United States Department of Environmental Agriculture
Forest Assessment Service Alabama Power Company October 2012 Muscadine 115 kV TL
Special Use Permit
Shoal Creek Ranger District Talladega National Forest
Cleburne County, Alabama
Red Cockaded Woodpecker Photo by Michael McCloy
For Information Contact: Steve Lohr Forest Supervisor 2946 Chestnut Street Montgomery, Alabama 36107 334-832-4470 www.fs.usda.gov/alabama/
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).
To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795- 3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
Table of Contents Summary ...... i I. Introduction ...... 1 Document Structure ...... 1 Purpose and Need for Action ...... 1 Proposed Action ...... 2 Decision Framework ...... 4 Public Involvement ...... 4 Issues ...... 5 Alternatives, including the Proposed Action ...... 5 Alternatives ...... 5 Alternative 1 - No Action ...... 5 Alternative 2 - The Proposed Action ...... 5 Mitigation Common to All Alternatives ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. II. Comparison of Alternatives ...... 6 III. Environmental Consequences ...... 7 3.1 Soils ...... 7 3.1.1 Affected Environment ...... 7 3.1.2 Environmental Effects ...... 8 3.1.3 Cumulative Effects ...... 8 3.2 Air Quality ...... 9 3.2.1 Affected Environment ...... 9 3.2.2 Alternatives Evaluated ...... 9 3.2.3 Cumulative Effects ...... 9 3.3 Water Quality ...... 10 3.3.1 Affected Environment ...... 10 3.3.2 Environmental Effects ...... 10 3.3.3 Cumulative Effects ...... 10 3.4 Wetlands ...... 11 3.4.1 Existing Conditions ...... 12 3.4.2 Alternatives Evaluated ...... 12 3.4.2 Cumulative Effects ...... 12 3.5 Wildlife and Vegetation Resources ...... 12 3.5.1 Affected Environment...…………………………………...………………….13 3.5.2 Environmental Affects………………………………………………………...13 3.5.2.1 USFS Sensitive Species…………………………………………………13 3.5.2.2 Threatened, Endangered, Proposed and Candidate Species……….33 3.5.3 Existing Conditions……………………………………………………………51 3.6 Scenic Integrity ...... 51 3.6.1 Affected Environment ...... 51
Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
3.6.2 Effects ...... 51 3.6.3 Cumulative Effects……………………………………………………………53. 3.7 Public Health and Safety ...... 52 3.7.1 Affected Environment ...... 52 3.7.2 Effects ...... 52 3.7.3 Cumulative Effects…………………………………………………………….54 3.8 Recreation ...... 53 3.8.1 Affected Environment ...... 53 3.8.2 Effects ...... 53 3.8.3 Cumulative Effects ...... 53 3.9 Economics ...... 54 3.9.1 Affected Environment ...... 54 3.9.2 Environmental Effects ...... 54 3.9.3 Cumulative Effects…………………………………………………………….55 3.10 Civil Rights and Environmental Justice ...... 54 3.10.1 Affected Environment ...... 54 3.10.2 Environmental Effects ...... 55 3.10.3 Cumulative Effects…………………………………………………………….56 IV. Consultation and Coordination ...... 56
List of Appendices
Appendix A – Form 299 Appendix B – Figures Appendix C – Soil Report Appendix D – Literature Cited
Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
SUMMARY
The Talladega National Forest proposes to issue a Special Use Permit (SUP) to Alabama Power Company (APC) for the construction, operation and maintenance of the Muscadine 115 kV Transmission Line. The project area is located in the southern portion of the Shoal Creek Ranger District, Talladega National Forest, Alabama. This transmission line lies within Cleburne County. This action is needed to relieve loading, improve service reliability and provide for additional load growth within the area. The new transmission line is needed to provide power to local communities, residences, and businesses, as well as commercial/industrial operations adjacent to the Talladega National Forest. The purpose of the project is to issue a SUP for APC to construct, operate and maintain the Muscadine 115 kV transmission line located within USFS lands. APC is requesting authorization to construct an approximately 800’ section of the line on Forest Service property in Township 15S, Range 11E, Section 19. The right-of-way section will contain 2 structures with 1/2” guys: 1 – 105’ concrete and 1 – 100’ steel supporting 3 – 397.5 26/7 ACSR conductors and 1-7 #8 alumoweld shield wire.
The proposed action will not have any significant effects on the environmental issues discussed in Part III of this document.
In addition to the proposed action, the United States Department of Agriculture – USDA (USFS) also evaluated the following alternatives:
Alternative 1, No Action – Under the No Action Alternative no SUP would be issued.
Alternative 2, Proposed Action – The Proposed Action would authorize the construction, maintenance, mowing, and herbicide application within the granted easement of the transmission line by APC.
Based upon the effects of the alternatives, the responsible official will decide whether or not to issue the SUP for the new transmission line, and if so, under what terms and conditions.
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I. INTRODUCTION
Document Structure
APC has prepared this Environmental Assessment in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other relevant Federal and State laws and regulations. This Environmental Assessment discloses the direct, indirect, and cumulative environmental impacts that would result from the proposed action and alternatives. The document is organized into four parts: Part I - Introduction: The section includes information on the history of the project proposal, the purpose of and need for the project, and the agency’s proposal for achieving that purpose and need. This section also details how the USFS informed the public of the proposal and how the public responded. Part II - Comparison of Alternatives, including the Proposed Action: This section provides a more detailed description of the agency’s proposed action as well as alternative methods for achieving the stated purpose. These alternatives were developed based on significant issues raised by the public and other agencies. This discussion also includes possible mitigation measures. Finally, this section provides a summary table of the environmental consequences associated with each alternative. Part III - Environmental Consequences: This section describes the environmental effects of implementing the proposed action and other alternatives. This analysis is organized by identifying the resource area and then discussing the effected environment related to the “No Action” and “Proposed Action” Alternatives. Within each section, the affected environment is described first, followed by the effects of the No Action Alternative that provides a baseline for evaluation and comparison of the other alternatives that follow. Part IV - Agencies and Persons Consulted: This section provides a list of preparers and agencies consulted during the development of the environmental assessment. Appendices: The appendices provide more detailed information to support the analyses presented in the environmental assessment.
Purpose and Need for Action
The purpose of this initiative is to authorize APC the use of National Forest lands within the Talladega National Forest for a new 115 kV transmission line. The purpose of this new 115 kV transmission line is to provide power to a variety of current customers by the issuance of a SUP. This action is needed to relieve loading, improve service reliability and provide for additional load growth in the area. Additional aspects of this Purpose and Need for Action are to provide for maintenance of vegetation including herbicide application, mowing of herbaceous vegetation within the easement, as well as the routine and scheduled maintenance of structures. Further, weakened or dead trees that are deemed to
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment pose a threat to the line by falling are labeled as “Danger Trees”. The Purpose and Need for Action will also include provisions to remove Danger Trees by the use of chainsaws and/or other physical means. This Purpose and Need for Action responds to the goals and objectives outlined in the Revised Land Resource Management Plan (RLMP), National Forests in Alabama, and will move the project area towards desired conditions described in the RLMP. Relevant sections of the RLMP included in this analysis are as follows:
Goal 11 Substantially contributes to the recovery of federally listed threatened and endangered species, and provide for the conservation of sensitive species so as to maintain the need for additional federal listings under the Endangered Species Act. Standards FW 80 No herbicide is aerially applied within 300 feet of any known threatened, endangered, proposed, or sensitive plant. Buffers are clearly marked before treatment so applicators can easily see and avoid them. Chapter 2 – Special Uses All uses of National Forest System lands, improvements, and resources, except those governing the disposal of timber, minerals, and the grazing of livestock are designated “special uses” The predominant use is for public roads and utility rights-of-way. These special uses serve a public benefit by providing public access through the National Forest, and providing the transmission of electricity, natural gas, water, and various types of communication signals. Authorizations for access to private land are also considered, in addition, recreational activities such as outfitting and guiding and competitive events such as fishing tournaments, foot races, horse endurance races, mountain bike races, etc. also fall into the arena of “special use”. Communication/electronic sites are designated as Prescription area 5.B and are usually located on mountain and ridge tops.
Proposed Action
The USFS proposes to issue a SUP to APC for the construction, operation and maintenance of the Muscadine 115kV Transmission Line and associated structures. The construction will involve the removal of vegetation from the right- of-way corridor, including required danger trees, stump removal and grassing of the right-of-way for permanent stabilization. This action would include approximately 0.5 acres of clearing, grubbing and re-vegetation.
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APC is proposing the use of the following grass mix for soil stabilization to be applied immediately upon completion of clearing to be reapplied (if required) following line construction:
Table I-1 – ROW Forest Service Grass Mix Pounds Per Acre Type 13-13-13 Fertilizer 500 Browntop Millet (March-August) 40 Reseeding Red Clover 15 Winter Wheat 25 Annual Rye Grass (Sept-March) 25
The Muscadine 115 kV transmission line is governed by NERC FAC 003.1 (National Standard for Transmission Vegetation Management) which dictates the timing of the vegetation maintenance activities performed on the line based on the site vegetation conditions. An annual aerial vegetation inspection is performed to assess the status of the vegetation and combined with the best professional judgment; an estimated growth of the vegetation within the powerline, given current environmental factors is used to determine the specific vegetation maintenance schedule. During extended drought periods, the vegetation within the ROW may exhibit relatively slow growth since the last treatment date. In this case cycles may be extended. Conversely if environmental factors are favorable to vegetation growth, the vegetation maintenance activity cycle lengths may have to be shortened.
Mowing of herbaceous vegetation within the powerline easement is a required vegetation maintenance activity. Mowing occurs within the easement where site topography allows approximately every six (6) years.
Vegetation maintenance activities are required to ensure the safety of the transmission line as well as the individuals that service these areas. The removal of Danger Trees is required as a part of the overall vegetation management plan. APC inspects the line approximately every 5 years for determination of “Danger Trees”. The removal of these trees is performed by trained individuals that access the easement by foot and remove the trees by the use of chainsaws.
Side trimming is an additional type of tree removal that lessens the threat of impact to the powerline. This action is performed at least once every 5 years. In this practice, the limbs growing into the ROW of trees located adjacent to the powerline are removed. This is completed through the use of mechanical means or by hand depending on topography and site conditions. Mechanical trimming is usually performed by heavy machinery called a Jarraff. The Jarraff is a rubber tire machine with a telescoping boom that trims the limbs from the side of the
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment tree. If the site precludes the use of mechanical equipment, hand side trimming will be performed.
The presence of trees, known otherwise designated as Danger Trees, also pose a threat and danger to the existing powerline. For control of trees within the easement, APC incorporates two methods of control. The use of herbicide application sprayed directly onto trees within the easement and the use of mowers within select areas of the easement. The use of herbicide application within the easement has been addressed in a separate Environmental Assessment (EA) titled, Woody Vegetation Control on Alabama Power Company Transmission Line Right-Of-Way. The EA was scoped in July 2003 and the Decision Notice, Finding of No Significant Impact was signed by the Forest Supervisor on September 10, 2004. There are no proposed changes to the actions proposed in this EA regarding vegetation control by the use of herbicides and JAPC will comply with the standards for herbicide application set forth in the 2003 document (last updated and reviewed by the Forest Service in 2012).
Routine maintenance inspections for the transmission line occur in several forms. Visual inspections of the structures occur by personnel on the ground or by helicopter flight for areas where site topography does not allow for easy access by foot traffic. If a deficiency is noted during the inspection, especially during the helicopter inspection, a further evaluation of the deficiency will occur to determine by what means will be needed for correction. When appropriate any deficiency or repair will be corrected by personnel on foot with the appropriate equipment. Any repair requiring heavy equipment or vehicle access will be coordinated with the FS. Future maintenance of the steel structures involves the sandblasting of the bottom two feet of the structure which will require the access of vehicles within the right-of-way for the transport of sandblasters.
Decision Framework
Given the Purpose and Need as discussed previously, the deciding official reviews the proposed action and the other alternatives in order to make the following decisions:
Whether issue a SUP for APC to occupancy National Forest lands for power transmission and distribution, and if so, under what conditions, and Design criteria, mitigation measures, and monitoring requirements necessary for permit approval.
Public Involvement
The proposal was listed in the Schedule of Proposed Actions on June 6, 2013. No Comments have been received. The proposal was provided to the public and other agencies for comment, concurrent with scoping, March 10-April 11, 2013, which appeared in the Anniston Star, the paper of record.
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Issues
The ID Team did not identify any issues to the proposed project. Issues were defined as those potential effects directly or indirectly caused by implementing the Proposed Action.
ALTERNATIVES, INCLUDING THE PROPOSED ACTION
This chapter describes and compares the alternatives considered for the Muscadine 115kV Transmission Line project. It includes a description and map of each alternative considered. This section also presents the alternatives in comparative form, sharply defining the differences between each alternative and providing a clear basis for choice among options by the decision maker and the public. Some of the information used to compare the alternatives is based upon the design of the alternative and some of the information is based upon the environmental, social and economic effects of implementing each alternative.
Alternatives
Alternative 1 - No Action
Under the No Action Alternative, current management plans would guide management of the project area. No SUP would be issued.
Alternative 2 - The Proposed Action
The proposed action is to issue a SUP, USFS Standard Form 299 (Appendix A), to APC for use of USFS lands so current and future electrical power delivery to areas within and adjacent to the National Forest will continue to existing customers. Further, the SUP would provide for vegetation maintenance activities including mowing, herbicide application, timber cutting and thinning, as well as structure maintenance. The details of the Proposed Action are provided previously. The SUP would be issued for a length of thirty (30) years. Appendix B provides location maps of right-of-way, structures and sensitive species locations that are being requested to be used for these activities.
