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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20221259 Ver 1_Threatened and Endangered Species Report_20220908HARP HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Robert D. West, PE Brown and Caldwell The Converse Building 250 Berryhill Rd., Suite 104 Columbia, SC 29210 Subject: 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Threatened and Endangered Species Survey and Report Dear Mr. West, 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com A WOMAN -OWNED SMALL BUSINESS NCDOT DBE/WBE #49220 Celebrating 25 years! November 11th, 2021 Thank you for allowing us to assist you with the 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project. In accordance with the Agreement to Provide Environmental Services, Habitat Assessment and Restoration Professionals (HARP) performed Environmental Investigations of the subject site for the presence of rare, Threatened, or Endangered species or habitat. Our findings are summarized below. Background The 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project is one of numerous projects to meet the needs of Union County in general and specifically to support the implementation of the new Yadkin River Water Treatment Plant. One of these projects, identified as YAD-M-03, the 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main consists of three components. The first component is approximately 41,000 LF of 24-inch transmission main to connect the 762 Zone High Service Pump Station at the new Yadkin River Water Plant (YRWTP) to an existing 16- inch transmission main along Highway 74 near Marshville (Attachment A — Figure 1). Secondly, a dedicated Finished Water Pump Station and associated finished water site piping is proposed within the boundaries of the YRWTP site to supply the transmission main. The inclusion of a dedicated on -site surge tank may also be required on the YRWTP site. The third component of the project addresses achieving an interim source of supply to the 762 Pressure Zone until the YRWTP is constructed and operational. The study corridor is located in the Piedmont Physiographic Province of North Carolina. Prior to site visits, HARP reviewed various resources, including the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic quadrangle map (Attachment A — Figure 2), National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) mapping, aerial photography, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Soil Series Data for Union County, North Carolina (2002) (Attachment A — Figure 3), and the FEMA National Flood Hazard mapping to help identify potential habitat within the study corridor. Methodology In October 2020, May 2021, and October 2021 HARP scientists Brandon Phillips and Genevieve Honeycutt conducted field reviews of the study corridor to evaluate the area for the presence of Threatened and/or Endangered Species and habitats. Prior to these field reviews, various online databases were queried for the possible occurrence of Threatened and/or Endangered species or habitats that could potentially be located on or near the project site, including the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program's (NCNHP) Data Explorer, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) online database (Attachment B — Regulatory Agency Correspondence). STREAM AND WETLAND RESTORATION AND DEUNEATION - RESTORATION PLANTING - RAIN GARDEN, POND, AND WATER QUALITY BMP MAINTENANCE AND DESIGN - MITIGATION MONITORING - INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT- 4041401 WATER QUALITY PERMITTING SITE INSPECTION - THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES SURVEYS - PHASE I AND PHASE 2 ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ASSESSMENTS SUPPLIER OF NATIVE TREES, SHRUBS, AND PLANTS - HARP IS A WOMAN -OWNED SMALL BUSINESS - ESTABLISHED 1996 CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE! 762 ZONE YRWTP TRANSMISSION MAIN PROJECT THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES SURVEY AND REPORT NOVEMBER 1 1TH, 2021 The NCNHP database indicated that there are no federally listed Threatened or Endangered species documented to be in the proposed project area. The database revealed that the state listed Significantly Rare species Eastern Creekshell (Villosa delumbis) has been documented to be within the proposed project area, as well as within a one -mile radius of the proposed project area. The findings are summarized below. Findings The proposed project study area mostly consists of areas along existing roadways/roadside areas (Attachment C — Photo 1) but is also comprised of streams including Richardson Creek (Attachment C — Photo 2) and Bull Branch (Attachment C — Photo 3) as well as unnamed tributaries (UT's) to these streams and other close by streams (Attachment C — Photo 4), wetland areas (Attachment C — Photo 5), maintained farmland (Attachment C — Photo 6), and forested areas (Attachment C — Photo 7). Common tree species observed throughout the length of the proposed project study area include Red Maple (Acer rubrum), White Oak (Quercus alba), Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra), Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), Willow Oak (Quercus phellos), Post Oak (Quercus stellata), Southern Red Oak (Quercus falcata), Cottonwood (Populus deltoides), Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata), Black Walnut (Juglans nigra), American Elm (Ulmus americana), Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipfera), Winged Elm (Ulmus alata), Box Elder (Acer negundo), Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum), Pignut Hickory (Carya glabra), Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum), Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana), Shortleaf Pine (Pinus taeda), Common Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana), Red Bud (Cercis canadensis), Red Mulberry (Morus rubra), and Flowering Dogwood (Benthamidia florida). Common shrub and herbaceous species observed include Groundseltree (Baccharis halimifolia), Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), Canada Onion (Allium canadense), Curly Dock (Rumex crispus), Sweet Yellow Clover (Melilotus officinalis), Wood Sorrel sp. (Oxalis sp.), Canada Lettuce (Lactuca canadensis), Clasping Venus' Looking -Glass (Triodanis perfoliate), Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare), Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), Whitemouth