20170363 Ver 1_NOV Response_20170510

Joanne Mackey Benson
126 Naperville Drive
Cary, NC 27519
May 10, 2017
Kevin Mitchell
NC Division of Water Resources
2090 Hwy 70
Swannanoa, NC 28778
Ref: Notice of Violation and Recommendation for Enforcement
Edgewater— 1514 Reflections Edge
NOV-2017-BV-0005
Catawaba River Buffer Violations
Caldwell County
Dear Mr. Mitchell,
Thank you for your help in the past weeks and for referring us to complete the Buffer Authorization
form. As you directed, the Authorization Form was submitted and we have since been working with Amy
Annino, Environmental Specialist from your office who has been extremely helpful. She is working with
us to complete the Buffer Authorization Form.
Below is the Required Response to the NOV:
1. A. We were not aware of the requirements to obtain prior authorization when the vehicular
access road was cleared. We are in the process of completing the Buffer Authorization.
2. We will be restoring the buffer to pre-existing conditions per the following restoration plan.
Disturbed areas were previously propagated with woody vegetation and grasses. Vegetation will be
restored in the area that is 30 feet by 45 feet (1350 sq. ft. _ .03 acre) at the end of the vehicular road
access. This area along the shore will be planted in November 2017 with bare root wild azalea, ferns,
jack in the pulpit and Virginia wild rye. This will be done in accordance with the density rules which
would require about 13 bushes/plants in this area (based on 436 in 10x10 spacing) in addition to the
grass. A layman's sketch is attached.
In addition, any construction near or around the buffer will be done with additional buffer protection of
silt fencing, which in most areas is already in place.
We will continue to work with Arnie Annino for the Buffer Authorization and hope the above response is
satisfactory. Please contact me [phone] should you need additional clarification.
Joanne Mackey Benson