20200798 Ver 3_Attachment G - PETS_20220413

CAROLINA WETLAND SERVICES, INC.
660 E. Westinghouse Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28273
704-527-1177 (office)
704-527-1133 (fax)
November 5, 2021
Mike Osborne
Black & Veatch
10715 David Taylor Drive, Suite 240
Charlotte, NC 28262
Subject: Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report
Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021
Charlotte, North Carolina
CWS Project No. 2019-0082
Dear Mr. Osborne,
Carolina Wetland Services, Inc. (CWS) has been contracted to provide a protected species
habitat assessment for the Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III project for the City
of Charlotte. The Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III study area is approximately
13 acres in extent and is roughly 18,500-foot long, with a variable width corridor following three
unnamed tributaries within the Little Hope Creek basin in Charlotte, North Carolina (Figure 1).
Methods
In -office Desktop Review
To determine which protected species are listed as occurring or potentially occurring within the
project vicinity and prior to conducting the on -site field investigation, CWS consulted the United
States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Endangered and Threatened Species and Species of
Concern by County for North Carolina online database for Mecklenburg County', and
Information for Planning and Consultation (IPAC) database2. In addition, CWS performed a data
review using the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) Data Explorer3 on March 2
and October 27, 2021 to determine if any record occurrences of federally -listed, candidate
endangered, threatened species, or critical habitat are located within the project limits.
Typical habitat requirements for listed species was discerned from multiple USFWS4 and
NCNHP5 online resources including, but not limited to, specific USFWS species profiles,
recovery plans, NCNHP's Guide to Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Species of
North Carolina, and List of the Rare Plant Species of North Carolina. United States Department
United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Raleigh Field Office. Accessed February 16 and October 27, 2021. Endangered and
Threatened Species and Species of Concern by County for North Carolina.
https://www.fws.gov/raleigh/species/cntylist/mecklenburg.html
2 Information for Planning and Consultation (IPAC). https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/
3 North Carolina Natural Heritage Data Explorer. Accessed March 2 and October 27, 2021. https://ncnhde.natureserve.org/
4 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2006. Optimal Survey Windows for North Carolina's Federally Threatened and Endangered Plant
Species. https://www.fws.gov/southeast/pdf/fact-sheet/north-carolina-optimal-survey-windows-for-at-risk-and-listed-plants.pdf
Accessed February 16 and October 27, 2021.
5 Buchanan, M.F. and J.T. Finnegan. 2010. Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Plant Species of North Carolina. NC Natural
Heritage Program, Raleigh, NC. Accessed from https://www.fws.gov/raleigh/species/cntylist/nc_counties.html
NORTH CAROLINA - SOUTH CAROLINA
WWW.CWS-INC.NET
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Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
of Agriculture - Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) Web Soil Survey of
Mecklenburg County6 and aerial imagery were also reviewed for potential habitat of listed
species within the project vicinity (Figures 2 and 3).
Field Survey
CWS scientists, Aliisa Harjuniemi, PWS7, Megan Bollero, WPIT8, Amie Hoy, WPIT, Sarah
Ellingson, Staff Scientist I, Kerry Wright, Project Scientist, Julia McGuire, Staff Scientist II, and
Ian Dunning, Staff Scientist I conducted a pedestrian habitat assessment of the project area on
October 16-18, October 21, October 31, 2019, February 17, and November 1, 2021. Potential
habitats for potentially occurring federally -protected species that were identified during the
desktop review were assessed in the field for the quality of physical and/or biological features
essential to the conservation of the applicable species. Additionally, during the pedestrian
habitat assessment, areas were reviewed for applicable federally protected species.
Identification references for natural communities include the National Land Cover Database
(2011)9.
Results
Based on the NCNHP data explorer review, there are no current occurrences of federally
protected species within a one -mile radius of the project limits (Attachment A). The USFWS
lists seven federally protected species for Mecklenburg County (Table 1). An official species list
has not been obtained from the USFWS Asheville Field Office.
Table 1. Unofficial List of Federally -Protected Species Potentially Occurring within the
Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III Site, Mecklenburg County, NC.
