DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

Ithaca Dredging Project

Prepared by EcoLogic LLC and T.G. Miller, P.C. for The City of Ithaca, New York with funds provided under Title 11 of the Environmental Protection Fund NYS Comptroller’s Contract #C006737

Andrew M. Cuomo Cesar A. Perales Governor Secretary of State

NOVEMBER 2011 Notice of Acceptance of Draft EIS and Public Hearing Tompkins County - The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), as lead agency, has accepted a Draft Environmental Impact Statement on the proposed Ithaca Dredging Project. A public hearing on the Draft EIS will be held on December 12, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. at the Ithaca Common Council Chambers, Ithaca City Hall, 108 Green Street, 3rd Floor, Ithaca, NY. Written comments on the Draft EIS will be accepted until January 6, 2012. The Draft EIS is available at the following locations: City of Ithaca Planning Department, 108 Green St. Ithaca, NY; the NYS DEC - Region 7 Office, 1285 Fisher Avenue, Cortland NY; Tompkins County Public Library and on line at: www.ecologicllc.com/ithacadredging.html.

The action involves the planning, development and maintenance of a sediment management basin in relation to the maintenance dredging of portions of the Cayuga Inlet and Cascadilla Creek. The NYS Canal Corporation currently holds a valid permit to perform maintenance dredging. This particular action is to address the sediment disposal options including mitigation measures. An area owned by the City of Ithaca named the Southwest Site is identified as the preferred location for the facility and is located west off Elmira Road behind the Walmart and Lowes stores.

The project is located west of Elmira Road, behind the Walmart and Lowes in the City of Ithaca, New York.

Contact: Joe Dlugolenski, NYS DEC - Region 7 Office, 1285 Fisher Avenue, Cortland, NY 13045, Phone: (607) 753-3095, ext. 233, E-mail: [email protected].

DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

Ithaca Dredging Project Lead Agency: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Region 7

Project Sponsor: City of Ithaca, New York

with funds provided under Title 11 of the Environmental Protection Fund NYS Comptroller’s Contract #C006737

Prepared by: EcoLogic LLC and T. G. Miller, P.C. 11/15/2011

Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Table of Contents

Executive Summary...... 6 Chapter 1. Introduction to Project ...... 10 1.1 Project Description ...... 10 1.1.1 Description of project components ...... 12 1.1.2 Description of work ...... 12 1.1.2.1 Development of the sediment management facility ...... 12 1.1.2.2 Removal of sediment from the waterways ...... 12 1.1.2.3 Dewatering in the Sediment Management Facility (SMF)...... 13 1.1.2.4 Removal of dewatered sediment from the SMF and/or reuse of the dewatered sediment for a beneficial use...... 13 1.1.3 Future Considerations ...... 16 1.2 Public Need & Benefit ...... 16 1.3 Project Phasing and Segmentation ...... 21 1.4 Purpose of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) ...... 22 1.5 Coordination of Review under SEQRA ...... 22 1.6 Location and Setting of Project ...... 23 1.7 List of Involved Agencies and their Authority ...... 25 Chapter 2. Description of the Proposed Action ...... 30 2.1 Overview of the SMF ...... 30 2.2 Program Requirements ...... 31 2.3 Site Preparation ...... 36 2.4 Operation Phase ...... 39 Chapter 3. Alternatives Considered ...... 41 3.1 Process to Identify and Screen Alternatives ...... 41 3.2 Results of Alternative Screening ...... 44 Chapter 4. Environmental Setting, Impacts and Mitigation ...... 51 4.1 Land ...... 51 4.1.1 Existing Conditions ...... 51 4.1.1.1 Overview: Watershed Sources of Sediment ...... 51 4.1.1.2 Geology, Topography and Soils: Southwest Development Area ...... 52

1 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

4.1.1.3 Site History and Potential Presence of Subsurface Contamination ..... 53 4.2 Potential Impacts of the Proposed Action ...... 55 4.2.1 Site Topography ...... 55 4.2.2 Presence of Buried Waste Material ...... 55 4.2.3 Chemical Content of Soils ...... 55 4.2.4 Erosion potential ...... 56 4.3 Mitigating Measures ...... 56 4.3.1 Stormwater management and erosion control ...... 56 4.3.2 Contingency plans for handling buried waste ...... 56 4.3.3 Soil contingency plan ...... 56 4.4 Transportation ...... 56 4.4.1 Existing Conditions ...... 56 4.4.2 Potential Impacts ...... 57 4.4.3 Mitigation Measures ...... 60 4.5 Air ...... 60 4.5.1 Existing Conditions ...... 60 4.5.2 Impacts of the proposed action ...... 61 4.5.3 Mitigation Measures ...... 61 4.6 Energy ...... 62 4.6.1 Existing Conditions ...... 62 4.6.2 Potential Impacts ...... 62 4.6.3 Mitigation Measures ...... 62 4.7 Recreation...... 62 4.7.1 Scope of this discussion ...... 62 4.7.2 Existing Conditions ...... 63 4.7.2.1 Rowing Programs ...... 63 4.7.2.2 Ithaca Dragon Boat Club & Finger Lakes International Dragon Boat Festival ...... 63 4.7.2.3 Other Non-Motorized Users ...... 64 4.7.2.4 Motorized Boating ...... 64 4.7.3 Potential Impacts ...... 64 4.7.4 Mitigation Measures ...... 65

2 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

4.8 Fish Community ...... 66 4.8.1 Existing Conditions ...... 66 4.8.1.1 Lakewide fish community ...... 66 4.8.1.2 Sea Lamprey ...... 69 4.8.1.3 Habitat Conditions, Lower Cascadilla Creek ...... 71 4.8.2 Potential Impacts ...... 75 4.8.3 Mitigation Measures ...... 76 4.9 Noise and Odor ...... 76 4.9.1 Existing Conditions ...... 76 4.9.2 Potential Impacts ...... 76 4.9.3 Mitigation Measures ...... 79 Chapter 5. Construction Impacts ...... 80 5.1 Description of Construction Activities ...... 80 5.2 Drainage ...... 80 5.3 Air Quality ...... 80 5.4 Noise ...... 81 5.5 Traffic ...... 81 5.6 Land ...... 81 5.7 Public Health & Safety ...... 81 Chapter 6. Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources ...... 82 6.1 Land Resources ...... 82 6.2 Materials ...... 82 6.3 Energy resources ...... 82 6.4 Financial resources ...... 82 Chapter 7. Adverse Impacts that Cannot be Avoided ...... 83 7.1 Land Resources ...... 83 7.2 Dust ...... 83 7.3 Infrastructure and services ...... 83 7.4 Energy ...... 83

3 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 8. Effects on the Use and Conservation of Energy ...... 84 References ...... 85 Appendices ...... 87

LIST OF TABLES

Table EX-1. Potential Impacts of Proposed Action ...... 7 Table 1-1. Results of Sediment Testing, November 2008, City of Ithaca...... 14 Table 1-2. Dredging History Summary ...... 17 Table 1-3. Summary of Community Perception of Impairments ...... 20 Table 1-4. Summary of water quality classifications and designated use ...... 23 Table 1-5. List of Involved Agencies and Their Authority ...... 26 Table 2-1. Summary of Water quality conditions in the relief channel, June-August 2011 ...... 31 Table 2-2. Equipment to Complete Basin Construction ...... 39 Table 3-1. Pros and Cons of Potential Sites/Approaches ...... 46 Table 4-1. Traffic Scenarios for SMF Sediment Removal ...... 57 Table 4-2. Existing air quality data ...... 60 Table 4-3. List of equipment anticipated for use during construction of the SMF at the City- owned Southwest Site...... 62 Table 4-4. Fish Species Present in Cayuga Lake, New York ...... 66 Table 4-5. Spawning Requirements for Common Littoral Fish of Cayuga Lake, New York ...... 68 Table 4-6. Spawning Requirements for Common Deep Water Fish of Cayuga Lake, New York ...... 69 Table 4-7. Physical characteristics of habitat units identified in the lower Cascadilla Creek, on July 17-18, 2008 ...... 72 Table 4-8. Noise rating of equipment anticipated for use during SMF construction ...... 77 Table 5-1. Earthwork Quantities ...... 80

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1-1. Ithaca Dredging Project – EIS Project Boundary Map - 2011 ...... 11 Figure 1-2. Recent Soundings – Cascadilla Creek ...... 18 Figure 1-3. Water Quality Classifications Map ...... 24 Figure 1-4. US Army Corps of Engineers Jurisdictional Map ...... 29 Figure 2-1. Overall Project site map, showing pipeline route, pump station and siting of basins and utilities within SW parcel ...... 32 Figure 2-1A. North ...... 33 Figure 2-1B. Center ...... 34 Figure 2-1C. South ...... 35 Figure 2-2. Existing Conditions ...... 37

4 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 2‐3. SMF Site Plan ...... 38 Figure 3‐1. Potential Dewatering Sites ...... 43 Figure 4‐1. Proposed Ingress and Egress to the SMF ...... 59 Figure 4‐2. Photo‐Habitat unit 1 (in Cascadilla Creek) ...... 74 Figure 4‐3 Photo Habitat unit 13 (in Cascadilla Creek) ...... 74 Figure 4‐4. Photo Habitat unit 14 (in Cascadilla Creek) ...... 75 Figure 4‐5. Sensitive Receptors ...... 78

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A. Relevant Correspondence (scoping comments, placeholder for DEIS comments) . 87 Appendix B. SEQRA Documents (Environmental Assessment Form, Positive Declaration) ...... 87 Appendix C. Water Quality Certification for Canal Corporation Dredging ...... 87 Appendix D. Beneficial Use Determination (BUD) ...... 87 Appendix E. Site Reconnaissance Report, including appendices (EcoLogic 2010) ...... 87 Appendix F. Legal Analysis (NYSDOS, 2009) ...... 87 Appendix G. SW Site Characterization Report (TTEC, Inc., 2009) ...... 87 Appendix H. Wetlands Delineation Report (LeCain, 2009) ...... 87 Appendix I. Jurisdictional Determination (ACOE, 2010) ...... 87 Appendix J. Traffic Report (Tim Logue, 2011) ...... 87 Appendix K. Habitat Survey Report (EcoLogic, 2008) ...... 87

5 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Executive Summary

The City of Ithaca, acting as the Project Sponsor, plans to develop and maintain a sediment management facility (SMF) on a 23- acre portion of the City-owned Southwest Site. In addition, the City plans to remove up to 25,000 cubic yards (cy) of sediment from the lower reaches of Cascadilla Creek and transport that material to the SMF for dewatering. This Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) reviews the potential environmental impacts that could result from these actions, and evaluates their short-term and long-term environmental significance.

In March, 2011 the Project Sponsor and Lead Agency convened scoping sessions with the involved and interested parties and the general public to identify potential environmental impacts of the proposed action. The outcome of these scoping sessions was used to develop a focused outline for the DEIS.

Reasonable alternatives to developing the SMF at the City-owned Southwest Site are evaluated. Potential mitigating measures to reduce the magnitude, duration, and significance of potential impacts are identified.

The SMF at the City-owned Southwest Site will serve as the permanent site for dewatering sediment removed from Cascadilla Creek, Cayuga Inlet and the associated Flood Control Works. Berms will be constructed to create a large basin; slurry of sediment and water removed from the channels by hydraulic dredging will be directed to the basin. Sediment particles will settle to the bottom and the overlying water will be directed to the relief channel and return to the waterways. The majority of dewatered sediment will be removed from the SMF and transported off-site for various beneficial uses.

Dredging these waterways is necessary to restore impaired navigational use and flood protection. The lack of a SMF has caused maintenance dredging to be deferred for decades, and recent estimates by the Army Corps of Engineers indicate that approximately 660,000 cy of sediment have accumulated within the channels.

The jurisdictional relationships among agencies, and responsibilities for maintaining the waterways, are complex. There are four entities with primary responsibility for this project:

• United States Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE): The ACOE constructed the Flood Control Works. Each year, ACOE and NYSDEC evaluate overall project conditions and the adequacy of their operation and maintenance efforts. ACOE determines whether the condition of the Flood Control Works provide adequate protection to the community.

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has responsibility on behalf of the State of New York for maintenance of the flood control portion of the waterways; this responsibility was conveyed to New York State once the ACOE completed the Flood Control Works in 1970. The NYSDEC is responsible for all dredging necessary for flood control.

6 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

• New York State Canal Corporation (a division of the NYS Thruway Authority) is responsible for maintaining a navigation channel in Cayuga Inlet from the Buffalo St. Bridge to the lighthouse.

• The City of Ithaca has responsibility for “ordinary maintenance” of the flood control channel, which has included mowing, brush removal and other work along the banks of the channel.

The Southwest Site was selected as the preferred location for the SMF following an extensive process to identify and screen alternatives; the process involved multiple stakeholders and public input.

It is anticipated that dredging to restore impaired navigational access will be undertaken by the Canal Corporation within the Flood Control Channel and portions of the Inlet channel, and by the City of Ithaca within lower Cascadilla Creek. Future dredging may also be necessary to maintain the flood control channel established by the Army Corps of Engineers and NYSDEC. Navigational dredging by the Canal Corporation is already permitted, and thus no further environmental review is required. The potential impacts of dredging within lower Cascadilla Creek by the City of Ithaca are considered in this DEIS. The extent of future dredging for flood control by NYSDEC and/or the ACOE is uncertain at this time, but will be subject to supplemental environmental review if necessary. The details of this possible future action- including the amount of material to be removed, when and by whom- are not known and therefore cannot be included in this document.

Despite the uncertainty associated with the scope of future dredging, this environmental review considers the potential impacts associated with the maximum possible annual dredging and use of the SMF facility in any given year. Although the separate dredging activities are stand-alone actions, the full impact of maximum annual use of the sediment management facility is being considered in this review. Thus, to the extent there is any segmentation of the dredging actions, this SEQR action does not avert the environmental review required by law and regulation.

The potential impacts of the proposed action are summarized below.

