4.4.10

applying seed to disturbed areas to establish a good cover to reduce invasive plant competition, containing
neighboring invasive exotic infestations, and establishing native competitive grasses. There is no guarantee
that these minimization techniques will be successful. Success will be dependent upon available budget and
the necessary pr�planning strategies.
Mitigation Options
After avoidance and minimization techniques have been applied to the maximum practicable extent,
remaining impacts from invasive species must be offset through mitigation. The following strategies are
examples provided in the NPS strategic plan for managing invasive exotic plants (NPS 1996). Examples
include early detection and rapid response efforts, inventorying and monitoring of invasive exotic plants as
well as the identification of key corridors of invasion and transporters of non-native plants and animals.
Based on NPS Management Guidelines, rt�echanical control, cultural control, biological control, and
chemical control methods are possible techniques that may be used to mitigate impacts from road
construction (NPS 2002d). The use of power tools and hand tools could be used far tbe removal of
herbaceous and sballowly-rooted plants which may be effective for some invasive exotic plant species.
Work crews may be required to clean equipment and clothing before traveling to another site in arder to
prevent the contamination of another site with invasive exotic seeds. Cultural control techniques consist of
education on cleanliness of vehicles and equipment, proper disposal of plant debris, and interpretive displays
and programs on the threats of invasive exotic species. Biological control is the control of a pest by
disrupting their ecological status, and through the use of organisms that are natural predators, parasites, or
pathogens. An example of biological control includes using the ladybird beetle (Sasajiscymnus tsugae) to
control HWA. Chemical control measures could be used such as soil management in favor of native species.
The introduction of topsoil from the undisturbed surroundings may be enough to re-introduce native seeds.
A light surface application of natural litter or sawdust will cause decomposing fungi to multiply and remove
excess plant available nitrogen from the soiL The use of herbicides would be considered if the alternative
means of control are not feasible (NPS 2006b). The best prevention efforts will not stop all invasive species
introductions. Additional coordination will be needed to develop mitigation plans. The success of
mitigation efforts are uncertain and may include additional costs.
4.4.10 Protected Species
4.4.10.1 Federally-Protected Endangered and Threatened Species
4.4.10.1.1 Methodology for Assessing Impacts
The USFWS has delisted the bald eagle in the lower 48 states of the United States from the federal list of
endangered and threatened wildlife, effective August 8, 2007. Prior to delisting, the bald eagle had been
listed as a threatened species. Surveys, resulting documentation and information discussed in the FEIS were
conducted and developed while this species was federally listed as threatened. TeXt pertaining to the bald
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-239
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

eagle has been retained for informative purposes. Additional information pertaining to the current protection
status of the bald eagle is found in the errata for Appendix N.
Impacts are assessed on the known population of bald eagles and the potential habitat for both the bald eagle
and Indiana bat within or near the project study corridors. Impacts to other federally-protected endangered
and threatened species are negligible or discountable and are discussed in Appendix N.
Type
Impacts are either beneficial and/or adverse. Beneficial impacts are defined as having a positive effect on
protected species. Adverse impacts have a negative effect on protected species.
Context
ConteXt is defined as site-specific, local, and regional. Site-specific is the area within the construction
footprint. Local is defined as the area within 2.0 mi (3.2 km) of the construction footprint or the northern
shore of Fontana Lake (whichever is less). The 2.0 mi (32 km) radius was selected because it the guideline
utilized within North Carolina when discussing known populations of threatened or endangered species.
Regional is the area bounded by the northern share of Fontana Lake, the North Carolina/Tennessee state line,
Twenrymile Ridge on the west, and Noland Creek on the east. This area was selected because the mountain
ridges and the lake form a natural ecological boundary and for which a suitable analysis and discussion of
possible impacts could be undertaken.
Duration
Short-term impacts are those that would occur for less than 1 year, rypically as an episodic or temporary
event. Long-term effects occur as a result of construction activities at a specific location througbout the life
of construction (this is assumed to be between ] year and 15 years), but the impact is more than that of a
temporary event. Permanent impacts are considered to be anything that persists throughout the construction
period. These impacts include the permanent loss of potential habitat.
