4.4.4

typical of areas in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Mitigation techniques used there could be
adapted to treat potential acidic impacts (see Appendix M).
Enhancement is a type of mitigation that manipulates the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of a
stream or wetland to improve the overall water quality of the system. Enhancement measures that would
manipulate the physical characteristics of streams to achieve water qualiry improvements include stabilizing
stream banks to reduce sedimentation. The chemical characteristic of a water body can be altered by
addition of storm water BMPs to treat rainwater runoff from impervious sites. Establishment or
enhancement of riparian buffers along streams and wetlands provides water quality improvement by trapping
and filtering pollutants and providing additional organic input (food) for aquatic wildlife. These mitigation
techniques may not be able to offset all water qualiry impacts.
4.4.3.4 Impairment Evaluation
The discussion of impairment in this section is guided by NPS policy regarding impairment of Park
resources as described in Section 4.1.3. This discussion is not related to the CWA and its Section 303(d) list
of Impaired Waters. Impairment (as defined by NPS policy) of water quality 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
water qualiry 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, minimization, and mitigation measures as
they relate to final design, and to re-evaluate the impairment determination related to water quality.
4.4.4 Aquatic Ecology
4.4.4.1 Methodology for Assessing the Aquatic Ecology Impacts
Due to the variety of wildlife likely to be found in the project study corridors and their corresponding variety
of hom�range sizes, the quantity of wildlife habitat lost under the project footprint was used as a surrogate
for estimations of direct loss of wildlife for the assessment of impacts. Analysis of impacts to aquatic
wildlife within the lake, streams, and wetlands (collectively referred to as aquatic habitat) utilizes the
approximate acreage expected to be permanently lost or tempararily affected by the presence of a road
and/or disturbances that would occur during construction. The locations of streams and wet habitats in the
project study corridors are depicted in Figure 3-5. Area of aquatic habitat potentially impacted and linear
feet of impacts to riparian buffers were calculated using ArcGIS software (Appendix M). Direct impacts
would occur from loss of habitat within the construction footprint of the potential road design. Indirect
impacts would occur as a result of the potential road design, such as alteration of hydrology, vegetation, or
other environmental factors that influence the composition and function of the habitat. Indirect impacts to
aquatic habitats were defined as those that could affect aquatic habitats within 330 ft(100 m) upstream and
1,320 ft(400 m) downstream of the construction footprint.
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 — 4-185
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Type
Impacts are beneficial and/or adverse. Beneficial impacts are defined as having a positive effect on aquatic
wildlife. Adverse impacts have a negative effect on aquatic wildlife.
Duration
Short-term impacts are those that would occur for less tban 1 year, rypically as an episodic or temporary
event. These impacts may occur as land-disturbing activities begin or when BMPs fail. Typically, the
source of the impact would be stabilized or repaired. Long-term effects occur as a result of construction
activities at a specific location throughout 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 persist throughout the construction period.
Context
Context is defined as site-specific, local, or regional. Sit�specific impacts would affect the portions of
aquatic habitat within construction footprints. These also are referred to as direct impacts. Local impacts to
aquatic wildlife are based on current NCDOT procedures for road crossings and musse] surveys associated
with transportation crossings over streams. Local impacts would occur within 330 ft(100 m)
upstream/upslope and 1,320 ft(400 m) downstream/downslope of the construction footprint also referred to
as indirect impacts. Regional impacts are those that would occur in the area bounded on the south by
Fontana Lake, on the north by the North Carolina/Tennessee state line, on the west by Twenrymile Ridge,
and on the east by Noland Creek.
Intensity
Intensity is the degree to which resources are affected and is categorized as negligible, minor, moderate, or
major. The definitions of each category are based on the best available scientific information and are
specific far this EIS. The definitions for the impacts to aquatic wildlife are based on the current USACE
requirements associated with permitting for linear transportation projects (Nationwide Permit 14). However,
potential impacts, the degree of public controversy, and the potential for impacts to other resources make it
likely that the USACE would require an individual permit. For all permits, USACE requirements utilize
acreage impacts per linear transportation crossing to determine permitting and mitigation needs. These
definitions are used to compare the alternatives.
