HomeMy WebLinkAbout20220205 Ver 1_FWS Response- NoAA_Liberty Grove Residential Development_Rowan Co_20220131ua
United States Department of the InteriorSERVIUE
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Asheville Field Office
160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, North Carolina 28801
November 1, 2021
Ron Johnson
ECS
1812 Center Park Drive, Suite D
Charlotte, North Carolina 28217
rgj ohnsongecslimited.com
Subject: Liberty Grove Residential Development; Rowan County, North Carolina
Dear Ron Johnson:
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has reviewed the information provided in your
email correspondence received September 30, 2021 wherein you solicit our comments regarding
project -mediated impacts to federally protected species. We submit the following comments in
accordance with the provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended
(16 U.S.C. 661-667e); the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. §4321 et seq.); and
section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) (Act).
Project Description
According to the information provided, the Applicant proposes to construct an undisclosed
residential development on approximately 76 partially forested acres in China Gove, North
Carolina. The proposed action would entail the construction of 92 townhomes, 148 single family
residences, and appurtenant roadways. Your correspondence did not provide a site development
plan or identify a federal nexus necessitating our review.
Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Species
The information provided indicates that suitable habitat is present within the action area for the
federally endangered Schweinitz's sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii). However, targeted
surveys conducted during the appropriate timeframe (September 14, 2021) did not detect
evidence for this species at that time. Based on the information provided, we believe that the
probability for inadvertent loss of this plant species is insignificant and discountable and we
would concur with a "may affect, not likely to adversely affect'' determination from the action
agency.
Based on the information provided, we believe that suitable habitats do not occur onsite for any
other federally protected species. In accordance with the Act, it is the responsibility of the
appropriate federal action agency or its designated representative to review its activities or
programs and to identify any such activities or programs that may affect endangered or
threatened species or their habitats. If it is determined that the proposed activity may adversely
affect any species federally listed as endangered or threatened, formal consultation with this
office must be initiated.
Erosion and Sediment Control
Measures to control sediment and erosion should be installed before any ground -disturbing
activities occur. Grading and backfilling should be minimized, and existing native vegetation
should be retained (if possible) to maintain riparian cover for fish and wildlife. Disturbed areas
should be revegetated with native vegetation as soon as the project is completed. Ground
disturbance should be limited to what will be stabilized quickly, preferably by the end of the
workday. Natural fiber matting (coir) should be used for erosion control as synthetic
netting can trap animals and persist in the environment beyond its intended purpose.
Low Impact Development
We recommend that consideration be given to the use of pervious materials (i.e., pervious
concrete, interlocking/open paving blocks, etc.) for the construction of roads, driveways,
sidewalks, etc. Pervious surfaces minimize changes to the hydrology of the watershed and can
be used to facilitate groundwater recharge. Pervious materials are also less likely to absorb and
store heat and allow the cooler soil below to cool the pavement. Additionally, pervious concrete
requires less maintenance and is less susceptible to freeze/thaw cracking due to large voids
within the concrete.
The Service appreciates the opportunity to provide these comments. Please contact Mr. Byron
Hamstead of our staff at byron_hamstead@fws.gov if you have any questions. In any future
correspondence concerning this project, please reference our Log Number 4-2-21-481.
Sincerely,
- - original signed - -
Janet Mizzi
Field Supervisor