20190924 Ver 1_17BP.10.C.9_SelfCertification_Letter_20190620_20190712

QP4S�EN7 OF Pic i
-� 20 United States Department of the
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FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
3.1�a
Raleigh Field Office
P.O. Box 33726
Raleigh, NC 27636-3726
Date:
Self -Certification Letter
Project Name
Dear Applicant:
FLE9l1& W 1WM"E
Interior
791
Thank you for using the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Raleigh Ecological
Services online project review process. By printing this letter in conjunction with your
project review package, you are certifying that you have completed the online project
review process for the project named above in accordance with all instructions
provided, using the best available information to reach your conclusions. This letter,
and the enclosed project review package, completes the review of your project in
accordance with the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531-1544, 87 Stat.
884), as amended (ESA), and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C.
668-668c, 54 Stat. 250), as amended (Eagle Act). This letter also provides
information for your project review under the National Environmental Policy Act of
1969 (P.L. 91-190, 42 U.S.C. 4321-4347, 83 Stat. 852), as amended. A copy of this
letter and the project review package must be submitted to this office for this
certification to be valid. This letter and the project review package will be maintained
in our records.
The species conclusions table in the enclosed project review package summarizes
your ESA and Eagle Act conclusions. Based on your analysis, mark all the
determinations that apply:
"no effect" determinations for proposed/listed species and/or
✓ proposed/designated critical habitat; and/or
WI"may affect, not likely to adversely affect" determinations for proposed/listed
species and/or proposed/designated critical habitat; and/or
"may affect, likely to adversely affect" determination for the Northern long-
eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis) and relying on the findings of the January 5,
2016, Programmatic Biological Opinion for the Final 4(d) Rule on the
Northern long-eared bat;
a"no Eagle Act permit required" determinations for eagles.

Applicant Page 2
We certify that use of the online project review process in strict accordance with the
instructions provided as documented in the enclosed project review package results in
reaching the appropriate determinations. Therefore, we concur with the "no effect" or
"not likely to adversely affect" determinations for proposed and listed species and
proposed and designated critical habitat; the "may affect" determination for Northern
long-eared bat; and/or the "no Eagle Act permit required" determinations for eagles.
Additional coordination with this office is not needed. Candidate species are not
legally protected pursuant to the ESA. However, the Service encourages consideration
of these species by avoiding adverse impacts to them. Please contact this office for
additional coordination if your project action area contains candidate species.
Should project plans change or if additional information on the distribution of
proposed or listed species, proposed or designated critical habitat, or bald eagles
becomes available, this determination may be reconsidered. This certification letter is
valid for 1 year. Information about the online project review process including
instructions, species information, and other information regarding project reviews
within North Carolina is available at our website http://www.fws.gov/raleigh/pp.html.
If you have any questions, you can write to us at [e-mail] or please contact
Leigh Mann of this office at 919-856-4520, ext. 10.
Sincerely,
/s/Pete Benjamin
Pete Benjamin
Field Supervisor
Raleigh Ecological Services
Enclosures - project review package

h FYSJi lcVJ)urr.
-" United States Department of the Interior ,�x"
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
%$ Asheville Ecological Services Field Office
'aRCH 3�,e 160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, NC 28801-1082
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
hap://www.fws.2ov/nc-es/es/couniyfr.html
In Reply Refer To:
Consultation Code: 04EN1000-2019-SLI-0419
Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
Project Name: TIP No. 1713P.10.C.9
June 20, 2019
Subject: List of threatened and endangered species that may occur in your proposed project
location, and/or may be affected by your proposed project
To Whom It May Concern:
The attached species list identifies threatened, endangered, proposed and candidate species, as
well as proposed and final designated critical habitat, that may occur within the boundary of your
proposed project and/or may be affected by your proposed project. Although not required by
section 7, many agencies request species lists to start the informal consultation process and begin
their fulfillment of the requirements under section 7(c) of the Endangered Species Act (Act) of
1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 etseq.).
This list, along with other helpful resources, is also available on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (Service) Asheville Field Office's (AFO) website: https://www.fws.gov/raleigh/species/
cntylist/nc_counties.html. The AFO website list includes "species of concern" species that could
potentially be placed on the federal list of threatened and endangered species in the future. Also
available are:
Design and Construction Recommendations
htlps://www.fws.gov/asheville/htmls/Troject review/Recommendations.html
Optimal Survey Times for Federally Listed Plants
htlps://www.fws.gov/nc-es/Tlggt/plant survey.html
Northern long-eared bat Guidance
https://www.fws.gov/asheville/htmis/project_review/NLEB_in WNC.html
Predictive Habitat Model for Aquatic Species
htlps://www.fws.gov/asheville/htmls/Maxent/Maxent.html