Intensity
Intensiry is the degree to which resources are affected and is categorized as negligible, minor, moderate, and
major. The definitions for each category are based on the best available scientific information and are
specific for this EIS. The definitions for intensity are based on the language for assessing impacts to
protected species as stated in the ESA.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-240
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

No/Negligible (no eff"ect)
The project would not impact a listed species or designated critical habitat. There would be no impact on
potential habitat.
Minor (may affect)
Potential impacts on listed species may occur as a direct or indirect result of the proposed action, but are
expected to be discountable, insignificant, or completely beneficial. There may be loss of potential habitat,
but no individuals are expected to be affected.
Moderate (may affect)
Potential impacts may occur as a direct or indirect result of the proposed action and the effects are not
discountable, insignificant or completely beneficial.
Major
Potential impacts on listed species may occur as direct or indirect results of the proposed action and are
expected to reduce appreciably the likelihood of survival or recovery of a listed species in the Park by
reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species.
4.4.10.12 Summary of Impacts
As noted previously, the USFWS has delisted the bald eagle from the federal list of endangered and
threatened wildlife, effective August 8, 2007; however, text pertaining to the bald eagle has been retained in
this section for informative purposes.
No-Action
There would be no impacts to either the Indiana bat or the bald eagle within GSMNP if the No-Action
Alternative is selected.
Monetary Settlement
The Monetary Settlement Alternative would not impact bald eagles or Indiana bats within GSMNP.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-241
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Laurel Branch Picnic Area
Indiana Bat (may affect): Approximately 8.96 ac (3.63 ha) of habitat within GSMNP may be impacted by
this construction alternative. Impacts due to direct loss of potential habitat and due to potential reduction of
habitat utilization surrounding the road and facilities would be adverse, site-specific to local, permanent, and
minor.
Bald Eagle (no effect): This alternative is greater than l.0 mi (1.6 km) from open water. Selection of this
alternative would have no impacts to the bald eagle within GSMNP.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Indiana Bat (may affect): Approximately 100.42 ac (40.64 ha) of habitat would likely be impacted by the
Primitive Park Road. The Principal Park Road would likely impact 91.43 ac (37.02 ha) of habitat. Impacts
due to direct habitat loss and potential reduction in habitat utilization surrounding the road and facilities
would be adverse, sit�specific to local, permanent, and minor. These impacts are the same for both the
Primitive and Principal Park Roads. As compared to the baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell, the
impacts would likely be reduced for the Southern Option at Forney Creek E�nbayment.
Bald Eagle (may affect): Development of the Bushnell area, especially the boat ramp, would likely lead to
increased boating activiry in the viciniry of a known bald eagle nest. Portions of Fontana Lake in proximity
to the eagle nest are within areas designated as primary and secondary management zones. Impacts on
foraging activities due to increased boating associated with potential increased lake access at the proposed
facility would likely be adverse, local to regional, permanent, and moderate. Three hundred (300) linear ft
(91 m) of the baseline Principal Park Road are within the secondary management zone. No portion of the
Primitive Park Road is within a management zone. Impacts due to noise associated with construction
activities would likely be adverse, local to regional, long-term, and minor. Impacts due to human
disturbance from utilization of the road and facilities would likely be adverse, local to regional, permanent,
and minor.
As compared to the baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell, the Southern Option at Fomey Creek
would have approximately 2,375 linear ft (725 m) of the Principal Park Road and 3,775 linear ft(1,150 m) of
the Primitive Park Road within the secondary eagle management zone. The possibilities for impacts are
likely to be increased due to greater proximiry to bald eagle foraging habitat.
Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Indiana Bat (may affect): Approximately 397.79 ac (160.98 ha) of potential habitat would likely be
impacted by the Primitive Park Road. The Principal Park Road would likely impact 387.03 ac (l 56.63 ha).
Impacts due to direct habitat loss and potential reduction in habitat utilization surrounding the road and
facilities would likely be adverse, sit�specific to local, permanent, and minor. The impact characterization
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-242
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

is the same for both the Primitive and Principal Park Roads. All of the southem bridging options would
likely decrease possible impacts.
Bald Eagle (may affect): The majority of the construction footprint for any option associated with the
Northern Shore Corridor is located within l.0 mi (1.6 km) of open water, thus is potential bald eagle habitat.
The Primitive Park Road is not located within a designated management zone for bald eagles. Impacts
resulting from the Primitive Park Road due to noise associated with construction activities and due to human
disturbance from utilization of the road and associated facilities would likely be adverse, local to regional,
long-term to permanent, and minor. Three hundred (300) linear feet (91 m) of the baseline Principal Park
Road would be within the secondary management zone. Impacts due to noise associated with construction
activities would likely be adverse, local to regional, permanent, and minor. Impacts due to human
disturbance from utilization of the road and facilities would likely be adverse, local to regional, permanent,
and minor.
For the Southern Option at Forney Creek, approximately 2,375 linear ft(725 m) of the Principal Park Road
and 3,775 linear ft(1,150 m) of the Primitive Park Road would be located in the secondary eagle
management zone. This option has an increased potential for impacts due to its greater presence in the
vicinity of a bald eagle nest. The remaining southern options would likely increase possible impacts due to
proximity to bald eagle habitat.
Cumulative Impacts
Projects listed in Section 4.1.2 were reviewed for past and/or potential impacts to the Indiana bat and bald
eagle. Impacts to the Indiana bat or its habitat resulting, or eXpected to result, from other actions in the study
area are not documented. Minor loss of Indiana bat habitat resulting from the partial-build alternatives or the
build alternatives would be in addition to any previous or future loss of habitat. These cumulative effects
would occur as a result of landscape modification. Mitigation to protect, enhance, and restare habitats would
minitnize the potential cumulative effects on this protected species.
The presence of bald eagles is relatively new to tbe study area. No past actions were identified that affected
bald eagle habitat in this area. Given the limited amount of privately-owned land surrounding Fontana Lake,
other actions in the study area are not likely to affect bald eagle habitat. Therefore, no cumulative impacts to
bald eagle habitat were identified.
4.4.10.1.3 Endangered Species Act Coordination
Section 7 of the ESA requires federal agencies to consult with the USFWS when any action that tbe agency
carries out, funds, or authorizes may affect a listed endangered or threatened species. Whenever possible, for
the partial-build and build alternatives, a determination of no/negligible (no effect) was made per each
federally protected species, based on known locations of populations, availability of habitat and the potential
for any project related impacts. Per the Final Endangered Species Act Consultation Handbook (USFWS and
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-243
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

National Marine Fisheries Service 1998), may affect is "the appropriate conclusion when a proposed action
may pose any effects on listed species or designated critical habitat" (emphasis added). The ESA provides
for an informal consultation process between the USFWS and the lead federal agency to evaluate the
proposed action and determine if the effects may be adverse. Informal consultation with the USFWS is
ongoing. Formal consultation will be required if the affects of the action are determined to be adverse.
Future coardination and consultation, including a biological assessment (BA) (if required), with the USFWS
would depend on the alternative ultimately selected. A BA would be completed if a partial-build or build
alternative is selected. It may become necessary to conduct additional surveys for federally protected species
dependent upon updated information about species requirements or as more refined project designs are
developed. Refer to ESA Coardination, Section 5.9, far additional information relevant to Section 7 and the
USFWS.
Because of the delisting of the bald eagle, effective August 8, 2007, no additional consultation, either formal
or informal, will be required for this species.
4.4.10.1.4 Options to Address Potential Impacts
NPS would employ a sequence of avoiding adverse impacts to federally protected species to the extent
practicable, minimizing impacts that could not be avoided, and attempting to compensate for remaining
adverse impacts. It will not be possible to avoid or mitigate for all impacts. More detailed information on
mitigation techniques and strategies for federally protected species is contained in Appendix N.
Avoidance Technigues
Selection of the No-Action ar Monetary Settlement alternatives would avoid impacts to protected species
and their habitats within GSMNP. Potential impacts outside of GSMNP resulting from the Monetary
Settlement Alternative will depend on local use of funds.
It would not be possible to completely avoid impacts to potential habitat for the Indiana bat by selection of a
build alternative in the project study corridars. Restricting clearing activities from occurring in the summer
months would eliminate possible impacts to bats roosting in potential maternity trees.
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would have no impact on the bald eagle population. This alternative is
greater than ].0 rni (1.6 km) from open water and, if chosen, would avoid impacts to this species. It would
not be possible to completely avoid impacts to the bald eagle by selection of either the Partial-Build
Alternative to Bushnell or the Northern Shore Corridor.
Minimization Techniques
Perpendicular crossings of stream systems would reduce impacts to riparian zones, thus minimizing the
impacts to Indiana bat foraging locations. Narrowing of the construction footprint limits the amount of forest
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-244
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

to be cleared and reduces impacts to available maternity habitat. In order to protect bats potentially roosting
in the project study corridors during construction, tree-cutting moratoriums could be instituted during the
roosting season. After project construction is complete, removal of trees would follow the National Park
Service Hazard Tree Guidelines.
Minimization of impacts to bald eagles may be accomplished by designating restricted zones (no-wake
areas) on Fontana Lake adjacent to known eagle nests, limiting land-disturbing activities to periods outside
the nesting season, and reducing the construction footprint. Due to engineering constraints the proposed
construction footprint for the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell or Northern Shore Corridor has already
minimized direct impacts to potential bald eagle nesting sites. These birds prefer to nest on promontories, in
the highest tree with a clear view to and within 1 mi (1.6 km) of open water. While the majority of road
construction footprint is within 1 mi (1.6 km) of the north shore of Fontana Lake, it rarely follows a ridge
line and crosses �nost ridges in saddles, thus leaving most potential nesting sites intact. These birds seem to
adapt well to modified landscapes, often nesting in close proximity to development. However, the reactions
of individual birds are unknown and may vary. Protection recommendations would be based on the Final
National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines (USFWS 2007a).
Mitigation Techniques
If a partial-build or build alternative is selected, NPS would develop a comprehensive survey plan for the
Indiana bat to determine this species' status in the vicinity of the alternative. The objectives of the survey
would be to evaluate potential habitat, especially the summer maternity roosting potential, and determine the
actual utilization of the area. The survey would assist in identifying maternity colony sites and establishing
appropriate tree-cutting moratoria. Surveys would begin prior to initiation of construction. The surveys
would follow the mist-netting guidelines as specified in the Indiana Bat Revised Recovery Plan (USFWS
1999). Yearly population monitoring (as required by USFWS) would be conducted by NPS during and
following any construction time frame. Coordination with USFWS would be ongoing to determine the need
for additional recommendations to protect or mitigate for impacts to the Indiana Bat.
If an alternative involving construction, other than the Laurel Branch Picnic Area, is implemented, NPS
would develop a comprehensive survey and monitoring plan for the bald eagle to determine this species'
status in the Park. This plan would be developed in cooperation with properiy managers of lands adjacent to
GSMNP. Monitoring of known eagle nests would follow the Bald Eagle Monitoring Guidelines (USFWS
2002a) and the Habitat Management Guidelines for the Bald Eagle in the Southeast Region (USFWS 1987).
Surveys would begin prior to initiation of consiruction. Yearly population monitoring (as required by
USFWS) would be conducted by NPS during and following any construction time frame. Coordination with
USFWS would be ongoing to determine the need for additional recommendations to protect or mitigate for
impacts to the bald eagle.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-245
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Enhancement Technigues
Enbancement measures may be used to offset the impacts to protected species that result from any of the
alternatives. Enhancement measures may be used in cooperation with mitigation techniques to offset
impacts. Funding of educational programs and of research that target the relationship between transportation
systems and federally protected species may enhance our abiliry to preserve and protect natural resources.
For Indiana bats, suggested enhancement techniques include gating of existing mines and caves within the
Park known to harbor Indiana bats and utilizing prescribed fire to improve habitat.
4.4.10.1.5 Impairment Evaluation
Impairment (as defined by NPS policy) of federally-protected endangered and threatened species in GSMNP
and along the AT would not occur under the No-Action Alternative, Monetary Settlement Alternative, Laurel
Branch Picnic Area, and the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell. The Northern Shore Corridor is not likely
to impair federally-protected endangered and threatened species in GSMNP or along the AT based on the
information obtained to date. Due to the magnitude of this alternative, it is likely that additional NEPA
documentation would be required to address site-specific impacts not currently known, to determine detailed
avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures as they relate to final design, and to r�evaluate the
impairment determination related to federally-protected endangered and threatened species.
4.4.10.2 Federal Species of Concern (FSC), Candidate, and State Protected Species
4.4.102.1 Methodology for Assessing Impacts
All of the FSC, candidate, and state protected species applicable to the project study are discussed in
Appendix N. Only the species that have been found within the project study corridors are included in this
section. Direct impacts to known populations of FSC, candidate, and state protected species may occur from
loss of habitat and individuals within the construction footprint. Indirect impacts to these species may occur
as a result of changes in daily and seasonal migration patterns, behavior, mortality (road related) and edge
effect due to ecosystem fragmentation.
Investigations undertaken for this study have discovered species new to the Park, new records for rare
species known from the Park, and species new to science. These investigations did not constitute a
comprehensive survey of the project study corridors and they covered less than one percent of the total land
contained within the Park.
Type
Impacts are either beneficial and/or adverse. Beneficial impacts are defined as having a positive effect on
protected species. Adverse impacts have a negative effect on protected species.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-246
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Context
Context is defined as sit�specific, local, and regional. Sit�specific is the area within the construction
footprint. Local is defined as the area within 2.0 mi (3.2 km) of the construction footprint or the northern
shore of Fontana Lake (whichever is less). Tbe 2.0 mi (3.2 km) radius was selected because it is the
guideline used within North Carolina when discussing a known population of threatened or endangered
species. Regional is the area bounded by the northern share of Fontana Lake, the North Carolina/Tennessee
state line, Twentymile Ridge on the west, and Noland Creek on the east. This area was selected because the
mountain ridges and lake form a natural ecological boundary and for which a suitable analysis and
discussion of possible impacts could be undertaken.
Duration
Short-term impacts are those that would occur for less than 1 year, typically as an episodic or temporary
event. Long-term effects occur as a result of construction activities at a specific location tbroughout the life
of construction (this is assumed to be between 1 year and 15 years), but the impact is more than that of a
temporary event. Permanent impacts are considered to be anything that persists throughout the construction
period. These impacts include the permanent loss of potential habitat.
Intensity
Intensity is the degree to which resources are affected and are categorized as negligible, minor, moderate,
and major. The following definitions characterize the intensity of potential impacts to FSC and state
protected species.
No/Negligible
The project would have no discernable impacts on species of concern or on their potential habitat.
Minor
Potential impacts on species of concern may occur as a direct or indirect result of the proposed action and are
expected to be discountable, insignificant, or completely beneficial. There may be loss of potential habitat,
but no individuals are expected to be affected.
Moderate
Potential impacts may occur as a direct or indirect result of the proposed action, and the effects are not
discountable, insignificant or completely beneficial. There may be a loss of potential habitat and it is likely
that individuals may be lost, but the overall population in the Park would survive.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-247
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Major
Potential impacts on listed species may occur as a direct or indirect result of the proposed action and are
expected to reduce appreciably the likelihood of survival of the species of concern in the Park by reducing
the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species.
4.4.10.22 Summary of Impacts
Of the FSC, candidate, and state protected species analyzed for this project, one species, the olive darter, is
anticipated to have adverse impacts expected to reach the "major" category of intensiry from study
alternatives. Within GSMNP, there are two confirmed populations of the olive darter; one each in Forney
and Hazel creeks. There is also a potential population in Noland Creek; however, this population has not
been observed within the last 15 years.
No-Action
There would be no impacts to either FSC or state listed species if the No-Action alternative is selected.
Monetary Settlement
Impacts to FSC, candidate, and state listed species would not be anticipated from the Monetary Settlement
Alternative.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
Vertebrates: Impacts to 11 of the ] 4 FSC, candidate, or state protected vertebrate species found within the
project study corridors would be minar, adverse, sit�specific to local, and permanent. They are
Rafinesque's big-eared bat, northern long-eared bat, Southern Appalachian woodrat, long-tailed shrew,
southern water shrew, northern pine snake, cerulean warbler, hellbender, Junaluska salamander, seepage
salamander, and smoky dace. The timber rattlesnake would likely encounter moderate, adverse, sit�specific
to local, permanent impacts. Impacts to the sicklefin redhorse and olive darter would be negligible, adverse,
site-specific to local and permanent because habitat is not present within the Laurel Branch Picnic Area.
However, the olive darter is thought to occur in nearby Noland Creek.
Invertebrates: Impacts to all five FSC or state protected invertebrate species found within the project study
corridors would be minor, adverse, sit�specific to local, and permanent. These species are the queen crater,
dark glyph, fringed coil, dwarf proud globe, and Diana fritillary.
Plants: Impacts to the three vascular plants found within tbe project study corridors would be minor,
adverse, sit�specific to local, and permanent. These species are the butternut, sweet pinesap, and Carolina
saxifrage.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-248
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Vertebrates: Impacts to six of the 14 FSC, candidate, or state protected vertebrate species found within the
project study corridors would have minor, adverse, sit�specific to local and permanent impacts from ihe
baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell. These species are Rafinesque's big-eared bat, soutbern water
shrew, northern pine snake, cerulean warbler, Junaluska salamander, and seepage salamander. Due to the
habitat that would be impacted by this alternative, five species in addition to the timber rattlesnake would
encounter moderate, adverse, sit�specific to local, permanent impacts for both road types. They are the
northern long-eared bat, Southern Appalachian woodrat, hellbender, and smoky dace. The long-tailed shrew
would encounter minar impacts from the Principal Parlc Road and moderate impacts from the Primitive Park
Road. The olive darter would encounter minor impacts from the Principal Park Road and major, adverse,
site-specific to local, and long-term to permanent impacts from the Primitive Park Road. The Primitive Park
Road could lead to a reduction in one population of the olive darter (at Hazel Creelc).
Invertebrates: Impacts to ihe dark glyph and the fringed coil would be moderate, adverse, site-specific to
local, and permanent due to potential loss of habitat for the baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell.
Impacts to the remaining three species of invertebrates found within this area would be minor, adverse, site-
specific to local, and permanent. These species are the queen crater, dwarf proud globe, and Diana fritillary.
Plants: The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would impact the three vascular plants: butternut,
sweet pinesap, and Carolina saxifrage. The impacts would be minor, adverse, site-specific to local, and
permanent.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Impacts due to direct habitat loss would be reduced from the baseline Partial-Build Altemative to Bushnell
because the construction footprints for both the Primitive and Principal Park Roads would impact less area.
This option would avoid known populations of olive darter and hellbender in Forney Creek and northern
long-eared bat, Southern Appalachian woodrat, and long-tailed shrew found in the vicinity of Forney Creek.
Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Vertebrates: Impacts to the northern pine snake are anticipated to be minor, adverse, site-specific to local,
and permanent. Impacts to 11 vertebrates found within the baseline Northern Shore Corridor are anticipated
to be moderate, adverse, site-specific to local, and permanent. These species are Rafinesque's big-eared bat,
northern long-eared bat, Southern Appalachian woodrat, southern water shrew, cerulean warbler, timber
rattlesnake, hellbender, Junaluska salamander, seepage salamander, sicklefin redhorse, and smoky dace. The
long-tailed shrew would encounter minor impacts from the Principal Park Road and moderate impacts from
the Primitive Park Road. The olive darter would encounter major, adverse, site-specific to local, and long-
term to permanent impacts. While both road types for the baseline Nortbern Shore Corridor would have
major adverse impacts to the olive darter due to potential loss of individuals, habitat loss, and negative
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-249
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

changes in water qualiry, they differ in the number of creeks and associated populations affected. Impacts
from the Primitive Park Road could lead to a reduction in two populations of the olive darter (at both Forney
and Hazel creeks) while impacts from the Principal Park Road could lead to a reduction in one population of
this fish (at Hazel Creek).
Invertebrates: Impacts to the five invertebrate species would be moderate, adverse, sit�specific to local, and
permanent. These species are dark glyph, queen crater, fringed coil, dwarf proud globe, and Diana fritillary.
Plants: Impacts to the Carolina saxifrage are anticipated to be minor, adverse, site-specific to local, and
permanent for the baseline Northern Shore Corridor. Impacts to the remaining two vascular plant species,
butternut and sweet pinesap, would be moderate, adverse, sit�specific to local, and permanent.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Impacts due to direct habitat loss would be reduced from the baseline since the consiruction footprint for
both the Primitive and Principal Park Roads would impact less area than the baseline Northern Shore
Corridor. This option would avoid known populations of olive darter and hellbender in Forney Creek and
northern long-eared bat, Southern Appalachian woodrat, and long-tailed shrew found in the vicinity of
Forney Creek. There would be no change from the baseline Northern Shore Corridor in potential impacts to
other species.
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Impacts due to direct habitat loss would be reduced from the baseline Northern Shore Corridor because the
construction fooiprints for both the Primitive and Principal Park Roads would impact less area. This option
would avoid known populations of the northem long-eared bat, Southern Appalachian woodrat, hellbender,
seepage salamander, smoky dace, and the olive darter. There would be no change from baseline in potential
iinpacis to other species.
Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The construction footprint for this option, for both the Primitive and Principal Park Roads, would impact less
area, thus impacts due to direct potential habitat loss would be reduced from the baseline Northern Shore
Corridor. There would be no change from baseline in potential impacts to lrnown populations of FSC
species.
Cumulative Impacts
Past actions in the study area, described in Section 4.1.2, affected both terrestrial and aquatic FSC, candidate,
and state protected species. Aquatic species within the study area have been affected by decreased water
quality from timber and mining activities and by Fontana Dam. Fontana Lake and other impoundments on
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-250
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

the Tennessee River have limited habitat and isolated certain fish such as the olive darter and mussels that
require habitat of large to medium sized streams. The impoundments form a barrier that prevents the natural
migration to existing streams. Ongoing and future projects in the area (including NCDOT STIP projects,
construction on the Ravensford site, and completion of Foothills Parkway) could affect other populations of
these species.
FSC and state protected terrestrial species are rare due to present or threatened destruction, modification, ar
limitation of its habitat or range (Stein et al. 2000). In the past, historically forested landscapes in the study
area vicinity have been divided by roads and reduced by commercial and residential development. Ongoing
and future projects in the area (including NCDOT STIP projects, construction on the Ravensford site, and
completion of Foothills Parkway) would result in habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, and reduced habitat
quality in the study area.
When added to those projects, it is possible that the impacts to FSC and state protected species to be caused
by the partial-build alternatives and the build alternatives could constitute cumulative impacts on the
terrestrial resources of the region. These cumulative effects have occurred and will continue to occur as a
result of landscape modification. Mitigation to protect, enhance, and restore sensitive habitats would
minimize the potential cumulative effects on the region's protected species.
4.4.102.3 Options to Address Potential Impacts
NPS would employ the sequence of avoiding adverse impacts to FSC and state protected species to the
extent practicable, minimizing impacts that could not be avoided, and attempting to compensate for
remaining adverse impacts. It will not be possible to avoid or mitigate for all impacts. Mare detailed
information on mitigation techniques and strategies for FSC and state protected species is contained in
Appendix N.
Avoidance Techniques
Selection of the No-Action ar Monetary Settlement alternatives would avoid impacts to FSC and state
protected species and their habitats within GSMNP. It would not be possible to completely avoid impacts to
these species by selection of a partial-build or build alternative.
Avoidance of some known hellbender, olive darter and smoky dace populations may be accomplished by
selection of the southern options for both the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and Northern Shore
Corridar. Additional information concerning avoidance of impacts to aquatic arganisms is located in
Aquatic Ecology, Section 4.4.4. Alignment adjustments that move the construction footprint away from
important habitats such as boulder fields, talus slopes, and rare vegetation communities may avoid impacts to
some known locations of species such as timber rattlesnake, Rafinesque's big-eared bat, northern long-eared
bat, Southem Appalachian woodrat, cerulean warbler, Junaluska salamander, seepage salamander,
invertebrates, and plants. Additional information far these species is located in Vegetation Communities,
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-251
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Section 4.4.5; Terrestrial Wildlife, Section 4.4.6; and Migratory Birds, Section 4.4.8. Avoiding impacts to
one species may result in additional impacts to other species or resources. The potential benefits of
avoidance for one resource will need to be weighed against the potential to impact other resources on a case-
by-case basis.