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II. COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES
This section provides a summary of the effects of implementing each alternative. Information in Table II-1 is focused on activities and effects where different levels of effects or outputs can be distinguished quantitatively or qualitatively among alternatives.
Table II-1 - Comparison of Alternatives
Proposed Affected No Action Action Protective Environment Alternative Potential Measures Impact Minimal The implementation disturbance to of a BMP plan will soils during keep soil erosion to a No disturbance clearing of right- minimum. Soils to soils of-way and Appropriate state installation of permits will be structure, guys acquired before and conductor construction begins. Minimal Impacts Minimal Impacts to air quality to air quality during Air Quality None during removal of construction structures activities and maintenance The implementation of a BMP plan will keep soil erosion to a No significant minimum and protect impacts Water Quality No impact. water quality. anticipated due Appropriate state to proximity permits will be acquired before construction begins
Wetlands No Impact No Impact None
Vegetation Vegetation maintenance within No impact. No impact Resources area to keep project area suitable
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Wildlife Resources No impacts No Impacts None
Minimal Impacts Vegetation Scenic Integrity No impact due to widening Management within of right-of-way right-of-way Impact due to Public Health and loss of power None. None Safety reliability.
Recreation None None None
Improve reliability of Economics Negative Positive electrical services Civil Rights and Environmental No impact. No impact. None Justice
III. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
This section summarizes the physical, biological, social and economic environments of the affected project area and the potential changes to those environments due to implementation of the alternatives. It also presents the scientific and analytical basis for comparison of alternatives presented in the chart above.
3.1 Soils
3.1.1 Affected Environment
Soil data for the proposed action site was collected from the Soil Survey of Cleburne County, Alabama, using the United States Department of Agriculture’s Web Soil Survey website (www.websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov). This information has been utilized to prepare a site specific soil report for the proposed action’s limits and is presented in Appendix C. One (1) soil type has been identified within the proposed action’s limits. Tatum-Fruithurst association, hilly
In general, these soils are described as follows. The Tatum-Fruithurst association, hilly is typically found on hills and is comprised of clayey residuum weathered from schist.
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3.1.2 Environmental Effects
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
This alternative would have no effect on the soils of the area due to no soil disturbance taking place.
Alternative 2: The Proposed Action
A minimal amount of soil disturbance will occur with this alternative (Proposed Action). It is expected that soil loss via wind and water transport has the potential to occur during the clearing and construction phases of the project. During the replacement of the two structures approximately 1.24 acres of soil disturbance will occur. Due to the small area of land to be disturbed the amount of soil loss via wind and water transport will be minimal. The potential for soil loss from these areas of proposed structure replacement would further be reduced by the implementation of CBMPs (Construction Best Management Practices) during the construction phase of the project.
Maintenance activities, including vegetation maintenance and structure maintenance, should not involve any soil disturbance due to the close proximity of roadways. All maintenance activities are coordinated with the FS for timing and approval of the work plan.
Protective Measures taken for soil protection will include an ADEM (Alabama Department of Environmental Management) construction general storm water permit and a CBMP Plan developed and implemented during the clearing and construction to minimize the amount of soil and sediment leaving the site, especially during rainfall events. The required monitoring of the BMPs will be completed as outlined by the ADEM regulations during the construction and through final stabilization of all soils on the project site. Upon completion of removal activities all disturbed soil areas will be stabilized using the referenced standard grass mix.
3.1.3 Cumulative Effects
The proposed action does not involve any changes in soil productivity from its current use. Right-of-way clearing and structure placement activities will disturb minimal amounts of soil during the construction phase. The expeditious establishment of permanent vegetation on areas of bare soils immediately following the conclusion of these activities will significantly diminish soil loss due to erosion.
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3.2 Air Quality
3.2.1 Affected Environment
The Clean Air Act (CAA) of 1990 established the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). These standards list 6 pollutants (ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and lead) of concern that have been linked to public health and environment concerns. Section 7410 gives the states the designation to set forth a plan for implementation, maintenance, and enforcement of air quality standards for each section within the state. The plan set forth by each state shall ensure that conformity to the plan is being achieved; activities will not violate the standards or contribute to the increase of any existing violation; or delay the attainment of any standard in any area. Section 176(c) of the CAA says that any department or agency of the federal government shall not provide financial assistance for activities that do not conform to implementation plans set forth by section 7410.
The current distribution line is not required to have an air permit from ADEM. The distribution line on site does not contain any equipment with atmospheric discharge.
3.2.2 Alternatives Evaluated
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
The No Action Alternative will not require an air permit and will result in no increased air emissions.
Alternative 2: The Proposed Action
There will likely be minimal levels of increased air emissions due to the construction activities associated with the proposed line construction. These air emissions will be a product of the heavy equipment associated with construction vehicles used for structure placement and maintenance. An increased amount of traffic will occur during the construction phase as workers, contractors, and sub- contractors commute to the site, contributing to the air emissions in the general area. The use of machinery during the maintenance activities will also increase air emissions, especially the use the tractors during mowing. This increased level of air emissions will be short term and only associated with maintenance of the transmission line. There are no plans of any equipment or discharges to the air that would require an air permit with the proposed action.
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3.2.3 Cumulative Effects
Impacts to air quality, if any, will be minimal and of short duration while clearing and structure placement activities are conducted, therefore there are no cumulative effects to be analyzed.
3.3 Water Quality
3.3.1 Affected Environment
The Clean Water Act of 1977 (CWA) sets the regulations for discharges of pollutants into public waters. Section 401 of the CWA includes language requiring individual States certify that a project meets the State water quality standards. The State must issue permits for activities that discharge into public waters. Section 402 of the CWA establishes the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) which provides a permit system for the discharge of pollutants into public waters. Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) gives the Secretary of the Army the authority to issue permits for discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (WSRA) allows for the designation of certain rivers that possess scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural, and other similar values to remain preserved and free-flowing. The Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) says that is the nation’s policy to preserve, and protect and to restore and enhance the nation’s coastal zone for the future. It also assist states for management programs that achieve wise use of the areas adjacent to the coastal zone with regards to ecological, cultural, and aesthetic values.
3.3.2 Environmental Effects
The projects site occurs within the Henry Creek watershed (031501080405) is a part of the Cane Creek watershed within the Tallapoosa River Basin. Henry and Cane Creek’s listed use by ADEM is Fish and Wildlife.
There are no Wild and Scenic Rivers or Coastal Management Zones listed within the project area.
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
The No Action Alternative will have no impact on the site due to no change in activity at the site.
Alternative 2: The Proposed Action
The Proposed Action requests the issuance of a SUP and the placement of two structures within the project area. With the construction activities associated with
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment the structure placement the potential for sedimentation increases as soil is disturbed. Construction activities will not directly impact streams within the project area due to a lack of proximity.
The long term maintenance of the area occasionally involves the removal of certain trees that are identified as Danger Trees which have been designated to be removed on an as needed basis. These activities may require the use of heavy equipment. The use of herbicides is directly applied to tree saplings located within the powerline easement and is not applied as a broadcast, therefore minimizing the probability of herbicides impacting water quality.
Appropriate BMPs will be installed during the soil disturbance activities to minimize the amount of sediment leaving the site and potentially entering public waters. A General Construction Stormwater NPDES Permit from the ADEM will be obtained. Additionally, a CBMP Plan will be developed and implemented during the structure removal and/or maintenance process to minimize the amount of soil and sediment leaving the site, especially during rainfall events. The required monitoring of the BMPs will be completed as outlined by the ADEM regulations and the General Stormwater NPDES Permit during the construction and through final stabilization of all soils on the project site. Upon completion of removal activities all disturbed soil areas will be stabilized using the referenced standard grass mix.
3.3.3 Cumulative Effects
There are no direct impacts proposed to water resources as part of the proposed action. Deposition of sediment as a product of soil erosion is unlikely due to the proximity of water resources to the project site. The use of BMP’s during construction activities and immediate stabilization of bare soils will permanent vegetation will also help to eliminate the possibility of impacts on water resources. Water quality within local and regional water resources will not be negatively affected by the proposed action.
3.4 Wetlands
The CWA regulates activities that will impact wetlands and waters of the United States, specifically the discharge of fill or dredged material. Section 404 of the CWA gives the Secretary of the Army the responsibilities of regulating impacts to wetlands and waters of the US through a permit program. The regulatory program is administered by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). There are two types of permits issued by the USACE authorizing the placement of fill or dredged material into wetlands and waters of the US. A General Permit authorizes impacts that have minimal impacts to jurisdictional waters. An Individual Permit is authorized on a case by case basis and requires public comments and considers the least damaging practical alternative.
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The Executive Order for the Protection of Wetlands (E.O. 11990) also regulates the activities of federal agencies with regard to wetlands. Each agency shall take action to minimize the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands and to preserve and enhance the natural benefit and value of wetlands in carrying out the agency’s responsibilities.
3.4.1 Existing Conditions
There are no wetlands located within the project area per delineation performed by Cahaba Consulting, LLC.
3.4.2 Alternatives Evaluated
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
The No Action Alternative will have no impact on the area due to the absence of wetlands.
Alternative 2: The Proposed Action
The Proposed Action will have no impact due to the absence of wetlands on the site.
3.4.3 Cumulative Effects
There are no wetlands located within this project boundary; therefore there will be no impacts to area wetlands.
3.5 Wildlife and Vegetation Resources
3.5.1 Affected Environment
Construct approximately 5 miles of new 115 kV transmission line in Cleburne County with approximately 800’ crossing the Talladega National Forest property in Township 15S, Range 11E, Section 19. This section of right-of-way will contain 2 structures with ½” guys: 1 – 105’ concrete and 1 – 100’ steel supporting 3 – 397.5 26/7 ACSR conductors and 1 – 7 #8 alumoweld shield wire.
3.5.2 Environmental Effects
3.5.2.1 USFS Sensitive Species
Species Considered & Evaluated
There are over 182 Regional Forester’s Sensitive Species known or suspected to occur on or near one or more of the management units comprising the National
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Forests in Alabama. This comprehensive list can be found on page four of the “National Forest in Alabama Appendices Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Revised Land and Resource Plan.” Sensitive species known to occur on or near the Shoal Creek Ranger District are evaluated in this document. Table III-1 is a subset of plants & animals from the Regional Forester’s list that are found or potentially exist on the Shoal Creek Ranger District. All these species were considered, but some species were excluded from the analysis based on whether or not they occurred or were likely to occur within the project area based on surveys and/or suitable habitat.
Table III-1. USFS Sensitive Species considered and included/excluded from Analysis in EA/BE. (List derived from Final EIS, Revised Land and Resource Management Plan PET Species List, NFA 2004)
Global State Considered but USFS Sensitive Considered Rank Rank Habitat excluded from Species in EA (*) (**) Analysis Roosts in caves, Rafinesque's big- hollow trees and eared bat G3G4 S2 forages over open X (Corynorhinus water and riparian rafinesquii) areas
Roosts in caves, Eastern small-footed hollow trees and bat G3 S1 forages over open X (Myotis leibii) water and riparian areas
Open pinewoods Bachman's sparrow with a thick ground G3 S3 X (Aimophila aestivalis) cover of native grasses Rivers, lakes and peregrine falcon 2 G4 S3 large wetland X (Falco peregrinus) systems Hardwood woodlands, and Diana fritillary G3 S3 mixed X (Speyeria diana) pine/hardwood woodlands
Early-successional Frosted elfin forests and G3 SU X (Callophrys irus) woodlands, and savannas
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Cliff habitat, late- A liverwort successional 1 G2 SNR X (Plagiochila echinata) riparian forests, & bases of cliff bluffs
Rock outcrops, Little Georgia moss cliffs, spray cliffs, (Tetrodontium G3 SNR and late- X1 brownianum) successional riparian habitat rich mesic forests, Small-flowered usually on bluffs buckeye (Aesculus G2G3 S2 X and silty alluvial parviflora) woods Roadsides, open Georgia aster woods, barrens, (Symphyotrichum G2G3 S2S3 X and glades, Utility georgianum) ROW Canopy gaps in Alabama grapefern G3G4 SH moist woods and X (Botrichium jenmenii) open woodlands
Kral's Indian Dry sand hills and paintbrush G2 S2 montane longleaf X (Castilleja kraliana) pine communities Whorled horsebalm Well drained, (Collinsonia G3 SNR X moist substrates verticillata) Ridgetops, dry & rocky longleaf Large witchalder forests and open G3 S2 X (Fothergilla major) woodland settings often over sandstone
Longleaf sunflower Glades & barrens (Helianthus G3 S1S2 as well as rocky X longifolius) ridgetops Dry rocky Smith's sunflower ridgetops & G2Q S2 X (Helianthus smithii) mountain longleaf slopes. Harper's wild ginger Moist shaded (Hexastylis G4T3 S2 hardwood slopes X shuttlesworthii var. and rich soils harperi) River corridors, Carolina spider lily sandbanks, (Hymenocallis G2Q SNR cobbles, stream X caroliniana) scours and riparian habitat
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Moist shaded-to- partially-sunny Alabama warbonnet riparian forest, (Jamesianthus G3 S3 X alluvial deposits, alabamaensis) basic mesic or circumneutral soils
Moist shaded-to- partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, Butternut G3G4 S1 basic mesic or X (Juglans cinerea) circumneutral soils, streambanks, bluffs River corridors, Fraser's yellow sandbanks, loosestrife G2 S1 cobbles, stream X (Lysimachia fraseri) scours and riparian habitat
Open canopy with Broadleaf Barbara's little to no shrub buttons G3 S3 competition in X (Marshallia trinervia) bogs, seeps, and streamsides
Canopy gaps in Alabama snow basic mesic wreath G2 S2 forests and late X (Neviusia successional alabamaensis) riparian forests Wet, boggy areas, streamheads or White fringeless seepage slopes in orchid G2G3 S2 acidic muck or X (Platanthera sand in flat or integrilabia) sharply sloped streamside areas Dry sandy soils, Clammy locust rocky slopes G3 SU X (Robinia viscosa) around small drain heads.
