20231056 Ver 1_CAMA Application_20230801

K DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
FIELD INVESTIGATION REPORT
E—iro—eatal
Quality
1. APPLICANT'S NAME: Stephanie Valdez
2. LOCATION OF PROJECT SITE: Rachel Carson Reserve Beaufort, NC 28516
Longitude: Latitude:
3. INVESTIGATION TYPE: CAMA + Dredge & Fill
4. INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURE:
Date of Visit
Purpose of Visit
Applicant Present?
4/23/2023
Site Visit
Yes
5. PROCESSING PROCEDURE -
Application Received
Application Co m lete
Regional Office
6/20/2023
7/31/2023
DCM - Morehead City Regional Office
6. SITE DESCRIPTION:
(A) Local Land Use Plan: Town of Beaufort
Land Classification from LUP: Land Classification From LUPs
(B) AEC(s) Involved: Coastal Shoreline, Estuarine Shoreline, Public Trust Shoreline,
Coastal Wetlands, Estuarine Waters, Complex Natural Areas
(C) Water Dependent: No
(D) Intended Use: Public/Government
(E) Wastewater Treatment:
Existing: N/A
Planned: N/A
(F) Type of Structures:
Existing:
Planned: Other
(G) Estimated Annual Rate of Erosion:
Erosion Information Source: Annual Erosion Source
7. HABITAT DESCRIPTION:
DREDGED ft2
FILLED ft2
OTHER ft2
A Open Water
B CW's above NHW
C CW's below NHW
1650
D Shallow Bottom
E High Ground
(F) Non -Coastal WL
(E) Total Area Disturbed: 5390 ft'
(F) Primary Nursery Area: No
(G) Water Classification: HQW: High Quality Waters; SA: Market Shellfishing, Tidal
Salt Water
Open to Shellfishing: No
Field Investigation Report: Stephanie Valdez
DCM Major Permit
Page I

8. PROJECT SUMMARY:
The proposed project is for a 55.7'x 95.1' (-5390sf) area of coastal wetlands to be subdivided
into 15 plots to be delineated with 60 PVC pipes. 6 out of the 15 plots will have 0.5' depth of
soil disturbance and biomass removal using a rototiller for a total 1650sf disturbance. The
proposal is part of a long-term monitoring research project for a global research network.
9. NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION:
The area is an outlying coastal wetland island located on the southeastern portion of the Rachel
Carson Reserve, Beaufort, Carteret County. The applicant states that the area is 11.9-acre with
330' of shoreline. A majority of the tract is coastal wetlands, which consists mostly of Spartina
alterniflora, Spartina patens, Salicornia spp., and Juncus roemerianus. Upland vegetation
consists of primarily sea oxeye, wax myrtle, and S. patens along the shoreline. The property
shoreline is natural and has an elevation
of 2' above NHW.
The waters of Back Sound adjacent to the project area are classified as "SA, HQW" by the
Division of Water Resources and have not been previously dredged. There are no nearby
Primary Nursery Areas. According to the maps provided by the Shellfish Sanitation Section of
the NC Division of Marine Fisheries, the waters within the project location contiguous to Back
Sound are closed shellfish harvesting. No SAV were observed within the project area. There is
no dredging proposed within navigable waters. A federal navigation channel in Taylor Creek
which has been historically dredged and maintained exists on the northern edge of the Rachel
Carson Reserve.
10. PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The applicant is proposing to conduct a long-term research and monitoring experiment on the
Rachel Carson Reserve. The experiment will be a singular site in a global study (DRAGNet),
that explores impacts of disturbance and nutrient availability on grasslands and salt marshes.
The experiment will be monitored annually for ten years to observe and explore nutrient
availability and disturbance recovery.
The proposed project is for a 55.7'x 95.1' (-5390sf) area of coastal wetlands to be subdivided
into fifteen 156.25sf plots delineated with a total of 60 PVC markers, four posts measuring
6'x2" diameter and 56 smaller posts measuring at 3'xl" diameter. The proposal shows that
PVC posts will be anchored 1' into substrate. 6 out of the 15 plots will have 0.5' depth of soil
disturbance and coastal wetland biomass removal using a rototiller. Disturbance will be limited
to first 3 years of the 10 year experiment.
11. ANTICIPATED IMPACTS:
The development would incorporate 1650sf coastal wetland and substrate disturbance. The
development could impact potential feeding grounds and habitat for species listed on federal and
state agencies. There is a potential for unknown long-term impacts and reestablishment of coastal
wetlands vegetation after disturbance. There should be no interference with navigation due to its
location on a marsh island and shallow water depths.
Field Investigation Report: Stephanie Valdez
DCM Major Permit
Page 12

Name: Wayne Hall Date: 08-01-2023 Office: DCM - Morehead City Regional Office
Field Investigation Report: Stephanie Valdez
DCM Major Permit
Page 13

APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
(last revised 12/27/06)
North Carolina DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
1. Primary Applicant/ Landowner Information
Business Name
Duke University Marine Lab
Project Name (if applicable)
DRAGNet
Applicant 1: First Name
Stephanie
MI
R
Last Name
Valdez
Applicant 2: First Name Brian
MI R
Last Name
Silliman
If additional applicants, please attach an additional page(s) with names listed.
Mailing Address
135 Duke Marine Lab Rd.
PO Box
City
Beaufort
State
NC
ZIP
28516
Country
USA
Phone No.
360 - 731 - 9723
ext.
FAX No.
Street Address (if different from above)
City
State
ZIP
Email
2. Agent/Contractor Information
Business Name
Agent/ Contractor 1: First Name
MI
Last Name
Agent/ Contractor 2: First Name
MI
Last Name
Mailing Address
PO Box
City
State
ZIP
Phone No. 1
ext.
Phone No. 2
ext.
FAX No.
Contractor #
Street Address (if different from above)
City
State
ZIP
Email
<Form continues on back>

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 2 of 4)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
3. Project Location
County (can be multiple)
Street Address
Rachel Carson Reserve
State Rd. #
Front St.
Carteret
Subdivision Name
City
Beaufort
State
Zip 28516
NC
-
Phone No.
Lot No.(s) (if many, attach additional page with list)
360- 731 -9723 ext.
, , , ,
a. In which NC river basin is the project located?
b. Name of body of water nearest to proposed project
White Oak
Back Sound
c. Is the water body identified in (b) above, natural or manmade?
d. Name the closest major water body to the proposed project site.
j]Natural ❑Manmade ❑Unknown
Back Sound
e. Is proposed work within city limits or planning jurisdiction?
f. If applicable, list the planning jurisdiction or city limit the proposed
®Yes ❑No
work falls within. Beaufort, NC
4. Site Description
a. Total length of shoreline on the tract (ft.)
b. Size of entire tract (sq.ft.)
330
5390
c. Size of individual lot(s)
d. Approximate elevation of tract above NHW (normal high water) or
NWL (normal water level)
(If many lot sizes, please attach additional page with a list)
❑NHW or ❑NWL
e. Vegetation on tract
Salt Marsh
f. Man-made features and uses now on tract
No man-made features on tract, used as recreation space and research
g. Identify and describe the existing land uses adjacent to the proposed project site.
Project will occur on the Rachel Carson Reserve, state owned land. Therefore, there is no
occupancy of the proposed land and rather, it is used for research and recreation.
h. How does local government zone the tract?
i. Is the proposed project consistent with the applicable zoning?
State owned nature preserve
(Attach zoning compliance certificate, if applicable)
❑Yes ❑No ®NA
j. Is the proposed activity part of an urban waterfront redevelopment proposal? ❑Yes ®No
k. Hasa professional archaeological assessment been done for the tract? If yes, attach a copy. ❑Yes WNo ❑NA
If yes, by whom?
I. Is the proposed project located in a National Registered Historic District or does it involve a ❑Yes [3No ❑NA
National Register listed or eligible property?
<Form continues on next page>

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 3 of 4)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
m. (i) Are there wetlands on the site? ®Yes ❑No
(ii) Are there coastal wetlands on the site? ®Yes ❑No
(iii) If yes to either (i) or (ii) above, has a delineation been conducted? ❑Yes F]No
(Attach documentation, if available)
n. Describe existing wastewater treatment facilities.
There are no wastewater treatment facilities on the Rachel Carson Reserve
o. Describe existing drinking water supply source.
There is no drinking water supply on the Rachel Carson Reserve
p. Describe existing storm water management or treatment systems.
There is no storm water management or treatment systems on the Rachel Carson Reserve
5. Activities and Impacts
a. Will the project be for commercial, public, or private use? ❑Commercial ®Public/Government
❑Private/Community
b. Give a brief description of purpose, use, and daily operations of the project when complete.
The project is a long-term research experiment. The experiment at the Rachel Carson reserve will be
a site in a global study, DRAGNet, that explores impacts of disturbance and nutrient availability on
grasslands including salt marshes. The experiment will be monitored annually for ten years.
c. Describe the proposed construction methodology, types of construction equipment to be used during construction, the number of each type
of equipment and where it is to be stored.
There will be a total of 15, 25 square meter plots. Plots will be constructed of PVC corner posts to
mark each plot. In addition, disturbance of 6 of the plots, as total biomass removal, will be done
using a rototiller stored at the Duke University Marine Lab.
d. List all development activities you propose.
Total plant biomass removal and nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilization annually. Plots will
be monitored annually where biomass and sediment samples will be taken from a subsection of each
plot.
e. Are the proposed activities maintenance of an existing project, new work, or both?
New work
f. What is the approximate total disturbed land area resulting from the proposed project? 1650 [SSq.Ft or ❑Acres
g. Will the proposed project encroach on any public easement, public accessway or other area ❑Yes ❑No K]NA
that the public has established use of?
h. Describe location and type of existing and proposed discharges to waters of the state.
There are no proposed discharges to the waters of the state.
i. Will wastewater or stormwater be discharged into a wetland? ❑Yes ❑No ONA
If yes, will this discharged water be of the same salinity as the receiving water? ❑Yes ❑No ❑NA
j. Is there any mitigation proposed? ®Yes ❑No ❑NA
If yes, attach a mitigation proposal.
<Form continues on back>

Form DCM MP-1 (Page 4 of 4)
APPLICATION for
Major Development Permit
6. Additional Information
In addition to this completed application form, (MP-1) the following items below, if applicable, must be submitted in order for the application
package to be complete. Items (a) — (f) are always applicable to any major development application. Please consult the application
instruction booklet on how to properly prepare the required items below.
a. A project narrative.
b. An accurate, dated work plat (including plan view and cross -sectional drawings) drawn to scale. Please give the present status of the
proposed project. Is any portion already complete? If previously authorized work, clearly indicate on maps, plats, drawings to distinguish
between work completed and proposed. No portion of the experiment has been completed.
c. A site or location map that is sufficiently detailed to guide agency personnel unfamiliar with the area to the site.
d. A copy of the deed (with state application only) or other instrument under which the applicant claims title to the affected properties.
e. The appropriate application fee. Check or money order made payable to DENR.
f. A list of the names and complete addresses of the adjacent waterfront (riparian) landowners and signed return receipts as proof that such
owners have received a copy of the application and plats by certified mail. Such landowners must be advised that they have 30 days in
which to submit comments on the proposed project to the Division of Coastal Management.
Name Rachel Carson Reserve Phone No. [phone]
Address Front St., Beaufort NC, 28516
Name Phone No.
Address
Name Phone No.
Address
g. A list of previous state or federal permits issued for work on the project tract. Include permit numbers, permittee, and issuing dates.
Rachel Carson reserve research permit- 2-2022, issued 05/09/2022
NC DEQ SEAP permit- 2072460, issued 03/02/2023
h. Signed consultant or agent authorization form, if applicable.
i. Wetland delineation, if necessary.
j. A signed AEC hazard notice for projects in oceanfront and inlet areas. (Must be signed by property owner)
k. A statement of compliance with the N.C. Environmental Policy Act (N.C.G.S. 113A 1-10), if necessary. If the project involves expenditure
of public funds or use of public lands, attach a statement documenting compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act.
7. Certification and Permission to Enter on Land
I understand that any permit issued in response to this application will allow only the development described in the application.
The project will be subject to the conditions and restrictions contained in the permit.
I certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact grant permission to representatives of state and federal review agencies to
enter on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this permit application and follow-up
monitoring of the project.
I further certify that the information provided in this application is truthful to the best of my knowledge.
Date 03/02/2023 Print Name Stephanie Valdez
Signature L/
Please indicate application attachments pertaining to your proposed project.
❑DCM MP-2 Excavation and Fill Information ❑DCM MP-5 Bridges and Culverts
®DCM MP-3 Upland Development
❑DCM MP-4 Structures Information