Minimization Techniques
Impacts to rare species may be reduced by incorporating bridging of wetland systems and retaining walls to
limit footprint impacts into the roadway design. Road alignments designed to cross stream systems at right
angles would minimize impacts to forested zones along waterways and would reduce potential degradation
of stream systems from erosion and sedimentation. Additional techniques for minimizing impacts to aquatic
species are provided by the USFWS (2004). Well-planned placement of wildlife crossing structures for rare
species of terrestrial vertebrates could provide safe passage options for daily and seasonal migrations.
Mitigation Techniques
Rehabilitation of degraded wetlands, streams, and vegetation communities in GSMNP could restore natural
habitat for rare terrestrial and aquatic species. Impacts to populations of FSC and state protected plants and
aquatic organisms that cannot be avoided or minimized may be mitigated by relocation of these organisms to
appropriate habitats found in GSMNP. This would be possible with some vegetative and aquatic animal
species that could be collected and relocated such as the smoky dace, olive darter, and sweet pinesap.
Monitoring of these relocated populations would likely be required. The possibility exists that, following
construction, conditions would be favorable for reintroduction of some rare populations to their original
locations. Monitoring the condition of these reintroduced populations would likely be required. However,
this technique would have high cost and limited success and would only be implemented if impacts were
imminent.
Enhancement Technigues
Enhancement measures may be used to offset the impacts to FSC, candidate, and state protected species that
result from any of the partial-build or build alternatives. The immediate reestablishment of natural
vegetation following construction activities may decrease the potential for impacts to adjacent populations of
FSC, candidate, and state protected species. Funding of educational programs and research that targets the
relationship between transportation systems and rare species may enhance our ability to preserve and protect
natural resources.
4.4.102.4 Impairment Evaluation
Impairment (as defined by NPS policy) of FSC, candidate, and state protected species in GSMNP and along
the AT would not occur under the No-Action Alternative, Monetary Settlement Alternative, Laurel Branch
Picnic Area, and the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell. The Northern Shore Corridor is not likely to
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-252
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

impair FSC, candidate, and state protected species in GSMNP or along the AT based on the information
obtained to date. Due to the magnitude of this alternative, it is likely that additional NEPA documentation
would be required to address sit�specific impacts not currently known, to determine detailed avoidance,
minitnization, and mitigation measures as they relate to final design, and to re-evaluate the impairment
determination related to FSC, candidate, and state protected species.
4.5 Impacts to Aesthetics and Visual Resources
Several of the alternatives would impact visual resources in the study area. Impacts were evaluated by
assessing views from the 14 viewpoints described in Aesthetics and Visual Resources, Section 3.5. It was
determined that views of portions of the alternatives were possible from 11 of the 14 viewpoints due to the
direction of the view, the steep topography of the area, and vegetation. Impacts to visual resources include
changes to the existing views from the l4 viewpoints that would occur as a direct result of the construction
of the altematives, as well as impacts to visual resources as a result of the alternatives that would occur later
in time.
The following sections present impacts to aesthetic and visual resources by alternatives. The existing and
anticipated views from each of the viewpoints are included as Figures 5-33 of the Aesthetic and Visual
Resources Technical Report (Appendix O). Also, the worksheets describing the impact assessment at each
viewpoint can be found in the Aesthetics and Visual Resources Technical Report (Appendix O). Impacts to
general scenic views in GSMNP and along the AT beyond the 14 viewpoints addressed in this analysis are
discussed in Visitor Use and Experience, Section 4.2.5.
4.5.1 Methodology for Assessing Impacts to Aesthetics and Visual Resources
The potential for change in the aesthetic experience for the visitor as a result of the alternatives was
evaluated by identifying projected effects on the visual quality of the landscape, their duration, and
mitigation efforts to offset impacts. The degree to which the alternatives are consistent with or move the
condition of visual resources or the aesthetic experience toward or away from a desired condition is one
measure of the impact of the project.
The terms localized and regional refer to the extent of an impact on the view. A minor intrusion in the
landscape by the alternatives was considered a localized consequence, while a greater intrusion in the
landscape was considered a regional consequence.
Type
NPS policy calls far the effects of the project alternatives to be characterized as beneficial, adverse, or
indeterminate. In regard to visual resources, any view of the proposed project from the selected viewpoints
was considered to be an adverse impact.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-253
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement