20141287 Ver 1_401 Application_20141214

od ®Qi United States Forest National Forests in 160A Zillicoa Street
Department of Service North Carolina P.O. Box 2750
Agriculture Asheville, NC 28802
File Code: 2530 -3
Date: December 11, 2014
NC DWR, 401 & Buffer Permitting Unit
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699 -1650
Dear NC DWR,
This letter is to request Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the North Carolina
Division of Water Quality for U.S Forest Service project: Big Creek Stream Enhancement &
Aquatic Organism Passage Project. Located on the Uwharrie Ranger District in Randolph &
Montgomery Counties, North Carolina, this project is situated on Big Creek, in the Uwharrie
River Basin.
In the proposed reach of Big Creek, Forest Service Road (FSR) 6750 crosses the stream with a
concrete ford. The FSR 6750 crossing is likely a year -round barrier to fish movement due to
excessive outlet drop and velocity. The entire reach of channel is moderately entrenched with
excessive amounts of bank erosion. The channel is a Rosgen "C" stream type, experiencing a
degrading trend in stream ecosystem health because of past management including riparian
harvest, farming, increases in stream peak flows, and loss of large woody debris. These
influences have caused channel down cutting and a loss of floodplain accessibility during the
more frequent floods (25 -year flood and less), resulting in excessive channel bank erosion. Fish
population surveys conducted in July 2014 found fish present exclusively in pool habitat and
preferring the presence of large woody debris
Based on field assessments of stream conditions, erosion and sedimentation are the largest
stressors on the aquatic environment. The proposed work is intended to improve the health of the
stream ecosystem by improving channel stability and habitat quality, along with improving
riparian and streamside vegetation conditions. This will be accomplished with the construction of
instream structures using trees found on site fashioned to protect eroded stream banks and create
high quality aquatic habitat features. The desired condition is to have high quality riparian areas
and aquatic habitat features that maintain hydrologic function, floodplain connectivity, enhance
stream stability, and minimize erosion. The proposed action is needed at this time, at these
locations, because taking no action would lead to further erosion and sedimentation which, in
turn, would cause further damage to aquatic habitat and the maintenance of designated uses.
A copy of the 404 permit application has also been sent to the N.0 Wildlife Resources
Commission and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for review An Erosion and Sediment Control
Plan has not been submitted to NC Division of Land Quality since disturbed area is less than one
acre.
Enclosed are the following materials:
S Caring for the Land and Serving People Printed on Recycled Paper ~�

• Five copies of the Pre - Construction Notice (version 1.3), application for 404 permit
(Nationwide Permit #27), with the Letter of Delegation of Authority
• Five copies of the vicinity map and site plans for the project
• Five copies of the signed NEPA documentation (Decision Memo) for the project
• A check made payable to the Division of Water Quality for $570.00 since the length of
stream channel impacts is more than 150 feet
If you require any additional information, please contact me at 828 - 257 -4214.
Sincerely, j
Brady . Dodd
National Forests in North Carolina
Forest Hydrologist

\O20F W A L4 99
2 0 1 4 1 2 8 6
PAOffice Use Only
Corps action ID no
'�. _DW- Q,project no.
Form Version 13 Dec 10 2008
Page 1 of 13
PCN Form — Version 1.3 December 10, 2008 Version
Pre - Construction Notification (PCN) Form
A.
Applicant Information
1.
Processing
la
Type(s) of approval sought from the
Corps
®Section 404 Permit El Section 10 Permit
1b Specify Nationwide Permit (NWP) number. 27 or General Permit (GP) number n/a
1c
Has the NWP or GP number been verified by the Corpse
❑ ® No
1d
Type(s) of approval sought from the DWQ (check all that apply):
® 401 Water Quality Certification — Regular ❑ Non -404 Jurisdictional General Permit
[:1401 Water Quality Certification — Express ❑ Riparian Buffer Authorization
le
Is this notification solely for the record
because written approval is not required?
For the record only for DWQ 401
Certification
❑ Yes ® No
For the record only for Corps Permit
❑ Yes ® No
1f
Is payment into a mitigation bank or in -lieu fee program proposed for mitigation
of impacts? If so, attach the acceptance letter from mitigation bank or in -lieu
fee program
❑ Yes ® No
1 g
Is the project located in any of NC's twenty coastal counties If yes, answer 1 h
below
❑ Yes ® No
1h
Is the project located within a NC DCM Area of Environmental Concern (AEC)?
❑ Yes ® No
2.
Project Information
2a
Name of project
Big Creek Stream Enhancement & Aquatic Organism Passage
2b. County
Randolph & Montgomery
2c.
Nearest municipality / town
Troy, NC
2d
Subdivision name
USDA Forest Service, Uwharne Ranger District
2e
NCDOT only, T I P or state
project no
3.
Owner Information
n
3a
Name(s) on Recorded Deed
USDA Forest Service _
3b.
Deed Book and Page No
19 DEC 1 3; 2014
4
3c
Responsible Party (for LLC if
applicable)
Kristin Bad
_ w TFR RESOURCES
3d. Street address
160 Zillicoa Street, Suite A LL40LI & BUFFER r PE_ RMJ i iry
3e
City, state, zip:
Asheville, NC 28801
3f
Telephone no.
828 - 257 -4269
3g. Fax no
828 - 259 -0584
3h
Email address
kmbad @fs fed us
Page 1 of 13
PCN Form — Version 1.3 December 10, 2008 Version

4.
Applicant Information (if different from owner)
4a. Applicant is.
® Agent ❑ Other, specify
4b
Name
Brady N Dodd
4c
Business name
(if applicable)-
USDA Forest Service, Hydrologist
4d
Street address.
160 Zdlicoa Street, Suite A
4e
City, state, zip
Asheville, NC 28801
4f
Telephone no.:
828 - 257 -4214
4g
Fax no
828 - 257 -4874
4h
Email address
bdodd @fs fed us
5.
Agent/Consultant Information (if applicable)
5a
Name-
5b
Business name
(if applicable).
5c
Street address-
5d
City, state, zip
5e. Telephone no
5f
Fax no
5g
Email address
Page 2 of 13

B.
Project Information and Prior Project History
1.
Property Identification
1a
Property identification no (tax PIN or parcel ID)
USDA Forest Service, National Forest in NC, Uwharne
RD
lb
Site coordinates (in decimal degrees)- - if you can't get
Latitude 35 507206 deg Longitude - 80.039552 deg
these, dust include a very good vicinity map
1c.
Property size
219,757 acres
2.
Surface Waters
2a
Name of nearest body of water (stream, river, etc ) to
Big Creek
proposed project
2b
Water Quality Classification of nearest receiving water
Class C
2c
River basin. map is available at
Yadkin Pee Dee River Basin
http / /h2o enr state nc us /admen /maps/
Page 3 of 13
PCN Form — Version 1 3 December 10, 2008 Version

I Project Description
3a. Describe the existing conditions on the site and the general land use in the vicinity of the project at the time of this
application:
In this reach of Big Creek, FSR 6750 crosses the stream with a concrete ford (Photo 1). The FSR 6750
crossing is likely a year -round barrier to fish movement due to excessive outlet drop and velocity. The entire
reach of channel is moderately entrenched with excessive amounts of bank erosion (Photo 2). The channel is
a Rosgen "C" stream type, experiencing a degrading trend in stream ecosystem health because of past
management including riparian harvest, farming, increases in stream peak flows, and loss of large woody
debris. These influences have caused channel down cutting and a loss of floodplain accessibility during the
more frequent floods (25 -year flood and less), resulting in excessive channel bank erosion. Fish population
surveys conducted in July 2014 found fish present exclusively in pool habitat and preferring the presence of
large woody debris.
S
Photo 1. Concrete ford Photo 2. Existing condition typical
3b. List the total estimated acreage of all existing wetlands on the property:
0 Acres of wetlands.
3c. List the total estimated linear feet of all existing streams (intermittent and perennial) on the property:
-- 24,000 feet in the Big Creek drainage within the Forest Service boundary.
3d. Explain the purpose of the proposed project:
The Big Creek drainage is within the Crow Creek - Uwharrie River Watershed (HUC 030401030504), the
second highest priority for restoration, per the NFsNC Forest Priority Watershed designation, 2008. The
watershed has the potential to be occupied by the federally endangered freshwater mussel species, Carolina
heal splitter. For this reason, sedimentation is a concern. Based on field assessments of stream conditions,
erosion and sedimentation are the largest stressors on the aquatic environment. The proposed work is intended
to improve the health of the stream ecosystem by improving channel stability and habitat quality, along with
improving riparian and streamside vegetation conditions. This will be accomplished with the construction of
instream structures using trees found on site fashioned to protect eroded stream banks and create high quality
aquatic habitat features. The desired condition is to have high quality riparian areas and aquatic habitat
features that maintain hydrologic function, floodplain connectivity, enhance stream stability, and minimize
erosion. The proposed action is needed at this time, at these locations, because taking no action would lead to
further erosion and sedimentation which, in turn, would cause further damage to aquatic habitat and the
maintenance of designated uses.
Page 4 of 13

3e Describe the overall project In detail, Including the type of equipment to be used
1) Channel stabilization techniques are used in this reach to improve degraded conditions and reverse the trend to
improving conditions.
a) Use a reference reach of stream for design channel dimensions.
b) With a medium sized trackhoe construct channel features, e g. point bars, pools, inner berms, etc., where
appropriate.
c) Fell live trees from outside of 30 feet of the stream and incorporate large wood into the channel at designed
locations (Table 1) to enhance channel stability and aquatic habitat diversity, e.g riffles and pools.
Table 1. Location of proposed stream enhancement structures, see to o survey/plan-view for Station location.
Site Station Proposed Treatment
1 0 +74 Slope back point bar along 25' of right bank
2 1 +07 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
3 1 +50 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
4 1 +24 to 1 +70 Slope back point bar along 46' of left bank
5 2 +07 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
6 2 +50 Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
7 3 +50 Log J -hook vane with boulder placement to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
8 4 +27 Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
9 4 +57 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
10 4 +30 to 4 +72 Slope back point bar along 42' of left bank
11 5 +40 Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
12 6 +18 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
13 6 +00 to 6 +40 Slope back point bar along 40' of right bank
14 6 +96 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
15 7 +40 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
16 7 +35 to 8 +10 Slope back point bar along 75' of right bank
17 8 +30 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
18 8 +60 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
19 9 +70 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
20 10 +30 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
21 10 +56 to 10 +69 Remove concrete ford bottom & replace with cobble and gravel sized stone
22 10 +70 Boulder Cross -vane to hold ford invert grade
23 12 +00 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
24 12 +63 Pool feature construction
25 13 +75 Enhance existing debris jam with additional small logs and woody debris
26 14 +55 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
27 15 +70 Enhance existing log -step pool with log vane
28 16 +60 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
29 17 +63 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
30 18 +20 Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
31 19 +10 Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
32 19 +70 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
33 19 +30 to 19 +92 Slope back point bar along 62' of right bank
34 20 +55 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
35 20 +35 to 20 +94 Slope back point bar along 59' of left bank
36 21 +27 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
37 21 +78 Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
38 22 +65 Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
General Project -wide Erosion control measures will be taken on all soil disturbed by the proposed work, including
seed, mulch, and Coir matting on stream banks
2) Replacement of the concrete ford with a low water crossing that allows for aquatic passage.
a) Remove existing ford bottom, leaving concrete approaches in place.
b) With a medium sized trackhoe construct a cross vane at the downstream end of the ford. This structure is
intended to hold the natural- bottom ford in place while allowing passage of aquatics
c) Construct the ford bottom using stone excavated from the channel during cross vane construction and larger
quarry stone to key in the river stone as needed
Page 5 of 13

4.
Jurisdictional Determinations
4a
Have jurisdictional wetland or stream determinations by the
Corps or State been requested or obtained for this property /
project (including all prior phases) in the pasty
Comments
El Yes ®No El Unknown
4b
If the Corps made the jurisdictional determination, what type
of determination was made
[:1 Preliminary El Final
4c
If yes, who delineated the jurisdictional areas?
Name (if known)
Agency /Consultant Company
Other
4d
If yes, list the dates of the Corps jurisdictional determinations or State determinations and attach documentation
5.
Project History
5a
Have permits or certifications been requested or obtained for
this project (including all prior phases) in the past
El Yes ®No El Unknown
5b
If yes, explain in detail according to "help file" instructions
6.
Future Project Plans
6a
Is this a phased project?
❑ Yes ® No
6b
If yes, explain
Page 6 of 13

C. Proposed Impacts Inventory
1. Impacts Summary
1a Which sections were completed below for your project (check all that apply):
❑ Wetlands ® Streams - tributaries ❑ Buffers
❑ Open Waters ❑ Pond Construction
2. Wetland Impacts
If there are wetland impacts proposed on the site, then complete this question for each wetland area impacted
2a
2b.
2c
2d
2e
2f
Wetland impact
Type of jurisdiction
number —
Type of impact
Type of wetland
Forested
(Corps - 404, 10
Area of impact
Permanent (P) or
(if known)
DWQ — non -404, other)
(acres)
Temporary T
W1 ❑ P ❑ T
❑ Yes
❑ Corps
❑ No
❑ DWQ
W2 ❑ P ❑ T
❑ Yes
❑ Corps
❑ No
❑ DWQ
W3 ❑ PMT
❑ Yes
❑ Corps
❑ No
❑ DWQ
W4 []PMT
❑ Yes
❑ Corps
❑ No
❑ DWQ
W5 ❑ P ❑ T
❑ Yes
❑ Corps
❑ No
❑ DWQ
W6 ❑ P ❑ T
❑ Yes
❑ Corps
❑ No
❑ DWQ
2g. Total wetland impacts
2h Comments
3. Stream Impacts
If there are perennial or intermittent stream impacts (including temporary impacts) proposed on the site, then complete this
question for all stream sites impacted
3a.
3b
3c
3d
3e
3f
3g
Stream impact
Type of impact
Stream name
Perennial
Type of jurisdiction
Average
Impact
number -
(PER) or
(Corps - 404, 10
stream
length
Permanent (P) or
intermittent
DWQ — non -404,
width
(linear
Temporary (T)
(INT)?
other)
(feet)
feet)
Excavate
substrate from
® PER
® Corps
S1 ❑ P ®T
streambed & use
Big Creek
INT
DWQ
20
870
in structure
construction
Excavate stream
® PER
® Corps
S2 ❑ P ®T
banks to stabilize
Big Creek
INT
ED DWQ
20
324
slopes
S4 ❑ P ❑ T
❑ PER
❑ Corps
❑ INT
❑ DWQ
S5 ❑ PMT
❑ PER
❑ Corps
❑ INT
❑ DWQ
S6 ❑ P ❑ T
❑ PER
❑ Corps
❑ INT
❑ DWQ
3h. Total stream and tributary impacts
1,194
3i Comments S1 "Impact length" determined by assuming a 30 feet stream length on 29 stream structure sites
Page 7 of 13

4. Open Water Impacts
If there are proposed impacts to lakes, ponds, estuaries, tributaries, sounds, the Atlantic Ocean, or any other open water of
the U S. then indiv ually list all open water impacts below
4a
4b
4c
4d
4e.
Open water
Name of waterbody
impact number —
(if applicable)
Type of impact
Waterbody type
Area of impact (acres)
Permanent (P) or
Temporary T
01 ❑P ❑T
02 ❑P ❑T
03 ❑P ❑T
04 ❑P ❑T
0. Total open water impacts
4g Comments
S. Pond or Lake Construction
If pond or lake construction proposed, then complete the chart below
5a.
5b
5c
5d
5e
Wetland Impacts (acres)
Stream Impacts (feet)
Upland
Pond ID
Proposed use or purpose
(acres)
number
of pond
Flooded
Filled
Excavated
Flooded
Filled
Excavated
Flooded
P1
P2
5f. Total
5g Comments.
5h Is a dam high hazard permit required
❑ Yes ❑ No If yes, permit ID no
51 Expected pond surface area (acres)-
5j Size of pond watershed (acres)
5k Method of construction
6. Buffer Impacts (for DWQ)
If project will impact a protected riparian buffer, then complete the chart below. If yes, then individually list all buffer impacts
below If any impacts require mitigation, then you MUST fill out Section D of this form
6a.
❑ Neuse ❑ Tar - Pamlico ❑ Other
Project is in which protected basin?
❑ Catawba ❑ Randleman
6b.
6c
6d
6e
6f.
6g
Buffer impact
number —
Reason
Buffer
Zone 1 impact
Zone 2 impact
Permanent (P) or
for
Stream name
mitigation
(square feet)
(square feet)
Temporary T
im act
required?
B1 ❑P ❑T
El Yes
❑ No
B2 ❑P ❑T
El Yes
❑ No
B3 ❑P ❑T
El Yes
❑ No
6h Total buffer impacts
61 Comments
Page 8 of 13

D. Impact Justification and Mitigation
1. Avoidance and Minimization
1a Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed impacts in designing project
Construction would temporarily increase turbidity and sediment deposition downstream of the site Potential adverse
impacts would be avoided by minimizing excessive excavation, adhering to the State turbidity standard, and working in
the dry when practical by diverting flow away from disturbance Work is expected to be completed over a two week
period
b Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed impacts through construction techniques
A Minimize the area and degree of sod disturbance that reduces infiltration capacity and permeability, and destroys protective
forest floor and ground cover
B All hazardous materials will be stored outside of flood -prone areas and surrounded with sediment fence to reduce the risk of
materials reaching the river
C Work activities would not be scheduled on rainy days
D. Heavy Equipment Operation
1 All equipment shall be cleaned before entering the project area and stream, so as to reduce the risk of fine grained
sediment and oils and grease from entering the stream This would also reduce the risk of invasive weed spread
onto the Forest
2 Do not operate on wet sods when they are most susceptible to damage and erosion
3 Operate heavy equipment on slopes less than 12 percent so as to reduce the risk of sod erosion Avoid operating
heavy equipment on over - hanging stream banks
4 Move large woody debris in a manner that minimizes disturbance of the forest floor, exposure of mineral sod, or
degradation of stream bank stability
E Install sediment fence to trap potential sediment Stabilize any disturbed area at the end of each workday
F Re- vegetate exposed sods as soon as possible to take advantage of the loose soil conditions for seeding
1 Exposed sod will be covered with straw mulch or erosion control matting at the end of the project Matting will be
secured in place with stakes and live stakes where conditions allow
2 Temporary seeding will occur on all bare sod within five days of ground disturbing activities to provide long -term
erosion control
3 Stabilize channel banks with a native seed mix as work is completed.
G Do not move sediment trap devices until the vegetation in the disturbed areas has been established
H During on -going operations inspect the site frequently, inspect occasionally during inactive periods
1 Check for potentially damaging or fading situations that may cause unacceptable water quality impacts.
2 Correct failing situations as soon as practical
I Conduct visual inspections of Big Creek while the work is being conducted to maintain acceptable turbidity levels
Use a skilled heavy equipment operator, trained in stream restoration and construction of in- stream structures Instruct the
operator to minimize disturbance to the streambed
2. Compensatory Mitigation for Impacts to Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the State
2a Does the project require Compensatory Mitigation for
❑ Yes ® No
impacts to Waters of the U S or Waters of the State?
2b If yes, mitigation is required by (check all that apply)
❑ DWQ ❑ Corps
❑ Mitigation bank
2c. If yes, which mitigation option will be used for this
❑ Payment to in-lieu fee program
project?
❑ Permittee Responsible Mitigation
3. Complete if Using a Mitigation Bank
3a Name of Mitigation Bank
3b. Credits Purchased (attach receipt and letter)
Type
Quantity
Page 9 of 13
PCN Form — Version 1 3 December 10, 2008 Version

3c Comments
4. Complete if Making a Payment to In -lieu Fee Program
4a Approval letter from in -lieu fee program is attached
❑ Yes
4b Stream mitigation requested-
linear feet
4c If using stream mitigation, stream temperature.
❑ warm ❑ cool ❑cold
4d Buffer mitigation requested (DWQ only).
square feet
4e Riparian wetland mitigation requested-
acres
4f Non - riparian wetland mitigation requested
acres
4g. Coastal (tidal) wetland mitigation requested
acres
4h Comments
5. Complete if Using a Permittee Responsible Mitigation Plan
5a If using a permittee responsible mitigation plan, provide a description of the proposed mitigation plan
6. Buffer Mitigation (State Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules) — required by DWQ
6a Will the project result in an impact within a protected riparian buffer that requires
buffer mitigation? If yes, you will have to fill out this entire form — Please
contact the State for more information.
El Yes ED No
6b. If yes, then identify the square feet of impact to each zone of the riparian buffer that requires mitigation Calculate the
amount of mitigation required
Zone
6c
Reason for impact
6d
Total impact
(square feet)
Multiplier
6e
Required mitigation
(square feet)
Zone 1
3 (2 for Catawba)
Zone 2
1 5
6f Total buffer mitigation required:
6g If buffer mitigation is required, discuss what type of mitigation is proposed (e g , payment to private mitigation bank,
permittee responsible riparian buffer restoration, payment into an approved in -lieu fee fund)
6h Comments
Page 10 of 13

