NC0004774_CSA Report Appx I_Screening-Level Risk Assessment_20150823

Trustee Letters and Responses

FNDuke Energy I Buck Steam Station
May 20, 2015
National Park Service
William Reynolds
100 Alabama Street, NW
1924 Building
Atlanta, GA 30303
Re: Request for Information
Buck Steam Station
1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
HDR is working with Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC to prepare a Comprehensive Site
Assessment for the above -referenced site (see attached site map for project
location). The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Guidelines for Performing Screening Level Ecological Risk Assessments require
identification of certain natural and cultural resources and sensitive environments.
Based on this requirement, we are requesting the following:
1. Are there any federally listed threatened, endangered or candidate species
(plant or animal), or critical habitat within the vicinity of this project?
2. Do any sensitive environmental areas exist adjacent to or within 1/2 mile of
the site (e.g., Federal and State parks, National and State monuments,
wetlands, other areas that provide unique and often protected habitat for
wildlife species -these areas are typically used during critical life stages such
as breeding, hatching, rearing of young and overwintering)?
3. Are any wetland areas such as marshes or swamps on or adjacent to the
site? (Wetlands are defined in 40 CFR §232.2 as "Areas inundated or
saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to
support, and that under normal circumstances does support, a prevalence of
vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.")
4. Does the site serve or potentially serve as a habitat, foraging area or refuge
by rare, threatened, endangered, candidate and/or proposed species (plants
or animals), or any otherwise protected species?
5. Is the site potentially used as a breeding, roosting or feeding area by
migratory bird species and if so, which ones?
6. Is the site used by any ecologically, recreationally or commercially important
species?
7. Are there any areas on or within 1/2 mile that is owned or used by local
tribes?
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

F)l Duke Energy I Buck Steam Station
Please contact me if you need any additional details to respond to our request for
information.
Regards,
4 1
e,-" - vn;x�
Lisa K. Voyce, MSEnE/Toxicology
Project Manager/Associate/Risk Assessor
HDR
One International Boulevard
101h Floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
D 201-335-9439 M 973-558-3910
[e-mail]
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

SITE LOCATION MAP DATE
May 3, 2013
DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC
BUCK COMBINED CYCLE STATION FIGURE
NPDES PERMIT NO. NC0004774 1
ROWAN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

From: Faehner, Bryan
To: ice, Lisa
Cc: Ben West; Zurlo, Carol
Subject: NPS Review of Duke Steam Stations
Date: Wednesday, June 03, 2015 8:46:48 AM
OFFICIAL CORRESPONDENCE VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
NO HARD COPY TO FOLLOW
United States Department of the Interior
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
Southeast Regional Office
Atlanta Federal Center
1924 Building
too Alabama St., S. W.
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Lisa K. Voyce
HDR
One International Boulevard loth Floor, Suite l000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
Dear Ms. Voyce:
We appreciate HDR contacting the National Park Service (NPS) to see whether we have any initial
comments relating to resources near Duke Riverbend, Duke Allen, Duke Marshall, Duke Dan
River, Duke Cliffside, Duke Buck, and Duke Belews Creek Steam Stations.
Based on the information provided in your May 20, 2015 correspondences, the NPS has not identified any
resource concerns at this time. However, the NPS may contact Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC or choose to
comment to the appropriate federal and/or state agency once additional information and details are made known
regarding possible changes to the current facilities.
To expedite future reviews, please mail all requests to my attention. Please contact me at 202-513-7256 if you
have any further questions.
Sincerely,
//signed//
Bryan Faehner
Energy & Environmental Protection Specialist
National Park Service, Southeast Region
1201 Eye Street NW
llth Floor, Room 48
Washington, DC 20005
202-513-7256 desk phone
202-604-5076 cell phone
202-371-2131 fax
I.I

FNDuke Energy I Buck Steam Station
May 20, 2015
NC Division of Parks and Recreation
Allison Weakley
1601 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1601
Re: Request for Information
Buck Steam Station
1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
HDR is working with Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC to prepare a Comprehensive Site
Assessment for the above -referenced site (see attached site map for project
location). The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Guidelines for Performing Screening Level Ecological Risk Assessments require
identification of certain natural and cultural resources and sensitive environments.
Based on this requirement, we are requesting the following:
1. Are there any federally listed threatened, endangered or candidate species
(plant or animal), or critical habitat within the vicinity of this project?
2. Do any sensitive environmental areas exist adjacent to or within 1/2 mile of
the site (e.g., Federal and State parks, National and State monuments,
wetlands, other areas that provide unique and often protected habitat for
wildlife species -these areas are typically used during critical life stages such
as breeding, hatching, rearing of young and overwintering)?
3. Are any wetland areas such as marshes or swamps on or adjacent to the
site? (Wetlands are defined in 40 CFR §232.2 as "Areas inundated or
saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to
support, and that under normal circumstances does support, a prevalence of
vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.")
4. Does the site serve or potentially serve as a habitat, foraging area or refuge
by rare, threatened, endangered, candidate and/or proposed species (plants
or animals), or any otherwise protected species?
5. Is the site potentially used as a breeding, roosting or feeding area by
migratory bird species and if so, which ones?
6. Is the site used by any ecologically, recreationally or commercially important
species?
7. Are there any areas on or within 1/2 mile that is owned or used by local
tribes?
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

F)l Duke Energy I Buck Steam Station
Please contact me if you need any additional details to respond to our request for
information.
Regards,
4V
/
Lisa K. Voyce, MSEnE/Toxicology
Project Manager/Associate/Risk Assessor
HDR
One International Boulevard
10th Floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
D 201-335-9439 M 973-558-3910
[e-mail]
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

SITE LOCATION MAP DATE
May 3, 2013
DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC
BUCK COMBINED CYCLE STATION FIGURE
NPDES PERMIT NO. NC0004774 1
ROWAN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Office of Land and Water Stewardship
Pat McCrory Bryan Gossage
Governor Director
June 9, 2015
Ms. Lisa K. Voyce
HDR Engineering, Inc.
One International Boulevard
101h floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, New Jersey 07495-0027
[e-mail]
RE: Duke Energy — Buck Steam Station
1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, Rowan County, North Carolina
Dear Ms. Voyce:
Donald R. van der Vaart
Secretary
Thank you for the opportunity to provide information from the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program
(NCNHP) database for the proposed project referenced above. Our office received Geographic
Information System (GIS) data for the proposed project area from Carol Zurlo, Project Scientist with HDR
Engineering, Inc., on May 26, 2015. Based on the proposed project area as submitted, the NCNHP
database does show records for two special animal assembladRes, a natural area, and a conservation/
managed area documented within and/or adiacent to the proiect area.
Attached are tables showing records from the NCNHP database for element occurrences (rare species
and natural communities), natural areas, and conservation/managed areas that have been documented
within/adjacent to the project area and records documented within a one -mile radius of the project
area. Also attached is a map that shows natural heritage resources documented within/adjacent to the
project area and within one mile of the project area. The locations of natural areas and conservation/
managed areas may be viewed by accessing the Natural Heritage Data Explorer online map viewer, or by
downloading and using GIS data; both options are available from the NCNHP Data Services webpage
(see www.ncnhp.org).
Please note that occurrences of rare species documented within one mile of the proposed project area
increase the likelihood that these species may be present within the project area if suitable habitat
exists. The use of Natural Heritage Program data should not be substituted for actual field surveys if
needed, particularly if the project area contains documented occurrences or suitable habitat for rare
species. If rare species are found during field surveys, the NCNHP would appreciate receiving this
information so that we may update our database.
Thank you for your inquiry, and please feel free to contact me at [e-mail] or 919-
707-8629 if you have questions or additional information is needed.
1601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601
Phone: [phone] \ Internet: www.ncdenr.gov
An Equal Opportunity \ Affirmative Action Employer— Made in part by recycled paper

Duke Energy— Buck Steam Station
1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, Rowan County, North Carolina
June 9, 2015
Page 2
Sincerely,
Allison Schwarz Weakley, Conservation Planner
NC Natural Heritage Program

Natural Heritage Element Occurrences, Natural Areas, and Managed Areas Intersecting the Project Area
Duke Energy - Buck Steam Station
June 9, 2015
NCNHDE-344
Element Occurrences Documented Within Project Area
Taxonomic EO ID Scientific Name Common Name Last
Element Accuracy Federal
State Global State
Group Observation Occurrence
Status
Status Rank Rank
JL Date
Status
Animal 24023 Colonial Wading Bird --- 2008-06-12
Current 3-Medium ---
--- G5 S3
Assemblage Colony
Animal 17845 Colonial Wading Bird --- 2004
Current 3-Medium ---
--- G5 S3
Assemblage Colony
Natural Areas Documented Within Project Area
Site Name Representational Rating
Collective Rating
High Rock Reservoir Wetlands R5 (General)
C5 (General)
Managed Areas Documented Within Project Area
Managed Area Name Owner
Owner Type
NC Agriculture Development and Farmland Preservation NC Department of Agriculture
State
Trust Fund Easement
NOTE: If the proposed project intersects with a conservation/managed area, please contact the landowner directly for additional information. If the project intersects with a Dedicated Nature Preserve (DNP), Registered Natural
Heritage Area (RHA), or Federally -listed species, NCNHP staff may provide additional correspondence regarding the project.
Definitions and an explanation of status designations and codes can be found at https://ncnhde.natureserve.org/content/help. Data query generated on June 9, 2015; source: NCNHP, Q2 April 2015. Please resubmit your
information request if more than one year elapses before project initiation as new information is continually added to the NCNHP database.
Page 3 of 6

