NC0004987_Marshall BIP Final_20140916

ASSESSMENT OF BALANCED AND INDIGENOUS POPULATIONS
IN LAKE NORMAN NEAR MARSHALL STEAM STATION
NPDES Permit No. NC0004987
Principal Investigators:
Michael A. Abney
John E. Derwort
William J. Foris
DUKE ENERGY
Environmental Services
McGuire Environmental Center
13339 Hagers Ferry Road
Huntersville, NC 28078
October 2014

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors wish to express their gratitude to a number of individuals who made significant
contributions to this report. First, we are much indebted to the Environmental Monitoring
field staff in carrying out a complex, multiple -discipline sampling effort that provides the
underpinning of this report. Glenn Long, David Horne, and Courtney Flowe contributed to
water quality sample collections. Mark Auten, Kim Baker, Bob Doby, and David Coughlan
contributed to fisheries collections and sample processing. James Hall, Aileen Lockhart,
Shannon McCorkle, and Jan Williams contributed in macroinvertebrate sampling, sorting and
taxonomic processing.
We would also like to thank multiple reviewers including Jason Brown and Tom Thompson.
ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.................................................................................................. iv
LISTOF TABLES............................................................................................................... vi
LISTOF FIGURES............................................................................................................. vii
CHAPTER 1- INTRODUCTION........................................................................................1-1
CHAPTER 2- STATION OPERATION............................................................................
2-1
BACKGROUND INFORMATION................................................................................2-1
THERMALDATA.........................................................................................................
2-2
CONCLUSIONS.............................................................................................................
2-3
CHAPTER 3- MACROINVERTEBRATES......................................................................
3-1
MATERIALS AND METHODS....................................................................................3-1
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION.....................................................................................
3-2
Substrate.......................................................................................................................
3-2
WaterQuality...............................................................................................................
3-2
Taxa..............................................................................................................................
3-2
Density.........................................................................................................................
3-3
MajorTaxonomic Groups............................................................................................
3-3
EPT Densities and Taxa Richness...............................................................................
3-5
CONCLUSIONS.............................................................................................................
3-6
CHAPTER 4- FISH..............................................................................................................
4-1
MATERIALS AND METHODS....................................................................................4-1
Spring Electrofishing Surveys.....................................................................................
4-1
Summer Electrofishing Surveys..................................................................................
4-1
Fall Hydroacoustic and Purse Seine Surveys...............................................................
4-2
Balanced and Indigenous Assessment.........................................................................
4-2
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION.....................................................................................
4-3
Spring Electrofishing Surveys.....................................................................................
4-3
Summer Electrofishing Surveys..................................................................................
4-4
Fall Hydroacoustic and Purse Seine Surveys...............................................................
4-5
CONCLUSIONS.............................................................................................................
4-5
LITERATURE CITED.......................................................................................................
L-1
in

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Annual monitoring of physicochemical characteristics and assessments of macroinvertebrate
and fish populations at selected locations in Lake Norman continued through 2013, in
accordance with Duke Energy's agreement with the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources. This report presents data collected from 2009 through
2013. Results of data analyses completed since submittal of the previous report in 2008 are
reported and support renewal of the existing permitted thermal limits for Marshall Steam
Station (MSS).
The continuous operation of MSS from 2009 through 2013 was similar to previous years.
Monthly average discharge water temperatures at MSS were in compliance with National
Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitted thermal limits of 93.9 F (34.4
C) from July 1 through October 31, and 91.9 F (33.3 C) the rest of each year, over this
five-year period.
Sampling of macroinvertebrate communities continued during 2009 — 2013. Water
temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels, measured at each location since 2005, do not
suggest any negative impact to the benthic communities. Macroinvertebrate data exhibit
substantial variability; however, the variability is consistent with that observed for historical
data. Although taxa numbers were somewhat lower during 2009 — 2013 as compared to 2004
— 2008, macroinvertebrate densities were generally similar between the two study periods.
Current study results indicate that, overall, the macroinvertebrate densities and taxa diversity
observed during 2009 — 2013 at locations uplake, downlake, and in the vicinity of MSS are
indicative of balanced and indigenous macroinvertebrate populations.
A diverse fish community was present in the littoral surveys of Lake Norman near MSS from
2009 to 2013. Spring and summer electrofishing surveys documented 28 and 19 species,
respectively, both numerically dominated by centrarchids, especially bluegill. Pollution -
tolerant species comprised less of the spring MSS fish population relative to the reference
area, and comprised only 16.6% of individuals collected during summer surveys. The
assorted fish species typically found in Lake Norman near MSS encompass multiple trophic
guilds (i.e., insectivores, omnivores, and piscivores) supporting a balanced fish community.
Non -indigenous species such as spotted bass and green sunfish are abundant near MSS, but
are also prevalent throughout Lake Norman.
iv

Annual hydroacoustic estimates from fall 2009 to 2013 showed the regular availability of
pelagic forage fish near MSS. Fall purse seine surveys indicate that threadfin shad continue
to dominate the Lake Norman forage fish community with a consistent alewife composition
of approximately 5% after 2004. Based on the catch per unit effort of littoral fish during
spring, total length distributions of resident important species during summer, and the regular
availability of forage fish, it is concluded that the thermal discharge of MSS has not impaired
the Lake Norman fish community.
Comparison of MSS operation and environmental monitoring data indicate that balanced and
indigenous populations of macroinvertebrates and fish continue to exist in Lake Norman in
the vicinity of MSS. This supports a conclusion that the present thermal limits should be
maintained when the MSS NPDES permit is renewed.
u

LIST OF TABLES
Table
Title
Page
1-1
Description of Lake Norman sampling locations in the vicinity of the MSS,
CatawbaCounty, NC.................................................................................................. 1-2
2-1
Marshall Steam Station CCW flow rate for each unit for 1, 2, and 3 -pump
operation...................................................................................................................... 2-4
3-1
General descriptions of the substrate found at Locations A, B, F, and E in the
vicinity of MSS during July of 2009 — 2013. Substrates are listed in order of the
most prevalent type first. Organic matter (om) is typically composed of small
sticks, leaf and/or grass fragments, etc........................................................................ 3-8
3-2
Dissolved oxygen and temperature measured near the sediments at the time of
macroinvertebrate collection from locations A, B, F, and E from July 2009 —
2013............................................................................................................................. 3-8
3-3
Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No ./M2) from each Lake Norman sampling
location during summer sampling in 2009..................................................................
3-9
3-4
Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No./m2) at each Lake Norman sampling
location during summer sampling in 2010................................................................
3-11
3-5
Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No./m2) at each Lake Norman sampling
location during summer sampling in 2011................................................................
3-13
3-6
Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No./m2) at each Lake Norman sampling
location in during summer sampling in 2012............................................................
3-15
3-7
Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No./m2) at each sampling location in Lake
Norman during summer sampling in 2013................................................................
3-17
4-1
Total number of individuals, percent composition, and total number of species in
spring electrofishing surveys from two areas (MSS and REF) in Lake Norman,
1993 — 1997 and 1999, 2000 — 2003, 2004 — 2008, and 2009 — 2013 ........................ 4-6
4-2
Total number of individuals, percent composition, and total number of species in
summer electrofishing surveys from three areas near MSS (above, in the vicinity
of, and below the discharge canal) in Lake Norman, 1991-1993, 1994 —1999,
2000 — 2003, 2004 — 2008, and 2009 — 2013.............................................................. 4-7
4-3
Pelagic forage fish species composition from purse seine surveys in Lake
Norman, 1993 — 2013.................................................................................................. 4-8
vi

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Title Page
1-1 Sampling locations on Lake Norman. Duke Energy historical sampling location
numbers are listed in parentheses................................................................................ 1-3
2-1 The monthly average water temperature of the condenser cooling water
discharged from MSS from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2013 ................. 2-5
3-1 Total number of taxa collected annually from Lake Norman in the vicinity of
the vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013.................................................................... 3-22
3-8 Densities (No./m2) of Trichoptera collected annually from Lake Norman in the
vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013.......................................................................... 3-22
3-9 Densities (No./m2) of Megaloptera from Lake Norman in the vicinity of MSS
from 2009 to 2013..................................................................................................... 3-23
3-10 Annual densities (No ./M2) of Spheariidae from Lake Norman in the vicinity of
MSS from 2009 to 2013............................................................................................
3-19
3-2
Densities (No./m2) of macroinvertebrates collected annually from Lake Norman
in the vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013................................................................
3-19
3-3
Densities (No./m2) of Oligochaeta collected annually from Lake Norman in the
vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013..........................................................................
3-20
3-4
Densities (No./m2) of Chironomidae collected annually from Lake Norman in
the vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013....................................................................
3-20
3-5
Density (No./m2) of Oligochaeta, Diptera, and Corbicula collected annually from
Location F (mid -lake near MSS) from 2000 — 2008 .................................................
3-21
3-6
Densities (No ./M2) of Corbicula collected annually from Lake Norman in the
vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013..........................................................................
3-21
3-7
Densities (No./m2) of Ephemeroptera collected annually from Lake Norman in
the vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013.................................................................... 3-22
3-8 Densities (No./m2) of Trichoptera collected annually from Lake Norman in the
vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013.......................................................................... 3-22
3-9 Densities (No./m2) of Megaloptera from Lake Norman in the vicinity of MSS
from 2009 to 2013..................................................................................................... 3-23
3-10 Annual densities (No ./M2) of Spheariidae from Lake Norman in the vicinity of
vii
MSS from 2009 to 2013............................................................................................
3-23
3-11
Annual densities of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Tricoptera (EPT in no./m2)
from Lake Norman in the vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013 ................................
3-24
3-12
Annual Ephemeropteran/Plecopteran/Trichoptern (EPT) richness from Lake
Norman in the vicinity of MSS from 2009 to 2013 ..................................................
3-24
4-1
Locations associated with spring electrofishing and fall purse seine surveys, and
zones associated with fall hydroacoustic survey of Lake Norman .............................
4-9
4-2.
Total number of fish collected in spring electrofishing surveys from two areas
(MSS and REF) in Lake Norman, 1993 — 1997 and 1999 — 2013 ............................
4-10
4-3
Biomass of fish collected in spring electrofishing surveys from two areas (MSS
and REF) in Lake Norman, 1993 — 1997 and 1999 — 2013 ......................................
4-10
4-4
Total number of fish species collected in spring electrofishing surveys from two
areas (MSS and REF) in Lake Norman, 1993 — 1997 and 1999 — 2013 ...................
4-11
4-5
Length distribution of bluegill among survey locations in summer electrofishing
surveys near MSS in Lake Norman, 2009 — 2013 ....................................................
4-11
vii

LIST OF FIGURES (continued)
Figure Title Page
4-6 Length distribution of redbreast sunfish among survey locations in summer
electrofishing surveys near MSS in Lake Norman, 2009 — 2013 ............................. 4-12
4-7 Length distribution of spotted bass among survey locations in summer
electrofishing surveys near MSS in Lake Norman, 2009 — 2013 ............................. 4-12
4-8 Pelagic forage fish density estimates by zone in Lake Norman, late summer/early
fall1997 — 2013........................................................................................................ 4-13

CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
Annual monitoring of physicochemical characteristics and assessments of macroinvertebrate
and fish populations at selected locations in Lake Norman continued from January 2009
through December 2013 (Table 1-1 and Figure 1-1), in accordance with Duke Energy's
agreement with the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
(NCDENR). Physicochemical and biological data were collected at locations near Marshall
Steam Station (MSS) and included a location upstream of the facility (Location A), two sites
within the immediate projected impact of MSS's discharge (Locations B and C) and three
downstream recovery sites (Locations D, E, and F), presumably outside the influence of the
effluent plume (Figure 1-1).
The objectives of this on-going monitoring program are to provide an assessment of the
balanced and indigenous nature of the biological populations in Lake Norman with respect to
the thermal discharge from MSS and evaluate renewal of thermal limits at the station. The
thermal limit for MSS is a monthly average discharge (i.e., end -of -pipe) temperature limit of
93.9 F (34.4 C) from July 1 through October 31, and 91.9 F (33.3 C) the rest of each
year.
Regulatory review of past studies has determined, pursuant to Section 316(a) of the Clean
Water Act, that the thermal discharge of MSS ensures the protection and propagation of
balanced, indigenous populations in Lake Norman. This report presents data collected since
submittal of the previous summary reports (Duke Power Company 1994; Duke Power 1999,
2004a; Duke Energy 2009a) and includes data collected from 2009 through 2013. These data
were also compared with other past and present on-going environmental monitoring
programs conducted in this watershed.
1-1

Table 1-1. Description of Lake Norman sampling locations in the vicinity of MSS, Catawba County, NC.
N
Approximate
River Miles
Report
Upstream of
Location
Duke Energy
Cowans Ford
Designation
Location No.
Location Description
County
Hydro
Longitude
Latitude
The first cove on the left upstream from MSS
A
15.5
intake cove.
Catawba
16.9
-80.9461
35.6163
First cove along northern shoreline going into the
B
14.7
MSS CCW discharge cove.
Catawba
13.9
-80.9573
35.5942
C
14.5
Inside MSS discharge canal.
Catawba
13.9
-80.9644
35.5951
Large cove halfway between channel markers 14
D
13.0
and 15 on the west side of the channel.
Catawba
12.7
-80.9527
35.5753
Cove formerly proposed for power plant site
E
19.0
intake or discharge.
Iredell
9.0
-80.9301
35.5297
Left shoreline, approximately 100 m uplake of
F
34.0
Channel Marker 13.
Catawba
11.5
-80.9569
35.5544
N

Lookout Shoals Hydro
Key
• Monitoring locations
N
Miles
0 1 2 3
Kilometers
0 2 4
F (34
,o
d
0
a
A (15.5)
Marshall a
Steam
Station C (14.5)
B(14.7) o
(13.0)
a
0
E (19.0)
Cowans Ford Hydro "4I-)
McGuire Nuclear Station
Figure 1-1. Sampling locations on Lake Norman. Duke Energy historical sampling location numbers
are provided in parentheses.
1-3

CHAPTER 2
STATION OPERATION
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Marshall Steam Station (MSS) is located on the western shore of Lake Norman (Figure 1-1)
just north of Charlotte, NC, in Catawba County. Its four generating units have a combined
operating capability of 2,090 MWE-net. Units 1 and 2 are each rated at 385 MWE-net and
began commercial operation in 1965 and 1966, respectively. Units 3 and 4 are each rated at
660 MWE-net and began commercial operation in 1969 and 1970, respectively.
MSS receives once -through condenser cooling water (CCW) from below a skimmer wall
located at the mouth of a 1.3 -mi- (2.1 -km-) long cove. The surface area of the cove is about
200 ac (81 ha) and its volume is approximately 250 million ft3 (7 million m). The skimmer
wall was designed to retain the upper 60 ft (18.3 m) of water on the lake side of the wall at
full pond. The opening below the skimmer wall through which the station CCW is
withdrawn is about 10 ft (3 m) high and 270 ft (82.3 m) wide.
Units 1 and 2 each have two condenser cooling water pumps, and Units 3 and 4 each have
three condenser cooling water pumps. Typically, only one pump per generating unit is used
during the cool winter months or when the unit is operating at reduced load. During the
warmer summer months when units are operating at full -load, either two or three pumps per
unit are generally used, depending on which units are operating. Maximum rates of cooling
water flow are 423 cfs (12.0 cros) each for Units 1 and 2, and 709 cfs (20.1 cros) each for
Units 3 and 4. Thus, the maximum possible station CCW flow rate is 2,264 cfs (64.1 cros).
Under one -pump -per-unit operation, the maximum CCW flow rate for the entire station is
1,230 cfs (34.8 cros). Refer to Table 2-1 for a listing of CCW flow rates for each unit under
one-, two-, and three -pump operation.
The CCW from MSS is discharged into a one -mile- (1.609 m-) long cove. The discharge
cove varies from a width of 75 ft (22.9 m) and depth of 33 ft (10.1 m) at the discharge
structure to a width of 850 ft (259.1 m) and a depth of 50 ft (15.2 m) at the mouth of the
discharge cove. The total area of the discharge cove is about 75 ac (30.4 ha).
2-1

Lake Norman was recently classified as oligotrophic, or of low nutrient content and algal
productivity, based on year 2012 water quality monitoring performed by the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resource (NCDENR) in association with the Lake
Assessment Program, which is conducted on a five-year cycle (NCDENR 2013). This
classification is consistent with earlier assessments (NCDENR 2003, 2008) indicating that
despite increases in population growth in the upper Catawba River Basin over the last two
decades, Lake Norman continues to effectively assimilate nutrient inputs into the reservoir
from the surrounding watershed.
Nutrient and algal biomass data, collected monthly from May through September 2012,
ranged from low to moderate levels, with higher values reported in the upper portions of the
reservoir, combined with progressively decreasing concentrations in the lower sections of the
reservoir (NCDENR 2013). Turbidity levels were also low and Secchi depths ranged from
1.0 to 4.0 in, indicating very good water clarity. Surface dissolved oxygen (DO)
concentrations ranged from 5.8 to 8.8 mg/L and surface water temperatures ranged from
76.1 °F to 94.28 °F (24.5 to 34.6 °C). Overall, these results are similar to those previously
reported by the State (NCDENR 2003, 2008) and to other studies (MCDEP 2003, 2007;
Duke Power Company 1994; Duke Power 1999, 2004a; Duke Energy 2008, 2009d, 2011,
2012, 2013) on Lake Norman.
THERMAL DATA
Duke Energy operates MSS as a base -load generating facility and station operation during
the period from January 2009 through December 2013 was similar to previous years (Duke
Power Company 1994; Duke Power 1999, 2004a; Duke Energy 2009a). From 2009 through
2013, MSS was operated continuously with peak pumping of CCW during the summer.
The seasonal cycle of discharge water temperatures at MSS over the period January 2009
through December 2013 was also similar to that observed in previous years (Figure 2-1;
Duke Power Company 1994; Duke Power 1999, 2004a; Duke Energy 2009a). Monthly
average discharge water temperatures at MSS were in compliance with NPDES-permitted
thermal limits of 93.9 F (34.4 C) from July 1 through October 31, and 91.9 F (33.3 C) the
rest of each year, over this five-year time period (Figure 2-1). Discharge water temperatures
ranged from a minimum monthly average of 62.4 F (16.9 C) in February 2011 to a
2-2

maximum monthly average of 93.9 F (34.4 C) in August 2011 (Figure 2-1). Discharge
temperatures are linked to a combination of local meteorological conditions and electrical
generation.
CONCLUSIONS
MSS operated continuously from 2009 through 2013 and station operation during this period
was similar to previous years. Monthly average discharge water temperatures at MSS were
in compliance with NPDES-permitted thermal limits of 93.9 F (34.4 C) from July 1
through October 31, and 91.9 F (33.3 C) the rest of each year, over this five-year period.
2-3

Table 2-1. Marshall Steam Station CCW flow rate for each unit for one-, two-, and three -
pump operation.
Unit
Number
One -Pump CCW
Flow Rate (cfs)
Two -Pump CCW
Flow Rate (cfs)
Three -Pump CCW
Flow Rate (cfs)
1
281
423
(423)
2
281
423
(423)
3
334
564
709
4
334
564
709
Station Total
1,230
1,974
2,264
Units 1 and 2 have only two CCW pumps available.
2-4

100
95
n
85
LL
U)
80
L
m
C 75
a)
70
CUL -
a) a)
0-
E 65
H
M
55
Dereel F
De tee C
50 I I I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
W M M M M O O O O O - - N N N N N M M M M Itt
O O O O O - - e- - - - - e- i- - - - - - a- a- -
UU 'L >+ & C ii i -6 LL5 C �
z C
0 2 Q Z Q (n 0 ii g Q O QCL � 0 Z U- g� O�
Date
37
34
31
I
CWT
25
a)
22
M
m
19 E
16
13
10
9
Figure 2-1. The monthly average water temperature of the condenser cooling water discharged from MSS from January 1, 2009
through December 31, 2013.

CHAPTER 3
MACROINVERTEBRATES
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Benthic macroinvertebrate sampling was conducted annually in the summer of each year
from 2009 to 2013 as part of the continuing monitoring program for Marshall Steam Station
(MSS). As in previous years, samples were collected from four locations on Lake Norman:
Location A (uplake of MSS), Location B (MSS discharge canal), Location F (just north of
Channel Marker 13), and Location E (downlake of MSS) (Table 1-1 and Figure 1-1).
A petite Ponar dredge (15.3 x 15.3 cm) was used to collect five sample replicates at each
location. Samples were collected at depths ranging from 2 to 3 in to bracket the depth of
peak benthic abundance commonly associated with lakes and reservoirs (Brinkhurst 1974).
Samples were washed through a 500-µm mesh sieve and individually preserved with 70%
ethanol containing rose bengal stain. The substrate at each location was visually identified
and recorded during the sieving process. Organisms were sorted in the laboratory and
identified to the lowest practicable taxon. Macroinvertebrate densities were determined from
each replicate, averaged and expressed in No./m2.
The NCDENR requested additional analyses to be performed based on their review and
response to the 2009 MSS report (Duke Energy 2009a; NCDENR letter of November 19,
2009). In addition to current analyses, NCDENR requested additional information on the
following groups: Non-chironomid Diptera, Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera,
Coleoptera, Megaloptera, Odonata, Crustacea, and Mollusca.
Ephemeroptera/Plecoptera/Trichoptera (EPT) densities and taxa richness were also requested
for additional assessment of the balanced and indigenous nature of the benthic community in
the vicinity of MSS. No Coleoptera, or Crustacea have been collected at locations in the
vicinity of MSS in the last 10 years and Plecoptera were only collected once during 2006
(Duke Energy 2009a). The only Mollusca collected were represented by Corbicula and
Spheariidae, which are addressed separately in this report.
3-1

Beginning in 2005, in conjunction with macroinvertebrate sampling, a calibrated YSI Model
55 handheld DO meter was used to measure water temperature and DO just above the
sediment at each of the four sampling locations. Starting in 2008, water temperatures and
DO concentrations were measured, in situ, using a calibrated Hach® HQ40d water quality
meter.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Substrates at Lake Norman sampling locations consisted of varying amounts of silt, sand,
organic material, and clay. Silt was the predominant component at most locations, while
comparatively high amounts of clay and sand were often observed in the substrates at
Location E (Table 3-1).
Water Quality
Water temperatures observed during sampling from 2009 to 2013 ranged from 26.4 to 31.1
°C (Table 3-2). No consistent spatial patterns among maximum and minimum temperatures
were observed during 2009 — 2013 and temperatures at Location B in the discharge were not
notably different from those at other sampling locations.
The DO concentrations observed during 2009 — 2013 ranged from 1.0 to 8.7 mg/L (Table 3-
2). Minimum DO concentrations were most often recorded from Location B in the
discharge, while maximum DO readings were most often observed at Location A. The
comparatively high DO recorded in 2013 may have been due to the unusually cool and wet
summer of that year, with a much higher level of water column mixing. Additionally, with
the cool, wet conditions, MSS may have minimized operations. Minimum DO
concentrations at the discharge were likely due to low -DO water from beneath the skimmer
wall being entrained through MSS during summer periods of 2009 through 2012.
Taxa
The number of macroinvertebrate taxa collected at a location is typically a good indicator of
the overall diversity and the presence of a balanced indigenous population. Taxa abundance
3-2

from 2009 to 2013 varied temporally and spatially at Lake Norman (Tables 3-3 through 3-7
and Figure 3-1). Taxa abundance during 2009 — 2013 was slightly lower than during the
2004 — 2008 reporting period (Figure 3-1), with total taxa numbers ranging from 18 to 36.
Temporally, taxa numbers generally declined from 2009 through 2011, and then increased
between 2011 and 2013. Spatial maxima occurred at Location A in 2013, Location B in
2011, and Location F in 2009, 2010, and 2012. Spatial minima occurred at Location E in
2009, 2010, and 2011, and Location B in 2012 and 2013.
Density
During 2009 — 2013, overall annual macroinvertebrate densities varied substantially
temporally and spatially, and total densities were not appreciably different from densities
during 2004 — 2008 (Tables 3-3 through 3-7 and Figure 3-2). Macroinvertebrate densities in
Duke Energy's piedmont reservoirs are typically characterized by very high temporal and
spatial variability (Duke Energy 2009a, 2009b, 2009c, 2011). This was also true of the
densities of major taxonomic groups. Variability may be due to macroinvertebrates and
sediments not being homogenously distributed on the substrates. High spatial and temporal
variability can often mask short-term or long-term environmental impacts. Total densities
ranged nearly an order of magnitude from minimum to maximum during 2009 — 2013. As
with total taxa numbers, densities generally declined from 2009 through 2011, and then
increased between 2011 and 2013. No consistent trend in spatial maxima was observed.
Minimum spatial densities were consistently recorded from Location E well downlake of the
MSS discharge (Figure 3-2). This was also the case during the 2004 — 2008 reporting period.
It is unlikely that thermal impacts would be manifested at this location to a greater extent
than at other locations since no consistent temporal or spatial temperature patterns were
observed (Table 3-2). The predominance of less suitable substrates (clay in 2009 and 2010,
sand in 2011 — 2013), as well as substrate patchiness, may have resulted in less suitable
conditions for benthic macroinvertebrate colonization and growth at Location E (Table 3-1).
Major Taxonomic Groups
Considerable variability was also observed among major taxonomic groups. Oligochaeta
densities during 2009 — 2013 varied nearly 50 times from minimum to maximum (Tables 3-3
through 3-7 and Figure 3-3). Oligochaetes were dominant in Lake Norman
macroinvertebrate samples approximately 40% of the time. Maximum oligochaeta densities
occurred at Location B in 2009, 2012, and 2013, and they were most abundant at Locations
3-3

A and F in 2010 and 2011, respectively. Higher oligochaeta densities at the discharge were
indicative of tolerance for the low DO conditions typically observed there. The lowest
oligochaeta densities consistently occurred at Location E (Figure 3-3). The majority of
oligochaetes at all locations were the Tubificidae. Milligan (1997) stated that Tubificids
frequently form dense populations in organically enriched habitats with a silty or muddy
substrate tending toward anoxic conditions. Sediment composition at most locations
consisted primarily of silt with organic matter and some sand, while at Location E, clay and
sand were often among primary components (Table 3-1). Oligochaeta densities showed an
overall decline from 2009 through 2011, followed by increases between 2012 and 2013.
The family Chironomidae represents a ubiquitous and widespread group of insects that can
be found in a broad variety of aquatic habitats. The Chironomidae tended to show temporal
and spatial variability at Lake Norman, and densities during 2009 — 2013 were similar to
those observed during 2004 — 2008 (Figure 3-4). Densities ranged nearly six fold from
minimum to maximum during 2009 — 2013 (Tables 3-3 through 3-7 and Figure 3-4).
Chironomids constituted the most abundant taxonomic group at Lake Norman locations, and
were dominant in approximately 60% of samples collected during 2009 — 2013. Maximum
chironomid densities were observed at Location F in 2009, 2010, and 2012; while maxima at
Locations A and B were observed in 2011 and 2013, respectively. Minimum densities were
most often recorded from Location E.
Non-chironomid dipteran taxa densities showed considerable variability, ranging from 0/m2
up to over 600/m2 (Tables 3-3 through 3-7 and Figure 3-5). In most cases, total densities
were less than 50/m2. Densities tended to decline from 2009 through 2012, followed by an
increase in 2013. No consistent spatial trends were observed.
Mean annual densities of Corbicula during 2009 — 2013 tended to be lower than those
recorded during 2004 — 2008 (Figure 3-6). Spatial maxima most often occurred at Location
F, while minimum densities were generally recorded from Location B. Data from the
previous 10 years show there has been an apparent long-term decline in clam densities since
2008. Densities ranged from 0/m2 to over 1,300/m2 and during most years from 2009
through 2013, Corbicula densities were less than 500/m2 (Tables 3-3 through 3-7).
Mean annual densities of Ephemeroptera during 2009 — 2013 were generally higher than
those of 2004 — 2008 (Figure 3-7), ranging from 0/m2 to nearly 400/m2 (Tables 3-3 through
3-7). The overall trend seemed to indicate increased densities through 2011, followed by a
3-4

decline through 2013. This was the opposite of what was observed among total densities at
Lake Norman locations (Figure 3-2). No consistent spatial trends were observed (Figure 3-
7).
Mean annual densities of Trichoptera during 2009 — 2013 were somewhat higher than during
the previous five-year sampling period (Figure 3-8). Densities ranged from 0/m2 to over
100/m2 (Tables 3-3 through 3-7). No consistent temporal or spatial trends were observed
among Trichoptera during 2009 — 2013.
The presence and abundance of Megaloptera and Spheariidae were sporadic during 2009 —
2013 (Figures 3-9 and 3-10). Megaloptera were only observed at Locations A and E, and
densities were always less than 45/m2 (Tables 3-3 through 3-7). Overall densities were
slightly higher during 2009 — 2013 than during the previous five-year period (Figure 3-9).
No Spheariidae were collected in 2010 or 2011, and overall densities were lower during
2009 — 2013 than during 2004 — 2008 (Figure 3-10). Odonata were observed infrequently
during 2004 — 2008 and no odonates were collected in Lake Norman samples during 2009 —
2013 (Tables 3-3 through 3-7).
EPT Densities and Taxa Richness
Densities of EPT taxa (Ephemeroptera and Trichoptera only, no Plecoptera were collected
during 2009 — 2013) showed slightly higher densities during 2009 — 2013 than during 2004 —
2008 (Figure 3-11). EPT densities ranged up to over 45 fold from minimum to maximum
during 2009 — 2013 (Tables 3-3 through 3-7). Generally, densities appeared to increase
between 2009 and 2011, and then decline from 2012 to 2013. No consistent spatial trends
were observed among EPT densities.
The EPT taxa richness values during 2009 — 2013 were typically higher than during the 2004
— 2008 sampling period (Figure 3-12). Most taxa richness ratings ranged from Fair to
Excellent. Excellent EPT richness was observed at Location A in 2010, Location B in 2011,
and Location F in 2011 and 2013. Poor richness ratings were recorded from Location B in
2009 and 2012, at Location E in 2010 and 2011, and at Location F in 2012. Low ratings at
Location B (the discharge) may have been due to low DO conditions (Table 3-2), while the
low ratings at Location E may have resulted from substrate patchiness and occasionally poor
substrate conditions. EPT richness ratings appeared to increase substantially from 2009
3-5

through 2011, and then decline at all but Location E in 2012. Ratings increased again
through 2013 at all but Location E.
CONCLUSIONS
Substrates at Lake Norman locations generally consisted of varying proportions of silt, sand,
organic matter and clay with somewhat higher composition of clay and sand at Location E.
The water quality parameters (temperature and DO) taken at the time of macroinvertebrate
collections did not suggest any negative impact to the benthic communities. The only water
quality issue may be related to the low DO values at most times of sampling at Location B,
which could be expected since MSS withdraws its condenser cooling water from the bottom
of Lake Norman via an intake canal skimmer wall (Chapter 2).
The common characteristic among macroinvertebrate communities at Lake Norman locations
was the high variability among total densities and the densities of major taxonomic groups.
This is common at sampling locations on other piedmont reservoirs in North Carolina.
Although taxa numbers were somewhat lower during 2009 — 2013 as compared to 2004 —
2008, macroinvertebrate densities were generally similar between the two study periods.
Both taxa numbers and densities showed an apparent decline from 2009 through 2011,
followed by an increase from 2011 through 2013. No consistent spatial trends in maximum
densities were observed. Minimum taxa numbers were recorded at Location E during three
of the five years represented, while minimum densities were consistently reported from this
location.
Chironomids were the most abundant macroinvertebrates at most locations during 2009 —
2013, while oligochaetes constituted the second most abundant forms. The majority of
oligochaetes were Tubificids, which often formed dense concentrations in organically
enriched habitats. Chironomid maxima were most often recorded from Location F, while
maximum oligochaete densities (mostly Tubificids) were most often recorded from Location
B in the discharge. Comparatively high oligochaeta densities in the discharge were likely
due to their tolerance of the low DO conditions observed there. Minimum densities of both
groups typically occurred at Location E. Low total densities, as well as minimum densities
of chironomids and oligochaetes at this location, may have been due to less suitable substrate
and/or substrate patchiness.
3-6

Non-chironomid Diptera, Corbicula, Ephemeroptera, and Trichoptera densities showed
considerable variability and few consistent spatial or temporal patterns were observed during
2009 — 2013. The presences and abundances of Megaloptera and Spheariidae were
extremely sporadic during the recent five-year monitoring period, and no odonates were
collected during 2009 — 2013.
EPT taxa richness and densities during 2009 — 2013 were typically higher than in 2004 —
2008 and most richness ratings during 2009 — 2013 were from Fair to Excellent. Poor ratings
were observed occasionally from the discharge location and from Location E. This was
likely due to low DO conditions in the discharge and possible poor substrate or substrate
patchiness at Location E.
Some impacts were noted at the MSS discharge location due to low DO conditions; however,
based on macroinvertebrate densities, total taxa numbers, and EPT densities and taxa
richness observed during 2009 — 2013, it is concluded that thermal discharges from MSS
have not impaired macroinvertebrate communities in the vicinity of the station.
3-7

Table 3-1. General descriptions of the substrate found at Locations A, B, F, and E in the
vicinity of MSS from July 2009 - 2013. Substrates are listed in order of the
most prevalent type first. Organic matter (om) is typically composed of small
sticks, leaf and/or grass fragments, etc.
Year
Location A
Location B
Location F
Location E
2009
silt
silt
silt
clay
2009
om
clay
om
silt
2010
sand
om
sand
om
29.9 °C
sand
30.2 °C
sand
2011
silt
silt
silt
silt
2010
om
sand
om
clay
2012
sand
om
sand
om
silt
silt
silt
silt
2011
sand
sand
om
sand
om
om
sand
28.0 °C
silt
silt
om
silt
2012
sand
sand
silt
sand
om
om
silt
silt
silt
silt
2013
om
om
sand
sand
sand
om
om
Table 3-2. DO and temperature measured near the sediments at the time of
macroinvertebrate collection from locations A, B, F, and E from July 2009 -
2013.
Year
Location A
Location B
Location F
Location E
2009
8.3 mg/L
1.6 mg/L
7.1 mg/L
8.2 mg/L
28.1 °C
27.1 °C
27.5 °C
26.4 °C
2010
8.6 mg/L
1.3 mg/L
7.0 mg/L
8.2 mg/L
29.9 °C
31.1 °C
30.2 °C
30.0 °C
2011
7.7 mg/L
1.0 mg/L
7.1 mg/L
7.7 mg/L
28.0 °C
28.2 °C
29.0 °C
29.2 °C
2012
7.5 mg/L
1.8 mg/L
8.1 mg/L
8.0 mg/L
30.1 °C
29.4 °C
30.0 °C
30.8 °C
2013
8.7 mg/L
5.3 mg/L
8.2 mg/L
7.9 mg/L
28.7 °C
28.6 °C
28.5 °C
28.0 °C
MEN

Table 3-3. Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No ./M2) from each Lake Norman sampling
location during summer sampling in 2009.
2009
Locations
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Diptera
Cerato o-onidae
Pal om ia-Sezzia co.m .lex
77
17
17
17
Chaoboridae
haoborus spp.
112
26
Chironomidae-Chironominae
hironomus SPP.
9
62
Clado elms spp.
17
112
Cladotan rsus scc.
732
17
887
CfYPIOChifonomus SPP.
26
9
138
1?
Cryplotendipes spp.
34
362
189
IHI
Dicrctendi es neomodestus
26
M10theuma SPP.
9
Pa astielle SPP.
17
77
26,
t
Parelauterbomiella ni rc.halterelis
9
9
9
Paratendi es spp.
9
PolypedWum halterale gf.
26
17
43
Polypeddum scalaenum gr.
9
9
26
Pseudochirono.mus spp.
17
112
Stem ellirra SPP.
26
17
tenochironomus SPP.
17
43
Stictoohirorromus SPP.
2v3
121
103
Tanytersus spp.
31 U
r, l
336
43
Chironomidae-Orthocladiinae
Rarakieffefieflaspp.
17
Ablabesmyja annulata
9
17
A blabesmyia mallochi
9
9
Ablabesmyia ram he gr.
9
Clinotanypus SPP.
172
Coelotanypus SPP.
8C
172
610
D almabatista pulGhre
Prcdadrus spp.
2419'
112
121
Ephemeroptera
Caenidae
Ceenis SPP.
CO
E hemeridae
Hexa enia spp.
2 f
1'
r
Me aloCera
Sialidae
ialis SPP.
26
Oli ochaeta
Naididae
9
ri
Deco triode
9
14t
3-9

Table 3-3. (Continued).
2009
Locations
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Oli ochaeta
Afafs spp.
52
34
friars pardalis
9
26
Tubificidae
878
1.093
456
155
Auladrrlus lrmrrobrus
43
250
138
Aulodrrlus pigueh
9
4,830
8ranchima sowerbyi
17
Either
Glossi honiidae
Helobdella sta nalrs
43
422
319
17
Planariidae
Cure formenj
9
69
abellidae
fvdana rrkra s ecrosa
aFI,3
818
43
Tetrastemmatidae
Prosto,ma gfeecons
69
Hematoda
86
534
77
Pelacypoda
Corbiculidae
Corbrcula €lumrrree
141
827
284
haeriidae
s haerrum spp.
310
215
Trichoptera
Leptoceridae
t ecetrs spp.
1'17
17
43
Trieenodes r rrrtus
2C
Pol centro odidae
rVychophylax spp.
2C
Pol centra us spp.
17
17
Total De nsity for Year
4.022
9,652
5,356
1,558
Total Taxa for Year
27
27
36
24
3-10

Table 3-4. Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No./m2) at each Lake Norman sampling
location during summer sampling in 2010.
2010
Locations
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Diptera
Cerato 0 midae
Pal OrnF° a 8ezia complex
1'
17
2C-
Chirr_Fnomidae-Chironominae
Axafus s
hironomus SPP.
90 -
Clado elm spp.
9
34
ladotafr afsus spp.
723
17
837
77
Ctyptochironomus SPP.
69
284
9
Cfyptotendipes spp.
77
413
336
9
Diofotendr es neomodestus
60
Nilothauma spp.
9
Pa ashella SPP.
103
Pafalautefbonfrrella fr1 fohaltera s
43
60
Polypedilufn halterale gr.
43
9
43
26
Polypedilum scalaenum gf.
9
77
Stem ellrfra SPP.
17
140
terroohrforromus SPP.
241
43
9
9
t}ctochrfon amus SPP.
17
207
trctochrrorromus cattfanrlus
9
9
Tarr tarsus spp.
422
34
189
34
Chi ronomidae-Orthocladiinae
17
9
PafakiettefreRe spp.
26
Ablabesm ie annulate
9
60
Ablabesm is fam he gr.
62
17
26
Coelotanypus spp.
43
181
69
D a.lmabatiste pulchre
9
Pfociadrus SPP.
1 15)
422
2C-
138
E humero tern
Baetidae
Pseudooloeon spp.
30
198
Caenidae
aeras 5pp.
241
E herneridae
exa enrla SPP.
26
N
c
Me alo tura
Sialidae
slabs SPP.
43
34
Oli ochaeta
Naldldae
9
69
Arcteonais lom,onrdi
9
Dery &pp.
17
Dero di data
95
[
3-11

Table 3-4. (Continued).
2010
L€ocadims
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Oli ochaeta
Dero triode
15) 5)
439
Nais spp.
9
Nags pardalis
9
Uncinais urrcirrata
9
Tubificidae
1.903
121
260
207
Aulodrilus limnobius
801
34
232
62
Aalodrilus pigueti
138
844
Bmnchirua sokmmb i
232
34
43
172
tll odrilus tem letoni
60
Limrrodrilus hottmeisterei
26
9
Tubrtex tubitex
43
Other
Hirudinea
Glossi honiidae
Helobdella sta rralis
33
26
34
abellidae
ldana uf4 a s eciose
26
336
Nematoda
164
7T
PelecvpcAa
Corbiculidae
orbx Gula tluminea
ry 1
1 369
34
Trichoptera
Leptoceridae
OeGetis -pp.
9
9
Trraenodes spp.
1
Pol centro odldae
Pol centro us spp.
17
Total Density for Year
6,338
3,125
5,468
1,130
Total Taxa for Year
29
28
31
21
3-12

Table 3-5. Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No./m2) at each Lake Norman sampling
location during summer sampling in 2011.
2011
Locations
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Diptera
Cerato o onidae
Pal omyia-Bezzia com lex
26
9
26
34
Chironomidae-Chironominae
Chlrorromus SPP.
9
Cladopelma spp.
9
26
Cladotanytersus spp.
1134
17
319
26
CfyPtochIfOnOMUS SPP.
9
69
26
CfypMend.ipes spp.
9
551
121
26
D crolerrdr es spp.
9
95
Wothauma SPP.
9
Pa esl'ielle SPP.
9
26
Pefelaulerbomlella rtl rohalteralls
26
Pblypedilum halterale gf.
17
164
34
9
Polypedilum scalaerrum gf.
43
Stem elllrra SPP.
9
9
26
Strctochrronomus SPP.
146
Sflctochlronomus SPP.
9
646
Strctochrrorromus caftrarrrus
103
Tarr tarsus spp.
112
77
43
17
Chironomidae-Orthocladiinae
Parakie€ fella spp.
17
Chironomidae-Tanypodinae
Ablabesmyia anrrulata
34
17
Ablabesmyi4 mallochr
9
Ablabesm la ram he gr.
9
9
Coe,lotanypus SPP.
405
232
26
284
Procladrus spp.
250
284
77
E hemerotern
Baetidae
Pseudocloeon spp.
9
2 f
38?
Caenidae
Ceerrrs SPP.
34
E hemeridae
Hexa errs SPP.
34
43
43
Me ala tern
Sialidae
Slabs SPP.
9
Oli ochaeta
hlaididae
26
17
Arc€eonars lomorrdi
9
hero spp.
9
hero di .data
267
De.ro to rda
26
474
3-13

Table 3-5. (Continued).
2011
Locatins
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Oli ochaeta
Tubificidae
835
112
740
129
Aulodrilus li:mnobius
62
60
86
Aulodnlus pigueti
491
Lrmnodrrlus hotfineistemi
9
9
Other
Glossi honiidae
Helobdella sta rralis
,?
77
370
17
Planariidae
Cum formarrri
9
34
Nematoda
951
129
293
9
Bele da
Corblculldae
orbrcula tlumrrrea
138
422
4 61
Trichoptera
Hydroptilidae
H dro fila spp.
17
Leptoceridae
ecefis spp.
43
17
2C
Pol centro odidae
Pol centro us spp.
9
Total Density for Year
2,517
3,119
4,238
1,326
Total Taxa for Year
24
3D
24
18
3-14

Table 3-6. Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No./m2) at each Lake Norman sampling
location in during summer sampling in 2012.
2012
Locations
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Diptera
Cerato o onidae
Par om ia-Bezzia complex
9
iii
C<haoboridae
Chaoborus spp.
2C
C<hironomidae-Cihironominae
hrrorromus SPP.
C
17
Clado elms spp.
9
Cladotanytersus spp.
103
577
9
cfyptoGhironomus SPP.
43
164
52
Cfyptotendipe,5 spp.
17
9
215
103
D.rcrolandi es .rreomodestus
34
Pa astrella SPP.
9
9
17
Paralauterbomielle ni rohalterd ;U
26
Polypedilum halt'erale gf.
121
2.6
Polypedilum scaleerrum gr.
H
52
Stem ellPrra spp.
17
tnctochnronomus SPP.
37C.,
189
172
Tarr arcus spp.
17
293
52
Chi ronomidae-Orthocladiinae
ParakiettedeNa spp.
c
Chi ronomidae-Tan odinae
Ablebesm a annWate
9
9
Ablabesm a mallochl
9
34
Caelotanypus spp.
112
9
130
Dial.mobatrsta pulchfa
1'
Procladrus spp.
ry'?
26-
103
E hemerotern
Baetidae
Pseudocloeon spp.
2 6,
C<aenidae
aenis SPP.
??
E hemeridae
Alexa errla spp.
9
9
131
Me alo tern
lalidae
Siefis SPP.
34
Oli ochaeta
Naldldae
6-
Areteorrals lomorrdl
9
2ryCi
r"
Brafhib ra uniderrtata
Dero spp.
34
C,
Dero dP ntata
1 62�
3-15

Table 3-6. (Continued).
2012
Locations
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Oli €rchaeta
Naididae
Defo trrtrde
96
121
17
friars Spp.
43
Nags pefdalls
1
Pri nella jentdnae
2
flndnars unofnate
456
r�
Tubifici+dae
964
611
16,6 a
26
Aulodrrlus lrmnobrus
34
43
Aulodrilus pigueti
9
1.171
Aulodfrlus plufisefa
9
43
&fano.rrrrua sowerbyi
86
482
2 i 726
Other
Glossi honiidae
Helobdelle sta nalis
17
26
Glossi honiidse
Helobdelle sta nabs
241
Planariidae
Lura rofmanfi
34
Tetrastemmatidae
Prostome greecens
9
Nematoda
26
6,2
293
26
Pelecypoda
Corbiculidae
ofbicula flumrnee
69
6,2
3is
34
S haeriidae
17
121
Trichoptera
Le toceridae
Oeccetrs spp.
34
17
Pol Centro odidae
Pol centfo us Spp.
9
r
Total Density for Year
2,634
5,116
5,703
1,353
Total Taxa for Year
21
til
0
27
3-16

Table 3-7. Macroinvertebrate taxa and densities (No./m2) at each sampling location in
Lake Norman during summer sampling in 2013.
2DI3
Locations
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Di ptera
Cerato o cnidae
Pal om ta-Dezzra complex
9
154
02
17
Chaoboridae
Chaoborus spp.
9
9
Chironomidae-Chironominae
Chirorromus spp.
26
86
Clado elms spp.
9
17
Cladotanyterstis spp.
689
2CI7
69
CfyPtOGhifOfTOMUS SPP.
52
34
43
26
Ciyptotendipes spp.
103
26
36
34
Hamrschra spp.
17
M crochirorromus SPP.
9
Nilothauma SPP.
9
Pa astlella SPP.
9
52
17
Paralauterbomielle rri rohalteralrs
112
17
95
9
Polypedilum halterale gf.
12.9
198
52
Polypedilurn sca.leerrurrr gr.
43
Stem ellrrra SPP.
9
17
9
9
Strctochfrorromus SPP.
697
534
86
Tanytersus spp.
362
.215
77
224
Chironomidae-Orthocladiinae
Nanocladius spp.
9
Chironomidae-Tan o-dinae
Ablabesm a annulate
34
43
17
Ablabesm ra mallochr
26
C0910fanypus SPP.
284
112
52
C-
Djalmebatrsta pulchfa
9
Prodedrus spp.
396
525
52
20-�7
E hemero teres
Baetidae
Pseudocloeorr spp.
26
17
133
9
C.aenidae
Ceerrrs SPP.
26
E hemeridae
Hexa er7ta SPP.
34
17
9
43
Me alo tern
ialidae
Scalls SPP.
17
9
Cali ochaeta
Naididae
7C
Ardeonais lomondi
1013
9
96
Deco spp.
1
Deco digitate
-2
17
Dero trrtrde
X19
224
17
tlrrrcr.rrars Urrcrrrate
('-9
413
34
3-17

Table 3-7. (Continued).
2D13
Locations
Taxa
A
B
F
E
Oli ochaeta
Tubificidae
1 576
947
1,395
rs I3
Aulodrrlus lr.mnobrus
77
319
-42
Aulodrilus pigueti
34
3.384
Aulodrrlus piwiseta
34
Brarrchfrera som--rb -
387
1.128
6211
Bmnchrrua sowerb -
60
tll odrllUs fem letonr
129
69
Lrmrloddrllus hotfinerstere.r
34
Other
Glossi honiidae
Hebbdella stag rralrs
232
1 240
465
5,2
Plecobdella spp.
9
Planariidae
Lura formanlr
17
Sabellidae
lvtana u.nkra speciosa
26'
43
Talitridae
H alella azteca
43
Nemato-da
284
40-1
482
121
Pete a
Gorbiculidae
orbicula tlumrrrea
112
9
7ry3
26
S haeriidae
haefium spp.
43
tis
30-3
Trichoptera
Hydroptilidae
ifydro fila spp.
9
Le - oceridae
Oecefrs Spp.
69
34
95
17
Total Density for Year
61,318
9,300
5,515
3,686
Total Taxa for Year
36
27
29
34
3-18

45
40
35 ----------------- --------------------..
-o 30 -
a�
ru
c25
C.)
x
920 -
15
10 -
5
0
2004 20D5
?C
0i
❑A LIBLIF ❑E
20
D8
2009 2010 2011
2012 2013
Figure 3-1. Total number of taxa collected annually from Lake Norman in the vicinity of
MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
10.000
9.000
8.000
7,000
T
■A !B ❑F ❑E
6,000 -
0
5.000
0
4,000
3,000
2.000
1.000 -1 1
0
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Years
Figure 3-2. Densities (No./m2) of macroinvertebrates collected annually from Lake
Norman in the vicinity of MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
3-19

OA ML B El El
t Oligochaeta
7,000 --------..----- N
a,
6,000 ------------------- •�------------
r,
5,000 ---------------------- --------------------------- ----.
Z4,000 ----------------------------- --
3,000 ---------------------------------- ----
in
c
p 2,000 ------
1,000
--- 1,000
0
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 201--
Years
01_Years
Figure 3-3. Densities (No./m2) of Oligochaeta collected annually from Lake Norman in the
vicinity of MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
■A ❑B OF ❑E
Chironomidae
3,000 -----------------------------------------------------------------
2,500--------------------- -
H
2,000 --------------.-.-.._..
0
Z" 1,500
y 1,000
0
500
C
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Years
Figure 3-4. Densities (No./m2) of Chironomidae collected annually from Lake Norman in
the vicinity of MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
3-20

300 --------------------------
250 --------------------------
n
E 200 --------------------------
O
Z150 --------------------------
100 - _ _ - _ _ ------
0
50 ------ ------------------------------
O.o I 0 �Opio--f
2004 2005 2006 2007 2003 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Years
❑A E El El
Non-Chironomids
------------------------------
-------------------------- 1-8
---------------N
Figure 3-5. Densities (No./m2) of non-chironomid taxa from Lake Norman in the vicinity
MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
■A ®B OF ❑E
T
Cor6icula
2,500 ---------------------------- - i � N
N
O
2,000 .....
N
O
1,500
Z 1 KJ
C, 1,000
C
500
0
2006 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Years
Figure 3-6. Densities (No ./M2) of Corbicula collected annually from Lake Norman in the
vicinity of MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
3-21
0
2004
2005 2006 2007
2006 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Years
Figure 3-6. Densities (No ./M2) of Corbicula collected annually from Lake Norman in the
vicinity of MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
3-21

450
400
_ 350
N
E 300
Z 250
-2:' 200
v 150
O
100
50
0
N El El ❑E
Ephemeroptera
----------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------
--
--------------------------------------------------------------- I -------------------------------
--------------------------- ---- -----------------------------
- _ ..................... ...
1 0 0
2004 2005 2006 1� 2007 2008 2009 --:A 2011 2012 2013
Years
Figure 3-7. Densities (No ./M2) of Ephemeroptera collected annually from Lake Norman in
the vicinity of MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
120
100
N
E so
O
Z
60
W
40
Qi `K/
20
0
■A OB OF ❑E
Trichoptera
-----------------------------------
------------------------ -•-
.................... ...................... ...
Ili Q Q� .. V
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Years
Figure 3-8. Densities (No ./M2) of Trichoptera collected annually from Lake Norman in the
vicinity of MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
3-22

45
40
35
E 30
0
Z 25
20
(C 15
10
5
0
EIAMB OF EIE
Megaloptera
.......... ....
------------------------------- ----------------- ------------
i-.- ----- .... . ......... ------
................................ -------- --.
.............
. ...............................
-----------------------------
------------------------------- ......
-1
0 00 000 000 000
0 6 p-,--
2008 2009
Years
0
2004 2005 2006 2007
c
2010
2011 2012
2013
Figure 3-9. Densities (No./m 2) of Megaloptera from Lake Norman in the vicinity of MSS,
2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
0
1:1 A 1:1 B El F El E
Spearidae
---------------
0 0011 0000 i 0000 i 0C
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Years
Figure 3-10. Annual densities (No./m 2) of Spheariidae from Lake Norman in the vicinity of
MSS, 2004 — 2008 and 2009 — 2013.
3-23

❑A f -1B nF f 1E
500
400
300
6
z
c
0 200
100
0
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Years
Figure 3-11. Densities (No./m2) of EPT from Lake Norman in the vicinity of MSS, 2004 —
2008 and 2009 — 2013.
30
25
20
U)
a�
c
U
M 15
X
CU
❑A ❑B OF ❑E
1
.......... - . .-...... _ ----
H
d
w 10 ,If
� I � �T� i I 1 1
0
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Years
Figure 3-12. EPT taxa richness from Lake Norman in the vicinity of MSS, 2004 — 2008 and
2009-2013.
3-24

CHAPTER 4
FISH
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Spring Electrofishin _ Surveys
urveys
Annual (2009 — 2013; current National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit
cycle) boat electrofishing surveys were continued in Lake Norman in March or April near the
thermal influence of Marshall Steam Station (MSS; Zone 4 in Figure 4-1) and at a reference
area (REF, Zone 3) located between MSS and McGuire Nuclear Station. Ten 300-m
shoreline transects were surveyed in each area and were identical to historical locations
surveyed since 1993. Transects included littoral habitats representative of those found in
Lake Norman. All sampling was conducted when surface water temperatures were expected
to be 15 — 20 °C.
Stunned fish were collected by two netters and identified to species. Fish were enumerated
and weighed in aggregate by taxon, except for spotted bass (Micropterus punctulatus) and
largemouth bass (M. salmoides), where total length (TL, mm) and weight (g) were obtained
for each individual collected. Surface water temperature (°C) was measured with a calibrated
thermistor at each transect. Annual catch per unit effort (CPUE per 100 m) was determined
by area for number of individuals, biomass, and number of species collected. Condition (Wr)
based on relative weight was calculated for spotted bass and largemouth bass > 150 mm TL,
using the formula Wr = (W/Ws) x 100, where W = weight of the individual fish and Ws =
length -specific mean weight for a fish as predicted by a weight -length equation for each
species (Neumann et al. 2012). Resulting metrics were compared between areas using a t-
test (P < 0.05).
Summer Electrofishing Surveys
Annual (2009 — 2013) boat electrofishing surveys were continued in Lake Norman in July
near the thermal influence of MSS. Ten 100-m shoreline transects were surveyed to
represent three areas (Figure 1-1): two transects above the MSS discharge canal (Location
4-1

A), four in the vicinity of the discharge canal (Locations B and C), and four below the
discharge canal (Locations D and E). Transects were identical to historical locations
surveyed since 1991 and independent of spring transects. Surface water temperature and
dissolved oxygen (DO, mg/L) were measured with a calibrated thermistor and DO probe,
respectively, at each location. Stunned fish were collected by two netters, identified to
species, and measured for TL. Representative and Important Species (RIS) were selected
based upon abundance, distribution, and ecological significance as a prey (bluegill [Lepomis
maeroehirus] and redbreast sunfish [L. auritus]) or predator (spotted bass) species.
Fall Hydroacoustic and Purse Seine Surveys
Density and distribution of pelagic forage fish in Lake Norman were determined using
mobile hydroacoustic (Rudstam et al. 2012) and purse seine (Hayes et al. 2012) techniques.
The lake was divided into zones (Figure 4-1) due to its large size and habitat spatial
heterogeneity. An annual mobile hydroacoustic survey was conducted in mid-September
with multiplexing, side- and down -looking transducers to detect surface -oriented fish and
deeper fish (from 2.0-m depth to the bottom), respectively.
Annual purse seine samples were also collected in mid-September from the epilimnion of
downlake (Zone 1), midlake (Zone 2), and uplake (Zone 5) areas in water deep enough for
unhindered net deployment. The purse seine measured 122.0 x 9.1 in, with a mesh size of
4.8 mm. A subsample of forage fish collected from each area was used to estimate taxa
composition and TL size distribution.
Balanced and Indigenous Assessment
Annual surveys are used to assess the balanced and indigenous nature of the Lake Norman
fish community and provide information relative to the potential thermal influence of MSS.
The assessment includes comparisons of spring electrofishing CPUE (spatially and
temporally) and of summer electrofishing RIS length distributions. Results from both
seasonal surveys were examined according to species pollution tolerance and trophic guild.
Hydroacoustic and purse seine surveys of pelagic forage fish were examined for trends.
Wj

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Spring Electrofishin Says
Spring electrofishing surveys from 2009 to 2013 were conducted at average water
temperatures ranging from 15.9 to 21.1 °C. Surveys resulted in the collection of 11,682
individuals comprising 26 species at the MSS area and 10,251 individuals comprising 21
species at the REF area (Table 4-1). The number of individuals per 100 in ranged from 47.3
to 143.3 at the MSS area and from 59.2 to 77.2 at the REF area (Table 4-1 and Figure 4-2).
Fish biomass per 100 in ranged from 3.5 to 7.1 kg at the MSS area and from 2.0 to 3.9 kg at
the REF area (Figure 4-3). The number of species per 100 in ranged from 14 to 20 at the
MSS area and from 14 to 19 at the REF area (Figure 4-4). Since 1993, both biomass and
number of species collected from the MSS area were significantly greater than those from the
REF area. When limited to the current permit cycle, the biomass collected from the MSS
area was significantly greater than from the REF area.
The number of individuals in spring electrofishing surveys from 2009 to 2013 was dominated
by centrarchids (MSS -95.9%, REF -93.7%), with clupeids (MSS -1.5%, REF -3.3%) and
cyprinids (MSS -1.4%, REF -2.3%) greater than 1.0% each, and the remaining families
representing less than 1.0% of individuals combined (Table 4-1). Green sunfish (Lepomis
cyanellus) exhibited a considerable (and similar) increase in relative abundance at both areas
compared to the 2004 - 2008 study period. Overall, current species composition data are
similar to previously reported spring electrofishing data near MSS (Duke Power Company
1994; Duke Power 1999, 2004a; Duke Energy 2009a) and from other Catawba River
reservoirs (Duke Power 2004b, 2004c; Duke Energy 2009b, 2009c).
Species considered pollution tolerant for wadeable stream assessments (e.g., longnose gar
[Lepisosteus osseus], goldfish [Carassius auratus], common carp [Cyprinus carpio], golden
shiner [Notemigonus crysoleucas], white catfish [Ameiurus catus], redbreast sunfish, green
sunfish, and hybrid sunfish; NCDENR 2013) represented 19.7% of MSS and 27.5% of REF
individuals during spring 2009 - 2013, similar to spring 2004 - 2008 (MSS -18.1%, REF -
24.2%) and spring 2000 - 2003 (MSS -15.4%, REF -17.0%).
Species considered insectivorous for wadeable stream assessments (NCDENR 2013)
represented 86.0% of MSS and 86.3% of REF from 2009 to 2013. Species considered
4-3

piscivorous (MSS -11.2%, REF -8.8%) and omnivorous (MSS -2.8%, REF -4.9%) also
reflected similar guild contributions when comparing areas from 2009 to 2013.
No significant difference existed between areas for spotted bass mean Wr (MSS -77.2, REF -
77.1). Largemouth bass from MSS (84.5) had a higher mean Wr than from REF (82.8);
however, the continued downward trend in the number of largemouth bass collected from
Lake Norman in recent years diminishes the significance of a statistical comparison.
Summer Electrofishin Surveys
urveys
Summer electrofishing surveys from 2009 to 2013 resulted in the collection of 2,967
individuals comprising six families, 19 species, and two hybrid centrarchid combinations
(Table 4-2). The species composition for the combined summer electrofishing surveys was
dominated by centrarchids (93.2%), followed by clupeids (4.9%), and cyprinids (1.2%). The
remaining families represented less than 1.0% of individuals combined. Previously reported
summer data also documented dominance by centrarchids during 2004 — 2008 (90.4%) and
2000 — 2003 (77.0%). Spotted bass have steadily increased in percent composition from
being absent prior to 2005 to approximately 9.5% of individuals collected during summer
2009 — 2013. Overall, current CPUE and species composition data are similar to previously
reported summer electrofishing data near MSS (Duke Power Company 1994; Duke Power
1999, 2004a; Duke Energy 2009a) and from other Catawba River reservoirs (Duke Power
2001a, 2001b, 2004b, 2004c; Duke Energy 2009b, 2009c).
Pollution -tolerant species represented 16.6% of the collected fish during summer 2009 —
2013 surveys, similar to summer 2004 — 2008 (12.2%) and summer 2000 — 2003 (18.2%).
Insectivorous (78.2%), piscivorous (15.8%), and omnivorous (6.0%) species from 2009 to
2013 surveys had guild contributions similar to summer 2004 — 2008 (79.4%, 12.3%, 8.3%)
and summer 2000 — 2003 (81.6%, 12.9%, 5.6%), respectively.
The TL distributions of RIS (i.e., bluegill, redbreast sunfish, and spotted bass) during
summer 2009 — 2013 surveys (Figures 4-5 to 4-7) indicated successful reproduction and
multiple age groups from above, in the vicinity of, and below the MSS discharge canal.
Although the discharge canal consistently had the highest temperature (as high as 36.8 C)
and lowest DO (as low as 0.5 mg/L), it maintained RIS TL size class distributions similar to
areas above and below the discharge canal.

Fall Hydroacoustic and Purse Seine Surveys
Annual hydroacoustic estimates near MSS (Zone 4) from 2009 to 2013 indicated the regular
availability of pelagic forage fish with no temporal trend in density (range = 1,564 — 11,551
fish/ha; Figure 4-8). Threadfin shad (Dorosoma petenense) continued to dominate annual
purse seine surveys of the Lake Norman forage fish community from 2009 to 2013,
comprising 88.4 — 98.3% of fish collected (Table 4-3). Alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus),
first detected in low numbers in 1999 (Duke Power 2000), have comprised as much as 25.0%
(2002) of mid-September pelagic forage fish surveys, but percent contribution has remained
relatively low since 2005 (range = 1.5 — 11.6%).
CONCLUSIONS
A diverse fish community was present in the littoral surveys of Lake Norman near MSS from
2009 to 2013. Spring and summer electrofishing documented 28 and 19 species,
respectively, both numerically dominated by centrarchids, especially bluegill. Pollution -
tolerant species comprised less of the spring MSS fish population (19.7%) relative to the
REF area (27.5%), and comprised only 16.6% of individuals collected during summer
surveys. The assorted fish species typically found in Lake Norman near MSS encompass
multiple trophic guilds (i.e., insectivores, omnivores, and piscivores) supporting a balanced
fish community. Non -indigenous species such as spotted bass and green sunfish are
abundant near MSS, but are also prevalent throughout Lake Norman.
Annual hydroacoustic estimates from 2009 to 2013 showed the regular availability of pelagic
forage fish near MSS. Purse seine surveys indicate that threadfin shad continue to dominate
the Lake Norman forage fish community with a consistent alewife composition of
approximately 5% after 2004. The introduction of alewife and inherent, temporal
fluctuations in clupeid densities contribute to the variable nature of forage fish populations.
Past studies have indicated that a balanced indigenous fish community exists near MSS
(Duke Power Company 1994; Duke Power 1999, 2004a; Duke Energy 2009a). The present
study adds more years of comparable data, reinforcing that conclusion. Based on the CPUE
of littoral fish during spring, TL distributions of RIS during summer, and the regular
availability of forage fish, it is concluded that the thermal discharge of MSS has not impaired
the Lake Norman fish community.
4-5

Table 4-1. Total number of individuals, percent composition, and total number of species in spring electrofishing surveys from two
areas (MSS and REF) in Lake Norman, 1993 - 1997 and 1999, 2000 - 2003, 2004 - 2008, and 2009 - 2013.
C,
Spring 1993 - 1997, 1999
Spring 2000 - 2003
Spring 2004 - 2008
Spring 2009 - 2013
MSS
REF
MSS
REF
MSS
REF
MSS
REF
Scientific name
Common name
W.
%
No.
%
No.
%
No.
%
No.
%
No.
%
No.
%
No.
%
Lapisosteidae
Lepisosteus osseus
Longnose gar
2
0.03%
1
0.01%
1
0,01%
1
0.01%
5
0.05%
Clupeidae
Alosa pseudoharengus
Alewife
45
0.51%
57
0.77%
1
0.01%
51
0.53%
2
0.02%
1
0.01%
Dorosoma cepedianum
Gizzard shad
81
0.94%
50
0.72%
30
0.34%
94
1.27%
27
0.32%
38
0.39%
84
0.72%
60
0.59%
Dorosoma petenense
Threadfin shad
944
10.98%
1,515
21.72%
840
9.46%
58
0.78%
127
1.51%
523
5.43%
86
0.74%
276
2.69%
Cyprinidae
Cyprinella chloristia
Greenfin shiner
22
0.26%
12
0.17%
50
0.56%
153
2.07%
43
0.51%
38
0.39%
18
0.15%
49
0.48%
Cyprinella nivea
Whltefin shiner
734
8.54%
566
8.40%
1,257
14.16%
1,470
19.89%
228
2.72%
353
3.67%
26
0.22%
44
0.43%
Cyprinus Carpio
Common carp
157
1.83%
168
2.41%
190
2.14%
51
0.69%
58
0.69%
48
0.50%
99
0.85%
20
0,20%
Hybognathus regius
Eastern silvery rrinnow
2
0.02%
Nocomis leptocephalus
Bluehead chub
1
0.01%
Notemigonus crysoleucas
Golden shiner
8
0.09%
5
0.07%
4
0.05%
2
0.03%
7
0.08%
1
0.01%
1
0.01%
Notropis hudsonius
Spottail shiner
414
4.81%
67
0.96%
472
5.32%
561
7.59%
240
2.86%
184
1.91%
21
0.18%
119
1.16%
Notropis procne
Swallowtail shiner
1
0.01%
1
0.01%
Pimephales promelas
Fathead rrinnow
1
0.01%
Catostom idae
Carpiodes cyprinus
Quillback
5
0.06%
6
0.09%
3
0.03%
3
0.04%
2
0.02%
4
0.04%
3
0.03%
Moxostoma macrolepidotum
Shorthead redhorse
2
0.02%
4
0.05%
4
0.05%
1
0.01%
Moxostoma rupiscartes
Striped jurrprock
1
0.01%
Ictaluridae
Ameiurus catus
White catfish
1
0.01%
Ameiurus nebulosus
Brown bullhead
1
0.01%
Ictalurus furcatus
Blue catfish
2
0.02%
8
0.11%
1
0.01%
3
0.03%
1
0.01%
Ictalurus punctatus
Channel catfish
22
0.26%
14
0.20%
37
0.42%
40
0.54%
16
0.19%
24
0.25%
35
0.30%
27
0.26%
Pyfodictis olivaris
Flathead catfish
7
0.08%
4
0.06%
14
0.16%
6
0.08%
9
0.11%
14
0.15%
21
0.18%
40
0.39%
Salmonidae
Oncorhynchus mykiss
Rainbow trout
2
0.02%
1
0.01%
Moronidae
Morons americana
White perch
8
0.09%
103
1.16%
4
0.05%
8
0.10%
17
0.18%
66
0.56%
Morone chrysops
White bass
6
0.07%
4
0.06%
2
0.02%
3
0.04
Morons saxatilis
Striped bass
6
0.07%
3
0.03%
2
0.03%
1
0.01%
1
0.01%
10
0.09%
3
0.03%
Centrarchidae
Lepomis auritus
Redbreast sunfish
1,398
16.26%
1,017
14.58%
957
10.78%
1,004
13.59%
1,110
13.24%
1,925
19.99%
587
5.02%
1,408
13.74%
Lepomis cyanellus
Green sunfish
129
1.54%
12
0.12%
1,373
11.75%
1,084
10.57%
Lepomis gibbosus
Pumpkinseed
4
0.05%
Lepomis gulosus
Warmouth
63
0.73%
95
1.36%
150
1.69%
118
1.60%
111
1.32%
225
2.34%
69
0.59%
125
1,22%
Lepomis hybrid
Hybrid sunfish
219
2.55%
207
2.97%
213
2.40%
197
2.67%
340
4.05%
360
3.74%
245
2.10%
306
2.99%
Lepomis macrochirus
Bluegill
2,731
31.76%
1,939
27.80%
3,418
38.51%
2,622
35.48%
4,600
54.85%
4,735
49.16%
7,424
63.55%
5,634
54.96%
Lepomis microlophus
%dear sunfish
111
1.29%
174
2.49%
468
5.27%
477
6.45%
559
6.67%
558
5.79%
300
2.57%
199
1.94%
Micropterus punctulatus
Spotted bass
15
0.17%
12
0.16%
304
3.63%
198
2.06%
929
7.95%
750
7.32%
Micropterus salmoides
Largemouth bass
1,349
15.69%
911
13.06%
573
6.46%
420
5.68%
408
4.87%
270
2.80%
221
1.89%
73
0.71%
Micropterus hybrid
Hybrid black bass
19
0.23%
11
0.11%
43
0.37%
18
0.18%
Pomoxis annularis
White crappie
3
0.03%
Pomoxis nigromaculatus
Black crappie
51
0.59%
118
1.69%
1
0.01%
19
0.26%
19
0.23%
22
0.23%
12
0.10%
8
0.08%
Percidae
Etheostoma fusiforme
Swamp darter
1
0.01%
Ethaostoma olmstedi
Tessellated darter
1
0.01%
1
0.01%
1
0.01%
3
0.04%
3
0.04%
4
0.04%
1
0.01%
Perca flavescens
Yellow perch
256
2.98%
80
1.15%
17
0.19%
3
0.04%
8
0.10%
13
0.13%
1
0.01%
Total
8,599
100.00%
6,976
100.001/6
8,876
100.00%
7,390
100.00%
8,386
100.00%
9,631
100.00%
11,682
100.00%
10,251
100.00%
Total no. species
24
21
28
27
28
25
26
21
C,

Table 4-2. Total number of individuals, percent composition, and total number of species in summer electrofishing surveys from three
areas near MSS (above, in the vicinity of, and below the discharge canal) in Lake Norman, 1991 - 1993, 1994 - 1999,
2000 - 2003, 2004 - 2008, and 2009 - 2013.
Summer 1991 - 1993, Summer 1994 - 19991 Summer 2000 - 2003 Summer 2004 - 2008 Summer 2009 - 2013
Scientific name
Common name
No.
%
No.
%
No.
%
No.
%
No.
%
Lepisosteldae
Lepisosteus osseus
Longnose gar
11
0.26%
3
0.09%
3
0.10%
Clupeidae
Alosa pseudoharengus
Alewife
5
0.16%
2
0.07%
Dorosoma cepedianum
Gizzard shad
11
0.72%
38
0.91%
4
0.19%
6
0.19%
12
0.40%
Dorosoma petenense
Threadfin shad
5
0.33%
355
8.54%
60
1.88%
130
4.38%
Cyprinidae
Carassius auratus
Goldfish
1
0,03%
1
0.03%
Cyprinella chloristia
Greenfin shiner
15
0.98%
54
1.30%
28
1.32%
53
1.66%
7
0.24%
Cyprinella nivea
Whitefin shiner
170
11.10%
469
11.28%
257
12.09%
58
1.82%
1
0.03%
Cyprinus Carpio
Common carp
53
3.46%
94
2.26%
11
0.52%
3
0.09%
7
0.24%
Notemigonus crysoleucas
Golden shiner
5
0.12%
Notropis hudsonius
Spottail shiner
29
0.70%
157
7.39%
100
3.14%
20
0.67%
Catostom idae
Carpiodescyprinus
Quillback
5
0.12%
Moxostoma macrolepidotum
Shorthead redhorse
7
0.33%
5
0.16%
Moxostoma sp.
Brassy jumprock
6
0.14%
Ictaluridae
Ictalurus punctatus
Channel catfish
11
0.72%
10
0.24%
4
0.19%
7
0.22%
8
0.27%
Pylodictisolivaris
Flathead catfish
16
0.38%
2
0.09%
3
0.09%
7
0.24%
Poeciliidae
Gambusia holbrooki
Eastern mosquitofish
5
0.33%
3
0.10%
Moronidae
Morone americana
White perch
8
0.38%
Morone chrysops
White bass
5
0.12%
Centrarchidae
Lepomis auritus
Redbreast sunfish
119
7.77%
261
6.28%
317
14.92%
272
8.53%
155
5.22%
Lepomis cyanellus
Green sunfish
5
0.33%
1
0.05%
58
1.82%
286
9.64%
Lepomis gibbosus
Pumpkinseed
5
0.33%
Lepomis gulosus
Warmouth
26
1.70%
91
2.19%
42
1.98%
74
2.32%
88
2.97%
Lepomis hybrid
Hybrid sunfish
5
0.33%
99
2.38%
58
2.73%
53
1.66%
37
1.25%
Lepomis macrochirus
Bluegill
926
60.44%
1,829
43.98%
900
42.35%
1,957
61.41%
1,703
57.40%
Lepomis microlophus
Redear sunfish
5
0.33%
71
1.71%
78
3.67%
65
2.04%
38
1.28%
Micropterus punctulatus
Spotted bass
86
2.70%
282
9.50%
Micropterus salmoides
Largemouth bass
133
8.68%
422
10.15%
240
11.29%
313
9.82%
170
5.73%
Micropterus hybrid
Hybrid black bass
2
0.06%
7
0.24%
Pomoxis nigromaculatus
Black crappie
6
0.14%
1
0.05%
Percidae
Etheostoma olmstedi
Tessellated darter
20
1.31%
26
0.63%
Perce f/avescens
Yellow perch
18
1.17%
257
6.18%
10
0.47%
3
0,09%
Total
1,532
100.00%
4,159
100.00%
2,125
100.00%
3,187
100.00%
2,967
100.00%
Total no. species
16
21
17
20
19
p a locations B and E w ere not sampled in 1992, location B was not sampled in 1993
J
1 location B w as not sampled in 1994, locations A and B were not sampled in 1995

Table 4-3. Pelagic forage fish species composition from purse seine surveys in Lake
Norman, 1993 - 2013.
Year
Species composition
Threadfin shad Gizzard shad
Alewife
1993
100.00%
1994
99.94%
0.06%
1995
99.95%
0.05%
1996
100.00%
1997
99.99%
0.01%
1998
99.95%
0.05%
1999
99.26%
0.26%
0.48%
2000
87.40%
0.22%
12.37%
2001
76.47%
0.01%
23.52%
2002
74.96%
25.04%
2003
82.59%
0.14%
17.27%
2004
86.55%
0.24%
13.20%
2005
98.10%
1.90%
2006
94.87%
5.13%
2007
98.34%
1.66%
2008
95.58%
4.42%
2009
88.40%
11.60%
2010
95.38%
0.36%
4.26%
2011
98.32%
0.15%
1.52%
2012
93.60%
6.40%
2013
93.50%
6.50%

0 0.5 1
cones 80 ova v°
e
N
o
2 3 o
i Miles
0 1 2 4
® Kilometers
o Zone 1
00
Cowans Ford Dam* . 06'. J yam'
McGuire Nuclear Station
Zone 2
Figure 4-1. Locations associated with spring electrofishing and fall purse seine surveys, and
zones associated with fall hydroacoustic survey of Lake Norman.
HUI

160
-4--MSS MSS
140
f REF
120
100
O
0
80
0
c
60
Ln
LL
40
20
0
M � Ln Cfl I� OD O O r N M � Ln CO f� 0p 67 O r N M
d7 O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O r r r r
d7 O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O
r r r r r r r N N N N N N N N N N N N N N
Year
Figure 4-2. Total number of fish collected in spring electrofishing surveys from two areas
(MSS and REF) in Lake Norman, 1993 — 1997 and 1999 — 2013.
14
t MSS
12 -REF
10
E
0 8
0
6
Ln
U-
4
2
M J- LO w I- M O ON M 'I -LO O I' -O O O N M
O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O
d7 O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O
r r r r r r r N N N N N N N N N N N N N N
Year
Figure 4-3. Biomass of fish collected in spring electrofishing surveys from two areas (MSS
and REF) in Lake Norman, 1993 — 1997 and 1999 — 2013.
l

30
25
20
0
0
15
v
�U
N
Q
-C 10
LL
5
U
M It M CO f- W O O r N M It M Cfl f-- W O O r N M
O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O r r r r
O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O
r r r r r r r N N N N N N N N N N N N N N
Year
Figure 4-4. Total number of fish species collected in spring electrofishing surveys from two
areas (MSS and REF) in Lake Norman, 1993 — 1997 and 1999 — 2013.
16% -------------------------------------------------------------------------
■ Above ■ Discharge ■ Below
14% -------------------------------------------------------------------------
12%------------------------------------------------------------------
c
0
x,10% ----------------- ------ - --- ---------------------------------------
0
o8% ----------------- --�-� - ---------------------------------------
2%
0% 4—
CD
N
O O O O o O o O O
CO 00 O N 't CO 00 N
TL class (mm)
Figure 4-5. Length distribution of bluegill among survey locations in summer electrofishing
surveys near MSS in Lake Norman, 2009 — 2013.
4-11

25% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
❑ Above ❑ Discharge ❑ Below
20°/ ---------------------- H A --------------------------------------------------
0
c
0
15%
0
E
0
U
0
a-
10%
5%
0% 4—
CD
N
'T (0 0 0 00CD CD CD CD CD
O N V Cfl 00 O
TL class (mm)
Figure 4-6. Length distribution of redbreast sunfish among survey locations in summer
electrofishing surveys near MSS in Lake Norman, 2009 — 2013.
30% -----------------------------------------
--------------------------------
■ Above ■Discharge ■Below
25%-------------------------------------------------------------------------
C: 20%
I
0 15%
c
U
a 10% t --------- O11111IIIIII11-------------------------------------------------------------
5%
0% i niiwnwiwnuiniiwnuiniiwini n n n in n ini 110 nmmMm m n n n in i i n n i ni
O o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
N 't CO 00 O N �t (fl 00 O N �t CO CO O
�- �- N N N N N CO
A
TL class (mm)
Figure 4-7. Length distribution of spotted bass among survey locations in summer
electrofishing surveys near MSS in Lake Norman, 2009 — 2013.
4-12

25,000
20,000
°c 15,000
U)
C
a)
10,000
a>
n3
J- 5,000
I
--M—Zone 1 ——Zone 2
f'- 00 M O - N CO 'IT U') (0 fl- CO O O N M
O O O O O O O O O O O O O
07 M M O O O O O O O O O O O O O O
N N N N N N N N N N N N N N
Year
Figure 4-8. Pelagic forage fish density estimates by zone in Lake Norman, late
summer/early fall 1997 — 2013.
4-13

LITERATURE CITED
Brinkhurst, RO. 1974. The Benthos of Lakes. The MacMillan Press, London. 190 pp.
Duke Energy. 2008. Lake Norman maintenance monitoring program: 2007 Summary.
Duke Energy. 2009a. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Lake Norman
near Marshall Steam Station. Duke Energy, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Energy. 2009b. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Lake Wylie
near Allen Steam Station. Duke Energy, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Energy. 2009c. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Mountain
Island Lake near Riverbend Steam Station. Duke Energy, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Energy. 2009d. Lake Norman maintenance monitoring program: 2008 Summary.
Duke Energy, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Energy. 2011. Lake Norman maintenance monitoring program: 2010 Summary.
Duke Energy, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Energy. 2012. Lake Norman maintenance monitoring program: 2011 Summary.
Duke Energy, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Energy. 2013. Lake Norman maintenance monitoring program: 2012 Summary.
Duke Energy, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Power. 1999. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Lake Nonnan
near Marshall Steam Station. Duke Power, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Power. 2000. Lake Norman maintenance monitoring program: 1999 summary. Duke
Power, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Power. 2001a. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Lake Wylie
near Plant Allen. Duke Power, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Power. 2001b. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Mountain
Island Lake near Riverbend Steam Station. Duke Power, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Power. 2004a. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Lake Norman
near Marshall Steam Station. Duke Power, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Power. 2004b. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Lake Wylie
near Plant Allen. Duke Power, Charlotte, NC.
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Duke Power. 2004c. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Mountain
Island Lake near Riverbend Steam Station. Duke Power, Charlotte, NC.
Duke Power Company. 1994. Assessment of balanced and indigenous populations in Lake
Norman near Marshall Steam Station. Duke Power Company, Charlotte, NC.
Hayes, DB, CP Ferrier, and WW Taylor. 2012. Active fish capture methods. Pages 267-304
in AV Zale, DL Parrish and TM Sutton, editors. Fisheries Techniques, 3rd edition.
American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, MD.
Mecklenburg County Department of Environmental Protection (MCDEP). 2003. Lake
monitoring data summary for 2001-2002. Charlotte, NC
MCDEP. 2007. Lake monitoring report for 2007. Charlotte, NC.
Milligan, MR. 1997. Identification manual for the Oligochaeta of Florida. Vol. 1. 187 pp.
Neumann, RM, CS Guy, and DW Willis. 2012. Length, weight, and associated indices.
Pages 637-676 in AV Zale, DL Parrish and TM Sutton, editors. Fisheries
Techniques, 3rd edition. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, MD.
North Carolina Department of Environment, and Natural Resources (NCDENR). 2003.
Basinwide assessment report; Catawba River Basin. North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality. 203pp.
NCDENR. 2008. Lake and reservoir assessments; Catawba River Basin. North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality.
Environmental Sciences Section. 21pp
NCDENR. 2013. Standard operating procedure. Biological monitoring: stream fish
community assessment program. NCDENR, Division of Water Resources,
Environmental Sciences Section, Biological Assessment Branch. Raleigh, NC.
Rudstam, LG, JM Jech, SL Parker -Stetter, JK Horne, PJ Sullivan, and DM Mason. 2012.
Fisheries acoustics. Pages 597-636 in AV Zale, DL Parrish and TM Sutton, editors.
Fisheries Techniques, 3rd edition. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, MD.
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