20210825 Ver 1_WRC Comments_20211102

Strickland, Bev
From: Munzer, Olivia
Sent: Tuesday, November 2, 2021 10:23 AM
To: Homewood, Sue; Heather LaGamba
Cc: Gibby, Jean B CIV USARMY CESAW (US)
Subject: NCWRC Comments - Canter Creek SD -West Lexington Ave
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Good morning ladies,
I reviewed the Canter Creek SD/ 1613 West Lexington Ave project. We have concerns for the amount of impacts to
wetlands. WRC has the following recommendations to reduce impacts to aquatic and terrestrial resources at the site:
1. Minimize the number of impacts to wetlands. Specifically, we recommend vary or decrease the lot sizes to allow
for smaller lots to avoid impacting wetlands, specifically Lot 22.
2. We recommend using a bridge for the Stream Crossing #1 or using stream simulation design to install a
bottomless culvert where footers are positioned outside the bankfull and storm surge, and the wetland. If
culverts must be used, the culvert should be designed to allow passage of aquatic organisms.
3. The size of the stormwater BMPs can further be minimized by implementing Low Impact Development (LID)
techniques. LID techniques use natural vegetation and topography to treat stormwater on site. This can save
enough space for additional lots so Lot #22 can be placed elsewhere.
4. Where feasible, trees and shrubs should be planted around stormwater ponds. This would provide habitat
benefits that offset those functions lost by development, partially restore aquatic habitats, reduce exposure of
the water surface to sunlight to minimize thermal pollution, and provide essential summer and winter habitats.
In general, we would prefer bioretention and rain gardens than dry ponds (See Recommendation #5).
5. Use non-invasive native species and Low Impact Development (LID) technology in landscaping. Using LID
technology in landscaping will not only help maintain the predevelopment hydrologic regime, but also enhance
the aesthetic and habitat value of the site. LID techniques include bioretention areas that can collect
stormwater from driveways and roads. Additional alternatives include narrower roads and swales versus
curbs/gutters. Compared to conventional developments, implementing appropriate LID techniques can be more
cost-effective, increase property values, provide space -saving advantages, reduce runoff, and protect water
quality (https://owl.cwp.org/mdocs-posts/roseen-et-al-2011-forging-the-link/). Also, additional information on
LID can be found at the NC State University LID guide: https://www.uni-
groupusa.org/PDF/NC LID Guidebook.pdf. NCWRC's Green Growth Toolbox provides information on nature -
friendly planning (http://www.ncwildlife.org/Conserving/Programs/GreenGrowthToolbox.aspx).
6. We recommend not clearing the entire site, but rather maintaining the maximum amount of native vegetation
as possible, particularly in the north-northwest portion of the site. We suggest having the site logged or
repurposing the wood instead of burning the cleared trees.
7. Avoid using invasive, non-native plants in seed mixtures or landscaping plants
(http://www.ncwildflower.org/plant galleries/invasives list).
8. Consider using native seed mixtures (e.g., native warm season grasses and other plants) that are beneficial to
wildlife. Specifically, we recommend planting native, wildflower seed mixes and shrubs that will create pollinator
habitat. Pollinators are some insects (i.e., bees, moths, and butterflies) and birds that play an important role in
the reproduction of flowering plants, which produce many fruits and vegetables. Habitat loss, disease, and other
environmental changes have caused a decline in pollinators.
9. Sediment and erosion control measures should use advanced methods and installed prior to any land -disturbing
activity. The use of biodegradable and wildlife -friendly sediment and erosion control devices is strongly
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recommended. Silt fencing, fiber rolls and/or other products should have loose -weave netting that is made of
natural fiber materials with movable joints between the vertical and horizontal twines. Silt fencing that has
been reinforced with plastic or metal mesh should be avoided as it impedes the movement of terrestrial wildlife
species. Excessive silt and sediment loads can have detrimental effects on aquatic resources including
destruction of spawning habitat, suffocation of eggs, and clogging of gills.
Thank you,
Olivia Munzer
Western Piedmont Habitat Conservation Coordinator
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Rogers Depot
1718 NC Hwy 56 W
Creedmoor, NC 27522
Office: 919-707-0364
Cell: 336-269-0074
[e-mail]
www.ncwildlife.org
D I j
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