Table EX- 1. Potential Impacts of Proposed Action

Resource Potential Impacts Potential Mitigation Unavoidable Impacts

Land Grading to construct basin Stormwater pollution Removal of vegetation, prevention plan altered soil profiles to construct berms and direct water through SMF

Dedication of 23 acres of City-owned land to SMF Water Removal of sediment and Permit conditions for Temporary loss of (including associated aquatic biota limiting turbidity and/or macrophytes and aquatic suspended sediment in macroinvertebrates during habitat) Return flow from SMF to return flow dredging relief channel

7 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Resource Potential Impacts Potential Mitigation Unavoidable Impacts

Spread of hydrilla to Seasonal limit on dredging Return flow may increase uninfested areas to minimize impact on fish turbidity in relief channel spawning and migration

Restrictions on ultimate disposal of dewatered sediment to minimize risk of spreading hydrilla

Coordination between dredging and hydrilla control measures

Air Short-term release of Misting or fog-spraying Construction and operation vehicle exhaust during site to minimize dust; of the SMF will increase construction fossil fuel consumption and Maintaining crushed the associated exhaust Increased fugitive dust from stone tracking pads at dried sediment entrances to the construction site; Emissions from pumps used in hydraulic dredging Reseeding disturbed areas to minimize exposed soils; Vehicle emissions during transport of dried sediment Requiring trucks to be covered;

Recreation Temporary restrictions on As possible, schedule Temporary restrictions on using streams for recreation work to minimize using streams for disruption to recreational recreation uses Transportation Truck traffic to removed Removal of dried material Minor increase in truck dewatered sediment from by rail; adjust frequency traffic , not projected to SMF and schedule of truck cause a discernible change traffic to existing traffic levels and level of service at intersections

Energy Use of fuels (gasoline, Use of biofuels, energy Use of fuels (gasoline, diesel) during construction efficient vehicles and diesel) during construction of SMF, dredging, operation equipment of SMF, dredging, operation of SMF, and removal of of SMF, and removal of dried material for ultimate dried material for ultimate disposal disposal Public health Possible disturbance of a Develop site health & Project will improve overall & safety legacy solid waste disposal safety plan prior to public safety; a dedicated area; construction; SMF eliminates a barrier to maintaining waterways, Creation of large basin Train site workers in overall impact is to reduce responding to the risk of damaging floods

8 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Resource Potential Impacts Potential Mitigation Unavoidable Impacts

encountering waste material;

Restrict access to site Noise and Noise will be generated by Requiring mufflers on Minor noise impacts Odor construction equipment, by equipment; noise overall, most notable equipment (including diesel shielding of booster during construction. pumps) during dredging, by pumps; restrict hours of Temporary, minimal earth-moving equipment operation increase in noise at nearest and vehicles to process and receptor remove dried sediment from the SMF

Odors anticipated to be insignificant, based on nature of material and SMF setting

9 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 1. Introduction to Project

1.1 Project Description The City of Ithaca, acting as the Project Sponsor, plans to develop and maintain a sediment management facility (SMF) on a portion of the 64.6-acre City-owned Southwest Site. In addition, the City plans to remove up to 25,000 cubic yards (cy) of sediment from the lower reaches of Cascadilla Creek and transport that material to the SMF for dewatering (Figure 1-1). This Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) reviews the potential environmental impacts that could result from these actions, and evaluates their short-term and long-term environmental significance. Reasonable alternatives to developing the SMF at the City-owned Southwest Site are evaluated.

The SMF at the City-owned Southwest Site will serve as the permanent site for dewatering sediment removed from the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake. Approximately 23 acres of the site will be developed as a SMF and used to process dredged material removed from Cascadilla Creek, Cayuga Inlet and the associated Flood Control Works. The majority of sediment, once dewatered, will be removed from the SMF and transported off-site for various beneficial uses.

Dredging these waterways is necessary to restore impaired navigational use and flood protection. The lack of a SMF has caused maintenance dredging to be deferred for decades, and recent estimates by the Army Corps of Engineers indicate more than 660,000 cy of sediment have accumulated within the channels (ACOE 2011).

There are several activities related to the siting and construction of the SMF that are not specifically part of the scope of the project assessed in this DEIS. These related activities have either previously undergone environmental review or a supplemental environmental review will be undertaken as necessary in the future. For example, to the extent that the impacts have been previously reviewed, the scope of this project specifically excludes potential environmental impacts associated with sediment removal from Cayuga Inlet for the purpose of maintaining navigational access. This action will be undertaken by the NYS Canal Corporation once the SMF is developed; the Canal Corporation plans to remove between 70,000 and 100,000 cy of sediment deposited within their jurisdictional area, extending from Cayuga Lake south to the Buffalo St. Bridge. The Canal Corporation already holds the required permits and approvals, including a Water Quality Certification (Appendix C) to complete the navigational dredging of Cayuga Inlet.

An invasive macrophyte, hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) was detected in Cayuga Inlet in 2011. It is possible that the presence of this plant will require some additional permit conditions that would apply to the Canal Corporation and the existing Water Quality Certification. Control measures for hydrilla are being coordinated with the dredging project. Prior to dredging, the agencies will review the current status of this invasive plant and consider if additional control measures are warranted during dredging and dewatering.

10 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 1-1. Ithaca Dredging Project – EIS Project Boundary Map - 2011

11 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

NYSDEC is responsible for maintaining the flood control capacity of Cayuga Inlet and the associated Flood Control Works. The NYSDEC is currently working with the Army Corps of Engineers to determine the extent to which the functionality of the Flood Control Works has been diminished by sediment deposition. To maintain sufficient flood capacity, removal of the accumulated sediment will likely occur as a phased project extending over several years. Once the plan for dredging to restore the flood control works is completed, a supplemental environmental review may be undertaken as necessary; this analysis may be incorporated as a supplement or revision to this document. It is anticipated that the SMF will be utilized to dewater at least a portion of the sediment removed to restore the flood control works.

Following completion of the deferred dredging of the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake, the SMF will be used as the permanent facility to dewater sediment removed during periodic maintenance dredging.

1.1.1 Description of project components The potential environmental impacts and mitigation strategies associated with the following project components are the subject of this DEIS:

 Development of the SMF on a +/- 23 acre portion of the City-owned Southwest Site, including site preparation, grading, basin construction, and configuration of swales to direct return flow.  Removal of up to 25,000 cy of sediment accumulated within the lower reaches of Cascadilla Creek.  Transport of dewatered dredged material from the SMF (this DEIS considers the environmental impacts associated with removal of the amount of the maximum amount of dredged material processed in a year).  Alternatives for ultimate disposal of dewatered dredged material.

1.1.2 Description of work

1.1.2.1 Development of the sediment management facility Development of the SMF on the northern portion of the City-owned Southwest Site will involve extensive earth work, i.e. cutting and filling to construct the berms and alter site topography to manage the flow of water through the basin and to the outlet. There are several physical constraints to site development, including power lines and legacy municipal waste deposits, which have influenced the site layout, including the size, location and configuration of the basin.

1.1.2.2 Removal of sediment from the waterways This DEIS addresses the environmental impacts associated with removal of up to 25,000 cy of sediment deposited within the lower reaches of Cascadilla Creek. Because the stream is relatively narrow and constricted by docks and marinas, mechanical equipment, such as a long- reach excavator is likely to be employed to remove sediment from this area.

12 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Once the SMF is operational, the Canal Corporation intends to dredge the navigational channel within its jurisdictional area. The permits for this action are in place; no additional environmental review is required as part of this DEIS. The vast majority of dredging by the Canal Corporation will be completed using a hydraulic dredge; this method of sediment removal minimizes adverse environmental impacts to the waterbody. The slurry will be pumped to the SMF for dewatering.

Prior to dredging, there will be additional assessment of the presence and abundance of hydrilla in the waterways. The project partners will consider what additional measures are needed during dredging and operation of the SMF to ensure that there is no risk of spreading this invasive species. If needed, additional permit conditions will be placed on the Canal Corporation.

It is anticipated that any future dredging to restore the capacity of the flood control channel, which is the responsibility of NYSDEC, will also be accomplished primarily using hydraulic dredging, with the slurry directed to the SMF for dewatering. To the extent this additional dredging expands the scope of this environmental review, a supplemental review will be completed.

1.1.2.3 Dewatering in the Sediment Management Facility (SMF) Once removed, the sediments must be dewatered for a period 6 months to one year before they can be removed and used for another purpose. The rate at which the sediments dewater and consolidate will depend on many factors; among these factors are the texture (particle size distribution), weather conditions, and whether polymers or other coagulants are used to enhance settling. The capacity of the SMF will likely govern the amount material removed from the waterways during one dredging season. The dredging season in the Great Lakes basin typically extends from May through mid-November, although permit conditions for specific projects may differ. We anticipate that a maximum of 80,000 cy of material will be removed annually for this project.

1.1.2.4 Removal of dewatered sediment from the SMF and/or reuse of the dewatered sediment for a beneficial use. Material removed from the streams will be dewatered in the SMF and moved for ultimate reuse. As part of this project, sediments were tested for the presence and concentration of contaminants, mainly heavy metals and certain organic compounds in accordance with NYSDEC requirements for navigational dredging. Results of the testing confirm that sediments deposited within the tributaries do not exhibit these chemicals at concentrations exceeding thresholds of potential concern (Table 1-1). With minor exceptions, sediments meet the Class A designation, and are suitable for unrestricted use in accordance with NYS Navigational Dredging guidance.

13 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Table 1-1. Results of Sediment Testing, November 2008, City of Ithaca

Boring Location Standards 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 Sample ID TOGS 5.1.9: Part 375 Unrestricted Ich-1 Ich-1 Ich-2 Ich-2 Ich-2 Ich-3 Ich-3 Ich-4 Ich-4 Ich-5 Ich-5 Ich-6 Ich-6 Ich-6 Ich-7 Ich-8 Ich-8 Ich-9 Ich-10 Ich-11 Ich-12 Ich-13 Ich-13 Ich-14 Ich-16 Sample Depth (ft) Class A Soil Standards 1-6 6-12 1-6 6-10 10-14 1-6 6-12 1-6 6-12 4-10 10-14 1-6 6-10 10-14 1-14 2-10 10-14 1-14 1-14 1-14 1-14 1-10 10-14 1-14 1-14 BTEX (µg/Kg) <960 Toluene 700 ------0.94 J -- SVOC's (µg/Kg) Total PAH<4000 2-Methylnaphthalene NS ------180 J ------90 J -- 69 J ------Acenaphthene 20,000 ------750 ------120 J ------Acenaphthylene 100,000 ------92 J ------Anthracene 100,000 ------300 J ------230 J ------Benzo[a]anthracene 1,000 170 J 140 J 150 J 610 -- 240 J -- 83 J ------88 J -- -- 390 J 190 J ------Benzo[a]pyrene 1,000 170 J 140 J 170 J 510 -- 280 J -- 91 J ------98 J -- -- 350 J 190 J ------Benzo[b]fluoranthene 1,000 230 J 240 J 300 J 650 -- 550 J -- 140 J ------160 J -- -- 590 370 J ------48 J ------Benzo[g,h,i]perylene 100,000 86 J -- 110 J 150 J -- 170 J -- 58 J ------64 J -- -- 130 J 80 J ------Benzo[k]fluoranthene 800 110 J 90 J 140 J 270 J -- 190 J -- 60 J ------71 J -- -- 210 J 190 J ------Chrysene 1,000 190 J 170 J 210 J 630 -- 350 J -- 99 J ------120 J -- -- 460 J 240 J ------Fluoranthene 100,000 370 J 350 J 410 J 1100 -- 700 -- 210 J ------220 J 65 J -- 1200 440 J ------63 J ------Fluorene 30,000 ------380 ------160 J ------Indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene 500 63 J -- 71 J 65 J -- 100 J ------70 J ------Naphthalene 12,000 ------240 J ------130 J ------Phenanthrene 100,000 170 J 230 J 180 J 1200 -- 280 J -- 91 J ------92 J 71 J -- 1500 230 J 68 J ------Pyrene 100,000 290 J 330 J 330 J 1400 -- 630 J -- 160 J ------180 J 54 J -- 1100 400 J ------59 J ------1849 1690 2071 8527 0 3490 0 0 992 0 0 0 0 1093 190 0 6730 2330 137 0 0 0 0 170 0 0 0 Metals (mg/Kg) Arsenic <8.2 13 3.5 6.5 5.6 2.8 3.3 5.4 2.1 4.3 2.2 4 1.3 J 4.5 2.3 2.5 4.8 4.2 2.1 3.2 3 2.5 1.9 3.6 3.9 3.6 2.5 Cadmium <1.2 2.5 -- 0.29 J ------Chromium no standard 30 12 19 19 13 12 18 7.6 12 10 13 6.8 14 8.2 8.7 13 14 8.5 11 9.9 10 11 12 13 13 10 Copper <33 50 18 31 27 16 15 29 7.3 18 12 16 4.7 21 11 11 19 25 9.2 16 14 15 8.5 12 13 12 8 Lead <47 63 13 32 21 11 7.4 25 12 8.4 10 3.5 20 7.1 5.4 27 32 5 9.3 8.2 7.5 8.4 7.7 6.2 6.8 5.5 Mercury <0.17 0.18 0.055 J 0.3 0.076 J 0.18 0.047 0.076 J 0.033 J 0.043 J 0.043 J 0.15 0.087 J 0.047 J 0.03 J 0.031 J 0.13 J 0.2 -- 0.072 J 0.037 J 0.027 J 0.024 J 0.082 J 0.037 J 0.029 J 0.058 J Nickel no standard 30 17 26 26 19 18 24 10 17 14 19 9.1 20 12 13 18 19 12 16 14 15 16 17 17 20 15 Zinc no standard 109 68 98 97 61 58 100 31 60 46 57 30 70 42 37 70 80 39 48 42 42 47 52 55 47 43 PCB's (mg/Kg) Aroclor 1254 Total PCB <0.1 0.10 -- 0.0657 -- 0.0294 0.0152 ------0.0423 0.0055 J ------0.0427 0.0361 0.093 J ------Total Organic Carbon (mg/Kg) TOC 23,700 17,600 17,500 22,900 20,400 25,200 10,500 15,100 10,400 26,700 3,970 17,200 34,900 30,500 14,400 18,900 23,900 26,600 33,600 27,700 21,100 11,300 15,200 14,000 7,760

Notes -- : Analyte not detected. J : Below the Practical Quantitation Limits (PQL). µg/Kg: is equal to Parts Per Billion (ppb). mg/Kg: is equal to Parts Per Million (ppm). 1-6 : sample composite interval in feet below sediment/water interface.

14 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Further, the sediment testing results demonstrate full compliance with the NYCRR Part 375.6 limits for unrestricted use of soils. Compliance with these limits means that once the sediments are dewatered, they can be placed in upland areas without posing a risk to human health or the environment.

The presence of hydrilla in the waterways affects the alternatives for sediment reuse or placement after dewatering. The subterranean turions (tubers) of this exotic aquatic plant can remain viable for an extended period (Netherland 1997). Consequently, sediments should not be reused in areas adjacent to waterways to avoid the potential for spreading hydrilla.

In order to place or use dredged materials at a location other than a landfill, NYSDEC may also require a Beneficial Use Determination (BUD) as described in Appendix D. Dredged material from Cayuga Lake tributaries would be subject to additional testing prior to removal from the SMF for ultimate reuse. Results of the testing would be compared with the criteria for unrestricted use set forth in the NYCRR Part 360 solid waste management regulations and Part 375.6 environmental remediation programs (soil cleanup objectives). If, as anticipated, the dredged material complies with these limits, the material is no longer considered a solid waste and the regulatory interest in the fate of the material is extinguished.

Depending on the nutrient content, percent of organic matter, and texture, the dewatered sediments can be used in a variety of ways, such as habitat improvement, and topsoil production. The ACOE has developed a planning manual that outlines alternatives for beneficial use http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/dots/budm/pdf/PlanningManual.pdf

Dried sediments can be incorporated with yard waste to create topsoil. A patented process Recycled Soil Manufacturing Technology (RSMT) has been used to incorporate dredged material in several applications for beneficial reuse. For example, RSMT was successfully applied to reconstruct two soccer fields in New York City’s Van Cortlandt Park using material dredged from the park’s pond. The dredged material was dewatered and blended with ground and screened yard waste and composted animal manure from the Bronx Zoo http://www.rsmt- llc.info/Athletic_Fields___Wetlands_.html Other applications of RSMT have been summarized in a report by the ACOEi, and include landscaping, parks, athletic fields, golf courses, wetland construction, landfill cover, Superfund restoration, Brownfield redevelopment and restoration of disturbed minelands. In each case, dredged material was blended with local sources of cellulosic material (such as yard waste) and biosolids using the RSMT process. A mixture of dredged material from the New York Harbor and alkaline stabilized sewage sludge from the N- Viro process has been used to restore abandoned acid coal mine lands in Pennsylvania.