No/Negligible
No impacts occur, or if impacts occur they are not detectable and have no observable effects on aquatic
wildlife. These impacts are not expected to be significant ar observable.
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 — 4-186
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Minor
Impacts associated with the filling of or complete loss of less than 0.10 ac (0.04 ha) of aquatic habitat and/or
occurring when the proposed project does not cross aquatic habitat but is parallel to and within 50 ft(15.2 m)
of the habitat.
Moderate
Impacts associated with the filling or total loss of between 0.10 ac (0.04 ha) and 0.50 ac (0.20 ha) of aquatic
habitat or less than 0.10 ac (0.04 ha) of aquatic habitat that is ranked G1 or G2, meaning a globally rare
community. More information on the global ranking of wetlands is in Section 3.4.1.
Major
Impacts associated with the filling or total loss of more than 0.50 ac (020 ha) of aquatic wildlife habitat or
mare than 0.10 ac (0.04 ha) of aquatic wildlife habitat ranked GI or G2, meaning a globally rare community.
4.4.4.2 Summary of Impacts
The following factors may cause impacts to aquatic wildlife, both directly and indirectly as a result of the
potential road designs. Impacts to wetland habitat are summarized in Table 4-17a and b and impacts to
stream habitat are summarized in Table 4-18. A table of all impacts to aquatic wildlife, including
approximate area of impacts, is in Appendix M(Attachment M-1). Refer to this table for the approximate
amount of area impacted and the summary of impacts for all the options and alternatives. Impacts to
federally protected and state protected aquatic species are discussed in Sections 4.4.10.1 and 4.4.10.2.
Acidification
Weathering of exposed pyritic rock to air and water promotes acid generation and metal mobility in surface
runoff (Hammarstrom et al. 2003). Weathered AP rock enters aquatic ecosystems as sediment during storm
events. Metals are soluble when pH is low (such as during storm events) and settle out of solution when pH
is higher. Therefore, there can be sequestering of heavy metals in stream sediments which may continue to
impact aquatic ecosystems after ambient water qualiry has improved. The heavy metals may dissolve in the
water column during storm events causing short-term, toxic events (Dagenhart 1980).
Aquatic wildlife is vulnerable to acidic runoff from exposed bedrock that is high in iron-sulfide minerals and
to acid precipitation. Aquatic insects and other aquatic organisms are negatively impacted by low pH in at
least three ways: (1) ]ow pH affects the physiology of arganisms; (2) metal released at low pH may be toxic
to the arganism; and (3) indirect effects occur through the reduction of primary productivity (Hall et al.
1980). Low pH levels can cause a salt imbalance in fish which interferes with the ability of gills to absorb
oxygen (Neville 1979). In addition, fish may be killed by hypoxic conditions in acidic waters by
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 — 4-187
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

precipitation and coagulation of the mucus on gill membranes (Jones 1955). Low pH levels can also prevent
some fish from maintaining calcium levels sufficient to produce viable eggs. The capaciry of the gills of
aquatic salamanders to uptake oxygen may be reduced by aluminum toxicity resulting from a low pH
environment (Burrows 1977). Aluminum, copper, manganese, and zinc in combination with low pH are
likely to cause impacts to aquatic habitats that receive unmitigated runoff from AP rock (Huckabee et al.
1975; Herrman et al. 1976; Bacon and Maas 1979; Mathews and Morgan 1982).
The range of aquatic organisms has different tolerance limits to low pH and high heavy metal concentrations.
Aquatic organisms may be more sensitive to acidification and heavy metals at different life stages.
Therefore, the timing of an event may affect the intensiry of impacts. Only one species needs to be
eliminated to affect the whole food chain. Geverd (2002) found that fungi, whose priinary role is to break
down leaf litter in streams, were reduced in waters impacted with acidic runoff. Schofield (1965) found that
brook trout mortaliry is related to low pH and high heavy inetal concentrations; and Butler et aL (1973)
found that brook trout populations were severely degraded at pH levels between 5.6 and 4.5. But, Butler et
al. also found that benthic macroinvertebrates (whicb are one food source for certain fish and salamander
species) were not affected by pH levels of 4.5. For heavy metals, sbort-term toxiciry tests have indicated that
benthic macroinvertebrates may be more tolerant than fish (Warnick and Bell l 969). However, tests with
longer exposure to heavy metals have indicated that some macroinvertebrates may be equally or more
sensitive than fish (Spehar et al. ] 978).
In GSMNP, two streams have been impacted from exposure to pyritic rock from road fill (Beech Flats
Prong) and a landslide (Walker Camp Prong). These streams exemplify detrimental impacts from
unmitigated runoff. Beech Flats Prong was impacted in 1963 when rubble from AP rock was used as road
fill at US 441 (Bacon and Mass l 979). Downstream of the AP rock, the stream had a reduction in pH, an
increase in heavy metals, and the elimination of fish, salamander larvae, and most benthic
macroinvertebrates (Huckabee et al. 1975; Kucken et al. l 992). The stream was still impacted 25 years after
the initial disturbance. Mean pH levels upstream of the AP rock were almost neutral in 1975 (pH = 6.69)
and 1988-1990 (pH = 6.31); however, the mean pH values immediately below the AP rock were acidic in
1975 and 1988-1990 (pH = 4.84) (Huckabee et al. 1975; Kucken et al. 1992). Similar results were observed
in Walker Camp Prong, where a natural landslide exposed pyritic rock.
Several studies at Beech Flats Prong have shown the acidic leachate has eliminated the fish, salamander
larvae, and benthic macroinvertebrates downstream of exposed AP rock (Huckabee et al. 1975; Mathews and
Morgan 1982). Brook trout were eliminated for at least 5 mi (8 km) downstream and salamanders were
eliminated for at least l mi (1.6 km) downstream (Huckabee et al. 1975). Trumf et al. (1976) found reduced
levels of benthic macroinvertebrates in Beech Flats Prong. This study found that the mean annual density
was 1,323 upstream of the exposed AP rock (Site 1), 241 immediately downstream of the exposed AP rock
(Site 2), and 854 approximately 3.7 mi (6.0 ktn) downstream of the exposed AP rock (Site 3). The total
number of benthic macroinvertebrate taxa followed a similar pattern with 28 different species found at Sites
1 and 3 and only 12 species found at Site 2. This study found a decrease in the pollution-intolerant species
such as stoneflies (Plecoptera) and mayflies (Ephemeroptera) and found an increase in the pollution-tolerant
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 — 4-188
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

species such as true flies (Diptera) and midges (Chironomidae). While Trumf et aL (1976) found recovery of
benthic macroinvertebrates 3.7 mi (6.0 km) downstream of the road, Hernnan et aL (1976) documented no
substantial recovery 1.2 mi (2.0 km) below the exposed AP rock.
The decrease of aquatic organisms may cause a subsequent increase in terrestrial species. Along Beech Flats
Prong, Kucken et aL (1994) found an increase in the number of terrestrial breeding salamanders (Jordan's
salamander [Plethodon jordani] and pigmy salamander[Desrrzognathus wrighti]) concurrently with the
elimination of stream-breeding salamanders (black-bellied salamander and Blue Ridge two-lined
salamander).
In general, the project study area has acidic soils with low buffering capaciry. There are likely to be adverse
impacts to aquatic organisms from construction activities for the partial-build or build alternatives without
implementation of the BMPs described in Section 4.4.43.
Sedimentation
Sedimentation may occur from road construction due to creation of spoil piles, exposed or unvegetated
surfaces, and dust accumulation. Habitat degradation from sedimentation includes fewer pools, relatively
uniform riffles and runs, an embedded substrate, elevated conductiviry, sediment deposition, bank erosion,
and abundant periphyton. Increased impervious surfaces in areas such as recreational facilities and parking
areas would increase surface runoff. Increased velocities may cause erosion around culverts, ponding
upstream of culverts, and transport of larger sized particles, resulting in gravel washout.
The Primitive Park Road provides a larger source of sedimentation material as compared with the Principal
Park Road. While the amount of potential impervious area would be reduced with the Primitive Park Road,
dust and runoff from the gravel road surface would be additional sources of sedimentation causing adverse
habitat impacts. The Primitive Park Road would require more maintenance than the Principal Park Road.
Ground disturbance, resulting from maintenance activities such as road blading, could result in direct
sediment delivery to adjacent streams (Sheehy 200]).
Elevated levels of sediment and turbidiry can reduce the biological productivity of aquatic systems.
Intolerant fish species such as darters may avoid what once was optimal habitat and resort to a sub-optimal
habitat. Sedimentation may lower the diversiry of fish populations, and more tolerant fish species may
become more abundant. Silt accumulation results in reduced substrate permeability, velocity, and dissolved
o3rygen which may impact the success rate of fish reproduction. Research has shown that the mortaliry of
incubating eggs increases as the levels of silt and sand accumulation increases (American Fisheries Society
2004). Sediment decreases visibility in the water column, affecting species that rely on sight to capture their
food. Most fish species feed by watching for food items from low-velocity cover and moving into high-
velocity areas to pick out food particles.
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 — 4-189
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Excessive sedimentation can smother eggs of many amphibians and alter food sources. The spotted dusky
salamander is reportedly very sensitive to effects of bank erosion, sedimentation, and turbidity (Adamus
1990). High stream flows causing streambank erosion along with carrying sediment runoff from side slopes
could cause a great deal of streambed movement and stream turbidity. Streambed movement can crush and
dislodge developing salmonid embryos and fry (Burns 1972). Hellbenders feed primarily on crayfish,
earthworms, fish, frogs, and a variery of invertebrates. Sedimentation may lower the abundance of these
food sources for hellbenders and other aquatic organisms.
Increased sediment deposition affects the feeding and resulting growth, habitat, and communiry composition
of macroinvertebrates. Sedimentation can impede filter-feeding by clogging the food-trapping apparatus and
reducing the area of suitable attach�nent surfaces (Ryan 1991). Fine sediments impact macroinvertebrate
habitat by infiltrating the interstitial spaces between coarser substrates and blocking connections between
surface and hyporheic sediments (Waters 1995). This may make macroinvertebrates more susceptible to
predation and the effects of floods, and is likely to result in greater exposure to high current velocity, thus
increasing energy expenditure (Harding et al. 2000). Increased sediment will initiate drift of animals from
an impacted site, and long-term exposure will alter the rype, number, and density of species (Resb and
Rosenberg 1984). Species with adaptations to withstand high sediment load may become more abundant.
For example, some species of Chironomidae that are protected by a movable case or can burrow will avoid
or be protected from sedimentation (Rosenberg and Wiens l 980). Some species of Ephemeroptera have the
capaciry to inhabit alternative microhabitat as substrate becomes filled with sand (McClelland and Brusven
1980).
Fish Passage Barriers
Improperly designed stream crossings can create barriers to fish passage, resulting in habitat fragmentation
and habitat loss. A passage barrier may result in loca] fish populations being divided into smaller, isolated
populations. Isolated populations have a greater risk of extinction due to random processes and loss of
genetic diversity (Ruediger and Ruediger l 999).
Riparian Buffer
Alteration of stream riparian zones is known to influence the numbers and composition of organisms present
within streams. Stream temperatures may increase in areas where the canopy has been removed, which
could result in avoidance behaviors by fish. Impacts to salamander habitat may also occur from canopy
removal, which would increase temperatures and possibly reduce the moisture regimes of the adjacent
communities. Far benthic macroinvertebrates, temperature serves as a cue to lif�cycle responses; therefare,
alterations in temperate could have measurable impacts. Riparian buffers provide organic carbon, nutrients,
and woody debris that aquatic invertebrates especially fa�or for food and habitat. Removal of riparian
buffers could also cause a shift in the food chain.