Major Group
Scientific Name
Common Name
Federal Status*
Record Status
Plant
Helianthus
Schweinitz's
E
Current
schweinitzii
sunflower
Plant
Rhus michauxii
Michaux's sumac
E
Current
Plant
Echinacea
Smooth purple
E
Current
laevigata
coneflower
Animal
Lasmigona
Carolina heelsplitter
E
Current
decorata
Animal
Bombus affinis
Rusty patched
E
Historic
bumble bee
Animal
Haliaeetus
Bald eagle
BGPA
Current
leucocephalus
Animal
Myotis
Northern long-eared
T
Current
septentrionalis
bat
* E - Endangered, T - Threatened, BGPA - Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
Six terrestrial community types were identified within the project area during the field survey.
These community types consist of undeveloped forested areas, herbaceous areas, emergent
wetlands, woody wetlands, maintained grassy areas, and sewer line and powerline
6 United States Department of Agriculture, 2019. Web Soil Survey of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. Accessed
10.27.2021. Source: https://websoilsurvey.nres.usda.gov/app/Home Page. htm
7 Professional Wetland Scientist, The Society of Wetland Scientists Professional Certification Program
8 Wetland Professional in Training, The Society of Wetland Scientist Professional Certification Program
9 MLRC. National Land Cover Database, 2011. https://www.mrlc.gov/nlcdll_leg.php
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Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
Right -of -Ways (Figure 3). Of the identified on -site community types, the forested areas,
herbaceous areas, and perennial streams are considered potential habitat for federally
threatened or endangered species that could potentially occur within the project limits. A brief
description of each species habitat requirements and determination of effect findings are listed
below by species.
Schweinitz's sunflower (,Helianthus schweinitzlJ1
Habitat Description:
Schweinitz's sunflower is a perennial herb with yellow rays and yellow centers. They
can reach heights of five feet. Populations are limited to the piedmont of North and
South Carolina. It has been listed as an endangered species under the Endangered
Species Act (ESA) since 1991.10 The typical habitat for this plant includes roadsides, old
pastures, transmission line right-of-ways, open areas, either natural or
human -maintained habitats, or edges of upland woods. Major characteristics of soils
associated with suitable Schweinitz's sunflower habitat include thin soils, soils on upland
interstream flats or gentle slopes, soils that are clay like in both composition and texture
(and often with substantial rock fragments), soils that have a high shrinkage swell
capacity, and those which vary over the course of the year from very wet to very dry.
Biological Analysis:
A NCNHP data record review revealed that there are no current occurrences for this
species within the project limits, or within a one -mile radius of the project (Attachment A).
The desktop review determined that the herbaceous areas could be potential habitats for
Schweinitz's sunflower. The herbaceous areas within the powerline rights -of -way
receive the preferred infrequent maintenance (Photographs 1 and 2). The soils in these
rights -of -ways are Cecil sandy clay loam, Cecil -Urban land complex, and Urban land
(Figure 2). The Cecil soil series has known Schweinitz's sunflower occurrences. The
forested areas do not receive the appropriate amount of sunlight due to a heavy canopy
and the grassy areas, such as maintained lawns, are too frequently mowed to support
Schweinitz's sunflower populations (Photographs 3-5). The potential habitats were
scrutinized during the field visits on October 16-18, October 21, October 31, 2019, and
observed again on February 17, and November 1, 2021. No Schweinitz's sunflower
individuals or individuals of any Helianthus species were observed within these areas.
The October 2019 and November 2021 site visits occurred during the optimal survey
period when the plant reaches five feet in height and all plant plants are readily
identifiable. Given the lack of Schweinitz's sunflower individuals observed within
the project limits during the optimal survey window, CWS concludes that this
project will have no effect on the Schweinitz's sunflower.
Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii)
Habitat Description:
Michaux's sumac is a rhizomatous shrub. It is densely hairy with compound leaves
exhibiting evenly -serrated leaflets. Flowers are small, greenish to white, in terminal
clusters. Fruits are red drupes produced from August to October. It has been listed as
10 United States Fish and Wildlife Services. 1991. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Helianthus schweinitzii
(Schweinitz's sunflower) Determined to be Endangered. http://ecos.fws.gov/docs/federal_register/frl852.pdf.