Moist shaded-to- partially-sunny Eared coneflower riparian forests, (Rudbeckia G1 S1 alluvial deposits, X auriculata) basic mesic or circumneutral soils, streambanks
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Moist shaded Pinnate-lobed black- hardwood slopes eyed Susan & rich soils as well G5T3 S2S3 X (Rudbeckia triloba as overlap into the var. pinnatiloba) late-successional riparian forest
Dry sandy soils, Appalachian rose rocky slopes and gentian G2 S2 X moderately open (Sabatia capitata) stands
Light to deep shade in fine Alabama skullcap sands or sandy (Scutellaria G2 S2 X loams, well alabamensis) drained moist substrates. Moist shaded-to- partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, Nevius' stonecrop basic mesic or G3 S3 X (Sedum nevii) circumneutral soils, streambanks, bluffs and rises in rich coves
Piedmont meadow Moist shaded rue G1G2Q SNR hardwood slopes X (Thalictrum and rich soils macrostylum)
Moist shaded-to- partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, basic mesic or Lanceleaf trillium G3 S2S3 circumneutral X (Trillium lancifolium) soils, streambanks, bluffs and rises in moist sandy bottoms
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
Moist shaded-to- partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, Southern nodding basic mesic or trillium G3 S2 circumneutral X (Trillium rugelii) soils, streambanks, bluffs and rises in moist sandy bottoms Big rivers or creeks, low Loggerhead musk gradient, medium 2 turtle G5 S5 X river, pool, (Stenotherus minor) spring/spring brook Clear cool, moderate to swift currents over cobble-boulder- Holiday darter gravel substrates (Etheostoma G2 S2 within relatively X
brevirostrum) shallow portions of runs, pools and sometimes riffles of medium to large streams Shallow slow currents over well- vegetated, coarse Coldwater darter organic debris G1G2 S1 X (Etheostoma ditrema) substrates within springs and spring-runs of small streams
Flowing currents over gravel-sand- Lined chub rubble substrates (Hybopsis G3 S3 X within riffles and lineapunctata) pools of small to medium streams
Swift currents over gravel-cobble- sand substrates Coal darter within bedrock G2 S2 X (Percina brevicauda) troughs at the foot of rapids or riffle heads of large streams and rivers
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
Deep swift currents over sand substrates within Freckled darter G2 S3 runs and rapids of X (Percina lenticula) main channel large streams and rivers
Deep moderate currents over gravel-cobble- Bronze darter boulder substrates G3 S3 X (Percina palmaris) within riffles and runs of large streams and small rivers
Various substrates A crayfish within riffle and 3 G3 S3 X (Cambarus englishi) pool habitats of streams
High gradient swift currents over Alabama spike gravel substrates 3 G3 S2 X (Elliptio arca) within lateral bars and riffles of large streams and rivers
Shallow water of various currents over sand and mud substrates within riffles of Tennessee small headwater heelsplitter 3 G3 S2 and tributary X (Lasmigona streams and small holstonia) spring runs, and occasionally backwaters and side channel pools of large rivers
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
Moderate gradient and swift shallow currents over coarse sand and Georgia pigtoe gravel substrates 3 (Pleurobema G1 SH X within runs, riffles, hanleyianum) or shoals of small to medium rivers and large tributary streams
Moderate gradient and swift shallow currents over coarse sand and Alabama clubshell gravel substrates 3 (Pleurobema G1 SH X within runs, riffles, troshelianum) or shoals of small to medium rivers and large tributary streams Moderate gradient slow to fast currents over Ridged mapleleaf sand-gravel 3 (Quadrula G3 S1S2 X substrates within rumphiana) medium sized rivers and reservoirs
Areas with little to Alabama no currents within creekmussel G3 S2 either larger X (Strophitus tributary streams connasaugaensis) or small rivers
Alabama rainbow Small headwater G3 S3 X (Villosa nebulosa) streams
Large tributary Coosa creekshell G4T2 S2 headwater X (Villosa umbrans) streams and rivers
Helma's net spinning Bottom dwellers caddisfly within small G1G3 S1 X (Cheumatopsyche headwater helma) streams
May inhabit A caddisfly G1 S1 springs and small X (Hydroptila cheaha) spring-fed streams
A caddisfly May inhabit (Hydroptila G1 S1 springs and small X3 choccolocco) spring-fed streams
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
Presumably they A caddisfly 3 G1 S1 inhabit small X (Hydroptila patriciae) streams
Primarily inhabits small headwater A caddisfly 3 G1 S1 streams of the X (Hydroptila setigera) lower Appalachian Mountains
Primarily inhabit flowing currents over cobble- Allegheny snaketail gravel-mud (Ophiogomphus G3Q S1S2 substrates within X3 incurvatus shallow riffles of alleghaniensis) spring-fed small to medium sized “pristine” streams Clear flowing currents over sand Appalachian snaketail and gravel 3 (Ophiogomphus G3 X substrates within incurvatus) riffles of piedmont streams
Carlson's polycentropus Benthic dwellers in 3 caddisfly G1G3 S1 X very small streams (Polycentropus carlsoni) Notes: 1 - No record of occurrence 2 - Suitable habitat doesn't exist in or near project area 3 - Located in watersheds outside of project area (*) Global rankings are established by the Association for Biodiversity Information, in partnership with the Nature Conservancy. (**) State rankings are determined by the Alabama Natural Heritage program.
Evaluated Sensitive Species Survey Information
Field reviews of the project area have been conducted by APC biologists. The area was visually inspected for sensitive species during September 2012, because this period of the year represents the flowering season for the Georgia aster. The project area was also inspected for sensitive areas, such as upland bogs or other rare community types.
The survey was performed on the existing 800’ distribution line right-of-way. Species preferring an open canopy were most common in the survey area. Species such as Andropogon spp., Panicum spp., Solidago spp., Verbena
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment brasiliensis, Cassia fasciculata, and Desmodium, spp. dominated the herbaceous layer. Additional species encountered included Lonicera japonica, Liatris spp., Polygonum spp., Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Setaria spp., Smilax bona-nox and S. glauca, and Eupatorium rugosum. Tree species adjacent to the cleared right-of- way included Pinus taeda, Quercus nigra, and Diospyros virginiana; shrubs/saplings included Acer rubrum, Vaccinium spp., Cornus florida, Quercus alba, Q. stellata, Ulmus alata, Liquidambar styraciflua, and Oxydendrum arboreum. There were no wetlands or streams in the project area.
No additional surveys for sensitive species were necessary.
SS-1 Bachman’s sparrow
This species of bird inhabits open pinewoods with a groundcover of thick native grasses. Within the Talladega National Forest the most likely habitat is located within areas of managed longleaf pine stands that are maintained by fire in connection with red-cockaded woodpecker management areas. The species is known from the Talladega Division of the Talladega National Forest by counts and bird surveys (Appendices FEIS RLRP).
Alternative 1 (No Action): The long term effect of the No Action Alternative would be that the project area would revert to a mixed forest upon removal of the powerline and associated structures. In this case and in the absence of a management plan, inhabitance of hardwood and pine species will occur, eventually transforming the area into a hardwood successional forest. The species prefers a managed longleaf pine habitat with an open mid-story and savannah like understory. There is no immediate direct effect with the No Action Alternative.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): The project area is currently an open area that is maintained in this state by vegetation maintenance and hardwood species control through the application of specific herbicides. The Preferred Alternative will allow the continuance of these control devices and thus maintain the area in its current state. There will be no short or long term direct effect on these species since the project area does not currently provide the required habitat conditions.
SS-2 Diana fritillary and Frosted elfin
The Diana fritillary (Speyeria diana) has recently been found in the Talladega Division of the National Forest. The species’ primary habitats include hardwood woodlands and mixed pine-hardwood woodlands and forests. The species lays eggs at random on grasses and their caterpillars feed primarily on the genus Viola.
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
The Frosted elfin (Callophrys irus) feeds primarily on the species within the genus Baptisia. It is not known to occur in Alabama, but if it is present it is most likely to occur within the Talladega Division. Habitats include early successional hardwood forests and woodlands, and savannahs (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.20).
Alternative 1 (No Action Alternative): Potential impacts from the No Action Alternative would be the loss of the open area that occurs under the existing transmission line. With the removal of the line and its structures, combined with the absence of a focused management plan, the area would revert to a forested landscape. The Diana fritillary could potentially use the existing line as a foraging area and egg laying area. The Frosted elfin could potentially use the project area for occupation and egg laying. Eventually the right-of-way would convert to a mixed hardwood forest would provide very limited habitat opportunities for these butterfly species.
Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative): The Preferred Alternative will continue to keep the site conditions comparable to their current state. Habitat conditions currently are marginal to unsuitable for these species. The alternative includes infrequent disturbances to the area that may cause minor, short-term impacts to the species due to the required vegetation monitoring that occurs within the project area. These vegetation treatments include herbicide application, especially to hardwoods. Although there is some Viola present in the right-of- way, conditions are not favorable for the Diana fritillary and it is not likely that those conditions would change appreciably due to the proposed project. It is most likely that the Preferred Alternative would have no direct effect on these two butterfly species.
SS-3 Rafinesque’s big-eared bat and Eastern small-footed bat
The Rafinesque’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus rafinesquii) has not been documented in any of the management units in the National Forests of Alabama. It has been given the ranking of FP for having a potential residence on any management unit in the National Forests of Alabama. The species utilizes caves, hollow trees, and other structures for nesting areas. The species forages over open wetlands and riparian zones. The absence of the species from the Talladega National Forest is attributed to the lack of caves and open wetlands (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.10).
The range of the Eastern small-footed bat (Myotis leibii) within Alabama is limited to the northernmost counties of the State. It has been given an FP ranking for its potential to be located on the northern extent of the Talladega National Forests’ range, which may reach the bat’s southernmost extent. The species has not been documented on any management unit in Alabama. The Eastern small- footed bat roosts in open caves, mines, cliffs, rock fissures, and other structures. Foraging areas include open water and riparian areas. The most limiting factor
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment for the species absence from the Talladega National Forest is the general lack of caves and open wetlands (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.12).
Alternative 1 (No Action Alternative): There would be no short or long term direct effect to these species under this alternative since the area does not provide suitable habitat for roosting required by the species. Forestation of the area upon removal of the powerline and its structures would allow for the inhabitation of a dense midstory and understory which is not preferred by the species for foraging areas.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): The area currently provides limited foraging areas for the species. The area will remain in this current condition with the re- issuance of the SUP and the continuation of the vegetation monitoring and maintenance that occurs within the project area. The long term direct effect on these species could be positive since the area does currently provide some foraging habitat conditions.
SS-4 Small-flowered buckeye, Whorled horsebalm, Harper’s wild ginger, Alabama warbonnet, Butternut, Pinnate-lobed black-eyed Susan, Alabama skullcap, Piedmont meadow rue, Lanceleaf trillium, Southern nodding trillium, Eared coneflower, and Alabama snow-wreath
Small-flowered buckeye (Aesculus parviflora) is known to be found on the Talladega unit of the National Forest. It is found in open mesic hardwood communities. The species is found under full canopy. It is very rare on the forest units, and high quality occurrences with large numbers of individuals are not known to occur. Protection of known sites during project planning is important for providing opportunities for population expansion (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.53).
Whorled horsebalm (Collinsonia verticillata) is known from three (3) locations on the Talladega National Forest. Habitat includes moist shaded hardwood slopes in rich soils. It grows in light to deep shade in fine sandy or sandy loam soils in sites that are rarely dry. The sites usually receive a steady flow of water from adjacent uplands but they do not flood. The species usually disappears when the overstory has been completely removed. The species is not tolerant to dry soils or frequent disturbances (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.60).
Harper’s wild ginger (Hexastylis shuttlesworthii var. harperi) is known from three locations on the Talladega National Forest. It prefers moist shaded hardwood slopes with rich soils. It is found in locations with light to deep shade in fine sandy or sandy loam soils. The sites are rarely dry and can also be associated with bogs and forest seeps (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.63).
Alabama warbonnet (Jamesianthus alabamensis) prefers moist shaded-to- partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, basic mesic or circumneutral
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment soils, streambanks, bluffs and rises in moist sandy bottoms (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.63).
Butternut (Juglans cinerea) is not known from the Talladega Division of the National Forests of Alabama. The tree prefers moist shaded to partially sunny riparian forest, alluvial deposits, streambanks, bluffs, and rises. It is located in areas with light shade to open canopy on rock or cliffs, including spray cliff conditions and late successional riparian basic forests. The main requirement seems to be some light and constant water source (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.65).
Pinnate-lobed black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia triloba var. pinnatiloba) prefers moist shaded hardwood slopes and rich soils. It is found in light to deep shade in fine sands and sandy loamy soils. The sites are rarely dry and receive a steady hydrologic input from the adjacent uplands. The sites rarely flood. It does not tolerate drying of the soils or disturbance (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.78).
Alabama skullcap (Scutellaria alabamensis) prefers moist shaded hardwood slopes in rich soils. It is found in light to deep shade, in fine sands or sandy loams. The sites are rarely dry and receive a steady hydrologic flow from their adjacent uplands. The sites do not flood. It is normally associated with spring woodland forbs that require well-drained, moist substrates and disappear when the overstory is completely removed. It does not seem to tolerate disturbance or over-drying of the soils (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.80).
Piedmont meadow rue (Thalictrum macrostylum = T. subrotundum) prefers moist shaded hardwood slopes in rich soils. It is found in light to deep shade, in fine sands or sandy loams. The sites are rarely dry and receive a steady hydrologic flow from their adjacent uplands. The sites do not flood. It is normally associated with spring woodland forbs that require well-drained, moist substrates and disappear when the overstory is completely removed. It does not seem to tolerate disturbance or over-drying of the soils (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.83).
Lanceleaf trillium (Trillium lancifolium) has been found in the Talladega National Forest. This species prefers moist shaded-to-partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, basic mesic or circumneutral soils, streambanks, bluffs and rises in moist sandy bottoms (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.85).
Southern nodding trillium (Trillium rugelii) has been found only in the Talladega National Forest. This prefers moist shaded-to-partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, basic mesic or circumneutral soils, streambanks, bluffs and rises in moist sandy bottoms (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.85).
Eared coneflower (Rudbeckia auriculata) has been found in the Oakmulgee and Talladega National Forests. The plant prefers moist shaded-to-partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, river corridors and streambanks. It grows in
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment light shade to open canopy on rocks or cobbles, and even in the middle of the stream. The main requirement seems to be some light and constant water source (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.77).
Alabama snow-wreath (Neviusia alabamensis) is not currently known from any locations in the National Forests in Alabama. Based upon the species’ range wide distribution, it is possible that it could occur in the Talladega National Forest, since it has been found close to the administrative boundaries of the unit. This species requires canopy gaps in basic mesic forests and in late successional riparian forests (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.70).
Alternative 1 (No Action)
There will be no immediate short term effects for the No Action Alternative. The long term potential effects would be the project area being restored to a hardwood community upon removal of the powerline and its associated structures from Forest Service lands. With the return of forested habitat, the potential for positive long term effect on soil moisture could occur; however, based on the soil types present in the project area, no lasting positive long term effect would be anticipated.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
This alternative will have no direct immediate effect on any of these species since they occur and/or prefer either shaded or partially shaded areas in open hardwood forest. The existing project area occurs in full sun with very little shade, which may only occur on the edges where it meets with the existing forest. The lack of a canopy in the project area allows for direct sunlight penetration within the area which prevents much of the area from being shaded and moist as required by these species.
SS-5. Nevius’ stonecrop, White fringeless orchid, Carolina spider lily, Fraser’s yellow loosestrife, and Broadleaf Barbara’s buttons
Nevius’ stonecrop (Sedum nevii) has been found on the Talladega National Forest. This species prefer moist shaded-to-partially-sunny riparian forests, alluvial deposits, basic mesic or circumneutral soils, streambanks, bluffs and rises in rich coves. It grows in light shade to open canopy on rocks, cliffs, including spray cliff conditions, dry calcareous waterfall areas, and boulders in the middle of the streams, and late successional riparian basic forests (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.81).
White fringeless orchid (Platanthera integrilabia) is currently known from one location in the Talladega district. The species is listed as a candidate species for listing by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The site in the Talladega district contains approximately 5 individuals. The species can be found over a variety of
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment landscapes but is likely to be located in wet, boggy areas, stream heads, or seepage slopes in acidic muck or sand, in flats or at the bottom of sharply sloped streamsides. Common associates are species of Sphagnum moss and fern species such as: Cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), Chain fern (Woodwardia areolata), and New York fern (Thelyptris noveboracensis) (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.50).
Carolina spider lily (Hymenocallis caroliniana) has been given a Forest Service rank of F1 on the Talladega unit as being critically imperiled. Preferred habitat includes river corridors, sandbanks, cobbles, stream scours and riparian areas. It grows in light shade to open canopy on alluvial deposits and gravel. It has been found on boulders and cobbles in the center of the river course. The main requirement seems to be some light and constant water source (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.64).
Fraser’s yellow loosestrife (Lysimachia fraseri) prefers river corridors, sandbanks, cobbles, stream scours, and riparian areas in light shade to open canopy. These areas are found over alluvial deposits and gravel, streambanks, scours, and first level terraces. It can also be located within the stream on boulders and cobbles. The plant needs some light and a constant water source (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.67).
Broadleaf Barbara’s buttons (Marshallia trinervia) is located within bogs, seeps, and streamsides with a partially open canopy with little to no shrub competition (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.68).
Alternative 1 (No Action)
There would be no immediate short term effects for the No Action Alternative, as there is presently no suitable habitat for these species in the project area. There would also be no long term effects; the area would revert to a closed canopy, mixed pine/hardwood forest, which is also unsuitable for this suite of plant species.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
The Preferred Alternative will continue to allow for the area to remain in its current state. Although the project area provides for an absence of a canopy, there are no wetland or streambank areas which these species would require to survive. Therefore, the Preferred Alternative will have no positive or negative short or long term direct effects on any of these plant species.
SS-6. Kral’s Indian paintbrush, Large witchalder, Longleaf sunflower, Smith’s sunflower, Clammy locust, Appalachian rose gentian, and Alabama grapefern
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
Kral’s Indian paintbrush (Castilleja kraliana) is not currently known from any locations in the National Forests in Alabama; based upon the species’ range wide distribution, it is possible that it could occur on the Talladega National Forest. This species is endemic to mountain longleaf pine ecosystems. Habitat includes dry sandhills and montane longleaf pine communities (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.59).
Large Witchalder (Fothergilla major), has been ranked as an F1 and has been found in the Talladega National Forest. It is commonly found within ridgetop and dry rocky longleaf pine forests, and open woodland savannah settings, often over sandstone (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.62).
Longleaf sunflower (Helianthus longifolius) has been found at a single location within the Talladega National Forest. It is associated with ridgetop and montane longleaf pine open woodland settings. This is a species that occurs on glades and barrens, as well as rocky ridgetops (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.62).
Smith’s sunflower (Helianthus smithii) is known from six (6) sites in the Talladega National Forest. It is an associate of ridgetop and montane longleaf pine settings. This is a species that occurs on dry rocky ridgetops as well as mountain longleaf slopes. The habitat plays a moderate role in limiting the viability of this species, which is currently believed to be at high risk (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.63).
Clammy locust (Robinia viscosa) is commonly found on ridgetops, dry rocky mountain longleaf pine forests, and open woodland or savannahs within the Talladega National Forest. Soils are dry sandy or rocky soils on slopes. It can also be located around small drainage heads. It is partially shade tolerant (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.77).
Appalachian rose gentian (Sabatia capitata) is endemic to the southern Appalachians with associations on dry ridgetops and montane longleaf pine forests. It can also be found in open woodlands and savannah settings. Habitat soils are dry sandy soils, rocky slopes, and in moderately open stands. (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.79).
Alabama grapefern (Botrichium jenmenii) is known from one (1) location in the National Forests in Alabama. It is located in canopy gaps in moist woods, and open woodlands and grasslands on drier sites (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.57).
Alternative 1 (No Action)
There will be no short or long term direct effect on these species. The current habitat conditions are not suitable for this suite of plants; the conversion to mixed pine/hardwood forest under the No Action Alternative would also result in unsuitable habitat.
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
The Preferred Alternative would allow the current open right-of-way to remain intact through the continuation of vegetation maintenance and hardwood species control. There will be no direct effect on these species; however, since the project area currently provides unsuitable habitat conditions for them.
SS-7. Holiday darter, Coldwater darter, Lined chub, Coal darter, Freckled darter, Bronze darter, Coosa creekshell, Alabama creekmussel, Helma’s net spinning caddisfly, a caddisfly (Hydroptila cheaha)
Holiday darter (Etheostoma brevirostrum) is endemic to the Coosa River system above the Fall Line in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee (Boschung & Mayden 2004). The species may be found in one watershed associated with the Talladega National Forest; it is uncommon in abundance on the Talladega National Forest. This fish prefers medium to large, clear streams with moderate to fast current and a variety of substrates, including boulders, rubble, gravel, sand, and river weed (Mirarchi et al., eds. 2004). Spawning apparently occurs during April and May, and prey items include aquatic insect larvae and microcrustaceans (Mettee et al. 1996).
Coldwater darter (Etheostoma ditrema) is endemic to the Coosa River basin in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee (Mettee et al. 1996). The species may be found in four watersheds associated with the Talladega National Forest; it is rare in abundance on the Talladega National Forest. This fish inhabits shallow water (usually less than 1 m in depth) in slow current over well vegetated coarse organic debris substrate in springs and spring runs of small streams (Mettee et al. 1996; Keuhne & Barbour 1983). Main prey items include amphipods, chironomids, and copepods (Mount 1986). The species is sensitive to water temperature changes and flow regime alterations (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.108).
Lined chub (Hybopsis lineapunctata) potentially inhabits ten (10) watersheds associated with the Talladega National Forest. This species primarily inhabits flowing currents over gravel-sand-rubble substrates within riffles and pools of small to medium streams (Pierson et al. 1986). Instream habitat for is leaf litter in sandy main channel pools (Pierson et al. 1986). Prey includes aquatic and terrestrial insects (Mettee et al. 1986) (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.119).
Coal darter (Percina brevicauda) potentially inhabits eight (8) watersheds associated with the Oakmulgee Division and the main division of the Talladega National Forest. The species is found in swift currents over gravel-cobble-sand substrates within bedrock troughs at the foot of rapids or riffle heads of large streams and rivers (Mettee et al. 1996; NatureServe 2012). It is commonly
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment associated with Podostemum or Justicia beds (Suttkus et al. 1994). Prey includes aquatic insect larvae, microcrustaceans, and aquatic worms (Mettee et al. 1996) (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.127).
Freckled darter (Percina lenticula) is known from twenty (20) extant populations within the Tombigbee, Cahaba, Tallapoosa, and Coosa River systems (Pierson et al, 1989; Mettee et al. 1996). The species inhabits deep swift currents over sand substrates within runs and rapids of main channel large streams and rivers (Mettee et al. 1996; Ross 2001). Juveniles are located in shallow riffles with Justicia beds (Mettee et al. 1996). Cover types for adults are boulders, logs, and large woody debris (Pierson et al. 1989; Ross 2001). Prey of the freckled darter includes large mayflies, caddisflies, dragonflies, stoneflies, and hellgrammites (Ross 2001) (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.130).
Bronze darter (Percina palmaris) potentially inhabits thirteen (13) watersheds associated with the Talladega National Forest. Bronze darters are localized and limited in their distribution. The species primarily inhabits areas of deep moderate current over gravel-cobble-boulder substrates within riffles and runs of large streams and small rivers, usually associated with Justicia and Podostemum (Mettee et al. 1996). Prey of the species includes various aquatic insects and snails (Wieland 1983) (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.134).
Coosa creekshell (Villosa umbrans) is considered at risk of population decline according to Williams et al. (1992). Globally the species is ranked as “apparently secure” (G4T2); within Alabama, the species is ranked as “imperiled” (S2) (NatureServe 2012). This species has been identified as a priority 2 species of high concern (i.e. “imperiled”) within the State of Alabama (ADCNR 2003). Coosa creekshell is endemic to the Mobile River basin and ranges across Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee above the fall line. It is usually found in a mixture of sand, gravel, and cobble substrates in moderate current (Williams et al., 2008). Currently, the species potentially inhabits four watersheds associated with the Oakmulgee and main divisions of the Talladega National Forest. Coosa creekshell may occur on several other National Forest management units within the southeast. The National Forests represent less than 5 percent of the species’ range within the State of Alabama. Coosa creekshell is widespread in its distribution within tributaries above the fall line (ACDNR 2003). Where encountered, they are generally rare and in low abundance (Mettee et al. 1996; Smith et al. 2002; ACDNR 2003). It is primarily a species of small creeks to medium rivers. However, there are a few records from the Coosa River proper prior to its impoundment.
Alabama creekmussel (Strophitus connasaugaensis) is considered at risk of population decline according to Williams et al. (1992). Globally the species is ranked as “vulnerable” (G3); within Alabama, the species is ranked as “imperiled” (S2) (NatureServe 2012). This species has been identified as a priority 4 species of low concern (i.e. fairly secure) within the State of Alabama (ADCNR 2003).
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment
The Alabama creekmussel is endemic to the Mobile River basin in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and Tennessee. Historically, the species probably ranged throughout the Coosa and Cahaba drainages. The National Forests represent less than 5 percent of the species’ range within the State of Alabama. The Alabama creekmussel is localized in its distribution; where encountered, it is generally common and in high abundance (Mettee et al. 1996; Smith et al. 2002, ACDNR 2003).
Helma’s net-spinning caddisfly (Cheumatopsyche helma) has been located in the upper and middle Coosa River basin within Clay and DeKalb counties. The species potentially inhabits three watersheds associated with the Talladega National Forest. Aquatic stages of the life cycle of the species inhabit main stems of the streams. The terrestrial adults inhabit wooded ridge tops. The species may be sensitive to siltation, point source pollution, altered flows, and loss or modification of riparian vegetation and ridge-top trees (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.180).
A caddisfly (Hydroptila cheaha) is endemic to the middle Coosa River basin in Talladega County, Alabama. This caddisfly is currently only known from the Cheaha Creek watershed but has the potential to inhabit three separate watersheds associated with the Talladega National Forest. The aquatic stages of the species may inhabit springs and small spring-fed streams, while the terrestrial adults inhabit and feed on riparian vegetation. The caddisfly also shelters in rocky crevices and woody debris (Harris et al. 1991) (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.194).
Alternative 1 (No Action)
The proposed project area is not closely associated with any streams, drainages, or riparian zones. Under the No Action Alternative the existing right- of-way would revert to a mixed pine/hardwood forest; this change would have no short or long term impacts on water resources in the area, and therefore would have no effect on the above listed aquatic species.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
The proposed project area is not closely associated with any streams, drainages, or riparian zones. Utilization of appropriate BMPs during structure placement/replacement will prevent any secondary impacts to downstream resources. As a result, water quality within the project area would continue to remain in its current state under the Preferred Alternative, and there would be no short or long term impacts to streams in the general area. Therefore, no effects to the above listed aquatic species would be anticipated.
SS-8. Georgia Aster
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Georgia aster (Symphyotrichum georgianum), a candidate for federal listing, is a plant of roadsides, open woods, barrens and glades, utility rights-of-way, or other sunny situations, and appears to be adaptable to dry, open habitats independent of soil type (Matthews, 1993). Georgia aster is known to occur in Alabama, North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia. Based on information summarized in a status survey completed in December 1993, there are 56 surviving populations, though many appear to be declining (Matthews 1993). Within the Talladega National Forest, Georgia aster occurs at 3 geographically distinct sites (Survey information, 2002) including one occurrence that has been suggested to be the largest known site found to date in Alabama (ALNHP 2002). However, two of the populations found on the Talladega National Forest are at low numbers (unpublished data, USDA Forest Service). All sites occur along roadsides or powerline rights-of-way, making them vulnerable to management actions. Historically, much of the species’ habitat was xeric woodlands, savannahs, or grasslands that were maintained in an open condition by fires caused by lightning or Native American burning (Matthews 1993; Davis et al. 2002) (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.46) (USDA 2010).
Alternative 1 (No Action)
The survey conducted in 2012 failed to locate any Georgia aster in the project area. If the species is absent, then the No Action Alternative would have no effect. If the species were to occur in the project area, the immediate short term effects for this alternative could be the disturbance of the species as the powerline and structure removal activities occur. Further, once the removal of the powerline and associated structures occurs, the currently enacted management plan for the control of nuisance vegetation and hardwood species would cease. As a result of the cessation of this management plan, the right-of- way would begin the process of reverting to a mixed forest. In the presence of the mixed forest canopy and thick midstory that would result, the long term effects would be detrimental to this species. In the absence of open woods and sunny situations, the preferred habitat for the Georgia aster, the potential for long term survival diminishes significantly.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
The Preferred Alternative will continue to allow for the project area to remain in its current state. The project area currently provides for an absence of a canopy which results in open spaces that provide ample sunlight and an open habitat. Although the Georgia aster apparently does not currently exist in the project area, the Preferred Alternative maintains conditions that could allow for its establishment there at some point in the future.
Alternative 1 (No Action) Cumulative Effects for all Sensitive Species
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Cumulative effects for the analyzed sensitive species include those past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions that may affect their habitat. The No Action Alternative action would have no short term negative effects but could have long term negative effects for certain of these species. The right-of-way would convert to a mixed pine/hardwood stand, eliminating the presence of the open habitat that currently exists in the project area. In all likelihood the short and long term effect would be nil, because (1) none of the above listed species has been found to occur in the project area, and (2) species primarily respond to habitat that is not based on vegetative community but rather on geomorphic and/or surface water drainage conditions. Therefore, the No Action Alternative for these species would likely result in no adverse impact during the short and/or long term.
Alternative 2 (Preferred Action) Cumulative Effects for all Sensitive Species Cumulative effects for the analyzed sensitive species include those past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions that may affect their habitat. Under the Preferred Action alternative, the project area will continue to be maintained in its current state, as an open canopy, herbaceous community dominated right-of- way. Long term water quality will not be adversely affected by any activities associated with the proposed project. Therefore, it is our opinion that the Preferred Action alternative will continue to support any sensitive species that occur, or may occur, within the project area.
3.5.2.2 Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species
Species Considered & Evaluated
All Proposed, Endangered, Threatened, and Candidate (PETC) species were considered, yet some species were excluded from the analysis based on whether or not they occurred or likely occurred within the project area based on surveys and/or suitable habitat. Table III-2 contains the listing for all PETC species and their consideration for inclusion/exclusion from a detailed analysis, and Table III- 3contains the designated Critical Habitat considered and included/excluded from similar analysis.
Table III-2 Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species considered and included/excluded from Analysis in EA/BE. (List derived from Final EIS, Revised Land and Resource Management Plan PET Species List, NFA 2004)
Threatened, Occurrence Considered Endangered, USFWS in but excluded Considered Proposed, Habitat Status Talladega from & Candidate in EA Unit Analysis Species
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Open mature Red-cockaded On Shoal pine woodlands, Woodpecker Creek Endangered midstory (Picoides Ranger X vegetation is borealis) District sparse or absent
Roost in caves, Outside of Gray bat forages over known 1 (Myotis Endangered X streams/bodies distribution in grisescens) of water state
Roosts under loose bark On Shoal Indiana bat summer, caves Creek Endangered 1 (Myotis sodalis) winter, forages Ranger X on winged District insects
Outside of Bald eagle Rivers, lakes Protected known 1,3 (Haliaeetus and large X (BGEPA) distribution in leucocephalus) wetland systems state
Rocks in riffles Outside of Tulotoma snail and shoals in known (Tulotoma Endangered fast flowing distribution in X magnifica) rivers and large state tributaries
Cool, clear, Shoal Creek medium sized Ranger Blue shiner rivers over a District, (Cyprinella Threatened variety of Potential on X caerulea) substrates and the Talladega lentic conditions RD
Pygmy sculpin Found off of Cool, clear 1 (Cottus Threatened Shoal Creek X springs pygmaeus) R.D.
sand and gravel Critical Coosa in clear streams Habitat Moccasinshell Endangered and small rivers designated (Medionidus X with moderate to on/near parvulus) strong flow districts
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shoals and runs Critical Triangular of small rivers Habitat kidneyshell Endangered and large designated (Ptychobranchu X streams over on/near s greenii) firm substrate districts
Coarse gravel/sand Critical Southern pigtoe substrate in Habitat (Pleurobema Endangered moderate designated X georgianum) current in small on/near rivers/large districts tributary streams
Sand/mud Critical mixture with Finelined Habitat gravel in pocketbook Threatened designated moderate X (Hamiota altilis) on/near currents & districts depths
Critical Upland stable Habitat combshell substrates in Endangered designated (Epioblasma rivers and large X on/near metastriata) streams districts
Critical Southern high gradient Habitat acornshell creeks and Endangered designated (Epioblasma medium gradient X on/near othcaloogensis) rivers in riffles districts
Critical sand and gravel Ovate clubshell Habitat shoals in small (Pleurobema Endangered designated rivers and large X perovatum) on/near streams districts
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Sandy stream Alabama margins in clear No known moccasinshell Threatened moderate flow population on (Medionidus X waters of small district acutissimus) to large rivers
gravel Critical Southern substrates within Habitat clubshell Endangered shoals of large designated (Pleurobema X rivers to small on/near decisum) streams districts
medium sized Georgia pigtoe Historic rivers with (Pleurobema Endangered collections sand/gravel X hanleyianum) from district substrate
Clean smooth Flat pebblesnail No known stone in rapids 1 (Lepyrium Endangered population on X of small to large showalteri) district rivers
Painted shoals and rocksnail riffles of rivers Potential Threatened (Leptoxis on gravel and occurrence X taeniata) cobble
Mud and shell fragment Cylindrical interstitial lioplax spaces among Locally 1 (Lioplax Endangered tabular boulders X extirpated cyclostomaform and bedrock is) slabs in moderate to fast current shoals
Underside of Found off Lacy elimia rock slabs or Talladega (Elimia Threatened gravel/cobble of district in X crenatella) medium/large Cheaha tributary streams Creek
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Mohr's Moist prairie-like Barbara's openings in Found on buttons Threatened woodlands private lands X (Marshallia along shale- near district mohrii) bedded streams
Alabama Mesic flats near Found on leather flower intermittent Endangered private lands (Clematis streams in X near district socialis) silty/clay soils
Seasonally flooded streams, Harperella Found on coastal plain (Ptilimnium Endangered private lands ponds, and low X nodosum) near district savannah meadows Historic Green pitcher Moist upland records & plant areas or boggy, Endangered found on (Sarracenia sandy stream X private lands oreophila) edges near district open or thin canopied woods Tennessee in gravelly seep- yellow-eyed slopes or gravel No known grass Endangered bars and banks populations X1 (Xyris of small on district tennesseensis) streams, springs, and ditches Dry open Georgia aster 3 known woods, (Symphyotrichu Candidate populations roadsides, and X m georgianum) on district openings
White wet, flat bogs at fringeless 1 known the head of orchid Candidate location on streams and X (Platanthera district seepage slopes integrilabia) Notes: 1 - No record of occurrence 2 - Located in watersheds outside of project area 3 - Suitable habitat doesn't exist in or near project area
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Table III-3. Designated Critical Habitat considered and included/excluded from Analysis in EA/BE.
Occurrence Considered in but USFWS Considered Stream Species Shoal Creek excluded Status in EA Ranger from District Analysis Coosa moccasinshell (Medionidus parvulus), Southern pigtoe (Pleurobema Critical georgianum), Located in the Shoal Creek X Habitat Triangular District kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus greenii), and Finelined pocketbook (Hamiota altilis)
Evaluated Species Survey Information
Field reviews of the project area have been conducted by APC biologists. The area was visually inspected for PETC (Proposed, Endangered, Threatened, or Candidate) species during September 2012, because this period of the year represents the flowering season for the Georgia aster. The project area was also inspected for sensitive areas, such as upland bogs or other rare community types.
PETC 1. Red-cockaded woodpecker
The red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) (Picoides borealis) was listed as endangered with the passage of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The species typically lives in breeding groups that consist of a breeding pair with one or two male helpers. The birds typically utilize longleaf pine and loblolly pine for cavity trees. Historically mature longleaf pines were the preferred tree due to their tendency to have heart rot fungus, which softened the inside of the tree for easier cavity excavation, and for their ability to produce high amounts of resin. The birds bore resin wells into the tree, which allows the resin to flow down the tree and serve as a protective barrier against snakes, which prey on the eggs and young in the nest. The red cockaded woodpecker requires an open midstory for foraging areas. The historic destruction of longleaf pine savannahs and the removal of fire has greatly decreased optimal habitat for this species. RCWs were extirpated from the Talladega Ranger District in the 1990’s. In the fall of 2008 reintroduction of the species occurred and currently there are 4 potential
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment breeding groups of RCWs. The Shoal Creek Ranger District currently has 23 active clusters and needs at least 125 active clusters to fulfill the recovery plan for the species.
Alternative 1 (No Action)
The No Action Alternative would have no direct effect on RCW. There is no suitable habitat currently present at the project area; if allowed to revert to a mixed pine/hardwood forest, there would also be no suitable habitat for the species.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
The project area is currently an open area that is maintained in this state by vegetation maintenance and hardwood species control by the application of specific herbicides. The Preferred Alternative will allow the continuance of these control devices and will keep the area in its current state. There will be no direct effect on RCW since the project area does not currently provide the required habitat conditions.
PETC 2. Indiana Bat
The Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) is federally listed as an endangered species and is listed by the State of Alabama as a Priority One Species – Highest Conservation Concern. This bat is generally associated with limestone caves in the eastern United States. The first known occurrence of Indiana bats on the National Forests in Alabama were in two caves on the Bankhead National Forest (BNF) in February, 1999. Their continued presence has been verified by Forest Service cave monitoring conducted bi-annually during 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011.
Indiana bats forage in and around the tree canopy of floodplain, riparian, and upland forests. Within floodplain forests, Indiana bats show a preference for areas where canopy closure ranges from 30% to 70% (USFWS 2007). Streams, associated floodplain forests, and impounded bodies of water are preferred foraging habitats for pregnant and lactating Indiana bats, which may fly up to 1.5 miles from upland roosts to feed (USFWS 2007). In general, Indiana bats forage within the canopy of upland forests, over clearings with early successional vegetation, along the borders of croplands, along wooded fence rows and over farm ponds in pastures. Indiana bats use larger trees with hollows or loose bark for their summer roosts and maternity colonies, but spend their winters hibernating in caves (USFWS 2007). The main threats to this species are availability of natural roost structures, loss of winter hibernacula, white-nose syndrome, and human disturbance (USFWS 2007).
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Females have been found to move from 50 to several hundred miles from the winter hibernacula to maternity roosts. Indiana bat telemetry work in the northeast has found them travelling 17- 92 miles from the hibernacula to summer maternity sites. On April 6, 2012 a bat tagged with a radio transmitter located in a cave in White County Tennessee dispersed ~150 miles south to a maternal roost tree on April 13th on the Shoal Creek Ranger District in Cleburne County, Alabama. This female bat was then followed through remaining transmitter signal life (15 days) which identified 4 roost trees, one being the maternal roost tree. It was estimated that 25-30 bats roosted in the maternal colony (April 27, 2012). All trees utilized by bats were pine snags (primarily loblolly) found in the mixed pine – hardwood bottomland community in the headwaters of the Cane Creek watershed. From these limited telemetry data, it appears that Indiana bats utilize riparian habitats in the Shoal Creek Ranger District from spring to summer.
The Talladega National Forest has very limited cave features due to the igneous rock substrate. Most features are overhangs that lack depth, can only be loosely defined as caves, and are not suitable as bat hibernacula. There are man-made mine shafts that have been created across the area. None of these have been studied for bat activity and likely are unsuitable for winter hibernacula due to the geology and environmental conditions. Due to the caves’/mine shafts’ limited suitability for Indiana bats on the Talladega Division, cave hibernacula will be excluded from further discussion.
Maternity Roosting (summer) habitat
During summer months, maternity colonies roost under sloughing bark of trees (alive and dead) of many species (USFWS 2007). Reproductive females require multiple alternate roost trees to fulfill their summer habitat needs (USFWS 2007). Adults forage on winged insects within three miles of the occupied maternity roost (USFWS 2007). In summer, most reproductive females occupy roost sites under the exfoliating bark of dead trees that retain large thick slabs of peeling bark. To date, 97% of maternity roosts are found within deciduous trees (USFWS 2007). The limited data collected on the Shoal Creek show the Indiana bat exclusively using loblolly and shortleaf pine snags along streams.
Information and research about summer roosting sites is extremely limited south of Tennessee. Recent work has been completed in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina on Indiana bat maternity colonies. The colonies were found to use primary and secondary roosting sites in pines and hardwoods (Lacki et al 2009). In all cases the bats were found under the exfoliating bark of either pine or hardwood trees, with most of the roosts being in snags (Lacki et al 2009). During the summer months, possible threats include the loss and degradation of forested habitat around maternal roost trees (USFWS 2007). It is difficult to quantify summer roosting habitat for the Indiana bat at a range-wide, regional or local level due to the variability of known roost sites and lack of knowledge about landscape level habitat characteristics of maternity roosts (USFWS 2007).
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Maternity roost sites in the south are known from Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee (USFWS 2007). Susan Loeb suggests in the south, retention of large pine snags and preservation of over-mature trees will provide a sustained future supply of roost trees. Forest management practices that affect occupied roost trees may have local impacts on Indiana bat populations (USFWS 2007). However, the bats live in highly altered landscapes, depend on an ephemeral resource, dead and dying trees and are capable of utilizing a wide geographic range and a wide variety of tree species and conditions for maternity and summer roosts. Some evidence suggests that these bats may respond positively to some degree of habitat disturbance to create open savannah habitat (USFWS 2007, Mark Gumbert, April, 18 2012, personal communication).
The Forest Plan (Revised Land and Resource Management Plan) includes the following standards that help to ensure adequate roost habitat is available to bats. retention of snags whenever possible; exclusion of forest management in riparian corridors and streamside management zones; prescribed burning will be conducted during the dormant season (October-March) and during the growing season (April-September); opening forest stands through the use of timber management, midstory removal and timber stand improvement treatments; ensuring a continuous supply of large loblolly pines, oaks, hickories, and ash as well as other trees with exfoliating bark; standing snags or den trees are not intentionally felled and snags are retained during all management operations; unless concern for public or employees snags will not be felled during vegetation management treatments; regeneration management snags will be retained or created and larger trees greater than 18” dbh will be retained to provide future snag creation; lands in the riparian corridor are classified as not suitable for timber production.
Alternative 1 (No Action)
The No Action Alternative would allow for the project area to become forested upon removal of the powerline and associated structures. The eventual inhabitance of hardwood and pine species will occur, transforming the area into a hardwood successional forest in the long term, in the absence of a management plan for the area. To date, all Indiana bat roost trees have been located in riparian zones immediately adjacent to streams. Since the project area is not in a riparian zone, it is unlikely that the Indiana bat would use the area for roosting. Therefore, no direct short or long term effect on the species would be expected.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
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The project area is currently an open area that is maintained in this state by vegetation maintenance and hardwood species control by the application of specific herbicides. The Preferred Alternative will keep the area in its current state. While it is possible that the project area may provide adequate roosting trees and foraging areas along the forest edges adjacent to the right-of-way, no such trees were found during the field survey. It is unlikely that the Proposed Action Alternative would have any short or long term effect on the Indiana bat.
PETC3. Coosa moccasinshell (E), Georgia pigtoe (E), Ovate clubshell (E), Southern acornshell (E), Southern clubshell (E), Southern pigtoe (E), Triangular kidneyshell (E), Upland combshell (E), Alabama moccasinshell (T), Finelined pocketbook (T), Lacy elimia (T), Painted rocksnail (T), Tulotoma snail (T), and Blue shiner (T)
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published a final rule in the Federal Register designating critical habitat for 11 mussel species in the Mobile River Basin of Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and Tennessee (USFWS 2004). Eight of these species are located in close proximity to the Talladega National Forest or watersheds that occur within the Talladega National Forest. The 11 mussel species with critical habitat are the endangered Coosa moccasinshell, ovate clubshell, southern clubshell, dark pigtoe, southern pigtoe, triangular kidneyshell, upland combshell, and southern acornshell; and the threatened finelined pocketbook, orange-nacre mucket and Alabama moccasinshell. More recently, critical habitat was also designated for the Georgia pigtoe, rough hornsnail, and interrupted rocksnail, all within the Coosa River system (USFWS 2010).
Critical habitat refers to the specific geographic areas that are essential for the conservation of a threatened or endangered species and that may require special management and protection. Section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act requires that Federal agencies ensure that actions they fund, authorize, or carry out are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of an endangered or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. (USDA 2010).
Within the Shoal Creek Ranger District of the Talladega National Forest, Shoal Creek is designated as critical habitat and has suitable habitat for the triangular kidneyshell, Coosa moccasinshell, southern pigtoe, and finelined pocketbook mussels. The proposed management action occurs within the Cane Creek watershed, so it will have no effect on critical habitat in the National Forest.
Coosa moccasinshell (Medionidus parvulus) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993). Coosa moccasinshell historically occurred in the Cahaba, Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior, Coosa River systems, and their tributaries in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. Currently, the species may be extirpated from the Cahaba and Black Warrior River basins. Since listing, the species has only been documented in the Conasauga River of the
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment upper Coosa River Basin (USFWS 2003). Critical habitat has been proposed on nine watersheds of Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee including portions of Terrapin and Shoal Creek on the Shoal Creek District of the Talladega National Forest, Cheaha Creek on the Talladega District, and Hatchet Creek downstream from the Talladega District (USFWS 2003). Coosa moccasinshell typically inhabits sand-gravel-cobble substrates in and around bedrock in moderate current shoals or runs of various sized streams and small rivers (Parmalee and Bogan 1998). It appears to require clear (low turbidity) and highly oxygenated water. It is known to utilize blackbanded darters (Percina nigrofasciata) as glochidial hosts (USFWS 2003). As for most freshwater mussels, this species is likely long-lived, and not reproductively mature until attaining 8 or more years of age (Neves and Moyer 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-232)
Georgia pigtoe (Pleurobema hanleyianum) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 2010). It is considered at risk of population decline according to Williams et al. (1992). Georgia pigtoe is endemic to the Mobile River Basin, historically distributed within the Coosa River and probably many of its tributaries in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. Historic collections are from Terrapin, Talladega, and Hatchet creeks on the Talladega National Forest (USFWS 1999). Live specimens have not been seen for a decade or more within the State of Alabama and it may be extirpated (USFWS 1999). It is thought to be extirpated from over 90% of its entire historical range (NatureServe 2003). Georgia pigtoe primarily inhabits moderate gradient and swift shallow currents over coarse sand gravel substrates with runs, riffles, or shoals or small to medium rivers and large tributary streams (Parmalee and Brogan 1998, NatureServe 2003). Most mussels are long-lived and late maturing, potentially masking evidence of population declines and viability problems (Neves and Moyer 1988). The breeding season and fish host for the glochidia are unknown. As with many other freshwater mussels, this species probably requires clean gravel riffles, low turbidity, and some water flow. Georgia pigtoe is thus considered sensitive for siltation and altered flow (NatureServe 2003). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-256)
Ovate clubshell (Pleurobema perovatum) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993b). The species historically occurred in the Tombigbee, Black Warrior, Alabama, Cahaba, Tallapoosa and Coosa rivers, and their tributaries, in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. Apparently, the species is extirpated from the Black Warrior, Cahaba, and Alabama River basins and it may no longer survive in the mainstem Tombigbee River, and Uphapee and Opintlocco creeks (USFWS 2003). Ovate clubshell typically inhabits sand and/or fine gravel substrates under moderate current in shoals and runs of large streams and small rivers (Parmalee and Bogan 1998). Host fish are unknown for this species but may be primarily cyprinids. As with most freshwater mussels, this species is likely long-lived, and not reproductively mature until attaining 8 or more years of age (Neves and Moyer 1988. (FEIS RLRP, p.3-240)
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Southern acornshell (Epioblasma othcaloogensis) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993). Southern acornshell historically was endemic to the upper Coosa River system in Alabama and Georgia and the Cahaba River above the fall line in Alabama; the species has not been seen since the 1970s and may be extinct (USFWS 2003). Southern acornshell typically inhabits fine gravel substrates in riffles and runs of rivers and large tributary streams above the fall line (Parmalee and Bogan 1998). The Southern acornshell is not known to survive impoundment and appears to require swift currents, coarse low silt substrates, and highly oxygenated water (Pierson 1992). Life history and host fish are unknown for this species. (FEIS RLRP, p.3-225)
Southern clubshell (Pleurobema decisum) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993). The species was historically known to occur in every major sub-basin of the Mobile River Basin with the exception of the Tensaw River, including the Alabama, Tombigbee, Black Warrior, Cahaba, Tallapoosa, and Coosa rivers in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. At one time, Southern clubshell was reported to be extremely common in the Cahaba River (van der Schalie 1938). The species may be extirpated from the Cahaba River, and it also appears to be extirpated from the main channels of the Tombigbee and the Black Warrior rivers (USFWS 2003). The Southern clubshell is found in slow to moderate currents over coarse gravel-cobble habitat adjacent to riffle- runs of large streams and small rivers (Pierson 1991). Occasionally, this species is also encountered in firm sand and gravel shelves along stream margins (Pierson 1991, USFWS 2003). Southern clubshell does not appear to survive in beaver ponds or other slack water habitats with silty substrates (Pierson 1991). Large woody debris may be an important habitat component as it provides sheltered areas with stable substrates in otherwise rapidly shifting channel bottoms (Pierson 1991). Large woody debris may be of greatest significance within lower tributary and riverine reaches, where stable bedrock controls are a less common feature. Woody debris is also correlated with the abundance and diversity of native fishes, typically host species for mussels (Herrington et al. 2001). The blacktail shiner (Cyprinella venusta), Alabama shiner (C. callistia), and tricolor shiner (C. trichroistia) have been identified as suitable fish hosts (USFWS 2003). As with most freshwater mussels, this species is likely long- lived, and not reproductively mature until attaining eight or more years of age (Neves and Moyer 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-234)
Southern pigtoe (Pleurobema georgianum) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993b). Southern pigtoe historically occurred in the Coosa River system and its tributaries in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. Southern pigtoe is currently believed to be extant in the Conasauga River and Holly Creek in Georgia, and in Shoal, Big Canoe, and Cheaha creeks in Alabama (USFWS 2003). Southern pigtoe typically inhabits coarse gravel and sand substrates in moderate current of shallow riffles in small rivers and large tributary streams (Parmalee and Bogan 1998, USFWS 2003). Host fish include Alabama shiner (Cyprinella callistia), blacktail shiner (C. venusta), and tricolor
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment shiner (C. trichroistia) (USFWS 2003). As with most freshwater mussels, this species is likely long-lived, and not reproductively mature until attaining eight or more years of age (Neves and Moyer 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-238)
Triangular kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus greenii) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993b). The species historically occurred in the Black Warrior, Cahaba, Alabama, and Coosa River systems and their tributaries in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. The species may be extirpated from the Alabama River and may no longer inhabit the mainstem Black Warrior and Coosa rivers (USFWS 2003). Triangular kidneyshell typically inhabits runs and shoals with firm coarse gravel and sand substrates and good currents in large streams and small rivers (Parmalee and Bogan 1998). The Warrior darter (Etheostoma bellator), Tuscaloosa darter (E. douglasi), redfin darter (E. whipplei), blackbanded darter (Percina nigrofasciata), river darter (P. shumardi), and Mobile logperch (Percina kathae) have been identified as suitable fish hosts for the glochidia (Haag and Warren 1997, Parmalee and Bogan 1998). As with most freshwater mussels, this species is likely long-lived, and not reproductively mature until attaining eight or more years of age (Neves and Moyer 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-241)
Upland combshell (Epioblasma metastriata) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993b). Upland combshell historically occurred in the Black Warrior, Cahaba, and Coosa rivers and some of their tributaries in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. At the time of its listing, the mussel was believed to be restricted to the Conasauga River in the upper Coosa River Basin in Georgia. Recent surveys of historic habitat have been unable to locate any extant populations, and the species may be extinct (USFWS 2003). Upland combshell typically inhabits swift currents over stable sand gravel substrates in riffles and shoals of small to medium sized rivers (Parmalee and Bogan 1998; USFWS 2003). Host fish have not been identified. As for most freshwater mussels, this species is likely long-lived, and not reproductively mature until attaining 8 or more years of age (Neves and Moyer 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-224)
Alabama moccasinshell (Medionidus acutissimus) is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993). Alabama moccasinshell historically occurred in the Alabama, Tombigbee, Black Warrior, Cahaba, and Coosa River systems and their tributaries in Alabama, Mississippi, and Georgia. The species appears to have declined or disappeared from main stem rivers of all basins but continues to survive in many tributary streams (USFWS 2003). Historical habitats exist on or near the Shoal Creek and Talladega Ranger Districts. Alabama moccasinshell typically inhabits moderate current over sand, gravel and cobble in shallow water shoals of small streams (Parmalee and Bogan 1998). This species also inhabits sandy shelves of stream margins (NatureServe 2001). This species attracts host fish by flickering white patches along the otherwise black mantle margins. The black spotted topminnow (Fundulus olivaceus), Tuscaloosa darter
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(Etheostoma douglasi), redfin darter (E. whipplei), Blackbanded darter (Percina nigrofasciata), naked sand darter (Ammocrypta beani), Southern sand darter (A. meridiana), Johnny darter (E. nigrum), speckled darter (E. stigmaeum), saddleback darter (Percina vigil), and Mobile logperch (P. kathae) have been identified as suitable fish host for glochidia (Haag and Warren 1997, 2001). As with most freshwater mussels, this species is likely long-lived and not reproductively mature until attaining eight or more years of age (Neves and Moyer 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-231)
Finelined pocketbook (Hamiota altilis) is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1993). Finelined pocketbook historically occurred in the Alabama, Tombigbee, Black Warrior, Cahaba, Tallapoosa, and Coosa River systems and their tributaries. Currently, this species is limited to small streams above the Fall Line within the Cahaba, Coosa, and Tallapoosa River basins (USFWS 2003). Finelined pocketbook is typically found in a sand- mud mixture with gravel in moderate current and depths (Parmalee and Bogan 1998). It is a fairly ubiquitous species, inhabiting both rivers and headwater streams. Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), redeye bass (M. coosae), and spotted bass (M. punctulatus), as well as green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus), have been identified as suitable fish hosts for the glochidia (Haag et al. 1999). As for most freshwater mussels, this species is likely long-lived, and not reproductively mature until attaining 8 or more years of age (Neves and Moyer 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-227)
Lacy elimia (Elimia crenatella) is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1998). The snail is endemic to the Coosa portion of the Alabama River system. Historically, the snail ranged from St. Clair to Chilton counties within the Coosa River, and was known to inhabit several large tributaries, including Big Will's Creek, Kelley Creek, Choccolocco Creek, and Tallaseehatchee Creek. Currently, the Lacy elimia snail is restricted to several disjunct populations within the lower portions of Cheaha, Emauhee, and Weewoka Creeks, tributaries to the middle Coosa River. One of these populations (Cheaha) is located downstream of the Talladega District. Lacy elimia are locally abundant in the lower reaches of Cheaha Creek but apparently very rare elsewhere (USFWS 1998). Lacy elimia snails prefer riffles, bars, and shoals of medium to large tributary streams. This species is typically inhabits undersides of rock slabs or lives among gravel and cobble substrates (Hartfield 1994). The Lacy elimia is a gill-breathing snail and therefore requires clear well- oxygenated water. The extent of snail movements are not well known; however, there is evidence that snails make some longitudinal movements along streams and rivers, and that upstream movements may be blocked by suspended culverts (Dillon 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-243)
Painted rocksnail (Leptoxis taeniata) is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1998). Historically, the snail ranged widely within the Coosa, Cahaba, and Alabama rivers and their tributaries. It is now
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment extant within two reaches of Choccolocco Creek, the lower reaches of Buxahatchee and Ohatchee creeks, and the Coosa River downstream from Logan-Martin Dam. The painted rocksnail appears to prefer medium to large rivers with ample flow and cobble or slab rapids and shoals (USFWS 2000). All rocksnails are gill-breathers and therefore require clear well-oxygenated water. Reproductive biology and early life history are not well known. Eggs are probably affixed onto cobble surfaces (USFWS 1998). The decline of painted rocksnail populations may be attributed to impoundment, sedimentation, and nutrient enrichment (USFWS 2000). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-246)
Tulotoma snail (Tulotoma magnifica) is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1991), but the species was later downlisted to threatened (USFWS 2011). The snail is endemic to the Coosa portion of the Alabama River system. Historically, the snail ranged widely from Big Canoe Creek south to the confluence with the Tallapoosa River. Historical localities were numerous throughout the mainstem of the Coosa River as well as the lower reaches of several large tributaries. Currently, the Tulotoma snail is restricted to several populations within the mainstem Coosa and few populations within the tributaries. Populations are extremely restricted, but relatively abundant in Kelly, Weogufka, Hatchet, and Choccolocco creeks; the mainstem Coosa River below Jordan Dam has the highest densities of Tulotoma snails (USFWS 2000). This species is a large river inhabitant that may only be peripheral in tributaries. The Tulotoma snail congregates in colonies among boulders and rocky ledges of riverine and lower watershed tributary shoal and run habitats (Devries 1994). It clings tightly to the undersides of large cobble, boulders, or bedrock shelves and prefers microhabitats with moderate to swift currents (Hershler et al. 1990). The Tulotoma snail filter feeds on plankton, diatom, or detritus from the water column or the interstitial space of the substrate. Dispersal is concentrated during periods of high water. The extent of snail movements are not well known; however there is evidence that snails make some longitudinal movements along stream and rivers, and that upstream movements may be blocked by suspended culverts (Dillon 1988). (FEIS RLRP, p3-250)
Blue shiner (Cyprinella caerulea) is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 1992a). The species is endemic to the Cahaba and Coosa River systems and their tributaries in Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia. Blue shiners were last collected in the Cahaba River in 1971 and are now considered extirpated from that system (Pierson and Krotzer 1987). Currently, there are approximately six definable populations occurring in headwater streams of the Coosa River system in Georgia and Tennessee, and in tributary streams in northeastern Alabama (USFWS 1995a). Three of these populations are in Alabama, and of these, two are partially located on, or downstream from, the Talladega National Forest. This species inhabits cool, clear, low to moderate velocity currents and moderate depths over sand gravel substrates of riffles and runs in mid-order medium to large streams and adjoining tributaries (Pierson and Krotzer 1987; Dobson 1994). It is often found in association with submerged
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment woody debris, brush, and water willow (Justicia americana) (USFWS 1995). It is assumed that the blue shiner depends upon small rock crevices for egg laying, as do other members of Cyprinella (Mayden 1989); therefore it may be susceptible to excessive sedimentation during the breeding period. (FEIS RLRP, p.3-217)
Alternative 1 (No Action)
The No Action Alternative should have no direct effects on any of the aquatic species listed above. The project area is not near any streams, and the utilization of effective BMPs would minimize the potential for any impacts to water quality. No significant changes to water quality or habitat of these species would be anticipated.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
The Preferred Alternative will not impact water quality or cause any direct long term impacts to streams within the area which may affect any of the species listed above. The implementation of BMPs will protect water quality during the structure replacement activities. Any impacts associated with water quality of indirect impacts to streams are considered short term and insignificant in terms of effect on the species.
PETC 4. Alabama leather flower (E), Green pitcher plant (E), Harperella (E), Tennessee yellow-eyed grass (E), Mohr’s Barbara’s buttons (T), and White fringeless orchid (C)
Alabama leather flower (Clematis socialis) is federally listed as an endangered species (USFWS 1986). The species is typically found in mesic flats near intermittent streams where plants are rooted in silty-clay soils of the Conasauga Soil Series. These soils are circumneutral or slightly basic with a high hydroperiod. Plants occur in full sun or partial shade in a grass-sedge-rush community (Recovery Plan, 1989); the species occurs with Mohr’s Barbara’s buttons (Marshallia mohrii) at two locations in northeastern Alabama (USFW, 1991a). The Alabama leather flower is rhizomatous and forms dense clones with erect stems (singly or in clusters) reaching 7-12 inches. The flowers are solitary, urn- to bell-shaped, and blue-violet in color. Flowering occurs in April and May. However, most reproduction occurs vegetatively by rhizomes (USFW 1989). At the time of its listing, three locations were known to occur in Alabama, in Cherokee and St. Clair counties (USFW, 1989); another location was subsequently discovered in Etowah County. No known populations occur on the National Forests in Alabama; however, suitable habitat is present on the Talladega Division of the Talladega National Forest. (FEIS RLRP, p.3-282)
Green pitcher plant (Sarracenia oreophila) is federally listed as an endangered species (USFWS 1979). The green pitcher plant is restricted to sites in the
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Cumberland Plateau and Ridge and Valley provinces in northeast Alabama, and to the Blue Ridge Province in Georgia and North Carolina. Only 35 natural populations of this species are known to be extant in Alabama (32), Georgia (1), and southwest North Carolina (2). Habitat for the plant is variable and consists of both moist upland areas, many of which are described as seepage bogs, as well as boggy, sandy stream edges (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1994). The plants located along stream banks are usually approximately 2 feet above normal summer water levels. Fire may play an important role in the survivability of the green pitcher plant. This species is not known to naturally occur on National Forest lands in the analysis area. (FEIS RLRP, p.3-275)
Harperella (Ptilimnium nodosum) is federally listed as an endangered species (USFWS 1988). The species is typically found in seasonally flooded streams, coastal plain ponds, and low savannah meadows. One known population occurs on a granite outcrop. The plant only occurs in a narrow range of water depths and is intolerant of deep water or conditions that are too dry. In its riverine habitat, the plant is found in areas that are sheltered from rapidly moving water (USFW, 1990). Harperella is an annual herb that sometimes overwinters by vegetative buds produced in the axils of lower stem leaves. Plants are 4-16 inches tall, rarely more robust, sometimes reclining and rooting from the lower stem when submerged. Plants vary in size and fluctuate year-to-year in abundance. The flowering period for this species is late May to early August, with fruiting occurring from July to August (Protected Plants of Georgia). At the time of its listing, thirteen locations were known to occur in seven southeastern states (USFW, 1990). No known populations occur on the National Forests in Alabama. (FEIS RLRP, p.3-273)
Tennessee yellow-eyed grass (Xyris tennesseensis) is federally listed as an endangered species (USFWS 1991b). The species’ distribution includes the Ridge and Valley Physiographic region, and portions of the Highland Rim and Upper Gulf Coastal Plain, in Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. Tennessee yellow-eyed grass is a perennial herb with basal, erect linear leaves (NatureServe 2002). The plant typically occurs in clumps with the leaves clustered at the bulbous base, the outermost leaves being small and having a dark purplish-maroon to pinkish red scale like appearance (Patrick et al. 1995) The inner leaves are larger and linear in shape, varying in length from 3-18 inches long, deep green in color, and slowly twisting as they ascend the stalk The unbranched flowering inflorescence consist of brown cone-like spikes, single at the tips of each stalk, containing small, pale yellow flowers (3-petals) which open in the morning, wither in the afternoon, and only appear a few at a time (Somers 1993). Roots are slender, shallow and fibrous (Kral 1983). Fruits are obovoid or broadly ellipsoid capsules with thin, plano-convex walls and three sutures, with numerous ellipsoid seeds covered by 18-20 fine, longitudinal lines that are sometimes interconnected (Kral 1983, Somers 1993). Blooming occurs from August to September, with fruiting from September to October. Habitats are moist to wet year-round, ranging from sun to partial shade, occasionally very
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment thinly wooded with little canopy cover. Preferred landforms include drains, swales, seeps, springs, spring meadows, bogs, fens, and banks of small streams. Tennessee yellow-eyed grass differs from other congeners by its occurrence where calcareous rock such as shale, limestone and dolomite are near the soil surface, or where thin calcareous soils are present (NatureServe 2002, Somers 1993). This character results in soils that are more neutral to basic than acidic. Substrates include gravel bars, sandbars, shallow sand/soil deposits or cracks in the limestone, narrow sandbars located on ketone dolomite, wet ditches of mixed clay and sand, and rich deposits of marshland. One site occurs on an earthen dike in an impounded swamp. Soils are slow to establish and prone to erosion during heavy rain events because most sites are wet and relatively steep (Somers 1993). (FEIS RLRP, p2-280)
Mohr’s Barbara’s buttons (Marshallia mohrii) is federally listed as an endangered species (USFWS 1988). This species, known from 14 locations in Georgia and Alabama, typically occurs in moist prairie-like openings in woodlands and along shale-bedded streams in a grass-sedge community. Several populations are located within, or extend onto, utility or highway rights-of-ways. Soil associations are typically alkaline sandy clays that are seasonally wet and have high organic content. A member of the sunflower family, Mohr’s Barbara’s buttons is an erect, perennial herb up to 30 inches tall, with a short, thickened, fibril-bearing, erect and thick-rooted rhizome. Stems branch only at the inflorescence and are often purplish. The alternate leaves are 8-20 cm long. The flowers are discoid, pale pink to lavender, and produced on several heads. The fruit is an achene. Blooming occurs from mid-May through June (Kral, 1983). (FEIS RLRP, p.3-272)
White fringeless orchid (Platanthera integrilabia) is a candidate for federal listing. The species is currently known from a total of sixty-one extant locations within five states (Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee) and is considered extirpated from three states (North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia). Platanthera integrilabia is known from five locations in the Shoal Creek Ranger District, one location in the Talladega Ranger District, and one location in the Bankhead National Forest. Plants are found in wet, boggy areas, stream heads, seepage slopes in acidic muck/sand, or flat areas at the bottom of sharply sloped streamsides. Common associates include Sphagnum moss and one or more of the following fern species: Cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), chain fern (Woodwardia areolata), and New York fern (Thelyptris noveboracensis). Like many orchid species, Platanthera integrilabia is dependent upon the symbiotic relationship with a fungus for seed germination (Zettler et al. 1990, Zettler and McInnis 1992, Zettler 1994, Currah et al. 1997). While an individual orchid capsule may produce thousands of seeds, only a tiny fraction of those seeds will be dispersed to a site that supports adequate habitat conditions and the required fungal species for germination. While many orchid species have a symbiotic relationship with several different fungal species, it has been suggested (Crock 1996, Zettler 1996) that the distribution of Platanthera integrilabia is further limited by the fact that there may be only a single fungal
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment symbiont capable of initiating seed germination. Zettler (1996) showed that both in the lab and under natural conditions only 3% of Platanthera integrilabia seed germinate to produce a seedling plant. Similarly, only a very small percentage of individuals ever flower and set viable seeds. With so many biological constraints affecting the viability of populations, the importance of maintaining existing populations and quality habitat through land management is heightened. (Appendices FEIS RLRP, p.49-50)
Alternative 1 (No Action)
The above listed plant species require a specific suite of habitat characteristics for survival, one of which is a high hydroperiod. Conditions at the project area do not meet this requirement, nor would they if allowed to revert to a mixed pine/hardwood forest under the No Action Alternative. For this reason, no effects would be anticipated under this alternative.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)
The Preferred Alternative will have no direct effect on any of the above listed plant species, since they require moist soils for survival and the project area does not fulfill this requirement.
PETC 5. Georgia aster
A detailed discussion and analysis of potential environmental effects on the Georgia aster has been provided in the Sensitive Species section.
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
Cumulative effects for the analyzed PETC species include those past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions that may affect their habitat. The No Action Alternative would have no short term negative effects but could have long term negative effects for certain of these species. Species preferring open habitats could negatively benefit from this alternative. The right-of-way would convert to a mixed pine/hardwood stand, eliminating the presence of the open habitat that presently exists at the project area. In the unlikely event that any of the species that prefer open habitats currently inhabit the existing right-of-way, this conversion to forest would be detrimental. This is an unlikely scenario, however, as these species primarily respond to habitat that is not based on the vegetative community but rather on geomorphic and/or surface water drainage characteristics. The No Action Alternative will not have an effect on these conditions and thus should have no effect on PETC species in the short or long term.
Alternative 2: Proposed Action
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Cumulative effects for the analyzed PETC species include those past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions that may affect their habitat. The Proposed Action would have no short term negative effects but could have long term positive effects for certain of these species preferring open habitats. The right-of-way would continue to be preserved in its current state. Hardwood competition will continue to be treated by direct herbicide applications to prevent conversion to a mixed pine/hardwood. Therefore for those species that prefer open habitats the long term effect could be beneficial. For most of the species considered here, however, the short and long term effect would be either nonexistent or negligible, because these species primarily respond to habitat that is not based on vegetative community but rather on geomorphic and/or surface water drainage characteristics. Since these characteristics are not present at the project area, the Proposed Action will most likely not have an effect on PETC species in the short or long term.
3.5.3 Existing Conditions
Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 established a program for the conservation of ecosystems on which endangered and threatened species depend to be conserved. This section also ensures that federal funds are not to be used on or authorized for the actions that may impact a threatened or endangered species or habitat.
Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) prohibits the pursuit, hunting, killing, capturing, possession, or sale of any migratory bird covered under the act without the proper permit. This includes the feathers, nest, and eggs of such birds. Any activity that may involve any of the above referenced acts may involve consultation with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
3.6 Scenic Integrity
3.6.1 Affected Environment
The project area is located within Management Prescriptive 9.D.1: Restoration of Longleaf Pine Forests with Scenic Integrity Objectives ranging from low to high. Currently, a distribution line corridor and road with cleared shoulders are a part of this project area.
3.6.2 Effects
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
No action would result in no change in current status of the area based upon no activity on the site.
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Alternative 2: Proposed Action
The proposed action would result in removal of several trees, widening the existing distribution line corridor to dimensions required for transmission lines. Additionally, the eastern most distribution structure will be replaced with a transmission structure of greater height and visibility. Maintenance of the vegetation within the corridor will be in accordance with the 2003 Environmental Assessment (EA) entitled Woody Vegetation Control on Alabama Power Company Transmission Line Right-of-Way which allows for the removal of and herbicide application to trees within the right-of-way.
3.6.3 Cumulative Effects
Minimal reduction in scenic integrity is expected due to the increased height of transmission pole and right-of-way widening.
3.7 Public Health and Safety
3.7.1 Affected Environment
The project area is located adjacent to a public roadway with no restricted access.
3.7.2 Effects
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
No action would result in no impact to public health and safety since access is currently available.
Alternative 2: Proposed Action
Clearing and structure placement activities would be short-term. Many different type of equipment would be used for the activities. Workers on-site would be required to follow all applicable (OSHA) guidelines for equipment and procedures required for the activities. The presence of heavy equipment in the area and on the public road may impose a travelling risk to the public. Proper safety measures will be taken to ensure that risks to the public associated with the activities will be made aware of to the public in the general area.
As part of the SUP certain vegetation maintenance and control measures will be applied to the right-of-way to prevent hardwood growth in the area, which is a danger to the powerline. Workers in this task would also be exposed to dangers associated with these activities, especially regarding the types of equipment and herbicides that would be required. Workers would be required to wear the proper
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PPE and safety equipment and also follow the OSHA guidelines and manufacture’s guidelines for equipment and herbicides.
The proper use of the herbicides approved for use within the easement as approved by the Forest Service in the previous EA and as directed on the label will not pose a health factor to the public. If vegetation maintenance activities do not occur on the area then the dangers of dead or fallen trees will be present and expose a risk to the public.
3.7.3 Cumulative Effects
No cumulative effects are anticipated on the Public Health and Safety related to the Proposed Action.
3.8 Recreation
3.8.1 Affected Environment
The project area is located within an area of the Talladega National Forest that is intersected by a public road and has private dwellings in the near vicinity. A railroad also runs adjacent to the project. There are no current recreation opportunities on the site.
3.8.2 Effects
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
There would be no impact to the recreation potential due to no activity taking place at the site.
Alternative 2: Proposed Action
The SUP will not exclude any recreational activities which are already allowed within the area.
3.8.3 Cumulative Effects
The proposed action does not involve any changes in the use or maintenance plan which may affect recreation within this area.
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3.9 Economics
3.9.1 Affected Environment
The National Forest is comprised of mature forested hardwood forests and areas of managed longleaf pine. It is common practice for the USFS to cut and sell timber from the National Forests.
3.9.2 Environmental Effects
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
The No Action Alternative would require Alabama Power Company to find an alternative route for the transmission line to deliver power to the Muscadine substation to continue power delivery to their customers. Some, but not all, costs to Alabama Power Company and their customers would include design, land easement acquisition, construction and permitting of an alternate transmission line route.
Alternative 2: The Proposed Action
There will be no significant change from existing conditions at the current time. APC will continue to operate with power distribution from the existing distribution line as well as the new transmission line. APC will also continue to provide compensation to the USFS for the easement.
3.9.3 Cumulative Effects
The cumulative effects from the no action alternative could be potentially devastating to both Alabama Power and their existing customers. The ability for Alabama Power to meet future needs of both private and business customers in the area would be severely compromised and could even result in power shortages and forced outages in the area.
3.10 Civil Rights and Environmental Justice
3.10.1 Affected Environment
EO 12898 Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low Income Populations employs the same criteria as the Civil Rights Act (CRA) of 1964 and adds additional criteria set forth as analyzing the environmental effects, including human health, economic and social effects, of federal actions including the effects of minority and low income communities. EO 12898 also provides for community input on the NEPA process, including mitigation if necessary, and
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Muscadine Special Use Permit Draft Environmental Assessment access to documents under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), the Sunshine Act, and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act. EO 13045 Protection of Children from Environmental Health and Safety Risks shall make it a high priority to identify and assess environmental health risks and safety risks that may disproportionately affect children; and shall ensure that its policies, programs, activities, and standards address disproportionate risks to children that result from environmental health risks or safety risks.
3.10.2 Environmental Effects
Alternative 1: No Action Alternative
The required absence of the line could at least temporarily interrupt power to potentially thousands of residences, business, healthcare facilities and other buildings and structures. This action would have the potential to force some people out of work and lose their income.
Alternative 2: Proposed Action
There will be an increase in reliability and availability of power in the area. New industry or higher power loading would be provided.
3.10.3 Cumulative Effects
There are no cumulative effects anticipated related to Civil Rights and Environmental Justice given the Proposed Action.
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IV. CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION
The USFS consulted the following individuals, Federal, State, and local agencies, tribes and non-USFS persons during the development of this environmental assessment:
Inter-Disciplinary TEAM MEMBERS: Jonathan Stober, Wildlife Biologist (District) Mary Humphries, Special Uses, District Coordinator Karen McKenzie, District Ranger
FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL AGENCIES: United States Fish and Wildlife Service Alabama Historical Commission
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Appendix A
Form 299
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Appendix B
Figures
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Appendix C
Soil Report
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Appendix D
Literature Cited
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REFERENCES
ADCNR (Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources), 2003. 2nd Nongame Symposium, Priority 1 and Priority 2 Species, Freshwater Mussels.
ALNHP (Alabama Natural Heritage Program, Inventory List of Rare, Threatened and Endangered Plants, Animals and Natural Communities of Alabama, Montgomery, AL 2002.
Boschung, Herbert T and Mayden, Richard L. 2004. Fishes of Alabama, Smithsonian Institutioni Press.
Crock, C.J. 1996. The History and Fate of a Unique Mountain Orchid Bog in McMinn County, TN. Department of Biology, Furman University.
Currah, R.S., L.W. Zettler, and T.M. McInnis, Jr. 1997. Epulorhiza inquilina sp. nov. From Platanthera (Orchidaceae) and A Key to Epulorhiza Species. Mycotaxon. 61: 335-342.
Davis, E., C. McRae, B. Estep, L. Barden, and J. Mathews. 2002. Vascular Flora of Piedmont Prairies: Evidence from Several Prairie Remnants. Castanea 67(1):1-12.
Dillon, R. T., Jr. 1988, Evolution from transplants between genetically distinct populations of freshwater snail. Genetica, 76, 111-9.
Dobson, T.I. 1994. An ichthyofaunal survey of the Little River drainage in Alabama with notes of Cyprinella caerulea (Jordan). M.S. Thesis, Jacksonville State University., Jacksonville, AL. 123pp.
Haag, W.R and Warren, M.L, Jr. 1997. Host Fishes and reproductive biology of 6 freshwater mussel species from the Mobile Basin, USA. Journal of the North American Benthological Society. 16: 576-585.
Haag, W.R., Warren, M.L, Jr. and Shillingsford, M 1999. Host fishes and host attracting behavior of Lampsilis aln and Villosa vibex (Bivalvia: Unionidae). American Midland Naturalist. 141:149-157.
Harris, S.C., P.E. O'Neil, and P.K. Lago. 1991. Caddisflies of Alabama. Bulletin 142, Geological Survey of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL. 442 pp.
Hartfield, Paul, 1994, Status review of select mussel species in the Mobile River basin: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Jackson, Mississippi, 3 p.
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Herrington, S.J., C.E. Johnston, B.W. Phillips, D.C. Werneke, and K.N. Leftwich. 2001. Differences in fish community structure within a southeastern, USA, stream system:effects of land use.Hershler et al. 1990
Kuehne, R., R. Barbour. 1983. The American Darters. Lexington, Kentucky: The University Press of Kentucky.
Kral, R. 1983. A Report on Some Rare, Threatened, or Endangered Forest- related Vascular Plants of the South Volume II. USDA Forest Service. Technical Publication R8-TP 2, x + 1305 pages.
Lacki, M. J.,Dickinson, M.B, and D.R. Cox. 2009. Fire and the endangered Indiana bat. Pp. 51-75 in Proceedings of the 3rd fire in eastern oak forests conference (Hutchinson, T.F., ed.), Northern Research Station, USDA Gen. Tech. Report, GTR-NRS-P-46.
Mathews, J. 1993. Status Survey of Aster georgianus Alexander. NC Plant Conservation Program.
Mayden,R. L. 1989. Phylogenetic studies of North American minnows, with emphasis on the genus Cyprinella (teleostel: Cypriniformes). Misc. Publ. Mus. Nat. His. Univ. Kansas 80:1-189.
Mettee, M.F., P.E. O’Neil, and J.M. Pierson. 1996. Fishes of Alabama and the Mobile Basin. State of Alabama. Oxmoor House, Birmingham, AL
Mirarchi, Ralph E, Garner, Jeffrey T and Metee, Maurice F, 2004. Alabama Wildlife: Imperiled Aquatic Mollusks and Fishes. University of Alabama Press.
Mount, R.H. editor. 1986. Vertebrate animals of Alabama in need of special attention. Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA. 124 pages.
National Forest Service, Final EIS Revised Land and Resource Management Plan. Southern Region, 2004 (Referred to as FEIS RLRP).
NatureServe, 2001. International Classification of Ecological Communities: Terrestrial Vegetation of the United States. Talladega and Tuskegee National Forests Final Report. Report from Biological Conservation Datasystem September 2001.
NatureServe 2002 States of the Union: Ranking America's Biodiversity A NatureServe Report, April 2002.
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NatureServe. 2012. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Neves, R. J., and S. N. Moyer. 1988. Evaluation of techniques for age determination of freshwater mussels (Unionidae). Am. Malacol. Union Inc. Bull. 6:179-188.
Parmalee, Paul W. and Authur E. Bogan. 1998. The Freshwater Mussels of Tennessee. The University of Tennessee Press. Knoxville, TN.
Patrick, T.S.; Allison, J.R.; Krakow, G.A. 1995. Protected plants of Georgia: an information manual on plants designated by the State of Georgia as endangered, threatened, rare, or unusual. Social Circle, Georgia: Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, Georgia Natural Heritage Program. p.218 pp + appendices.
Pierson, J.M., C.A. Schultz, and H.T. Boschung. 1986. Fishes of the Buttahatchee River system of Alabama and Mississippi. Proceedings of the Southeastern Fisheries Council 4:11-13.
Pierson, J.M., and R.S. Krotzer. 1987. The distribution, relative abundance, and life history of the blue shiner, Notropis caeruleus (Jordan). Prepared for the Alabama Nongame Wildlife Coordinator. 105 pp.
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