20210394 Ver 1_Approval Letter_20210607

June 7, 2021
DWR # 21-0394
Polk County
NC Wildlife Resources
ATTN: Jeff Ferguson, PE
1720 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 26799
Subject: APPROVAL OF 401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATION WITH ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS
Big Bradley Falls Overlook & Trail Improvements
Dear Mr. Ferguson:
You have our approval for the impacts listed below for the purpose described in your application dated
May 24, 2021, received by the Division of Water Resources (Division) May 24, 2021, and payment
received May 26, 2021. These impacts are covered by the attached Water Quality General Certification
Number 4135 and the conditions listed below. This certification is associated with the use of
Nationwide Permit Number 14 once it is issued to you by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Please note
that you should get any other federal, state or local permits before proceeding with your project,
including those required by (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control, Non-Discharge, and
Water Supply Watershed regulations.
The Division has determined that the proposed project will comply with water quality requirements
provided that you adhere to the conditions listed in the enclosed certification and to the additional
conditions itemized below.
The following proposed impacts are hereby approved. No other impacts are approved, including
incidental impacts. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)]
Type of Impact Amount Approved
(units)
Permanent
Amount Approved
(units)
Temporary
Stream
S1 18 (linear feet) 0 (linear feet)
S2 20 (linear feet) 0 (linear feet)
S3 0 (linear feet) 18 (linear feet)
S4 12 (linear feet) 0 (linear feet)
S5 0 (linear feet) 18 (linear feet)
S6 21 (linear feet) 0 (linear feet)
DocuSign Envelope ID: 0C89B131-C8DF-40EF-B76E-E8617CA4EF6B

Big Bradley Falls Overlook & Trail Improvements
DWR# 21-0394
401 Certification
Page 2 of 5

This approval is for the purpose and design described in your application. The plans and specifications
for this project are incorporated by reference as part of this Certification. If you change your project,
you must notify the Division and you may be required to submit a new application package with the
appropriate fee. If the property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of this Certification and is
responsible for complying with all conditions. [15A NCAC 02H .0507(d)(2)].
If you are unable to comply with any of the conditions of the attached Water Quality General
Certification or with the additional conditions itemized below, you must notify the Asheville Regional
Office within 24 hours (or the next business day if a weekend or holiday) from the time the permittee
becomes aware of the circumstances.
The permittee shall report to the Asheville Regional Office any noncompliance with, and/or any violation
of, stream or wetland standards [15A NCAC 02B .0200] including but not limited to sediment impacts to
streams or wetlands. Information shall be provided orally within 24 hours (or the next business day if a
weekend or holiday) from the time the permittee became aware of the non-compliance circumstances.
Additional Conditions [15A NCAC 02H .0507(c)]:

1. Cove Creek and unnamed tributaries to Cove Creek are Class C Trout Waters. In order to protect
downstream uses for Class C Trout Waters a requirement of this Certification is that any work
conducted within the stream may not occur between the dates of January 1 through April 15.
[15A NCAC 02H .0506 (b)(1) and 15A NCAC 04B .0125]

Justification: In order to protect against impairment of water quality standards and best usage of
receiving and downstream waters, water quality based management practices must be employed
to protect against direct or indirect discharge of waste or other sources of water pollution. Surface
water quality standards require that conditions of waters be suitable for all best uses provided for
in state rule (including, at minimum: aquatic life propagation, survival, and maintenance of
biological integrity, wildlife, secondary contact recreation, agriculture) and that activities must not
cause water pollution that precludes any best use on a short-term or long-term basis.

2. The turbidity standard of 10 NTUs (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) shall not be exceeded as
described in Title 15A NCAC 02B .0200. Appropriate sediment and erosion control practices must
be used to meet this standard. [15A NCAC 02B .0211 (21)]

Justification: Surface water quality standards require that conditions of waters be suitable for all
best uses provided for in state rule (including, at minimum: aquatic life propagation, survival, and
maintenance of biological integrity, wildlife, secondary contact recreation, agriculture); and that
activities must not cause water pollution that precludes any best use on a short-term or long-term
basis.

3. All wetlands and streams located within 50 feet of the construction area on the project site shall
be clearly marked (example- orange fabric fencing) prior to any land disturbing activities and must
be maintained on the property until the project phase is completed. [15A NCAC 02H .0506 (b)(2)]
DocuSign Envelope ID: 0C89B131-C8DF-40EF-B76E-E8617CA4EF6B

Big Bradley Falls Overlook & Trail Improvements
DWR# 21-0394
401 Certification
Page 3 of 5

Justification: A project that affects waters shall not be permitted unless the existing uses, and the
water quality to protect such uses, are protected. In determining that the proposed activity will
comply with state water quality standards (including designated uses, numeric criteria, narrative
criteria and the state’s antidegradation policy), the Division must evaluate if the activity has
avoided and minimized impacts to waters, would cause or contribute to a violation of standards or
would result in secondary or cumulative impacts.

