 SOT 141 PLANT INFORMATION TAG BOTANIC NAME COMMON NAME SIZE BENI BETULA NIGRA RIVER BIRCH 2" MIN. EACH CANE CCRS CERCIS CANADENSIS 'RISING SUN' RISING SUN REDBUD 2" FAGR FAGUS GRANDIFLORA AMERICAN BEECH 2" ILAF FOSTER HOLLY ILEX x ATTENUATA'FOSTERI' 8' JUVI JUNIPERUS VIRGINIANA EASTERN RED CEDAR 8' LIST LIQUIDAMBAR STYRACIFLUA SWEETGUM 2" HAVI HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA WITCH -HAZEL 36" HT/SPD COAM CORNUS AMOMUM SILKY DOGWOOD 36" HT/SPD PHOP PHYSOCARPUS OPULIFOLIUS NINEBARK 36" HT/SPD RASM RIPARIAN SEED MIX TURF ANNUALRYE lasm A�IIGA lailm �11A 0291A 01/11A 0+00 o 0 SCALE: 1 " = 10' 0 w Q U o �, J W J W Z Z 0IU \ I � PROP. PROP. PARKING WALL AREA J W WALL GRPo� w 1 +00 650 640 630 "o Iism "o IIsm J 600 1 +30 670 e 650 • • 0 zo Do ry mo a w Q a_ V) g �ej O ~ J W \ �z \ c'QgpF a- o PROP. DRIVEWAY AND PARKING AREA ----------------- ----------------- Ex. GRADE____ PROP. GRADE — — — — — — J� ---- PROP. J GRADE 0+00 lo� I SCALE: 1 " = 10' 1 +00 I I I 1+00� 2 � II ..I 650 .�e 630 620 1 +30 STV moo SAW-2020-01307; DWR #20201177 Unity Classical Academy Response to Notice of Incomplete PCN October 8, 2020 Stream Relocation Plan Overview The project will result in the initial loss of 170 linear feet of intermittent Stream A. The project proposes to mitigate for this impact to 170 linear feet of intermittent Stream A through a combination of an on -site stream relocation plan supplemented by a mitigation payment to the NCDMS. The existing stream is experiencing active channel downcutting and bank failures throughout its length which also limits the streamside area interaction. The 170 linear feet of intermittent channel will be relocated along the eastern border of the study area within the City's required vegetated Zoning Buffer. The project proposes relocating the 170 linear feet of Stream A and creating an additional 245 linear feet of headwater stream channel for a total of 415 linear feet of functionally relocated channel; see exhibits prepared by LITTLE entitled Unity Classical Charter School Stream Relocation, Bulletin Drawings 1 through 10. As indicated in the drawings, the stream relocation grading plan has been designed to extend above the current upper elevation of the existing stream allowing any existing groundwater to enter the new channel. The grading and drainage have been carefully considered to help maintain as much of the original drainage area as possible that contributed flow to the intermittent stream. A sand filter will be utilized to treat the impervious run-off that will be directed toward the upper reaches of the relocated intermittent stream — the sand filter will be situated immediately north of the Arrival Drive as shown on Bulletin Drawing 1 of 10, entitled Stream Relocation Grading and Location. The drawdown time will help extend the time stormwater will flow into the relocated portion of the stream as well as the remainder of the existing stream. Stormwater will also be directed to the relocated channel from the open field that has been incorporated into the campus immediately north of the Arrival Drive; see Bulletin Drawing 1 of 10. Retaining walls have been utilized to help minimize the stream impact and help with the relocation of the stream; see Bulletin Drawing 9 of 10, Section A, which depicts a cross section through the two proposed retaining walls. The area available to reconstruct the stream falls within a Zoning Buffer and is limited in width, which creates some limitations in terms of being able to construct more significant meanders. The stream relocation is designed to mimic the sinuosity of the existing stream to the extent practicable given these spatial constraints. 900 WEST TRADE STREET, SUITE 715 PROVIDING QUALITY SERVICE SINCE 1912 I CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28202-1144 (704)372-1885 FAX: (704) 372-3393 The relocated stream will be graded to incorporate shallow sloped banks to allow for higher intensity storms to be less channelized and allow greater streamside interaction which is an improvement over the incised condition of the existing stream. An underdrain will be installed along the portion of the stream being impacted to help minimize the risk associated with ground water degrading the sub surface under the proposed site improvements. Grade breaks comprised of six boulder cross -vanes have been incorporated into the design of the relocated portion of the intermittent stream. One of the boulder cross -vanes will be incorporated immediately upstream of the relocated channel's confluence with the existing channel. The confluence point has been specifically targeted to occur at a non jurisdictional swale that currently intersects the existing channel. The locations of these in -stream structures are shown on Bulletin Drawing 1 of 10 (plan view) as well as in the profile views presented in Bulletin Drawings 2 thru 5. There is a 1/2-foot drop at each boulder cross -vane structure and then an approximate 2.5-foot drop in the stream run until the next structure. The relocated stream has been graded to facilitate a minimal change in elevation at the confluence with the existing channel. The six in -stream structures will provide grade control, maintain the thalweg in the center of the channel, and provide a pool which will help to reduce flow velocities, reduce stream bank scour and provide additional aquatic habitat; see Bulletin Drawing 6 of 10, Boulder Cross -Vane Detail. Over time, sediment transport and deposition by the stream flow will cover the crushed rock with material such as leaf litter and sediments. This should help the