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Home My WebLink About20160825 Ver 1_Application Attachments_20160823 Carpenter,Kristi From:Slaughter, Johnathan H Sent:Tuesday, August 23, 2016 4:26 PM To:Kichefski, Steven L SAW; Wanucha, Dave; Marella Buncick (Marella_Buncick@fws.gov); Chambers, Marla J; Carpenter,Kristi Cc:Laws, Joseph L; Souther, Zachary S Subject:R-5745 #2 Attachments:R-5745_Final NRTR_160217.pdf; Caldwell US 64-NC 90 No Survey form.pdf; R-5745 NLEB letter to USFWS.docx; R-5745 Stream_Buffer Call.pdf; R-5745 US 64_NC 90_NC 18.pdf; DSC03266.JPG; DSC03271.JPG Follow Up Flag:Follow up Flag Status:Completed See attached. Email correspondence to and from this sender is subject to the N.C. Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties. 1 Project Tracking No. 15-11-0033 -4a�� NO ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY REQUIRED FORM �� /.��.":.�".�'�5t.�� : .. . This form only pertains to ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES for this project. It is not ��; ; � ��;p� ��f :Q�: . _ i;. :., �:o��i- valid for Histaric Architecture and Landscapes. You must consult separately with the ; r &n ¢: �, ;��.....:.'� ��`�-' Historic Architecture and Landscapes Group. ��a. PROJECT INFORMATION Project No: WBS No. Federal Aid No: R-5745 50200.1.1 Federal Permit Required? County.� Document: Funding: � Yes ❑ No Caldwell Programmatic Categorical Exclusion � State ❑ Federal Permit Type: Nationwide Project Description: Improvements to US 64/NC 90 (Taylorsville Rd.). Convert US 64/NC 90 to a 2-lane roadway with 4 ft. shoulders and/or curb and gutter, add turn lanes at the intersection with NC 18 (Wilkesboro Blvd.), and construct a multi-use path along the north side of US 64/NC 90. Design plans provided. SUMMARY OF CULTURAL RESOURCES REVIEW Brief description of review activities, results of review, and conclusions: NOTE: An archaeological survey of the A.P.E. was recommended for this project on 12/9/2015. The recommendation was changed after a visual examination of the project area. The review included an examination of a topographic map, an aerial photograph, the Caldwell County soil survey, and the listings of previously recorded sites, previous archaeological surveys, and previous environmental reviews at the Office of State Archaeology (OSA). Also, a visual reconnaissance of the project was conducted on 12/2U2015. US 64/NC 90 is oriented northwest-southeast, but will be considered east-west for this review. Design plans show that the proposed improvements will impact only areas along the north side of the existing road. A temporary bridge will be constructed along the north side of the existing bridge over Lower Creek as a temporary detour route. The topographic maps (Lenoir, N.C. and King's Creek, N.C.) depict most of the A.P.E. as shaded, indicating it is within a developed part of the town of Lenoir. Usually the shaded parts of topographic maps offer less detail about structures and topography. It appears that the landforms within the A.P.E. are a floodplain at the west end and a gently-sloped ridge toe at the east end. The road crosses Lower Creek near the west end. In general, well-drained floodplains have a moderate to high potential for archaeological sites. The A.P.E. is not shaded on the earlier versions of these topographic maps (1956 Lenoir and 1970 Kings Creek). These show that the part of US 64/NC 18/NC 90 along the west side of Lower Creek was not constructed until sometime after 1956 (and before 1970). Prior to that the highway was located a short distance west (now Lower Creek Dr. NE). Construction of the new section of highway along the west side of Lower Creek altered the course of one section of the stream. Specifically, the segment of Lower Creek immediately north of the US 64/NC 90- NC 18/NC 90 intersection has been relocated. The construction of the road moved a small section of the stream to the east, to run along the east side of the new road. The stream bed to the south of the A.P.E. appears to be in its "No ARCHAEOLOGYSURVEYREQUIRED " form far Minor Transportation Projects as Qualified in the 2015 Programmatic Agreement. 1 of 13 Project Tracking No. original location. The Caldwell County soil survey shows the soils in the A.P.E. (from northwest to southeast) are Urban land- Arents complex, occasionally flooded, Pacolet fine sandy loam (15-25% slopes), and Cecil sandy loam (8-15% slopes), eroded. Urban land- Arents complex soils are soils that have been altered or covered by urban or industrial development to an extent that they cannot be identified. Pacolet fine sandy loam is a well-drained soil found on ridges and side slopes. Cecil sandy loam is a well-drained soil found on ridges. The aerial photograph shows the land use in the A.P.E. is a mix of wooded, cleared, and developed. There are four developments along the road, three are commercial structures and one is a residence. On the south side of the road, the land on the west side of Lower Creek is a narrow strip between Lower Creek and US 64/NC 90/NC 18 that is occupied by a parking lot. The land on the south side of the road on the east side of lower creek is cleared or wooded from the stream east for about half of the A.P.E. The east half of the A.P.E. is a residential yard, a parking area, and a road. On the north side of the road, the land on the west side of Lower Creek is a small strip between the creek and US 64/NC 90/NC 18. The land on the north side of the road on the east side of Lower Creek is a small wooded area, a parking lot, a stretch of woods, and a development (apartment?) at the east end. A review of information at the O.S.A. shows there are no previously recorded archaeological sites near the A.P.E. The A.P.E. has not been previously surveyed for archaeological sites. There is one project within the A.P.E. that has been previously reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office (HPO), ER 92-8536. The files at the OSA indicate that this is 'Bridge 5" (NCDOT TIP B-2425), and that HPO recommended an archaeological survey of the project. The file provided a second ER number, ER 93-8579. There is no record of a survey report on file for the project. We could not find any information about project B-2425 in the NCDOT files. However, we did find that the Bridge 5 replacement project in Caldwell County is TIP B- 2524. Bridge 5, however, is not on US 64/NC 90 over Lower Creek. It is Bridge 5 on SR 1178 over Lower Creek (located to the south of the current A.P.E.). The only item in the file for that project is a letter from HPO (4/15/1993) that acknowledges the receipt of a Categorical Exclusion (CE) document, and mentions an upcoming archaeological survey report. The project is ER 93-8579, the second ER number referenced in the ER 92-8536 file at the OSA. So there was obviously a lot of confusion about the project at both HPO and the NCDOT. A survey was recommended for the level, well-drained, undisturbed landforms in the A.P.E. on 12/9/2015. A visual reconnaissance of the A.P.E. was conducted by NCDOT archaeologists Caleb Smith and Brian Overton on 12/21/2015. The reconnaissance found that the landform in the A.P.E. with potential for archaeological sites, the floodplain along Lower Creek, has been disturbed. The design for the improvements include an on-site detour along the north side of the road that includes a temporary bridge over Lower Creek. An unnamed stream joins Lower Creek immediately north of the bridge. The floodplain or terrace along the east side of Lower Creek is separated from the road by the unnamed stream. The floodplain landform appears to have a high potential for archaeological sites but is slightly north of the A.P.E. Also, the landform has been disturbed by the construction of a greenway path. (The proposed multi-use path along the north side of US 64 will probably join with the existing greenway.) The rest of the floodplain on the north side of the road, from the stream east to the ridge, is occupied by a gravel parking lot and a commercial building (Sharon's Beach Bingo). The rest of the A.P.E. on the north side of the "No ARCHAEOLOGYSURVEYREQUIRED " form for Minor Transportation Projects as Qualified in the 2015 Programmatic Agreement. 2of13 Project Tracking No. road consists of a sloped hillside. Visual examination of the hillside identified no areas with the potential for archaeological sites. East of the wooded hillside is a large apartment complex. The landform on the south side of the road is also a floodplain that slopes gradually up to the east. The soil survey describes the soil as disturbed by urban/industrial use, and visual examination confirmed that the south side of the road has been covered with fill or debris. The aerial photograph shows that the vegetation in this area is different than the surrounding area. The landform gradually slopes uphill to the east of the fill area. The A.P.E. is occupied by a residential yard and a large funeral home. The design plans for this project show very little impacts to the area along the south side of the road. Brief Explanation of why the available information provides a reliable basis for reasonably predicting that there are no unidentified historic properties in the APE: A survey was recommended for the level, well-drained, undisturbed landforms in the A.P.E. on 12/9/2015. However, the visual reconnaissance shows that the land within the A.P.E. has a low potential due to disturbance. No archaeological survey is recommended for this project. SUPPORT DOCUMENTATION See attached: � Map(s) ❑ Previous Survey Info ❑ Photocopy of County Survey Notes FINDING BY NCDOT ARCHAEOLOGIST NO ARCHAEOLOGY SUR VEY REQUIRED Caleb Smith NCDOT ARCHAEOLOGIST II � Photos ❑Correspondence Other: 1/13/2016 Date "No ARCHAEOLOGYSURVEYREQUIRED " form far Minor Transportation Projects as Qualified in the 2015 Programmatic Agreement. 3of13 "No ARCHALOLOGY SURVEY REQUIRED " forna for Minor Transportatioi2 Projectr c�r Qualified in the 2015 Programmatic Agreement. 4of13 � = . _ y. . .. '�,, � � ' � . ^� r_f ` y � .� . _ � y� r- -, ° .. '� .. . . ' . � � ,� � 1, '. � - � t� p� ' d i-f ��`.•��.-.r .- � _�� - ��p *� r y '- _ _ � . � i. - . ' .. : y�' . '. . ..:" .. ! � I.,�,. . .. � ` ; _..e� , � J^ � T �`+ �� j',�i , . . _ . .rn� � . • , d ,. _ � . �� u .--r ,:� .. .� � . �. f ��y . . - _-. � ' �� 4? '� � . � ��.� , ,� ti _ ;; �.. . . � .. , _ . - : . , Y �• _.. , �A � � .' 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(�i � L� . i t�f7lllii,?�711�4� � � �� }';.r , � p • 1 ~ i ,�''� { 4 ! 1 � ��.. . �t - � - - j, i.- . . ��.,. _ � � r . I �- ' _ _ -. ��.. , k. � — � ' .,�:�= I . � �, . , . . Figure 2: Topographic map showing the location of the project area (USGS Lenoir [top left], King's Creek [top right], Granite Falls [bottom right], and Drexel [bottom left] 1:24,000-scale topographic maps). "No ARCHALOLOGYSUR vEYRE�JCI7RED"�'orm for Minor Trunsporlation Projects c�s Qua[i�ied in the Z015 Programmatic Agreeriient. Sof13 r ` � � • . f - : , , i�' ' �,�, �,'�j�•��t� �`,�` � ~ +% � �' y '+� . - l . �; . � � �� ,,,►',,� _ � �i' _ w- _ . � . � ' '�+' � _ �, �' � � � , ° �� p. q� � . . r . ! ' � � �� :i � � n � � �i � r� f } � - ' � ��. i � � � _ • � , � " . ,.^y� �+°_ /R.. r� r ��, 1� �'C'� i * ,�M 'Q� ; " r J � - ` • !n � 'd �'� r! i' � `� �� _ . . , . - ��J' ' � . .. ,� � �. ^� i � y-; -� � .. � ^ ' • , .ss . . l � _ fhi�. 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I' "` - - l� , �- --- . � � -• .. ` , � � � �` ' � '� -��w - '�,,r'',% � � ' �•,�,' • . � V � �`�'� ' _ - � �,.4tw'. � � �� , 4 y�r� r �', � _ ��. � � -- . .fif A� � ~ *a ' " , ' i � �L� . Ak - } � ��.^�� +.A � . ' ^d /�'_ , ~ e ; .# I _ ' / y � , � �' � :� � Iw� � ' � - " m �1 r i � * � M * ; . ,ay .�r� ' �, Figure 3: Topographic map of the A.P.E. (USGS Lenoi� [left] and King's Creek [right] 1:24,000-scale topographic maps). "No ARCFfAEOLOGYSUR VEYREQUIRED" form for Minor Trunsportation Projectr c�r Qualified in the Z015 Programmatic Agreenient. 6of13 , , �; /r r � ,. : . . ,, 1956 Lenoir, N.C. j � �� '" -� l 970 King's Creek, N.C. ,,� • �� " �y ��,� •� __ �k,�1liGl�rt� � L��-�� r � � ` I `J d t ' y� � �. `« !� �,. �� r �� a - 11•+�� . �� - _ � /' ' � � � /� ��i � i'� a •-�✓•- �� ...y� � �.�, � � ♦ � � � �` ! � 44 `� p � � ., .%'� ; r� .'. .'- . ; � .�j,� • ,v . � 4 ` 41 ' F+� . � � � � � r +.''�r '/ ' � �� - ,��.�; ` \� ,� �} .�, f;_`� �� , a � r r � t I ��^ �a .. I! ��/ � . . . �II � G� `y \• * Y i.., ' � �� '�'l�'��f `� . !! i f� f �.,. � \.�+ • . � � f.�` � h'11 �'' - � i �%� " �� Jl1 + O ` • r�;` � r � !s �� _ i�i y .� � ��r a� � t�� ,� M � � � � � �;.4� � � �+ � � , + � � �.-, , .., i � - ,'! _ , � + .�, _ y ' � � - ,, Circa 1956-1970 �� •,., , ,• ," • • ' ,� ,�� f;� * • US 64/NC 18/NC 90 � '�; • � . � , ,y` -- � �,�� — �; !r -' � „ , , - , .� s � � � • � � � � �''� � � ;� •`"l �_ i1 l�"� � - � , - . i- ; _ � • ' !1 , �. , � . � � _ ,, , � � � _�- � /jr � y � � � � � • `` `$�f �. ! i j� � . ,p\ • � � • + • � t'J:� � � + � � , � •� �,} �, • � • � . i `�"\� f� ,� `'nl,' . �.• � �. r. ` _ s: s�:Y,,� i�� . �,II : } i �S �- -�. � -'�.. . . . � • s� _ . � �.. ��'�` � � � � I I M ,4 = '_ .. . + `�. i , _' - _ — - _l, � � � y 4 �'�' . ,, � , . ., � � " � Circa 1956-1970 , ;- -- _ , ` � i � •' • ' � : ,rr,�s ��' "_ . �/ �f � . / . . � . � Lower Creek � �" ' _ ' , • •' � - � �� ,,C� i � /y/ . , =�; . . , _ _ / ;, ` k�* s. �, � a +i� � . i: � ��. � � � ''; � ., ,�> , � ' ��` _1� �� :� + , , � , � . � \� •.� �1� �� • . � � �� +,i�� .. .� ' � w ` * • ' � \� �„\,. . ,,� -".• A.P.E. 6 � �w.' ,�ti � ,;,; • ..•� . �r fa9 I � g�f,ti '' ' �y`'` {� i .� •. �, _;�'_ �, � �• � _ f � IF i �_-,j � � � ` , �s�� / �. f— %c;. • � F , �� S . • , r- • � 5�, � , � , f-' ` • 1 I 1 , I � ,. ,� -'" ' , �'-� �.CFW� �-T'£?��► �'� ` ,� — - - �'i I `- { ,� .�• � � �� r � � '�� ; , � �, � �� L.� �ti�... ,,"•,J,�, ` �7�'�7 � ��.+ f A' « . I , �` : i II I"�=-x • . w 1 � • a 1'' . f `' ' _ � � � - ia.• �� '�� : �ti � �� • • � �� ' Tt� �r ��p � � �, � 4 ;z�� 11 I � 4 n . f �� ,� � � ,�� f ��r F �4 . ♦ } � � �� ♦ � I� 'g� �• � � e IL Figure 4: Topographic maps of the A.P.E. in 1956 and 1970 (USGS 1956 Lenoir [left] and 1970 King's Creek [right] 1:24,000-scale topographic maps). "No ARCHAEOLOGYSURVEYREQUIRED" form for Minor Trunsportation Projectr c�r Qualified in the Z015 Programmatic Agreenient. 7of13 . ' ,. , -� � �L �� •s:'. _ �• � ` ♦,; t t,i[� �' �'.-._,� � �� . 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S- Figure 6: Aerial photograph of the east end of the A.P.E. with preliminary design plans. "No ARCHAEOLOGYSURVEYREQUIRED" form for Minor Trunsportation Projects c�s Qualified in the Z015 Programmatic Agreenient. 9of13 Y f - � �Y .. +4 � ' � ` 'y ' _ �� r � �r - �I � ; , � � .• � . �a�n . ;� ,� _ � .� '�, �,00d'4 � ' . - �,.� � � �t . . , � �` ' -�" v� �� s �" R '� 7 v a � ,�+ '° b � •c � ti(. .•� . 3� � .ci r .S� � . � � .Ca ��•'�� 7 � ,� ' ��, 7,�s� `f�. '�,�� p, �,,� 'I _�� . � �'.a r�� , _ , �, � , ., � T ,�,� ,� _ A� , � "� ,� _ , _ � # , , '� ' . � '. - . , . � � -� J/ ':rff,� � :�.. � 1 ... F �fi � ��F �., ]�.. � r � � �� / • 1 � � '. �� . � � � `ti � �� '�"� � +� .�� `� r� ',, { ��' ' � �� ''�� ' �� Q�e,`� . ' 4 � • �� fis , �* I�� ` � ,� �'.x � "� �,�� • '� , '�t � GJ� r : � +yy� � �� , ,� � ��'� � � -� . . � , � � �;, - +� �!, � , ►, "� ` � �. �,t� � ��` " � �� ` � �� ti- � ;,�. , r. ��'_ � , �' . 4 � a �, � �' �" • �� 1 jj � � , , � , � �n � � �� 6 w#�'�I � . . " r �� 1' }� J j ; . � . � � �. �� .° " �.. '� �� ''_ , � . � ,�:,� � � � � + � r ,� .� �� . � ,��`, � � , �. l � i �, +� � �'° t , �. .:� � -� . , � � � -;� �,: : � ''�; -;t . Figure 7: Aerial photograph of the west end of the A.P.E. showing the design plans for the on-site detour. "No ARCFfAEOLOGYSURVEYREQUIRED"�'orm for Minor Trunsporlation ProjecXs c�r Qualified in the Z015 Programmatic Agreement. 10 of 13 Q - � � ..� . : , �`1 a "�' - w _ ,_ .�_ ` " - Y: � �. 3 •_� y -_ �"�,: � _ . J�� `'! �"- � - � y 1 1f - �k � ;� _ --- --r� � � � � '- ""`� " � - _ . r #,� � �. � `� { � � '� - y � � �,.` � • ,.� � - ' '_ � ��,1��~ � ;� - -� '�-"� q ." ` ,�r� � _ - !�. . �'� � -{� �_ . = a - � ' � . l j;� � : _ . � - Y '.- a�B � � . �7. 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"No ARCffAEOLOGYSURVEYREQUlRED "far•m for� Minor� Transpor�takion Pr�ojects as Qualifted in the 2015 Prograrr2matic Agreemeia[. 12 of l3 "No ARCffAEOLOGYSURVEYREQUlRED "far•m for� Minor� Transpor�takion Pr�ojects as Qualifted in the 2015 Prograrr2matic Agreemeia[. 13 of l3 January 25, 2015 Ms. Marella Buncick U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Asheville Field Office 160 Zillicoa Street Asheville, North Carolina 28801 RE: R-5745, US 64/NC 90/NC 18 (Wilkesboro Boulevard) and US 64/NC 90 (Taylorsville Road), Intersection Improvements in Lenoir, Caldwell County Implementation of Optional Framework to Streamline Section 7 Consultation for the Northern Long-Eared Bat Dear Ms. Buncick, The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes improvements to the intersection of US 64/NC 90/NC 18 (Wilkesboro Boulevard) and US 64/NC90 (Taylorsville Road) in Lenoir, Caldwell County (hereafter referred to as the action area; Figures 1-4). This project is a federal agency action that may result in effects to individual northern long-eared bats; therefore, the NCDOT is providing the information in this letter to satisfy the “Optional Framework to Streamline Section 7 Consultation for the Northern Long-Eared Bat” associated with the Final 4(d) Rule for the Northern Long-Eared Bat published in the Federal Register on January 14, 2016. The following list details key components of this project’s path through the “Key to the Northern Long-Eared Bat 4(d) Rule for Federal Actions that May Affect Northern Long-Eared Bats.” 1. The action area is located inside the white-nose syndrome zone. 2. The action will not take place within a northern long-eared bat hibernaculum or alter its entrance or environment. 3. The action will involve tree removal. 4. The action does not involve hazardous trees. 5. The action will not include either of the following: a. Removing a northern long-eared bat known occupied maternity roost tree or any trees within 150 feet of a known occupied maternity roost tree from June 1 through July 31. b. Removing any trees within 0.25 mile of a northern long-eared bat hibernaculum at any time of year. A N.C. Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) letter summarizing documentation of their natural heritage resource database indicates no known federally protected element occurrences within a 1-mile radius of the action area (see attachment). There are no known northern long-eared bat maternity roost trees or hibernacula in the action area. Optional Framework Information 1a. Based on the results obtained by following the Key to the Northern Long-Eared Bat 4(d) Rule for Federal Actions that May Affect Northern Long-Eared Bats, the proposed activity is excepted from incidental taking prohibitions in the final 4(d) rule. 1b. With this letter, the USFWS is being provided written notification of the determination at least 30 days prior to carrying out the action. 1c. This letter relies on the definitions of prohibited activities provided in the final 4(d) rule and the activities considered in this consultation. 1d. Following is a description of the action area and the proposed project. Description of the Action Area The action area (Figures 2-4) lies within the Piedmont physiographic region of North Carolina. Topography within the project vicinity is generally comprised of low, rounded hills and ridges. Elevations within the action area range from 1104 feet to 1176 feet above mean sea level. Water resources in the action area are part of the Catawba River basin \[U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Hydrologic Unit 03050101\]. Two perennial streams were identified in the action area (Lower Creek and a unnamed tributary to Lower Creek). Two terrestrial communities were identified in the action area: Maintained/Disturbed and Mixed Hardwood/Pine Forest (Figure 4). Common names used follow those given in Flora of the southern and Mid-Atlantic States (working draft of 30 November 2012). Maintained/disturbed areas are located throughout the action area along the roadway, woodland edges, and in commercial and residential yards where vegetation is periodically mowed or otherwise maintained. Vegetation within much of this area is generally comprised of low-growing grasses, herbs, and vines. Trees and shrubs are sparse and include individuals of species such as eastern redbud. The mixed pine/hardwood forest community occurs along stream channels and in small, fragmented areas between commercial and residential yards. The riparian areas are dominated by mature hardwoods consisting of sycamore, river birch, eastern box elder, black walnut, red maple, American hornbeam, black cherry, American persimmon, and green ash in the canopy; and Chinese privet, multiflora rose, blackberry, American holly, and northern spicebush in the sub-canopy. Vines are prevalent and include poison ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, common greenbriar, Virginia creeper, and kudzu. Dominant canopy species within non-riparian areas include eastern white pine, Virginia pine, tulip- tree, red maple, river birch, sycamore, black cherry, white oak, black walnut, American beech, and red mulberry. The sub-canopy consists of canopy species as well as green ash, red maple, sourwood, tree-of-heaven, and American holly. Description of the Proposed Project  This project proposes to improve the intersection of US 64/ NC 90/ NC 18 (Wilkesboro Boulevard) and US 64/ NC 90 (Taylorsville Road) in the city of Lenoir in Caldwell County, North Carolina. Improvements are to include the construction of turn lanes and upgrading the signal to accommodate the modified lane configuration. Additionally, improvements to the intersection of US 64/NC 90 (Taylorsville Road) and the newly constructed driveway for William Lenoir Middle School are included with this project along with the construction of a new multi- use path along US 64/NC 90 (Taylorsville Road). The proposed improvements at the intersection of US 64/ NC 90/ NC 18 (Wilkesboro Boulevard) and US 64/ NC 90 (Taylorsville Road) include:  Widening the westbound approach to accommodate an exclusive 400-foot left- turn lane a shared through/left-turn lane, and a 250-foot exclusive right-turn lane. The proposed improvements also include the following:  Widening Taylorsville Road for approximately 2100-feet, to a 2-lane facility with 12-foot travel lanes, with 4-foot paved shoulders along the south side and 2’-6” curb and gutter and a 10-foot multi-use path parallel to Taylorsville Road along the  The intersection of US 64/NC 90 (Taylorsville Rd) at William Lenoir Middle School Driveway/Moose Lodge Road will be converted to a single lane roundabout. The proposed roundabout will provide access to Wildcat Trail and Moose Lodge Road. The roundabout will have a diameter of 130-feet. The roundabout will consist of a single 16-foot travel lane and a 20’ mountable truck apron to accommodate truck and bus traffic. The northern outer shoulder of the roundabout includes 2’-6’’ curb and gutter, while the southern outer shoulder includes 4-foot paved shoulder.  This project also includes replacing the existing Reinforced Concrete Box Culvert (RCBC) under Taylorsville Rd on Lower Creek and the relocation of an unnamed tributary to Lower Creek. The existing RCBC is a four-barrel culvert approximately 40-feet in length. The existing culvert will be replaced by a RCBC consisting of three (12-foot x 12-foot) barrels approximately 118-feet in length.  The only habitat the bats might use in the project area is trees. Approximately 1.5 acres of tree removal will be required for the construction of this project. Approximately 0.2 acres of reforestation will take place along the streambank areas in which rip rap is not required. The tree removal may be spread out over a time period of 6-12 months. 1e. This determination also is part of a request for coordination for other listed species as follows: As of July 24, 2015, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) lists seven federally protected species for Caldwell County. A brief description of these species’ habitat requirements follows, along with the Biological Conclusion rendered based on survey results in the study area. Habitat requirements for these species are based on the current best available information from referenced literature and/or USFWS. Federally protected species listed for Caldwell County Federal Habitat Biological Scientific Name Common Name Status Present Conclusion Glyptemys muhlenbergii Bog Turtle T(S/A) No No Effect Glaucomys sabrinus Carolina northern flying E No No Effect coloratus squirrel Myotis septentrionalis Northern long-eared bat T Yes Unresolved Corynorhinus townsendii Virginia big-eared bat E Yes Unresolved virginianus Microhexura montivaga Spruce-fir moss spider E No No Effect Hexastylis naniflora Dwarf-flowered heartleaf T No No Effect Liatris helleri Heller’s blazing star T No No Effect E - Endangered T - Threatened T(S/A) = Threatened due to similarity of appearance Bog turtle USFWS optimal survey window: April 1-October 1 (visual surveys); April 1-June 15 (optimal for breeding/nesting); May 1-June 30 (trapping surveys) Habitat Description: Bog turtle habitat consists of open, groundwater supplied (spring-fed), graminoid dominated wetlands along riparian corridors or on seepage slopes. These habitats are designated as mountain bogs by the NCNHP, but they are technically poor, moderate, or rich fens that may be associated with wet pastures and old drainage ditches that have saturated muddy substrates with open canopies. Plants found in bog turtle habitat include sedges, rushes, marsh ferns, herbs, shrubs (tag alder, hardhack, blueberry, etc.), and wetland tree species (red maple and silky willow). These habitats often support sphagnum moss and may contain carnivorous plants (sundews and pitcher plants) and rare orchids. Potential habitats may be found in western Piedmont and Mountain counties from 700 to 4500 feet elevation in North Carolina. Soil types (poorly drained silt loams) from which bog turtle habitats have been found include Arkaqua, Chewacla, Dellwood, Codorus complex, Hatboro, Nikwasi, Potomac – Iotla complex, Reddies, Rosman, Tate – Cullowhee complex, Toxaway, Tuckasegee – Cullasaja complex, Tusquitee, Watauga, and Wehadkee. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the bog turtle does not exist in the study area. The study area supports no wetlands or any other community preferred by this species. A review of NCNHP records, updated January 22, 2016, indicates no known bog turtle occurrence within 1.0 mile of the study area. Carolina Northern flying squirrel - USFWS optimal survey window: MayOctober; coldest days in coldest winter months (nest box surveys) Habitat Description: There are several isolated populations of the Carolina northern flying squirrel in the mountains of North Carolina. This nocturnal squirrel prefers the ecotone between coniferous (red spruce, Fraser fir, or hemlock) and mature northern hardwood forests (beech, yellow birch, maple, hemlock, red oak, and buckeye), typically at elevations above 4500 feet. In some instances, the squirrels may be found on narrow, north-facing valleys above 4000 feet. Both forest types are used to search for food and the hardwood forest is used for nesting sites. Mature forests with a thick evergreen understory and numerous snags are most preferable. In winter, squirrels inhabit tree cavities in older hardwoods, particularly yellow birch Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the Carolina Northern flying squirrel does not exist in the study area. The study area contains neither elevations above 4,500 feet mean sea level, nor the appropriate forest communities preferred by this species. A review of NCNHP records, updated January 22, 2016, indicates no known Carolina northern flying squirrel occurrence within 1.0 mile of the study area. Northern long-eared bat USFWS optimal survey window: May-August Habitat Description: During summer, northern long-eared bats roost singly or in colonies underneath bark, in cavities, or in crevices of both live and dead trees. Males and non- reproductive females may also roost in cooler places, like caves and mines. This bat seems opportunistic in selecting roosts, using tree species based on suitability to retain bark or provide cavities or crevices. It has also been found, rarely, roosting in structures like barns and sheds. Northern long-eared bats spend winter hibernating in caves and mines, called hibernacula. They typically use large caves or mines with large passages and entrances; constant temperatures; and high humidity with no air currents. Specific areas where they hibernate have very high humidity, so much so that droplets of water are often seen on their fur. Within hibernacula, surveyors find them in small crevices or cracks, often with only the nose and ears visible. Biological Conclusion: May Affect, Not Likely to Adversely Affect Suitable habitat for the northern long-eared bat exists within the study area in forested areas where trees and snags occur. A review of NCNHP records, updated January 22, 2016, indicates no known northern long-eared bat occurrence within 1.0 mile of the study area. The proposed project will not cause prohibited incidental take. Virginia big-eared bat USFWS optimal survey window: May-15 through August 15; January 15-February 15 (winter) Habitat Description: Virginia big-eared bat has been recorded in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina. They occupy caves in the summer and winter. Hibernating colonies are typically located in deep cave passageways that have stable temperatures and air movement, the temperature in these hibernacula may be lower than that tolerated by other bats. Roost sites are generally located in mines or caves in oak-hickory forests. They will use alternate roost sites but there is no record of long migrations. They are nocturnal and leave their roost to forage on moths, beetles, and other insects. This species feeds mostly over open pasture, corn and alfalfa fields, and around the crowns of trees. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the Virginia big-eared bat, in the form of caves, does not exist within the study area. In addition, a review of NCNHP records on January 22, 2016 indicates no known occurrences of Virginia big-eared bat within 1.0 mile of the study area. Spruce-fir moss spider USFWS optimal survey window: May-August Habitat Description: This species is known only from spruce-fir forests in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. The spruce-fir moss spider occurs in well- drained moss and liverwort mats growing on rocks or boulders. These mats are found in well-shaded areas in mature, high elevation (>5000 feet) Fraser fir and red spruce forests. The spruce-fir moss spider is very sensitive to desiccation and requires environments of high and constant humidity. The need for humidity relates to the moss mats, which cannot become too parched or else the mats become dry and loose. Likewise, the moss mats cannot be too wet because large drops of water can also pose a threat to the spider. The spider constructs its tube-shaped webs in the interface between the moss mat and the rock surface. Some webs have been found to extend into the interior of the moss mat. Biological conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the spruce-fir moss spider does not exist in the study area. The study area contains neither elevations above 5000 feet mean sea level, nor the appropriate forest communities. A review of NCNHP records, updated January 22, 2016, indicates no known spruce-fir moss spider occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area. Dwarf-flowered heartleaf USFWS optimal survey window: March-May Habitat Description: Dwarf-flowered heartleaf is endemic to the western Piedmont and foothills of North and South Carolina. This herbaceous evergreen is found in moist to rather dry forests along bluffs; boggy areas next to streams and creek heads; and adjacent hillsides, slopes, and ravines. Requiring acidic, sandy loam soils, the species is found in soil series such as Pacolet, Madison, and Musella, among others. Occurrences are generally found on a north facing slope. Undisturbed natural communities such as Piedmont/Coastal Plain Heath Bluff, Dry-Mesic Oak Hickory Forest, and Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest hold the most viable populations. However, less viable remnant populations are found in disturbed habitats, including logged, grazed, mown, and residential/commercial developed lands; areas converted to pasture, orchards, and tree plantations; roadside rights-of-way; and on upland slopes surrounding manmade ponds or lakes. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for dwarf-flowered heartleaf may exist within forested areas supporting a sparse herbaceous layer. Systematic surveys of suitable habitat within the study area were conducted by Axiom biologists on October 7, 2015. No individuals of Hexastylis sp. were identified; therefore, no further surveys are needed. In addition, a review of NCNHP records on January 22, 2016 indicates no known occurrences of dwarf-flowered heartleaf within 1.0 mile of the study area. Heller's blazing star USFWS optimal survey window: July-September Habitat Description: Heller's blazing star, endemic to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, occurs in the High Elevation Rocky Summit natural community on high elevation ledges, rock outcrops, cliffs, and balds at elevations of 3500 to 5999 feet above mean sea level. This early pioneer, perennial herb grows in acidic and generally shallow humus or clay loams on igneous and metasedimentary rock. Known populations are intermittently saturated and excessively to moderately poorly drained. The plant generally occurs in full sunlight with grasses, sedges, and other composites. Blue Ridge goldenrod, Roan Mountain bluet, and spreading avens are a few of its common associate species. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the Heller's blazing star does not exist within the study area. The study area contains neither elevations above 3500 feet mean sea level nor the appropriate natural communities. A review of NCNHP records, updated January 22, 2016, indicates no known Heller's blazing star occurrence within 1.0 mile of the study area. Again, the NCDOT is notifying the USFWS that this proposed project may affect the northern log-eared bat, but will not cause prohibited take. The NCDOT is requesting that the USFWS verify the determination that the proposed actions are consistent with those evaluated in the programmatic intra-Service consultation for the final 4(d) rule and therefore do not require separate consultation. Water Resources ENVIRONMENTAL OUALItY PATMCCRORY c�,��n,,,. DONALD R. VAN DER VAART sz��re�or� S. JAY ZIMMERMAN l)!Yt'ClOI' Febmary 12, 2016 Mr. Heath Slaughter NCDOT Division I I Environmental Officer SOl Statesville Road North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 Subject: On-Site Determination for applicability to the Mitigation Rules per 15A IYCAC 2H .0506�h�. TIP R-5745. Intersection improvements at US 64/NC 18 (Wilkesboro Blvd.) and US 64/NC 90 (Taylorsville Road). Dear Mr. Slaughter: On February 1 Q 2016, NC Division of Water Resource (NCDWR) staff conducted an on-site determination to review drainage features (described in Table 1 below) for applicability to MitigaYion Rules. The drainage features are approximated on the attached map initialed and dated February 1 I, 2016. Table 1_I Stream Name Lower Creek UT to Lower Creek �tions of drainage features. Feature � Basin Subbasin � Stream Code I � Class. Lower Catawba CTB3l C SA I Catawba I CT631 I C Stream Applicable Mitigation Index No. Buffer Rule Rule ll-39-(0.5) None Yes 11-39-(0.5) None Yes • NCDWR has determined thaY Lower Creek, and UT to Lower Creek "SA" are perermial and are subject to Mitigation Rales. Please note that no other features at the site were evaluated. Also, this letter only addresses applicability to the Mitigation Rules at the sites specifically marked on the attached map and does not apply to reaches of the channel further downstream from the NCDOT project area, or to any other drainage features in the vicinity. This letter only addresses the applicability to the mitigation rules and does not approve any activiry within Waters of the United States, or W aters of the State. Any impacts Yo wetlands, streams must comply with 404/401 regulations, water supply regulations (I SA NCAC 2B .0216), and any other required federal, state and local regulations. The owner (or future owners) or permittee should notify NCDWR (and other relevant agencies) of this determination in any future correspondences concerning this property and/or project This on-site determination shall expire five (5) years from the date of this letter. Landowners or affected parties that dispute a determinatio� made by NCDWR or Delegated Local Authority that a surface water exists a�d that it is subject to the mitigation rules may request a determination by the Director. A request for a determination by the Director shall be referred to the Director in writing c/o Amy Chapman, NCDWR Wetlands/401 Unit, 1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1617. Individuals that dispute a determination by NCDWR or Delegated Local Authority that "exempts" a surface water from the mitigation rules may ask for an adjudicatory hearing. You may obtain the petition form from the office of Administrative hearings. You must file the petition with the office of Administrative Hearings within sixty (60) StateofNorthCarolinaEmironmentelQuality WeterRasoumes 7617 Mail Service Center. Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617 days of receipt of this norice and the date the affected party (including downstream and adjacent landowners) is no6fied of this decision. A petition is considered filed when it is received in the office of Administrative Hearings during normal office hours. 1'he Office of Administrative Hearings accepts filings Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:OOazn and S:OOpm, except for official state holidays. The original and one (1) copy of the perition must be filed with the Office of Administrative Heazings. T'he petition may be fa7ced-provided the original and one copy of the document is received by the Office of Administrative Hearings within five (5) business days following the fased transmission. 1'he mailing address for the Office of Administrative Hearings is: Office of Administrative Heazings 6714 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-6714 Telephone: (919) 431-3000, Facsimile: (919) 43 ]-3100 A copy oFthe petition must also be served on DEQ as follows: Mr. Sam M. Hayes, General Counsel Departrnent of Environmental Quality 1601 Mail Service Center This determination is final and binding unless you ask for a hearing within 60 days. If you have any additional quesrions or require addirional information please call Dave Wanucha at 336-776-9703 or Dave. Wanucha@ncdenr.gov. Sincerely, �-i�.�._.._.1� �-: S. Jay Zimmerman, D'uector Division of Water Resources Attachmenu: Figure 3 Electronic copy only distribution: Sandy Smith, tlYiom Environmental, Inc. ssmith@aziomerrvrronmental. org Steve Kichefski, US Army Corps of Engineers, Asheville Field Office File Copy � �':.. w / � 4`�µ . T 0� � ' ., � yo,� � � � � � i /� � � . /�� , # ��am SP . - . � �i �. ��. � . .� � , �� k. . S i � i %� � +IIF S� \ � �. ��/ { �� . 0/. � � H ��I �A�� 1 .� �1 ! � n}��I' V . 5��/ �• _ ER'� } l� \ � , /i i � "'Y�'�. � V // � 2 4 � � � \1�.� i 1 �^ ? �i t .. v:+¢% �«a� ' �.�*F„ �„ � � �. �� 4 � „� '1, "��p? yy��xryry r .t �l ' :+atid' i �1�h• h t il.i�i• i r k y� � x � � f,�' ':'�� e �, . x�yy 1 e��'"'� �. �:� i�{ T$� Y�l p ♦ f ` } , d " �y y`�l T w 'C � i � " �. �.� .�, �+''7 . ��r''� �3�. .i�"�' .. ',..r, '��F: � Legend O 9WOY na _ PofamW jvmJCWreI atream —w.� u�mo� a no.. = wcoor maaa 0 �'�� ""� �R� .. .. 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Geopraplyc io.m.um coo,e�w� c�,�ix ` b9 •.'iv q • �� „Y FIGU)RE Ti+�-;, 'J j ��' �-11' �G� �'r N�RTH CAR�]LIf�A L�EPARTME�JT C�F MIATURAL AND CULTIJRAL F�ESOUR�ES Pat N1cCrory Bryan Gossege Susan Kluttx Governor Exe�cuti+ve �irec#or Secre�tar�r Clean iNater M�nagement Trust Fund January 22, 2016 Sandy Smith Axiom Environmental, Inc. 6317 Bayswater Trail Raleigh, NC 27612 ssmith@axiomenvironmental.org RE: R-5745 US 64/NC 90/NC 18; 15-026 Dear Sandy Smith: NCNHDE-1170 The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) appreciates the opportunity to provide information about natural heritage resources from our database that have been compiled for the project referenced above. A query of the NCNHP database indicates that there are records for rare species, important natural communities, natural areas, or conservation/managed areas within the proposed project boundary submitted with your request for information. These results are presented in the attached `Documented Occurrences' table and map. Also attached is a table summarizing rare species and natural communities that have been documented within a one-mile radius of the project boundary. The proximity of these records suggests that these natural heritage elements may potentially be present in the project area if suitable habitat exists and is included for reference. In the event that rare species are found within the project area, please contact the NCNHP so that we may update our records. Tables of natural areas and conservation/managed area within a one-mile radius, if any, are also included in this report. Please note that natural heritage element data are maintained for the purposes of conservation planning, project review, and scientific research, and are not intended for use as the primary criteria for regulatory decisions. Information provided by the NCNHP database may not be published without prior written notification to the NCNHP, and the NCNHP must be credited as an information source in these publications. Maps of NC Natural Heritage Program data may not be redistributed without permission from the NCNHP. Also please note that the NC Natural Heritage Program may follow this letter with additional correspondence if a Dedicated Nature Preserve (DNP), Registered Heritage Area (RHA), or an occurrence of a Federally- listed species is documented within or near the project area. Thank you for your inquiry. If you have questions regarding the information provided in this letter or need additional assistance, please contact John Finnegan at iohn.finnegan a�.ncdenr.gov or 919.707.8630. Sincerely, NC Natural Heritage Program Page 1 of 4 Natural Heritage Element Occurrences, Natural Areas, and Managed Areas Intersecting the Project Area R-5745 US 64/NC 90/NC 18 Project No. 15-026 January 22, 2016 NCNHDE-1170 Element Occurrences Documented Within Project Area Taxonomic EO ID Scientific Name Common Name Last Element Accuracy Federal State Global State Group Observation Occurrence Status Status Rank Rank Date Status Crustacean 33272 Cambarus johni Carolina Foothills 1987-07-29 Historical 3-Medium --- Significantly G3 S3 Crayfish Rare No Natural Areas are Documented within the Project Area No Managed Areas Documented within the Project Area Definitions and an explanation of status designations and codes can be found at https://ncnhde.natureserve.org/contenVhel�. Data query generated on January 22, 2016; source: NCNHP, Q4 October 2015. Please resubmit your information request if more than one year elapses before project initiation as new information is continually added to the NCNHP database. Page 2 of 4 Natural Heritage Element Occurrences, Natural Areas, and Managed Areas Within a One-mile Radius of the Project Area R-5745 US 64/NC 90/NC 18 Project No. 15-026 January 22, 2016 NCNHDE-1170 Element Occurrences Documented Within a One-mile Radius of the Project Area Taxonomic EO ID Scientific Name Common Name Last Element Accuracy Federal State Global State Group Observation Occurrence Status Status Rank Rank Date Status Bird 6979 Coccyzus Black-billed Cuckoo 1999-07 Current 4-Low --- Significantly G5 S2B erythropthalmus Rare Crustacean 33272 Cambarus johni Carolina Foothills 1987-07-29 Historical 3-Medium --- Significantly G3 S3 Crayfish Rare Natural 25339 Chestnut Oak Forest (Dry--- 2010 Current 2-High --- --- G5 S5 Community Heath Subtype) Natural 25338 Low Elevation Rocky --- 2007-05-15 Current 2-High --- --- G1 S1 Community Summit (Basic Subtype) Vascular Plant 35018 Hypericum radfordiorum Radford's St. John's-wort 1935-06-30 Historical 3-Medium Species of Significantly G2 S2 Concern Rare Limited Natural Areas Documented Within a One-mile Radius of the Project Area Site Name Representational Rating Hibriten Mountain R3 (High) Managed Areas Documented Within a One-mile Radius of the Project Area Managed Area Name Owner NC Clean Water Management Trust Fund Easement NC DNCR, Clean Water Management Trust Fund Collective Rating C4 (Moderate) Owner Type State Definitions and an explanation of status designations and codes can be found at httqs://ncnhde.natureserve.org/content/hel�. Data query generated on January 22, 2016; source: NCNHP, Q4 October 2015. Please resubmit your information request if more than one year elapses before project initiation as new information is continually added to the NCNHP database. Page 3 of 4 NCNHDE-1170: R-5745 US 64/NC 90/NC 18 January 22, 2016 1:22,730 0 0.175 0.35 0.7 mi � Project Boundary Managed Area (MAREA) � Buffered Project Boundary � NHP NaturalArea (NHNA) Page 4 of 4 0.3 0.6 1.2 km Sources Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCQ USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, NATURAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT US 64/NC 90/NC 18 (WILKESBORO BOULEVARD) AND US 64/NC 90 (TAYLORSVILLE ROAD) INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS Lenoir Caldwell County, NC TIP R-5745 WBS Element No. 50200.1.1 � � � 4 ti 0�� OF 7FtA'�5� THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Project Development and Environmental Analysis Unit Natural Environment Section February 2016 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................1 2.0 METHODOLOGY AND QUALIFICATIONS ......................................................1 3.0 PHYSICAL RESOURCES ....................................................................................... 2 3.1 Soils ...................................................................................................................................... 2 3.2 Water Resources ................................................................................................................. 2 4.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES .............................................................................................. 3 4.1 Terrestrial Communities .................................................................................................... 3 4.1.1 Maintained/Disturbed .....................................................................................................3 4.1.2 Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest ........................................................................................ 4 4.1.3 Terrestrial Community Impacts ..................................................................................... 4 4.2 Terrestrial Wildlife ............................................................................................................. 4 4.3 Aquatic Communities ......................................................................................................... 5 4.4 Invasive Species ................................................................................................................... 5 5.0 JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES .................................................................................... 5 5.1 Clean Water Act Waters of the U.S . ................................................................................. 5 5.2 Clean Water Act Permits ................................................................................................... 6 5.3 Coastal Area Management Act Areas of Environmental Concern ................................ 6 5.4 Construction Moratoria ..................................................................................................... 6 5.5 N.C. River Basin Buffer Rules ........................................................................................... 6 5.6 Rivers and Harbors Act Section 10 Navigable Waters .................................................... 6 5.7 Wetland and Stream Mitigation ........................................................................................ 6 5.7.1 Avoidance and Minimization of Impacts ................................................................... 6 5.7.2 Compensatory Mitigation of Impacts ........................................................................ 6 5.8 Endangered Species Act Protected Species ...................................................................... 7 5.9 Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act ................................................................. ll 5.10 Essential Fish Habitat ..................................................................................................... ll 6.0 REFERENCES .........................................................................................................12 Appendix A Figures Figure l. Vicinity Map Figure 2. Project Study Area Map Figure 3. Jurisdictional Features Map Figure 4. Terrestrial Communities Map Appendix B Scientific Names of Species Identified in Report Appendix C Stream Forms Appendix D Qualifications of Contributors LIST OF TABLES Table1. Soils in the study area ....................................................................................... 2 Table 2. Water resources in the study area ................................................................... 2 Table 3. Physical characteristics of water resources in the study area ....................... 3 Table 4. Coverage of terrestrial communities in the study area .................................. 4 Table 5. Jurisdictional characteristics of water resources in the study area ............. 5 Table 6. Federally protected species listed for Caldwell County ................................. 7 Natural Resources Technical Report 1.0 INTRODUCTION TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes improvements to the intersection of US 64/NC 90/NC 18 (Wilkesboro Boulevard) and US 64/NC90 (Taylorsville Road) in Lenoir, Caldwell County (Figure 1). The following Natural Resources Technical Report (NRTR) has been prepared to assist in the preparation of a Categorical Exclusion (CE) for the proposed project. 2.0 METHODOLOGY AND QUALIFICATIONS All work was conducted in accordance with the NCDOT Natural Environment Section standard operating procedures and July 2012 NRTR template. Field work was conducted on October 7, 2015. Jurisdictional areas identified in the study area have been verified by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in a February 4, 2016 e-mail and by the North Carolina Division of Water Resources (NCDWR) in a letter dated February 12, 2016. The principal personnel contributing to this document were: Principal Investigator: Education: Experience Responsibilities Alexander P. (Sandy) Smith B.S. Biology, 1983 M.S. Marine Biology, 1988 Senior Project Manager, Axiom Environmental, 2008-present Senior Project Manager, Vice-President, EcoScience Corporation, 1998-2008 Senior Project Manager, Environmental Services, Inc., 1993-1998 Scientist, CZR, Inc., 1988-1993 Project coordination, wetland/stream delineations, wetland/stream assessment, document preparation, natural community identification and assessment, T&E species surveys, wildlife (fish, amphibian, reptile, bird, and mammal) surveys, and botanical surveys. Investigator: Phillip Perkinson Education: B.S. Geology, 2005 Experience: Project Scientist, Axiom Environmental, 2009-Present Responsibilities Wetland/stream delineations and assessments, natural community identification and assessment, GIS, T&E species surveys, botanical surveys, figure preparation, and document preparation. Additional personnel who contributed to portions of the field work and/or documentation for this project were Allison Keith and Scott Davis. Appendix D lists the qualifications of these contributors. 1 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N.C. 3.0 PHYSICAL RESOURCES The study area (Figure 2) lies within the Piedmont physiographic region of North Carolina. Topography within the project vicinity is generally comprised of low, rounded hills and ridges. Elevations within the study area range from ],104 feet to ],176 feet above mean sea leveL The project vicinity is heavily developed, and land use in the vicinity consists primarily of urban business and residential development with small fragmented forested areas. 3.1 Soils The Web Soil Survey identifies eight soil types within the study area (Table 1). Table 1. Soils in the study area Soil Series Mapping Drainage Class Hydric Unit Status Codorus loam Cn Somewhat Well Drained Non-Hydric Danripple sandy clay loam Da Well Drained Non-Hydric Fairview sandy clay loam Fa Well Drained Non-Hydric Fairview-urban land complex Fe Well Drained Non-Hydric Hatboro loam Ha Poorly Drained Hydric Rhodhiss sandy loam Rh Well Drained Non-Hydric Udorthents-urban land complex Ue Well Drained Non-Hydric Urban land-udorthents complex Uu Well Drained Non-Hydric 3.2 Water Resources Water resources in the study area are part of the Catawba River basin [U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Hydrologic Unit 03050101 ]. Two streams were identified in the study area (Table 2). The locations of these water resources are shown on Figure 3. The physical characteristics of these streams are provided in Table 3. Table 2. Water resources in the study area Stream Name Map ID NCDWQ Index Best Usage Number Classification Lower Creek Lower Creek 11-39-(0.5)a C UT to Lower Creelc SA 11-39-(0.5)a C 2 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N.C. Table 3. Physical characteristics of water resources in the study area Bank Bankfull Water Channel Map ID Height Width Depth Velocity Clarity (ft) (ft) (in) Substrate Lower Creek 8-10 35 2_6 Sand, gravel, Moderate Clear bedrock SA 2 6 2-6 Sand, silt Moderate Clear There are no designated anadromous fish waters or Primary Nursery Areas (PNA) present in the study area. There are no designated Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), High Quality Waters (HQW), or water supply watersheds (WS-I or WS-II) within the study area or within 1.0 mile downstream of the study area. No stream reaches within the study area are included in the North Carolina 2014 Final 303(d) list of impaired waters; however, beginning approXimately 2.0 miles downstream of the study area, Lower Creek is listed on the North Carolina 2014 Final 303(d) list of impaired waters for multiple criteria. Benthic samples have been taken at Lower Creek at NC 90 and given a rating of "Good- Fair" on June 10, 1997 and a rating of "Poor" on September 9, 2002. No fish surveys have been conducted within 1.0 mile downstream of the study area. 4.