4. Erosion control matting that incorporates plastic mesh and/or plastic twine shall not be used
along streambanks or within wetlands. Disturbed areas should be seeded, mulched, and/or
matted as soon as possible, preferably at the end of each workday. [15A NCAC 02B .0201]

Justification: A project that affects waters shall not be permitted unless the existing uses (including
aquatic life propagation and biological integrity), and the water quality to protect such uses, are
protected. Protections are necessary to ensure any remaining surface waters or wetlands, and any
surface waters or wetlands downstream, continue to support existing uses during and after project
completion. The Division must evaluate if the activity has avoided and minimized impacts to
waters, would cause or contribute to a violation of standards, or would result in secondary or
cumulative impacts.
5. Fueling, lubrication and general equipment maintenance should not take place within 50 feet of a
waterbody or wetlands to prevent contamination by fuel and oils. [15A NCAC 02H .0506 (b)(3)
and 15A NCAC 02B .0211(12)]
Justification: A project that affects waters shall not be permitted unless the existing uses, and the
water quality to protect such uses, are protected. Activities must not cause water pollution that
precludes any best use on a short-term or long-term basis. As cited in Stream Standards: (2) Oils,
deleterious substances, or colored or other wastes: only such amounts as shall not render the
waters injurious to public health, secondary recreation, or to aquatic life and wildlife, or adversely
affect the palatability of fish, aesthetic quality, or impair the waters for any designated uses.
6. All mechanized equipment operated near surface waters or wetlands will be regularly inspected
and maintained to prevent contamination of waters and wetlands from fuels, lubricants, hydraulic
fluids or other potential toxic chemicals. In the event of a hydrocarbon or chemical spill, the
permittee/contractor shall immediately contact the Division of Water Resources, between the
hours of 8 am to 5 pm at the Asheville Regional Office at 828-296-4500 and after hours and on
weekends call [phone]. Management of such spills shall comply with provisions of the
North Carolina Oil Pollution and Hazardous Substances Control Act. [15A NCAC 02H .0506 (b)(3),
15A NCAC 02B .0211 (12), and GS 143 Article 21A]
Justification: A project that affects waters shall not be permitted unless the existing uses, and the
water quality to protect such uses, are protected. Activities must not cause water pollution that
precludes any best use on a short-term or long-term basis. As cited in Stream Standards: (2) Oils,
deleterious substances, or colored or other wastes: only such amounts as shall not render the
waters injurious to public health, secondary recreation, or to aquatic life and wildlife, or adversely
affect the palatability of fish, aesthetic quality, or impair the waters for any designated uses.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 0C89B131-C8DF-40EF-B76E-E8617CA4EF6B

Big Bradley Falls Overlook & Trail Improvements
DWR# 21-0394
401 Certification
Page 4 of 5

7. Visual monitoring of the project shall be conducted at a minimum of quarterly for the first year or
two bankfull events (whichever is longer), and then annually until the site is stable (particularly
after storm events) and vegetation is successful. Any failures of structures, streambanks, or
vegetation may require future repairs or replacement, which requires coordination with the
Asheville Regional Office to ensure the stability and water quality of the stream and downstream
waters. [15A NCAC 02H .0506 (b)(2) and (b)(3)]
Justification: A project that affects waters shall not be permitted unless the existing uses, and the
water quality to protect such uses, are protected. In determining that the proposed activity will
comply with state water quality standards (including designated uses, numeric criteria, narrative
criteria and the state’s antidegradation policy), the Division must evaluate if the activity has
avoided and minimized impacts to waters, would cause or contribute to a violation of standards or
would result in secondary or cumulative impacts.
8. The permittee shall require its contractors and/or agents to comply with the terms and conditions
of this permit in the construction and maintenance of this project, and shall provide each of its
contractors and/or agents associated with the construction or maintenance of this project with a
copy of this Certification. A copy of this Certification, including all conditions shall be available at
the project site during the construction and maintenance of this project. [15A NCAC 02H .0507 (c)
and 15A NCAC 02H .0506 (b)(2)]
Justification: Those actually performing the work should be aware of the requirements of this 401
Water Quality General Certification to minimize water quality impacts.