Disturbance and Resources Across Global Grasslands (DRAGNet) Experimental
Network
Stephanie Valdez
Duke University
Stephani e.val dezg duke. edu
Background:
The Disturbance and Resources Across Global Grasslands (DRAGNet) Experimental
Network is a global network of researchers conducting the same experiment across longitudinal
and latitudinal gradients and grassland types, including coastal marshes. Both human disturbance
and changes to nutrient availability are pervasive causes of habitat loss and changes to
biodiversity (Ellis 2011, Newbold et al. 2016, Higgins 2017). A goal of DRAGNet is to
experimentally explore how grasslands respond to disturbance and nutrient availability on large
scales. DRAGNet builds on the success of the Nutrient Network (NutNet), an ongoing 10 year,
global study with over 130 sites and nearly 300 publications. DRAGNet will expand the research
to explore impacts of disturbance.
Salt marshes, a type of coastal grasslands, are threatened by many of the same
anthropogenic stressors as terrestrial counter parts including disturbances caused by development
(Silliman and Bertness 2004) and nutrient run off primarily from agricultural run-off (Deegan et
al. 2012). In fact, salt marshes, occupying a thin band of viable habitat along the coast, may be
more imperil than terrestrial grasslands. Having sites that represent valuable coastal grasslands in
a global network is not only important for the global understanding of impacts on grasslands but
also, more locally, for understanding how disturbances and nutrient availability may impact the
resiliency of local salt marshes to these stressors.
Methods:
The proposed methods for DRAGNet are to set up a fully factorial, randomized block
designed experiment to explore nutrient availability and disturbance recovery. Treatments
include (n=3): 1) nutrient addition and disturbance, 2) ambient nutrient and disturbance, 3)
nutrient addition without disturbance, and 4) ambient nutrient without disturbance. In the fifth
year of the experiment, an additional treatment will be added, in which, nutrients are no longer
added to a subset of the fertilized plots. Plots will be 25m2 with a lm2 walkway between each for
a total of 589m2. Plots will be marked at the corners and in the center with PVC or bamboo. The
center 2m x 2m of plots will be used for measurement and split into four, lm x lm subplots. One
subplot will be designated for non-destructive plant composition and light measurements, while
the other three will be designated for destructive soil and aboveground biomass measurements
(Fig. 1).

N4.J-r
NPKµ
�esaatia^
°'at° Figure 1: Diagram of
7pisturhance
,
NPKµ
Cessrtion
�onrro�
1�
W
NPNµ
and example
experimental set up with
three randomized blocks
'
� 1 m walkways
Oisturhan[e
piscurhanc¢
NPKµ
for a total of 15 plots.
/
/
NPKµ
Cessation
NPKN
` Sm NPKµ pisturhance C^ntrol To achieve nutrient
Olsturhance
additions, NPK fertilizer
will be added to nutrient plots annually at a rate of 10 g m_2 of each nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium. Disturbance will only occur in the first three years of the experiment on
approximately 150m2 of marsh. Disturbance will include clipping all standing biomass,
removing rhizomes, and tilling the soil. Plant species composition and light will be collected
annually as well as standing biomass including live plants and dead mass. Soil metrics including
nutrient availability, chemistry, and texture will be collected in the first, third, and fifth year. The
experiment has the potential to continue beyond year five, with measures being taken annually
but disturbance will conclude in year three and nutrient additions on a subset of plots in year
five. The full timeline for the DRAGNet would be 10 years.
Site:
The Rachel Carson Reserve is an excellent area to conduct such a long-term experiment given
the reserve oversite and management of the area. Research permits and approval have already
been granted by Reserve personnel and a SEAP permit obtained from NC DEQ.
Resources:
DRAGNet Website: https:Hnutnet.or /g dragnet
DRAGNet Experimental Protocol: https://nutnet.org/index.php/dragnetprotocol
The project proponent hereby certifies that all information contained herein is true, accurate, and
complete to the best of my knowledge and belief. The project proponent hereby requests that the
certifying authority review and take action on this CWA 401 certification request within the
applicable reasonable period of time.
Citations:
Deegan, L. A., Johnson D. S., Warren, R. S., Peterson, B. J., Fleeger, J. W., Fagherazzi, S., & Wollheim, W. M. (2012).
Coastal eutrophication as a driver of salt marsh loss. Nature, 490(7420), 388-392.
https://doi.org/10.103 8/nature l 1533
Ellis, E.C. (2011). Anthropogenic transformation of the terrestrial biosphere. Philos. Trans. R. Soc. A Math. Phys. Eng.
Sci., 369, 1010-1035 Higgins, S.I. (2017). Ecosystem assembly: A mission for terrestrial Earth system science.
Ecosystems, 20, 69-77
Higgins, S.I. (2017). Ecosystem assembly: A mission for terrestiral Earth system science. Ecosystems, 20, 69-77
Newbold, T., Hudson, L.W., Arnell, A.P., Contu, S., De Palma, A., Ferrier, S., et al. (2016). Has land use pushed
terrestrial biodiversity beyond the planetary boundary? A global assessment. Science (80)., 354, 288-291

Silliman, B. R., & Bertness, M. D. (2004). Shoreline Development Drives Invasion of Phragmites australis and the Loss
of Plant Diversity on New England Salt Marshes. Conservation Biology, 18(5), 1424-1434.
https://doi.org/10. I I I I/j.1523-1739.2004.00112.x

