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Ecology Resource Survey and Assessment of Effects Report
Date
STP00-0000-00(000)
XX County
P.I. No. 0000000
Project Name
(ECOLOGY - Please add comments where you like. If you want to make changes, track them, PLEASE!
This draft has undergone many revisions. Untracked changes could be disastrous.)
Prepared by:
Consultant name and address
Prepared for:
Georgia Department of Transportation
Office of Environmental Services
600 W. Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30308
Report Author:__________________________
Name, Title
Consultant Reviewer:_____________________
Name, Title
GDOT Reviewer:_________________________
Name, Title
Ecology Resource Survey and Assessment of Effects Overview
Project STP00-0000-00(000), County
PI # XXXXXXX
Impacts to Federally Jurisdictional Resources
Area of
Length of
Resource Type
Impact
Impact (feet)
(acres)
Perennial Stream
Intermittent Stream
Ephemeral Channel
TOTAL
Present in the Project Area
Invasive Species
Bald Eagle Nest, Habitat
Critical Habitat
Essential Fish Habitat
Bat Roosting Habitat
Migratory Bird Habitat
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Y/N
Wetland
Open Water
TOTAL
FWCA
Section 7
Buffer Variance
Buffer Mitigation
404 Permit
404 Permit Mitigation
Agency Coordination
NR or List Resources
NR, Informal or Formal
NR or List Resources
NR or List Credit Total
NR or List Permit Type
NR or List Strm Crdts and/or Wtlnd Crdts
Federal and State Protected Species
Species Name
Common Name
Federal
Rank
State
Rank
Habitat
Present
Species
Present
Special
Provision
Biological
Determination
Executive Summary
State the Project Number, PI Number, project type (bridge replacement, intersection improvement),
project location (project roads, nearest town/city) and length of project.
List the habitats and land use areas identified within the project area.
List the invasive species identified within the project area.
List the federally protected species for the project county. List the proposed biological determinations.
Note if this project will require Informal or Formal Section 7 coordination.
List the determined impact on bald eagles, bats, critical habitat, and essential fish habitat. Do not include
an effects determination for migratory birds. Note if Special Provisions 107.23G will be implemented for
the protection of federally-listed species for the project.
List the total number of streams, wetlands, and open waters within the project area. List the total
impacts (in feet and acres) to the federally jurisdictional resources that would result from the proposed
project.
List which streams, if any, need FWCA coordination.
List the permit type and mitigation credits needed for the project.
List the state-protected species known to occur within 3 miles of the project for federally funded projects.
For projects that are fully funded by the state, include all state protected species. List the proposed
biological determinations. Note if Special Provision 107.23G will be implemented for state-protected
species for the project.
List the total number of buffered and non-buffered state waters within the project area. List which state
waters, if any, require a buffer variance.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
PROJECT OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................1
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
II.
Project Location .............................................................................................................1
Need and Purpose .........................................................................................................1
Project Description .........................................................................................................1
Survey Methodology.......................................................................................................1
Habitats and Land Use Areas ..........................................................................................1
FEDERALLY PROTECTED RESOURCES ...........................................................................................1
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Protected Species and Habitats .......................................................................................1
i. Federally Threatened and Endangered ......................................................................1
ii. Federal Candidate Species ........................................................................................3
iii. Critical Habitat .........................................................................................................4
iv. Bald and Golden Eagles ............................................................................................4
v. Migratory Birds ........................................................................................................6
vi. Essential Fish Habitat ...............................................................................................6
Invasive Species ............................................................................................................7
Waters of the U.S. .........................................................................................................7
Avoidance and Minimization of Federal Resource Impacts............................................... 10
Permit and Mitigation ................................................................................................... 10
III. STATE PROTECTED RESOURCES ................................................................................................ 10
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
State Threatened, Endangered, Rare and Unusual Species ............................................. 10
Bats ............................................................................................................................ 11
State Waters ............................................................................................................... 12
State Mandated Buffers ................................................................................................ 12
Avoidance and Minimization of State Resource Impacts .................................................. 13
IV. INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE IMPACTS (WHEN REQUIRED) ......................................................... 13
V.
FIGURES ................................................................................................................................... 14
VI. TABLES ..................................................................................................................................... 14
VII. PHOTOGRAPHS ......................................................................................................................... 15
Appendices
Appendix A - Special Provisions
Appendix B - Field Data
Appendix C - Agency Coordination
Appendix D - Background Information
I.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
A. Project Location
Describe the location of the project including roads, county and nearest city/town. Also include the
ecoregion (Level IV), and watershed (by 8-digit HUC). State whether or not the watershed is identified as
a USEPA Region 4 Priority Watershed. Include the latitude and longitude (in decimal degrees) of the
approximate mid-point of the project. Refer to the Project Location Map.
B. Need and Purpose
Explain the need and purpose of the project. This can be taken directly from the Concept Report.
