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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20090569 Ver 1_401 Application_20090509 coEngineering A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. 09`0569 PAI LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL To: Mr. Ian McMillan Date: May 15, 2009 NCDENR - DWQ Wetlands & Stormwater Branch 1605 Mail Service Center FEDERAL EXPRESS "* Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650 Re: Chinquapin Irrigation Supply Job No.: TRL-08000 I am sending you the following item(s): COPIES DATE NO. DESCRIPTION 1 Letter re: General Certification 3705 - PCN 1 Supporting documentation per the letter 1 5/15/09 #77879 Permitting Check $240.00 These are transmitted as checked below: ? As requested ? For your use ® For approval ? ? For review and comment ? MAY 182002 Remarks: DENR - WATER QUALITY WETLANDS Copy to: Signed: George Bahholz, REM, PWS Environmental Scientist FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY ? Copy Letter of Transmittal Only to File ® Copy Entire Document to File I? 2905 Meridian Parkway, Durham, North Carolina 27713 PO Box 14005, RTP, North Carolina 27709 EcolEngineering A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. May 15, 2009 Mr. Kevin Barnett NCDENR - DWQ Asheville Regional Office Wetlands and Stormwater Branch 401/Buffer Contact 2090 US Highway 70 Asheville, North Carolina 28778 Re: Chinquapin Irrigation Supply - GC 3705 - PCN Jackson County, North Carolina TRL-08000 Dear Mr. Barnett: fl ? o 0WIR MAY 1 8 2009 h?11ANDENR - WATER QUALITY ORV,,jAfiI BRANCH On behalf of Patrick E. Carlton, Trustee, we are applying for a General Certification 3705 for impacts to waters of the U.S to facilitate the construction of an irrigation supply system within Robinson Creek for water withdrawal purposes. Withdrawal from Robinson Creek will be used to supplement and maintain pool level in Tulip Pond during abnormally dry periods or drought conditions. Tulip Pond is the existing reservoir for the property's irrigation supply. The project site is located within Robinson Creek, approximately 0.10 mile northwest of Breedlove Road and 3 miles north east of Cashiers, North Carolina within Jackson County. Please find enclosed for your review the following items: - Agent Authorization Form - NCDWQ Stream Identification Form - Pre-Construction Notification - USGS Quad - Big Ridge - Overall Site Plan - Plan and Profile View of Pump System - Chinquapin Property Irrigation Supply Feasibility Analysis - Stream Flow Monitoring Data Research Triangle Park, NC Post Office. Box 14005 Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709 2905 Meridian Parkway Durham, North Carolina 27713 800-733-5646 919-287-4262 919-361-2269 Fax JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION A jurisdictional delineation was conducted by EcoEngineering on July 3, 2008. No wetlands were identified and a total of 1,500 linear feet of perennial stream (Robinson Creek) were identified during on-site field investigations. www.ecoengr.com i Design Services Focused On Client Success EcoEngineering A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. Mr. Kevin Barnett Chinquapin Irrigation Supply Project May 15, 2009 Page 2 The delineation has not been field verified by the USACE or NCDWQ; therefore, attached is a NCDWQ Stream Identification form. Attached is an irrigation supply feasibility analysis (Chinquapin Property Irrigation Supply Feasibility Analysis, EcoEngineering, August, 2008) was conducted to determine the feasibility of making water withdrawals from Robinson Creek for irrigation purposes on the Chinquapin property. PROPOSED IMPACTS/MIMIZATION: The Chinquapin property utilizes an existing on-site pond (Tulip Pond) for irrigation purposes, and requires withdrawing 40,000 to 150,000 gallons of water a day during years with normal precipitation events. In addition to being the property's reservoir utilized for irrigation purposes, Tulip Pond is the headwater for many stream systems located on the property. During abnormally dry periods and drought conditions, Tulip Pond is supplemented by well water which withdrawals approximately 12,000 to 20,000 gallons a day. Use of well water can be unreliable and also may affect other well users in, the area. Ideally, a withdrawal from Robinson Creek could supplement the use of well water and provide a reliable water source without potentially affecting nearby well water users. A reliable water supply source utilizing Robinson Creek is proposed to supplement the irrigation system at Tulip Pond during drought conditions. When Tulip Pond is filled to capacity during normal precipitation events, there will be no withdrawal from Robinson Creek to Tulip Pond. The predicted removal rate and overall discharge rate were evaluated to determine the feasibility of withdrawing water from Robinson Creek without causing an adverse effect on stream habitat. Flow data (enclosed) from Robinson Creek obtained on September 16, 2008 at the proposed withdrawal location indicated a stream flow rate of 1.55 cubic feet per second. This value equals one million gallons per day (MGD). The proposed withdrawal rate during dry periods will be approximately 0.075 MGD or 7.5 percent of the flow. Analysis conducted during the Chinquapin Property, Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis (EcoEngineering, August 2008) indicate that withdrawing approximately 20 percent of the average base flow from Robinson Creek should be within the variability range of a natural system and should not adversely affect stream habitat. Since the proposed withdrawal is only 7.5 percent of the total flow in the creek, adverse impacts from the withdrawal are not expected. EcoEngineering A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. Mr. Kevin Barnett Chinquapin Irrigation Supply Project May 15, 2009 Page 3 Within Robinson Creek, the proposed location of the irrigation pump system will be placed within an upstream section which avoids wetlands and minimizes potential hydrologic impacts to wetlands which may be located downstream along Robinson Creek. The proposed location is also conducive in maintaining the natural flow variability of the stream; therefore, adverse effects of water withdrawal are not expected to impact species which require specific riffle and pool habitats. The proposed pump installation will allow low flow passage of water and aquatic life. The proposed project will permanently impact 15 linear feet (300 square feet) of stream channel and will have 25 linear feet (650 square feet) of temporary impacts within the stream. There will be a total of 10 cubic yards of permanent fill within the stream associated with the pump. Robinson Creek's DWQ Stream Index Number is 2-79-13 and has a Water Quality Classification of WS III (Water Supply III) and TR (Trout Waters). The proposed pump installation is a water dependent activity with diminimus increases in impervious surfaces; and therefore, riparian buffers normally associated low or high development projects near or in WS III waters do not apply. However, 25 foot Trout Water riparian buffers do apply. A 6 foot wide temporary access entrance to Robinson Creek will impact the 25 foot Trout Water riparian buffer perpendicularly. The temporary access entrance will be seeded within 10 days of installation and will not be maintained. Therefore, approximately 150 square feet of Trout Water riparian buffers will be temporarily impacted associated with the installation of the water withdrawal pump system. Installation of the water withdrawal pump system will be conducted in the dry and in accordance with sediment and erosion control requirements contained within the NC Design Standards in Sensitive Waters. During the installation of the water withdrawal pump system, temporary stream impacts will likely occur. These impacts primarily include increased sediment from the temporary disturbance of the stream bed. These impacts are not expected to create a significant adverse effect on the stream habitat because installation will be completed in a short amount of time and disturbance will be minimized. Installation of the water withdrawal pump system will be scheduled during low flow periods. EcoEngineering A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. Mr. Kevin Barnett Chinquapin Irrigation Supply Project May 15, 2009 Page 4 TOTAL IMPACTS: 40 if total (15 if & 300 sq ft permanent; 25 if & Stream Impact (If): 650 sq ft temporary); 10 cubic yards total permanent Wetland Impact acres : 0- Open Water Impact acres : 0 40 if total (15 if & 300 sq ft permanent; 25 if & Total Impacts to Waters of US 650 sq ft temporary); 10 cubic yards total permanent MITIGATION: The entire project was designed to avoid and minimize impacts to Robinson Creek. If withdrawal rates remain within the range that represents the natural flow variability of Robinson Creek, adverse effects of water withdrawal are not expected. Proper sedimentation and erosion control methods will be utilized during construction. The proposed project will permanently impact 15 linear feet (300 square feet) of stream channel and will have 25 linear feet (650 square feet) of temporary impacts within the stream. There will be a total- of 10 cubic yards of permanent fill within the stream associated with the pump. Since stream impacts total only. 40 linear feet of stream, mitigation is not proposed at this time, due to the avoidance and minimization on-site., In conclusion, the applicant proposes to construct a water withdrawal pump system within Robinson Creek to supplement and maintain pool level in Tulip Pond during abnormally dry periods or drought conditions. The proposed pump system will permanently impact 15 linear feet of stream channel and will have 25 linear feet of temporary impacts within the stream. In addition, approximately 150 square feet of Trout Water riparian buffers will be temporarily impacted associated with the installation of the water withdrawal pump system. There are no other impacts associated with this project and mitigation is not proposed at this time. Consideration of this project is greatly appreciated. If you should have any questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at (919) 361-5000. r [JEcoEngineerin.g A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. Mr. Kevin Barnett Chinquapin Irrigation Supply Project May 15, 2009 Page 5 Sincerely, EcoEngineering A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. Cruchholz, REM, P Environmental Scientist GHB Enclosures Cc: Mr. Ian McMillan, NCDENR - DWQ, w/encl., w/check Mr. Dave McHenry, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, w/encl. Mr. Bryan Tompkins, USFWS, w/encl. Ms. Loretta Beckwith, USACE, w/encl. Since 1979 THE JOHN R. WADAMS COMPANY, INC. AGENT AUTIIORIZA`,CION FORM All n He n P n w e Name: rtA Cc.-i Address: Phone: Project I+tame/Deseription: Chin ua in lrri anon Su I 'eat Project Number: T080tN1 !'m'eet Mann per: Mr. Iim i-[allev Date: Mwv A auto U.S. Anny Corps of Engineers Attn: Ms. Loretta Beckwith AshewiNe Regulatory Field Office 15 1 Patton Avenue, Room 208 Asheville, NC 28801 Re: Wetlands Related Consulting and Permitting To Whom It May Concern: 11 the current property owner, h=by designate and authorize 111t. act The John R McAdams Company, mgltal behalf. r my Agent in the processing of permit applications, to furnish upon ?equf t supplemental information in support of applications, etc, fra» this day ford. re day of?, This notification supersedes any previous correspondence concerning the went for this project. NOTICE: This authorization, for liability and profeasionAl courtesy reasons, is valid only for government officials to enter the ro rty McAdams Company, Inc. staff: You sho ld call The John R. accompanied Company, Inc. to arrange asite meeting prior to visiting the site. Print Pro 0 ! >xY caner STgnaturo Cc: Mr. Kevin Barnett NCDENR-DWQ 2090 US Highway 70 SWannanoa, NC 28778 CIVIL ENGINEERING - LAND PLANNING • SURVEYING PO Box 14005 is Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 . (919) 361-5000 . fax (919) 361.2289 www. joh nrmeadams.com 2/2'd 6922 T9E 6T6:01 :WOJA S£:VT 6002-LO-AM North Carolina Division of Water Quality - Stream Identification Form; Version 3.1 Date: 76/0 Project: ,, j r f Latitude: f Evaluator: Site: 0ye 10 VAT Longitude:' Total Points: slivam is at least intomwont County: j? ee.gg.. Quad Name: 1?+ J I N k 19 or perennisf if k 30 ?4 /1r 14 A. Geomnhofty Subtotal = Absent Weak Moderate Strong 18. Continuous bed and bank 0 1 2 2. Sintiosity 0 1 2 3. in-charxrel stricture: riffle-pool sequence 0 1 2 4. Soil texture or stream substrate sorts 0 1 2 S. Acttveh*lc ftodptsin 0 1 3 6. Depositional bars or benches 0 1 3 7. Braided dx+nnel 0 1 + 3 8. Recent alluvial deposits 0 1 - - .. ' 3 9' Natural levees 0 2- . 3 10. Headculs 1 2 3 - _ 11. Grade controls 0 0.5 1 Am 12. Natural vefty or drairkneway 0 0.5 1 13. Second or greater order channel on existi USGS or NRCS map or other documented evidence. No = 0 Yes ep 'Man-ma" dWJw we not rased; see discussions in rllarKUal R idvdrnirvw t.4l` shorted = 1'n 1 14. GrourxfM*er flow4discharge 0 1 2 1 . Water in dwmw* and > 48 hrs since rain, g Water in dww* -- dry or growing season 0 1 2 16. LeafMter ME) 1 0.5 0 17. Sedin»M on plents or debris 0.5 1 1.5 18. Organic debris Ines or plies (Wrack firm) 0 0.5 1.S 19. Hydric soft (redoxi is features present? No = 0 Yes C. i3kobm (Subtotal = ? n ) Fibrous roots in channel 2 1 0 211. Rooted arm in channel 2 1 0 22. Crsityllsh 0 1 1.5 23. Bivalves 1 2 3 24. Fish 0 0.5.: 1.5 25. Amphibians 0 0.5 1.5 26. Macrobenthos (rake diversity and abundance 0 0.5 1 27. Filamentous ; pariph on 1 2 3 28. Iron oxi ' bacteriaMungus. 0.5 1 1.5 29 . Wetland plants in strearrrbed FAC - 0.5; FACW = 0.75; OBL -1.5 SAV = 2.0; Other = 0 items zo alxr zt rocus on wis presence or Wamo plants. ream zu rocuses on un presence or wpm or weuano parrs. Sketch; Notes: (use back side of h3 form for additional motes.) Ll ? '09-0569 t t > } LJW`? Office Use Only: Corps action ID no. DWQ project no. Form Version 1.3 Dec 10 2008 Pre-Construction Notification (PCN) Form A. Applicant Information PA i 1. Processing ft -------- 1 a. Type(s) of approval sought from the Corps: X Section 404 Permit ? Section 10 Permit 1b. Specify Nationwide Permit (NWP) number: 18 or General Permit (GP) number: 1 c. Has the NWP or GP number been verified by the Corps? ? Yes X No 1 d. Type(s) of approval sought from the DWQ (check all that apply): X 401 Water Quality Certification - Regular ? Non-404 Jurisdictional General Permit ? 401 Water Quality Certification - Express ? Riparian Buffer Authorization 1 e. Is this notification solely for the record because written approval is not required? For the record only for DWQ 401 Certification: ? Yes X No For the record only for Corps Permit: ? Yes X No 1f. Is payment into a mitigation bank or in-lieu fee program proposed for mitigation of impacts? If so, attach the acceptance letter from mitigation bank or in-lieu fee program. ? Yes X No 1 g. Is the project located in any of NC's twenty coastal counties. If yes, answer 1 h below. ? Yes X No 1 h. Is the project located within a NC DCM Area of Environmental Concern (AEC)? ? Yes X No 2. Project Information 2a. Name of project: Chinquapin Irrigation Supply Project 2b. County: Jackson 2c. Nearest municipality / town: Cashiers Um' M 2d. Subdivision name: 2e. NCDOT only, T.I.P. or state project no: MAY 1 8 2009 3. Owner Information UCNR S - WATER QOALrfy WETLAND AND ST QHAftkTfiR 3a. Name(s) on Recorded Deed: Patrick E. Carlton, Trustee 8RAM 3b. Deed Book and Page No. DB 468 PG 139 3c. Responsible Party (for LLC if applicable): Patrick Carlton 3d. Street address: P.O. Box 2128 3e. City, state, zip: Cashiers, NC 28717 3f. Telephone no.: (828)508-6536 3g. Fax no.: 3h. Email address: D Page 1 of 13 I_'CH V-oniY - Version 'tl 3 _rec?;;'"ib E" 90, 2,00 ?C6'`?9 i? 4. Applicant Information (if different from owner) 4a. Applicant is: ? Agent ? Other, specify: 4b. Name: 4c. Business name (if applicable): 4d. Street address: 4e. City, state, zip: 4f. Telephone no.: 4g. Fax no.: 4h. Email address: 5. Agent/Consultant Information (if applicable) 5a. Name: George Buchholz, REM, PWS 5b. Business name (if applicable): EcoEngineering, A division of The John R. McAdams Company 5c. Street address: 2905 Meridian Parkway 5d. City, state, zip: Durham, NC 27713 5e. Telephone no.: 919-361-5000 5f. Fax no.: 919-361-2269 5g. Email address: buchholz@ecoengr.com Page 2 bpi -13 B. Project Information and Prior Project History 1. Property Identification 1a. Property identification no. (tax PIN or parcel ID): 7584-42-5248 & 7584-83-0394 Latitude: 35.1796536 Longitude: - 83.0667794 1 b. Site coordinates (in decimal degrees): (DD.DDDDDD) (-DD.DDDDDD) 1 c. Property size: 1,282 acres in total 2. Surface Waters 2a. Name of nearest body of water (stream, river, etc.) to Robinson Creek proposed project: 2b. Water Quality Classification of nearest receiving water: WS-III; TR Little Tennessee (HUC 06010203); 2c. River basin: DWQ Stream Index # 2-79-13 3. Project Description 3a. Describe the existing conditions on the site and the general land use in the vicinity of the project at the time of this application: The project site, itself, is located within a forested community which could be classified as Northern Hardwood Forest - Typic Subtype according to the Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). Robinson Creek contains areas which are as wide as 40-feet wide; however, on average the stream is approximately 20-feet wide. Water depths within riffles areas range from 3 to 7-inches deep and within pools 2 to 3.5-feet deep. The Chinquapin property is a golf course and the surrounding area is primarily forested with limited residential uses within the vicinity. 3b. List the total estimated acreage of all existing wetlands on the property: 0.0 acres within the project site. 3c. List the total estimated linear feet of all existing streams (intermittent and perennial) on the property: 1,500 feet 3d. Explain the purpose of the proposed project: The purpose of the project is the construction of an irrigation supply system within Robinson Creek for water withdrawal purposes. Withdrawal from Robinson Creek will be used to supplement and maintain pool level in Tulip Pond during abnormal) d periods or drought conditions. Tulip Pond is the existing reservoir for the property's irrigation supply. 3e. Describe the overall project in detail, including the type of equipment to be used: The project will involve the installation of a stationary pump system within the stream bed of Robinson Creek and an outlet pipe. Use of hand tools and a small bobcat will used with limited clearing to gain access to Robinson Creek. The pump it self will be mounted on a skid and the pump intake (approximately 0.25 inches in diameter) will have a small screen which will be laced at the water surface. 4. Jurisdictional Determinations 4a. Have jurisdictional wetland or stream determinations by the Corps or State been requested or obtained for this property / ? Yes X No ? Unknown project (including all prior phases) in the past? Comments: 4b. If the Corps made the jurisdictional determination, what type ? Preliminary ? Final of determination was made? 4c. If yes, who delineated the jurisdictional areas? Agency/Consultant Company: EcoEngineering, A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. Name (if known): Other: 4d. If yes, list the dates of the Corps jurisdictional determinations or State determinations and attach documentation. Page 3 of 13 P0, H Form -Version h.-6 Dec, n-b? 10, 200 6,Ve s-ioi B. Project Information and Prior Project History 5. Project History 5a. Have permits or certifications been requested or obtained for this project (including all prior phases) in the past? ? Yes X No ? Unknown 5b. If yes, explain in detail according to "help file" instructions. 6. Future Project Plans 6a. Is this a phased project? ? Yes X No ° 6b. If yes, explain. Page 4 of u C. Proposed Impacts Inventory 1. Impacts Summary la. Which sections were completed below for your project (check all that apply): ? Wetlands X Streams - tributaries ? Buffers ? Open Waters ? Pond Construction 2. Wetland Impacts If there are wetland impacts proposed on the site, then complete this question for each wetland area impacted. 2a. 2b. 2c. Wetland impact 2d. 2e. 2f. number - Type of impact Type of wetland Permanent (P) or Forested Type of jurisdiction (Corps - 404, 10 Area of impact (if known) Temporary T DWQ - non-404, other) (acres) W1 ? P ? T ? Yes ? Corps ? No ? DWQ W2 ? P ? T ? Yes ? Corps ? No ? DWQ W3 ? P ? T ? Yes ? Corps ? No ? DWQ W4 ? P ? T ? Yes ? Corps ? No ? DWQ W5 ? P ? T ? Yes ? Corps ? No ? DWQ W6 ? P ? T ? Yes ? Corps ? No ? DWQ 2g. Total wetland impacts 2h. Comments: 3. Stream Impacts If there are perennial or intermittent stream impacts (including temporary impacts) proposed on the site, then complete this question for all stream sites impacted. 3a. Stream impact number - 3b. Type of impact 3c. Stream name 3d. Perennial 3e. Type of jurisdiction 3f. Average 3g. Impact Permanent (P or (PER) or intermittent (Corps - 404, 10 stream length T Temporary () (INT)? DWQ - non-404, width (linear other) (feet) feet) S1 X P ? T Ddge/ Fill Robinson Creek X PER X Corps 20 15 ? INT X DWQ S1 ? P X T struction ccess Robinson Creek X PER Corps 20 ? INT El DWQ 25 S2 ? P ? T ? PER ? Corps El INT ? DWQ S3 ? P ? T El PER ? Corps El INT ? DWQ S4 ? P ? T ? PER ? Corps ? INT ?DWQ 3h. Total stream and tributary impacts 40 3i. Comments: There will be a total of 15 linear feet and 300 squ 650 square feet of temporary impacts associated with th are feet of per manent stream impacts and 25 linear feet and e const permanent fill within the stream associated with the ruction of the pump. There will be a total of 10 cubic yards of um . Page 5 of 13 V'ir.,H Fori`r ®'°o N" i V'r l.< Dec 4"yeibe?0, 2008 r>"fib" i?k`i 4. Open Water Impacts If there are proposed impacts to lakes, ponds, estuaries, tributaries, sounds, the Atlantic Ocean, or any other open water of the U.S. then individual) list all open water impacts below. 4a. Open water impact number - Permanent (P) or Temporary T 4b. Name of waterbody (if applicable) 4c. Type of impact 4d. Waterbody type 4e. Area of impact (acres) 01 ?P?T 02 ?P?T 03 ?P?T 04 ?P?T 0. Total open water impacts 4g. Comments: 5. Pond or Lake Construction If and or lake construction proposed, then complete the chart below. 5a. Pond ID 5b. Proposed use or purpose 5c. Wetland Impacts (acres) 5d. Stream Impacts (feet) 5e. Upland (acres) number of pond Flooded Filled Excavated Flooded Filled Excavated Flooded P1 P2 5f. Total 5g. Comments: 5h. Is a dam high hazard permit required? ? Yes ? No if yes, permit ID no: 5i. Expected pond surface area (acres): 5j. Size of pond watershed (acres): 5k. Method of construction: Page 6 of 13 6. Buffer Impacts (for DWQ) If project will impact a protected riparian buffer, then complete the chart below. If yes, then individually list all buffer impacts below. If an impacts require mitigation, then you MUST fill out Section D of this form. 6a. ? Neuse ? Tar-Pamlico X Other: Trout Buffers Project is in which protected basin? Little Tennessee ? Catawba ? Randleman 6b. 6c. 6d. 6e. 6f. 6g. Buffer impact number - Reason Buffer Zone 1 impact Zone 2 impact Permanent (P) or for Stream name mitigation (square feet) (square feet) Temporary T impact required? B1 ? P X T Access to Robinson Creek ? Yes 150 0 stream X No B2 ?P?T ?Yes ? No B3 ?P?T ?Yes ? No 6h. Total buffer impacts 150 0 6i. Comments: A 6 foot wide temporary access entrance to Robinson Creek will impact the 25 foot Trout Water ri arian buffer p perpendicularly. The temporary access entrance will be seeded within 10 days of installation and will not be maintained. Therefore, approximately 150 square feet of Trout Water riparian buffers will be temporarily impacted associated with the installation of the water withdrawal um system. D. Impact Justification and Mitigation 1. Avoidance and Minimization 1 a. Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed impacts in designing project. The Chinquapin property utilizes an existing on-site pond (Tulip Pond) for irrigation purposes, and requires withdrawing 40,000 to 150,000 gallons of water a day during years with normal precipitation events. In addition to being the property's reservoir utilized for irrigation purposes, Tulip Pond is the headwater for many stream systems located on the property. During abnormally dry periods and drought conditions, Tulip Pond is supplemented by well water which withdrawals approximately 12,000 to 20,000 gallons a day. Use of well water can be unreliable and also may affect other well users in the area. Ideally, a withdrawal from Robinson Creek could supplement the use of well water and provide a reliable water source without potentially affecting nearby well water users. A reliable water supply source utilizing Robinson Creek is proposed to supplement the irrigation system at Tulip Pond during drought conditions. When Tulip Pond is filled to capacity during normal precipitation events, there will be no withdrawal from Robinson Creek to Tulip Pond. The predicted removal rate and overall discharge rate were estimated to evaluate the feasibility of withdrawing water from Robinson Creek without causing an adverse effect on stream habitat. Flow data (enclosed) from Robinson Creek obtained on September 16, 2008 at the proposed withdrawal location indicated a stream flow rate of 1.55 cubic feet per second. This value equals one million gallons per day (MGD). The proposed withdrawal rate during dry periods will be approximately 0.075 MGD or 7.5 percent of the flow. Analysis conducted during the Chinquapin Property, Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis (EcoEngineering, August 2008) indicate that withdrawing approximately 20 percent of the average base flow from Robinson Creek should be within the variability range of a natural system and should not adversely affect stream habitat. Since the proposed withdrawal is only 7.5 percent of the total flow in the creek, adverse impacts from the withdrawal are not expected. 1 b. Specifically describe measures taken to avoid or minimize the proposed impacts through construction techniques. Within Robinson Creek, the proposed location of the irrigation pump system will be placed within an upstream section which avoids wetlands and minimizes potential hydrologic impacts to wetlands which may be located downstream along Robinson Creek. The proposed location is also conducive in maintaining the natural flow variability of the stream; therefore, adverse effects of water withdrawal are not expected to impact species which require specific riffle and pool habitats. The proposed pump installation will allow low flow passage of water and aquatic life. Installation of the water withdrawal pump system will be conducted in the dry and in accordance with sediment and erosion control requirements contained within the NC Design Standards in Sensitive Waters. During the installation of the water withdrawal pump system, temporary stream impacts will likely occur. These impacts primarily include increased sediment from the temporary disturbance of the stream bed. These impacts are not expected to create a significant adverse effect on the stream habitat because installation will be completed in a short amount of time and disturbance will be minimized. Installation of the water withdrawal pump system will be scheduled during low flow periods. 2. Compensatory Mitigation for Impacts to Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the State 2a. Does the project require Compensatory Mitigation for ? Yes X No impacts to Waters of the U.S. or Waters of the State? 2b. If yes, mitigation is required by (check all that apply): ? DWQ ? Corps ? Mitigation bank 2c. If yes, which mitigation option will be used for this El P t t i li f project? aymen n- o eu ee program ? Permittee Responsible Mitigation 3. Complete if Using a Mitigation Bank 3a. Name of Mitigation Bank: 3b. Credits Purchased (attach receipt and letter) 1:::: Type Quantity Page 8 of 13 PCi1 Fornn -'Version 1.:3? Decemtie 10, 2008 `,?? ej-sine i 3c. Comments: 4. Complete if Making a Payment to In-lieu Fee Program 4a. Approval letter from in-lieu fee program is attached. ? Yes 4b. Stream mitigation requested: linear feet 4c. If using stream mitigation, stream temperature: ? warm ? cool ?cold 4d. Buffer mitigation requested (DWQ only): square feet 4e. Riparian wetland mitigation requested: acres 4f. Non-riparian wetland mitigation requested: acres 4g. Coastal (tidal) wetland mitigation requested: acres 4h. Comments: 5. Complete if Using a Permittee Responsible Mitigation Plan 5a. If using a permittee responsible mitigation plan, provide a description of the proposed mitigation plan. 6. Buffer Mitigation (State Regulated Riparian Buffer Rules) - required by DWQ 6a. Will the project result in an impact within a protected riparian buffer that requires buffer mitigation? ? Yes X No 6b. If yes, then identify the square feet of impact to each zone of the riparian buffer that requires mitigation. Calculate the amount of mitigation required. Zone 6c. Reason for impact 6d. Total impact (square feet) Multiplier 6e. Required mitigation (square feet) Zone 1 3 (2 for Catawba) Zone 2 1.5 6f. Total buffer mitigation required: 6g. If buffer mitigation is required, discuss what type of mitigation is proposed (e.g., payment to private mitigation bank, permittee responsible riparian buffer restoration, payment into an approved in-lieu fee fund). 6h. Comments: Page 9 0.1 J 23' E. Stormwater Management and Diffuse Flow Plan (required by DWQ) 1. Diffuse Flow Plan 1 a. Does the project include or is it adjacent to protected riparian buffers identified X Yes ? No within one of the NC Riparian Buffer Protection Rules? 1 b. If yes, then is a diffuse flow plan included? If no, explain why. Comments: The proposed pump installation is a water dependent activity with diminimus increases in impervious surfaces; and therefore, a diffuse flow plan is not ? Yes X No required. A 6 foot wide temporary access entrance to Robinson Creek will impact the 25 foot Trout Water riparian buffer perpendicularly. The temporary access entrance will be seeded within 10 days of installation and will not be maintained. 2. Stormwater Management Plan 2a. What is the overall percent imperviousness of this project? diminimus % 2b. Does this project require a Stormwater Management Plan? ? Yes X No 2c. If this project DOES NOT require a Stormwater Management Plan, explain why: The proposed pump installation is a water dependent activity with diminimus increases in impervious surfaces; and therefore, a stormwater management plan is not required. 2d. If this project DOES require a Stormwater Management Plan, then provide a brief, na rrative description of the plan: ? Certified Local Government 2e. Who will be responsible for the review of the Stormwater Management Plan? ? DWQ Stormwater Program ? DWQ 401 Unit 3. Certified Local Government Stormwater Review 3a. In which local government's jurisdiction is this project? Jackson County ? Phase II ? NSW 3b. Which of the following locally-implemented stormwater management programs ? USMP apply (check all that apply): ? Water Supply Watershed X Other: Jackson County Land Disturbance Application - Less than'/ acre 3c. Has the approved Stormwater Management Plan with proof of approval been ? Yes X No attached? 4. DWQ Stormwater Program Review ? Coastal counties 4a. Which of the following state-implemented stormwater management programs apply ? HQW ? ORW (check all that apply): X Session Law 2006-246 ? Other: 4b. Has the approved Stormwater Management Plan with proof of approval been attached? ? Yes X No 5. DWQ 401 Unit Stormwater Review 5a. Does the Stormwater Management Plan meet the appropriate requirements? X Yes ? No 5b. Have all of the 401 Unit submittal requirements been met? X Yes ? No Page 10 of 13 PCH Forro -Version 1.3 Dece n be g d 0, f 0008 ` C r Sion F. Supplementary Information 1. Environmental Documentation (DWQ Requirement) 1 a. Does the project involve an expenditure of public (federal/state/local) funds or the ? Yes ® No use of public (federal/state) land? 1 b. If you answered "yes" to the above, does the project require preparation of an environmental document pursuant to the requirements of the National or State ? Yes ? No (North Carolina) Environmental Policy Act (NEPA/SEPA)? 1c. If you answered "yes" to the above, has the document review been finalized by the State Clearing House? (If so, attach a copy of the NEPA or SEPA final approval letter.) ? Yes ? No Comments: 2. Violations (DWQ Requirement) 2a. Is the site in violation of DWQ Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H .0500), Isolated Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H .1300), DWQ Surface Water or Wetland Standards, ? Yes ® No or Riparian Buffer Rules (15A NCAC 2B .0200)? 2b. Is this an after-the-fact permit application? ? Yes ® No 2c. If you answered "yes" to one or both of the above questions, provide an explanation of the violation(s): 3. Cumulative Impacts (DWQ Requirement) 3a. Will this project (based on past and reasonably anticipated future impacts) result in ? Yes ® No additional development, which could impact nearby downstream water quality? 3b. If you answered "yes" to the above, submit a qualitative or quantitative cumulative impact analysis in accordance with the most recent DWQ policy. If you answered "no," provide a short narrative description. 4. Sewage Disposal (DWQ Requirement) 4a. Clearly detail the ultimate treatment methods and disposition (non-discharge or discharge) of wastewater generated from the proposed project, or available capacity of the subject facility. The proposed project will not generate wastewater. Page 11 of 13 5. Endangered Species and Designated Critical Habitat (Corps Requirement) 5a. Will this project occur in or near an area with federally protected species or ® Yes ? No habitat? 5b. Have you checked with the USFWS concerning Endangered Species Act ? Yes ® No impacts? ? Raleigh 5c. If yes, indicate the USFWS Field Office you have contacted. ? Asheville 5d. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact Endangered Species or Designated Critical Habitat? The USFWS internet service, accessed May4, 2009, lists Carolina northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus), Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis), Appalachian elktoe (Alasmidonta raveneliana), small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides), swamp pink (Helonias bullata), and rock gnome lichen (Gymnoderma lineare) as occuring within Jackson County. Based on field investigations conducted by EcoEngineering, no federally protected species were observed during field investigations. 6. Essential Fish Habitat (Corps Requirement) 6a. Will this project occur in or near an area designated as essential fish habitat? ® Yes ? No 6b. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact Essential Fish Habitat? The Clean Water Management Trust Fund internet service (accessed May 4, 2009; http://216.237.216.18/cwmtfweb/default.aspx) list WRC Troutwaters on the subject property. 7. Historic or Prehistoric Cultural Resources (Corps Requirement) 7a. Will this project occur in or near an area that the state, federal or tribal governments have designated as having historic or cultural preservation ? Yes ® No status (e.g., National Historic Trust designation or properties significant in North Carolina history and archaeology)? 7b. What data sources did you use to determine whether your site would impact historic or archeological resources? A review of the list of properties and districts in North Carolina entered in the National Register of Historic Places (http://www.hpo.ncdcr.gov/nrlist.htm) for Jackson County did not reveal any listing within the proposed project study area. It is believed the proposed project will not occur in or near an area that has been designated as having historic or cultural preservation status by the state, federal, or tribal governments. 8. Flood Zone Designation (Corps Requirement) 8a. Will this project occur in a FEMA-designated 100-year floodplain? ? Yes ® No 8b. If yes, explain how project meets FEMA requirements: 8c. What source(s) did you use to make the floodplain determination? NC FIRM Map Panel 7584 George Buchholz REM PWS R' ? May 15, 2009 Applicant/Agent's Printed Name pplicant/ gent's Signature Date (Agent's signature is valid only if an authorization letter from the applicant is provided.) P -1 1? age 13 ol: 1,? ' ; Bun GaC 8 ?a ? 1. `, y ? t z _,. T ,K7`(.J 1 Lir-zip -Ma e sno„ - 'z y ?' C ? G 0.. Idb .larb f r ? Gca, pry?% P N? Is7ng4e= k S /? BiE %npp Knob ,? _aps ? au. %nen yonaa d t .<JM' m < t 6 •y O _ :: r?• W b N A a? T I3 A L A , \\y\\\ Reckr Mnut Wq, Peak k.wp aff @ - Mtn _ PROJECT .~ LOCATION a.°p•;:n.%e 44 ? o ., net r ? R...a M1ta K?bo.. ,'?'.i, ?? ? ? ?`r wane sums ' 1' .. _ Gap p ?. Owen Mtn _ ? - . Baar?e 4d„u ?4dvoU, C ,. F. -. ?-•. j,pt Br. Mtn - Ftasar. .• 0-b* 9- 11.0 e:O Vet 4Kncp 1'w. r ? {, P R r' ` '? J 'e - '1 rM4,. rw,? reNN - , Gownt c.bin ?. ?Py` ` M,? .• ? tier n? 6 r?• s5 ?,e, ? ?n ti?a4 S t,' TENN .C( ? c t+>•m!a Dab Roca - L%:la Mtypact 4 MOUnYa?n Mtn 'OeW K4iM -Mra / 8n.eu con US 64 US 107 5nt"°"" CASHIERS 1.5 CASHIERS 1.5 MILES SOUTH ` . - MILES SOUTH GRAPHIC SCALE z O 5,000 0 5,000 10,000 20,000 1 inch = 5,000 ft. PROJECT NO. TRL-08000 -C0NSTR V T??j 1 EcoEn ineerin 4 FILENAME: TRL08000-X.DWG ? ? [J g g IoFh F!' A dh icioa L\4r2 Fn PRC D \ u ^ ? + C7 SCALE: _ , r i r, Pll6ia , d?fl^. y 1°= 5 000 , C?i??QUtA?11?l??MCvL,70M ?^a ??p?5? pro:?? a? RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC C/] DATE: 05-15-2009 ?1Li_ `Y?,r lI CQl ???F1?, MO?.` ?. (CAROLI P, P.O. BOX 10.005 ZIP 27'709-4005 (`'9) 361-5000 PROJECT N0. TRL-08000 FILENAME: TRL08000-),.DWG scALE: AS NOTED DATE: 05-15-2009 ??.L NOTIFICATION CHINQUAPIN !RR GA's ION SUPPLY PROJECT AEcoEngineering A divicion of Le Jol mm P R4cAdmz Company, Inc. RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARR, NC P.O. I30X 1?005 ZIP 27709-4005 (019) 361-5000 PLAN VIEW TOP OF BAN FLOW DIRECTION Temporary Impact Are PUMP TOP OF BANK OUTLET PIPE SCREEN/WATER INTAKE I PUMP RESTS DIRECTLY ON STREAM BED TEMPORARY ACCESS ENTRANCE; 6 FOOT WIDE; SOFT STREAM BANK PERPENDICULAR TO BUFFER AND STREAM; WILL BE SEEDED STABILIZATION TECHNIQUES WITHIN 10 DAYS OF INSTALLATION AND NOT MAINTAINED OVER THE TOP OF BANK PROFILE VIEW SCREEN/WATER INTAKE; APP. 0.25 INCH DIAME- OHW? n FLOW DIRECTION OUTLET PIPE 'EIGHT OF PUMP KEEPS IT UBMERGED AND STATIONARY BOULDER/COBBLE STREAM BED NOTE: PUMP INSTALLATION IS A WATER DEPENDENT ACTIVITY WITH DIMINIMUS INCREASES IN IMPERVIOUS SURFACES WHICH WILL ALLOW LOW FLOW PASSAGE OF WATER AND AQUATIC LIFE; ALL INSTALLATION WORK WILL BE CONDUCTED IN THE DRY AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH SEDIMENT AND EROSION CONTROL REQUIREMENTS CONTAINED WTIHIN THE INC DESIGN STANDARDS IN SENSITIVE WATERSHEDS. LEGEND: PERMANENT IMPACTS; 15 linear feet; 300 sq.ft., 10 cubic yards TEMPORARY IMPACTS; 25 linear feet; 650 sq. ft. ® PROJECTNO. 08000 K M _- C®?\TRU??+0N 1 `j-/ ~J Et®Engineering nn ff -Y.DWG I Y di izion oe' c SoF? r McAc?ums Com any, Inc.. C1 J C S. CHIHQilp?.>R F G 71FAN SUPPLY PR&J u RESEARCH 'EFLt,41V (.LE EftY., L\l, 2009 s '?51 ?p \ ry e? CF. LSOJF ? fOUVTY NORM-1 t A2' OLINAs QO. BOX 14005 ZIP 27700-4005 X01 ) 361-5000 , ., . CHINQUAPIN PROPERTY Jackson County, North Carolina IRRIGA TION SUPPL Y FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS Project Number: Issue Date: ALIMISt -2008 Prepared For Trillium One TI.111IL1111 Center Cashiers, North Carolina -8717 EcoEngineering 2 fAk 01 EcoEngineering 2 fAk CHINQUAPIN PROPERTY JACKSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA IRRIGATIONSUPPLY FEASIBILITYANALYSIS TRL-08000 August, 2008 Written by: Dan Potter Associate Project Engineer Stormwater and Environmental Department Checked by: James Halley, P.E. Senior Project Manager Stormwater and Environmental Department Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 Table of Contents Executive Summary ...............................................................................................................................It 1.0 Project Site Identification and Location ........................................................................................ . l 2.0 Summary of Existing Water Needs ............................................................................................... . 1 3.0 Natural Resource and Habitat Assessment of Proposed Withdrawal Area ................................... . 1 3.1 Description of Habitat ............................................................................................................. . 2 3. 1.1 Regional Habitat ............................................................................................................ .2 3.1.2 Project Site Habitat ........................................................................................................ .2 3.2 Species Identified .................................................................................................................... .3 3.2.1 Species Identified .......................................................................................................... . 3 3.2.2 Species of Concern ......................................................................................................... .3 3.3 Potential Impact of Proposed Withdrawal .............................................................................. .4 3.3.1 Temporary Impact on Species of Concern .................................................................... . 4 3.3.2 Long-term effect on species of concern ........................................................................ . 5 3.3.3 Long-term effect on wetlands downstream of project area ........................................... . 5 4.0 Preliminary Wetland and Stream Permitting ................................................................................. .5 4.1 Permitting Stream Impacts ........................................................................................................ .6 4. 1.1 USACE / DWQ Permitting Overview ............................................................................. .6 5.0 Review and Analysis of Historical Stream Records and Existing Data ........................................ .7 5.1 USGS Gage Data and Locations ............................................................................................... .7 5.1.1 USGS Gage Data ............................................................................................................. .7 5.1.2 Gage Locations ................................................................................................................ .7 5.2 Gage Data Processing and Analysis .......................................................................................... . 8 5.2.1 Data Compilation and Quality Control ............................................................................ . 8 5.2.2 Discharge Calculations .................................................................................................... .8 5.2.3 Below Average Discharge Variation ............................................................................... .9 5.3 Analysis and Assessment of Proposed Withdrawal Site ........................................................... .9 5.3.1 Calculated Discharge at Chinquapin Withdrawal ........................................................... .9 5.3.2 Calculated Withdrawal Rates at Trillium Withdrawal Site ............................................ 10 6.0 Summary and Conclusions ........................................................................................................... 11 7.0 References .................................................................................................................................... 12 Table 1. Species of Concern ..................................................................................................................4 Table 2. Stream Features within Assessment Area ............................................................................... 6 Table 3. USGS Gage Data Summary .................................................................................................... 8 Table 4. Quarterly Average Flow Rate .................................................................................................. 8 Table 5. Monthly Variation in Flow Rate (Below Average Flow) ........................................................9 Table 6. Estimated Quarterly Average Flow Rate ...............................................................................10 Table 7. Calculated Stream Withdrawal Rates ....................................................................................10 Appendix 1 - Figures Figure 1. Vicinity Map Figure 2. Site Drainage Area Figure 3. Site Map Figure 4. Gage Locations Figure 5. Reed Creek Gage Monthly Discharge Data Figure 6. Cathy's Creek Gage Monthly Discharge Data Figure 7. Cullasaja at SR 1620 Gage Monthly Discharge Data Figure 8. Average Discharge vs. Drainage Area (grouped on a quarterly basis) Appendix 2 - Photographs [aEcoEngineering \ do i,iou ur I hs John W W U-S Conl s ny, Inc. Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 Executive Summary The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility of making water withdrawals from Robinson Creek for irrigation purposes on the Chinquapin property. The study contains several parts that determine the overall feasibility of any withdrawals and the appropriate withdrawal rate at different times during the year. The findings outlined in this report indicate that a water withdrawal from Robinson Creek is a feasible option to augment and potentially fulfill the irrigation needs of the property. This conclusion is based in a limited habitat and stream assessment and an estimate of discharge and potential water withdrawal from Robinson Creek. The collection of on-site data will confirm the results of this study and provide a basis to manage the withdrawal operation. To determine an acceptable rate of irrigation withdrawal from the assessed stream section, analyses were performed on USGS stream gage data from nearby streams in the Blue Ridge Ecoregion. Data for stream discharge and flow rate variability is not available for the proposed Robinson Creek withdrawal site, so it was necessary to extrapolate from available stream gage data and arrive at a reasonable irrigation withdrawal rate that would not adversely impact the downstream stream reach. Based on information provided to EcoEngineering, the Chinquapin course requires approximately 150,000 gallons of water applied every second non-rain day during normal conditions and approximately 50,000 gallons daily by hand application during extremely dry conditions. On-site storage provides approximately 120,000 gallons of water for every six (6) inches of depth in the current irrigation pond. Estimates developed during this study indicate that withdrawing approximately 20 percent of the average base flow from Robinson Creek should be within the variability range of a natural system and should not adversely affect stream habitat. USGS gage data were used to extrapolate an average discharge for Robinson Creek. The estimated variability was applied to this data and yielded estimated water withdrawal rates that ranged from 50,000 gallons per day to 120,000 gallons per day based on time of year. Temporary stream impacts will likely occur during installation of the water withdrawal equipment. These impacts primarily include increased sediment from the temporary disturbance of the stream bed. These impacts are not expected to create a significant adverse effect on the stream habitat on the condition that installation is completed in a short amount of time and disturbance is minimized. It is recommended that construction activities of the water withdrawal system be scheduled during dry or low flow periods. If withdrawal rates remain within the range that represents the natural flow variability of the stream, adverse effects of water withdrawal are not expected. Managing the water withdrawal from the stream with minimal adverse effect will be possible once on-site data is collected regarding stream level and withdrawal rate. The permitting agencies associated with the project include the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ). Pre-construction notification and approval form the USACE will be required for any wetlands and/or stream impacts. The processing time for a NWP pre-construction notification is 45 days with the USACE and 60 days for DWQ. The installation of a pump system/in-stream structure and withdraw from Robinson Creek would qualify for a USACE Nationwide Permit (NWP 7). A State DWQ Water Quality ii [4EcoEngineering A d,, i,i- 4 The.lr$m ii. McAtixms Ca px? y. Inc, Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 Certification (WQC) 43624 would also be issued in conjunction with the NWP 7, to satisfy sections 401 and 404 of The Clean Water Act. Tables 1 through 7, within the text of this document, primarily apply to USGS stream gage data and other data used during the feasibility study. Table 1 contains a description and explanation of federal species of concern that may exist in the Robinson creek habitat. Table 2 lists stream features within the assessment area based on the permit classification process. Tables 3 through 7 contain information relating to historic USGS gage data used in the withdrawal analysis. This report contains two appendices, which contain Figures 1 through 8 and Photographs 1 though 6. Figures 1 through 4 contain maps relating to the project site. Figure 1 is a vicinity map showing the approximate location of the project site in relation to U.S. Highway 64 and U.S. Highway 107 near Cashiers, NC. Figure 2 shows the drainage area to the proposed withdrawal site based on the surrounding topography. Figure 3 is a more detailed project site map that includes the area observed during the natural resource and habitat stream assessment. Figure 4 shows the locations of the USGS Gage Stations relative to the project site. Figures 5 through 8 contain charts of USGS gage data. Figures 5 through 7 show monthly average discharges for the Reed Creek, Cathy's Creek and Cullasaja stations respectively. Minimum and maximum monthly discharges are plotted as well as error bars showing the standard deviation above and below average discharge. Figure 8 shows the average discharge vs. drainage area for each of the USGS gage sites and is divided into three-month long quarterly intervals. Photographs 1 though 6 depict the stream assessment area. FF3 EcoEngineering A do kion of Ili, Mm R. McAdam, Company. Im Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 1.0 Proiect Site Identification and Location Robinson Creek is located within the Little Tennessee River Basin (Hydrologic Unit Code 06010203) (USGS, 1974) and more specifically within the 02 sub-basin of the Little Tennessee River Basin which is in the western portion of the Blue Ridge Ecoregion (Griffith et al., 2002). Robinson Creek is located approximately 4-miles northeast of Town of Cashiers within Jackson County. Approximately 1,500-feet of Robinson Creek was evaluated as part of this initial stream habitat assessment. The assessment began at a bridge near the confluence of Robinson and Packs Creek and ended at the confluence of Robinson Creek and Mill Creek. Figure 3 in Appendix 1 depicts the assessment area. 2.0 Summary of Existing Water Needs Based on information provided to EcoEngineering, the Chinquapin course requires approximately 150,000 gallons of water applied every second non-rain day during normal conditions and approximately 50,000 gallons daily by hand application during extremely dry conditions. On-site storage provides approximately 120,000 gallons of water for every six (6) inches of depth in the current irrigation pond. 3.0 Natural Resource and Habitat Assessment of Proposed Withdrawal Area An initial stream habitat assessment was conducted for approximately 1,500-feet of Robinson Creek. Figure 3 in Appendix 1 depicts the assessment area. The stream habitat assessment consisted of a review of natural resource information sources and photographs (Appendix 2) of the stream reach. A preliminary on-site inspection was conducted on July 3, 2008 with the intent of identifying habitat within the stream reach and conducting cursory observations of fish and macrobenthic species. Detailed stream surveys evaluating dimension, pattern, profile, and bed material were not conducted, nor were fish or macrobenthic surveys conducted. Stream conditions can change over time with variations of on-site and surrounding land use(s); and therefore, this stream habitat assessment only evaluated recognized conditions at the time of the assessment, and does not address conditions at a given time in the future. This stream habitat assessment is not definitive and should not be assumed to be a complete or specific definition of all conditions located within the stream reach. Specific habitat conditions and species composition may differ from the implied cursory observations and can be most reliably evaluated through specific stream survey methodologies which are beyond the scope of this stream habitat assessment. [;jEcoEngineering A di, Won of The John R. hIcAda., <"o ,pn5. Moe. Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 3.1 Description of Habitat 3.1.1 Regional Habitat Robinson Creek is located within the Little Tennessee River Basin (Hydrologic Unit Code 06010203) (USGS, 1974). The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Division of Water Quality (DWQ) has assigned it stream index number of 2-79-13 and a classification of Water Supply III (WS-III) and Trout Waters (Tr) (NCDENR, 2008). Water Supply III waters are used as sources of water supply and are generally in low to moderately developed watersheds. The Trout Waters classification is supplemental classification intended to protect freshwaters for natural trout propagation and survival of stocked trout. This classification is not the same as the NC Wildlife Resources Commission's Designated Public Mountain Trout Waters designation. Robinson Creek is located within the 02 subbasin of the Little Tennessee River Basin which is western portion of the Blue Ridge Ecoregion. Water quality in the basin is generally excellent. The Appalachian elktoe and the littlewing pearlymussel, both federally listed as endangered species, are found in the basin. The primary problem in this basin is nonpoint source pollution, including inputs of sediment and/or nutrients. Although much of this subbasin is forested, development is often located along stream corridors. Farmland and new residential areas are typically found adjacent to streams, often with inadequate riparian buffer zones. According to the Basinwide Plan (NCDENR, 2005) there is evidence of habitat problems within the subbasin in the form of few pools, relatively uniform riffles and runs, and embedded riffle substrate. These problems have shown to have less effect on the benthic macroinvertebrates than the fish fauna (NCDENR, 2005). 3.1.2 Proiect Site Habitat Physical habitat was characterized in general accordance with methodology prescribed using in the 1999 by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as part of its Rapid Bioassessment Protocols for Use in Streams and Wadeable Rivers: Periphyton, Benthic Macroinvertebrates, and Fish, second edition. Robinson Creek is approximately 6-feet wide at the bridge and becomes wider further downstream. There are areas along the reach which measure as wide as 40-feet wide; however, on average the stream is approximately 20-feet wide (Photo 1, Appendix 2). Water depths within riffles areas range from 3 to 7-inches deep and within pools 2 to 3.5-feet deep. One example riffle area located approximately 225-feet downstream from the bridge is 18-feet wide, 6- inches deep and 15-feet long (Photo 2, Appendix 2). One example pool located approximately 100-feet downstream of the bridge is 15-feet wide, 2.5 feet deep, and 30-feet long (Photo 3, Appendix 2). The reach, as a whole, has characteristics of a Class B stream based on the Rosgen system of classification (Rosgen, 1997). The reach is mostly characterized by wide and shallow sections; however, there are three waterfall locations which have characteristics of a Class A stream. The first water fall (Photo 4, Appendix 2) is approximately 150-feet downstream from the bridge and is approximately eight (8) feet high. The second water fall (Photo 5, Appendix 2) is 500-feet downstream from the bridge and is approximately 25-feet high. The third water fall (Photo 6, Appendix 2) is 1,500-feet downstream from the bridge and is approximately 45-feet high. 2 [AEcoEngineering Adi, ki. .(M Jahn R. McAdam, Cwllrmy, Inc. Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 The entire reach has a very wide vegetative riparian zone on either side of the stream. With the exception of the 30 to 40-foot wide stream areas and the areas around the water falls, there is near continuous canopy coverage over the streambed. The submerged aquatic vegetation known as water milfoil (Myriophyllum aquaticum) was observed within pools located closer to the bridge. There were no adjacent wetland areas observed along the reach. Overall, the substrate of the reach was comprised of a mixture a bedrock (10%) boulder (30%), rubble (30%), gravel (20%), and sand (10%). The reach was slightly embedded and contained minor sediment deposition with only one mid-channel bar and a few small point bars. Snags, logs, and root mats were observed in areas of the reach closer to the bridge. The reach frequently meanders with higher sinuosity occurring near the bridge. The occurrence of riffles and pools is relatively frequent with almost no erosion along the banks of the stream. 3.2 Species Identified 3.2.1 Species Identified Investigations entailed walking within the streambed and making visual observations with the occasional sampling of stream substrate, logs, and root mats. Benthic macroinvertebrate species observed within the stream included the caddisfly (Ephemeroptera), mayfly (Plecoptera), dragonfly (Odonata), and beetle (Coleoptera) orders and were located within sampled riffle sections of the reach. No fish, mussel, clam, or snail, species were observed at the time of these investigations. Detailed, fish or macrobentic surveys were not conducted as part of this initial stream habitat assessment. 3.2.2 Species of Concern Plants and animals with Endangered or Threatened status are protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 (16 US 1531 et seq.). The following species in Table 1 are listed for Federal protection in Jackson County by the FWS as of July 18, 2008 which may inhabit Robinson Creek. The status of "Endangered" refers to a species "which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range" (ESA, Section 3). Federal Species of Concern (FSC) are not legally protected under the Endangered Species Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. The table below includes FSC species for Jackson County which may inhabit Robinson Creek. [4EcoEngineering A division of I he John It. McAdams Company, Inc, Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 Table 1. Saecies of Concern State Federal Time of Year Major Group Scientific Name Common Nam e Status Status Water Needs Constraints Cool, fast to Invertebrate Alasmidonta Appalachian moderate flow Animal raveneliana Elktoe E E riffles, gravelly substrate French Broad and riffles Mid-summer Cambarus reburrus SR FSC pools with thru fall Animal Crayfish rocky substrate Vertebrate Rocky riffles of Clinostomus sp. 1 Smoky Dace SC FSC fast small and Animal medium rivers Fast flowing August thru Vertebrate Cryptobranchus rivers and large October Animal alleganiensis Hellbender SC FSC creeks especially rocky shoal Vertebrate Etheostoma Wounded Rocky riffles of Animal vulneratum Darter SC FSC fast small and medium rivers Boulder and May thru June Vertebrate percina squamata Olive Darter SC FSC bedrock of Animal medium size streams Vertebrate Sorexpalustris Southern Water Along stream Animal punctulatus Shrew SC FSC edges with pools Note: E - "Endangered" denotes a species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. FSC - denotes Federal Species of Concern SC - A Special Concern species is one which requires monitoring but may be taken or collected and sold under regulations adopted under the provisions of Article 25 of Chapter 113 of the General Statutes (animals) and the Plant Protection and Conservation Act (plants). Only propagated material may be sold of Special Concern plants that are also listed as Threatened or Endangered. SR - A Significantly Rare species is not listed as "E", "T", or "SC", but which exists in the state in small numbers and has been determined to need monitoring. Robinson Creek is classified by DWQ as Trout Waters, and as such, it plays an important ecological role in the propagation and survival of trout species. Trout species, such as the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), brown trout (Salmo tutta), and brook trout (Salvelinuss fontinalis) found in North Carolina, prefer cold to cool water stream ranging from 40 to 64 degrees. All trout are opportunistic feeders, eating insects, crustaceans, crayfish, salamanders, frogs, snails, leeches, and other fish. Within a stream, brown trout have a propensity to congregate near deep pools, rainbow trout tend to be in runs and riffles, and brook trout can likely be found in high water quality head-water streams which are rich in oxygen. Rainbow trout spawn between the months of March and May, while both the brown and brook trout spawn generally during the time period of September through February. 3.3 Potential Impact of Proposed Withdrawal 3.3.1 Temporary Impact on Species of Concern Temporary stream impacts will likely occur during installation of the water withdrawal equipment. These impacts primarily include increased sediment from the temporary disturbance of the stream bed. These impacts are not expected to create a significant adverse effect on the stream habitat on the condition that installation is completed in a short amount of time and disturbance is minimized. 4 EcoEngineering A dwi,i- 41 he John N. McAdm, Company. tae. Irrigation Supply- Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 Sediment released from the stream bed as a result of installation activities have potential to affect fish and other aquatic life in several ways, including the clogging and abrading of gills and other respiratory surfaces, affecting the habitat by scouring and filling of pools and riffles, altering water chemistry, and smothering different life stages. Increased sedimentation may cause decreased light penetration through an increase in turbidity. Dissolved oxygen rates may be lower as well. Alteration of stream discharge and changes in surface and groundwater drainage patterns may result from the water withdrawal. Additionally, there may be changes in and destabilization of water temperature due to vegetation removal. Aquatic invertebrates may drift downstream during construction and recolonize the disturbed area once it has been stabilized. 3.3.2 Long-term effect on species of concern After construction of the system and water withdrawal activities have commenced, there may be alteration of water levels and flows due to withdrawal of surface and groundwater flow. Many of the listed species of concern prefer streams which have fast to moderate rates of flow and are located within riffle habitats. Pool habitats are critical as well, providing shelter and breeding habitat for many fish species such as trout species. If withdrawal rates remain within the range that represents the natural flow variability of the stream as discussed in Section 5; adverse effects of water withdrawal are not expected. Managing the water withdrawal from the stream with minimal adverse effect will be possible once on-site data is collected regarding stream level and withdrawal rate. 3.3.3 Long-term effect on wetlands downstream of project area Although there are no wetlands along the reach of Robinson Creek evaluated as part of this initial stream habitat assessment, wetlands located downstream potentially may be hydrologically impacted due to alterations of water levels and flows. A reduction of water levels could potentially affect wetland areas downstream within the floodplain which are dependent upon seasonal and temporary flooding. The saturated soil conditions within wetlands systems allows for the uptake and transport of pollutants, nutrients, and carbon in addition to supporting wildlife diversity such as invertebrates and amphibians. A reduction of wetlands could potentially reduce water quality, and in turn, may be detrimental to trout species and other species of concern. 4.0 Preliminary Wetland and Stream Permitting This section outlines the basic permitting framework associated with the project. A summary of the jurisdictional stream features associated with the project is shown in Table 1. Pennitting requirements and possible permitting strategies associated with implementation of the irrigation plan are also presented in this section. The two primary permitting agencies of concern are the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and NC Division of Water Quality (DWQ). An on-site inspection was conducted on July 3rd, 2008 and the following were identified within the assessment area. [4EcoEngineering A di,i,ion ofI h, Mm H. McAdams Cmnpany, imp. Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 Table 2. Stream Features within Assessment Area Stream Feature Stream Designation Robinson Creek Perennial Packs Creek Perennial Mill Creek Perennial Note: Perennial Streams are defined by the NC Division of Water Quality as scoring a 19 or greater on the NC Division of Water Quality's Stream Assessment Form. 4.1 Permitting Stream Impacts 4. 1.1 USACE / DWQ Permitting Overview A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Nationwide Permit (NWP) can be utilized if the project is designed to impact less than 0.50-acre of jurisdictional wetlands/waters of the U.S. including a maximum of 300 linear feet of important/mitigatable stream channel impact. Pre- construction notification and approval form the USACE will be required for any wetlands and/or stream impacts. Currently, notification and approval by DWQ is required only for wetland impacts greater than 0.10-acres. The processing time for a NWP pre-construction notification is 45 days with the USACE and 60 days for DWQ. All projects qualifying under a NWP are required to submit a report (post-construction notification) within 30 days of completing the construction activity describing and quantifying the impacts and stating that the conditions of the NWP have been adhered to. Cumulative impacts for the project over the specific NWT thresholds of 0.50-acres of wetlands and/or 300 linear feet of important/mitigatable stream channel will require an Individual Permit (IP). Vs require an analysis to determine that the proposed impact to waters of the U.S. is the least environmentally damaging practical alternative, typically require compensatory mitigation, notification to adjacent property owners, a public notice, and may require a public hearing. Currently, it is not anticipated that an individual permit will be needed on this project The installation of a pump system/in-stream structure and withdraw from Robinson Creek would qualify for a USACE Nationwide Permit (NWP 7) - "Outfall Structures and Associated Intake Structures" since the associated impacts would be less than 300 linear feet of stream and there is not any additional stream impoundment associated with this option. A State DWQ Water Quality Certification (WQC) #3624 would also be issued in conjunction with the NWP 7, to satisfy sections 401 and 404 of The Clean Water Act. The utilization of these permits and there review assumes that there will be no reservoir construction along the channel. An application in the form of a pre-construction notification (PCN) with exhibits would be submitted both to the USACE and DWQ for the installation and withdraw from Robinson Creek. The processing time for the NWP 7 is 45 days with the USACE and 60 days for the WQC #3624 with DWQ. Typically the USACE and/or DWQ will forward this application to the NC Division of Water Resources, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to determine if there is a likelihood of affecting endangered species and [4EIcoEngineering A 6, i.km of the John K. McAdams Company, Inc. Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 downstream water resources. The contents of this report could also be provided to the agencies upon request to provide additional habitat background information. 5.0 Review and Analysis of Historical Stream Records and Existing Data The predicted removal rate and overall discharge rate were estimated to evaluate the feasibility of withdrawing water from Robinson Creek without causing an adverse effect on stream habitat. The evaluation approach was based on the assumption that all streams have an inherent natural flow variability and that if a withdrawal rate stayed within an observed natural range, then any adverse effects would be minimized to the greatest extent possible. No site specific data was available at the time of the study; therefore, gage data from three (3) USGS gage locations within the Blue Ridge Ecoregion were used in this analysis. A stream discharge rate was estimated for the proposed Robinson Creek withdrawal site based on the relationships between drainage area and discharge observed at the USGS gage sites. The variation in the Robinson Creek discharge was then extrapolated using the discharge variation observed in the USGS gage data. This variation was then applied to the estimated Robinson Creek discharge to yield a daily water amount that could be withdrawn from Robinson Creek. This water withdrawal would be well within the expected natural flow variation of the stream and should have a minimal impact. Once actual site data is available, a more accurate estimate of stream flow can be determined as data is collected over time. 5.1 USGS Gage Data and Locations 5. 1.1 USGS Gage Data Historical USGS Stream Gage data was collected for three (3) sites in Western North Carolina. USGS Daily stream discharge records are derived from time-series data for each day within the period of record. The time-series data, sometimes referred to as instantaneous or real-time data, may be collected as often as every minute. Daily mean discharge is derived from the time-series data and historical records are available online through the USGS water data site (USGS, 2008). Three USGS Stream gage sites were selected based on the proximity to the proposed Chinquapin stream withdrawal location (35°10'45"N 83°04'00"W). The drainage area to this site, located at the confluence of Packs Creek and Robinson Creek is 1.96 square miles. 5.1.2 Gage Locations Gage Site #1 is located on Reed Creek near Asheville, North Carolina. (USGS Gage #03451510) The drainage area to this location is approximately 2.13 square miles. Daily data was utilized for the entire period of record, spanning July 1986 to December of 1988. Gage Site #2 is located on Cathey's Creek near Brevard, North Carolina. (USGS Gage #03440000) The drainage area to Site #2 is approximately 11.70 square miles. Daily data was utilized for the period of record from January 1986 to September 2004. r4EcoEngineedng A do W- 41 by John W McAdams Company. I- Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 Gage Site #3 is on the Cullasaja River at State Route 1620. (USGS Gage #0350056050) The drainage area to Site #3 is approximately 18.8 square miles. Daily data was utilized for the entire period of record from July 2001 to July 2008. See Figure 4 for a map of USGS Stream Gage locations. 5.2 Gage Data Processing and Analysis 5.2.1 Data Compilation and Quality Control Extremely high discharge values, likely from hurricane events, produced skewed data sets and were removed to reduce data variance. This approach was conservative because reducing the variability in the data set would also reduce the predicted natural stream flow variability. Outlying high-flow data points that were more than three (3) standard deviations were removed from the analysis (Walpole and Myers, 1993). These points representing extremely high flow days were removed in order to reduce upward bias caused by infrequent heavy rainfall events and to reduce the variance of the data of interest. Table 3 provides a summary of the data obtained from each gage site. Table 3. USGS Gage Data Summa Gage Site 1 2 3 Dates of Record Jan 1987-Dec 1988 Jan 1987-Dec 2003 Jan 2002 - July 2008 Number of Data Points 915 6,544 2,567 Number of Points Removed 29 102 47 % of Initial Dataset Removed 3.2% 1.6% 1.8% 5.2.2 Discharge Calculations Monthly average discharges were recalculated for each gage site once the outlying points were removed from the datasets. These monthly averages used the USGS derived daily data for each month across the entire period of record at each gage site. For each gage site, a plot was created that shows the average monthly discharge. The plot also shows the maximum and minimum discharge value for each month based on the entire period of record. The recalculated standard deviation is shown as a bar extending above each monthly average data point. These represent a measure of the variance in discharge above the average at each site. Please see Figures 5 through 7 for the monthly discharge plots. Table 4 contains the average discharge for each gage site based on three-month time spans. Table 4. Quarterly Average Flow Rate Location Average Flow Rate (cfs) Site DA [sq. mi.] Jan-Mar Apr-Jun Jul-Sept Oct-Dec 1 2.13 1.02 1.03 0.39 0.57 2 11.7 38.74 35.52 23.06 25.29 3 18.8 75.11 54.93 60.44 71.78 EcoEngineering r-m .A digi,imur I hr John N. McAdmn,Compmny Inr. Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 5.2.3 Below Average Discharge Variation In order to more accurately reflect the variation in discharge below the monthly average discharge values, a dataset was created that contained only daily discharge data for days that this value was below the monthly average. Below average discharges were chosen because the proposed withdrawals from the Chinquapin site would have the greatest impact when stream flows are below average. The standard deviation for the below-average discharge was calculated to show the natural variation in discharge during low-flow periods. This standard deviation is represented on the plots for each site by the bar extending below each monthly average discharge point. Please see Figures 5 through 7 for the appropriate discharge plots. For clarity, the variability for each site during each month was compiled into Table 5. The percentage shown for each month represents the below average flow value as a percent of the average flow. These figures provide a rough estimate of the natural variability in site discharges when the discharge is below the monthly average. The composite percentages represent the average of the variability for all three sites. The quarterly percentage is based on the average of the composite percentage for each three-month time span. As mentioned earlier, the periods when stream discharges are below average are of particular importance when considering the impact of Chinquapin irrigation withdrawals. This comparison table provides a baseline variability measurement for the three USGS stream gage locations and an important reference point for the analysis of the proposed Chinquapin withdrawal site. This analysis is discussed further below. Table 5. Monthlv Variation in Flow Rate (Below Average Flow Site 1 2 3 Composite Quarterly January 13.6% 17.2% 15.6% 15.5% February 13.4% 17.4% 12.6% 14.5% March 21.6% 19.0% 16.3% 19.0% 16.3% April 26.5% 16.6% 16.6% 19.9% May 25.9% 17.3% 19.3% 20.8% June 22.6% 18.5% 21.2% 20.8% 20.5% July 27.0% 16.6% 22.6% 22.1% August 26.2% 18.6% 27.4% 24.1% September 20.6% 19.8% 27.9% 22.7% 23.0% October 23.5% 18.2% 24.8% 22.2% November 23.4% 19.6% 23.3% 22.1% December 18.8% 19.2% 23.4% 20.5% 21.6% 5.3 Analysis and Assessment of Proposed Withdrawal Site 5.3.1 Calculated Discharge at Chinquapin Withdrawal A drainage area to average discharge relationship was calculated during each three-month quarter based on the average discharges shown in Table 4. A best fit trendline was calculated for each three-month period based on the relationship between average discharge and drainage area. Trend lines calculated for each quarter can be found in Appendix 1, Figure 8. Table 6 shows the [4EcoEngineering A di,kion 4 1 h4 John R. NIuAd-,, Company. I". Irrigation Supply- Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 calculated quarterly average flow rates at the proposed Trillium irrigation withdrawal site. These values are based on the trendlines calculated from the known flows at the USGS gage sites and use the measured drainage area of 1.96 square miles at the proposed withdrawal site. These discharge values are for planning purposes only and will be replaced with actual site data once it is collected. Table 6. Estimated Quarterly Average Flow Rate Proposed Withdrawal Site Location Estimated Flow Rate (cfs) DA [sq. mi.] Jan-Mar Apr-Jun July-Sept Oct-Dec Trillium Site 1.96 0.89 0.93 0.33 0.47 5.3.2 Calculated Withdrawal Rates at Trillium Withdrawal Site Maximum quarterly withdrawal rates were estimated at the proposed Trillium withdrawal site based on the results of Table 6 and the quarterly variation results in Table 5. The withdrawal figures provided in Table 7 represent a withdrawal rate that will fall within the natural variation of flow rate based on the average quarterly discharge rate for the proposed withdrawal site. Table 7. Calculated Stream Withdrawal Rates Proposed Trillium Irrigation Withdrawal Site Estimated Quarterly Estimated Estimated Flow Rate Deviation Withdrawal Withdrawal (cfs) (cfs) (gal./day) Jan-Mar 0.89 16.3% 0.15 93,999 Apr-Jun 0.93 20.5% 0.19 123,961 July-Sept 0.33 23.0% 0.08 48,638 Oct-Dec 0.47 21.6% 0.10 65,756 These figures are merely an estimate of quarterly withdrawal rates based on the data available from USGS gage sites in small drainage basins within the Blue Ridge Ecoregion. More accurate withdrawal rates can be calculated once data is available for actual stream flows from the proposed Robinson Creek withdrawal site. to [4EcoEngineering A. d,, 6ion of `M Jahn R. A1aad- Company, "_ Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 6.0 Summary and Conclusions The findings outlined in this report indicate that a water withdrawal from Robinson Creek is a feasible option to augment and potentially fulfill the irrigation needs of the property. This conclusion is based in a limited habitat and stream assessment and an estimate of discharge and potential water withdrawal from Robinson Creek. The collection of on-site data will confirm the results of this study and provide a basis to manage the withdrawal operation. Based on information provided to EcoEngineering, the Chinquapin course requires approximately 150,000 gallons of water applied every second non-rain day during normal conditions and approximately 50,000 gallons daily by hand application during extremely dry conditions. On-site storage provides approximately 120,000 gallons of water for every six (6) inches of depth in the current irrigation pond. Estimates developed during this study indicate that withdrawing approximately 20 percent of the average base flow from Robinson Creek should be within the variability range of a natural system and should not adversely affect stream habitat. USGS gage data were used to extrapolate an average discharge for Robinson Creek. The estimated variability was applied to this data and yielded estimated water withdrawal rates that ranged from 50,000 gallons per day to 120,000 gallons per day based on time of year. These estimates may increase or decrease when applied to actual discharge data obtained from the project site. The preliminary estimates indicated that water storage for irrigation may be necessary due to target consumption rates exceeding estimated production rates. Temporary stream impacts will likely occur during installation of the water withdrawal equipment. These impacts primarily include increased sediment from the temporary disturbance of the stream bed. These impacts are not expected to create a significant adverse effect on the stream habitat on the condition that installation is completed in a short amount of time and disturbance is minimized. It is recommended that construction activities of the water withdrawal system be scheduled during dry or low flow periods. If withdrawal rates remain within the range that represents the natural flow variability of the stream, adverse effects of water withdrawal are not expected. Managing the water withdrawal from the stream with minimal adverse effect will be possible once on-site data is collected regarding stream level and withdrawal rate. The permitting agencies associated with the project include the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ). Pre-construction notification and approval form the USACE will be required for any wetlands and/or stream impacts. The processing time for a NWP pre-construction notification is 45 days with the USACE and 60 days for DWQ. The installation of a pump system/in-stream structure and withdraw from Robinson Creek would qualify for a USACE Nationwide Permit (NWP 7). A State DWQ Water Quality Certification (WQC) #3624 would also be issued in conjunction with the NWP 7, to satisfy sections 401 and 404 of The Clean Water Act. 11 . EcoEngineering A division of "c J,*n R. T1cAdd., Company, lm. Irrigation Supply - Feasibility Analysis • Chinquapin Property Jackson County, North Carolina • TRL-08000 • August 2008 7.0 References EPA, 1999. United States Environmental Protection Agency as part of its Rapid Bioassessment Protocols for Use in Streams and Wadeable Rivers: Periphyton, Benthic Macroinvertebrates, and Fish, second edition Griffith, G.E., Omemik, J.M., Comstock, J.A., Schafle, M.P., McNab, W.H., Lenat, D.R., MacPherson, T.F., Glover, J.B., and Shelburne, V.B., 2002. Ecoregions of North Carolina and south Carolina, (color poster with map, descriptive text, summary tables, and photographs): Reston, Virginia, U.S. Geological Survey (map scale 1:1,500,00). NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR), 2008. Surface Water Classifications. http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/csu/swc.html NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR), April 2005. Basinwide Assessment Report: Little Tennessee River Basin. Division of Water Quality. Rosgen, D. L., 1997. A Geomorphological Approach to Restoration of Incised Rivers. Proceedings of the Conference on Management of Landscapes Disturbed by Channel Incision. S.S.Y. Wang, E.J. Langendoen and F.D. Sheilds, Jr. (editors). United States Geological Survey (USGS), 1946. 7.5 Minute, Topographic Map of the Big Ridge North Carolina Quadrangle, Published 1946, Photorevised 1991. United States Geological Survey (USGS), 1974. North Carolina Hydrologic Unit Map. United States Geological Survey (USGS), 2008. "USGS Water Data for the Nation, website Accessed July 2008. http://waterdata.usgs.gov Walpole and Meyers, 1993. Fifth Edition of Probability and Statistics for Engineers and Scientists by MacMillan Publishing Company. 12 [4EcoEngineering Ad,, is no(TTk-MinR.MCA&-,Company, 1x, Appendix 1 Figures faEcoEngineering A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc. A", 71 IN q10 GRAPHIC SCALE 5,000 0 5,000 10,000 20,000 1 inch = 5,000 ft. ® PROJECT NO. TRL-08000 FIGURE 1 AEcoEngineering FILENAME: TRL08000-X.DWG n VICINITY MAP A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc, C7 SCALE: 1"= 5 000' , 4 CHINQUAPIN IRRIGATION FEASIBH=ANALYSIS RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC [/? DATE: 07-23-2008 JACKSON COUNTY, NOM CAROLINA (9109)8361160 0 ZIP 27709-4005 ® PROJECT NO. TRL-08000 FIGURE 2 AEcoEngineering 4 a FILENAME: TRLO8000-X.DWG SITE DRAINA E A division oFTha John R. McAdams Company, Inc, G7 SALE: AREA G AS NOTED CHINQUAPIN IRRIGATION FEASIBILHY ANALYSIS E 6 NO ?' DATE. 07-23-2008 JACKSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA BOX P.O. 140 5 ZIP 27709-4005 (919) 361-5000 M PROTECT NO. TRL-08000 FIGURE 3 FalEcoEngineering 4: FILENAME: TRL08000-X.DWG A division of The John R. McAdams Company, Inc C7 SCALE: AS NOTED SITE MAP CKW UAPIN IRRIGA O S RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC Q TI N FEA IBIIIIY ANALYSIS P.O. Rox 14005 ZIP 27708-4005 (/? DATE: 07-Z3-20O8 JACKSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA (919) 301-5000 TRL-08000 FIGURE 4 EcoEngineering LO8000-X.DWG V GAGE LOCATIONS © A division of The John R McAdams Company, Inc, N.T.S. LI1?i C`s QUAPIN IRRIGATION FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS E G x 7-23-2008 JACKSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA P.O. BOX 14005 Z P 27709 4005 (919) 361-6000 d Co v mm ?o Y ? L L U z ? v d _N r ? C 7 O L 2 L 4 ? 4 ? a I--OI a a 1-- 0 4 4 ? 4 ? 4 ? N x N m - 4 c_ Cr ? N ? r G 1 -0 -1 ? N m II G ? Q O C QD c fi c w W t.3 W? rn t c CO LO M N 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 ti (0 LO It Cl) cV o (spa) ewmiosia 4) V m YD L U ? N t ?+ v t N R ? U >+ co r i O 7 ? a ? a ? 4 ? a ? a ? a i 0- 1 ? 4 F- 0 ? 4 ? 4 ? N G) d •? C ? Q ? V) Co T- j a ?? Q 4 ? o p LL N O 000 (.Op N T T (s o) oBjeyosia u c T ?d w C) 09 W 0) MI 00 t C (fl O LO v M N O O d o R N R to ? d ? t v iv N N D N ? 7 t U c O d ? 3 2M LL G a ? W a ? o w 0---l Cl rn a a ?--0 ? co a ? t C 4 ? CD O 1-? ? LO 4 I-O? ? N Q N ? M d •? ? N co 4 ? N N 00 c6 r ? II Q Q O ? d ? 0 o° °o °o °o °o o° ° ° o I- (O LO It M N ( p) a6Jeyosia d C a a t ea Z l0 7 l0 0 N LO 1) d E 10 7 O H N .y l0 m O W ? COO 1O 'lT M N O O (s;a) a6jeyasia a6ejand co 0 ? N o 'IX O N co N O II n ? N O N U') N d E R 7 O H N N_ N N R m LO O O O O O O O O O O O O W 1--CO Loll' M N (sja) e6jeyasia a6eJanb 01 m N V 0) 0) .a 0 V O d Q E °' O. 4) T 7 7 Cl) (U N O N x o O II ? II ? o N Wy ? N E l0 O a » N u _ .y R m Cn O W ? COO CM ? M N O O (s;a) efueyasia 96eJand M _N Cn O O I I II ? O N CA d! d E 3 o a N_ to .y 10 m O ? j O O M O O O N O O (s;a) e6jeyasia a6eJand Appendix 2 Photographs AEcoEngineering A division of The John R. McAdams Company, inc. PROJECT NO. TRL'-08000 FILENAME: TRL08000-X.OWC N. T. S. 08-08-2008 PHOTOGRAPHS TRILLIUM FEASIBILITY STUDY JACKSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AEcoEngineering A division of The John R McAdams Company, Inc. RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC P.O. BOX 14005 21P 27700-4005 (019) 3BI-5000 PHOTO 1. TYPICAL STREAM SECTION PHOTO 2. EXAMPLE RIFFLE PROJECT N0. TRL-08000 PHOTOG-?APHS AftoEngineerin FILENAME: TRL08000-X.DWG i t f h 0 A d vie ILe Io e R McAdam Co on o ?9 Ine C? SCALE: TRILLIUM FEASIBILITY STUDY N.T.s. ? f1 O DATE JACKSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA P.O 13OX 14005 ZIP 27709-4005 : 08-08-2008 (019) 161-5000 PHOTO 5. SECOND WATERFALL PHOTO 6. CHARLES FALLS September 18, 2008 Mr. Lee Howe Trillium Links / Chinquapin One Trillium Center Cashiers. NC 28717 Re: Stream Flow Monitoring Data Goldie Project No. 1312.1 Dear Mr. Howe: ASSOCIATES engineering, environmental and laboratory services Please find enclosed the above referenced flow monitoring data as conducted by Goldie and Associates on September 16, 2008 for the Packs Creek location on the Chinquapin property. Flow was recorded using a Global Water FP-101 Flow Probe, measuring feet per second (ft/s) flows across the designated channel at one foot width intervals. We have enclosed maps indicating the location of the sampling, a cross sectional diagram of the channel, and the field measured and tabulated total flow data; total daily flow was calculated to be 1.00 million gallons per day (MGD). Additionally, please note that the stream was noted to be in relative low flow conditions as the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) was noted to be several inches higher than the current top of water. We appreciate this opportunity to serve; please contact us if you have questions or require additional information. Sincerely, Goldie and Associates &U L Ben S. Day Enviroiunental Manager / Wetlands Scientist encI: As stated Chinquapin - Packs Greek Flow Data Goldie Project 1312.1 Date Time 9/16/2008 11:00 AM Sample Pt Distance * (ft) Depth velocity (ftfs) ** Segment Width (ft) ow (ft" 3/s) ow (gallon/s) ow (MGD) *** 1 0.5 0.40 0.01 1 0.00 0.03 0.00 2 1.5 0.60 0.01 1 0.01 0.04 0.00 3 2.5 0.75 0.01 1 0.01 0.06 0.00 4 3.5 0.69 0.16 1 0.11 0.83 0.07 5 4.5 0.68 0.29 1 0.20 1.48 0.13 6 5.5 0.50 0.55 1 0.28 2.06 0.18 7 6.5 0.50 0.71 1 0.36 2.66 0.23 8 7.5 0.40 0.68 1 0.27 2.03 0.18 9 8.5 0.30 0.76 1 0.23 1.71 0.15 L 10 9.5 0.25 0.38 1 0.10 0.71 0.06 Total 1.55 11.59 1.00 * Stream width: 10 ft; each sample pt at mid point of 1 ft increments across width Average speed over 40 seconds at approximately 6/10ths segment depth *"* Million Gallons per Day (gallons/s x 3600s x 24hr T 10^6) ,,r 4 { 1 t f" till ilk CN t CL f1 1 j ?t ii60dt fir`s N CO C L p CV CL to L f a CL 0 CL '? r- ii ?? ?;• .\\ \ \ ? 11 CAS J.? "??• Q -60 LL \ 4 a+ v *.5 o 1 ? ?I - Q Rf d N Q1 p' = C cII p ', v N l N ~ .a N Q 06 E E L o- Mr a ? o u: V 0 'i E e? a? c? ti i { l ?II???I I lll?'il?'?1? iili iilillll i11?11IIi1i1111 c f? ;ill!li; 0 V N a L V N M i l i l 1 1 I I 1 1 1 1 7 I ??I? 11?i??1 I 1 ? I?I?i 1?j1 1111111 ,ji 1, 11i111?1;11 1 i 1 I I I 1 1 1 ! ! 1 I ? 1 I ) (? 1?!?I lII 111111 i 11111 I it Ijl?1 Iji?l? f?I lil ?1?11ii1 (lIl 1,1 111111 1?I ICI l i 1 1 1 1 1 1 1, 1 1 1 1 I I I 111?I1Ii11?ii I I I l i I I i I I I I I 111 i I I V f l{ I I i'I'Illlil 1 1 1 1 1 Illliil?l iil I i?l I,jlj 1;1,1 " 11+) 111 I? Vii , iiljl it?'I???I?ij?il??I , 1 1 I 1 1 i , 1