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 — 4-190
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Hydrology
A road and associated stream crossings would alter the hydrology of streams and wetlands. Upstream of the
road, ihere may be an increase in hydrologic events due to the damming effect from the road. Downstream
of the road, hydrologic functions may be lost due to culverts, concentrating water at a point, which could
result in fluctuations of water levels in jurisdictional wetlands and special aquatic habitat areas. These
fluctuations may alter the quality and quantity of aquatic habitat, which could result in species immigration,
emigration, and decreased breeding of certain species and their predators.
Fishing
Impacts to recreational fisbing and potential changes in accessibility are discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.5,
Visitor Use and Experience. As noted in that section, implementation of the partial-build or build
alternatives would increase access to trout streams far the active and passive visitor. Fishing regulations in
GSMNP provide protection and promote survivability of game fish species. Regulations limit the daily take
and quantity an angler may possess and require a 7-inch (18-cm) minimum on trout and smallmouth bass.
Fishing is permitted with the use of a hand-held rod and only artificial flies or lures with a single hook may
be used. Bait fishing is prohibited to prevent introduction of non-native species or disease. Many of the fish
caught are below the legal size limit and must be released; single hoolz lures cause less mortaliry than
multiple hook lures. Long term monitaring in the Park indicates that fishermen have little effect on the
population dynamic of fish in GSMNP. Major spring floods and summer droughts are the driving forces
behind fish population dynamics in the Park (NPS 2006c).
4.4.4.2.1 No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would not impact aquatic wildlife within the project study corridors.
4.4.4.2.2 Monetary Settlement
The Monetary Settlement Alternative would not directly impact aquatic wildlife in the project study
corridors. Indirect impacts to aquatic wildlife inside GSMNP would be unlikely.
4.4.4.2.3 Laurel Branch Picnic Area
Lakes
There are no direct impacts to aquatic wildlife within Fontana Lake from this alternative. Indirect impacts to
aquatic wildlife habitat may be expected from factors such as increased sedimentation and changes to water
quality. These impacts are anticipated to be adverse, negligible, regional, and long-term to permanent.
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 — 4-191
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Streams
During stream surveys, a federal species of concern and state species of special concern, the smoky dace,
was observed within the Noland Creek watershed. Direct impacts are anticipated to be adverse, moderate,
site-specific, and permanent. Indirect impacts are anticipated to be adverse, moderate, local, and short-term
to long-term.
Wetlands
No wetlands were identified within the project study corridor far the Laurel Branch Picnic Area; therefore,
no direct or indirect impacts would be anticipated.
4.4.4.2.4 Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Lake
The baseline Partial-Build Altemative to Bushnell includes a boat ramp would impact approximately 0.34 ac
(0.14 ha) of aquatic habitat within Fontana Lake. Impacts from the boat ramp would be anticipated to be
adverse, moderate, sit�specific, and permanent. Indirect impacts to aquatic habitat within Fontana Lake
would be anticipated to be adverse, moderate, regional, and long-term and permanent.
Streams
Based upon the area of impact, the baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have adverse, major,
site-specific, and permanent direct impacts and adverse, major, local and regional, long-term indirect impacts
from both potential road rypes. The Primitive Park Road would cross Forney Creek, which contains two
FSC species, the olive darter and the hellbender, and Chambers Creek, which has the hellbender. The
Principal Park Road would avoid impacts at Forney Creek but would cross Chambers Creek.
Wetlands
The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have adverse, moderate, site-specific, and long-
term and permanent impacts to wetland habitat within the footprint of the Primitive Park Road and majar
impacts from the Principal Park Road. Indirect impacts due to changes in hydrology, vegetation, and water
quality would have adverse, major, local, long-term and permanent impacts to aquatic wildlife within
wetlands.
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 — 4-192
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Lake
No change in impacts from the baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell is expected.
Streams
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment, which has one bridge crossing, would avoid impacts to
the olive darter and hellbender populations in Forney Creek. There would still potentially be impacts to the
hellbender at Chambers Creek. The potential for direct and indirect impacts is reduced from the baseline
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell for both road types by crossing approximately 50 percent fewer
streams.