C. Project Description
Describe the details of the proposed construction activities of the project. This can be taken directly from
the Concept Report. Include the current and proposed roadway width, right-of-way width and bridge
length and width (for any bridges within the project area). Include the total length and disturbed acreage
of the project.
D. Survey Methodology
Describe in detail the methodology (and personnel) employed to conduct the field survey. Include the
date and length (number of work hours) of the field survey (not including travel time to the project site).
Include the names and titles of the individuals who conducted the survey. Include the methods employed
to complete the survey of the project area (including preparatory research). Include the weather
conditions at the time of the survey, the last significant rain event and a summary of the rain gage data.
Qualification statements of the surveyors should be included in the Appendix.
E. Habitats and Land Use Areas
Identify all habitat and land use types within the survey area. Describe each habitat and land use area
starting with the habitat that encompasses the largest area within the survey area and continue in order
of decreasing size. Include the approximate size of each habitat/land use area and the percentage of the
project area that it encompasses. If a habitat/land use area is suitable for a protected species targeted in
this survey, include that information in this section. Delineate the habitats and land use areas on the
Habitat Map in the Figures section of the report.
II.
FEDERALLY PROTECTED RESOURCES
A. Protected Species and Habitats
Include a statement that cites a source for species descriptions, such as the Georgia Department of
Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division website. (Detailed descriptions of species morphology,
diet, life history, etc. should not be provided in this report. Such details shall be reserved for protected
species survey reports.)
Cite all resources that were used in preparation for the field survey and habitat assessments.
i. Federally Threatened and Endangered
Begin this section with the following statement.
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“In compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), GDOT must identify the presence of
threatened and endangered species, and their designated critical habitat as well as evaluating project
impacts.”
The following information will be included for each species listed as federally endangered or threatened
for the project county on either the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or Georgia DNR website, as
well as any additional federally listed species believed to potentially occur within the project vicinity based
on other reliable data or sources of information. A list of federally protected species shall be obtained
from the (1) USFWS Information, Planning and Conservation System, (2) USFWS Athens Ecological Field
Office’s county species lists and (3) the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources
Division.
For each species, include the scientific name and federal and state status.
Describe in detail the preferred habitat of the species. Include the known range, known occurrences (if in
or adjacent to the project area), community associate species, preferred soil types and general terrain
characteristics.
A detailed description of the species and its life history will be reserved for the Protected Species Survey
Report. If a protected species survey is not needed, this information shall not be included.
Include a detailed description of all natural areas similar to the potential habitat for the target species
within/adjacent to the proposed project area. Include tree species, shrub species, forb species, soils, and
general terrain characteristics. Include a comparative analysis between the natural areas within the
survey area and the preferred habitat of the target species.
If no potentially suitable habitat was identified during the Ecology Resource survey, state that the project
will have “no effect” to the species. Support this determination with a comparative analysis of the habitat
identified within the survey area and the habitat requirements of the species.
If potential habitat for protected species is identified during the ecology survey, a protected species
survey will be conducted and a Protected Species Survey Report (for terrestrial species) or Aquatic Survey
Report shall be written. If multiple terrestrial species are surveyed on a single project, one Protected
Species Survey Report (for all federally listed, state listed, and candidate species) can be written that
includes all required information for each species surveyed. If multiple aquatic species are surveyed on a
single project, one Aquatic Survey Report (for all federally listed, state listed, and candidate species) can
be written that includes all required information for each species surveyed.
If potential habitat was confirmed, but no individuals were found during the Protected Species survey and
impacts are unavoidable, state that the proposed project “may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect”
the species. Reference the protected species survey report that is included in the appendix. Species
surveys should be conducted every two years until the project is let. The ecologist preparing the report
will initiate informal Section 7 Consultation and prepare Special Provision 107.23G. The special provision
must be reviewed and approved by the GDOT Project Manager, Construction Office, and Office of
Environmental Services.
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If potential habitat is found during the Ecology Resource Survey and the species is identified during the
Protected Species survey, GDOT shall be notified immediately following the survey to discuss avoidance,
minimization and Section 7 coordination.
If potential habitat is found during the Ecology Resource Survey, the species is identified during the
Protected Species survey and impacts are unavoidable, state that the proposed project “may affect, and
is likely to adversely affect” the species. Reference the protected species survey report that is included in
the appendix. The ecologist preparing the report will initiate formal Section 7 Consultation, complete a
Biological Opinion and prepare Special Provision 107.23G, if necessary. The special provision must be
reviewed and approved by the GDOT Project Manager, Construction Office, and Office of Environmental
Services.
ii. Federal Candidate Species
The following information will be included for each species listed a federal candidate species for the
project county on either the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or Georgia DNR website, as well as
any additional federally listed species believed to potentially occur within the project vicinity based on
other reliable data or sources of information. A list of federally protected species shall be obtained from
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Information, Planning and Conservation System as well as the Georgia
Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division.
