20210394 Ver 1_ePCN Application_20210524

DWR
Division of Water Resources
Initial Review
Pre -Construction Notification (PCN) Form
April 4, 2021 Ver 4
Has this project met the requirements for acceptance in to the review process?*
6 Yes
✓ No
Is this project a public transportation project?*
C Yes ( No
Change only 1 needed.
BIMS # Assigned* Version#*
20210394 1
Is a payment required for this project?*
✓ No payment required
6 Fee received
✓ Fee needed - send electronic notification
Select Project Reviewer*
Kaylie Yankura:eads\kyankura
Information for Initial Review
la. Name of project:
Big Bradley Falls Overlook & Trail Improvements
la. Who is the Primary Contact?*
Jeff C. Ferguson, PE
Reviewing Office *
Asheville Regional Office - [phone]
lb. Primary Contact Email:* lc. Primary Contact Phone:*
jeff.ferguson©ncvdldlife.org [phone]
Date Submitted
5/24/2021
Nearest Body of Water
Cove Creek
Basin
Broad
Water Classification
C;Tr
Site Coordinates
Latitude: Longitude:
35.26657 -82.28655
A. Processing Information
County (or Counties) where the project is located:
Polk
Is this a NCDMS Project
✓ Yes G No
Is this project a public transportation project?*
✓ Yes 0- No
Pre -Filing Meeting Information
Is this a courtesy copy notification?*
✓ Yes f• No

ID# Version
20210394
Pre -fling Meeting or Request Date
2/18/2021
Attach documentation of Pre -Filing Meeting Request here:
Click the upload button or drag and drop files here to attach document
PRMRF-20210394.pdf
Fie type mast be Fly
la. Type(s) of approval sought from the Corps:
f7 Section 404 Permit (wetlands, streams and waters, Clean Water Act)
r Section 10 Permit (navigable waters, tidal waters, Rivers and Harbors Act)
Has this PCN previously been submitted?*
✓ Yes
✓ No
1b. What type(s) of permit(s) do you wish to seek authorization?
f7 Nationwide Permit (NWP)
I- Regional General Permit (RGP)
r Standard (IP)
lc. Has the NWP or GP number been verified by the Corps?
✓ Yes r No
Nationwide Permit (NWP) Number: 14 - Linear transportation
NWP Numbers (for multiple NWPS):
Id. Type(s) of approval sought from the DWR:
I7 401 Water Quality Certification - Regular
r Non-404 Jurisdictional General Permit
✓ Individual 401 Water Quality Certification
le. Is this notification solely for the record because written approval is not required?
For the record only for DWR 401 Certification:
For the record only for Corps Permit:
If. Is this an after -the -fact permit application?*
✓ Yes rNo
777.3KB
r' 401 Water Quality Certification - Express
✓ Riparian Buffer Authorization
lg. Is payment into a mitigation bank or in -lieu fee program proposed for mitigation of impacts?
✓ Yes rNo
lg. Is payment into a mitigation bank or in -lieu fee program proposed for mitigation of impacts?
✓ Yes r-No
Acceptance Letter Attachment
lh. Is the project located in any of NC's twenty coastal counties?
✓ Yes rNo
1j. Is the project located in a designated trout watershed?
✓ Yes r No
r Yes r No
rYes r No
B. Applicant Information
Id. Who is applying for the permit?
f7 Owner r Applicant (other than owner)
le. Is there an Agent/Consultant for this project?*
✓ Yes r No
2. Owner Information
2a. Name(s) on recorded deed:
NC Wildlife Resources
2b. Deed book and page no.:
D.B. 99/Pg. 23

2c. Contact Person:
Jeff Ferguson
2d.Address
Street Address
1720 Mail Service Center
Address Line 2
01y
Raleigh
Postal / ZLp Code
26799-1720
2e. Telephone Number:
[phone]
2g. Email Address:*
[e-mail]
State / Province / legion
NC
Country
USA
2f. Fax Number:
[phone]
C. Project Information and Prior Project History
C^U
1. Project Information
1b. Subdivision name:
(1 apprepriate)
lc. Nearest municipality/ town:
Saluda
2. Project Identification
2a. Property Identification Number:
37149_P21-11
2c. Project Address
Street Address
Holbert Cove Road (SR-1142)
Address Line 2
2b. Property size:
1007
Criy State / Province / legion
Saluda NC
Postal / ZZp Cade Country
28773 USA
3. Surface Waters
3a. Name of the nearest body of water to proposed project:*
Cove Creek
3b. Water Resources Classification of nearest receiving water:*
C;Tr
3c. What river basin(s) is your project located in?*
Broad
3d. Please provide the 12-digit HUC in which the project is located.
030501050103
4. Project Description and History
4a. Describe the existing conditions on the site and the general land use in the vicinity of the project at the time of this application:*
The project site is within a large tract of the Green River Game Land that encompasses a reach of Cove Creek and Big Bradley Falls. The site is wooded, steep and remote. It is heavily
used by hikers, climbers and visitors drawn to the attraction of the falls and Cove Creek gorge below. A network of user created trails has existed since before NC Wildlife assumed
management responsibilities for the area. The main trail leading to the falls area fords Cove Creek and an unnamed tributary to Cove Creek.
4b. Have Corps permits or DWR certifications been obtained for this project (including all prior phases) in the past?*
C Yes G No F Unknown
4d. Attach an 8 1/2 X 11 excerpt from the most recent version of the USGS topographic map indicating the location of the project site. (for DWR)
BBFOverlook-USGS Topo.pdf 2.67MB
4e. Attach an 8 1/2 X 11 excerpt from the most recent version of the published County NRCS Soil Survey map depicting the project site. (for DWR)
BBFOverlook-Soil Map.pdf 3.11MB
4f. List the total estimated acreage of all existing wetlands on the property:
Parcel is very large and has not been inventoried as it is in conservation. Project has approximately
150-feet of stream frontage and no defined wetlands.

