ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY INDEX: GEORGIA

INTRODUCTION Spatial distribution of the species on the maps is represented by polygons and points, as appropriate. Associated with each of these Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) maps have been representations is an icon depicting the types of species or habitat developed for the coastal zone of Georgia. The ESI maps include types that are present. Species have been divided into groups and information for three main components: shoreline and wetland subgroups, based on their behavior, morphology, taxonomic habitats; sensitive biological resources; and human-use resources. classification, and spill vulnerability and sensitivity. The icons Background information, as well as the methods of data collection reflect this grouping scheme. The groups are color coded, and the and presentation, are summarized in the following sections. subgroups are represented by different icons:

SHORELINE HABITAT MAPPING MARINE MAMMALS REPTILES/AMPHIBIANS Manatees The intertidal habitats of Georgia were originally mapped Other Reptiles/Amphibians during overflights conducted in the fall of 1984. They were updated onto 1:24,000 U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps by an Whales experienced coastal geologist in January 1997 using recent vertical Turtles aerial photographs from 1993-96 at various scales. Where appro- TERRESTRIAL MAMMALS priate, multiple habitats were delineated for each shoreline FISH Small Mammals segment. Portions of the coast were flown in February 1997 to verify the photointerpretation. The aerial surveys were carried out using a Fish BIRDS fixed-wing aircraft, flying at elevations of 500-1,000 feet and slow air speed. Diving Birds INVERTEBRATES Prediction of the behavior and persistence of oil on intertidal Gulls and Terns habitats is based on an understanding of the dynamics of the coastal Bivalves environments, not just the substrate type and grain size. The Passerine Birds sensitivity of a particular intertidal habitat is an integration of the ELMR Shellfish following factors: Raptors 1)Shoreline type (substrate, grain size, tidal elevation, origin) HABITATS/RARE PLANTS Shorebirds 2)Exposure to wave and tidal energy Wading Birds Rare Plants and Communities 3)Biological productivity and sensitivity 4)Ease of cleanup Waterfowl Reef Communities All of these factors are used to determine the relative sensitivity of intertidal habitats. Key to the sensitivity ranking is an The polygon or point color and pattern are generally the same for understanding of the relationships between: physical processes, all the species in each major group (e.g., birds are green), and match substrate, shoreline type, product type, fate and effect, and sediment the icon colors. The exception is habitat/rare plants which have transport patterns. The intensity of energy expended upon a shoreline several different colors in the Georgia atlas (purple for plants, hot by wave action, tidal currents, and river currents directly affects the pink and blue for different hardbottom reef communities). Also persistence of stranded oil. The need for shoreline cleanup activities associated with each biological polygon or point feature on the map is determined, in part, by the slowness of natural processes in removal is a resources at risk identification number (RAR#), located under of oil stranded on the shoreline. each icon or group of icons. The RAR# references a table on the These concepts have been used in the development of the ESI, reverse side of the map with a complete list of species found in the which ranks shoreline environments as to their relative sensitivity polygon or at the point, as well as the state and federal protected to oil spills, potential biological injury, and ease of cleanup. status (T&E), concentration or abundance, seasonality, and life- Generally speaking, areas exposed to high levels of physical energy, history information for each species. such as wave action and tidal currents, and low biological activity Location-sensitive data provided by the GA DNR Natural rank low on the scale, whereas sheltered areas with associated high Heritage Program (NHP) are not shown on the maps as polygons or biological activity have the highest ranking. A comprehensive points. Instead, only marker icons are shown in the vicinity of shoreline habitat ranking system has been developed for the entire resource occurrence sites. In these instances, the RAR#s under the United States. The shoreline habitats delineated in Georgia are icons are shaded yellow in order to identify NHP data that are not listed below in order of increasing sensitivity to spilled oil. associated with specific polygons or point features. In addition, the 1B)Exposed, Solid Man-made Structures tabular data for species from NHP records does not list the common name of the species in question. In place of the common name, a 3A)Fine-to Medium-grained Sand Beaches general “subelement-level” name is listed which also indicates 3B)Scarps and Steep Slopes in Sand whether the species is rare, threatened, or endangered (e.g., endan- gered wading bird; rare turtle). “Rare” refers to species without T&E 6A)Gravel Beaches status, but which are still considered to be at risk of extirpation or 6B)Riprap extinction. The “rare” descriptor was used for species with global or state conservation status ranks of vulnerable, imperiled, or critically 7)Exposed Tidal Flats imperiled (see Master, 1991). In addition to the difference in species 8A)Sheltered Scarps in Mud name, “occurrence” is listed in the concentration column, identifying the site as an element occurrence record from the NHP program. In all 8B)Sheltered, Solid Man-made Structures other regards, the NHP data included in this atlas are depicted on 8C)Sheltered Riprap the maps and tables as described in the paragraph above. However, the NHP data are not included in the digital ESI database. 9A)Sheltered Tidal Flats There are some species that are found throughout specific 9B)Vegetated Low Riverine Banks geographical areas or habitat types. Displaying the polygons for 10A)Salt- and Brackish-water Marshes these species would cover large areas, making the maps very difficult to read. Thus, species which occur over the majority of certain 10B)Freshwater Marshes geographic areas or habitats are often identified in a small box on 10C)Swamps the maps which states that they are “Present in ...” (e.g., “Present in Atlantic Ocean” or “Present in Wetlands”). This approach informs 10D)Scrub-Shrub Wetlands the user of the presence of these species, while maintaining Each of the shoreline habitats are described on pages 10-16, in readability of the map. In all instances, data for species listed as terms of their physical description, predicted oil behavior, and “Present in ....” exist as polygons in the digital coverages. The use of response considerations. this strategy is implemented on a map per map basis, depending on the location, size, and number of polygons present on each map. SENSITIVE BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES MARINE MAMMALS Biological information presented in this atlas was collected and Marine mammals depicted in the Georgia atlas include manatees compiled with the assistance of biologists and resource managers from and whales. Bottlenose dolphins are not included due to widespread the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) and other abundance and an assumed low-sensitivity to spills. Bottlenose agencies and groups. Information collected and depicted on the maps dolphins are likely to be present throughout nearly all estuarine and denotes the key biological resources that are most likely at risk in nearshore waters of the study area. Though not threatened or the event of an oil spill. Seven major categories of biological endangered, bottlenose dolphins are protected under the Marine resources are included in this atlas: marine mammals, terrestrial Mammal Protection Act, as are all marine mammals. mammals, birds, reptiles/amphibians, fish, invertebrates, and habitats/rare plants.

