20021789 Ver 1_Complete File_20040910

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DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
4TH FIGHTER WING (ACC)
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE NC
DEC 10 2004
Lt Col Lowell A. Nelson
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
DEC 1 3 2004
Mr. William Wescott
US Army Corps of Engineers - Wilmington District UENR - WATER QUALITY
Washington Regulatory Field Office WETLANDS AND STORMINATER BRAKH
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, NC 27889
Dear Mr. Wescott
Reference Action ID No. 200310014, Department of the Army (DA); North Carolina DWQ
Project No. 02-1789. The named Individual Permit authorizes the US Air Force to impact 10.87
acres of DA jurisdictional wetlands to facilitate the construction of a mock runway complex,
expended ordnance storage area and expansions of target pads at the Dare County Bomb Range.
The permit requires implementation of a compensatory mitigation plan which will restore two
old logging roads to a forested wetland. We are submitting the first annual report as required by
the permit for this project.
The construction work for the mock runway complex, expended ordnance storage area and
expansions of target pads is projected to begin in spring or summer of 2005. We will notify your
office when the exact date becomes available.
The compensatory mitigation site project started in October 2004. A scope of work was
developed and a contractor was found to carry out (1) the bulldozing of the vegetation, (2) the
earthmoving work to lower the elevation of the roads and fill sections of the canals, (3) the
installation of monitoring wells and (4) the tree planting. Some mowing of the road shoulders
was accomplished in October 2004 (see attached pictures), but further progress of the project
was halted due to a contract protest.
We hope to continue earthmoving work and installation of monitoring wells some time in
early 2005. It is unknown at this time whether we will be able to plant the 6,000 tree seedlings
during the early part of 2005 which would provide the favorable weather conditions for the
survival of the tree seedlings. It is possible that the tree planting will not happen until the winter
months of 2005/2006 (December - February).
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We plan to implement the mitigation plan and the monitoring schedule as required. We will
keep you updated on the progress of this project via telephone and will provide all further details
in our next annual report due by the end of December 2005.
If you need further information or have any questions, please call Dr. Johanna E. Arnold in
the Environmental Management Office at [phone].
Sincerely

LOWELL A. NELSON, Lt Col, USAF
Attachment:
Pictures of Mowed Shoulders of Spring Road
cc:
4 CES/CEV (Mr. Scott Smith)
4 OSS/OSOR (Lt Col Watson, Mr. Joseph Lafferty)
NC Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Unit (Mr. Rick Savage) (3)

3

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r
East side of Spring Road, November 2004

Lt Col Lowell A. Nelson
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
4TH FIGHTER WING (ACC)
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE NC
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Mr. William Wescott
US Army Corps of Engineers - Wilmington District
Washington Regulatory Field Office
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, NC 27889
Dear Mr. Wescott
P@190wfflo
DEC 1 3 2004
DENR - WATER QUALITY
WETLANDS AND STORMWATER BRANCH
DEC 10 2004
Reference Action ID No. 200310014, Department of the Army (DA); North Carolina DWQ
Project No. 02-1789. The named Individual Permit authorizes the US Air Force to impact 10.87
acres of DA jurisdictional wetlands to facilitate the construction of a mock runway complex,
expended ordnance storage area and expansions of target pads at the Dare County Bomb Range.
The permit requires implementation of a compensatory mitigation plan which will restore two
old logging roads to a forested wetland. We are submitting the first annual report as required by
the permit for this project.
The construction work for the mock runway complex, expended ordnance storage area and
expansions of target pads is projected to begin in spring or summer of 2005. We will notify your
office when the exact date becomes available.
The compensatory mitigation site project started in October 2004. A scope of work was
developed and a contractor was found to carry out (1) the bulldozing of the vegetation, (2) the
earthmoving work to lower the elevation of the roads and fill sections of the canals, (3) the
installation of monitoring wells and (4) the tree planting. Some mowing of the road shoulders
wasaccomplished in October 2004 (see attached pictures), but further progress of the project
was halted due to a contract protest.
We hope to continue earthmoving work and installation of monitoring wells some time in
early 2005. It is unknown at this time whether we will be able to plant the 6,000 tree seedlings .
during the early part of 2005 which would provide the favorable weather conditions for the
survival of the tree seedlings. It is possible that the tree planting will not happen until the winter
months of 2005/2006 (December - February).
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We plan to implement the mitigation plan and the monitoring schedule as required. We will
keep you updated on the progress of this project via telephone and will provide all further details
in our next annual report due by the end of December 2005.
If you need further information or have any questions, please call Dr. Johanna E. Arnold in
the Environmental Management Office at [phone].
Sincerely

LOWELL A. NELSON, Lt Col, USAF
Attachment:
Pictures of Mowed Shoulders of Spring Road
cc:
4 CES/CEV (Mr. Scott Smith)
4 OSS/OSOR (Lt Col Watson, Mr. Joseph Lafferty)
NC Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Unit (Mr. Rick Savage) (3)
West side of Spring Road, November 2004

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- -A' 1 1

-row-
East side of Spring Road, November 2004

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
4TH FIGHTER WINO (ACC)
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE NC
DEC
10 2004
Lt Col Lowell A. Nelson
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Mr. William Wescott
US Army Corps of Engineers - Wilmington District
Washington Regulatory Field Office
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, NC 27889
Dear Mr. Wescott
p@1R0W,r='R
DEC 1 3 2004
DENR - WATER QUALITY
WETLANDS AND STORMWATER BRANCH
Reference Action ID No. 200310014, Department of the Army (DA); North Carolina DWQ
Project No. 02-1789. The named Individual Permit authorizes the US Air Force to impact 10.87
acres of DA jurisdictional wetlands to facilitate the construction of a mock runway complex,
expended ordnance storage area and expansions of target pads at the Dare County Bomb Range.
The permit requires implementation of a compensatory mitigation plan which will restore two
old logging roads to a forested wetland. We are submitting the first annual report as required by
the permit for this project.
The construction work for the mock runway complex, expended ordnance storage area and
expansions of target pads is projected to begin in spring or summer of 2005. We will notify your
office when the exact date becomes available.
. The compensatory mitigation site project started in October 2004. A scope of work was
developed and a contractor was found to carry out (1) the bulldozing of the vegetation, (2) the
earthmoving work to lower the elevation of the roads and fill sections of the canals, (3) the
installation of monitoring wells and (4) the tree planting. Some mowing of the road shoulders
was accomplished in October 2004 (see attached pictures), but further progress of the project
was halted due to a contract protest.
We hope to continue earthmoving work and installation of monitoring wells some time in
early 2005. It is unknown at this time whether we will be able to plant the 6,000 tree seedlings
during.the early part of 2005 which would provide the favorable weather conditions for the
survival of the tree seedlings. It is possible that the tree planting will not happen until the winter
months of 2005/2006 (December - February).
_qfogaf -'rPoQ7F-T 1701E o¢MVdaa
We plan to implement the mitigation plan and the monitoring schedule as required. We will
keep you updated on the progress of this project via telephone and will provide all further details
in our next annual report due by the end of December 2005.
If you need further information or have any questions, please call Dr. Johanna E. Arnold in
the Environmental Management Office at [phone].
Sincerely

LOWELL A. NELSON, Lt Col, USAF
Attachment:
Pictures of Mowed Shoulders of Spring Road
cc:
4 CES/CEV (Mr. Scott Smith)
4 OSS/OSOR (Lt Col Watson, Mr. Joseph Lafferty)
NC Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Unit (Mr. Rick Savage) (3)
.':4•? .t,:,?'tlS "`jam-. _ ..
West side of Spring Road, November 2004

n 1
East side of Spring lZoad. November 2004
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WETLANDS 1401 GROUP
SEP 10 2004
VVA ER QUALITY SECTION
Scope of Work (SOW)
Wetland Restoration Project at Magnolia Road and Spring Road
US Air Force
Dare County Bomb Range,
North Carolina
5 August 2004
1. LOCATION
Magnolia Road and Spring Road are located on the US Air Force Dare County Bomb Range,
approximately 15 miles north of Engelhard in eastern North Carolina (see Map 1 and 2). Access
to both roads is via Navy Shell Road off US HWY 264. The turn on US HWY 264 is marked
with a green sign: "Navy Dare Bombing Range". Magnolia and Spring Road are located just
west of the Navy Impact Area (see Map 2).
2. DISCRIPTION OF ROADS
Magnolia Road and Spring Road are virtually identical and only approximately 300 feet apart
from each other (see Map 2). The northern most parts of these roads are located outside of US
Air Force Property. The property boundary is indicated with blue flags in the ground and blue
tape on trees or shrubs. Only the sections south of these flags and tape will be included in this
scope of work. Passage of equipment has been coordinated with the property owner. No
additional coordination is necessary.
Spring Road extends to a length of 5,795 feet, Magnolia Road to a length of 5,749 feet on Air
Force property.
The roadbed of Magnolia Road is 26 feet wide. The roadbed of Spring Road is 28 feet wide.
The adjacent canals are located on the west side of either road and are approximately 22 feet
wide. The depth of the canals is estimated at 4 feet.
The top of the roadbed is approximately 1.91 feet above the water level in the canals.
A shrubby area (enhancement area, ditch), approximately 22 feet wide, is located on the east side
of either road.
1
1
3. PERMITS
The government has obtained permits in accordance with Sections 401 and 404 of the Clean
Water Act. No other permits are necessary for the Contractor to obtain. Copies of the permits
are in Appendix 1.
4. TASKS
4.1 TASK 1: EARTH MOVING WORK - GRADING AND FILLING OF CANAL
SECTIONS
The Contractor will grade the roadbed of both roads to the elevation of the surrounding natural
area. Approximately 1.91 feet of soil will be removed from the roadbed and the excess spoil
(dirt, fill) from the roadbed will be used to fill sections of the canals. The roadbed will not be
graded down to an elevation where standing water can be observed.
Any logs, brush or vegetation on the roadbed or on the west side of the roads can be used as fill
and pushed into the canal sections.
The Contractor will fill portions of the canals for a length of approximately 200 feet. The
Contractor will start work on the southern most portions of the roads and leave one section of
open water at that end, then start filling in sections of the canals. The canal sections must be
filled completely to create conditions, which will allow for successful tree planting. Additional
fill from road areas north/south and adjacent to the section will be used to accomplish this.
Canal sections adjacent to these borrow areas will remain open (unfilled). The exact length of
the filled canal sections is not crucial. The Contractor may decide about the size of the filled
canal sections depending on the availability of dirt/fill. It is important that the filled sections will
not have standing water in them. The filled sections of the canals will be slightly compacted and
smoothed over to create a flat surface. Map 3 illustrates the earthmoving task of the project.
Any stumps or logs found in the road areas or imbedded into the roadbed can be used as fill for
the canals. Stumps that are too big to move can be left in place and tree seedlings (see Task 4)
will be planted around the stumps.
The graded roadbed will be disked to alleviate soil compaction.
4.2 TASK 2: BULLDOZE SECTIONS OF THE SHRUBBY AREA (ENHANCEMENT
AREA)
The performance areas of this task are located in the shrubby area (enhancement area, ditch, see
Map 4) and they will be specifically marked with colored tape. The vegetation in these
performance areas will be dozed over and knocked down. Only the areas marked with colored
tape will be bulldozed, the unmarked sections will not be bulldozed and the vegetation will
remain as is. No earthmoving activities will occur in the shrubby area (enhancement area).
2
The Contractor must not disturb the mature natural vegetation (large trees) on the far side of the
canals or on the far side of the shrubby area. Removal of live trees, shrubs or other vegetation in
the mature natural areas is not permitted. The Contractor shall pay the amount determined by the
Contracting Officer as damages for the cost suffered by the Government for the removal of or
damage to undesignated vegetation/trees in the natural wetland area.
4.3 TASK 3: INSTALLATION OF MONITORING WELLS
PURPOSE: The monitoring wells will be used to verify the hydrological conditions in the
mitigation site. The Air Force will monitor the groundwater level in these wells over a period of
approximately two years. Accessibility and manageability of the wells over that time period is
crucial.
TASK: The contractor will install 16 groundwater monitoring wells (sometimes called: open-
sided wells or observation wells, see Figure 1). Eight wells will be installed at Spring Road and
eight wells at Magnolia Road. Each road will receive two rows of four wells in each row (see
section LOCATION below).
Figure 1. Shallow iiionitoring well
Figure 1: Groundwater Monitoring Well
HOLE
MATERIALS: The wells will consist of perforated (serrated) PVC pipe, 2 inch in diameter and
2.5 feet length. This pipe is available at Drillers Services Inc., 1694 South Pollock Street, Selma,
NC 27576; phone: [phone]. (PVC pipe comes in 5-foot sections)
The wells will be closed at the bottom with a cap (any type) to exclude soil particles.
The top of the wells will be closed with a screw-on cap. Therefore, the tops of the PVC pipes
must be threaded. Screw-on caps are available at Drillers Services Inc.
Sand pack #2 (sometimes called gravel pack #2) must be used to fill the area surrounding the
wells. The grain size of sand pack # 2 corresponds with the slot size of the PVC pipe. Sand pack
is available at Drillers Services Inc.
INSTALLATION: Dig a 3 inch diameter (or slightly larger) hole, 2 feet deep. A, soil auger or a
post-hole digger may be used for this purpose. Place the monitoring well into the hole and use
sand pack #2 to fill the surrounding area (IMPORTANT). This sand pack #2 is the correct grain
size to exclude sand particles from entering through the perforations of the pipe. With the sand
in place, neither sand particles nor soil particles from the surrounding area can enter the well
through the serrated slots. Only water can enter the pipe.
The tops of the pipes will extend only a few inches (approx. 6 inches) above the ground. The
contractor will mark the wells with a colored tape for easy recognition. The wells in the forested
natural wetland area will be marked with numerous tape around trees or bushes, so their location
can be recognized from the former road (now tree planting area).
LOCATION: Each road will receive two rows of four monitoring wells. 'One well will be
located in the natural forested wetland area east of the mitigation site, two wells inside the tree
planting area, and one well in the natural wetland area west of the mitigation site. The four wells
do not need to be placed in a completely straight line. The surrounding natural factors (tree
stumps, vegetation, wet spots or depressions) should be taken into consideration (i.e. do not place
a well directly next to a tree stump or into a depression).
The location of the wells in the natural forested wetland area should take nearby conditions into
account. The wells should be installed near the edge of the natural area. The vegetation around
the well locations in the natural forested wetland area can be cleared out, but do not cut down
large trees.
The first row of wells should be placed approximately 1,600 feet from the north end of the
mitigation site, the second row approximately 3,200 feet from the north end of the mitigation
site. Place the wells in an area with a filled canal section.
Map 4 illustrates details of the tasks.
4
4.4 TASK 4: TREE PLANTING
The tree planting is a crucial part of the compensatory mitigation project and the compliance
with a Section 404 permit obtained from the US Army Corps of Engineers and a Section 401
permit obtained form the NC Division of Water Quality. Hydrology and vegetation monitoring
will be performed on the planting site for five years. The survival of the tree seedlings is of
central importance to the project.
4.4.1 TREE PLANTING - AREA AND SITE CONDITIONS
The total size of the planting area is 10.62 acres. It includes the former (graded) roadbeds of
both roads and adjacent filled canal sections; approx. 15 to 25 such filled canal sections will be
present at each road measuring approximately 200 feet in length. Magnolia Road is 5,749 feet
and Spring Road is 5,795 feet in length,`the planting sites are between 28 and 5.0 feet wide (see
Map 4). It is possible that large stumps, logs or branches are present in the sites. The tree
seedlings should be planted around the stumps (no removal of stumps is necessary). The area
will not have standing water on it at all times, but is considered a wetland area and may be
muddy or wet part of the year. The surrounding area is a natural forested wetland.
4.4.2 TREE PLANTING - SPECIES
The contractor will plant 6,000 tree seedlings: 2,000 pond pine (Pinus serotina), 2,000 bald
cypress (Taxodium distichum) and 2,000 swamp black gum (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora). They
will be planted in an irregular, arbitrary and random pattern and will be spaced roughly t 8 feet
apart (accurate measurements are not necessary). The tree seedlings will cover the entire area.
The intention is to create a natural habitat planted with mixed-up species. Large groups of the
same species should be avoided.
The seedlings will be of high quality to ensure long-term survival of the trees. The contractor
will ensure that a minimum of 80 percent of tree seedlings survive the first growing season. The
survival rate will be confirmed by the US Air Force in the fall of 2005 using the vegetation
monitoring methodology required for compliance with the permit from the US Army Corps of
Engineers. The contractor will replant to 100 percent in the winter of 2005/2006 if the survival
rate falls below the minimum percentage rate of 80 percent.
4.4.3 TREE PLANTING - TIME OF PLANTING
The tree planting will occur in the dormant season: January 2005 or February 2005 and during
appropriate weather conditions (temperature above 35 degrees F, but no more than 60 degrees F).
The work can be performed during Saturdays, Sundays or federal Holidays. The contractor shall
coordinate his schedule with the Range Manager (Mr. Joe Lafferty, phone: [phone] or 252-
473-1906, cell: 252-261-8751).
5
5. ACCESS TO THE WORK SITE
Access to both roads is via Navy Shell Road. The work sites can only be reached through locked
gates. Keys will be made available by the Range Manager (Mr. Joe Lafferty, phone: 919-722-
1045 or 252-473-1906, cell: 252-261-8751).
6. PROVISIONS FOR THE PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES
Two endangered species are potentially present at the site: the Red Wolf and the American
Alligator. The work area has been surveyed and no species described above have been found.
The government gives no guarantee, express or implied, that no species as described above are
located within the work area.
If one of these endangered species is encountered during Tasks 1 and 2 (earthmoving activities
and bulldozing), all work will stop and the supervisor will contact the project manager (Joe
Lafferty, phone: [phone] or 252-473-1906, cell: 252-261-8751). Work can only proceed
after a representative of the US Fish and Wildlife Service has approved of it. Coordination with
the US Fish & Wildlife Service will be through US Air Force personnel.
If one of these species is encountered during Tasks 3 and 4 (the installation of monitoring wells
or tree planting), the Contractor may proceed if he feels it is safe to do so. Work of Tasks 3 and
4 does not have to stop (at the discretion of the Contractor) if a Red Wolf or American Alligator
is encountered. The contractor will not harm or harass a Red Wolf or American Alligator during
his work.
7. EQUIPMENT
The Contractor shall ensure that his trucks and equipment are capable of performing above
described work in a natural environment with a high water table. The conditions of the site will
be very wet and muddy at times. The contractor's equipment must be in such condition as to
prevent any spilling of hazardous materials, oils or diesel, onto the work site. All trucks or other
equipment used by the Contractor shall be in=safe operating condition so as to meet minimum
safety standards of North Carolina State law.
8. PRESENCE OF UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE
The work sites, entrance routes, and adjacent areas are part of the Dare County Bombing Range.
Possible danger exists to persons and property from unexploded ordnance embedded in the
ground or trees. The work area has been surveyed and no ordnance has been identified. The
government gives no guarantee, express or implied that no ordnance is located in the work area.
The Contractor, his employees, and subcontractors shall not tamper with munitions if any are
discovered.
6
9. ENCOUNTERING UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE
If the Contractor, his employees, and/or subcontractors should encounter any of these munitions
or other unidentifiable objects that resemble ordnance, he shall stop work in the immediate area
and report such encounters to the project manager (Mr. Joe Lafferty, phone: [phone] or
252-473-1906, cell: 252-261-8751) by the most expeditious method. The Contractor shall warn
his employees and subcontractors working at the site of the finding.
10. SAFETY BRIEFING
The Contractor is required to receive a safety briefing from the Range Manager or his
representative prior to starting work. The Contractor will be shown actual inert ordnance devices
that are deployed during military training. The Contractor shall signify on an appropriate form
that he is aware of the possible existence of hazardous munitions and will inform his employees
and subcontractors of all safety procedures and requirements. This safety briefing will last
approximately 10-15 minutes.
The Contractor is responsible for compliance with all applicable OSHA laws and regulations.
11. PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
The work must be scheduled according to the US Navy flying schedule since the work area is
located within the weapons foot print of the Navy impact area.
The Contractor has the option of performing during daylight hours on Saturdays, Sundays or
Federal Holidays. There may be limitations for work on Sundays, but Saturdays and Federal
Holidays are closed days for Navy flying operations. Labor Day (6 September 2004) and
Columbus Day (11 October 2004) are two Mondays available for work.
The performance period for Tasks 1, 2 and 3 is 60 calendar days from the receipt of the Notice
To Proceed. It would be preferred to complete Tasks 1, 2 and 3 by 15 October 2004.
Task 4 (tree planting) will be performed in January or February 2005 and will also be scheduled
for Saturdays, Sundays or Federal Holidays. The Contractor has both months of January and
February to complete the tree planting.
After the Notice To Proceed has been received, the contractor shall coordinate daily work
through the range manager or his representative. All phases of the operation shall proceed in a
safe and orderly manner.
12. MODIFICATIONS
If necessary, as determined by the contracting officer, a modification of this contract would
arrange for clean topsoil or clean sand delivery. The topsoil or sand would be ordered in
7
increments of 10 cubic yards (truckload increments) and dumped into canal sections near the
north end of both roads.
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Map 3
11
Well-maintained
Gravel road.
Navy Shell Road
Unimproved
road
Forested
natural
wetland
Open
canal
Planting Area
4 Monitoring
wells
Open
canal Appr.28'
section
Appr. 50'
Forested
natural
wetland

Tree Planting Area: 10.62 acres (total)
Length Magnolia Road: 5,749'
Length Spring Road: 5,795'
Not to Scale
Shrubby
area; ditch
Shrubby
area
(Enhance
ment
area).
Bulldoze
marked
sections
only.
Appr. 22'
wide
North
Map 4
12
Bid Schedule
LINE ITEMS:
Description: Unit Price Qua
ntity Total
1. Earthmoving task: Grading and Filling Canal Sections
(including disking and bulldozing vegetation in shrubby area)
1.1. Magnolia Road 1 1
1.2. Spring Road 1 1
2. Monitoring Well, Material Purchase 1 16
3. Monitoring Well, Installation 1 16
4. Sand pack # 2 (gravel pack #2), 100 lbs bag 1 depe
rids
5 Troo CPf-d1111J Pm-(`hACf
5.1. 2000 Pond Pine (Pinus serotina) 1 1
5.2. 2000 Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum) 1 1
5.3. 2000 Swamp Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora) 1 1
6. Tree Seedling, Planting
6.1. 2000 Pond Pine (Pinus serotina) 1 1
6.2. 2000 Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum) 1 1
6.3. 2000 Swamp Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica var. bi ora) 1 1
7. Topsoil per 10 cubic yards (delivered and dumped into canal
sections, including labor); topsoil will be purchased in 10 cubic
yard increments. 1 Mod
8. Sand per 10 cubic yards (delivered and dumped into canal
sections, including labor); sand will be purchased in 10 cubic
yard increments. 1 Mod

14

Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director
Division of Water Quality
Coleen H. Sullins, Deputy Director
Division of Water Quality
Division of Water Quality
Department of Environmental and Natural Resources
Wetlands/401 Unit
Street Address: 2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250
Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Mailing Address: 1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Contact Information: Phone #: [phone]
Fax #: [phone]
Fax To: .-T-Om Wal ker - ?e?u Jct -tafy Divi sFax #: (916) 7!?rl goas
Company: Ll 5 g G C Date: 1 9 /0 3
Number of pages including cover sheet:
Notes or special instructions:
- Jere is C' Co

c gotfd Ciov is afieadv i,,i Ae ?ai.?..

d?
N. C. Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
[phone] (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), (http://h2o.enr.state.nc.uslncwetlands
I.
WA Michael F. Easley, Governor
,
?F William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Uj ty. Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director
-4 Division of Water Quality
i
rector
Coleen H. Sullins, Deputy D
Division of Water Quality

Division of Water Quality
Department of Environmental and Natural Resources
Wetlands/401 Unit
Street Address: 2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250
Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Mailing Address: 1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Contact Information: Phone #: [phone]
Fax #: [phone]
Fax To: JOJAnri '::? Arnold Fax #: 0/2) 7aa J 5 M
Company: Seyvnaur Johnson AFQ Date: 1,2 /5 /03
Number of pages including cover sheet: ?O
Notes or special instructions: / /? /?
eke l?S ex CO,OII o/l t"Ae me ;tied CP1-4-i-f-?'c6J1ors .
1ne nal-d Co%oV is abeaGty iri -1/ e mccd.
1r?GthkS?

N. C. Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
Ml Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
[phone] (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), (http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands
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o?a? wA TF
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Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P. E. Director
Division of Water Quality
Coleen H. Sullins, Deputy Director
Division of Water Quality
December 8, 2003
Attention: Johanna Arnold
For: Lt. Col. Michael J. Coats
United States Air Force
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
4 CES/CEV
1095 Peterson Ave.
Seymour Johnson AFB, NC, 27531-2355
Dear Johanna and Col. Coats:
Re: Dare County Bomb Range, North Carolina
DWQ Project No. 02-1789; DOA Action ID No. 200310014
Attached hereto is a copy of Certification No. 3409 issued to Col. Michael J. Coats, dated December
5, 2003. This Certification replaces the certification previously issued on January 9, 2003.
For your records, you will also find attached a copy of the DWQ Memo dated November 14, 2003
that you previously received by FAX.
If we can be of further assistance, do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
JRD/amm
Attachments
I
im , Director
CC: Lt. Col. Michael J. Coats, 4 CES/CC, 1095 Peterson Ave., Seymour Johnson AFB, NC 27531-2355
Tom Steffens, DWQ-Washington Regional Office
Tom Walker, Regulatory Division, USACOE, P.O. Box 1890, Wilmington, NC 28402-1890
Central Files
File Copy

N. C. Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
[phone] fnhone)_ 919-733-6893 (fax). (httn://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands
NORTH CAROLINA 401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATION
THIS CERTIFICATION is issued in conformity with the requirements of Section 401 Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217 of the
United States and subject to the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) Regulations in 15 NCAC 2H, Section .0500 to Lt.
Col. Michael J. Coats, United States Air Force, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
resulting in the discharge of fill material within 10.87 acres of wetlands to facilitate the construction of a mock runway complex and
bomb storage area at the US Air Force Dare County Bomb Range, North Carolina, pursuant to an application filed on 23rd day of
October of 2002.
The application provides adequate assurance that the proposed work will not result in a violation of applicable Water
Quality Standards and discharge guidelines. Therefore, the State of North Carolina certifies that this activity will not violate
the applicable portions of Sections 301, 302, 303, 306, 307 of PL 92-500 and PL 95-217 if conducted in accordance with the
application and conditions hereinafter set forth.
This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you submitted in your application and as described in the Public
Notice. If you change your project,'you must notify us and send us a new application for a new certification. If the property is sold,
the new owner must be given a copy of the Certification and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying with all
conditions. Should wetland or stream fill be requested in the future, additional compensatory mitigation may be required as described
in 15A NCAC 2H.0506 (h) (6) and (7). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed below. In addition, you
should get any other federal, state or local permits before you go ahead with your project including (but not limited to) Solid Waste,
Sediment and Erosion control, Coastal Stormwater, Non-discharge and Water Supply Watershed regulations.
Conditions of Certification:
1. Appropriate sediment and erosion control practices which equal or exceed those outlined in the most recent version of the
"North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Planning and Design Manual" or the "North Carolina Surface Mining Manual"
whichever is more appropriate (available from the Division of Land Resources (DLR) in the DENR Regional or Central
Offices) shall be in full compliance with all specifications governing the proper design, installation and operation and
maintenance of such Best Management Practices in order to assure compliance with the appropriate turbidity water quality
standard;
2. That the activity be conducted in such manner as to prevent significant increase in turbidity outside the area of construction or
construction related discharge (50 NTU's in streams and rivers not designated as trout waters by DWQ; 25 NTU's in all
saltwater classes, and all lakes and reservoirs; 10 NTU's in trout waters);
3. All sediment and erosion control measures placed in wetlands and waters shall be removed and the original grade restored
within two months after the Division of Land Resources has released the project;
4. Measures shall be taken to prevent live or fresh concrete from coming into contact with freshwaters of the state until the
concrete has hardened;
5. Waste or borrow sites shall not be located in streams or wetlands;
6. All temporary fill shall be removed to the original grade after construction is complete and the site shall be stabilized to
prevent erosion;
7. The enclosed "Certification of Completion Form' 'is to be used to notify DWQ when all work included in the 401
Certification has been completed;
8. In accordance with 15ANCAC 2H .0506 (h) compensatory mitigation is required for 10.87 acres of wetlands impacts.
Wetland mitigation and monitoring protocol shall be implemented in accordance with the "Mitigation Plan: Wetland
Restoration at Magnolia Road and Spring Road: 20 June 2003," the mitigation amendment letter dated October 29, 2003, and
the "Memorandum for Records" dated 24 November 2003. This is to include 0.87acres of wetland restoration onsite in 1999,
along with 10.62 acres of restoration of two wetland spur roads onsite. DWQ shall be provided 3 copies of all annual
mitigation monitoring reports. These reports should be submitted by February 1 of the year following monitoring.
Monitoring can only be ended after five years (following construction) if the mitigation effort is successful.
Violations of any condition herein set forth shall result in revocation of this Certification and may result in criminal
and/or civil penalties. This Certification shall expire on expiration of the 404 Permit.
If this Certification is unacceptable to you, you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon written request within
sixty (60) days following receipt of this Certification. This request must be in the form of a written petition conforming to
Chapter.150B of the North Carolina General Statutes and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings, 6714 Mail
Service Center, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-6714. If modifications are made to an original Certification, you have the right to an
adjudicatory hearing on the modifications upon written request within sixty (60) days following receipt of the Certification.
Unless such demands are made, this Certification shall be final and binding.
This the 8th day of December 2003
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
WQC # 3409
7RD/amm.
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16i
MEMORANDUM
TO: John Dorney
FROM: Amanda Mueller av
SUBJECT: Comments on Dare County Bomb Range
DATE: November 14, 2003
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director
Division of Water Quality
Dare County Bomb Range was issued a permit on January 9, 2003 based on an application
submitted October 23, 2002. I have attached a copy of the conditions of that permit. On June
25, 2003 the Bomb Range submitted a modified mitigation plan (not a PCN), but they have not
made any changes to the approved impact area or construction plans. I responded to the plan in
writing on July 18, 2003. I received a signed copy of their response to the letter on October 27,
2003, and Rick and I conducted a site visit on October 30, 2003. This memo is my opinion
following the site visit in response to my own questions posed to them (June 25, 2003) and their
subsequent response (Oct. 27, 2003).
1. I am now comfortable with them planting bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), swamp black
gum (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora), and pond pine (Pinus serotina), and not having Atlantic
white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides) in the planting plan.
2. They agreed to not apply herbicides on site.
3. Given the bear population in the area, short wells are best, but I mentioned to Johanna about
ensuring that the caps are secure so that the cap will not be removed by increased pressure
inside of the well, and allowing water to enter from the top of the well.
4. Given the hydrologic conditions in the area, I now believe that hydrology should not be a
problem. I feel they will get an accurate assessment of the hydrology on the site if they only
monitor the hydrology for 3 years with biweekly (once every 2 weeks) well readings.
(However, vegetation will still be monitored for 5 years.)
5. They accepted most of my requests for the vegetation monitoring. They still wish to conduct
the vegetation monitoring in Sept, Oct, & Nov. Having seen the site in late October, I do not
have a problem with them doing the monitoring in Sept or October, but I feel it will be a
difficult situation in November, and have mentioned this to them verbally.
6. They wish to assess the vegetation success of both roads together. I do not have a problem
with that. They do have 5 vegetation plots on each road, and the information for each plot
and road will be maintained separately, so a problem area will still be able to be detected.
7. They have agreed to establishing herbaceous cover success criteria as well.
8. They are proposing to construct the sites in August and submit their first monitoring report in
December (prior to the trees being planted). They have requested that this be the as-built
report. It would have details as to the number of areas filled in the ditches, as well as the
well location and preliminary well monitoring data. I feel that this would be an acceptable
form of an as-built report but I wanted to confirm it with you.

N. C. Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
[phone] (phone). 919-733-6893 (fax). (http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands
. ..
In general I feel this is a very worthwhile project that has a high potential for success. I have
spoken with Tom Steffens and he. is also comfortable with this project. I also believe that Tom
Walker of the Corps is comfortable with this project as well.
From what I can tell the only condition of the certification that needs to change is #8 which
describes the mitigation for the project. I also did not know if there where any mitigation
conditions that needed to be included as well (primarily time-line for the as-built report as
mentioned in #8 above)
I just wanted to confirm that they did not need to refile a PCN for changes in the mitigation plan.
I also wanted to make sure you were comfortable with the minor changes from typical
monitoring requirements.
I have attached the file so you can look at any aspect of the project you may need. The PCN and
other information from the original application is located in file 02 1789, in the issued 2003 files
upstairs.
MEMORANDUM FOR RECORDS
TYPE OF CONVERSATION: personal telephone
NAME: Amanda Mueller, NC DENR, DWQ, 401 Wetlands Unit
PHONE: [phone], FAX: [phone] WETLANDS/ 401 GROUP
E-MAIL: [e-mail] DEC 0 4 2003
DATE: 24 November 2003 WATER (QUALITY SECTION
SUBJECT: Amendment to Mitigation Plan at Magnolia and Spring Roads (DCBR)
DETAILS AND AGREEMENTS:
1. The Air Force agrees to conduct the vegetation monitoring during the months of
September or October of every year, but not in November.
2. The "as-built" report (drawings) will be included into the first monitoring report (due to
USACE and NC DWQ on 31 December of the first year; presumably 2004).
3. The "as-built" report (the first monitoring report) will include the outline of the
mitigation site (as a drawing). This means the exact length/location of the filled canal
sections as well as the length/location of the open canal sections. Available GPS data
will be included as well.
4. The "as-built" report (the first monitoring report) will include the location of the
monitoring wells (on the drawing) and their GPS data.
5. The "as-built" report (the first monitoring report) will indicate that the number and the
species of tree seedlings will be provided in the second monitoring report since the tree
planting will not be completed by 31 December of the first year (2004). The tree
planting will be conducted in the most favorable months to guarantee survival of the
seedlings (presumably January or February 2005).
anna E. Arnold, Ph.D., CHMM
Natural Resources Manager
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
Phone: [phone]
cc: NCDENR, DWQ 401 Wetlands Unit (Amanda Mueller)
USACE, Washington Regulatory Field Office (Tom Walker)
4 OSS/OSOR (Maj Yarger, Barry Beatty)
4 CES/CEV (Scott Smith)
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DEC 01 '03 01:06PM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
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4 CES/CEV
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Telephone: Fax-.
[phone] [phone]
DSN: 722-5168 DSN: 722-5179
Winner of the.,
2002 ACC Natural Resources Conservation Award
2001 ACC Outstanding Civil Engineer Environmental Flight Award
2000 ACC Environmental Quality Award
1999 Closing the Circle Award
1998 Spotlight Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction, Recycling, & Baying Recycle
1997 Governors' Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction
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DEC 01 '03 01:06PM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
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MEMORANDUM FOR RECORDS
Natural Resources,Manager
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
Phone: [phone]
cc: NCDENR, DWQ 401 Wetlands Unit (Amanda Mueller)
USACE, Washington Regulatory Field Office (Tom Walker)
4 OSS/OSOR (Maj Yarger, Barry Beatty)
4 CES/CEV (Scott Smith)
TYPE OF CONVERSATION: personal telephone
NAME: Amanda Mueller, NC DENR, DWQ, 401 Wetlands Unit
PHONE: [phone], FAX: [phone]
E-MAIL: [e-mail]
DATE: 24 November 2003
SUBJECT: Amendment to Mitigation Plan at Magnolia and Spring Roads (DCBR)
DETAILS AND AGREEMENTS:
P. 2/2
1. The Air Force agrees to conduct the vegetation monitoring during the months of
September or October of every year, but not in November.
2. The "as-built" report (drawings) will be included into the first monitoring report (due to
USACE and NC DWC1 on 31 December of the first year; presumably 2004).
3. The "as-built" report (the first monitoring report) will include the outline of the
mitigation site (as a drawing). This means the exact length/location of the filled canal
sections as well as the length/location of the open canal sections. Available GPS data
will be included as well.
4. The "as-built" report (the first monitoring report) will include the location of the
monitoring wells (on the drawing) and their GPS data.
5. The "as-built" report (the first monitoring report) will indicate that the number and the
species of tree seedlings will be provided in the second monitoring report since the tree
planting will not be completed by 31 December of the first year (2004). The tree
planting will be conducted in the most favorable months to guarantee survival of the
seedlings (presumably January or February 2005). ?_Iq
hanna E. Arnold Ph.D., CHMM
NOV 24 '03 02:10PM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
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Telephone: Fax:
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DSN: 722-5168 DSN: 722-5179
Winner of the: -
2002 ACC Natural Resources Conservation Award
2001 ACC Outstanding Civil Engineer Environmental Fright Award
2000 ACC Environmental Quality Award
1999 Closing the Circle Award
1998 Spotlight Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction, Recycling, & Buying Recycle
1997 Governors' Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction
EAMy DocumentsiAdminTax Cover.doc
NOV 24 '03 02:10PM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
MEMORANDUM FOR RECORDS
TYPE OF CONVERSATION: personal telephone
NAME: Amanda Mueller, NC DENR, DWQ, 401 Wetlands Unit
PHONE: [phone], FAX: [phone]
E-MAIL, amanda.muelleraD'ncmail.net '
DATE: 24 November 2003
P. 2/2
SUBJECT: Amendment to Mitigation Plan at Magnolia and Spring Roads (DGBR)
DETAILS AND AGREEMENTS:
1. The Air Force agrees to conduct the vegetation monitoring during the months
of Septembcr or October of every year, but not in November.
2. The "as-built" report (drawings) will be included into the first monitoring report
(due to USACE and NC DWQ on 31 December of the first year; presumably
2004).
3. The "as-built' report (the first monitoring report) will include the outline of the
mitigation site (as a drawing). This means the exact length/location of the filled
canal sections as well as the length/location of the open canal sections.
Available GPS data will be included as well. cr_
4. The "as-built" report (the first monitoring report) will include the location of the
monitoring wells (on the drawing) and their GPS data.
5. The "as-built" report (the first monitoring report) will indicate that the number
and the species of tree seedlings will be provided in the second monitoring report
since the tree planting will not yet be completed by 31 December of the first year
(presumably 2004). The tree planting will be conducted in the most favorable
months to guarantee survival of the seedlings (presumably January or February
2005).
-?. Johanna E. Arnold, Ph.D., CHMM
Natural Resources Manager
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
Phone: [phone]
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
4TH FIGHTER WING (ACC)
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE NC
JUN 2 5 2003
Lt Col Michael J. Coats
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Mr. Tom Walker
US Army Corps of Engineers
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, NC 27889
Dear Mr. Walker
,ION " 7 ?003
#A`%R QUAL1V SECTION
Please find attached the Mitigation Plan titled "Wetland Restoration at Magnolia Road and
Spring Road, US Air Force Dare County Bomb Range, North Carolina". This plan contains the
compensatory mitigation for the unavoidable loss of 10.87 acres of wetland necessary for the
proposed construction of a simulated runway complex, bomb storage area and target pad
expansions.
The mitigation plan provides for a mitigation ratio of 1.057 : 1 for the restoration site and a
ratio of 0.55 : 1 for the enhancement site. We are unable to provide for a larger ratio due to
unavailability of potential mitigation sites at the Dare County Bomb Range. The current budget
restraints do not allow for purchase of credits from local mitigation banks.
My point of contact for this matter is Dr. Johanna E. Arnold at [phone].
Sincerely
MICHAEL J. C ATS, Lt Col, USAF
Attachment:
Mitigation Plan
cc:
NC Division of Water Quality, Wetlands Unit (John Dorney)
NC Division of Coastal Management Puy Pearce)
4 OSS/OSOR (Capt Nathan Deahl)
4 OSS/OSORR (Barry Beatty)
4 CES/CEV (Scott Smith)
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WETLNU 1401 MOW
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NATE R QUALITY SECTION
MITIGATION PLAN
WETLAND RESTORATION AT
MAGNOLIA ROAD AND SPRING ROAD
US AIR FORCE
DARE COUNTY BOMB RANGE,
NORTH CAROLINA
20 June 2003
Prepared by:
Johanna E. Arnold, Ph.D.
4 CES/CEV
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB, NC 27531-2355
[phone]

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................2
2. LOCATION ................................................................................................................................3
3. PREVIOUS RESTORATION MITIGATION ...........................................................................4
4. SITE PREPARATION ................................................................................................................5
4.1. PRE-PROJECT CONDITIONS ....................................................................................5
4.2. POST-PROJECT CONDITIONS ..................................................................................7
5. PLANTING PLAN .....................................................................................................................8
6. MONITORING ...........................................................................................................................8
6.1. METHODS ....................................................................................................................8
6.1.1. HYDROLOGY .......... ...................................................................................8
6.1.2. VEGETATION .......... ...................................................................................9
6.1.3. INVASIVE SPECIES ...................................................................................9
6.2. SUCCESS CRITERIA ................ .................................................................................10
6.2.1. HYDROLOGY .......... .................................................................................10
6.2.2. VEGETATION .......... .................................................................................10
6.2.3. INVASIVE SPECIES .......................:.........................................................10
7. TIME SCHEDULE ...................................................................................................................11
8. PERSONS CONSULTED ........................................................................................................12
9. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ......................................................................................................12
10. REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................12
APPENDIX 1 ................................................................................................................................13
APPENDIX 2 ................................................................................................................................17
1
1. INTRODUCTION
The Dare County Bomb Range (DCBR) lies in the northeastern portion of North Carolina
on the Dare County peninsula, approximately 15 miles north of Engelhard, NC (Figure 1). It is
almost completely surrounded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Alligator River National
Wildlife Refuge (ARNWR). The DCBR is approximately 46,621 acres in size, comprised
mainly of forested wetlands. The two impact areas on the DCBR provide training opportunities
for US Air Force and US Navy pilots.
This plan was developed as compensatory mitigation for the construction of a simulated
runway complex on the Air Force impact area. The project requires 10.87 acres of unavoidable
loss of wetlands. The proposed construction site is located in an emergent wetland, which has
been heavily utilized for aerial bombing and artillery practice for many years. The selected
compensatory mitigation site consists of two upland spur roads, which provide for a wetland
restoration of 10.62 acres. A previous mitigation site (US Army Corps of Engineers (USAGE)
Action ID. # 199703305, see section 3. below) still contains 0.87 acres of unused credits.
Together this mitigation plan provides for a compensation ratio of 1.057 : 1 for the restoration
site and a ratio of 0.55 : 1 for the enhancement site.
Albemarle Sound E 9? N
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fa Dare
Range -40 POnt
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Figure 1: Vicinity map of Dare County Bomb Range, North Carolina
2
2. LOCATION
The compensatory mitigation site consists of two upland spur roads and their adjacent
canals: Magnolia Road and Spring Road. Both are located just west of the Navy impact area
(Figure 2), approximately 4.5 miles north of the proposed simulated runway complex
construction site. The roads were used as logging access roads in the past and are not required
for such a purpose anymore. Only the areas on US Air Force property will be restored to
wetland.

N
PiopuSed Fr?ll?lga lirn ?!}e Y
i =
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F'rp'!ou; te1!tipt!un 7
Prn}eu ACUon ID
N, 199?03305
i
! Proposed Simulated
rorr_ -. Runway Comple>:
( X,? Impad - --
V
Us
'?wYZSa US Air Force
Dare County Bomb Range
Ntiiles
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Figure 2: Site map of DCBR: Magnolia and Spring Roads and previous mitigation site.
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7 6 n0 X `rteurtf;??c
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3
3. PREVIOUS RESTORATION MITIGATION
A previous mitigation project involved the restoration of a spur road on DCBR (USAGE
Action ID Number 199703305, Figure 2) and 0.87 acres of this previous site are included in the
compensatory mitigation proposal. The site has been monitored for four years (1999-2002) and
can be considered a successful restoration. Figures 3 and 4 represent photographs of the
restoration site in March 2002 and May 2003. A tree-planting plan was not established due to
the high water table, but numerous native hydrophytic plants occupy the site. The dominant
species at this time is the common rush (Juncus effusus) with some cattail (Typha spec.), switch
cane (Arundinaria gigantea) and black willow (Salix nigra). The site is virtually free of invasive
species, with only a few undesirable red maples present. The proposed restoration at Magnolia
and Spring Roads will involve comparable location, hydrology, site preparation and restoration
actions. This example of a similar previous mitigation project provides insight and information
about the likely success of the proposed restoration sites. A higher mitigation ratio is not
necessary due to the high probability of success.
Figure 4: Previous mitigation site, May 2003
4
Figure 3: Previous mitigation site, March 2002
4. SITE PREPARATION
4.1. PRE-PROJECT CONDITIONS
The two roads, like the majority of the access roads on DCBR, were constructed by
excavating roadside ditches (canals) to obtain the fill necessary for construction of the roadbed.
This method provided the soil/dirt to raise the roadbed above the elevation of the adjacent
wetland system and created a parallel canal. One canal is located to the west of each road. To
the east of each road is a strip of disturbed vegetation. This strip is proposed as an enhancement
area. Both road sites are virtually free of invasive species, but are partially overgrown with early
successional native species (red maple (Ater rubrum) and sweet gum (Liquidambar stvraciflua)).
Figure 5: Magi.,)lia Road, January 2003
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Figure 6: Spring Road, January 2003
The length of both roads was determined using available GIS data derived from aerial
photographs. Magnolia Road has a length of 5,749 feet, Spring Road a length of 5,795 feet.
Both roads were surveyed to determine the width of the roads, canals and enhancement
strips and the availability of fill in the roadbed (methodology and raw data in Appendix 1). The
roads represent a trapezohedron, with a narrower width as the top and a larger width as the
bottom. The bottom width multiplied by the length represents the road area to be restored to a
functional wetland.
The width of the canals and the width of the enhancement areas were measured indirectly
(methodology and raw data in Appendix 1). It was not feasible to obtain depth measurements of
the canals; therefore the depth was estimated at 4'. It was assumed that the sides of the canals
would have caved in over time and that the outline of the canal would now represent a reversed
trapezohedron with the same ratios as the associated roadbed.
Typical cross sections of Magnolia Road and Spring Road and their associated canals are
shown in Figure 7. The numbers provided are the "mean" calculated as the average of several
measurements (see raw data sheets in Appendix 1).
Magnolia road:
416.62 ' ?
height
1.91'
Enhancement
? 26.12'
23.5' ??
4.75'
Spring road:
? 15.92 ' 10
height
1.91'
Enhancement / Spring canal:
10
22.89'
area:
28.08
20.7' f?
6.08'
4 13' 1
Figure 7: Cross-section of existing roads, enhancement areas and canals. Not to scale.
6
Magnolia canal:
22' 10
4.2. POST-CONSTRUCTION CONDITIONS
With the calculation in Appendix 2 it was determined that enough fill could be derived
from the roadbed to fill 56.7 % of the canal at Magnolia Road and 58.5 % of the canal at Spring
Road. The total restoration area (road and partially filled canals) will amount to 10.62 acres.
The roadbeds will be graded to the natural elevation. Approximately 1.91 feet of soil will
be removed from the roadbed and used as fill for the canals.
The canals will be filled in sections. The length of these sections will depend on
availability of fill and will measure approximately 100-200 feet (Figure 8). Fill from the roadbed
north and south of those areas will be used to till the canal section completely and assure suitable
elevation for success of the planting plan. The exact length of these sections will be determined
during the construction and earthmoving phase. The remaining roadbed area will be disked to
alleviate soil compaction.
North
I
Figure 8: Post-construction drawing. Not to scale.
100-200'
100-200'
7
Approximately 15 to 25 filled canal sections will be created at each road.
A 10-foot strip of the enhancement area next to the road will be broadcast sprayed with
herbicide (Arsenal) to remove undesirable species of hardwood (red maple and sweet gum) prior
to construction. The capability of the boom sprayer is limited to a 10-foot spray width and the
enhancement area is inaccessible to the tractor. The entire area will then be bulldozed to provide
for increased light and enhanced re-growth of the desirable species. .
5. PLANTING PLAN
The prevalent type of soil at both sites is Belhaven muck. The southern end of Magnolia
and Spring Road is occupied by Roper muck. Both soil types are organic soils and provide
excellent growing conditions for the three selected tree species: pond pine (Pinus serotina), bald
cypress (Taxodium distichum) and swamp black gum (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora). Pond pine is
classified as a "facultative wetland + species", bald cypress and swamp black gum are both
"obligate wetland species" (1988 Regional List of Plants That Occur in Wetlands).
The intention of this planting plan is to create a natural and uneven distribution of trees,
therefore providing an exact number or exact spacing of trees will not be necessary.
Approximately 600 seedlings per acre will be planted during January or February 2004 in about
equal numbers of each species. The seedlings will be spaced roughly ± 8 feet apart in an
irregular, random pattern.
6. MONITORING
Monitoring will be conducted until the success criteria (section 6.2) have been met for
five consecutive years.
6.1. METHODS
6.1.1. HYDROLOGY
Sixteen, monitoring wells will be established on four transects (two transects per road):
Two monitoring wells will be located in the project area and one monitoring well will be
established on each side of the road in the natural area. Guidance established in WRP Technical
Note HY-IA-3.1 (August 1993) will be followed. The monitoring wells will consist of 2-inch
serrated PVC pipe. A two-foot section will be buried in a pit lined with sand corresponding to
the size of the pipe slots. The monitoring wells will extend only a few inches above ground and
will be capped when not in use.
Hydrology data will be collected from these wells for three growing seasons: readings
will be gathered biweekly during the months of February, March and April (a total of 6 readings)
8
by determining the depth of the water table inside the monitoring wells. The wells in the natural
area will be used for reference. The first data collection is projected for fall of 2003.
6.1.2. VEGETATION
The intention of vegetation monitoring and the establishment of survey plots are to obtain
a representative sample of the population (the real number of tree seedlings). Ten survey plots
measuring 30'x 30' will be established. Five plots on Spring Road and five plots on Magnolia
Road will be GPSed approximately 1000 feet apart. The former roadbed makes up roughly
2/3rds of the entire restoration area; the former canal sections make up roughly 1/3rd of the
entire restoration area. Therefore, the survey plots will be placed so that roughly 2/3 rd will
occupy the former roadbed and roughly 1/3 rd will occupy the former canal section. The center
of each plot will be marked with a stake or rebar for easy recognition in future years.
The number of surviving tree seedlings will be determined during the fall months (one
time data collection in September, October or November) within the 30'x 30' survey plots. The
combined number of surviving stems on all 10 plots will then be extrapolated to one-acre
coverage. Vegetation surveys will begin during the fall of 2004.
The monitoring of the enhancement area will be accomplished by establishing two survey
plots per road. They will be located directly adjacent to a vegetation survey plot and will
measure 10' x 30'. The coverage of red maple and sweet gum will be determined jointly with the
vegetation monitoring during the fall of every year. Coverage will be visually estimated as area
of ground coverage.
6.1.3. INVASIVE SPECIES
Executive Order 13112 (February 3, 1999) defines an invasive species as "a species that
is 1) non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration and 2) whose introduction
causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health". One
potential invasive species (see invasive species list at www.invasivespecies.gov) of the area is
the common reed grass (Phragmites australis). This species was not observed during several
visits to the mitigation site, but will be monitored for the purpose of this mitigation plan.
Sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and red maple (Acer
rubrum) are not considered invasive species as defined by Executive Order 13112, but are
undesirable by USACE standards. They are native to the area and occur in the natural areas
surrounding the mitigation site in substantial numbers. Red maple and loblolly pine are
classified as "facultative species", sweet gum is a "facultative + species" (1988 Regional List of
Plant Species That Occur in Wetlands). Red maple is an early successional species and will
likely dominate the site prior to establishment of a mature vegetation community. Data will be
collected in conjunction with vegetation monitoring on the ten survey plots. Coverage will be
visually estimated as area of ground coverage.
9
6.2. SUCCESS CRITERIA
6.2.1. HYDROLOGY
Establishment of a wetland hydrology regime will be considered successful if the
minimum requirements of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) are met: the water table is
within 12 inches of the surface for 5 % (13 consecutive days) of the growing season (Corps of
Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual, January 1987).
At each transect, two wells in the neighboring natural area will establish a reference for
the existing natural hydrology. Hydrology restoration will be considered successful if the
readings in the project area are within ± 3 inches of the reference wells for three consecutive
years.
If readings fall outside these success criteria, a contingency plan will be implemented:
consultation with USACE and appropriate agencies will determine recourse options, which may
include regrading, replanting or other feasible corrective measures.
6.2.2. VEGETATION
Restoration of wetland vegetation is considered successful if the survival rate is at least
260 stems per acre for five consecutive years. The combined survival rate of the ten plots will be
extrapolated to a one-acre survival rate.
The enhancement area will be considered successful if the coverage of red maple and
sweet gum is less than 30 percent each.
6.2.3. INVASIVE SPECIES
A tolerance level of 30 percent coverage each for the invasive phragmites, undesirable
sweet gum, undesirable loblolly pine and undesirable red maple is considered acceptable. If the
coverage rate of these invasive/undesirable species is greater than the tolerance level, control
measures will be implemented. Control measures for tree species may consist of hand cutting or
selective treatment with herbicide. If phragmites ground coverage is above the tolerance level of
30 percent, the US Air Force will confer with the USACE and appropriate agencies for control
options.
10
7. TIME SCHEDULE

YEAR ACTIVITY

2003
June/July herbicide treatment
July/August construction
Sep/Oct/Nov verify suitable elevation; correct if necessary; install monitoring
wells;
hydrology monitoring 2 times per month for 3 months (6 values)
Dec annual report to Corps Field Office

2004
January/February planting
Feb/Mar/Apr hydrology monitoring 2 times per month for 3 months (6 values)
Sep or Oct or Nov vegetation monitoring (1 value)
Dec annual report to Corps Field Office

2005
Feb/Mar/Apr hydrology monitoring 2 times per month for 3 months (6 values)
Sep or Oct or Nov vegetation monitoring (1 value)
Dec annual report to Corps Field Office

2006
Sep or Oct or Nov vegetation monitoring (1 value)
Dec annual report to Corps Field Office

2007
Sep or Oct or Nov' vegetation monitoring (1 value)
Dec annual report to Corps Field Office

2008
Sep or Oct or Nov vegetation monitoring (1 value)
Dec annual report to Corps Field Office
11
8. PERSONS CONSULTED
William T. Walker, US Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, NC Regulatory Field Office
Greg Ditzler, US Air Force, Seymour Johnson AFB, Environmental Restoration Program
Dennis Stewart, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
9. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The help and assistance of Doug Back (DCBR forester) and Michael Lazaro (Seymour Johnson
Air Force Base GIS specialist) are very much appreciated. Doug Back provided the
methodology for the road elevation survey and canal width measurement procedures and
performed the field survey with the author. His lively comments and candid review of the draft
plan were a great support. Mike Lazaro provided GIS support, developed Figure 2 and his
assistance with the Threatened and Endangered Species survey (alligator) was indispensable.
The author wishes to thank all persons who have devoted their time to the critical review of this
document. Their comments and annotations were invaluable for the finalization of this
document.
10. REFERENCES
Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineations Manual, US Army Corps of Engineers Waterways
Experiment Station, Wetlands Research Program Technical Report Y-87-1, January 1987
1988 Regional List of Plants That Occur in Wetlands; http://www.nwi.fws.gov/bha/; select
Southeast (R2).
Wetlands Research Program Technical Note HY-IA-3.1, August 1993
12
APPENDIX 1
METHODOLOGY OF ELEVATION SURVEY PROCEDURES AND RAW DATA
SHEETS.
1. ROAD ELEVATION
The subsequent survey procedures were used to determine the elevation of the road
surface at both roads in relation to the elevation of the water in the adjacent canal. The actual
elevations above mean sea level (MSL) are unknown but are not relevant for this survey at hand.
The resulting measurements were used for calculation of available fill volume in the roadbed (the
volume above the elevation of the water, Appendix 2).
Road elevations were measured at turning points approximately 600 feet apart along both
roads, using an engineer's level and level rod. Temporary benchmarks near the north end of
Magnolia Road and the south end of Spring Road were both assumed to be 10.00 feet above sea
level. The level was set up midway between turning points on the road. The elevation of the
water in the canal was measured near the instrument station where it was possible to obtain an
unobstructed view of the level rod.
All elevations were measured and recorded to the nearest 1/100 foot.
2. ROAD WIDTH
The geometrical shape of the roads represents a trapezohedron, with a narrower width at
the top and a wider width at the bottom. Road widths were measured to the nearest whole foot
using a steel tape.
The bottom width was defined as the distance from the water in the canal to the
beginning of the natural area on the opposite side of the road. Best professional judgment was
used for determination of the beginning of the natural area.
The top width was measured between the points where sloping of the road surface could
be observed.
3. CANAL AND ENHANCEMENT STRIP WIDTH
Canal width and enhancement strip width could not be measured directly because of the
intervening deep water and dense vegetation making it impossible to walk on the opposite side of
the canal and enhancement area. Therefore, the width was indirectly measured using plane
geometry. A point "A" on the road was selected across from a distinctive tree located on the
opposite side of the canal. A hand compass was used to measure the azimuth from point "A" to
the tree. Then a 90-degree turn was accomplished using the compass, pointing down the road
towards a point "B". The compass was then moved along that line to point "B", which is the
location where the azimuth back to the tree is 45 degrees different from the azimuth from point
"A" to the tree. The distance from point "A" to point "B" was measured. This distance from "A"
13
to "B" is identical to the distance from "A" to the tree since "A" to tree and "A" to "B" are equal
sides of an isosceles triangle.
a
tree
The width of the enhancement strip was determined using identical procedures.
14
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16

APPENDIX 2
CALCULATION OF AVAILABLE FILL AND NEEDED FILL AT MAGNOLIA ROAD
AND SPRING ROAD
1. Calculation of available fill:
Magnolia Road:
length of road: 5749.00 feet
width at top of road: 16.62 feet
width at bottom of road: 26.12 feet
elevation of road above water level: 1.91 feet
width at top of road + (width at bottom of road - width at top of road) _ 2 = 21.37
21.37 x 1.91 x 5749 = 234655 cubic feet
Spring Road:
length of road: 5795.00 feet
width at top of road: 15.92 feet
width at bottom of road: 28.08 feet
elevation of road above water level: 1.91 feet
width at top of road + (width at bottom of road - width at top of road) _ 2 = 22
22 x 1.91 x 5795 = 243506 cubic feet
2. Calculation of needed fill:
Magnolia Canal:
length of canal: 5749.00 feet
width at top of canal: 22.00 feet
width at bottom of canal: 14.00 feet (calculated using ratio from road)
depth of water in canal: 4.00 feet (estimated)
width at bottom of canal + (width at top of canal - width at bottom of canal) _ 2 = 18
18.00 ft x 4.00 ft x 5749 ft = 413928 cubic feet of fill needed
Spring Canal:
length of canal: 5795.00 feet
width at top of canal: 22.89 feet
width at bottom of canal: 13.00 feet (calculated using ratio from road)
depth of canal: 4.00 feet (estimated)
width at bottom of canal + (width at top of canal - width at bottom of canal) -= 2 = 17.95
17.95 ft x 4.00 ft x 5795 ft = 416081 cubic feet of fill needed
4. Calculation of percent canal area that can be filled:
Magnolia Canal:
413928 = 100 %
234655 = x %
x = 56.7 %
Spring Canal:
416081 = 100 %
243506 = x %
x = 58.5 %
17
-A
}
5. Calculation of restoration area:
Magnolia Road:
bottom of road x length of road = restoration area
26.12 ft x 5749 ft = 150164 sqft = 3.45 acres
Magnolia Canal:
width of canal x length of canal = total area of canal
22 ft x 5749 ft = 126478 sqft
restoration area = 56.7 % of 126478 sqft = 71713 sqft =1.65 acres
Spring Road:
bottom of road x length of road = restoration area
28.08 ft x 5795 ft = 162724 sqft = 3.74 acres
Spring Canal:
width of canal x length of canal = total area of canal
22.89 ft x 5795 ft = 132648 sqft
restoration area = 58.5 % of 132648 sqft = 77599 sqft =1.78 acres
6. Total restoration area at both roads and canals:
3.45 ac + 1.65 ac + 3.74 ac + 1.78 ac = 10.62 acres
CALCULATION OF ENHANCEMENT AREA AT MAGNOLIA ROAD AND SPRING
ROAD
Magnolia Road: '
length of road: 5749.00 feet
width of enhancement strip 23.5 feet
width of enhancement strip x length of road = total enhancement area
23.5'x 5749'= 135102 sqft = 3.10 acres
Spring Road:
length of road: 5795.00 feet
width of enhancement strip 20.7 feet
width of enhancement strip x length of road = total enhancement area
20.7' x 5795' = 119956 sqft = 2.75 acres
Total enhancement area:
3.10+2.75=5.85 acres
18
NOV 24 '03 09:22AM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
r i?
FACSIMILE COVER SHEET
P. 1/2
TO: rwavt A A (e4- FRQN:
Organization:
,
VIA" vmQ Arloq
Telephone: Fax: - ? y DATE: off- } k V 0
4th Civil Engineer Squadron
Environmental Flight
Pages (Including Cover Skeet):
Remarks:
pkv _ Rnot A ax ka k Co a OL cC In
o l

4 CES/CEV.
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Telephone: Fax:
[phone] [phone]
DSN: 722-5168 DSN_ 722-5179
Winner of the:
2002 ACC Natural Resources Conservation Award
2001 ACC Outstanding Civil Engineer Environmental Flight Award.'
2000 ACC Environmental Quality Award
1999 closing the Circle Award
1998 Spotlight Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction, Recycling, & Buying Recycle
1997 Governors' Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction
EAMy DooumentalAdmin\Fax Covcr.doc
NOV 24 '33 39:23AM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
4TH F1014TER WING (ACC)
$EYUOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE NO
OCT 2 9 ZON
Lt Col Michael J. Coats
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Mr. Tom Walker
USAGE - Washington Regulatory Field Office
P.O. Box 1000
Washington, NC 27889
Dear Mr. Walker
P. 2/2
The US Air Force would like to amend the mitigation plan: "Wetland Restoration at
Magnolia Road and Spring Road" submitted to your office on June 25, 2003. This compensatory
mitigation is part of an Individual Permit application for construction of a simulated runway,
expended ordnance storage area and target pad expansions at bare County Bomb Range, North
Carolina in accordance with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
We propose to delete the reference to a herbicide application in the last paragraph of section
4.2. (Post-Construction. Conditions). The er hanc=ent area will be bulldozed, but a herbicide
application will not be conducted.
We also propose to monitor herbaceous cover on, the vegetation plots. Herbaceous cover will
be visually estimated and a coverage of 85 percent of facultative plants or wetter indicator status
plants at the end of the five-year monitoring period will be considered successful. We propose to
include this paragraph into section 6.2.2. 'V'EGETATION.
if you need further information, please call Dr. Johanna E. Arnold in the Environmental
Management Office at [phone].
Sincerely
f r? -
MICHAEL J. COATS, Lt Col, USAF
cc:
NC Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Unit (Mr. John Dorney)
4 OSS/OSORR (Mr_ Barry Beatty)
4 CES/CEV (Mr. Scott Smith)
T:1L?gxAP,Y\NAT-CULt1WETLANDIDCBIO" E myMIVOgOW=44Weaiea
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director
Division of Water Quality
MEMORANDUM
'j"
TO: John Dorney w 4U, a tku?
FROM: Amanda Mueller
SUBJECT: Comments on Dare County Bomb Range /YLWJ3 C?
s
DATE: November 14, 2003 t? nq ?v Wks-
Dare ?, D ?-
County Bomb Range was issued a permit on January 9, 2003 based on an app ication `"
submitted October 23, 2002. I have attached a copy of the conditions of that permit. On June QQ
25, 2003 the Bomb Range submitted a modified mitigation plan (not a PCN), but they have not
made any changes to the approved impact area or construction plans. I responded to the plan in
writing on July 18, 2003. I received a signed copy of their response to the letter on October 27,
2003, and Rick and I conducted a site visit on October 30, 2003. This memo is my opinion
following the site visit in response to my own questions posed to them (June 25, 2003) and their
subsequent response (Oct. 27, 2003).
1. I am now comfortable with them planting bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), swamp black
gum (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora), and pond pine (Pinus serotina), and not having Atlantic
?j
white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides) in the planting plan.
2. They agreed to not apply herbicides on site. `
3. Given the bear population in the area, short wells are best, but I mentioned to Johanna about A
ensuring that the caps are secure so that the cap will not be removed by increased pressure V
inside of the well, and allowing water to enter from the top of the well. 4
4. Given the hydrologic conditions in the area, I now believe that hydrology should not be a
problem. I feel they will get an accurate assessment of the hydrology on the site if they only
monitor the hydrology for 3 years with biweekly (once every 2 weeks) well readings.
ears
etation will still be monitored for 5
)
ever
ve
(H
P CO
y
.
,
g
ow
5. They accepted most of my requests for the vegetation monitoring. They still wish to conduct
the vegetation monitoring in Sept, Oct, & Nov. Having seen the site in late October, I do not AAL
have a problem with them doing the monitoring in Sept or October, but I feel it will be a
9
?
difficult situation in November, and have mentioned this to them verbally. 1
_
6. They wish to assess the vegetation success of both roads together. I do not have a problem
with that. They do have 5 vegetation plots on each road, and the information for each plot
and road will be maintained separately, so a problem area will still be able to be detected.
7. They have agreed to establishing herbaceous cover success criteria as well.
8. They are proposing to construct the sites in August and submit their first monitoring report in
December (prior to the trees being planted). They have requested that this be the as-built
report. It would have details as to the number of areas filled in the ditches, as well as the
well location and preliminary well monitoring data. I feel that this would be an acceptable
form of an as-built report but I wanted to confirm it with you.
NT b E MR
N. C. Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
[phone] (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), (http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands
In general I feel this is a very worthwhile project that has a high potential for success. I have
spoken with Tom Steffens and he is also comfortable with this project. I also believe that Tom
Walker of the Corps is comfortable with this project as well.
From what I can tell the only condition of the certification that needs to change is #8 which
describes the mitigation for the project. 1 also did not know it there where any ntigation
conditions that needed to be included as well (primarily time-line for the as-built report as
mentioned in #8 above)
I just wanted to confirm that they did not need to refile a PCN for changes in the mitigation plan.
I also wanted to make sure you were comfortable with the minor changes from typical
monitoring requirements.
I have attached the file so you can look at any aspect of the project you may need. The PCN and
other information from the original application is located in file 02 1789, in the issued 2003 files
upstairs.
Cam, v? p? ? 711 '90711k ?
s awn.
NORTH CAROLINA 401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATION
THIS CERTIFICATION is issued in conformity with the requirements of Section 401 Public Laws 92-500 and 95-217
of the United States and subject to the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) Regulations in 15 NCAC 2H,
Section .0500 to Lt. Col. Michael J. Coats, United States Air Force, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
resulting in the discharge of fill material within 10.87 acres of wetlands to facilitate the construction of a mock runway
complex and bomb storage area at the US Air Force Dare County Bomb Range, North Carolina, pursuant to an
application filed on 23rd day of October of 2002.
The application provides adequate assurance that the proposed'work will not result in a violation of applicable Water
Quality Standards and discharge guidelines. Therefore, the State of North Carolina certifies that this activity will not violate
the applicable portions of Sections 301, 302, 303, 306, 307 of PL 92-500 and PL 95-217 if conducted in accordance with the
application and conditions hereinafter set forth.
This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you submitted in your application and as described in the
Public Notice. If you change your project, you must notify us and send us a new application for a new certification. If the
property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of the Certification and approval letter and is thereby responsible for
complying with all conditions. Should wetland or stream fill be requested in the future, additional compensatory mitigation
may be required as described in 15A NCAC 2H .0506 (h) (6) and (7). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the
conditions listed below. In addition, you should get any other federal, state or local permits before you go ahead with your
project including (but not limited to) Solid Waste, Sediment and Erosion control, Coastal Stormwater, Non-discharge and
Water Supply Watershed regulations.
Conditions of Certification:
1. Appropriate sediment and erosion control practices which equal or exceed those outlined in the most recent
version of the "North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Planning and Design Manual" or the "North Carolina
Surface Mining Manual" whichever is more appropriate (available from the Division of Land Resources (DLR) in
the DENR Regional or Central Offices) shall be in full compliance with all specifications governing the proper
design, installation and operation and maintenance of such Best Management Practices in order to assure
compliance with the appropriate turbidity water quality standard;
2. That the activity be conducted in such manner as to prevent significant increase in turbidity outside the area of
construction or construction related discharge (50 NTU's in streams and rivers not designated as trout waters by
DWQ; 25 NTU's in all saltwater classes, and all lakes and reservoirs; 10 NTU's in trout waters);
3. All sediment and erosion control measures placed in wetlands and waters shall be removed and the original grade
restored within two months after the Division of Land Resources has released the project;
4. Measures shall be taken to prevent live or fresh concrete from coming into contact with freshwaters of the state
until the concrete has hardened;
5. Waste or borrow sites shall not be located in streams or wetlands;
6. All temporary fill shall be removed to the original grade after construction is complete and the site shall be
stabilized to prevent erosion;
7. The enclosed "Certification of Completion Form" is to be used to notify DWQ when all work included in the 401 .
Certification has been completed;
8. In accordance with 15A NCAC 2H .0506 (h) compensatory mitigation is required for 10.87 acres of wetlands
impacts. Wetland mitigation shall be implemented in accordance with the mitigation plan included with your
application. This is to include 1.21 acres of wetland restoration onsite in 1999 along with 18 acres of credits to be
debited from the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge restoration project conducted by the US Fish and Wildlife
Service in cooperation with the Department of Defense. The monitoring protocol for the wetland mitigation areas
shall be in accordance with the Corps of Engineers' requirements for the sites. DWQ shall be provided 3 copies of
all annual mitigation monitoring reports. These reports should be submitted by February 1 of the year following
monitoring. Monitoring can only be ended after five years (following construction) if the mitigation effort is.
successful.

R
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
4TH FIGHTER WING (ACC)
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE NC
Lt Col Michael J. Coats
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Ave
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
WETLANDS/ 401 GROUP
Mr. John Dorney
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
401 Wetlands Certification Unit
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Dear Mr. Dorney
OCT 2 7 2003
OCT 3 1 2003
WATER QUALITY SECTION
We are in receipt of your letter from July 18, 2003 and comments on the "Mitigation Plan:
Wetland Restoration at Magnolia and Spring Road" and would like to address your concerns.
The referenced mitigation plan was developed in close contact with the representative from the
US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Washington Regulatory Field Office. We have also
been in contact with the NC DWQ representative from the Washington Regional Office as well
as staff from the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge during the progress of this project.
We submit the following responses:
Your questions or concerns with the construction or planting plan.
Our response to 1. The old roadbed will be disked as stated in the mitigation plan, section
4.2. Post-Construction Conditions (page 7, third paragraph). We will pay proper attention to
avoidance of compaction in the enhancement area.
Our response to 2. A previous similar mitigation site on Dare County Bombing Range
provided experience with the planting of Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides). The
site was too wet for survival of the Atlantic white cedar (AWC) seedlings. In addition the
narrow corridor of the two roads surrounded by mature forests will not allow for full sun
dispersion into the site. AWC is a shade-intolerant tree species and survival of the seedlings
would be uncertain on this mitigation site. Our forestry staff has experience with restoration of
AWC forests on the range for many years and removal or control of competing species in close
proximity of the planting site has been necessary to guarantee AWC success. The Alligator
River National Wildlife Refuge biologist, who also has experience with tree plantings in similar
situations, was consulted for advice on tree species selection and recommended the three species.
_Qfot aL I(PoWFIT 130T <-,2 ,Uca
only appm-xihiately 0.3 miles apart. The surrounding forest community is identical in floral
make-up and hydrology.
Our response to 4. Your comment and request is accepted. The amendment (as mentioned
above) will include a provision to record the herbaceous cover and determine the success criteria.
A copy of the Statement of Work for construction as well as for the tree planting will be
provided to the NC DWQ when the project actually proceeds. A copy of the annual report to the
USACE will also be provided. This report will include all requested details regarding the
vegetation plots and monitoring wells.
We believe that we have addressed your comments accordingly and hope to have resolved all
outstanding issues. We hope to receive a revised Section 401 certification in the near future. If
you have additional questions, please feel free to contact Dr. Johanna Arnold at [phone].
Sincerely
MICHAEL . C ATS, Lt Col, USAF
cc:
USACE, Washington Regulatory Field Office (Mr. Tom Walker)
NCDWQ, Washington Field Office (Mr. Tom Steffens)
4 OSS/OSORR (Mr. Barry Beatty)
4 CES/CEV (Mr. Scott Smith)

Our response to 3. Your comment and request is accepted. The proposed herbicide
application will be removed from the mitigation plan. An amendment to the plan will be
prepared and forwarded to the US Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Field Office in
Washington, NC with copy to the NC Division of Water Quality.
Your questions and concerns with the monitoring methods.
Our response to 1. Site-specific environmental conditions were considered for the
construction of the monitoring wells. Black bears are common in the area and damage to visible
objects protruding above the ground can be very frequent. We will use Global Positioning
System (GPS) to position the wells, which will enable us to locate them in the following years.
Our response to 2. Details regarding monitoring frequency, time of season and duration of
monitoring were determined during a mitigation plan development meeting with the regulators
and during a site visit attended by all involved regulatory agencies. We accepted the choices
made by the Corps of Engineers representative. The hydrology on the sites will be reestablished
to connect to the existing conditions in close proximity; hydrology will not be newly created.
For this reason a three year monitoring period was deemed appropriate by the regulator.
Our response to 3. Your comment and request regarding the herbaceous cover is accepted.
The above mentioned amendment will address the herbaceous vegetation coverage. In addition,
we have planned to GPS the vegetation monitoring plots (polygon layer) and the monitoring
wells (point layer) using mapping grade GPS with sub-meter accuracy (as stated in the
monitoring plan, section 6.1.2. Vegetation, page 9). A polygon overlay will be created for the
mitigation site in our Geographical Information System (GIS). It will include attributes, tables,
monitoring data and photographs of the monitoring plots. A detailed map together with
photographs and tables will be provided to the USACE and NCDWQ in the annual report.
Our response to 3.d. The US Air Force accepted the time/season of monitoring the
vegetation plots determined by the regulator for site-specific reasons.
Your concerns about modifications to the proposed success criteria.
Our response to 1. The vicinity of the mitigation sites is a forested wetland dominated by
very high water table. Our resident forestry personnel have the experience that the forests in the
vicinity exhibit hydrologic inundation/saturation for the majority of the growing season. It can
be expected that the two sites will exhibit wetland hydrology for most of the year, if not all of the
year and clearly exceed the 12.5% inundation/saturation minimum stated by the USACE
Wetlands Delineation Manual (January 1987).
Our response to 2. Answer provided in section "Your questions and concerns with the
monitoring methods ", response to 2. above.
Our response to 3. Although the two sites are not contiguous, they are virtually identical.
Both extend in north-south direction, have almost equal dimensions, have identical soils and are

OF WAT 9
C, r
fQ "C
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P. E. Director
Division of Water Quality
Coleen H. Sullins, Deputy Director
Division of Water Quality
July 18, 2003
Lt Col Michael J. Coats
Commander, 4t' Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Dear Col Coats:
DWQ received your letter dated June 25, 2003 and the "Mitigation Plan: Wetland Restoration at
Magnolia Road and Spring Road" dated 20 June 2003. A revised 401 certification approving your
modified plans for mitigation will be sent upon the receipt of your comments to the mitigation
questions or concerns presented below. Some questions or concerns concerning the construction or
planting plans, the monitoring methods, and the success criteria are listed below.
Questions or concerns with the construction or planting plans include:
1. Soil compaction must be avoided on the enhancement area as well as on the old road.
Disking should be done to remove any compaction caused by the bulldozers.
2. A letter from the Fish and Wildlife Service dated March 24, 2003 recommended planting
Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides) instead of pond pine (Pinus serotina).
Given the presence of muck soils on site (primarily Belhaven and Roper), DWQ agrees
that Atlantic white cedar seems like an optimal choice for this project.
3. The mitigation plan states, "A 10=foot strip of the enhancement area next to the road will
be broadcast sprayed with herbicide (Arsenal) to remove undesirable species of
hardwood (red maple and sweet gum) prior to construction." In 2000, the N.C. Pesticide
Board adopted an enforcement policy concerning the application of pesticides used in
wetlands. This policy states: "No pesticide can be applied to surface water unless it has
an aquatic label. An exception exists if ephemeral water is present with little likelihood
of the water moving offsite. Ephemeral water is surface water (i) that temporarily
accumulates in shallow depressions during and following rain events, (ii) that is less than
one foot deep, and (iii) that has been present less than 30 consecutive days at the time of
application. This exception does not apply. if the product label has an aquatic organism
toxicity statement. " Therefore, surface water conditions of the enhancement area need to
be provided prior to application of the herbicide. Either no surface water can be present
or only ephemeral waters as described above may be present when Arsenal is to be used.
Alternative methods for controlling undesirable plant species will need to be proposed
and approved if surface waters are present in the enhancement area.

N. C. Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
`321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)

Questions or concerns with the monitoring methods include:
1. The monitoring plan states that "The monitoring wells will extend only a few inches
above ground and will be capped when not in use."
Concern: The monitoring wells should extend high enough off of the ground to be
visible and accessible. They can extend up to two feet above ground (WRP Technical
Note HY-IA-3.1). The closer the top of the well is to the ground surface, the more
i?. , mcs !o en c-re that the well, can is secured so that it will not be lost
yviiuiie oe ??...... ..-
ni
if/when surface water overflows the top of the pipe.
2. Three concerns arose from the statement, "Hydrology data will be collected from these
wells for three growing seasons: readings will be gathered biweekly during the months
of February, March and April (a total of 6 readings)"
a. Monitoring is required for five years after construction; therefore, hydrology data
should be collected for five years concluding in June 2008, not three growing
seasons..
b. Biweekly monitoring may not be sufficient to capture hydrologic fluctuations within
the soils. Well monitoring should be conducted on a weekly basis, at a minimum.
c. Hydrologic data necessary to determine the success of the restored wetland must be
obtained during the growing season. This allows for the evapotranspiration of the
vegetation to be accounted for in the hydrologic cycle of the site. The growing season
for Dare County is approximately March 13 to November 25 each year. The
hydrologic monitoring should take place within this growing season. Monitoring
should occur during the months of March, April, and May at the earliest. A longer
sampling period of six months (with weekly sampling as mentioned in 2b above)
would provide the most accurate account of hydrology on the site.
3. A few additions or changes should be made to the vegetation monitoring.
a. A site walk-though should be done annually to make general observations, search for
problem areas, and assess the general health and appearance of planted vegetation.
The results of the walk-though should be reported in the monitoring reports.
b. The percent cover of the tree species in each survey plot should also be recorded.
This information will give some indication of the growth and health of the trees from
year to year.
c. The density and percent cover of the herbaceous vegetation should be sampled.
Herbaceous vegetation usually indicates recent conditions of a site; therefore, the
herbaceous vegetation may provide information concerning the hydrologic success of
the site.
d. September, October, or November are the proposed months for monitoring the
vegetation. Vegetation monitoring should be conducted early in the growing season
(e.g., June, July, or August). Earlier monitoring will allow for easier identification of
the vegetation, and indications of plant desiccation or poor health can be discovered
earlier so necessary actions can be taken.
Some modifications should be made to the proposed success criteria:
1. The Corp of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (January 1987) does allow that
some wetlands exist with hydrologic inundation/saturation present for 5 % of the growing
season. However, DWQ believes that hydrologic success criteria for wetlands with the
specified planted tree species (i.e., Taxodium distichum and Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora)
should meet 12.5% (-32 days) inundation/saturation criteria (Theriot, R.F. 1993. Flood
tolerance of plant species in bottomland forests of the southeastern United States. 191p.
Prepared for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Technical Report; WRP-DE-6) or that for an
appropriate reference wetland.

2. The use of reference wells to assess the hydrologic success at the site is a positive
approach; however, as mentioned above the monitoring needs to be conducted for five
years.
3. It may be in the best interest of the project to assess the survival rate of the two road
projects separately. The constructions for the two roads are not continuous and therefore
are being constructed independently of each other. Obtaining a tree density per acre from
the five plots on Magnolia Road and the five plots for Spring Road independently will
minimize the possibility of the entire project being unsuccessful due to negative results
on one road of the project.
4. In addition to vegetation success criteria of 260 stems per acre for the planted trees,
success criteria for herbaceous vegetation should also be included. Herbaceous
vegetation success may be defined as achieving a dominance of wetland vegetation (FAC
or wetter indicator status) with greater than 85% cover on the site by the end of the 5-year
monitoring period.
Our office must also receive a copy of the detailed construction plans for the Magnolia Road and
Spring Road sites. These plans should also include the location of the monitoring wells and
vegetation plots. Our office must receive the as-built plans upon the completion of the construction
and planting of the sites. The as-built plans must include the monitoring well and vegetation plot
locations and the plant species and number of individuals planted.
The goal of these revisions is to establish and maintain viable wetland areas. If you have
any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Amanda
Mueller at [phone].
Yours,
rnR. or ney
Cc: Tom Steffens DWQ-Washington Regional Office
Tom Walker; US Army Corps of Engineers P.O. Box 1000 Washington, NC 27889
Central Files
File Copy
OCT 27 '03 10:53AM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
. 4
FACSIMILE COVER SHEET
P.1/4
TO: ?Y1 a 1(? i t ? E.r
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13M
Organization: j)? _ W e U VX a.v? r?r.? / ?I r to O l
Telephone: Fax: 912- --4Z 'U DATE: 0419
4th Civil Engineer Squadron
Environmental Flight
Pages (Including Cover Sheet):

Remarks:
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0 0,0 al IT'X C O IrV'PS o r?bLC i`• S of
40 x C ? CLS Dorn Ct i
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4 CES/CEV
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Telephone: Fax:
[phone] [phone]
DSN: 722-5168 ISSN: 722-5179
Winner of the.
2002 ACC Natural Resources Conservation Award
2001 ACC Outstanding Civil Engineer. Environmental Flight Award
2000 ACC Environmental Quality Award
1999 Closing the Circle Award
1,998 Spotlight Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction, Recycling, & Baying Recycle
1997 Governors' Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction
EAMy DocumentMdmihTax Cover.doc
OCT 27 '03 10:53AM 4 CES/CEV SJAEB NC
Lt Col Michael I Coats
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Ave
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Mr. John Dorney
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
401 Wetlands Certification Unit
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Dear Mr. Dorney
P.2/4
We are in receipt of your letter from July 18, 2003 and comments on the "Mitigation. Plan:
Wetland Restoration at Magnolia and Spring Road" and would like to address your concerns.
The referenced mitigation plan was developed in close contact with the representative from the
US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Washington Regulatory Field Office. We have also
been in contact with the NC DWQ representative from the Washington Regional Office as well
as staff from the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge during the progress of this project.
We submit the following responses:
Your questions or concerns with the construction or planting plan.
Our response to 1. The old roadbed will be disked as stated in the mitigation plan, section
4.2. Post-Construction Conditions (page 7, third paragraph). We will pay proper attention to
avoidance of compaction in the enhancement area.
Our response to 2. A previous similar mitigation site on Dare County Bombing Range
provided experience with the planting of Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides). The
site was too wet for survival of the Atlantic white cedar (AWC) seedlings. In addition the
narrow corridor of the two roads surrounded by mature forests will not allow for full sun
dispersion into the site. AWC is a shade-intolerant tree species and survival of the seedlings
would be uncertain on this mitigation site. Our forestry staff has experience with restoration of
AWC forests on the range for many years and removal or control of competing species in close
proximity of the planting site has been necessary to guarantee AWC success. The Alligator
River National Wildlife Refuge biologist, who also has experience with tree plantings in similar
situations, was consulted for advice on tree species selection and recommended the three species.
OCT 27 '03 13:53AM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
Our response to 3. Your comment and request is accepted. The proposed herbicide
application will be removed from the mitigation plan. An amendment to the plan will be
prepared and forwarded to the US Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Field Office in
Washington, NC with copy to the NC Division of Water Quality.
Your questions and concerns with the monitoring methods.
P.3/4
Our response to 1. Site-specific environmental conditions were considered for the
construction of the monitoring wells. Black bears are common in the area and damage to visible
objects protruding above the ground can be very frequent. We will use Global Positioning
System (GPS) to position the wells, which will enable us to locate them in the following years.
Our response to 2. Details regarding monitoring frequency, time of season and duration of
monitoring were determined during a mitigation plan development meeting with the regulators
and during a site visit attended by all involved regulatory agencies. We accepted the choices
made by the Corps of Engineers representative. The hydrology on the sites will be reestablished
to connect to the existing conditions in close proximity; hydrology will not be newly created.
For this reason a three year monitoring period was deemed appropriate by the regulator.
Our response to 3. Your comment and request regarding the herbaceous cover is accepted.
The above mentioned amendment will address the herbaceous vegetation coverage. In addition,
we have planned to GPS the vegetation monitoring plots (polygon layer) and the monitoring
wells (point layer) using mapping grade GPS with sub-meter accuracy (as stated in the
monitoring plan, section 6.1.2. Vegetation, page 9). A polygon overlay will be created for the
mitigation site in our Geographical Information System (GIS). It will include attributes, tables,
monitoring data and photographs of the monitoring plots. A detailed map together with
photographs and tables will be provided to the USAGE and NCDWQ in the annual report.
Our response to 3.d. The US Air Force accepted the time/season of monitoring the
vegetation plots determined by the regulator for site-specific reasons.
Your concerns about modifications to the proposed success criteria.
Our response to I . The vicinity of the mitigation sites is a forested wetland dominated by
very high water table. Our resident forestry personnel have the experience that the forests in the
vicinity exhibit hydrologic inundation/saturation for the majority of the growing season. It can
be expected that the two sites will exhibit wetland hydrology for most of the year, if not all of the
year and clearly exceed the 12.5% inundation/saturation minimum stated by the USAGE
Wetlands Delineation Manual (January 1987).
Our response to 2. Answer provided in section "Your questions and concerns with the
monitoring methods ", response to 2. above.
Our response to 3. Although the two sites are not contiguous, they are virtually identical.
Both extend in north-south direction, have almost equal dimensions, have identical soils and are
OCT 27 '03 10:53AM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC P.4/4
only approximately 0.3 miles apart. The surrounding forest coinmunity is identical in floral
make-up and hydrology.
Our response to 4. Your comment and request is accepted. The amendment (as mentioned
above) will include a provision to record the herbaceous cover and determine the success criteria.
A copy of the Statement of Work for construction as well as for the tree planting will be
provided to the NC DWQ when the project actually proceeds. A copy of the annual report to the
USACE will also be provided. This report will include all requested details regarding the
vegetation plots and monitoring wells.
We believe that we have addressed your comments accordingly and hope to have resolved all
outstanding issues. We hope to receive a revised Section 401 certification in the near future. If
you have additional questions, please feel free to contact Dr. Joharma Arnold at [phone].
Sincerely
MICHAEL J. COATS, Lt Col, USAF
cc:
USACE, Washington Regulatory Field Office (Mr. Tom Walker)
NCDWQ, Washington Field Office (Mr. Tom Steffens)
4 OSS/OSORR (Mr. Barry Beatty)
4 CES/CEV (Mr. Scott Smith)

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April 2003
DRAFT
Scope of Work (SOW)
Grade Magnolia Road and Spring Road
to Prepare for a Wetland Restoration Project
US Air Force
Dare County Bomb Range,
North Carolina
2 June 03
LOCATION
Magnolia Road and Spring Road are located on the US Air Force Dare County Bomb Range.
The two spur roads are just west of the Navy Impact Area. Access to both roads is via Navy
Shell Road. The northern most parts of these roads are located outside of US Air Force Property.
The property boundary is indicated with blue flags in the ground and blue tape on trees or shrubs.
Only the sections south of these flags and tape will be included in this scope of work. Spring
Road extends to a length of 5,695 feet, Magnolia Road to a length of 5,749 feet on Air Force
property.
The roadbed of Magnolia Road is 26 feet wide. The roadbed of Spring Road is 28 feet wide.
The adjacent canal is located on the west side of either road and is approximately 22 feet wide.
The depth of the canals is estimated at 4 feet.
The top of the roadbed is approximately 1.91 feet above the water level in the canals.
A natural area or ditch, approximately 22 feet wide, is located on the east side of either road.
PERMITS
The government has obtained a permit in accordance with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
No other permits are necessary for the Contractor to obtain.
EARTH MOVING WORK - GRADING
The Contractor will grade the roadbed to the elevation of the surrounding natural area.
Approximately 1.91 feet of soil will be removed from the roadbed and the excess soil (dirt, fill)
from the roadbed will be used to fill sections of the canals. The roadbed will not be graded
down to an elevation where standing water can be observed.
DRAFT 2 June 03
The Contractor will fill portions of the canals for a length of approximately 100 to 200 feet. The
Contractor will start work on the southern most portions of the roads and leave one section of
open water at that end, then start filling in sections of the canals. The canal sections must be
filled completely to create relatively dry soil conditions, which will allow for successful tree
planting. Additional fill from road areas north/south and adjacent to the section will be used to
accomplish this. Canal sections adjacent to these borrow areas will remain open (unfilled). The
exact size/length of the filled canal sections is not crucial. The Contractor may decide about the
size of the filled canal sections depending on the availability of dirt/fill. It is important that the
filled sections will not have standing water in them. The filled sections of the canals will be
slightly compacted and smoothed over to create a flat surface. An illustrating sketch is attached.
The vegetation in the ditch on the opposite side of the road will be dozed over and knocked
down. No earthmoving activities will occur in that area.
The existing brush vegetation (shrubs and tree seedlings) on the roads and shoulders can be used
as fill for the canals.
Any stumps or logs found in the road areas can be used as fill for the canals or left in place.
The graded roadbed will be disked to alleviate soil compaction.
The Contractor must not disturb the mature natural vegetation on the far side of the canals or on
the far side of the ditch. Removal of live trees, shrubs or other vegetation in the mature natural
areas is not permitted. The Contractor shall pay the amount determined by the Contracting
Officer as damages for the cost suffered by the Government for the removal of or damage to
undesignated vegetation/trees in the natural wetland area.
ACCESS TO THE WORK SITE
Access to both roads is via Navy Shell Road. The work sites can only be reached through locked
gates. Keys will be made available by the range manager, Mr. Barry Beatty, phone: 919-722-
1045 or 252-473-2201.
A site showing can be arranged by calling Mr. Barry Beatty or Mr. Randy Jernigan, Monday
through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm.
PROVISIONS FOR THE PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES
Two endangered species are potentially present at the site: the Red Wolf and the American
Alligator. The work area has been surveyed and no species described above have been found.
The government gives no guarantee, express or implied, that no species as described above are
located within the work area. If one of these endangered species is encountered during the
earthmoving activities, all work will stop and the supervisor will contact the project manager
DRAFT 2 June 03
(Barry Beatty, phone: [phone]). Work can only proceed after a representative of the US
Fish and Wildlife Service has approved of it.
EQUIPMENT
The Contractor shall ensure that his trucks and equipment are capable of performing above
described work and the equipment is in such condition as to prevent any spilling of hazardous
materials, oils or diesel, onto the work site. All trucks or other equipment used by the Contractor
shall be in safe operating condition so as to meet minimum safety standards of North Carolina
State law.
PRESENCE OF UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE
The work sites, entrance routes, and adjacent areas are part of the Dare County Bombing Range.
Possible danger exists to persons and property from unexploded ordnance embedded in the
ground or trees. The work area has been surveyed and no ordnance has been identified. The
government gives no guarantee, express or implied, that no ordnance is located in the work area.
The Contractor, his employees, and subcontractors shall not tamper with munitions if any are
discovered.
ENCOUNTERING UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE
If the Contractor, his employees, and/or subcontractors should encounter any of these munitions
or other unidentifiable objects that resemble ordnance, he shall stop work in the immediate area
and report such encounters to the project manager (Mr. Barry Beatty) by the most expeditious
method. The Contractor shall warn his employees and subcontractors working at the site of the
finding.
LOW FLYING AIRCRAFT AND LASER USE
Low flying aircraft equipped with laser capability will be in the vicinity of the Navy impact
areas. Noise levels will be high at times. Do not look directly at oncoming aircraft; lasers could
cause damage to eyes.
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
The Contractor has the option of performing during all daylight hours, seven days per week. If
the Contractor desires to work on Saturday, Sunday, or holidays, he shall submit a letter of
request to the Contracting Officer and allow ample time to enable satisfactory arrangements to be
made by the Government for inspecting the work in progress. Requests shall be made at least 48
DRAFT 2 June 03
hours in advance. The daily work shall be coordinated through the range manager (Barry
Beatty). All phases of the operation shall proceed in a safe and orderly manner.
DRAFT 2 June 03

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DRAFT 2 June 03
. 1
Scope of Work (SOW)
Tree Planting at Magnolia Road and Spring Road
To Create a Forested Wetland
US Air Force
Dare County Bomb Range,
North Carolina
1 July 2003
1. INTRODUCTION
The intention of this tree-planting project is to restore two spur roads to a natural forested
wetland habitat. The roads have already been graded to a natural wetland elevation and have
been disked. Sections of the adjacent canals have been filled. This project is a compensatory
mitigation project and is part of compliance with a Section 404 permit obtained from the US
Army Corps of Engineers. Hydrology and vegetation monitoring will be performed on the
planting site for five years. The survival of the tree seedlings is of central importance to the
project.
2. LOCATION
The tree planting sites (Magnolia Road and Spring Road) are located on the US Air Force Dare
County Bomb Range, approximately 15 miles north of Engelhard in eastern North Carolina (see
Map 1). Access to both roads is via Navy Shell Road off US HWY 264 (see Map 2). The turn
on US HWY 264 is marked with a green sign: "Navy Dare Bombing Range".
The northernmost parts of these roads are located outside of US Air Force property. The
property boundary is indicated with blue flags in the ground and blue tape on trees or shrubs.
Only the sections south of the flags and tape will be included in this scope of work. Access to
the site across the non-Air Force property has been cleared with the owner.
3. TREE PLANTING SITE - AREA AND CONDITIONS
The total size of the planting area is 10.62 acres (see Map 3). It includes the former (graded)
roadbeds and adjacent filled canal sections; approx. 15 to 25 such filled canal sections are
present at each road measuring between 100 feet and 200 feet in length. Magnolia Road is 5,749
feet and Spring Road is 5,795 feet in length, the planting sites are between 28 and 50 feet wide.
The area is reasonably prepared for planting, but some larger stumps or branches may be present.
The area does not have standing water on it at all times, but is considered a wetland area and may
be muddy or wet part of the year. The surrounding area is a natural forested wetland.
4. TREE PLANTING - SPECIES
The contractor will plant 6,000 tree seedlings: 2,000 pond pine (Pinus serotina), 2,000 bald
cypress (Taxodium distichum) and 2,000 swamp black gum (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora). They
will be planted in an irregular, arbitrary and random pattern and will be spaced roughly ± 8 feet
apart (accurate measurements are not necessary). The tree seedlings will cover the entire area.
The intention is to create a natural habitat planted with mixed-up species. Large groups of the
same species should be avoided.
The seedlings will be of high quality to ensure long-term survival of the trees. The contractor
will ensure that a minimum of 80 % of tree seedlings survive the first growing season. The
survival rate will be confirmed in the fall of 2004 using the vegetation monitoring required for
compliance with the permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers. The contractor will replant
to 100 percent in the winter of 2004/2005 if the survival rate falls below the established
percentage rate.
5. TREE PLANTING - TIME OF PLANTING
The tree planting will occur in the dormant season: January 2004 or February 2004 and during
conducive weather conditions (temperature above 35 degrees F, but no more than 60 degrees F).
The planting will be completed within five days or less. The contractor shall coordinate his
schedule with the Range Manager (Mr. Barry Beatty or Mr. Randy Jernigan, phone: 919-711-
1045, cell: 252-261-8751 or 252-261-8752) or the Installation Forester (Mr. Scott Smith or Mr.
Doug Back, phone: [phone]).
6. PERMITS
The government has obtained a permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers in accordance with
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. No other permits are necessary for the Contractor to obtain.
7. ACCESS TO THE WORK SITE
Access to both roads is via Navy Shell Road, a well-maintained gravel road. The entrance to
Navy Shell Road is well marked on US HWY 264 with a green sign: "Navy Dare Bombing
Range". The work sites can only be reached through locked gates. Keys will be made available
by the Range Representative, Mr. Paul Loughery (phone: [phone], cell: 252-261-8753) or
Mr. Randy Jernigan (phone: [phone], cell: 252-261-8752).
A site showing (pre-bid) can be arranged by calling Mr. Barry Beatty (phone: [phone],
cell: 252-261-8751) or Mr. Randy Jernigan (phone: [phone] or cell: 252-261-8752),
Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. Alternate: Mr. Scott Smith, phone: [phone]
8. EQUIPMENT
The Contractor shall ensure that his equipment is capable of performing above described work
and the equipment is in such condition as to prevent any spilling of hazardous materials, oils or
2
diesel, onto the work site. All trucks or other equipment used by the Contractor shall be in safe
operating condition so as to meet minimum safety standards of North Carolina State law.
9. PRESENCE OF UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE
The work sites, entrance routes, and adjacent areas are part of the Dare County Bombing Range.
Possible danger exists to persons and property from unexploded ordnance embedded in the
ground or trees. The work area has been surveyed and no ordnance has been identified. The
government gives no guarantee, express or implied, that no ordnance is located in the work area.
The Contractor, his employees, and subcontractors shall not tamper with munitions if any are
discovered.
10. SAFETY BRIEFING
The Contractor is required to receive a safety briefing from the Range Manager or his
representative prior to starting work. The Contractor will be shown actual inert ordnance devices
that are deployed during military training. The Contractor shall signify on an appropriate form
that he is aware of the possible existence of hazardous munitions and will inform his employees
and subcontractors of all safety procedures and requirements. This safety briefing will last
approximately 10-15 minutes.
11. ENCOUNTERING UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE
If the Contractor, his employees, and/or subcontractors should encounter any of these munitions
or other unidentifiable objects that resemble ordnance, he shall stop work in the immediate area
and report such encounters to the Range Manager (Mr. Barry Beatty, phone: [phone], cell:
252-261-8751) by the most expeditious method. The Contractor shall warn his employees and
subcontractors working at the site of the finding.
12. LOW FLYING AIRCRAFT AND LASER USE
Low flying aircraft equipped with laser capability will be in the vicinity of the Navy impact
areas. Noise levels will be high at times. Do not look directly at oncoming aircraft; lasers could
cause damage to eyes.
13. PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
The Contractor has the option of performing during all daylight hours, seven days per week. If
the Contractor desires to work on Saturday, Sunday, or holidays, he shall submit a letter of
request to the Range Manager and allow ample time to enable satisfactory arrangements to be
made by the Government for inspecting the work in progress. Requests shall be made at least 48
hours in advance. The daily work shall be coordinated through the Range Manager (Mr. Barry
Beatty, phone: [phone], cell: 252-261-8751 or Mr. Randy Jernigan, cell: 252-261-8752).
156f1- - .?
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Dare County Range
Location Map
Towns
Dare Range
Transportation FEFZR?
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NC Counties
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well-maintained Navv Shell Road
gravel road
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open
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Planting
Area
,,1,1 50'
Not To Scale
tree planting area, total: 111.62 acres
length: Magnolia Road -5.740' Spring Road 5,795'
Map
6
List of Tree Planting Contractors
July 2003
1. Emerald Forest, Inc.
ATTN: Peter McClintock
4651 Backwoods Road
Chesapeake, VA 23322
phone: [phone]
2. Matthew's Timberland Service, Inc.
ATTN: John Matthews
6173 Race Track Road
Castalia, NC 27816
phone: [phone]
3. Dark Woods Wildlife Management
ATTN: Charles and Rebecca Gibbs
P.O. Box 474
35275 US Highway 264
Engelhard, NC 27824
phone: [phone]
4. Gerald W. Frazier Consulting
P.O. Box 1814
Elizabeth City, NC 27906
phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: gwfcons ,albemarlenet.com
5. Speary Consulting Forestry, PLLC
ATTN: Meyer M. "Cabe" Speary
Box 1206
Edenton, NC 27932
phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]
6. Albemarle Land and Timber Services, Inc.
ATTN: Mark A. Williams
583 Ownley Road
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: altksimflex.com
7
OCT 23 '03 03:14PM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
FACSIMILE COVER SHEET
TO: F WK
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orgauization: Lj D?
pv Uzl V`YL
Telephone: Fax: bATF,: OCi- a
4th Civil Engineer Squadron
Environmental Flight
Pages (Including Cover Sheet):
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4 CES/CE'V
1095 Peterson, Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
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Telephone: Fax:
[phone] [phone]
DSN- 722-5168 DSN: 722-5179
Winner of the:
2002 ACC Natural Resources Conservation Award
2001 ACC Outstanding Civil Engineer Environmental Flight Award
2000 ACC Environmental Quality Award
1999 Closing the Circle Award
1998 Spotlight Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction, Recycling, & Buying Recycle
1997 Governors' Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction
EAMy Documenis\AdminTax Cover.doc
OCT 23 03 02:14PM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC P•2/2
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Dare County Range
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Dare Range
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RE: Dare County Bomb Range visit
Subject: RE: Dare County Bomb Range visit
Date: Thu, 23 Oct 2003 15:26:55 -0400
From: Arnold Johanna Civ 4 CES/CEV <[e-mail]>
To: Amanda Mueller <[e-mail]>
Amanda,
I just faxed a map.
Here are directions:
If coming from the south (from little Washington, Engelhard), follow HWY 264
and after approximately 15 miles start looking for a green "US Air Force
Dare County Bomb Range" sign. The hurricane had blown that sign away, but
it could be possible that they already put up another one. Just in case:
start looking to your left for gravel driveways. The entrance to the range
has another sign somewhat set-back from the HWY, which was still there after
the hurricane.
Turn onto that gravel road and follow it until you come to the chainlink
fence and gate. There is a telephone to the left. Open the box and dial 2
or 6. Somebody from the range office will answer. Tell them you are a
visitor for Doug Back or Johanna Arnold. They will give you the combination
to the padlock for the gate (changes daily, I don't have it). You don't
need any ID or documentation, just let yourself in through the gate, lock it
and drive to the office buildings (you can see them from the gate).
See you there.
Johanna
-----Original Message-----
From: Amanda Mueller [mailto:[e-mail]]
Sent: Thursday, October 23, 2003 3:17 PM
To: Arnold Johanna Civ 4 CES/CEV
Subject: Re: Dare County Bomb Range visit
Thanks Johanna:
One last request, since Tom Steffens will not be joining me, could I trouble
you
to send me directions to the Dare County Bomb Range offices
(I presume from US 264). Also, will I need anything other than a Driver's
license to get through the gate?
Thanks,
Amanda
Arnold Johanna Civ 4 CES/CEV wrote:
> Amanda,
> No problem, we will adjust
> adjust during the visit.
from
> 12:30 to 1:30; I received
> ago. We cannot change the
> starting at 1:30.
the schedule as you suggested. We can even
One exception: The impact area is clear ONLY
confirmation for my request just a little while
time, because there are F-15E's scheduled
> The response to your letter is en route to our commander LtCol Coats for
> signature. if it does not come back to my desk by Monday, I will fax you
1 of 4 10/28/03 12:19 PM
RE: Dare County Bomb Range visit

> the unsigned copy with the understanding that there could be changes
> (unlikely, though). By noon Monday you will have the letter one way or
> another.
> I will call Tom Walker ASAP and forward the invitation.
> If there are no further issues to take care of, I will see you (and Tom)
on
> Thursday 12:30 at the Dare County Bomb Range offices.
> Johanna
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Amanda Mueller (mailto:[e-mail]]
> Sent: Thursday, October 23, 2003 2:25 PM
> To: Arnold Johanna Civ 4 CES/CEV; Tom Steffens
> Subject: Re: Dare County Bomb Range visit
> Hi Johanna:
> The schedule sounds good!
> Given my schedule on Wednesday and Friday, I will need to just make
Thursday
> a
> long day and come to Dare County
> and return home both on Thursday. That being said, would it be feasible
to
> do
> introductions -12:30, see the proposed construction site,
> then see Magnolia Rd. and Spring Rd, followed by looking at maple Rd. with
> any
> remaining time? (I looked at the map and
> if this seems unreasonable given their locations, then we can leave the
> schedule
> as you proposed)
> if there is any discussion that needs to be continued that we don't get
in,
> then
> we could do final
> discussions over the phone/conference call if necessary.
> The only other main point would be to make sure I have a copy of your
> response
> prior to my coming.
> If you are concerned with it reaching me on time, you can FAX it to me. I
> think
> I gave you the fax # the other day, but just
> in case it is [phone].
> Lastly, did you/would you extend an invitation to Tom Walker in case he
> wants to
> be at any portion of the meeting as well.
> Thanks,
> Amanda
> Arnold Johanna Civ 4 CES/CEV wrote:
> > Amanda,
> > We can go forward with the visit on 30 Oct 03.
2 of 4 10/28/03 12:19 PM
RE: Dare County Bomb Range visit
r
> > I do not have confirmation yet, but I was assured that our range
personnel
> > will work something out for next Thursday. We will be able to see the
> > impact area from about 12:30 to 1:30 pm (tentatively).
> > Here is my suggestion for a possible agenda:
> > Meet at the Air Force Dare County Bomb Range office (Tom Steffens knows
> > where it is and how to get through the gate) on Thursday 30 Oct 03 at
> > 12:30pm. I will try to be there at 12 noon and if you are ahead of
> schedule
> > we will get started earlier.
> > Brief introduction of our range personnel, the range manager, the range
> > forester (Doug Back will escort us during the visit) and biologists.
> > Visit the proposed construction site for the simulated runway complex on
> the
> > impact area. Look at a hardened target pad on the impact area.
> > Visit the previous mitigation site, located at Maple Road (not on impact
> > area).
> > Proceed to Magnolia Road and Spring Road (approximately 2:30 or 3 pm).
2
> > sent an invitation to Dennis Stewart (Alligator River Nat Wildlife
Refuge
> > Biologist) to meet with us there if he likes. Just received a reply,
> > Dennis will not be able to attend due to leave on those days.
> > Travel to Manteo (approximately 5-6 pm). I will stay in the Tranquil
> House
> > Inn (government rate available, 1-800-458-7069).
> > If you stay over and we were not able to complete our discussion or the
> site
> > visits, we can return to the Bomb Range the next day (morning). My plan
> > would be to return to Seymour in the afternoon on 31 Oct 03.
> > As an alternative: travel to Manteo during the afternoon of 29 Oct 03.
> > Meet at the Dare County Bomb Range in the morning of 30 Oct 03, conduct
> the
> > site visits and return on 30 Oct 03 late pm.
> > Please give me your input or adjust the agenda to your needs. Would you
> > like to see anything else? Are there any other concerns or questions
that
> > need to be addressed ahead of time?
> > Thanks,
> > Johanna
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: Amanda Mueller (mailto:[e-mail]]
> > Sent: Thursday, October 23, 2003 10:36 AM
> > To: Arnold Johanna Civ 4 CES/CEV
> > Cc: Tom Steffens
> > Subject: Re: Dare County Bomb Range visit
> > Hi Johanna:
3 of 4 10/28/03 12:19 PM
RE: Dare County Bomb Range visit
. 1
> > I am sorry I did not respond sooner...I glanced over the line asking me
to
> > let
> > you know I received the e-mail.
> > I have not yet heard back from Tom Steffens. It looks like for me
though,
> > that
> > Thursday October 30th would be the
> > best day. I could possibly do Nov. 14th as a back up day if necessary,
> but
> > the
> > 30th would be the best.
> > Please let me know if this will work as far as the flight schedules and
> > training
> > go.
> > Thanks,
> > Amanda
> > Arnold Johanna Civ 4 CES/CEV wrote:
> > > Amanda,
> > > I was just informed that our office will be involved in the
> environmental
> > > audit on 3, 4 and 5 November 2003 and I will have to assist here at
> > Seymour.
> > > I can only travel to Dare County on 6 and 7 November. It would also
be
> > > possible for me to conduct the site visit on 29, 30 or 31 October.
> > > As an alternate: I could also travel to Dare County on 12,13 and 14
> > > November.
> > > Please respond just to let me know whether you received this email.
> > Thanks,
> > > Johanna Arnold
> > > Johanna E. Arnold, Ph.D., CHMM
> > > Natural Resources Manager
> > > 4 CES/CEV
> > > 1095 Peterson Avenue
> > > Seymour Johnson AFB, NC 27531-2355
> > > phone: [phone]
> > > DSN: 722-5168
> > > FAX: [phone]
4 of 4 10/28/03 12:19 PM
i
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Mailing Address: 1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Contact Information: Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]
TnLn na AonoId Fag #: 7
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;r of pages including. cover sheet: _ X-q
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of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
'ice Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
Blvd., Raleigh,.NC 27604-2260 (Location)
i (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), (httpJ/h2o.enr.stam,nc.tLVnewetiands
William 0. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director
Division of Water Quality
Division of Water Quality
Department of Environmental and Natural Resources.
Wetlands/401 Unit
Street Address: 2321 Crabtree Boulevatd, Suite 250
Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
T OCT 27 '03 02:26PM 4 CESXCEV SJAFB NC
P. 114
FACSIMILE COVER SHEET
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organization:
Telephone: Fax-.1!L339-V13 DAVE: 03
4th Cavil Engineer Squadron
Environmental Flight
Pages (Including Cover Sheet); `4
Remarks:
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4 CESICEV
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Telephone: Fax-,
[phone] [phone]
DSN: 722-5168 DSN: 722-5179
Winner of the.
2002 ACC Natural Resources Conservation Award
2001 ACC Outstanding Civil Engineer Environmental Flight Alward
2000 ACC Environmental Quality Award
1999 Closing the Circle Award
1998 Spotlight Award for Excellence in Waste Reduction, Recycling, & Buying Recycle
1997 Governors' Award for Excellence in Waste Redaction
SAMy Documents\AdminWax Covcir.doa
OCT 27 '03 02:27PM 4 CESXCEV SJAFB NC
IMPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
4TH FIGHTER WING (ACC)
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE NC
OCT 2 7 2003
Lt Col Michael r. Coats
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Ave
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Mr. John Dorney
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
401 Wetlands Certification Unit
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Dear Mr. Dorney
P. 2/4
We are in receipt of your letter from July 18, 2003 and comments on the "Mitigation Plan:
Wetland Restoration at Magnolia and Spring Road' and would like to address your concerns.
The referenced mitigation plan was developed in close contact with the representative from the
US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Washington Regulatory Field Office. We have also
been in contact with the NC DWQ representative from the Washington Regional Office as well
as staff froze the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge during the progress of this project.
We submit the following responses:
Your questions or concerns with the construction or planting plan.
Our response to 1. The old roadbed will be disked as stated in the mitigation plan, section
4.2. Post-Construction Conditions (page 7, third paragraph). We will pay proper attention to
avoidance of compaction in the enhancement area.
our response to 2. A previous similar mitigation site on Dare County Bombing Range
provided experience with the planting of Atlantic white cedar (Chatnaecyparis thyoides). The
site was too wet for survival of the Atlantic white cedar (AWC) seedlings. In addition the
narrow corridor of the two roads surrounded by mature forests will not allow for full sun
dispersion into the site. AWC is a shade-intoleraut tree species and survival of the seedlings
would be uncertain on this mitigation site. Our forestry staff has experience with restoration of
AWC Forests on the range for marry years and removal or control of competing species in close
proximity of the planting site has been necessary to guarantee AWC success. The Alligator
River National Wildlife Refuge biologist, who also has experience with tree plantings in similar
situations, was consulted for advice on tree species selection and recommended the three species.
C??- ?'vriu? ?owez ?o?c ?»zetiEca
OCT 27 '03 02:27PM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC
Our response to 3. your comment and request is accepted. The proposed herbicide
application will be removed from the mitigation plan- An amendment to the plan will be
prepared and forwarded to the US Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Field Office in
Washington, NC with copy to the NC Division of Water Quality.
Your questions and concerns with the monitoring methods.
P.3/4
Our response to 1. Site-specific environmental conditions were considered for the
construction of the monitoring wells. Black bears are common in the area and damage to visible
objects protruding above the ground can be very frequent. We will use Global Positioning
System (GPS) to position the wells, which will enable us to locate them in the following years.
Our response to 2. Details regarding monitoring frequency, time of season and duration of
monitoring were determined during a mitigation plan development meeting with the regulators
and during a site visit attended by all involved regulatory agencies. We accepted the choices
made by the Corps of Engineers representative. The hydrology on the sites will be reestablished
to connect to the existing conditions in close proximity; hydrology will not be newly created.
For this reason a three year monitoring period was deemed appropriate by the regulator.
Our response to 3. Your comment and request regarding the herbaceous cover is accepted.
The above mentioned amendment will address the herbaceous vegetation coverage. In addition,
we have planned to GPS the vegetation monitoring plots (polygon lager) and the monitoring
wells (point layer) using mapping grade CPS with sub-meter accuracy (as stated in the
monitoring plan, section 6.1.2. Vegetation, page 9). A polygon overlay will be created for the
mitigation site in our Geographical Information System (GIS). It will include attributes, tables,
monitoring data and photographs of the monitoring plots. A detailed map together with
photographs and tables will be provided to the US,A,CE and NCDWQ in the annual report.
r
Our response to 3.d. The US Air Force accepted the time/season of monitoring the J arc,
vegetation plots determined by the regulator for site-specific reasons. , I e e
Your concerns about modifications to the proposed success criteria.
Our response to 1. The vicinity of the mitigation sites is a forested wetland dominated by
very high water table. Our resident forestry personnel have the experience that the forests in the
vicinity exhibit hydrologic inundation/saturation for the majority of the growing season. It can
be expected that the two sites will exhibit wetland hydrology for most of the year, if not all of the
year and clearly exceed the 12.5% inundation/saturation minimum stated by the USACE
Wetlands Delineation Manual (January 1987).
Our response to 2. Answer provided in section "Your questions and concerns with the
monitoring methods ", response to 2_ above.
Cl(
Our response to 3. Although the two sites are not contiguous, they are virtually identical.
Both extend in north-south direction, have almost equal dimensions, have identical soils and are
, . I OCT 27 '03 02:27PM 4 CES/CEV SJAFB NC P.4/4
only approxiinately 0.3 miles apart. The surrounding forest community is identical in floral
rn4ke-up and hydrology.
Our response to 4. Your comment and request is accepted. The amendment (as mentioned
above) will include a provision to record the herbaceous cover and determine the success criteria.
A copy of the Statement of Work for construction as well as for the tree planting will be
provided to the NC DWQ when the project actually proceeds. A copy of the annual report to the
USACE will also be provided. This report will include all requested details regarding the
vegetation plots and monitoring wells.
We believe that we have addressed your comments accordingly and hope to have resolved all
outstanding issues. We hope to receive a revised Section 401 certification in the near fixture. If
you have additional 'questions, please feel free to contact Dr. Johanna Arnold at [phone].
Sincerely
MYCHA,EL Js C ATS, Lt Col, USAF
Acc:
TJSACE, Washington Regulatory Field Ol'i:ace (Mr. Tom Walker)
NCDWQ, Washington Field Office (Mr. Torn Steffens)
4 OSS/OSORR (Mr. Barry Beatty)
4 CES/CEV (Mr. Scott Smith)
OF W A Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
> r
Alan W. Klimek, P. E. Director
Division of Water Quality
Coleen H. Sullins, Deputy Director
Division of Water Quality
DRAFT
Jul 14, 003
Lt Col Michael J. Coats
Commander, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
1095 Peterson Avenue
Seymour Johnson AFB NC 27531-2355
Dear Col Coats: UY\
CIW
?l U
DWQ received your letter dated June 25, 2003 and the Mitigation Plan: etland Restoration at
Magnolia Road and Spring Road" dated 20 June 2003. A revised 401 't the
-new plans for mitigation will be sent upon the receipt of your comments to the mitigation questions
or concerns presented below. Some questions or concerns concerning the construction or planting
plans, the monitoring methods, and the success criteria are listed below.
Questions or concerns with the construction or planting plans include:
1. Soil.compaction must be avoided on the enhancement area as well as on the old road.
Disking should be done to remove any compaction caused by the bulldozers.
2. A letter from the Fish and Wildlife Service dated March 24, 2003 recommended planting
Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides) instead of pond pine (Pinus serotina).
Given the presence of muck soils on site (primarily Belhaven and Roper) Atlantic white
cedar seems like an optimal choice for this project. ees
Questions or concerns with the monitoring methods include:
1. The monitoring plan states that "The monitoring wells will extend only a few inches
above ground and will be capped when not in use."
Concern: The monitoring wells should extend high enough off of the ground to be
visible and accessible. They can extend up to two feet above ground (WRP Technical
Note HY-IA-3.1). The closer the top of the well is to the ground surface,& more t/
important it becomes to ensure that the well cap is secured so that it will not be lost
if/when surface water overflows the top of the pipe.
2. Three concerns arose from the statement, "Hydrology data will be collected from these
wells for three growing seasons: readings will be gathered biweekly during the months
of February, March and April (a total of 6 readings)"
a. Monitoring is required for five years after construction; therefore, hydrology data
should be collected for five years concluding in June 2008, not three growing
seasons.
b. Biweekly monitoring may not be sufficient to capture hydrologic fluctuations within
th.e.cnil.c Well m.nnitnrinQ .chrn?ld he cnnrh?cted nn_rz?veekly ha.ci.c_nt_rzmin.imum_ 'F'
N. C. Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
[phone] (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), (http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands
c. Hydrologic data necessary to determine the success of the restored wetland,as'
obtained during the growing season. This allows for the evapotranspiration of the
vegetation to be accounted for in the hydrologic cycle of the site. The growing season
for Dare County is approximately March 13 to November 25 each year. The
hydrologic monitoring should take place within this growing season. Monitoring
should occur during the months of March, April, and May at the earliest. A longer
sampling period of six months (with weekly sampling as mentioned in 2b above)
would provide the most accurate account of hydrology on the site.
3. A few additions or changes should be made to the vegetation monitoring.
a. A site walk-though should be done annually to make general observations, search for
problem areas, and assess the general health and appearance of planted vegetation.
The results of the walk-though should be reported in the monitoring reports.
b. The percent cover of the tree species in each survey plot should also be recorded.
This information will give some indication of the growth and health of the trees from
year to year.
c. The density and percent cover of the herbaceous vegetation should be sampled.
Herbaceous vegetation usually indicates recent conditions of a site; therefore, the
herbaceous vegetation may provide information concerning the hydrologic success of
the site.
d. September, October, or November are the proposed months for monitoring the
vegetation. Vegetation monitoring should be conducted early in the growing season
(e.g., June, July, orAugust). Earlier monitoring will allow for easier identification of
the vegetation, and indications of plant desiccation or poor health can be discovered
earlier so necessary actions can be taken,.n
?',Q.ve,
Some modifications should be mad tothe proposed success criteria:
1. The Corp of Engine Wetlands Delineation Manual (January 1987) does allow that
some wetlands exi with hydrologic inundation/saturation present for 5 % of the growing
season. However; hydrologic success criteria for wetlands with the specified planted tree
species (i.e., Taxodium distichum and Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora) should meet 12.5%
(-32 days) inundation/saturation criteria (Theriot, R.F. 1993. Flood tolerance of plant
species in bottomland forests of the southeastern United States. 191p. Prepared for U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, Technical Report; WRP-DE-6)v, 6f Aok- i; - W
2. The use of reference wells to assess the hydrologic success at the site is a positive
approach; however, as mentioned above the monitoring needs to be conducted for five
years.
3. It may be in the best interest of the project to assess the survival rate of the two road
projects separately. The constructions for the two roads are not continuous and therefore
are being constructed independently of each other. Obtaining a tree density per acre from
the five plots on Magnolia Road and the five plots for Spring Road independently will
minimize the possibility of the entire project being unsuccessful due to negative results
on one road of the project.
4. In addition to vegetation success criteria of 260 stems per acre for the planted trees,
success criteria for herbaceous vegetation should also be included. Herbaceous
vegetation success may be defined as achieving a dominance of wetland vegetation (FAC
or wetter indicator status) with greater than 85% cover on the site by the end of the 5-year
monitoring period.
Our office must also receive a copy of the detailed construction plans for the Magnolia Road and
Spring Road sites. These plans should also include the location of the monitoring wells and
vegetation plots. Our office must receive the as-built plans upon the completion of the construction
and planting of the sites. The as-built plans must include the monitoring well and vegetation plot
locations and the plant species and number of individuals planted.
The goal of these revisions is to establish and maintain viable wetland areas. If you have
any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Amanda
Mueller at [phone].
Sincerely Yours,
John R. Dorney
Cc: Tom Steffens, DWQ-Washington Regional Office
Tom Walker, US Army Corps of Engineers P.O. Box 1000 Washington, NC 27889
Central Files
File Copy