4g. List the total estimated linear feet of all existing streams on the property:
Mapped perennial streams on 1,007 acre tract = 12,794LF. Intermittent streams have not been
measured, but none identified in project area.
4h. Explain the purpose of the proposed project:*
The purpose of this project is to improve access and provide a level of safety for visitors who come to view Big Bradley Falls. Accidents and fatalities have occurred in recent years
when visitors have fallen from dangerous, unimproved overlook spots. Improving an existing user created trail leading to one of these spots and providing an overlook landing with a
surrounding knee wall should provide a safer vantage and keep visitors from straying off the main trail in search of a vista.
While inspecting and surveying the proposed overlook site, problem areas were identified along the main trail. A section just beyond the Cove Creek ford crossing has eroded resulting
in a steep cross slope on the path that will need to be leveled and stabilized by installing a short length of rock cribbing above the OHWM of Cove Creek. This stabilization will be
needed to provide a stable route for small, rubber -track equipment that will be required for Farther along, the main trail crosses an unnamed tributary (UT) to Cove Creek. At some point
in the past, several logs and fill were placed in the UT at this crossing to facilitate crossing with UTV's for rescue/recovery operations by local EMS. A relatively steep 250LF section of
the main trail beyond the UT crossing has eroded and become entrenched. This condition is the result of many years of foot traffic, runoff from heavy rainfall and occasional UTV
access. In its current condition, this section of trail is a source of sedimentation to the UT and trout waters of Cove Creek. WRC's intent is to bypass this section of trail with a new trail
that will follow sections of lesser used social trails along less steep terrain.
A new constructed rock ford will be developed to cross the UT at a point downstream from the existing "log culvert" crossing. A quantity of cobble may need to be borrowed from a
deposition area located downstream of the proposed rock ford to line the stream bed at the new crossing.
The existing, eroded section of main trail will be "obliterated" following USFS trail standards. Check dams and placement of woody debris will help to reduce impacts from storm events.
Waterbars will divert flow away from the existing UT crossing and will be diverted to a protected outlet away from the trout buffer. The existing log culvert will be removed to daylight the
impacted section of UT. A log sill, log cribbing, matting and vegetation will be installed to stabilize the daylighted section.
These stream and trout buffer impacts will help to repair the current erosion/sedimentation issues and provide safer and more sustainable access for hikers, EMS and overlook
construction.
4i. Describe the overall project in detail, including indirect impacts and the type of equipment to be used:*
Ford crossing at Cove Creek and narrow trail width will limit construction equipment access to the site. Excavations of approaches to proposed constructed ford will be done with a small,
rubber track mini -excavator. Fill of entrenched trail (to be obliterated) will be done with a rubber track skid steer. A small UTV may also be used to transport laborers and imported
materials to work areas. Excavation associated with removal of existing log culvert, daylighting existing Ur crossing and installation of any rock and log cribbing and sills will be done with
the mini -excavator. Much of the work relating to building a constructed rock ford, installing log check dams & waterbars and placement of field stone for outlet protection will be done by
hand.
Select rock for building trail steps and observation knee wall will be cut, split and removed from designated areas along the main trail. The cut rock may be lifted using the mini -
excavator and hauled to work site with the skid steer. The only way to access the project site is along the main trail from the trailhead at Holbert Cove Road. Equipment will need to
cross Cove Creek at an established shallow ford.
4j. Please upload project drawings for the proposed project.
Big Bradley Falls Overlook Trail_Permit Set_051221_SCO ID 20-22390-01A.pdf 8.48MB
5. Jurisdictional Determinations
5a. Have the wetlands or streams been delineated on the property or proposed impact areas?*
✓ Yes
r• No
Comments:
USACE does not require written notification for NWP-14. Lengths of stream impacts were
determined by topo survey by NCWRC.
5b. If the Corps made a jurisdictional determination, what type of determination was made?*
✓ Preliminary r Approved r Not Verified r Unknown F N/A
Corps AID Number:
5c. If 5a is yes, who delineated the jurisdictional areas?
Name (if known):
Agency/Consultant Company:
Other:
5d1. Jurisdictional determination upload
6. Future Project Plans
6a. Is this a phased project?*
✓ Yes 6 No
r Unknown
Are any other NWP(s), regional general permit(s), or individual permits(s) used, or intended to be used, to authorize any part of the proposed project or related activity?
D. Proposed Impacts Inventory
1. Impacts Summary
la. Where are the impacts associated with your project? (check all that apply):