E.
Stormwater Management and Diffuse Flow Plan (required by DWQ)
1.
Diffuse Flow Plan
la
Does the project include or is it adjacent to protected riparian buffers identified
❑ Yes ® No
within one of the NC Riparian Buffer Protection Rules?
1b
If yes, then is a diffuse flow plan included? If no, explain why
❑ Yes ❑ No
Comments*
2.
Stormwater Management Plan
2a
What is the overall percent imperviousness of this project?
0%
2b
Does this project require a Stormwater Management Plan?
❑ Yes ® No
2c
If this project DOES NOT require a Stormwater Management Plan, explain why The
current site contains less than
24% impervious area and an increase in impervious area is not planned from the
proposed work Additionally, all
stormwater is transported primarily via vegetated conveyances
2d
If this project DOES require a Stormwater Management Plan, then provide a brief, narrative description of the plan•
❑ Certified Local Government
2e
Who will be responsible for the review of the Stormwater Management Plan?
❑ DWQ Stormwater Program
❑ DWQ 401 Unit
3.
Certified Local Government Stormwater Review
3a
In which local government's jurisdiction is this project?
Transylvania County
❑ Phase II
❑ NSW
3b
Which of the following locally - implemented stormwater management programs
El USMP
apply (check all that apply)
❑ Water Supply Watershed
❑ Other
3c Has the approved Stormwater Management Plan with proof of approval been
❑ Yes ❑ No
attached?
4.
DWQ Stormwater Program Review
❑ Coastal counties
❑ HQW
4a
Which of the following state - implemented stormwater management programs apply
❑ ORW
(check all that apply)
❑ Session Law 2006 -246
❑ Other
4b Has the approved Stormwater Management Plan with proof of approval been
❑ Yes No
❑
attached?
5.
DWQ 401 Unit Stormwater Review
5a
Does the Stormwater Management Plan meet the appropriate requirements?
❑ Yes ❑ No
5b Have all of the 401 Unit submittal requirements been met?
❑ Yes ❑ No
Page 11 of 13
PCN Form — Version 1 3 December 10, 2008 Version

F.
Supplementary Information
1.
Environmental Documentation (DWQ Requirement)
la
Does the project involve an expenditure of public (federal /state /local) funds or the
® Yes
❑ No
use of public (federal /state) land
1 b
If you answered "yes" to the above, does the project require preparation of an
environmental document pursuant to the requirements of the National or State
® Yes
❑ No
(North Carolina) Environmental Policy Act (NEPA/SEPA)?
1 c
If you answered "yes" to the above, has the document review been finalized by the
State Clearing House? (If so, attach a copy of the NEPA or SEPA final approval
letter )
® Yes
❑ No
Comments NEPA Decision Memo document is attached
2.
Violations (DWQ Requirement)
2a.
Is the site in violation of DWQ Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H 0500), Isolated
Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H 1300), DWQ Surface Water or Wetland Standards,
❑ Yes
® No
or Riparian Buffer Rules (15A NCAC 213 0200)?
2b
Is this an after - the -fact permit application?
❑ Yes
® No
2c
If you answered "yes" to one or both of the above questions, provide an explanation of the violation(s)
3.
Cumulative Impacts (DWQ Requirement)
3a
Will this project (based on past and reasonably anticipated future impacts) result in
El Yes
No
additional development, which could impact nearby downstream water quality
3b
If you answered "yes" to the above, submit a qualitative or quantitative cumulative impact analysis in accordance with the
most recent DWQ policy If you answered "no," provide a short narrative description
4.
Sewage Disposal (DWQ Requirement)
4a
Clearly detail the ultimate treatment methods and disposition (non - discharge or discharge) of wastewater generated from
the proposed project, or available capacity of the subject facility
No sewage disposal is necessary
Page 12 of 13
PCN Form — Version 1 3 December 10, 2008 Version

5. Endangered Species and Designated Critical Habitat (Corps Requirement)
5a Will this project occur in or near an area with federally protected species or
❑ Yes ® No
habitat?
5b. Have you checked with the USFWS concerning Endangered Species Act
® Yes ❑ No
impacts?
El Raleigh
5c If yes, indicate the USFWS Field Office you have contacted
® Asheville
5d What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact Endangered Species or Designated Critical
Habitat?
I consulted the NC Natural Heritage Database (Jan 2011 update) and the US FWS website to obtain species information
6. Essential Fish Habitat (Corps Requirement)
6a Will this project occur in or near an area designated as essential fish habitats
❑ Yes ® No
6b What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact Essential Fish Habitat?
Data source is NOAA website
7. Historic or Prehistoric Cultural Resources (Corps Requirement)
7a Will this project occur in or near an area that the state, federal or tribal
governments have designated as having historic or cultural preservation
❑ Yes ® No
status (e g , National Historic Trust designation or properties significant in
North Carolina history and archaeology)?
7b What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact historic or archeological resources?
Conclusion is based on past and present Section 106- National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) compliant
inventory and evaluation (by archaeologists) of all proposed project areas and the subsequent completion of a
Report-of- Findings, reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
8. Flood Zone Designation (Corps Requirement)
8a Will this project occur in a FEMA - designated 100 -year floodplain?
❑ Yes ® No
8b If yes, explain how project meets FEMA requirements This project in no way inhibits the natural function of the floodplain,
but will actually improve floodplain form and function
8c What source(s) did you use to make the floodplain determination? NC Floodplain Mapping Information System
http / /floodmaps nc gov /FMIS/
Brady N. Dodd
Vec, ll/ Zol y
Applicant/Agent's Printed Name
Date
'�4ApplicandXg&rs Signature
(Agent's signat re is valid only if an authorization letter from the applicant
is provided
Page 13 of 13

,ate Forest National Forests in 160 Zillicoa St, Ste. A
"TS Service North Carolina Asheville, NC 28801 -1082
828 - 257 -4200
File Code: 2500
Route To: (2500)
Subject: Delegation of Authority
To: Brady Dodd
Date: June 21, 2012
You are hereby delegated the authority to act as my agent for all phases of the application
process for permits required by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, for watershed restoration
and improvement projects such as aquatic habitat restoration and enhancement, habitat
restoration, channel stabilization, and channel relocation on the National Forests in North
Carolina. You are authorized to make formal application for all permits to the U.S. Army Corp
of Engineers and the North Carolina Division of Water Quality, provide all necessary
information, and sign all correspondence.
Include this letter as part of all application for Section 404 permits to the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers and Section 401 Water Quality Certification to the North Carolina Division of Water
Quality.
xao,ev-�
. BAIL
visor
USDA
O America's Working Forests - Caring Every Day in Every Way Printed on Recycled Paper 940