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082 2
New information based on updated surveys, changes in the abundance and distribution of
species, changed habitat conditions, or other factors could require modifications of these lists.
Please note that under 50 CFR 402.12(e) of the regulations implementing section 7 of the Act,
the accuracy of the species lists should be verified after 90 days. This verification can be
completed formally or informally as desired. The Service recommends that verification be
completed by visiting the ECOS-IPaC website or the AFO website (the AFO website dates each
county list with the day of the most recent update/change) at regular intervals during project
planning and implementation for updates to species lists and information. An updated list may be
requested through the ECOS-IPaC system by completing the same process used to receive the
enclosed list or by going to the AFO website.
The purpose of the Act is to provide a means whereby threatened and endangered species and the
ecosystems upon which they depend may be conserved. Under sections 7(a)(1) and 7(a)(2) of the
Act and its implementing regulations (50 CFR 402 et seq.), Federal agencies are required to
utilize their authorities to carry out programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered
species and to determine whether projects may affect threatened and endangered species and/or
designated critical habitat.
A Biological Assessment is required for construction projects (or other undertakings having
similar physical impacts) that are major Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the
human environment as defined in the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)
(c)). For projects other than major construction activities, the Service suggests that a Biological
Evaluation similar to a Biological Assessment be prepared to determine whether the project may
affect listed or proposed species and/or designated or proposed critical habitat. Recommended
contents of a Biological Assessment are described at 50 CFR 402.12 and on our office's website
at https://www.fws.gov/asheville/htmis/project_review/assessment guidance.html.
If a Federal agency (or their non-federal representative) determines, based on the Biological
Assessment or Biological Evaluation, that listed species and/or designated critical habitat may be
affected by the proposed project, the agency is required to consult with the Service pursuant to
50 CFR 402. In addition, the Service recommends that candidate species, proposed species, and
proposed critical habitat be addressed within the consultation. More information on the
regulations and procedures for section 7 consultation, including the role of permit or license
applicants, can be found in the "Endangered Species Consultation Handbook" at: http://
www. fws. gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/TOC-GLO S . PDF.
Though the bald eagle is no longer protected under the Endangered Species Act, please be aware
that bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16
U.S.C. 668 et seq.), and projects affecting these species may require additional consultation (see
hns://www.fws.gov/southeast/our-services/permits/eagles. Wind energy projects should follow
the wind energy guidelines (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/) for minimizing impacts to
migratory birds (including bald and golden eagles) and bats.
Guidance for minimizing impacts to migratory birds for projects including communications
towers (e.g., cellular, digital television, radio, and emergency broadcast) can be found at: http://

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
www.fws. og v/mi rg atorybirds/CurrentBirdlssues/Hazards/towers/towers.htm;
http://www.towerkill.com; and http://www.fws. og v/mi rg atorybirds/CurrentBirdlssues/Hazards/
towers/comtow.html.
We appreciate your concern for threatened and endangered species. The Service encourages
Federal agencies to include conservation of threatened and endangered species into their project
planning to further the purposes of the Act. Please include the Consultation Tracking Number in
the header of this letter with any request for consultation or correspondence about your project
that you submit to our office.
Attachment(s):
• Official Species List
■ Migratory Birds
• Wetlands

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
Official Species List
This list is provided pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, and fulfills the
requirement for Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary of the Interior information whether
any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of a proposed
action".
This species list is provided by:
Asheville Ecological Services Field Office
160 Zillicoa Street
Asheville, NC 28801-1082
[phone]

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
Project Summary
Consultation Code: 04EN1000-2019-SLI-0419
Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
Project Name: TIP No. 1713P.10.C.9
Project Type: BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION / MAINTENANCE
Project Description: Replacement of Bridge No. 121 over Brown Creek on SR 1230
(Meltonville Church Road) in Anson County, TIP 1713P.10.C.9.
Project Location:
Approximate location of the project can be viewed in Google Maps: https:
www.aooale.com/maps/place/34.88125081813586N80.30167461985556W
Counties: Anson, NC
2

[on. MYKIIHPO
Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
Endangered Species Act Species
There is a total of 3 threatened, endangered, or candidate species on this species list.
Species on this list should be considered in an effects analysis for your project and could include
species that exist in another geographic area. For example, certain fish may appear on the species
list because a project could affect downstream species.
IPaC does not display listed species or critical habitats under the sole jurisdiction of NOAA
Fisheriesl, as USFWS does not have the authority to speak on behalf of NOAA and the
Department of Commerce.
See the "Critical habitats" section below for those critical habitats that lie wholly or partially
within your project area under this office's jurisdiction. Please contact the designated FWS office
if you have questions.
NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an
office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of
Commerce.
Birds
NAME
Red -cockaded Woodpecker Picoides borealis
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws. oe v/ecp/species/7614
Clams
NAME
Carolina Heelsplitter Lasmigona decorata
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
Species profile: htips:Hecos.fws. og v/ecp/species/3534
Flowering Plants
NAME
Schweinitz's Sunflower Helianthus schweinitzii
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
Species profile: hiips:Hecos.fws. og v/ecp/species/3849
STATUS
Endangered
STATUS
Endangered
STATUS
Endangered

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
Critical habitats
THERE ARE NO CRITICAL HABITATS WITHIN YOUR PROJECT AREA UNDER THIS OFFICE'S
JURISDICTION.

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
Migratory Birds
Certain birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act! and the Bald and Golden Eagle
Protection Acts.
Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to
migratory birds, eagles, and their habitats should follow appropriate regulations and consider
implementing appropriate conservation measures, as described below.
1. The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918.
2. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940.
3. 50 C.F.R. Sec. 10.12 and 16 U.S.C. Sec. 668(a)
The birds listed below are birds of particular concern either because they occur on the USFWS
Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) list or warrant special attention in your project location.
To learn more about the levels of concern for birds on your list and how this list is generated, see
the FAQ below. This is not a list of every bird you may find in this location, nor a guarantee that
every bird on this list will be found in your project area. To see exact locations of where birders
and the general public have sighted birds in and around your project area, visit the E-bird data
mapping tool (Tip: enter your location, desired date range and a species on your list). For
projects that occur off the Atlantic Coast, additional maps and models detailing the relative
occurrence and abundance of bird species on your list are available. Links to additional
information about Atlantic Coast birds, and other important information about your migratory
bird list, including how to properly interpret and use your migratory bird report, can be found
below.
For guidance on when to schedule activities or implement avoidance and minimization measures
to reduce impacts to migratory birds on your list, click on the PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE
SUMMARY at the top of your list to see when these birds are most likely to be present and
breeding in your project area.
NAME
BREEDING SEASON
Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Breeds Sep 1 to
This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention Jul 31
because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain
types of development or activities.
hUs://ecos.fws. og v/ecp/species/1626
Probability Of Presence Summary
The graphs below provide our best understanding of when birds of concern are most likely to be
present in your project area. This information can be used to tailor and schedule your project

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082 2
activities to avoid or minimize impacts to birds. Please make sure you read and understand the
FAQ "Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report" before using or attempting
to interpret this report.
Probability of Presence (■)
Each green bar represents the bird's relative probability of presence in the 1 Okm grid cell(s) your
project overlaps during a particular week of the year. (A year is represented as 12 4-week
months.) A taller bar indicates a higher probability of species presence. The survey effort (see
below) can be used to establish a level of confidence in the presence score. One can have higher
confidence in the presence score if the corresponding survey effort is also high.
How is the probability of presence score calculated? The calculation is done in three steps:
The probability of presence for each week is calculated as the number of survey events in
the week where the species was detected divided by the total number of survey events for
that week. For example, if in week 12 there were 20 survey events and the Spotted Towhee
was found in 5 of them, the probability of presence of the Spotted Towhee in week 12 is
0.25.
2. To properly present the pattern of presence across the year, the relative probability of
presence is calculated. This is the probability of presence divided by the maximum
probability of presence across all weeks. For example, imagine the probability of presence
in week 20 for the Spotted Towhee is 0.05, and that the probability of presence at week 12
(0.25) is the maximum of any week of the year. The relative probability of presence on
week 12 is 0.25/0.25 = 1; at week 20 it is 0.05/0.25 = 0.2.
3. The relative probability of presence calculated in the previous step undergoes a statistical
conversion so that all possible values fall between 0 and 10, inclusive. This is the
probability of presence score.
Breeding Season( )
Yellow bars denote a very liberal estimate of the time -frame inside which the bird breeds across
its entire range. If there are no yellow bars shown for a bird, it does not breed in your project
area.
Survey Effort (1)
Vertical black lines superimposed on probability of presence bars indicate the number of surveys
performed for that species in the IOkm grid cell(s) your project area overlaps. The number of
surveys is expressed as a range, for example, 33 to 64 surveys.
No Data (—)
A week is marked as having no data if there were no survey events for that week.
Survey Timeframe
Surveys from only the last 10 years are used in order to ensure delivery of currently relevant
information. The exception to this is areas off the Atlantic coast, where bird returns are based on
all years of available data, since data in these areas is currently much more sparse.

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
■ probability of presence breeding season I survey effort — no data
SPECIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Bald Eagle
Vulnerable IN-0-0-�11 11111111111111111111 ---- —III hEME NOME
Non -BCC
Additional information can be found using the following links:
• Birds of Conservation Concern http://www.fws.govibirds/management/managed-species/
birds-of-conservation-concem.php
• Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds http://www.fws.gov/birds/
mana eg ment/project-assessment-tools-and-guidance/
conservation-measures.php
• Nationwide conservation measures for birds http://www.fvvs. og v/mi rg atoj3 birds/pdf/
management/nationwidestandardconservationmeasures.pdf
Migratory Birds FAQ
Tell me more about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts
to migratory birds.
Nationwide Conservation Measures describes measures that can help avoid and minimize
impacts to all birds at any location year round. Implementation of these measures is particularly
important when birds are most likely to occur in the project area. When birds may be breeding in
the area, identifying the locations of any active nests and avoiding their destruction is a very
helpful impact minimization measure. To see when birds are most likely to occur and be breeding
in your project area, view the Probability of Presence Summary. Additional measures and/or
permits may be advisable depending on the type of activity you are conducting and the type of
infrastructure or bird species present on your project site.
What does IPaC use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified
location?
The Migratory Bird Resource List is comprised of USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern
(BCC) and other species that may warrant special attention in your project location.
The migratory bird list generated for your project is derived from data provided by the Avian
Knowledge Network (AKN). The AKN data is based on a growing collection of survey, banding,
and citizen science datasets and is queried and filtered to return a list of those birds reported as
occurring in the 1 Okm grid cell(s) which your project intersects, and that have been identified as
warranting special attention because they are a BCC species in that area, an eagle (Eagle Act
requirements may apply), or a species that has a particular vulnerability to offshore activities or
development.

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082
4
Again, the Migratory Bird Resource list includes only a subset of birds that may occur in your
project area. It is not representative of all birds that may occur in your project area. To get a list
of all birds potentially present in your project area, please visit the AKN Phenology Tool.
What does IPaC use to generate the probability of presence graphs for the migratory birds
potentially occurring in my specified location?
The probability of presence graphs associated with your migratory bird list are based on data
provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). This data is derived from a growing
collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets .
Probability of presence data is continuously being updated as new and better information
becomes available. To learn more about how the probability of presence graphs are produced and
how to interpret them, go the Probability of Presence Summary and then click on the "Tell me
about these graphs" link.
How do I know if a bird is breeding, wintering, migrating or present year-round in my
project area?
To see what part of a particular bird's range your project area falls within (i.e. breeding,
wintering, migrating or year-round), you may refer to the following resources: The Cornell Lab
of Ornithology All About Birds Bird Guide, or (if you are unsuccessful in locating the bird of
interest there), the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Neotropical Birds guide. If a bird on your
migratory bird species list has a breeding season associated with it, if that bird does occur in your
project area, there may be nests present at some point within the timeframe specified. If "Breeds
elsewhere" is indicated, then the bird likely does not breed in your project area.
What are the levels of concern for migratory birds?
Migratory birds delivered through IPaC fall into the following distinct categories of concern:
1. "BCC Rangewide" birds are Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) that are of concern
throughout their range anywhere within the USA (including Hawaii, the Pacific Islands,
Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands);
2. "BCC - BCR" birds are BCCs that are of concern only in particular Bird Conservation
Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA; and
3. "Non -BCC - Vulnerable" birds are not BCC species in your project area, but appear on
your list either because of the Eagle Act requirements (for eagles) or (for non -eagles)
potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities
(e.g. offshore energy development or longline fishing).
Although it is important to try to avoid and minimize impacts to all birds, efforts should be made,
in particular, to avoid and minimize impacts to the birds on this list, especially eagles and BCC
species of rangewide concern. For more information on conservation measures you can
implement to help avoid and minimize migratory bird impacts and requirements for eagles,
please see the FAQs for these topics.
Details about birds that are potentially affected by offshore projects

06/20/2019 Event Code: 04EN1000-2019-E-01082 5
For additional details about the relative occurrence and abundance of both individual bird species
and groups of bird species within your project area off the Atlantic Coast, please visit the
Northeast Ocean Data Portal. The Portal also offers data and information about other taxa besides
birds that may be helpful to you in your project review. Alternately, you may download the bird
model results files underlying the portal maps through the NOAA NCCOS Integrative Statistical
Modeling and Predictive Mapping of Marine Bird Distributions and Abundance on the Atlantic
Outer Continental Shelf project webpage.
Bird tracking data can also provide additional details about occurrence and habitat use
throughout the year, including migration. Models relying on survey data may not include this
information. For additional information on marine bird tracking data, see the Diving Bird Study
and the nanotag studies or contact Caleb Spiegel or Pam Lorin.
What if I have eagles on my list?
If your project has the potential to disturb or kill eagles, you may need to obtain a permit to avoid
violating the Eagle Act should such impacts occur.
Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report
The migratory bird list generated is not a list of all birds in your project area, only a subset of
birds of priority concern. To learn more about how your list is generated, and see options for
identifying what other birds may be in your project area, please see the FAQ "What does IPaC
use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location". Please be
aware this report provides the "probability of presence" of birds within the 10 km grid cell(s) that
overlap your project; not your exact project footprint. On the graphs provided, please also look
carefully at the survey effort (indicated by the black vertical bar) and for the existence of the "no
data" indicator (a red horizontal bar). A high survey effort is the key component. If the survey
effort is high, then the probability of presence score can be viewed as more dependable. In
contrast, a low survey effort bar or no data bar means a lack of data and, therefore, a lack of
certainty about presence of the species. This list is not perfect; it is simply a starting point for
identifying what birds of concern have the potential to be in your project area, when they might
be there, and if they might be breeding (which means nests might be present). The list helps you
know what to look for to confirm presence, and helps guide you in knowing when to implement
conservation measures to avoid or minimize potential impacts from your project activities,
should presence be confirmed. To learn more about conservation measures, visit the FAQ "Tell
me about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory
birds" at the bottom of your migratory bird trust resources page.

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Wetlands
Impacts to NWI wetlands and other aquatic habitats may be subject to regulation under Section
404 of the Clean Water Act, or other State/Federal statutes.
For more information please contact the Regulatory Program of the local U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers District.
Please note that the NWI data being shown may be out of date. We are currently working to
update our NWI data set. We recommend you verify these results with a site visit to determine
the actual extent of wetlands on site.
FRESHWATER FORESTED/SHRUB WETLAND
• PFOlA
RIVERINE
• R2UBH
• R4SBC

Species Conclusions Table
Project Name: TIP 17BP.10.C.9
Date: 06/20/2019
Species / Resource Name
Conclusion
ESA Section 7 / Eagle Act Determination
Notes / Documentation
Red -cockaded Woodpecker
(Picoides borealis)
No suitable habitat present.
No effect.
Field survey confirmation, 11/01/18. No
suitable nesting trees, foraging trees, or
candling observed.
Carolina Heelsplitter
(Lasmigona decorate)
Potential habitat present
and no current survey
conducted
May effect
NCDOT to conduct survey. Survey
requested 12/17/18.
Schweinitz's Sunflower
(Helianthus schweinitzii)
Suitable habitat present,
species not present
Not likely to adversely affect.
Field visit confirmation, 11/01/18. Please
see attached descriptions for additional
information regarding field survey.
Critical Habitat
No critical habitat present
No effect.
Bald eagle (Haliaeetus
leucocephalus)
Unlikely to disturb nesting
bald eagles
No Eagle Act Permit required
Field visit confirmation, 11/01/18.
No habitat exists within the study area
Acknowledgement: I agree that the above information about my proposed project is true. I used all of the provided resources to make an
informed decision about impacts in the immediate and surrounding areas.
6/20/19
Signature /Title Date

F�2
hdrinc.com
December 20, 2018
MEMORANDUM TO: File
FROM: Sara Easterly, Senior Environmental Scientist, HDR
SUBJECT: T&E Species Survey
FEDERALLY PROTECTED SPECIES
As of June 27, 2018, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) lists
four federally protected species for Anson County (Table 5). A brief description of
the species' habitat requirements follows, along with the Biological Conclusion
rendered based on survey results in the study area.
Table 5. Federally protected species listed for Forsyth County
Scientific Name
Common Name
Federal
Habitat
Biological
Status
Present
Conclusion
Haliaeetus
Bald eagle
BGPA
No
No Effect
leucocephalus
Helianthus schweinitzii
Schweinitz's sunflower
E
Yes
Unresolved
Lasmigona decorata
Carolina heelsplitter
E
Yes
Unresolved
Picoides borealis
Red -cockaded
E
No
No Effect
woodpecker
BGPA - Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
T — Threatened
E - Endangered
Schweinitz's sunflower
555 Fayetteville Street, Suite 900
Raleigh, NC 27601

F)R
hdrinc.com
USFWS Recommended Survey Window: late August -October
Habitat Description: Schweinitz's sunflower, endemic to the Piedmont of North and
South Carolina. The few sites where this rhizomatous perennial herb occurs
in relatively natural vegetation are found in Xeric Hardpan Forests. The
species is also found along roadside rights -of -way, maintained power lines
and other utility rights -of -way, edges of thickets and old pastures, clearings
and edges of upland oak -pine -hickory woods and Piedmont longleaf pine
forests, and other sunny or semi -sunny habitats where disturbances (e.g.,
mowing, clearing, grazing, blow downs, storms, frequent fire) help create
open or partially open areas for sunlight. It is intolerant of full shade and
excessive competition from other vegetation. Schweinitz's sunflower occurs
in a variety of soil series, including Badin, Cecil, Cid, Enon, Gaston,
Georgeville, Iredell, Mecklenburg, Misenheimer, Secrest, Tatum, Uwharrie,
and Zion, among others. It is generally found growing on shallow sandy
soils with high gravel content; shallow, poor, clayey hardpans; or shallow
rocky soils, especially those derived from mafic rocks.
Biological Conclusion: Unresolved
Habitat is present in the study area along the roadsides and the edges of
fields. However, the survey was conducted on November 1, 2018 (one day
outside of the optimal survey window). Therefore, a survey inside the
USFWS recommended window (late August — October) will need to be
completed.
Carolina heelsplitter USFWS Optimal Survey Window: year round
Habitat Description: The Carolina heelsplitter was historically known from several
locations within the Catawba and Pee Dee River systems in North Carolina
and the Pee Dee and Savannah River systems, and possibly the Saluda
River system in South Carolina. In North Carolina, the species is now known
only from a handful of streams in the Pee Dee and Catawba River systems.
The species exists in very low abundances, usually within 6 feet of
shorelines, throughout its known range. The general habitat requirements
for the Carolina heelsplitter are shaded areas in large rivers to small
555 Fayetteville Street, Suite 900
Raleigh, NC 27601

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streams, often burrowed into clay banks between the root systems of trees,
or in runs along steep banks with moderate current. The more recent habitat
where the Carolina heelsplitter has been found is in sections of streams
containing bedrock with perpendicular crevices filled with sand and gravel,
and with wide riparian buffers.
Biological Conclusion: Unresolved
Habitat for the Carolina heelsplitter exists in Brown Creek. NCDOT
biologists will conduct a mussel survey for the Carolina heelsplitter.
Red -cockaded woodpecker USFWS Optimal Survey Window: year round;
November -early March (optimal)
Habitat Description: The red -cockaded woodpecker (RCW) typically occupies
open, mature stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf pine (Pinus
palustris), for foraging and nesting/roosting habitat. The RCW excavates
cavities for nesting and roosting in living pine trees, aged 60 years or older,
which are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age to provide
foraging habitat. The foraging range of the RCW is normally no more than
0.5 miles.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
Areas of suitable habitat for the red -cockaded woodpecker do not exist
within the study area. Forests in the study area are comprised primarily of
hardwoods with only the occasional pine. A review of North Carolina
Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) records, updated October 2018,
indicated no active clusters within 1.0 mile of the study area. Therefore, the
biological conclusion is No Effect.
Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act
Habitat for the American bald eagle primarily consists of mature forest in proximity
to large bodies of open water for foraging. Large dominant trees are utilized for
nesting sites, typically within 1.0 mile of open water.
hdrinc.com
555 Fayetteville Street, Suite 900
Raleigh, NC 27601

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hdrinc.com
As of November 1, 2018, no water bodies large enough or sufficiently open to be
considered potential feeding sources were identified using the latest aerials. Since
there was no foraging habitat within the review area, a survey of the project study
area and the area within 660 feet of the project limits was not conducted.
Additionally, a review of the NCNHP database revealed no known occurrences of
this species within 1.0 mile of the project study area. Due to the lack of nesting,
known occurrences, and minimal impact anticipated for this project, it has been
determined that this project will not affect this species.
555 Fayetteville Street, Suite 900
Raleigh, NC 27601

■ ■■■ Roy Cooper, Governor
1® ® NC DEPARTMENT CAE Susi Hamilton. Secretary
no on NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
■ ■ °� Walter Clark, Director, Land and Water Stewardship
NCNHDE-9308
June 18, 2019
Jessica Tisdale
HDR
555 Fayetteville Street
Raleigh, INC 27601
RE: TIP No. 17BP.10.C.9
Dear Jessica Tisdale:
The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) appreciates the opportunity to provide
information about natural heritage resources for the project referenced above.
A query of the NCNHP database indicates that there are records for rare species, important natural
communities, natural areas, and/or conservation/managed areas within the proposed project
boundary. These results are presented in the attached 'Documented Occurrences' tables and map.
The attached 'Potential Occurrences' table summarizes rare species and natural communities that
have been documented within a one -mile radius of the property boundary. The proximity of these
records suggests that these natural heritage elements may potentially be present in the project area
if suitable habitat exists. Tables of natural areas and conservation/managed areas within a one -mile
radius of the project area, if any, are also included in this report.
If a Federally -listed species is documented within the project area or indicated within a one -mile
radius of the project area, the NCNHP recommends contacting the US Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS) for guidance. Contact information for USFWS offices in North Carolina is found here:
https://www.fws.gov/offices/Directory/ListOffices.cfm?statecode=37.
Please note that natural heritage element data are maintained for the purposes of conservation
planning, project review, and scientific research, and are not intended for use as the primary criteria
for regulatory decisions. Information provided by the NCNHP database may not be published
without prior written notification to the NCNHP, and the NCNHP must be credited as an information
source in these publications. Maps of NCNHP data may not be redistributed without permission.
Also please note that the NC Natural Heritage Program may follow this letter with additional
correspondence if a Dedicated Nature Preserve, Registered Heritage Area, Clean Water
Management Trust Fund easement, or an occurrence of a Federally -listed species is documented
near the project area.
If you have questions regarding the information provided in this letter or need additional assistance,
please contact Rodney A. Butler at rodney.butlerC ncdcr.aov or 919-707-8603.
Sincerely,
INC Natural Heritage Program
t)EPARTMCNT OF NATURAL AND CULTUPAL RESOURCES
r. PA.LEP,.H.N( 271E:iO3 lf5j MAIL $[I b+IC:� C-E�+JT£R, H rP: 1

Natural Heritage Element Occurrences, Natural Areas, and Managed Areas Intersecting the Project Area
TIP No. 17BP,10.C.9
June 18, 2019
NCNHDE-9308
Element Occurrences Documented Within Project Area
Taxonomic EO ID Scientific Namelff Common Name Lase Element Accuracy Federal State Global State
Group Observation Occurrence Status Status Rank Rank
6- 1 Date Rank
Freshwater Fish28436 Etheostoma collis Carolina Darter 2016-04-12 E 3-Medium --- Special G3 S3
Concern
No Natural Areas are Documented within the Project Area
No Managed Areas Documented within the Project Area
Definitions and an explanation of status designations and codes can be found at httos //ncnhde natureserve orq/content/helo. Data query generated on June 18, 2019; source: NCNHP, Q2 Apr 2019.
Please resubmit your information request if more than one year elapses before project initiation as new information is continually added to the NCNHP database.
Page 2 of 4

Natural Heritage Element Occurrences, Natural Areas, and Managed Areas Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area
TIP No. 17BP,10.C.9
June 18, 2019
NCNHDE-9308
Element Occurrences Documented Within a One
-mile Radius of the Project Area
Taxonomic
EO ID Scientific Name
Common IN °-
Last Element
Accuracy Federal
State
Global
State
Group
Observation Occurrence
Status
Status
Rank
Rank
Date Rank
Dragonfly or
33735 Somatochlora
Coppery Emerald
2004-Pre H?
5-Very ---
Significantly
G3G4
S2?
Damselfly
georgiana
Low
Rare
Freshwater
5670 Lampsilis radiata
Eastern Lampmussel
2001-08-14 E
3-Medium ---
Threatened
G5
S3
Bivalve
Freshwater
27816 Villosa delumbis
Eastern Creekshell
2001-08-14 E
3-Medium ---
Significantly
G4
S4
Bivalve
Rare
Freshwater Fish28436 Etheostoma collis
Carolina Darter
2016-04-12 E
3-Medium ---
Special
G3
S3
Concern
No Natural Areas are Documented Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area
No Managed Areas are Documented Within a One -mile Radius of the Project Area
Definitions and an explanation of status designations and codes can be found at https://ncnhde.natureserve.org/content/help. Data query generated on June 18, 2019; source: NCNHP, Q2 Apr 2019.
Please resubmit your information request if more than one year elapses before project initiation as new information is continually added to the NCNHP database.
Page 3 of 4

NCNHDE-9308: TIP No. 1713P.10.C.9
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Project Boundary
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Page 4 of 4
1:21,479
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Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS,
FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NIL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan,
METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community