Form DCM MP-3
UPLAND DEVELOPMENT
(Construction and/or land disturbing activities)
Attach this form to Joint Application for CAMA Major Permit, Form DCM MP-1. Be sure to complete all other sections of the Joint
Application that relate to this proposed project. Please include all supplemental information.
GENERAL UPLAND DEVELOPMENT
a. Type and number of buildings, facilities, units or structures b. Number of lots or parcels.
proposed.
One
15 units (plots)
c. Density (give the number of residential units and the units per
acre).
zero residential units
15 units per acre (total land used 5390 sq ft)
e. If the proposed project will disturb more than one acre of land, the
Division of Land Resources must receive an erosion and
sedimentation control plan at least 30 days before land -disturbing
activity begins.
(i) If applicable, has a sedimentation and erosion control plan been
submitted to the Division of Land Resources?
❑Yes ❑No UNA
(ii) If yes, list the date submitted:
g. Give the percentage of the tract within the coastal shoreline AEC to
be covered by impervious and/or built -upon surfaces, such as
pavement, building, rooftops, or to be used for vehicular driveways
or parking.
0%
i. Give the percentage of the entire tract to be covered by impervious
and/or built -upon surfaces, such as pavement, building, rooftops,
or to be used for vehicular driveways or parking.
0%
j. Describe proposed method of sewage disposal.
No sewage will be created
I. Describe location and type of proposed discharges to waters of the
state (e.g., surface runoff, sanitary wastewater, industrial/
commercial effluent, "wash down" and residential discharges).
No discharge to the waters of the state is expected
d. Size of area to be graded, filled, or disturbed including roads,
ditches, etc.
1650 sq ft to be disturbed by vegetation removal
2422 sq ft of land subjected to nutrient addition
f. List the materials (such as marl, paver stone, asphalt, or concrete)
to be used for impervious surfaces.
No impervious surfaces
h. Projects that require a CAMA Major Development Permit may also
require a Stormwater Certification.
(i) Has a site development plan been submitted to the Division of
Water Quality for review?
❑Yes ❑No E]NA
(ii) If yes, list the date submitted:
k. Have the facilities described in Item (i) received state or local
approval?
❑Yes ❑No @NA
If yes, attach appropriate documentation.
m. Does the proposed project include an innovative stormwater
design?
❑Yes ❑No ®NA
If yes, attach appropriate documentation.

Form DCM MP-3 (Upland Development, Page 2 of 2)
m. Describe proposed drinking water supply source (e.g., well,
community, public system, etc.)
No drinking water supply on the reserve
o. When was the lot(s) platted and recorded?
N/A
01/19/2023
Date
DRAGNet
Project Name
Stephanie Valdez
Applicant Name
'I -At ��-
Applicant Signature
n. (i) Will water be impounded? ❑Yes ❑No j]NA
(ii) If yes, how many acres?
p. If proposed development is a subdivision, will additional utilities be
installed for this upland development?
❑Yes ❑No [}]NA
252-808-2808 :: 1-888-4RCOAST :: www.nccoastaimanagement.net revised: 12/26/06

North Carolina
Department of Administration
Beverly Eaves Perdue, Governor
December 20, 2012
Secretary Dee Freeman
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
1615 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1615
Moses Carey, Jr., Secretary
Re: Dedication of Areas within the Rachel Carson Component of the North Carolina National
Estuarine Research Reserve
Dear Secretary Freeman:
Pursuant to Article 9A, Chapter 113A of the North Carolina General Statutes, this letter of
allocation is executed for the purpose of dedicating the State-owned lands hereinafter described as a North
Carolina Nature Preserve. These articles of dedication replace the articles of dedication dated June 5,
1987. The articles were amended to standardize the letter of allocation, to reflect additions, and to
improve boundary accuracy.
Those real properties are allocated to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and
currently managed by the Division of Coastal Management, briefly described below:
Site Name Approximate Acreage
Rachel Carson Component of the North Carolina 2,238 acres
National Estuarine Research Reserve
which are specifically described in Exhibit A, attached hereto and by reference made a part hereof.
Dedication of the qualified portions of the tracts fulfill the terms of any prior grant agreements.
Mailing Address: Telephone [phone] Location:
1301 Mail Service Center Fax [phone] West Jones Street
Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1301 State Courier #51-01-00 Raleigh, North Carolina
e-mail: moses.care),@doa.nc.gov
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

The Governor and Council of State have approved the dedication of the State-owned lands
described by this document as the Rachel Carson Component of the North Carolina National Estuarine
Reserve Nature Preserve to be held in trust by the Custodian for the uses and purposes expressed in the
Nature Preserves Act at a meeting in Raleigh, North Carolina on the 2"d of October, 2012.
Sincerely,
"/7/
Moses Carey, Jr.
MC
CONSENTED AND AGREED TO:
q, 'no //2 n' I
Secretary Dee Freeman
Department of Environment and Natural Resources