Wetlands
This option would avoid all impacts to aquatic wildlife within wetlands around Forney Creek. There would
be no direct impacts to wetland wildlife habitat within the construction footprint of the Primitive Park Road,
and direct impacts from the Principal Park Road would be reduced by approximately 67 percent. However,
the local (indirect) impacts would increase from the baseline Partial-Build Altemative to Bushnell by
approximately 21 and 54 percent for the Primitive and Principal Park roads, respectively.
4.4.4.2.5 Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Lake
The baseline Northern Shore Corridar would have negligible direct impacts to aquatic wildlife habitat
associated with Fontana or Cheoah lakes. Indirect impacts to aquatic wildlife habitat within the lakes could
occur from upstream runoff causing adverse, negligible, regional, long-term and permanent impacts.
Streams
The baseline Northern Shore Corridor would have adverse, major, site-specific, and permanent direct
impacts to aquatic wildlife habitat within streams for both the Primitive and Principal Park Roads. The olive
darter was found in Forney Creek, Hazel Creek, and Chambers Creek. The smokey dace, a federal species of
concern, was observed in Hazel and Eagle creeks. The hellbender was found in Famey, Hazel, and
Chambers creeks, and is suspected to be in Eagle Creek. An undescribed crayfish species was found in
Hazel Creek. Indirect impacts are anticipated to be adverse, major, local, long-term and permanent. This
alternative could potentially impact greater than OS mi (0.8 km) of riparian buffers along three streams:
Shehan Branch, Hazel Creek, and an unnamed tributary to Cheoah Lake.
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 — 4-193
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Wetlands
The direct and indirect impacts from both road designs would be adverse, major, sit�specific, and long-term
to permanent for the baseline Northern Shore Corridar.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Lake
No change in impacts from the baseline Northem Shore Corridor is expected.
Streams
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would avoid impacts to Forney Creek and the olive darter
and hellbender. This option would reduce direct impacts of the Primitive and Principal Park Roads by
approximately 10 percent as compared with the baseline Northern Shore Corridar. Indirect impacts would
still occur, but would be anticipated to be reduced ftom the baseline Northern Share Corridor.
Wetlands
The Southern Option at Forney Creelc Embayment would a�oid impacts to aquatic wildlife in the wetlands
associated with Forney and Gray Wolf creeks. This option would reduce direct impacts by approximately 17
and 18 percent, respectively, for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads as compared to the baseline
Northern Shore Corridor. Indirect impacts would be increased by approximately 4 and 7 percent,
respectively, for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads.
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Lake
No change in impacts from the baseline Northem Share Corridor is expected.
Streams
The Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments would avoid impacts to the smoky dace, the
olive darter, the hellbender, and the undescribed crayfish species. Direct impacts would be reduced by
approximately 36 and 41 percent, respectively, for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads, as compared with
the baseline Northern Shore Corridor. Indirect impacts would be expected, but could be reduced from
baseline Northern Shore Corridor due to fewer stream crossings.
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 — 4-194
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Wetlands
The Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments would avoid impacts to Hazel Creek, Eagle
Creek, and Shehan Branch, thereby avoiding impacts to the wetland habitat associated with these streams.
As compared to the baseline Northern Share Corridor, direct impacts to aquatic habitat would be reduced by
approximately 7 and 5 percent for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads, respectively. Indirect impacts
would be increased by approximately 8 and 7 percent, respectively, for the Primitive and Principal Park
Roads.
Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Lake
No change in impacts from the baseline Northern Shore Corridor is expected. This option would avoid all
indirect impacts to Cheoah Lake.
Streams
The Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam would avoid up to 16 streams crossings potentially reducing the
direct and indirect impacts to aquatic wildlife streams by approximately ll percent for each potential road
rype.
Wetlands
Selection of this option would reduce direct impacts by 5] percent for the Primitive Park Road and by 39
percent for the Principal Park Road as compared with the baseline Northern Shore Corridor. Indirect impacts
would still occur, but would be reduced by 26 percent far each road type.