The potential for the reproductive structures (turions and tubers) of hydrilla to remain viable in the dewatered sediment may severely curtail alternatives for reuse of the material.

15 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

1.1.3 Future Considerations The SMF is designed to dewater sediments removed from the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake; the capacity of the basin, as presently designed, exceeds that needed to process the relatively small volume of material to be removed from lower Cascadilla Creek. The SMF is being sited and configured as a long-term solution that will accommodate the recurring need for maintenance dredging. A dedicated facility with adequate capacity will enable the ACOE, NYSDEC, Canal Corporation and City of Ithaca to maintain Cayuga Lake’s southern tributaries and the Flood Control Works for their multiple uses.

The details regarding amount of material to be removed in the future, agencies responsible, and how additional dredging will be funded and sequenced are not known at this time. As stated in section 1.1 of this DEIS, future dredging may be subject to a supplemental environmental review if necessary. Agreements among the agency stakeholders, along with permit restrictions and funding constraints, will ultimately determine the schedule and magnitude of dredging within the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake to improve navigational access and restore the capacity of the Flood Control Works.

Construction of the SMF is proposed to begin in spring 2012, pending final approvals and funding. Dredging of Cascadilla Creek will commence once basin construction is complete. Dredging by the Canal Corporation, which is specifically excluded from this DEIS, will also commence once the basins are constructed and equipment for dredging and pumping are in place. The time required to remove and dewater the dredged material will depend on its texture (particle size distribution), the size and configuration of the settling basin, the size and efficiency of the dredge and other factors.

Once channel capacity is restored, maintenance dredging is recommended to recur every three years; the amount of material accumulating over this shorter period will vary based on rainfall events and conditions in the upland watershed. Current estimates are that approximately 30,000 – 50,000 cy sediment will accumulate over three years, assuming a typical range of storm event conditions. Removal of this amount of material on a routine basis would allow a smaller- scale dewatering operation, provide ample time for the material to dry, and reduce the adverse impacts associated with removal and transport of the dried material for ultimate disposal.

1.2 Public Need & Benefit Due in large part to the difficulty of identifying an appropriate site to dewater the dredged materials until they are suitable for other uses, the dredging required to maintain navigational capacity and the Flood Control Works at its design capacity has not happened in a systematic manner, and has not occurred at all in many years. In prior years, sediment dredged from the streams was placed in wetland and marsh areas adjacent to Cayuga Inlet and served to create upland areas that are now developed areas or dedicated parklands. A summary of historical dredging within Cayuga Inlet Table 1-2 reveals that maintenance dredging for navigational

16 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging access last occurred in 1982. Cascadilla Creek is also impaired by excessive sediment deposition, as illustrated by recent depth profiling (Figure 1-2). Table 1-2. Dredging History Summary

Year Dredging Activities

1821 The Cayuga Inlet was declared a public highway, and was navigable for the largest Erie Canal boats for a distance of two miles from Cayuga Lake. 1839 A sand bar at the junction of the Inlet and the Lake inhibiting passage of loaded boats was removed. 1860s Dredging to maintain channel depth of 7 ft. and make other improvements to the channel. 1876 NYS funds appropriated for dredging the Inlet near Ithaca.

1901 NYS funds appropriated for dredging the Inlet near Ithaca. 1911 - 1960 NYS assumed responsibility for the dredging operations required for commercial use of the Inlet; dredging occurred periodically through the 1960s (limited volume of sediment removed). Dredged material was placed in wetlands along the Inlet and off the southwestern shoreline of Cayuga Lake. 1920 Commercial use of the Inlet for transportation began to diminish significantly 1935 Major flooding event in the City of Ithaca (considered the flood of record) 1956 Major flooding event in the City of Ithaca (considered the 100-year flood) 1960 US Congress authorized construction of Flood Control Works (FCW) in Ithaca under Title II, Section 201 of the Flood Control Act of 1960

1965 Construction of the federally-authorized FCW project began. Modifications to Cayuga Inlet included channel enlargement and re-alignment, excavation of a new bypass channel, and construction of levees. Most of the material excavated during construction was placed in wetlands along the Inlet and off the southwestern shoreline of the lake. 1970 Construction of the FCW completed; responsibility for maintenance transferred to local partner (NYS) 1973 Removal of debris and shoaling following Tropical Storm Agnes (upstream of State St. Bridge to stilling basin) completed under ACOE direction 1977 US Congress authorized a rectification project to correct problems associated with high discharges from Coy Glen; project completed under ACOE direction 1982 Dredging conducted by NYS DOT, 202,000 cy removed and dewatered at the Allan H. Treman State Marine Park, ultimately used to create new park land 1997 US Congress authorized emergency rehabilitation work to mitigate damages resulting from the January 17-20, 1996 flood/thaw event; project completed under ACOE direction. 1999 The ACOE dredged the flood control channel between the fish ladder and the northern tip of Inlet Island, removing more than 75,000 cy of sediment. Material was dewatered on barges and transported for upland disposal

17 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 1-2. Recent Soundings – Cascadilla Creek

18 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

In 2006, the City of Ithaca received funding from the NYS Environmental Protection Fund Local Waterfront Revitalization Program for the planning and design of sediment removal from the Flood Control Channel and associated tributaries. The planning process has extended over nearly four years, bringing together the two primary State Agencies, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and NYS Canal Corporation, the US Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), as well as local and regional stakeholders. The City worked with Ecologic LLC of Cazenovia NY to produce a Site Reconnaissance Report, which analyzed channel impairments and evaluated potential sites for the location of a SMF. In 2010, the City Board of Public Works and Common Council, using the report as a basis for decision-making, voted to name the City-owned Southwest Site as the preferred location for a SMF. During the planning phase of the project, the City also received a $2 million NYS Capital Assistance grant for implementation.

A SMF is needed so that sediment removal from the waterways can proceed and meet the following three important objectives.

To restore channel capacity for flood protection. The Flood Control Works was constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) between 1965 and 1970 in response to major flood events in 1935 and 1956 that affected large areas within the City of Ithaca. The project, which includes the 300’ wide by 15’ deep Flood Control Channel and the levee system, was engineered to protect low-lying areas from a 100-year flood event. While variable along the length of the channel, preliminary estimates are that more than 60% of the design capacity has now been lost due to sediment deposition. The ACOE has applied a hydrologic/hydraulic model to estimate the land area at risk of flooding during an extreme precipitation event, given the current channel conditions; this analysis demonstrates that substantial land areas adjacent to Cayuga Inlet and the Flood Control Channel are at risk of inundation.

To mitigate the existing significant impediments to navigational use. The Canal Corporation finds a channel width of 100’ and depth of 10’ to be acceptable for navigation within their jurisdiction. Many places in the Inlet do not meet this standard for navigation. Some regions of the lower reaches of Cayuga Inlet and Cascadilla Creek have five feet or less of overlying water depth. Cayuga Inlet has the highest concentration of boat traffic in Tompkins County and many boat facilities are dependent on a navigable channel to Cayuga Lake. The loss of channel depth has affected the size of boats, the duration of the boating season and the ability of residents and tourists to frequent waterfront businesses. Boaters report financial losses from damaged propellers and engines and the costs associated with getting towed out of the mud. Owners of the marinas reported lost revenue and significant non-reimbursable efforts required to maintain a level of service to customers. A summary of stakeholder comments regarding how they perceive that dredging impairs their desired use of the waterways is included as Table 1.3.

19 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Table 1-3. Summary of Community Perception of Impairments

 Students in Cornell Athletics rowing program, launching boats from Cornell dock when water levels are dropped  Students in Ithaca College rowing program, potential in the early spring that water may be too shallow to race; safety launches with outboard motors are limited in some areas by shallow waters.  Students (800-1000 per year) in sailing classes – physical education, summer camps, etc.  Sail boaters with more than 4-foot draw fear running aground  Boaters with larger boats try to avoid going into the Inlet, fear running aground  Johnson’s Marina – potential loss of business, extra labor to drag boats through the mud during launch/haul.  Businesses in/near the Inlet potentially losing customers because some boats can’t navigate in the inlet (Johnsons Marina, especially)  Anglers – concerned with turbidity, sediments impacting the stream bottom habitat, invertebrates, nesting, etc.  Tour boats – shallow depth means the operator cannot invest in larger tour boat to serve more customers.  Boaters – Estimated 1200-1500 boaters using the southern 3 miles of the lake; while many draw less than 4 ft, others do not.  Commercial interests along the Inlet due to reduced access by boats  Students and researchers using Lighthouse Point Biological Station – they require a healthy ecosystem for education and research Note: Discussion of the outreach methodology and details of all comments are in Appendix A of the Site Reconnaissance Report, posted at http://www.ecologicllc.com/6242010Inventory.pdf

To preserve the economic vitality of the waterfront area. The communities of Tompkins County have long recognized the current and potential value of the waterfront to the regional economy, and have taken actions for its preservation and promotion. These actions have included developing a Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan, City rezoning of the waterfront, public investment in the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, City parks and docking and parking facilities, improvements to the farmer’s market and the Allan H. Treman State Marine Park Master Plan. Millions of dollars in public and private investment in waterfront properties continue to increase their present and potential economic value. Property values in the waterfront are high; although nearly 97% of waterfront properties are tax exempt, annual tax revenues from the remaining 3% of properties were over 2 million dollars in 2008. In addition to the significant impact waterfront properties have on the local property tax base, in 2008 water-dependent businesses generated over 2 million dollars in sales (nearly $700,000 of which came from

20 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging docking fees). An impairment that reduces the use, enjoyment or function of the waterway will diminish its current and future economic value.

1.3 Project Phasing and Segmentation As described in section 1.1.3 of this DEIS, construction of the SMF is a necessary first phase of a multi-agency effort to complete deferred maintenance dredging of the tributaries to southern Cayuga Lake. The City of Ithaca has agreed to serve as Project Sponsor and NYSDEC has agreed to serve as Lead Agency for this action, which is defined as the selection, construction and operation of the SMF to accommodate dredging of the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake, coupled with removal of up to 25,000 cy of material from the lower reaches of Cascadilla Creek. The size of the facility, in combination with the texture of sediment material to be dredged, will likely constrain the amount of material removed during an annual dredging season.

It is anticipated that dredging to restore impaired navigational access will be undertaken by the Canal Corporation within the Flood Control Channel and portions of the Inlet channel, and by the City of Ithaca within lower Cascadilla Creek. Future dredging may also be necessary to maintain the flood control channel established by the Army Corps of Engineers and NYSDEC. Navigational dredging by the Canal Corporation is already permitted, and thus no further environmental review is required. The potential impacts of dredging within lower Cascadilla Creek by the City of Ithaca is considered in this DEIS. The extent of future dredging for flood control by NYSDEC and/or the ACOE is uncertain at this time, but will be subject to supplemental environmental review if necessary. The details of this possible future action- including the amount of material to be removed, when and by whom- are not known and therefore cannot be included in this document.

Despite the uncertainty associated with the scope of future dredging, this environmental review considers the potential impacts associated with the maximum possible annual dredging and use of the SMF facility in any given year. Although the separate dredging activities are stand-alone actions, the full impact of maximum annual use of the sediment management facility is being considered in this review. Thus, to the extent there is any segmentation of the dredging actions, this SEQR action does not avert the environmental review required by law and regulation.

The SEQR regulations state:

Considering only a part or segment of an action is contrary to the intent of SEQR. If a lead agency believes that circumstances warrant a segmented review, it must clearly stated in its determination of significance, and any subsequent EIS, the supporting reasons and must demonstrate that such review is clearly no less protective of the environment. Related actions should be identified and discussed to the fullest extent possible. 6 NYCRR 617.3 (g)(1).

21 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

To the extent practicable, the DEIS considers the anticipated environmental impacts from the proposed action based on the project status in November, 2011, including impacts of maximum annual dredging in future years. To the extent impacts are not covered in this DEIS, they have been previously reviewed as part of the NYS Canal Corporation’s existing permit or other prior reviews. To the extent any future dredging exceeds impacts considered in this DEIS, supplemental reviews will be required. All actions known at this time, together with their potential impacts, have been identified and discussed to the fullest extent possible.

1.4 Purpose of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) This Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) has been prepared in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) and the regulations set forth in 6 NYCRR Part 617. The DEIS describes the proposed action, its impacts on the natural and built environment, and the measures planned to mitigate potential adverse impacts. Alternatives to the proposed action are presented along with the rationale for their dismissal. Finally, the approvals and permits required for implementation are summarized. A DEIS provides objective information to support an informed decision regarding whether the proposed action may have adverse environmental impacts, and whether adverse impacts can be adequately mitigated.

1.5 Coordination of Review under SEQRA The City of Ithaca has agreed to serve as Project Sponsor, and the NYSDEC has agreed to serve as Lead Agency for this project. As set forth in Part 617 of the Regulations, the Lead Agency is to coordinate with other Involved Agencies regarding their concurrence with the Lead Agency designation, the determination of significance of the proposed action and the scope of the DEIS. Involved Agencies are those issuing a required permit for the proposed action, or those funding any portion of the proposed action. For the development of the SMF at the City-owned Southwest Site, the following Involved Agencies have been included in the required notifications and consultations:

City of Ithaca (Project Sponsor)

NYSDEC, Region 7 (Lead Agency)

US Army Corps of Engineers

NYS Canal Corporation

Dormitory Authority of the State of NY (funding)

Norfolk Southern Railroad

Town of Ithaca

The permits and approvals associated with each Involved Agency are described in section 1.7 of this document.

22 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

1.6 Location and Setting of Project The project is located in the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County NY. The project boundary (refer to Figure 1-1) encompasses the Cayuga Inlet from the confluence with Cayuga Lake to the West Buffalo Street Bridges on Inlet Island in the City of Ithaca, including Cascadilla Creek upstream to the Route 13 Bridge. Fall Creek from the confluence with Cayuga Lake upstream to the Route 13 Bridge is also included within the project boundary.

The water quality classifications of the affected waterways are displayed in Figure 1-3 and described in Table 1-4.

Table 1-4. Summary of water quality classifications and designated use

Classification Designated Best Use

A Source of water supply for drinking, culinary or food processing purposes; primary and secondary contact recreation; and fishing. The waters shall be suitable for fish, shellfish, and wildlife propagation and survival.

B Primary and secondary contact recreation and fishing. These waters shall be suitable for fish, shellfish, and wildlife propagation and survival.

C Fishing. These waters shall be suitable for fish, shellfish, and wildlife propagation and survival. The water quality shall be suitable for primary and secondary contact recreation, although other factors may limit the use for these purposes.