For each species, include the scientific name and federal and state status.
Describe in detail the preferred habitat of the species. Include the known range, known occurrences (if in
or adjacent to the project area), community associate species, preferred soil types and general terrain
characteristics.
A detailed description of the species and its life history will be reserved for the Protected Species Survey
Report. If a protected species survey is not needed, this information shall not be included.
Include a detailed description of all natural areas similar to the potential habitat for the target species
within/adjacent to the proposed project area. Include tree species, shrub species, forb species, soils, and
general terrain characteristics. Include a comparative analysis between the natural areas within the
survey area and the preferred habitat of the target species.
If no potentially suitable habitat was identified during the Ecology Resource survey, state that the project
will have “no effect” to the species. Support this determination with a comparative analysis of the habitat
identified within the survey area and the habitat requirements of the species.
If potential habitat for protected species is identified during the ecology survey, a protected species
survey will be conducted and a Protected Species Survey Report (for terrestrial species) or Aquatic Survey
Report shall be written. If multiple terrestrial species are surveyed on a single project, one Protected
Species Survey Report (for all federally listed, state listed, and candidate species) can be written that
includes all required information for each species surveyed. If multiple aquatic species are surveyed on a
single project, one Aquatic Survey Report (for all federally listed, state listed, and candidate species) can
be written that includes all required information for each species surveyed.
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If potential habitat was confirmed, but no individuals were found during the Protected Species survey and
impacts are unavoidable, state that the proposed project will have “no significant adverse effect” the
species. Reference the protected species survey report that is included in the appendix. Species surveys
should be conducted every two years until the project is let. The ecologist preparing the report will
prepare Special Provision 107.23G. The special provision must be reviewed and approved by the GDOT
Project Manager, Construction Office, and Office of Environmental Services.
If potential habitat is found during the Ecology Resource Survey and the species is identified during the
Protected Species survey, GDOT shall be notified immediately following the survey to discuss avoidance,
minimization.
If potential habitat is found during the Ecology Resource Survey, the species is identified during the
Protected Species survey and impacts are unavoidable, state that the proposed project will have a
“significant adverse effect” the species. Reference the protected species survey report that is included in
the appendix. The ecologist preparing the report will prepare Special Provision 107.23G. The special
provision must be reviewed and approved by the GDOT Project Manager, Construction Office, and Office
of Environmental Services.
iii. Critical Habitat
Identify which (if any) species listed for the county has had critical habitat designated and state if critical
habitat has been designated in the project county.
If no species listed in the county has had critical habitat designated and no critical habitat is designated
for the county, state so in this section.
If a species listed in the county has critical habitat designated and no critical habitat is designated for the
county, state so in this section. Include a brief discussion of the location of nearest critical habitat and
distance from project (e.g., Critical habitat for the shiny-rayed pocketbook mussel has been designated in
the Flint River approximately 25 miles southwest of the proposed project). Conclude this discussion with
a biological determination of no effect; may affect, not likely to adversely affect; or may affect, likely to
adversely affect.
If a species listed in the county has critical habitat designated and critical habitat is designated for the
county, state so in this section. Include a brief discussion of the location of critical habitat and the
distance from the project. If critical habitat is located in close proximity to the proposed project corridor,
or it is determined that the proposed project has the potential to affect critical habitat, then discuss in
detail each primary constituent element potentially affected by the proposed project. Include detailed
avoidance and minimization measures addressing each constituent element and conclude with a
biological determination of no effect; may affect, not likely to adversely affect; or may affect, likely to
adversely affect.
iv. Bald and Golden Eagles
Begin this section with the following statement.
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“The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 provides for the protection of the bald eagle and the
golden eagle by prohibiting, except under certain specified conditions, the taking, possession and
commerce of such birds.”
Note the presence or absence of Bald Eagle nests located within one mile of the Survey Corridor and any
suitable foraging habitat located in the project area. If habitat is present, it will be delineated on the
Habitat Map.
The presence of suitable foraging habitat within the project area may require the implementation of
Special Provision 107.23G. If included, the special provision must be reviewed and approved by the
Project Manager. The “1989 Recovery Plan Management Guidelines for the Southeastern Region” define
the area within one mile of a bald eagle nest as the "secondary management zone."
If there is no nest within one mile of the proposed project area, and if no suitable foraging habitat exists
within the project area, then use the biological determination of "no effect."
If there is suitable foraging habitat identified within the proposed project area, include the location of the
nearest recorded bald eagle nest according to the most recent data available from the GaDNR. Precise
distances and directions are not necessary (e.g., 22 miles to the south, beside the Ocmulgee River at the
border of Wilcox and Dodge Counties), but a general description of the nearest nest location (e.g.,
located in the Abbeville North NW quarter-quad, which is located approximately twenty miles to the
south) would be useful to agencies reviewing any proposed biological determination. If the project area
is within one mile of a bald eagle nest, more specific location information will be required.
If a project is located within one mile of an eagle nest, or if suitable foraging habitat exists within the
project area, discuss the potential for “take.” Include a discussion supporting a biological determination
with a description of site variables, survey results, nest information, discussion of 2007 National Bald
Eagle Management Guidelines and/or 1989 Recovery Plan Management Guidelines for the Southeastern
Region, and special provisions. Address each particular type of "take" that could occur as a result of the
project.
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act defines "take" as "pursue, shoot, shoot at, poison, wound, kill,
capture, trap, collect, molest or disturb." For GDOT, the most likely "take" scenario would involve a
project that could "disturb" bald eagles. The National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines, published by
USFWS in May 2007, define "disturb" as: "’To agitate or bother a bald or golden eagle to the degree that
interferes with or interrupts normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering habits, causing injury, death, or nest
abandonment.' In addition to immediate impacts, this definition also covers impacts that result from
human-induced alterations initiated around a previously used nest site during a time when eagles are not
present, if, upon the eagle's return, such alterations agitate or bother an eagle to a degree that interferes
with or interrupts normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering habits, and causes injury, death, or nest
abandonment."
Do not employ the ESA wording (with the exception of "no effect") in the biological determination
proposed in a report. Under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, there is no analogy to the ESA
verbiage of "may affect, not likely to adversely affect" or "may affect, likely to adversely affect." Instead,
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describe the biological determination as the likelihood that "take" would occur as a result of the proposed
project.
The guidance above was developed through consultation between the department and USFWS in August
2007. If needed, technical assistance is available through USFWS Ecological Services.
v. Migratory Birds
Begin this section with the following statement.
“The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and the Executive Order on the Responsibility of Federal Agencies
to Protect Migratory Birds (EO 13186), requires the protection of migratory birds and their habitats.”
Note the presence or absence of Migratory Birds or habitat in the Survey Corridor.
Impacts to habitats potentially utilized by migratory bird species will be included in the habitat discussion.
The MBTA will be referenced with respect to these discussions. Discuss any location and design measures
taken to avoid and minimize impacts to such habitats.
Develop a project-specific discussion that provides a thorough, persuasive and rational discussion of the
migratory bird issue as appropriate for each individual project. Discuss the justification for the preferred
alignment and include some discussion and description of habitat areas which are under significant use
by migratory bird species.
Impacts to suitable migratory bird habitat may warrant the issuance of a special provision. Any roadway
structure that provides a suitable nest site for migratory birds will require a special provision. The
provision would seasonally restrict all activities that have the potential to “take” migratory birds that nest
on roadway structures. In some cases, the provisions may allow for the installation of restrictive barriers
on bridges or culverts to prevent nesting. The special provision must be reviewed and approved by the
GDOT Project Manager, Construction Office, and Office of Environmental Services.
vi. Essential Fish Habitat
Begin this section with the following statement.
“In compliance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSFCMA), GDOT
must identify unavoidable adverse impacts to EFH.”
If no EFH is designated for the county, state so in this section. If EFH is designated for the county, but is
outside the project area, state so in this section and briefly describe the location of nearest EFH and
distance from project.
Discuss impacts to areas that qualify as EFH. If impacts will occur, provide a brief discussion that
describes the areas containing EFH, include a list of the species for which coordination will be done, what
impacts may affect the EFH, how all issues have been addressed and resolved (including avoidance,
minimization, and mitigation measures), and list the Fisheries Management Council or NMFS responsibility
area within which the coordination will be conducted. Coordination letters will be prepared by the
ecologist responsible for preparing the Ecology Resource Survey and Assessment of Effects Report.
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B. Invasive Species
Include the following statement.
“In compliance with Executive Order 13112, a survey was conducted for invasive species that could
spread during construction.”
Include a list of the invasive species identified in the project area that are listed in Category 1 by the
Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council. Describe the known range of each species identified and the
locations/extent of the species within and adjacent to the project area. State specific measures that will
be taken to control the spread of the species identified within the project area.
Record the locations of these species and enter the location into the Early Detection & Distribution
Mapping System (EDDMapS) database and include a record of this submittal in the Appendix.
C. Waters of the U.S.
Begin this section with the following statement.
“Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. are defined by 33 CFR Part 328.3(b) and are protected by Section 404
of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1344).”
Include an introductory paragraph that states the total number of each type of resource, the date of the
survey and the date and magnitude of the most recent rain event.
For each stream, complete a North Carolina Division of Water Quality – Stream Identification Form (most
current version), and include it in the Appendix.
For each wetland, complete two Wetland Determination Data Forms: one (wetland) at the outer limit of
the wetland and one (upland) immediately outside the wetland.
Each resource will be labeled by its type and numbered sequentially along the project corridor, starting at
the beginning of the project. Projects typically run south to north and west to east. Resource types (and
labels) include: perennial stream, intermittent stream, ephemeral channel, wetland, open water, and
canal. All waters will be numbered together consecutively.
After the first reference to a resource, the label of a resource shall be abbreviated as follows: PS for
perennial stream, IS for intermittent stream, EC for ephemeral channel, WL for wetland, OW for open
water, and CL for canal.
All waters found within the survey area will be numbered by consecutive Arabic numerals (Ex.: Wetland
1, Wetland 2, Stream 3 . . .). Additional federally jurisdictional waters and ephemeral channels
discovered during any field work subsequent to delivery of original field work results to the GDOT will
carry the designation of the nearest preceding site followed by a lower case alphabetic character, starting
with letter “a,” and proceeding consecutively as necessary (ex.: Wetland 5a, Wetland 5b, Stream 6,
Open Water 6a, Wetland 6b . . .).
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If a resource is identified for which it is unclear if it is federally jurisdictional, request a Jurisdictional
Determination from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers prior to completing this report.
When estimating the approximate size of a wetland or open water, calculate the entire area of the
existing resource, not just the area within the survey area. If the resource extends well beyond the
survey area, the size of the resource can be estimated with the use of maps and aerial photography.
A description of each stream will include: flow regime (perennial, intermittent), existing condition of the
stream (fully functional, somewhat impaired, or fully impaired, as defined by the USACE Compensatory
Mitigation Definition of Factors) and types of impacts affecting water quality; width and depth of the
bankfull stream channel; width and depth of the wetted channel; indication of flow conditions (high flow,
low flow, normal flow); substrate composition; indication of water quality (e.g. water clarity, smell); if the
stream is a warm water stream or a designated cold water/trout stream; if the stream is listed on the
most current 303(d) list, or is a tributary of a stream on the most current 303(d) list, and if the stream is
on the list, for what use the stream is classified, and what criteria were exceeded; a determination of
whether design must consider fish passage and if not (for perennial streams), a justification why not; and
if the stream provides suitable habitat for any state or federally listed species. If the stream does not
require a 25-/50-foot buffer (e.g., concrete-lined channel), explain why.
State if a stream segment is one linear mile upstream of, and within the same watershed as, a stream
that has been classified by the Environmental Protected Division (EPD) as a “non-supporting” biota
impaired stream. A list of the 305(b)/303(d) streams can be found on the EPD’s website.
Include the type and length of any existing structures (pipe, culvert, concrete flume, etc.) located within
the stream. State the proposed impact to the stream as measured by the proposed construction
activities (fill, pipe, culvert, shade, etc.) in linear feet (rounded to the nearest foot) and acres (rounded to
the nearest hundredth of an acre). If bridges are proposed, state if the bridge will clear span the stream
or if pilings or bents within the active stream channel will be required.
A description of each federally jurisdictional ephemeral channel will include: dominant riparian
vegetation; approximate width and character of riparian vegetation; width and depth of the bankfull
channel; if the ephemeral channel is a tributary of a stream on the most current 303(d) list; if the
resource is a state buffered stream and why.
State if an ephemeral channel segment is one linear mile upstream of, and within the same watershed
as, a stream that has been classified by the EPD as a “non-supporting” biota impaired stream.
Include the type and length of any existing structures (pipe, culvert, concrete flume, etc.) located within
the ephemeral channel. State the proposed impact to the ephemeral channel as measured by the
proposed construction activities (fill, pipe, clear, etc.) in linear feet (rounded to the nearest foot) and
acres (rounded to the nearest thousandth of an acre). Include in the Appendix the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers Jurisdictional Determination if completed. State whether or not the stream requires a 25-/50foot buffer. (EPD may consider certain streams to be intermittent that the USACE considers to only be
ephemeral.)
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(Note: Ephemeral drainages not determined to be federally jurisdictional shall be discussed below under
Section III.C.)
A description of each wetland will include: wetland type; existing condition; hydrology; dominant
vegetation species; wetland hydrology indicators; soil profile descriptions (hue/chroma), hydric soil
indicators, existing condition of the wetland (Class 1 – Class 5, as defined by the USACE Compensatory
Mitigation Definition of Factors) and types of impacts affecting quality; the approximate size of the
wetland (in acres); and if the wetland provides suitable habitat for any state or federally listed species.
State if a wetland is one linear mile upstream of, and within the same watershed as, a stream that has
been classified by the EPD as a “non-supporting” biota impaired stream.
Include the type and length of any existing structures (pipe, culvert, concrete flume, etc.) located within
the wetland. State the proposed impact to the wetland as measured by the proposed construction
activities (fill, clear) in acres (rounded to the nearest hundredth of an acre).
A description of each open water will include: approximate size (in acres) of the existing open water,
apparent use (water livestock, fishing, etc); vegetation along banks; the existing condition of the open
water (Class 1 – Class 5, as defined by the USACE Compensatory Mitigation Definition of Factors); if the
resource is a state buffered open water and if so, why; if the open water is considered jurisdictional and
if not, why it did not qualify as a jurisdictional water; and if the open water provides suitable habitat for
any state or federally listed species.
State if an open water is one linear mile upstream of, and within the same watershed as, a stream that
has been classified by the EPD as a “non-supporting” biota impaired stream.
Include the type and length of any existing structures (pipe, culvert, concrete flume) located within the
open water. State the proposed impact to open water as measured by the proposed construction
activities (fill, pipe, shade) in acres (rounded to the nearest hundredth of an acre). If bridges are
proposed, state if the bridge will clear span the open water or if pilings or bents will be required.
A description of each canal will include: flow regime (perennial, intermittent); dominant riparian
vegetation; existing condition (fully functional, somewhat impaired, or fully impaired, as defined by the
USACE Compensatory Mitigation Definition of Factors) and types of impacts affecting water quality; width
and depth of the bankfull channel; width and depth of the wetted channel; indication of flow conditions
(high flow, low flow, normal flow); substrate composition; indication of water quality (e.g. water clarity,
smell); if the stream is a warm water stream or a designated cold water/trout stream; if the stream is
listed on the most current 303(d) list, or is a tributary of a stream on the most current 303(d) list, and if
the stream is on the list, for what use the stream is classified, and what criteria were exceeded; if the
resource requires a state-mandated buffered and if so, why and if not, why not; a determination if design
has considered fish passage; and if the stream provides suitable habitat for any state or federally listed
species.
State if a canal is one linear mile upstream of, and within the same watershed as, a stream that has been
classified by the EPD as a “non-supporting” biota impaired stream.
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D. Avoidance and Minimization of Federal Resource Impacts
After the survey has been completed and resource delineations are on the plans, the project ecologist
shall meet with the project designer to discuss all possible avoidance and minimization of resource
impacts.
In this section of the report, include a detailed analysis of the alternatives examined to avoid impacts to
federal resources.
Include a discussion of design measures and alternatives examined to minimize impact to federal
resources with the location and numbers of limiting factors such as historic resources, residences,
businesses, cemeteries, railroads, transmission lines, and other factors such as cost, intersection
alignments, and horizontal and vertical alignment. Include any measures that may be used to remediate
temporary impacts.
Include a brief description of all design efforts made and alternatives examined, with the design
considerations for fish passage, to minimize impacts to each state and federal water along each
alignment.
E. Permit and Mitigation
State all needed permits and mitigation requirements of the proposed project. Mitigation calculations
should be rounded to the nearest tenth of a credit.
If mitigation is required, include the number of wetland and stream mitigation credits. Determine if the
required mitigation credits will be deducted from a GDOT mitigation bank or purchased from a
commercial mitigation bank and include that information in this section.
III.
STATE PROTECTED RESOURCES
A. State Threatened, Endangered, Rare and Unusual Species
Begin this section with the following statement.
”The Georgia Endangered Wildlife Act prohibits the capture, killing, or selling of protected species and
protects the habitat of these species on public lands. Georgia’s Wildflower Preservation Act of 1973
provides for designation of and protection of plant species that are rare, unusual, or in danger of
extinction.”
Prior to scheduling a field survey, a request shall be made to the Georgia Department of Natural
Resources and the USFWS for information regarding known occurrences of protected species within 3
miles of the proposed project. For aquatic species, DNR’s HUC-8 species list shall be referenced. (This
data will be considered current and valid for 3 years after receipt. If this information was received more
than 3 years prior, a follow-up request shall be made.) The field survey shall not take place until after
this information is received. The following information shall be included for all species listed as federal
candidate species as well as state protected species (not already discussed in the previous sub-section)
known to occur within 3 miles of the proposed project based upon current (no more than three years old)
information from the GA Natural Heritage Element Occurrence Database, as well as any additional federal
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candidate or state listed species believed to potentially occur within the project vicinity based on other
reliable data or sources of information.
For each species, include the scientific name and state status.
Include a detailed description of the preferred habitat of the species. This description shall include the
known range, location of known occurrences (if within 3 miles of the project), community associate
species, preferred soil types and general terrain characteristics.
A detailed description of the species and its life history will be reserved for the Protected Species Survey
Report. If a protected species survey is not needed, this information shall not be included. Include a
summary of all natural areas described in the habitat section that is similar to the potential habitat for the
target species within the survey area. Include tree/shrub/forb species, soils, and general terrain
characteristics. Include a comparative analysis between the natural areas within the survey area and the
preferred habitat of the target species.
If it is determined that there is suitable habitat within/adjacent to the proposed project, a protected
species survey shall be completed during the approved survey season and a Protected Species Survey
Report (for terrestrial species) or Aquatic Survey Report will be written. If multiple terrestrial species are
surveyed on a single project, one Protected Species Survey Report (for all federally listed, state listed,
and candidate species) can be written that includes all required information for each species surveyed. If
multiple aquatic species are surveyed on a single project, one Aquatic Survey Report (for all federally
listed, state listed, and candidate species) can be written that includes all required information for each
species surveyed. If during the species survey, the species is identified within the survey area, contact
GDOT immediately following the survey to discuss potential avoidance and minimization. Delineate the
identified habitat on the Habitat Map.
If neither the species nor its suitable habitat is present, conclude the discussion of the state listed species
with a determination of “no effect.” If there is suitable habitat but the species is not present, or if the
species is present and GDOT has taken adequate measures to avoid impacts, conclude the discussion
with a determination of “no significant adverse effect.” Conclude the discussion with a determination of
“significant adverse effect” if the species will be significantly impacted by the proposed project. In the
latter two instances, the ecologist shall have coordinated with GaDNR biologists to devise protective
measures to avoid/minimize impacts to the species and prepare Special Provision 107.23G. The special
provision must be reviewed and approved by the GDOT Project Manager, Construction Office, and Office
of Environmental Services.
Complete a discussion of design measures to avoid and/or minimize impact to protected species’ habitat.
Include the location of limiting factors such as historic resources, residences, businesses, cemeteries,
railroads, transmission lines, and design factors such as cost and horizontal and vertical alignment.
Include all appropriate Special Provisions.
B. Bats
Include a list of bridges within the survey area. Assess each bridge for bat roosting potential. Signs of
bat roosts include visible, audible and olfactory identification, presence of guano, or staining from guano
or body oils. If bat roosts are identified, notify GA DNR and coordinate to plan avoidance of all
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unnecessary impact and minimization of any unavoidable impact to the roosts. The presence of suitable
roosting habitat within the project area may require the implementation of Special Provision 107.23 G. If
included, the special provision must be reviewed and approved by the GDOT Project Manager,
Construction Office, and Office of Environmental Services.
C. State Waters
Begin this section with the following statement.
“State Waters are defined by the Official Code of Georgia 12-7-1 and protected by the Georgia Erosion
and Sedimentation Control Act of 1975. In compliance with the National Pollutants Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) permit under Section 402 of the Clean Water Act, any encroachment within the
designated 25-foot or 50-foot buffer of a state water will be described, and the need for a variance will
be indicated.”
All federally jurisdictional resources are also classified as State Waters. Include only federally nonjurisdictional resources in this section. Therefore, a resource labeled ‘state water’ is assumed to be
federally non-jurisdictional.
All state waters will be labeled according to the Construction Plan Station Number, including left/right
(LT/RT) designation, at which it enters the project area. (If Station Numbers are not yet available,
describe the location of the state water.)
If a resource is identified for which it is unclear if it is state-jurisdictional, request a State Waters
determination from the Georgia EPD prior to completing this report.
A description of each state water will include: resource type (ditch, swale, detention pond, etc.); an
explanation of why the resource is not considered to be federally jurisdictional and whether it requires a
state-mandated buffer. Include all coordination that has been conducted with the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers and the Environmental Protection Division. Do not calculate or report linear feet or acreage of
impact.
D. State Mandated Buffers
In compliance with the National Pollutants Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit under Section
402 of the Clean Water Act, any encroachment within the designated 25-foot or 50-foot buffer of a state
water will be described, and the need for a variance will be indicated. The description will include the
location of the occurrence with respect to labeled, cited Waters of the US or State waters and the extent
to which the proposed project encroaches on the buffer.
Buffer encroachments that will occur in conjunction with a bridge or culvert may be exempt from the
need for a buffer variance. As of July, 2007, the roadway drainage feature exemption includes/exempts
all buffer encroachments within the 50-foot from edge of culvert, or 100-foot from edge of bridge
footprint. This exemption also extends to the project ROW, though all encroachments must be necessary
for construction to be considered exempt. The July 2007 interpretation includes all tributaries or
unassociated state waters, including the water being crossed.
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The ecologist will indicate the classification of the stream as defined in the Georgia Water Quality Control
Act as a warm water stream or a cold water trout stream in the description of the stream. A list of
designated cold water trout streams can be found in Section 15 at
http://rules.sos.state.ga.us/docs/391/3/6/03.pdf.
(If a buffer variance is necessary, prepare an application package for submittal to EPD. See Chapter VIII,
Section 5.0 for direction on preparing Vegetated Buffer Variance Applications.)
Buffers will be given the same label and number as the water to which it is associated. (For example,
Perennial Stream #1 Buffer, State Water 109+50RT or State Water 109+50RT Buffer.)