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Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
an Endangered species under the ESA since 1989.11 It is found on the coastal plains of
Virginia to Florida, with most populations occurring in North Carolina. It prefers sandy or
rocky open woods with basic loam soils, as well as highway right-of-ways, roadsides, or
edges of artificially -maintained clearings.
Biological Analysis:
A NCNHP data record review revealed that there are no current occurrences for this
species within the project limits, or within a one -mile radius of the project (Attachment A).
Open areas conducive to early -succession species were observed within the project
area (Photographs 1 and 2). No individuals of Michaux sumac were observed during the
field assessments on October 16-18, October 21, 31, 2019, or on February 17 and
November 1, 2021. Additionally, there are no current records of this species within
Mecklenburg County12. Due to the lack of known occurrences within Mecklenburg
County and lack of observations of this species, CWS concludes that this project will
have no effect on Michaux's sumac.
Smooth purple coneflower (Echinacea laevipata)
Habitat Description:
Smooth purple coneflower is a tall, perennial herbaceous plant found in areas with
abundant sunlight where competition in the herbaceous layer is minimal. It has been
federally listed as Endangered under the ESA since 1992.13 Typical habitat for this plant
includes meadows, open woodlands, the ecotonal regions between meadows and
woodlands, cedar barrens, dry limestone bluffs, clear cuts, and roadside and utility
rights -of -way. In North Carolina, the species normally grows in magnesium- and calcium -
rich soils associated with gabbro and diabase parent material, and typically occurs in
Iredell, Misenheimer, Mecklenburg, and Picture soil series. It grows best where there is
abundant sunlight, little competition in the herbaceous layer, and periodic disturbances
(e.g., regular fire regime, well-timed mowing, careful clearing) that prevents
encroachment of shade -producing woody shrubs and trees. On sites where woody
succession is held in check, it is characterized by a number of species with prairie
affinities.
Biological Analysis:
A NCNHP data record review revealed that there are no current occurrences for this
species within the project limits, or within a one -mile radius of the project (Attachment A).
Potential on -site habitat for this species is limited to the on -site herbaceous areas.
These areas contain the Cecil soil series, which does have a diabase parent material.
However, these areas are densely covered with competitive herbaceous species.
Therefore, these areas are not supportive habitat for the smooth purple coneflower
(Photographs 1 and 2). CWS concludes that this project will have no effect on the
smooth coneflower.
United States Fish and Wildlife Services. 1989. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Endangered
Status for Rhus michauxii (Michaux's sumac). http://ecos.fws.gov/docs/federal_register/frl601.pdf.
12 USFWS Michaux's Sumac Recovery Plan; https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery_plan/930430.pdf
13 United States Fish and Wildlife Services. 1992. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Echinacea laevigata (Smooth
Coneflower) Determined to be Endangered. http://ecos.fws.gov/docs/federal_register/fr2l40.pdf.
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Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
Carolina heelsplitter (Lasmipona decorata)
Habitat Description:
The Carolina heelsplitter was historically known from several locations within the
Catawba and Pee Dee River systems in North Carolina and the Pee Dee and Savannah
River systems, and possibly the Saluda River system in South Carolina. In North
Carolina, the species is now known only from a handful of streams in the Pee Dee and
Catawba River systems. The species exists in very low abundances, usually within 6 feet
of shorelines, throughout its known range. The general habitat requirements for the
Carolina heelsplitter are shaded areas in large rivers to small streams, often burrowed
into clay banks between the root systems of trees, or in runs along steep banks with 14
moderate current. Recently, the Carolina heelsplitter has been found is in sections of
streams containing bedrock with perpendicular crevices filled with sand and gravel, and
with wide riparian buffers."
Biological Analysis:
A NCNHP data record review revealed that there are no known occurrences of this
species within the project limits or within a one -mile radius of the project (Attachment A).