Dayflower (Commelina erecta), Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis), Meadow Garlic (Allium canadense), Common Vervain (Verbena officinalis), Catsear (Hypochaeris radicata), Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa), Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana), Queen Ann's Lace (Daucus carota), Spiny -Leaved Sow Thistle (Sonchus asper), Buttercup (Ranunculus repens), Cow Vetch (Vicia cracca), Horse Nettle (Solanum carolinense), Wild Quinine (Parthenium integrifolium), Beardtongue sp. (Penstemon sp.), Broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus), Tansy Ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris), Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), Narrow -Leaved Sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius), Daisy Fleabane (Erigeron annuus), Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium), American Vetch (Vicia americana), Wild Blackberry (Rubus allegheniensis), Trumpet Creeper (Campsis radicans), Common Greenbriar (Smilax rotundifolia), Wild Strawberry (Fragaria vesca), Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), and Vitis spp. (Vitis rotundifolia and Vitis aestivalis). Wetland areas within the proposed project alignment also have common species specific to these areas including Soft Rush (Juncus effusus), Lady's Thumb (Persicaria maculosa), Elderberry (Sambucus nigra var. canadensis), Foxtail Sedge (Carex alopecoidea), Broadleaf Plantain (Plantago major), Three -Way Sedge (Dulichium arundinaceum), Hop Sedge (Carex lupulina), and Swamp Smartweed (Persicaria hydropiperoides). Invasive species observed throughout the proposed project alignment include Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), Japanese Stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum), Chinese Privet (Ligustrum sinense), Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia), Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), Mimosa (Albizia julibrissin), Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora), and Sacred Bamboo (Nandina domestics). 762 ZONE YRWTP TRANSMISSION MAIN PROJECT THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES SURVEY AND REPORT NOVEMBER I I TH, 2021 Table 1 Federal and State -Listed Species in Union County Common Name Scientific Name Federal Status State Status Vertebrates Mole Salamander Ambystoma talpoideum None SC Timber Rattlesnake Crotalus horridus None SC Carolina Darter Etheostoma collis None SC Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus BGEPA T Loggerhead Shrike Lanius ludovicianus None SC, W2 Robust Redhorse Moxostoma robusta None E Invertebrates *Pee Dee Crayfish Dactylocythere peedeenis FSC N/A *Monarch Butterfly Danaus plexippus C N/A Atlantic Pigtoe Fusconaia masoni PT E Eastern Lampmussel Lampsilis radiata None T Carolina Heelsplitter Lasmigona decorata E E Creeper Strophitus undulatus None T Savannah Lilliput Toxolasma pullus None E Notched Rainbow Villosa constricta None T Carolina Creekshell Villosa vaughaniana None E Vascular Plants Carolina Birdfoot-Trefoil Acmispon helleri None T Southern Anemone Anemone berlandieri None E White Wild Indigo Baptisia alba None T American Bluehearts Buchnera americana None E Dissected Toothwort Cardimine dissecta None SC-V Ravine Sedge Carex impressinervia None SC-V Indian Physic Gillenia stipulate None T Smooth Sunflower Helianthus laevigatus None SC-V Schweinitz's Sunflower Helianthus schweinitzii E E Carolina Jointgrass Mnesithea cylindrica None SC-H Mudbank Crown Grass Paspalum dissectum None E Wright's Cliff -Brake Pellaea wrightiana None E Shooting -Star Primula meadia None SC-V Heller's Rabbit -Tobacco Pseudognaphalium helleri None E Michaux's Sumac Rhus michauxii E E Narrow -Leaved Smooth Aster Symphyotrichum concinnum None E Georgia Aster Symphyotrichum georgianum C T Federal Protection Status E=Endangered — A taxon in danger of extinction through all or a significant portion of its Endangered species within the foreseeable for listing for which there is sufficient information listing as Endangered or Threatened will be Act — In the July 9, 2007 Federal Register, the range. future throughout all or a portion of its range. to support listing. noted as "PE" or "PT", respectively bald eagle was declared recovered, and removed (de -listed) The bald eagle continues to be afforded protection pursuant to the is insufficient information to support current listing. adopted under the provisions of Article 25 of Ch 113. North Carolina at one time, but for which all known populations to become a Threatened species within the foreseeable future. or Special Concern, but which exists in the state in small appear to be relatively secure at this time. T=Threatened — A taxon likely to become an C=Candidate — A taxon under consideration P=Proposed — A taxon proposed for official BGEPA=Bald and Golden Eagle Protection from the Federal List of Threatened and Endangered Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. FSC=Federal Species of Concern — A species wildlife, effective on August 8, 2007. under consideration for listing, for which there monitoring, but which may be taken under regulations or higher taxon of plant that occurred in or extirpated. or higher taxon of plant which is likely has not been listed as an Endangered, Threatened, NCNHP to need monitoring. whose status in N.0 is relatively well known and NC Protection Status SC=Special Concern — A taxon that requires SC-H=Special Concern -Vulnerable — Any species are currently considered to be either historical SC-V=Special Concern -Vulnerable — Any species SR=Significantly Rare — Any species which numbers and has been determined by the W2=Rare but Relatively Secure — A taxon Sources: North Carolina Natural Heritage Program website, https://www.ncnhp.org/data/speciescommunity-search. Last updated 10/18/2021 Accessed 11/6/2021 *U.S. Fish and Wildlife ECOS Database, https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/report/species-listings-by-current-range-county?fips=37179 Accessed 11/6/2021 3 762 ZONE YRWTP TRANSMISSION MAIN PROJECT THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES SURVEY AND REPORT NOVEMBER 1 1TH, 2021 Species with the federal classification of Endangered (E) or Threatened (T), or Proposed (P) for such listing, or Threatened due to Similarity of Appearance (T [S/A]) are protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), as amended (16 