D Fishing. Due to such natural conditions as intermittency of flow, water conditions not conducive to propagation of game fishery, or stream bed conditions, the waters will not support fish propagation. These waters shall be suitable for fish, shellfish, and wildlife survival. The water quality shall be suitable for primary and secondary contact recreation, although other factors may limit the use for these purposes.

In addition, classification of B or C waters may be designated “T”, supporting a trout population, or “TS” supporting trout spawning.

23 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 1-3. Water Quality Classifications Map

24 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

1.7 List of Involved Agencies and their Authority The list of involved agencies (Table 1-5) and interested parties (Table 1-6) illustrates the many stakeholders involved in this project. The issues of ownership and maintenance responsibility for Cayuga Inlet and the Flood Control Works are complex, and vary by segment of the waterway. A jurisdictional map prepared by the United States Army Corps of Engineers is included as Figure 1-4. There are four entities with primary responsibility for this project:

• United States Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE): The ACOE constructed the Flood Control Channel (designated as the stream segment extending from the outlet at Cayuga Lake south to the end of the channel) and associated levee system. The ACOE periodically (usually annually) participates in joint inspections of the Federal risk management project with the sponsor (NYSDEC) to evaluate overall project conditions and the adequacy of their operation and maintenance efforts. An inspection rating of "Minimally Acceptable" or better is necessary for the project to remain active in the ACOE Rehabilitation and Inspection Program (RIP). Projects that remain active in the RIP may be eligible for Federal assistance if they are damaged by a major storm or flood event. Projects that are inactive are ineligible for such assistance. Risks associated with project deficiencies are communicated by ACOE to project stakeholders. ACOE may provide emergency operations assistance prior to or during a flood event, whether a project is active or inactive.

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has responsibility on behalf of the State of New York for maintenance of the flood control portion of the waterways; this responsibility was conveyed to New York State (the local partner) once the ACOE completed the Flood Control Works in 1970. The NYSDEC is responsible for all dredging necessary for flood control.

• New York State Canal Corporation is responsible for maintaining a navigation channel in Cayuga Inlet from the Buffalo St. Bridge to the lighthouse. This responsibility was transferred to the Canal Corporation (a division of the NYS Thruway Authority) from the NYS Dept. of Transportation in 1992.

• The City of Ithaca has responsibility for “ordinary maintenance” of the flood control channel, which has included mowing, brush removal and other work along the banks of the channel.

As part of this project, the City convened a Dredging Project Advisory Committee (DPAC) which included the many stakeholders with an interest in removing the accumulated sediment from segments of the lake’s southern tributaries. Stakeholder interest may be through ownership of a stream segment, responsibility for stream maintenance to mitigate impairment for a specific use, permitting authority, general environmental stewardship, economic interest, or recreational interests. Agency representatives have been active participants in DPAC, including Canal Corporation, ACOE, NYSDEC, Soil & Water Conservation District, local elected officials, City of Ithaca Departments of Planning, Engineering, Public Works, and Water. Several representatives of the economic stakeholders are represented on the DPAC, including owners

25 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging and operators of the marinas, boating interests, and the Chamber of Commerce. Finally, there exists a well-organized local network committed to the wise stewardship of Cayuga Lake and its watershed; their interests are represented on the DPAC by the Cayuga Lake Watershed Network.

Table 1-5. List of Involved Agencies and Their Authority

Type of Agency Regulatory Address Permit/Approval Review/Permit Statute Joint application New York Article 15, Region 7  Excavation and/or placement for permit State Title 5, 615 Erie Blvd of fill in navigable waters Department Environmental West  401 Water quality certification of Conservation Syracuse, NY Environmental Law 13204-2400 Conservation 6 NYCRR Part (NYSDEC) 608 (ECL) United States Title IV, Clean ACOE  Section 10 for construction in Army Corps of Water Act 1776 Niagara navigable waters Engineers (Section 404) St.  Section 404 disposal of (ACOE) Buffalo, NY dredged sediments Rivers and 14207-3199 Harbors Act (These are relevant to the in- (Section 10) water disposal options) SPDES Permit NYSDEC Article 17, Region 7  Return flow from Title 8 615 Erie Blvd. sedimentation basin to the West relief channel Syracuse, NY 13204-2400 (also under NYSDEC Article 17, Region 7  General permit for stormwater SPDES) Titles 7 and 8 615 Erie Blvd. discharge from construction of and Article 70 West sediment basins/staging areas Stormwater- ECL Syracuse, NY  Requires SWPP and general permit 13204-2400 conformance with MS4

Underwater NYS Office of Public Lands NYS OGS  Easement for use of land Land Easement General Law, Articles 2 Corning underwater (for in-water Services (OGS) and 6 Tower, Empire disposal alternatives) State Plaza Albany, NY 12242 Cultural NYS Office of 9 NYCRR Part NYS Museum  The DGEIS completed for the Resources Parks, 428; 36 CFR Albany, NY city-owned Southwest site Survey Recreation Part 800 12230 concluded that site and Historic development would pose no Preservation impact on historical or archaeological resources.

26 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Type of Agency Regulatory Address Permit/Approval Review/Permit Statute Navigation Aid U.S. Coast 33CFR66 Ninth Coast  Private aid to Navigation Permit Guard Guard District Permit to mark pipeline 1240 East transmitting dredged material Ninth Street – water route (not required Cleveland for navigational dredging by Ohio, 44199- the Canal Corporation) 2060 Construction City of Ithaca Chapter 146, City of Ithaca  Design approval, inspections Permit (for City Municipal 108 East Green  Not required for mobile pump station) Code St. Ithaca NY booster pump 14850

Fill permit City of Ithaca Chapter 146, City of Ithaca  To bring dredged material to City Municipal 108 East Green the site Code St. Ithaca NY 14850

Railroad right of Norfolk Private Norfolk  Permission to install pipe in way Southern company Southern ROW and/or drill under Railroad Railroad railbed Norfolk, VA 23510-2191

Funding Dormitory Title 4, Public 515 Broadway  Release NYS funds for capital approval- SMF Authority of Benefit Albany, New improvement construction the State of Authority York 12207- NY (DASNY) 2964

27 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Table 1-6. List of Interested Parties

City of Ithaca Common Council City of Conservation Advisory Committee City of Ithaca Planning and Development Board Tompkins County Planning Dept. Tompkins County Soil & Water Conservation District Norfolk Southern Railroad NYS Office of General Services Tompkins County Health Dept. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation U.S. Coast Guard Cayuga Nation NYS DOT NYS Department of State, Division of Coastal Resources Town of Ithaca Environmental Management Council Tompkins County Water Resources Council Cornell University Tompkins Co. Chamber of Commerce Cayuga Lake Watershed Network Cayuga Waterfront Trail Initiative Johnson’s Boat Yard Cayuga Lake Cruises Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton’s Office State Senator O’Mara’s Office U.S. Senator Schumer’s Office Friends of Newman Golf Course Lisa Nicholas, Senior Planner, City of Ithaca JoAnn Cornish, City of Ithaca Director of Planning and Development Roxy Johnston, City of Ithaca Environmental Analyst Scott Gibson, City of Ithaca Environmental Engineer Ray Benjamin, City of Ithaca Deputy Director of Streets and Facilities Dan Hoffman, City of Ithaca Attorney Eric Whitney, City of Ithaca Deputy Director of Water and Sewer Liz Moran, EcoLogic LLC

28 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 1-4. US Army Corps of Engineers Jurisdictional Map

29 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 2. Description of the Proposed Action

2.1 Overview of the SMF The SMF is being constructed to serve as a dewatering facility for sediment removed from the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake. The capacity of the SMF is constrained by the size and nature of the selected site. As such, the SMF may not be the only component of the ultimate solution for addressing restoration of the impaired uses brought about by sediment deposition.

The original ACOE design dimensions of the Flood Control Channel are 350 wide and 15’ deep. Based on the most recent NYS Canal Corporation soundings of water depth and inspections of the flood control works by the ACOE and their contractors, approximately 660,000 cubic yards (cy) of accumulated sediment material must be removed in order to restore the Flood Control Channel to this original design capacity. Additional material (estimated to be no more than 25,000 cy) must be removed from the lower reaches of Cascadilla Creek in order to restore full navigational access and use.

In 2008 and 2009, the City undertook a comprehensive sediment sampling and analysis program to characterize the sediments to be removed. The results showed that the sediment is predominantly “Class A” or uncontaminated, that it has a low organic content and that it is comprised of mostly silt and clay-sized particles. This means that the dredged material will not require any special handling for contaminants, nor will objectionable odors be produced as the material dewaters. Due to the abundance of clays and silts, the dredged material will require a relatively long time to dewater.

Sediment will be removed from the channels over a period of years, and by multiple parties. The majority of sediment will be removed using hydraulic dredging. The SMF to be constructed at the City-owned Southwest Site will be the permanent dewatering site for maintenance dredging activities. The SMF has been designed to accommodate between 60,000 and 80,000 cy of material. This estimate will be refined during final design once settlement testing using sediment deposited in the Inlet is completed. This amount of material can be removed during an operation extending over approximately 35 – 50 days.

The effluent concentration of the water discharged over the weir of the primary settling basin is expected to be approximately 0.4 grams/liter if the dredging is performed continuously for a 35 day period. It may be possible to reduce the effluent concentration by completely filling the basin prior to weir discharge and then allowing for some period of days to extend settlement time. However, this could greatly increase the length of time a dredge boat and crew would have to be available. If the period of time to perform dredging is to be minimized it is likely that a flocculent will be required to post treat the effluent leaving the primary settling basin. This post treatment can occur in the secondary settling basin (refer to Figure 2-3 to view the basin layout). The design of a polymer injection system, if deemed necessary, will be completed in subsequent design phases.

30 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

The supernatant (defined as the overlying water, once particles have settled) will be returned to the waterways though the relief channel. The City of Ithaca sampled the relief channel during 2011 to assess existing conditions of turbidity and total suspended sediment. Results indicate that the waters of the relief channel are generally low in turbidity and suspended solids (Table 2- 1).

Table 2-1. Summary of Water quality conditions in the relief channel, June-August 2011

Sampling Date TSS (mg/l) Turbidity (NTU) 6-Jun 16.1 18.0 16-Jun 10.8 7.4 22-Jun 16.2 22.4 29-Jun 16.9 12.8 6-Jul 17.4 25.0 13-Jul 15.4 15.7 21-Jul 17.8 19.5 27-Jul 12.2 14.5 2-Aug 24.2 41.4 10-Aug 24.6 15.6 17-Aug 13.1 13.0 Average 16.8 18.7 Sampling and Analysis: City of Ithaca

2.2 Program Requirements A series of figures display the overall project plan, including the location of the SMF, the placement of the pipelines used to transport the slurry from the dredge to the dewatering site, and the sites for mobile booster pumps that are needed for the slurry to reach the SMF. The overall map (Figure 2-1) is supplemented by more detailed maps showing the northern, central and southern reaches of the project area. These maps are designated Figures 2-1 A, 2-1 B and 2-1 C.

31 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 2-1. Overall Project site map, showing pipeline route, booster pump location and siting of basins and utilities within SW parcel

32 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

North

33 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Center

34 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

South

35 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

2.3 Site Preparation A substantial amount of clearing and grading is required to prepare the site for use as a SMF. The current site topography (Figure 2-2) will be modified to create the basins (Figure 2-3). Preliminary cut and fill calculations based on the pre and post topography indicate that there is adequate material on site to construct the berms for the SMF (refer to Table 5-1).

36 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 2-2. Existing Conditions

37 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 2-3. SMF Site Plan

38 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

A list of equipment anticipated for use to prepare the basins is included as Table 2-2.

Table 2-2. Equipment to Complete Basin Construction

Equipment Required

 Backhoe, Rubber Tired

 Bulldozer

 Dump Truck, 10-Wheel and Off-Road

 Excavator, Track Mounted

 Front End Loader

 Rock Crusher and Screen

 Scraper (Off-Road Pan)

 Semi-Truck, 18-Wheel

 Wood Chipper, Truck or Trailer Mounted

The SMF will be owned by the City of Ithaca and made available to entities responsible for dredging, such as NYSCC, NYSDEC and their contractors, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU has not yet been drafted.

2.4 Operation Phase The NYS Canal Corporation is considering a dredging operation for 2012 that focuses on dredging a navigable channel within a segment of the Cayuga Inlet extending from the confluence of Cascadilla Creek to a location approximately 2,000 feet south, to Lookout Point (Boatyard Grill restaurant).

The NYS Canal Corporation will supply a 10-inch hydraulic dredge and approximately 2,500 feet of 12-inch steel pipeline mounted to pontoons. It is envisioned that the City of Ithaca will supplement the NYS Canal Corporation pipeline with approximately 6,500 feet of 10-inch High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe to reach the proposed Sediment Management Facility. This pipe will be purchased or rented by the City. The HDPE portion of the pipeline is anticipated to be placed along the western shore of the Flood Control Channel or submerged to the bottom of the channel as deemed appropriate by the City and the regulatory agencies.

In order to dredge the northern segments of the channels, a booster pump will be necessary to supplement the pumping capability of the dredge boat and move the sediment water slurry to the SMF. The conceptual design indicates that a booster pump equivalent to a Power Prime HH-225C will provide a discharge rate of 4,200 gallons per minute (GPM) while operating at 177 feet Total

39 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Dynamic Head. The pump will be driven by a diesel motor that consumes approximately 13.9 gallons of fuel per hour. The noise level produced by the motor will be approximately 85 decibels at 23 feet. The noise can be reduced to meet any specification by the addition of an appropriately designed enclosure. The booster pump and motor combination is mounted on a trailer, with an overall dimension of 15 feet long by 7 feet wide. This portable configuration will make it possible to relocate the booster pump to where it can support the dredging operation in the most efficient manner possible. One possible location for the booster pump is in the vicinity of Park Road (former NYS Route 89) between the NYS Route 89 and Route 96 bridges. This location is illustrated in Figure 2.1. There are several other locations along the western shore of the Flood Control Channel within the boundaries of Cass Park where the booster pump could be placed temporarily.

40 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 3. Alternatives Considered

Identification of a site or strategy to handle the dredged material has been the major impediment preventing maintenance dredging of the waterways. Consequently, the City, NYSDEC, ACOE, Canal Corporation and other stakeholders completed a process that extended over a two-year period. The process resulted in identification of a site for a permanent sediment management facility. Details of the evaluation are included in the June, 2010 Site Reconnaissance Report http://www.ecologicllc.com/6242010Inventory.pdf; a brief summary of the findings of this report follows.

3.1 Process to Identify and Screen Alternatives The City convened a Dredging Project Advisory Committee (DPAC) to bring the many parties interested in finding a solution that would allow maintenance dredging to move ahead. The purpose of DPAC was to compile information, identify data and information gaps, share resources for addressing such gaps, and discuss specific criteria for siting a sediment management facility. The DPAC convened for an overview of the challenge and a site tour of the affected areas; subsequently, the committee met in public session three times during 2008 and 2009. Representatives active in DPAC included Canal Corporation, ACOE, NYSDEC, Tompkins County Soil & Water Conservation District, local elected officials, Tompkins County Planning Department, Tompkins County Water Resources Council and the City of Ithaca Departments of Planning, Engineering, Public Works and Water.

The meetings served to clarify dredging history and agency jurisdictions and priorities, identify potential issues, and pool knowledge and resources to advance the project. For example, Canal Corp. agreed to complete depth soundings of the tributaries and estimate the volume of sediment needed to be removed to restore impaired uses. All parties reviewed the proposed sediment testing program that was designed to characterize the nature of the deposited material and thus determine feasible alternatives for ultimate disposal. The ACOE described operation of SMF in other areas, and developed a preliminary hydrologic and hydraulic model to estimate the risk of flooding associated with the no-action alternative. The Canal Corp. hosted a site visit to an upland disposal site they operate in Montour Falls.

The City’s Planning Department developed a map of publicly-owned parcels within two miles of the Cayuga Inlet between the fish ladder and Cayuga Lake. This map served as the foundation for the alternatives screening process. Seven parcels were identified during the initial screening process as displayed in Figure 3-1. Once the volume of sediment deposited within the tributaries was known from the contemporaneous sounding, and considering the input from ACOE and Canal Corporation regarding sizing for operational efficiency, DPAC focused on parcels of a minimum size of 20 acres. Initially, sites were screened based on distance from the mass of material to be dredged, site ownership, and size of the parcel. The Canal Corporation provided information regarding their dredging equipment; this information was used to inform an analysis of the technological constraints on alternatives. Other significant issues considered included the carbon footprint (effects on the use and conservation of energy resources),

41 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging whether the alternative is consistent with ecosystem-based management principles (a holistic approach to considering the quality of air, water, lands along with the environmental services they provide to humans), potential for impact on the waters of the United States, consistency with economic development strategies, public acceptance, and the displacement of uses from sites used for sediment handling and/or disposal.

42 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 3-1. Potential Dewatering Sites

43 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Specific criteria, developed in consultation with DPAC, were applied to the candidate sites. The resulting matrix was reviewed by DPAC members and presented to the community at a public meeting held in February 2010. The criteria are summarized below.

 Size  Proximity  Ownership and access  Protected status (whether the site was formally designated or used as parkland)  Consistency of SMF use with adopted plans, including economic development plans  Feasibility of the site to serve as a long-term solution for recurring dredging  Whether and to what extent ecosystem services might be disrupted, and the nature and potential significance of any disruption  Carbon footprint (use and conservation of energy resources)  Regulatory issues affecting the feasibility of acquiring necessary permits and approvals  Site history constraints on use as SMF  Presence of regulated wetlands

3.2 Results of Alternative Screening An overview of the results of applying these criteria to the candidate sites is provided in Table 3- 1; additional details are presented in the June, 2010 Site Reconnaissance Report (Appendix E). The outcome of the screening process was a recommendation from Planning Department staff to the City of Ithaca Board of Public Works, Common Council and Mayor that a portion of the Southwest Development Area be developed as a SMF. Resolutions to that effect were passed by both the Board of Public Works and Common Council in July, 2010.

As summarized in Table 3-1, there are significant barriers to developing the SMF on parkland. Once lands are in public use as parks, a formal process (known as alienation) must be completed to change the use. The alienation process is lengthy, costly and uncertain, and requires legislative approvals, both locally and by the state legislature. The City of Ithaca would be required to replace parklands alienated for use as an SMF with new parklands of comparable value to the community.

Loss of parks creates adverse impacts on the community from diminished recreational opportunities and open space. The alienation provision has been interpreted to apply to lands presently used as public parks regardless of whether they have been formally dedicated as parks. There are relevant judicial decisions upholding this interpretation of the need to alienate parkland for a change in use, even if the change in use is temporary. As part of the site selection process, the City engaged expert legal advice on this matter; the memo of their findings is included as Appendix F. As the City’s lakefront developed, feasible locations for the SMF have become more distant from the waterways. The parkland alienation issue effectively eliminated Cass Park, Stewart Park, Newman Golf Course, Festival Lands and Alan H. Treman State Marine

44 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Park from consideration. The DOT facility parcel is too small and too developed, and the timeline for its availability is uncertain. Of the existing publicly-owned parcels, the City-owned Southwest Site became the only feasible upland alternative.

In-lake placement of dredged materials, either nearshore to expand the shoreline or create islands, or deep water disposal in a designated repository, does not appear feasible without a major shift in regulatory policy. Both NYSDEC and the NY Department of State, Division of Coastal Resources, have taken a firm stance in opposition to placement of dredged material in Cayuga Lake. In terms of project costs and greenhouse gas emissions, deep water disposal is by far the most attractive alternative. However, deep water disposal was not recommended as the preferred alternative because of the unambiguous regulatory opposition.

Following the site selection process, the presence of the invasive aquatic plant hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) was detected in Cayuga Inlet. The presence of this plant in the area to be dredged eliminates the option for deep water disposal of sediments in Cayuga Lake, because of the risk of spreading viable reproductive material (tubers, turions and plant fragments) to areas of Cayuga Lake that have not been infested.

45 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Table 3-1. Pros and Cons of Potential Sites/Approaches

Alternatives Rationale: No Action Pro: None

Con: This is not a feasible option if the waterways are to continue to be used for navigation and flood control. Continuing to defer maintenance dredging incurs the risk that the flood control project will not be returned to active status. Inactive projects are not eligible for Federal assistance if damaged by a storm or flood. However, the ACOE may provide emergency assistance prior to or during a major flood event. No action on the part of the City to select a dewatering site could mean that the State or the ACOE would select the site, thus diminishing local control. A city-selected SMF could also be used to dewater dredged materials from other areas such as Cascadilla Creek, for which only the City has maintenance responsibility.

Cass Park Pro: Ownership, size and location. Size: 87 acres Con: The configuration of the infrastructure (pool, skating rink, ball fields, etc.) is incompatible with a SMF. Because this site is parkland, a change in use would constitute alienation of parkland and necessitate an action of the New York State Legislature for approval and likely require substitute parkland of comparable value.

Newman Golf Course Pro: The size and location of this City-owned parcel make it an ideal site Size: 77 acres for sediment handling.

Con: Lost recreational use. The site would be closed to golfing for a period of years. Reconstruction of the golf course would be costly; the prospect for using the site on a recurring basis for handling dredge material is poor. Public opinion does not favor use of this site for sediment processing and/or disposal. Because this site is considered parkland, a change in use could constitute alienation of parkland and necessitate an action of the New York State Legislature for approval and likely require substitute parkland of comparable value.

46 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Alternatives Rationale: City-owned Festival Lands Pros: Location – could be combined with a portion of Allan H. Treman Size: 15.3 acres State Marine Park to make a larger site. Site history- this area has been filled and modified using dredged materials.

Cons: Small size, even if combined with the 5 acres offered by OPRHP for consideration. Because this site is parkland, a change in use would constitute alienation of parkland and necessitate an action of the New York State Legislature for approval and substitute parkland

Portion of Allan H. Treman Pro: Location. In collaboration with the Office of Parks, Recreation and State Marine Park Historic Preservation (OPRHP), a small (+/- 5 acre) SMF could be Size (total park): 93 acres sited within the boundaries of Allan H. Treman Marine Park. Could be combined with the city-owned “Festival Land” parcel. The existing hydraulic dredging equipment of the Canal Corporation could be utilized without modification. Local officials from OPRHP cooperated with the City to explore this alternative. Site history- this area has been filled and modified using dredged materials.

Con: Small size – even if combined with Festival Lands. Because federal funds have been expended on this NYS park, use of this site would require parkland conversion, a lengthy process requiring approvals from the National Park Service in addition to the state-required approvals. Provision of substitute parkland of comparable value is likely to be required as well.

NYS DOT Facility Pro: Location of this parcel is favorable Size: 5.7 acres Con: Small size and extent of site development make it not feasible for handling large amounts of sediment or the slurry from hydraulic dredging. Site control issues are an obstacle. The DOT is planning to vacate the site, but this process may take years. The site contains a salt dome and two other structures. Once the DOT leaves the site, this waterfront parcel would be an attractive area for economic development.

47 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Alternatives Rationale:

Expand parkland and/or create Pro: Eliminates need to find an upland disposal site, potential for creation islands in Cayuga Lake of habitat and expansion of land for recreational use. Size: undetermined (Consider that 100,000 cubic Con: Placement of dredged material within Cayuga Lake would be yards of dredged material challenging to permit. Professional staff members of the could create about 6 acres.) Department of State (DOS) have opined that the underwater lands of Cayuga Lake, the lake itself, and the living aquatic resources supported are held in trust for the benefit of all the people of the State of New York. Ownership of the underwater lands and administrative responsibility for its protection lies with the Office of General Services (OGS). An exception would require an easement or land grant obtained from the OGS and subject to conditions of Environmental Conservation Law.

Further, the DOS expressed concern with the potential for adverse environmental and social consequences of placement of dredged material on the underwater lands, stating that deposition of dredged material would permanently destroy existing aquatic and benthic habitat. Although the parks are largely constructed on dredged materials, continuing this practice would contribute to losses of habitat and resources. Cayuga Lake is the area’s most valuable natural resource, tourism attraction, and source of recreational activity, therefore the DOS considers that it is in the City’s interest to preserve Cayuga Lake resources as much as possible.

Upland Disposal Sites in the Pro: An upland site in the Valley would be located outside of economic or Cayuga Inlet Valley waterfront development plans for areas around the Inlet. Size: To be determined Con: An upland site would incur costs associated with land purchase, lease, and restoration. An upland dewatering area would be significantly distant from the center of mass of material to be removed, resulting in additional investment in energy for pumping.

48 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Alternatives Rationale:

City-owned Southwest Site Pro: Offers a large site and a feasible alternative for recurring dredging Size: 64.6 acres (11 acres are operations. Several key investigations have been completed for the jurisdictional wetlands) site, including a Phase 2 Environmental Assessment, Site Characterization Report, wetlands delineation and wetland jurisdictional determination.

Con: The City intends to use the Southwest Site for future residential development. Site is beyond the ideal range for a hydraulic dredging operation (approximately one mile from center of mass of material to be removed), therefore a booster pump would be required and fuel consumption and associated costs and impacts would increase. The City would need to integrate the SMF into its long-term plan for site development. Permission to use the Norfolk Southern railroad track right-of-way would be required for a portion of the pipe route.

49 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Alternatives Rationale: Deep water disposal (also Pros: Cayuga Lake has a vast extent of deep water habitat, and designation known as wet dumping) in a of a limited region as a sediment deposition area would not designated region of Cayuga significantly diminish aquatic resources. Compared with pumping to Lake distant from water supply an upland site, processing sediments during dewatering and off-site or cooling water intakes transport for ultimate disposal, in-water placement offers greatly reduced energy use and associated greenhouse gas emissions. The sediments deposited within the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake have been tested and confirmed to meet NYSDEC limits for Class A material, which the Agency deems suitable for unrestricted open water disposal. Deep water disposal is also consistent with past practices. However, while the Environmental Conservation Law has not been amended to preclude open water disposal, agency policies are now in opposition to this practice. Open water disposal would retain the existing lakeshore parks and open spaces for community use and benefit, including economic development. Finally, this practice is consistent with disposal of Great Lakes sediment; open water placement is used for 66% of dredged material from the NY segments of Great Lakes waters.

Cons: Short-term increased turbidity in deep water; the particle size (predominantly silt and fines) will ultimately settle to the lake bottom by gravity. A water quality certification (section 401) from ACOE for in-water disposal is required, which mandates a comprehensive evaluation of upland disposal alternatives. There may be community resistance to this alternative, although comments have been received acknowledging that the sediment is ultimately transported to Cayuga Lake. Temporary impacts on the fish and macrobenthos are anticipated, although they would not be significant to the overall aquatic resource. This option would require approval from NYS agencies, including DOS and NYSDEC, which have taken a firm stance in opposition. Further, there would be a requirement for the Office of General Services (OGS) to lease a portion of the underwater lands for this purpose. The potential for transfer of hydrilla from Cayuga Inlet to other locations in Cayuga Lake is a serious issue that precludes this option at this time.

50 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 4. Environmental Setting, Impacts and Mitigation

4.1 Land 4.1.1 Existing Conditions

4.1.1.1 Overview: Watershed Sources of Sediment The natural process of sediment accumulation in lakes is controlled by the amount of precipitation (both average and extreme events) and the susceptibility of the watershed landscape to erosion. Susceptibility to erosion includes both natural geomorphic factors of slopes, soil types, and basin orientation, and human-related factors of land use, vegetative cover and drainage networks. In general, a vegetated landscape, such as forest and meadow, will stabilize soils and resist erosion, while activities that expose soils to wind and rain, including tilled agriculture and construction, will increase erosion. Impervious surfaces in a watershed increase the volume and velocity of runoff and consequently the potential for soil loss.

To move from this general characterization of sedimentation in lakes to an understanding of the reasons for the substantial amount of sediment deposited in the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake, it is necessary to consider three factors: the glacial history of the Finger Lakes, the history of watershed land use and the science of fluvial geomorphology. Fluvial geomorphology predicts how riverine systems will dissipate potential energy and move toward equilibrium.

The eleven Finger Lakes were formed by glaciers, which advanced through Central New York at least three times. The Hudson Ice Sheet of the Wisconsin glacial stage retreated about 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. The glacial ice carved a deep valley into the Paleozoic bedrock to a depth of 1,000 feet or more. Glacial and lake sediment filled in the bedrock valley with up to 600 feet of sediment. During the last major glacial advance, the ice deposited large amounts of sediment material, eroded earlier soil deposits and reworked remaining soils into glacial till. Sixmile Creek and other southern tributaries were left at an elevation well above the underlying bedrock. The glaciers sculpted the landscape and left behind surficial geologic conditions with soils of varying erodibility. However, it is more recent history of the past two centuries of human uses of the valley that have the most significant impact on sediment transport (Karig et al. 2007).

The Cayuga Lake watershed was cleared of its forests in the 19th and early 20th centuries for agriculture and settlements. Much of the sediment eroded from the cleared landscape during this period remains stored in the streambeds of the lake tributaries. Now much of the watershed is reforested, external sediment load has diminished, and the southern tributaries are not in equilibrium with the reduced sediment load. The principles of fluvial geomorphology dictate that the streams will dissipate their potential energy by eroding and transporting sediments from the streambed and banks and move toward equilibrium. The stored sediment is removed by downcutting (channel degradation) and increased sinuosity (lateral migration). This phenomenon primarily occurs during high flows; however, streams continually pick up and carry sediments as they traverse highly erodible soil lenses such as the glacial clays in the Sixmile Creek valley.

51 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

This analysis supports a conclusion that the majority of the sediments deposited in the southern tributaries originate from the stream beds and banks, not from current watershed practices leading to excessive erosion. As a consequence, best management practices within the tributary subwatersheds can reduce, but not eliminate, the sediment deposition and the need for continued maintenance of the flood control works (Milone and MacBroom, Inc. 2005).

Once the streams approach the elevation of the lake valley, water velocity slows and sediment falls out of suspension, creating a delta-like formation. This process of erosion, sediment transport and delta formation has been occurring since retreat of the last glacier. Under natural conditions, once a channel has lost its capacity to transmit flows, subsequent storms may cause the tributary to flood the adjacent areas and carve a new channel to the lake. This process is known as river occlusion. After many episodes of occlusion, a typical delta expands laterally into the lake and vertically to create “new” dry land. With the extensive modification of the land on the Ithaca Delta over the last 100 to 150 years, the channels of the Inlet, the Flood Control Channel, Sixmile Creek, Cascadilla Creek and Fall Creek have become fixed by channelization and bank reinforcement. Therefore, the sediment load which is meant to be distributed across the delta as part of natural delta formation is forced to remain in the tributaries where it gradually fills in the channel, resulting in loss of capacity.

Within the City of Ithaca, both 100-year and 500-year floodplains have been mapped. The 100- year floodplain extends along the entire water edge within the City, a distance of approximately 100 feet from the water’s edge. Larger areas of this floodplain are located near Hog Hole; Cass Park; Negundo Woods; Newman Golf Course; Lighthouse Woods; Stewart Park; and the Fuertes Bird Sanctuary. The 500-year floodplain within the City of Ithaca is located east of the Cayuga Inlet, and in Cass Park. FEMA periodically updates their flood maps, which may alter the floodplain boundaries.

4.1.1.2 Geology, Topography and Soils: Southwest Development Area In 2009, TetraTech EC, Inc. (TTEC) completed a Site Characterization Report of the Southwest Site for the firm of McCormack Baron Salazar (TetraTech EC, Inc. 2009). Major findings of the TTEC report, included as Appendix G, are summarized in this section of the DEIS.

The City-owned Southwest Site is located in a valley between two ridges located immediately northwest and southeast of the parcel. Ground surface elevation is approximately 390 feet above mean sea level (amsl) and generally slopes southwest toward the Cayuga Inlet (refer to Figure 2.1- Existing Topography). Topographic conditions have been altered by the various disposal activities; for example, the soil mound has elevated the grade by as much as 30 feet (TetraTech EC, Inc. 2009).

Surface water drainage from the western portion of the site flows generally toward Cayuga Inlet, which is located to the west-southwest. For the eastern portion of the parcel, surface water flows to the relief channel which forms the eastern boundary of the Southwest Site. Storm water ponds against slopes of fill or infiltrates into the soil (TetraTech EC, Inc. 2009).

52 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Wetlands on the Southwest Site have been delineated (LeCain 2009); this report is included as Appendix H. Biologists from the ACOE have reviewed the report, completed a field assessment and issued a Jurisdictional Determination confirming the wetland boundaries (Appendix I).

The City of Ithaca is located within the Erie Lowlands-Allegheny Plateau physiographic province. Underlying bedrock in this region consists mainly of flat-lying layers of sedimentary rock, comprised of Ithaca shale and sandstone of the Genesee Group from the Devonian Period (Isachsen et al., 2000). The sedimentary rock underlies glacial deposits generally consisting of glacial till. The shales and sandstones were deposited in a marine environment more than 360 million years ago. Recent glacial advances during the Pleistocene Era produced the sediments and landforms that dominate the topography of the region. The glacial deposits scoured the bedrock and created the valleys that now comprise the Finger Lakes. The glacial till generally consists of a heterogeneous mixture of silts, clays, sands, and gravel. Decreased amounts of glacial till are observed immediately adjacent to the Finger Lakes because of deposition from post glacial processes (TetraTech EC, Inc. 2009).

According to the Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) for this parcel, which was completed by TetraTech EC, Inc. in 2008, the majority of site soils in the northern portion to be used for the SMF are “Urban Land,” classified as heterogeneous fill material consisting of various amounts of sand, silt, and clay along with anthropogenic materials (i.e., glass, plastic, brick, and organic material). In undeveloped portions of the City-owned Southwest Site, different soil types are mapped in the Tompkins County Soil Survey, including Eel Silt Loam, which is a moderately well drained, medium textured, deep young soil formed in neutral or calcareous recent alluvium on the first bottoms along streams and just beginning to acquire characteristics different from those of the original deposit. The soil ranges from moderately well drained to somewhat poorly drained. Wayland and Sloan Silt Loam is another soil type present at the Site along the south-central portion of the property; this soil is poorly drained, deep medium textured material formed in neutral or calcareous recent alluvium. The soil is identified as a hydric soil on the soil survey.

4.1.1.3 Site History and Potential Presence of Subsurface Contamination The portion of the City-owned Southwest Site intended for use as the SMF encompasses an area that was used in the 1950s and 1960s as a disposal site for household, commercial, and construction and demolition wastes. Disposal activities ceased in the 1970s (TetraTech EC, Inc). Several investigations have been completed in the northern part of the City-owned Southwest site, designated as Area of Concern (AOC) 1, to assess the potential for adverse environmental and public health impacts associated with these past disposal practices. Results of test pit excavations, soil and groundwater testing within AOC1 have identified semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) and metals as the most prevalent soil and groundwater contaminants (TetraTech EC, Inc. 2008). These contaminants were detected at low concentrations, near the thresholds identified by NYSDEC as requiring remedial action.

53 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Two drum disposal locations were identified during a search of NYSDEC records, as summarized in the Site Characterization Report (TetraTech EC, Inc. 2009). One drum disposal area was located adjacent to Nate’s Floral Estates, the trailer park located north of the property boundary, and the other disposal area was located in the landfill area to the north of the power lines bisecting the Southwest site. The contents of the drums in the disposal area north of the Southwest site adjacent to the trailer park contained elevated concentrations of arsenic, mercury, and chromium. Samples of the surrounding soils did not show elevated levels of these compounds. Samples from the drum disposal area located within the Southwest Site north of the power lines contained elevated concentrations of PCBs, arsenic, lead, barium, and mercury. According to the documentation provided by NYSDEC to TTEC, both drum areas had been remediated by removing and disposing of the drums and their contents, and excavating affected soils and other materials from the immediate vicinity of the drums. However, the file search did not include a Certificate of Completion (COC), which is issued by NYSDEC to indicate that no further remedial actions are required (TetraTech EC, Inc. 2009).

A geophysical survey, shallow and deep test pits, soil testing, a soil gas survey and groundwater quality monitoring were completed subsequent to the Phase 1 ESA. As summarized in the TTEC 2009 Site Characterization Report, the northern portion of the City-owned Southwest Site planned for development as the SMU exhibits some residual impacts related to its prior use. The potential environmental impacts of developing the SMF in this location, and mitigating measures to ensure that any residual contaminants do not migrate off site, are described in the following sections of this DEIS.

Summary of site conditions (TetraTech EC, Inc. 2009)

 The geophysical survey revealed a significant number of large metallic anomalies and reinforced concrete blocks in the northern portion of the City-owned Southwest Site.  Soils and materials observed during the advancement of the shallow test pits indicated the landfill area contains municipal waste including glass bottles, metal, appliances, auto parts, plastic bags, wood, asphalt, and construction and demolition debris, and varying amounts of soil. The highest ratio of municipal waste to soil was encountered in the northern portion of the landfill. The amount of municipal waste decreased toward the southern landfill area. Groundwater depth in the shallow test pits ranged from 2 to 6 feet below ground surface (bgs) and appears to be perched or trapped within the fill material.  Soil and material observed during the advancement of the deep test pits indicated the mound area contains milled asphalt fines present as a result of the construction debris and road cuttings disposed by the City of Ithaca. Additionally, fill/waste from other municipal projects included glass bottles, metal, concrete, wood, construction and demolition debris, and varying amounts of soil.  Methane was detected during the soil gas survey; concentrations in the northern portion of the site were elevated compared with the rest of the site and natural

54 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

background. TTEC recommended that a methane venting system be designed and installed during development of the Site and noted that a pre-design investigation may be necessary to adequately design the methane venting system.  Barium, chromium, lead and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are leaching into the ground beneath the large debris mound, but were detected at concentrations below the state’s ambient water quality standards for these parameters during the 2008-2009 site investigations. However, PAH levels in soils exceed NYSDEC screening levels. Capping was cited as a potential remedial measure to abate PAH migration.

4.2 Potential Impacts of the Proposed Action 4.2.1 Site Topography Development of an SMF on the northern portion of the City-owned Southwest Site will affect the existing topography, as an objective is to utilize on-site materials to the maximum extent possible during construction. Construction of the berms for the sedimentation basin, site access roads, and site grading to manage water flow will require extensive cut and fill and grading, to achieve the post-construction site topography illustrated in Figure 2-2. The cut and fill calculations indicate that approximately 48,500 cy of material will be moved to prepare the site (grubbing and clearing the basin footprints), and an additional 129,400 cy of material will be excavated to create the final grades. Construction of the berms will require approximately 124,500 cy of material. Based on these projections, a slight surplus of soil may remain after the basins are constructed.

4.2.2 Presence of Buried Waste Material The majority of site work and excavation to construct the SMF will occur south of the power lines and consequently, outside the limits of the legacy waste disposal area, which was used in the 1950s and 1960s for construction and demolition debris, household and commercial waste. There is a potential for buried debris to be disturbed during site work to construct the SMF.

4.2.3 Chemical Content of Soils It is possible that contaminated soils may be encountered in some areas during construction of the SMF. The most probable classes of contaminants are those identified in previous site investigations of the City-owned Southwest Site, i.e., PAHs. Standard procedures for handling, staging and disposing of contaminated soils will be followed during construction.

Another potential impact of the operation of the SMF is mobilization of chemicals as a consequence of a change in mineral solubility. The primary controls over solubility of most metals are pH and oxidation-reduction potential (Eh). Most metals are more soluble under low pH and Eh conditions. However, the SMF will essentially replicate ambient conditions of the stream channels, a slurry of sediment and stream water will be pumped into the basin. Conditions of pH or Eh in the sediment basins should be comparable to those in the stream channel, so no change in metal solubility is anticipated. Native soils underlying the basin will be buried under a liner.

55 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

4.2.4 Erosion potential The berms will be designed for structural stability; side slopes will not exceed a horizontal to vertical ratio of two to one (2:1) and will be stabilized. Construction of the SMF will not increase the erosion potential of the site.

4.3 Mitigating Measures 4.3.1 Stormwater management and erosion control The final site design will include a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to ensure that the construction activities and SMF site operations comply with all state and local site planning and stormwater management requirements. Mitigating measures will include both structural and vegetative measures, such as the use of geotextiles and seeding to stabilize disturbed areas, silt fencing, check dams and other techniques to manage stormwater. City of Ithaca personnel will confer with Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District personnel as needed, and will inspect and maintain storm water control measures.

4.3.2 Contingency plans for handling buried waste A contingency plan for handling buried waste material that may be exposed during construction will be developed in consultation with NYSDEC as part of the project’s final design. The 2009 site characterization report completed by TTEC included multiple test pits, both deep and shallow, in the region of the site to be most altered by construction of the SMF. Based on the existing information, it is unlikely that a substantial amount of waste material will be encountered. The region of the site with the greatest potential for buried metallic objects is north of the power lines; excavation is not planned for this area.

NYSDEC will develop a Health and Safety Plan for site workers prior to the start of construction.

4.3.3 Soil contingency plan Field personnel will use reasonable care to determine whether excavated soils appear to be contaminated, based on visual observation and odor. If soils with strong or foul odors or discoloration are encountered, site personnel will segregate affected soils and stage them onto plastic sheets. A field photoionization detector (PID) will be used to screen soils. Samples will be collected from the staged soils and submitted for laboratory analysis for volatile and semivolatile organic compounds, as well as trace metals. Once analytical results are received, the soils will be disposed of properly.

4.4 Transportation 4.4.1 Existing Conditions The access road to the City-owned Southwest Site intersects State Route 13 (Elmira Rd.) south of downtown Ithaca. Route 13 carries much of the traffic approaching the City of Ithaca from the south and southwest. Commuters from Tioga County, Elmira and other parts of Chemung County use this route. SR-34/96 joins SR-13 near the Town of Ithaca/Town of Newfield border. Land uses

56 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging along the Elmira Road corridor within the City of Ithaca include significant car-oriented development and a substantial amount of new development is planned or underway.

4.4.2 Potential Impacts Although most of the sediment removed from the waterways will be pumped to the SMF during the hydraulic dredging operation, there is a potential traffic impact associated with the removal of dewatered sediment from the sediment management facility. It is anticipated that the dewatered sediment will be trucked away for beneficial use and/or ultimate disposal. The number of trips associated with removal of dried material from the SMF has been projected using various assumptions regarding truck size and timing of trips (Table 4-1). According to this analysis, the maximum additional truck traffic associated with sediment removal from the SMF is about eight vehicles per hour (counting a departure and an arrival as two separate trips). This means that only 4 trucks would be entering onto Route 13 in any given hour during the work. This will not have a significant impact on the traffic operations of Route 13 (Elmira Road) or on the intersection of Route 13 and Southwest Park Road. The Elmira Road section of Route 13 currently operates at a Level of Service “A.”

Table 4-1. Traffic Scenarios for SMF Sediment Removal

Traffic Scenarios for the Removal of 80,000 CY of Dried Sediment from SMF

8 Hour Workday Max # Duration (weeks) # of Max # of Max # of of loads Max # of Trucks loads/day trips/day per trips/week 1 loader week 2 loaders 10 wheeler 2 12 24 60 120 111 111 4 24 48 120 240 56 56 6 36 72 180 360 37 37 8 48 96 240 480 28 28 10 60 120 300 600 22 22

18 wheeler 2 10 20 50 100 89 74 4 20 40 100 200 44 37 6 30 60 150 300 30 25 8 40 80 200 400 22 19 10 50 100 250 500 18 15

9 Hour Workday Max # Duration (weeks) # of Max # of Max # of or loads Max # of

Trucks loads/day trips/day per trips/week 1 loader 2 loaders week 10 wheeler 2 12 24 60 120 111 95 4 24 48 120 240 56 48 6 36 72 180 360 37 32 8 48 96 240 480 28 24

57 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Traffic Scenarios for the Removal of 80,000 CY of Dried Sediment from SMF

10 60 120 300 600 22 19

18 wheeler 2 12 24 60 120 74 63 4 24 48 120 240 37 32 6 36 72 180 360 25 21 8 48 96 240 480 19 16 10 60 120 300 600 15 13

10 Hour Workday Max # Duration (weeks) # of Max # of Max # of of loads Max # of Trucks loads/day trips/day per trips/week 1 loader 2 loaders week 10 wheeler 2 14 28 70 140 95 83 4 28 56 140 280 48 42 6 42 84 210 420 32 28 8 56 112 280 560 24 21 10 70 140 350 700 19 17

18 wheeler 2 14 28 70 140 63 63 4 28 56 140 280 32 32 6 42 84 210 420 21 21 8 56 112 280 560 16 16 10 70 140 350 700 13 13

Moreover, this volume of truck traffic is not likely to have an impact on pavement conditions. Even at the maximum number of trips per day shown above (140 trips per day), this would only represent 0.56% of the approximately 25,000 vehicles per day on this segment of Route 13. Of the approximately 25,000 vehicles per day, this segment of Route 13 already has about 5% or 6% of its traffic in the form of heavy vehicles (federal truck classification F4-F13), which would mean about 1,250 to 1,500 heavy vehicles per day. The maximum scenario considered above would add about 10% more than this. This seems unlikely to cause significant damage to pavement conditions beyond normal wear and tear.

Proposed ingress and egress to the SMF is displayed in Figure 4-1.

58 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 4-1. Proposed Ingress and Egress to the SMF

59 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

4.4.3 Mitigation Measures According to the City of Ithaca traffic engineer, the additional truck traffic associated with movement of the dewatered material from the SMF is not a significant addition to the existing traffic on Route 13. Consequently, transport of dewatered material from the SMF will not pose a significant adverse impact on traffic under any proposed scenario, and no mitigation will be required. The full report of the City of Ithaca transportation engineer, Mr. Tim Logue, is included as Appendix J.

4.5 Air 4.5.1 Existing Conditions Regulatory and public health agencies conduct routine monitoring of air quality conditions at a network of locations across New York State, in accordance with the June, 2010 comprehensive air quality management plan (AQMP) http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/72352.html that integrates air quality monitoring, emission controls, and pollution prevention. The AQMP combines air quality and energy goals into a single plan designed to address state air quality goals and federal Clean Air Act requirements.

Air quality monitoring provides a basis for characterizing current conditions in order to provide up-to-date public health information, and to as identify areas in need of more stringent source controls. Tompkins County is included in the Central Air Quality Control Region, along with Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego and Tioga Counties. Five monitoring stations are included within the Central Air Quality Control Region; none are in Tompkins County. Air quality monitoring results from these stations are compared with State and National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Based on the 2009 results, the most recent data reported by NYSDEC, there were no exceedances of these standards in the Central Air Quality Control Region (Table 4.2). The recent measurements indicate that existing air quality is not impaired with respect to the monitored parameters, which include ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter and lead.

Table 4-2. Existing air quality data

NYS Ambient National 2009 Averaging Constituent Air Quality Ambient Air Observations period Standard Quality Standard (Annual Average) Carbon monoxide 8-hour 9 ppm 9 ppm 0.4 ppm Lead Quarterly average --- 1.5 µg/m3 No data Nitrous oxide Annual mean 0.05 ppm 0.053 ppm No data Particulate Matter 24-hour --- 150 µg/m3 No data (PM 10) Particulate Matter Annual --- 15.0 µg/m3 7.6 µg/m3 (PM 2.5)

60 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

NYS Ambient National 2009 Averaging Constituent Air Quality Ambient Air Observations period Standard Quality Standard (Annual Average) Ozone 8-hour 0.08 ppm 0.08 ppm 0.025 to 0.030 ppm Sulfur Oxides Annual mean 0.03 ppm 0.03 ppm 0.001 ppm Source: NYSDEC http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/air_pdf/09annrpt.pdf

4.5.2 Impacts of the proposed action Construction of the dewatering facility will last approximately 3 months and will require moving a large volume of soil around approximately 23 acres of the City-owned Southwest Site to construct the basins, and grade roads and staging areas. When dried sediments are removed from the SMF, dust could potentially be a problem when materials are excavated from the basin and loaded into trucks for transport to the site of their ultimate reuse. Roads within and to the facility will be unpaved, so truck traffic could produce airborne dust particles.

Trucking required to transport the dried sediments off site will produce emissions. As estimated in Table 4-1, an additional 10 trucks per hour could be added to the traffic flow in the vicinity of Elmira Rd; this traffic from the SMF would represent only a very small increase to existing conditions. Consequently, no significant impact on vehicle emissions and ambient air quality is projected as a result of this project.

The carbon footprint associated with sediment removal from the SMF and transport from the facility was estimated as part of this project. Assuming a fuel efficiency of 7 miles per gallon (mpg) for empty trucks and 5 mpg for loaded trucks, and that truck capacity is 10 cy, the transport of 100,00 cy of dried material for a round-trip distance of two miles has the potential to consume approximately 3,400 gallons of fuel. According to EPA estimates, each gallon of fuel combusted releases 8.8 kg of CO2 to the atmosphere. The total carbon impact of the sediment removal is consequently estimated to be 30 metric tons.

4.5.3 Mitigation Measures The following dust control measures will be employed to minimize impacts on the nearby manufactured home park and commercial establishments.

 Misting or fog-spraying site to minimize dust, as needed  Maintaining crushed stone tracking pads at all entrances to the construction site  Reseeding disturbed areas to minimize bare exposed soils  Requiring trucks to be covered  Use of amended surfaces on roadways to reduce potential for dust

During final design, the project sponsor will identify measures to reduce the adverse environmental impacts of off-site transport of dewatered materials; such mitigating measures may include, but are not limited to, the following:

61 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

 Amended surfaces on roadways to reduce potential for dust  Use of biodiesel fuel in vehicles  Use of rail to transport dewatered materials  Incorporation of dewatered material on portions of the City-owned Southwest Site

4.6 Energy 4.6.1 Existing Conditions Under current conditions, there is little or no energy consumption associated with the City- owned Southwest Site.

4.6.2 Potential Impacts Construction of the SMF will require consumption of energy, primarily petroleum (gasoline and diesel fuel) to fuel the heavy equipment and construction vehicles. The list of construction equipment anticipated to be used during construction and operation of the SMF are included as Table 4-3.

Table 4-3. List of equipment anticipated for use during construction of the SMF at the City-owned Southwest Site.

Backhoe, Rubber Tired Excavator, Track Scraper (Off-Road Pan) Mounted Bulldozer Front End Loader Semi-Truck, 18-Wheel Dump Truck, 10-Wheel and Off-Rock Crusher and Wood Chipper, Truck or Trailer Road Screen Mounted

4.6.3 Mitigation Measures Potential mitigation measures may include:

 Use of rail transport for ultimate disposal  Biofuels  Use of energy-efficient equipment

4.7 Recreation 4.7.1 Scope of this discussion The proposed project is to construct a sediment management facility at the City-owned Southwest Site and to remove sediments from lower Cascadilla Creek. These actions will not affect recreational users of Cayuga Inlet and the Flood Control Channel. However, members of the public and representatives of college and club sports commented on the potential for disruption of recreational rowing in the future, as dredged material is pumped into the SMF by the Canal Corporation and other agencies maintaining the channel for navigational access and

62 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging flood control. In response to the comments, the Project Sponsor and Lead Agency agreed to include a description of the current recreational uses of Cayuga Inlet and the Flood Control Channel, along with some alternatives that might, at least in part, minimize disruption of these activities during future periods of active dredging. The mitigation measures presented in this section have been reviewed with the Canal Corporation, and reflect many of the practices they employ state-wide to accommodate recreational boating needs.

4.7.2 Existing Conditions There are currently many active users of the flood control channel. Each group utilizing the channel has different requirements for access at various times of the year. The categories of channel users include local collegiate and recreational rowing programs, local boating festivals, other non-motorized watercraft, and motorized boat users.

4.7.2.1 Rowing Programs Cornell University’s 200-member rowing team practices on the flood control channel from late August to early November, and late February or early March until early June. Competitions are generally held each weekend from late March to early May. The team practices weekdays from 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm and on Saturdays until noon. The team’s primary training area includes the area in front the Cornell boathouse and the stretch of water from the southernmost point of the flood control channel to the northern lighthouse. Cornell Athletics has stated that all three lanes are critical to the training program and no other temporary alternative locations would be feasible.

Ithaca College’s rowing program season spans from September 1st to November 15th and March 15th to June 1st. Competitions are held every weekend between March 24th and April 15th. Practice times for the rowing team are flexible. The team requires 30-40 meters of width and a minimum 2000 meters of length in order to operate safely; the 2000 meter length is acceptable only if no other team or organization is using the channel. The team typically utilizes the entire area of the Inlet. It has been expressed that temporary alternate locations would be neither feasible nor safe for the team members.

The Cascadilla Boat Club is a private club with 150-175 members. They run a variety of educational and competitive programs that run from April 1st to November 1st. Depending on weather conditions, crews train on Fall Creek, Cayuga Inlet, and Cayuga Lake. Competitive events require a length of 2000 meters and a width of 13 meters which allows for two shells to race simultaneously.

4.7.2.2 Ithaca Dragon Boat Club & Finger Lakes International Dragon Boat Festival The Dragon Boat Club is a private club that operates from May 1st to October 31st. The club runs its classes on the inlet Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6pm to 8pm and on Saturday from 9am to 12:30pm. The club utilizes the entire length of the inlet.

63 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

The Finger Lakes International Dragon Boat Festival is sponsored by the Ithaca Asian American Association (IAAA). IAAA is a volunteer-based organization and home of the Ithaca Dragon Boat Club. The two-day festival occurs annually in early July and draws participants from all the major Northeast Cities in the US and Canada. The race utilizes the area from the Farmer’s Market docks and the Cass park docks to Cayuga Lake. Organizers state that there is no other safe location that could support the festival.

4.7.2.3 Other Non-Motorized Users Individual non-motorized boat users can launch at several designated areas along the Flood Control Channel, including Cass Park, Treman Marina and the Farmer’s Market. One private kayak rental shop, which operates from June until late August, is located on Cayuga Inlet. Canoers and kayakers have access to the full length of the Flood Control Channel as well as the lower reaches of Six Mile, Cascadilla & Fall Creeks.

4.7.2.4 Motorized Boating The Flood Control Channel and Cayuga Inlet have the highest concentration of boat traffic in the county. There are a total of 657 slips for motorized boats along the channel. Treman State Park has 430 slips for motorized boats which are in operation from May 1st to October 24th. Cayuga Wooden Boatworks, a boat repair organization, has ownership of 62 slips on the inlet in operation from April to October. Cayuga Wooden Boatworks requires a minimum of 100 feet to back out and maneuver from the slips, as well as an 8 foot depth requirement for the vessels. The docks owned by the city, located near the golf course and the Cayuga Inlet, are in use from April to October each year.

In addition to the recreational boating, there are commercial users of the waterways. Cayuga Lake Cruises runs a touring boat M/V Columbia, from mid-April to late October. All cruises depart from the Cayuga Inlet. The company runs daily dinner cruises, weekday lunch and weekend brunch cruises, as well as specialty charters.

The Cayuga Floating Classroom Eco Cruises is a local enterprise that runs educational and recreation programs from spring to late fall. Programs include chartered tours, after school and summer camp programs and weekly eco cruses. The boat docks and departs from Inlet Island. Weekly Eco cruises also pick up at the Farmer’s Market docks.

4.7.3 Potential Impacts The NYSCC conducts its dredging activities in the open-water season, between May and November annually. As noted in this document, dredging for navigational use will be scheduled for after Labor Day, to help minimize recreational impacts. The capacity of the SMF will likely limit the duration of dredging to under 10 weeks, assuming normal production rates. The NYSCC typically schedules their dredging four days a week, ten hours a day. Any future dredging done by DEC or ACOE may vary in terms of timing and duration.

64 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Dredging in the Flood Control Channel would have the potential to affect all categories of users. Impacts will result from disruptions due to the location of the hydraulic dredge and associated piping in the channel, as well as any mechanical dredging.

Dredging will typically begin upstream and work its way downstream. A hydraulic dredge will be used to remove the vast majority of sediment deposited within the channel. The pipeline to move the sediment and water slurry created by the hydraulic dredging to the SMF will be placed along the shoreline to maintain a level of navigability in the channel.

The Canal Corporation (NYSCC) will select the equipment to be used during the navigational dredging operation. As of the date of the DEIS preparation, the tentative plan is to employ NYSCC HD#1 (12" dredge). This equipment has a length of 121 ft., beam of 26 ft., a maximum draft of 4 ft., and requires an overhead clearance of 14 ft. when traveling under bridges. In order to safely maneuver around the pipe, a clearance of 50 to 75 feet is required.

Although the impacts to motorized and non-motorized boats are unavoidable; they are also temporary in nature. The need to maintain the waterways requires occasional temporary disruptions to recreational users.

4.7.4 Mitigation Measures The NYSCC is responsible for navigational dredging; this agency will strive to minimize adverse impacts on recreational users. Any future dredging done by NYSDEC or ACOE may be subject to additional review for recreation impacts.

NYS Canal Corporation has developed several approaches to minimizing disruption to recreational users. These approaches, among others, will be considered.

 Prior notification of reduced navigability with posting before and during dredging. This would be accomplished through the issuance of a “Notice to Mariners” which is published on the Canal Corporation’s website and also available by email subscription.  Conducting operations four days a week for ten hours a day in order to have full access to the channel on weekends.  Set up temporary aids to navigation so that vessels recognize where it is safe to pass.  In the event that other mitigating measures cannot prevent a significant blockage of the channel (typically due to the physical constraints of a specific location, such as the old Cayuga inlet), specific times of day can be scheduled to allow passage of recreational vessels. In all instances, efforts will be made to avoid this situation and if a significant blockage of the channel is required, special effort will be made to ensure the duration of this blockage is minimized.

65 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

4.8 Fish Community 4.8.1 Existing Conditions

4.8.1.1 Lakewide fish community A comprehensive review of Cayuga Lake’s fish community was completed for the DEIS prepared for Cornell University’s Lake Source Cooling Project (Stearns & Wheler 1997) and updated for the Cayuga Lake Watershed Restoration and Protection Plan (Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Commission, 2001). The lake’s fish community is comprised of two distinct assemblages: a cold water fish community utilizing the large volume of cold, well-oxygenated water, and a warm water fish community finding suitable conditions in the lake’s shallow littoral zone. Cayuga Lake has a relatively small littoral zone; the majority of fish habitat is provided by the cold deep waters. Filling of wetlands in the southern portion of the lake has further reduced littoral habitat. Several species in both the cold water and warm water assemblages utilize the southern tributaries, primarily Cayuga Inlet, during some portion of their life cycle.

The warmwater fish assemblage includes largemouth and smallmouth bass and northern pike as the dominant predators; these fish feed on yellow perch, pumpkinseed, bluegill, rock bass and minnows. Bullhead and chain pickerel are also present. A population of white sucker, a benthic feeder, spawns in the southern tributaries in late April and May. Common carp, another benthic feeder, are present in the lake’s littoral zone and southern tributaries.

The lake’s fish community is summarized in Table 4.4, and the fishes’ habitat requirements and timing of spawning are summarized in Table 4.5 (warm water species) and Table 4.6 (cold water species). Overall, the lake supports a diverse and productive fish community.