4.4.4.2.6 Cumulative Impacts
Past actions in the study area, described in Section �4.1.2 affected the aquatic ecology of the study area, with
the 1944 cotnpletion of Fontana Dam having the most evident impact. Fontana Lake and other
impoundments on the Tennessee River have caused the elimination of aquatic habitat for many species while
creating open water habitat for other aquatic species. The impoundments isolated certain species and limited
habitat causing many of these species to be rare (see Section 4.4.10 for more information on protected
species). Aquatic habitats witbin the study area have been altered by commercial and residential
development, mining, tourism, timber operations, and agricultural practices that have channelized and
straightened streams and eliminated wetlands.
Aquatic ecology continues to be affected by ongoing private development. Other actions in the study area
viciniry that would affect aquatic ecology include the Ravensford Land Exchange, and Foothills Parkway.
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 — 4-195
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Construction of other roadways, such as NCDOT STIP projects and thoroughfare plan projects, could also
impact aquatic ecology in the study area vicinity.
Sediment may impact Fontana Lake if the Dillsboro Dam, located upstream on the Tuckasegee River in
Dillsboro, North Carolina, is removed. A decision has not been made concerning the future of the dam. The
Dillsboro Dam is at approximately River Mile 31.7, which is approximately 25 river mi (40 km) upstream
from the mouth of Noland Creek on Fontana Lake. An estimated 102,168 yd3 (78,113 m3) of sediment are
stored behind the dam (Duke Energy Corporation 2004). Removing this dam would release the sediment
into the Tuckasegee River and could ultimately impact aquatic wildlife within Fontana Lake. The combined
release of sediment from the Dillsboro Dam removal and the construction of any of the alternatives are not
expected to appreciably impact aquatic wildlife in Fontana Lake. Short-term impacts may decrease visibility
and cause fish avoidance behavior, but no long-term or permanent impacts are anticipated to community
structure or habitat quality.
Impacts to lakes, streams and wetlands that may result from either of the two partial-build alternatives or the
build alternative for the proposed project would contribute to any cumulative effects on aquatic ecology in
the study area and region. These effects could include changes in hydrology and water quality and resulting
degradation of aquatic habitats. Mitigation to protect and enhance water quality would minimize the
potential cumulative effects on the region's water resources.
4.4.4.3 Options to Address Potential Impacts
NPS would employ a sequence of steps to avoid adverse impacts to aquatic wildlife to the extent practicable,
minimize impacts that could not be avoided and mitigate for unavoidable adverse impacts. These practices
are discussed in Sections 4.4.1.3 (Wetlands), 4.4.23 (Streams), 4.4.3.3 (Water Quality), and 4.4. ] 0
(Protected Species). Due to the unique nature of the aquatic wildlife and habitat present within the project
study corridors, it is unlikely that suitable mitigation for all unavoidable adverse impacts will be possible.
Avoidance Technigues
Final avoidance strategies could not be determined unless and until delineations and habitat evaluations are
completed. Once that is done, a road could be evaluated to avoid direct and indirect impacts whenever
possible. Listed below are techniques that could avoid impacts to aquatic wildlife.
Avoidance of direct impacts to aquatic wildlife in Fontana Lake would be achieved through a steel-arch
bridge design, which would not use footers in the lake.
■ Direct impacts to streams and wetlands could be avoided by changing the footprint of the road. Indirect
impacts from changes in hydrology could be a�oided by bridging entire streams and/or wetland systems.
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.
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North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Minimization Technigues
Where no alternatives that avoid adverse impacts to aquatic wildlife habitat were found to be practicable,
minimization steps would have to be employed to reduce adverse impacts. Implementation of these steps
would require design modifications and implementation of BMPs to limit and control impacts during and
after project construction. A summary list of BMPs is provided in Section 2.3.2 of Appendix M. Listed
below are techniques that could minimize impacts specific to aquatic wildlife.
■ Bottomless culverts could prevent passage barriers and eliminate destruction of available substrate,
providing habitat connectiviry for aquatic organisms.
■ Timing impacts to avoid interruption of critical natural cycles such as breeding and migration seasons.
■ Maintaining buffers around aquatic habitat, including streams, lakes, and wetlands.
■ Impacts due to dust from the gravel road can be minimized by the application of stabilizers. A list of
potential types of stabilizers is included in Appendix M.
In order to determine the ongoing effectiveness of BMPs and other minimization measures, NPS would
conduct water qualiry and aquatic ecology monitoring before construction, during construction, and after
construction. Monitoring before construction would be conducted to establish baseline conditions for
comparisons and would occur in the year prior to construction. Surveys for benthic macroinvertebrates and
electroshocking for fisb would be conducted once prior to construction. Monitoring during construction
would be conducted to determine immediate changes in water qualiry. Any changes to water quality would
be immediately addressed or would trigger additional water quality monitaring. Monitoring after
construction would most likely follow the same sampling regime as the monitoring before construction.
Mitigation Technigues
After avoidance and minimization techniques have been applied to the maximum practicable extent,
remaining impacts to aquatic wildlife would be offset through mitigation. Restoration of degraded systems
would create habitat far aquatic species. If mitigation is necessary, tbe NPS is committed to keep mitigation
efforts within GSMNP to maintain the quantiry and qualiry of aquatic habitat in GSMNP. On-site mitigation
of areas that might be impacted during disturbance activities (such as construction) could be addressed after
the disturbance period. For example, loss of species due to changes in water qualiry could be mitigated
through re-introduction of species after water quality has stabilized. Mitigation includes the enhancement of
impacted habitat ar education about aquatic wildlife.
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.
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North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

4.4.4.4 Impairment Evaluation
Impairment (as defined by NPS policy) to the aquatic wildlife of GSMNP and the AT would not occur under
the No-Action Alternative, Monetary Settlement Alternative, Laurel Branch Picnic Area, and ihe Partial-
Build Alternative to Bushnell. The Northern Share Corridar is not likely to impair the aquatic wildlife of
GSMNP ar 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 a�oidance, minimization, and mitigation measures as they relate to final
design, and to re-evaluate the impairment determination related to aquatic wildlife.
4.4.5 Vegetation Communities
4.4.5.1 Methodology for Assessing Impacts to Vegetation Communities
The following sections define the duration, context, and intensity for evaluating impacts to vegetation
communities and summarize the impacts of the alternatives. Impacts on ecosystems involve the evaluation
of component resources, as well as the spatial and temporal organization (patterns and process) of these
components with consideration for rare species and biological communities in ecosystems. For the purposes
of this analysis, communities were considered rare when the Global Rank was G1 or G2 or when the global
rank indicated an uncertainty (G2? or G3?) that included the potential for a G1 or G2 community. All other
community global ranks (G3, G4, G5, GD, GW) were considered as secure. It should, however, be noted
that under this ranking system that G3 communities are defined as vulnerable, but not imperiled. Table 3-9
lists the global rank for all of the vegetation communities within the project study corridors, and they are
depicted in Figure 3-6.
Vegetation community impact analysis utilizes the acreage expected to be lost or altered as a result of the
new location of a road or recreational facilities or disturbance during construction. ArcGIS software was
used to determine the approximate area of vegetation community, as mapped on the GSMNP final vegetation
thematic map (CRSM 2004), which would be directly impacted by the construction limits. The construction
limits include estimated cut-and-fill slopes for the proposed road designs and a construction access buffer.
Based on a review of the described communities in the ICEC-GSMNP, especially the rare vegetation
communities, it was noted that they primarily consist of unique assemblages of relatively common plant
species in a relatively uncommon microenviron�nent. In other words, the communities are rare due to abiotic
factors (topographic position, aspect, soil rype, hydrology and eXposure) or due to prior human activities and
not due to the rariry of any one or more plant species. Impacts to the community at one location should not
affect the ability of the community at another location to survive (regional impacts as defined below).
The potential for indirect impacts to bisected or exposed portions of a vegetation community (local impacts
as defined below) due to changes in abiotic factors are expected. These abiotic factors include potential
alteration of downstream hydrology, changes in environmental conditions associated with edge effects such
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.
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North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement