20170502 Ver 1_More Info Requested_20170525

Strickland, Bev
From: Mitchell, Robert K
Sent: Thursday, May 25, 2017 12:56 PM
To: 'Andrew Bick'
Cc: stacy bredendieck; Greg Mullins; Leslie, Andrea J; 'Brown, David W SAW'
Subject: RE: Trough Branch passage -Additional Information DWR#17-0502
Attachments: GC4092.pdf, GC4085.pdf
Andrew,
Good to see you yesterday. I am okay with an addendum to the PCN. I will need the following additional information as
well.
1. We require written approval for WQC 4085 and WQC 4092 for any impacts to waters or wetlands adjacent to
waters designated as ORW or Tr (see attached Water Quality Certifications). Please update table 3a (Page 5 of
11 of the PCN) to show the impacts for the water intake and the pond maintenance. David had mentioned these
would be non -notifying for the Corps, but would be covered under NW 18 and NW3 respectively.
2. It appears that the proposed work will be conducted outside of the North Carolina Department of
Transportation's (DOT) right of way. If any work is to be conducted within the DOT right of way, please provide
documentation from DOT authorizing this activity.
Pursuant to Title 15A NCAC 02H .0502(c), the applicant shall furnish all of the above requested information for the
proper consideration of the application. If all of the requested information is not received within 30 calendar days, of
receipt of this email, the Division will be unable to approve the application and it will be returned. The return of this
project will necessitate reapplication to the Division for approval, including a complete application package and the
appropriate fee.
You may provide your response via email or mail to the address noted below. Let me know if you have any
questions. Thanks for everyone's time yesterday.
Kevin Mitchell
Environmental Specialist—Asheville Regional Office
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
NCDEQ— Division of Water Resources
828-296-4650 Office
Email [e-mail]
2090 U.S. Hwy. 70
Swannanoa, N.C. 28778
-��Nothing Compares]
Email correspondence to and from this address is subject to the
North Carolina Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties.

From: Andrew Bick [mailto:[e-mail]]
Sent: Thursday, May 25, 2017 11:08 AM
To: Leslie, Andrea J <[e-mail]>; Brown, David W SAW <[e-mail]>; Mitchell,
Robert K <[e-mail]>
Cc: stacy bredendieck <[e-mail]>; Greg Mullins <[e-mail]>
Subject: Trough Branch passage
All - thanks again for meeting us at the site yesterday. I promised a model of the backwater effects from the proposed
steps upstream through the culverts. Unfortunately at the base flow discharges we're considering, the model is not
sophisticated enough to clearly show the backwater effects. However, I'm confident that setting the top of the first
step even with the invert elevations of the culverts, we will get deeper flow through the culverts than now occurs. That
will be our plan, and we'll add boulders steps downstream to make a gradual transition to the existing Trough Branch
bed.
Andrea — if you have any specifics on maximum step height, please send those along and we'll incorporate those into the
revised profile.
David and Kevin —we'll add some NWP 27 impact length to the project for the added steps and possible bank
treatments opposite the tail race outlet. Would an addendum memo to the PCN be sufficient or should we plan to
revise the PCN and re -submit?
Andrew Bick, PE
Office: 828.774.5547 Mobile: [phone]
Wildlands Engineering, Inc.
167-B Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
WATER QUALITY GENERAL CERTIFICATION NO. 4085
GENERAL CERTIFICATION FOR PROJECTS ELIGIBLE FOR US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 3 (MAINTENANCE),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 4 (FISH AND WILDLIFE HARVESTING, ENHANCEMENT, AND ATTRACTION
DEVICES AND ACTIVITIES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 5 (SCIENTIFIC MEASUREMENT DEVICES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 6 (SURVEY ACTIVITIES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 7 (OUTFALL STRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATED INTAKE STRUCTURES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 19 (MINOR DREDGING),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 20 (RESPONSE OPERATIONS FOR OIL OR HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 22 (REMOVAL OF VESSELS),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 25 (STRUCTURAL DISCHARGES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 30 (MOIST SOIL MANAGEMENT FOR WILDLIFE),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 32 (COMPLETED ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT 36 (BOAT RAMPS),
• REGIONAL GENERAL PERMIT 197800056 (PIERS, DOCKS AND BOATHOUSES), AND
• REGIONAL GENERAL PERMIT 197800125 (BOAT RAMPS)
Water Quality Certification Number 4085 is issued in conformity with the requirements of
Section 401, Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217 of the United States and subject to the North
Carolina Regulations in 15A NCAC 02H .0500 and 15A NCAC 02B .0200 for the discharge of fill
material to surface waters and wetland areas as described in 33 CFR 330 Appendix A (B) (3, 4, 5,
6, 7, 19, 20, 22, 25, 30, 32, and 36) of the US Army Corps of Engineers regulations and Regional
General Permits 197800056 and 197800125.
The State of North Carolina certifies that the specified category of activity will not violate
applicable portions of Sections 301, 302, 303, 306 and 307 of the Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217
if conducted in accordance with the conditions hereinafter set forth.
Effective date: March 19, 2017
Signed this day March 3, 2017
By
for S. Jay Zimmerman, P.G.
Director

GC4085
Activities meeting any one (1) of the following thresholds or circumstances require written
approval for a 401 Water Quality Certification from the Division of Water Resources (DWR):
a) If any of the conditions of this Certification (listed below) cannot be met; or
b) Total additional permanent impacts to streams (including stream relocations or
restorations) greater than 40 linear feet at an existing stream impact location; or
c) Total temporary and permanent impacts to wetlands equal to or greater than one-tenth
(1/10) of an acre; or
d) Any dewatering activity related to dam maintenance or removal; or
e) Any impacts to streams from excavation or dredging, except for projects qualifying for a
Nationwide Permit 19; or
f) Any impacts to waters, or to wetlands adjacent to waters, designated as: ORW (including
SAV), HQW (including PNA), SA, WS -I, WS -ll, Trout, or North Carolina or National Wild and
Scenic River, except for projects qualifying for a Nationwide Permit 3; or
g) Any impacts to coastal wetlands [15A NCAC 07H .0205], or Unique Wetlands (UWL); or
h) Any impact associated with a Notice of Violation or an enforcement action for violation(s)
of NC Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H .0500), NC Isolated Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H
.1300), NC Surface Water or Wetland Standards (15A NCAC 02B .0200), or State
Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules (15A NCAC 02B .0200); or
i) Any impacts to subject water bodies and/or state regulated riparian buffers along subject
water bodies in the Neuse, Tar -Pamlico, or Catawba River Basins or in the Randleman
Lake, Jordan Lake or Goose Creek Watersheds (or any other basin or watershed with
State Regulated Riparian Area Protection Rules [Buffer Rules] in effect at the time of
application) unless:
i) The activities are listed as "EXEMPT" from these rules; or
ii) A Buffer Authorization Certificate is issued by the NC Division of Coastal
Management (DCM); or
iii) A Buffer Authorization Certificate or a Minor Variance is issued by a delegated or
designated local government implementing a state riparian buffer program
pursuant to 143-215.23.
Activities included in this General Certification that do not meet one of the thresholds listed above
do not require written approval.
I. ACTIVITY SPECIFIC CONDITIONS:
1. For the North Carolina Department of Transportation, compliance with the NCDOT's
individual NPDES permit NCS000250 shall serve to satisfy this condition. For all other
projects that disturb one acre or more of land (including a project that disturbs less than one
acre of land that is part of a larger common plan of development or sale); have permanent
wetland, stream, or open water impacts; and are proposing new built -upon area shall comply
with the following requirements: [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
Page 2 of 10

GC4085
a. Stormwater management shall be provided throughout the entire project area in
accordance with 15A NCAC 02H .1003. For the purposes of 15A NCAC 02H .1003(2)(a),
density thresholds shall be determined in accordance with 15A NCAC 02H .1017.
b. Projects that have vested rights, exemptions, or grandfathering from state or locally -
implemented stormwater programs do not satisfy this condition. Projects that satisfy
state or locally -implemented stormwater programs through use of community in -lieu
programs do not satisfy this condition.
c. Projects that require written authorization from DWR shall submit the following with
their application for review and approval:
For projects that have a stormwater management plan (SMP) reviewed under a state
stormwater program' or a state -approved local government stormwater program2
shall submit plans that show the location and approximate size of all proposed
stormwater measures;
ii. All other low density projects not covered above shall submit a completed low
density supplement form with all required items; and
iii. All other high density projects not covered above shall submit a completed SMP,
including all appropriate stormwater control measure (SCM) supplemental forms and
associated items, that complies with the high density development requirements of
15A NCAC 02H .1003.
d. Projects that do not require written approval from DWR shall obtain approval of the SMP,
when required, before any impacts authorized by this Certification occur.
e. SMPs approved by DWR may be phased on a case-by-case basis. SMPs for each future
phase must be approved before construction of that phase is commenced. Approved
SMPs may not be modified without prior written authorization from DWR.
II. GENERAL CONDITIONS:
1. When written authorization is required, the plans and specifications for the project are
incorporated into the authorization by reference and are an enforceable part of the
Certification. Any modifications to the project require notification to DWR and may require an
application submittal to DWR with the appropriate fee. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
2. No waste, spoil, solids, or fill of any kind shall occur in wetlands or waters beyond the
footprint of the impacts (including temporary impacts) as authorized in the written approval
from DWR; or beyond the thresholds established for use of this Certification without written
authorization. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
1 e.g. Coastal Counties, HQW, ORW, or state -implemented Phase II NPDES
2 e.g. Delegated Phase II NPDES, Water Supply Watershed, Nutrient -Sensitive Waters, or Universal Stormwater
Management Program
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GC4085
No removal of vegetation or other impacts of any kind shall occur to state regulated riparian
buffers beyond the footprint of impacts approved in a Buffer Authorization or Variance or as
listed as an exempt activity in the applicable riparian buffer rules. [15A NCAC 02B .0200]
3. In accordance with 15A NCAC 02H .0506(h), compensatory mitigation may be required for
losses of greater than 150 linear feet of streams and/or greater than one (1) acre of
wetlands. Impacts to isolated and other non -404 jurisdictional wetlands shall not be
combined with 404 jurisdictional wetlands for the purpose of determining when impact
thresholds trigger a mitigation requirement. For linear publicly owned and maintained
transportation projects that are not determined to be part of a larger common plan of
development by the US Army Corps of Engineers, compensatory mitigation may be required
for losses of greater than 150 linear feet per stream.
Compensatory stream and/or wetland mitigation shall be proposed and completed in
compliance with G.S. 143-214.11. For applicants proposing to conduct mitigation within a
project site, a complete mitigation proposal developed in accordance with the most recent
guidance issued by the US Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District shall be submitted
for review and approval with the application for impacts.
4. All activities shall be in compliance with any applicable State Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules
in Chapter 2 of Title 15A.
5. When applicable, all construction activities shall be performed and maintained in full
compliance with G.S. Chapter 113A Article 4 (Sediment and Pollution Control Act of 1973).
Regardless of applicability of the Sediment and Pollution Control Act, all projects shall
incorporate appropriate Best Management Practices for the control of sediment and erosion
so that no violations of state water quality standards, statutes, or rules occur. [15A NCAC
02H .0506 (b)(3) and (c)(3) and 15A NCAC 026 .0200]
Design, installation, operation, and maintenance of all sediment and erosion control
measures shall be equal to or exceed the requirements specified in the most recent version
of the North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Manual, or for linear transportation
projects, the NCDOT Sediment and Erosion Control Manual.
All devices shall be maintained on all construction sites, borrow sites, and waste pile (spoil)
sites, including contractor -owned or leased borrow pits associated with the project.
Sufficient materials required for stabilization and/or repair of erosion control measures and
stormwater routing and treatment shall be on site at all times.
For borrow pit sites, the erosion and sediment control measures shall be designed, installed,
operated, and maintained in accordance with the most recent version of the North Carolina
Surface Mining Manual. Reclamation measures and implementation shall comply with the
reclamation in accordance with the requirements of the Sedimentation Pollution Control Act
and the Mining Act of 1971.
Page 4 of 10

GC4085
If the project occurs in waters or watersheds classified as Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs), SA,
WS -I, WS -II, High Quality Waters (HQW), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), then the
sedimentation and erosion control designs shall comply with the requirements set forth in
15A NCAC 04B .0124, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds.
6. Sediment and erosion control measures shall not be placed in wetlands or waters except
within the footprint of temporary or permanent impacts authorized under this Certification.
Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval from DWR. [15A
NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
7. Erosion control matting that incorporates plastic mesh and/or plastic twine shall not be used
along streambanks or within wetlands. Exceptions to this condition require application to
and written approval from DWR. [15A NCAC 0213 .0201]
8. An NPDES Construction Stormwater Permit (NCG010000) is required for construction
projects that disturb one (1) or more acres of land. The NCGO10000 Permit allows
stormwater to be discharged during land disturbing construction activities as stipulated in
the conditions of the permit. If the project is covered by this permit, full compliance with
permit conditions including the erosion & sedimentation control plan, inspections and
maintenance, self-monitoring, record keeping and reporting requirements is required. [15A
NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) shall be required to be in full
compliance with the conditions related to construction activities within the most recent
version of their individual NPDES (NCS000250) stormwater permit. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
9. All work in or adjacent to streams shall be conducted so that the flowing stream does not
come in contact with the disturbed area. Approved best management practices from the
most current version of the NC Sediment and Erosion Control Manual, or the NC DOT
Construction and Maintenance Activities Manual, such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams,
and other diversion structures shall be used to minimize excavation in flowing water.
Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval from DWR. [15A
NCAC 02H .0506(b)(3) and (c)(3)]
10. If activities must occur during periods of high biological activity (e.g. sea turtle nesting, fish
spawning, or bird nesting), then biological monitoring may be required at the request of
other state or federal agencies and coordinated with these activities. [15A NCAC 02H .0506
(b)(2) and 15A NCAC 04B.0125]
All moratoriums on construction activities established by the NC Wildlife Resources
Commission (WRC), US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), NC Division of Marine Fisheries
(DMF), or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) shall be implemented. Exceptions to this
condition require written approval by the resource agency responsible for the given
moratorium. A copy of the approval from the resource agency shall be forwarded to DWR.
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GC4085
Work within a designated trout watershed of North Carolina (as identified by the Wilmington
District of the US Army Corps of Engineers), or identified state or federal endangered or
threatened species habitat, shall be coordinated with the appropriate WRC, USFWS, NMFS,
and/or DMF personnel.
11. Culverts shall be designed and installed in such a manner that the original stream profiles are
not altered and allow for aquatic life movement during low flows. The dimension, pattern,
and profile of the stream above and below a pipe or culvert shall not be modified by
widening the stream channel or by reducing the depth of the stream in connection with the
construction activity. The width, height, and gradient of a proposed culvert shall be such as
to pass the average historical low flow and spring flow without adversely altering flow
velocity. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
Placement of culverts and other structures in streams shall be below the elevation of the
streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than 48 inches, and 20% of the
culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than or equal to 48 inches, to allow low
flow passage of water and aquatic life.
If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they shall be designed to mimic the existing stream
cross section as closely as possible, including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation and/or
sills where appropriate. Widening the stream channel shall be avoided.
When topographic constraints indicate culvert slopes of greater than 5%, culvert burial is not
required, provided that all alternative options for flattening the slope have been investigated
and aquatic life movement/connectivity has been provided when possible (e.g. rock ladders,
cross vanes, etc.). Notification, including supporting documentation to include a location
map of the culvert, culvert profile drawings, and slope calculations, shall be provided to DWR
60 calendar days prior to the installation of the culvert.
When bedrock is present in culvert locations, culvert burial is not required provided that
there is sufficient documentation of the presence of bedrock. Notification, including
supporting documentation such as a location map of the culvert, geotechnical reports,
photographs, etc. shall be provided to DWR a minimum of 60 calendar days prior to the
installation of the culvert. If bedrock is discovered during construction, then DWR shall be
notified by phone or email within 24 hours of discovery.
If other site-specific topographic constraints preclude the ability to bury the culverts as
described above and/or it can be demonstrated that burying the culvert would result in
destabilization of the channel, then exceptions to this condition require application to and
written approval from DWR.
Page 6 of 10

GC4085
Installation of culverts in wetlands shall ensure continuity of water movement and be
designed to adequately accommodate high water or flood conditions. When roadways,
causeways, or other fill projects are constructed across FEMA -designated floodways or
wetlands, openings such as culverts or bridges shall be provided to maintain the natural
hydrology of the system as well as prevent constriction of the floodway that may result in
destabilization of streams or wetlands.
The establishment of native woody vegetation and other soft stream bank stabilization
techniques shall be used where practicable instead of rip -rap or other bank hardening
methods.
12. Bridge deck drains shall not discharge directly into the stream. Stormwater shall be directed
across the bridge and pre-treated through site -appropriate means to the maximum extent
practicable (e.g. grassed swales, pre -formed scour holes, vegetated buffers, etc.) before
entering the stream. Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval
from DWR. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5)]
13. Application of fertilizer to establish planted/seeded vegetation within disturbed riparian
areas and/or wetlands shall be conducted at agronomic rates and shall comply with all other
Federal, State and Local regulations. Fertilizer application shall be accomplished in a manner
that minimizes the risk of contact between the fertilizer and surface waters. [15A NCAC 02B
.0200 and 15A NCAC 02B.0231]
14. If concrete is used during construction, then all necessary measures shall be taken to prevent
direct contact between uncured or curing concrete and waters of the state. Water that
inadvertently contacts uncured concrete shall not be discharged to waters of the state. [15A
NCAC 026 .0200]
15. All proposed and approved temporary fill and culverts shall be removed and the impacted
area shall be returned to natural conditions within 60 calendar days after the temporary
impact is no longer necessary. The impacted areas shall be restored to original grade,
including each stream's original cross sectional dimensions, planform pattern, and
longitudinal bed profile. For projects that receive written approval, no temporary impacts
are allowed beyond those included in the application and authorization. All temporarily
impacted sites shall be restored and stabilized with native vegetation. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
16. All proposed and approved temporary pipes/culverts/rip-rap pads etc. in streams shall be
installed as outlined in the most recent edition of the North Carolina Sediment and Erosion
Control Planning and Design Manual or the North Carolina Surface Mining Manual or the
North Carolina Department of Transportation Best Management Practices for Construction
and Maintenance Activities so as not to restrict stream flow or cause dis-equilibrium during
use of this Certification. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
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GC4085
17. Any rip -rap required for proper culvert placement, stream stabilization, or restoration of
temporarily disturbed areas shall be restricted to the area directly impacted by the approved
construction activity. All rip -rap shall be placed such that the original stream elevation and
streambank contours are restored and maintained. Placement of rip -rap or other approved
materials shall not result in de -stabilization of the stream bed or banks upstream or
downstream of the area or in a manner that precludes aquatic life passage. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(2)]
18. Any rip -rap used for stream or shoreline stabilization shall be of a size and density to prevent
movement by wave, current action, or stream flows and shall consist of clean rock or
masonry material free of debris or toxic pollutants. Rip -rap shall not be installed in the
streambed except in specific areas required for velocity control and to ensure structural
integrity of bank stabilization measures. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2)]
19. Applications for rip -rap groins proposed in accordance with 15A NCAC 07H .1401 (NC
Division of Coastal Management General Permit for construction of Wooden and Rip -rap
Groins in Estuarine and Public Trust Waters) shall meet all the specific conditions for design
and construction specified in 15A NCAC 07H .1405.
20. All mechanized equipment operated near surface waters should be inspected and
maintained regularly to prevent contamination of surface waters from fuels, lubricants,
hydraulic fluids, or other toxic materials. Construction shall be staged in order to minimize
the exposure of equipment to surface waters to the maximum extent practicable. Fueling,
lubrication and general equipment maintenance should not take place within 50 feet of a
waterbody or wetlands to prevent contamination by fuels and oils. [15A NCAC 02H .0506
(b)(3) and (c)(3) and 15A NCAC 02B.0211 (12)]
21. Heavy equipment working in wetlands shall be placed on mats or other measures shall be
taken to minimize soil disturbance. [15A NCAC 02H .0506 (b)(3) and (c)(3)]
22. In accordance with 143-215.85(b), the applicant shall report any petroleum spill of 25 gallons
or more; any spill regardless of amount that causes a sheen on surface waters; any
petroleum spill regardless of amount occurring within 100 feet of surface waters; and any
petroleum spill less than 25 gallons that cannot be cleaned up within 24 hours.
23. If an environmental document is required under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA),
then this General Certification is not valid until a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or
Record of Decision (ROD) is issued by the State Clearinghouse. If an environmental
document is required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), then this General
Certification is not valid until a Categorical Exclusion, the Final Environmental Assessment, or
Final Environmental Impact Statement is published by the lead agency. [15A NCAC 01C
.0107(a)]
24. This General Certification does not relieve the applicant of the responsibility to obtain all
other required Federal, State, or Local approvals before proceeding with the project,
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GC4085
including those required by, but not limited to, Sediment and Erosion Control, Non -
Discharge, Water Supply Watershed, and Trout Buffer regulations.
25. The applicant and their authorized agents shall conduct all activities in a manner consistent
with State water quality standards (including any requirements resulting from compliance
with §303(d) of the Clean Water Act), and any other appropriate requirements of State and
Federal Law. If DWR determines that such standards or laws are not being met, including
failure to sustain a designated or achieved use, or that State or Federal law is being violated,
or that further conditions are necessary to assure compliance, then DWR may revoke or
modify a written authorization associated with this General Water Quality Certification. [15A
NCAC 02H .0507(d)]
26. When written authorization is required for use of this Certification, upon completion of all
permitted impacts included within the approval and any subsequent modifications, the
applicant shall be required to return a certificate of completion (available on the DWR
website https:Hedocs.deg.nc.gov/Forms/Certificate-of-Completion). [15A NCAC 02H
.0502(f)]
27. Additional site-specific conditions, including monitoring and/or modeling requirements, may
be added to the written approval letter for projects proposed under this Water Quality
Certification in order to ensure compliance with all applicable water quality and effluent
standards. [15A NCAC 02H .0507(c)]
28. If the property or project is sold or transferred, the new Permittee shall be given a copy of
this Certification (and written authorization if applicable) and is responsible for complying
with all conditions. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
GENERAL CERTIFICATION ADMINISTRATION:
1. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute 143-215.3D(e), written approval for a 401
Water Quality General Certification must include the appropriate fee. An applicant for a
CAMA permit under Article 7 of Chapter 113A of the General Statutes for which a Water
Quality Certification is required shall only make one payment to satisfy both agencies; the fee
shall be as established by the Secretary in accordance with 143-215.3D(e)(7).
2. This Certification neither grants nor affirms any property right, license, or privilege in any
waters, or any right of use in any waters. This Certification does not authorize any person to
interfere with the riparian rights, littoral rights, or water use rights of any other person and
this Certification does not create any prescriptive right or any right of priority regarding any
usage of water. This Certification shall not be interposed as a defense in any action
respecting the determination of riparian or littoral rights or other rights to water use. No
consumptive user is deemed by virtue of this Certification to possess any prescriptive or
other right of priority with respect to any other consumptive user regardless of the quantity
of the withdrawal or the date on which the withdrawal was initiated or expanded.
Page 9 of 10

GC4085
3. This Certification grants permission to the Director, an authorized representative of the
Director, or DWR staff, upon the presentation of proper credentials, to enter the property
during normal business hours. [15A NCAC 02H .0502(e)]
4. This General Certification shall expire on the same day as the expiration date of the
corresponding Nationwide Permit and/or Regional General Permit. The conditions in effect
on the date of issuance of Certification for a specific project shall remain in effect for the life
of the project, regardless of the expiration date of this Certification. This General
Certification is rescinded when the US Army Corps of Engineers reauthorizes any of the
corresponding Nationwide Permits and/or Regional General Permits or when deemed
appropriate by the Director of the Division of Water Resources.
5. Non-compliance with or violation of the conditions herein set forth by a specific project may
result in revocation of this General Certification for the project and may also result in
criminal and/or civil penalties.
6. The Director of the North Carolina Division of Water Resources may require submission of a
formal application for Individual Certification for any project in this category of activity if it is
determined that the project is likely to have a significant adverse effect upon water quality,
including state or federally listed endangered or threatened aquatic species, or degrade the
waters so that existing uses of the waters or downstream waters are precluded.
7. Public hearings may be held prior to a Certification decision if deemed in the public's best
interest by the Director of the North Carolina Division of Water Resources.
History Note: Water Quality Certification (WQC) Number 4085 issued March 3, 2017 replaces
WQC 3883 issued March 19, 2012, WQC Number 3687 issued November 1, 2007; WQC Number
3624 issued March 19, 2007; WQC Number 3494 issued December 31, 2004; and WQC Number
3376 issued March 18, 2002.
Page 10 of 10

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
WATER QUALITY GENERAL CERTIFICATION NO. 4092
GENERAL CERTIFICATION FOR PROJECTS ELIGIBLE FOR US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 18 (MINOR DISCHARGES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 29 (RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 39 (COMMERCIAL AND INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENTS),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 40 (AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 41 (RESHAPING EXISTING DRAINAGE DITCHES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 42 (RECREATIONAL FACILITIES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 44 (MINING ACTIVITIES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 46 (DISCHARGES IN DITCHES),
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 51 (LAND BASED RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION
FACILITIES), AND
• NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBER 52 (WATER BASED RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION
PILOT PROJECTS).
Water Quality Certification Number 4092 is issued in conformity with the requirements of
Section 401, Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217 of the United States and subject to the North
Carolina Regulations in 15A NCAC 02H .0500 and 15A NCAC 02B .0200 for the discharge of fill
material to surface waters and wetland areas as described in 33 CFR 330 Appendix A (B) (18, 29,
39, 40, 41, 42, 44, 46, 51 and 52) of the US Army Corps of Engineers regulations.
The State of North Carolina certifies that the specified category of activity will not violate
applicable portions of Sections 301, 302, 303, 306 and 307 of the Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217
if conducted in accordance with the conditions hereinafter set forth.
Effective date: March 19, 2017
Signed this day March 3, 2017
for S. Jay Zimmerman, P.G.
Director

GC4092
Activities meeting any one (1) of the following thresholds or circumstances require written
approval for a 401 Water Quality Certification from the Division of Water Resources (DWR):
a) If any of the conditions of this Certification (listed below) cannot be met; or
b) Any impacts to streams from excavation or dredging; or
c) Total temporary and permanent impacts to streams greater than 150 feet; or
d) Any stream relocation or stream restoration; or
e) Total temporary and permanent impacts to wetlands or open waters equal to or greater
than one-tenth (1/10) acre; or
f) Any high density project, as defined in 15A NCAC 02H .1003(2)(a) and by the density
thresholds specified in 15A NCAC 02H .1017, which does not have a stormwater
management plan reviewed and approved under a state stormwater program' or a state -
approved local government stormwater programz. Projects that have vested rights,
exemptions, or grandfathering from state or locally -implemented stormwater programs
and projects that satisfy state or locally -implemented stormwater programs through use
of community in -lieu programs require written approval.; or
g) Any impacts to waters, or to wetlands adjacent to waters, designated as: ORW (including
SAV), HQW (including PNA), SA, WS -I, WS -II, Trout, or North Carolina or National Wild and
Scenic River; or
h) Any impacts to coastal wetlands [15A NCAC 07H .0205], or Unique Wetlands (UWL) [15A
NCAC 02H.05061; or
i) Any impact associated with a Notice of Violation or an enforcement action for violation(s)
of NC Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H .0500), NC Isolated Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H
.1300), NC Surface Water or Wetland Standards (15A NCAC 02B .0200), or State
Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules (15A NCAC 02B .0200); or
j) Any impacts to subject water bodies and/or state regulated riparian buffers along subject
water bodies in the Neuse, Tar -Pamlico, or Catawba River Basins or in the Randleman
Lake, Jordan Lake or Goose Creek Watersheds (or any other basin or watershed with
State Regulated Riparian Area Protection Rules [Buffer Rules] in effect at the time of
application) unless:
i) The activities are listed as "EXEMPT" from these rules; or
ii) A Buffer Authorization Certificate is issued by the NC Division of Coastal
Management (DCM); or
iii) A Buffer Authorization Certificate or a Minor Variance is issued by a delegated or
designated local government implementing a state riparian buffer program
pursuant to 143-215.23.
Activities included in this General Certification that do not meet one of the thresholds listed above
do not require written approval.
' e.g. Coastal Counties, HQW, CRW, or state -implemented Phase II NPDES
z e.g. Delegated Phase II NPDES, Water Supply Watershed, Nutrient -Sensitive Waters, or Universal Stormwater
Management Program
Page 2 of 11

GC4092
I. ACTIVITY SPECIFIC CONDITIONS:
1. If this Water Quality Certification is used to access residential, commercial or industrial
building sites, then all parcels owned by the applicant that are part of the single and
complete project authorized by this Certification must be buildable without additional
impacts to streams or wetlands. If required in writing by DWR, the applicant shall provide
evidence that the parcels are buildable without requiring additional impacts to wetlands,
waters, or state regulated riparian buffers. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(4) and (c)(4)]
2. For road construction purposes, this Certification shall only be utilized from natural high
ground to natural high ground. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
3. Deed notifications or similar mechanisms shall be placed on all lots with retained
jurisdictional wetlands, waters, and state regulated riparian buffers within the project
boundaries in order to assure compliance with NC Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H .0500), NC
Isolated Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 02H .1300), and/or State Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules
(15A NCAC 02B .0200). These mechanisms shall be put in place at the time of recording of
the property or individual parcels, whichever is appropriate. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(4) and
(c)(4)]
4. For the North Carolina Department of Transportation, compliance with the NCDOT's
individual NPDES permit NCS000250 shall serve to satisfy this condition. For all other
projects that disturb one acre or more of land (including a project that disturbs less than one
acre of land that is part of a larger common plan of development or sale); have permanent
wetland, stream, or open water impacts; and are proposing new built -upon area shall comply
with the following requirements: [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
a. Stormwater management shall be provided throughout the entire project area in
accordance with 15A NCAC 02H .1003. For the purposes of 15A NCAC 02H .1003(2)(a),
density thresholds shall be determined in accordance with 15A NCAC 02H .1017.
b. Projects that have vested rights, exemptions, or grandfathering from state or locally -
implemented stormwater programs do not satisfy this condition. Projects that satisfy
state or locally -implemented stormwater programs through use of community in -lieu
programs do not satisfy this condition.
c. Projects that require written authorization from DWR shall submit the following with
their application for review and approval:
i. For projects that have a stormwater management plan (SMP) reviewed under a state
stormwater program' or a state -approved local government stormwater program2
shall submit plans that show the location and approximate size of all proposed
stormwater measures;
1 e.g. Coastal Counties, HQW, ORW, or state -implemented Phase II NPDES
2 e.g. Delegated Phase II NPDES, Water Supply Watershed, Nutrient -Sensitive Waters, or Universal Stormwater
Management Program
Page 3 of 11

GC4O92
ii. All other low density projects not covered above shall submit a completed low
density supplement form with all required items; and
iii. All other high density projects not covered above shall submit a completed SMP,
including all appropriate stormwater control measure (SCM) supplemental forms and
associated items, that complies with the high density development requirements of
15A NCAC 02H .1003.
d. Projects that do not require written approval from DWR shall obtain approval of the SMP,
when required, before any impacts authorized by this Certification occur.
e. SMPs approved by DWR may be phased on a case-by-case basis. SMPs for each future
phase must be approved before construction of that phase commences. Approved SMPs
may not be modified without prior written authorization from DWR.
II. GENERAL CONDITIONS:
1. When written authorization is required, the plans and specifications for the project are
incorporated into the authorization by reference and are an enforceable part of the
Certification. Any modifications to the project require notification to DWR and may require
an application submittal to DWR with the appropriate fee. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
2. No waste, spoil, solids, or fill of any kind shall occur in wetlands or waters beyond the
footprint of the impacts (including temporary impacts) as authorized in the written approval
from DWR; or beyond the thresholds established for use of this Certification without written
authorization. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
No removal of vegetation or other impacts of any kind shall occur to state regulated riparian
buffers beyond the footprint of impacts approved in a Buffer Authorization or Variance or as
listed as an exempt activity in the applicable riparian buffer rules. [15A NCAC 02B .0200]
3. In accordance with 15A NCAC 02H .0506(h), compensatory mitigation may be required for
losses of greater than 150 linear feet of streams and/or greater than one (1) acre of
wetlands. Impacts to isolated and other non -404 jurisdictional wetlands shall not be
combined with 404 jurisdictional wetlands for the purpose of determining when impact
thresholds trigger a mitigation requirement. For linear publicly owned and maintained
transportation projects that are not determined to be part of a larger common plan of
development by the US Army Corps of Engineers, compensatory mitigation may be required
for losses of greater than 150 linear feet per stream.
Compensatory stream and/or wetland mitigation shall be proposed and completed in
compliance with G.S. 143-214.11. For applicants proposing to conduct mitigation within a
project site, a complete mitigation proposal developed in accordance with the most recent
guidance issued by the US Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District shall be submitted
for review and approval with the application for impacts.
Page 4 of 11

GC4092
4. All activities shall be in compliance with any applicable State Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules
in Chapter 2 of Title 15A.
5. When applicable, all construction activities shall be performed and maintained in full
compliance with G.S. Chapter 113A Article 4 (Sediment and Pollution Control Act of 1973).
Regardless of applicability of the Sediment and Pollution Control Act, all projects shall
incorporate appropriate Best Management Practices for the control of sediment and erosion
so that no violations of state water quality standards, statutes, or rules occur. [15A NCAC
02H .0506 (b)(3) and (c)(3) and 15A NCAC 02B.0200]
Design, installation, operation, and maintenance of all sediment and erosion control
measures shall be equal to or exceed the requirements specified in the most recent version
of the North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Manual, or for linear transportation
projects, the NCDOT Sediment and Erosion Control Manual.
All devices shall be maintained on all construction sites, borrow sites, and waste pile (spoil)
sites, including contractor -owned or leased borrow pits associated with the project.
Sufficient materials required for stabilization and/or repair of erosion control measures and
stormwater routing and treatment shall be on site at all times.
For borrow pit sites, the erosion and sediment control measures shall be designed, installed,
operated, and maintained in accordance with the most recent version of the North Carolina
Surface Mining Manual. Reclamation measures and implementation shall comply with the
reclamation in accordance with the requirements of the Sedimentation Pollution Control Act
and the Mining Act of 1971.
If the project occurs in waters or watersheds classified as Primary Nursery Areas (PNAs), SA,
WS -I, WS -II, High Quality Waters (HQW), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), then the
sedimentation and erosion control designs shall comply with the requirements set forth in
15A NCAC 04B .0 124, Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds.
6. Sediment and erosion control measures shall not be placed in wetlands or waters except
within the footprint of temporary or permanent impacts authorized under this Certification.
Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval from DWR. [15A
NCAC 02H .0501 and .0502]
7. Erosion control matting that incorporates plastic mesh and/or plastic twine shall not be used
along streambanks or within wetlands. Exceptions to this condition require application to
and written approval from DWR. [15A NCAC 02B.0201]
Page 5 of 11

GC4092
8. An NPDES Construction Stormwater Permit (NCG010000) is required for construction
projects that disturb one (1) or more acres of land. The NCG010000 Permit allows
stormwater to be discharged during land disturbing construction activities as stipulated in
the conditions of the permit. If the project is covered by this permit, full compliance with
permit conditions including the erosion & sedimentation control plan, inspections and
maintenance, self-monitoring, record keeping and reporting requirements is required. [15A
NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) shall be required to be in full
compliance with the conditions related to construction activities within the most recent
version of their individual NPDES (NCS000250) stormwater permit. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(5) and (c)(5)]
9. All work in or adjacent to streams shall be conducted so that the flowing stream does not
come in contact with the disturbed area. Approved best management practices from the
most current version of the NC Sediment and Erosion Control Manual, or the NC DOT
Construction and Maintenance Activities Manual, such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams,
and other diversion structures shall be used to minimize excavation in flowing water.
Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval from DWR. [15A
NCAC 02H .0506(b)(3) and (c)(3)]
10. If activities must occur during periods of high biological activity (e.g. sea turtle nesting, fish
spawning, or bird nesting), then biological monitoring may be required at the request of
other state or federal agencies and coordinated with these activities. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(2) and 15A NCAC 04B .01251
All moratoriums on construction activities established by the NC Wildlife Resources
Commission (WRC), US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), NC Division of Marine Fisheries
(DMF), or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) shall be implemented. Exceptions to this
condition require written approval by the resource agency responsible for the given
moratorium. A copy of the approval from the resource agency shall be forwarded to DWR.
Work within a designated trout watershed of North Carolina (as identified by the Wilmington
District of the US Army Corps of Engineers), or identified state or federal endangered or
threatened species habitat, shall be coordinated with the appropriate WRC, USFWS, NMFS,
and/or DMF personnel.
11. Culverts shall be designed and installed in such a manner that the original stream profiles are
not altered and allow for aquatic life movement during low flows. The dimension, pattern,
and profile of the stream above and below a pipe or culvert shall not be modified by
widening the stream channel or by reducing the depth of the stream in connection with the
construction activity. The width, height, and gradient of a proposed culvert shall be such as
to pass the average historical low flow and spring flow without adversely altering flow
velocity. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
Page 6 of 11

GC4092
Placement of culverts and other structures in streams shall be below the elevation of the
streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than 48 inches, and 20% of the
culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than or equal to 48 inches, to allow low
flow passage of water and aquatic life.
If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they shall be designed to mimic the existing stream
cross section as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation and/or
sills where appropriate. Widening the stream channel shall be avoided.
When topographic constraints indicate culvert slopes of greater than 5%, culvert burial is not
required, provided that all alternative options for flattening the slope have been investigated
and aquatic life movement/connectivity has been provided when possible (e.g. rock ladders,
cross vanes, etc.). Notification, including supporting documentation to include a location
map of the culvert, culvert profile drawings, and slope calculations, shall be provided to DWR
60 calendar days prior to the installation of the culvert.
When bedrock is present in culvert locations, culvert burial is not required provided that
there is sufficient documentation of the presence of bedrock. Notification, including
supporting documentation such as, a location map of the culvert, geotechnical reports,
photographs, etc. shall be provided to DWR a minimum of 60 calendar days prior to the
installation of the culvert. If bedrock is discovered during construction, then DWR shall be
notified by phone or email within 24 hours of discovery.
If other site-specific topographic constraints preclude the ability to bury the culverts as
described above and/or it can be demonstrated that burying the culvert would result in
destabilization of the channel, then exceptions to this condition require application to and
written approval from DWR.
Installation of culverts in wetlands shall ensure continuity of water movement and be
designed to adequately accommodate high water or flood conditions. When roadways,
causeways, or other fill projects are constructed across FEMA -designated floodways or
wetlands, openings such as culverts or bridges shall be provided to maintain the natural
hydrology of the system as well as prevent constriction of the floodway that may result in
destabilization of streams or wetlands.
The establishment of native woody vegetation and other soft stream bank stabilization
techniques shall be used where practicable instead of rip -rap or other bank hardening
methods.
12. Bridge deck drains shall not discharge directly into the stream. Stormwater shall be directed
across the bridge and pre-treated through site -appropriate means to the maximum extent
practicable (e.g. grassed swales, pre -formed scour holes, vegetated buffers, etc.) before
entering the stream. -Exceptions to this condition require application to and written approval
from DWR. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(5)]
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GC4092
13. Application of fertilizer to establish planted/seeded vegetation within disturbed riparian
areas and/or wetlands shall be conducted at agronomic rates and shall comply with all other
Federal, State and Local regulations. Fertilizer application shall be accomplished in a manner
that minimizes the risk of contact between the fertilizer and surface waters. [15A NCAC 02B
.0200 and 15A NCAC 0213 .0231]
14. If concrete is used during construction, then all necessary measures shall be taken to prevent
direct contact between uncured or curing concrete and waters of the state. Water that
inadvertently contacts uncured concrete shall not be discharged to waters of the state. [15A
NCAC 026 .0200]
15. All proposed and approved temporary fill and culverts shall be removed and the impacted
area shall be returned to natural conditions within 60 calendar days after the temporary
impact is no longer necessary. The impacted areas shall be restored to original grade,
including each stream's original cross sectional dimensions, planform pattern, and
longitudinal bed profile. For projects that receive written approval, no temporary impacts are
allowed beyond those included in the application and authorization. All temporarily
impacted sites shall be restored and stabilized with native vegetation. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
16. All proposed and approved temporary pipes/culverts/rip-rap pads etc. in streams shall be
installed as outlined in the most recent edition of the North Carolina Sediment and Erosion
Control Planning and Design Manual or the North Carolina Surface Mining Manual or the
North Carolina Department of Transportation Best Management Practices for Construction
and Maintenance Activities so as not to restrict stream flow or cause dis-equilibrium during
use of this Certification. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2) and (c)(2)]
17. Any rip -rap required for proper culvert placement, stream stabilization, or restoration of
temporarily disturbed areas shall be restricted to the area directly impacted by the approved
construction activity. All rip -rap shall be placed such that the original stream elevation and
streambank contours are restored and maintained. Placement of rip -rap or other approved
materials shall not result in de -stabilization of the stream bed or banks upstream or
downstream of the area or in a manner that precludes aquatic life passage. [15A NCAC 02H
.0506(b)(2)]
18. Any rip -rap used for stream or shoreline stabilization shall be of a size and density to prevent
movement by wave, current action, or stream flows and shall consist of clean rock or
masonry material free of debris or toxic pollutants. Rip -rap shall not be installed in the
streambed except in specific areas required for velocity control and to ensure structural
integrity of bank stabilization measures. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(2)]
19. Applications for rip -rap groins proposed in accordance with 15A NCAC 07H .1401 (NC
Division of Coastal Management General Permit for construction of Wooden and Rip -rap
Groins in Estuarine and Public Trust Waters) shall meet all the specific conditions for design
and construction specified in 15A NCAC 07H .1405.
Page 8 of 11

GC4092
20. All mechanized equipment operated near surface waters shall be inspected and maintained
regularly to prevent contamination of surface waters from fuels, lubricants, hydraulic fluids,
or other toxic materials. Construction shall be staged in order to minimize the exposure of
equipment to surface waters to the maximum extent practicable. Fueling, lubrication and
general equipment maintenance shall not take place within 50 feet of a waterbody or
wetlands to prevent contamination by fuels and oils. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(3) and (c)(3)
and 15A NCAC 0213 .0211 (12)]
21. Heavy equipment working in wetlands shall be placed on mats or other measures shall be
taken to minimize soil disturbance. [15A NCAC 02H .0506(b)(3) and (c)(3)]
22. In accordance with 143-215.85(b), the applicant shall report any petroleum spill of 25 gallons
or more; any spill regardless of amount that causes a sheen on surface waters; any
petroleum spill regardless of amount occurring within 100 feet of surface waters; and any
petroleum spill less than 25 gallons that cannot be cleaned up within 24 hours.
23. If an environmental document is required under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA),
then this General Certification is not valid until a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or
Record of Decision (ROD) is issued by the State Clearinghouse. If an environmental document
is required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), then this General
Certification is not valid until a Categorical Exclusion, the Final Environmental Assessment, or
Final Environmental Impact Statement is published by the lead agency [15A NCAC 01C
.0107(a)]
24. This General Certification does not relieve the applicant of the responsibility to obtain all
other required Federal, State, or Local approvals before proceeding with the project,
including those required by, but not limited to Sediment and Erosion Control, Non -Discharge,
Water Supply Watershed, and Trout Buffer regulations.
25. The applicant and their authorized agents shall conduct all activities in a manner consistent
with State water quality standards (including any requirements resulting from compliance
with §303(d) of the Clean Water Act), and any other appropriate requirements of State and
Federal Law. If DWR determines that such standards or laws are not being met, including
failure to sustain a designated or achieved use, or that State or Federal law is being violated,
or that further conditions are necessary to assure compliance, then DWR may revoke or
modify a written authorization associated with this General Water Quality Certification. [15A
NCAC 02H .0507(d)]
26. When written authorization is required for use of this Certification, upon completion of all
permitted impacts included within the approval and any subsequent modifications, the
applicant shall be required to return a certificate of completion (available on the DWR
website https:Hedocs.deg.nc.gov/Forms/Certificate-of-Completion). [15A NCAC 02H
.0502(f)]
Page 9 of 11

GC4O92
27. Additional site-specific conditions, including monitoring and/or modeling requirements, may
be added to the written approval letter for projects proposed under this Water Quality
Certification in order to ensure compliance with all applicable water quality and effluent
standards. [15A NCAC 02H .0507(c)]
28. If the property or project is sold or transferred, the new Permittee shall be given a copy of
this Certification (and written authorization if applicable) and is responsible for complying
with all conditions. [15A NCAC 02H .0501 and .05021
III. GENERAL CERTIFICATION ADMINISTRATION:
1. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute 143-215.3D(e), written approval for a 401
Water Quality General Certification must include the appropriate fee. An applicant for a
CAMA permit under Article 7 of Chapter 113A of the General Statutes for which a Water
Quality Certification is required shall only make one payment to satisfy both agencies; the fee
shall be as established by the Secretary in accordance with 143-215.3D(e)(7).
2. This Certification neither grants nor affirms any property right, license, or privilege in any
waters, or any right of use in any waters. This Certification does not authorize any person to
interfere with the riparian rights, littoral rights, or water use rights of any other person and
this Certification does not create any prescriptive right or any right of priority regarding any
usage of water. This Certification shall not be interposed as a defense in any action
respecting the determination of riparian or littoral rights or other rights to water use. No
consumptive user is deemed by virtue of this Certification to possess any prescriptive or
other right of priority with respect to any other consumptive user regardless of the quantity
of the withdrawal or the date on which the withdrawal was initiated or expanded.
3. This Certification grants permission to the Director, an authorized representative of the
Director, or DWR staff, upon the presentation of proper credentials, to enter the property
during normal business hours. [1SA NCAC 02H .OS02(e)]
4. This General Certification shall expire on the same day as the expiration date of the
corresponding Nationwide Permit and/or Regional General Permit. The conditions in effect
on the date of issuance of Certification for a specific project shall remain in effect for the life
of the project, regardless of the expiration date of this Certification. This General
Certification is rescinded when the US Army Corps of Engineers reauthorizes any of the
corresponding Nationwide Permits and/or Regional General Permits or when deemed
appropriate by the Director of the Division of Water Resources.
5. Non-compliance with or violation of the conditions herein set forth by a specific project may
result in revocation of this General Certification for the project and may also result in
criminal and/or civil penalties.
Page 10 of 11

GC4092
6. The Director of the North Carolina Division of Water Resources may require submission of a
formal application for Individual Certification for any project in this category of activity if it is
determined that the project is likely to have a significant adverse effect upon water quality,
including state or federally listed endangered or threatened aquatic species, or degrade the
waters so that existing uses of the water or downstream waters are precluded.
7. Public hearings may be held prior to a Certification decision if deemed in the public's best
interest by the Director of the North Carolina Division of Water Resources.
History Note: Water Quality Certification (WQC) Number 4092 issued March 3, 2017 replaces
WQC 3890 issued March 19, 2012 replaces WQC Number 3821 issued April 6, 2010; WQC
Number 3631 issued March 19, 2007, WQC 3402 issued March, 2003, WQC Number 3362, issued
March 18, 2002; WQC 3287, issued June 1, 2000, WQCs 3106 and 3108 issued February 11,
1997.
Page 11 of 11