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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20221253 Ver 1_SAW-2022-00530_Sliding Knob_Prospectus_RS LLC French Broad 05 UMBI__20221101ID#* 20221253 Select Reviewer: Erin Davis Initial Review Completed Date 11/03/2022 Mitigation Project Submittal - 11/1/2022 Version* 1 Is this a Prospectus, Technical Proposal or a New Site?* Type of Mitigation Project:* Stream Wetlands Buffer Nutrient Offset (Select all that apply) Project Contact Information Contact Name:* Raymond Holz Project Information ID#:* 20221253 Existing ID# Project Type: DMS • Mitigation Bank Project Name: Sliding Kbob Mitigation Site County: Madison Document Information O Yes O No Email Address:* rholz@restorationsystems.com Version:* 1 Existing Version Mitigation Document Type:* Mitigaton Bank Prospectus File Upload: SAW-2022-00530 Sliding Knob_Prospectus_RS LLC 11.22MB French Broad 05 UMBI_.pdf Please upload only one PDF of the complete file that needs to be submitted... Signature Print Name: * Raymond Holz Signature: * FRENCH BROAD 05 UMBRELLA MITIGATION BANK PROSPECTUS Sponsored by: RESTORATION SYSTEMS LLC Prepared for: The North Carolina Inter-Agency Review Team; for distribution and comment Sponsored by: Prepared by: Restoration Systems, LLC Axiom Environmental, Inc. POC: Raymond Holz POC: Grant Lewis Ph: 919-755-9490 Ph: 919-215-1693 1101 Haynes Street, Suite 211 218 Snow Avenue Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 Raleigh, North Carolina 27603 September 2022 Restoration Systems, LLC 1101 Haynes St. Suite 211 Raleigh, North Carolina Ph: (919) 755-9490 Fx: (919) 755-9492 RS French Broad 05 UMBI – Prospectus Site Visit and Response Gentry Branch, SAW-2022-00528 Davis Cove, SAW-2022-00529 Sliding Knob, SAW-2022-00530 On July 12 and 13, 2022, site visits were conducted to review the proposed Phase 1 Bank Parcels of the Restoration Systems French Broad 05 UMBI Draft Prospectus: Davis Cove (July 12), Gentry Branch (July 13), and Sliding Knob (July 13). Each Bank Parcel (Site\[s\]) was introduced and discussed using figures and narrative from the Draft Prospectus, and then walked each Site to review the proposed mitighation approaches. A list of general comments for all Sites along with Site specific comments is included below. Attendees: USACE – Steve Kichefski and Todd Tugwell DWR – Erin Davis NCWRC – Andrea Leslie and Dave McHenry Restoration Systems – Alex Baldwin and J.D. Hamby General Comments for all Sites: 1.Check with Landowners about adjacent future land use plans including timber management plans. Added to 4.2 “Landowners will be consulted about adjacent future land use plans, including timber management.” 2.Note preservation reaches are not eligible for wider buffer tool, use 2012 stream preservation guidelines to justify appropriate mitigation ratios. Noted 3.If additional assets and/or expanded conservation easements are to be sought include them in the final prospectus so they can be evaluated during the public comment period. A PJD field visit was conducted, and assets have been added to figures & documents. Easements have been expanded and included on figures. 4.Expand buffers in preservation areas beyond minimum to at least 75-ft and capture the existing road network and lower ratios (i.e. 8 or 9:1 for preservation) will be considered. Buffers were expanded in preservation areas to a minimum width of 75 ft. 5.Where possible expand buffers to capture adjacent steep slopes and extend to ridge lines. Expanded buffers have been included where feasible. 6.Buffer width does not have to be uniform but should be increased and reduce the amount of corners as much as possible. Understood 7.On Existing Conditions Figures include existing fence lines so the buffer being gained with the easement can be visualized, especially for Davis Cove. Fences will be located during detailed planning, For the final prospectus, approximate fence locations have been depicted on figures. 8.Making crossings internal as much as possible. Noted 1101 Haynes St., Suite 211 • Raleigh, NC 27604 • www.restorationsystems.com • Ph 919.755.9490 • Fx 919.755.9492 9.Provide additional narrative and a figure with the existing and target vegetative communities and species being restored, use onsite preservation areas for reference community vegetation species. Species from vegetation communities in onsite preservation areas will be used in association with Schafale 2012, during detailed restoration planning. Updated planting communities have been included in this prospectus. 10.If species (ie witch hazel, yellow buckeye, rhododendron, etc.) from onsite reference community are not available during initial planting, it is okay to delay planting of these species for 1-2 years in order to plant these appropriate species. Added to 9.2.6 “If desirable species from onsite communities are not available at the time of initial planting, they may be planted at a later date.” 11.Invasive treatment needs to occur prior to or during construction. Added to 9.3.1 “Invasive species will be treated before and during construction. In addition, White Pine (Pinus strobus), rose (Rosa multiflora), and Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) will be treated both mechanically and chemically.” 12.Remove Black Walnut and White Pine trees in areas where they dominate canopy composition. Added to 9.3.1 “Invasive species will be treated before and during construction. In addition, White Pine (Pinus strobus), rose (Rosa multiflora), and Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) will be treated both mechanically and chemically.” 13.Be mindful of and consider planting schedule in enhancement areas where existing canopy has shade coverage and slopes are steep. Added to 9.2.6 “Plantings will also take into consideration the slope of the bank and existing shade coverage from the canopy” 14.In Mitigation Plan include a summary table of existing culverts (material, dimensions, condition, proposed change). Understood 15.Assess streams in winter particularly in areas with heavy invasive vegetation to identify any areas where bank stabilization is needed. Added to 9.2.1 “Streams will be evaluated in winter for the detailed plan, in order to identify problematic areas necessitating bank stabilization” 16.The DWR rule stating that only 25% of credits can come from preservation assets for total credits purchased for impacts remains in place. This is calculated by credits and not linear feet of stream preservation. Understood Davis Cove 1.UT-1 a.Evaluate vegetation in enhancement and preservation areas with respect to invasives and black walnut to determine if approach and ratio are appropriate. Added “In addition, the treatment of black walnut (Juglans nigra), rose (Rosa multiflora), and white pine (Pinus strobus) in the disturbed canopy will be conducted. Further surveys of the stream channel, during the winter months, will be conducted to determine spot bank treatments that will be required to justify an appropriate mitigation ratio.” 2.UT-2 a.Provide additional information regarding LTM of White Pine stand outside of easement. Land management outside of the conservation easement will be further evaluated during detailed mitigation planning. b.If propose to remove white pines within buffer consider additional bank work and adjust ratio. Page 2 of 9 Added “In addition, the treatment of black walnut (Juglans nigra), rose (Rosa multiflora), and white pine (Pinus strobus) in the disturbed canopy will be conducted. Further surveys of the stream channel, during the winter months, will be conducted to determine spot bank treatments that will be required to justify an appropriate mitigation ratio.” c.Further investigate stream channel in preservation reach, the channel appears to go underground and switch sides of the valley. Also, the upper section did not have any flow. This area was captured with GPS mapping equipment. The channel has been updated on Site mapping. d.Stabilize culvert outfall and replace smooth wall culvert. Added “Further surveys of the stream channel, during the winter months, will be conducted to determine spot bank treatments and the stabilization of culvert outfall that will be required to justify an appropriate mitigation ratio.” 3.UT-3 a.Restoration i.Approve of the restoration approach at 1:1 ratio, in the AMP discuss measures to ensure stream channel remains intact and does not evolve into a linear wetland. Understood. ii.Consider extending restoration reach upstream a little further. The Restoration reach has been extended further upstream. b.Enhancement II (2.5:1) i.Consider adjusting ratio to include some structures and spot bank work. This reach has been changed to Enhancement I to tie into the downstream Enhancement I reach of UT-5 and Restoration reach of UT-3. c.Enhancement II (7.5:1) i.Extend enhancement into preservation reach to existing road crossing and justify with black walnut and rose removal, understory planting, and spot bank work. Enhancement II has been extended upstream and the ratio has been reduced to 5:1. ii.When removing culvert in upper reach check upstream sediment. Understood iii.Cow wallow areas are a source od sediment address with buffer width. Buffers have been expanded to address cow wallows and associated sediment discharge. iv.Downstream section of this reach includes a high density of invasive vegetation that require treatment. Invasive treatments will occur throughout the reach. 4.UT-4 a.Okay to leave existing spring house structure and start stream project at base of structure. Understood b.Expand conservation easement upslope in a semicircle to capture more of the drainage area around the spring house structure. The easement has been updated to capture semicircle above spring house 5.UT-5 a.Enhancement II (2.5:1) Page 3 of 9 i.Consider adjusting ratio to include some structures and spot bank work. This reach has been changed to Enhancement I to reflect alterations of the perched crossing, bank stabilization, and channel tie-in to the downstream restoration reaches. ii.Discuss stabilizing perched culvert and what that crossing will be. The UT-5 crossing is proposed to be bridged to allow connectivity of upstream and downstream hydrology and wildlife passage. This reach will initiate Enhancement I work that will elevate the channel bed to match upstream of the bridge/culvert. Added “Stream Enhancement I is proposed at a perched crossing on UT-5 to elevate the channel to allow wildlife passage and hydrologic connection to the upstream preservation reach. This enhancement is intended to continue downstream and elevate the channel for connection to the downstream restoration reach. The enhancement of this reach is expected to entail the installation of structures for bank stabilization, grade control, and habitat. The reach is expected to be raised to allow for connectivity to a floodplain, or at a minimum, constructing a wider floodplain within the valley. Managed livestock water supply features will be removed from the conservation easement.” iii.Discuss removal of cattle water supply. Managed livestock water supply features will be removed from the conservation easement. b.Enhancement II (7.5:1) i.Appears to be opportunities for spot channel and bank work ~700-ft upstream of crossing Added “Further surveys of the stream channel, during the winter months, will be conducted to determine spot bank treatments and the stabilization of culvert outfall that will be required to justify an appropriate mitigation ratio.” ii.Justify approach with regards to black walnut, buffer width, and revegetation in shaded areas. Added “In addition, the treatment of black walnut (Juglans nigra), rose (Rosa multiflora), and white pine (Pinus strobus) in the disturbed canopy will be conducted.” c.Enhancement II (10:1) i.Existing vegetation is much better than downstream with minimal black walnut and rose. Understood ii.Be mindful of existing road with relation to proposed conservation easement. Understood 6.UT-6 a.Check to see if road and stream are mapped correctly, no stream feature was observed immediately upstream/downstream of the road crossing. This stream was delineated as part of the PJD. 7.UT-7 a.For reach from crossing to remain to confluence with UT-3 adjust approach from preservation to enhancement, keep preservation above road crossing to remain. Mapping has been updated. b.Justify enhancement by planting understory (consider rhododendron), spot bank work, remove sediment and enhance bed material. Added: “Understory plantings will take place where appropriate. Further surveys of the stream channel during the winter months will be conducted to determine spot bank treatments and the stabilization of culvert outfall that will be required to justify an appropriate mitigation ratio.” Page 4 of 9 c.Note check crenulation between UT-7 and UT-6 to see if it is a stream or wetland. This crenulation has been added during PJD field work (UT-9). 8.UT-8 a.For lower road crossing to be decommissioned, repair section of stream that has been impacted by road crossing and ensure that stream flows do not migrate down old roadbed. Understood Gentry Branch 1.Wetlands a.Wetland rehabilitation and preservation areas UT-1 and UT-3 could all be proposed as wetland enhancement. Maps and credit tables have been updated accordingly. 2.UT-1 a.Grading depth in adjacent wetland areas during the construction of the new channel during restoration may impact ratios due to wetland creation vs enhancement. Understood b.The paralleling flow path for UT-1 and 2 was considered appropriate given the topography on site and existing conditions. Maps and credit tables have been updated to include parallel channels. 