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Home My WebLink About20161075 Ver 1_permit_application_package_20161102Ti�nsportatlon October 31, 2016 Mr. Steve Kichefski Asheviile Regulatory Field Office US Army Corp of Engineers 151 Patton Avenue Asheville, NC 28801.-5006 PAT McCAORY coviernor N[CHOLAS j. ?ENNYSON secr�erary SUBJECT: New roadway construction to extenc� SR 146$ (Sweetwater Road) from US 70 to SR 1.005 (Startown Road), Catawba County Dear Mr. Kichefski: The North Carolina Departrnent ot" Transportation proposes to extend SR 1468 {Sweetwater Road) from US 70 to SR 1005 (Startown Road) which requires the construction af a new 120- foot single barre� culvert in jurisdictio�nal waters. The culvert will be buried one foot per regulation and have one foot sill at the inlet and outlet. Approximate�y 263 feet of oId channel will be filled and a total of 74 feet of new channel will be constructed at the inletloutlet of the new culvert to connect the culvert to the existing stream channel. Seventy-four feet of Class II riprap will be utilized for bank stabilization/stream plug in the area of the new channel construction. A temporary cofferdam purnping system will be used to divert the stream around the construction site during the construction of the culvert. The scope of the work will result in a total of 263 feet of fill impacts to an unnamed tributary to C1ark Creek, which is classified as Class C waters by the Division of Water Resources. There will be 74 feet of stream reconstruction to connect the culvert to the existing stxeam. The banks of the constructed channel will be stabilized with Class II riprap. The riprap also serves as a plug of the old channel. There will be 281 feet of temporary impacts to dewater the culvert site during construction. Mitigation required shall be provided in accordance with the pmcedures detailed in the USACE letter dated September 1, 2004, fram Mr. Ken Jolly to Dr. Gregory J. Thorpe. Attached is a copy of the EEP mitigation request letter for 2b3 feet oi stream relocation impacts. A threatened/endangered species survey in the project area was conducted by consultants in February 2016. It was determined that the project would have no effect on the federally protecter� species listed for Catawba County. A have attached a copy of the final NRTR report prepared by Axiom Environmental. There are currently no known hibernaculum or matemity roost trees in Division 12 counties for NLEB; therefore, the tree cleari.ng associated with this DOT project would be exempted from incidental take under the 4{d} Ruie. I have attached a copy of the NLEB streamlined consultation form. Per guidance from USFWS personnel, concurrence is granted by citing the following website and a 30 day response period is waived. �Nothimg Compares�.`. StateofNorthCamlina I Departmentof7tanaportation � �iviaionafHigl�ways—Divisionl2 1T]0 East Marion Street � P.O. Box 47 � Shelby, NC 26151-0047 704 480 9020 T Sweetwater Road Extension 1'age 2 of 2 October 31, 2016 The project area is not located within 1/2 mile of any critical watershed area nar is SR 1468 a rural or �.u'ban arkerial; tl�erefore, hazardous spill basins are not required. Enclosed is the hazardous spill basin checklist. Thexe are no sites listed on the National Itegister of Historic Places located in the vicinity of the project and the pro}ect has been reviewed and cleared by cultural resources staff {NCDOT Cultural Resources Review — Intemal Tracking No. 15-09-0012). I have enclosed a pre-construction notiiication for a NW#14, plan sheets, NRTR report, stormwater management plan (DWR purposes) and location maps relative to the project. Project infarmation foX the 401 Automated Payment Procedure is as foilows: • WBS Element #: 45532.1.1 . TIP#: NA • Project C�tegory: $240.00 Fee If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me at {704) 480-904�. Thank you for your ti.me and consideration on this matter. Respectful.ly yours, Mark Stafford, P.E. Division Engineer Twelfth Division BY: ' / ! Trish Beam Division 12 Environmental Supervisor oti wAr� r_ _� � q� Office Use Only: � � Corps action ID no. ��`�j� ;; � -� `�,� � i � � t DWQ Project no. �- � Form Veraion 1.3 Dec 1 D 20Q8 Pre-Construction Noti�cation CN Form A. Applicant Informatian 1. Processing 1 a. Type(s) of approval sought from the Corps: I� Section 404 Permit [] $ection 10 Permit 1 b. Specify Nationwide Permit (NWP) number: 14 or General Permit (GP) number: 1c. Has the NWP or GP number been �erified by the Corps? � Yes ❑ No � 1d. 7ype(s) of appro�al sought from the DWQ (check all that apply): � � 401 Water Quali Certification — Re ular ty g ❑ Non-404 Jurisdictional General Permit ❑ 401 Water Quality Certification — Express ❑ Riparian Buffer Authorization � 1e. Is this notification solely for the record For the recard only for �WQ 401 For the record only for Corps Permit: because written approval is not required? Certification: I ❑ Yes � No ❑ Yes � No 'If. Is payment into a mitigation bank or in-lieu fee program proposed for mitigation � Yes of impacts? If so, attach the acceptance letter from mitigation bank or in-lieu fee program. 9g. Is the project located in any of NC's twenty coastal counties. If yes, answer 1 h ❑ Yes below. 1 h. Is the project located within a NC DCM Area of Environmental Concern (AEC)? ❑ Yes 2. Project Information 2a. Name of project: 2b. County: 2c. Nearest municipality 1 town: 2d. Subdi�ision name: 2e. NCDOT only, T.I.P, or state project no: 3. Owner Informatlon 3a. Name(s) on Recarded Deeci: 3b. Deed Boak and Page IVo. 3c. Responsible Parly (for LLC if 3d. Street address: 3e. City, state, zip: 3f. Telephone no.: 3g. Fax no.: 3h. Email address: ❑ No ►�I . ►� . 5weetwater Road (SR 1468} Extension from US 70 to Stattown Road {SR 1005) Catawba Hickory U5510 NC DOT Page 1 of 12 PCN Form — Version 1.3 December 10, 2Q08 Version 4. Apqlicant Informatian (if different from owner} 4a. Appl9cant is: ❑ Agen# ❑ Other, specify: 4b. Name: Marfc E Stafford 4c. Business name N.C. Department of Transportation, Di�ision 12 ,:� -_-�:--��_.. 4d. 5treet addr�ss: 1710 East Marion Street 4e. City, state, zip: Shelby, NC 28151 �4f. Telephone no.: 7d4-480-9020 4g. Fax no.: 704-480-5401 4h. Email address: mestafford@ncdot.go� 5. AgentlConsultant Information (if applicable) 5a. IVame: Trish Beam 5h. Business name N.C. Department of Transportation, Division 12 (if applicable): 5c. 5treet address: 1710 East Marion Street 5d. City, state, zip: Shelby, NC 28151 5e. Telephone no.: 70�-48Q-9044 5f. Fax no.: 704-480-5401 5g. Email address: pdbeam@ncdot.go� Page 2 of 9 2 PCN Form — Version 1.3 Aecember 10, 2008 Version I B. Project Information and Priar Project HisEory 1. Property Identification i 1 a. Property identificatian no. (tax PIN or parcel ID): NA 1 b. Site coordinates (in decimal degrees): Latitude: 35.6962 Longitude: - 81.2844 (l3D.DDDDDD) (-bD.11QQDdD) 1c. Property size: 4.1 acres 2. Surtace Waters 2a. Name of nearest body af water (stream, ri�er, etc.) to UT to Clark Creek proposed project: I 2b. Water Quality Ciassification of nearest receiving water. Class C 2c. River basin: Catawba 3. Project Descr[ption 3a. Describe the existing conditions on the site and the general land use in the viciniry of the project at the time of this application: Forested land adjacent to Catawba Vailey Community Callege (CVCC): 5urrounding landuse designation is cropland and pasture 8� commercial and services. 3b. List the tota� estimated acreage of all existing wetlands on the property: 0 3c. List the total estimated finear feet of all existing streams (intermittent and perennial) an the property: 300 feet 3d. Explain the purpose of khe proposed project: The purpose of the proposed work is to extend SR � 468 (Sweetwater Road) fram US 70 TO 5R 1 a05 (Startawn Raad). 3e. Describe the or+erall project in detail, including the type of eq�ipment ta be used: The North Carolina Department of 7ransportation proposes to extend SR 1468 (Sweetwater Road) from US 70 to SR 1005 {Startown Road) which requires the construction of a new single barre[ culvert in jurisdictional waters. All Best Management Prackices will be utilized during the course of the project. The Project will be constructad using typical hea�y equipment (trackhoe, backhoe, etc.) 4. Jurisdictional Determina#ians 4a. Have jurisdictional wetland or stream determinations by the Corps or 5iate been requested or obtained fo? this property 1 � Yes ❑ No ❑ Unknown project {includir�g aE! prior phases) in #he past. Comments: 4b. If the Corps made the jurisdictianal determination, what lype of determination was made? � Preliminary ❑ Final 4c. !f yes, who de{ineated the jurisdictional areas? AgencylConsultank Company: Name (if known): Other: 4d. If yes, list the dates of the Corps jurisdictional determinations or State determinations and attach documentation. February 19, 2018 5. Project History 5a. Have permits or certifications been requested or obtained for � Yes � No this project (fnclucfing all prior phases) in the past? ❑ llnknown 5b. If yes, explain in detail according ta "help fle" instructions. Page 3 of 12 PCN Form — Version 1.3 pecember 10, Z008 Version 6. Future Project Plans 6a. Is this a phased project? ❑ Yes � No 6b. If yes, explain. Page 4 of 12 PCN Farm — Version 1,3 December 10, 2008 Version C. Proposed Impacts In�entory 1. �mpacts Summary 1a. Which sections were completed below for your project {check all ihat apply): ❑ Wetlands � Streams - tr�butaries ❑ BufFers ❑ Open W aters ❑ Pond Construction Page 5 of 12 PCN Form — Version 1.3 �ecember '[0, 2U08 Version 2. Wetland Impacts If there are wetland impacts pro�osed on the site, then complete this question for each weiland area impacted. 2a. 2b. 2c. 2d. 2e. 2f. Wetland impact Type of jurisdiciion number — Type of impact Type of wetland Forested (Corps - 4Q4, 10 Area of impact Permanent (P) or (if known) DWQ — non-404, other) (acres) Tem ora T W�� P� T ❑ Yes ❑ Corps ❑ No ❑ DWQ W2 � P� T ❑ Yes ❑ Corps ❑ No ❑ DWQ W3 ❑ P❑ T ❑ Yes ❑ Corps ❑ No ❑ DWQ W4 ❑ P❑ T ❑ Yes ❑ Corps ❑ No ❑ DWQ W5 ❑ P❑ 7 ❑ Yes ❑ Corps ❑ !Vo ❑ DWQ W6 ❑ P � T ❑ Yes ❑ Corps ❑ No ❑ DWQ 2g. Total wetland impacts 2h. Comments: 3. Stream Impacts If there are perennial or intermittent stream impacts (including temporary impacts) proposed on ihe site, then complete thEs question fo� all skream sites impacked. 3a. 3b. 3c. 3d. 3e. 3f. 3g. Stream impact 7ype of impact Stream name Perennial Type of jurisdiction Average Impact number - (P�R) or (Corps - 404, 10 stream length Perma�enk (P) or intermittent DWQ — non-404, width (linear Temporary (T) {INT)? ather) {feet) feet) S1 � P❑ T Fill UT to Clark Creek � PER � Corps 1 p 263 ❑ INT � DWQ Stream Construction to S2 � P 0 T �nnect new UT to Clark Creek � PER � Corps 10 75 cul�ert to ❑ INT � DWQ streamlbank stabilization Impervious � p�R � Corps S3 ❑ P� T dikeslTemporary U7 ta Clark Creek � INT � DWQ � 0 281 bypass pumping S4 ❑ P❑ T ❑ PER ❑ Corps ❑ INT ❑ DWQ S5 ❑ P❑ T ❑ PER ❑ Corps ❑ INT ❑ DWQ 56 ❑ P❑ T ❑ PER ❑ Corps ❑ IN7 ❑ DWQ 3h. Total stream and tribatary i�npacts 338" 3i. Comments: 5tream construction and bank stabiliaation impacts in same area. `Parmanent Impacis. Impacts to be mitigated = 263 feet Page 6 of 12 PCN Farm — Version 1.3 December 10, 2008 Version 4. Open Water Impacts If there are proposed impacts to lakes, pands, estuaries, tributaries, sounds, the Atlanfic Ocean, or any other open water of the U.S. then indi�idually �ist all open water impacts below. 4a. 4b. 4c. 4d. 4e. Open water Name of waterbody impact nurnber —� {if applicable) Type of impact Waterbady type Area of impact (acres) Perrnanent (P) or Tem ora T � 01 ❑P❑T � 02 ❑P❑T � 03 ❑POT , 04 ❑P❑T ' � 4f. Total open water impacts 4g. Comments: 5. Pond or Lake Construction If ond or lake cons#ructian ro osed, then com lete the chart below. 5a. 5b. 6c. 5d. 5e. Wetland impac#s (acres) Stream Impacts (feet) Upland Pond ID Praposed use or purpose (acres) number of pond Flooded Filled Excavated Flaoded Filled Exca�ated Floaded P1 P2 Sf. Total 5g. Comments: 5h. Is a dam high hazard permit required7 ❑ Yes ❑ No If yes, permit ID no: 5i. Expected pond surFace area (acres)_ 5j. Size of pond watersh�d (acres): 5k. Method of construction: 6. Buffer Impac#s (for �WQ) If project will impact a protected riparia� buffer, then complete the chart below. If yes, then fndi�idually list all buffer impacts below. If an Rm acks require miti ation, then ou MUST fill out Sec#ion D of this form. 6a. ❑ Neuse ❑ Tar-Pamlico ❑ Other: Project is in which protected basin? ❑ Catawba ❑ Randleman 6b. 8c. 6d. 6e. 6f. 6g. Bu�Fer impact number — Reason Buffer Zone 1 impaet Zone 2 impact Permanent (P) or for 5tream name rnitigation (square feet) (square feet) Tem ora T �m act re uired? B1 ❑P❑T ❑Yes ❑ Mo B2 ❑P❑T ❑Yes ❑ No B3 ❑P❑T ❑Yes • ❑ No 6h. Total baffer impacts 6i. Comments: Page 7 of 12 PCN Form — Version 1.3 December 'E0, 2008 Version D. Imqact Justification and Mitigation 1. Avoidance and Minimization 1a. Specifically describe measures taken to a�oid or minimize the proposed impacts in designing pro�ect. Grassed shoulders in vicinity of culvert. All stormwater discharged at minimal practicable sEopes, yielding minimal �elocities. All proposed stromwater runofF to be discharged as far as possible from the stream and at lowest �elocities practicable. Cul�ert width generally matches stream width. 1 b. Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed 9mpacts through construction techniques. 2. Compensatory Mitigation for lmpacts to Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the State 2a. Does the project require Compensatory Mitigation for � Yes � No impacts to Waters of the U.S. or Wakers of the 5tate? 2b. If yes, mitigation is required by (check all that apply): � DWQ � Corps ❑ Mitigatian bank 2c. If yes, which mitigation option will be used for this � Payment to in-lieu fee program project? ❑ Permittee Responsible Mitigation 3. Complete if Using a Mitigation Bank 3a. Name of Mitigation Bank: 3b. Credits Purchased (attach receipt and letter) Type Quantity 3c. Comments: 4. Complete if Making a Payment ta !n-lieu Fee Program 4a. Approval letter from in-lieu fee program is attached. � Yes 4b. Stream mitigation requested: 526 linear feet 4c. If using stream mitigation, stream temperature: � warm ❑ cool ❑cald 4d. Buffer mitigation requested (DWQ only): 0 square feet 4e. Riparian wetland mikigation requested: 0 acres 4f. Non-riparian wetland mitigation requested: 0 acres 4g. Coastal (tidal) wetland mitigation requested: 0 acres 4h. Comments: 5. Complete if Using a Permittee Responsible Mitigation Plan 5a. If using a permittee responsihle mitigation plan, provide a description of the proposed mitigation plan. Page 8 of 12 PCN Form — Version 1.3 December 10, 2008 Version 6. Baffer Mitigation (State Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules) — required by DWQ Ba. Wii! khe project result in an impact within a protected riparian bufFer that requires ❑ Yes � No buffer mitigation? 6b. If yes, then identify the square feet of impact to each zone of the riparian buifer that requires mitigation. Calculate the amount of mitigation required. 6c. 6d. 6e. Zone Reason for impact Total impact Multiplier Required mitigation {square feet) (square feet) Zone 1 3(2 for Catawba) Zone 2 1.5 6f. Total buffer mitigation required: 6g. If buffer mitigation is required, discuss wi�ai rype of miiigation is proposed {e,g., payment to private m9tigation bank, permittee responsible riparian buffer restoration, payment into an appro�ed in-lieu fee fund). Bh. Comments: P�ge 9 of 12 PCN Form — Version 1.3 December 10, 2008 Version E. Stormwater Management and DifFuse Flow Plan (required by DWQ) 1. Diffuse Flow Plan 1a. Does the project include or is it adjacent to protected riparian buffers 9dentified � Yes � No within one of the NC Riparian Buffer Protection Rules? 1b. If yes, then is a difFuse flow plan included? If no, explain why. ❑ Yes ❑ No Comments: 2. Stormwater Mana ement Plan 2a. What is khe a�erafl percent imperviousness of this project? 40 % 2b. Does this praject require a Stormwater Management Plan? � Yes ❑ No 2c. If this project DOES NOT require a 5tormwater Management Plan, explain why: 2d. If this project DOES require a Stormwater Management P{an, than pro�ide a brief, narrative description of the plan: All stormwater wili be discharged at minimum practicable slopes, yielding minimum velocities. All proposed stormwater runoff is discharged as far away from the stream and at lowest velocities as practicable. ❑ Certified Local Govemmenk 2e. Who will be responsible for the re�iew of the Stormwater Management Plan? ❑ DWQ Stormwater Program � DWQ 401 Unit 3. Certified Local Government Starmwater Review 3a. In which local government's jurisdiction is this project? NA ❑ Phase II 3b. Which of ihe following locally-implemented stormwater managemenk programs ��SW apply {check all that apply): ❑ USMP ❑ Water Supply Watershed ❑ Other: 3c. Has the approved 5tormwater Management Plan with proof of appraval been ❑ Yes ❑ No attached? 4. DWQ 5tormwater Pro ram Re�iew ❑ Caastal counties ❑ HQW 4a. Wfi�ich of the following state-implemented stormwater management programs apply � pRW (check all that apply}: ❑ Session Law 2006-246 ❑ Other: 4b. Has the approved Stormwater Management Plan with proof of approval been attached? � Yes ❑ No 5. DWQ 401 Unit Stormwater Rer►iew 5a. Does the Stormwater Management Plan meet the appropriate requirements? � Yes ❑ No 5b. Have all of the 401 Unit submittal requirements been met? � Yes ❑ No Page � 0 of � 2 PCN Form — Version 1.3 December 10, 2008 Version F. Supplementary Information 1. Environmental pocumentation (DWQ RequirerrEent) 1 a. Does the project invalve an expenditure of public (federalls#atellocal} funds or the � Yes ❑ No use af public (federallstate) land? 1 b. ff you answered "yes° to the above, does the project require preparation of an environrr�ental document pursuant io the requirements of the National or State ❑ Yes � No (North Carolina) Environmentaf Policy Act {NEPAISEPA)? 3 c. If you answered 'yes" to the above, has the document review been �nalized by the State Clearing House? (If so, attach a capy af the NEPA or SEPA final approval letter.) ❑ Yes ❑ Na Comments: 2. Violations (DWQ Requlrement) 2a. Is the site in �iolation of DWQ Wetland Rules {15A NCAC 2H .0500), Isolated Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H .1300), DWQ Surtace Water or Wetland Standards, ❑ Yes � No or Riparian Buffer Rules (15A NCAC 2B .0200)? 2b. Is this an after-the-fact permit application? ❑ Yes � No 2c. If you answered "yes" to one or both oi the above questions, provide an explanation of the violat{on(s): 3. Cumulative Impacts (DWQ Requirement) 3a. Will tMis project (based on past and reasonably anticipated future impacts) result in � Yes � No additional der+elopment, which could impact nearby downstream water quality? 3b. If you answered "yes" to the abo�e, submit a qualitati�e or quantitati�e cumulative impact analysis in accordance with the most recent DWQ policy. If you answered "no," pro�ide a short narrati�e description. 4. 5ewage Disposal (DWQ Requirement) 4a. Clearly detail the ulkimate treatment methods and disposition (non-discharge or discharge) of wastewater generated from the proposed project, or available capacity of the subject facility. No wastewater is generated from project. Page 11 of 12 PCN Form — Version �[.3 December 10, 2008 Version 5. Endangered Species and Designated Critical Habitat (Corps Requirement} 5a. Will this project occur in or near an area with federally protected species or � Yes � No habikat? 5b. Have you checked with the 11SFWS concerning Endangered Species Act � Yes ❑ No impacts? ❑ Raleigh 5c. If yes, indicate the USFWS Field Office yau ha�e contacted. � Asheville 5d. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact Endangered Species or Designated Critical Habitat? NC Natural �ieritage Program databaselonsite surrreys conducted by Axiom Environmental. 6. Essential F�sh Habitat (Corps Requirement) 6a. Will this project occur in or near an area designated as essential fish habitat? ❑ Yes � No 6b. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site wauld impact Essential Fish Habitat? No salt marshes, oysier reefs, or seagrass beds located in vicinity of project. 7. Historic or Prehistoric Cultural Resources (Corps Requirement] 7a. Will this project occur in or near an area that the state, federal or tribal go�emments ha�e designated as ha�ing historic or cultural preservation � Yes � No status {e.g., National Historic Trust designation or properties significank in North Carolina history and archaeology)? 7b. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact historic or archeolvgical resources? Cultural Resources Review {In#emal Tracking # 15-09-0012) 8. Flood Zone Designation (Corps Requirementj 8a. Will this project occur in a FEMA-designated 100-year floodplain? ❑ Yes � No 8b. If yes, explain how pra3ect meets FEMA requirements: 8c. What source{s) did you use to make the floodplain determination? htkp:llfris.nc.go�l & NCDOT Hydraulic Design Report � ,� �' �-� j� �31-/S� �� ApplicanklAgent's Printed Name Applican Agen s ignature Date (,�qent's signature is valid only if an auitiorizatian letter from the applicant is rovided. 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'�:+:`'� ., y, Q 0.5 1 2 .. �° ` MIIes +,� .�:` '. ��b�i '� . � .. , , ' � � ��"�"" �, tdORTH CAROLIWA DEPAR�M�NT ti�aa_., •- - ,�w ,,.•^-.,,_-. .�` �, OF TRANSPDR�fATION � „-.�, •Y � '... � } �� : DNISION OF HlGFiWl1YS 1� ALE7LAFf�ER� � .�� CALDWEL� � � �, ..��' . , ',,� ��w � �'..�.....+.�,��Y. 1'� � iREL�i, LL ''�'' -y' 'A�� V1GIN�TY AriAP � � �u ��.. � � � �..�,, �¢ �� ' � SR 146$ (SWEETWATER ROAD) f� 4 cnT�wsA � EXTENSIQN FROM 1% '�y � � US 70 #o SR 10fl5 (STARTOWN ROAD) .�-�-,.._...�_..� i � t �y �"�� r� CATAW�ACOUNTY T!P kJ-5510 � �� LfhtCDLN �� '��,`�, 7�r � OCTOBER 2016 F�GURE '! � _ `� ,. NATURAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT SR 14G8 (Sweetwater Road) Extension from US 70 ta SR 1005 (StarEown Road} Catawb� County, NC TTP U-5510 WBS Element No. 45532.1.1, THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Project Development and Environmental Analysis Unit Natura� Environment Section March 2016 TAELE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................1 2.4 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 ......................................................................................... 3 4.1.3 Terrestrial Community Impacts ...................................................................................... 4 4.2 Terrestrial Wildlife ............................................................................................................. 4 4.3 Aquatic Communities ......................................................................................................... 5 4.4 Invasive Species ................................................................................................................... 5 5.0 J[JRISDICTIONAL ISSUES .................................................................................... 5 5.1 Clean Water Act Waters of the II.S ................................................................................... 5 5.2 Clean Water Act Permits .................................................................................................... 5 5.3 Coastal Area Management Act Areas of Environmental Coucern ................................. 6 5.4 Construction Maratoria ...................................................................................................... 6 5.5 N.C. River Basin Buffer Rules ........................................................................................... 6 5.6 Rivers and Harbors Ac� Section 10 Navigable Waters ....................................................6 5.7 Wetland and Stream Mitigation ........................................................................................ b 5.7.1 Avoidance and Miniimization of Impacts......... .......................................................... 6 5.7.2 Compensatory Mitigation of Impacts ......................................................................... 6 S.8 Endangered Species Act Protected SQecies ....................................................................... 6 5.9 B�ld Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act ...................................................................9 5.10 Essential Fisb Habitat ....................................................................................................... 9 6.0 REFERENCES .........................................................................................................10 Appendix A F�gures Figure l. Vicinity Map Figure 2. Project Study Area Map Figure 3. Jurisdictional Features Map Figure 4. Terrestrial Communities Map Appendix B Scienti�c 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 Table2. Water resources in the study area ................................................................... 2 Table 3. Physic�l characteristics of water resources in the study area ....................... 3 T�ble 4. Coverage of terrestrial communities in the study area .................................. 4 Table 5. Jurisdictional characteristics of water resources in the study area ............. 5 Table G. Federally protected species listed for Catawba County ................................ 7 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP U-S510, Catawha Couniy, N. C. 1,0 INTRODUCTION The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes 1} to extend SR lq�b8 (Sweetwater Road) from U.S. Highway 70 to the intersection of SR 1005 {Startown Road) and SR 1148 (Robinwaod Road}. The following Natura� Resources Technical Report (NRTR} has been prepared to assist in the preparation o£ a Categorical Exclusion (CE) for the proposed projec�. 2.0 VIETHODQLOGY AND Q�CTALIFICATIONS A11 work was conducted in accordance with the NCDQT Natural Environn�ent Section standa�rd operating proced.�res and July 2012 NRTR template. Fie1d work was conducted an September 30 and October 7, 2015. Siudy area jurisdictional areas were verified by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE} or the N.C. Division of Water Resources (NCDWR) on February 19, 2016. The principal personnel contributing to this dacument were: Principal Investigator: Education: Experience: Responsibi�ities: Scott G. Davis B.S. Environmental Science — Ecology, 1997 Senior Scientist, Axiom Environmental, 2008-present Project Scientist, Senior Scientist, EcoScience Corporation, 2004-2008 Wetland/stream delineatians and assessments, GYS, figure preparation, document preparation, natural community identification and assessment, T&E species surveys, benthic invertebrate suTveys, amphibian surveys, and botanical surveys. Investigator: Allison Keith Education: B.A. Wildlife Biology, 2010 Experience: Project Scientist, Axiom Environmental, 2015-Present Responsibilities Wetland/stream delineations and assessments, natural community identificatian and assessment, GIS, T&E species surveys, figure preparation, and document preparation. An additional person who cantributed to portions of �he field work and/or documentation for this project was Alexander P. (Sandy) Smith. Appendix D lists tlze qualifications of this cantributor. March 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report 1T1' v-3��u, Catawba County; N.C. 3.0 PHYSICAL RESOURCES The study area (Figure 2) Iies within the Piedmon# 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 920 feet to 1038 feet above mean sea level. The project vicinity is heavily developed, and land use in the vicinity consists primarily of commercial development along the LTS 70 corridor, surrounded by residential development and wooded riparian areas. 3.1 Soils The Web Soil Survey identifies six soil types within the study area (Table 1). Table 1. Soils in the study area Soil Series MapP�� Drau�age Class gYdric Unit Status Clifford Sand Loam Cf We11 Drained Non-h dric Dan River Loam Da Well Drained Hydric* Fairview Cla Loam Fa Well Drained Non-h dric Kinkora Loam Kn Poorly Drained Hydric Tomlin Loam Tm Well Drained Non-hydric Tomlin Clay Loam To Well Drained Non-H dric *- Soils which are primarily non-hydric, but wtuch may contam hydrtc mclusions 3.2 Water Resources Water resources in the study area are part o£the Catawba River basin [i1.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Hydrologic Unit 03050102]. Initially, two perennial streams (Streams SB and SD) and two potentially intermittent streams (Streams SA and SC) were identified in the study area. As a result of the agency verification visit on February 19, 201b, the project area has been determined to include only two jurisdictional streams, the perennial streams (Streams SB and SD) {Table 2). The location of these water resources are shown on Figure 3. The physical characteristics af these streams are provided in Table 3. T�ble 2. W�ter resources in the study area Stream Name Map ID NCDWQ Index Sest Usage Number Classification UT to Clark Creek SB 11-129-5.{03}b C UT to Clark Creek SD 11-129-5. 03 b C 2 March Z016 Naturad Resources Technical Report TIP U 5510, Catawba Counry, N.C. Table 3. Physical characteristics of water �esources in the study area Map Bank Banl�full Water Ch�nnel Ve�ocity Clari#y ID Hei t ft Width (ft De th (in) Substrate SB 5-8 6-S 2-6 Sand, gravel Moderate Clear SD 4-10 8-15 2_6 Sand, gravel, Moderate Clear bedrock There are no designated anadromous fish waters or Primary Nursery Areas (PNA) present in �he study area. There are no designated Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), High Quality Wa#ers (HQW}, or water supply watersheds (WS-I or WS-In within the study area or within 1.0 mile downs�ream of the study area. No streams within the study area are included in the North Carolina 2014 Fina1303(d) list o£impaired waters. No benthic or fish surveys have been conducted within 1.0 mile downstream of tl�e study area. 4.0 BIOTIC RESOi7RCES 4.1 Terrestrial Commnnities Two terrestrial communities were identified in the stu�y area.: MaintainedlDist�zrbed and Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest. Figure 4 shows the locatian and extent of these terrestrial communities in the study area. A brief description of each community type follows. Scientific names of al1 species identified are included in Appendix B. 4.1.1 Maintained/Disturbed Maintai.ned/Disturbed areas are located throughout the study area along roadways and woodland edges, within utility line corridors, and in areas that have been developed for residential, industrial, and commercial uses or timbered and graded in prepazation for development. These are places where the vegetation is periodically mowed, such as roadside shoulders and industrial/commercial lawns. The vegetation within roadsides and maintained lawns is generally comprised of law-growing grasses and herbs, including fescue, clover, wild geranium, wi.ld onion, broomsedge, chickweed, and henbit. Vegetation along the margins af maintained roadsides and in recent clear-cut areas are dominated by woody shrubs and saplings such as Chinese privet, blackberry, red maple, eastern box elder, sycamore, and tuiip-tree, and including herbs such as ]apanese stilt- grass, goldenrod, common pokeweed, southern crownbeard, and Japanese knotweed, and woody �vines such as kudzu, muscadine, wisteria, and common greenbrier. 4.1.2 Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest The mixed pine/hardwood forest community gener�ly occurs along st�tearn corridors and on adjacent slopes and ridges within the study area. Hardwoods tend to dominate 3 March 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP U-5510, Catawba County, N. C. floodplains and adjacent slopes. Dominant species in lower areas al.ong stream corridors include sycamore, tulip-tree, river birch, sourwoad, hickories, red maple, black oak, white oak, willow oak, and water oak in the overstory, and flowering dogwood, American hornbeam, and Chinese privet in the understory. Vines are prevalent and include muscadine, common greenbrier, kudzu, poison ivy, and trumpet creeper. Herbs are generally sparse and include Southem lady fern, Christmas fern, southern crownbeard, giant cane, and Japanese stilt-grass. Doxninant species on slopes and ridges include Virginia pine, American beech, Northern red oak, red maple, hickories, and sweetgum in the overstory, and flowering dogwood and Chinese privet in the understory. Vines include muscadine, common greenbrier, kudzu, paison ivy, and trumpet creeper, and herbs including blackberry, southern crownbeard, Christmas fern, common pokeweed, and cornmon ground-pi�e. 4.1,3 Terrestrial Community Impacts Terrestrial communities rnay be impacted by project construction as a result of grading and paving of }�ortions o£ the study area. At this time, decisions regarding the final location and design of road unprovements 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 irnpacts to each cornmunity type will be calculated. Table 4. Coverage of terrestrial communities in the study area 4.2 Terrestrial Wildlit'e 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 comrnonly exploit open areas as well as forested habitats and stream corridors found within the study area include eastern cottontail, gray squirrel, raccoon*, Virginia opossum, groundhog, coyote, and white-tailed deer*. Birds that commonly use forest and forest edge habitats include the red-shouldered hawk, American crow*, blue jay, Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, Carolina wren, downy woodpecker, yellow-bellied sapsucker, white-throated sparrow, an� yellow-rumped wa.rbler. Birds that may use the open habitat within the study area include red-tailed hawk, northern mockingbird, eastern bluebird*, eastern meadowlark*, American robin, common grackle, and turkey 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, white-spotted slimy salamander, and northern dusky salarnander. 4 March 101 b Natural Resources Technical Report 4.3 Aquatic Communities TIP U-SSIO, Catawba County, N.C. Aquatic communities in the study area consist o£relatively small perennial Piedmont streams. Streams within the study area could support sma11 fish species such as rosyside dace, greenfin shiner, spotfin shiner, golden shiner, and bluehead chub, amphibians including green frog, pickerel frog, and three-lined salamander, and a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates. 4.4 Invasive Species Four 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), Japanese stilt-grass (Threat), kudzu (Threat), and Japanese lrnotweed (Threat). NCDOT wi�i 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 i� Appendix C. Also included with these forms are forms documenting the ephemerai nature of two streams removed from jurisdiction during the agency site visit. 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 far the purposes of stream mitigation. Table 5. Jurisdictional characteristics of water resources in the study area gth Compeusatory River Basin Map ID �' �f�� Cl�ssitication ��ation Required Buff�r . SB SD Total 448 Perennial 683 Perennial 1131 Yes � Not Subj ect Yes � Not Subiect No jurisdictional wetland areas were identified within the study area. 5.2 Ciean Water Act Permits The proposed project is a linear transportation project, and as a result, a Nationwide Pennit (NWP) 14 will likely be appticable. Temporary construction activities such as stream dewatering, work bridges, or temporary causeways that are often used during bridge and roadway construction may also authorized unde�r NWP 14. The USACE 5 March 2016 Naturad Resources Technical Report TIP U-5510, Cafawba Counry, N.C. holds the final cliscretion 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} frorn the NCDWR will be needed. 5.3 Coastal Area Man�gement Act Areas of Environmental Concern No Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Areas of Environmental Concern {AEC) were identafied in the study area. 5.4 Canstruction Mor�taria There are no trout waters within the study a�ea, and Catawba County is not a designated trout caunty. 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 Caralina 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 We�land and Stream Mitigation 5.7.1 Avoidance and Minimizatian af Impacts The NCDOT wi11 attempt to avoid and minimize impacts ta streams and wetlands to the greatest extent pracricable in choosing a preferred alternative and during project design. At this dme, no final decisions have been made with regard to the location or design of the preferred alternative. 5.7.2 Compensatory Mitigatian of Irnpacts 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 �easible, mitigation will be provided by the North Carolina Department af Environment Quality Division of Mit�gation Services (DMS). 5.8 Endangered Species Act Protected Species As of Apri12, 2015, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (LT�FWS} lists three federally protected sp�cies for Catawba County. A brief description of these species' 6 March 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP U-5510, Catuwba Couniy, N.C. habitat requi�rements follows, along with the Biological Conclusion rendered based on documentation and survey results in the study area. Habitat requirements for these species are based on the current best available information from referenced literature andlor USFWS. Table b. Federally protected species listed for Cat�wba County Name septentrfonalis elaanthus schweinitzai E - Endangerec T -'ifireatened Common Name Northern long-eared bat Dwarf-flowered heartleaf Schweinitz's sunflower Northern long-eared bat USFWS optimal survey window: May-August Federsl Ha�itat Status Pxesent T Yes T Yes E Yes Biological Conclusion May Affect, Not Likely to Adversely Affect No Effect No Effect Habitat Description: During surnmer, northern long-eared bats roost singly or in colonies underneath bark, in cavities, or in crevices of both live and dead tree.s. Ma1es and non-reproductive females may also roost in cooler places, like caves and mines. This bat seems apportunistic in selecting roosts, using tree species based on suitability to retain bark or provide cavi�ies or crevices. It has al�o been found, rarely, roosting in structures like barns and sheds. Northern long-eared bats spend winter hiberna,ting in caves and mines, caZled hibernacula. They typically use large caves or rnines with large passages and entrances; constant temperatures; and high humidity with no air cuirents. Specific areas where they hibernate have very high humidity, so much so that droplets af water are often seen on their fur. Within hibernacula, surveyors find them in small crevices or cracks, often with anly the nose and ears visible. Biological Conclusion: May Affect, Not Likely to Adverse�y 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 22, 2016, indicates no known northern long-eared bat occurrence with�a 1.0 mile of the study area. A review of the USFWS Asheville Ecological5ervices Field Office web page (ht�at ://www.fws.gov/asheville/htmis/ proiect review/NLEB in WNC.htrnl) on February 22, 2016 indicates no confirmed hibemation and maternity si#es for this species occur in Catawba County. 7 March 2016 Natural Resources Technica7 Report TIP U-55I0, Catawba County, N. C. Dwarf-flowered heartleaf USFWS optimal survey window: March-May Habitat Description: Dwarf-flowered heartleaf is endemic to the western Piedrnont and foothills of North and South Caralina. This herbaceaus evergreen is found in moist to rather dry forests along bluifs; boggy areas next to streams and creek heads; and adjacent hillsides, slopes, and ravines. Requiring acidic, sandy loam 50115, 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 PiedriondCoastal 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 distusbed habitats, including logged, grazed, mown, and residentiallcommercial 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 rnay exist witlun the study area in forested areas. A review of NCNHP records on February 22, 2016 indicates one known occurrence of dwarf-flowered heartleaf within 1.0 mile of the study area. Systematic surveys of suitable habitat within the study area were conducted by Axiom biologists on February 19, 2016. No individuals of Hexastylis sp. were identified; therefore, no further surveys are needed. Schweinitz's sunflower USFWS Optimal Survey Window: Late August-October Habitat Description: Schweinitz's sunflower is endemic #o the Piedxnont of North and South Carolina. The few sites where this rhizomatous perennial herb occurs in relatively natural vegetation are found in Xeric Hardpan Forests. The species is also found along roadside right�-of-way, maintained power lines and o�ther utility rights-of-way, edges of thickets and a1d pastures, clearings and edges of upland oak-pine-hickory woads and Piedmont longleaf pine forests, and other sunny or semi-sunny habita#s where disturbances (e.g., mowing, clearing, grazing, blow- downs, storms, frequent fire) help create open or partially open areas for sunlight penetration to the ground. This sunflower is intolerant of full shade and excessive competition froin other vegetation. Schweinitz's sunflower occurs in a variety of soil series, including, but not limited to, Badin, Cecil, Cid, Enon, Gaston, Georgeville, Iredell, Mecklenburg, Misenheimer, Secrest, Tatum, Uwharrie, and Zion. This sunflower is generally faund growing on shallow sandy soils with high gravel content; shallow, poor, clayey hardpans; or shallow, rocky soils, especialiy those derived from mafic rocks. $ March 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP U-S510, Catawba County, N.C. Biological Conctusion: No Effect. Suitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower occurs within the study area along the margins of roadways, along woodland edges, and within cleared areas and utility line corridors. Systematic surveys of suitable habitat within the study area were conductad by Axiom biologists on September 30, 2015. l�To individuals of this species were identified. In addition, a review of NCNHP records on Feb�ruary 22, 2016 indicates no known occurrences of this species witl3in 1.0 mile of the study STES. 5.9 Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act Habitat for ihe bald eagle primarily consists of mature forest in proximity to large bodies of open water for foraging. Large dominant trees are ntitized %r n,esting si#es, 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 2, 2015 using 2010 color aerials. No water bodies large enough ar sufficiently open to be considered potential f�eding sources were identified. Since there was no foraging habitat witlun the review axea, a survey of the project study area and the area within 6b0 fee� of the project limits was nat conducted. Additionally, a review of the NCNHP database on February 22, 2016 revealed no known occurrences of this species within 1.0 mile of the project study area. Due to the la.ck of habitat, known occurrences, and minunal impact anticipated for this project, it has been determined that this pzoject will not affect this species. 5.10 Essential Fish Habitat No areas of Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) were identified within the study area. 9 Murch .2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP U-SS10, Catawba Counry, 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: Hougl�ton 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. Be11, 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 III. 1980. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Caralinas and Virginia. Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press. 2b4 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, 3`� ed. Washington, D.C. National Geographic Society. N.C. Departlnent of Environment and Natural Resources, Division af Water Resources. 1:24,000-scale Hydragraphy with Water Quality Classifications Digital Data. http•lldata.nconemap.comlgeoportallcatalo�/mainlhome.page (Accessed: October 2, 2015). N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality. 2008. Biological Assessments. Catawba River Basin. h:ll ortal.ncdenr.or web/w /ess/r orts (Accessed: October 2, 2Q15). N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quaiity. 2043. Basinwide Assessrnent Report: Catawba River Basin. Raleigh, North Carolina. h:ll ortal.ncdenr.or web/w lesslr orts (Accessed: October 2, 2015}. N,C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality. 2014. Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List {2014 Fina1303{d) list). hrip•//portal ncdenr.or�/c/document librarvl�et file?uuid=9d45b3b4-dQb6- 4619-82e5-ea8ea0e01930&groupId=38364 (Accessed: October 2, 2015). 10 March 2016 Natural Resources Technical Report TIP U-SSIO, Catawba County, N. C. N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Natural Heritage Program. 2015. Natural Heritage Program Digital Data. htt�://data.nconemap.com/ geoportal/catalog/main/horne.pa�e. {Accessed: October 2, 2015}. N.C. Department of Transportation. 2012. Invasive Exotic Plants of North Caralina. Newcomb, L. 1977. Newcomb's Wildflower Guide. Boston: Little, Brown and Compariy. 490 pp. Peterson, R.T., editar. 1980. A FieZd Guide to the Birds of Eastern and Central North America, 4th ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. 3$4 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. Manua1 af the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill: University of North Cazolina Press. 1183 pp. Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities af North Carolina: Third Approximation. Natural Heritage Program, Division of Parks and Recreation, N.C. D�partment of Envixonment, Health, and Natural Resources. Raleigh, NC. 325 pp. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. Soil Survey Sta£f. 20I4. Web Soil Survey. Available online at: ht ://websoilsurve .nres. usda.gov (Accessed: October 2, 2015). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2047. Dwarf-flowered heartleaf {Hexastylis naniflora) 5-Year Review: Suminary and Evaluation, Draft. Asheville, NC. 51 pp. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Northern Long-earad Bat — what it means for your proj ect. httn://www.fws.gov/asheville/htmis/ rp oiect�review/NLEB in WNC.html. (Accessed: February 22, 201 b) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1994. Schweinitz's Sunflower Recovery Plan. Department of the Interior, Atlanta, GA. 28 pp. U.S. Fish and Wildli% Service. 2006. Optirrial Survey Windows for North Caralina's Federally Threatened and Endangered Plant Species. http:/lwww.fws.gov/nc- eslplant/plant surve, .�. (Accessed: �ctober 2, 2015). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 4: Southeast Region, North Carolina Ecological Services. 2012. Tbxeatened and Endangered Species in North Carolina: Catawba 11 March 2016 Natural Resaurces Technical Report TIP U-5510, Catawba County, N.C. County. Updated Apri12, 2014. http:l/www.fws.�ov/raleighl species/cntylisticatawba.h�nl. (Accessed: October 2, 2015}. U.S. Geological Survey. 1993. Hickory, North Carolina, Topographic Quadrangle (7.5- minute series}. Reston, VA: 1 sheet. Weakley, A1an. 2012. Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States: Working Draft of 30 November 2012. University af North Carolina Herbarium (NCL�, North Carolina Botanical Garden, University af North Carolina, Chapel Hill. 1225 pp. Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell, and W.C. Biggs. 1985. Mamrnals of the Carolinas, Virginia, at�d Maryland. Chapel Hill, University of North Carolina Press. 255 pp. 12 March 201 b Appendix A �gures Appendix B Scientific Names of Species Identified in Report P�ants Cornmon Name Americar� beech American hornbeam Black oak Braornsedge Blackberty Chickweed Chinese privet Christmas fern Clover Common greenbrier Common ground-pine Common pokeweed Eastern box elder Fescue Flowering dogwood Giant cane Goldenrod Henbit Hickories Japanese knotweed Japanese stilt-grass Kudzu Muscadine Northern red oak Poison :ivy Red maple River birch Sourwood Southern crownbeard Southern lady fe�n Sweetgum Sycamare Trumpet creeper Tulip-tree Virginia pine Water oak White oak Wild geranium Scientific Name Fagus grandafolia Carpinus caroliniana Quercus vedutina Andrapogon sp. Rubus sp. Stellaria media Ligustr�rra sinense Poly.rtachum acrostichofdes Trffolium sp. Smila� rotundifolaa D��adrolycopodiurra obscurum Phytolacca americaraa Acer negundo Festuca sp. Cornus f 1`orada Arundaraaria gigatatea Solidago sp. Lamium ample.acicaule Carya spp, Reynoutraa japoraica Microstegium vimineum Pueria montana Muscadania rotundifolia Quercus rubra Toxicodendron radicans Acer rubrum Betula nigra Oxydendrum arboreum Tjerbesina occidentalas Athyrium aspdenioides Laquidarrabar styraciflua Pdatanus occidentalis Campsas radicans Liriodendron tulipifera Pinus virgiraiana Quercus nigra Quercus alba Geranium carolinianum Wild onion Willow oak Wisteria Animals Cornmon Name American crow American rabin American toad Bald eagle Bluehead chub Bluejay Carolina chickadee Carolina w�ren Comman grackle Copperhead Corn snake Coyote Downy woadpecker Eastern bluebird Eastern box turtIe Eastem cottontail Eastern fence lizard Eastern meadowlark Fiv�lined skink Golden shiner Crray squirrel Green frog Greenfin shiner Crtaundhog Northern dusky salamander Northern mockingbird Pickerel frog Raccoon Rat snake Red-shouldered hawk Red-tailed hawk Rasyside dace Southern leopard frog Spotfin shiner Spring peeper Three-Iined salamander Tufted titmouse Allium sp. Quercus pheldos Wisteria sp. Scientific Name corvris brachyrhynchos Turdus rnigratorius Bufo americanus Haliaeetus leucocephadus Nocomis leptacephalus Cyanocitta cristata Poecile carolinensis Thryothorus ludoviciaraus Quiscalus quiscula Agkistr�adon contortrax Elaphe guttata Canis latrans Picoides pubescens Sialia siadis Ter�t�apetae caroliraa Sylvilagus floridanus Scelopor�us undudatus Sturnelda magna Eurneces anthracinus Notemagonus csysoleucas Sciurx�,s carolinensis Rana cdamitans Notripis chloristius Marmota monax Desmognathus f�scus Mimus polyglottus Rana palustris Procyon lotor Elaphe obsoleta Buteo li�aeatus Buteo jamaacen,sis Clinostomus funduloides Rana utricularia Cyprinella spiloptera Hyla cr�ucifer Eurycea guttolineata Baeodophus bicolar Turkey vulture Virginia opossum White-spotted slimy salamander White-tailed deer White-throated sparrow Yellow-bellied sapsucker Yellow-rumped warbler Cathartes aura Didelphis virginiana Plethodon cylindraceus Odocofleus virginianus Zonotrichia albicollis Sphyrapacus variu.r Setophaga coronata Appendix C Stream Forms Appendix D Qualifications of Contributors Investigator: Alexander P. {Sandy) Smith Education: B.S. Biology, 1983 M.S. Marine Biology, 1988 Experience: Senior Project Manager, Axiom Environmental, 2008-present Senior Project Manager, Vice-President, EcoScience Corporafion, 1998-200$ Senior Project Manager, Environmental Services, Inc., 1993-1998 Scientist, CZR, Inc., 19$8-1993 Responsibilities: Project coordi�nation, document preparation, and T&E species documentation Mitigratian Services FNYIqO NN8N7pL AUAL ITY PAT MCCRORY DONALD R. VAN DER VAART Ms. 'lri�h �eam NCDOT Di�ision 12 Environmental Supervisor North Cerolina Department of Transportation P. O. Box 47 SheFby, Narth Caroliaa 28151-0047 Dear Ms, Beam: October 1�, 2015 Subject: Mitigation Acceptance I.etter: Division 12 Pmject, TIP NumberjJ 551�, F,�rtend SR 1468 (Sweetwater Roa�) from US 70 to SR 1405 (Starto�vn Road), Catawba County The purpose of this letter is to notify you that the Division of Mitiga#ion 5ervioes {DMS) will provic}e the ao:pn�en�atory stream miti�ation f�r the subject projec#. Based an the infox�matiou received on acta'ber 14, 2016, tl� impacts sre located in CU 03050IO2 of the Cataw� Riv��r ba�itt ia the Ceatral Piedmont (CP) Ecv-Region, and are as follows: Csta�vba Sixeana Wetlends Buffer (Sq. Ft,) 03050i42 Non- Coastal Gp Cold Cool Warm Riparian .�� M�h Zone l Zone 2 Taaapacts Q p 263.0 0 0 0 0 0 fs�lacres This impact and associated mitigation need were under projeeted by the NCDOT iu t�e 2016 im�ct data, DM5 will commit to implement suf�'icient compensatory stream mitigation credits ta offset the irnpacts associated with @iis projact as determined by tha regul�tory agencies using the delivery timelina 1isted in S�ction F.3.c.ii� of �he �n-Lien Fee Instrumcnt dateci July 2&, 2010. If the aba�e referanced impact amounts are re�isod, then this xnitigation acceptance letter will no longer be valid and a aew :aitigatioa acceptsnce lebter will be requir+ed from DMS. 8420. If you have any questions or need additional iuforn�ation, please contact Ms. Beth Hamion at 919-707- � � �� .,• „� James B, Suu�iill Credit Manageinent Supervisor cc_ Mr. Steve Kichafski, USACE — AsheviIle Regulatory Field Ofiice Ms. Linda Fitxpatric�c, NCDOT — PDEA File: SR 1468 — Division 12 smte of 1Vath Carol�ns Fsvironmeolal Quality , Mii�a�iom sorvices 1652 Mail Servioe Centae � Z17 W. ipnoa 6ireet Sui�e 3000 j Ralei�h. NC 27604-1652 919 T07 89T6 T North Eared B uie Sfreamlined Rnliatioa F Fedaral e� ahaild uae tbis f�arm for the opiiamel �Iiaed. comeultation fx�mewa� fnr the narthem la� �'«� �(NLH�B). 'T�ig framewo�c allows fed�al �ie� to r�ely upon tite v.s. Fish ana wilatife service's (USFWS) Jam�sry 5, 2Q16, intra�eavice Pro�e Biological Qpiai�n (BO) on tt� fina14(d) rule f�r tlu NLEB for section 7(s)(2} oomplianve by: {1) not�ring the USFWS that an action age�uy tvill use the st�l�,ad &a�ework; i� descn'bing the pmject with se�'ici�at d�il to suppa�t the required detc�mination; and (3) emabliug the U3FW8 to track e�ect� aad det�miva if r�a4�� of consultstian ie required per SO CFIt 402.1 b. Tb�s form is nat necessary if an a�ency determia� t�at a p�oposed actian will 1=ave no eSoct to the NLEB a� if the U5FWS bas ooncwred in vvrit�ng with an agency's detenninstion thst a p�opoacd action may affect, ba�t is n�c likely ta adr►�eiy affect the NLEB (i.�., th� staa�+d inf'ormal can�itation pince�sa}. Ac�i+oms that m�y c�use prohibited incide�rtal taloe �quire �epa�ate forma! consultation. Fro�i�ding this infa�atioa does not addrese sectioon 7(a� crnn,pliaaoe �or any ot�r �s�tad rpecies. Informatton to Deterrnine 4(d) Rule Ca ce: 1. Dces t�e project occur wha�lly outside of ihe WNS 2. Have �au contacted �e ap�opriate a�ncy� to deter�nine � ��a fl� �►i�. �oo� m�� 3. Could the p�ojcct distarb �g NLEHe ia a lmowxi 4. Coa1d t� pmject alter t�e catrance ar inte�ian� envirnnme hibemaculum? 5. Does tbe proj ect �ve any trees wifhin U.25 milea of a �y� almown hi'bernaculum at � ❑ � � 6. Would tl� piroject cut ar t�,oy known occ�ed maternity r�aost trees, or �ny ❑ � ot�Cer �eea within $150-f�t raditfs fram the maternity roast troe fromn Jtme 1 throu�rh Julv 31. You are eligi'ble ta use t#�is form if you h$ve enswe�ed yes ta questian #1 � yes bo qu�io� #�2 �ad no to quesfions 3, 4, 3 aud 6. The remainde�r of the form will be used by fi� U�FWS to track our assump#ians in tl� BO. Ag�cy and Applfcaat� (Nmm� Emei1, Phn�e No,): NCI]OT, Divi�ian 12� Trieh Beam, , 7U4-48Q-9044 Prnject Name: U-5510 Project Loc�tion (incl�de 000rdinate� if l�ov�n}: �asic Prajeet Deecrlpfion {pmovide narrative below or atta�h additional inforrnaii�oa): Sweatwate�r Road (SR 14�8} EamcAsion from US 7U to St$rbown RQad (SR 1 aQ5} in Catawba County 1 http:llwww.iws.gov/midwe�t/emdanger+ed/�nala/nlc�pdflWNSZone.pdf � See http:l/www.fi�vs.gov/midwesdead�oge�l . .tes.html � Tf appflcable - o�ly aeedad for fiodaa�l aclions with appli�caat� (e.g., for a pe�mi� etc.) whn are petty io fihe condultntiosn. Does the pruje�ct occur within 4.25 mil� of a]�own hbernacUlum7 Does the pxoject occur within 1 SO feet of a lcnawn ma#emil.y rooa� trce7 Does the pmj ect include fareat conversion4? (if yes, repart acreage helow) Estimated tot81 acres of forast conversion If l��wn, estimated �cre� of fo�est canversian from If known, esiimated acres of fonest ca�nversion fi�om: Does the proj ect include timber h�arvest? (if yes, report ac�a� Estimated tatal acres of timber harvest l'f estimat�d acres of timber �arvest from If b�own, cstimated acres of timher harvest fram Jur 1 to to J �w) 31 Dces #he proj ect includ�e grescribed �re? (if yes, report acreage below) Estimat�d total acres of preacrihed fire If kn es�imated acres of criUed fire from ` I to Octo}� If lmown, estipaated acres of 'bed fire fro;n June 1 to Jul 31 Docs the prnj ect inskall new wind turbines? (if yes. report ca�itY in MW Estimated wind cavac�itY f MVi� e�c D '�: By si�g t�is foam, the acfiion agency determine� tlnat this �oject may affect �e NL,EB, but that any resultin� incide�tal take af the NGEB is �ot �molu'bi�ed by the final 4(d} rule. If the USFWS does not respond witbin 30 day�s fi�om �ubmittaY af this fortn, the e,ctiam a�cy snaY presume i�hat its de�termination is infarmed by the best availahle information and that its project res�aonsibilities under 7(a)(2) with respect �a tha NLEB are fulfilled thnough the USFWS 7anuary 5, 2016, Pro�tic BO. The ection agency will update thia detenninstion anm�ally �ar mnilti-year activitiea. The action agency uaderatands t�t the USFVVS pres�mes tba# a11 activities at'e imple�cnted as deacribed he�in. 'l'he action agency will praml�Y �� Y deP�a fi+a� the des�ibed activities t� the appmpriate USFWS Field �ffice, The action agency will pr+ovide the appropriate U5FWS Field Offioe with the r�sults of any surveys conductad for the NLEB. Involved parti� wil1 promPtlY m�otify the appropriabe USFRiS Field Office upcm f nding a dead, inju�t+ed, ar sick NLEB. � f, Sigt�ature- TJate Submitt�d: �r- �� 4,e��y �py��y ��nrerily o� permaaeatly reno�ov�es �uitahle fom,�ted l�abitat, inchuling,l�vut siot limit�d ta, � x�moval s� alev�elopa�nt, �► P�du�ciion �a i�smis�ian, minin8, �cufdme, eGc. (see �e as of rv�e sa). 5 If the �oject removes ieea t�a 14 t�ess and du aaresge is u�lmowa, ieFa�t flu ac�g$ es lc�a t� 0.1 acre. 6 If the activity iaclt�das trx olosring in 7�m�e aed JuIY� alsa include thosa a�age � April to Ootaba'. YIM r{�y Nath Carolina DepartmeM of TransPortatlon { I ?+�.�Mt�7,9ti:ti,�s[I:'!'- .€ `'�#; ,,•_� Highway Stormwat,er Program ._�,,��", � STORAAWATEl� MANAGE119Ei�i PL,AN I {ValsldY 206; Ralesaed June II016) FOR R'CqbT PRDJEC78 i WBS E�ement: 45532.1.1 TIP No.: U-5510 Coun ies : Catawba Pa e 2 of 2 B to Cuivert Avoidance and Mlnlmizanan � Pro ed 5tructure Summa Sheet Na. 8� Station Sheet No.: 7 Station: -L- 24+g3 Number of Barrels: 1 Dralrta e Area ac or s mi : 0.37 5. Miles Barrel WidthlDiamater 1 p Surface Water So : 1 lark Creek garrel Hel ht ft: 7 Reir�foroed Concrete Box Cuhrert Culvert Len h fi 12 ' Avofdance and Minimizadon Effarts: Gulvert wfll be buried 1' and have 1' sills. (Brldge to Culvert) 5tream 510 Fish andlor A uaflc Life Passa e Existin Avera e Stream Slo �: 0.88 9b Exisiing Low Flow Channel Dimenslons 8' to 13' wide by 1.0' high Pro Culvert Slo 96 : 1.25 % in the Stream: Culvert Burial Pro Culvert Burlal �e ft : 1 Exlsting Strreambed Materlel: 5and, silt Proposed Low Flow Dimenslons 18' wide by 0.8' high Through the Culrert: Proposed SIIIsIBaffles: 6ased on proposed culvert slope and length, no interior 6affles required. A i ft sifl is proposed at the S ng ow ow e ocities in the upsiream and downslream irnerts af the culvert. ��am �$ : 2.9 ropose ow ow e oci es roug the Culvert ftls : 3.7 Altemating Low F1ow SillslBafflas: No CulrertlStream Wi nment Stream Patterns Upstream and Cul�erl width generally matches stream width. Propased bw flow depth should be similar lo exisling. Downstream of the Culvert that Could Affect Fish Passage and Bank Sta6111ty: Bed Fortns Impacted by Culvoert (riftles, NIA pools, glides, atc.]: Low �low Floodpisin Baneh Required� No � Tradianal benches not rewmmended due to srngle barrel cul�erl. A Class !I Rip Rap lir►�d bench is shown in SE quad to dlssipate (provlde justlflcatlan] discharge from 36' pipe 8� ditch ouilets. Sharp Bends at InletlOutlet'r Pb (descrlbe culvert alignment vrith stream Stream Realignment Necessar� (provide No jusliRcatlon} Bank Stablllzatlan: Class If Rip Rap on geotextile on cut slopes and to plug exisling stream. utlet Veloclties Natural Strsam Channel Valocl s: e.1 Naiural �tream Channal 1 eloel s: 4.4 Pro Culvert 2- Ouklet elocl s: e.1 P ased Culvert 1 Oullet Veloef a: 4.3 Ro GeoMefric Consideratlons EvaluatelDescribe Roa Gearnetrlc Constralrtts: WA ,. �.� ".," �orth CerbHna Department of 7rdr�sportalfon ,i li�wzl�r _ -- � `'�= �—:-:<<.+-�,11..e�;:i�."'a;-�� ,p�-;. --- .e.n�, HighavayStnrtm�aterProgrem ✓ STOR11�4�dATEii PotANAGEMENT PLAM [Vers�6n P c�•i. '2ekasea June 2u16) FOA NCpOi PRp3FC73 WBS Element 45632.'[.1 TIP No.: U-5510 Cou ies : Catawba Pa e 1 of 2 Gen�al P lniormation VYBS Element: 45532.1.1 TIP Num6er U-5514 Pro act Uate: iQ111l2016 NCDpT Contact: Marc T. Shown, PE Corrtractor ! Desl ner. TGS En Ineers David B. Pe +Addr'ess. 1590 Mail Service Center +�dre�+� 70B Hillsborough St. Ralelgh, NC 27699 Suite ZOD Ralei h NC 27fiO3 Phone: 919-707�751 Phone: 919-773-8887 Ext 704 Ema[I: mshown ncdat. ov Emafl: d sen ineers.com C �; Hicko Gou les : Catawba River Basin s: Catawba CAMA Coun No WetEands within P'ecl Llmks? No p ect pescri wn Pro act I.an lin. miE� or feat : 2966' Surroundin Land Use: �o�t, Semi-urtian, Communily Collsge, Residerrtial p osed et,y Ex�stm S�te Pro ect Bullt-U on Area ac. 4.7 ac. 7.5 ac. Typical Cross Secdon Descriplion: Two 12' wide paved travel lanes in vicinity ofthe culverlwilh 2'$' Curb & Gutter on each N!A side. 7he laft sida has a 4.5' grassed shoulder and a 5' side walk. The rigM side has a 9.5' gressed shoulder. Both sides have 2(H):1{Vj grassed side slopes in ttie vicinity of ihe culverL Mnual Avg Daily Treffic (vehThrldayj: f]esi rJFuture: 8300 Year. 2034 Existi : 43U0 Y�r. 2011 General Project Marraf{ve: Construction of Culvert for road on new IocaUon connecting Ro6inwoad Rd (51� 114$} and 21 st Dr SFJUS 70 over UT tn Clark Creek In Catawba Courriy, NC. Proposed (flascriptlon of Minimizatlon of Water 1�70'X7' RC6C skewed at 110 dagrees. The proposed grede is about 12' a6ova existing overbanks in the vicinity of the proposed culvert. Bridge to culverl ffib filled aut ta �uallty Impacts) provide addiUonal data. All stormwaterwlll 6e discharged at minlmum practicable slopes, yielding minimum velvcRies. All Qroposed stormwaler runoff Is discharged as far away from Ehe siream and 8t lowesl velocitles as practicable. Sanitary sewer is to be ]nstalled parallel to siream, 46'+ outside jurisdictional area. Water line is l0 6e installed in roadway embankmerrt along westem shoulder crassing 1 D' above culvert. No impacts due ta proposed ulilities. Surfaca Water B 1: C[ark Creek NC�WR Stream Mdex Na.: 11-129-5 0.3 NC�WR SurFace Water Cfassiflcatlon for WaMr 9ody p��ma ClassNicatfon: Class C Su IemeMal ClassiflcaUon: iVone Ofher Stream Classificaflon: Nane Im irmeMs: None uatic T8E S eclas? No Commerds: NRTR Stream I�: SD Buffer Rules In Etfect: NIA P ect Includes Brid e S nnln Water No Deck Dralns Discha e Over Buffer? N!A Dlssi r Pads Provldad In Buffe� NlA � �eck Drsins Dlscha e Over Watar Bod N!A {If yes, provide justiflcatlon in lhe General Projed Nartative) (If yes, descrlbe In the General ProJect Narrative; if no, justify in the If s, pro+ride ustification in lhe General Pro ecl Narra6ve General Project Narradve) NCDOT HAZARDOUS SPILL BASIN CHECKLIST Division: 1 � County: (,'.atawh� Projec� ID: U-5510, 45532.1.1 River Basin: Catawba Bridge No: NA Route: SR 1468, Sweetwater Road Extension Cree, Class C Waters Water Oualitv Criteria: Stream: UT to Claxk Stream Crossing Bh�e Line On USGS ORW WSI WS II,IrI OR N, Crossing Witbin 0.5mi of W.S. Critical Area Roadwav Criteria: Route Designation- Arterial Urban Arterial Rwra1 Addi�ional Site Information: Is a Hazardous Spill Basin Required? Yes No Yes No � � Criteria Bas�d Upon NCDOT "Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters" (March, 1997). Yes No