EXHIBIT A
RACHEL CARSON COMPONENT OF THE
NORTH CAROLINA NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE
DEDICATED NATURE PRESERVE
COUNTY: Carteret County PHYSIOGRAPHIC PROVINCE: Coastal Plain
TOPOGRAPHIC QUADS: Beaufort, Hankers Island
SIZE OF AREA: ca. 2,238 (all primary area, including a 1,287-acre submerged area held by the Division
of Coastal Management)
OWNERJADMINISTRATOR: State of NC, Division of Coastal Management, Coastal Reserve Program
DESCRIPTION: (see attached)
BOUNDARY JUSTIFICATION: The primary areas are drawn based on the extent of intact natural
communities.
MANAGEMENT AND USE: The dedicated nature preserve is owned by the State. The site will be used
for research, education and compatible recreational uses according to State Statutes (G.S. 113A-129.1-3
et seq.) and departmental regulations (15A NCAC 70.0100-.0202) for the Coastal Reserve Program
within the Division of Coastal Management. A herd of feral horses, owned by the State and managed by
the Coastal Reserve, lives on the island. These horses represent a management conflict due to impacts to
natural conditions. Management activities are undertaken to control the size of the herd and minimize its
impacts.
DESCRIPTION: The Rachel Carson component of the North Carolina National Estuarine Research
Reserve Dedicated Nature Preserve is composed of a complex of five islands. Town Marsh, Carrot,
Horse, and Bird Shoal Islands are located across from the Beaufort waterfront. These four islands are in
close proximity to one another and span approximately three miles in length from east to west and less
than a mile wide from north to south. Middle Marsh, separated from the rest of the site by the North
River Channel, is almost two miles long and less than a mile wide. Though not on the coast itself, the
islands are exposed to wave energy through Beaufort Inlet, and, with the exception of Middle Marsh,
closely resemble barrier islands in form.
Natural communities resemble those of barrier islands, including Upper Beach, Maritime Shrub, and Salt
Marsh. The Upper Beach community occurs on open sand with sparse vegetation of sea -rocket (Cakile
edentula), salt -meadow cordgrass (Spartina patens), seabeach knot -weed (Polygonum glaucum), and
shoreline sea -purslane (Sesuvium portulacastrum). Behind the dunes is a complex of low, shrub -covered
islands, intertidal flats, tidal creeks, and shallow estuarine waters. The islands support Maritime Shrub
communities, dominated by stunted live oak (Quercus virginiana), southern red cedar (Juniperus
virginiana var. silicicola), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), southern wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera), yaupon
holly (Ilex vomitoria), and red bay (Persea palustris). Salt Marsh communities occur on intertidal flats
and are comprised of saltwater cordgrass (Spartina alterni,Jlora), with supratidal Salt Flats of glassworts
(Salicornia spp.), black needlerush (Juncos roemerianus), and sea oxeye (Borrichia frutescens).
The area provides excellent habitat for nesting and foraging birds, with over 200 bird species observed
annually.

The preserve provides habitat for several species listed by federal and state agencies:
Rare Plants:
Seabeach Amaranth (Amaranthus pumilus): State Threatened; Federally Threatened
Seabeach Knotweed (Polygonum glaucum): Significantly Rare -Throughout
Shoreline Sea -Purslane (Sesuvium portulacastrum): Significantly Rare -Peripheral
A Chain -teeth Moss (Tortula plinthobia): Significantly Rare -Other
Moundlily Yucca (Yuccagloriosa): Significantly Rare -Peripheral
Southern Seabeach Sandmat (Euphorbia bombensis): Significantly Rare -Throughout
Rare Animals:
Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus): State Threatened; Federally Threatened
Wilson's Plover (Charadrius wilsonia): Significantly Rare
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea): State Special Concern
Snowy Egret (Egretta thula): State Special Concern
Tricolored Heron (Egretta tricolor): State Special Concern
Common Tern (Sterna hirundo): State Special Concern
Eastern Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris ciris): Significantly Rare; Federal Species of Concern
Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus): State Special Concern
Black Skimmer (Rynchops niger): State Special Concern
Least Tern (Sterna antillarum): State Special Concern
West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus): State Endangered; Federally Endangered
Diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin): State Special Concern; Federal Species of
Concern
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta): State Threatened; Federally Threatened
Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis): Significantly Rare
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas): State Threatened; Federally Threatened

THIS ALLOCATION IS MADE SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Definitions: As used in the Letter of Allocation, the terms "natural area," and "nature
preserve" have the same meaning as contained in the North Carolina General Statutes 113A-
164.3.
2. Dedication: The Reserve, as described in this Allocation, is hereby dedicated as a nature
preserve for the purposes provided in the Nature Preserves Act.
3. Primary Custodian: The primary custodian of the preserve will be the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal Management, Coastal Reserve Program
which will be responsible for managing the preserve in accordance with the regulations set forth
in 15 NCAC 12H .0300 and .0400 and 15 NCAC 70.0100 and .0200.
4. Primary Classification: The primary classification and purpose of the preserve shall be
protection of coastal and estuarine ecosystems for research, education and such compatible
traditional uses as are allowed by law and authorized by the Custodian and the terms of this
allocation.
5. - Rules for Management:
A. Character of Visitor Activity: The principal visitor activities in the preserve shall be
research, educational programs, hunting and fishing, walking, canoeing/kayaking and
observation. These activities shall be regulated to protect and conserve the natural
features of the preserve.
Activities and uses unrelated to those listed above are prohibited except as provided in
this Dedication or unless necessary to carry out the purposes of the preserve. Prohibited
activities include, but are not limited to, construction not compatible with the preserve,
commercial activities and development, commercial silviculture, agriculture and grazing
of domestic animals, gathering of plants or plant products for purposes other than
approved research or restoration, the removal, disturbance, molestation, or defacement of
minerals, archaeological and natural resources or natural features, or changes in
topography except by existing easements or for restoration purposes, and those activities
specifically restricted in this dedication.
There will be no fires, except as specifically permitted by the Custodian for approved fire
management activities or as described in the site management plan. There shall be no
littering. Camping shall be allowed only as permitted for research purposes by the site
management plan and in relevant 15A NCAC 70 sections.
B. Visitors and Visitor Facilities: The Custodian reserves the right to orient and guide
visitors for educational programs, scientific research, and preserve management. The
Custodian may create and maintain nature trails, signage or kiosks, overlooks, fences,
guardrails, steps and boardwalks adequate to promote the safe, permitted use of the
preserve while protecting the preserve from unwanted or excessive visitor traffic and
restricting visitor access to protect sensitive environmental resources.
C. Roads. Structures and other Construction: New roads shall not be constructed in the
preserve. When necessary, the Custodian may construct and maintain access limited to
staff use for management purposes, such as service paths for patrol, fire control, right-of-

way maintenance, and other management activities. Fences, barriers and other structures
consistent with the purposes of the preserve as stated in this dedication may be installed.
The Custodian shall locate, build and maintain trails and visitor control structures in a
manner consistent with this dedication and in consultation with the North Carolina
Natural Heritage Program.
D. Vehicles: Motorized vehicles will be allowed as necessary for law .enforcement and
emergency, for research by permit only and to provide for the management of the
preserve as consistent with this dedication. Use of motorized vehicles at the Rachel
Carson site shall be allowed according to stewardship policies specified by the Custodian
in the NCNERR management plan.
E. Disturbance of Natural Features: The cutting or removal of trees, dead or alive, or the
disturbance of other natural features is prohibited except that which is consistent with this
dedication or as required under the terms of certain existing right-of-way
easements/permits between the State and public utility companies and other government
agencies, restoration of natural conditions or is necessary for public safety. There is an
existing easement between the State of North Carolina and the Army Corps of Engineers
providing for disposal of dredge spoil materials in select areas, or disposal cells, along the
northern boundary of the Reserve. There will otherwise be no mining, drilling, removal
of topsoil, sand, gravel, rock, minerals, or other material, nor any change in topography
or surface hydrology of the preserve other than for purposes of approved restoration.
F. Hydrologic Alteration: The purpose of water level control shall be to maintain natural
water regimes. Water levels that have been altered by human activities may be changed
by the Custodian to restore the preserve to its natural condition. Removal of groundwater
is allowable only as described through existing easements. The specific conditions and
limitations of existing easements shall be considered part of this dedication agreement.
G. Pollution and Dumping: There will be no storage or dumping of ashes, trash, garbage,
hazardous substances, toxic waste, other unsightly or offensive material, or fill material,
including dredge materials in, on, or under the preserve. No underground storage tanks
may be placed within the preserve. No surface or ground waters of the preserve may
have pollutants added within the preserve.
H. Control of Natural Processes: Natural processes will generally be managed by allowing
natural environments to evolve through natural processes with minimal influence from
human activities. Control of natural processes may be undertaken if necessary to
maintain or restore a particular ecosystem for the preservation of threatened, rare,
endangered or unusual species and habitats.
I. Control of Populations (natural and exotic): Any control of animal or plant populations,
other than permitted hunting and fishing activities, shall be only to correct situations
where populations have been significantly altered from natural conditions. The
Custodian may, using scientifically sound natural resource management practices
implemented by appropriately trained staff, apply biological controls, herbicides and
pesticides, and other means deemed necessary or appropriate to control or eradicate
exotic or native species of plant or animal that are degrading the natural character of the
preserve.

Hunting and Fishing: Hunting and fishing shall be permitted subject to regulation and
management by the Wildlife Resources Commission or the Division of Marine Fisheries
and applicable local, county and township ordinances. Regulation and management of
hunting and fishing shall be consistent with protection of the natural diversity and
primitive character of the preserve. The Custodian reserves the right to change the
hunting and fishing policy in the future should it be deemed necessary to ensure long-
term protection of wildlife and habitats.
K. Bringing in Flora and Fauna: No exotic flora and no animals except leashed dogs and
cats, or animals being reintroduced shall be brought into the preserve. Any
reintroduction will be of species native to the natural community and shall be conducted
by the Custodian or its agents according to an approved resource management plan.
L. Fire: Wildfire management will ensure maintenance and protection of natural resources.
Wild fires may mimic natural processes historically occurring in an ecosystem on a
landscape level. When the extent of a wild fire does not threaten human life or structures,
it may be allowed to burn with no direct suppression. If wild fire control is necessary,
firebreaks may need to be established. When possible, existing roads and firebreaks will
be utilized for wild fire control. When new firebreaks need to be established,
environmentally sensitive areas will be avoided whenever possible. Any prescribed
burning will be conducted in accordance with an approved fire management plan and in
consultation with the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program.
M. Research and Collecting Permits: Any person wishing to engage in scientific research or
collecting shall first secure written permission from the Custodian.
N. Management Plan: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of
Coastal Management, as Primary Custodian of the preserve, shall develop a management
plan for the preserve as prescribed in NCAC 70.0201. This management plan should be
subject to all the provisions of this dedication and with the management principles set
forth in the North Carolina Administrative Code 15 NCAC 12H.0300 and .0400. In any
case where contradictions may arise between this instrument of dedication and other
management regulations, the terms of this dedication shall take precedence.
6. Amendment, Modification, and Termination: Any changes to this Dedication must be made
in accordance with the provisions of North Carolina General Statutes 113A-164.8, which require
the approval of the Governor and the Council of State. The lands dedicated to the preserve
pursuant to this instrument may be removed from dedication upon approval of the Governor and
the Council of State.

(pa5jawgnS) fuepid Efffl
EEEI
Ajewlad
pa;eorpa❑
fuepunog Apadoid
puafia-1
n�.f�jrr•r FQ
W
4 Wz yoleW
weJBOJd 96e;!'GH leinieN ON
N
sel!W 91 C ST Q
If
t
■EEEEV��rEE1r+r_
AEIIEEElp'■M.�IEiEEEEirr�_
iA�iEMEEME-a��EEEErEEEEaEEEEEEtir,.
ii"EMMUMlEiwiiiiiiaiiii`E`ai�r..
I■ r7EE1rEEEEIR: !� Y!IMEEEEf■EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEiw..
i ra���_�:�'r �l��"•.; MtE�wIEEEE�!aEEEMEMErEErlrrEir�_-
-WE�EEEEEEEEEEEr, '4����-:-�,rw fi(•�v�;/._ A.-�Mli-a7i�V.7>if-0 EEf■EE■EEEEEEEMrrrM>K1
+E��EEEEEEIr+ �.- c$..La:y„ri7. • r► * ■EEEEEEEEEEr.*� •"iRi'1R1EE91itlErrrMi•r.
■E��:7y `•,4 i••ti, • ■EEE•x; E?',E"'liiErEEEEEE1.r 4Uy�-�`i�E, r-----••■4EEEXlM�
+■L� _:.;_y4+4 RMFw *r'r,*1EEEEE EEIEEEEEr�;:ar+w;C SERE
/EEEEEEEEEEEEEErEEM■FAR•.. gap—:�' rr
■�..•�.r�t 1EEEEEEEEEEEFEFMM EMMMMEEEEMEMEEi1�
'�r����.-:trME• �rMp^�/"�yg�y '��EME_aEMMEEa ���
gill
s�
ejnlE?N POWDIP00
leu011eN
■eO q:PON aqj jo jueuodwoo
■

c
§
] \ d
U
UU7
§
411
2
§ ° %
q o
/
o Cl
\
-
/ 3
\ a)
.
'§
.§
§ § &
o \
v
k
»
k
<
G 0
n �
\
� �
o u �
¥ iL.
� � \
�
� / k
�
�
r \
y �
2
�
` ± �
�
�
\
�
VO
�
.
r
n
\
a

U
a
Q
I
O N
a �
o
I
I
O
�
I
W
A -I
Cd
I N
�
I M
N
clj
•U
O
Ste"
N
d
N
o
o
O
U
Q.
k
'
I
�
I C�
I