This approval and its conditions are final and binding unless contested. [G.S. 143-215.5]
This Certification can be contested as provided in Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes by
filing a Petition for a Contested Case Hearing (Petition) with the North Carolina Office of Administrative
Hearings (OAH) within sixty (60) calendar days. Requirements for filing a Petition are set forth in Chapter
150B of the North Carolina General Statutes and Title 26 of the North Carolina Administrative Code.
Additional information regarding requirements for filing a Petition and Petition forms may be accessed at
http://www.ncoah.com/ or by calling the OAH Clerk’s Office at [phone].
One (1) copy of the Petition must also be served to the North Carolina Department of Environmental
Quality:
William F. Lane, General Counsel
Department of Environmental Quality
1601 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1601

This letter completes the review of the Division under section 401 of the Clean Water Act and 15A NCAC
02H .0500. Please contact Kaylie Yankura at 828-296-4685 or [e-mail] if you have
any questions or concerns.

DocuSign Envelope ID: 0C89B131-C8DF-40EF-B76E-E8617CA4EF6B

Big Bradley Falls Overlook & Trail Improvements
DWR# 21-0394
401 Certification
Page 5 of 5

Sincerely,

G. Landon Davidson, P.G.
Regional Supervisor
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Division of Water Resources, NCDEQ – Asheville RO

Enclosures: GC 4135
Certificate of Completion

ec: David Brown, USACE Asheville Regulatory Field Office
Andrea Leslie, NCWRC
Stan Aiken, DEMLR
DWR 401 & Buffer Permitting Unit file

DocuSign Envelope ID: 0C89B131-C8DF-40EF-B76E-E8617CA4EF6B
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
WATER QUALITY GENERAL CERTIFICATION NO. 4135
GENERAL CERTIFICATION FOR PROJECTS ELIGIBLE FOR US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 14 (LINEAR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS), AND
• REGIONAL GENERAL PERMIT 198200031 (NCDOT BRIDGES, WIDENING PROJECTS,
INTERCHANGE (IMPROVEMENTS)
Water Quality Certification Number 4135 is issued in conformity with the requirements of
Section 401, Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217 of the United States and subject to the North
Carolina Regulations in 15A NCAC 02H .0500 and 15A NCAC 02B .0200 for the discharge of fill
material to surface waters and wetland areas as described in 33 CFR 330 Appendix A (B) (14) of
the US Army Corps of Engineers regulations and Regional General Permit 198200031.
The State of North Carolina certifies that the specified category of activity will not violate
applicable portions of Sections 301, 302, 303, 306 and 307 of the Public Laws 92-500 and 95-
217 if conducted in accordance with the conditions hereinafter set forth.
Effective date: December 1, 2017
Signed this day: December 1, 2017
By
for Linda Culpepper
Interim Director

GC4135
Activities meeting any one (1) of the following thresholds or circumstances require written
approval for a 401 Water Quality Certification from the Division of Water Resources (DWR):
a) If any of the conditions of this Certification (listed below) cannot be met; or
b) Any temporary or permanent impacts to wetlands, open waters and/or streams, except
for construction of a driveway to a single family residential lot that is determined to not
be part of a larger common plan of development, as long as the driveway involves a
travel lane of Tess than 25 feet and total stream impacts of less than 60 feet, including
any topographic/slope stabilization or in -stream stabilization needed for the crossing; or
c) Any stream relocation or stream restoration; or
d) Any high -density project, as defined in 15A NCAC 02H .1003(2)(a) and by the density
thresholds specified in 15A NCAC 02H .1017, which:
i. Disturbs one acre or more of land (including a project that disturbs less than one
acre of land that is part of a larger common plan of development or sale); and
ii. Has permanent wetland, stream or open water impacts; and
iii. Is proposing new built -upon area; and
iv. Does not have a stormwater management plan reviewed and approved under a
state stormwater program' or a state -approved local government stormwater
program2.
Projects that have vested rights, exemptions, or grandfathering from state or locally -
implemented stormwater programs and projects that satisfy state or locally -
implemented stormwater programs through use of community in -lieu programs require
written approval; or
e) Any permanent impacts to waters, or to wetlands adjacent to waters, designated as:
ORW (including SAV), HQW (including PNA), SA, WS-I, WS-II, or North Carolina or
National Wild and Scenic River.
f) Any permanent impacts to waters, or to wetlands adjacent to waters, designated as
Trout except for driveway projects that are below threshold (b) above provided that:
i. The impacts are not adjacent to any existing structures
ii. All conditions of this General Certification can be met, including adherence to
any moratoriums as stated in Condition #10; and
iii. A Notification of Work in Trout Watersheds Form is submitted to the Division at
least 60 days prior to commencement of work; or
g) Any permanent impacts to coastal wetlands [15A NCAC 07H .0205], or Unique Wetlands
(UWL); or
h) Any impact associated with a Notice of Violation or an enforcement action for
violation(s) of NC Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H .0500), NC Isolated Wetland Rules (15A
NCAC 02H .1300), NC Surface Water or Wetland Standards (15A NCAC 02B .0200), or
State Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules (15A NCAC 02B .0200); or
1 e.g. Coastal Counties, HQW, ORW, or state -implemented Phase 11 NPDES
2 e.g. Delegated Phase II NPDES, Water Supply Watershed, Nutrient -Sensitive Waters, or Universal Stormwater
Management Program
Page 2 of 11