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES 4.1 Terrestrial Communities Two terrestrial communities were identified in the study area: Maintained/Disturbed and Mixed Hardwood/Pine Forest. Figure 4 shows the location and extent of these terrestrial communities in the study area. A brief description of each community type follows. Scientific names of all species identified are included in Appendix B. 4.1.1 MaintainedlDisturbed Maintained/disturbed areas are located throughout the study area along the roadway, woodland edges, and in commercial and residential yards. These are places where the vegetation is periodically mowed or otherwise maintained. Vegetation within much of this area is generally comprised of low-growing grasses and herbs including Johnson grass, fescue, foxtail grass, garden sorrel, gill-over-the-ground, clover, Japanese stilt- grass, common dayflower, asters, false-nettle, goldenrod, and common pokeweed. Trees and shrubs are scattered and include individuals of species such as eastern redbud. Vines are prevalent and include poison ivy and kudzu. February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N.C. 4.1.2 Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest The mixed pine/hardwood forest community occurs within the project area along stream channels and in small, fragmented areas between commercial and residential yards. The riparian areas along the stream corridors are dominated by mature hardwoods consisting of sycamore, river birch, eastern box elder, black walnut, red maple, American hornbeam, black cherry, American persimmon, and green ash in the canopy, and Chinese privet, multiflora rose, blackberry, American holly, and northern spicebush in the sub-canopy. Vines are prevalent and include poison ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, common greenbriar, Virginia creeper, and kudzu. The herbaceous layer consists of Japanese stilt-grass, false- nettle, orange jewelweed, ebony spleenwort, and Christmas fern. Dominant canopy species within the non-riparian areas include eastern white pine, Virginia pine, tulip-tree, red maple, river birch, sycamore, black cherry, white oak, black walnut, American beech, and red mulberry. The sub-canopy consists of canopy species as well as green ash, red maple, sourwood, tree-of-heaven, and American holly. The understory includes vines such as common greenbriar, poison ivy, and Japanese honeysuckle, and herbs such as downy rattlesnake-orchid, goldenrod, Japanese stilt-grass, and pipsessewa. 4.1.3 Terrestrial Community Impacts Terrestrial communities may be impacted by project construction as a result of grading and paving portions of the study area. At this time, decisions regarding the final location and design of road improvements have not been made. Therefore, community data are presented in the context of total coverage of each type within the study area (Table 4). Once a final alignment and preliminary design have been determined, probable impacts to each community type will be calculated. Table 4. Coverage of terrestrial communities in the study area Community Coverage (acres) Maintained/Disturbed 8.0 Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest 1.7 Total 9.7 4.2 Terrestrial Wildlife Terrestrial communities in the study area are comprised of both natural and disturbed habitats that may support a diversity of wildlife species (those species actually observed or signs of which were observed are indicated with *). Mammals that commonly exploit open areas as well as forested habitats found within the study area include eastern cottontail*, gray squirrel, eastern chipmunk, short tailed shrew, white-footed mouse, raccoon*, Virginia opossum, groundhog, and white-tailed deer. Birds that commonly use forest and forest edge habitats include the red-shouldered hawk, American crow, blue jay, brown-headed nuthatch*, Northern cardinal*, Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, Carolina wren*, downy woodpecker, yellow-bellied sapsucker, white-throated sparrow, and yellow-rumped warbler. Birds that may use the open habitat within the study area 4 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. include red-tailed hawk, northern mockingbird, eastern bluebird, eastern meadowlark, American robin, common grackle, and turlcey vulture. Reptile and amphibian species that may use terrestrial communities located in the study area include the corn snake, rat snake, copperhead, eastern box turtle, eastern fence lizard, five-lined skink, American toad, wood frog, three-lined salamander, white-spotted slimy salamander, and northern dusky salamander. 4.3 Aquatic Communities Aquatic communities in the study area consist of moderately-moving perennial and intermittent Piedmont streams which may support small fish species such as mosquito fish*, rosyside dace, creek chub, northern hog sucker, and fantail darter. Amphibians might include northern dusky salamander, seal salamander, three-lined salamander, pickerel frog, and green frog. 4.4 Invasive Species Nine species from the NCDOT Invasive Exotic Plant List for North Carolina were found to occur in the study area. The species identified were Chinese privet (Threat), kudzu (Threat), multiflora rose (Threat), Japanese stilt-grass (Threat), tree-of-heaven (Threat), Japanese honeysuckle (Moderate Threat), Johnson grass (Moderate Threat), gill-over-the- ground (Moderate Threat), and common dayflower (Watch List). NCDOT will manage invasive plant species as appropriate. 5.0 JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES 5.1 Clean Water Act Waters of the U.S. Two jurisdictional streams were identified in the study area (Table 5). The locations of these streams are shown on Figure 3. USACE and NCDWR stream delineation forms are included in Appendix C. The physical characteristics and water quality designations of these streams are detailed in Section 3.2. These streams have been designated as warm water streams for the purposes of stream mitigation. Table 5. Jurisdictional characteristics of water resources in the study area Map ID Length Classification Compensatory River Basin (feetl Miti�ation Reauired Buffer Lower Creek 218 Perennial SA 96 Intermittent Total 310 Yes I Not Subject Yes Not Subiect No jurisdictional wetland areas were identified within the study area. February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. 5.2 Clean Water Act Permits The proposed project is a linear transportation project, and as a result, a Nationwide Permit (NWP) 14 will likely be applicable. Temporary construction activities such as stream dewatering, work bridges, or temporary causeways that are often used during bridge and roadway construction may also authorized under NWP 14. The USACE holds the final discretion as to what permit will be required to authorize project construction. If a Section 404 permit is required then a Section 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) from the NCDWR will be needed. 5.3 Coastal Area Management Act Areas of Environmental Concern No Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC) were identified in the study area. 5.4 Construction Moratoria Caldwell County is a designated trout county, however, there are no designated trout waters within the study area. Therefore, no moratoria are anticipated for this project. 5.5 N.C. River Basin Buffer Rules No streams within the study area are subject to any North Carolina river basin buffer rules. 5.6 Rivers and Harbors Act Section 10 Navigable Waters No streams within the study area are subject to Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. 5.7 Wetland and Stream Mitigation 5.7.1 Avoidance and Minimization of Impacts The NCDOT will attempt to avoid and minimize impacts to streams and wetlands to the greatest extent practicable in choosing a preferred alternative and during project design. At this time, no final decisions have been made with regard to the location or design of the preferred alternative. 5.7.2 Compensatory Mitigation of Impacts The NCDOT will investigate potential on-site stream and wetland mitigation opportunities once a final decision has been rendered on the location of the preferred alternative. If on-site mitigation is not feasible, mitigation will be provided by North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Mitigation Services (DMS). 6 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N.C. 5.8 Endangered Species Act Protected Species As of July 24, 2015, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) lists seven federally protected species for Caldwell County. A brief description of these species' habitat requirements follows, along with the Biological Conclusion rendered based on survey results in the study area. Habitat requirements for these species are based on the current best available information from referenced literature and/or USFWS. Table 6. Federally protected species listed for Caldwell County Scientific Name Common Name Federal Habitat Biological Status Present Conclusion Glyptemys muhlenbergii Bog Turtle T(S/A) No No Effect Glaucomys sabrinus Carolina northern flying E No No Effect coloratus squirrel May Affect, Myotis septentrionalis Northern long-eared bat T Yes Not Likely to Adversely Affect May Affect, Co�ynorhinus townsendii Not Likely to virginianus Virginia big-eared bat E Yes Adversely Affect Microhexura montivaga Spruce-fir moss spider E No No Effect exastylis naniflora Dwarf-flowered heartleaf T No No Effect iatris helleri Heller's blazing star T No No Effect E - Endangered T - Threatened T(S/A) = Threatened due to similarity of appearance Bog turtle USFWS optimal survey window: April 1-October 1(visual surveys); April 1-June 15 (optimal for breeding/nesting); May 1-June 30 (trapping surveys) Habitat Description: Bog turtle habitat consists of open, groundwater supplied (spring- fed), graminoid dominated wetlands along riparian corridors or on seepage slopes. These habitats are designated as mountain bogs by the NCNHP, but they are technically poor, moderate, or rich fens that may be associated with wet pastures and old drainage ditches that have saturated muddy substrates with open canopies. Plants found in bog turtle habitat include sedges, rushes, marsh ferns, herbs, shrubs (tag alder, hardhack, blueberry, etc.), and wetland tree species (red maple and silky willow). These habitats often support sphagnum moss and may contain carnivorous plants (sundews and pitcher-plants) and rare orchids. Potential habitats may be found in western Piedmont and Mountain counties from 700 to 4500 feet in North Carolina. Soil types (poorly drained silt loams) from which bog turtle habitats have been found include Arkaqua, Chewacla, Dellwood, 7 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. Codorus complex, Hatboro, Nikwasi, Potomac — Iotla complex, Reddies, Rosman, Tate — Cullowhee complex, Toxaway, Tuckasegee — Cullasaja complex, Tusquitee, Watauga, and Wehadkee. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the bog turtle does not exist in the study area. The study area supports no wetlands or any other community preferred by this species. A review of NCNHP records, updated January 22, 2016, indicates no known bog turtle occurrence within 1.0 mile of the study area. Carolina northern flying squirrel USFWS optimal survey window: May-October; coldest days in coldest winter months (nest box surveys) Habitat Description: There are several isolated populations of the Carolina northern flying squirrel in the mountains of North Carolina. This nocturnal squirrel prefers the ecotone between coniferous (red spruce, Fraser fir, or hemlock) and mature northern hardwood forests (beech, yellow birch, maple, hemlock, red oak, and buckeye), typically at elevations above 4500 feet. In some instances, the squirrels may be found on narrow, north-facing valleys above 4000 feet. Both forest types are used to search for food and the hardwood forest is used for nesting sites. Mature forests with a thick evergreen understory and numerous snags are most preferable. In winter, squirrels inhabit tree cavities in older hardwoods, particularly yellow birch. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the Carolina northern flying squirrel does not exist in the study area. The study area contains neither elevations above 4500 feet, nor the appropriate forest communities preferred by this species. A review of NCNHP records, updated January 22, 2016, indicates no known Carolina northern flying squirrel occurrence within 1.0 mile of the study area. Northern long-eared bat USFWS optimal survey window: May-August Habitat Description: During summer, northern long-eared bats roost singly or in colonies underneath bark, in cavities, or in crevices of both live and dead trees. Males and non-reproductive females may also roost in cooler places, like caves and mines. This bat seems opportunistic in selecting roosts, using tree species based on suitability to retain bark or provide cavities or crevices. It has also been found, rarely, roosting in structures like barns and sheds. Northern long-eared bats spend winter hibernating in caves and mines, called hibernacula. They typically use large caves or mines with large passages and entrances; constant temperatures; and high humidity with no air currents. Specific areas where they hibernate have very high humidity, so much so that droplets of water are often seen on their fur. 8 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. Within hibernacula, surveyors find them in small crevices or cracks, often with only the nose and ears visible. Biological Conclusion: May Affect, Not Likely to Adversely Affect Suitable habitat for the northern long-eared bat may exist within the study area in forested areas where larger, mature trees and snags occur. A review of NCNHP records, updated February 4, 2016, indicates no known northern long-eared bat occurrence within 1.0 mile of the study area. A review of the USFWS Asheville Ecological Services Field Office web page (http://www.fws.gov/asheville/htmis/ project review/NLEB_in WNC.html) on February 10, 2016 indicates no confirmed hibernation and maternity sites for this species occur in Caldwell County. Virginia big-eared bat USFWS optimal survey window: May-15 through August 15; January 15-February 15 (winter) Habitat Description: Virginia big-eared bats have been recorded in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. They occupy caves in the summer and winter. Hibernating colonies are typically located in deep cave passageways that have stable temperatures and air movement, the temperature in these hibernacula may be lower than that tolerated by other bats. Roost sites are generally located in mines or caves in oak-hickory forests. They will use alternate roost sites but there is no record of long migrations. They are nocturnal and leave their roost to forage on moths, beetles, and other insects. This species feeds mostly over open pasture, corn and alfalfa fields, and around the crowns of trees. Biological Conclusion: May Affect, Not Likely to Adversely Affect The action area contains no suitable hibernating or roosting habitat for the Virginia big-eared bat. Marginal foraging habitat may exist around the crowns of trees within the disturbed forest fragments of the action area. A review of NCNHP records on February 4, 2016 indicates no known occurrences of Virginia big-eared bat within 1.0 mile of the study area. Spruce-fir moss spider USFWS optimal survey window: May-August Habitat Description: This species is known only from spruce-fir forests in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. The spruce-fir moss spider occurs in well-drained moss and liverwort mats growing on rocks or boulders. These mats are found in well-shaded areas in mature, high elevation (> 5000 feet) Fraser fir and red spruce forests. The spruce-fir moss spider is sensitive to desiccation and requires environments of high and constant humidity. The need for humidity relates to the moss mats, which cannot become parched or else the mats become dry and loose. Likewise, the moss mats cannot be too wet because large drops of water can also pose a threat to the spider. The spider 9 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. constructs its tube-shaped webs in the interface between the moss mat and the rock surface. Some webs have been found to extend into the interior of the moss mat. Biological conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the spruce-fir moss spider does not exist in the study area. The study area contains neither elevations above 5,000 feet mean sea level, nor the appropriate forest communities. A review of NCNHP records, updated February 4, 2016, indicates no known spruce-fir moss spider occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area. Dwarf-flowered heartleaf USFWS optimal survey window: March-May Habitat Description: Dwarf-flowered heartleaf is endemic to the western Piedmont and foothills of North and South Carolina. This herbaceous evergreen is found in moist to rather dry forests along bluffs; boggy areas next to streams and creek heads; and adjacent hillsides, slopes, and ravines. Requiring acidic, sandy loam soils, the species is found in soil series such as Pacolet, Madison, and Musella, among others. Occurrences are generally found on a north facing slope. Undisturbed natural communities such as Piedmont/Coastal Plain Heath Bluff, Dry-Mesic Oak Hickory Forest, and Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest hold the most viable populations. However, less viable remnant populations are found in disturbed habitats, including logged, grazed, mown, and residential/commercial developed lands; areas converted to pasture, orchards, and tree plantations; roadside rights-of-way; and on upland slopes surrounding manmade ponds or lakes. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for dwarf-flowered heartleaf may exist within forested areas supporting a sparse herbaceous layer. Systematic surveys of suitable habitat within the study area were conducted by Axiom biologists on October 7, 2015. No individuals of Hexastylis sp. were identified; therefore, no further surveys are needed. In addition, a review of NCNHP records on February 4, 2016 indicates no known occurrences of dwarf-flowered heartleaf within 1.0 mile of the study area. Heller's blazing star USFWS optimal survey window: July-September Habitat Description: Heller's blazing star, endemic to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, occurs in the High Elevation Rocky Summit natural community on high-elevation ledges, rock outcrops, cliffs, and balds at elevations of 3500-5999 feet. This early pioneer, perennial herb grows in acidic and generally shallow humus or clay loams on igneous and metasedimentary rock. Known populations are intermittently saturated and excessively to moderately poorly drained. The 10 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. plant generally occurs in full sunlight with grasses, sedges, and other composites. Blue Ridge goldenrod, Roan Mountain bluet, and spreading avens are a few of its common associate species. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the Heller's blazing star does not exist within the study area. The study area contains neither elevations above 3500 feet nor the appropriate natural communities. A review of NCNHP records, updated February 4, 2016, indicates no known Heller's blazing star occurrence within 1.0 mile of the study area. 5.9 Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act Habitat for the bald eagle primarily consists of mature forest in proximity to large bodies of open water for foraging. Large dominant trees are utilized for nesting sites, typically within 1.0 mile of open water. A desktop-GIS assessment of the project study area, as well as the area within a 1.13-mile radius (1.0 mile plus 660 feet) of the project limits, was performed on October 6, 2015 using 2010 color aerials. No water bodies large enough or sufficiently open to be considered potential feeding sources were identified. Since there was no foraging habitat within the review area, a survey of the proj ect study area and the area within 660 feet of the project limits was not conducted. Additionally, a review of the NCNHP database on February 4, 2016 revealed no known occurrences of this species within 1.0 mile of the study area. Due to the lack of habitat, known occurrences, and minimal impact anticipated for this project, it has been determined that this project will not affect this species. 5.10 Essential Fish Habitat No areas of Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) were identified within the study area. 11 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. 6.0 REFERENCES Burt, W.H. and R.P. Grossenheider. 1976. A Field Guide to the Mammals: North America North of Mexico. 3rd ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. 255 pp. Conant, R. and J.T. Collins. 1991. A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians (Eastern and Central North America). 3rd ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. 450 pp. Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical Report Y-87-1, U. S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. Vicksburg, Mississippi. Justice, W.S., C.R. Bell, and A.H. Lindsey. 2005. Wildflowers of North Carolina, Second Edition. University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 325 pp. Martof, B.S., W.M. Palmer, J.R. Bailey, and J.R Harrison IIL 1980. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia. Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press. 264 pp. Menhinick, E.F. 1991. The Freshwater Fishes of North Carolina. North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. 227 pp. National Geographic. 1999. Field Guide to the Birds of North America, 3ra ed. Washington, D.C. National Geographic Society. N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Resources. 1:24,000-scale Hydrography with Water Quality Classifications Digital Data. http://data.nconemap.com/geoportal/catalog/main/home.page (Accessed: October 16, 2015). N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality. 2008. Biological Assessments. Catawba River Basin. http://portal.ncdenr.or�/web/wq/ess/reports (Accessed: October 16, 2015). N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality. 2003. Basinwide Assessment Report: Catawba River Basin. Raleigh, North Carolina. http://portal.ncdenr.or�/web/wq/ess/reports (Accessed: October 16, 2015). N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality. 2012. Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List (2012 Final 303(d) list). http://portal.ncdenr.or�c/document_librar��et file?uuid=9d45b3b4-d066- 4619-82e6-ea8ea0e01930&groupId=38364 (Accessed: October 16, 2015). 12 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Natural Heritage Program. 2014. Natural Heritage Program Digital Data. http://data.nconemap.com/ geoportal/catalog/main/home.pa�e. Updated July 2014. (Accessed: October 16, 2015). N.C. Department of Transportation. 2012. Invasive Exotic Plants of North Carolina. N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Bog Turtle Fact Sheet. 2006. http://www. ncwildlife.org/Portals/0/Conservin�/documents/nongame_bo tg urtle_ hires.pdf. (Accessed October 16, 2015) N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Carolina northern Flying Squirrel Fact Sheet. 2005. http://www.ncwildlife.org/�ortals/0/Learning/documents/Profiles/ NFsquirrel.pdf. (Accessed October 16, 2015) N.C. Natural Heritage Program. 2001. Guide to Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Species of North Carolina. Raleigh, NC. 134 pp. Newcomb, L. 1977. Newcomb's Wildflower Guide. Boston: Little, Brown and Company. 490 pp. Peterson, R.T., editor. 1980. A Field Guide to the Birds of Eastern and Central North America, 4th ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. 384 pp. Potter, E.F., J.F. Parnell, R.P. Teulings, and R. Davis. 2006. Birds of the Carolinas, Second Edition. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 397 PP• Radford, A.E., H.E. Ahles, and C.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press. 1183 pp. Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina: Third Approximation. Natural Heritage Program, Division of Parks and Recreation, N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources. Raleigh, NC. 325 pp. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. Soil Survey Staff. 2014. Web Soil Survey. Available online at: http://websoilsurve. .� usda.gov (Accessed: October 16, 2015). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Carolina northern flying squirrel. http://www.fws.gov/asheville/htmis/listed_species/Carolina_northern flvin�_ s�c uirrel.html. (Accessed: October 16, 2015) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1993. Charlotte West, North Carolina, National Wetlands Inventory Quadrangle (7.5-minute series). 1 sheet. 13 February 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP R-5745, Caldwell County, N. C. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2007. Dwarf-flowered heartleaf (Hexastylis naniflora) 5-Year Review: Summary and Evaluation, Draft. Asheville, NC. 51 pp. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2006. Optimal Survey Windows for North Carolina's Federally Threatened and Endangered Plant Species. http://www.fws. og v/nc_ es/plant/plant_survey.html. (Accessed: October 16, 2015). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1999. Recovery Plan for Liatrus helleri Porter (Heller's Blazing Star). First Revision. Atlanta, GA. 25 pp. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Bog Turtle. http://www.fws.�ov/asheville/htmis/listed _ s�ecies/bog turtle.html. (Accessed: October 16, 2015) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Northern Long-eared Bat. http://ecos.fws.gov/species Profile/profile/speciesProfile.action?spcode=AOJE. (Accessed: October 16, 2015) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 4: Southeast Region, North Carolina Ecological Services. 2012. Threatened and Endangered Species in North Carolina: Caldwell County. Updated November 4, 2014. http://www.fws. ov/raleig� species/cntylist/nc_counties.html. (Accessed: October 16, 2015). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Spruce-fir Moss Spider in North Carolina. http://www.fws.�ov/nc-es/spider/sprummoss.html. (Accessed: October 16, 2015) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Virginia Big-eared Bats in North Carolina. http://www.fws.�ov/nc-es/mammal/vbi�ear.htmL (Accessed: October 16, 2015) U.S. Geological Survey. 2013. Lenoir, North Carolina, Topographic Quadrangle (7.5- minute series). Reston, VA: 1 sheet. Weakley, Alan. 2012. Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States: Working Draft of 30 November 2012. University of North Carolina Herbarium (NCi�, North Carolina Botanical Garden, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. 1225 pp. Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell, and W.C. Biggs. 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas, Virginia, and Maryland. Chapel Hill, University of North Carolina Press. 255 pp. 14 February 2016 Appendix A Figures r a� i ' � � � d .l� �� 1_-f � �~` {*� � `.4 ly � 4 a �\ I �\.� �`- , f ' � e�-�' i Y � �.f .�� r{�,� * � I � . ! 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''� ' � ; '��. .� . � . �� . . �''' � , 'y �� , '�'" � I,� r .t; � MAP . .� . `i, " .� ''.•� :. ��-" �' �'� ?� ; , �' .% 't_. i,.' � i � .�� x. $�� a' r � "Y. �' 1 � � � ( �. J 4•` re�_' r h i � �� €; t, ��c: ` � � ,iA�'�'L, � N , �,� t_;, y.��, � j ��]�, r rv' ,; �j �y� �.4��'� ,�, . . - �sr�� , . • +t r� ' � . •'� . r� � ��1.1, �}' .. 'd0 � y 't" '': {yc yIk � � _ �P '" ..� � �. y�, . �..� „s. � '�: ' ' P . w�_ c` :.!•' i, "S' •1 �! �''� �` .i � , +ki "L. -R. �'�;'� �°• . /�" , •- y�. V� . ,� � 1'� . �� . ^a' .. �' .*' �� r..� , *. .� ,t S 7 :f .• �� NGt�'S; �� ;; �Y - ,. 4, , �'� W �, _ j; ,' _ k , . �. .�r� ��' ��-� r�a� �;�.n w �a � C3ackground imagerysource: M� h � . .� � x �,;, !' - ' 'a a - - ` � � ' '• j�% � '" ,, T ,1 �, ,�• � r � a� ; , � , � "614 aerial pho4flgraphy provided � �''L � � .�'. r � r • .^� '`. _ -" - ' r �.'� �1 ,f� 'r `, Y t�y the �IC C1neMap Pragram (anline, � :; ' - . : �� `� ,'' � .' f� � ,- J� • r , ,+�';' �, � F� - � � supporfed by the N.C. Geographic � P�� t - �''�i- ' +i � r ., � y� �' � _ � � , ,, . s�.,1 . � : � -, -.�,�r �4 �• '';�`� �ti. ,��._ .� �t • ,�,..r.� � !nformation Gooedination Cauncil}. 1 �,�~�t` 5 i�"�. �� , � � '� ff j�''�_,� 1 '� f '� �:'� �� , '"� � �* .r. L ;� :•'�, , . � ; I�. ' ;:�, . � � ::�': � - '�' . �, •,,_�' ��,� '�� ' �'��r � �` � _ ':� _ .f �A" �•ar .., � ,1 ��l�' � ^`" i� �i r.. �i �� r�i " w � • , � .� ' : . _ n � F , � `� •.�". ��'�► '� .',�, �� ;'�; = � � ��i'� ' , � - �.,''/ ,+ . . , s� � i. �y , �' r �+��,� . . � � � ` i , •� ..r., , " � �y f">� • � ,' � f, _;ti �' ,� �¢' � . � , f , 4 . ` , , t� "'� , . ±.,�. � � . ) � � �. x< � � � - ir �r. " •+ �; � , %` � �f � + "r" ,�+IC?t s " '� ; . } . � 't'': `�x�� 4, . .� � � �)� .• I�� .A. h� � r�..I #4a � �I ' +� . �}�' �' '�" '"�' . - ' `='� - f p ,' '� �+ t . e � ,,,. � �� - ��`s, ' � � . �� 4 �' �� T ' _ � - " - � t� . �� I.�'�y�' - �_,�.,. 1 p � _! ' ' � '�' "L .�'� �;; " - s�'+'��;f` �/ � '� _ �,�y,, �� f , � r t - '�.�'i ; . -� �, ' t :,.i 'r: i r� �,•. , . Legend -..:..; " '` i _ ��' �;,� t � `� ,� �s�:,, � � � _ , . . �� r�- ' �� Study area ,' ; � ��i _ N� s ;V"� ' . �°�a ,�'�,. . `- Drawn t�y: � �., � �y ,� °�, �; SGD _. , -� , �istur6edlmaintained V;^ �4 _ � -. �` �r � � � r � � �" ,,�� 3',�, ' ' � . ; Q�t�; Oct Za15 ' '� j ;�' �� } . k � � �,� . _ � ;�. � ! � Mixed pinefhardwoad foresf �• .. �.:� �� P >]' r� P' �` .�`� :;, , �.:� Scale: 1:18aa — � ,11 � - . �"" . � ` �' q'` � ! � f �� . ; � NC�C)T rvads • � � :t" � y � � � ,�'�'�"�'�tr' t ,�+ �'� - - y � Praject No.: 15-426 � � ; ! �� -"� .�'� '` � ! � ` ,'-�° .c,�;' � �" �,/� �" F ; . .. � �_ ---,:- _ , ,� � - /•.��• FVGURE . -5�D 250 CI 500 1,OOQ ��». _., � ..�� ` ,I•I . . � il{-g .` . Feet � • ��--��. �'"`=, 4 _ _ _ " � '... Appendix B Scientific Names of Species Identified in Report Plants Common Name American beech American hornbeam American holly American persimmon Asters Blackberry Black cherry Black walnut Chinese privet Christmas fern Clover Common dayflower Common greenbrier Common pokeweed Downy rattlesnake-orchid Eastern box elder Eastern redbud Eastern white pine Ebony spleenwort False-nettle Fescue Foxtail grass Garden sorrel Gill-over-the-ground Goldenrod Green Ash Japanese honeysuckle Japanese stilt-grass Johnson grass Kudzu Multiflora rose Northern spicebush Orange jewelweed Pipsissewa Poison ivy Red maple Red mulberry River birch Scientific Name Fagus grandifolia Carpinus caroliniana Ilex opaca Diospyros virginiana, Symphyotrichum spp. Rubus sp. Prunus serotina Juglans nigra Ligustrum sinense Polystichum acrostichoides Trifolium sp. Commelina communis Smilax rotundifolia Phytolacca americana Goodyera pubescens Acer negundo Cercis canadensis Pinus strobus Asplenium platyneuron Boehmeria cylindrica Festuca sp. Setaria sp. Rumex acetosa Glechoma hederacea Solidago sp. Fraxinus pennsylvanica Lonicera japonica Microstegium vimineum Sorghum halepense Pueraria montana var. lobata Rosa multiflora Lindera benzoin Impatiens capensis Chimaphila maculata Toxicodendron radicans Acer rubrum Morus rubra Betula nigra Sourwood Sycamore Tree-of-heaven Tulip-tree Virginia creeper Virginia pine White oak Animals Common Name American crow American robin American toad Bluehead chub Blue jay Brown-headed nuthatch Carolina chickadee Carolina wren Common grackle Copperhead Corn snake Creek chub Downy woodpecker Eastern bluebird Eastern box turtle Eastern cottontail Eastern fence lizard Eastern meadowlark Fantail darter Five-lined skink Gray squirrel Groundhog Green frog Mosquito fish Northern dusky salamander Northern cardinal Northern hog sucker Northern mockingbird Pickerel frog Raccoon Rat snake Red-shouldered hawk Red-tailed hawk Rosyside dace Oxydendron arboreum Platanus occidentalis Ailanthus altissima Liriodendron tulipifera Parthenocissus quinquefolia Pinus virginiana Quercus alba Scientific Name Corvus brachyrhynchos Turdus migratorius Bufo americanus Nocomis leptocephalus Cyanocitta cristata Sitta pusilla Poecile carolinensis Thryothorus ludovicianus Quiscalus quiscula Agkistrodon contortrix Elaphe guttata Semotilus atromaculatus Picoides pubescens Sialia sialis Terrapene carolina Sylvilagus floridanus Sceloporus undulatus Sturnella magna Etheostoma flabellare Eumeces anthracinus Sciurus carolinensis Marmota monax Rana clamitans Gambusia sp. Desmognathus fuscus Cardinalis cardinalis Hypentelium nigricans Mimus polyglottus Rana palustris Procyon lotor Elaphe obsoleta Buteo lineatus Buteo jamaicensis Clinostomus funduloides Seal salamander Short-tailed shrew Spotted slimy salamander Spring peeper Three-lined salamander Tufted titmouse Turkey vulture Virginia opossum White-footed mouse White-spotted slimy salamander White-tailed deer White-throated sparrow Yellow-bellied sapsucker Yellow-rumped warbler Desmognathus moticola Blarina sp. Plethodon glutinosus Hyla crucifer Eurycea guttolineata Baeolophus bicolor Cathartes aura Didelphis virginiana Peromyscus leucopus Plethodon cylindraceus Odocoileus virginianus Zonotrichia albicollis Sphyrapicus varius Setophaga coronata Appendix C Stream Forms NC ��V11 Strfiam IdEmtif�c�ation Fotm Ve�rsion 4.11 DatEe ��Q� ' �C I � Prciject9iie: I�.�� Evalua�lan: ei��IwS k\Qos. Courity: C� �� Totail Poiril5: S�I�eam Deiteirmir�aition ( SEr� am is at le�asl ir tamiitteirt EpHemEikd IritEirmiit'I�n11 itl Z,19 o�i oerenniai iAa 30" ��" ti � L��- Gu �� L�dituca: �� a r� Lonigilude� �II G 77 0lheir �'(,Ip/� �G p�� e.g. Quec Nama: AI. Geomor holo Sutloial = d-V AIC�ent We�ik Modertl:e Strong I a Clandinuity of uhanri�l be d anc tl ank tl 'I 3 a. Sinuosity af ahannel alang thalweg (I 'I �'� �I 3. !n-ahannel sluucdune: ex. niffle-F�acd, steq-qaal, �I 'I �:� �I ni le- ool se ue nue 4. Rartiaf� siae af slrearr substnale (I 'I il �.. 3 5. Aclive�uelial floodplain (I ,�f ; 'el �I 9. Depositiona! bars tm benciMeis (I 'I 2- cl 7. RE cient alluvial dE pnsils (I 'I il 8. Heac au9s 'I �I cl 9. Grac e cpnlnal (I a.9 L1 1.9 I(I. Nalunad valley (I Q.5 I 1.5 �I 11, Sf aand on greater c�nc er citl annel Nu = CI � 1 es =� arlilicial diiche�s are ncrt ra1E�d; see discussions in manual — �. H drolo Sublo�lal = �• 5 'I.I. Preseincie ci� B�seflow il 'I a '13. Ircin cixidiaing bsictenia � 'I a 3 �I �, ll e af liti e�i 1.� 'I C.� CI �I; , Seidirr ant cin plants ou c et nis (I CI.5 (� 1.5 'Ifl. Organic cebris linies ar piles 0 a.9 1.9 'I i. Sciil-base d evic ence o11 hiqh wate r 1at le i� Nci = Q es = CI. 8iolo Subtotal = 'IfL F ibraus racits in sirearn�eic a 1 CI 'Ifl. Roalec upland piants in st�eambed 2 �I CI a(I. Maunc�beinlhos (note diversity and abundance) (I (� �I 3 a1. Aquatic AAallu;iks (I '' sl 31 a�l. F ish 1� a1.5 'I 1.5 a.l. Cra�sh 9 01.5 I 1.9 a� . Amphibians � SI a1.5 'I 1.9 a:l. Algae 9 C.5 'I 1.9 aEl. We tlan� plants in st�ea m be d FACW = Q.7: ;(�BII = 1.� Clthen =,0 'peir�nnial streams may aisci be idenGfied using athem rtiedhcds. : ee p. �5 c manual. No1e.r �c�� SHe9af: ' _ — — - �S• G�{, _ „ , �,. K5�G�1 — — — -- — - -- i � cic��- ��Q� �-i r ' � 0 .� . . --�Q1 J�I' II-•t { F� _ i _ . _ � ' $�I✓5o �ti . �, 0 ,a� usAicH �+ nwQ �i �n� �i ��a;ae� � acc�n�a �,, ;,�,; SITRDAM QUALIZIY A�151DSISM�NT WORIKI�IHEDZI _ � ;, Hraivide ihe fallowiini� indlormatiam 1nr tHe stneam reaiaH unider aissessment: 1. App,�lican�l's n�me: rluAoT 2. Evadu2rtcir's n�tne: �P��-�: Q,. _�y( O.,y 3. Date ofle� aluat(cmr. 1� U' 1��-d i� 4. Time oflavaluation: . � �� S 9. T arrie ci} I strelam: �.O �� 6. Rivar ba� in: ��w �Q CL 71. Alpp,�rcixunata d� au a8ei area: lQ� 4I �+ 8. 9tream circ er: ��,, ,. _ 91. Lenig�lh aflreacH �aluated: �� I l. S�ite cocirc inr�leis (iflknawn): Fll��efen ini t ac iR�al degree:. IlatitUde (ax.34.872312�: �/ •�� d�7 � ll f. C louryty: CC �_ �t,c..� � ]I21.'.lubci�isianname(iflany;: Ccl�, I-��u�rf�t�'�S Lqnigjhc9 (ax.-77.]I]I6111:;: ��. �� % 7� N a1Hod localion determir ed ��cii�cle): GP9 Tc�plo Sltleel ia �I � CIWe�i 1?I. Locatian uflneaicH uinder evzduialioni I�nctle nei��rby, roa andmarks anc attalch map ideinl ifyijng� straarcni�9; ]cicaRian;: ��•�d ,� s�� r..a d� N w� 4 6�-�� J�, G 14 . Prapased channel wiork (�iflaay; : �'' d�'� 1J.l�ecenl wea�theiraoniditionsi: ,' E� t�- t ��C'�t �7 ��v�, �u- �n.�' I�" I`C ,� ..�2- lE . S�ite coniditians at �lima oflvisi�l: s wN--^� —�u -w� -�-� •!/ y 17.Icen�lifyzmJ� specialvuialerwaiJ� classifical�ionisknciwr: _9eicliani 10 _T:idalVGa�lens _Essennlia'I AisHer'esHatilzit _T�ou�t VGa�ers _Cutstanding Rle9awce Wa�lers _ Nuitrien�t Se� iti�e Wailers _W�leir 8up,�ply Wa�lenshec I�I-l� lEl. Is �Ihere a F�onid cir lali e:loczited u�psheiam cif tbei avalu�l iani p�oinl? YE NCI 1}lyas, ealimale tt e a�IeR surface areke '��. -t-f 151. Dcies cH anciel a��peaQ uni USC18 quac map�i �8 N o 2[I. Daes cr �mnel aip�pa�ar oni USDA I 9ai1 Surve}�'! '.Y� r O �1. Es4imaled wa�lenshad l�inc uise: �v % Rleisideinilia:l r� °io Ccimmeirc�ial �% lncustrfa) �I % Algricultural }� % Aares�led �°io Cleareid / Lcia��ec _% Cther ( ) — �� I. Samkfull wicth: %`% 2?I. Banh Heighil I�frcim beid ila tcip af ban�): ?14. Channel slop,�ei cown ceni1en cif st� eam: _F:lail (( 10 .I`/o; ,�Clan�tle (I:I 90 � %; _Muoeaata (� 10 ] a°ro) _' leiep (% :I ( %; �EI. Clhanmiel sinupsity: Stdaiahl �Occasicinal denids _Frequenrt meance� _Very siniuKius _Br� iced chzinriel Instructia�us fair aampletiain af wairllsheel (locstledl oni psi�e 2;: Begjn �y deRarminiinig thei mcist aip�prcipria�la ecareigioni taisec oni ]cic�lian, teniain�� veg�eitaticin, slrezim c:lassificatoni, edc. EverJ� charaic4eristc musl be sca�ed usin�� the same ecanegjoni. Assigq AIa�� tci e��ch cNa�iacleiristic wi�lhin the ram8e shciwr ft�r the eicare��icin. Paigei 3 F�rciv�ideis a brieitl deiscriF�tiuni ci}I hciw tci re�iewi �Ihe characteiristics idenrtified in 1Na vuiorksNae4. 9cares shouild reflect a�ni uverall assessmeinl cifl the s�lream reFich unce�i erva'luadian. ltl ai cb�rcacteiristic cfmnal bei evaluatec duie ta sile or weiather cand'Itions, enrle�i 0 in 1ha 9ccirin�� baz amc p�io�ice aun exp,�lanatani ini thei ccimmenil sectiani. Wherei 1he�rei aire otiviaus chan8es in the charac�ler atla stream un�der review I�e.€�., tte strea¢n flovuis fikini ai F�isture inrtci a far�ist;, the stream may bei ci� ideid in�tci smalller reaiches tklail d'Isplay more conitinuiity, an�d �i sep�aralei fl�rm used 1a evallua�le eacb reacH. Ttle tcital sca�e assig�ned tci ai sheani re�ich must raing�e betweein Q anid IOCI, with �i score afl ]Clq �ieF�resenlin�� i stream oflilhe higHest quality. Taitail Scare Qfraai reverse): ` Clommenits: 1:,.., � � . , n. = , t.� EWfiluaitcir's Signature Uate 6 0"�- a-d t� 'Ddis cha�miel eWaluaNan f m is intended tci bei ai�edl anily� as ei guidle tci a��lst landawniers and enivirammun�teil peoilassianials in gaitNering tHe dlate eequired b� ihe United States Army Clarps af Engineers ta make gi p�relim�iniar� assessmenit a1 stream q�adity. TNe tatad sccire resullinig from tNe campletian aif tNis farm is sutijecl ta U9ACIE eipprqvel endl dloes ncit iimAl�31 � pei�icul�ir m➢ligatian ratia cir requirement. Aarm sub_jecl tci cNanga-vensicin Q6Jq?I. To Clammein�, F�laaisei ca:l� SI:ISI-8�6-8441 �a 2f. S1IREIAM �U�LI�'I`1�I A�I�I�SSMErT WO�tKI� ME�"i �'HA�iA�TEiZIST1C5 Pre:�ence af ticivr / peir�isten il �ls ia s refim (nia t1ov� c�r saturatior Q. �tranE� tiaw - rniaM pciirtst EvidE nre oi F�aat ist�a�t aiteradan (extensivci alter�tic n� al; nici �itcr� ian ma� pom� r 1 A i p�� riar i zon � PR(� ht�C[ � U; C�01111gL]tiFJS, K�ide bu1'fer = ma� �mzr.�r'. �vid eir es of nu Iriient ain tidem isal d�sc�ar^�es tex�cnsive diach��es 0; no dischar�es ma�c poinit�! � 5 GrounidNsllaa d�alsargi Q, I RQ c�lSCh3I};C f U: r�n�s. see . wctland:. e�ic. �ria� �intsl V� Presenee of adjacefifi tio�plain `n �� (ncifloaCptaim D:exten�iveiflood�sl�ir -rria� poirts} �+ — S _ Enlrenuhmenil d flaoc ��I�iin sicccsa p'' I � Jrr�rE � e m rencil ec = Q; frdqu en'� fl�din� = tr a x poinl s) I 8 Pr�� e c f ad je�Cer 1 wetFa nd� (n�a we� tands - 0� larak a�jacent w e� lar ds m ax p�aints r �i Char n�l sinuasi�v I �ea�tens�veichadnelizetior� {}. �gcur�l rntiandei roax �in�s) � � � '�eil�men! iepul � �exl�sive de�u�in� (.; littla or no sa�i►ren� - r��ia� points) 11 � 4v.� 8� divcr�it� sf c�aeu� ed snlbsisatt �fi��i, humn�ennu� �I); Isrge. diveir� si�� r�ax poaru�l �� E� ide nee cuf t�lanne inaesioo or �idenirsg �� (d�ep14 iniciseid 0� s�able be�c &I bariks max paiat� F., Presnmcie uf sn��jan hsr � failu res �� ti er� ercisicm ° �: ni� erosioni, staE la hanks n� a� �nts j � [� ' P� ' pq �� Ra�E de�rth � ad deni� it� an hank.R E,Q� �nai visi6le iaot� = 01; den:e Eoait� tttrc�u�l��wl rriax �mtsf � �!n puz !rti a�riaa�rt, Uv�il�ck. an limber product;inn � „ � - (substant�l imp�ct -tl; na evidcnca m�x p�ai�tsl � �,� � P� e�1 t�t�ia poo�lr�P�-p�a' ea�ple�rs (n�i �if�e�z ' 11es ar pc�ols 0: 1i1;��-t�YCi4�'1Cti rn�i+t Rt��nls? E-� � . Habitat compl��tky FQ., � litt: c cR nn habi �al Q; frequent, r�aricci heH i�ats mF x points] pq �K ��aPql cuvers�eav��i�lretu�rnbet] � - (no sHadin� uegetation [!; cortinr.e►� can�s y max points) �,� Su bstrr f c emtu�i�i��t�es� (�e ly elmbedde'd ' O; I�:E structure manj „� E're�nc€ c�f sl ueem in v¢ric� re tes 9s�� ast� a 1 - � (aai �vida�e = D: c<imrricn, num�oua �ype� = m�ix �x,�nn�` :: ` I -- - P�es� n ce u[ �imi� Ibis�� _(no evid�r�� U; ccirrimnr , r�um�erau� [ypcs � mgix pa�ms) �Ilne� neei afl �sN �I � "_ (�� tideiraa a. ccimm�m, numerai � r�pes - ma.Y �+oints; I� Eti idcnrr of wildlite usa �� [IIIQ EIYt�eilCf ��; d�7llri[�IIS �V'I�E�ICEI R17?I j7Q111[5) � -- - --- iatal Flar'n ts HaissiC le �ao�c�aNi poi: Caast�il p�ed m cin1 o- �i o-< (.tl p•5 �n-ei o. � t s I (I a II� ' � � ` i _�[I - 4 ( - 4 [I-5 [I-4 C� �: [� � [I-9 (-� �I. ; (�. .i NA' (I-4 {I-5 (I-� [ - i (I � 'I (I ? (I •• � tll-5 U-dl (II 3 0 - 5 il-EI 0• f ii - =i a - ;i NA` �-a a-a U 5 �3 .. � p ., a 0-: 4 4 o�� o= li}o IUCI TaTAL SCaRF. (al�o emleiron fir� pa�� ) •� h�'si � haracle�«tk� a� � r ac a�.seased in � o�stal strearns � Mau n�lain �-� d-� nii - : U 1 a-a a•� oi - � a? 01- . a-�a Q -'I Q-9 (11- 9 Q_; U-S CI-6 a-a sca r F. y � � � C S� ., NCI DW Sttei�m Ideintification Aarm Vle�siara 4.11 Oate: �� — ��a �` �� R�ojecd/Sitsi: G � - �Q � ' _; �-r - Lati4 u dEi: 3 S r S�� 5� 9valu.i�oir. �/,Q'\ \ lW �L �L (�l Ccwmly: Ck�` �,�'r� Lcinigituae: ll, 7 V�Sf Total Pointsl: �� 8trei�uri Delernii�uaticiri Qciri CRflen ��r� � Streamisaileasa;nuevminerit � gFlheimieral In�lermitlenit r�minial 61.f�. QUfId�NBimeil�C �� i( 2 19 or perertnial i�l t 3GI A. GeomOr holo Sublot� I= �� Absierit W eak M�c ei ate S#rong 1a ConUnuitycrlaharinel hed ainid b�InH q 1 : e. Siriuosiry af cit airunied along th�ilweg 0 .I 3 3. Ini-ahanned slruclture: e�. rifflehpciol, sleiFl-FW��. 0 � : 3 ri le- ool se uence 41. Flalrtialei siaei af sir�arri suEstralEi 0 : 9. Aalive�lrelicd �cio�plain �I � �I EI. Depositional bairs o� 6emcihe s Q � 3 71. REcerit �illuvi�d deposits 0 'I i 3�� 8. Heaic au�ls 0 i .I 51. Grac a cpnlnal (I 1 1.9 '10. Naiumal valley (I CI.9 1 �1-.,� �I 1. Seiaand o� greater cinc er ciH ar iriel — 1 es = 3 a -,°'-°-. -�'--�-- --- --� —�--' -- '°-- ' — -' EI. Hydrology (Sublolal = I � • ) 'I e . P�eseinciei cif B�iseflow 9c1. Irciri oxidizing bacdeiria '141. Leaf litleu 9$. SeK irrier 1 cin plants an deih ris 'I EI. Organic dEi6�is liries ou piles '171. Soil-h�isec ewideincie cifHic�h �naleu 1ahIE? (I rc�=a C. Bliolo Subtotaf = 18. Hib�ous ncwls irn slre�imb�d 2 'I Q 19. Rcioleid upland plants iri s'In�iamtlec .I 'I Q e 0. N aClrot errlhcis (notei diversity and abundancej 1 2 3 :�I. Aquatic MollusF s U 1 2 3 i12. Flish U 0.; 'I 'I .5 i 3. Clra�sh q 0.; 'I 'I .°I .4. AmF�hidiainis ' Q (L° 'I '1.5 :9. Algae p (L� 'I 'I.;I �IQ. Wellrir�c plarrls ini slrearriEec HACW = O.a9; C E L='I .5 C�Ihem =(I 'penemnial stneiam9 may also bEi idantified using crlf au melhods. Smei p. 35 01 manual. Nate s: - SH etcih: , � . � _ - � . � e � � � . �i. , , , r -, -'� ' 0.1 -2.1 USA CE AID# � � l�� L(, � ,_ DWQ # Sitei � (indiva�ei c�n attac�Nac ma�; I STREAM QUA IJITY A�I�IE �I�IM DN11 WO RK�IHEET �'' ��. Prarvidei ilNa fcdlowiing� infcirm�nlicmi far ilHe streami rciacih undeir asseissmemit: I,^ ,�I Y� 1. A�FlicanYs n�ie: ��'�drt 2. Evalualor's nam�e: �Tr9E ^'� ?I. D�rte� af e�valuation: �� —'� �I" � D[ J� 4. Timei cif eavalua�licinr 5. Nan a cifl;itream: uT ?�Q L� ��if t �'� '�� 6. Rlveir baisin: CG.�[,�✓ bG , 7. APFIru� imal e d� ain iaee � a: 9� ac-� 5 8. 9traam arc ar:� SI. Lar gth of raauh e�alt a1Eid: 'S� � ]I (I. C ciucit}�: �-[�� 11. Sitei aciord ir ateis Ilifllrnciwn; :!�� 3� �'.�j7� A 171. 9utidivisicm namki (i} anyj: �'+ 9� u� �� j "��t•��, 13. Loc��tioni cif reiaaH u�nc ar eivalui�rtioin (tp�le neiarb� �ioiads and lar dmarks anc attaleh maF� ideinlifyin€ stiieiamlls) ]ciaarticmi): 14 . Prcipas eic cihanneil weirk (i i I any; : /�/D� { 19. Raciein�l weiatheirc�onfditiotts: wr1 .. �s i.�.. �5f ��-•5_ _ � . lE. S:itei ccinc iilicros at timei cif visi�l: S Gi..- --� h^«z�/ f.�R —�'l 17. [c ectif} any speiuial wailerwiay claissificialiems laiown: Seictiom ] al 'Ilic al Wa�lers Essemlia�l AisHerieis H�ibitart TlroLt W�itars Ouitslandin�� l�i9aurciei Wa�lars Nublian�t Seinsiriva Waleirs Watar Suipply W�rteUsbed (1-IV; 18. Is theirei a panid ar lakei lac�rteid uF�straaim af tlie eivalukrtiom p,�aint? Y E51 � Ifl�e9, e9luriale thei �aleir surfaciei areiFr. 191. Dcia� channfil aF�paar an USG19 qua�d map?� '�V� 2U. Doas cihanrial ap��eiar arn L19DA Sail SurvaJ�? YF 9� 21. Estim�rtac walenshe�d land user �'io Rleisic�nrtial S g'io Fareistad 221. Bankfull width: �� :14. Ch�mnel slcipei cown cender ailst�leam: Fla�l I��I ta �I%) :19. Chanriel su�ucisity: 9traighl Oaciasionial �eind9 % CCIriIITIf I11Clil� °/a 1 nidu strizd °/+ A gqiuu tural Y� % Cleiarac il Lcig��ec % Clttlar ( _ � � ) a3. Blanb beight (fibm bac 11a tciF� af banli): 2� en�tlei (21 tci 4% Mace�ialei (4 1a ]CI%; Sleiep,� Ip:l(I%) Arequeml meazdeir Veiq sinu�ous Braide�dc�hannfd Instruetions fair e[iniFlEitian of wiarlc�htiet I�lcieiailedl an paigci 2): Bleigin Hy denlerniinue thei mast aAIFI��Flrialei acoregicm Ha�eid cini laualicin, teirrain, ve�itationi, sUieam classificialicin, a�la. Evary aHaraiciteris�lie rr uistl Ha sccireid using thei same auaragioni. Assign p,�ain�l �la eiacH characleiristic within thei ranigei sHawn fcir 1ha eicioragion. Aa��a 3 prcivideis ai Hriafldeiscri�lian oflhciw 1a reivieiw tha chariale�rislicis ideinilified ini lhei wcirksHeeL 8ccireis sliould re�flea�l an cive�rall assessmenit afltha sbleam reiacih under ervah alicm. Ifla uharacleirislia uanncil Na evalua�lec cue �l0 9i1e or wei�rthar ciancilicros, einle�i (I in tha 9ccuiing bax and p,�rovic� an e�xp,�lanartion in tha acimme�nil seictan. Wtare theirei are abu icius c�han€ �s in tli a ch araa1lar afl a s traam unc er rav ieiw (ei.p., thei sttleian flow s fibm a� astura inrtci ai foresl), tli a sti�ciam may He divided 'u.tci smaller reiac�ias thal di9F�lay mare coinlinuity, and a seF�aratei form useid toi �valuartei eacih reiacH. 'I'�e tatall sciane a:signeid 10 a sbleiam�i reiaich muisl ranige �eitweiem 0 and l CI01, v�i1h ti sciore af110(I rei�resantin�� a straam aftl�e higheist qiallity. Tlotal Scorti (frciai nevEirsei): � ✓ Ca�maoit�l: `D�4 r}�-��L„r ��, /'P � �!'I � 9 �4..c�� ,..1 �-�4. � +� t.t � � � — Evaduailor's 5.'�neilure �'�/"""I /A� Date �� t Tlhia clianne�l e�alua�licmi farm is tended 10 da usatl anly ais a guidle tu assisl landawin�ers amid Einvirammenital ptofassiorials in �attlerim8 1hEi dlatEi rciq�uirFid h'y thci Uniitad 5t�iles Army Ccirpp cif Eni�iracirs ta miadle �i prcdiminairJ�� aisse�amiant cif stresini y�ualit�. 'DN� tatal scaire r�sulting fram 1he eomple�licioi aif this form is subjeicit fo U5ACIE fiEFrrnal and dcies nicit imply fi E arlicular miitigailicm railiai air req�uiircimiemt. Aeirm suH jeicl tci cihani�i — veirsicm Of /Q3. 'Da Cunurianit, F�leiase call SI] SI-8�6-844 : x 2E . �I�tE AM Q UALI�YI ASSESSMDNT WO RK�IH �ET # CHARACTERISTICS ECO G`�t71'iTPa�IINT RANGE SCORE Coa��lal Aiec manil Moumifain 1 Prcisenicici af flaw / pEir�istEmt pocds ini �tream CI -'I 0- 4 (I -'I ''-- ' nci flciw or szrtur�rtioni =(I; stron flnw = ma� oints 7� � E vid er c�i af p�ast humEini adtenaticmi CI - E 0- 5 (I -'I � e�ensive alteration = 0; nio alteraticin - niana oints 31 R�Flariaoi aonei CI - E 0-4 (I -'I no buffe�i =(I; conti ous, wida buf�er � max oints / q EvidEinae oi niudriEmit an nhEimicial dliscihfir��es CI -'I 0-4 (I -4 �) exienisivei dischar es = 0; r.io dischar es = max oints "�, � �� G Inau nidwfiten dliscihPin��e CI - 31 0- 4 (I - 4 � nb dischar e= 0; s rin s, see s wetlands, e1 c. = max oints �Preiscince of 2id jaciend flciadplain � no flood lain =(I; ei�tan:iive flood lain = max oints CI - 4 0- 4 (I - 2 .} ,� ,� Eni�l neincih meni�l d flciadplai n aciaess CI -� 0- 4 (I - a f a" dee 1 anitranicH ec = 0; &e uent floodin = max oints / 8 Pres enciEi cif adjaiaant weitlanc s CI - E 0- 4 (I - a ,`� no werllzmc s=(I; lar e ad'acent wa�llanc s= max oints _ �� ChPmioiel 9inacisity� CI -'I 0- 4 (I - 31 � extansiva channelization =(I• natural meiander = max oints �� SEidlimcintinE�u1 Q-�I 0-4 (I-4 Q enct�nisivie de osition= 0; litt1a or nai s ec imenl = n aa� oints �� Si� e& dlivensi�ly Qf cibanneil beid substrfnle NA * 0- 4 (I -�I (� fine, homo enous = O; lar e, d1VElISf S1ZQS = II13X oints EviidEinaei of ahanr e�l in�iisian or wicleniing < < ��`� dee 1 incis ac = 0• s tz�ble bad & bzml� s= max oints CI -.,I 0- 4 (I -.,I � ,,,,� PnesenciEi cif majon k ank failuras � �,a„� �"� severe erosion =(I; na erosion, stad lei � anks = m�ac oints CI -� 0- 5 (I -.,I 3 �� Rao�l cleipilli anid dlensit}� cm ti anks d- 31 0- 4 (I -'I �,.� E,, no v�isit le racds = 0; c enise rcio�l9 throu out = max oints !� Impaia�l tiJ� aigniaulturEy livEistocik, ar timbcin praducition < < � "I `_I substantial im act =0; nci eividancei = max oints �I -.,I q- 4 (I -.,I � f Pt eser ciEi cif riffle-pociL ripple-p�ocd camp�leia es �� _?I q- 5 (I - E � na riffles/ri les n� ools = CI; well-develo ed = n� oints ^,' � 1;1 Hfiti itad cicimF�lcizity �I - E q- 6 (I - E �a w little cir na Hadifal = a; fre uent vazieid hzib:itat9 = max oints �1 fl C�miopy ciovena�e over st� eaimt ecl (I -�I q- 9 (I -�I 3 ,�, na shadin ve etation =(]; cior itini aius cano = maa� oints �� Subs�IrafEieimhecldeclnass �� q-4 (I-4 `�'� dee 1 eim� eid dad = 0; loas� structure = max j 20 Pt e9er iciEi cif si � eai�c iin vEir�led rPd es (saei ��age 4) �� _ q a- 9 (I -�I G � no e videncei =(I• common numerous es = ma�c oints � 2� PnesEmcieofeimiF�liibians (I-4 CI-4 (I-4 Q O nio eiv id eince = 0; common, nurr �raus es = maao oints ~ PresEincie of fish CI 22 (I-4 al-4 (I-4 a r io ev id eince = 0; common, numerous es = ma�c oints �3 EWideinciEi cif vr ildlifei uise �I - E al - � (I - _`I � r ia e�i ic enc i� = q; abun daz t e�i id ence = max oints Total Aoints Possihlei ](ICI 1CI0 ](Ial TO'IIAL SICQ R�] � al�io enteu on f rst page) � i * Tlhese c�Ha�a�cnle�iislics a�ie ncR zisse99ad in caa9lzd stileams. NC SAM FIELD ASSESSMENT FORM ►ccompanies User Manual Version 2.1 USACE AID #: NCDWR #: INSTRUCTIONS: Attach a sketch of the assessment area and photographs. Attach a copy of the USGS 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle, and circle the location of the stream reach under evaluation. If multiple stream reaches will be evaluated on the same property, identify and number all reaches on the attached map, and include a separate form for each reach. See the NC SAM User Manual for detailed descriptions and explanations of requested information. Record in the "Notes/Sketch" section if supplementary measurements were performed. See the NC SAM User Manual for examples of additional measurements that may be relevant. NOTE EVIDENCE OF STRESSORS AFFECTING THE ASSESSMENT AREA (do not need to be within the assessment area). PROJECT/SITE INFORMATION: 1. Project name (if any): R-5745, Lenoir, NC 3. Applicant/owner name: NCDOT 5. County: Caldwell 7. River basin: Catawba Date of evaluation: December 11, 2015 Assessor name/organization: Smith/Axiom Nearest named water body on USGS 7.5-minute quad: Lower Creek 8. Site coordinates (decimal degrees, at lower end of assessment reach): 35.923872, -81.504133 STREAM INFORMATION: (depth and width can be approximations) 9. Site number (show on attached map): Lower Creek 10. Length of assessment reach evaluated (feet): 100 11. Channel depth from bed (in riffle, if present) to top of bank (feet): 8-16 ❑Unable to assess channel depth. 12. Channel width at top of bank (feet): 40-75 13. Is assessment reach a swamp steam? ❑Yes ❑No 14. Feature type: �Perennial flow ❑Intermittent flow ❑Tidal Marsh Stream STREAM CATEGORY INFORMATION: 15. NC SAM Zone: ❑ Mountains (M) � Piedmont (P) ❑ Inner Coastal Plain (I) ❑ Outer Coastal Plain (0) 16. Estimated geomorphic �A �� valley shape (skip for Tidal Marsh Stream): (more sinuous stream, flatter valley slope) ❑B (less sinuous stream, steeper valley slope) 17. Watershed size: (skip ❑Size 1(< 0.1 miz) ❑Size 2(0.1 to < 0.5 miZ) ❑Size 3(0.5 to < 5 mi2) �Size 4(>_ 5 mi2) for Tidal Marsh Stream) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 18. Were regulatory considerations evaluated? �Yes ❑No If Yes, check all that apply to the assessment area. ❑Section 10 water ❑Classified Trout Waters ❑Water Supply Watershed (❑I ❑II ❑III ❑IV ❑V) ❑Essential Fish Habitat ❑Primary Nursery Area ❑ High Quality Waters/Outstanding Resource Waters ❑Publicly owned property ❑NCDWR Riparian buffer rule in effect ❑Nutrient Sensitive Waters ❑Anadromous fish ❑303(d) List ❑CAMA Area of Environmental Concern (AEC) ❑Documented presence of a federal and/or state listed protected species within the assessment area. List species: ❑Designated Critical Habitat (list species) 19. Are additional stream information/supplementarv measurements included in "Notes/Sketch" section or attached? ❑Yes �No 1. Channel Water — assessment reach metric (skip for Size 1 streams and Tidal Marsh Streams) �A Water throughout assessment reach. ❑B No flow, water in pools only. ❑C No water in assessment reach. 