In order to assess the presence or absence of the Carolina heelsplitter on -site, field
survey assessment and desktop review examined the site for suitable habitat. The
nearest Carolina heelsplitter population is over 36 river miles downstream and separated
from the Little Hope Creek site by the Catawba River. Additionally, several culverts
downstream of the study area would limit the ability of the mussels to propagate
upstream. The pedestrian survey on October 16-18, October 21, October 31, 2019,
February 17 and November 1, 2021 revealed three potential perennial streams on -site
(Figure 2). Stream conditions generally consisted of artificially stabilized banks with a
sandy bed, moderate sedimentation, and steep banks (Photograph 6). Riparian buffers
are often degraded or entirely absent. These stream conditions are not considered
supportive habitat for the Carolina heelsplitter. The study area is outside the designated
critical habitat for this species. Based on the lack of potential habitat and distance from
known populations, CWS concludes that this project will have no effect on the
Carolina heelsplitter.
Rusty Patched Bumble Bee (Bombus affinis)
The Rusty patched bumble bee was listed as Endangered under the ESA in January 2016.16
Rusty patched bumble bees once occupied grasslands and tallgrass prairies of the Upper
Midwest and Northeast, but most grasslands and prairies have been lost, degraded, or
fragmented by conversion to other uses. According to USFWS guidance, "the rusty patched
bumble bee population has declined by approximately 90% or more. There are currently
records of Bombus affinis in isolated places within 13 states and 1 providence since 2000. In
these areas, surveys should only be completed by qualified biologists under the guidance of the
federal recovery/scientific permit under section 10(a)(1)(B) of the ESA. These surveyors must
14 United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Raleigh Field Office. Accessed October 17, 2019 and October 27, 2021. Endangered
and Threatened Species and Species of Concern by County for North Carolina.
https://www.fws.gov/raleigh/species/cntylist/mecklenburg.htmll
15 NCDOT TE Animal Habitat Descriptions. 2015. https://connect.ncdot.gov/resources/Environmental/Compliance%20Guides%20
and%20Procedures/TE%2OAnimal%2OHabitat%2ODescriptions%2OMar_6_2015.pdf
16 United States Fish and Wildlife Services.
https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/insects/rpbb/pdf/Survey_Protocols_RPB B_l 2April2019.pdf
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Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
also meet all applicable state permitting and reporting requirements. The presence of Bombus
affinis has been broken down into three zones. A high potential zone provides a reasonable
basis for describing where the species is likely to be present and where federal agencies and
others should consult with Fish and Wildlife Services to evaluate the potential effects of their
actions. A low potential zone buffers a high potential zone and are much less likely to support
existing populations. Scientists are hopeful that some of these low potential areas may contain
the bee, and they recommend that surveyors obtain a scientific recovery permit. The third zone
is the unoccupied zone. Scientists believe that the likelihood of finding the species in these
areas is so low that they do not recommend scientific recovery permits, unless a Bombus affinis
may have accidentally been collected." According to USFWS' Rusty Patched Bumble Bee
Interactive Map, Mecklenburg County is located within an unoccupied zone. Therefore, the
proposed project will have no effect on the Rusty -patched bumble bee.
Northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis)
The northern long-eared bat (NLEB) is one of the species of bats most impacted by the
white -nose syndrome disease. Summer habitat (roosting habitat) of the NLEB includes forests
and woodlots containing live trees and/or dead snags greater than three inches diameter at
breast height with cavities or crevices. Winter habitat (hibernacula) of the NLEB includes caves,
mines, rocky areas, or structures that mimic similar conditions such as culverts greater than
48-inch in diameter.18 The NLEB was listed as Threatened (T) on April 2, 2015.
The forested areas within the property are potential habitats for the NLEB. No culverts greater
and 48-inch were observed within the study area.
Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III project area is within range of the NLEB,19
However, there are no known hibernaculum within 0.25 miles from a site and no known
occupied maternity roost within 150 feet.
In accordance with the final 4(d) rule (effective as of February 16, 2016), any incidental take that
may result from associated activities is exempt under the 4(d) rule. Therefore, the project as
proposed is exempt under the 4(d) rule.
Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act,20 enacted in 1940, prohibits anyone without a permit
issued, from "taking" bald eagles, including their parts, nests, or eggs. Habitat for the bald eagle
includes cliffs and forested areas near estuaries, large lakes, reservoirs, rivers, seacoast, and
as they become more abundant, stands of undisturbed forests. A desktop-GIS assessment of
the project study area, as well as, the area within a 1 mile radius of the project limits, was
performed on February 16 and October 27, 2021 using 2020 color aerial photography. No water
bodies large enough or sufficiently open to be considered potential feeding sources were
identified on or near the project study area. Since there was no foraging habitat within the
review area, a survey of the project study area and the area within the project limits was not
conducted. Additionally, a review of the NCNHP database on March 2 and October 27, 2021
17 United States Fish and Wildlife Services. https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/insects/rpbb/index.html
18 United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2016. 4(d) Rule for the Northern Long -Eared Bat; Final rule.
https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2016-01-14/pdf/2016-00617.pdf
19 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) 2016. https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/mammals/nleb/pdfAA/NSZone.pdf
20 https://www.fws.gov/midwest/MidwestBird/eaglepermits/bagepa.html
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Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
revealed no known occurrences of this species within 1.0 miles of the project study area. Due
to lack of habitat and known occurrences, CWS concludes that this project will have no
effect on the bald eagle.
Summary
Based on a literature search and the results of the on -site assessment for suitable habitat of
federally -protected endangered, threatened, and candidate species, supportive habitat was not
observed within the project limits for smooth coneflower, Michaux's sumac, Carolina heelsplitter
or bald eagle. Suitable habitat was observed for Schweinitz's sunflower but no individuals were
observed during the optimal survey window.
CWS has concluded that activities within the project area will have no effect on Schweinitz's
sunflower, Smooth purple coneflower, Michaux's sumac, Carolina Heelsplitter or Bald Eagle.
Biological determination requirements for federally protected species are summarized in Table
2.
Based on the project area location, no tree removal activities will occur within a 150-foot radius
of a known, occupied NLEB maternity roost from June 1-July 31 and no trees will be removed
within 0.25 miles of a known hibernaculum at any time of year.
Table 2. Biological Determination Requirements Summary Table for Federally Protected Species
Scientific Name
Common Name
Federal
Status*
Effect on Listed Species
Helianthus schweinitzii
Schweinitz's sunflower
E
No effect
Echinacea laevigata
Smooth purple coneflower
E
No effect
Rhus michauxii
Michaux's sumac
E
No effect
Lasmigona decorata
Carolina heelsplitter
E
No effect
Bombus affinis
Rusty -patched bumble bee
E
No effect
Myotis septentrionalis
Northern -long-eared bat
T
Exempt
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Bald eagle
BGPA
No effect
* E - Endangered, T - Threatened, BGPA - Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
A biological assessment was not conducted for this project. All biological determinations of
effect represent the best professional opinion of CWS and are not official determinations of
effect. It is the responsibility of the lead federal agency to render an official determination of
effect and whether consultation with USFWS is required to comply with Section 7 of the
Endangered Species Act. Should the lead federal agency's determination of effect differ from
the findings of CWS, additional surveys and formal or informal consultation with USFWS may be
required.
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Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
Thank you for the opportunity to provide these services on this important project. Please do not
hesitate to contact Megan Bollero at 757-576-6433 or [e-mail] should you have any
questions or comments regarding this report.
Sincerely,
I 1;Tn- G,&,-
Megan Bollero, WPIT
Project Scientist
Aliisa Harjuniemi, PWS
Senior Project Manager
Attachments: Figure 1: USGS Topographic Map
Figure 2: USDA-NRCS Web Soil Map of Mecklenburg County
Figure 3: Aerial Map
Attachment A: NCNHP Data Review Reports
Attachment B: Representative Photographs (1-6)
Page 8 of 8

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CHARLOTTE WEST AND CHARLOTTE EAST, NC (2019).
2
SCALE: DATE: FIGURE NO.