GC4135
i) Any impacts to subject water bodies and/or state regulated riparian buffers along
subject water bodies in the Neuse, Tar -Pamlico, or Catawba River Basins or in the
Randleman Lake, Jordan Lake or Goose Creek Watersheds (or any other basin or
watershed with State Regulated Riparian Area Protection Rules [Buffer Rules] in effect
at the time of application) unless:
i. The activities are listed as "EXEMPT" from these rules; or
ii. A Buffer Authorization Certificate is issued by the NC Division of Coastal
Management (DCM); or
iii. A Buffer Authorization Certificate or a Minor Variance is issued by a delegated or
designated local government implementing a state riparian buffer program
pursuant to 143-215.23
Activities included in this General Certification that do not meet one of the thresholds listed
above do not require written approval.
I. ACTIVITY SPECIFIC CONDITIONS:
1. If this Water Quality Certification is used to access residential, commercial or industrial
building sites, then all parcels owned by the applicant that are part of the single and
complete project authorized by this Certification must be buildable without additional
impacts to streams or wetlands. If required in writing by DWR, the applicant shall provide
evidence that the parcels are buildable without requiring additional impacts to wetlands,
waters, or state regulated riparian buffers. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(4) and (c)(4)]
2. For road and driveway construction purposes, this Certification shall only be utilized from
natural high ground to natural high ground. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
3. Deed notifications or similar mechanisms shall be placed on all lots with retained
jurisdictional wetlands, waters, and state regulated riparian buffers within the project
boundaries in order to assure compliance with NC Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H .0500), NC
Isolated Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H .1300), and/or State Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules
(15A NCAC 02B .0200). These mechanisms shall be put in place at the time of recording of
the property or individual parcels, whichever is appropriate. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(4)
and (c)(4)]
4. For the North Carolina Department of Transportation, compliance with the NCDOT's
individual NPDES permit NCS000250 shall serve to satisfy this condition. All other high -
density projects that trigger threshold item (d) above shall comply with one of the following
requirements: [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
•
Page 3 of 11

GC4135
a. Provide a completed Stormwater Management Plan (SMP) for review and approval,
including all appropriate stormwater control measure (SCM) supplemental forms and
associated items, that complies with the high -density development requirements of 15A
NCAC 02H .1003. Stormwater management shall be provided throughout the entire
project area in accordance with 15A NCAC 02H .1003. For the purposes of 15A NCAC
02H .1003(2)(a), density thresholds shall be determined in accordance with 15A NCAC
02H .1017.
b. Provide documentation (including calculations, photos, etc.) that the project will not
cause degradation of downstream surface waters. Documentation shall include a
detailed analysis of the hydrological impacts from stormwater runoff when considering
the volume and velocity of stormwater runoff from the project built upon area and the
size and existing condition of the receiving stream(s).
Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval from DWR.
II. GENERAL CONDITIONS:
1. When written authorization is required, the plans and specifications for the project are
incorporated into the authorization by reference and are an enforceable part of the
Certification. Any modifications to the project require notification to DWR and may require
an application submittal to DWR with the appropriate fee. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
2. No waste, spoil, solids, or fill of any kind shall occur in wetlands or waters beyond the
footprint of the impacts (including temporary impacts) as authorized in the written approval
from DWR; or beyond the thresholds established for use of this Certification without
written authorization. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
No removal of vegetation or other impacts of any kind shall occur to state regulated riparian
buffers beyond the footprint of impacts approved in a Buffer Authorization or Variance or
as listed as an exempt activity in the applicable riparian buffer rules. [15A NCAC 02B .0200]
3. In accordance with 15A NCAC 02H .0506(h) and Session Law 2017-10, compensatory
mitigation may be required for losses of greater than 300 linear feet of perennial streams
and/or greater than one (1) acre of wetlands. Impacts associated with the removal of a
dam shall not require mitigation when the removal complies with the requirements of Part
3 of Article 21 in Chapter 143 of the North Carolina General Statutes. Impacts to isolated
and other non-404 jurisdictional wetlands shall not be combined with 404 jurisdictional
wetlands for the purpose of determining when impact thresholds trigger a mitigation
requirement. For linear publicly owned and maintained transportation projects that are not
determined to be part of a larger common plan of development by the US Army Corps of
Engineers, compensatory mitigation may be required for losses of greater than 300 linear
feet per perennial stream.
Page 4 of 11