GA - Page 1 Manatees areas depicted in the atlas are limited to known high- Wading bird feathers and upper body parts can be more extensively use areas which may be occupied in warmer months. In general, contaminated, however, by contact with oiled vegetation. seasonal manatee high-use areas may include estuaries, rivers, and Shorebirds may avoid oiling in many cases, but may be impacted by tidal creeks. Manatees in Georgia may feed on Spartina and algae loss of feeding areas or intertidal prey, particularly during important growing in shallow areas or on floating objects. In addition to direct migration periods. Gulls may be at risk because they are often spill impacts, spill response personnel should be aware of manatee attracted to and will feed on sick or injured prey. This behavior may concentration areas including locations where slow or idle boat speeds result in oiling of feathers and the ingestion of oil. Terns are are posted for manatee protection. primarily at risk when they dive for prey. Raptors may also prey on oiled or injured species and thus may be contaminated themselves or Whale locations depicted in the atlas are largely restricted to a ingest oil. Osprey may also be oiled while diving for fish. Passerine seasonal calving and juvenile area for the endangered Northern right birds are typically not at great risk during spills; however, response whale. The area mapped has been listed as Designated Critical activities can disturb nesting or damage coastal habitat for these Habitat by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) under the species. Passerine birds of concern during spills include threatened, Endangered Species Act (NMFS, 1994). This area roughly extends endangered and rare species, especially if they nest near the from the mouth of the Altamaha River, Georgia to Jacksonville, shoreline or in wetland habitats such as marshes. Florida (from the Atlantic shoreline to 15 nautical miles offshore), and from Jacksonville to Sebastian Inlet, Florida (from the Atlantic Oiling of birds reduces the buoyancy, water repellency, and shoreline to 5 nautical miles offshore). Additional whale data for insulation provided by feathers, and may result in death by drowning several species are also included for the offshore area encompassed or hypothermia. Preening of oiled feathers may also result in by Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary. Though not included on ingestion of oil resulting in irritation, sickness, or death. Bird oiling, the maps, offshore whale distributions are generally described as particularly waterfowl and wading birds, may continue even after follows: Northern right whale, 0-30 miles offshore; humpback floating oil has been removed, depending on the extent of oiled whale, 0-30 miles offshore; pygmy sperm whale, 5-200 miles vegetation and debris. Oiling can severely impact breeding and offshore; and fin whale, 5-200 miles offshore. nesting success, especially if oiled adults contaminate the nest, eggs, or young. Disturbance during response activities can also reduce Marine mammal distributions are displayed on the maps as a nesting success. brown hatch polygon. A brown icon with a manatee or whale silhouette is used to indicate the presence of marine mammals. The Bird concentration areas are shown on the maps as polygons with RAR# under the icon references a table on the reverse side of the map. a green hatch pattern. Certain nesting sites and similar areas such as In this table, the first column gives the species name. The second wood stork roosts are displayed as point locations using a green dot. column denotes whether the species has been designated endangered Data from NHP records are displayed as marker icons and a yellow (E) or threatened (T) on either the state (S) and/or federal (F) lists. RAR# box. A green icon with the appropriate bird silhouette The next column provides an estimate of the concentration of the (wading bird, raptor, etc.) is associated with the polygons, points, or species at the site. Concentration is usually indicated as “HIGH”, markers. The RAR# under the icon references a table on the reverse “MED”, or “LOW”. The species seasonality is shown in the next side of the map. In this table, the first column gives the species twelve columns, representing the months of the year. If the species is name. The second column indicates whether the species is listed as present at that location in a particular month, an “X” is placed in the threatened (T) or endangered (E) on either the state (S) and/or month column. The final columns list the time periods for sensitive federal (F) lists. The next column provides an estimate of the life-history stages or activities, such as calving for Northern right concentration of each species at the site. For the bird data, whales. concentration is indicated as “VERY HIGH”, “HIGH”, “MED”, or “LOW”, or as a numerical value representing the number of nests in a TERRESTRIAL MAMMALS point or polygon, or the number of individuals occurring in a polygon. For data from NHP element occurrence records, concentration is listed Terrestrial mammals were only mapped where NHP records as an “OCCURRENCE”. The descriptive concentration estimates are indicated the presence of protected or rare species. Note that small subjective, based on local expert opinion on relative concentrations in semi-aquatic fur-bearing mammals such as river otter, beaver, the area. The numerical concentration values are based on survey muskrat, and mink were not mapped as a part of this atlas, due to data. Numerical concentrations at any particular site may fluctuate lack of information. However, these resources are likely to occur seasonally and annually based on local or regional conditions, or throughout much of the study area. Depending on the species, semi- other factors. The species seasonality is shown in the next twelve aquatic fur-bearing mammals may occur where rivers, streams, columns representing the months of the year. If the species is present estuaries, impoundments, and especially wetlands are present. Semi- at that location in a particular month, an “X” is placed in the month aquatic fur-bearing mammals can be severely impacted by swimming column. The last columns denote the nesting time-period for each through oil slicks or coming into contact with oiled vegetation. species, if nesting occurs in the particular area or site in question. Protected and rare terrestrial mammals are displayed on the Nesting refers to the entire nesting period, while laying, hatching, maps as brown marker icons with a small mammal silhouette. The and fledging are discrete subsets of the nesting time period. For many RAR# under the icon (with the yellow NHP box) references a table on species there is a temporal shift in seasonality and reproduction the reverse side of the map. In this table, the first column gives a along with spatial changes in location. Temporal information general subelement-level name for the species. The second column included in the tables is specific to the one polygon or point that it indicates whether the species is listed as threatened (T) or references. endangered (E) on either the state (S) and/or federal (F) lists. The next column provides the concentration of each species at the site, REPTILES/AMPHIBIANS which is “OCCURRENCE” for NHP-derived data. The species Reptiles and amphibians depicted in the Georgia atlas include seasonality is shown in the next twelve columns representing the sea turtles, other turtles and tortoises, lizards, frogs, and months of the year. If the species is present at that location in a salamanders. American alligators are not depicted in the atlas due particular month, an “X” is placed in the month column. to widespread abundance and an assumed low sensitivity to spills. Alligators can occur throughout freshwater and estuarine habitats in BIRDS Georgia, particularly in wetlands, coastal rivers, ponds, and Birds are divided into several species subgroups based on impoundments. Diamondback terrapins were not mapped, though taxonomy, morphology, behavior, and oil spill vulnerability and they may occur in estuarine habitats such as salt and brackish sensitivity. The species table lists all the birds included on the marshes and tidal creeks. maps, sorted by subgroup. These species were included either because Sea turtle areas displayed on the maps are limited to nesting of their likelihood of impact by an oil spill, or their special beaches and several well known in-water concentration areas. protection status as threatened or endangered. Birds are a major However, loggerhead, green, Kemp’s ridley, and leatherback sea component of the Georgia ESI atlas; however, large wide-spread turtles can occur throughout the coastal, estuarine, and marine waters distributions of offshore birds are not included since particular of Georgia. Though not included on the maps, offshore sea turtle concentration areas can vary greatly, both spatially and temporally. distributions are generally described as follows: loggerhead, green, Offshore birds not included in this project include Northern gannet and Kemp’s ridley turtles, highest concentrations from 0-5 miles (diving pelagic bird), which may be widespread and locally offshore, and further offshore in the vicinity of reef areas such as abundant from 0-20 miles offshore from December through March. Gray’s Reef; and leatherback turtles, 0-200 miles offshore. All sea Likewise, Lesser scaup (waterfowl) may occur in large rafts offshore turtles are protected as threatened or endangered species. (and in the open sounds) from November through March. Other species with similar distributions include common loon, mergansers, In addition to sea turtles, the threatened gopher tortoise was and other diving ducks. mapped in only a few locations. Significant coastal populations of gopher tortoises are known for Crooked River State Park, Cumberland Waterfowl and diving birds (pelicans, cormorants, etc.) are Island, and St. Catherines Island. Additional reptiles and usually at greatest risk during oil spills, because they spend nearly amphibians were mapped from NHP records. all of their time on the water surface, and/or because they become partially or entirely immersed while feeding. Waterfowl can also be Sea turtle and gopher tortoise concentrations are depicted as contaminated through contact with oiled wetland vegetation. polygons with a red hatch pattern. Other reptiles and amphibians Wading birds are usually at slightly lesser risk, primarily because are indicated using a marker icon only. A red icon with a turtle or they become oiled mainly on the legs and bill while wading for prey. other reptile/amphibian silhouette is used to indicate the presence

