20160625 Ver 1_Emails_20160707 (2)

Strickland, Bev
From:
Leslie, Andrea J
Sent:
Thursday, July 07, 2016 11:39 AM
To:
Mitchell, Robert K
Cc:
[e-mail]; [e-mail]
Subject:
Raul R Baird Shoreline Stabilization
Attachments:
Backyard StreamRepairGuide.pdf
Hi Kevin,
I've reviewed the application for the Paul R Baird Shoreline Stabilization, which proposes to place riprap toe
along 150 feet of Lake Rhodhiss in Burke County.
We do not object to the project as long as it addresses an active and appreciable shoreline erosion
problem. The shoreline is covered with mature trees and shrubs, and downed trees lay along the shore,
providing important habitat for wildlife. Fallen trees and other large woody debris along the shoreline are
especially important, providing cover for various sunfish, largemouth bass, and other fishes in the lake. In
addition, trees and shrubs above the waterline not only stabilize banks but also serve as habitat for wildlife
such as song birds.
We offer the following recommendations to minimize impacts to terrestrial and aquatic wildlife:
1. Any shoreline stabilization should be limited the area of appreciable erosion.
2. Large woody debris should be left in place or moved temporarily and replaced after stabilization work is
complete.
3. Retain as many shrubs and trees as possible on the shoreline. We encourage the applicants to replace any
vegetation lost with native plants. Please see attached reference, which contains excellent
recommendations on native grasses, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees to plant on stream banks. These should
work well for lakeshore, as well.
4. We recommend the use of bioengineering techniques over hardening where possible.
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project. Please contact me if you have any
questions about these comments or need further assistance.
Andrea Leslie
Mountain Habitat Conservation Coordinator
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
20830 Great Smoky Mountain Expressway
Waynesville, NC 28786
828-558-6011; 828-400-4223 (cell)
www.ncwildlife.org
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