20201723 Ver 1_16-432, Section 7 Concurrence for Stokes County Bridge 8 Replacement WBS No. 17BP9.R.72_20201112

United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Asheville Field Office
160 Zillicoa Street Suite #B
Asheville, North Carolina 28801

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April 28, 2020
Amy Euliss
NC Department of Transportation
Division 9
375 Silas Creek Parkway
Winston Salem, NC 27127

Subject : 16-432, Section 7 Concurrence for Stokes County Bridge 8 Replacement WBS
No. 17BP9.R.72

Dear Ms. Euliss,

On March 16, 2020, we received your email requesting section 7 concurrence on effect s the
subject project may have on the federally endangered Gray bat (Myotis grisescens). The
following comments are provided in accordance with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of
1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) (Act).

On November 1, 2019, the U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service issued a Biological opinion for the
potential effects to James spinymussel (Parvaspina collina) and additional federally listed
species associated with the replacement of Bridge No. 8 over the Dan River on NC 704. Since
that date, the Gray bat (Myotis griesecens) was added as a Federally Endangered species by
USFWS for Stokes County.

Survey for the federally endangered Gray bat (Myotis grisescens) and evidence of roosting on
March 6, 2020 were negative. You have also committed to confirming the absence of bats and
signs of bat usage before demolition. Additionally, the field survey for mines and caves
conducted on March 6, 2020, was negative. Accordingly, we concur with your determination that
the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect , the Gray bat.

Therefore, we believe the requirements under Section 7(c) of the Endangered Species Act
(ESA) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 15 31 - 1543), are fulfilled. Obligations under Section 7
of the ESA 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.

If you have questions about these comments ple ase contact Ms. Claire Ellwanger of our staff at
828/258-3939, Ext. 42235. In any future correspondence concerning these projects, please
reference our Log Number 16-432.

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Sincerely,

Janet Mizzi
Field Supervisor

Attachment 1: [Aerial photo of project area]

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