GA - Page 2 of reptiles. The number under the icon references a table on the mating, juveniles, and adults). For many species there is a temporal reverse side of the map. In the tables, the first column gives the shift in seasonality and life-history along with spatial changes in species name. The second column denotes whether the species has location. Temporal information included in the tables is specific to been designated as endangered (E) or threatened (T) on either the the one polygon or site that it references. state (S) and/or federal (F) lists. The next column provides an A thorough understanding of the maps and tables would not be estimate of the concentration of the species at a site. Concentration is possible without a summary description of the ELMR program. generally indicated as “HIGH”, “MED”, or “LOW”, except for NHP Detailed information about ELMR methods and the fisheries and element occurrence records, where concentration is listed as an salinity data in Georgia are provided below. “OCCURRENCE”. The species seasonality is shown in the next twelve columns, representing the months of the year. If the species is present at that location in a particular month, an “X” is placed in the ELMR FISHERIES AND SALINITY DATA month column. For sea turtles, the last two columns indicate nesting Through NOAA’s ELMR program, a set of regional, consistent and hatching time periods. Nesting refers to the time when adults databases have been developed describing the distribution, relative construct nests and deposit eggs. Hatching refers to the time when abundance, and life-history characteristics of selected fish and young are hatching and emerging from the nests. For many species invertebrates in U.S. estuaries. The spatial and temporal distribu- there is a temporal shift in seasonality and reproduction along with tion of ELMR’s categorical relative abundance data were assigned to spatial changes in location. Temporal information included in the Georgia’s estuarine systems, based on information from the original tables is specific to the one polygon that it references. ELMR data set (Nelson et al., 1991), regional and local fisheries FISH AND INVERTEBRATES experts, survey reports, peer-reviewed literature, and existing quantitative data. The relative abundance categories are intended to The fish and invertebrate species depicted in the Georgia ESI emulate the categories often used by fisheries biologists. These atlas include selected estuarine-dependent, anadromous, and marine abundance estimates are then verified through an extensive peer- species. Species of commercial, recreational, ecological, or conser- review process utilizing the knowledge and field experience of vation interest were chosen. The ESI maps and tables show the fisheries biologists and managers. The data summaries represent the general distribution of fish and invertebrates by seasonal salinity best available source of information about the current distribution and zones in the estuaries and for the 0-10 meter depth zone in the abundance of the selected species. In addition to 31 species from the nearshore marine environment. The data for fish and invertebrate original ELMR database, 14 other fish and invertebrate species were distribution were collected and compiled by NOAA’s Strategic included for the Georgia ESI. They are: knobbed whelk, Atlantic Environmental Assessments Division with the assistance of GA DNR, sharpnose shark, hickory shad, hardhead catfish, shortnose under the Estuarine Living Marine Resources (ELMR) program. Fish sturgeon, striped anchovy, tarpon, star drum, king mackerel, and invertebrate distributions by salinity or depth zone are referred hogchoker, black sea bass, gag, silver perch, and Atlantic spadefish. to below and in the legend as “ELMR data”. A primary factor affecting the distribution of estuarine- In addition to the ELMR distribution data, special concentration dependent fish and invertebrates is salinity. Seasonal estuarine areas for selected species were also mapped, based on expert source salinity zones are used in this atlas to organize and geographically information, maps, and other data provided by GA DNR. Special depict the distribution and relative abundance of fish and inverte- concentration areas include known high concentration areas, spawning brates in estuaries. The three estuarine salinity zones (depth- sites, important juvenile nursery areas, sessile shellfish beds, etc. averaged and seasonal) used for the Georgia ESI atlas are: tidal Special fish concentration areas were mapped for shortnose sturgeon, fresh (0 - 0.5 parts per thousand [ppt]), mixing (0.5 - 25 ppt), and Atlantic sturgeon, red drum, spotted seatrout, tarpon, and seawater (>25.0 ppt). Three salinity zones were used due to the high sheepshead. For invertebrates, American oyster and quahog (hard variability of Georgia’s estuaries. Salinity variability in Georgia clam) sites were mapped within recreational and commercial harvest estuaries is largely the result of their geomorphology (they are areas only. In addition to the ELMR distribution data and special generally shallow) and tidal ranges (which are large, 2-3 meters). concentration areas, fish species were mapped by bottom habitat type The estuarine salinity zones used were adapted and updated from for Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary (map number 38), based on those developed in Orlando et al. (1994). These salinity zones were data and expert knowledge provided by sanctuary staff. A variety of reviewed and revised in 1996 by GA DNR personnel. reef-associated and other offshore fish were linked with three major habitats within the sanctuary: hardbottom reef; hardbottom reef Salinity analysis for Georgia’s estuarine systems focused on two ledges; and sand bottoms. In a few cases, data from NHP records are periods: the high salinity period (~ late summer-fall) and the low displayed on the maps for rare and endangered fish species. These salinity period (~late winter-spring). The two transitional salinity data include records for some fish of conservation interest which were periods, roughly representing summer (transitional, increasing salin- not included in the ELMR data or special concentration areas. ity) and winter (transitional, decreasing salinity periods) were also addressed. These periods represent the typical high-, transitional-, The general ELMR distributions of fish and invertebrates by and low-salinity conditions experienced under average seasonal salinity zone or depth are depicted on the maps as polygons, bounded freshwater inflow conditions. The isohalines that define the by black lines. Shading or hatch patterns were NOT used since the salinity zones shift seasonally due to environmental factors such as ELMR data fills nearly all water bodies on the maps. The black freshwater inflow, evaporation, and wind. The monthly designation ELMR boundaries represent seasonal isohalines (in the estuaries), the of high (H), transitional (T), and low (L) salinity time periods are break between the estuarine and marine environment (at the inlet specified in the tables on the reverse side of each map, in the legend, mouths), or the 10 meter depth contour (offshore). ELMR polygon in Table 1, and on the seasonal salinity zone map shown on page 5. boundaries are not visible in most other instances since they follow the shoreline (except at state borders which mark the limit of the ELMR data and expert review were used to develop maps of study area). For non-ELMR data, special concentration polygons are distribution and relative abundance for 45 fish and invertebrate depicted as polygons with a blue hatch pattern for fish, and an species in Georgia’s estuaries and marine environment. For species in orange hatch pattern for sessile shellfish. For Gray’s Reef, fish are the marine environment, the distributions are mapped into four, associated with the bottom habitat polygons differentiated by solid depth-defined polygons: 0-10 meters (m), 10-20m, 20-50m, and 50- fill colors (see legend associated with the Gray’s Reef map). For 200m. Note that only the 0-10m zone is included in the hardcopy NHP records, only a marker icon was used. In all cases, a blue icon atlas, representing the nearshore marine environment. For the with a fish silhouette, and/or an orange icon with either a bivalve or marine data, it is also important to note that some species (e.g., gag general ELMR invertebrate (crab) silhouette, are associated with the grouper, Atlantic spadefish, etc.) are structure- or reef-oriented and fish and invertebrate data. do not occur throughout the depth range in which they are depicted. For species information in the estuaries, species distribution infor- The RAR# under the icon or icon group references a table on the mation are organized into the aforementioned seasonal salinity reverse side of the map. In this table, the first column gives the zones; however, it is important to note that most species and life species name. The second column denotes whether the species has stages do not occur everywhere throughout an assigned zone at all been designated endangered (E) or threatened (T) on either the state times. For example, a map might show juveniles for one species in the (S) and/or federal (F) lists. For non-ELMR data, concentration may be estuarine mixing zone in May. However, these juveniles may only listed as HIGH, MEDIUM, or LOW, or as “OCCURRENCE” for NHP occur at the bottom, near structure, in waters less than 3m, and only in element occurrence records. The concentration column is left blank for late May. the ELMR data because relative abundances are listed by month in the seasonality columns. Under each month where an ELMR species The salinity patterns for each Georgia estuary were analyzed to is present, a number code indicates the species abundance (1 = no determine the locations of seasonal isohalines. The salinity information, 2 = rare, 3 = common, 4 = abundant, 5 = highly abundant). characteristics for each estuary are described below and illustrated The ELMR abundance codes usually refer to juvenile life stages, even on page 5. Salinity distributions in most Georgia estuaries are though other life stages may be present. If juveniles are not present, dominated by changes in seasonal freshwater inflows. For estuarine the abundances refer to adults, or larvae if adults and juveniles are systems with larger rivers (e.g., Savannah, Ossabaw, Altamaha, St. not present. For non-ELMR data, seasonality is also listed by month Andrew Sound, and St. Marys), freshwater input is typically highest with an “X” indicating the species presence in any particular month. from January-April and lowest during August-November. Accord- The last columns indicate time periods for various life-history stages ingly, salinity is typically 5-15 ppt lower during February-April or activities (fish = spawning [parturition for sharks], outmigration, than during September-December. Freshwater also tends to set-up larvae, juveniles, and adults; invertebrate = spawning, larvae, localized areas of vertical salinity stratification, especially during high inflow periods. GA - Page 3 Other estuaries (i.e., St. Catherines, Sapelo, Wassaw, St. Simon, Salinity variability is dominated by seasonal fluctuations from and Cumberland Sounds) are supported by small watersheds that the Ogeechee River and its tributaries. Throughout much of the provide little direct freshwater inflow. However, many of these estuary, salinity is 5-10 ppt lower during February-April than during systems are influenced by the major river systems in adjacent estuaries October-December. The greatest seasonal salinity changes are and still experience appreciable (though much reduced) seasonal apparent in the lower Ogeechee River, below Shad Island. Salinity salinity changes. Consequently, salinity typically remains closer to is generally unstratified, but may be moderately stratified in full seawater strength throughout much of the year and vertical Ossabaw Sound and the lower Ogeechee River during the low salin- stratification is less likely to occur or persist. ity period. Tides are semi-diurnal and range about 2.1m throughout Ossabaw Sound and the lower regions of the major tributaries. In all Georgia estuaries, the prevailing seasonal salinity patterns and the degree of vertical stratification are affected by St. Catherines, Sapelo, and Doboy Sounds tides, shelf circulation, local precipitation, and wind. Of these, the effect of tide is most apparent. Tides (and wind) are important This group of estuaries includes three sounds (St. Catherines, mechanisms for water column mixing and, therefore, typically reduce Sapelo, and Doboy) and numerous tidal creeks, including Bear, vertical salinity stratification. In addition, tides can shift the Medway, North and South Newport, and Sapelo. The average depth location of isohalines, particularly in estuaries with large river is about 4m at mid-tide level, although naturally deep areas and inputs. In these cases, salinity may occasionally span brackish to shoals are interspersed throughout the estuary. Due to their small near-ocean concentrations over a tidal cycle. watersheds, St. Catherines and Sapelo Sounds systems receive limited freshwater inflow. However, freshwater input from the TABLE 1. Seasonal salinity time-periods for Georgia estuaries. Altamaha River has a major influence on Doboy Sound, and the J F M A M J J A S O N D Ogeechee River contributes some fresh water to St. Catherines A E A P A U U U E C O E system, via the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. The head of tide ESTUARY N B R R Y N L G P T V C for St. Catherines Sound is located on the Medway and North Newport Rivers, about 40 km upstream of the entrance to the sound. Savannah River T LLLTTTTHHHT Although these estuaries experience seasonal salinity varia- Wassaw Sound T LLLTTTTTHHH tions, they are not as pronounced as in other estuaries with larger Ossabaw Sound T LLLTTTTTHHH freshwater sources (i.e., Savannah and Altamaha rivers). However, the Doboy Sound system does exhibit more seasonal salinity St. Catherines, TLLLTTTTTHHH variation than do St. Catherines and Sapelo systems, mostly due to Sapelo, and inputs from the Altamaha River. Except for weak vertical stratifi- Doboy Sounds cation in Doboy Sound and its tributaries, salinities throughout the Altamaha River T LLLTTTTHHHT estuary are often vertically homogeneous. Tides are semi-diurnal and average about 2-3m. St. Andrew and St. TLLLTTTTTHHH Simons Sounds Altamaha River St. Marys River TLLLTTTTHHHT This estuary includes the Altamaha River, Altamaha Sound, and Cumberland and several tidal creeks. The average depth of the estuary is Sound approximately 3m at mid-tide level, although naturally deep areas and shoals are interspersed throughout the estuary. The estuary receives most of its freshwater from the Altamaha River, formed by Savannah River the confluence of the Ocmulgee and Oconee Rivers; the head of tide is This estuary includes the New River, Wright River, and several located about 39 km upstream of the entrance to Altamaha Sound. distributaries of the Savannah River (i.e., Front, Back, and Middle Freshwater from the Altamaha River also has a dominant influence Rivers and South Channel). The average depth of the estuary is on the Hampton River. approximately 5m at mid-tide level, although deeper navigation Salinity variability is dominated by seasonal fluctuations of the channels (9-12m mean low water [MLW]) exist. The estuary receives Altamaha River and its tributaries. Dams that form reservoirs on most of its freshwater from the Savannah River; the head of tide is the Ocmulgee and Oconee Rivers have little impact on estuarine located about 5 km upstream of the Highway 17 bridge. During the salinities. Throughout much of the estuary, salinity is about 10 ppt 1970s and 1980s, a tide gate located in the Back River affected lower during February-April than during September-November. circulation and salinity in the upper estuary. The tide gate has not Moderate-to-high vertical stratification is common in the lower been operational since March 1989. Thus, salinity zones defined for Altamaha River (below Threemile Cut) and in the lower portion of this ESI map reflect conditions after March 1989. the South Altamaha River. Tides are semi-diurnal and range 2.0m at Salinity variability is dominated by seasonal fluctuations and the entrance to the estuary. controlled releases of freshwater from impoundments on the St. Andrew and St. Simons Sounds Savannah River and its tributaries. Throughout much of the estuary, salinity is about 5 ppt lower during February-April than during These estuaries include St. Andrew and St. Simons Sounds, as well September-November, although these seasonal differences are less as the Satilla River, Little Satilla River, and several small tidal apparent upstream of Hutchinson Island. Salinities are often creeks. The average depth of the estuaries is approximately 4m at vertically homogeneous, except for moderate stratification in the mid-tide level. The Brunswick Harbor Channel (10m at MLW) lower Savannah River. Tides are semi-diurnal and range from 2.0m extends from the entrance of St. Simons Sound to the city of at the entrance to the estuary to 2.5m in the Savannah River above Brunswick; a smaller channel exists in the East River. The estuary Elba Island. receives most of its freshwater from the Satilla River; the head of tide is located about 80 km upstream of the entrance to St. Andrew Wassaw Sound Sound. Limited additional freshwater is conveyed through the This estuary includes Wassaw Sound and its major tributaries: Mackay River from the Altamaha River. Little water exchange the Wilmington, Bull, and Half Moon rivers. The average depth of occurs between the St. Simons and St. Andrews Sounds, although the estuary is approximately 8m at mid-tide level in the river these systems are adjacent. channels, and averages 2m elsewhere. Due to its small watershed, Salinity variability is dominated by seasonal fluctuations of the this estuary receives limited freshwater inflow, primarily from the Satilla River. Although St. Simons Sound lacks any comparable Wilmington River. However, a connection to the Savannah River direct freshwater inflow, exchanges with the Altamaha River via (South Channel) periodically supplements freshwater derived the Frederica River appear to have periodic influence on salinity locally from the Wilmington River watershed during freshets. No during major freshets. Limited data available for Mackay River, St. head of tide can be identified, as tidal influence extends throughout Simons Sound, and Brunswick River suggest that salinities are highly the estuary. variable and weakly stratified, particularly during the low salinity Limited data available for this estuary suggests that Wassaw period (February-April). Tides are semi-diurnal and range 2.0m at Sound experiences very little seasonal salinity changes. In the the entrances to the sounds, 2.2m near Brunswick, and 2.4m at absence of significant freshwater inflow, salinities tend to be verti- Hermitage Point. cally homogeneous and near full seawater strength. Tides are semi- St. Marys River and Cumberland Sound diurnal and average about 2.1m in the Sound and Wilmington River. This estuarine system includes the St. Marys, Crooked, and Ossabaw Sound Amelia Rivers as well as Kings Bay, Cumberland Sound, and This estuary includes Ossabaw Sound and the Ogeechee, Little numerous small tidal creeks. The average depth of the estuary is Ogeechee, Burnside, and Vernon Rivers. The average depth is about approximately 6m at mid-tide level. Navigation channels (14m at 4m at mid-tide level, although naturally deep areas and shoals are MLW) extends from the entrance of St. Mary Sound to the Kings Bay interspersed throughout the estuary. The Ogeechee River is the Naval Submarine Base. Smaller channels exists in Cumberland dominant freshwater source to the estuary; head of tide is located 52 Sound (9m at MLW), North River (9m at MLW), and through St. km upstream of the entrance to Ossabaw Sound. Marys River (5m at MLW). The estuary receives most of its freshwater from the St. Marys River, which originates in the

GA - Page 4 Salinity Zones Georgia’s Estuarine Tidal Fresh (0 - 0.5 ppt.) Mixing (0.5 - 25 ppt.) Salinity Zones Seawater (>25 ppt.)

Low Salinity Transitional - Increasing Period Salinity Period Feb. - Apr. May - Aug. All estuary systems Savannah River Altamaha River Savannah River Savannah River St. Marys River/Cumberland Sound May - Sep. Ossabaw Sound Wassaw Sound St. Andrew/St. Simons Sounds Wassaw Sound Ossabaw Sound St. Catherines/Sapelo Sounds Ossabaw Sound Wassaw Sound

St. Catherines & St. Catherines & Sapelo Sounds Sapelo Sounds

Altamaha River Altamaha River

St. Andrew & St. Andrew & St. Simons Sounds St. Simons Sounds

St. Marys River & St. Marys River & Cumberland Sound Cumberland Sound

High Salinity Period Transitional - Decreasing Sep. - Nov. Salinity Period Altamaha River Savannah River Dec. - Jan. St. Marys River/Cumberland Sound Savannah River Altamaha River Savannah River Oct. - Dec. Savannah River Ossabaw Sound St. Marys River/Cumberland Sound St. Andrew/St. Simons Sounds Jan. Ossabaw Sound St. Catherines/Sapelo Sounds Wassaw Sound Wassaw Sound Wassaw Sound St. Andrew/St. Simons Sounds Ossabaw Sound St. Catherines/Sapelo Sounds Ossabaw Sound Wassaw Sound

St. Catherines & St. Catherines & Sapelo Sounds Sapelo Sounds

Altamaha River Altamaha River

St. Andrew & St. Andrew & St. Simons Sounds St. Simons Sounds

St. Marys River & St. Marys River & Cumberland Sound Cumberland Sound Okefenoke Swamp; head of tide is located about 64 km upstream of Boat Ramp—Location of boat ramps. This information was gathered the entrance to St. Marys Sound. from overflight observations, aerial photographs, and expert sources. Salinity variability is dominated by seasonal fluctuations of the Coast Guard—Location of Coast Guard facilities. This information St. Marys River and its tributaries. The largest seasonal salinity was obtained from topographical maps. differences are apparent in the upper regions of the St. Marys and Commercial Fishing—General areas where commercial fishing Crooked Rivers. Salinity in Cumberland Sound and lower St. Marys activities take place. Commercial fishing types include shrimp, River is generally polyhaline to euhaline and tends to be vertically oyster, and hard clam harvest. Other commercial fishing activities homogeneous. Tides are semi-diurnal and average about 1.8m at the such as blue crab harvest, shad fishing, etc. may take place through- entrance to St. Marys Sound. out the study area. HABITATS/RARE PLANTS Diving—Location of recreational dive sites. Habitats and plants depicted in the Georgia atlas include Hazardous Waste Site—Location of hazardous waste sites in the protected or rare plants, and hardbottom reef habitats associated coastal zone. GA DNR Environmental Protection Division contacts with the Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary. The majority of concerning these sites are provided on the data tables for each map. rare plant data came from NHP records. Plant records were identified as terrestrial plants, wetland/aquatic plants, or unique Historical Site—Location of historic sites in the coastal zone. This plant communities. Submerged habitats for Gray’s Reef were mapped information was provided by the GA DNR HPD. These areas may based on side-scan sonar data and expert knowledge provided by contain single sites or several sites, and may encompass larger sanctuary staff. historic districts. The exact location and extent of these sites are not represented on the maps due to their sensitivity to disturbance. Plants are mainly depicted using marker icons (for NHP records). Instead, generalized locations are depicted to indicate site presence In a few cases, plants may be mapped as small polygons with a purple in the vicinity. For more specific locations, detailed information on hatch pattern. Purple icons with a plant silhouette indicate rare or the site(s) present, and guidance during response operations, please protected plant species or communities. Habitats for Gray’s Reef are refer to the same contacts listed for Archaeological Sites. In most depicted as polygons with a hot pink (high relief, hardbottom reef cases, historical site and district names are indicated on the data ledges) or light blue (low relief, hardbottom reef) solid fill pattern. tables for each map. In the tables, the first column gives the name of the plant or habitat type. The second column denotes whether the plant species has been Marina—Location of marinas. This information was gathered from designated as endangered (E) or threatened (T) on either the state (S) overflight observations, aerial photographs, and expert sources. and/or federal (F) lists. The final columns provide monthly Marine Sanctuary—Locations of areas managed by the NOAA seasonality data. The plants and habitats mapped are all present Sanctuary and Reserves Division as National Marine Sanctuaries, or year round. by NOAA and the state as National Estuarine Research Reserves. National Park—Locations of areas managed by the National Park HUMAN-USE FEATURES Service, including national parks, national seashores, and national The human-use features depicted on the maps are those that monuments. could be impacted by an oil spill or could provide access for response NOAA Data Buoy—Location of central buoy for Gray’s Reef operations. All the features are represented by icons indicating the National Marine Sanctuary. This buoy, maintained by the National type of human-use resource. Data Buoy Center, provides real time wind speed and direction, sea state, and water temperature data. Access Historical Site Recreational Fishing—Location of recreational fishing sites. Airport Marina State Park—Locations of areas managed by GA DNR as state parks and related properties. Aquaculture Marine Sanctuary Water Intake—Location of water intakes maintained by municipali- Archaeological Site National Park ties, power plants, industrial facilities, aquaculture sites, natural resource agencies, etc. For most water intakes, the site name, owner/ Beach NOAA Data Buoy manager, contact person, and telephone number are provided on the Boat Ramp data table for each map. State Park Wildlife Refuge—Location of areas managed by the U.S. Fish and Coast Guard Wildlife Service (USFWS) as National Wildlife Refuges or GA Recreational Fishing DNR as State Wildlife Management Areas. Commercial Fishing The names of the various management areas include: Diving Water Intake NAME Hazardous Waste Site Wildlife Refuge MARINE SANCTUARIES & RESERVES (NOAA/GA DNR) Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary Access—Location where it is possible to gain vehicular access to the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve shoreline or isolated coastal sites and islands. For some areas, such as islands, vehicles and equipment would need to be transported to NATIONAL PARK SERVICE (NPS) access sites on barges. Cumberland National Seashore Airport—Location of airports, airfields, landing strips, etc., whether Fort Frederica National Monument they are manned or unmanned. The locations were obtained from Fort Pulaski National Monument USGS topographic maps. NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGES (USFWS) Aquaculture—Location of aquaculture sites and facilities. Aqua- Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge culture locations were obtained from expert sources. When known, the Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge site name, owner/manager, emergency contact name, and telephone Savannah National Wildlife Refuge number are provided on the data tables for each map. Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge Archaeological Site—Location of known archaeological sites in the Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge coastal zone. This information was provided by the GA DNR STATE PARKS (GA DNR) Historic Preservation Division (HPD). The exact location and extent Crooked River State Park of these sites are not represented on the maps due to their sensitivity Fort King George State Historic Site to disturbance. Instead, generalized locations are depicted to indi- Fort McAllister State Historic Park cate single or multiple site presence in the vicinity. For more specific Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation State Historic Site locational information, information on the type of site(s) present, and Skidaway Island State Park guidance during response operations, please contact: Mark Edwards, Wormsloe Plantation State Historic Site State Historic Preservation Officer, 404/651-5061 (office) and 404/ 993-2807 (home); Richard Clouse, Deputy State Historic Preservation STATE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (GA DNR) Officer, 404/651-5983 (office) and 770/469-4884 (home); W. Ray Luce, Altamaha State Waterfowl Management Area Supervisor, HPD Planning and Local Assistance Unit, 404/656-6461 Ossabaw Island State Wildlife Management Area (office) and 770/998-6935 (home); Richard Alan Warner, 404/651- Richard J. Reynolds State Wildlife Refuge 6775 (office) and 404/299-8565 (home); Ronnie Rogers, 404/657-1042 Richmond Hill State Wildlife Management Area (office) and 706/216-1077 (home); or Chip Morgan, 404/651-6433 (office) and 770/475-7915 (home). Beach—Location of recreational beaches used for activities such as swimming, sun-bathing, fishing, etc.

GA - Page 6 GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM DATA NOS Strategic Environmental Assessment Division, Rockville, MD, 167 pp. The entire atlas product is stored in digital form in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The information is stored as geographic Orlando, S.P., Jr., P.H. Wendt, C.J. Klein, M.E. Patillo, K.C. Dennis. layers and associated databases. The format for the data varies and G.H. Ward, 1994, Salinity characteristics of South Atlantic depending on the type of information or features for which the data estuaries. NOAA/ORCA, Silver Spring, MD, 117 pp. are being stored. The three major formats are shoreline habitat Parker, R., 1994, Video transect estimate of reef fish abundance. classification, biological resources, and human-use features. Fishery Bulletin 92:787-799. Under separate cover is a metadata document which details the Ruckdeschel, C., C.R. Shoop, and B. Winn, 1990, Brown pelican data dictionary, processing techniques, and descriptive information nesting in Georgia. The Oriole 55(4):65-68. for the digital data sets and maps that were used to create this atlas. Southeast Monitoring Assessment Program (SEAMAP), 1986-1996, Below is a brief synopsis of the information contained in the digital Survey and trawl data for fish and invertebrates off the southeast version. Refer to the metadata file for a full explanation of the data U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service, Southeast Fisheries and its structure. Center, Stennis Space Center, MS. SHORELINE HABITAT CLASSIFICATION The Georgia Conservancy, 1993, Guide to the Georgia coast. The The shoreline habitat classification is stored as lines and Georgia Conservancy and the Junior League of Savannah, GA. 201 polygons with associated attributes. In many cases, a shoreline may pp. have two or three different classifications. These multiple classifi- Wenner, C.A. and G.R. Sedberry, 1989, Species composition, distri- cations are represented on the maps by double and triple line patterns bution, and relative abundance of fishes in the coastal habitat off and in the database by ESI#1/ESI#2, where ESI#1 is the landward- the Southeastern United States. NOAA Technical Report NMFS most classification and ESI#2 is the seaward-most classification. In 79, 49 pp. addition to the line features, tidal flats (ESI = 7, ESI = 9A) and the various wetland types (ESI = 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D) are also stored Whitted, J., 1980-1982, Guides to coastal fishing in Georgia (by as polygons. county). University of Georgia, Marine Extension Service.

SENSITIVE BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Wilkinson, P.M., S.A. Nesbitt, and J.F. Parnell, 1994, Recent history and status of the eastern brown pelican. Wildlife Society Bulletin Biological resources are stored as polygons or points. Associated 22:420-430. with each feature is a unique identification number which is linked to a series of databases that further identify the resources. The first ACKNOWLEDGMENTS data set consists of a list of the species and the concentration of each species. This dataset is then linked to datasets that describe the life This project was supported by the National Oceanic and Atmo- history of each species (temporal presence and reproductive/life- spheric Administration’s Coastal Services Center (CSC) in history time periods at month resolution) for the specified map Charleston, South Carolina and NOAA’s Hazardous Materials feature. Other databases linked to the first data set are: the species Response and Assessment Division (HMRAD) in Seattle, identification database, which includes common and scientific names Washington. The U.S. Coast Guard provided aircraft support and and NHP Global Conservation Status Ranks for all species; the the Georgia Department of Transportation provided access to aerial species status database, which gives information for state and/or photographs for the shoreline habitat mapping. Catherine Main federal threatened or endangered listings; and the sources database, with NOAA’s CSC and Brad Benggio with NOAA HMRAD (Miami, which provides source metadata for each biological feature. Note Florida) assisted greatly with project coordination and planning. that element occurrence records for rare and endangered species The biological and human-use data included on the maps were provided by the GA NHP are included only on the hardcopy maps, provided by many individuals within several divisions of GA DNR, not in the digital data set. as well as other agencies and groups including the Gray’s Reef HUMAN-USE FEATURES National Marine Sanctuary, NMFS, National Park Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, USFWS, University of Georgia, and the Human-use features are represented as lines, points, or polygons. Skidaway Institute of Oceanography. Catherine Main with The resource name, the owner/manager, a contact person, and an NOAA’s CSC collected the biological and human-use data from emergency phone number are included in the database for aquaculture resource experts and assisted with compiling this data onto the maps. sites, water intakes, and other features, when available. All Tracy Gill, Ken Buja, Tony Lowery, and other contributors with metadata sources are documented at the feature level. Note that NOAA’s SEA Division provided the salinity information and archaeological site data provided by the GA DNR Historic Preser- collected and compiled the ELMR fish and invertebrate data with vation Division are included only on the hardcopy maps, not in the the assistance of GA DNR fisheries experts. digital data set. Research Planning, Inc. (RPI), Columbia, South Carolina, produced the Georgia ESI atlas. At RPI, Scott Zengel was the project REFERENCES manager and ecologist. Shoreline habitat mapping was conducted by Listed below are the major hardcopy reference materials used Todd Montello, coastal geologist. The biological and human-use data during this project. In some instances, reference materials were not were compiled onto basemaps and edited by Scott Zengel with the directly used as source materials, but were instead used or interpreted assistance of Kara Hastings and Christopher Locke. Kara Hastings by scientists or resource managers who provided expert knowledge or (GIS coordinator), Christopher Locke, Zachary Nixon, Mark White, personal communication concerning resources depicted in the atlas. and William Holton entered the data and produced the final maps under the supervision of Joanne Halls. Systems administration was Bryan, A.L., 1994, Wood stork roost sites in the coastal zone of conducted by William Holton. Graphics were provided by Joe Georgia and South Carolina in 1994. Savannah River Ecology Holmes. Dot Zaino prepared the final text and data tables. Laboratory, Aiken, S.C. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, 1981-1994, Numerous fishery assessment documents and reports. Complete citations for references used during the ELMR fisheries database development are available from NOAA’s SEA Division, Silver Spring, MD. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, 1995, Georgia offshore fishing guide. GA DNR, Coastal Resources Division, Brunswick, GA. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, 1996, Angler’s guide to Georgia saltwater fishing access sites. GA DNR, Coastal Resources Division, Brunswick, GA. Georgia Natural Heritage Program, 1996, Special concern animals of Georgia. GA DNR, Wildlife Resources Division, Social Circle, GA. Georgia Natural Heritage Program, 1996, Special concern plants of Georgia. GA DNR, Wildlife Resources Division, Social Circle, GA. National Marine Fisheries Service, 1994, Designated critical habitat for the Northern Right Whale. Federal Register 59(106):28793- 28808. Nelson, D.M., E.A. Irlandi, L.R. Settle, M.E. Monaco, and L. Coston- Clements, 1991, Distribution and abundance of fishes and invertebrates in Southeast estuaries. ELMR Report No. 9, NOAA/

GA - Page 7 SPECIES LIST* SPECIES LIST*

Common Name Species Name Common Name Species Name

MAMMALS BIRDS (continued)

MARINE MAMMALS SHOREBIRDS (continued) Fin whale Balaenoptera physalus Western sandpiper Calidris mauri Humpback whale Megaptera novaeangliae Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Northern right whale Eubalaena glacialis White-rumped sandpiper Calidris fusciollis Pygmy sperm whale Kogia breviceps Willet Catoptrophorus West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus semipalmatus Wilson’s phalarope Steganopus tricolor TERRESTRIAL MAMMALS Wilson’s plover Charadrius wilsonia Rare rodent Yellowlegs Tringa spp. Threatened rodent WADING BIRDS American avocet Recurvirostra americana BIRDS Black-crowned night heron Nycticorax nycticorax Black-necked stilt Himantopus mexicanus Cattle egret Bubulcus ibis DIVING BIRDS Endangered wading bird Anhinga Anhinga anhinga Glossy ibis Plegadis falcinellus Brown pelican Pelecanus occidentalis Great blue heron Ardea herodias Double-crested cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus Great egret Casmerodius albus Pied-billed grebe Podilymbus podiceps Green-backed heron Butorides striatus Little blue heron Egretta caerulea GULLS AND TERNS Rare wading bird Black skimmer Rynchops niger Snowy egret Egretta thula Black tern Chlidonias niger Tricolored heron Egretta tricolor Bonaparte’s gull Larus philadelphia White ibis Eudocimus albus Caspian tern Sterna caspia Wood stork Mycteria americana Forster’s tern Sterna fosteri Yellow-crowned night heron Nyctanassa violacea Gull-billed tern Sterna nilotica Herring gull Larus argentatus WATERFOWL Laughing gull Larus atricilla American coot Fulica americana Least tern Sterna antillarum American wigeon Anas americana Rare tern Black duck Anas rubripes Ring-billed gull Larus delawarensis Blue-winged teal Anas discors Royal tern Sterna maxima Bufflehead Bucephala albeola Sandwich tern Sterna sandvicensis Canvasback Aythya valisineria Threatened tern Common moorhen Gallinula chloropus Gadwall Anas strepera PASSERINE Greater scaup Aythya marila Endangered passerine bird Green-winged teal Anas crecca Rare passerine bird Hooded merganser Lophodytes cucullatus Lesser scaup Aythya affinis RAPTORS Mallard Anas platyrhynchos American kestrel Flaco sparverius Mottled duck Anas fulrigula American swallow-tailed kite Elanoides forficatus Northern pintail Anas acuta Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Northern shoveler Anas clypeata Coopers hawk Accipiter cooperii Purple gallinule Porphyrula martinica Endangered raptor Redhead Aythya americana Merlin Falco columbarius Ring-necked duck Aythya collaris Northern harrier Circus cyaneus Ruddy duck Oxyura jamaicensis Osprey Pandion haliaetus Wood duck Aix sponsa Peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus Red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis REPTILES Sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter striatus

SHOREBIRDS AMPHIBIANS American oystercatcher Haematopus palliatus Rare frog Black-bellied plover Pluvialis squatarola Rare salamander Buff-breasted sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis Common snipe Gallinago gallinago LIZARDS Dowitcher Limnodromus spp. Rare lizard Dunlin Calidris alpina Greater yellowlegs Tringa melanaleuca TURTLES Killdeer Charadrius vociferus Gopher tortoise Gopherus polyphemus Least sandpiper Calidris minutilla Green sea turtle Chelonia mydas Lesser yellowlegs Tringa flavipes Kemp’s ridley sea turtle Lepidochelys kempii Marbled godwit Limosa fedoa Leatherback sea turtle Dermochelys coriacea Pectoral sandpiper Calidris melanotos Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta Peep Calidris spp. Threatened turtle Piping plover Charadrius melodus Rare shorebird Red knot Calidris canutus FISH Ruddy turnstone Arenaria interpres Sanderling Calidris alba Semipalmated plover Charadrius semipalmatus ANADROMOUS Semipalmated sandpiper Calidris pusilla American shad Alosa sapidissima Solitary sandpiper Tringa solitaria Atlantic sturgeon Acipenser oxyrhynchus Spotted sandpiper Actitis macularia Blueback herring Alosa aestivalis Stilt sandpiper Calidris himantopus Endangered anadromous fish Upland sandpiper Bartramia longicauda Hickory shad Alosa mediocris Shortnose sturgeon Acipenser brevirostrum Striped bass Morone saxatilis * Threatened and endangered species are designated by underlining.

GA - Page 8 SPECIES LIST* SPECIES LIST*

Common Name Species Name Common Name Species Name

FISH (continued) HABITATS

SPECIAL HABITATS/RARE PLANTS American eel Anguilla rostrata Dense-flowered groundsel-tree Baccharis glomeruliflora Atlantic croaker Micropogonias undulatus Rare community Atlantic menhaden Brevoortia tyrannus Rare terrestrial plant Atlantic sharpnose shark Rhizoprionodon terraenovae Rare wetland/aquatic plant Atlantic spadefish Chaetodipterus faber Threatened terrestrial plant Bar jack Caranx ruber Threatened wetland/aquatic plant Bay anchovy Anchoa mitchilli Black drum Pogonias cromis HARDBOTTOM/REEF LEDGES Black seabass Centropristis striata Hardbottom reef Blue angelfish Holacanthus bermudensis Hardbottom reef ledge Bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix Cobia Rachycentron canadum * Threatened and endangered species are designated by underlining. Cocoa damselfish Pomacentrus variabilis Cubbyu Equetus umbrosus Gag grouper Mycteroperca microlepis Gray snapper Lutjanus griseus Great barracuda Sphyraena barracuda Greater amberjack Seriola dumerili Hardhead catfish Arius felis Hogchoker Trinectes maculatus Inshore lizardfish Synodus foetens King mackerel Scomberomorus cavalla Ladyfish Elops saurus Longspine porgy Stenotomus caprinus Mackerel scad Decapterus macarellus Mummichog Fundulus heteroclitus Pearly razorfish Hemipteronotus novacula Pinfish Lagodon rhomboides Rare fish Red drum Sciaenops ocellatus Red porgy Pagrus pagrus Round scad Decapterus punctatus Sand perch Diplectrum formosum Scamp grouper Mycteroperca phenax Seatrout (weakfish) Cynoscion regalis Sheepshead Archosargus probatocephalus Silver perch Bairdiella chrysoura Slippery dick Halichoeres bivittatus Southern flounder Paralichthys lethostigma Southern kingfish (whiting) Menticirrhus americanus Southern stringray Dasyatis americana Spanish mackerel Scomberomorus maculatus Spot Leiostomus xanthurus Spotfin butterflyfish Chaetodon ocellatus Spottail pinfish Diplodus holbrooki Spotted seatrout Cynoscion nebulosus Star drum Stellifer lanceolatus Striped anchovy Anchoa hepsetus Striped mullet Mugil cephalus Summer flounder Paralichthys dentatus Tarpon Megalops atlanticus Tomtate Haemulon aurolineatum Yellow jack Caranx bartholomaei

INVERTEBRATES

BIVALVES American oyster (eastern) Crassostrea virginica Quahog spp. (hard clam) Mercenaria spp.

CRABS Blue crab Callinectes sapidus

GASTROPOD Knobbed whelk Busycon carica

SHRIMP Brown shrimp Penaeus aztecus Grass shrimp Palaemonetes sp. Pink shrimp Penaeus duorarum White shrimp Penaeus setiferus

GA - Page 9 Shoreline Descriptions EXPOSED, SOLID MAN-MADE STRUCTURES ESI = 1B DESCRIPTION • These structures are solid, man-made structures such as seawalls, groins, revetments, piers, and port facilities. • Many structures are constructed of concrete, wood, or metal. • Often there is no exposed substrate at low tide, but multiple habitats are indicated if present. • They are built to protect the shore from erosion by waves, boat wakes, and currents, and thus are exposed to rapid natural removal processes. • Attached animals and plants are sparse to moderate. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil is held offshore by waves reflecting off the steep, hard surface in exposed settings. • Oil readily adheres to the dry, rough surfaces above high water, but it does not adhere to wet substrates. • The most resistant oil would remain as a patchy band at or above the high-tide line. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Cleanup is usually not required. • High-pressure water spraying may be conducted to: - remove persistent oil in crevices; - improve aesthetics; or - prevent leaching of oil.

FINE- TO MEDIUM-GRAINED SAND BEACHES ESI = 3A DESCRIPTION • These beaches are flat to moderately sloping and relatively hard packed. • They are composed of quartz sand and shell fragments and are common along the outer barrier island coastline. • There can be heavy accumulations of wrack present. • They are utilized by birds for nesting, foraging, and loafing and turtles for nesting. • Upper beach fauna include ghost crabs and amphipods; lower beach fauna can be moderate, but highly variable. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Light oil accumulations will be deposited as oily swashes or bands along the upper intertidal zone. • Heavy oil accumulations will cover the entire beach surface; oil will be lifted off the lower beach with the rising tide. • Maximum penetration of oil into fine- to medium-grained sand is about 10-15 cm. • Burial of oiled layers by clean sand within the first week after a spill typically will be less than 30 cm along the upper beach face. • Organisms living in the beach sediment may be killed by smothering or lethal oil concentrations in the interstitial water. • Biological impacts include temporary declines in infauna, which can affect important shorebird foraging areas. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • These beaches are among the easiest shoreline types to clean. • Cleanup should concentrate on removing oil and oily debris once oil has come ashore. • Traffic through both oiled and dune areas should be limited, to prevent contamination of clean areas. • Manual cleanup, rather than road graders and front-end loaders, is advised to minimize the volume of sand removed from the shore and requiring disposal. • All efforts should focus on preventing the mixture of oil deeper into the sediments by vehicular and foot traffic. • Mechanical reworking of lightly oiled sediments from the high-tide line to the upper intertidal zone can be effective along outer beaches.

GA - Page 10 SCARPS AND STEEP SLOPES IN SAND ESI = 3B DESCRIPTION • This shoreline type occurs where sandy bluffs are undercut by waves or currents. • They normally form along embankments of sandy dredge- spoil material and at cutbanks in rivers; they also form where tidal creeks intercept old sandy beach ridge deposits. • Some scarps are fronted by narrow beaches, if the erosion rates are moderate and episodic. • Trees growing at the top of these slopes are eventually undercut and the logs can accumulate at the base of the scarp. • Biological utilization by birds and infauna is low. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Any stranded oil will concentrate at the high-water line and may penetrate sandy sediments if a beach is present. • Oil will also adhere to the dry surfaces of any logs that have accumulated at the base of the scarp. • There is little potential for burial except when major slumping of the bluff occurs. • Active erosion of the scarp will remove the oil. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • In most cases, cleanup is not necessary because of the short residence time of the oil. • The need for removal of oiled sediments and debris should be carefully evaluated because of the potential for increased erosion. • Closely supervised manual labor should be used so that the minimal amount of material is removed during cleanup.

GRAVEL BEACHES ESI = 6A DESCRIPTION • Gravel beaches in Georgia are composed almost entirely of shell. • They can be very steep, with multiple wave-built berms forming the upper beach. • Shell beaches are common near oyster reefs and along the intracoastal waterway where spoil mounds have been reworked by boat wakes into steep shell berms. • There are low densities of infauna because the coarse sediments dry out during low tide. • They are important roosting areas for shorebirds, especially when high tide floods the marshes. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Deep penetration of stranded oil is likely on shell beaches because of their high permeability. • Long-term persistence will be controlled by the depth of routine reworking by the waves. • Along sheltered portions of the shorelines, chronic sheening and the formation of asphalt pavements is likely where accumulations are heavy. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Heavy accumulations of pooled oil should be removed quickly from the upper beach. • All oiled debris should be removed. • Sediment removal should be limited as much as possible. • Low- to high-pressure flushing can be effective for fresh liquid, making sure to recover all released oil with skimmers or sorbents. • Mechanical reworking of oiled sediments from the high- tide line to the lower beachface can be effective in areas regularly exposed to wave activity; the presence of multiple storm berms is evidence of wave activity. • In-place tilling may be used to reach deeply buried oil layers along the mid-intertidal zone on exposed beaches.

GA - Page 11 RIPRAP ESI = 6B DESCRIPTION • Riprap structures are composed of cobble- to boulder-sized blocks of granite or limestone. • Riprap structures are common along shorelines exposed to wave action (outer coasts, large bays and harbors, navigable channels) and are used for shoreline protection and tidal- inlet stabilization (jetties). • Attached biota are sparse to moderate on exposed riprap. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Deep penetration of oil between the blocks is likely. • Oil adheres readily to the rough surfaces of the blocks. • Uncleaned oil can cause chronic leaching until the oil hardens. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • When the oil is fresh and liquid, high pressure spraying and/or water flooding may be effective, making sure to recover all liberated oil. • Heavy and weathered oils are more difficult to remove, requiring scrapping and/or hot-water spraying. • It may be necessary to remove heavily oiled blocks and replace them in high-use areas.

EXPOSED TIDAL FLATS ESI = 7 DESCRIPTION • Exposed tidal flats are broad intertidal areas composed primarily of sand and minor amounts of shell and mud. • The presence of sand indicates that tidal currents and waves are strong enough to mobilize the sediments. • They are usually associated with another shoreline type on the landward side of the flat, though they can occur as separate shoals; they are commonly associated with tidal inlets and are found at meander bends in large tidal creeks/river channels. • Biological utilization can be very high, with large numbers of infauna, heavy use by birds for roosting and foraging, and use by foraging fish. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil does not usually adhere to the surface of exposed tidal flats, but rather moves across the flat and accumulates at the high-tide line. • Deposition of oil on the flat may occur on a falling tide if concentrations are heavy. • Oil does not penetrate water-saturated sediments, though it can penetrate drained burrows. • Biological damage may be severe, primarily to infauna, thereby reducing food sources for birds and other predators. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Currents and waves can be very effective in natural removal of the oil. • Cleanup is very difficult (and possible only during low tides). • The use of heavy machinery should be restricted to prevent mixing of oil into the sediments.

SHELTERED SCARPS IN MUD ESI = 8A DESCRIPTION • Sheltered scarps form by boat wake erosion of marsh fronts or muddy substrates along navigable channels. • There may be some fringing marsh at the base of the scarp along the edge of the water; it is not significant enough to map. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil will not adhere to the wet sediment surface but could penetrate burrows if present and drained. • Stranded oil will persist because of low energy setting. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Where the high-tide area is accessible, it may be feasible to remove heavy oil accumulations and oiled debris. • The muddy substrate cannot support heavy equipment, and even foot traffic could disrupt the sediments and mix oil deeper.

GA - Page 12 SHELTERED, SOLID MAN-MADE STRUCTURES ESI = 8B DESCRIPTION • These structures are solid man-made structures such as seawalls, groins, revetments, piers, and port facilities. • Most structures are constructed of concrete, wood, or metal. • These structures are found inside harbors and bays in highly developed areas, sheltered from direct exposure to waves. • Often there is no exposed beach at low tide, but multiple habitats are indicated if present. • Most of the structures are designed to protect a single lot, thus their composition, design, and condition are highly variable. • Attached animal and plant life can be high. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil will adhere readily to the rough surface, particularly along the high-tide line, forming a distinct oil band. • The lower intertidal zone usually stays wet (particularly if algae covered), preventing oil from adhering to the surface. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Cleanup of seawalls is usually conducted for aesthetic reasons or to prevent leaching of oil. • Low- to high-pressure spraying at ambient water temperatures is most effective when the oil is fresh.

SHELTERED RIPRAP ESI = 8C DESCRIPTION • Riprap structures are composed of cobble- to boulder-sized blocks of granite or limestone. • These structures are found inside harbors and bays in highly developed areas, sheltered from direct exposure to waves. • Attached animal and plant life can be highly variable. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Deep penetration of oil between the boulders is likely. • Oil adheres readily to the rough surfaces. • If oil is left uncleaned, it may cause chronic leaching until the oil hardens. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • High-pressure spraying may be required to remove oil for aesthetic reasons and to prevent leaching of oil from the structure. • Cleanup crews should make sure to recover all released oil.

SHELTERED TIDAL FLATS ESI = 9A DESCRIPTION • Sheltered tidal flats are composed primarily of mud with minor amounts of sand and shell. • They are present in calm-water habitats, sheltered from waves, and are frequently backed by marshes. • The sediments are very soft and cannot support even light foot traffic in many areas. • They can have heavy wrack deposits along the upper fringe. • There can be large concentrations of invertebrates on and in the sediments. • They are heavily utilized by birds for feeding. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil does not usually adhere to the surface of sheltered tidal flats, but rather moves across the flat and accumulates at the high-tide line. • Deposition of oil on the flat may occur on a falling tide if concentrations are heavy. • Oil will not penetrate the water-saturated sediments, but could penetrate burrows and desiccation cracks or other crevices in muddy sediments. • In areas of high suspended sediments, sorption of oil can result in deposition of contaminated sediments on the flats. • Biological damage may be severe. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • These are high-priority areas for protection because of limited cleanup options. • Cleanup of the flat surface is very difficult because of the soft substrate; many methods may be restricted. • Low-pressure flushing and deployment of sorbents from shallow-draft boats may be helpful.

GA - Page 13 VEGETATED LOW RIVERINE BANKS ESI = 9B DESCRIPTION • These are either low banks with grasses or low eroding banks with trees and tree roots exposed to the water. • The are flooded occasionally by high water. • These shorelines are generally found in fresh or brackish water habitats. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • During low water stages there is little impact, with the oil coating a narrow band of sediment at the water level. • During high water, the oil can cover and coat the grasses and base of trees. • Oiling may cause loss of the grasses, but the trees should survive unless oil penetrates and persists in the substrate. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Low-pressure flushing of oiled areas is effective in removing moderate to heavy accumulations of oil from along the banks. • Sorbent and containment boom should be placed on the water side of the cleanup operations to contain and collect oil outflow. • Low- to high-pressure flushing can be used to remove oil from tree roots and trunks, if deemed necessary in high-use areas.

SALT- AND BRACKISH-WATER MARSHES ESI = 10A DESCRIPTION • These are intertidal wetlands containing emergent, herbaceous vegetation. • Width of the marsh can vary widely, from a narrow fringe to extensive areas. • Sediments are composed of organic muds except on the margins of barrier islands where sand is abundant. • Exposed areas are located along bays with wide fetches and along heavily trafficked waterways. • Sheltered areas are not exposed to significant waves or boat wakes. • Resident flora and fauna are abundant with numerous species with high utilization by birds, fish, and invertebrates. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil adheres readily to intertidal vegetation. • The band of coating will vary widely, depending upon the water level at the time oil slicks are in the vegetation. There may be multiple bands. • Large slicks will persist through multiple tidal cycles and coat the entire stem from the high-tide line to the base. • If the vegetation is thick, heavy oil coating will be restricted to the outer fringe, although lighter oils can penetrate deeper, to the limit of tidal influence. • Medium to heavy oils do not readily adhere to or penetrate the fine sediments, but can pool on the surface or in burrows. • Light oils can penetrate the top few centimeters of sediment and deeply into burrows and cracks (up to one meter). RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Under light oiling, the best practice is to let the area recover naturally. • Natural removal processes and rates should be evaluated prior to conducting cleanup. • Heavy accumulations of pooled oil can be removed by vacuum, sorbents, or low-pressure flushing. During flushing, care must be taken to prevent transporting oil to sensitive areas down slope or along shore. • Cleanup activities should be carefully supervised to avoid vegetation damage. • Any cleanup activity must not mix the oil deeper into the sediments. Trampling of the roots must be minimized. • Cutting of oiled vegetation should only be considered when other resources present are at great risk from leaving the oiled vegetation in place. GA - Page 14 FRESHWATER MARSHES ESI = 10B DESCRIPTION • These are grassy wetlands composed of emergent herbaceous vegetation. • They occur upstream of brackish vegetation along major rivers. • Those along major channels are exposed to strong currents and boat wakes; inland areas are highly sheltered. • The substrate is seldom exposed since daily water-level changes are low; greater changes occur during floods. • Resident flora and fauna are abundant with numerous species. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil adheres readily to the vegetation. • The band of coating will vary widely, depending upon the water level at the time oil slicks are in the vegetation. There may be multiple bands. • If the vegetation is thick, heavy oil coating will be restricted to the outer fringe, although lighter oils can penetrate deeper. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Under light oiling, the best practice is to let the area recover naturally. • Natural removal processes and rates should be evaluated prior to conducting cleanup. • Heavy accumulations of pooled oil can be removed by vacuum, sorbents, or low-pressure flushing. During flushing, care must be taken to prevent transporting oil to sensitive areas down slope or along shore. • Cleanup activities should be carefully supervised to avoid vegetation damage. • Any cleanup activity must not mix the oil deeper into the sediments. Trampling of the roots must be minimized. • Cutting of oiled vegetation should only be considered when other resources present are at great risk from leaving the oiled vegetation in place.

SWAMPS ESI = 10C DESCRIPTION • Swamps consist of shrubs and hardwood forested wetlands, essentially flooded forests. • The sediment tends to be silty clay with large amounts of organic debris. • They are seasonally flooded, though there are many low, permanently flooded areas. • Resident flora and fauna are abundant with numerous species. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil behavior depends on whether the swamp is flooded or not. • During floods, most of the oil passes through the forest, coating the vegetation above the waterline, which changes levels throughout the flood event. • Oiled woody vegetation is less sensitive than grasses to oil coating. • Some oil can be trapped and pooled on the swamp flood plain as water levels drop. • Penetration into the floodplain soils is usually limited because of high water levels, muddy composition, surface organic debris, and vegetation cover. • Large amounts of oily debris can remain. • During dry periods, terrestrial spills flow downhill and accumulate in depressions or reach waterbodies. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Under light oiling, the best practice is to let the area recover naturally. • Heavy accumulations of pooled oil can be removed by vacuum, sorbents, or low-pressure flushing. During flushing, care must be taken to prevent transporting oil to sensitive areas down slope or along shore. • Under stagnant water conditions, herding of oil with water spray may be needed to push oil to collection areas. • Oily debris can be removed where there is access. • Any cleanup activity must not mix the oil deeper into the sediments. Trampling of the roots must be minimized. • Cutting of oiled vegetation should only be considered when other resources present are at great risk from leaving the oiled vegetation in place.

GA - Page 15 SCRUB-SHRUB WETLANDS ESI = 10D DESCRIPTION • Scrub-shrub wetlands consist of woody vegetation less than 6m tall including true shrubs, small trees, and trees and shrubs that are stunted because of environmental conditions. • They are common in disturbed/modified areas such as dredge spoil mounds and along the edges of right-of-ways (utilities, pipelines, etc.) that cross channels. • The sediment tends to be silty clay with large amounts of organic debris. • They are seasonally flooded, though there are many low, permanently flooded areas. • Resident flora and fauna are abundant with numerous species. PREDICTED OIL BEHAVIOR • Oil behavior depends on whether the wetland is flooded or not. • During floods, most of the oil passes through the wetland, coating the vegetation above the waterline, which changes levels throughout the flood event. • Oiled woody vegetation is less sensitive than grasses to oil coating. • Some oil can be trapped and pooled on the wetland floodplain as water levels drop. • Penetration into the floodplain soils is usually limited because of high water levels, muddy composition, surface organic debris, and vegetation cover. • Large amounts of oily debris can remain. • During dry periods, terrestrial spills flow downhill and accumulate in depressions or reach waterbodies. RESPONSE CONSIDERATIONS • Under light oiling, the best practice is to let the area recover naturally. • Heavy accumulations of pooled oil can be removed by vacuum, sorbents, or low-pressure flushing. During flushing, care must be taken to prevent transporting oil to sensitive areas down slope or along shore. • Under stagnant water conditions, herding of oil with water spray may be needed to push oil to collection areas. • Oily debris can be removed where there is access. • Any cleanup activity must not mix the oil deeper into the sediments. Trampling of the roots must be minimized. • Cutting of oiled vegetation should only be considered when other resources present are at great risk from leaving the oiled vegetation in place.

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