relocated stream channel to mimic the conditions of the existing stream channel and provide a benthic substrate suitable for macro invertebrates. Coir fiber matting will be utilized for initial bank stabilization, in order to reduce erosion and establish seeding faster; see Bulletin Drawing 1. In addition, a native riparian seed mix will be utilized from the normal water level to one foot beyond the top of bank on either side of the stream; the riparian see mix developed by the City of Charlotte will be utilized. Riparian seed mix is typically applied in the fall or spring which should coincide with the anticipated construction schedule. The relocated stream corridor will be replanted with woody tree and shrub species following construction; see Bulletin Drawings 7 and 8 of 10 (Planting Plan). The combined elements of the grading plan and profile, along with the interception of existing groundwater and post -construction drainage and planting plan will promote stream stability, mitigate channel incising, improve streamside area interaction and offer equal or improved stream function. Construction will commence with an initial stage of clearing and mass grading and will not initially include disturbance of the existing intermittent stream. The mass grading will include the construction of the main BMP located south of existing/preserved Wetland A, as well as smaller sediment traps and basins to contain erosion associated with the grading. The second stage will include the grading of the relocated portion of the stream and will allow for an early planting of this portion of the site to allow a greater time frame for the plantings to start to become established prior to most of the site development. Planting Plan An overview of the proposed planting plan for the relocated and preserved stream corridor is presented on Bulletin Drawings 7 and 8, entitled Planting Plan Area A and Planting Plan Area B, respectively). Riparian Seed Mix: • A native riparian seed mix will be utilized from the normal water level to one foot beyond the top of bank on either side of the stream • The riparian seed mix developed by the City of Charlotte will be utilized • The riparian seed mix will be applied in the fall or spring which should coincide with the anticipated construction schedule • Seeds should be broadcast by hand or knapsack seeder using the proper seeding rate, and carefully proportioned to cover the entire area; the seed will be covered with a light layer of straw mulch following seeding • Annual rye grass will be utilized to stabilize the area surrounding the tree and shrub plantings. Woody Plant Materials: • After the planting substrate has been prepared, the relocated stream corridor will be planted with woody species; tree selection will utilize species currently occurring in the existing stream corridor/watershed and listed on the City's pre -approved planting list • Planting densities for canopy trees will meet City criteria for buffer zone planting; trees will be native and non-invasive and/or subject to disease; 12 trees will be planted per 100 If of stream corridor • Anticipated canopy trees will include sweetgum, American beech, river birch, redbud, and Eastern red cedar; tree planting sizes are as indicated on the Planting Plan • Tree plantings will be supplemented with streamside shrub species, including silky dogwood, ninebark, and witch hazel • Trees and shrubs would preferably be planted in early to late spring (between April 1 and June 15), or in the fall (September 15 to October 30). Post -Construction Monitoring Plan Monitoring and maintenance efforts for the stream relocation plan will take place over a three year period commencing following completion of construction, activation of hydrologic inputs, and planting/seeding. • Site visits will occur twice a year (minimum) • Two monitoring stations will be established • NCSAM forms will be completed during each site visit • Vegetative plots will be established and monitored; plant species, along with their estimated relative frequency and percent cover will be documented • Photo -documentation will be completed; at least one visit each year will occur during the growing season • A memorandum of findings will be prepared after each site visit • An annual report will be prepared to include findings and observations made during the annual site visits and specifying any needed remedial action • The annual monitoring report will be provided to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and NCDWR every year for each of the three years. Determination of Success Criteria The following success criteria have been established for the stream relocation plan: • Planted species survivorship: At least 85% of the planted trees and shrubs along the relocated stream corridor should be established and living by the end of the three year monitoring period; plantings will meet or exceed an 85 percent survival rate by the end of the second growing season - if this goal is not met, the site will be re-evaluated and replanted as necessary (Note: if revegetation is failing due to herbivory, the wildlife responsible need to be identified and appropriate damage control methods employed. Possible methods include deer fencing, rabbit fencing, and use of repellents -this pest control will need to be maintained as necessary throughout the three year monitoring period • Native species composition: At least 50% of the plants present should be non -weedy, native, perennial species; invasive species will not constitute more than 10 percent of the vegetative/streamside community; if this goal is