Natural Heritage Element Occurrences, Natural Areas, and Managed Areas Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area
Duke Energy - Buck Steam Station
June 9, 2015
NCNHDE-344
Element Occurrences Documented
Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area
Taxonomic
EO ID
Scientific Name
Common Name Last
Element
Accuracy
Federal
State
Global
State
Group
Observation
Occurrence
Status
Status
Rank
Rank
Date
Status
Animal
24023
Colonial Wading Bird
--- 2008-06-12
Current
3-Medium
---
---
G5
S3
Assemblage
Colony
Animal
16335
Colonial Wading Bird
--- 1991-03-17
Current
3-Medium
---
---
G5
S3
Assemblage
Colony
Animal
17845
Colonial Wading Bird
--- 2004
Current
3-Medium
---
---
G5
S3
Assemblage
Colony
Freshwater
992
Lampsilis radiata
Eastern Lampmussel 1999-04-05
Current
3-Medium
---
Threatened
G5
S1S2
Bivalve
Mammal
21797
Myotis leibii
Eastern Small -footed Bat 1994-POST
Current
5-Very
Species of
Special
G1G3
S2
Low
Concern
Concern
Mammal
34673
Myotis septentrionalis
Northern Long-eared Bat 2001-08-28
Current
5-Very
PE
Significantly
G2G3
S2
Low
Rare
Natural
10749
Basic Mesic Forest
--- 1993-06-15
Current
3-Medium
---
---
G3G4
S3S4
Community
(Piedmont Subtype)
Natural
4081
Dry-Mesic Basic
--- 2010
Current
3-Medium
---
---
G3G4
S3
Community
Oak --Hickory Forest
(Piedmont Subtype)
Natural
12698
Mesic Mixed Hardwood
--- 1993-06-15
Current
3-Medium
---
---
G3G4
S4
Community
Forest (Piedmont
Subtype)
Vascular Plant
14621
Acmispon helleri
Carolina Birdfoot-trefoil 1949-09-09
Historical
4-Low
Species of
Special
G3
S3
Concern
Concern
Vulnerable
Natural Areas Documented Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area
Site Name Representational Rating Collective Rating
High Rock Reservoir Wetlands R5 (General) C5 (General)
Leonard Road Slopes R5 (General) C4 (Moderate)
Yadkin River/Grants Creek Forests R5 (General) C5 (General)
Page 4 of 6

Managed Areas Documented Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area
Managed Area Name Owner Owner Type
Linwood Game Land NC Wildlife Resources Commission State
NC Agriculture Development and Farmland Preservation NC Department of Agriculture State
Trust Fund Easement
NC Agriculture Development and Farmland Preservation NC Department of Agriculture State
Trust Fund Easement
NC Agriculture Development and Farmland Preservation NC Department of Agriculture State
Trust Fund Easement
Definitions and an explanation of status designations and codes can be found at https:Hncnhde.natureserve.org/content/help. Data query generated on June 9, 2015; source: NCNHP, Q2 April 2015. Please resubmit your
information request if more than one year elapses before project initiation as new information is continually added to the NCNHP database.
Page 5 of 6

NCNHDE-344: Duke Energy - Buck Steam Station
June 9, 2015 1:35,303
0 0.3 0.6 1.2 mi
Project Boundary Q NHP Natural Area (NHNA)
0 0.5 1 2 km
Buffered Project Boundary Q Managed Area (MAREA)
Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp.,
Natural Heritage Element Occurrence (NHEO)
GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL,
Page 6 of 6

FNDuke Energy I Buck Steam Station
May 19, 2015
Renee Gledhill -Earley
Environmental Review Coordinator
NC State Historic Preservation Office
4617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-4617
Re: Request for Information
Buck Steam Station
1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
HDR is working with Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC to prepare a Comprehensive Site
Assessment for the above -referenced site (see attached site map for project
location). The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Guidelines for Performing Screening Level Ecological Risk Assessments require
identification of certain natural and cultural resources and sensitive environments.
Based on this requirement, we are requesting the following:
1. Are there any federally listed threatened, endangered or candidate species
(plant or animal), or critical habitat within the vicinity of this project?
2. Do any sensitive environmental areas exist adjacent to or within 1/2 mile of
the site (e.g., Federal and State parks, National and State monuments,
wetlands, other areas that provide unique and often protected habitat for
wildlife species -these areas are typically used during critical life stages such
as breeding, hatching, rearing of young and overwintering)?
3. Are any wetland areas such as marshes or swamps on or adjacent to the
site. (Wetlands are defined in 40 CFR §232.2 as "Areas inundated or
saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to
support, and that under normal circumstances does support, a prevalence of
vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.")?
4. Does the site serve or potentially serve as a habitat, foraging area or refuge
by rare, threatened, endangered, candidate and/or proposed species (plants
or animals), or any otherwise protected species?
5. Is the site potentially used as a breeding, roosting or feeding area by
migratory bird species and if so, which ones?
6. Is the site used by any ecologically, recreationally or commercially important
species?
7. Are there any areas on or within 1/2 mile that is owned or used by local
tribes?
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

F)l Duke Energy I Buck Steam Station
Please contact me if you need any additional details to respond to our request for
information.
Regards,
.
Lisa K. Voyce, MSEnE/Toxicology
Project Manager/Associate/Risk Assessor
HDR
One International Boulevard
10th Floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
D 201-335-9439 M 973-558-3910
[e-mail]
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

SITE LOCATION MAP DATE
May 3, 2013
DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC
IM)R BUCK COMBINED CYCLE STATION FIGURE
NPDES PERMIT NO. NC0004774 1
ROWAN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Ramona M. Bartos, Administrator
Governor Pat McCrory
Secretary Susan Kluttz
June 23, 2015
Lisa Voyce
HDR
One International Boulevard
10`' Floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
Re: Buck Steam Station, 1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, Rowan County, ER 15-1159
Dear Ms. Voyce:
Thank you for your letter of May 19, 2015, concerning the above project.
Office of Archives and History
Deputy Secretary Kevin Cherry
We have conducted a review of the project and are aware of no historic resources which would be affected by the
project. Therefore, we have no comment on the project as proposed.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part
800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, contact
Renee Gledhill -Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-807-6579 or environmental.reviewkncdcr.gov.
In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the above referenced tracking number.
Sincerely,
✓Ramona M. Bartos
Location: 109 East Jones Street, Raleigh NC 27601 Mailing Address: 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 Telephone/Fax: [phone]-6599

FNDuke Energy I Buck Steam Station
May 21, 2015
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Shannon Deaton
1701 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1701
Re: Request for Information
Buck Steam Station
1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
HDR is working with Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC to prepare a Comprehensive Site
Assessment for the above -referenced site (see attached site map for project
location). The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Guidelines for Performing Screening Level Ecological Risk Assessments require
identification of certain natural and cultural resources and sensitive environments.
Based on this requirement, we are requesting the following:
1. Are there any federally listed threatened, endangered or candidate species
(plant or animal), or critical habitat within the vicinity of this project?
2. Do any sensitive environmental areas exist adjacent to or within 1/2 mile of
the site (e.g., Federal and State parks, National and State monuments,
wetlands, other areas that provide unique and often protected habitat for
wildlife species -these areas are typically used during critical life stages such
as breeding, hatching, rearing of young and overwintering)?
3. Are any wetland areas such as marshes or swamps on or adjacent to the
site? (Wetlands are defined in 40 CFR §232.2 as "Areas inundated or
saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to
support, and that under normal circumstances does support, a prevalence of
vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.")
4. Does the site serve or potentially serve as a habitat, foraging area or refuge
by rare, threatened, endangered, candidate and/or proposed species (plants
or animals), or any otherwise protected species?
5. Is the site potentially used as a breeding, roosting or feeding area by
migratory bird species and if so, which ones?
6. Is the site used by any ecologically, recreationally or commercially important
species?
7. Are there any areas on or within 1/2 mile that is owned or used by local
tribes?
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

F)l Duke Energy I Buck Steam Station
Please contact me if you need any additional details to respond to our request for
information.
Regards,
vo'�
f
Lisa K. Voyce, MSEnE/Toxicology
Project Manager/Associate/Risk Assessor
HDR
One International Boulevard
10th Floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
D 201-335-9439 M 973-558-3910
[e-mail]
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

SITE LOCATION MAP DATE
May 3, 2013
DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC
BUCK COMBINED CYCLE STATION FIGURE
NPDES PERMIT NO. NC0004774 1
ROWAN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

IQ North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission E
Gordon Myers, Executive Director
June 19, 2015
Ms. Lisa K. Voyce
HDR
One International Boulevard, I01h Floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
Subject: Request for Information for Buck Steam Station, 1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, Rowan
County, North Carolina.
Dear Ms. Voyce:
Biologists with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the
subject information. Our comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife
Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U. S.C. 661-667e) and North Carolina General Statutes
(G.S. 113-131 et seq.).
The site drains to High Rock Lake in the Yadkin -Pee Dee River basin. A request for information has
been made regarding the following natural and cultural resources, and sensitive environments.
1. Are there any federally listed threatened, endangered or candidate species (plant or animal), or
critical habitat within the vicinity of this project?
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently listed the Northern long-eared bat (Myotis
septentrionalis) as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. We suggest contacting the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service at [phone] regarding this species and any other federally listed
species or critical habitat within the vicinity of the site.
There are records for the federal species of concern and state special concern Eastern small -
footed bat (Myotis leibii) and the state threatened Eastern lampmussel (Lampsilis radiata) near
the site. In addition, there are historical records for the federal species of concern and state
special concern — vulnerable Carolina birdfoot-trefoil (Acmispon helleri) near the site.
Although we do not have any records for a federal or state listed species on the site, this does not
preclude the presence of a listed species on or adjacent to the site. It simply may mean the site
has not been surveyed. An on -site survey is the only definitive means to determine whether a
listed species is present on the site.
2. Do any sensitive environmental areas exist adjacent to or within Y2 mile of the site (e.g.,
Federal and State parks, National and State monuments, wetlands, other areas that provide
unique and often protected habitatfor wildlife species -these areas are typically used during
critical life stages such as breeding, hatching, rearing of young and overwin tering) ?
Mailing Address: Division of Inland Fisheries • 1721 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-1721
Telephone: [phone] • Fax: [phone]

Page 2
June 19, 2015
Buck Steam Station
The Natural Heritage Natural Areas — High Rock Reservoir Wetlands and Leonard Road Slopes;
the Managed Area — N.C. Agriculture Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund
Easement; and NCWRC Game Lands are located within %2 mile of the site.
3. Are any wetland areas such as marshes or swamps on or adjacent to the site? (Wetlands are
defined in 40 CFR §232.2 as "Areas inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a
frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances does
support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.')
Unknown; we do not have any data regarding whether there are any wetland areas on or adjacent
to the site. Although USGS topographic maps and National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps
provide a general overview of stream and wetland resources, these should not be used to
determine whether streams or wetlands are present on the site. Wetlands and streams within the
site boundaries should be identified through on -site surveys. If wetlands and/or streams will be
impacted by construction activities, then the project should be coordinated with the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers and the N.C. Division of Water Resources.
4. Does the site serve or potentially serve as a habitat, foraging area or refuge by rare, threatened,
endangered, candidate and/or proposed species (plants or animals), or any otherwise protected
species?
Unknown; we do not have any data regarding whether the site serves as habitat for listed aquatic
or terrestrial wildlife species; however bald eagles nest and forage in the area. We do not have
any information regarding whether the site serves as habitat for listed plant species; this in not
within our area of expertise or purview.
S. Is the site potentially used as a breeding, roosting or feeding area by migratory bird species and
if so, which ones?
The site is breeding and roosting habitat for migratory waterfowl species including, but not
limited to, gadwall, mallard, green -winged teal, ring-necked duck, American black duck, and
wood duck. Other species that have been documented in the area, but not necessarily on the site,
include: hooded merganser, ruddy duck, canvasback, scaup, bufflehead, and redhead. In addition,
the site is nesting habitat for Osprey and there are records for colonial wading bird colonies (great
blue heron and great blue heron/great egret) on or adjacent to the site.
6. Is the site used by any ecologically, recreationally or commercially important species?
The site is used by migratory waterfowl (see species list above). In addition, there is recreational
fishing in High Rock Lake. Recreational species include: striped bass, largemouth bass, channel
catfish, white crappie, black crappie, bluegill, white bass, and flathead catfish.
7. Are there any areas on or within '/z mile that is owned or used by local tribes?
We do not have any information regarding local tribes in the area; this is not within our purview.
If we can provide further assistance, please contact our office at [phone] or
shari.bryant&ncwildlife. org.
Rinrerely
Shari L. Bryant
Western Piedmont Coordinator
Habitat Conservation
ec: Allen Ratzlaff, USFWS

FNDuke Energy I Buck Steam Station
May 21, 2015
USDA Forest Service
National Forests in North Carolina
Heather Luczak
160 Zillicoa Street, Suite A
Asheville, NC 28801
Re: Request for Information
Buck Steam Station
1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
HDR is working with Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC to prepare a Comprehensive Site
Assessment for the above -referenced site (see attached site map for project
location). The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Guidelines for Performing Screening Level Ecological Risk Assessments require
identification of certain natural and cultural resources and sensitive environments.
Based on this requirement, we are requesting the following:
1. Are there any federally listed threatened, endangered or candidate species
(plant or animal), or critical habitat within the vicinity of this project?
2. Do any sensitive environmental areas exist adjacent to or within 1/2 mile of
the site (e.g., Federal and State parks, National and State monuments,
wetlands, other areas that provide unique and often protected habitat for
wildlife species -these areas are typically used during critical life stages such
as breeding, hatching, rearing of young and overwintering)?
3. Are any wetland areas such as marshes or swamps on or adjacent to the
site? (Wetlands are defined in 40 CFR §232.2 as "Areas inundated or
saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to
support, and that under normal circumstances does support, a prevalence of
vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.")
4. Does the site serve or potentially serve as a habitat, foraging area or refuge
by rare, threatened, endangered, candidate and/or proposed species (plants
or animals), or any otherwise protected species?
5. Is the site potentially used as a breeding, roosting or feeding area by
migratory bird species and if so, which ones?
6. Is the site used by any ecologically, recreationally or commercially important
species?
7. Are there any areas on or within 1/2 mile that is owned or used by local
tribes?
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

F)l Duke Energy I Buck Steam Station
Please contact me if you need any additional details to respond to our request for
information.
Regards,
4 1
e,-" - vn;x�
Lisa K. Voyce, MSEnE/Toxicology
Project Manager/Associate/Risk Assessor
HDR
One International Boulevard
loth Floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
D 201-335-9439 M 973-558-3910
[e-mail]
hdrinc.com 1 International Boulevard, 10th Floor, Suite 1000, Mahwah, NJ 07495-0027
[phone]

SITE LOCATION MAP DATE
May 3, 2013
DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC
BUCK COMBINED CYCLE STATION FIGURE
NPDES PERMIT NO. NC0004774 1
ROWAN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

From:
Luczak, Heather L -FS
To:
Zurlo, Carol
Subject:
RE: USFS - Riverbend Steam Station
Date:
Thursday, May 28, 2015 10:48:00 AM
Attachments:
imaae001.ono
imaae002.pnna
imaae003.i)ng
Ms. Zurlo,
There are no any Designated and Proposed Federal Wilderness and Natural Areas, National
Preserves and Forests, or Federal Land Designated for the Protection of Natural Ecosystems within a
half mile of the properties listed below:
• Riverbend Steam Station 175 Steam Plant Road, Mt. Holly, INC 28120
• Marshall Steam Station 8320 North Carolina Highway 150 East, Terrell, NC 28682
• Dan River Steam Station 524 S. Edgewood Road, Eden, NC 27288
• Cliffside Steam Station 573 Duke Power Road, Mooresboro, NC 28114
• Buck Steam Station 1555 Dukeville Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
• Belews Creek Steam Station 3195 Pine Hall Road, Belews Creek, NC 27009
• Allen Steam Station 253 Plant Allen Road, Belmont, NC 28012
Heather Luczak
Assistant Forest Planner
Forest Service
National Forests in NC
p: 828-257-4817
f: 828-259-0567
hluczakWs.fed.us
160 Zillicoa St. Suite A
Asheville, NC 28805
www.fs.fed.us
Caring for the land and serving people
From: Zurlo, Carol [mailto:[e-mail]]
Sent: Thursday, May 21, 2015 1:20 PM
To: Luczak, Heather L -FS
Subject: USFS - Riverbend Steam Station
Please see the attached pdf for our request for information and a site location map. Additional site
location details are provided below.
The Duke Riverbend Steam Station is located at 175 Steam Plant Road, Mt. Holly, NC 28120. It is
located in Gaston County, between the south bank of the Catawba River on Mountain Island Lake and
the north side of Horseshoe Bend Beach Road. The site comprises 340.7 acres.
Thank you,
Carol Zurlo
Project Scientist

HDR
1 International Blvd
10th Floor, Suite 1000
Mahwah, NJ 07495
D 201.335.9451 M 212.920.6088
carol.zurlo(cDhdrinc.com

Checklist for Ecological Assessments 1 Sampling

CHECKLIST FOR ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS / SAMPLING
I. SITE LOCATION
1. Site Name Buck Steam Station
US EPA ID Number TRI Facility ID Number 28146DKNRG1555D
The site is located on the south bank of the Yadkin River at 1555 Dukeville Road in Salisbury,
Location North Carolina
County Rowan City Salisbury State NC
2. Latitude 35°42'48.2"N
Longitude 80°22'36.0"W
3. Attach site maps, including a topographical map, a diagram which illustrates the layout of the facility (e.g., site
boundaries, structures, etc.), and maps showing all habitat areas identified in Section III of the checklist. Also,
include maps which illustrate known and suspected release areas, sampling locations and any other important
features, if available.
II. SITE CHARACTERIZATION
1. Indicate the approximate area of the site (i.e., acres or sq. ft.) Approximately 640 acres
2. Is this the first site visit? ❑ Yes 0 No
If no, attach trip report of previous site visit(s), if available.
Date(s) of previous site visit(s) March 4, 2015 — Natural Resources Avoidance Site Visit.
3. Are aerial or other site photographs available? 0 Yes ❑ No
If yes, please attach any available photo(s) to the site map to the report.
4. Provide an approximate breakdown of the land uses on the site:
30 % Heavy Industrial 5 % Light Industrial % Urban
• Residential % Rural % Agricultural
• Recreational 55 % Undisturbed 10 % Other
a For recreational areas, please describe the use of the area (e.g., park, playing field, etc.).
N/A
b For agricultural areas, please list the crops and/or livestock which are present.
N/A
For areas designated as "other," please describe the use of the area.
Water bodies includine the ash basins and cleared areas.
A-5

5. Provide an approximate breakdown of the land uses in the area surrounding the site.
Indicate the radius (in miles) of the area described: 1 mile
% Heavy Industrial % Light Industrial % Urban
20 % Residential % Rural 20 % Agricultural
% Recreational 50 % Undisturbed 10 % Other
a For recreational areas, please describe the use of the area (e.g., park, playing field, etc.).
N/A
b For agricultural areas, please list the crops and/or livestock which are present.
Agricultural areas were depicted in the aerial imagery. The aerials depict several chicken houses and cattle
pastures within a 1 mile radius of the site. The types of crops were not reported in the field.
For areas designated as "other," please describe the use of the area.
"Other" designation includes water bodies (Yadkin River).
6. Has any movement of soil taken place at the site? X❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate the likely source of the disturbance (e.g., erosion, agricultural, mining, industrial activities,
removals, etc.) degree of disturbance, and estimate when these events occurred.
Industrial and remedial activities.
7. Do any sensitive environmental areas exist adjacent to or in proximity to the site, (e.g. Federal and State parks,
National and State monuments, wetlands)? Remember, flood plains and wetlands are not always obvious; do
not answer "no" without confirming information. See Table I for a list of contacts.
® Yes ❑ No
Please provide the source(s) of information used to identify these sensitive areas, and indicate their general
location on the site map. Stream/Wetlands (see attached map)
8. What type of facility is located at the site?
❑ Chemical ❑ Manufacturing ❑ Mixing
❑ Waste Disposal ❑X Other (specify)
Power veneration facility.
9. Identify the contaminants of potential concern (COPCs) at the site. If known, include the maximum contaminant
levels. Please indicate the source of data cited (e.g., RFI, confirmatory sampling, etc.).
Constituents of Interest include CAMA detection analytes boron, calcium, chloride, conductivity, pH,
sulfate, and total dissolved solids; as well as assessment analytes aluminum, antimony, arsenic, barium
beryllium, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, manganese, mercury, molybdenum, selenium,
sulfate, sulfide, thallium, and vanadium. COPCs TBD based on screening risk assessment results.
10. Check any potential routes of off -site migration of contaminants observed at the site:
X❑ Swales ❑X Depressions
❑X Drainage Ditches
A-6

❑ Runoff ❑ Windblown Particulates 0 Vehicular Traffic
❑ Other (specify)
11. Indicate the approximate depth to groundwater (in feet below ground surface [(bgs)].
The depth to groundwater is variable and ranges from 3 to 79 feet bgs.
12. Indicate the direction of groundwater flow (e.g., north, southeast, etc.).
North toward Yadkin River; varies locallv
13. Is the direction of surface runoff apparent from site observations? 0 Yes ❑ No
If yes, to which of the following does the surface runoff discharge? Indicate all that apply.
X❑ Surface Water ❑
0 Collection Impoundment
Groundwater ❑ Sewer
14. Is there a navigable water body or tributary to a navigable water body?
0 Yes ❑ No
15. Is there a water body anywhere on or in the vicinity of the site? If yes, also complete Section III.B.1: Aquatic
Habitat Checklist -- Non -Flowing Systems and/or Section III.B.2: Aquatic Habitat Checklist -- Flowing
Systems.
Several water bodies are
© Yes (approx. distance: located on site. ) ❑ No
16. Is there evidence of flooding? 0 Yes ❑ No
Wetlands and flood plains are not always obvious. Do not answer "no" without confirming information.
If yes, complete Section III.C: Wetland Habitat Checklist.
17. If a field guide was used to aid any of the identifications, please provide a reference. Also, estimate the time
spent identifying fauna. (Use a blank sheet if additional space is needed for text.)
No field euides were used. Identification of flora and fauna was conducted by a trained bioloeist.
Time assessing the site and identifying fauna was approximately 6 hours.
18. Are any threatened and/or endangered species (plant or animal) known to inhabit the area of the site?
0 Yes ❑ No
If yes, you are required to verify this information with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or other appropriate
agencies (see Table 1 for a list of contacts). If species' identities are known, please list them next.
Correspondence with the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) noted that the NCNHP's
Elemental Occurrence GIS database contains records for two special animal assemblages (Colonial Wading
Bird Colony), a natural area (High Rock Reservoir Wetlands), and conservation managed area (NC Agricultural
Development and Farmland Preservation) documented within and/or adjacent to the site.
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) commented that there are records for the federal
species of concern and state special concern Eastern small -footed bat (Myotis leibii) and the state threatened
Eastern lampmussel (Lampsilis radiata) near the site. In addition, there are historical records for the
A-7

federal species of concern and state special concern — vulnerable Carolina birdfoot-trefoil (Acmispon
helleri) near the site.
19. Record weather conditions at the site at the time of the site visit when information for completion of this
checklist was prepared:
Date: July 8, 2015
Temperature (°C/°F): 89-92OF
Wind (direction / speed): no wind
Cloud Cover: moderate
Normal daily high temperature (°C/°F) 870F
Precipitation (rain, snow): none
20. Describe reasonable and likely future land and/or water use(s) at the site
Power generation and ash pond remediation.
21. Describe the historical uses of the site. Include information on chemical releases that may have occurred as a
result of previous land uses. For each chemical release, provide information on the form of the chemical
released (i.e., solid, liquid, vapor) and the known or suspected causes or mechanism of the release (i.e., spills,
leaks, material disposal, dumping, explosion, etc.).
The Buck Steam Station is a former coal-fired electricity generating facility. As of April 2013, all of the
coal-fired units have been retired. The site now contains the new Buck Combined Cycle Plant, a 620-
megawatt natural gas -powered electricity generating station. Chemical releases will be detailed in
the Comprehensive Site Assessment (CSA).
22. Identify the media (e.g., soil [surface or subsurface], surface water, air, groundwater) which are known or
suspected to contain COCs.
The impacted media will be determined as part of the CSA.
A-8

II.A. SUMMARY OF OBSERVATIONS AND SITE SETTING
Include information on significant source areas and migration pathways that are likely to constitute
complete exposure pathways
Ash basins onsite; assessment of the migration pathways that are likely to constitute
complete exposure pathways will be included in Section 12 of the CSA.
Checklist Completed by: Eric Mularski, PWS
Affiliation: HDR Engineering Inc.
Author Assisted by: Bryan Roden -Reynolds
Date: July 13, 2015
A-9

III. HABITAT EVALUATION
IILA Terrestrial Habitat Checklist
IILA.1 Wooded
Are any wooded areas on or adjacent to the site? 0 Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate the wooded area on the attached site map and answer the following questions. If more than
one wooded area is present on or adjacent to the site, make additional copies of the following questions
and fill out for each individual wooded area. Distinguish between wooded areas by using names or other
designations, and clearly identify each area on the site map.
If no, proceed to Section III.A.2: Shrub/Scrub
A-10

Wooded Area Questions
❑X On -Site ❑ Off -site
Name or Designation: Mixed Hardwoods
1. Estimate the approximate size of the wooded area: 44 % 166 acres
Please identify what information was used to determine the wooded area of the site
(e.g., direct observation, photos, etc.). Site visit and aerial imagery. Photographs are attached.
2. Indicate the dominant type of vegetation in the wooded area. Provide photographs, if available
❑
Evergreen
❑
Deciduous
❑X
Mixed
Dominant tree species consist of mockernut hickory (Carya
tomentosa), white oak (Quercus alba), southern red oak
(Quercus falcata), laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia), tulip poplar
(Liriodendron tulipifera). American beech (Fagus grandifolia),
Dominant plant species, if known: and American elm. See attached photographs.
3. Estimate the vegetation density of the wooded area.
❑ Dense (i.e., greater than 75% vegetation)
❑X Moderate (i.e., 25% to 75% vegetation)
❑ Sparse (i.e., less than 25% vegetation)
4. Indicate the predominant size of the trees at the site. Use diameter at breast height.
❑
0-6 inches
❑
6-12 inches
❑X
>12 inches
❑
No single size range is predominant
5. Specify type of understory present, if known. Provide a photograph, if available.
Dominant understory species consist of American holly (Ilex opaca), eastern cottonwood (Populus
deltoides), hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), black cherry (Prunus serotina), eastern redbud (Cercis
canadensis), Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia),
greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), and netted chain fern
(Woodwardia areolata). See attached photograph.
A-11

Wooded Area Questions
0 On -Site ❑ Off -site
Name or Designation: Bottomland Hardwoods
1. Estimate the approximate size of the wooded area: 10 % 37 acres
Please identify what information was used to determine the wooded area of the site
(e.g., direct observation, photos, etc.).
2. Indicate the dominant type of vegetation in the wooded area. Provide photographs, if available
❑
Evergreen
❑X
Deciduous
❑
Mixed
Dominant trees species consisted of boxelder (Ater negundo),
red maple (Ater rubrum), American sycamore (Platanus
occidentalis), American elm (Ulmus americana), and green ash
Dominant plant species, if known: (Fraxinus pennsylvanica). See attached photographs.
3. Estimate the vegetation density of the wooded area.
❑ Dense (i.e., greater than 75% vegetation)
© Moderate (i.e., 25% to 75% vegetation)
❑ Sparse (i.e., less than 25% vegetation)
4. Indicate the predominant size of the trees at the site. Use diameter at breast height.
❑
0-6 inches
❑
6-12 inches
❑
> 12 inches
Q
No single size range is predominant
5. Specify type of understory present, if known. Provide a photograph, if available.
Dominant understory species consisted of red maple, spicebush (Lindera benzoin)
and green ash. See attached photographs.
A-12

Wooded Area Questions
0 On -Site ❑ Off -site
Name or Designation: Pine Plantation
1. Estimate the approximate size of the wooded area: 10 % 40 acres
Please identify what information was used to determine the wooded area of the site
(e.g., direct observation, photos, etc.). Site visit and aerial imagery. Photographs are attached.
2. Indicate the dominant type of vegetation in the wooded area. Provide photographs, if available
❑X
Evergreen
❑
Deciduous
❑
Mixed
Dominant tree species consisted of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda),
Dominant plant species, if known: and Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana). See attached photograph.
3. Estimate the vegetation density of the wooded area.
0 Dense (i.e., greater than 75% vegetation)
❑ Moderate (i.e., 25% to 75% vegetation)
❑ Sparse (i.e., less than 25% vegetation)
4. Indicate the predominant size of the trees at the site. Use diameter at breast height.
❑
0-6 inches
❑X
6-12 inches
❑
>12 inches
❑
No single size range is predominant
5. Specify type of understory present, if known. Provide a photograph, if available.
Dominant understory species consist of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), eastern redbud, winged
elm (Ulmus alata), white ash (Fraxinus americana), redcedar (Juniperus virginiana), and sourwood
(Oxydendrum arboretum). See attached photograph.
A-13

IILA.2 Shrub/Scrub
Are any shrub/scrub areas on or adjacent to the site? ❑X Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate the shrub/scrub area on the attached site map and answer the following questions. If more
than one shrub/scrub area is present on or adjacent to the site, make additional copies of the following
questions and fill out for each individual shrub/scrub area. Distinguish between shrub/scrub areas by
using names or other designations, and clearly identify each area on the site map.
If no, proceed to Section III.A.3: Open Field
A-14

Shrub/Scrub Area Questions
0 On -Site ❑ Off -site
Name or Designation: Scrub Shrub
Estimate the approximate size of the shrub/scrub area: 3 % 10 acres
Please identify what information was used to determine the shrub/scrub area of the site
(e.g., direct observation, photos, etc.). Site visit and aerial imagery. Photographs are attached.
Indicate the dominant type of shrub/scrub vegetation present, if known.
Dominant scrub/shrub species consist of sweetgum, black willow (Salix nigra), persimmon (Diospyros
virginiana), pokeberry (Phytolacca americana), and blackberry (Rubus sp.). See attached photographs.
Estimate the vegetation density of the shrub/scrub area.
X❑ Dense (i.e., greater than 75% vegetation)
❑ Moderate (i.e., 25% to 75% vegetation)
❑ Sparse (i.e., less than 25% vegetation)
Indicate the approximate average height of the shrub/scrub vegetation.
❑
0-2 feet
X❑
2-5 feet
❑
>5 feet
Specify type of understory present, if known. Provide a photograph, if available.
Herbaceous and vine understory species consist of deer tongue grass (Dichanthelium clandestinum),
Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense), wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia), goldenrods (Solidago sp.),
milkweed (Asclepias sp.), asters (Aster sp.), dog fennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), and smartweeds
(Polygonum sp.). See attached photograph.
A-15

III.A.3 Open Field
Are any open field areas on or adjacent to the site? ❑X Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate the open field area on the attached site map and answer the following questions. If more
than one open field area is present on or adjacent to the site, make additional copies of the following
questions and fill out for each individual open field area. Distinguish between open field areas by using
names or other designations, and clearly identify each area on the site map.
If no, proceed to Section III.A.4: Miscellaneous
A-16

Name or Designation:
Open Field Area Questions
❑X On -Site ❑ Off -site
Fields
Estimate the approximate size of the open field area: 33 % 126 acres
Please identify what information was used to determine the open field area of the site
(e.g., direct observation, photos, etc.). Site visit and aerial imagery. Photographs are attached.
Indicate the dominant type of vegetation present, if known.
Dominant vegetation consisted of fescue (Fescue sp.), clover (Trifolium pratense), and other herbs. See
attached photographs.
Estimate the vegetation density of the open field area.
❑X Dense (i.e., greater than 75% vegetation)
❑ Moderate (i.e., 25% to 75% vegetation)
❑ Sparse (i.e., less than 25% vegetation)
Indicate the approximate average height of the dominant plant
Approximately 6-12-inches. Many
oven areas are maintained.
A-17

IILA.4 Miscellaneous
Are other types of terrestrial habitats present at the site, other than woods, scrub/shrub, and open field?
❑ Yes 0 No
If yes, indicate the area on the attached site map and answer the following questions. If more than one of
these areas are present on or adjacent to the site, make additional copies of the following questions and fill
out for each individual area. Distinguish between areas by using names or other designations. Clearly
identify each area on the site map.
If no, proceed to Section III.B: Aquatic Habitats
A-18

Miscellaneous Area Questions
❑ On -Site ❑ Off -site
Name or Designation: N/A
1. Provide a description of the terrestrial miscellaneous habitat and identify the area on the site map.
N/A
2. Estimate the approximate size of the area:
N/A % N/A acres
3. What observations, if any, were made at the site regarding the presence and/or absence of insects,
birds, mammals, etc.?
N/A
4. Review the questions in Section I to determine if any additional habitat checklists should be completed
for this site.
A-19

IIIM Aquatic Habitats
Note: Aquatic systems are often associated with wetland habitats. Please refer to Section IILC, Wetland Habitat
Checklist.
III.13.1 Non -Flowing Systems
Are any non -flowing aquatic features (such as ponds or lakes) located at or adjacent to the site?
0 Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate the aquatic feature on the attached site map and answer the following questions regarding
the non -flowing aquatic features. If more than one non -flowing aquatic feature is present on or adjacent to
the site, make additional copies of the following questions and fill out for each individual aquatic feature.
Distinguish between aquatic features by using names or other designations. Clearly identify each area on
the site map.
If no, proceed to Section III.B.2: Flowing Systems
A-20

Non -Flowing Aquatic Feature Questions
❑X On -Site ❑ Off -site
Ash Basins (Cell 1 Additional Primary Pond, Cell 2 Primary Pond, Cell 3 Secondary
Name or Designation: Pond)
1
2
3
4
Indicate the type of aquatic feature present:
❑ Natural (e.g., pond or lake)
❑%� Man-made (e.g., impoundment, lagoon, canal, etc.)
Estimate the approximate size of the water body (in acres or sq. ft.) 150 acres (combined)
If known, indicate the depth of the water body (in ft. or in.)
N/A
If a water body is present, what are its known uses (e.g.: recreation, navigation, etc.)?
The ash basins were constructed to retain and settle ash generated from coal combustion at Buck Steam
Station.
5. Is aquatic vegetation present? X❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, please identify the type of vegetation present if known.
Z Emergent ❑X Submergent ❑ Floating
6. Indicate the general composition of the bottom substrate. Mark all sources that apply from the
following list.
❑
Bedrock
❑
Sand
❑ Concrete
❑
Boulder (>10 in.)
©
Silt
❑ Debris
❑
Cobble (2.5 in — 10 in.)
®
Clay
❑ Detritus
❑
Gravel (0.1 — 2.5 in.)
❑
Muck (fine/black)
Z
Other (please specify):
Ash
7. Indicate the source(s) of the water in the aquatic feature. Mark all sources that apply from the following
list.
❑ River/Stream/Creek
❑ Groundwater
© Industrial Discharge
Z Surface Runoff
❑X Other (please specify): Rainwater
A-21

Non -Flowing Aquatic Feature Questions (Continued)
8. Is there a discharge from the facility to the aquatic feature? 0 Yes ❑ No
If yes, describe the origin of each discharge and its migration path.
During the operation of the coal-fired units, the ash basin system was operated as an integral part of the
site's wastewater treatment system, receiving variable inflows from the ash removal system and other
permitted discharges. Currently, the ash basin receives variable inflows from the station yard drain
sump, stormwater flows, Buck Steam Station wastewater, and Buck Combined Cycle wastewater.
The discharge from the ash basin is permitted by the NCDENR's Division of Water Resources under
NPDES NC0004774. Effluent from the ash basin is discharged through the discharge tower, into a
concrete -lined channel to the Yadkin River.
9. Does the aquatic feature discharge to the surrounding environment? X Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate the features from the following list into which the aquatic feature discharges, and
indicate whether the discharge occurs onsite or offsite:
❑X River / Stream / Creek 0 On -Site M Off -Site
❑ Groundwater ❑ On -Site ❑ Off -Site
❑ Wetland ❑ On -Site ❑ Off -Site
❑ Impoundment ❑ On -Site ❑ Off -Site
❑ Other (please describe)
10. Identify any field measurements and observations of water quality that were made.
Provide the measurement and the units of measure in the appropriate space below:
150 acres Area
N/A Depth (average)
N/A Temperature (depth of water where the reading was taken): N/A
N/A pH
N/A Dissolved oxygen
N/A Salinity
opaque Turbidity (clear, slightly turbid, turbid, opaque) Secchi disk depth: N/A
Other (specify)
11. Describe observed color and area of coloration.
The water was opaque with a greenish coloration.
A-22

Non -Flowing Aquatic Feature Questions (Continued)
12. Mark the open -water, non -flowing system on the site map attached to this checklist. See attached
13. What observations, if any, were made at the water body regarding the presence and/or absence of
benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, birds, mammals, etc.?
No aquatic fauna was observed. No fish or benthic macroinvertebrates were observed. Freshwater clam
shells were observed along the shorelines. Several ospreys were in flight around the non -flowing
aquatic features. A heron rookery is located in the northwestern portion of Cell 2. Several osprey nests
were noted on top of platforms near the basins throughout the site. Fringe scrub/shrub habitat could
provide habitat for migratory birds.
A-23

Flowing Aquatic Systems Questions
0 On -Site ❑ Off -site
Unnamed tributaries (2) to the Yadkin River with perennial flow.
Name or Designation: Stream identification and classification was conducted by AMEC in 2015.
1. Indicate the type of aquatic feature present:
❑ River
0 Stream / Creek / Brook
❑ Intermittent stream
❑ Artificially created (ditch, etc.)
❑ Channeling
❑ Other (specify):
2. For natural systems, are there any indicators of physical alteration (e.g., channeling, debris, etc.)?
0 Yes ❑ No
If yes, please describe the indicators observed.
There are several areas were rip rap has been placed along the stream banks and in the channel
bottom.
3. Indicate the general composition of the bottom substrate.
0 Bedrock 0 Sand ❑
Concrete
❑ Boulder (>10 in.) 0 Silt ❑
Debris
❑ Cobble (2.5 in —10 in.) 0 Clay ❑
Detritus
0 Gravel (0.1 — 2.5 in.) ❑ Muck (fine/black) ❑
Marl
❑ Other (please specify):
4. Describe the condition of the bank (e.g., height, slope, extent of vegetative cover):
Bank heights were variable and ranged from 2-3 feet, bank slopes ranged
from 45-90%, stream banks
had limited vegetation consisting of woody and herbaceous species.
5. Is the system influenced by tides? ❑ Yes 0 No
What information was used to make this determination?
Inland water body not under influence of tides.
A-24

6. Is the flow intermittent? ❑ Yes X❑ No
If yes, please note the information used to make this determination.
The NC Division of Water Resource's (DWR) Stream Identification Methodology for Identification
of Intermittent and Perennial Streams and Their Origins (Version 4.11) was utilized by AMEC to
determine the flow characteristics of each identified perennial or intermittent stream. Flow was
visible during the site visit.
7. Is there a discharge from the site to the water body? ® Yes ❑ No
If yes, describe the origin of each discharge and its migration path.
Surface water discharges may result from upland runoff during storm events.
8. Indicate the discharge point of the water body. Specify name of the discharge, if known.
See attached figure
9. Identify any field measurements and observations of water quality that were made.
Provide the measurement and the units of measure in the appropriate space below:
2-3
Width (ft.)
less than 6
inches
Depth (average)
N/A
Velocity (specify units): N/A
N/A
Temperature (depth of water where the reading was taken): N/A
N/A
pH
N/A
Dissolved oxygen
N/A
Salinity
slightly
Turbidity (clear, slightly turbid, turbid, opaque) Secchi disk depth: N/A
N/A
Other (specify)
10. Describe observed color and area of coloration.
The majority of the water is clear. There are areas of the orange coloration.
11. Is aquatic vegetation present? ❑ Yes ❑X No
If yes, please identify the type of vegetation present if known.
❑ Emergent ❑ Submergent ❑ Floating
A-25

Flowing System Questions (Continued)
12. Mark the open -water, non -flowing system on the site map attached to this checklist.
See attached figure.
13. What observations, if any, were made at the water body regarding the presence and/or absence of
benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, birds, mammals, etc.?
Several minnows, small fish, and benthic macroinvertebrates were observed within the perennial
flowing systems. Birds and squirrels were observed during the site visit. Raccoon and deer tracks were
also observed during the site visit.
A-26

Flowing Aquatic Systems Questions
❑X On -Site © Off -site
Unnamed tributaries (9) to the Yadkin River with intermittent flow.
Name or Designation: Stream identification and classification was conducted by AMEC in 2015.
1. Indicate the type of aquatic feature present:
2
3
4
5
❑ River
❑ Stream / Creek / Brook
© Intermittent stream
❑ Artificially created (ditch, etc.)
❑ Channeling
❑ Other (specify):
For natural systems, are there any indicators of physical alteration (e.g., channeling, debris, etc.)?
❑X Yes ❑ No
If yes, please describe the indicators observed.
There are isolated locations indicating evidence of channelization. In several areas, rip rap has been
placed alone the stream banks and in the channel bottom.
Indicate the general composition of the bottom substrate.
❑
Bedrock
❑
Boulder (>10 in.)
❑
Cobble (2.5 in — 10 in.)
❑
Gravel (0.1 — 2.5 in.)
❑
Other (please specify):
❑
Sand
❑
Concrete
❑X
Silt
❑
Debris
❑X
Clay
❑
Detritus
❑
Muck (fine/black)
❑
Marl
Describe the condition of the bank (e.g., height, slope, extent of vegetative cover):
Bank heights were variable and ranged from 1-3 ft, banks slopes ranged from 45 -60%, stream banks
were generally well vegetated with woody and herbaceous species.
Is the system influenced by tides? ❑ Yes ❑X No
What information was used to make this determination?
6. Is the flow intermittent? X Yes ❑ No
If yes, please note the information used to make this determination.
The NC Division of Water Resource's (DWR) Stream Identification Methodology for Identification of
Intermittent and Perennial Streams and Their Origins (Version 4.11) was utilized by AMEC to
determine the flow characteristics of each identified perennial or intermittent stream. AMEC
classified these systems as intermittent. No flow was visible during the site visit.
A-27

Flowing System Questions (Continued)
7. Is there a discharge from the site to the water body? X❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, describe the origin of each discharge and its migration path.
Surface water discharges may result from upland runoff during storm events.
8. Indicate the discharge point of the water body. Specify name of the discharge, if known.
Tributaries exhibit intermittent/seasonal surface water flow to the Yadkin River. See attached figure.
9. Identify any field measurements and observations of water quality that were made.
Provide the measurement and the units of measure in the appropriate space below:
1-2 Width (ft.)
N/A Depth (average)
N/A Velocity (specify units): N/A
N/A Temperature (depth of water where the reading was taken): N/A
N/A pH
N/A Dissolved oxygen
N/A Salinity
N/A Turbidity (clear, slightly turbid, turbid, opaque) Secchi disk depth: N/A
Other (specify)
10. Describe observed color and area of coloration.
N/A — no water present during the site visit.
11. Is aquatic vegetation present? ❑ Yes X❑ No
If yes, please identify the type of vegetation present if known.
❑ Emergent ❑ Submergent ❑ Floating
A-28

Flowing System Questions (Continued)
12. Mark the open -water, non -flowing system on the site map attached to this checklist.
See attached figure.
13. What observations, if any, were made at the water body regarding the presence and/or absence of
benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, birds, mammals, etc.?
No aquatic fauna were observed. Birds and squirrels were observed during the site visit. Raccoon and
deer tracks were also observed during the site visit.
A-29

III.0 Wetland Habitats
Are any wetland' areas such as marshes or swamps on or adjacent to the site?
X❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate the wetland area on the attached site map and answer the following questions regarding the
wetland area. If more than one wetland area is present on or adjacent to the site, make additional copies of
the following questions and fill out one for each individual wetland area. Distinguish between wetland
areas by using names or other designations (such as location). Clearly identify each area on the site map.
Also, obtain and attach a National Wetlands Inventory Map (or maps) to illustrate each wetland area.
Identify the sources of the observations and information (e.g., National Wetland Inventory, Federal or
State Agency, USGS topographic maps) used to make the determination whether or not wetland areas are
present.
Wetland areas were identified in the field by AMEC and HDR's Professional Wetland Scientist.
If no wetland areas are present, proceed to Section III.D: Sensitive Environments and Receptors.
' Wetlands are defined in 40 CFR §232.2 as " Areas inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration
sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances does support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in
saturated soil conditions." Examples of typical wetlands plants include: cattails, cordgrass, willows and cypress trees. National
wetland inventory maps may be available at http:\\nwi.fws.gov. Additional information on wetland delineation criteria is also
available from the Army Corps of Engineers.
A-30

Wetland Area Questions
X❑ On -Site ❑ Off -site
Name or Designation: Forested Wetlands
1. Indicate the approximate area of the wetland (acres or ft') 10.75 acres
2. Indicate the type(s) of vegetation present in the wetland.
❑ Submergent (i.e., underwater) vegetation
❑ Emergent (i.e., rooted in the water, but rising above it) vegetation
❑ Floating vegetation
❑ Scrub/shrub
© Wooded
❑ Other (Please describe):
3. Provide a general description of the vegetation present in and around the wetland (height, color, etc.).
Provide a photograph of the known or suspected wetlands, if available.
Forested wetland located in the floodplain of the Yadkin River. Woody trees greater than 20 feet in
height consisted of green ash, and red maple. Shrub species approximately 3feet
to 20 feet in height consisted of box elder. Herbaceous hydrophytic vegetation consisted of false nettle
(Boehmeria cylindrica), lizards tail (Saururus cernuus), Nepal grass (Microstegium vimineum), arrow
arum (Peltandra virginica), and dodder vine (Cuscuta sp.). See attached photograph.
4. Estimate the vegetation density of the wooded area.
❑ Dense (i.e., greater than 75% vegetation)
❑X Moderate (i.e., 25% to 75% vegetation)
❑ Sparse (i.e., less than 25% vegetation)
5. Is standing water present? ❑C Yes ❑ No
If yes, is the water primarily: ❑X Fresh ❑ Brackish
Indicate the approximate area of the standing water (ft.Z): <1 acre
Indicate the approximate depth of the standing water, if known (ft. or in.) 2-6 inches
A-31

G
7
Wetland Area Questions (Continued)
Identify any field measurements and observations of water quality that were made.
Provide the measurement and the units of measure in the appropriate space below:
10.75 ac
Area
2-6 inches
Depth (average)
N/A
Temperature (depth of water where the reading was taken)
N/A
pH
N/A
Dissolved oxygen
N/A
Salinity
N/A
Turbidity (clear, slightly turbid, turbid, opaque) Secchi disk depth:
N/A
Other (specify)
Describe observed color and area of coloration.
N/A
8. If known, indicate the source of the water in the wetland.
❑X
Stream / River / Creek / Lake / Pond
F
Flooding
❑
Groundwater
❑X
Surface Runoff
9. Is there a discharge from the site to the wetland? X❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, please describe:
Surface water discharges may result from upland runoff during storm events.
N/A
N/A
A-32

10.
11
12.
13
Wetland Area Questions (Continued)
Is there a discharge from the wetland? X❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, to what water body is discharge released?
❑
Marine Name:
❑X
Surface stream / River Name:
❑
Lake / Pond Name:
❑
Groundwater
❑
Not sure
Tributaries to the Yadkin River
Does the area show evidence of flooding? ❑X Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate which of the following are present (mark all that apply).
❑
Standing water
❑X
Water -saturated soils
❑X
Water marks
❑
Buttressing
❑X
Debris lines
❑
Mud cracks
❑
Other (Please describe):
If a soil sample was collected, describe the appearance of the soil in the wetland area. Circle or write
in the best response.
Color (blue/gray, brown, black, mottled) Hydric soil indicators were present.
Water content (dry, wet, saturated / unsaturated) Saturated
Mark the observed wetland area(s) on the attached site map.
See attached figure.
A-33

Wetland Area Questions
0 On -Site ❑ Off -site
Name or Designation: Scrub/Shrub - Emergent Wetlands
1. Indicate the approximate area of the wetland (acres or ft') 83 acres (includes wetlands located
within the ash basin waste boundary)
2. Indicate the type(s) of vegetation present in the wetland.
0 Submergent (i.e., underwater) vegetation
❑X Emergent (i.e., rooted in the water, but rising above it) vegetation
❑ Floating vegetation
❑X Scrub/shrub
❑ Wooded
❑ Other (Please describe):
3. Provide a general description of the vegetation present in and around the wetland (height, color, etc.).
Provide a photograph of the known or suspected wetlands, if available.
Scrub shrub and emergent wetlands are located in the maintained right-of-ways, along fringes of the
ash basin, and in open areas around the facility where woody vegetation is managed. Dominant
woody vegetation consists of sweetgum, black willow (Salix nigra), silky dogwood (Cornus
amomum), and elderberry (Sambucus canadensis). Herbaceous and vine species consisted of common
reed (Phragmites australis), New York ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis), rose mallow (Hibiscus
moscheutos), netted chainfern (Woodwardia areolata), sedges (Carex sp.), soft rush (Juncus effusus)
and woolgrass (Scirpus cyperinus).
4. Estimate the vegetation density of the wooded area.
❑ Dense (i.e., greater than 75% vegetation)
❑X Moderate (i.e., 25% to 75% vegetation)
❑ Sparse (i.e., less than 25% vegetation)
5. Is standing water present? ❑ Yes 0 No
If yes, is the water primarily: 0 Fresh ❑ Brackish
Indicate the approximate area of the standing water (ft.Z): <1 acre
Indicate the approximate depth of the standing water, if known (ft. or in.)
2-8 inches
A-34

Wetland Area Questions (Continued)
6. Identify any field measurements and observations of water quality that were made.
Provide the measurement and the units of measure in the appropriate space below:
N/A Area
N/A Depth (average)
N/A Temperature (depth of water where the reading was taken) N/A
N/A pH
N/A Dissolved oxygen
N/A Salinity
opaque Turbidity (clear, slightly turbid, turbid, opaque) Secchi disk depth: N/A
N/A Other (specify)
7. Describe observed color and area of coloration.
The water was opaque with a green coloration.
8. If known, indicate the source of the water in the wetland.
❑X
Stream / River / Creek / Lake / Pond
❑
Flooding
❑
Groundwater
❑X
Surface Runoff
9. Is there a discharge from the site to the wetland? X❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, please describe:
Surface water discharges may result from upland runoff during storm events.
A-35

10.
11
Wetland Area Questions (Continued)
Is there a discharge from the wetland? X❑ Yes No
If yes, to what water body is discharge released?
❑
Marine Name:
❑X
Surface stream / River Name:
❑
Lake / Pond Name:
❑
Groundwater
❑
Not sure
Tributaries to the Yadkin River
Does the area show evidence of flooding? ❑X Yes ❑ No
If yes, indicate which of the following are present (mark all that apply).
❑X
Standing water
❑X
Water -saturated soils
❑
Water marks
❑
Buttressing
❑
Debris lines
X❑
Mud cracks
❑
Other (Please describe):
12. If a soil sample was collected, describe the appearance of the soil in the wetland area. Circle or write
in the best response.
Color (blue/gray, brown, black, mottled) Hydric soil indicators were present.
Water content (dry, wet, saturated / unsaturated) Saturation and areas of standing water.
13. Mark the observed wetland area(s) on the attached site map. See attached figure
A-36

IIIM. Sensitive Environments and Receptors
Do any other potentially sensitive environmental areas2 exist adjacent to or within one-half mile of the
site? If yes, list these areas and provide the source(s) of information used to identify sensitive areas. Do
not answer "no" without confirmation from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other appropriate
agencies. See Table 1 for a list of contacts
Correspondence with the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) noted that the NCNHP's
Elemental Occurrence GIS database contains records for two special animal assemblages (Colonial
Wading Bird Colony), a natural area (High Rock Reservoir Wetlands), and conservation managed area
(NC Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation) documented within and/or adjacent to the
site.
The NCWRC commented that Natural Heritage Natural Areas — High Rock Reservoir Wetlands and
Leonard Road Slopes; the Managed Area — N.C. Agriculture Development and Farmland Preservation
Trust Fund Easement; and NCWRC Game Lands are located within'/2 mile of the site.
Are any areas on or near (i.e., within one-half mile) the site owned or used by local tribes? If yes,
describe.
No
Does the site serve or potentially serve as a habitat, foraging area or refuge by rare, threatened,
endangered, candidate and/or proposed species (plants or animals), or any otherwise protected species?
If yes, identify species. This information should be obtained from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
and other appropriate agencies. See Table I for a list of contacts.
Yes, forested areas with tree species that exhibit exfoliating bark (i.e. hickories and white
oaks) may be potential roosting trees for the federally threatened northern long-eared bat (Myotis
septentrionalis). The existing power line clearings and woodland edges and openings are potential
habitat for federally endangered Schweinitz's sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii).
Large pines along the Yadkin River and ash ponds may serve as potential nest trees for the bald eagle
(Haliaeetus leucocephalus) protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Bald eagles nest
and forage in the area. There is a known active bald eagle nest located south of Cell 2 Primary Pond.
Is the site potentially used as a breeding, roosting or feeding area by migratory bird species? If yes,
identify which species.
Migratory birds listed on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife's Information for Planning and
Conservation (IPac) website that may use habitats onsite include American bittern (Botaurus
lentiginosus), bald eagle, blue -winged warbler (Vermivora pinus), brown -headed nuthatch (Sitta
pusilla), Chuck-will's-widow (Caprimulgus carolinensis), fox sparrow (Passerella iliaca), Kentucky
Warbler (Oporornis formosus), least bittern (Ixobrychus exilis), loggerhead shrike (Lanius
ludovicianus), prairie warbler (Dendroica discolor), Prothonotary warbler (Protonotaria citrea),
red-headed woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus), rusty blackbird (Euphagus carolinus), wood
thrush (Hylocichla mustelina), and worm eating warbler (Helmitheros vermivorum).
2 Areas that provide unique and often protected habitat for wildlife species. These areas are typically used during critical life
stages such as breeding, hatching, rearing of young and overwintering. Refer to Table 2 at the end of this document for
examples of sensitive environments.
A-37

The NCWRC commented that this site is breeding and roosting habitat for migratory waterfowl species
including, but not limited to gadwall (Anas strepera), mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), green -winged teal
(Anas carolinensis), ring-necked duck (Aythya collaris), American black duck (Anas rubripes), and
wood duck (Aix sponsa). Other species that have been documented in the area, but not necessarily on
the site, include: hooded merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus), ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis),
canvasback (Aythya valisineria), scaup (Aythya manila), bufflehead (Bucephala albeola), and redhead
(Aythya americana). In addition, the site is a nesting habitat for Osprey and an existing colonial wading
bird colony [great blue heron (Ardea herodias) and great egret (Ardea alba)]. The existing onsite
rookery is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Sensitive Environments and Receptors Questions (Continued)
Is the site used by any ecologically3, recreationally or commercially important species? If yes, explain.
NCWRC commented that the site is used by migratory waterfowl. In addition, there is recreational
fishing in High Rock Lake. Recreational species include: striped bass (Morone saxatilis), largemouth
bass (Micropterus salmoides), channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), white crappie (Pomoxis
annularis), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), white bass (Morone chrysops), and flathead catfish
(Pylodictis olivaris).
3 Ecologically important species include populations of species which provide a critical (i.e., not replaceable) food resource for
higher organisms. These species' functions would not be replaced by more tolerant species or perform a critical ecological
function (such as organic matter decomposition) and will not be replaced by other species. Ecologically important species include
pest and opportunistic species that populate an area if they serve as a food source for other species, but do not include
domesticated animals (e.g., pets and livestock) or plants/animals whose existence is maintained by continuous human
interventions (e.g., fish hatcheries, agricultural crops, etc.).
A-38

IV. EXPOSURE PATHWAY EVALUATION
Do existing data provide sufficient information on the nature, rate and extent of contamination at the site?
❑ Yes
❑%� No
❑ Uncertain
Please provide an explanation for your answer.
Assessment of nature, rate and extent of contamination is ongoing as part of CSA.
2. Do existing data provide sufficient information on the nature, rate and extent of contamination in offsite
affected areas?
❑ Yes
❑X No
❑ Uncertain
❑ No offsite contamination
Please provide an explanation for your answer:
Assessment of nature. rate and extent of contamination is oneoine as Dart of CSA.
3. Do existing data address potential migration pathways of contaminants at the site?
❑ Yes
❑%� No
❑ Uncertain
Please provide an explanation for your answer:
Assessment of nature, rate and extent of contamination is ongoing as part of CSA.
A-39

Do existing data address potential migration pathways of contaminants in offsite affected areas?
❑ Yes
❑%� No
❑ Uncertain
❑ No offsite contamination
Please provide an explanation for your answer:
Assessment of nature, rate and extent of contamination is ongoing as part of CSA.
Are there visible indications of stressed habitats or receptors on or near (i.e., within one-half mile) the site that
may be the result of a chemical release? If yes, explain. Attach photographs if available
No stressed receptors were visible during the site visit.
Is the location of the contamination such that receptors might be reasonably expected to come into contact
with it? For soil, this means contamination in the soil 0 to 1 foot below ground surface (bgs). If yes, explain.
Yes, the contamination from coal ash is at the ground surface.
Are receptors located in or using habitats where chemicals exist in air, soil, sediment or surface water? If yes,
explain.
An exposure assessment will be completed as part of the Risk Assessment, see Section 12 of the CSA.
A-40

8. Could chemicals reach receptors via groundwater? Can chemicals leach or dissolve to groundwater? Are
chemicals mobile in groundwater? Does groundwater discharge into receptor habitats? If yes, explain.
An exposure assessment will be completed as part of the CSA.
9. Could chemicals reach receptors through runoff or erosion? Answer the following questions.
What is the approximate distance from the contaminated area to the nearest watercourse? Distance assumes the
ash basins to be the "contaminated area", pending; the completion of the CSA delineation.
❑ 0 feet (i.e., contamination has reached a watercourse)
0 1-10 feet
❑ 11-20 feet
❑ 21-50 feet
❑ 51-100 feet
❑ 101-200 feet
❑ >200 feet
❑ >500 feet
❑ >1000 feet
What is the slope of the ground in the contaminated area?
❑%� 0-10%
❑ 10-30%
❑ >30%
What is the approximate amount of ground and canopy vegetative cover in the contaminated area?
0 <25%
❑ 25-75%
❑ >75%
Is there visible evidence of erosion (e.g., a rill or gully) in or near the contaminated area?
❑ Yes
❑ No
0 Do not know
Do any structures, pavement or natural drainage features direct run-on flow (i.e., surface flows originating
upstream or uphill from the area of concern) into the contaminated area?
❑ Yes
❑ No
0 Do not know
A-41

10. Could chemicals reach receptors through the dispersion of contaminants in air (e.g., volatilization, vapors,
fugitive dust)? If yes, explain
Coal ash will be transported offsite for disposal. Contaminated dust particles may become airborne.
11. Could chemicals reach receptors through migration of non -aqueous phase liquids (NAPLs)? Is a NAPL
present at the site that might be migrating towards receptors or habitats? Could NAPL discharge contact
receptors or their habitat?
No
A-42

Duke Property Boundary
Photograph Locations
Non -Flowing Aquatic Features
Open Water
Flowing Aquatic Features
Stream
Wetland Habitats _
Emergent �� � ��„ 0
Forested
Scrub ShrubCELL 3
Terrestrial Habitats —� a � .0fSECONDARY PON`2
Bottomland Hardwoods ��`�r� �''�'A `�i�'..� $
v�,4 r�•d 1 0 � � � t'i AI�t r +' �I-
Mixed Hardwoods
Pine Plantation �
Open Field��\ '��v, ��� �� s� f_ I1 •..• �� �
Scrub Shrub
© ~ lax Y
i
0 Feet1,0004
* LOCATIONS OF TERRESTRIAL HABITATS,
NON -FLOWING AQUATIC FEATURES - .
10
I J 4 _ •� ,
FLOWING AQUATIC SYSTEMS, AND WETLAND �� • u Ii �4t^
HABITATS WERE ESTIMATED IN THE FIELD AND
UTILIZING AVAILABLE GIS DATA.
-
,.� i -Approximate Location
of Bald Eagle Nest
\ I 4. I lilk.
ti
i
BUCK STEAM STATION
F)j & E; E DUCHECKLIST FOR ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
FIGURE 1
PATH: VAPROJECTS1011237_DUKEENERGYk0234104_DUKE-EM-PERMITON-CALLSUPPORTIMAP_DOCSIM%D1 UCK1GWAPIECOLOGICALCHECKLISTS\SUCKECOCHECKLISTFIGURE_11%1].M%D - USER: EMULARSK . DATE:71141201S BUCK STEAM STATION - CHECKLIST FOR ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

F)I Duke EnergyBuck Steam Station Checklist for Ecological Assessment
l I g
Photograph 1 — Open Water Habitat
Photograph 2 — Open Field Terrestrial Habitat/Osprey Nest Platform

F)� Duke EnergyBuck Steam Station Checklist for Ecological Assessment
I I g
Photograph 3 - Mixed Hardwood Terrestrial Habitat (Potential Long -Ear Bat Snag Habitat)
Photograph 4 - Bottomland Hardwood Terrestrial Habitat

w a�
F} 5,

F)I Duke EnergyBuck Steam Station Checklist for Ecological Assessment
l I g
Photograph 7 — Non -Flowing Aquatic Feature/Open Water Habitat/Heron Rookery
Photograph 8 — Scrub/Shrub Terrestrial Habitat

F)I Duke EnergyBuck Steam Station Checklist for Ecological Assessment
l I g
Photograph 11 — Non -Flowing Aquatic Feature - Open Water Habitat
Emergent Wetland Habitat
Photograph 12 — Pine Plantation Terrestrial Habitat

F)I Duke EnergyBuck Steam Station Checklist for Ecological Assessment
l I g
Photograph 13 — Open Field Terrestrial Habitat
Photograph 14 — Emergent-Scrub/Shrub Wetland Habitat

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