r Wetlands
r Open Waters
17 Streams -tributaries
r Pond Construction
❑ Buffers
3. Stream Impacts
3a. Reason for impact (?)
3b.Impact type*
3c. Type of impact*
3d. S. name *
3e. Stream Type*
(?)
3f. Type of
Jurisdiction*
3g. S. width *
3h. Impact
length*
S1
Rock Cribbing
Permanent
Stabilization
Cove Creek
Perennial
Both
35
Average (feet)
18
(linear feet)
32
Log Cribbing
Permanent
Bank Stabilization
UT1 to Cove Creek
Perennial
Both
10
Average (feet)
20
(linear feet)
S3
Dewatering
Temporary
Dewatering
UT1 to Cove Creek
Perennial
Both
10
Average (feet)
18
(linear feet)
S4
Constructed Ford
Permanent
Fill
UT1 to Cove Creek
Perennial
Both
12
Average (feet)
12
(linear feet)
S5
Dewatering
Temporary
Dewatering
UT1 to Cove Creek
Perennial
Both
12
Average (feet)
18
(linear feet)
S6
Cobble Borrow
Permanent
Excavation
UT1 to Cove Creek
Perennial
Both
14
Average (feet)
21
(linear feet)
3i. Total jurisdictional ditch impact in square feet:
0
3i. Total permanent stream impacts:
71
3i. Total stream and ditch impacts:
107
3j. Comments:
USACE indicated that these impacts would require a non -notifying NWP-14
3i. Total temporary stream impacts:
36
E. Impact Justification and Mitigation
1. Avoidance and Minimization
la. Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed impacts in designing the project:
Rerouting a severely impacted section of the main trail through the site will result in less impact to the tributary feeding Cove Creek during
construction of the overlook improvements beyond. The current crossing of the tributary essentially plugged the channel with logs and soil which can
have impacts on the stream as it continues to catch debris with heavy rain events. The old crossing will be daylighted and stabilized. Construction
equipment for the overlook development and visitor traffic will be directed to the new trail and constructed ford crossing. Obliteration of the existing,
entrenched section of trail will disperse concentrated that currently flows to the tributary at the existing crossing and divert it away from the stream and
trout buffer area to a protected outlet. The new trail section will be on a less steep grade and will be less likely to become a conduit for sediment with
long-term use. The constructed ford crossing of the tributary will be less likely to catch debris carried by the channel with heavy rains, and will be
easier to maintain.
1b. Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed impacts through construction techniques:
Excavation and fill work in the tributary channel will be performed in the dry either by damming the channel upstream of activity and pumping flow
around the work areas or by working when there is no visible flow in the channel. The proposed stream work is intended to eliminate a source of
sedimentation and provide a more durable means of crossing the channel. Sediment fence will be installed below areas of trail excavation and fill work
in proximity to trout buffers until slopes can be stabilized with seeding and erosion control matting.
2. Compensatory Mitigation for Impacts to Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the State
2a. Does the project require Compensatory Mitigation for impacts to Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the State?
C Yes
G No
2b. If this project DOES NOT require Compensatory Mitigation, explain why:
Less than 150LF of stream impacts.
F. Stormwater Management and Diffuse Flow Plan (required by DWR) u
1. Diffuse Flow Plan
la. Does the project include or is it adjacent to protected riparian buffers identified within one of the NC Riparian Buffer Protection Rules?
C Yes 6. No
If no, explain why:
Project is not located in one of the six watershed with NC Riparian Buffer Protection
2. Stormwater Management Plan

2a. Is this a NCDOT project subject to compliance with NCDOT's Individual NPDES permit NCS000250?*
✓ Yes allo
2b. Does this project meet the requirements for low density projects as defined in 15A NCAC 02H .1003(2)?
( Yes r No
Comments:
G. Supplementary Information
1. Environmental Documentation
la. Does the project involve an expenditure of public (federal/state/local) funds or the use of public (federal/state) land?*
( Yes rNo
1b. If you answered "yes" to the above, does the project require preparation of an environmental document pursuant to the requirements of the National or State (North Carolina)
Environmental Policy Act (NEPAISEPA)? *
✓ Yes (No
Comments:*
SEPA does not apply since this project does not meet the cost or land disturbance thresholds to require an environmental assessment.
2. Violations (DWR Requirement)
2a. Is the site in violation of DWR Water Quality Certification Rules (15A NCAC 2H .0500), Isolated Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H .1300), or DWR Surface Water or Wetland Standards or
Riparian Buffer Rules (15A NCAC 2B .0200)?*
✓ Yes (No
3. Cumulative Impacts (DWR Requirement)
3a. Will this project result in additional development, which could impact nearby downstream water quality?*
✓ Yes (No
3b. If you answered "no," provide a short narrative description.
This tract of the Green River game land is limited in use to public recreation, hiking and fishing access. Much of the area is under NHP conservation,
and management activity primarily involves routine trail maintenance. The improvements included in the scope of this project are intended to improve
public safety and reduce future impacts from foot traffic by encouraging visitors to stay on the improved paths. No further improvement projects are
anticipated in the foreseeable future.
4. Sewage Disposal (DWR Requirement)
4a. Is sewage disposal required by DWR for this project?*
✓ Yes ( No r N/A
5. Endangered Species and Designated Critical Habitat (Corps Requirement)
5a. Will this project occur in or near an area with federally protected species or habitat?*
( Yes rNo
5b. Have you checked with the USFWS concerning Endangered Species Act impacts?*
( Yes rNo
5c. If yes, indicate the USFWS Field Office you have contacted.
Asheville
5d. Is another Federal agency involved?*
✓ Yes
5e. Is this a DOT project located within Division's 1-8?
✓ Yes ( No
( No r Unknown
5f. Will you cut any trees in order to conduct the work in waters of the U.S.?
( Yes r No
5g. Does this project involve bridge maintenance or removal?
✓ Yes ( No
5h. Does this project involve the construction/installation of a wind turbine(s)?"
✓ Yes ( No
5i. Does this project involve (1) blasting, and/or (2) other percussive activities that will be conducted by machines, such as jackhammers, mechanized pile drivers, etc.?
✓ Yes ( No
5j. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact Endangered Species or Designated Critical Habitat?
Consulted with FWS Asheville Field Office. Documentation attached.

Consultation Documentation Upload
USFWS Consultation.pdf 1017.64KB
6. Essential Fish Habitat (Corps Requirement)
6a. Will this project occur in or near an area designated as an Essential Fish Habitat?*
✓ Yes ( No
6b. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact an Essential Fish Habitat?*
NOAA EFH Mapper
7. Historic or Prehistoric Cultural Resources (Corps Requirement)
7a. Will this project occur in or near an area that the state, federal or tribal governments have designated as having historic or cultural preservation status?*
✓ Yes ( No
7b. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact historic or archeological resources?*
NC Historic Preservation Office HPOWEB map. Sent request for environmental review. Awaiting reply.
7c. Historic or Prehistoric Information Upload
8. Flood Zone Designation (Corps Requirement)
8a. Will this project occur in a FEMA-designated 100-year floodplain?*
✓ Yes f• No
8c. What source(s) did you use to make the floodplain determination?*
North Carolina Flood Risk Information System maps
Miscellaneous
Comments
$240 fee for minor Water Quality Certification was sent by electronic funds transfer on 3/18/21.
Document NBR: BRADLEYFAL031821 is attached.
Miscellaneous attachments not previously requested.
401 WQC Fee EFT Confirmation.pdf 188.87KB
Signature
*
17 By checking the box and signing below, I certify that:
• The project proponent hereby certifies that all information contained herein is true, accurate, and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief; and
• The project proponent hereby requests that the certifying authority review and take action on this CWA 401 certification request within the applicable reasonable period of time.
• I have given true, accurate, and complete information on this form;
• I agree that submission of this PCN form is a "transaction" subject to Chapter 66, Article 40 of the NC General Statutes (the "Uniform Electronic Transactions Act");
• I agree to conduct this transaction by electronic means pursuant to Chapter 66, Article 40 of the NC General Statutes (the "Uniform Electronic Transactions Act");
• I understand that an electronic signature has the same legal effect and can be enforced in the same way as a written signature; AND
• I intend to electronically sign and submit the PCN form.
Full Name:
Jeff C. Ferguson, PE
Signature
. - C. 6uso*J.
Date
5/24/2021

ID#* 20210394 Version* 1
Regional Office* Asheville Regional Office - [phone]
Reviewer List* Kaylie Yankura
Pre -Filing Meeting Request submitted 2/18/2021
Contact Name * Jeff C. Ferguson, PE
Contact Email Address* [e-mail]
Project Name* Big Bradley Falls Trail - Ford crossing UT to Cove Creek
Project Owner* State of North Carolina -Wildlife Resources Commission
Project County* Polk
Owner Address: Street Address
1751 Varsity Drive
Address Line 2
NCWRC Land & Water Access - Engineering Section
aty State / Frovince / Region
Raleigh NC
Rbstal/Zip Code Country
27606 USA
Is this a transportation project? * r Yes r No
Type(s) of approval sought from the DWR:
W 401 Water Quality Certification - F- 401 Water Quality Certification -
Regular Express
r- Individual Permit F- Modification
r- Shoreline Stabilization
Does this project have an existing project ID#?*
r Yes r No
Do you know the name of the staff member you would like to request a meeting with?
Kaylie Yankura
Please give a brief project description below.
Improvements to existing eroded section of trail to Big Bradley Falls
overlook site on Green River Game Land resulting in the following
impacts to unnamed intermittent tributary to Cove Creek.
Removal of logs from intermittent tributary at current trail crossing.
Stabilize 12'-16' length of stream after log culvert removal. Construction
of new rock ford crossing same UT at downstream location. Estimate 12'-
16' of stream length impacted by new ford development.
Please give a couple of dates you are available for a meeting.
2/24/2021
3/3/2021
Please attach the documentation you would like to have the meeting about.
pdf only
By digitally signing below, I certify that I have read and understood that per the Federal Clean Water Act Section
401 Certification Rule the following statements:
This form completes the requirement of the Pre -Filing Meeting Request in the Clean Water Act Section 401 Certification
Rule.
I understand by signing this form that I cannot submit my application until 30 calendar days after this pre -filing
meeting request.
I also understand that DWR is not required to respond or grant the meeting request.
Your project's thirty -day clock started upon receipt of this application. You will receive notification regarding meeting location
and time if a meeting is necessary. You will receive notification when the thirty -day clock has expired, and you can submit an
application.
Signature
Submittal Date 2/18/2021
Reviewer Meeting Request Decision
Has a meeting been scheduled?* l' Yes r No
Proposed Overlook:Area=14'x10' Pad w/Knee WallN35.269141°W82.29139°
Existing Social Trail Improvement& Select Rock Borrow:Area=0.13 Ac.N35.26927°W82.29094°
Select Rock Borrow:Area=0.14 Ac.N35.26889°W82.29002°
Select Rock Borrow:Area=0.17 Ac.N35.26744°W82.28734°
Select Rock Borrow:Area=0.16 Ac.N35.26800°W82.29032°Trail Rerouting:Area=0.26 Ac.N35.26655°W82.28674°
Trail Stabilizaton w/ Rock Cribbing:Area=0.008 Ac.N35.26586°W82.28578°
Cobble Borrow:Area=0.001 Ac.N35.26655°W82.28628°
Copyright:© 2013 National Geographic Society, i-cubed
³
0 400 800 1,200 1,600200Feet
Existing Big Bradley Falls Trail
BIG BRADLEY FALLSOVERLOOK DEVELOPMENT & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTSUSGS TOPO MAP
Cove Creek Ford Crossing
Big Bradley Falls
eCoveCreek
Participating NC Counties, NCCGIA, NC OneMap, US EPA, Source: USDA Natural ResourcesConservation Service
³
0 400 800 1,200 1,600200Feet
Existing Big Bradley Falls Trail
Proposed Overlook
Section of Eroded Trail(To be Decommissioned)
Main Trail Reroute& UT Crossing
BIG BRADLEY FALLSOVERLOOK DEVELOPMENT & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTSUSDA SOIL SURVEY MAP
Cove Creek Ford Crossing
Big Bradley Falls
eCoveCreek
NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
COVER
SITE LOCATION, SHEET INDEX12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFCOVERNORTH CAROLINAWILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSIONBIG BRADLEY FALLS OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTSGREEN RIVER GAME LANDCOVE CREEK POLK COUNTYSHEET INDEXSD-0.1 - CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCESD-0.2 - MATERIALS SPECIFICATIONSSD-0.3 - BIG BRADLEY FALLS MAIN TRAIL SPECIFICATONS & TRAIL LOGSD-0.4 - BIG BRADLEY FALLS OVERLOOK TRAIL SPECIFICATIONS & TRAIL LOGSD-1.0 - EXISTING TRAIL & PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTSOVERALL PROJECT SITE PLAN VIEWSD-2.0 - PROPOSED TRAIL REROUTE @ UT CROSSING-PLAN VIEWSD-2.1 - PROPOSED TRAIL REROUTE @ UT CROSSING-IMPACTSSD-3.0 - GRADING PLAN: UT CROSSING & MAIN TRAIL REROUTESD-6.0 - PROFILES & SECTIONS: TRAIL @ UT CROSSINGSD-6.1 - MAIN TRAIL REROUTE PERMANENT DIVERSION PROFILES & DETAILSSD-8.0 - EROSION CONTROL, SEEDING & VEGETATION DETAILSSD-8.1 - ROCK & LOG CRIBBING STRUCTURE DETAILSSD-8.2 - OBLITERATION OF TRAILS & LOG CHECK DAM DETAILS (USFS)SD-8.3 - LOG WATER BAR DETAILS (USFS)SD-8.4 - CONSTRUCTED ROCK FORD DETAILS (USFS)SD-8.5 - CONSTRUCTED ROCK FORD DETAILS (USFS, CONT.)CD-8.6 - POST & RAIL FENCE (USFS)CD-8.7 - OVERLAPPING ROCK STEPS (USFS)CD-8.8 - OVERLOOK LANDINGCD-8.9 - OVERLOOK KNEE WALL - MASONRY ROCK OPTIONCD-8.10-OVERLOOK KNEE WALL - REINFORCED CMU WITH STONE VENNER OPTION11427426Cove CreekCove CreekGreen RiverGame Land····
NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCE12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-0.1
NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
MATERIALS
SPECIFICATIONS12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-0.2
NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
MAIN TRAIL SPECIFICATIONS
& TRAIL LOG12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-0.3
NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
OVERLOOK TRAIL SPECIFICATIONS
& TRAIL LOG12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-0.4
0
+
0
00+501
+
0
0
1+
5
0
1+
9
4
.
4
3
PROFILE
-B0+002+002+501+500+501+00PROFILE-CPROFILE-A0+000+20.68XS-UT0+000+501+001+502+002+502+83.730+000+501+001+14.960+000+250+000+50PROFILE-EPROFILE-DXS-PDNORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
EXISTING TRAIL & PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
OVERALL PROJECT SITE PLAN12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-1.0 OVERALL SITE PLAN VIEW PROPOSED CROCK CRIBBING @COVE CREEK FORD CROSSINGLEGENDSURFACE WATER IMPACTTEMPORARY IMPACT IN TROUT BUFFER ZONETOP OF CHANNEL BANK (AS SURVEYED)EXTENT OF 25' TROUT BUFFERORDINARY HIGH WATER MARKEXISTING 1' CONTOURSLIMITS OF DISTURBANCEEXISTING MAIN TRAILPR. MAIN TRAIL REROUTEPROPOSED 1' CONTOURSSEDIMENT FENCELOG CHECK DAMLOG WATERBAR
NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
PROPOSED TRAIL REROUTE @ UT CROSSING
SITE PLAN12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-2.0LEGENDSURFACE WATER IMPACTTEMPORARY IMPACT IN TROUT BUFFER ZONETOP OF CHANNEL BANK (AS SURVEYED)EXTENT OF 25' TROUT BUFFERORDINARY HIGH WATER MARKEXISTING 1' CONTOURSLIMITS OF DISTURBANCE PROPOSED TRAIL REROUTE & RETIRED TRAIL STABILIZATIONPLAN VIEWEXISTING MAIN TRAILPR. MAIN TRAIL REROUTEPROPOSED 1' CONTOURSSEDIMENT FENCELOG CHECK DAMLOG WATERBARCENTERLINE/THALWEG
NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
PROPOSED TRAIL REROUTE @ UT CROSSING
TROUT BUFFER & SURFACE WATER TEMP. IMPACTS12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-2.1LEGENDPERMANENT SURFACE WATER IMPACTTEMPORARY IMPACT IN TROUT BUFFER ZONETOP OF CHANNEL BANK (AS SURVEYED)EXTENT OF 25' TROUT BUFFERORDINARY HIGH WATER MARKEXISTING 1' CONTOURSLIMITS OF DISTURBANCE PROPOSED TRAIL REROUTE & RETIRED TRAIL STABILIZATIONTROUT BUFFER & SURFACE WATER IMPACTS - PLAN VIEWEXISTING MAIN TRAILPR. MAIN TRAIL REROUTEPROPOSED 1' CONTOURSSEDIMENT FENCELOG CHECK DAMLOG WATERBARIMPACT-S2IMPACT-S4IMPACT-S6 PROPOSED TROUT BUFFER IMPACTCOVE CREEK ROCK CRIBBINGPROJECT TOTAL LIMIT OF DISTURBANCE: 38,213SF = 0.88ACREL.O.D. WITHIN TROUT BUFFER & STREAM CHANNEL: 2,533SF = 0.058ACRECOVE CREEK TOTAL PERMANENT SURFACE WATER IMPACTS: 18LFUT1 TOTAL PERMANENT SURFACE WATER IMPACTS: 53LFUT1 TOTAL TEMPORARY SURFACE WATER IMPACTS: 36LFTOTAL LENGTH OF TEMPORARY DISTURBANCE WITHIN TROUT BUFFERZONES: 157LFLENGTH OF NC WILDLIFE RESOURCES TRACT FRONTING COVE CREEK:9,286FT (LEFT BANK) & 9,286 (RIGHT BANK), UT TO COVE CREEK: 691FT(LEFT BANK), 691FT (RIGHT BANK)IMPACT-S1IMPACT-S3TEMPORARY SURFACE WATER IMPACTIMPACT-S5
0+000+501+00
1+50
1+94.43
PRO
F
I
L
E
-
B
0+002+002+501+500+501+00PROFILE-CPROFILE-A0+000+20.68XS-UT0+000+501+001+502+002+502+83.730+000+501+001+14.960+000+250+000+50PROFILE-EPROFILE-DXS-PDNORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
PROPOSED TRAIL REROUTE @ UT CROSSING
GRADING PLAN12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-3.0LEGENDSURFACE WATER IMPACTTEMPORARY IMPACT IN TROUT BUFFER ZONETOP OF CHANNEL BANK (AS SURVEYED)EXTENT OF 25' TROUT BUFFERORDINARY HIGH WATER MARKEXISTING 1' CONTOURSLIMITS OF DISTURBANCE PROPOSED TRAIL REROUTE & RETIRED TRAIL STABILIZATIONGRADING PLANEXISTING MAIN TRAILCONTROL POINT/BENCHMARKPROPOSED 1' CONTOURSSEDIMENT FENCELOG CHECK DAMLOG WATERBAR
2.0%2H1V2H1V12.7%12.7%13.9%NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
MAIN TRAIL REROUTE ,
STREAM CROSSING PROFILES12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-6.0 PROFILE-A: ERODED TRAIL SECTION PROFILE-B: THALWEG PROFILE OF UNNAMED TRIBUTARY TO COVE CREEK PROFILE-C: PROPOSED REROUTED TRAIL SECTION & FORD CROSSING OF U.T. EXISTING TRIBUTARY XS-UT @PROFILE-B STA. 0+21
2.2%10.6%10.6%10.6%11.5%11.5%10.2%3.9%0.0%0.0%5.0%NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
MAIN TRAIL REROUTE
PERMANENT DIVERSION PROFILES & DETAILS12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-6.1 PROFILE-D: PROPOSED PERMANENT DIVERSION SWALE LINE XS-PD: PROPOSED PERMANENT DIVERSION TYPICAL SECTION PROFILE-E: PROPOSED DRAINAGE CULVERT @ TRAIL REROUTE CULVERT OUTLET STABILIZATION····
NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
MAIN TRAIL REROUTE
EROSION & SEDIMENTATION CONTROL DETAILS12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-8.0 DETAIL - SEDIMENT FENCE SEEDING & VEGETATION SCHEDULE DETAIL - EROSION CONTROL MATTING (RECP) INSTALLATION
2H1V13.9%2H1VNORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION
ENGINEERING SECTION
1720 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27699
Phone:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
www.ncwildlife.orgDate:File Name:Surveyed:Designed:Drawn:Approved:Sheet No.BIG BRADLEY FALLS
OVERLOOK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
MAIN TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
ROCK & LOG CRIBBING STRUCTURE DETAILS12-MAY-2021BBFOverlook.dwgJCFJCFJCFSD-8.1 LOG SILL & CRIBBING @ EXISITING UT CROSSING - PROFILE LOG SILL & CRIBBING @ EXISTING UT CROSSING - PLAN VIEW ROCK CRIBBING ALONG EXISTING TRAIL@ COVE CREEK FORD - PLAN VIEW ROCK CRIBBING ALONG EXISTING TRAIL @COVE CREEK FORD - SECTION VIEW LOG SILL & CRIBBING @ EXISITING UT CROSSING - SECTION VIEW
911 - TREAD AND PRISMSPECIAL TRAIL SPECIFICATIONS12-MAY-2021-STD_911-60-01NO SCALEOBLITERATION OF TRAILSSCARIFICATION AND SLASH PLACEMENT SECTIONBTRAIL OBLITERATIONBTrail Oblit. over lenght of Profile-A200LFRECONTOUR & SLASH PLACEMENT SECTIONC806GREEN RIVER GAME LANDNC WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSIONBIG BRADLEY FALLS TRAIL & OVERLOOKSD8.2OBTfrom Sta. 0+50 to Sta. 2+50TRAIL OBLITERATION NOTES:1.SCARIFY EXISTING TRAIL TREAD TO DEPTH OF6-INCHES BEFORE PLACING FILL & SLASH COVER.FILL SHALL BE CLEAN SOIL EXCAVATED FROMPROPOSED FORD APPROACHES.4.LOG CHECK DAMS AND WATERBARS (SD-8.3)WILL BE INSTALLED AND SPACED AT MAX.20-FOOT INTERVALS AS SHOWN ON PLAN VIEW(SD-3.0) AND PROFILE-A (SD-6.0)5.SLASH SHALL CONSIST OF LOGS, LIMBS , BRUSH,ROCKS AND FOREST DUFF PLACED IN A WAY TOCATCH SEDIMENT MOVEMENT.6.SLASH TO BE SPREAD RANDOMLY ACROSS TRAILBED. DO NOT SPREAD PARALLEL TO TRAILSURFACE.7.LIMB ALL TREES AND SHRUBS. TAMP SLASH INTOGROUND SO THAT 80% OF SLASH IS IN CONTACTWITH THE GROUND.8.APPLY TEMPORARY & PERMANENT SEED &STRAW MULCH (TABLE 8.0-B) TO COVER ALONGWITH SLASH TO OBTAIN A MIN. 85% GROUNDCOVER.ENTRENCHED TRAIL CONDITIONTYPICAL SECTIONPLAN VIEWLOGC2b820' MAX.C2b8.2-ALOGHARD-WOODLOG CHECK DAMS12-IN ØMIN.LOG CHECK DAM NOTES:1.SCARIFY EXISTING TRAIL TREAD TO DEPTH OF 6-INCHES BEFORE INSTALLING LOG CHECK DAMS AND WATERBARS (SD-8.3)'2.CHECK DAMS WILL BE INSTALLED AND SPACED AT MAX. 20-FOOT INTERVALS AS SHOWN ON PLAN VIEW (SD-3.0) AND PROFILE-A (SD-6.0).3.PRE-DRILL HOLES FOR REBAR ANCHORS TO PREVENT SPLITTING OF LOGS. SET ANCHOR PINS AT 6-IN FROM EACH END OF LOG WITH MAX.SPACING OF 36-IN. RECESS TOP END OF REBAR 1/2-INCH BELOW TOP OF LOG.4.IF DEPTH OF SCARIFIED TRAIL BED EXCEEDS THE EMBEDMENT DEPTH OF CHECK DAM LOG, INSTALL SECOND FOOTER LOG AND/OR SPREADNONWOVEN FILTER FABRIC OVER UPSLOPE FACE OF CHECK DAM. FABRIC SHOULD SPREAD TO OVERLAP UPSLOPE TRAIL BED BY MIN. 16-IN.TACK FABRIC ACROSS TOP LOG USING BUTTON CAP NAILS.5.BACKFILL WITH SUITABLE SOIL. COMPACT BACKFILL IN 6-INCH LIFTS UNTIL NO VISUAL DISPLACEMENT. LOG CHECK DAM INSTALLATION DETAILS TRAIL OBLITERATION DETAILS
922 - WATERBARSSPECIAL TRAIL SPECIFICATIONS12-MAY-2021-STD_922-20-01NO SCALELOG OR TREATEDTIMBER WATERBARLOG WATERBARLOG WITH REBAR ANCHORCLOG WITH ROCK ANCHOR SECTIONBLOG ANCHOR SECTIONAAACD8.3SKEWA-ATWB MATERIAL TYPESECTION PERSPECTIVE VIEWGREEN RIVER GAME LANDNC WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSIONBIG BRADLEY FALLS TRAIL & OVERLOOKROCK SPILLWAYROCK SPILLWAY FOR DRAINAGE DIP OR CROSS DRAINRSP-1: ELEVATION VIEWD LOG WATERBAR DETAILS
12-MAY-2021-STD_917-20-01NO SCALEPLAN VIEWSURFACE COURSE MATERIAL TYPEBABACONSTRUCTED FORD - ROCK STRUCTUREFOUNDATION MATERIAL TYPE917 - FORDSROCK STRUCTURECONSTRUCTED FORDCCGEOTEXTILE TYPECD8.4RF1SPECIAL TRAIL SPECIFICATIONSGREEN RIVER GAME LANDNC WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSIONBIG BRADLEY FALLS TRAIL & OVERLOOK CONSTRUCTED ROCK FORD DETAILS
SPECIAL TRAIL SPECIFICATIONS12-MAY-2021-NO SCALEA-AB-B917 - FORDSROCK STRUCTURECONSTRUCTED FORDC-CSTD_917-20-02CD8.5RF2SECTION SECTION SECTION GREEN RIVER GAME LANDNC WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSIONBIG BRADLEY FALLS TRAIL & OVERLOOKTYPICAL LOG RETAINERTYPICAL ROCK RETAINERTYPICAL LOG RETAINERR1R2aR2bTYPICAL ROCK SPACING CONSTRUCTED ROCK FORD DETAILS LOG & ROCK RETAINER DETAILS
1
Ferguson, Jeff C
From:Hamstead, Byron A <[e-mail]>
Sent:Monday, May 24, 2021 11:06 AM
To:Ferguson, Jeff C; Knapp, Wesley; Leslie, Andrea J
Cc:Reid, Rebekah N
Subject:Re: [EXTERNAL] Green River Game Land - Big Bradley Falls Trail & Overlook
Improvements
CAUTION: External email. Do not click links or open attachments unless you verify. Send all suspicious email as an attachment to
Report Spam.

Thanks Folks,

Based on the information provided, it seems that that suitable habitat is not present within the action area for white
irisette and small-whorled pogonia, and that surveys were conducted during the flowering season for Hexastylis
naniflora, but no federally protected species were detected at that time.

I'll just reiterate for the USACE's benefit that 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 (which may require tree clearing) 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 this
animal’s maternity roosting season from May 15 – August 15.

Based on the information provided, we believe that suitable habitat is not present onsite for any other federally
protected species and we require no further action or 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.

I encourage you to pass along this email thread to the USACE PM reviewing your project.

Please know that your credentials are not in question here, Wes. I wish that folks had half your experience that send us
survey results for review... Regardless of the project proponent or surveyor, we have to ask that surveys are conducted
during the appropriate survey window where suitable habitat occurs within the action
area: https://www.fws.gov/asheville/pdfs/Optimal%20Survey%20Windows%20for%20listed%20plants%202020.pdf

Please keep this in mind for future projects, Jeff. Like I said, our office is happy to do what we can to help our state
partners with surveys.

Please let me know if you have any q's.

Regards,
Byron

2

___________________________________
Byron Hamstead
Fish and Wildlife Biologist
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Asheville Ecological Services Field Office
160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, North Carolina, 28801

This email correspondence and any attachments to and from this sender is subject to the Freedom of Information Act and may be disclosed to third
parties.
From: Ferguson, Jeff C <[e-mail]>
Sent: Monday, May 24, 2021 9:38 AM
To: Hamstead, Byron A <[e-mail]>
Cc: Leslie, Andrea J <[e-mail]>
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Green River Game Land - Big Bradley Falls Trail & Overlook Improvements

Good morning Byron.

Based on the response from Wes Knapp, is any further survey of the site needed? Will you provide consultation letter,
or will your email reply of 5/18 combined with what Wes sent below be sufficient for me to include with the PCN?

Thanks,
Jeff

___________________________________________

Jeff C. Ferguson, PE
Mountain Region Engineer

NC Wildlife Resources Commission
mailing address: 171 Southern Cross Rd.
Weaverville, NC 28787
mobile: [phone] // fax: [phone]
[e-mail]

From: Knapp, Wesley <[e-mail]>
Sent: Thursday, May 20, 2021 11:59 AM
To: Ferguson, Jeff C <[e-mail]>
Cc: Leslie, Andrea J <[e-mail]>; Thompson, Garrett P <[e-mail]>; Gardner,
Gary <[e-mail]>; Hamstead, Byron A <[e-mail]>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] Green River Game Land - Big Bradley Falls Trail & Overlook Improvements

Hi everyone,

I can confidently say there is no Sisyrinchium dichotomum, Isotria medeoloides, or Hexastylis naniflora in the path
footprint I reviewed. The habitat is wrong for Sisyrinchium dichotomum. If Isotria was present, I would have noted it.
The only Hexastylis I documented that day was H. rhombiformis. I have field familiarity with all these taxa and have
documented new populations for all these except the Isotria, which I have done numerous field days of
inventory/census of.