exceeded, measures will be taken to eradicate/hand-remove the invasive species • Stream function: based on NCSAM, the relocated stream will score medium quality or higher (Note: the lack of a wooded stream corridor may hinder the results of NCSAM initially, however, its anticipated that the interaction of the stream with the streamside area will work to offset that evaluation criteria) • Stream stability: based on observations, the streambanks will be stable with little to no erosion. Long -Term Maintenance It is envisioned that the stream relocation plan will afford an opportunity for an outdoor classroom for the Unity Classical Academy high school students. It's further anticipated that the students will `adopt' the stream corridor and provide long-term maintenance activities, including invasive species removal. ROY COOPER Governor MICHAEL S. REGAN Secretary TIM BAUMGARTNER Director NORTH CAROLINA Environmental Quality September 24, 2020 Brandon Whallon Performance Charter School Development, LLC 855 W Broad Street, Suite 300 Boise, ID 83702 Project: Unity Classical Charter School Expiration of Acceptance: 3/24/2021 County: Mecklenburg The purpose of this letter is to notify you that the NCDEQ Division of Mitigation Services (DMS) is willing to accept payment for compensatory mitigation for impacts associated with the above referenced project as indicated in the table below. Please note that this decision does not assure that participation in the DMS in - lieu fee mitigation program will be approved by the permit issuing agencies as mitigation for project impacts. It is the responsibility of the applicant to contact permitting agencies to determine if payment to the DMS will be approved. You must also comply with all other state, federal or local government permits, regulations or authorizations associated with the proposed activity including G.S. § 143-214.11. This acceptance is valid for six months from the date of this letter and is not transferable. If we have not received a copy of the issued 404 Permit/401 Certification within this time frame, this acceptance will expire. It is the applicant's responsibility to send copies of the permits to DMS. Once DMS receives a copy of the permit(s) an invoice will be issued based on the required mitigation in that permit and payment must be made prior to conducting the authorized work. The amount of the in -lieu fee to be paid by an applicant is calculated based upon the Fee Schedule and policies listed on the DMS website. Based on the information supplied by you in your request to use the DMS, the impacts for which you are requesting compensatory mitigation credit are summarized in the following table. The amount of mitigation required and assigned to DMS for this impact is determined by permitting agencies and may exceed the impact amounts shown below. River Basin Impact Location 8-di it HUC Impact Type Impact Quantity Catawba 03050103 Warm Stream 170 *DMS proposes to utilize the Catawba 03 Expanded Service Area to meet the mitigation requirement. Upon receipt of payment, DMS will take responsibility for providing the compensatory mitigation. The mitigation will be performed in accordance with the In -Lieu Fee Program instrument dated July 28, 2010. Thank you for your interest in the DMS in -lieu fee mitigation program. If you have any questions or neec additional information, please contact Kelly.Williams@ncdenr.gov. cc: Michael lagnocco, agent Sincerely, A_V_V�tA_� FOR James. B Stanfill Asset Management Supervisor NORTH CARCi NA , E Q�� gepartment of EnvironmeMnl quallry North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality I Division of Mitigation Services 217 W. ]ones Street 1 1652 Mail Service Center I Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1652 919.707.8976 Uz ' United States Department of the Interior ` EM FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Asheville Field Office 160 Zillicoa Street Asheville, North Carolina 28801 September 30, 2020 Michael Iagnocco STV Engineers, Inc. 900 West Trade Street, Suite 715 Charlotte, North Carolina 28202 michael.iagnocco@stvinc.com Dear Michael Iagnocco: Subject: Unity Classical Academy; Mecklenburg County, North Carolina Log No. 4-2-20-398 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has reviewed the information provided in your correspondence and PCN received via email on September 23, 2020, wherein you solicit our comments regarding project -mediated impacts to federally protected species. We submit the following comments in accordance with the provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 661-667e); the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. §4321 et seq.); and section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) (Act). Project Description According to the information provided, the proposed project would entail the construction of a school facility and appurtenances on approximately 14.2 partially forested acres in Charlotte, North Carolina. The project area consists of undeveloped mixed pine/hardwood forest, several residences, maintained lawns, developed open spaces, and transitional habitats. The proposed project would result in unavoidable impacts (fill) to 170 linear feet of an unnamed tributary stream. We acknowledge the numerous proposed impact avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures detailed in the information provided and we appreciate your efforts to improve ecological stream function described in Section E.2.b of the PCN. Federally Protected Species According to Service records, suitable summer roosting habitat may be present in the project area for the federally threatened northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis). However, the final 4(d) rule, (effective as of February 16, 2016) exempts incidental take of northern long-eared bat associated with activities that occur greater than 0.25 miles from a known hibernation site, and greater than 150 feet from a known, occupied maternity roost during the pup season (June 1 — July 31). Based on the information provided, the project would occur at a location where any incidental take that may result from associated activities is exempt under the 4(d) rule. Although not required, we encourage the Applicant to avoid any associated tree clearing activities during the maternity roosting season from May 15 — August 15. Service records show historic occurrences for the federally endangered Schweinitz's sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii) in the project vicinity and suitable habitat may be present within the action areal for this species and also the federally endangered Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii) and smooth coneflower (Echinacea laevigata). However, targeted botanical surveys conducted during optimal survey windows did not detect evidence for these species at that time. Due to the presence of suitable habitat, but lack of onsite evidence for these species, we believe the probability for project -mediated loss of these plants is insignificant and discountable. Therefore, we would concur with a "may affect, not likely to adversely affect" determination from the federal action agency, and we require no further information at this time. Please be aware that obligations under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act must be reconsidered if. (1) new information reveals impacts of this identified action that may affect listed species or critical habitat in a manner not previously considered, (2) this action is subsequently modified in a manner that was not considered in this review, or (3) a new species is listed or critical habitat is determined that may be affected by the identified action. In addition to the voluntary recommendations provided in our previous correspondence dated August 19, 2020, we offer the following general recommendations for the Applicant's consideration: Pollinator Habitat Pollinators, such as most bees, some birds and bats, or other insects, including moths and butterflies, play a crucial role in the reproduction of flowering plants and in the production of most fruits and vegetables. Declines in wild pollinators are a result of loss, degradation, and fragmentation of habitat and disease; while declines in honey bees has also been linked to disease. The rusty -patched bumble bee (Bombus affinis) historically occurred in North Carolina's Mountain and Piedmont provinces. Although not required, we encourage the Applicant to consider our recommendations below to benefit the rusty -patched bumble bee and other pollinators. Moreover, the creation and maintenance of pollinator habitats at this site may increase the value of the project for the school and community it serves, and help reduce the spread of invasive exotic plants. Please consider the following: 1. Sow native seed mixes in disturbed areas or in designated pollinator areas with plants that bloom throughout the entire growing season. 2. Taller growing pollinator plant species should be planted around the periphery of the site and anywhere on the site where mowing can be restricted during the summer months. Taller plants, left un-mowed during the summer, would provide benefits to pollinators, habitat to ground nesting/feeding birds, and cover for small mammals. 3. Low growing/groundcover native species should be planted in areas that need to be maintained. This would provide benefits to pollinators while also minimizing the 1 Pursuant to 50 CFR §402.02, the Action Area includes all areas to be affected directly or indirectly by the Federal action and not merely the immediate area involved in the action. Moreover, the Effects of the Action are all consequences to listed species or critical habitat that are caused by the proposed action, including the consequences of other activities that are caused by the proposed action. A consequence is caused by the proposed action if it would not occur but for the proposed action and it is reasonably certain to occur. Effects of the action may occur later in time and may include consequences occurring outside the immediate area involved in the action (see also 50 CFR §402.17) 2 amount of maintenance such as mowing and herbicide treatment. Milk weed species are an important host plant for monarch butterflies. 4. Avoid mowing of flowering plants. Designated pollinator areas show be mow only 50% of the plant height, but no lower than 8 inches. 5. Avoid mowing outside the active season for rusty -patched bumble bee and other pollinators (April 15 — October 15). 6. Leave slash piles, mulch piles, or loose dirt piles along woodland edges. These areas provide nesting habitats and/or nest materials for some pollinators. 7. Avoid the use of pesticides and specifically neonicotinoids. 8. Additional information regarding plant species, seed mixes, and pollinator habitat requirements can be provided upon request. The Service appreciates the opportunity to provide these comments. Please contact Mr. Byron Hamstead of our staff at byron—hamstead@fws.gov, if you have any questions. In any future correspondence concerning this project, please reference our Log Number 4-2-20-398. Sincerely, - - original signed - - Janet Mizzi Field Supervisor 3