GC4135
Compensatory stream and/or wetland mitigation shall be proposed and completed in
compliance with G.S. 143-214.11. For applicants proposing to conduct mitigation within a
project site, a complete mitigation proposal developed in accordance with the most recent
guidance issued by the US Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District shall be submitted
for review and approval with the application for impacts.
4. All activities shall be in compliance with any applicable State Regulated Riparian Buffer
Rules in Chapter 2 of Title 15A.
5. When applicable, all construction activities shall be performed and maintained in full
compliance with G.S. Chapter 113A Article 4 (Sediment and Pollution Control Act of 1973).
Regardless of applicability of the Sediment and Pollution Control Act, all projects shall
incorporate appropriate Best Management Practices for the control of sediment and
erosion so that no violations of state water quality standards, statutes, or rules occur. [15A
NCAC 02H .0506(b)(3) and (c)(3) and 15A NCAC 02B .0200]
Design, installation, operation, and maintenance of all sediment and erosion control
measures shall be equal to or exceed the requirements specified in the most recent version
of the North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Manual, or for linear transportation
projects, the NCDOT Sediment and Erosion Control Manual.
All devices shall be maintained on all construction sites, borrow sites, and waste pile (spoil)
sites, including contractor -owned or leased borrow pits associated with the project.
Sufficient materials required for stabilization and/or repair of erosion control measures and
stormwater routing and treatment shall be on site at all times.
For borrow pit sites, the erosion and sediment control measures shall be designed,
installed, operated, and maintained in accordance with the most recent version of the
North Carolina Surface Mining Manual. Reclamation measures and implementation shall
comply with the reclamation in accordance with the requirements of the Sedimentation
Pollution Control Act and the Mining Act of 1971.
If the project occurs in waters or watersheds classified as Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs), SA,
WS-I, WS-II, High Quality Waters (HQW), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), then the
sedimentation and erosion control designs shall comply with the requirements set forth in
15A NCAC 04B .0124, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds.
6. Sediment and erosion control measures shall not be placed in wetlands or waters except
within the footprint of temporary or permanent impacts authorized under this Certification.
Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval from DWR. [15A
NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
7. Erosion control matting that incorporates plastic mesh and/or plastic twine shall not be
used along streambanks or within wetlands. Exceptions to this condition require
application to and written approval from DWR. [15A NCAC 02B .0201]
Page 5 of 11

GC4135
8. An NPDES Construction Stormwater Permit (NCG010000) is required for construction
projects that disturb one (1) or more acres of land. The NCG010000 Permit allows
stormwater to be discharged during land disturbing construction activities as stipulated in
the conditions of the permit. If the project is covered by this permit, full compliance with
permit conditions including the erosion & sedimentation control plan, inspections and
maintenance, self -monitoring, record keeping and reporting requirements is required. [15A
NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) shall be required to be in full
compliance with the conditions related to construction activities within the most recent
version of their individual NPDES (NCS000250) stormwater permit. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
9. All work in or adjacent to streams shall be conducted so that the flowing stream does not
come in contact with the disturbed area. Approved best management practices from the
most current version of the NC Sediment and Erosion Control Manual, or the NC DOT
Construction and Maintenance Activities Manual, such as sandbags, rock berms,
cofferdams, and other diversion structures shall be used to minimize excavation in flowing
water. Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval from DWR.
[15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(3) and (c)(3)]
10. If activities must occur during periods of high biological activity (e.g. sea turtle nesting, fish
spawning, or bird nesting), then biological monitoring may be required at the request of
other state or federal agencies and coordinated with these activities. [15A NCAC 02H .0506
(b)(2) and 15A NCAC 04B .0125]
All moratoriums on construction activities established by the NC Wildlife Resources
Commission (WRC), US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), NC Division of Marine Fisheries
(DMF), or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) shall be implemented. Exceptions to
this condition require written approval by the resource agency responsible for the given
moratorium. A copy of the approval from the resource agency shall be forwarded to DWR.
Work within a designated trout watershed of North Carolina (as identified by the
Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers), or identified state or federal
endangered or threatened species habitat, shall be coordinated with the appropriate WRC,
USFWS, NMFS, and/or DMF personnel.
11. Culverts shall be designed and installed in such a manner that the original stream profiles
are not altered and allow for aquatic life movement during low flows. The dimension,
pattern, and profile of the stream above and below a pipe or culvert shall not be modified
by widening the stream channel or by reducing the depth of the stream in connection with
the construction activity. The width, height, and gradient of a proposed culvert shall be
such as to pass the average historical low flow and spring flow without adversely altering
flow velocity. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
Page 6 of 11