United States Code (USC) 1531 et seq.). The term "Endangered species" is defined as "any species which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range", and the term "Threatened species" is defined as "any species which is likely to become an Endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range" (16 USC 1532). The term "Proposed" is defined as "any species proposed for official listing as Endangered or Threatened." "Federal Species of Concern" (FSC) is defined as "a species that may or may not be listed in the future; or a species under consideration for listing for which there is insufficient information to support a listing." "Candidate" (C) species are taxons under consideration for which there is insufficient information to support a listing. The FSC and C designation are afforded no federal protection under the ESA. The list of Endangered, Threatened, and rare plants is tracked and maintained by NCNHP. There are currently three federally Endangered species listed by the USFWS that are protected under the Endangered Species Act within Union County. These species are Schweinitz's Sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii), Carolina Heelsplitter (Lasmigona decorate), Michaux's Sumac (Rhus michauxii). Table 2 shows the federally Endangered/Threatened species in Union County. Table 2 Federally Endangered/Threatened Species in Union County Species Federal Status County Occurrence Potential H(yln) t Biological Conclusion Common Name Scientific Name Schweinitz's Sunflower Helianthus schweinitzii E Current y No Effect Carolina Heelsplitter Lasmigona decorate E Current n No Effect Michaux's Sumac Rhus michauxii E Historical y No Effect Federal Protection Status E=Endangered — A taxon in danger of extinction through all or a significant portion of its range. become an Endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. community has been seen recently in the county. community has not been seen recently in the county. T=Threatened —A taxon likely to Occurrence Current=The species or natural Historical=The species or natural Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website, https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/report/species-listings-by-current-range-county?fips=37179. Accessed 11/6/2021 General field reviews were conducted by HARP within the proposed project study area for federally listed species in Union County. No federally listed Threatened or Endangered species were observed within the proposed project corridor. A summary for each federally Endangered/Threatened listed species within the proposed project area are below. 762 ZONE YRWTP TRANSMISSION MAIN PROJECT THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES SURVEY AND REPORT NOVEMBER 1 1TH, 2021 Helianthus schweinitzii (Schweinitz's Sunflower), State and Federal Listed Endangered Schweinitz's Sunflower is a perennial herbaceous plant limited to the Piedmont counties of North and South Carolina and the coastal county of Horry County, South Carolina. The plant grows from one to two meters tall from a cluster of tuberous roots. The sunflower consists of a flower with a yellow disk and ray flowers formed on small heads. The disc is less than 1.5 cm across, and the petals are two to three cm long. The lanceolate leaves are opposite on the lower stem and alternate near the flowers. The typical habitat for this plant includes roadsides, old pastures, transmission line rights -of -way, open areas, and edges of upland woods. Periodically maintained rights -of -way are typically considered good potential habitat for the Schweinitz's Sunflower. 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 clayey in texture (and often with substantial rock fragments), soils that have a high shrink -swell capacity and soils that vary over the course of the year from very wet to very dry. Flowering occurs from August to the first frost of the year. No populations have been identified within one mile of the project study area. Schweinitz's Sunflower is listed as current in Union County. The study area has the open areas and edges of upland woods that may provide the proper habitat requirements preferred by this species. The NCNHP determined that no populations of Schweinitz's Sunflower were or are present within the proposed project study area, but have been documented to be within a one -mile radius of the proposed project study area. The USFWS Optimal Survey Window for Schweinitz's Sunflower is August -October. No individuals of Schweinitz's Sunflower were observed during field reviews of the study area conducted by HARP in October 2020 and October 2021, during the optimal survey window, or in May 2021. Based on the field reviews and the available databases, it is determined that this project will have 'no effect' on Schweinitz's Sunflower. Lasmigona decorate (Carolina Heelsplitter), State and Federal Listed Endangered The Carolina Heelsplitter is a freshwater mussel which has an ovate, trapezoidal shell. The surface of this species is yellowish, greenish, or brownish with greenish, blackish rays. The inner shell ranges from iridescent to mottled pale orange. The average size of the Carolina Heelsplitter is 78 millimeters (mm). The Carolina Heelsplitter is found in small to large streams and rivers as well as ponds over a variety of substrates usually near stable, well -shaded stream banks. Most individuals are found in undercuts and along shaded banks stabilized with extensive tree roots, buried logs or rocks. The Carolina Heelsplitter requires waterways with well oxygenated clean water. Pursuant to the USFWS Carolina Heelsplitter 5-Year Review: Summary and Evaluation 2017, eleven populations of this mussel are presently known to exist, three of which occur within North Carolina. Two small remnant populations occur in the Catawba River system; one population occurs in Waxhaw Creek in Mecklenburg County, and one population occurs in Sixmile Creek in Mecklenburg County. Another small population occurs in a short stretch of Goose Creek, a tributary to the Rocky River in the Pee Dee River system, also in Mecklenburg County. Potential habitat does not exist within the proposed project study corridors. The proposed project study area is outside of the critical habitat watersheds. Potential habitat characteristics such as undercut shaded banks with extensive root systems and buried logs and rocks within the channel were not observed in Richardson Creek, Bull Branch, or any of the unnamed tributaries of either creek. The NCNHP determined that no populations of Carolina Heelsplitter were or are present within the proposed project study area, or within a one -mile radius of the proposed project study area. The USFWS Optimal Survey Window for the Carolina Heelsplitter is March -November. No individuals were observed in the study area during field reviews conducted by HARP in October 2020, May 2021, or in October 2021, during the optimal survey window. Based on the field reviews and the available databases, it is determined that this project will have 'no effect' on the Carolina Heelsplitter. 