2. Evidence of Flow Restriction — assessment reach metric ❑A At least 10% of assessment reach in-stream habitat or riffle-pool sequence is severely affected by a flow restriction or fill to the point of obstructing flow or a channel choked with aquatic macrophytes or ponded water or impoundment on flood or ebb within the assessment reach (examples: undersized or perched culverts, causeways that constrict the channel, tidal gates, debris jams, beaver dams). �B Not A 3. Feature Pattern — assessment reach metric �A A majority of the assessment reach has altered pattern (examples: straightening, modification above or below culvert). ❑B Not A 4. Feature Longitudinal Profile — assessment reach metric �A Majority of assessment reach has a substantially altered stream profile (examples: channel down-cutting, existing damming, over widening, active aggradation, dredging, and excavation where appropriate channel profile has not reformed from any of these disturbances). ❑B Not A 5. Signs of Active Instability — assessment reach metric Consider only current instability, not past events from which the stream has currently recovered. Examples of instability include active bank failure, active channel down-cutting (head-cut), active widening, and artificial hardening (such as concrete, gabion, rip-rap). ❑A < 10% of channel unstable ❑B 10 to 25% of channel unstable �C > 25% of channel unstable 6. Streamside Area Interaction — streamside area metric Consider for the Left Bank (LB) and the Right Bank (RB). LB RB ❑A ❑A Little or no evidence of conditions that adversely affect reference interaction ❑B ❑B Moderate evidence of conditions (examples: berms, levees, down-cutting, aggradation, dredging) that adversely affect reference interaction (examples: limited streamside area access, disruption of flood flows through streamside area, leaky or intermittent bulkheads, causeways with floodplain constriction, minor ditching [including mosquito ditching]) �C �C Extensive evidence of conditions that adversely affect reference interaction (little to no floodplain/intertidal zone access [examples: causeways with floodplain and channel constriction, bulkheads, retaining walls, fill, stream incision, disruption of flood flows through streamside area] or too much floodplain/intertidal zone access [examples: impoundments, intensive mosquito ditching]) or floodplain/intertidal zone unnaturally absent or assessment reach is a man-made feature on an interstream divide Water Quality Stressors — assessment reach/intertidal zone metric Check all that apply. ❑A Discolored water in stream or intertidal zone (milky white, blue, unnatural water discoloration, oil sheen, stream foam) �B Excessive sedimentation (burying of stream features or intertidal zone) ❑C Noticeable evidence of pollutant discharges entering the assessment reach and causing a water quality problem ❑D Odor (not including natural sulfide odors) ❑E Current published or collected data indicating degraded water quality in the assessment reach. Cite source in "Notes/Sketch" section. ❑F Livestock with access to stream or intertidal zone ❑G Excessive algae in stream or intertidal zone ❑H Degraded marsh vegetation in the intertidal zone (removal, burning, regular mowing, destruction, etc) ❑I Other: (explain in "Notes/Sketch" section) ❑J Little to no stressors 8. Recent Weather — watershed metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) For Size 1 or 2 streams, D1 drought or higher is considered a drought; for Size 3 or 4 streams, D2 drought or higher is considered a drought. ❑A Drought conditions and no rainfall or rainfall not exceeding 1 inch within the last 48 hours ❑B Drought conditions and rainfall exceeding 1 inch within the last 48 hours �C No drought conditions 9. Large or Dangerous Stream — assessment reach metric ❑Yes �No Is stream is too large or dangerous to assess? If Yes, skip to Metric 13 (Streamside Area Ground Surface Condition). 10. Natural In-stream Habitat Types — assessment reach metric 10a. ❑Yes ❑No Degraded in-stream habitat over majority of the assessment reach (examples of stressors include excessive sedimentation, mining, excavation, in-stream hardening [for example, rip-rap], recent dredging, and snagging) (evaluate for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams only, then skip to Metric 12) 10b. Check all that occur (occurs if > 5% coverage of assessment reach) (skip for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams) ❑A Multiple aquatic macrophytes and aquatic mosses @�, ❑F 5% oysters or other natural hard bottoms (include liverworts, lichens, and algal mats) �� ❑G Submerged aquatic vegetation �B Multiple sticks and/or leaf packs and/or emergent o�' ❑H Low-tide refugia (pools) vegetation Y L ❑I Sand bottom ❑C Multiple snags and logs (including lap trees) L@ ❑J 5% vertical bank along the marsh ❑D 5% undercut banks and/or root mats and/or roots �� ❑K Little or no habitat in banks extend to the normal wetted perimeter ❑E Little or no habitat *********************************REMAINING QUESTIONS ARE NOT APPLICABLE FOR TIDAL MARSH STREAMS**************************** 11. Bedform and Substrate — assessment reach metric (skip for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams and Tidal Marsh Streams) 11a. ❑Yes ❑No Is assessment reach in a natural sand-bed stream? (skip for Coastal Plain streams) 11 b. Bedform evaluated. Check the appropriate box(es). ❑A Riffle-run section (evaluate 11c) ❑B Pool-glide section (evaluate 11d) �C Natural bedform absent (skip to Metric 12, Aquatic Life) 11c. In riffle sections, check all that occur below the normal wetted perimeter of the assessment reach — whether or not submerged. Check at least one box in each row (skip for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams and Tidal Marsh Streams). Not Present (NP) _ absent, Rare (R) = present but < 10%, Common (C) _> 10-40%, Abundant (A) _> 40-70%, Predominant (P) _> 70%. Cumulative percentages should not exceed 100% for each assessment reach. NP R C A P ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Bedrock/saprolite ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Boulder (256 — 4096 mm) ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Cobble (64 — 256 mm) ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Gravel (2 — 64 mm) ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Sand (.062 — 2 mm) ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ SilUclay (< 0.062 mm) ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Detritus ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Artificial (rip-rap, concrete, etc.) 11d. ❑Yes ❑No Are pools filled with sediment? (skip for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams and Tidal Marsh Streams) 12. Aquatic Life — assessment reach metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) 12a. �Yes ❑No Was an in-stream aquatic life assessment performed as described in the User Manual? If No, select one of the following reasons and skip to Metric 13. ❑No Water ❑Other: 12b. �Yes ❑No Are aquatic organisms present in the assessment reach (look in riffles, pools, then snags)? If Yes, check all that apply. If No, skip to Metric 13. 1 >1 Numbers over columns refer to "individuals" for Size 1 and 2 streams and "taxa" for Size 3 and 4 streams. ❑ ❑Adult frogs ❑ ❑Aquatic reptiles ❑ ❑Aquatic macrophytes and aquatic mosses (include liverworts, lichens, and algal mats) ❑ ❑Beetles ❑ ❑Caddisfly larvae (T) ❑ ❑Asian clam (Corbicula) ❑ ❑Crustacean (isopod/amphipod/crayfish/shrimp) ❑ ❑Damselfly and dragonfly larvae ❑ ❑Dipterans ❑ ❑Mayfly larvae (E) ❑ ❑Megaloptera (alderfly, fishfly, dobsonfly larvae) ❑ ❑Midges/mosquito larvae ❑ ❑Mosquito fish (Gambusia) or mud minnows (Umbra pygmaea) ❑ ❑Mussels/Clams (not Corbicula) � ❑Other fish ❑ ❑Salamanders/tadpoles ❑ ❑Snails ❑ ❑Stonefly larvae (P) ❑ ❑Tipulid larvae ❑ ❑Worms/leeches 13. Streamside Area Ground Surface Condition — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams and B valley types) Consider for the Left Bank (LB) and the Right Bank (RB). Consider storage capacity with regard to both overbank flow and upland runoff. LB RB ❑A ❑A Little or no alteration to water storage capacity over a majority of the streamside area �B ❑B Moderate alteration to water storage capacity over a majority of the streamside area ❑C �C Severe alteration to water storage capacity over a majority of the streamside area (examples: ditches, fill, soil compaction, livestock disturbance, buildings, man-made levees, drainage pipes) 14. Streamside Area Water Storage — streamside area metric (skip for Size 1 streams, Tidal Marsh Streams, and B valley types) Consider for the Left Bank (LB) and the Right Bank (RB) of the streamside area. LB RB ❑A ❑A Majority of streamside area with depressions able to pond water >_ 6 inches deep ❑B ❑B Majority of streamside area with depressions able to pond water 3 to 6 inches deep �C �C Majority of streamside area with depressions able to pond water < 3 inches deep 15. Wetland Presence — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider for the Left Bank (LB) and the Right Bank (RB). Do not consider wetlands outside of the streamside area or within the normal wetted perimeter of assessment reach. LB RB ❑Y ❑Y Are wetlands present in the streamside area? �N �N 16. Baseflow Contributors — assessment reach metric (skip for Size 4 streams and Tidal Marsh Streams) Check all contributors within the assessment reach or within view of and draining to the assessment reach. ❑A Streams and/or springs Qurisdictional discharges) ❑B Ponds (include wet detention basins; do not include sediment basins or dry detention basins) ❑C Obstruction passing flow during low-flow periods within the assessment area (beaver dam, leaky dam, bottom-release dam, weir) ❑D Evidence of bank seepage or sweating (iron in water indicates seepage) �E Stream bed or bank soil reduced (dig through deposited sediment if present) ❑F None of the above 17. Baseflow Detractors — assessment area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Check all that apply. ❑A Evidence of substantial water withdrawals from the assessment reach (includes areas excavated for pump installation) ❑B Obstruction not passing flow during low-flow periods affecting the assessment reach (ex: watertight dam, sediment deposit) �C Urban stream (>_ 24% impervious surface for watershed) ❑D Evidence that the streamside area has been modified resulting in accelerated drainage into the assessment reach ❑E Assessment reach relocated to valley edge ❑F None of the above 18. Shading — assessment reach metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider aspect. Consider "leaf-on" condition. ❑A Stream shading is appropriate for stream category (may include gaps associated with natural processes) ❑B Degraded (example: scattered trees) �C Stream shading is gone or largely absent 19. Buffer Width — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider "vegetated buffer" and "wooded buffer" separately for left bank (LB) and right bank (RB) starting at the top of bank out to the first break. Vegetated Wooded LB RB LB RB �A ❑A ❑A ❑A >_ 100 feet wide or extends to the edge of the watershed ❑B ❑B ❑B ❑B From 50 to < 100 feet wide ❑C ❑C �C ❑C From 30 to < 50 feet wide ❑D �D ❑D �D From 10 to < 30 feet wide ❑E ❑E ❑E ❑E < 10 feet wide or no trees 20. Buffer Structure — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider for left bank (LB) and right bank (RB) for Metric 19 ("Vegetated" Buffer Width). LB RB ❑A ❑A Mature forest �B �B Non-mature woody vegetation or modified vegetation structure ❑C ❑C Herbaceous vegetation with or without a strip of trees < 10 feet wide ❑D ❑D Maintained shrubs ❑E ❑E Little or no vegetation 21. Buffer Stressors — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Check all appropriate boxes for left bank (LB) and right bank (RB). Indicate if listed stressor abuts stream (Abuts), does not abut but is within 30 feet of stream (< 30 feet), or is between 30 to 50 feet of stream (30-50 feet). If none of the following stressors occurs on either bank, check here and skip to Metric 22: � Abuts < 30 feet 30-50 feet LB RB LB RB LB RB ❑A ❑A ❑A ❑A ❑A ❑A Row crops ❑B ❑B ❑B ❑B ❑B ❑B Maintained turf ❑C ❑C ❑C ❑C ❑C ❑C Pasture (no livestock)/commercial horticulture ❑D ❑D ❑D ❑D ❑D ❑D Pasture (active livestock use) 22. Stem Density — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider for left bank (LB) and right bank (RB) for Metric 19 ("Wooded" Buffer Width). LB RB �A �A Medium to high stem density ❑B ❑B Low stem density ❑C ❑C No wooded riparian buffer or predominantly herbaceous species or bare ground 23. Continuity of Vegetated Buffer — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider whether vegetated buffer is continuous along stream (parallel). Breaks are areas lacking vegetation > 10 feet wide. LB RB �A ❑A The total length of buffer breaks is < 25 percent. ❑B �B The total length of buffer breaks is between 25 and 50 percent. ❑C ❑C The total length of buffer breaks is > 50 percent. 24. Vegetative Composition — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Evaluate the dominant vegetation within 100 feet of each bank or to the edge of the watershed (whichever comes first) as it contributes to assessment reach habitat. LB RB ❑A ❑A Vegetation is close to undisturbed in species present and their proportions. Lower strata composed of native species, with non-native invasive species absent or sparse. ❑B ❑B Vegetation indicates disturbance in terms of species diversity or proportions, but is still largely composed of native species. This may include communities of weedy native species that develop after clear-cutting or clearing or communities with non-native invasive species present, but not dominant, over a large portion of the expected strata or communities missing understory but retaining canopy trees. �C �C Vegetation is severely disturbed in terms of species diversity or proportions. Mature canopy is absent or communities with non-native invasive species dominant over a large portion of expected strata or communities composed of planted stands of non-characteristic species or communities inappropriately composed of a single species or no vegetation. 25. Conductivity — assessment reach metric (skip for all Coastal Plain streams) 25a. ❑Yes �No Was conductivity measurement recorded? If No, select one of the following reasons. ❑No Water ❑Other: 25b. Check the box corresponding to the conductivity measurement (units of microsiemens per centimeter). ❑A < 46 ❑B 46 to < 67 ❑C 67 to < 79 ❑D 79 to < 230 ❑E >_ 230 Notes/Sketch: This reach of Lower Creek appears to have been relocated for the construction of Wilkesboro Boulevard (NC 18). Stream Site Name R-5745, Lenoir, NC Stream Category Pa4 Draft NC SAM Stream Rating Sheet Accompanies User Manual Version 2.1 Date of Assessment December 11, 2015 Assessor Name/Organization Smith/Axiom Notes of Field Assessment Form (Y/N) YES Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N) NO Additional stream information/supplementary measurements included (Y/N) NO NC SAM feature type (perennial, intermittent, Tidal Marsh Stream) Perennial USACE/ NCDWR Function Class Rating Summary All Streams Intermittent (1) Hydrology LOW (2) Baseflow HIGH (2) Flood Flow LOW (3) Streamside Area Attenuation LOW (4) Floodplain Access LOW (4) Wooded Riparian Buffer MEDIUM (4) Microtopography LOW (3) Stream Stability LOW (4) Channel Stability LOW (4) Sediment Transport LOW (4) Stream Geomorphology LOW (2) Stream/Intertidal Zone Interaction NA (2) Longitudinal Tidal Flow NA (2) Tidal Marsh Stream Stability NA (3) Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NA (3) Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology NA (1) Water Quality LOW (2) Baseflow HIGH (2) Streamside Area Vegetation LOW (3) Upland Pollutant Filtration MEDIUM (3) Thermoregulation LOW (2) Indicators of Stressors YES (2) Aquatic Life Tolerance LOW (2) Intertidal Zone Filtration NA (1) Habitat LOW (2) In-stream Habitat LOW (3) Baseflow HIGH (3) Substrate LOW (3) Stream Stability LOW (3) In-stream Habitat LOW (2) Stream-side Habitat LOW (3) Stream-side Habitat LOW (3) Thermoregulation LOW (2) Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NA (3) Flow Restriction NA (3) Tidal Marsh Stream Stability NA (4) Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NA (4) Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology NA (3) Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NA (2) Intertidal Zone NA Overall LOW NC SAM FIELD ASSESSMENT FORM ►ccompanies User Manual Version 2.1 USACE AID #: NCDWR #: INSTRUCTIONS: Attach a sketch of the assessment area and photographs. Attach a copy of the USGS 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle, and circle the location of the stream reach under evaluation. If multiple stream reaches will be evaluated on the same property, identify and number all reaches on the attached map, and include a separate form for each reach. See the NC SAM User Manual for detailed descriptions and explanations of requested information. Record in the "Notes/Sketch" section if supplementary measurements were performed. See the NC SAM User Manual for examples of additional measurements that may be relevant. NOTE EVIDENCE OF STRESSORS AFFECTING THE ASSESSMENT AREA (do not need to be within the assessment area). PROJECT/SITE INFORMATION: 1. Project name (if any): R-5745 3. Applicant/owner name: NCDOT 5. County: Caldwell 7. River basin: Catawba Date of evaluation: December 11, 2015 Assessor name/organization: Smith/Axiom Nearest named water body on USGS 7.5-minute quad: Lower Creek 8. Site coordinates (decimal degrees, at lower end of assessment reach): 35.924228, -81.503787 STREAM INFORMATION: (depth and width can be approximations) 9. Site number (show on attached map): Stream SA 10. Length of assessment reach evaluated (feet): 100 11. Channel depth from bed (in riffle, if present) to top of bank (feet): 4-6 ❑Unable to assess channel depth. 