GC4135
Placement of culverts and other structures in streams shall be below the elevation of the
streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than 48 inches, and 20% of
the culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than or equal to 48 inches, to allow
low flow passage of water and aquatic life.
If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they shall be designed to mimic the existing stream
cross section as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation and/or
sills where appropriate. Widening the stream channel shall be avoided.
When topographic constraints indicate culvert slopes of greater than 5%, culvert burial is
not required, provided that all alternative options for flattening the slope have been
investigated and aquatic life movement/connectivity has been provided when possible (e.g.
rock ladders, cross vanes, etc.). Notification, including supporting documentation to include
a location map of the culvert, culvert profile drawings, and slope calculations, shall be
provided to DWR 60 calendar days prior to the installation of the culvert.
When bedrock is present in culvert locations, culvert burial is not required provided that
there is sufficient documentation of the presence of bedrock. Notification, including
supporting documentation such as, a location map of the culvert, geotechnical reports,
photographs, etc. shall be provided to DWR a minimum of 60 calendar days prior to the
installation of the culvert. If bedrock is discovered during construction, then DWR shall be
notified by phone or email within 24 hours of discovery.
If other site -specific topographic constraints preclude the ability to bury the culverts as
described above and/or it can be demonstrated that burying the culvert would result in
destabilization of the channel, then exceptions to this condition require application to and
written approval from DWR.
Installation of culverts in wetlands shall ensure continuity of water movement and be
designed to adequately accommodate high water or flood conditions. When roadways,
causeways, or other fill projects are constructed across FEMA-designated floodways or
wetlands, openings such as culverts or bridges shall be provided to maintain the natural
hydrology of the system as well as prevent constriction of the floodway that may result in
destabilization of streams or wetlands.
The establishment of native woody vegetation and other soft stream bank stabilization
techniques shall be used where practicable instead of rip -rap or other bank hardening
methods.
12. Bridge deck drains shall not discharge directly into the stream. Stormwater shall be
directed across the bridge and pre-treated through site -appropriate means to the maximum
extent practicable (e.g. grassed swales, pre -formed scour holes, vegetated buffers, etc.)
before entering the stream. Exceptions to this condition require application to and written
approval from DWR. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5)]
Page 7 of 11

GC4135
13. Application of fertilizer to establish planted/seeded vegetation within disturbed riparian
areas and/or wetlands shall be conducted at agronomic rates and shall comply with all
other Federal, State and Local regulations. Fertilizer application shall be accomplished in a
manner that minimizes the risk of contact between the fertilizer and surface waters. [15A
NCAC 02B .0200 and 15A NCAC 02B .0231]
14. If concrete is used during construction, then all necessary measures shall be taken to
prevent direct contact between uncured or curing concrete and waters of the state. Water
that inadvertently contacts uncured concrete shall not be discharged to waters of the state.
[15A NCAC 02B .0200]
15. All proposed and approved temporary fill and culverts shall be removed and the impacted
area shall be returned to natural conditions within 60 calendar days after the temporary
impact is no longer necessary. The impacted areas shall be restored to original grade,
including each stream's original cross sectional dimensions, planform pattern, and
longitudinal bed profile. For projects that receive written approval, no temporary impacts
are allowed beyond those included in the application and authorization. All temporarily
impacted sites shall be restored and stabilized with native vegetation. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
16. All proposed and approved temporary pipes/culverts/rip-rap pads etc. in streams shall be
installed as outlined in the most recent edition of the North Carolina Sediment and Erosion
Control Planning and Design Manual or the North Carolina Surface Mining Manual or the
North Carolina Department of Transportation Best Management Practices for Construction
and Maintenance Activities so as not to restrict stream flow or cause dis-equilibrium during
use of this Certification. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
17. Any rip -rap required for proper culvert placement, stream stabilization, or restoration of
temporarily disturbed areas shall be restricted to the area directly impacted by the
approved construction activity. All rip -rap shall be placed such that the original stream
elevation and streambank contours are restored and maintained. Placement of rip -rap or
other approved materials shall not result in de -stabilization of the stream bed or banks
upstream or downstream of the area or in a manner that precludes aquatic life passage.
[15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2)]
18. Any rip -rap used for stream or shoreline stabilization shall be of a size and density to
prevent movement by wave, current action, or stream flows and shall consist of clean rock
or masonry material free of debris or toxic pollutants. Rip -rap shall not be installed in the
streambed except in specific areas required for velocity control and to ensure structural
integrity of bank stabilization measures. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2)]
19. Applications for rip -rap groins proposed in accordance with 15A NCAC 07H .1401 (NC
Division of Coastal Management General Permit for construction of Wooden and Rip -rap
Groins in Estuarine and Public Trust Waters) shall meet all the specific conditions for design
and construction specified in 15A NCAC 07H .1405.
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20. All mechanized equipment operated near surface waters shall be inspected and maintained
regularly to prevent contamination of surface waters from fuels, lubricants, hydraulic fluids,
or other toxic materials. Construction shall be staged in order to minimize the exposure of
equipment to surface waters to the maximum extent practicable. Fueling, lubrication and
general equipment maintenance shall be performed in a manner to prevent, to the
maximum extent practicable, contamination of surface waters by fuels and oils. [15A NCAC
02H .0506(b)(3) and (c)(3) and 15A NCAC 02B .0211 (12)]
21. Heavy equipment working in wetlands shall be placed on mats or other measures shall be
taken to minimize soil disturbance. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(3) and (c)(3)]
22. In accordance with 143-215.85(b), the applicant shall report any petroleum spill of 25
gallons or more; any spill regardless of amount that causes a sheen on surface waters; any
petroleum spill regardless of amount occurring within 100 feet of surface waters; and any
petroleum spill less than 25 gallons that cannot be cleaned up within 24 hours.
23. If an environmental document is required under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA),
then this General Certification is not valid until a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or
Record of Decision (ROD) is issued by the State Clearinghouse. If an environmental
document is required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), then this
General Certification is not valid until a Categorical Exclusion, the Final Environmental
Assessment, or Final Environmental Impact Statement is published by the lead agency. [15A
NCAC 01C .0107(a)]
24. This General Certification does not relieve the applicant of the responsibility to obtain all
other required Federal, State, or Local approvals before proceeding with the project,
including those required by, but not limited to, Sediment and Erosion Control, Non -
Discharge, Water Supply Watershed, and Trout Buffer regulations.
25. The applicant and their authorized agents shall conduct all activities in a manner consistent
with State water quality standards (including any requirements resulting from compliance
with §303(d) of the Clean Water Act), and any other appropriate requirements of State and
Federal Law. If DWR determines that such standards or laws are not being met, including
failure to sustain a designated or achieved use, or that State or Federal law is being violated,
or that further conditions are necessary to assure compliance, then DWR may revoke or
modify a written authorization associated with this General Water Quality Certification.
[15A NCAC 02H .0507(d)]
26. The permittee shall require its contractors and/or agents to comply with the terms and
conditions of this permit in the construction and maintenance of this project, and shall
provide each of its contractors and/or agents associated with the construction or
maintenance of this project with a copy of this Certification. A copy of this Certification,
including all conditions shall be available at the project site during the construction and
maintenance of this project. [15A NCAC 02H .0507 (c) and 15A NCAC 02H .0506 (b)(2) and
(c)(2)]
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27. When written authorization is required for use of this Certification, upon completion of all
permitted impacts included within the approval and any subsequent modifications, the
applicant shall be required to return a certificate of completion (available on the DWR
website https://edocs.deq.nc.gov/Forms/Certificate-of-Completion). [15A NCAC 02H
.0502(f)]
28. Additional site -specific conditions, including monitoring and/or modeling requirements,
may be added to the written approval letter for projects proposed under this Water Quality
Certification in order to ensure compliance with all applicable water quality and effluent
standards. [15A NCAC 02H .0507(c)]
29. If the property or project is sold or transferred, the new permittee shall be given a copy of
this Certification (and written authorization if applicable) and is responsible for complying
with all conditions. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
III. GENERAL CERTIFICATION ADMINISTRATION:
1. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute 143-215.3D(e), written approval for a
401 Water Quality General Certification must include the appropriate fee. An applicant for
a CAMA permit under Article 7 of Chapter 113A of the General Statutes for which a Water
Quality Certification is required shall only make one payment to satisfy both agencies; the
fee shall be as established by the Secretary in accordance with 143-215.3D(e)(7).
2. This Certification neither grants nor affirms any property right, license, or privilege in any
waters, or any right of use in any waters. This Certification does not authorize any person
to interfere with the riparian rights, littoral rights, or water use rights of any other person
and this Certification does not create any prescriptive right or any right of priority regarding
any usage of water. This Certification shall not be interposed as a defense in any action
respecting the determination of riparian or littoral rights or other rights to water use. No
consumptive user is deemed by virtue of this Certification to possess any prescriptive or
other right of priority with respect to any other consumptive user regardless of the quantity
of the withdrawal or the date on which the withdrawal was initiated or expanded.
3. This Certification grants permission to the Director, an authorized representative of the
Director, or DWR staff, upon the presentation of proper credentials, to enter the property
during normal business hours. [15A NCAC 02H .0502(e)]
4. This General Certification shall expire on the same day as the expiration date of the
corresponding Nationwide Permit and/or Regional General Permit. The conditions in effect
on the date of issuance of Certification for a specific project shall remain in effect for the life
of the project, regardless of the expiration date of this Certification. This General
Certification is rescinded when the US Army Corps of Engineers reauthorizes any of the
corresponding Nationwide Permits and/or Regional General Permits or when deemed
appropriate by the Director of the Division of Water Resources.
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GC4135
5. Non-compliance with or violation of the conditions herein set forth by a specific project may
result in revocation of this General Certification for the project and may also result in
criminal and/or civil penalties.
6. The Director of the North Carolina Division of Water Resources may require submission of a
formal application for Individual Certification for any project in this category of activity if it
is deemed in the public's best interest or determined that the project is likely to have a
significant adverse effect upon water quality, including state or federally listed endangered
or threatened aquatic species, or degrade the waters so that existing uses of the water or
downstream waters are precluded.
History Note: Water Quality Certification (WQC) Number 4135 issued December 1, 2017
replaces WQC Number 4088 issued March 3, 2017; WQC 3886 issued March 12, 2012; WQC
Number 3820 issued April 6, 2010; WQC Number 3627 issued March 2007; WQC Number 3404
issued March 2003; WQC Number 3375 issued March 18, 2002; WQC Number 3289 issued June
1, 2000; WQC Number 3103 issued February 11, 1997; WQC Number 2732 issued May 1, 1992;
WQC Number 2666 issued January 21, 1992; WQC Number 2177 issued November 5, 1987.
Page 11 of 11

WR Project No.: ______________________ County: _____________________________________________
Applicant: _______________________________________________________________________________________
Project Name: __________________________________________________________________________________
Date of Issuance of 401 Water Quality Certification: ________________________________________

Certificate of Completion

Upon completion of all work approved within the 401 Water Quality Certification or applicable Buffer
Rules, and any subsequent modifications, the applicant is required to return this certificate to the 401 and
Buffer Permitting Unit, North Carolina Division of Water Resources, 1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh,
NC, 27699-1650. This form may be returned to DWR by the applicant, the applicant’s authorized agent, or
the project engineer. It is not necessary to send certificates from all of these.

Applicant’s Certification
I, _____________________________________, hereby state that, to the best of my abilities, due care and
diligence was used in the observation of the construction such that the construction was observed to be built
within substantial compliance and intent of the 401 Water Quality Certification and Buffer Rules, the
approved plans and specifications, and other supporting materials.
Signature: ______________________________ Date:_________________________________

Agent’s Certification
I, _____________________________________, hereby state that, to the best of my abilities, due care and
diligence was used in the observation of the construction such that the construction was observed to be built
within substantial compliance and intent of the 401 Water Quality Certification and Buffer Rules, the
approved plans and specifications, and other supporting materials.
Signature: ______________________________ Date:_________________________________

If this project was designed by a Certified Professional
I, ____________________________________, as a duly registered Professional ___________ (i.e.,
Engineer, Landscape Architect, Surveyor, etc.) in the State of North Carolina, having been authorized to
observe (periodically, weekly, full time) the construction of the project, for the Permitee hereby state that, to
the best of my abilities, due care and diligence was used in the observation of the construction such that the
construction was observed to be built within substantial compliance and intent of the 401 Water Quality
Certification and Buffer Rules, the approved plans and specifications, and other supporting materials.
Signature: ______________________________________ Registration No. ________________
Date ____________________