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HomeMy WebLinkAboutNC0021873_Environmental Assessment_19920129NPDES DOCYNENT 5CANNINC COVER SHEET NPDES Permit: NC0021873 Mayodan WWTP Document Type: Permit Issuance Wasteload Allocation Authorization to Construct (AtC) Permit Modification Complete File - Historical Engineering Alternatives (EAA) Correspondence Owner Name Change Instream Assessment (67b) Speculative Limits Environmental Assessment (EA) Document Date: January 29, 1992 This document its printed on reuse paper - ignore any content on the rezrerse side State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Division of Environmental Management 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 James G. Martin, Governor George T. Everett, Ph.D. William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Director January 29, 1992 MEMORANDUM TO: Don Safrit, Permits and Engineering FROM: Alan Clark Planning Branch SUBJECT: EA/FONSI for Proposed Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion Attached is a letter from Secretary of Administration James Lofton stating that no further State Clearinghouse review action will be required of DEM for compliance with the NC Environmental Policy Act. Accordingly, processing of the permit application for the subject wastewater treatment plant expansion may proceed. However, permit issuance and approval of the Authorization to Construct, if appropriate, must take into consideration the mitigation measures outlined in the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), the environmental assessment (EA) and the supplement to the EA prepared by DEM. These measures include: a) de -chlorination (with backup dechlorination) of the chlorinated effluent or use of an alternate disinfection method, b) possible phosphorus monitoring (consult with Technical Support Branch), and c) consideration of development of contingency nutrient plans for possible future nutrient limits (consult with Technical Support Branch). Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Enclosure Mayodan. mem/WB-1 cc: Harlan Britt Steve Tedder Dale Overcash Trevor Clements B.T. Hart Melba McGee Asheville Fayetteville Mooresville Raleigh Washington Wilmington Winston-Salem 704/251-6208 919/486-1541 704/663-1699 919/733-2314 919/946-6481 919/395-3900 919/896-7007 P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone 919-733-7015 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer Pollution Prevention Pays North Carolina Department of Administration �: ;r.� "Jr:(.;i,. O1 :- r: • r. J `'Pi EI GI,� r James G. Martin, Governor James S. 'Lofton, Secretary January 22, 1992 Mr. Alan Clark N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Division of Environmental Management Archdale Building Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 Dear Mr. Clark: Re: SCH File #92-E-4300-0422; Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact for the Proposed Town of Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion The above referenced environmental impact information has been reviewed through the State Clearinghouse under the provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. Attached to this letter are comments made by state/local agencies in the course of this review. Because of the nature of the comments, it has been determined that no further State Clearinghouse review action on your part is needed for compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. The attached comments should be taken into consideration in project development. Best regards. Sincerely, ames S. Lofton JSL:jt Attachments cc: Region G 116 West Jones Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-8003 • Telephone 919-733-7232 State Courier 51-01-00 An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer PIEDMONT TRIAD COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS Intergovernmental Review Process 2216 W. Meadowview Road Greensboro, North Carolina 27407-3480 Telephone: 919/294-4950 REVIEW & COMMENT FORM The State Clearinghouse sent us the enclosed information about a proposal which could affect your jurisdiction. Please circulate it to the people you believe need to be informed. If you need more information about the proposal, please contact the applicant directly. The name and phone number of a contact person are listed on the attached "Notification of Intent." If you wish to comment on the proposed action, complete this form and return it to the PTCOG office by N)04,1(ACWril 151 1 qq We will send your comments to the State. Clearinghouse to be included in a re- commendation to the proposed funding agency. State Application Identifier # 9 a - f -'-/i 0 0 Commenter' s Name & Title CO.-A14731r Representing TOLA.)n 0.4 odo L' (local goverment) Mgi l i 9 Add ss 0,l 0 i ). �� � Au (signature) Col ments: (You may attach additional sheets.) Phone # (q') � '7 - 0014/ odaii-, IC- 7 va Date Signed 1/15/92 Mayodan is very eager to move ahead with this project. This expansion will provide for additional jobs greatly needed in Rockingham County for many people. 0(31,1718/ MICIIVID 4 vc/ ..:k JAN 19 2 J/\. 0 2 1991 c �' ... TOWN Of MAYWAN CQETMyS OfF -,; DOA SS.4 Nbrm- Akin- Cort puf t �, (kan. &. ex u �: (la`s or(ek.t . • Departmentof �..... �........� .......l. 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, Nortl James G. Martin, Governor William W. Cobey, Jr., Sery MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Clark FROM: Melba McGee ft. —� oC- f Doti .k-s'sr....w_ci. . c o'4 t To ILA �.L- s .'•+..A-e «.?1 -1c lass w-o-C-G5A7.5C-` TA(fr % . RE: #444 - Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion DATE: December 23, 1991 The referenced project has been circulated among our internal divisions for review. The attached comments are for your consideration and file. Thank you for the opportunity to respond. Project can be forwarded to the State Clearinghouse for further review. attachment P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611.7687 Telephone 919-733-6376 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGee, Planning and Assessment Dept. of Environment, Health and Nat. Res. FROM: Dennis Stewart, Manager Habitat Conservation Program DATE: December 18, 1991 SUBJECT: Supplement to the Environmental Assessment (EA) for Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion, Rockingham County, North Carolina. The Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) has reviewed the Supplement to the Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion. Our comments are based on reviews by biologists on our staff familiar with habitat values of the project area, and are provided in accordance with provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act (G.S. 113A-1 et seq., as amended; 1 NCAC 25) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). WRC has reviewed the additional information provided by Division of Environmental Management (DEM) about WRC concerns relating to the proposed project. WRC will agree that based upon the data presented in the supplement, that secondary wastewater treatment at the Mayodan site should be adequate to protect the fish and aquatic resources of the Mayo and Dan Rivers. Also, WRC supports the recommendation that the plant consider including contingency nutrient removal plans for future possible nutrient limits. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this Supplement to the EA. If we can provide further assistance, please call on us. DLS/lp cc: Shari L. Bryant, District 5 Fishery Biologist Stephen Pozzanghera, Habitat Conservation Biologist . Av&.2->we../ 46e4:44a,/ State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Division of Environmental Management 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 James G. Martin, Governor George T. Everett, Ph.D. November 13, 1991 William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Regional Offices Asheville 704/251-6208 Fayetteville 919/486-1541 Mooresville 704/663-1699 Rakigh 919/733-2314 Washington 919/946-6481 Wilmington 919/395-3900 Winston-Salem 919/896-7007 Mr. B. T. Hart, P.E. 1803 Vandora Springs Road Garner, NC 27529 Dear Mr. Hart: Director This is in reference to the EA for the Mayodan wastewater treatment plant expansion. Enclosed for your review is a memorandum and an EA supplement that I propose sending to the Division of Parks and Recreation and the Wildlife Resources Commission in response to their comments on the original EA. Please review the supplement and let me know of any suggested changes. If possible, please check on the sediment control requirements for the plant construction. I am assuming that the disturbed work area will encompass more than an acre and will therefore require a state sediment and erosion control plan. If this is not correct, let me know. Also, DEM is considering the need to require a backup dechlorination unit. This has been recommended by the Wildlife Resources Commission. Would the town be amenable to providing a backup unit? As a consideration, if the plant expansion will entail adding another treatment train, as opposed to simply expanding the existing system, then a separate chlorinator and dechlorinator could be added. Interconnecting these with the existing chlorinator and adding a new dechlorinator unit would provide dual chlorination and dechlorination. Is this a possibility? I will forward the supplement on to the parks and wildlife agencies as soon as I have heard back from you. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. BTHart.Ltr/SEPA5 Enclosures Sincerely, A, Alan R. Clark Environmental Review Coordinator P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27064)535 Telephone 919-733-7015 / Pollution Prevention Pay, An Equal ( Jptxiruatity Athrnt.mvr Action Empluvvr State of Nor*' Department of Envirc'-7 Division n 512 North Salisbury James G. Martin, Governor William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Regional Offices MEMORANDUM Asheville 704/251-6208 Fayetteville FROM: 919/486-1541 Nove ural Resources 27604 George T. Everett, Ph.D. Director TO: Melba McGee, Division of Planning and Assessment • Alan Clark, Water Quality Planning Branch Mooresville SUBJECT: Project No. 431; EA for Proposed Mayodan Wastewater 704/6634699 Treatment Plant Expansion, Rockingham County Raleigh 919/733-2314 Washington 919/946-6481 Wilmington 919/395-3900 Winston-Salem 919/896-7007 Attached is a Supplement to be added to the subject EA that addresses comments provided by the Division of Parks and Recreation and the Wildlife Resources Commission during a recent inhouse review. These agencies had requested that the treatment level of the plant be upgraded, that nutrients be removed from the effluent, and that chlorine dissinfection be eliminated. DEM has reexamined its recommended effluent limits. Based on this reexamination, we continue to believe the treatment level is appropriate and that there is no justification for requiring nutrient removal. However, the town will be required to either add dechlorination or consider alternate means of disinfection. Please circulate this Supplement to the appropriate review agencies and provide us with any followup comments that may need to be addressed. Enclosure cc: Trevor Clements (w/ enclosure) B.T. Hart (w/ enclosure) NOV 2 71991 ts.:tA,NCH { P.O. Box 29535. Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone 919-733-7015 / Pollution Prevention Pays An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer SUPPLEMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE MAYODAN WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT EXPANSION Prepared by the Division of Environmental Management November 13, 1991 This Supplement has been prepared by the Division of Environmental Management (DEM) in response to comments (attached) made by the Division of Parks and Recreation and the Wildlife Resources Commission on the original environmental assessment (EA) for the Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant. The comments, which address the type of treatment to be used at the expanded plant, are responded to below. They are based, in large part, on input from DEM's Technical Support Branch (see attached October 26, 1991 memorandum). This supplement, including the attached agency comments, will become a part of the final EA. The Technical Support Branch is responsible for reviewing all discharge permit applications and developing the appropriate wasteload allocations. The allocations are based on -a number of factors including, but not limited to, the volume and characteristics of the effluent, the flow and waste assimilative capacity of the receiving stream, the nature of aquatic resources, the presence of downstream uses such as recreational activities and waters supplies, and the stream standards which must be protected. In this stretch of the river, the waters have a C classification. Listed below are the key comments from the Division of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) followed by DEM's response. Comment (DPR) - No consideration is given to the addition of a dechlorination step following disinfection, even though this step, or the use of alternatives to chlorination, are gaining widespread acceptance throughout the state, particularly where unique aquatic habitats are involved. Response (DEM) - DEM will be requiring that chlorination followed by dechlorination or some other alternative disinfection process be used for the proposed plant expansion. The plant will be required to meet a 28 ug/1 limit on chlorine residuals. Chlorine residuals from chlorination typically range from 100 to over 800 ug/l. Comment (WRC) - WRC does not oppose the expansion of the current wastewater treatment plant, but strongly feels that the plant should also be upgraded to provide tertiary treatment of the wastewater including nutrient removal. Response (DEM) - DEM has reexamined its recommended wasteload allocation and continues to believe that the recommended limits and secondary treatment without nutrient removal will maintain the Class C stream standards in the Mayodan and Dan Rivers. The model predicts a sag in dissolved oxygen (DO) resulting from the plant expansion at the confluence of the Mayodan and the Dan Rivers. The predicted DO level at the confluence will be 7.50 mg/1. Another DO sag is predicted 8.8 miles further downstream due the interaction of effluent from the Mayodan and Madison wastewater treatment plants. The predicted DO level will be 7.22 mg/l. The minimum stream standard for DO is 5.0 mg/l. Thus, even with the sags, the DO levels will be well above the established stream standard. It should also be pointed out that the sags are predicted at 7Q10 conditions. At higher flow, the actual impacts on DO will be diminished. The model results, which have been confirmed by samples taken at a downstream ambient monitoring station (#02071000), indicate that tertiary treatment is unnecessary to protect DO stream standards. DEM has also taken a closer look at the nutrient removal recommendation. Nutrients do not pose water quality problems in and of themselves in the concentrations that come from wastewater treatment plants. However, nutrients can be a problem in warm quiescent waters with enough light penetration to allow algal growth. For the most part, these conditions are found in ponds, lakes and estuaries and occasionally in the pools of streams with little or no flow in the summer. Under the conditions described above, algae blooms can occur. The blooms can dramatically reduce DO levels in the water through respiration in the pre -dawn hours and through their decomposition. The conditions for algal blooms in the Mayodan and Dan Ri are marginal. And our Environmental Sciences Branch, whi is responsible for DEM's statewide biomonitoring and ambi water quality sampling programs, is unaware of any past eutrophication problems in the vicinity of the project. However, consideration is being given to requiring phosph monitoring in the discharge permit. In addition, a recommendation will be included in the final wasteload allocation that the facility consider including contigenc nutrient removal plans for future possible nutrient limit Comment (WRC) - We also recommend exploring alternate disinfection (i.e. ultraviolet or ozonation). If chlorination is the only option, then a dechlorination unit and a backup dechlorination unit should be installed to prevent excessive chlorine levels from entering the river. means o As noted above, chlorine residuals in the effluent will have to held at or below 28 ug/1 thus necessitating dechlorination or an alternative disinfection method. Ozonation is an expensive and difficult means of disinfection. UV is reliable and more affordable but is most effective when used in conjunction with tertiary treatment. Chlorination followed by dechlorination is probably the least costly disinfection method and provides a reliable means of controlling chlorine residuals. Consideration will be given to requiring a back-up dechlorination unit if dechlorination is selected as the preferred disinfection process. .ram kr' 1pc ` .05°f -Ls t ems` Comment (WRC) - WRC also recommends implementation of erosion and sedimentation measures to prevent excessive runoff and siltation in the river during plant construction. Response (DEM) - DEM and the town fully support this recommendation. An erosion and sediment control plan will be prepared and implemented in accordance with the state sedimentation control regulations. Division of Environmental Management Water Quality Section/Instream Assessment Unit October 26,1991 Memorandum To: Alan Clark Thru: Carla Sanderson a fr Ruth Swanek 2� From: Norman Bedwell Subject: Response to Departmental comments on the town of Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion (NPDES Permit NC0021873) This memo is in response to the comments from the Wildlife Resources Commission and the Division of Parks and Recreation concerning the Town of Mayodan's proposed expansion. The agency concerns are addressed as follows: Chlorine: Residual chlorine is recommended limited to 28µg/1 effluent concentration to protect water quality. At this level, the facility should be advised to either dechlorinate or use an alternate disinfection method. Tertiary Treatment: The Mayodan WWTP model predicts a DO sag of 7.50 mg/1 where the Mayo river meets the Dan river 1.2 miles below the plant. At this point there is an interaction between Mayodan and Madison WWTP causing another DO sag of 7.20 mg/1, 8.8 miles from the confluence of the Mayo river with the Dan. The DO concentration predicted at the end of the model is 7.22 mg/1; NBOD is 1.62 mg/1; CBOD is 2.22 mg/1 (stream background conditions: DO,7.4 mg/1; NBOD, 1.0 mg/1; CBOD, 2.0 mg/1). Ambient monitoring station #02071000 at Dan river mile 8.4 of the model confirms model results at present conditions. The model indicates tertiary treatment is not needed to protect Do stream standards. Nutrient Removal: Dianne Reid (ESB) knows of no nutrient problems on the Dan or Mayo rivers. Ambient data show no high levels of TP on the Dan river, however, these data are several years old. No new data are available on nutrients in this area of the Mayo/Dan. The facility is not expected to cause nutrient problems as the effluent will only make up 6% of the stream during low flow conditions. A recommendation will be included in the WLA that the facility consider including contingency nutrient removal plans for future possible nutrient limits. r� State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary MEMORANDUM TO: Alan. Clark Division of Environmental Management FROM: Melba McGee Project Review Coordinator RE: #431 - Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion, Rockingham County DATE: October 18, 1991 Douglas G. Lewis Director Planning and Assessment The proposed project was circulated among our internal divisions for review. The attached comments are a result of this review. As the state lead agency for this proposal, the Division of Environmental Management is responsible for seeing that concerns are incorporated and that our commenting divisions are in complete agreement with the revisions. After revisions have been made, I recommend the revised document be circulated again through our in-house review process for verification. MM:bb Attachments P.U. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-7687 Telephone 919-733-6376 mAI North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 0 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGee, Planning and Assessment Dept. of Environment, Health and Nat. Res. FROM: Dennis Stewart, Manager Habitat Conservation Program DATE: October 18, 1991 SUBJECT: Environmental Assessment (EA) for Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion, Rockingham County, North Carolina. The Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) has reviewed the Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion. Our comments are based on reviews by biologists on our staff familiar with habitat values of the project area, and are provided in accordance with provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act (G.S. 113A-1 et seq., as amended; 1 NCAC 25) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.). The proposed project site is located on the Mayo River approximately one-half mile upstream from the confluence with the Dan River in Rockingham County, North Carolina. This section of the Mayo River has an ecological classification of Catfish/Sucker. Fish species present include bluegill, redbreast sunfish, largemouth bass, catfish, carp and sucker. The Dan River has a similar fish assemblage, however, 2 species of special concern, bigeye jumprock and riverweed darter, may inhabit this section of the Dan River and downstream. The EA does not adequately address the potential impacts to aquatic resources in the Mayo River. The EA suggests that 30 mg/1 BOD is acceptable for the expanded plant because 'quick recovery of DO in the receiving stream was indicated'. What does 'quick recovery of DO' mean - 10 feet, 100 feet, 1000 feet or 1 mile? Also, simply because the Mayo River is not classified as nutrient sensitive this does not mean that nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations will not pose a problem. Excessive Memo Page 2 October 18, 1991 influx of nutrients can lead to eutrophication of water bodies and should be limited. Further a chlorine level of 0.3 mg/1 is not acceptable. Chlorine is highly toxic to fish and other aquatic life, therefore, all effluent should be dechlorinated prior to discharging into the Mayo River. WRC does not oppose the expansion of the current wastewater treatment plant, but strongly feels that the plant should also be upgraded to provide tertiary treatment of the wastewater including nutrient removal. We also recommend exploring alternate means of disinfection (i.e. ultraviolet or ozonation). If chlorination is the only option then a dechlorination unit and a backup dechlorination unit should be installed to prevent excessive chlorine levels from entering the river. WRC also recommends implementation of erosion and sedimentation measures to prevent excessive runoff and siltation in the river during plant construction. Thank you -for the opportunity to comment on this EA. If we can provide further assistance, please call on us. DLS/lp cc: Shari L. Bryant, District 5 Fishery Biologist 10.18.-91 15:21 $919 'silt 6843 WIRKSH 1 RE -- ARCHDALE 461002 DIVISION OF PARKS AND RECREATION October 14. 1991 Memorandum TO: Melba McGee THROUGH: Carol Tingley G FROM: Stephen Hall, Natural Heritage Program SUBJECT: EA -- WWTP, Mayorla n REFERENCE: 431 As mentioned in the document, the Natural Heritage Program database contains records for two species of rare fish occurring in the vicinity of the project. Both the bigeye jumprock (Moxostoma arionuum), state -listed as special concern, and the riverweed darter (Etheostoma padostemone), also state -listed as special_ concern, have been found in the Dan River near the Mayo River confluence. In the scoping phase of this project, we suggested several steps that could be used to minimize the impacts of this project on the sensitive aquatic habitat present downstream. These include control of any s i ltation resulting from the project, reduction of nitrogen, phosphorus and toxic chemicals in the effluent, including the chlorine used as a disinfectant. Although, most of these issues have been addressed in the document, we remain concerned about the use of chlorins, which is well-known to be toxic to many aquatic animals. The document acknowledges that a lower limit on chlorine levels in the effluent may be imposed upon issuance of a new NPDES permit (p. 6), but proposes no change in operation until that time. No consideration is given to .the addition of a dechlorination step following disinfection, even though this step, or the use of alternatives to chlorination, are gaining widespread acceptance throughout the state, particularly where unique aquatic habitats are involved. Once again, we strongly urge that such measures be included in the plant upgrade_ • State of North Carolina • Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Reviewing Office: INTERGOVERNMENTAL -REVIEW — PROJECT COMMENTS Project Number. 31 Due Date: t tj isjci 1 After review of this project it has been determined that the EHNR permit(s) indicated must be obtained in order for this project to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of the form. All applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Regional Office. Normal Process PERMITS ❑ SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit) ermit to construct & operate wastewater treatment facilities, sewer system extensions, & sewer systems not discharging into state surface waters. Application 90 days before begin construction or award of construction contracts On -site inspection. Post -application technical conference usual • 30 days (90 days) NP ES - permit to discharge into surface water and/or ermit to operate and construct wastewater facilities IA discharging Into state surface waters. Application 180 days before begin activity. On -site inspection. Pre -application conference usual. Additionally, obtain permit to construct wastewater treatment facility -granted after NPDES. Reply time, 30 days after receipt of plans or issue of NPDES permit -whichever is later. 90-120 days (NIA Water Use Permit Pre -application technical conference usually necessary 30 days (NIA) Well Construction Permit .. NIA 7 days (15 days) redge and Fill Permit Application copy must be served on each riparian property owner. On -site inspection. Pre -application conference usual. Filling may require Easement to Fill from N.C. Department of Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. 55 days (90 days) Permit to construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement facilities and/or Emission Sources N/A 60 days (90 days) Any open burning associated with subject proposal must be in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. NIA 60 days (90 days) Demolition or renovations of structures containing asbestos material must be In compliance with NCAC 2D.0525 which requires notification and removal prior to demolition. Complex Source Permit required under 15 NCAC 2D.0800. /he Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erosion & sedimentation control plan will be required if one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Quality Sect.) at least 30 days before begin activity. The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respect to the referrenced Local Ordinance: Mining Permit On -site Inspection usual. Surety bond filed with EHNR as shown: Any area mined greater than one acre must be permited. AFFECTED LAND AREA AMOUNT OF BOND Less than 5 acres $ 2,500 5 but less than 10 acres 5,000 10 but less than 25 acres 12,500 25 or more acres 5,000 30 days (60 days) North Carolina Burning permit On -site inspection by N.C. Division Forest Resources If permit exceeds 4 days 1 day (N/A) Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit • 22 counties in coastal N.C. with organic soils On -site Inspection by N.D. Division Forest Resources required "if more than five acres of ground clearing activities are involved. Inspections should be requested at least ten days before actual burn is planned." 1 day (N/A) Oil Refining Facilities N/A 90-120 days (N/A) Dam Safety Permit if permit required, application 60 days before begin construction. Applicant must hire N.C. qualified engineer to: prepare plans, inspect construction, certify construction Is according to EHNR approv- ed plans. May also require permit under mosquito control program. An a 404 permit from Corps of Engineers. 30 days (NIA) PS-t05 Continued on reverse 1.1:Z1 Pt, 111 rsi 044; 1 l.IRKSH I RE --- ARCHDALE l4I002 DIVISION OF PARKS AND RECREATION October 14, 1991. Memorandum TO: Melba McGee THROUGH: Carol Tingley FROM: SUBJECT: EA -- WWTP, Mayodsn R ERENCE: 431 Stephen Hall, Natural Heritage Program As mentioned in the document, the Natural Heritage Program database contains records for two species of rare fish occurring in the vicinity of the project. Both the bigeye jumprock (Moxostoma ariormnum) , state -listed as special concern, and the riverweed darter (Etheostoma podostemone), also state -listed as special concern, have been found in the Dan River near the Mayo River confluence. In the scoping phase of this project, we suggested several steps that could be used to minimize the impacts of this project on the sensitive aquatic habitat present downstream. These include control of any siltation resulting from the project, reduction of nitrogen, phosphorus and toxic chemicals in the effluent, including the chlorine used as a disinfectant. Although. most of these issues have been addressed in the document, we remain concerned about the use of chlorine, which is well-known to be toxic to many aquatic animals. The' document acknowledges that a lower limit on chlorine levels in the effluent may be imposed upon issuance of a new N?DES permit (p. 6), but proposes no change in operation until -that time. No consideration is given to the addition of a dechlorination step following disinfection, even though this step, or the use of alternatives to chlorination, are gaining widespread acceptance throughout the state, particularly where unique aquatic habitats are involved. Once again, we strongly urge that such measures be included in the plant upgrade_ SUPPLEMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE MAYODAN WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT EXPANSION Prepared by the Division of Environmental Management November 22, 1991 This Supplement has been prepared by the Division of Environmental Management (DEM) in response to comments (attached) made by the Division of Parks and Recreation and the Wildlife Resources Commission on the original environmental assessment (EA) for the Mayodan Wastewater Treatment Plant. The comments, which address the type of treatment to be used at the expanded plant, are responded to below. They are based, in large part, on input from DEM's Technical Support Branch (see attached October 26, 1991 memorandum). This supplement, including the attached agency comments, will become a part of the final EA. The Technical Support Branch is responsible for reviewing all discharge permit applications and developing the appropriate wasteload allocations. The allocations are based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, the volume and characteristics of the effluent, the flow and waste assimilative capacity of the receiving stream, the nature of aquatic resources, the presence of downstream uses such as recreational activities and waters supplies, and the stream standards which must be protected. In this stretch of the river, the waters have a C classification. Listed below are the key comments from the Division of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) followed by DEM's response. Comment (DPR) - No consideration is given to the addition of a dechlorination step following disinfection, even though this step, or the use of alternatives to chlorination, are gaining widespread acceptance throughout the state, particularly where unique aquatic habitats are involved. Response (DEM) - DEM will be requiring that chlorination followed by dechlorination or some other alternative disinfection process be used for the proposed plant expansion. The plant will be required to meet a 28 ug/1 limit on chlorine residuals. Chlorine residuals from chlorination typically range from 100 to over 800 ug/l. Comment (WRC) - WRC does not oppose the expansion of the current wastewater treatment plant, but strongly feels that the plant should also be upgraded to provide tertiary treatment of the wastewater including nutrient removal. Response (DEM) - DEM has reexamined its recommended wasteload allocation and continues to believe that the recommended limits and secondary treatment without nutrient removal will maintain the Class C stream standards in the Mayodan and Dan Rivers. The model predicts a sag in dissolved oxygen (DO) resulting from the plant expansion at the confluence of the Mayodan and the Dan Rivers. The predicted DO level at the confluence will be 7.50 mg/1. Another DO sag is predicted 8.8 miles further downstream due the interaction of effluent from the Mayodan and Madison wastewater treatment plants. The predicted DO level will be 7.22 mg/1. The minimum stream standard for DO is 5.0 mg/1. Thus, even with the sags, the DO levels will be well above the established stream standard. It should also be pointed out that the sags are predicted at 7Q10 conditions. At higher flow, the actual impacts on DO will be diminished. The model results, which have been confirmed by samples taken at a downstream ambient monitoring station (#02071000), indicate that tertiary treatment is unnecessary to protect DO stream standards. DEM has also taken a closer look at the nutrient removal recommendation. Nutrients do not pose water quality problems in and of themselves in the concentrations that come from wastewater treatment plants. However, nutrients can be a problem in warm_quiescent waters with enough light penetration to allow algal growth. For the most part, these conditions are found in ponds, lakes and estuaries and occasionally in the pools of streams with little or no flow in the summer. Under the conditions described above, algae blooms can occur. The blooms can dramatically reduce DO levels in the water through respiration in the pre -dawn hours and through their decomposition. The conditions for algal blooms in the Mayodan and Dan Rivers are marginal. And our Environmental Sciences Branch, which is responsible for DEM's statewide biomonitoring and ambient water quality sampling programs, is unaware of any past eutrophication problems in the vicinity of the project. However, quarterly phosphorus monitoring will be required in the discharge permit. In addition, a recommendation will be included in the final wasteload allocation that the facility consider including contingency nutrient removal plans for future possible nutrient limits. The town, through a letter from its consultant, Mr. B.T. Hart, has indicated that it will pursue the development of a plan to address nutrient removal for possible future nutrient limits. Comment (WRC) - We also recommend exploring alternate means of disinfection (i.e. ultraviolet or ozonation). If chlorination is the only option, then a dechlorination unit and a backup dechlorination unit should be installed to prevent excessive chlorine levels from entering the river. As noted above, chlorine residuals in the effluent will have' to held at or below 28 ug/1 thus necessitating dechlorination or an,alternative disinfection method. Ozonation is an expensive and difficult means of disinfection. UV is reliable and more affordable but is most effective when used in conjunction with tertiary treatment. Chlorination followed by dechlorination is probably the least costly disinfection method and provides a reliable means of controlling chlorine residuals. The town, through a November 18, 1991 letter from Mr. Hart has agreed to dechlorinatetheits chlorinatedeffluent. expanded The letter from Mr. Hart also indicates thatpended treatment capacity will be handled by adding an additional treatment train to the existing phew train3. A eparate Dechlorinators chlorinator will be added to the can then be added to the end of both systems. With planned interconnections between the trains at various points, there should be sufficient flexibility to provide backup chlorination and dechlorination. Comment (WRC) - WRC also recommends implementation of erosion and sedimentation measures to prevent excessive runoff and siltation in the river during plant construction. Response (DEM) - DEM and the town fully support this recommendation. An erosion and sedimentcontrol plan will be prepared and implemented in accordance with the state sedimentation control regulations. Even if the cleared area at the site falls below the one acre threshhold for requiring a state permit, the town has indicated that appropriate and effective sediment control measures will implemented. RATING SCALE FOR CLASSIFICATION OF FACILITIES Name of Plant: /nal T Owner or Contact Person: \I 4,,,,. Ca.,,-( C ► -1 4r. Mailing Address: t 1 o LJ . rrta.; r. S f. County: :` �f C, P.,.,... Telephone: 9/ 9 - �e7 - O?- sl% NPDES Permit No. kg a Nondisc. Per. No. IssueDate: / .F 9 2- Expiration Date: 2 Existing Facility - New Facility Rated By: . Date: 1 YYl • Reviewed (Train. & Cert.) Reg. Office or ( )1;EtA.A.e Reviewed (Train. & Cert.) Central Offi OR C ! c. w„ O k..: Grade 'ice Industrial Pretreatment Units and/or Industrial Pretreatment Program (see definition No. 33) DESIGN FLAW OF PLANT IN GPD (not applicable to non -contaminated cooling waters. sludge handling facilities for water purification plants. totally closed cycle systems (del. No. 11), and facilities consisting only of Item (4) (d) or Items (4) (d) and (11) (d)) 0 -- 20,000 20,001 — 50.000 50.001 — 100.000 100.001 — 250.000 250,001 — 500.000 500.001 --1.000.000 1.000,001 -- 2.000,000 2.000,001 (and up) - Design Flow (9Pd) rate 1 point additional for each 200.000 gpd capacity up to a maximum of 30 o•ao 000 (3) PRELIMINARY UNITS (see definition no. 32) (a) Bar Screens or (b) Mechanical Screens. Static Screens or Comminuting Devices (c) Grit Removal or (d) Mechanical or Aerated Grit Removal (e) Flow Measuring Device or (f) Instrumented Flow Measurement 2 (h) Influent Flow Equalization ▪ (i) Grease or Oil Separators - Gravity Mechanical Dissolved Air Flotation. (j) Prechlorination 2 2 3 8 5 POINTS ITEM POIN? (4) PRIMARY TREATMENT UNITS (a) Septic Tank (see definition no. 43) 2 (b) Imhoff Tank S (c) Primary Clarifiers 5 (d) Settling Ponds or Settling Tanks for Inorganic Non -toxic Materials (sludge handling facilities for water purification plants, sand, gravel, stone, and other mining operations except recreational activities such as gem or gold mining) 1 (5) SECONDARY TREATMENT UNITS 2 (a) Carbonaceous Stage 3 (i)Aeration - High Purity Oxygen System • 2 0 4 Diffused Air System 10 5 Mechanical Air System (fixed, 8 floating or rotor) Q Separate Sludge Reaeration 3 (i i) Trickling Filter High Rate 7 Standard Rate 5 Packed Tower 5 (i i i) Biological Aerated Filter or Aerated Biological Filter (iv) Aerated Lagoons (v) Rotating Biological Contactors (vi) Sand Filters - intermittent biological .... recirculating biological (vii) Stabilization Lagoons (viii)Clarifier (�j (ix) Single stage system for combined carbonaceous removal of BOD and 2 nitrogenous removal by nitrification (see def. No. 12) (Points for this item 1 have 'to be in addition to items (5) (a) (I) through (5) (a) (vi i) (x) Nutrient additions to enhance BOO removal (xi) Biological Culture ('Super Bugs') addition to enhance organic compound removal 2 10 10 10 2 3 8 5 5 (b) Nitrogenous Stage (i) Aeration - High Purity Oxygen System Diffused Air System Mechanical Air System (fixed. floating. or rotor) Separate Sludge Reaeration (ii) Trickling Filter - High Rate Standard Rate Packed Tower (i ii) Biological Aerated Filter or Aerated Biological Filter (iv) Rotating Biological Contactors (v) Sand Filter - intermittent biological recirculating biological (vi) Clarifier 20 10 8 3 7 5 (8) 5 10 10 2 3 5 (6) TERTIARY OR ADVANCED TREATMENT UNIT (a) Activated Carbons Beds - without carbon regeneration 5 with carbon regeneration 15 (b) Powdered or Granular Activated Carbon Feed - without carbon regeneration 5 with carbon regeneration 15 (c) Air Stripping 5 (d) Denitrification Process (separate process) 10 (e) Electrodiatysis » 5 (i) Foam Separation 5 (g) Ion Exchange 5 (h) Land Application of Treated Effluent (see definition no. 22b) (not applicable for sand. gravel, stone and other similar mining operations) .z(i) on agriiculturaily managed sites (See def. No. 4) 10 (ii) by high rate infiltration on non -agriculturally managed sites (includes rotary distributors and similar fixed nozzle systems) 4 (iii) by subsurface disposal (includes low pressure pipe systems and gravity systems except at plants consisting of septic tank and nitrifica- tion lines only) » 4 Microscreens 5 Phosphorus Removal by Biological Processes (See def. No. 26) 20 (k) Polishing Ponds - without aeration 2 with aeration 5 (1) Post Aeration - cascade 0 diffused or mechanical ... 5 (m) Reverse Osmosis 5 (n) Sand or Mixed -Media Filters - low rate 2 • high rate 5 (o) Treatment processes for removal of metal or (i) U) (7) SLUDGE TREATMENT (a) Sludge Digestion Tank - Heated 10 Aerobic Unheated 3 (b) Sludge Stabilization (chemical or thermal) (c) Sludge Drying Beds - Gravity ., 6 Vacuum Assisted 5 (d) Sludge Elutriation 5 (e) Sludge Conditioner (chemical or thermal) 5 (f) Sludge Thickener (gravity) 5 (g) Dissolved Air Flotation Unit (not applicable to a unit rates as (3) (1) (h) Sludge Gas Utilization (including gas storage) ... . (p) Treatment processes for removal of toxic (i) Sludge Holding Tank - Aerated Non -aerated 2 (II) Sludge Incinerator - (not including activated carbon regeneration) 10 (k) Vacuum Filter. Centrifuge or Filter Press or other similar dewatering devices 10 SLUDGE DISPOSAL (including incinerated ash) (a) Lagoons (b) Land Application (surface and subsurface) (see definition 22a) -where the facility holds the land app. permit ... -by contracting to a land application operator who holds the land application permit 2 -land application of sludge by a contractor who does not hold the permit for the wastewater treatment facility where the sludge is generated 10 (c) Landfilled (burial) 5 (9) DISINFECTION (a) Chlorination (b) Dechiorination (c) Ozone (d) Radiation (10) CHEMICAL ADDITION SYSTEM (S) (See definition No. 9) (not applicable to chemical additions rated as item (3) (j), (5) (a) (xi), (6) (a), (6) (b). (7) (b). (7) (e), (9) (a). (9) (b). or (9) (c) 5 points each: List: (11) MISCELLANEOUS UNITS (a) Holding Ponds. Holding Tanks or Settling Ponds for Organic or Toxic Materials including wastes from mining operations containing nitrogen and/or phosphorous compounds in amounts significantly greater than is common for domestic wastewater 4 (b) Effluent Flow Equalization (not applicable to storage basins which are inherent in land application systems)2 (c) Stage Discharge (not applicable to storage basins inherent in land application systems 5 2 Q 5 (d) (e) Stand -By Power Supply...».....»...».»».»...».....».»».»».»».»».». 4 (f) Thermal Pollution Control Device 5 5 5 5 TOTAL POINTS CLASSIFICATION cyanide 15 Class ................ Class11..».......»........»».».N.»N»»».»»...»...• materials other than metal or cyanide 15 C Class IV. 5 - 25 Points 26- 50 Points 51- 65 Points 66- Up Points Facilities having a rating of one through four points. inclusive, do not require a certified operator. Classification of all other facilities requires a comparable grade operator in responsible charge. Facilities having an activated sludge process will be assigned a minimum classification of Class iI. Facilities having treatment processes for the removal of metal or cyanide will be assigned a minimum classification of Class Ii. 8 Facilities having treatment processes for the biological removal 2 of phosphorus will be assigned a minimum classification of Class` 111.