1 inch = 2,000 feet 11/2/2021 USGS Topographic Map
CWS PROJECT NO: DRAWN BY:11 2019-0082 MLB Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements
Phase III
COORDINATES: CHECKED BY: IC A R O L l N A Mecklenburg County
35.170956,-80.863558 AVH WETLAND SERVICES Charlotte, North Carolina
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2019-0082 ALH Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements
COORDINATES: CHECKED BY: IC A R O L I N A Phase III
2
35.170956,-80.863558 AVH WETLANO SERVICES Mecklenburg County
Charlotte, North Carolina
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G:\Shared drives\Consulting Team Drive\2019\2019 Consulting Projects\2019-0082 Little Hope Creek\Phase 3\PETS 11.1.2021 NEVNArcGIS\Figure3_Aerial.mxd

Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
ATTACHMENTA:
NCNHP Data Review Report

Roy Cooper, Governor
9" 0 INC DEPARTMENT OF
""i ■
WMk.M 1 NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
■-000
October 27. 2021
Arnie Hoy
Carolina Wetland Services
550 East Westinghouse Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28273
RE: Little Hope Creek Revised 11.1.2021-1 2019-0082
Dear Arnie Hoy:
13. Reid Wilson, Secretary
Misty Buchanan
Deputy Director, Natural Heritage Program
Nr ►�l0ldDTMMe] VLI
The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) appreciates the opportunity to provide
information about natural heritage resources for the project referenced above.
A query of the NCNHP database indicates that there are records for rare species, important natural
communities, natural areas, and/or conservation/managed areas within the proposed project
boundary. These results are presented in the attached `Documented Occurrences' tables and map.
The attached `Potential Occurrences' table summarizes rare species and natural communities that
have been documented within a one -mile radius of the property boundary. The proximity of these
records suggests that these natural heritage elements may potentially be present in the project area
if suitable habitat exists. Tables of natural areas and conservation/managed areas within a one -mile
radius of the project area, if any, are also included in this report.
If a Federally -listed species is documented within the project area or indicated within a one -mile
radius of the project area, the NCNHP recommends contacting the US Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS) for guidance. Contact information for USFWS offices in North Carolina is found here:
httr)s://www.fws.gov/offices/Directory/ListOffices.cfm?statecode=37.
Please note that natural heritage element data are maintained for the purposes of conservation
planning, project review, and scientific research, and are not intended for use as the primary criteria
for regulatory decisions. Information provided by the NCNHP database may not be published
without prior written notification to the NCNHP, and the NCNHP must be credited as an information
source in these publications. Maps of NCNHP data may not be redistributed without permission.
Also please note that the NC Natural Heritage Program may follow this letter with additional
correspondence if a Dedicated Nature Preserve, Registered Heritage Area, Land and Water Fund
easement, or an occurrence of a Federally -listed species is documented near the project area.
If you have questions regarding the information provided in this letter or need additional assistance,
please contact Rodney A. Butler at rod ney.butler�ncdcr.gov or 919-707-8603.
Sincerely,
NC Natural Heritage Program
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
121 1N. JON S STREET, RALEIGI I_ NC 27603 - 16Sl MAOL SERVICE CENTER. PAL EIGH. rkc 276�0
OFC 919.707.9120 • FAK 919.707.9421

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Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
ATTACHMENT B:
Photopage (Photographs 1-6)

Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
Photograph 1. View of maintained grassy area and herbaceous area, potential habitat for
Schweinitz's sunflower, facing southeast.
Photograph 2. View of herbaceous area, potential habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower, facing
southeast.
Photopage 1 of 3

Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
mot••
Photograph 3. View of unsuitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower, purple coneflower, and
Michaux's sumac, facing north-northwest
Photograph 4. View of unsuitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower, purple coneflower, and
Michaux's sumac, facing southeast.
Photopage 2 of 3

Little Hope Creek Sewer Improvements Phase III - Revised 11.1.2021 November 5, 2021
Protected Species Habitat Assessment Report CWS Project No. 2019-0082
Photograph 5. View of unsuitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower, purple coneflower, and
Michaux's sumac, facing northwest.
Photograph 6. View of an on -site perennial stream, unsuitable habitat for the Carolina
heelsplitter, facing downstream.
Photopage 3 of 3