Big Creek Stream Enhancement & Aquatic Organism Passage — Project
Description Brady Dodd, Forest Hydrologist, December 11, 2014
The Big Creek drainage is within the Crow Creek - Uwharrie River Watershed (HUC
030401030504), the second highest priority for restoration, per the NFsNC Forest Priority
Watershed designation, 2008. The watershed has the potential to be occupied by the federally
endangered freshwater mussel species, Carolina heal splitter. For this reason, sedimentation is
a concern. Based on field assessments of stream conditions, erosion and sedimentation are the
largest stressors on the aquatic environment. The proposed work is intended to improve the
health of the stream ecosystem by improving channel stability and habitat quality, along with
improving riparian and streamside vegetation conditions. This will be accomplished with the
construction of instream structures using trees found on site fashioned to protect eroded
stream banks and create high quality aquatic habitat features.
The desired condition is to have high quality riparian areas and aquatic habitat features that
maintain hydrologic function, floodplain connectivity, enhance stream stability, and minimize
erosion. The proposed action is needed at this time, at these locations, because taking no
action would lead to further erosion and sedimentation which, in turn, would cause further
damage to aquatic habitat and the maintenance of designated uses.
Hornet T.S. K -V Plan — Watershed
lit�y.
Improvements on Big Creek " sj
� _. , � � . t i_ � •. �� - -�+ Pte;, � � ;,, ; :
illt 47f0 aMSi� " r !►� ` ti F O
KEY:
Big Crk stream reach to be rehabilitated:
Figure 1. Site location map of Big Creek Stream Enhancement & Aquatic Organism Passage
Project, Uwharrie NF.
Big Creek Stream Enhancement & Aquatic Organism Passage Page 1

Existing Condition:
In this reach of Big Creek (Figure 1), Forest Service Road (FSR) 6750 crosses the stream with a
concrete ford (Photo 1). The FSR 6750 crossing is likely a year -round barrier to fish movement
due to excessive outlet drop and velocity. The entire reach of channel identified on the map
(Figure 1) is moderately entrenched with excessive amounts of bank erosion (Photos 2 & 3). The
channel is a Rosgen "C" stream type, experiencing a degrading trend in stream ecosystem
health because of past management including riparian harvest, farming, increases in stream
peak flows, and loss of large woody debris. These influences have caused channel downcutting
and a loss of floodplain accessibility during the more frequent floods (25 -year flood and less),
resulting in excessive channel bank erosion.
Photo 1. Photo 2.
Photo 3.
Proposed Actions:
1) Channel stabilization techniques are used in this reach to improve degraded conditions and
reverse the trend to improving conditions.
a) Use a reference reach of stream for design channel dimensions.
Big Creek Stream Enhancement & Aquatic Organism Passage Page 2

b) Wiffi a medium sized trackhoe construct channel,features, e.g. point bars and floodplain
(bankfull benches) where appropriate. (Appendix A')
c) Fell live trees from within 100 feet of the stream and incorporate large wood (Appendix
A) Into the channel at designed locations (Table 1 and Appendix B — Plan View) to
enhance channel stability and aquatic habitat diversity, e.g. riffles and pools.
Table 1. Location of proposed stream enhancement structures, see topo survey /plan -view
(Appendix B) for Station locations.
Site
Station
Proposed Treatment
1
0 +74
Slope'back point bar along 25' of right bank
2
1 +07
Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
3
1 +50
Log 'vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
4
1 +24 to 1 +70
Slope,back point bar along 46' of left bank
5
2 +07
Log`yane,to_stabihze bank and create pool habitat
6
2 +50
Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool Habitat
7
3 +50
Log 4-hook vane with boulder placement to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
8
4 +27 _
Log Cross_ -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
9
4 +57'
L'ogwane toistabihze'bank and createipool +habitat
10
4 +30 to 4 +72
Slope back point bar along 42' of left bank
11
5 +40
Log,Cross -vane to,stabdize bank and create pool habitat
12
6 +18
Log vane to stabdize,bank and create pool`habitW _ _
13
6 +00,to 6 +40
'Slope-back point bar along,40' of right bank
14
6 +96
Log vane to stabilize bank and,create'pool habitat
15
7 +40
Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat _
16
7 +35 to 8 +10
Slope, back point bar along 75' of nghtbank
17
8 +30
Log vane t_o,stabd¢e bank and create pool habitat
18
8 +60
Log vane to stabilize bank +and create pool habitat
19
9 +70
Log vane to stabilize bank,and create pool habitat
20
10_ +30
Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
21
10 +56 to'10 +69
Remove�coricrete ford bottom &'replace wdh cobble and gravel sized stone
22
10 +70
Boulder Cross -vane to hold fond invert grade
23
12 +00
Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
24
12 +63
Pool feature=nstruction
25
13 +75
'Enhance easbng debris jam with additional small logs and woody debris
26
14 +55
Log vanelto stabilize bank and create pool habitat
27
15 +70
Enhance wasting log -step pool with log vane
28
16 +60
Log vane;to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
29
17 +63
Log vane,to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
30
18 +20
Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
31
19 +10
Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
32
19 +70
Log vane,to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
33
19 +30 to 19 +92
Slope back point bar along 62' of right bank
34
20 +55
Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool hab_itat___
35
20 +35 to 20 +94
Slope back point bar along 59' of left bank
36
21 +27
Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool,habitat
37
21 +78
Log Cross -vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
38
22 +65
Log vane to stabilize bank and create pool habitat
General
Project -"ride
Erosion control measures will be taken on all sod disturbed by the proposed work, including
seed, mulch, and Coir matting on stream banks
2) Replacement of the concrete ford with a low water crossing that allows for aquatic passage.
a) Remove existing,ford bottom, leaving concrete approaches in place
Big Creek Stream Enhancement'& Aquatic Organism iPassage Page 3

b) With a medium sized trackhoe construct across vane (Figure 2) at the
downstream end of the ford. This structure is intended to hold the ford in place
while allowing passage of,aquatics.
c) Construct the ford bottom using stone excavated from the channel during cross
vane construction and quarry stone as needed.
Pu %U%l
r'sossstcrro` M
a�r u tu.7b«
rcaa xa�
T-
am= WWI
Figure 2. Example of Cross Vane, design, proposed structure at Station 10 +70.
Big Creek Stream Enhancement'& Aquatic Organism Passage Page 4

APPENDIX A e STREAM RESTORATION SPECIFICATIONS
EQUIPMENT AND OPERATOR SPECIFICATIONS
A) Manner of Construction -Excavation will be done in a manner which will minimize sedimentation in
the stream channel Silt fence will be installed downstream of the construction area to reduce the risk
of sediment entering the stream
B) Equipment Operator Performance - Equipment operators shall be experienced and competent in the
use of the equipment to which they are,assigned They shall be expected to demonstrate a level of
proficiency with th&equipment which enables them to be productive in all aspects of stream
restoration work Equipment, operators shall be experienced in the construction of Rosgen designed
structures, including the cross vane, J -hook vane, and Toe- wood /Sod mat,
Operators will be instructed by the construction inspector as to the desired result,of construction
activities Operators will'be responsible for determmmg how best to use equipment to achieve the
desired results Chain saw operators will be required to cut trees, limbs and root masses as
necessary to-facilitate the removal and placement of debris in the stream
C) Environmental Considerations - Earth moving equipment will cross and operate,m the stream flow
only when necessary and only when directed to do so by the construction inspector Equipment shall
be new or of low hours and be maintained'to prevent fuel, oil and lubricant spills in the vicinity of the
stream Refueling, repairs and lubrication will be performed at a safe distances from the stream and
only at locations approved by the construction inspector where water is controlled by runoff control
measures
D) Safety Considerations - At work sites, where equipment will be operated on Forest Roads; flagman
shall be stationed to warn oncoming traffic of congestion Construction road signs shall be in place
and a means of removing sediment, mud or rocks from roadways shall be established The
contractor will be responsible for the implementation of these measures
E) Equipment Specifications
Hydraulic Excavator
• Track mounted, hydraulic powered
• Excavator
o Min weight — 25,000 Ibs
o Min Reach — 22 feet
o Min Digging Depth — 20,feet
o Min Bucket size —1 0 Cu Yd
o Min 115 HP
o Equipped with hydraulic thumb, with experienced operator as described above
(More than 1 excavator may be required Unit price bid should be for one excavator for one hour
of running time)
IN- STREAM STRUCTURES SPECIFICATIONS
Log Vane
Description
This structure serves to decrease stress in the near -bank region while promoting scouring in the
downstream pool Logs are placed at an angle to the stream bank, gradually inclining in elevation until
they are located near Y2 bankfull elevation directly adjacent to the stream bank Water flowing
downstream is forced over these logs- towards the middle of the channel, effectively scouring out a pool
Big Creek Stream Enhancement & Aquatic Orgamsm Passage Page 5

below. The quantity of log vanes may be increased, decreased, or eliminated entirely at the direction of
the designer. Such variations in quantity will not be considered as alterations in the details of construction
or a change in the character of the work.
Materials
Trees to be used for the vane shall be provided by the Forest Service from near the site. All log materials
shall be at least 10 inches in diameter. A sheet of non woven geotextile fabric (4oz. or greater) shall be
placed the length of the vane arm on the upstream side, stapled to the top log in a manner that they will
be covered by back fill material. Back fill material shall be obtained from the stream channel bed.
Installation
A trench shall be dug in such a manner that the footer and header logs are buried beneath the bed
surface elevation at least three feet. An excavator, with a bucket that includes a hydraulic thumb, shall be
used to place logs under the supervision of Designer. Logs shall be tightly sealed with no gaps between
the header and footer log. Filter fabric shall be placed on the upstream side of the structure and backfilled
with materials excavated on -site to prevent the washout of sediment through log gaps. Filter fabric shall
extend from the bottom of footer log to the finished grade elevation and shall be placed the entire length
of the structure. Header and footer logs shall be tied in securely to the bank in such a way that eliminates
the possibility of water diverting around them. Structures shall be built to the approval of the Designer.
The Designer may adjust the number and placement of structures in the field.
Basis of Payment
This payment shall be considered full compensation for all labor, equipment, hauling, placing, handling,
sorting, fitting, materials, and incidentals necessary to construct the Log Vane. Trees to be used for the
vane shall be provided by the Forest Service.
Payment will be made under:
Equipment& Labor ............................................ ............................... ..........................HOURS
Materials:
Non woven geotextile fabric ..........................................
............................LIN
10 TO 1;4 OF END OF
LOGS BURIED IN
1 STREAM BED MTH
y BOULDER AT
IlVVERTIBED
'[�,
This area t
be
LO Vane
g Typ ical
ELEVATION
.:.
filledwnht
tops and
e
fabric &
stream roc
'ti overfabn
h`
;r
q
LOGS PLACED AT A 20 - 30=
ANGLE FROM BANK AND AT
A2 -4% SLOPE FROM 112
BANKFULL ELEVATION
Constructed
,flt
pool
;fit
r y^
PROTECTED
BANK
A
-
II e4vaCton
_
GEOTEXTILE FABRIC /
PLACED
RIVER
I
_
ROCK
LOGS _TOPS
OF TREES
.•
BURIED UNDER
_
Constructed - -
RIVER ROCK
IEAR FOOT
Big Creek Stream Enhancement & Aquatic Organism Passage Page 6

EROSION CONTROL SPECIFICATIONS
Seed (Native)
Description
Seeding,shall occur within 24 hours of ground disturbing activities- Seed shall be applied by hand or with
a cyclone seeder and on steep slopes be immediately covered with leaf litter, raked'in from the
surrounding area On stream banks, biodegradable matting /blanket,shall be placed to keep seed and sod
in, place Below are native grass species to be,sown and their seeding density of pure live seed
Cdhffivinity Type Riparian
Scientific Name
Common Name
Planting Density
EI mus vii inicus
Virginia wild rye
22 Ibs /acre
Festuca rubra
Creeping red fescue
5 Ibs /acre
Mhanthelium'clandestinum
Deerton ue - -_ . f
2'lbs /acre
Aster _sa ittifolius
Arrow Leaved Aster
2,lbs /acre
RudbeckiaYhirta
Black, Eyed Susan
2 Ibs /acre
Eu atoriLim fistulosom
Joe P e.Weed
1 Ibs /acre
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Boneset
1 Ibs /acre
Materials
All materials shall meet the approval of the Designer
Basis of Payment
Payment for ;installation of seed and mulch will be paid for as outlined` This payment shall be considered full
compensation for all labor, equipment, furnishing materials, hauling, rehandling, sorting, materials, and
incidentals necessary to seed and mulch
Payment Will be made under
Seed ,
Mattina
ACRE
Materials
All materials shall meet the approval of the Designer and include Coir fiber mat 700, hardwood stakes, and live
stakes (see "Planting" Specs)
Installation
Coir fiber mat 700 shall be used on upper and lower stream banks (above and below the bankfull
elevation) The matting shall be fastened in place using hardwood stakes During the following plant
dormant season, live stakes shall be planted in the matting from water's edge to dust above bankfull
Species include silky dogwood (Cornus ammonum), black willow (Salix nigra), silky willow (Salix sencea),
ninebark,(Physocarpus opulifolius) and common elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) from a local source
Provide stakes made of hardwood to °anchor the matting Stakes shall be installed to no less than"! foot
deep for,use on side slopes and along the top edge of matting
Place the matting upon final grading, following seed and mulch application 'Provide a smooth sod surface
free from stones, clods, or debris which will prevent the contact of the matting with the soil Unroll the
matting on the contour, starting at the bottom of the slope and apply without stretching such that it will lie
smoothly but loosely on the soil surface Bury the top end of each piece of matting in a narrow trench sat
least 6 in (150 mm) deep and tamp firmly after staking with evenly spaced stakes Stake the matting
Big Creek Stream Enhancement & Aquatic Organism Passage Page 7

according to,the manufactures recommended pattern for specific product and slope Where one roll of
matting ends and a second roll begins, install matting end - over -end with approximately 6 inches, of
overlap Stake through overlapped area Install stakes across the matting at ends, lunctions,,and
trenches approximately 1 3 feet apart
Basis of Payment
Payment for installation of matting will be paid for as outlined This payment shall be,considered full compensation
for all labor, equipment, furnishing matenals, hauling, stockpiling, rehandling_, sorting, fitting, materials, and
incidentals necessary to mstall,matting
Payment will be made under
Matting
Plantinas
LINEAR FOOT
Description
Plantings shall be specked in each contract as to type e g , container, bare root, and live staking
Plantings from containers shall be from one gallon containers and can be planted throughout the year
Live staking and bare root planting shall occur during plant dormancy Bare root seedlings,shall be 6 to 12
inches tall Below is a list of woody vegetation species to be planted on stream banks and floodplams
Scientific Name
Common Name
Percent of plantings
Spacing-(feet)
Container & Bare Root Species:
_
T
Alnus serrulata
Tag Alder
20%
3
Cal canthus floridus
Sweetshrub
10%
3
Clethra acuminate
Cinnamon Bark Clethra
10 %W 1
4
Hamamelis vir iniana
Witch Hazel
10%
4
Hypericum densiflorum
Bushy St Johns
1U%
4
Itea vir inica
10%
4
Xanthorhiza sim licissima
Yellowroot
10%
25
Platanus occidentalis
Sycamore
_ _ 20%
6
Live Stake S ecies:
Cornus ammonum
silky dogwood
10
3
Salix nigra
black willow
20
3
Salix sencea
silky willow
20
3
Salix humilis
praine willow
10
_ 3
Sambucus,canadensis
common elderberry
30
3
Ph socar us o ulifolius
ninebark
10
3
Materials
All materials shall meet the - approval of the Designer
Basis of Payment
Payment for installation of plantings Will be paid for as outlined This payment shall,be considered,full,compensation
for alllabor, equipment, fumishmg;matenals, hauling, rehandling, sorting, materials, and incidentals necessary
to plant
Payment will be made under
Plantings ,
-EACH
Big Creek Stream' Enhancement & Aquatic Organism Passage Page 8

APPENDIX B = Proiect Plan View
Big Creek Stream, Enhancement &Aquatic Organism Passage Page,9

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PLAN VIEW / 6

Decision Memo
For
Northwest Analysis Area Watershed and
Aquatic Habitat Improvement Projects
USDA, Forest Service
Uwharrie National Forest ?*o Uwharrie Ranger District
Montgomery County, North Carolina
February 1013
PROPOSED ACTION:
It is my decision to implement several watershed restoration projects within the Northwest
Analysis Area to improve and enhance wildlife habitat and passage for aquatic organisms in Big
Creek and Crow Creek These creeks are within the Middle Uwharrie River Watershed (HUC
03040103050080). This project is located in Montgomery County near the Russell Mine and
Coggins Mine areas on Forest Roads 6511, 6513, and 6750. The specific watershed
improvement projects include the replacement of three concrete fords, two in Big Creek and
one in Crow Creek; and one natural bottom ford in Big Creek would all be replaced with low
water crossings that are designed to allow for passage of aquatic organisms and to construct
stream stabilization structures in both creeks to improve the stream habitat and reverse the
degradation of aquatic habitat. In two tributaries to Big Creek that have issues with culverts
the proposal is to: 1. One culvert would be removed and the channel would be reconstructed al
this crossing and the headcut that is present here would be stabilized with cobble and small
sized boulders, and 2 One undersized culvert would be replaced with the correct size.
Additionally, the mine tailing piles along Big Creek from the Russell Mine would be removed
and the area would be stabilized, capped and revegetated to reduce heavy metals leaching into
Big Creek.
A more detailed description of the proposed action is available in the project file in the
document named Northwest Analysis Area watershed imp projects analyzed.docx and a hard
copy of this document is in the Project File at the Uwharrie National Forest office.
Location of Proposed Action:
The project area is in the northwestern portion of the Uwharrle National Forest near Russell
Mine with in the Middle Uwharrie River watershed. The project area is located on Big Creek
and Crow Creek subwatersheds, near Forest Roads 6750, 6511, and 6513. The attached map
shows the locations along Big Creek and Crow Creek where the stream restoration structures
would be installed (red dotted lines). The project area map also shows where the fords are 0
will be replaced and where the tailings pile is located that would be rehabilitated.
Northwest Area Watershed and Aquatic Habitat Improvement Projects Page 1 of 6

E t
PURPOSE AND NEED:
The Northwest Area Watershed Project is being implemented to improve aquatic habitat for
fish and aquatic organism The Middle Uwharrne River watershed is a high priority watershed
with a goal for improving the watershed condition. This project is needed to move this
watershed toward an enhanced aquatic habitat condition and improved water quality.
REASONS FOR THE DECISION:
There are several environmental concerns with the condition of the streams in the project area
that were caused by prior land management activity on National Forest System lands and on
private lands (i e. mining, farming, logging). The Uwharrie National Forest Land and Resource
Management Plan (2012) has several desired conditions for soil, water and fisheries resources,
and this decision helps to implement these desired conditions. The desired conditions that are
addressed by this project are.
SWF -3. Road crossings allow for passage of fish and other aquatic organisms up and
down stream corridors except when there is a need to prevent non - native invasive species fron
moving upstream.
SWF -6. Streamsides are dominated by native riparian vegetation including trees
capable of adding large woody debris for hydrologic stability and instream habitat. Aquatic
habitat is diverse and relatively free of unnatural sediments. Pool habitats are frequent and
provide cover for many species of fish.
SWF -7. Stream channels retain connection to natural floodplains, so that normal
flooding can be accommodated by the forest without creating gullies or eroding stream banks.
Man -made dikes and deposition are absent, allowing the stream to flood out of its banks and
onto the floodplain in a natural way.
SWF -8. Stream channels degraded by historic mining are exhibiting improved biological
and hydrological conditions.
REASONS FOR CATEGORICALLY EXCLUDING THE PROPOSED ACTION:
An environmental analysis was conducted for this proposed action As a result of that analysis,
a determination has been made that the proposal is in a category of actions that are excluded
from further documentation in an Environmental Assessment or an Environmental Impact
Statement. That category of exclusion was established by the Chief of the Forest Service and is
documented in the Federal Register, Volume 57, Number 182, page 43209, section 31.2 (6),
"Timber stand and /or wildlife habitat improvement activities which do not include the use of
herbicides or do not require more than one mile of low standard road construction." This action
meets this category because this project would improve aquatic wildlife habitat and passage foi
aquatic organisms in Big Creek and Crow Creek by removing the natural bottom and concrete
fords and replacing them with low water crossings designed for passage of aquatic organisms
Additionally, the stream restoration structures will improve stream habitat through the
reduction of erosion and sedimentation, by stabilizing the streambanks, and by introducing
large woody debris to provide instream habitat This project would improve spawning habitat,
pool and riffle habitat and passage for a myriad of aquatic organisms. Water quality will also b
Northwest Area Waiershed acrd Aqualrc Habitat Lttprovement Projects Page 2 of 6