If you need anything else, don’t hesitate to ask,
3

Wes

From: Ferguson, Jeff C <[e-mail]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 19, 2021 9:56 AM
To: Knapp, Wesley <[e-mail]>
Cc: Leslie, Andrea J <[e-mail]>; Thompson, Garrett P <[e-mail]>; Gardner,
Gary <[e-mail]>; Hamstead, Byron A <[e-mail]>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] Green River Game Land - Big Bradley Falls Trail & Overlook Improvements

Good morning Wes.

I am preparing the PCN for the 401 for the portion of this project involving the existing and proposed rerouted trail
crossing of the unnamed tributary on this site.

Please see Byron Hamstead’s message below regarding the USFWS agency consultation.

You previously surveyed the corridor of the proposed trail reroute and overlook site development. In your opinion, is
there suitable habitat in those areas for white irisette (Sisyrinchium dichotomum) and small-whorled pogonia (Isotria
medeoloides)? Since your letter February 5, 2021 discusses your survey for French Broad heartleaf (Hexastylis
rombiformis), would that survey also have identified any specimens of or suitable habitat for Dwarf-flowered heartleaf
(Hexastylis naniflora)?

If you believe there is suitable habitat for these species within the project corridor, NCWRC can coordinate with USFWS
to survey the area this month.

Thanks,
Jeff

___________________________________________

Jeff C. Ferguson, PE
Mountain Region Engineer

NC Wildlife Resources Commission
mailing address: 171 Southern Cross Rd.
Weaverville, NC 28787
mobile: [phone] // fax: [phone]
[e-mail]

From: Ferguson, Jeff C
Sent: Tuesday, May 18, 2021 11:42 AM
To: Hamstead, Byron A <[e-mail]>
Cc: Leslie, Andrea J <[e-mail]>; Thompson, Garrett P <[e-mail]>; Gardner,
Gary <[e-mail]>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] Green River Game Land - Big Bradley Falls Trail & Overlook Improvements

Byron,

Attached is a letter from Wes Knapp which describes the results of his survey. The original project called for
construction of 0.8 miles of trail through a densely wooded area. The intent was to develop a connection to an existing
lower trail that runs along Cove Creek to the base of Big Bradley Falls. That plan was going to hav e significant impacts to
4
French Broad heartleaf. This 2020 plan was abandoned, and the current plan is to develop an overlook of the falls and
reroute an eroded section of the main trail.

This letter discusses the reduction of impacts compare to the original plan. It is not clear from this letter whether Wes
surveyed for Dwarf-flowered heartleaf(Hexastylis naniflora) , white irisette (Sisyrinchium dichotomum) and small-
whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) or if none were found. I’ll see if I can dig up additional information on this.

___________________________________________

Jeff C. Ferguson, PE
Mountain Region Engineer

NC Wildlife Resources Commission
mailing address: 171 Southern Cross Rd.
Weaverville, NC 28787
mobile: [phone] // fax: [phone]
[e-mail]

From: Hamstead, Byron A <[e-mail]>
Sent: Tuesday, May 18, 2021 10:51 AM
To: Ferguson, Jeff C <[e-mail]>
Cc: Leslie, Andrea J <[e-mail]>; Thompson, Garrett P <[e-mail]>; Gardner,
Gary <[e-mail]>
Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Green River Game Land - Big Bradley Falls Trail & Overlook Improvements

CAUTION: External email. Do not click links or open attachments unless you verify. Send all suspicious email as an attachment to
Report Spam.

Hi Jeff,

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 (which may require tree clearing) 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 you to
avoid any associated tree clearing activities during this animal’s maternity roosting season from May 15 – August 15.

I am glad Wes was able to survey the proposed impact area, and we acknowlege that no evidence for the federally
threatened dwarf-flowered heartleaf (Hexastylis naniflora) was detected at that time. Do you know when botanical
surveys were conducted? In addition to Hexastylis naniflora, the site should be evaluated for a few other species if it has
not been already: white irisette (Sisyrinchium dichotomum) and small-whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides). You can
find lists of federally protected species by county here: https://www.fws.gov/raleigh/species/cntylist/nc_counties.html

If suitable habitat occurs onsite for these species, we ask that the area be surveyed during the appropriate survey
windows: https://www.fws.gov/asheville/pdfs/Optimal%20Survey%20Windows%20for%20listed%20plants%202020.pdf
Please let me know if/when Wes may have also surveyed for these species. If not, survey results collected anytime
from now to early July would be great. We may be available to help with surveys if requested. Let me know and I can
get something on my calendar asap.

Lastly, please pass along a .shp file of the project area if you have one handy. No problem if you dont.

Regards,
CP AP
DOCUMENT PAYMENT GENERAL INFORMATION DPG
EXT FUNCTION: ACTION: HISTORY: 03 5 0 1 08:41:45
ROWSE:
AY ENTITY : 17PT
END/EMP SHORT NAME: DEQ
OCUMENT DATE : 03 18 0 1
IND AMOUNT
VEND/EMP NBR: 566000372 40
DOCUMENT NBR: BRADLEYFAL08181
PAYMENT NBR: 001 PRTL PYMT NBR: 000
ALES TAX/VAT VAT INCLUSIVE N
ALES TAX 2 EXPENSE IND
ALES TAX 3 GL EFFECTIVE DATE: 03/24/2021
REIGHT EXTRACT DATE
DDITIONAL COST ACCRUAL CANC DATE:
ROSS INVOICE 240.00 CURRENCY CODE
AYMENT AMOUNT 240.00 DISCOUNT TYPE : NOT TAKEN
MOUNT PAID 240.00 DISCOUNT TAKEN
PAYMENT STATUS : PAID
AYMENT TERMS : NET PAY IMMEDIATELY PAYMENT REF NBR : 000018 B06
AYMENT DATE 03/24/2021 PAYMENT TYPE : ELECTRONIC
AYMENT ROUTE CD : HANDLING CODE .
ACTOR NUMBER ONE INC PER PYMT: YES
EASON CODE/DESC : BANK ACCT PYMT CD: IGO
+ a
.00
06 0 3