762 ZONE YRWTP TRANSMISSION MAIN PROJECT THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES SURVEY AND REPORT NOVEMBER 1 1TH, 2021 Rhus michauxii (Michaux's Sumac), State and Federal Listed Endangered Michaux's Sumac is a rhizomatous, densely hairy shrub, with erect stems from one to three feet in height. The compound leaves contain evenly serrated, oblong to lanceolate, acuminate leaflets. Most plants are unisexual; however, more recent observations have revealed plants with both male and female flowers on one plant. The flowers are small, borne in a terminal, erect, dense cluster, and colored greenish yellow to white. Flowering usually occurs from June to July; the fruit, a red drupe, is produced through the months of August to October. Michaux's Sumac grows in sandy or rocky open woods in association with basic soils. This plant reportedly survives best in areas where some form of disturbance has provided an open area. This plant is restricted to seven counties in North Carolina and is listed as historical in Union County. The proposed project study area has the proper habitat requirements preferred by this species. The NCNHP determined that no populations of Michaux's Sumac were or are present within the proposed project study area, or within a one -mile radius of the proposed project study area. The USFWS Optimal Survey Window for Michaux's Sumac is May -October. No individuals of Michaux's Sumac were observed in the study area during field reviews conducted by HARP in October 2020, May 2021, or October 2021, during the optimal survey window. Based on the field reviews and the available databases, it is determined that this project will have `no effect' on Michaux's Sumac. Federal Candidate Species Federal Candidate Species (C) are taxa for which the USFWS has on file enough substantial information on biological vulnerability and threat(s) to support proposals to list them as Endangered or Threatened. Development and publication of proposed rules on these taxa are anticipated. The USFWS encourages state and other federal agencies, as well as other affected parties to consider these taxa in environmental planning. As indicated on Table 1, there are two federal Candidate species documented in Union County, i.e., the Georgia Aster (Symphyotrichum georgianum), and the Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus). The Georgia Aster is listed as current in Union County. The NCNHP determined that no populations of Georgia Aster were or are present within the proposed project study area, or within a one -mile radius of the proposed project study area. The USFWS Optimal Survey Window for Georgia Aster is October -November. No individuals of Georgia Aster were observed during direct field reviews of the study area in October 2020 or October 2021, during the optimal survey window, or in May 2021. Based on the field reviews and the available databases, it is determined that this project will have `no effect' on the Georgia Aster. The Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is listed as a Candidate species in Union County on the USFWS Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS). No individuals of the Monarch Butterfly were observed during field reviews of the study area in October 2020, May 2021, or in October 2021. Based on the field reviews and the available databases, it is determined that this project will have `no effect' on the Monarch Butterfly. Federal Species of Concern Federal Species of Concern (FSC) are not afforded federal protection under the ESA and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. Federal species of concern are defined as those species that may or may not be listed in the future. These species were formally candidate species or species under consideration for listing for which there was insufficient information to support a listing of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered or Proposed Threatened. As indicated on Table 1, there is one Federal Species of Concern in Union County, i.e., the Pee Dee Crayfish (Dactylocythere peedeenis). The NCNHP determined that no populations of the Pee Dee Crayfish were or are present within the proposed project study area, or within a one -mile radius of the proposed project study area. No individuals were observed during field reviews of the study area in October 2020, May 2021, or in October 2021. Based on the field reviews and the available databases, it is determined that this project will have `no effect' on the Pee Dee Crayfish. 762 ZONE YRWTP TRANSMISSION MAIN PROJECT THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES SURVEY AND REPORT NOVEMBER 1 1 TH, 2021 Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protected Species The Bald Eagle was removed from the Federal List of Threatened and Endangered Species, effective on August 8, 2007. The Bald Eagle continues to be afforded protection pursuant to the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Habitat for the Bald Eagle primarily consists of mature forest in proximity to large bodies of open water for foraging. Large, dominant trees are utilized for nesting sites, typically within one mile of open water. The Bald Eagle is listed as current in Union County. Suitable habitat for the Bald Eagle does not exist within the study area. The NCNHP determined that no populations of Bald Eagle were or are present within the proposed project area, or within a one -mile radius of the proposed project area. The USFWS Optimal Survey Window for the Bald Eagle is year round. Field reviews were conducted by HARP in October 2020, May 2021, and October 2021. No individuals of this species were observed during field reviews. There is limited potential foraging habitat within the proposed project study area and within the immediate project vicinities. There