r
improved by reducing sedimentation in Big Creek and Crow Creek, and through the removal of
the mine tailings along Big Creek, which will be removed and the area will be stabilized, capped,
and revegetated.
FINDINGS OF NO EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES:
An Interdisciplinary Team was formed from resource specialists from the National Forests in
North Carolina, Uwharrie National Forest. That team consisted of a botanist, archaeologist, soils
specialist, hydrologist, timber management assistant, recreation specialist, and wildlife biologist
working on the Northwest Analysis Area Project These resource specialists did not identify any
significant issues during project review, and all concerns were addressed by inclusion as part of
the project proposal. Their reports are available in the project record, which is located in the
District office, and available upon request
It was also determined through the environmental analysis that there were no extraordinary
circumstances or conditions, as listed in the Federal Register (Vol. 67, Num. 164, pg 54622,
section 30.3 (2)) related to this proposal that might cause the action to have significant effects.
Specifically, this determination is based upon the absence, among others, of adverse effects on
the following:
1 Federally listed threatened or endangered species or designated critical habitat, species
proposed for federal listing or proposed critical habitat, or Forest Service sensitive
species.
A Biological Evaluation was prepared for both terrestrial and aquatic animal species and
for plant species. There are no threatened, endangered, or proposed plants or animal
species identified in the project area, nor has the project area been identified as critical
habitat. This project will have no effect on any federally listed threatened or
endangered species. There will be no impact to any regional forester's sensitive species
or critical habitat. There will be no impact to locally rare species. A copy of the
Biological Evaluation is located in the project folder at the District office
2. Flood plains, wetlands, or municipal watersheds.
There are no wetlands in the project areas. This area is not within a municipal
watershed. The stream restoration structures and replacement of the natural bottom
and concrete fords with low water crossings to allow for aquatic organism passage will
be within the floodplains of Big Creek and Crow Creek. There would be short term
impacts to the flood plains, however; the Forest Hydrologist determined that there
would be no significant adverse impacts to the floodplains through the implementation
of this project.
3. Congressionally designated areas, such as wilderness, wilderness study areas, or
National Recreation Areas.
This project is not within a wilderness, wilderness study area, or National Recreation
Area
Northwest Area Watershed and Aquatic Habitat Improvement ProJecls Page 3 of 6

4. Inventoried roadless areas.
This project is not within any inventoried roadless area. There are no roadless areas on
the Uwharrie National Forest.
5 Research Natural Areas
This project is not within a Research Natural Area There are no Research Natural Areas
on the Uwharrie National Forest.
6. American Indians and Alaska Native religious or cultural sites.
Based on past environmental analysis for the project area and recent consultations with
American Indian tribal councils, there are no known uses of this area for religious or
cultural purposes. The Zone Archaeologist has done a general survey of the project
areas and will specifically survey each location that the Forest Hydrologist flags and
identifies for a stream restoration structure. If any sites are found by the Zone
Archaeologist then that structure would be eliminated or the structure would be shifted
to another location cleared by the archaeologist. With this procedure in place there
would be no effect to National Register listed sites or historical properties. The
replacement of the natural bottom and concrete fords will be done in the same
locations as the existing fords and therefore will not have an impact on American
Indians and /or Alaska Native religious or cultural sites.
7 Archaeological sites, or historic properties or areas.
The Zone Archaeologist reviewed the proposed actions and did a general survey of the
project areas. The tailing piles are from the Russell Mine and are part of the historic
site. The Zone Archaeologist submitted information to the North Carolina State Historic
Preservation Office (SHPO) with his determination of this action stating that it will be an
"exempt undertaking" because tailing piles are not a contributing feature to the
National Register of Historic Places (NHRP) eligible Russell Mine complex. The SHPO
archaeologists concurred with this recommendation. An Archaeological Inventory
survey will be completed by the Zone Archaeologist and he will inventory each of the
flagged proposed stream restoration structure sites and he will direct any adjustments
necessary to avoid any archaeological or historic sites if they are found to be present.
With this procedure in place there would be no effect to National Register listed sites or
historical properties. The replacement of the natural bottom and concrete fords will be
done in the same locations of the existing fords and therefore will not have an impact
on archaeological sites or historic properties or areas.
SCOPING AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT:
This proposal was developed during internal discussions among resource specialists who were
assigned to the project. Interdisciplinary Team members visited the project area and identified
resource issues and mitigation measures that would minimize effects. Recommendations from
those specialists have been included in the project design.
In addition to internal discussions, the proposal was published in the National Forests in North
Carolina Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA), beginning in August 2012. The SOPA is mailed
Northitesi Area Watershed and Agnaitc Habitat Improvement Projects Page 4 of 6

to all persons who have expressed an interest in activities that occur on the National Forests in
North Carolina and is available on the Forest's website. A Legal Notice for this project was
published in the Montgomery Herald on August 29, 2012. This project was open for a 30 -day
comment period that began on August 29, 2012 No comments were received from the public
for this project
ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW OR APPEAL OPPORTUNITY
There were no negative comments received during 30 -day comment period, therefore; no
appeal period is necessary.
Pursuant to 36 CFR 215.12, this decision is not subject to a higher level of review.
Implementation may begin immediately.
FINDINGS REQUIRED BY OTHER LAWS AND REGULATIONS:
All management practices and activities of the proposed action are consistent with
management direction, including standards and guidelines, in the Uwharrie National Forest
Land and Resource Management Plan (2012), which was developed in accordance with the
National Forest Management Act of 1976, 16 USC 1604(i) and 36 CFR 219.10(e). This project is
also consistent with the National Environmental Policy Act (1969), the Endangered Species Act
(1973), the Federal Clean Water Act (1972), and the Clean Air Act (1977). This action does not
result in Environmental Justice issues, as defined in Executive Order 12898.
IMPLEMENTATION DATE:
Some of the proposed treatments would be implemented following the implementation of the
timber sale activities within the Northwest Analysis Area. Some of the proposed treatments
would be implemented with soil, watershed and /or wildlife and fisheries funding It is expecte
that the earliest that these projects would be implemented is spring 2013
CONTACT PERSON:
For more information, contact:
SIGNATURE AND DATE:
Theresa Savery, District Recreation Staff
Uwharrie National Forest
789 NC Hwy 24/27 East
Troy, NC 27371
Phone # [phone]
Approved by:
DEBORAH L. WALKER
District Ranger, Responsible Official
�vS 2t, 7-V3
Date
Northwest Area Watershed and Aquatic Habitat linprovenient Projects Page 5 of

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Habitat Improvement Project
Northwest Area Watershed and Aquatic Habitat Improvement Projects Page 6 of 6