A description of each buffer will include: dominant vegetation (include species in each strata),
approximate age of the tree strata, width of vegetated area, presence and abundance of invasive species,
and proposed project impact. State if the impact will require a variance. If so, state the criterion under
which the application will fall. If not, explain why the impact would be exempt. Do not report linear feet
or acreage of impact in this report. This information shall be included in the buffer variance application.
E. Avoidance and Minimization of State Resource Impacts
After the survey has been completed and resource delineations are on the plans, the project ecologist
shall meet with the project designer to discuss all possible avoidance and minimization of resource
impacts.
In this section of the report, include a detailed analysis of the alternatives examined to avoid impacts to
state resources. (If impacts to a resource have been completed avoided and the resource is outside the
construction limits, this information can be included.)
Include a discussion of design measures and alternatives examined to minimize impact to state resources
with the location and numbers of limiting factors such as historic resources, residences, businesses,
cemeteries, railroads, transmission lines, and other factors such as cost, intersection alignments, and
horizontal and vertical alignment. Include any measures that may be used to remediate temporary
impacts.
Include a brief description of all design efforts made and alternatives examined to minimize impacts to
each state resource along each alignment.
IV.
Indirect and Cumulative Impacts (for Environmental Assessment (EA) NEPA documents)
Include a discussion of potentially significant secondary and/or cumulative ecological impacts that would
be anticipated as a result of project implementation. Such impacts might include, but are not limited to:
deleterious long-term effects to listed species due to habitat fragmentation; water quality impairment to
waters downstream of the project vicinity; the potential for losses of complete wetland systems in areas
of rapid commercial, industrial or residential development, even thought the road project, itself, would
only result in partial impacts to wetlands. Beneficial secondary or cumulative effects, such as
improvements to aquatic habitat and fish passage from the replacement of a culvert with a bridge or arch
span, would also be included in this discussion.
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V.
FIGURES
All figures shall include a legend, be reproducible in black-and-white and show all features clearly and
separately. Each map, except the Project Vicinity Map shall include (1) an inset map of the project county
and surrounding counties with a point at the location of the proposed project, (2) the title of the map and
(3) the project number, PI number and county. The Project Vicinity Map shall include (1) an inset map of
the state with the project county highlighted, (2) the title of the map and (3) the project number, PI
number and county. If the project contains multiple units, the limits of each unit shall be marked.
Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map - Include north arrow, scale, project number, and project location with
relation to the nearest town, city or highway. This map shall be projected on a county road map or USGS
topographic map.
Figure 2. Survey Area Map- Include survey limits, north arrow, scale, project number and project corridor.
This map shall be projected on an aerial photograph. This map shall show the limits of the project area
and survey area clearly.
Figure 3. Habitat Map- Include survey limits, north arrow, scale, project number, project vicinity, streams,
wetlands, open waters, large infestations of invasive species and delineations of all habitat types. State
and federal waters shall be delineated but not labeled. Habitat types shall be labeled. This map shall be
projected on an aerial photograph. Adjust the scale so that each resource is clearly delineated and can
be identified separately. If necessary, create multiple maps with match lines.
Figure 4. State and Federal Water Map- Include survey limits, north arrow, scale, project number, project
corridor, streams, wetlands and open waters. All state and federal waters shall be labeled. Include
wetland and upland GPS points for each wetland. This map shall be projected on a topographic layer.
Adjust the scale so that each resource is clearly delineated and can be identified separately. If necessary,
create multiple maps with match lines.
Figure 5. State and Federal Water Map – Same as above, on an aerial image.
Figure 6. Soil Map- Include survey limits, north arrow, scale, project number, project corridor, soil types
within the project area, streams, wetlands and open waters. Hydric soils within the project area shall be
identified. All soil types within the project area shall be labeled in the legend. All state and federal waters
shall be labeled. This map shall be projected on a topographic map. Adjust the scale so that each
resource is clearly delineated and can be identified separately. If necessary, create multiple maps with
match lines.
VI.
TABLES
Table 1. Federal Stream, Wetland and Open Water Summary Table
Table 2. State Water and Buffer Impact Summary Table
Table 3. Stream Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Worksheet
Table 4. Wetland/Open Water SOP Worksheet
Table 5. Protected Species Summary Table
Table 6. Ecology Commitments for the Environmental Commitments Table (Green Sheet)
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VII.
PHOTOGRAPHS
Include a photograph of each stream, wetland, open water, state water and habitat type. Include four (4)
photographs per page, each with a label, date and location description.
Appendix
Special Provisions
Special Provision 107.23G
Special Provision 700, 702
Field Data
Wetland Data Forms (for both wetland and upland points)
North Carolina Stream Forms
Field Notes
EDDMapS Data
Agency Coordination
DNR Element Occurrence Letter
USFWS Occurrence Letter
GA EPD’s State Water Determination Letter
Background Information
Rain Gage Data (include for the area for the month prior to the survey & the 10 yr average)
Qualifications Statement
Construction Plans
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