are no large bodies of water located within the study area or within one mile of the study area. Therefore, based on the habitat requirements for Bald Eagle and the limited habitat within the study area and immediate vicinities, this species is not expected to be found within the proposed project study area, and it is determined that this project will have `no effect' on the Bald Eagle. State Listed Species In North Carolina, Endangered, Threatened, and Special Concern animals have legally protected status through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) and plants have legally protected status through the North Carolina Plant Conservation Program (NCPCP). Significantly Rare designations indicate rarity and the need for population monitoring and conservation action. However, it is a non -regulatory NC Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) designation. The NCNHP also maintains Watch Lists for species of plants and animals that are rare or uncommon, are not well studied, or are otherwise Threatened with serious decline but are not currently legally protected or designated as Significantly Rare. The NCNHP determined that the state listed Significantly Rare species Eastern Creekshell (Villosa delumbis), has been documented to be within the proposed project area, as well as within a one -mile radius of the proposed project area. During field reviews in October 2020, May 2021, and October 2021, no individuals of Eastern Creekshell were observed in Richardson Creek, Bull Branch, or any of the unnamed tributaries of either creek. Based on the field reviews and the available databases, it is determined that the effect this project will have `no effect' on these species. Closing No federally listed Threatened or Endangered species were observed within the proposed project area. We appreciate the opportunity to perform these services on this important project. Please do not hesitate to contact any of the undersigned if you have any questions. Respectfully submitted, Karri Blackmon President Brandon Phillips Senior Scientist Attachment A — Figures Attachment B — Regulatory Agency Correspondence Attachment C — Photographs Genevieve Honeycutt Environmental Scientist Attachment A — Figures 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Figure 1 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Site Location Map retrieved from Google Earth S I •.. .1 • .t r " ( 'CI % C. T• .1 t3 r- ti • 1 '4' f- r 1 1 Ir .- I fr , 45+;1 %I tier _ 'k 1 1 { 1 -..-.1:- 6 \ ' .7 i I I . . :ii:Thr: I 1 ti 11L - 1 r - 4_ .. r f % y i P .5' 1 f 1 f NIti - �4+.ti• • itQ ti 1-•IJ I � • I ~ r . % -.1k+- �`^ a ,I r 4 11 L 74 01 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www. ha bitatassessment.com HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Figure 2 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Topographic Map Map retrieved from USGS National Map 35° 4' 29' N 34° 59' 27" N Soil Map —Union County, North Carolina (NC 762) 1 1 1 1 1 548000 549000 550000 551000 552000 3 m M.13 Scale: 1:54,300 sprinted m A portrait (8.5' x 11") dieet. Meters N 0 500 1000 2000 3000 A trik,j. i 4L I I I I 553000 554000 5555000 58000 0 2500 5000 10000 Feet 15000 M� projecticn: V Meecatos Corm ccordinates: 1A,GS84 Edge tics: UTM Zcne 1 N 1A,GS84 USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service National Cooperative Soil Survey Web Soil Survey 92 in R 3 1/18/2021 Page 1 of 3 35° 428"N 34° 59'27'N 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www. ha bitatassessment.com HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Figure 3 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Soil Map Information collected from the NRCS Soil Web Attachment B — Regulatory Agency Correspondence a Mall a� i NC DEPARTMENT OF ■ ■F:aa1 NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES • Eon Roy Cooper. Governor Susi Hamilton. Secretary Walter Clark, Director, Land and Water Stewardship NCNHDE-13070 October 14, 2020 Karri Blackmon Habitat Assessment and Restoration Program, Inc. (HARP) 301 McCullough Drive Charlotte , NC 28262 RE: NC 762 Dear Karri Blackmon: 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: https://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, Clean Water Management Trust 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 rodney.butler@ncdcr.gov or 919-707-8603. Sincerely, NC Natural Heritage Program DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES ik 121 W. JONES STREET, RALEIGh 1_ NC 27603 • 16S1 MAIL SERVICE CENTER. ALEIOH. NC 27699 OFC V19 707.9120 • FAX 919.707.9121 Natural Heritage Element Occurrences, Natural Areas, and Managed Areas Intersecting the Project Area NC 762 October 14, 2020 NCNHDE-13070 Element Occurrences Documented Within Project Area axono EO ID Scientific Nam ommon Name Las lement Accuracy Federal State Global State Group Observation Occurrence Status Status Rank Rank _ fete Rank Freshwater 3063 Villosa delumbis Eastern Creekshell 2018-10-24 E 3-Medium Bivalve No Natural Areas are Documented within the Project Area No Managed Areas Documented within the Project Area Significantly G4 S4 Rare Definitions and an explanation of status designations and codes can be found at https://ncnhde.natureserve.ora/help. Data query generated on October 14, 2020; source: NCNHP, Q3 July 2020. Please resubmit your information request if more than one year elapses before project initiation as new information is continually added to the NCNHP database. Page 2 of 4 Taxonomic Group j Freshwater 3063 Villosa delumbis Bivalve Natural Heritage Element Occurrences, Natural Areas, and Managed Areas Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area NC 762 October 14, 2020 NCNHDE-13070 Element Occurrences Documented Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area Last Element Accuracy EO ID Scientific Named Common Name Eastern Creekshell servation Occurrence Date Rank 2018-10-24 E 3-Medium No Natural Areas are Documented Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area No Managed Areas are Documented Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area Federal Status State tatus Significantly Rare Global State Rank Rank G4 S4 Definitions and an explanation of status designations and codes can be found at https://ncnhde.natureserve.ora/help. Data query generated on October 14, 2020; source: NCNHP, Q3 July 2020. Please resubmit your information request if more than one year elapses before project initiation as new information is continually added to the NCNHP database. Page 3 of 4 NCNHDE-16269: 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Project Boundary n Buffered Project Boundary 1:77,586 0 0.5 1 2 mi 0 1 2 I 4 km Sources: Esp.!. HERE. Garmn. Irnermap. in men[ P Corp.. GESCO. USGS. FAO. NPS. NRCAN. GeoSase. IGN. Hadaster PAL. Ordnance Survey. Esri Japan. METE. Esn China (Hang Kong)_ Ec] Open$IreetMap Contributors, and the GIS user Community Page 4 of 4 IPaC U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service IPaC resource list This report is an automatically generated list of species and other resources such as criticilabitat (collectively referred to astrust resources under the U.S. Fish and WildlifeService's (USFWS) jurisdiction that are known or expected to be on or near the project areaeferenced below. The list may also include trust resources that occur outside of the project ared)ut that could potentially be directly or indirectly affected by activities in the project areaHowever, determining the likelihood and extent of effects a project may have on trust resourcetypically requires gathering additional site -specific (e.g., vegetation/species surveys) antroject-specific (e.g., magnitude and timing of proposed activities) information. Below is a summary of the project information you provided and contact information for the USFWS office(s)with jurisdiction in the defined project areaPlease read the introduction to each section that follows (Endangered Species, Migratory Birds, USFWS Facilities, and NWI Wetlands) for additional information applicable to the trust resources addressed in that section. v Project information NAME Union County NC 762 LOCATION Union County, North Carolina 0\)* 014PIC pirgote am ee'* yr04111— DESCRIPTION Some(Water line) Local office Asheville Ecological Services Field Office t. (828) 258-3939 fi (828) 258-5330 o‘As\)\-\ 160 Zillicoa Street Asheville, NC 28801-1082 http://www.fws.gov/nc-es/es/countyfr.html \40,c 04C)% Endangered species This resource list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an analysis of project level impacts. The primary information used to generate this list is the known or expected range of each species. Additional areas of influence (AOI) for species are also consideredAn AOI includes areas outside of the species range if the species could be indirectly affected by activities in that area (e.g., placing a dam upstream of a fish population even if that fish does not occur at the dam site, may indirectly impact the species by reducing or eliminating water flow downstream)3ecause species can move, and site conditions can change, the species on this list are not guaranteed to be found on or near the project area.To fully determine any potential effects to species, additional site -specific and project -specific information is often required. Section 7 of theEndangered Species Actrequires Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary information whether any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of such proposed action" for any project that is conducted, permitted, funded, or licensed by any Federal agency. A letter from the local office and a species list which fulfills this requirement can only be obtained by requesting an official species list from either the Regulatory Review section in IPaC (see directions below) or from the local field office directly. For project evaluations that require USFWS concurrence/review, please return to the IPaC website and request an official species list by doing the following: 1. Log into IPaC. 2. Go to your My Projects list. 3. Click PROJECT HOME for this project. 4. Click REQUEST SPECIES LIST. Listed species and their critical habitats are managed by thEEcological Services Program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the fisheries division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA Fisheries). Species and critical habitats under the sole responsibility of NOAA Fisheries are not shown on this list. Please contactNOAA Fisheries forspecies under their jurisdiction. 1. Species listed under theEndangered Species Actare threatened or endangered; IPaC also shows species that are candidates, or proposed, for IistingSee the listing status ag_e for more information. IPaC only showsspecies that are regulated by USFWS (see FAQ). 2. NOAA Fisheries also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce. The following species are potentially affected by activities in this location: Clams NAME STATUS Carolina Heelsplitter Lasmigona decorata Wherever found There is final critical habitat for this species The location of the critical habitat is not available. https://ecos.fws.gov/eca/species/3534 Insects Endangered NAME STATUS Monarch Butterfly Danaus plexippus Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecL/species/9743 Flowering Plants NAME Candidate STATUS I I -C 111 1111111 I I I Michaux's Sumac Rhus michauxii E g Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. 1111116.0.PS https://ecos.fws.gov/ecL/species/5217 ISI\13 Schweinitz's Sunflower Helianthus schweinit Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/specjes/3849 Critical habitats_ Endangered Potential effects to critical habitat(s) in this location must be analyzed along with the endangered species themselves. THERE ARE NO CRITICAL HABITATS AT THIS LOCATION. Vigratory birds Certain birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Adtand the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act-. Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to migratory birds, eagles, and their habitats should follow appropriate regulations and consider implementing appropriate conservation measures, as describecbelow. 1. The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918. 2. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940. Additional information can be found using the following links: • Birds of Conservation Concernhttp://www.fws.gov/birds/management/managed-species/ birds-of-conservation-concern..atp • Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds http://www.fws.gov/birds/management/project-assessment-tools-and-guidance/ conservation -measures. .h.p • Nationwide conservation measures for birds http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/pdf/management/nationwidestandardconservationmeasures.p THERE ARE NO MIGRATORY BIRDS OF CONSERVATION CONCERN EXPECTED TO OCCUR AT THIS LOCATION. Tell me more about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory birds. Nationwide Conservation Measuresdescribes measures that can help avoid and minimize impacts to all birds at any location year round. Implementatiorof these measures is particularly important when birds are most likely to occur in the project area. When birds maybe breeding in the area, identifying the locations of any active nests and avoiding their destruction is a veryhelpful impact minimization measure. To see when birds are most likely to occur and be breeding in your projectarea, view the Probability of Presence Summary. dditional measuresor permits may be advisabledepending on the type of activity you are conducting and the type of infrastructure or bird species present on your project site. ,V0 %or What does IPaC use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location? The Migratory Bird Resource List is comprised of USFW5iIrds of Conservation Concern (BCC)and other species that may warrant special attention in your project location. The migratory bird list generated for your project is derived from data provided by thkvian Knowledge Network (AKN).The AKN data is basedon a growing collection ofsurvey, banding, and citizen science datasetsand is queried and filtered to return a list of those birds reported as occurring in the 10km grid cell(s) which your project intersects, and that have been identified as warranting special attention because they are a BCC species in that area, an eagle ( requirements may apply), or a species that has a particular vulnerability to offshore activities or development. Again, the Migratory Bird Resource list includes only a subset of birds that may occur in your project area. Itrirot representative of all birds that may occur in your project area. To get a list of all birds potentially present your project area, please visit theAKN Phenology Tool. What does IPaC use to generate the probability of presence graphs for the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location? The probability of presence graphs associated with your migratory bird list are based on data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN)This data is derived from a growing collection ofurvey, banding, and citizen science datasets. Probability of presence data is continuously being updated as new and better information becomes available. To learn more about how the probability of presence graphs are produced and how to interpret them, go the Probabilityof Presence Summary and then click on the "Tell me about these graphs" link. How do I know if a bird is breeding, wintering, migrating or present year-round in my project area? To see what part of a particular bird's range your project area falls within (i.e. breeding, wintering, migrating year-round), you may refer to the following resourcesThe Cornell Lab of Ornithology All About Birds Bird Guidgor (if you are unsuccessful in locating the bird of interest there), thEornell Lab of Ornithology Neotropical Birds guide. If a bird on your migratory bird species list has a breeding season associated with it, if that bird does occur in your project area, there may be nests present at some point within the timeframe specifiedf: "Breeds elsewhere" is indicated, then the bird likely does not breed in your project area. What are the levels of concern for migratory birds? Migratory birds delivered through IPaC fall into the following distinct categories of concern: 1. "BCC Rangewide" birds areBirds of Conservation Concern(BCC) that are of concern throughout their range anywhere within the USA(including Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands); 2. "BCC - BCR" birds are BCCs that are of concern only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA; and 3. "Non -BCC -Vulnerable" birds are not BCC species in your project area, but appear on your list either because of the Eagle Act requirements (for eagles) or (for non -eagles) potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain typesof development or activities (e.g. offshore energy development or longline fishing). Although it is important to try to avoid and minimize impacts to all birds, efforts should be made, in particulaq avoid and minimize impacts to the birds on this list, especially eagles and BCC species of rangewide concerFior more information on conservation measures you can implement to help avoid and minimize migratory bird impacts and requirements for eagles, please see the FAQs for these topics. Details about birds that are potentially affected by offshore projects For additional details about the relative occurrence and abundance of both individual bird species argtoups of bird species within your project area off the Atlantic Coast, please visit thNortheast Ocean Data Portal The Portal also offers data and information about other taxa besides birds that may be helpful to you in yoynroject review. Alternately, you may download the bird model results files underlying the portal maps through tl-NOAA NCCOS Integrative Statistical Modeling and Predictive Mapping of Marine Bird Distributions and Abundance on the Atlantic Outer Continental Shelfproject webpage. Bird tracking data can also provide additional details about occurrence and habitat use throughout the year, including migration.Models relying on survey data may not include this informatiorEor additional information on marine bird tracking data, see theDiving Bird Studyand the nanotag studiesor contactCaleb Spiegel orPam Loring. tr, What if I have eagles on my list? If your project has the potential to disturb or kill eagles, you may need tobtain a permitto avoid violating the Eagle Act should such impacts occur. Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report The migratory bird list generated is not a list of all birds in your project area, only a subset of birds pfiority concern. To learn more about how your list is generated, and see options for identifying what other biraleay be in your project area, please see the FAQ "What does IPaC use to generate the migratory birds potentiahhccurring in my specified location". Please be aware this report provides the "probability of presence" of biralsithin the 10 km grid cell(s) that overlap your project; not your exact project footprint. On the graphs provide¢Jease also look carefully at the survey effort (indicated by the black vertical bar) and for the existence of thio data" indicator (a red horizontal bar). A high survey effort is the key component. If the survey effort is higlbhen the probability of presence score can be viewed as more dependable. In contrast, a low survey effort bar or nebata bar means a lack of data and, therefore, a lack of certainty about presence of the species. This list is ncpterfect; it is simply a starting point for identifying what birds of concern have the potential to be in yogaroject area, when they might be there, and if they might be breeding (which means nests might be present). The likelps you know what to THERE ARE NO REFUGE LANDS AT THIS LOCATION. Fish hatcheries THERE ARE NO FISH HATCHERIES AT THIS LOCATION look for to confirm presence, and helps guide you in knowing when to implement conservatiomneasures to avoid or minimize potential impacts from your project activities, should presence be confirmed. To leammore about conservation measures, visit the FAQ "Tell me about conservation measures I can implement to avoid mnrinimize impacts to migratory birds" at the bottom of your migratory bird trust resources page. Facilities National Wildlife Refuge lands Any activity proposed on lands managed by th\lational Wildlife Refuge system must undergo a 'Compatibility Determination' conducted by the Refuge. Please contact the individual Refuges to discuss any questions or concerns. A\L )\" Wetlands in the National Wetlands Inventory Impacts to NWI wetlands and other aquatic habitats may be subject to regulation under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, or other State/Federal statutes. For more information please contact the Regulatory Program of the Ioc JJ.S. Army Corps of Engineers District. Please note that the NWI data being shown may be out of date. We are currently working to update our NWI data set.We recommend you verify these results with a site visit to determine the actual extent of wetlands on site. This location overlaps the following wetlands: FRESHWATER FORESTED/SHRUB WETLAND PFO1A RIVERINE R2UBH R4SBC R5UBH A full description for each wetland code can be found at thNational Wetlands Inventory website Data limitations The Service's objective of mapping wetlands and deepwater habitats is to produce reconnaissance level information on the location, type and size of these resources. The maps are prepared from the analysis of high altitude imagery. Wetlands are identified based on vegetation, visible hydrology and geography. A margin of error is inherent in the use of imagery; thus, detailed on -the -ground inspection of any particular site may result in revision of the wetland boundaries or classification established through image analysis. The accuracy of image interpretation depends on the quality of the imagery, the experience of the image analysts the amount and quality of the collateral data and the amount of ground truth verification work conducted. Metadata should be consulted to determine the date of the source imagery used and any mapping problems. Wetlands or other mapped features may have changed since the date of the imagery or field work. There may be occasional differences in polygon boundaries or classifications between the information depicted on the map and the actual conditions on site. Data exclusions Certain wetland habitats are excluded from the National mapping program because of the limitations of aerial imagery as the primary data source used to detect wetlands. These habitats include seagrasses or submerged aquatic vegetation that are found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of estuaries and nearshore coastal waters. Some deepwater reef communities (coral or tuberficid worm reefs) have also been excluded from the inventory. These habitats, because of their depth, go undetected by aerial imagery. Data precautions Federal, state, and local regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over wetlands may define and describe wetlands in a different manner than that used in this inventory. There is no attempt, in either the design or products of this inventory, to define the limits of proprietary jurisdiction of any Federal, state, or local government or to establish the geographical scope of the regulatory programs of government agencies. Persons intending to engage in activities involving modifications within or adjacent to wetland areas should seek the advice of appropriate federal, state, or local agencies concerning specified agency regulatory programs and proprietary jurisdictions that may affect such activities. Attachment C — Photographs 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com H A R kA HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Photo 1 Roadway/ roadside area within proposed project alignment 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Charlotte, North Carolina 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com H A R 0 11 !, , , , ii i i HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Photo 2 Richardson Creek — area within proposed project alignment 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Charlotte, North Carolina 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com HARP HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Photo 3 Bull Branch — area within proposed project alignment 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Charlotte, North Carolina 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com HARP,,iii HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Photo 4 UT to Bull Branch — area within proposed project alignment 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Charlotte, North Carolina 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com H A R HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Photo 5 Wetland area within proposed project alignment 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Charlotte, North Carolina 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com HARP,,iii HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Photo 6 Farmland area within proposed project alignment 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Charlotte, North Carolina 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 Office: 704.841.2841 Fax: 704.841.2447 Email: info@habitatassessment.com www.habitatassessment.com HARP,,iii HABITAT ASSESSMENT & RESTORATION PROFESSIONALS Photo 7 Forested area within proposed project alignment near new WWTP 762 Zone YRWTP Transmission Main Project Charlotte, North Carolina