12. Channel width at top of bank (feet): 20-25 13. Is assessment reach a swamp steam? ❑Yes ❑No 14. Feature type: �Perennial flow ❑Intermittent flow ❑Tidal Marsh Stream STREAM CATEGORY INFORMATION: 15. NC SAM Zone: ❑ Mountains (M) � Piedmont (P) ❑ Inner Coastal Plain (I) ❑ Outer Coastal Plain (0) 16. Estimated geomorphic �A �� valley shape (skip for Tidal Marsh Stream): (more sinuous stream, flatter valley slope) ❑B (less sinuous stream, steeper valley slope) 17. Watershed size: (skip ❑Size 1(< 0.1 miz) �Size 2(0.1 to < 0.5 miZ) ❑Size 3(0.5 to < 5 mi2) ❑Size 4(>_ 5 mi2) for Tidal Marsh Stream) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 18. Were regulatory considerations evaluated? �Yes ❑No If Yes, check all that apply to the assessment area. ❑Section 10 water ❑Classified Trout Waters ❑Water Supply Watershed (❑I ❑II ❑III ❑IV ❑V) ❑Essential Fish Habitat ❑Primary Nursery Area ❑ High Quality Waters/Outstanding Resource Waters ❑Publicly owned property ❑NCDWR Riparian buffer rule in effect ❑Nutrient Sensitive Waters ❑Anadromous fish ❑303(d) List ❑CAMA Area of Environmental Concern (AEC) ❑Documented presence of a federal and/or state listed protected species within the assessment area. List species: ❑Designated Critical Habitat (list species) 19. Are additional stream information/supplementarv measurements included in "Notes/Sketch" section or attached? ❑Yes �No 1. Channel Water — assessment reach metric (skip for Size 1 streams and Tidal Marsh Streams) �A Water throughout assessment reach. ❑B No flow, water in pools only. ❑C No water in assessment reach. 2. Evidence of Flow Restriction — assessment reach metric ❑A At least 10% of assessment reach in-stream habitat or riffle-pool sequence is severely affected by a flow restriction or fill to the point of obstructing flow or a channel choked with aquatic macrophytes or ponded water or impoundment on flood or ebb within the assessment reach (examples: undersized or perched culverts, causeways that constrict the channel, tidal gates, debris jams, beaver dams). �B Not A 3. Feature Pattern — assessment reach metric �A A majority of the assessment reach has altered pattern (examples: straightening, modification above or below culvert). ❑B Not A 4. Feature Longitudinal Profile — assessment reach metric �A Majority of assessment reach has a substantially altered stream profile (examples: channel down-cutting, existing damming, over widening, active aggradation, dredging, and excavation where appropriate channel profile has not reformed from any of these disturbances). ❑B Not A 5. Signs of Active Instability — assessment reach metric Consider only current instability, not past events from which the stream has currently recovered. Examples of instability include active bank failure, active channel down-cutting (head-cut), active widening, and artificial hardening (such as concrete, gabion, rip-rap). ❑A < 10% of channel unstable �B 10 to 25% of channel unstable ❑C > 25% of channel unstable 6. Streamside Area Interaction — streamside area metric Consider for the Left Bank (LB) and the Right Bank (RB). LB RB ❑A ❑A Little or no evidence of conditions that adversely affect reference interaction ❑B ❑B Moderate evidence of conditions (examples: berms, levees, down-cutting, aggradation, dredging) that adversely affect reference interaction (examples: limited streamside area access, disruption of flood flows through streamside area, leaky or intermittent bulkheads, causeways with floodplain constriction, minor ditching [including mosquito ditching]) �C �C Extensive evidence of conditions that adversely affect reference interaction (little to no floodplain/intertidal zone access [examples: causeways with floodplain and channel constriction, bulkheads, retaining walls, fill, stream incision, disruption of flood flows through streamside area] or too much floodplain/intertidal zone access [examples: impoundments, intensive mosquito ditching]) or floodplain/intertidal zone unnaturally absent or assessment reach is a man-made feature on an interstream divide Water Quality Stressors — assessment reach/intertidal zone metric Check all that apply. ❑A Discolored water in stream or intertidal zone (milky white, blue, unnatural water discoloration, oil sheen, stream foam) ❑B Excessive sedimentation (burying of stream features or intertidal zone) ❑C Noticeable evidence of pollutant discharges entering the assessment reach and causing a water quality problem ❑D Odor (not including natural sulfide odors) ❑E Current published or collected data indicating degraded water quality in the assessment reach. Cite source in "Notes/Sketch" section. ❑F Livestock with access to stream or intertidal zone ❑G Excessive algae in stream or intertidal zone ❑H Degraded marsh vegetation in the intertidal zone (removal, burning, regular mowing, destruction, etc) ❑I Other: (explain in "Notes/Sketch" section) �J Little to no stressors 8. Recent Weather — watershed metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) For Size 1 or 2 streams, D1 drought or higher is considered a drought; for Size 3 or 4 streams, D2 drought or higher is considered a drought. ❑A Drought conditions and no rainfall or rainfall not exceeding 1 inch within the last 48 hours ❑B Drought conditions and rainfall exceeding 1 inch within the last 48 hours �C No drought conditions 9. Large or Dangerous Stream — assessment reach metric ❑Yes �No Is stream is too large or dangerous to assess? If Yes, skip to Metric 13 (Streamside Area Ground Surface Condition). 10. Natural In-stream Habitat Types — assessment reach metric 10a. ❑Yes ❑No Degraded in-stream habitat over majority of the assessment reach (examples of stressors include excessive sedimentation, mining, excavation, in-stream hardening [for example, rip-rap], recent dredging, and snagging) (evaluate for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams only, then skip to Metric 12) 10b. Check all that occur (occurs if > 5% coverage of assessment reach) (skip for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams) ❑A Multiple aquatic macrophytes and aquatic mosses @�, ❑F 5% oysters or other natural hard bottoms (include liverworts, lichens, and algal mats) �� ❑G Submerged aquatic vegetation �B Multiple sticks and/or leaf packs and/or emergent o�' ❑H Low-tide refugia (pools) vegetation Y L ❑I Sand bottom ❑C Multiple snags and logs (including lap trees) L@ ❑J 5% vertical bank along the marsh ❑D 5% undercut banks and/or root mats and/or roots �� ❑K Little or no habitat in banks extend to the normal wetted perimeter ❑E Little or no habitat *********************************REMAINING QUESTIONS ARE NOT APPLICABLE FOR TIDAL MARSH STREAMS**************************** 11. Bedform and Substrate — assessment reach metric (skip for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams and Tidal Marsh Streams) 11a. ❑Yes ❑No Is assessment reach in a natural sand-bed stream? (skip for Coastal Plain streams) 11 b. Bedform evaluated. Check the appropriate box(es). �A Riffle-run section (evaluate 11c) ❑B Pool-glide section (evaluate 11d) ❑C Natural bedform absent (skip to Metric 12, Aquatic Life) 11c. In riffle sections, check all that occur below the normal wetted perimeter of the assessment reach — whether or not submerged. Check at least one box in each row (skip for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams and Tidal Marsh Streams). Not Present (NP) _ absent, Rare (R) = present but < 10%, Common (C) _> 10-40%, Abundant (A) _> 40-70%, Predominant (P) _> 70%. Cumulative percentages should not exceed 100% for each assessment reach. NP R C A P ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ � Bedrock/saprolite ❑ � ❑ ❑ ❑ Boulder (256 — 4096 mm) ❑ � ❑ ❑ ❑ Cobble (64 — 256 mm) ❑ � ❑ ❑ ❑ Gravel (2 — 64 mm) � ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Sand (.062 — 2 mm) � ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ SilUclay (< 0.062 mm) � ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Detritus ❑ � ❑ ❑ ❑ Artificial (rip-rap, concrete, etc.) 11d. ❑Yes ❑No Are pools filled with sediment? (skip for Size 4 Coastal Plain streams and Tidal Marsh Streams) 12. Aquatic Life — assessment reach metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) 12a. �Yes ❑No Was an in-stream aquatic life assessment performed as described in the User Manual? If No, select one of the following reasons and skip to Metric 13. ❑No Water ❑Other: 12b. ❑Yes �No Are aquatic organisms present in the assessment reach (look in riffles, pools, then snags)? If Yes, check all that apply. If No, skip to Metric 13. 1 >1 Numbers over columns refer to "individuals" for Size 1 and 2 streams and "taxa" for Size 3 and 4 streams. ❑ ❑Adult frogs ❑ ❑Aquatic reptiles ❑ ❑Aquatic macrophytes and aquatic mosses (include liverworts, lichens, and algal mats) ❑ ❑Beetles ❑ ❑Caddisfly larvae (T) ❑ ❑Asian clam (Corbicula) ❑ ❑Crustacean (isopod/amphipod/crayfish/shrimp) ❑ ❑Damselfly and dragonfly larvae ❑ ❑Dipterans ❑ ❑Mayfly larvae (E) ❑ ❑Megaloptera (alderfly, fishfly, dobsonfly larvae) ❑ ❑Midges/mosquito larvae ❑ ❑Mosquito fish (Gambusia) or mud minnows (Umbra pygmaea) ❑ ❑Mussels/Clams (not Corbicula) ❑ ❑Other fish ❑ ❑Salamanders/tadpoles ❑ ❑Snails ❑ ❑Stonefly larvae (P) ❑ ❑Tipulid larvae ❑ ❑Worms/leeches 13. Streamside Area Ground Surface Condition — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams and B valley types) Consider for the Left Bank (LB) and the Right Bank (RB). Consider storage capacity with regard to both overbank flow and upland runoff. LB RB ❑A ❑A Little or no alteration to water storage capacity over a majority of the streamside area ❑B ❑B Moderate alteration to water storage capacity over a majority of the streamside area �C �C Severe alteration to water storage capacity over a majority of the streamside area (examples: ditches, fill, soil compaction, livestock disturbance, buildings, man-made levees, drainage pipes) 14. Streamside Area Water Storage — streamside area metric (skip for Size 1 streams, Tidal Marsh Streams, and B valley types) Consider for the Left Bank (LB) and the Right Bank (RB) of the streamside area. LB RB ❑A ❑A Majority of streamside area with depressions able to pond water >_ 6 inches deep ❑B ❑B Majority of streamside area with depressions able to pond water 3 to 6 inches deep �C �C Majority of streamside area with depressions able to pond water < 3 inches deep 15. Wetland Presence — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider for the Left Bank (LB) and the Right Bank (RB). Do not consider wetlands outside of the streamside area or within the normal wetted perimeter of assessment reach. LB RB ❑Y ❑Y Are wetlands present in the streamside area? �N �N 16. Baseflow Contributors — assessment reach metric (skip for Size 4 streams and Tidal Marsh Streams) Check all contributors within the assessment reach or within view of and draining to the assessment reach. ❑A Streams and/or springs Qurisdictional discharges) ❑B Ponds (include wet detention basins; do not include sediment basins or dry detention basins) ❑C Obstruction passing flow during low-flow periods within the assessment area (beaver dam, leaky dam, bottom-release dam, weir) ❑D Evidence of bank seepage or sweating (iron in water indicates seepage) �E Stream bed or bank soil reduced (dig through deposited sediment if present) ❑F None of the above 17. Baseflow Detractors — assessment area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Check all that apply. ❑A Evidence of substantial water withdrawals from the assessment reach (includes areas excavated for pump installation) ❑B Obstruction not passing flow during low-flow periods affecting the assessment reach (ex: watertight dam, sediment deposit) �C Urban stream (>_ 24% impervious surface for watershed) ❑D Evidence that the streamside area has been modified resulting in accelerated drainage into the assessment reach ❑E Assessment reach relocated to valley edge ❑F None of the above 18. Shading — assessment reach metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider aspect. Consider "leaf-on" condition. ❑A Stream shading is appropriate for stream category (may include gaps associated with natural processes) �B Degraded (example: scattered trees) ❑C Stream shading is gone or largely absent 19. Buffer Width — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider "vegetated buffer" and "wooded buffer" separately for left bank (LB) and right bank (RB) starting at the top of bank out to the first break. Vegetated Wooded LB RB LB RB ❑A �A ❑A ❑A >_ 100 feet wide or extends to the edge of the watershed ❑B ❑B ❑B ❑B From 50 to < 100 feet wide �C ❑C �C ❑C From 30 to < 50 feet wide ❑D ❑D ❑D �D From 10 to < 30 feet wide ❑E ❑E ❑E ❑E < 10 feet wide or no trees 20. Buffer Structure — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider for left bank (LB) and right bank (RB) for Metric 19 ("Vegetated" Buffer Width). LB RB ❑A ❑A Mature forest �B ❑B Non-mature woody vegetation or modified vegetation structure ❑C �C Herbaceous vegetation with or without a strip of trees < 10 feet wide ❑D ❑D Maintained shrubs ❑E ❑E Little or no vegetation 21. Buffer Stressors — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Check all appropriate boxes for left bank (LB) and right bank (RB). Indicate if listed stressor abuts stream (Abuts), does not abut but is within 30 feet of stream (< 30 feet), or is between 30 to 50 feet of stream (30-50 feet). If none of the following stressors occurs on either bank, check here and skip to Metric 22: � Abuts < 30 feet 30-50 feet LB RB LB RB LB RB ❑A ❑A ❑A ❑A ❑A ❑A Row crops ❑B ❑B ❑B ❑B ❑B ❑B Maintained turf ❑C ❑C ❑C ❑C ❑C ❑C Pasture (no livestock)/commercial horticulture ❑D ❑D ❑D ❑D ❑D ❑D Pasture (active livestock use) 22. Stem Density — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider for left bank (LB) and right bank (RB) for Metric 19 ("Wooded" Buffer Width). LB RB �A �A Medium to high stem density ❑B ❑B Low stem density ❑C ❑C No wooded riparian buffer or predominantly herbaceous species or bare ground 23. Continuity of Vegetated Buffer — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Consider whether vegetated buffer is continuous along stream (parallel). Breaks are areas lacking vegetation > 10 feet wide. LB RB �A �A The total length of buffer breaks is < 25 percent. ❑B ❑B The total length of buffer breaks is between 25 and 50 percent. ❑C ❑C The total length of buffer breaks is > 50 percent. 24. Vegetative Composition — streamside area metric (skip for Tidal Marsh Streams) Evaluate the dominant vegetation within 100 feet of each bank or to the edge of the watershed (whichever comes first) as it contributes to assessment reach habitat. LB RB ❑A ❑A Vegetation is close to undisturbed in species present and their proportions. Lower strata composed of native species, with non-native invasive species absent or sparse. ❑B ❑B Vegetation indicates disturbance in terms of species diversity or proportions, but is still largely composed of native species. This may include communities of weedy native species that develop after clear-cutting or clearing or communities with non-native invasive species present, but not dominant, over a large portion of the expected strata or communities missing understory but retaining canopy trees. �C �C Vegetation is severely disturbed in terms of species diversity or proportions. Mature canopy is absent or communities with non-native invasive species dominant over a large portion of expected strata or communities composed of planted stands of non-characteristic species or communities inappropriately composed of a single species or no vegetation. 25. Conductivity — assessment reach metric (skip for all Coastal Plain streams) 25a. ❑Yes �No Was conductivity measurement recorded? If No, select one of the following reasons. ❑No Water ❑Other: 25b. Check the box corresponding to the conductivity measurement (units of microsiemens per centimeter). ❑A < 46 ❑B 46 to < 67 ❑C 67 to < 79 ❑D 79 to < 230 ❑E >_ 230 Notes/Sketch: Water throughout reach, but no flow. Bottom and leaves covered in silt. Water column filled with iron-oxidizing bacteria fluff. Reach is straight. Stream Site Name R-5745 Stream Category Pa2 Draft NC SAM Stream Rating Sheet Accompanies User Manual Version 2.1 Date of Assessment December 11, 2015 Assessor Name/Organization Smith/Axiom Notes of Field Assessment Form (Y/N) YES Presence of regulatory considerations (Y/N) NO Additional stream information/supplementary measurements included (Y/N) NO NC SAM feature type (perennial, intermittent, Tidal Marsh Stream) Perennial USACE/ NCDWR Function Class Rating Summary All Streams Intermittent (1) Hydrology LOW (2) Baseflow MEDIUM (2) Flood Flow LOW (3) Streamside Area Attenuation LOW (4) Floodplain Access LOW (4) Wooded Riparian Buffer MEDIUM (4) Microtopography LOW (3) Stream Stability LOW (4) Channel Stability MEDIUM (4) Sediment Transport LOW (4) Stream Geomorphology LOW (2) Stream/Intertidal Zone Interaction NA (2) Longitudinal Tidal Flow NA (2) Tidal Marsh Stream Stability NA (3) Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NA (3) Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology NA (1) Water Quality LOW (2) Baseflow MEDIUM (2) Streamside Area Vegetation MEDIUM (3) Upland Pollutant Filtration MEDIUM (3) Thermoregulation MEDIUM (2) Indicators of Stressors NO (2) Aquatic Life Tolerance LOW (2) Intertidal Zone Filtration NA (1) Habitat LOW (2) In-stream Habitat LOW (3) Baseflow MEDIUM (3) Substrate LOW (3) Stream Stability MEDIUM (3) In-stream Habitat LOW (2) Stream-side Habitat LOW (3) Stream-side Habitat LOW (3) Thermoregulation MEDIUM (2) Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NA (3) Flow Restriction NA (3) Tidal Marsh Stream Stability NA (4) Tidal Marsh Channel Stability NA (4) Tidal Marsh Stream Geomorphology NA (3) Tidal Marsh In-stream Habitat NA (2) Intertidal Zone NA Overall LOW Investigator: Education: Experience: Responsibilities: Investigator: Education: Appendix D Qualifications of Contributors Scott G. Davis B.S. Environmental Science - Ecology Senior Scientist, Axiom Environmental, 2008-present Project Scientist, Senior Scientist, EcoScience Corporation, 2004-2008 GIS, figure preparation, and document preparation. Allison Keith B.A. Wildlife Biology, 2010 Experience: Project Scientist, Axiom Environmental, 2015-Present Responsibilities Document preparation. A �� . izw � ..` � � �� '� :�`�" ' ��-=� � � r i� I X� �,�c �� T ,d �� .�-., .,:1`� ' .�'. 'F'. . , .,_ � . .�Y;�'. \`v9 �r��,i .-. <A y ��a.,,� s�, i r><§ ti++�` � ' ` l r �� y`'c, S � � 'f i-: Y. 1 / S �' � - � � _ ��--�-, .--�,� -; P�� —vY-� __ _ - �.r • -�" . _ ' � �� ffi: �� .. �� `- 7i � :� a' � � . .. ' \-. 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