3.UT-2 a.Would like to see spot bank work included in upper reaches, if there are continuous sections requiring work they can be broken out into different ratios. Evaluate bank condition in winter once invasive vegetation is gone. Added “Further surveys of the stream channel during the winter months will be conducted to determine spot bank treatments that will be required to justify an appropriate mitigation ratio.” b.Remove section of restoration that creates a confluence with UT-1 and extend enhancement down to property line, as there was concern about affecting existing hydrology to downstream properties. This reach has been changed to Restoration due to cross-section data indicating it is classified as an F-type channel with a bank-height-ratio of 2.6 c.The downstream end near the property line has an active headcut that needs to be addressed with 2-3 structures. Consider this when justifying the ratio for this reach. Cross-section data taken for this reach indicates restoration is appropriate. d.Treat white pine saplings. Understood 4.UT-3 a.Concern about amount of rose around pasture edges. Treatment of these species will occur. b.Noted channel is seep like with notable amounts of sand and silt, consider using a spring fed reference with a wide channel that includes braids and rhododendron vegetation community. Understood Page 5 of 9 c.Will need to be mindful of bed material and make sure channel and flow are maintained so it does not become a wetland due to the shallow slope. Understood d.Consider shallow banks designed for low discharge. Understood e.Flow gauge will be required as it is an intermittent stream. A flow gauge will be installed as part of detailed mitigation planning. 5.Baker Branch a.Where Baker Branch and UT-5 touch consider redirecting the existing Baker Branch channel hydrology into UT-5 and proposing as enhancement, lower section of UT-5 would become the new Baker Branch. The map and credit tables have been updated to reflect a confluence of these two channels. b.If approach above is used install a 100-ft plug immediately below where UT-5 and Baker Branch touch along what is mapped as Baker Branch. Below plug smooth and grade left bank into what will become the relict stream channel of Baker Branch to stabilize. Added “The lower reaches of Baker Branch appear to have been manipulated such that multiple channels braid through the valley. A component of stream enhancement includes diverting Baker Branch into a single channel, plugging the relict, abandoned channel, capturing sediment off slopes in the relict channel, treating invasive species, and supplemental planting in the reach.” c.AMP would need to address potential for sediment contributions and long-term stability along right bank of the relict Baker Branch channel. See above. d.Even though a low remnant rock berm remains, removing it might cause bank destabilization and sediment inputs. Since it is stable it was deemed prudent to work around this unless sections are found to be unstable. Understood. 6.UT-5 a.Appears UT-5 hydrology is disconnected from historic channel at existing road crossing. At road crossing stream begins to flow down road crossing and continues for several hundred feet before deviating from existing road. UT-5 will be diverted into its historic channel. Figures have been updated accordingly. b.Need to address whether we propose to plug existing channel at road crossing and reconnect UT- 5 to historic channel or leave as is and adjust preservation ratio upward. This area will be evaluated during detailed mitigation planning. c.Further evaluate all existing features in this area to determine proper channel locations determined by topography and confluences with Baker Branch. Understood, these areas will be evaluated during detailed mitigation planning. 7.UT-4 a.Evaluate vegetation for invasives to ensure it is appropriate for preservation or justify enhancement level work instead in downstream section. Page 6 of 9 The reach of UT-4 along the old powerline and road have been adjusted to enhancement II on maps and the credit table. b.Consider approach discussed below regarding decommissioning and stabilizing old road. Understood 8.Preservation a.Lump upper preservation reaches into the same ratio. Preservation has been lumped into a single ratio. b.Some downstream preservation reaches may be proposed at different ratios. Preservation has been lumped into a single ratio. c.Mention the threat of logging as a justification. Added ”Although the Site is not under direct threat, the upper reaches of Baker Branch have been cleared and logged in the past and future timber harvesting practices could pose a threat.” 9.Existing Driveway a.Extra consideration needs to be given to decommissioning the road including ripping, grading, planting of herbaceous, planting of woody species, and regrading to connect with left bank of Baker Branch. Added “An existing driveway occurs along the lower reaches of Baker Branch. This road will be decommissioned through work including ripping, grading, planting of herbaceous, planting of woody species, and regrading to connect with left bank of Baker Branch.” b.Need to ensure future access is effectively removed at entrance to ensure no trespassing occurs. Understood Sliding Knob 1.UT-1 a.E II (7.5:1) Planting plan needs to account for steep slopes along with black walnut and rose treatments. Understood b.Prefer to remove crossing all together as any culverted crossing will be difficult to allow for aquatic passage given the slope. A bridged crossing has been proposed for this reach. c.Unmapped UT along downstream left bank with perennial macroinvertebrates will be determined by JD if proposed. This reach (now UT-6) has been included on figures and will be verified by a PJD. d.Road needs to be moved outside of easement to justify better ratio for enhancement. Road will be decommissioned through the majority of its length. e.Need additional information to justify shift in enhancement ratios. Added “Enhancement is proposed for three different mitigation ratios. Enhancement (2.5:1) has been proposed for reaches where both banks are characterized largely by pasture. Enhancement (5:1) has been proposed for reaches where one side of the reach is wooded, but woods are largely characterized by black walnut (Juglans nigra), and livestock frequently access the stream. Enhancement (7.5:1) has been proposed where one side of the stream is wooded and livestock do not have significant access to the reach.” f.In agreement to keep existing rock wall at the origin of UT-1. Understood Page 7 of 9 2.UT-2 a.Concerned about small drainage area and potential for stream to become a seep linear wetland. Understood b.Give consideration for dimensions to ensure channel maintains flow throughout monitoring. Understood c.Expand the conservation easement in a semicircle above the stream origin. The easement has been updated to include some area upstream of the stream origin. d.Stream will require a flow gauge as it is intermittent. Understood 3.UT-3 a.Unclear about the downstream and upstream channel location for restoration and whether it will move from its current alignment. Further topographic surveys will occur to verify locations of restoration. b.Justify improvements to be made along the entire stream, in agreement with the uplift to be gained in the upper reach. Understood c.Difficult to see what is being done to the channel given the amount of wetland seeps surrounding the flow. Understood – RS will ensure to provide additional detail regarding wetland seeps and their interaction with the stream mitigation approach. d.Consider starting stream restoration below the existing road crossing and enhancing the wetland seep upstream of the origin. Stream origin has been moved below the road on figures. e.Expand the conservation easement in a semicircle above the wetland enhancement footprint. The easement has been expanded above the wetland enhancement. f.Potential to include an additional stream feature below the existing road and west of UT-3, will be determined by JD if proposed. This reach has been added (UT-7) during PJD field work and will be confirmed by the USACE. 4.UT-4 a.Stream origin may occur further upslope, will be determined by JD if proposed. Understood b.For the enhancement reach unsure if a single thread stream is appropriate, consider a braided stream using live stakes (i.e. elderberry) for planting to shade out the veg in the channel. Understood c.For restoration reach can see how a single thread would be appropriate as it flows towards UT-5. Understood d.May require wetland precon gauges to ensure there is not wetland loss via a single thread stream restoration approach. A precon gauge will be installed in this wetland during detailed mitigation planning. 5.UT-5 a.In agreement on approach, would like to see a wider buffer to capture and stabilize the existing road. Page 8 of 9 Wider buffers have been added to the easement. 6.Preservation Areas a.Will be evaluated during JD but noted this preservation component is normal given the distribution of mitigation approaches. Understood RS will coordinate with Steve Kichefski for the public notice once the IRT comments are addressed and the Final Prospectus is approved. RS will coordinate with the Corps on updates to the Draft Prospectus before the June field meeting. Page 9 of 9 7 -TU ³ RayHolz From:McHenry,DavidG<david.mchenry@ncwildlife.org> Sent:Friday,August05,20229:01AM To:RayHolz;SteveKichefski Subject:RE:\[External\]RSFrenchBroad05UMBIProspectusSiteVisits(June6th&7th)SiteVisitMinutes ThanksforgreatnotesRay. LookslikethefewobservationsIhadwereinheresavethenoteabouttherillontheroadoverUT7atDavisCove site.Now,IķƚƓ͸Ʒknowifitisreallyrelevanttothebankproper(alsosincerunoffisalsocomingfrombeyondbuffer area?),soIdidnotbotherthewholegroupwiththis.ButIthoughtitmaybeworthrementionsinceitcould nonethelessbeaheadachelater.Maybethelandownermaynothaveissuewithturningthatwaterupthere? Thanks Dave From:RayHolz<rholz@restorationsystems.com> Sent:Friday,July29,20229:19AM To:SteveKichefski<Steven.l.kichefski@usace.army.mil> Cc:Davis,ErinB<erin.davis@ncdenr.gov>;Leslie,AndreaJ<andrea.leslie@ncwildlife.org>;McHenry,DavidG <david.mchenry@ncwildlife.org>;Tugwell,ToddJCIVUSARMYCESAW(US)<Todd.J.Tugwell@usace.army.mil>;John Hamby<jhamby@restorationsystems.com>;AlexBaldwin<abaldwin@restorationsystems.com>;GrantLewisAxiom Environmental(glewis@axiomenvironmental.org)<glewis@axiomenvironmental.org>;AllisonKeith <akeith@axiomenvironmental.org> Subject:\[External\]RSFrenchBroad05UMBIProspectusSiteVisits(June6th&7th)SiteVisitMinutes CAUTION:Externalemail.Donotclicklinksoropenattachmentsunlessyouverify.Sendallsuspiciousemailasanattachmentto ReportSpam. Steve&IRTmembersΑ Iamattachingacopyofthesitevisitminutesforyourreviewandcommentregardingw{͸ƭFrenchBroad04UMBI (GentryBranch,DavisCove,&SlidingKnob). Sincerely, RaymondHolz ----- ------ ------ RaymondJ.Holz|RestorationSystems,LLC 1101HaynesSt.Suite211|Raleigh,NC27604 cell:919.604.9314|fax:919.755.9492 tel:919.334.9122| email:rholz@restorationsystems.com Email correspondence to and from this sender is subject to the N.C. Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties. 1 Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Project Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Bank Sponsor and Contact Information ...................................................................................... 2 2 ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION ....................................................................................................... 2 2.1 Umbrella Mitigation Banking Instrument ................................................................................... 2 2.2 Credit Determination .................................................................................................................. 2 2.3 Credit Release Schedule .............................................................................................................. 3 3 GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA AND USE OF CREDITS ............................................................................. 3 4 WATERSHED CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................................ 3 4.1 Watershed Environmental Concerns and Mitigation Needs ...................................................... 3 4.2 Bank Site Selection ...................................................................................................................... 4 5 OWNERSHIP, EASEMENT HOLDER, AND LONG-TERM MANAGEMENT ................................................ 4 6 QUALIFICATIONS OF SPONSOR ............................................................................................................. 5 7 ECOLOGICAL SUITABILITY OF SITES ...................................................................................................... 5 8 FINANCIAL ASSURANCES ...................................................................................................................... 6 9 MITIGATION PLAN ................................................................................................................................ 6 9.1 Reference Data ........................................................................................................................... 6 9.1.1 Stream Reference .......................................................................................................... 6 9.1.2 Reference Forest Ecosystem .......................................................................................... 7 9.2 Design Approach ......................................................................................................................... 7 9.2.1 Stream Restoration ........................................................................................................ 7 9.2.2 Stream Enhancement I ................................................................................................... 7 9.2.3 Stream Enhancement II .................................................................................................. 8 9.2.4 Stream Preservation ...................................................................................................... 8 9.2.5 Wetlands ........................................................................................................................ 8 9.2.6 Riparian Restoration ...................................................................................................... 8 9.3 Site Work Plans ........................................................................................................................... 9 9.3.1 Belt-width Preparation and Grading .............................................................................. 9 9.3.2 Channel Excavations .................................................................................................... 10 9.3.3 Channel Plugs ............................................................................................................... 10 9.3.4 Channel Backfilling ....................................................................................................... 10 9.3.5 Stream Crossings .......................................................................................................... 10 9.3.6 In-stream Structures .................................................................................................... 11 10 MONITORING PLAN ............................................................................................................................ 11 10.1 Stream Monitoring .................................................................................................................... 12 10.2 Wetland Monitoring ................................................................................................................. 12 10.3 Vegetation Monitoring .............................................................................................................. 12 10.4 Visual Monitoring ...................................................................................................................... 12 11 ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT AND REMEDIAL MEASURES ..................................................................... 13 11.1 Stream Instability ...................................................................................................................... 13 11.2 Vegetation ................................................................................................................................. 13 11.3 Invasive Species ........................................................................................................................ 13 12 HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS ...................................................................... 13 Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Table of Contents Phase 1 – Prospectus 13 ENDANGERED AND PROTECTED SPECIES ........................................................................................... 13 13.1 Gray Bat ..................................................................................................................................... 14 13.2 Northern Long-Eared Bat .......................................................................................................... 14 13.3 Preliminary Biological Conclusions ........................................................................................... 14 14 ASSURANCE OF SUFFICIENT WATER RIGHTS ...................................................................................... 14 15 CONCLUSIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 14 16 REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................................ 16 17 FIGURES .............................................................................................................................................. 17 List of Tables Table 1: Phase 1 Site Summary ..................................................................................................................... 1 Table 2: Hydrological Function Objectives and Proposed Actions ............................................................... 1 Table 3: Water Quality Function Objectives and Proposed Actions ............................................................. 2 Table 4: Habitat Function Objectives and Proposed Actions ........................................................................ 2 Table 5: Population Growth in French Broad 05........................................................................................... 4 List of Figures Figure 1: Site Locations Map Figure 2: Hydrologic Unit Map Figure 3: Geographic Service Area Map Appendices Appendix A: Gentry Branch Mitigation Site Appendix B: Davis Cove Mitigation Site Appendix C: Sliding Knob Mitigation Site Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Table of Contents Phase 1 – Prospectus 1INTRODUCTION Restoration Systems, LLC ("Bank Sponsor") proposes to develop three-stream and riparian wetland mitigation sites (collectively referred to as "Phase I Sites") under the to-be-developed Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank ("the Bank"). Phase I Sites include Gentry Branch, Davis Cove, and Sliding Knob – all located in Madison County, North Carolina (Figure 1; Table 1). The proposed umbrella structure of the Bank is designed to initially permit Phase 1 Sites while allowing for the establishment of future mitigation bank parcels not yet identified. Table 1: Phase 1 Site Summary Hydro Existing Approx. Final Site Coordinates Mitigation Type Status*Length (LF) Length (LF) Restoration, Gentry Branch 35.789956, Per/Int 13,724Enhancement, 13,954 SAW-2022-00528 -82.825390 Cold Water Preservation Restoration, Davis Cove 35.758804, Per/Int Enhancement, 15,972 16,346 SAW-2022-00529 -82.878620 Cold Water Preservation Restoration, Sliding Knob 35.737648, Per/Int 4,852 Enhancement, 4,866 SAW-2022-00530 -82.850275 Cold Water Preservation Totals 34,922 34,792 * Per = perennial; Int = intermittent The purpose of the Bank is to provide stream and wetland mitigation credits to compensate for impacts to Waters of the United States and/or State Waters within the service area, Hydrologic Unit 06010105 (French Broad 05, Figure 2). The proposed Bank's structure, operation, and management are detailed in the main prospectus document. Existing conditions and proposed site work for Phase 1 Sites are described by site in the attached appendices: Appendix A (Gentry Branch), Appendix B (Davis Cove), and Appendix C (Sliding Knob). 1.1Project Objectives The overall objectives of the Bank are to restore or otherwise improve the following functions: 1) hydrological, 2) water quality, and 3) habitat. Tables 2-4 provide an overview of the Bank's Phase 1 objectives and the specific actions proposed to accomplish them. Table 2: Hydrological Function Objectives and Proposed Actions Functional Improvement Objectives Proposed Actions Floodplain Connectivity Reconnect channels with historic floodplains Floodplain Resistance Plant woody riparian buffers; increase microtopography Stream Stability & Reconstruct stream channels, sized to convey bankfull discharges Sediment Transport and watershed sediment supplies Channels constructed or raised to historic floodplain elevations; Surface and Subsurface Storage and increased floodplain hydraulic resistance by planting woody Retention vegetation and increasing microtopography Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 1 Phase 1 – Prospectus Table 3: Water Quality Function Objectives and Proposed Actions Functional Improvement Objectives Proposed Actions Remove Pollutant Sources Cattle exclusion Plant woody riparian buffers; construct marsh treatment features Upland Pollutant Filtration intercepting overland flows Increase floodplain connectivity, plant woody riparian buffers; Floodplain Biogeochemical Processing increase microtopography; construct marsh treatment areas Thermal Regulation Plant woody riparian buffers to provide shade Table 4: Habitat Function Objectives and Proposed Actions Functional Improvement Objectives Proposed Actions Construct stable channels, geomorphology designed to increase In-channel Habitat hydraulic and bedform habitat heterogeneity Plant native, woody riparian buffers to provide foraging, nesting, and Riparian Habitat and Structure cover for terrestrial species as well as refugia for aquatic species 1.2Bank Sponsor and Contact Information Restoration Systems, LLC Raymond Holz 1101 Haynes Street, Suite 211 Raleigh, NC 27604 rholz@restorationsystems.com 919.604.9314 2ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION 2.1Umbrella Mitigation Banking Instrument The Sponsor proposes the Bank under an umbrella mitigation banking instrument ("UMBI"). As proposed, the UMBI would allow for multiple phases. Phase I is described in this prospectus and, if approved, will serve as the Bank's first source of mitigation credit. The Sponsor also proposes the incorporation of additional sites not yet identified but within the Geographic Service Area (Section 3) into the Bank, following Interagency Review Team ("IRT") review and approval. 2.2Credit Determination Credit for Phase I, and all additional phases, shall be based on the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) most current mitigation credit determination methodology. Presently, the USACE is utilizing CFR part 332 (Compensatory Mitigation for Losses of Aquatic Resources) along with Wilmington District Stream and Wetland Compensatory Mitigation Update (IRT 2016) to quantify mitigation project credit potential. If other methods are released and become de facto requirements for stream mitigation projects in the USACE, future phases will utilize these methods as appropriate. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 2 Phase 1 – Prospectus 2.3Credit Release Schedule Credits generated by actions described and approved in the Bank's final UMBI shall be released in predetermined increments according to the milestones agreed to by the Sponsor and the IRT in the UMBI's credit release schedule. The Sponsor will use the credit release schedule detailed for stream mitigation banks in IRT (2016). 3GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA AND USE OF CREDITS Located within the Blue Ridge level III ecoregion and the French Broad River basin, the Bank's geographic service area ("GSA") is defined by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) 8-digit Hydrological Unit Code ("HUC") within which the Bank's sites are located, the French Broad 06010105 (Figure 3). The Bank's credits are proposed to be used to offset unavoidable, permitted impacts within the Bank's GSA. Use of the Bank's credits outside of its GSA may be permissible with approval by the USACE, which will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 4WATERSHED CONSIDERATIONS 4.1Watershed Environmental Concerns and Mitigation Needs The French Broad River basin spans over 2,800 square miles and drains to the Gulf of Mexico via the Tennessee, Ohio, and Mississippi Rivers. In North Carolina, the basin comprises three major drainage areas: the Upper French Broad, the Pigeon River, and the Nolichucky River subbasins, and contains all or portions of Avery, Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, Mitchell, Transylvania, and Yancey Counties. The estimated population for the basin is just over 427,000, based on 2000 census data. Population growth is highest in Buncombe and Henderson Counties, and these areas are experiencing rapid growth while the rest of the basin is undergoing moderate growth (NCDWQ 2011). General basin-wide recommendations to preserve water quality in these expanding areas include encouraging low-impact development, stormwater runoff control measures, a greater emphasis on wastewater collection systems, and agriculture BMPs. In addition, lands should be prioritized to conserve both habitat and protection of water quality. Phase I Sites are in the Upper French Broad subbasin, encompassing 1,658 square miles, making it the largest of the three French Broad subbasins. In addition, this is the most populous subbasin, mainly because the land is less sloped, and the soils are more suitable for development and agriculture. As a result, urban development and agricultural activity are concentrated in valleys near waterways and, in many cases, up to stream banks. Between the 2000 and 2020 censuses, the basin's population grew considerably, with counties growing between 10 percent (Mitchell) and 30 percent (Henderson). According to recent population estimates, the general population growth trend will continue, which indicates Buncombe and Henderson counties are all growing at or faster than the state's 9.48 percent (Table 5) (USCB 2021). Data suggests land development activities will increase in frequency, as will aquatic ecosystem impacts related to such development. Therefore, there is an immediate and prolonged need for compensatory stream mitigation in the watershed. Of further benefit, aquatic ecosystem restoration projects can reduce nutrient loading in sensitive downstream receiving waters. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 3 Phase 1 – Prospectus Table 5: Population Growth in French Broad 05 Municipality2010 Population2020 PopulationPercent Increase Asheville 83,393 94,589 13 Hendersonville 13,137 15,137 15 Marshall* 872 777 -11 Madison County 20,764 21,193 2 Buncombe County 238,318 269,452 13 Henderson County 106,740 116,281 9 *Town of Marshall experienced a population decline over the 10-year period. 4.2Bank Site Selection Based on the analysis presented in Section 4.1, the French Broad 05 was targeted as a watershed in need of stream and riparian wetland mitigation. The Sponsor and its consultant, Axiom Environmental, Inc. (Axiom), searched for sites possessing stream and riparian wetland restoration and enhancement opportunities. Identified sites were prioritized based on geomorphic condition and land use, and the necessary landowners were contacted to gauge their interest in participating in a mitigation project. Sites with willing landowners were then pursued further. As real estate in the area is generally well subdivided, many of the identified opportunities are not currently feasible because such sites require the cooperation of several landowners to achieve sufficient ecological and economic scale. Therefore, the selection of the Phase I properties was based on a combination of geomorphic conditions, land use, and the willingness of landowners to participate. Landowners will be consulted about adjacent future land use plans, including timber management. 5OWNERSHIP, EASEMENT HOLDER, AND LONG-TERM MANAGEMENT The Phase I properties are currently owned by the following people or organizations: Gentry Branch (PIN 8754843880) – Nancy Baker, Ted Baker, Jr. and Melba Baker, and Kenneth Baker and Lucille Baker Davis Cove (PIN 8766-44-1702) – Veda Davis Sliding Knob (PIN 8754843880) – Patsy Buckner Hereafter, these owners will collectively be referred to as "the Landowners." The Sponsor and the Landowners have executed separate Agreements for Purchase and Sale of Conservation Easements covering approximately 167 acres along Gentry Branch, 44.3 acres along Davis Cove, and 9.9 acres along Sliding Knob. Following USACE approval of the UMBI and the Phase I Site Mitigation Plans, the Sponsor will exercise its rights provided under the above-referenced agreements. All sites governed by the Bank will be protected in perpetuity by a conservation easement approved by the USACE. At a minimum, conservation easements will be written to prohibit incompatible uses that might jeopardize the objectives of the Bank. As Grantee of the conservation easement, the Sponsor will first acquire the easement and then assign it to a qualified easement holder to be held in perpetuity. Potential easement holders include but are not limited to the North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation, Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 4 Phase 1 – Prospectus Broad Water Innovations, or the North Carolina State Property Office. The Sponsor will provide the Easement Holder with a financial sum in an amount agreeable to both parties. Easements will be stewarded in general accordance with the guidelines published by the National Land Trust Alliance. Specific responsibilities include: Conservation easement compliance – annual inspection of a site Site visit coordination with the landowner when possible Annual compliance reports are sent to the landowner when possible Violations and potential violations are addressed following protocols outlined in the conservation easement. The Sponsor will be responsible for site management actions during the operational period. Following a site closeout, the Long-Term Manager would assume long-term management obligations. Site design and construction will ensure sites are self-sustaining. As a result, long-term management activities will be limited to routine boundary inspections and, when necessary, marking easement boundaries to provide clear identification of conservation areas. The Long-Term Manager and Easement Holder will likely be the same entity. The Sponsor will provide the easement holder with a financial sum in an amount agreeable to both parties. 6QUALIFICATIONS OF SPONSOR Restoration Systems (RS) is an environmental restoration, mitigation banking, and full-delivery mitigation firm founded in 1998. The firm was formed to improve the quality of environmental restoration and mitigation by locating and acquiring the best available sites, planning restoration using proven science, and constructing sites with the most qualified contractors. RS staff has been involved in environmental mitigation and mitigation banking since 1992, and their Project Managers have more than 80 years of experience in resource evaluation, environmental restoration, and mitigation implementation. Corporate experience with the principals began with the completion of North Carolina's first full-delivery mitigation project in 1997, the Barra Farms Mitigation Bank (623-acres), and in 2001 with the Bear Creek— Mill Branch Mitigation Bank (450-acres) and Sleepy Creek Mitigation Site (550-acres). To date, RS has permitted 81 compensatory mitigation sites in North Carolina, including 55 for the State's In-Lue-Fee program, the Division of Mitigation Services, and nine stream and wetland compensatory mitigation banks under the 2008 Federal Compensatory Mitigation Rule. These projects total over 470,000 l.ft. of streams and 740 acres of wetlands, and 2,700 acres of eased property. 7ECOLOGICAL SUITABILITY OF SITES Primary considerations for selecting the Phase I Sites included the potential for protection/improvement of water quality within a region of North Carolina under development and livestock/agricultural pressure. More specifically, considerations included desired aquatic resource functions, hydrologic conditions, soil characteristics, aquatic habitat diversity, habitat connectivity, compatibility with adjacent land uses, reasonably foreseeable effects the mitigation projects will have on ecologically important aquatic and terrestrial resources, and potential development trends and land-use changes. Restoration, enhancement, and preservation work proposed at Phase 1 Sites (Appendix A, B, & C) will reduce existing nutrient and sediment loads to downstream waters. In addition, restoration work will improve in-channel aquatic and riparian habitats. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 5 Phase 1 – Prospectus 8FINANCIAL ASSURANCES For each site, the Sponsor will provide financial assurances in a form acceptable to the IRT and sufficient to ensure completion of all mitigation work, required reporting and monitoring, and any remedial work that may be required according to the final UMBI and site-specific Mitigation Plan. Before the first Phase 1 credit release, as well as all additional sites permitted under the proposed UMBI, the Sponsor shall furnish a financial assurance instrument covering all reasonably anticipated costs relating to construction, operation, monitoring, maintenance, and any remedial measures associated with each bank parcel. This instrument shall consist of either a Performance Bond underwritten by a surety company licensed to do business in North Carolina with a Best's current rating of not less than "A-, "or a casualty insurance policy in an appropriate form to be approved by the USACE in compliance with current USACE policy and guidance documents. The total value of such a bond or policy will be based on reasonably expected costs associated with approved Mitigation Plans, plus a reasonable contingency, which collectively shall be sufficient to ensure the project will be successfully completed in accordance with applicable performance standards. If performance bonds are utilized, the initial performance bond shall be replaced following completion of construction and USACE approval of the as-built report. The Sponsor shall then furnish a replacement monitoring bond to be valued based on reasonably anticipated costs associated with project monitoring and maintenance. Once all performance standards have been met, the Sponsor may withdraw monies from or otherwise terminate the financial assurance instrument described in this paragraph. 9MITIGATION PLAN The primary goals of the Phase I mitigation plan include: 1) reducing and/or eliminating non-point source pollution associated with heavy livestock and agricultural activities; 2) improving water quality functions by restoring native, woody riparian vegetation adjacent to Phase I channels; 3) improving floodplain function by increasing hydraulic resistance to floodwaters; 4) improving aquatic habitat through channel stabilization and increased habitat heterogeneity; and 5) improving near-channel habitat for terrestrial species and refugia for aquatic species through the restoration of native, woody riparian vegetation. Site-specific information for Phase 1 Sites is provided in Appendix A (Gentry Branch), Appendix B (Davis Cove), and Appendix C (Sliding Knob). Common mitigation plan data, methodologies, monitoring protocols, cultural resources, and endangered/protected species are detailed in Sections 9-13. 9.1Reference Data 9.1.1Stream Reference At this time, site-specific reference streams have not been identified. However, relatively undisturbed sections of streams in the proposed preservation reaches of Phase 1 Sites have been identified. Data collected at reference sites included cross-sectional data, benthic macroinvertebrate collections, and hardwood forest composition, was utilized to approximate mitigation potential of Phase 1 Sites. These reference reaches have been compared to regional curves for the Mountains of North Carolina (Harman et al 2001), allowing for a comparison of existing, disturbed conditions to relatively undisturbed reference conditions at the proposed Phase 1 Sites. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 6 Phase 1 – Prospectus 9.1.2Reference Forest Ecosystem According to Mitigation Site Classification ("MiST") guidelines (USEPA 1990), Reference Forest Ecosystems ("RFEs") must be established for restoration sites. RFEs are forested areas used to model restoration efforts in relation to soils, hydrology, and vegetation. RFEs should be ecologically stable climax communities and should represent believed historical conditions of the restoration site. Data describing plant community composition and structure are collected at the RFEs and subsequently applied as reference data for the design of each Phase 1 Site. Reference vegetation communities for Phase 1 Sites have not been identified. A site-specific reference forest will be located during detailed mitigation plan development, with tree and shrub species identified. In addition, other relevant species descriptions for Montane Alluvial Forest (Small River Subtype) and Montane Oak-Hickory Forest (Acidic Subtype) (Schafale 2012) will be used to develop a final RFE. Species that may occur in these vegetative communities are listed in Table 6. Table 6: Reference Forest Ecosystem Species Montane Alluvial Forest, Small River SubtypeMontane Oak-Hickory Forest, Acidic Subtype (Floodplains and Riparian Forest) (Upland Side Slopes) Canopy Species Understory Species Canopy Species Understory Species Pinus strobusCornus florida Carya tomentosaAcer rubrum Quercus alba Carpinus carolinianaCarya glabra Oxydendrum arboreum Platanus occidentalisHalesia tetrapteraLiriodendron tulipifera Nyssa sylvatica Betula nigraRhododendron maximum Acer rubrum Amelanchier arborea Acer rubrum Nyssa sylvatica Quercus coccinea Sassafras albidum Quercus rubra Oxydendrum arboreum Quercus alba Cornus florida Prunus serotina Quercus montana Liriodendron tulipifera Quercus rubra Tsuga canadensis 9.2Design Approach 9.2.1Stream Restoration Stream restoration is designed to restore stable, meandering streams that approximate hydrodynamics, stream geometry, and local microtopography relative to reference and on-site conditions. Streams will be evaluated in winter for the detailed plan, in order to identify problematic areas necessitating bank stabilization. Restoration of Phase 1 Sites will be mainly Priority I (with the exceptions of Priority 2 at tie- in locations) restoration throughout. Within Priority I restoration areas, bankfull elevations will be raised to meet the adjacent valley floodplain elevation. Stream Restoration is expected to entail 1) channel excavation, 2) channel stabilization, 3) channel diversion, and 4) channel backfill, further detailed in Section 9.3 – Site Work Plans. In portions of Phase I Sites, the use of restoration may not be necessary to improve a system's ecological function. In such cases, enhancement activities will be implemented. For the purposes of the UMBI, Stream Enhancement I and Stream Enhancement II are defined per USACE (2016). 9.2.2Stream Enhancement I Stream Enhancement I is expected to include cessation of agricultural activities (including row crop production, hay production, and/or livestock grazing), removal of invasive species, raising the channel bed Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 7 Phase 1 – Prospectus elevation to reconnect bankfull stream flows to the abandoned floodplain, and planting with native, woody species. Stream Enhancement I will generally entail the alteration of stream channel dimension and profile as the channel is lifted to the historic floodplain elevation. These measures are expected to facilitate stream dynamics associated with a natural, relatively undisturbed stream in the mountain region of North Carolina. 9.2.3Stream Enhancement II Stream Enhancement II is expected to include the cessation of agricultural activities (including row crop production, hay production, and/or livestock grazing), removal of invasive species, and supplemental planting with native, woody tree species. Stream enhancement II will extend a minimum distance of 30- feet from the top of stream banks. These measures are expected to facilitate stream recovery and prevent further degradation of the streams. 9.2.4Stream Preservation Based on the mitigation rule (33 CFR Section 332.3 - General compensatory mitigation requirements), preservation may be used to provide compensatory mitigation if the following criteria are met. The resources to be preserved provide important physical, chemical, or biological functions for the watershed. o The Site is situated in trout waters. Once the project is complete, upstream preservation will serve as possible habitat for fish species. The resources to be preserved contribute significantly to the ecological sustainability of the watershed. o The streams comprise part of the headwater system which drains into the French Broad River Preservation is determined by the district engineer to be appropriate and practicable. o Discussions with the IRT members indicate that preservation is appropriate. Wider buffers, roadway improvements, and erosion control measures warrant a preservation status. The resources are under threat of destruction or adverse modifications. o Although the site is not under direct threat, reaches have been cleared and logged in the past and future timber harvesting practices could pose a threat to the upper stream reaches. The preserved resources will be permanently protected through an appropriate legal instrument. o A conservation easement will be implemented as required under the banking process. 9.2.5Wetlands Areas of jurisdictional wetlands were delineated at each of the Phase 1 Sites. Wetland enhancement and preservation will generate riparian wetland credit at agreed ratios. Enhancement of existing wetlands will improve their physical, chemical, and/or biological characteristics and result in a gain of wetland function but not in wetland acres. Wetland preservation will permanently protect high-functioning jurisdictional wetlands. 9.2.6Riparian Restoration Restoration of floodplain forest and streamside habitat allows for the development and expansion of characteristic species across the landscape. Ecotonal changes between community types contribute to Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 8 Phase 1 – Prospectus diversity and provide secondary benefits, such as enhanced feeding and nesting opportunities for mammals, birds, amphibians, and other wildlife. Planted streamside trees and shrubs will include species with high value for sediment stabilization, rapid growth rates, and the ability to withstand hydraulic forces associated with bankfull and overbank flow events. Streamside trees and shrubs will be planted within 15-feet of the channel throughout the meander beltwidth. Shrub elements will be planted along reconstructed stream banks, concentrated along outer bends. Plantings will also take into consideration the slope of the bank and existing shade coverage from the canopy. Deeply rooted riparian vegetation will be restored as needed at all Phase I and future sites. Planting vegetation on cleared stream banks is proposed to reestablish native/historic community patterns within the stream corridor as well as associated side slopes and transition areas. Revegetating floodplains and stream banks will provide overall system stability, shade, and wildlife habitat. In addition, viable riparian communities will improve system biogeochemical function by filtering pollutants from overland and shallow subsurface flows and providing organic materials to adjacent stream channels. Variations in vegetative planting will occur based on the topography and hydraulic condition of soils. Vegetative species composition will be based on RFEs, site-specific features, and community descriptions from the Guide To The Natural Communities Of North Carolina Fourth Approximation (Schafale 2012). Communities will be verified through on-site evaluations; however, we expect community associations to include 1) Montane Alluvial Forest (Small River Subtype) and 2) Montane Oak-Hickory Forest (Acidic Subtype). Species from vegetation communities in onsite preservation areas will be used as RFEs for each site. A list of species organized by Schafale (2012) communities is presented below. This list is for planning purposes only. Final planting may include some or all of the species below. In addition, other species may be added if appropriate and available. If desirable species from onsite communities are not available at the time of initial planting, they may be planted at a later date. Montane Alluvial Forest(Small River Subtype) Montane Oak-Hickory Forest(Acidic Subtype) 1.Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) 1.White oak (Quercus alba) 2.Eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) 2.Red oak (Quercus rubra) 3.Tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) 3.Chestnut oak (Quercus montana) 4.River birch (Betula nigra) 4.Mockernut hickory (Carya tomentosa) 5.Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana) 5.Pignut hickory (Carya glabra) 6.Smooth alder (Alnus serrulata) 6.Tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) 7.Sweet birch (Betula lenta) 7.Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) 8.White Oak (Quercus alba) 8.Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica) 9.Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica) 9.Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboretum) 9.3Site Work Plans 9.3.1Belt-width Preparation and Grading Invasive species will be treated before and during construction. In addition, White Pine (Pinus strobus), rose (Rosa multiflora), and Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) will be treated both mechanically and chemically. Care will be taken to avoid the removal of existing, deeply rooted vegetation within the belt-width corridor, which often provides channel stability. Material excavated during grading will be stockpiled immediately adjacent to abandoned channel segments and ultimately used as backfill for abandoned segments following stream restoration. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 9 Phase 1 – Prospectus Spoil material may be placed to stabilize temporary access roads, minimizing the underlying floodplain's compaction. However, all spoil will be removed from floodplain surfaces upon completion of construction activities. After the preparation of the corridor, the design channels and updated profile surveys will be developed, and the locations of each meander wavelength will be plotted and staked along the profile. Pool locations and other channel features may be modified in the field based on local variations in the floodplain profile. 9.3.2Channel Excavations Channels will be constructed within the range of values developed during detailed planning. Regional curves and/or reference stream reaches will be used to develop various stream geometry attributes. Stream banks and local belt-width areas of constructed channels will be immediately planted with shrub and herbaceous vegetation to initiate stability, preventing unintended erosion. Deposition of shrub and woody debris into and/or overhanging the constructed channels will be used to further increase each channel's resistance to shear stress. Particular attention will be directed toward providing vegetative cover and root growth along the outer bends of each stream meander. Live willow stakes will be purchased and/or collected on-site and inserted through the root/erosion mat into underlying soils. 9.3.3Channel Plugs Impermeable plugs will be installed within abandoned channel segments. Plugs will consist of low- permeability materials or hardened structures designed to be of sufficient strength to withstand the erosive energy of surface flow events. Dense clays, imported from off-site if necessary, will be compacted within each channel for plug construction. Each plug will be a sufficient width and depth to form an embedded overlap in the existing banks and bed. 9.3.4Channel Backfilling After impermeable plugs have been installed, abandoned channels will be backfilled. Stockpiled materials will be pushed into abandoned channels. Suitable material used for backfilling may be derived from on- site or off-site sources. Topsoil and vegetation debris (e.g., root mats, shrubs, woody debris, etc.) will be redistributed across the backfill area upon completion. 9.3.5Stream Crossings Landowner use will necessitate the installation of pipe, bridge, or ford crossings to allow access to portions of property otherwise isolated by mitigation activities. Specific crossing types have not been determined for Phase 1 Sites. A general approach for each type is detailed below. Pipe Crossing Pipe crossings would be constructed with a suitably sized baseflow pipe to allow for stormwater flows. Smaller floodplain pipes would be installed to enable overflow discharge from the upstream floodplain to pass freely to the downstream floodplain. Materials will include hydraulically stable rip-rap or suitable rock. The crossing would be large enough to handle anticipated vehicular traffic. Approach grades to a piped crossing would be at an approximate 10:1 slope and constructed of hard, scour-resistant crushed rock or other permeable material, free of fines. If necessary, fencing would be installed on the roadbed to restrict livestock access to the site. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 10 Phase 1 – Prospectus Bridge Crossing Bridge crossings would span beyond the proposed bankfull width and at a height to allow for stormwater flows. If appropriate, adjacent floodplain pipes would be installed to enable overflow discharge from the upstream floodplain to pass freely to the downstream floodplain. Hydraulically stable rip-rap or suitable rock would be placed along the stream banks under the bridge to prevent scour and erosion. The crossing would be large enough to handle anticipated farm and livestock use. If necessary, fencing would be installed on the roadbed to restrict livestock access to the site. Ford Crossings On very low-volume roads and trails, fordcrossings can bemore appropriate thanpipeand bridge crossings. D-The roadbed of a ford crossing can be armored to prevent erosion from vehicular use and significant storm events. Appropriately sized rocks (boulders) are firmly placed on the downstream side of the crossing to reduce scour and dissipate energy. Approach grades to a ford crossing would be at an approximate 10:1 slope and constructed of hard, scour-resistant crushed rock or other permeable material, free of fines. 9.3.6In-stream Structures In-stream structures for grade control and habitat are essential for successful stream restoration. In- stream structures may be placed in the channel to elevate local water surface profiles, potentially flattening the water-energy slope or gradient. The structures will likely consist of log/rock cross-vanes or log/rock j-hook vanes designed primarily to direct stream energy into the center of the channel and away from banks. In addition, structures will be placed in relatively straight reaches to provide secondary (perpendicular) flow cells during bankfull events. Log vanes may also be used to direct high-velocity flows during bankfull events toward the center of constructed channels. Log vanes will be constructed utilizing large tree trunks harvested on-site or imported from off-site as necessary. Tree stems harvested for a log cross-vane arm must be long enough to be embedded into the stream channel and extend several feet into the floodplain. Logs will create an arm that slopes from the center of the channel upward to each stream bank at an angle of 20 to 30- degrees. A trench will be dug into the stream channel that is deep enough for the head of the log to be at or below the channel invert. The trench is then extended into the floodplain, and the log is set into the trench such that the log arm is below the floodplain elevation. If the log is not of sufficient size to completely block streamflow (gaps occur between the log and channel bed), a footer log will be installed beneath the header log. Support pilings will then be situated at the base of the log and at the head of the log to hold the log in place. Once these vanes are in place, filter fabric is toed into a trench on the upstream side of the vane and draped over the structure to force water over the vane. The upstream side of the structure is then backfilled with suitable material. Drop structures will be necessary at the outfalls of some constructed channels to match preconstruction elevations. Drop structures will be constructed out of suitable natural materials, depending upon anticipated scour from the restored stream channels. The structures will be constructed to resist erosive forces associated with hydraulic drops. 10MONITORING PLAN The Bank's performance standards and monitoring plan will be based on the IRT (2016) guidance document titled Wilmington District Stream and Wetland Compensatory Mitigation Update. Monitoring will occur over seven years, as outlined in Table 7. Additional monitoring, aside from site-specific Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 11 Phase 1 – Prospectus performance standards, will occur to identify areas under an IRT-approved Adaptive Management or Remedial Action Plan (Section 11). Table 7. Monitoring Schedule Resource Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4Year 5 Year 6 Year 7 Streams x xx x x Wetlandsx xx x xx x Vegetation x x x x x Visual Assessment x x x x x x x Report Submittalx x x x x x x 10.1Stream Monitoring Stream monitoring protocols will be developed for all reaches involving Stream Restoration and Enhancement I with in-channel work. Protocols will include a collection of the following: longitudinal profile (collected as part of a sites' as-built surveys), permanent channel cross-sections, and crest gauges to monitor frequency and magnitude of bankfull events. Visual assessments will be conducted by walking the length of each channel. Preconstruction and post-construction photographs will be compiled. 10.2Wetland Monitoring Groundwater monitoring gauges will be installed to take daily measurements after hydrological modifications are performed. Sampling will continue throughout the entire year. In addition, an on-site rain gauge will document rainfall data for comparison of groundwater conditions with extended drought conditions. 10.3Vegetation Monitoring Restoration monitoring procedures for vegetation are designed in accordance with CVS-EEP Protocol for Recording Vegetation Level 1-2 Plot Sampling Only (Version 4.2) (Lee et al. 2008), or the latest NC Division of Mitigation Services data entry tool. Permanent and random vegetation plots, measuring 100 meters square) would be established to sample two percent of a site's planted area. In each sample plot, vegetation parameters to be monitored and reported include species, count, height, date of planting, and grid location of each planted stem. Volunteer species encountered during monitoring will be counted, identified to species level, measured, and recorded. After planting has been completed in winter or early spring, an initial evaluation will be performed to verify planting methods and determine initial species composition and density. If necessary, supplemental planting and additional site modification would be implemented. Baseline vegetation data would be reported in a Baseline Monitoring / As-built Report. During the first year, vegetation will receive visual observation periodically to ascertain the degree of overtopping of planted stems by nuisance species. Year 1 quantitative sampling will occur at a minimum of six months after the initial planting. During monitoring years 2-7, quantitative vegetation sampling would be performed between July 1 and leaf drop. 10.4Visual Monitoring Visual monitoring of general site conditions that may or may not be part of stream and vegetation monitoring protocols will be conducted at least twice during each monitoring year. One visual inspection can be completed during the stream and/or vegetation monitoring. The other inspection will occur Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 12 Phase 1 – Prospectus independently and must be separated by at least 5 months. Monitoring will be conducted by traversing the entire site to identify and document areas of low stem density, poor plant vigor, prolonged inundation, native and exotic invasive species, beaver activity, excessive herbivory, easement encroachment, indicators of livestock access, and other areas of concern. 11ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT AND REMEDIAL MEASURES If monitoring results indicate a site will not meet one or more of its performance standards, an adaptive management plan will be developed and remedial actions implemented following notification and approval by the Bank's USACE project manager. Adaptive management and remedial measures are discussed in general below and will be developed further in each Bank Parcel's Mitigation Plan. 11.1Stream Instability If stream monitoring and/or visual monitoring identify stream stability or sedimentation problems that worsen or otherwise threaten other portions of a mitigation site, repairs will be made as necessary. Persistent problems will be evaluated to determine if design or construction are contributing factors. Should such systemic problems be identified and reasonably determined to be unfixable, the IRT may decide to adjust a site's mitigation credit potential. 11.2Vegetation Vegetation remedial action may include replanting and, if needed, corrective measures based on a determination of potential reasons for mortality (e.g., portions of a site are too wet for planted species). Low vegetation vigor remedial action may include but is not limited to deep ripping, replanting (same or similar species), mowing, herbicide application, fertilization, and replanting with other species possessing condition-specific tolerance. 11.3Invasive Species If invasive or otherwise undesirable species—as defined in an appendix to the NC SAM Users Manual (NC SFAT 2014)—reasonable efforts will be made to eradicate or otherwise control the growth and distribution of the species across the mitigation site. Such actions may involve herbicide applications, mechanical and/or hand removal, or prescribed burns. 12HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS An in-person and digital review of Phase I Sites was conducted during the summer and fall of 2021 to ascertain the presence of structures or other features that may be eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. No structures were identified within proposed easement boundaries; however, coordination with State Historic Preservation Office will occur during the Mitigation Plan development to determine if any significant cultural resources are present. This review would include coordination with any American Indian groups through the USACE project manager 13ENDANGERED AND PROTECTED SPECIES Two federally protected species are listed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service – Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) website "as occurring in the vicinity" of the project sites in Madison County (IPaC 2022) (Table 8). If present, these species are likely to benefit from the restoration efforts. Table 8: Federal Species of Concern, Madison County, NC Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 13 Phase 1 – Prospectus Common Name Scientific Name Potential Habitat Present Gray bat Myotis grisescens No Northern Long-Eared Bat Myotis septentrionalis Yes 13.1Gray Bat Gray bats roost in large limestone caves year-round but migrate from summer maternity colonies and bachelor roosts in late summer to caves used for hibernation. Maternity roosts are typically located in caves with large flowing streams (Handley 1991). Roosts are located near large permanent water bodies, such as rivers and reservoirs, over which gray bats forage. North Carolina is on the periphery of the range for gray bat, and, in North Carolina, this species is known from a single individual which had been tagged in Tennessee and probably represents a vagrant (Webster et al. 1985). 13.2Northern Long-Eared Bat A review of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) web page (https://www.fws.gov/species/northern-long-eared-bat-myotis-septentrionalis) on July 27, 2022 indicates northern long eared bats utilize forested areas for foraging and bark, cavities, and crevices as roosting habitat during the spring, summer, and fall. Further coordination with the USFWS will occur throughout the project in support of this species; however, at this time no additional surveys are expected for the Northern Long Eared Bat. 13.3Preliminary Biological Conclusions Only one species has habitat within or adjacent to the proposed Bank Site boundaries: northern long- eared bat. Coordination with USFWS, but no further surveys for Northern long-eared bat, are expected to take place. 14ASSURANCE OF SUFFICIENT WATER RIGHTS In the State of North Carolina, water rights are owned by the State (General Statute 142-211 (NC GS § 143-211(a)). Developed using the "riparian rights" doctrine, water law in North Carolina entitles a riparian landowner to the natural flow of a stream running through or along their land. The landowner has the right to make "reasonable use" of the watercourse, meaning the landowner may use the water as long as their use does not interfere with the reasonable use of another downstream riparian landowner. Native waters supplied through rain events, surface runoff, overbank flooding events, and groundwater will sustain the Site's hydrology. Restoration of the Site will not result in the impoundment of streams. Native waters will be allowed to flow downstream for use by other riparian landowners. Upstream land use is almost entirely agricultural. There is no concern of upstream land activities having an adverse effect on the Site's hydrology. 15CONCLUSIONS Restoration Systems, LLC is pleased to offer the French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank ("the Bank"). The proposed umbrella structure of the Bank is designed to initially permit the establishment of two stream mitigation sites, comprising Phase I, while enabling the establishment of future mitigation sites not yet identified. Phase I consists of the following sites in Madison County, North Carolina: 1) Gentry Branch, 2) Davis Cove, and 3) Sliding Knob (Figure 1; Table 8). Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 14 Phase 1 – Prospectus Table 8: Mitigation Bank Site Summary Existing Approx. Final Stream Site Hydro Status* Mitigation Type Length (LF) Length (LF) Restoration, Enhancement II, Gentry Branch Per/Int 13,724 13,954 Preservation Restoration, Enhancement II, Davis Cove Per/Int 16,346 15,972 Preservation Restoration, Enhancement, Sliding Knob Per/Int 4,852 4,866 Preservation Totals 34,922 34,792 * Per = perennial; Int = intermittent Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 15 Phase 1 – Prospectus 16REFERENCES Handley, C.O., Jr. 1991. Mammals. Pp. 539-616 in: K. Terwilliger (ed.), Virginia's Endangered Species: Proceedings of a Symposium. The McDonald and Woodward Publishing Company, Blacksburg, Virginia. 672 pp. Harman, W.A., GD Wise, D.E., Walker, R.M, Cantrell, M.A., Clemmons, M., Jennings, G.D., Clinton, D., and Patterson, J. 2001. Bankfull Regional Curves for North Carolina Mountain Streams. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina. Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC). 2022. United States Fish and Wildlife Service (online). Available: https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/ (July 1, 2022). Lee, M.T., R.K. Peet, SD. Roberts, and T.R. Wentworth. 2008. CVS-EEP Protocol for Recording Vegetation. Version 4.2. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Ecosystem Enhancement Program. Raleigh, North Carolina. North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ). 2011. French Broad River Basinwide Water Quality Plan.(online). Available: https://files.nc.gov/ncdeq/Water%20Quality/Planning/BPU/BPU/French_Broad/French%20Broad%20Pl ans/2011%20Plan/French%20Broad%202010%20Plan.pdf North Carolina Stream Functional Assessment Team (NC SFAT). 2014. NC. Stream Assessment Method (NC SAM) User Manual (Version 2). 178 pp. Schafale, M.P. 2012. GUIDE TO THE NATURAL COMMUNITIES OF NORTH CAROLINA FOURTH APPROXIMATION. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Raleigh, North Carolina. United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ). 2016. Wilmington District Stream and Wetland Compensatory Mitigation Update. United States Census Bureau (USCB). 2021. Population estimates V.2021. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/buncombecountynorthcarolina United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 1990. Mitigation Site Type Classification (MiST). EPA Workshop, September 13-15, 1989. EPA Region IV and Hardwood Research Cooperative, NCSU, Raleigh, North Carolina. Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell, and W.C. Biggs, Jr. 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas, Virginia, and Maryland. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 255 pp. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 16 Phase 1 – Prospectus 17FIGURES Figure 1: Site Locations Map Figure 2: Hydrologic Unit Map Figure 3: Geographic Service Area Map Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 17 Phase 1 – Prospectus ³ ³ Appendix A Gentry Branch Mitigation Site SAW-2022-00528 Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Appendix A – Gentry Branch Mitigation Site Phase 1 – Prospectus Appendix B Davis Cove Mitigation Site SAW-2022-00529 Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Appendix B – Davis Cove Mitigation Site Phase 1 – Prospectus Appendix C Sliding Knob Site SAW-2022-00530 Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Appendix C – Sliding Knob Mitigation Site Phase 1 – Prospectus RESTORATION SYSTEMS FRENCH BROAD 05 UMBRELLA MITIGATION BANK PROSPECTUS – SLIDING KNOB MITIGATION SITE SAW-2022-00530 Sponsored by: RESTORATION SYSTEMS LLC Prepared for: The North Carolina Inter-Agency Review Team for distribution and comment Sponsored by: Prepared by: Restoration Systems, LLC Axiom Environmental, Inc. POC: Raymond Holz POC: Grant Lewis Ph: 919-755-9490 Ph: 919-215-1693 1101 Haynes Street, Suite 211 218 Snow Avenue Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 Raleigh, North Carolina 27603 September 2022 Table of Contents 1 Existing conditions ................................................................................................................................ 1 1.1 Physiography, Topography, and Land Use ............................................................................... 1 1.2 Water Quality .......................................................................................................................... 1 1.3 Vegetation ............................................................................................................................... 1 1.4 Soils .......................................................................................................................................... 2 1.5 Hydrology ................................................................................................................................. 2 1.6 FEMA ........................................................................................................................................ 4 2 SITE WORK PLAN & PROPOSED MITIGATION CREDIT ........................................................................... 4 2.1 Stream Preservation ................................................................................................................ 5 2.2 Stream Enhancement II ........................................................................................................... 5 2.3 Stream Restoration .................................................................................................................. 6 3 REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................................... 6 List of Tables Table 1: Sliding Knob Site Soils ...................................................................................................................... 2 Table 2: Sliding Knob Existing Stream Flow Regime ..................................................................................... 2 Table 3: Sliding Knob NC SAM Summary ...................................................................................................... 3 Table 4: Sliding Knob NC WAM Summary ..................................................................................................... 4 Table 5: Sliding Knob Work Plan Summary ................................................................................................... 5 Attachments A: Figures, Photos, & Landowner Authorization Form Figure 4A: Sliding Knob Site – Topography and Drainage Area Figure 4B: Sliding Knob Site – Existing Conditions and Soils Figure 4C: Sliding Knob Site – LiDAR Figure 4D: Sliding Knob Site – Proposed Conditions Existing Conditions Photos Landowner Authorization Form B: Baseline Assessment Forms Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Table of Contents Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site SLIDING KNOB MITIGATION SITE The Sliding Knob Mitigation Site (“Site”) is characterized primarily by forested slopes with some open pasture/grassy areas. The main hydrologic features include seven unnamed tributaries (UTs) to Friezeland Creek, and adjacent floodplains. The proposed conservation easement area contains approximately 9.9- acres (Figures 4A and 4B). 1EXISTING CONDITIONS 1.1Physiography, Topography, and Land Use The Site is located in the Southern Crystalline Ridges and Mountains ecoregion. Regional physiography is defined by rough, dissected ridges and mountains with high-relief slopes and well-drained, acidic, loamy soils occurring primarily on Precambrian igneous and metamorphic rocks (Griffith et al. 2002). On-site elevations range from a high of 3,040-feet NGVD at the upper reach of UT 3 to a low of approximately 2,640-feet NGVD at the outfall of UT 5 (Figure 4A). This Site’s combined watershed totals approximately 0.41-square miles (0.10 square miles for UT 1 and 0.31 square miles for UT 4) (Figure 4A). The watershed is dominated by forests with sparse pastureland and residential property. Impervious surfaces account for less than five percent of the upstream land surface. Land use at the Site consists primarily of forests and livestock pasture. Livestock has access to most Site streams; however, valley slopes inhibit livestock access to a significant portion of the stream reaches. Streams along the southern Site boundary (UT-4 and UT-5) have a fence erected to eliminate livestock access; a portion of the easement along this reach is forested. Riparian zones in the upper portion of the Site are forested and primarily composed of woody mountainous vegetation. Riparian zones in the lower, pasture-dominated portion of the Site are composed mainly of herbaceous vegetation that is sparse and disturbed due to bush hogging and grazing. 1.2Water Quality The Site is located within USGS 14-digit HUC 06010105120010 (Figure 2) and NCDWR Subbasin 04-03-04. Topographic features of the Site drain to Friezeland Creek (Stream Index Number 6-118-10), which has been assigned a Best Usage Classification of C Tr (NCDWR 2013). Streams with a C designation are protected for uses such as aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. Secondary recreation includes wading, boating, and other uses not involving human body contact with waters on an organized or frequent basis. The supplemental classification TR is intended to protect freshwaters with conditions that can sustain and allow for trout propagation and survival of stocked trout on a year-round basis. Site streams are not included on the 2020 Final 303(d) lists of impaired waterbodies (NCDEQ 2020). 1.3Vegetation The Site is characterized by active cattle pastures surrounded by a mixture of disturbed and mature forested areas. The fields are dominated by fescue (Festuca sp.) and clover (Trifolium sp.) mixed with a variety of herbs, including aster (Symphyotrichum spp.), blackberry (Rubus spp.), and multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora). Wetland areas located within pastures are dominated by fescue, rushes (Juncus spp.), sedges (Carex spp.), violet (Viola spp.), and docks (Rumex spp.). The forested portion of the Site is comprised of tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), white pine (Pinus strobus), black cherry (Prunus serotina), red oak (Quercus rubra), white oak (Quercus alba), and Eastern hemlock (Tsuga Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 1 Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site canadensis) in the canopy. The sub-canopy and shrub layer consist of rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum), blackberry, multiflora rose, and saplings of canopy species. 1.4Soils Based on Web Soil Survey mapping (USDA 2021), proposed conservation easement areas associated with the Sliding Knob site contain two soil complexes (Figure 4B and Table 1): Buladean-Chestnut complex (Typic Dystrudepts), and Toecane-Tusquitee complex (Humic Hapludults). Table 1: Sliding Knob Site Soils Map Unit Hydric Map Unit Name Description Symbol Status This series consists of stony soils found along slopes and mountain ridges. Slopes range from 15-30 percent for BnD soils, BnE and Buladean-Chestnut Non- 30-50 percent for BnE soils, and 50-95 for BnF soils. This series is BnF complex hydric well-drained and is associated with mountain flanks, side slopes, and summits. This series consists of well-drained soils on very bouldery TsD, TsE, Toecane-Tusquitee Non-drainageways, coves, and fans. Slopes range from 15-30 percent. andTuD complex hydric The parent material is cobbly and stony colluvium derived from igneous and metamorphic rock. 1.5Hydrology Two of the seven UTs are depicted as perennial on the latest USGS mapping, while the other five are not depicted on USGS mapping (Figure 4A). However, on-site investigations using NCDWQ stream forms (Table 2) suggest UTs 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7 are intermittent. NC SAM and NC WAM on-site determinations have concluded that the stream and wetland functional characteristics range from low ratings in the disturbed areas to medium and high ratings in the forested areas (Tables 3 and 4). Table 2: Sliding Knob Existing Stream Flow Regime USGS Stream In-field Stream Stream Stream Length Stream Order Classification Classification nd UT-1 1,515 2 Perennial Perennial st UT-2 211 1 Not mapped Intermittent st UT-3 506 1 Not mapped Intermittent st UT-4 366 1 Not mapped Intermittent nd UT-5 1,762 2 Perennial Perennial st UT-6 279 1 Not mapped Intermittent st UT-7 198 1 Not mapped Intermittent Total 4,852 Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 2 Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site Table 3: Sliding Knob NC SAM Summary NC SAM Function Class Rating Summary UT 1 UT 2 UT 5 Reference (1) HYDROLOGY HIGH LOW HIGH (2) Baseflow HIGH HIGH HIGH (2) Flood Flow HIGH LOW HIGH (3) Streamside Area Attenuation MEDIUM MEDIUM HIGH (4) Floodplain Access HIGH HIGH HIGH (4) Wooded Riparian Buffer LOW LOW HIGH (4) Microtopography NA LOW NA (3) Stream Stability HIGH LOW HIGH (4) Channel Stability HIGH MEDIUM HIGH (4) Sediment Transport HIGH LOW HIGH (4) Stream Geomorphology HIGH MEDIUM HIGH (1) WATER QUALITY MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM (2) Baseflow HIGH HIGH HIGH (2) Stream-side Area Vegetation MEDIUM LOW HIGH (3) Upland Pollutant Filtration LOW LOW HIGH (3) Thermoregulation HIGH LOW HIGH (2) Indicators of Stressors YES YES YES (2) Aquatic Life Tolerance HIGH HIGH HIGH (1) HABITAT MEDIUM LOW HIGH (2) In-stream Habitat HIGH LOW HIGH (3) Baseflow HIGH HIGH HIGH (3) Substrate HIGH LOW HIGH (3) Stream Stability HIGH MEDIUM HIGH (3) In-Stream Habitat HIGH MEDIUM HIGH (2) Stream-side Habitat LOW LOW HIGH (3) Stream-side Habitat LOW LOW HIGH (3) Thermoregulation MEDIUM LOW HIGH OVERALL MEDIUM LOW HIGH Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 3 Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site Table 4: Sliding Knob NC WAM Summary NC WAM Sub-function Rating Summary WAM 2 WAM 3 WAM 4 Reference Wetland Type Headwater Forest Headwater Forest Headwater Forest (1) HYDROLOGY LOW LOW HIGH (2) Surface Storage & Retention LOW LOW HIGH (2) Sub-surface Storage and Retention LOW LOW MEDIUM (1) WATER QUALITY LOW LOW HIGH (2) Pathogen change LOW LOW LOW (2) Particulate Change LOW MEDIUM HIGH (2) Soluble change LOW LOW HIGH (2) Physical Change LOW MEDIUM HIGH (1) HABITAT LOW LOW HIGH (2) Physical Structure LOW LOW HIGH (2) Landscape Patch Structure LOW LOW LOW (2) Vegetative Composition LOW LOW HIGH OVERALL LOW LOW HIGH This hydro-physiographic region is characterized by moderate rainfall with precipitation averaging 51.1- inches per year (based on data provided by NOAA 2020). Site discharge is dominated by a combination of upstream basin catchment, groundwater flow, and precipitation. Based on regional curves (Harman et al. 2001), the bankfull discharge for a 0.41-square mile watershed is expected to average 16.7- CFS. Based on empirical evidence a bankfull discharge of 16.7-CFS is expected to occur approximately every 1.3 to 1.5 years (Rosgen 1996, Leopold 1994). 1.6FEMA Inspection of the FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map 3700875400J, Panel 8754, effective June 2, 2009, indicates that Sliding Knob streams are not located in a Special Flood Hazard Area. The project should not alter FEMA flood zones, and therefore, a CLOMR is not expected. 2SITE WORK PLAN & PROPOSED MITIGATION CREDIT A summary of the actions proposed at Sliding Knob is provided in Table 5 and in Figure 4D. In general, proposed activities involve Stream Restoration, Stream Enhancement II, and Stream Preservation. Stream and wetland restoration and enhancement will occur in reaches of streams that have been impacted by straightening, clearing of vegetation, livestock grazing, and other historic land uses. Stream preservation has been limited to the upper reaches of streams confined by steep valleys. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 4 Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site Table 5: Sliding Knob Work Plan Summary Stream Approx. Final Mitigation Activity Reach Length (LF) UT-11,515Stream Enhancement II UT-2 221 Stream Restoration UT-3512Stream Restoration UT-4 379 Stream Restoration, Enhancement II UT-51,762Stream Enhancement II, Preservation UT-6279Stream Enhancement II UT-7 198 Stream Enhancement II Total 4,866 2.1Stream Preservation Stream preservation is proposed for the upper reach of tributaries that are relatively undisturbed and drain through mature hardwood forest. Preservation will be implemented on the upper reaches of UT-5. Based on the mitigation rule (33 CFR Section 332.3 – General compensatory mitigation requirements), preservation may be used to provide compensatory mitigation if the following criteria are met. The resources to be preserved provide important physical, chemical, or biological functions for the watershed. p The Site is situated in trout waters. Once the project is complete, upstream preservation will serve as possible habitat for fish species. The resources to be preserved contribute significantly to the ecological sustainability of the watershed. p The streams comprise part of the headwater system which drains into the French Broad River Preservation is determined by the district engineer to be appropriate and practicable. p Discussions with the IRT members indicate that preservation is appropriate. Wider buffers, roadway improvements, and erosion control measures warrant a preservation status. The resources are under threat of destruction or adverse modifications. p Although the site is not under direct threat, reaches have been cleared and logged in the past and future timber harvesting practices could pose a threat to the upper stream reaches. The preserved resources will be permanently protected through an appropriate legal instrument. p A conservation easement will be implemented as required under the banking process. 2.2Stream Enhancement II Enhancement is proposed for three different mitigation ratios. Enhancement (2.5:1) has been proposed for reaches where both banks are characterized largely by pasture. Enhancement (5:1) has been proposed for reaches where one side of the reach is wooded, but woods are largely characterized by black walnut (Juglans nigra) and livestock frequently access the stream. Enhancement (7.5:1) has been proposed where one side of the stream is wooded and livestock do not have significant access to the reach. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 5 Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site Stream Enhancement II will entail widening existing vegetative buffers that have pasture adjacent to the stream. In addition, the treatment of black walnut (Juglans nigra), rose (Rosa multiflora), and white pine (Pinus strobus) in the disturbed canopy will be conducted. Understory plantings will take place where appropriate. Further surveys of the stream channel during the winter months will be conducted to determine spot bank treatments that will be required to justify an appropriate mitigation ratio. 2.3Stream Restoration Stream Restoration at the Site will be Priority I and will include excavation of channels at the existing floodplain elevation, installation of grade control/habitat structures, and stabilization with vegetation. Suitable reference reaches will be evaluated to ensure the maintenance of a single thread channel that will not aggrade to a linear wetland. 3REFERENCES Griffith, G.E., JM Omernik, J.A. Comstock, M.P. Schafale, W.H. McNab, D.R. Lenat, T.F. MacPherson, J.B. Glover, and VB Shelbourne. 2002. Ecoregions of North Carolina and South Carolina. U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, Virginia. Harman, W.A., G.D. Wise, D.E., Walker, R.M, Cantrell, M.A., Clemmons, M., Jennings, G.D., Clinton, D., and Patterson, J. 2001. Bankfull Regional Curves for North Carolina Mountain Streams. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina. Leopold, L.B. 1994. A View of the River. Harvard University Press. Cambridge, MA. 298 pp. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 2020. National Climate Data Center’s (NCDC) Climate Data Online (CDO). http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/cdo-web/ North Carolina Division of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ). 2020. NC 2020 Category 5 Assessment “Final 303(d) List” (online). Available: https://files.nc.gov/ncdeq/Water%20Quality/Planning/TMDL/303d/2020/NC_2020_INTEGRATED_REPO RT.pdf North Carolina Division of Water Resources (NCDWR). 2013. North Carolina Water Bodies Report http://portal.ncdenr.org/c/document_library/get_file?uuid=10c60296-dcc8-439f- (online). Available: a41c-d475ea7ad1fa&groupId=38364 North Carolina Stream Functional Assessment Team (NC SFAT). 2014. N.C. Stream Assessment Method (NC SAM) User Manual (Version 2). 178 pp. Rosgen, D. 1996. Applied River Morphology. Wildland Hydrology (Publisher). Pagosa Springs, Colorado United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). 2021. Web Soil Survey (online). Available: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvey.aspx \[September 2021\]. Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 6 Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site ATTACHMENT A – FIGURES, PHOTOS, & LANDOWNER AUTHORIZATION FORM Figure 4A: Sliding Knob Site – Topography and Drainage Area Figure 4B: Sliding Knob Site – Existing Conditions and Soils Figure 4C: Sliding Knob Site – LiDAR Figure 4D: Sliding Knob Site – Proposed Conditions Existing Conditions Photos Landowner Authorization Form Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Page 7 Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site 4 .UV 4. UV ³ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ^_ ³ ³ ³ ³ Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-1 Origin, DWR Form 1, WAM Form 3 03/22/20212 –UT-1 Origin, DWR Form 1, WAM Form 3 Page 1 Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-2 Origin, SAM Form 1, DWR Form 2 03/22/20212 –UT-2 Origin, SAM Form 1, DWR Form 2 Page 2 Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-1, SAM Form 2 03/22/20212 –UT-1, SAM Form 2 Page 3 Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-1, Crossing/Perched Culvert 03/22/20212 –UT-1, Trail Page 4 Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-1, Wetlands Above Origin 03/22/20212 –UT-1 and UT-2 Confluence Page 5 Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-3, DWR Form 3 & WAM Form 2 03/22/20212 –UT-3, DWR Form 3 & WAM Form 2 Page 6 Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-4, DWR Form 4 03/22/20212 –UT-5, SAM Form 3 Page 7 Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-5, WAM Form 4 03/22/20212 –UT-5, Lower Reach Page 8 Sliding Knob SAW-2022-00530: RS LLC French Broad 05 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Existing Conditions Photos 03/22/20212 –UT-5, Lower Reach Near Wetland Enhancement, Farm Building, & DOT Culvert 03/22/20212 –UT-5, Lower Reach Near Wetland Enhancement, Farm Building, & DOT Culvert Page 9 ATTACHMENT B – BASELINE ASSESSMENT FORMS Restoration Systems French Broad 06010105 Umbrella Mitigation Bank Attachment B Phase 1 – Prospectus, Sliding Knob Mitigation Site Draft NCSAMStreamRating Sheet Accompanies User ManualVersion 2.1 Stream Site NameSliding Knob -UT2Date of Assessment11/30/2021 Stream CategoryMa1Assessor Name/OrganizationLewis/Axiom Notes of Field Assessment Form (Y/N)YES Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N)NO Additional stream information/supplementary measurements included (Y/N)YES NC SAM feature type (perennial, intermittent, Tidal Marsh Stream)Intermittent USACE/NCDWR Function Class Rating SummaryAll StreamsIntermittent (1)HydrologyLOWLOW (2)BaseflowHIGHHIGH (2)Flood FlowLOWLOW (3)Streamside Area AttenuationMEDIUMMEDIUM (4)Floodplain AccessHIGHHIGH (4)Wooded Riparian BufferLOWLOW (4)MicrotopographyLOWLOW (3)Stream StabilityLOWLOW (4)Channel StabilityMEDIUMMEDIUM (4)Sediment TransportLOWLOW (4)Stream GeomorphologyMEDIUMMEDIUM (2)Stream/Intertidal Zone InteractionNANA NANA (2)Longitudinal Tidal Flow NANA (2)Tidal Marsh Stream Stability (3)Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NANA NANA (3)Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology (1)Water QualityMEDIUMMEDIUM (2)BaseflowHIGHHIGH (2)Streamside Area VegetationLOWLOW (3)Upland Pollutant FiltrationLOWLOW (3)ThermoregulationLOWLOW (2)Indicators of StressorsYESYES (2)Aquatic Life ToleranceHIGHNA (2)Intertidal Zone Filtration NANA (1)HabitatLOWLOW (2)In-stream HabitatLOWMEDIUM (3)BaseflowHIGHHIGH (3)SubstrateLOWLOW (3)Stream StabilityMEDIUMMEDIUM (3)In-stream HabitatMEDIUMHIGH (2)Stream-side HabitatLOWLOW (3)Stream-side HabitatLOWLOW (3)ThermoregulationLOWLOW (2)Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NANA NANA (3)Flow Restriction NANA (3)Tidal Marsh Stream Stability (4)Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NANA NANA (4)Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology (3)Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NANA (2)Intertidal Zone NANA OverallLOWLOW Draft NCSAMStreamRating Sheet Accompanies User ManualVersion 2.1 Stream Site NameSliding Knob -UT 1 UpperDate of Assessment11/30/2021 Stream CategoryMb1Assessor Name/OrganizationLewis/Axiom Notes of Field Assessment Form (Y/N)NO Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N)NO Additional stream information/supplementary measurements included (Y/N)YES NC SAM feature type (perennial, intermittent, Tidal Marsh Stream)Perennial USACE/NCDWR Function Class Rating SummaryAll StreamsIntermittent (1)HydrologyHIGH (2)BaseflowHIGH (2)Flood FlowHIGH (3)Streamside Area AttenuationMEDIUM (4)Floodplain AccessHIGH (4)Wooded Riparian BufferLOW (4)MicrotopographyNA (3)Stream StabilityHIGH (4)Channel StabilityHIGH (4)Sediment TransportHIGH (4)Stream GeomorphologyHIGH (2)Stream/Intertidal Zone InteractionNA NA (2)Longitudinal Tidal Flow NA (2)Tidal Marsh Stream Stability (3)Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NA NA (3)Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology (1)Water QualityMEDIUM (2)BaseflowHIGH (2)Streamside Area VegetationMEDIUM (3)Upland Pollutant FiltrationLOW (3)ThermoregulationHIGH (2)Indicators of StressorsYES (2)Aquatic Life ToleranceHIGH (2)Intertidal Zone Filtration NA (1)HabitatMEDIUM (2)In-stream HabitatHIGH (3)BaseflowHIGH (3)SubstrateHIGH (3)Stream StabilityHIGH (3)In-stream HabitatHIGH (2)Stream-side HabitatLOW (3)Stream-side HabitatLOW (3)ThermoregulationMEDIUM (2)Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NA NA (3)Flow Restriction NA (3)Tidal Marsh Stream Stability (4)Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NA NA (4)Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology (3)Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NA (2)Intertidal Zone NA OverallMEDIUM Draft NCSAMStreamRating Sheet Accompanies User ManualVersion 2.1 Stream Site NameSliding Knob -UT5 RefDate of Assessment11/30/2021 Stream CategoryMb2Assessor Name/OrganizationLewis/Axiom Notes of Field Assessment Form (Y/N)NO Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N)NO Additional stream information/supplementary measurements included (Y/N)YES NC SAM feature type (perennial, intermittent, Tidal Marsh Stream)Perennial USACE/NCDWR Function Class Rating SummaryAll StreamsIntermittent (1)HydrologyHIGH (2)BaseflowHIGH (2)Flood FlowHIGH (3)Streamside Area AttenuationHIGH (4)Floodplain AccessHIGH (4)Wooded Riparian BufferHIGH (4)MicrotopographyNA (3)Stream StabilityHIGH (4)Channel StabilityHIGH (4)Sediment TransportHIGH (4)Stream GeomorphologyHIGH (2)Stream/Intertidal Zone InteractionNA NA (2)Longitudinal Tidal Flow NA (2)Tidal Marsh Stream Stability (3)Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NA NA (3)Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology (1)Water QualityMEDIUM (2)BaseflowHIGH (2)Streamside Area VegetationHIGH (3)Upland Pollutant FiltrationHIGH (3)ThermoregulationHIGH (2)Indicators of StressorsYES (2)Aquatic Life ToleranceHIGH (2)Intertidal Zone Filtration NA (1)HabitatHIGH (2)In-stream HabitatHIGH (3)BaseflowHIGH (3)SubstrateHIGH (3)Stream StabilityHIGH (3)In-stream HabitatHIGH (2)Stream-side HabitatHIGH (3)Stream-side HabitatHIGH (3)ThermoregulationHIGH (2)Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NA NA (3)Flow Restriction NA (3)Tidal Marsh Stream Stability (4)Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NA NA (4)Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology (3)Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NA (2)Intertidal Zone NA OverallHIGH NC WAM Wetland Rating Sheet Accompanies User Manual Version 5.0 Wetland Site Name Sliding Knob - WAM 2 Date of Assessment 11/30/2021 Wetland Type Headwater Forest Assessor Name/Organization Axiom, Lewis, Harris Notes on Field Assessment Form (Y/N) YES Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N) NO Wetland is intensively managed (Y/N) Assessment area is located within 50 feet of a natural tributary or other open water (Y/N) YES Assessment area is substantially altered by beaver (Y/N) NO Assessment area experiences overbank flooding during normal rainfall conditions (Y/N) NO Assessment area is on a coastal island (Y/N) NO Sub-function Rating Summary FunctionSub-functionMetricsRating HydrologySurfaceStorage and Retention Condition LOW Sub-surface Storage and RetentionConditionLOW Water Quality Pathogen Change Condition LOW Condition/Opportunity LOW Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO ParticulateChange ConditionLOW Condition/Opportunity NA Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NA SolubleChangeConditionLOW Condition/Opportunity LOW Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO PhysicalChangeConditionLOW Condition/Opportunity LOW Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO PollutionChangeConditionNA Condition/Opportunity NA Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NA HabitatPhysical StructureConditionLOW Landscape Patch Structure Condition LOW Vegetation Composition ConditionLOW Function Rating Summary FunctionMetricsRating HydrologyCondition LOW Water Quality Condition LOW Condition/OpportunityLOW Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO HabitatCondition LOW Overall Wetland Rating LOW NC WAM Wetland Rating Sheet Accompanies User Manual Version 5.0 Wetland Site Name Sliding Knob - WAM 3 Date of Assessment 11/30/2021 Wetland Type Headwater Forest Assessor Name/Organization Axiom, Lewis, Harris Notes on Field Assessment Form (Y/N) YES Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N) NO Wetland is intensively managed (Y/N) Assessment area is located within 50 feet of a natural tributary or other open water (Y/N) YES Assessment area is substantially altered by beaver (Y/N) NO Assessment area experiences overbank flooding during normal rainfall conditions (Y/N) NO Assessment area is on a coastal island (Y/N) NO Sub-function Rating Summary FunctionSub-functionMetricsRating HydrologySurfaceStorage and Retention Condition LOW Sub-surface Storage and RetentionConditionLOW Water Quality Pathogen Change Condition LOW Condition/Opportunity LOW Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO ParticulateChange ConditionMEDIUM Condition/Opportunity NA Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NA SolubleChangeConditionLOW Condition/Opportunity LOW Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO PhysicalChangeConditionMEDIUM Condition/Opportunity MEDIUM Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO PollutionChangeConditionNA Condition/Opportunity NA Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NA HabitatPhysical StructureConditionLOW Landscape Patch Structure Condition LOW Vegetation Composition ConditionLOW Function Rating Summary FunctionMetricsRating HydrologyCondition LOW Water Quality Condition LOW Condition/OpportunityLOW Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO HabitatCondition LOW Overall Wetland Rating LOW NC WAM Wetland Rating Sheet Accompanies User Manual Version 5.0 Wetland Site Name Sliding Knob - WAM 4 Ref Date of Assessment 11/30/2021 Wetland Type Headwater Forest Assessor Name/Organization Axiom, Lewis, Harris Notes on Field Assessment Form (Y/N) YES Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N) NO Wetland is intensively managed (Y/N) Assessment area is located within 50 feet of a natural tributary or other open water (Y/N) YES Assessment area is substantially altered by beaver (Y/N) NO Assessment area experiences overbank flooding during normal rainfall conditions (Y/N) NO Assessment area is on a coastal island (Y/N) NO Sub-function Rating Summary FunctionSub-functionMetricsRating HydrologySurfaceStorage and Retention Condition HIGH Sub-surface Storage and RetentionConditionMEDIUM Water Quality Pathogen Change Condition LOW Condition/Opportunity LOW Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO ParticulateChange ConditionHIGH Condition/Opportunity NA Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NA SolubleChangeConditionHIGH Condition/Opportunity HIGH Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO PhysicalChangeConditionHIGH Condition/Opportunity HIGH Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO PollutionChangeConditionNA Condition/Opportunity NA Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NA HabitatPhysical StructureConditionHIGH Landscape Patch Structure Condition LOW Vegetation Composition ConditionHIGH Function Rating Summary FunctionMetricsRating HydrologyCondition HIGH Water Quality Condition HIGH Condition/OpportunityHIGH Opportunity Presence (Y/N) NO HabitatCondition HIGH Overall Wetland Rating HIGH