Table 4-4. Fish Species Present in Cayuga Lake, New York Reported by Chiotti 1980 SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME ABUNDANCE* Petromyzontidae—lampreys Petromyzon marinus Sea lamprey C Lepisosteidae--gars Lepisosteus osseus Longnose gar R Amiidae--bowfins Atnia calva Bowfin R Anguillidae--freshwater eels Anguilla rostrata American eel R Clupeidae--herrings Alosa pseudoharengus Alewife A Dorosoma cepedianum Gizzard shad R Ictaluridae--bullhead catfishes Ameiurus nebulosus Brown bullhead C Ictalurus punctatus Channel catfish R Noturus flavus Stonecat ? Catosotmidae--suckers Catostomus commersoni White sucker C Hypentelium nigricans Northern hog sucker R Moxostoma sp. Redhorse R

66 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME ABUNDANCE* Cyprinidae--carps and minnows Cyprinus carpi° Common carp C Cyprinella analostana Satinfin shiner ? Notropis hudsonius Spottail shiner C Notetnigonus crysoleucas Golden shiner C Rhinichthys atratulus Blacknose dace ? Rhinichthys cataractae Longnose dace ? Semotilus atromaculatus Creek chub ? Semotilus corporalis Fallfish ? Esocidae--pikes Esox lucius Northern pike C Esox niger Chain pickerel C Osmeridae--smelts Osmerus mordax Rainbow smelt A Salmonidae--trouts Coregonus artedi Cisco C Coregonus clupeaformis Lake whitefish R Oncorhynchus mykiss Rainbow trout C Salmo salar Atlantic salmon R Salvelinus namaycush Lake trout C Percopsidae--trout-perches Pecopsis omiscomaycus Troutperch C Gasterosteidae--sticklebacks Culaea inconstans Brook stickleback ? Cottidae--sculpins Cottus cognatus Slimy sculpin C Percichthyidae--temperate basses Morone americana White perch R Morone chrysops White bass R Centrarchidae--sunfishes Ambloplites rupestris Rock bass C Lepomis gibbosus Pumpkinseed C Lepomis macrochirus Bluegill C Micropterus doloinieu Smallmouth bass C Micropterus salmoides Largemouth bass C Pomoxis nigromaculatus Black crappie C Pomoxis annularis White crappie C Percidae--perches Etheostoma nigrum Tesselated darter C Perca flavescens Yellow perch C Percina caprodes Logperch ? Acipenseridae--sturgeon Acipenser fidvescens Lake sturgeon R * Symbols A = Abundant C = C o m m o n R = R a r e ? = Undetermined due to inadequate data from conventional sampling.

67 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Table 4-5. Spawning Requirements for Common Littoral Fish of Cayuga Lake, New York

FISH SPECIES HABITAT SPAWNING PERIOD TEMPERATURE (°C)

Smallmouth bass Gravel May-July 17-18° (63-64°F)

Largemouth bass Vegetation May-June >15° (>59°F)

Northern pike Vegetation March-April 10° (50°F)

Chain pickerel Vegetation April-May 8-11 ° (46-52°F)

Yellow perch Vegetation April-May 7-11 ° (45-52°F)

Black crappie Vegetation May-July 20° (68°F)

Bluegill Gravel May-July >21 ° (>70 °F)

Golden shiner Vegetation May-August >20 ° (>68 °F)

Rock bass Gravel May-June 20-23 ° (68-73 °F)

Pumpkinseed Vegetation May-August >15° (>59°F)

White sucker Gravel April-June 5-12° (41-54°F)

Carp Vegetation May-August 17° (>63°F)

Brown bullhead Crevices May-June 17° (>63°F)

Spottail shiner Sand June-July -- -- Undersides of Tesselated darter April -- -- rocks Source: Smith 1985

68 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Table 4-6. Spawning Requirements for Common Deep Water Fish of Cayuga Lake, New York

SPAWNING REPRODUCTIVE FISH SPECIES HABITAT PERIOD TEMPERATURE (°C) POPULATION Lake Trout Lake, 30-50 m Sept.-Oct. -- No 10-15° Rainbow Trout Streams, gravel April-June Yes (50-59°F) Brown Trout Streams, gravel Nov-Jan. -- No Landlocked Streams, rocky Oct.-Nov. -- No Salmon Lake, rocky, Cisco Late fall Ice forming Yes (limited) shoals

Alewife Lake shores May-Aug. 10-21° Yes (50-70°F) Streams, 9° Smelt Feb.-March Yes crevices (48°F) 19° Troutperch Streams, rocky Feb.-March Yes (66°F) Lake-streams, April-May 2-13° Slimy Sculpin Yes crevices (streams) (35-55°F) 10-21° Sea Lamprey Streams, riffles April-Aug. Yes (50-70°F) Source: Smith 1985

4.8.1.2 Sea Lamprey A concern was raised during the scoping of the DEIS on the potential impact of dredging on the native sea lamprey; additional detail is presented herein.

The sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) is a primitive, parasitic fish with a complex life cycle. Adults occur in off-shore marine environments, as well as large deep-water lakes including the Great Lakes, Lake Champlain, and some Finger Lakes, including Cayuga Lake. The status of sea lamprey as a native or invasive species in some of these lakes has been debated. Recently, genetic analyses suggest that the Cayuga Lake sea lamprey population is of native origin, having descended from a native stock in Lake Ontario and gained access to Cayuga Lake through the Seneca River (Bryan et al. 2005).

Sea lamprey make a spawning migration from their deep-water adult habitat into rivers and streams where they spawn once and then die. Adult sea lamprey are parasitic on other adult fishes and have had significant negative impacts on populations of several species of

69 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging commercially and recreationally valued fish in large lakes in which sea lamprey abundance is high (e.g., Smith and Tibbles 1980). Fisheries managers have used a variety of approaches (e.g., lampricides, trapping, sterilization, migration barriers) to reduce sea lamprey numbers in some of these lakes and have seen corresponding rebounds in fish stocks as a result (CFFAS 1980). Some of these control measures have been and are currently in use in for Cayuga Lake.

Sea lamprey are known to reproduce in the southern tributaries of Cayuga Lake. Adult sea lamprey migrate from the open water of the lake into these tributaries during April and May. The spawning migration occurs in April and May, with adults migrating as far upstream as the first impassable barrier. In most of the southern tributaries, this equates to the first waterfall or significant hydraulic jump. In Cayuga Inlet, the fish ladder at the upstream end of the flood- control channel is the first impassable barrier. Suitable spawning habitat is not available downstream of the fish ladder, and, in a typical year, lamprey entering the fish ladder are captured and removed by NYSDEC. However, during years when Cayuga Lake is exceptionally high in the spring, the fish ladder becomes inundated, and lamprey are able to pass over this structure. Lamprey that pass upstream of the fish ladder are able to migrate and spawn throughout the length of Cayuga Inlet, even up into the headwaters.

Sea lamprey spawn in tributaries at locations with suitable habitat, which includes gravel substrate, water velocities of 0.5-1.5 meters/second, and water depth of 13-170 cm (Manion and Hanson 1980). Spawned eggs remain in the gravel at the spawning site until hatching (Smith 1985). In the southern tributaries of Cayuga Lake, all spawning habitat is found upstream of areas backwatered by Cayuga Lake. In Cayuga Inlet, all spawning occurs upstream of the fish ladder.

Within a few days of hatching, larval sea lamprey (called ammocoetes) drift downstream from the spawning site to slower water where they burrow into soft sediments of silt and sand (Smith 1985). They remain burrowed in such habitat for two to over 10 years, before metamorphosing into adults and moving out into deep-water habitat. In the case of Cayuga Lake’s southern tributaries, ammocoetes may take up residence in appropriate habitat within the tributary above the level of Cayuga Lake, within the tributary where it is inundated by the lake, or in the delta at the mouth of the tributary. Since spawning in all tributaries but Cayuga Inlet is limited to a relative short length of stream, most ammocoetes in these streams occur in the slack water in the stream’s lower reach. Because spawning can occur throughout the length of Cayuga Inlet, ammocoetes are distributed both upstream and downstream of the fish ladder, with the majority being upstream of the ladder.

Historically, about 90% of the lamprey production in Cayuga Lake came from Cayuga Inlet. This production has been considerably reduced due to past lampricide applications (the latest in 1996) and on-going harvesting of adult lamprey at the fish ladder during the spawning migration. Production in Cayuga Inlet is not completely curtailed because there are occasional high water events during the spawning migration that allow some adult lamprey to pass over the fish ladder and escape upstream to spawn. The vast majority of ammocoetes produced in

70 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Cayuga Inlet are found either upstream of the fish ladder or in the upper reaches of the flood- control channel downstream of the fish ladder. They decline in abundance longitudinally from this point and are barely present at the mouth of the Inlet. This is significant because the maintenance dredging occurs downstream of the State Route 79 bridge over Cayuga Inlet.

The remaining tributaries, including Salmon Creek in the Town of Lansing and Taughannock Creek in the Town of Ulysses, have historically provided about 10% of the production of sea lamprey in Cayuga Lake. The relatively low numbers of ammocoetes associated with Fall Creek, Sixmile Creek, and Cascadilla Creek are found in the slackwater environments in the lowermost reaches of these streams

4.8.1.3 Habitat Conditions, Lower Cascadilla Creek As part of this project, EcoLogic scientists completed a habitat survey of the lower tributaries to Cayuga Lake; the survey was designed to characterize existing conditions and evaluate how sediment deposition has affected fish and wildlife habitat as well as recreational access. The report of the habitat survey, completed in July 2008, is included as Appendix K to the DEIS. In this section, the findings related to fish and wildlife habitat of lower Cascadilla Creek are summarized.

Three habitat units, designated Units One, 13 and 14, were present in Cascadilla Creek; the location of the designated units is displayed in Figure 4-2, 4-3 and 4-4. A summary of the characteristics of the three habitat units is presented in Table 4-7.

71 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Table 4-7. Physical characteristics of habitat units identified in the lower Cascadilla Creek, on July 17-18, 2008

Substrate and Cover Key: D = dominant; SD = subdominant; A = abundant; P = present; S = sparse

Habitat % Substrate Cover Depth (ft) Shoreline Covertype(s) Noted Aquatic Vegetation Unit Cover Up to 7 ft, Silt - D Docks/boats - A reduced to (off-shore) Shading - A Lacustrine riprap/artificial shore 1 >25 ≤5 in None observed Sand - D Fallen tree/brush - S Lacustrine submerged structure Cascadilla (near-shore) Boulders (riprap) - S Cr. Shading - A Sand - D 0.5-4, 13 Fallen tree/brush – P 10-25 Successional northern hardwoods None observed Silt - SD mostly ≤3 Log/stump/root - P Submersed veg. - A Successional shrubland Stuckenia pectinata 1-4, mostly 14 Silt - D Fallen tree/brush – P 10-25 Successional northern hardwoods Typha sp. ≤3 Emergent veg. - S Shallow emergent marsh (little) Vallisneria americana

72 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Habitat Unit One is characterized by significantly human-modified shoreline consisting of wooden, concrete, rock, or metal bulkheads, docks, retaining walls, riprap, or other structures (Figure 4-2 Photo-Habitat unit 1). These structures provide the bulk of the available in-water cover, which is generally abundant. Aquatic vegetation is generally lacking. Depth in near-shore areas often exceeded 5 ft. Littoral fish species [e.g., sunfish (Lepomis spp.), bass (Micropterus spp.), and minnows (Cyprinidae)] may make use of this habitat due to the cover provided by the various structures. Wildlife use of this habitat is limited due to a general lack of forage and terrestrial cover, though some passerine birds and ducks (mallard, Anas platyrhynchos) were observed in this habitat. This segment of the creek is heavily used for recreational boating.

Habitat Unit 13 is limited to the upper southern portion of the channel of Cascadilla Creek). This habitat is characterized by very shallow (mostly <3 ft deep), stagnant, turbid water with cover provided by large woody debris and overhead shading by trees (Figure 4-3 Photo-Habitat unit 13). Substrate is predominantly sand with some silt-sized particles. No aquatic vegetation was observed except for floating fragments that apparently drifted in from other areas.

This area provides relatively poor habitat for most aquatic organisms due to the high turbidity and low structural diversity. It is also of little recreational value due to the high turbidity and the shallow depth of water. Use impairment due to accumulated sediment is apparent. Motorized boat traffic is precluded due to the shallow depth, and even canoeing or kayaking would be difficult in the shallowest areas. The high turbidity results in low aesthetic quality.

Habitat Unit 14 is similar in nature to habitat unit 13 and is located in the lower southern portion of the channel of Cascadilla Creek. This habitat is characterized by very shallow (mostly <3 ft deep), stagnant, turbid water with cover provided by submersed vegetation (primarily wild celery) and fallen trees and brush (Figure 4-4 Photo-Habitat unit 14). There is also a small stand of cattail at its western end. Substrate is predominantly deep silt.

This area provides marginally better habitat for fish and wildlife compared to habitat unit 13. Common carp, belted kingfisher and mallard were observed using this habitat. This area is of little recreational value due to the high turbidity and the shallow depth of water. Use impairment due to accumulated sediment is apparent. Motorized boat traffic is precluded due to the shallow depth. The high turbidity also results in low aesthetic quality.

73 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 4-2. Photo-Habitat unit 1 (in Cascadilla Creek)

Figure 4-3 Photo Habitat unit 13 (in Cascadilla Creek)

74 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 4-4. Photo Habitat unit 14 (in Cascadilla Creek)

4.8.2 Potential Impacts Overall, impacts of dredging on the fish community would be minor in nature and temporary in duration. Southern Cayuga Lake provides only limited areas of prime spawning habitat for the warm water fish community; the extensive littoral habitat in the lake’s northern basin is more important to maintaining the lakewide fishery. It is anticipated that the permit for dredging in lower Cascadilla Creek will not allow dredging to occur prior to July 1 to minimize interference with the warmwater fish community during spawning. As documented in the habitat survey, sediment deposition has impaired the quality of the littoral habitat for aquatic biota. Removal of sediment will also remove macrophytes and macroinvertebrates. These impacts will be temporary; recolonization of the stream channel with these aquatic organisms is expected to be rapid.

Dredging the lower reaches of the lake’s southern tributaries will have minimal impacts on the sea lamprey population. Adult lamprey do not occur in the proposed dredging area. Similarly, lamprey spawning and egg incubation occur in areas upstream of any proposed dredging and would therefore be unaffected. The majority of lamprey ammocoetes inhabiting the southern tributaries are found in Cayuga Inlet upstream of the proposed dredging area and they, along with their habitat, would similarly be unaffected by dredging operations. Only the relatively small proportion of the ammocoetes inhabiting the lowermost reaches of Cayuga Inlet, Fall Creek, Sixmile Creek, and Cascadilla Creek would be susceptible to impacts (injury, mortality, or habitat disturbance) from dredging. Habitats associated with the southern tributaries, as well as Salmon Creek and Taughannock Creek, unaffected by dredging will continue to sustain the majority of ammocoetes

75 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging produced by the Cayuga Lake sea lamprey population during and following any dredging activities. The lowermost reaches of the southern tributaries in which dredging would occur would be expected to provide habitat for limited numbers of ammocoetes once dredging is completed.

4.8.3 Mitigation Measures As impacts will be minor and temporary, no specific mitigation is planned. The dredging permit is anticipated to include restrictions on activity in the stream near the mouths of tributaries from January 1- July 1 of each year, to minimize impact on reproduction of the warm water fish community.

4.9 Noise and Odor 4.9.1 Existing Conditions Noise: The SMF will be constructed in an urban area of the City of Ithaca. Ambient noise levels within the City-owned Southwest Site result from the Norfolk Southern Railroad bordering the site to the west (an intermittent noise source), and traffic from Elmira Rd (a nearly-continuous noise source). Traffic noise also originates from vehicles entering and leaving the commercial and big-box retail establishments along Elmira Rd. that border the site to the east.

Ambient noise levels were measured at the boundary of the City-owned Southwest Site, as part of the FGEIS for the Southwest Area Land Use Plan (The Chazen Companies, 2000) and reported in units on the A-weighted decibel scale - dB(A)the part of the spectrum to which human hearing is most sensitive (NYSDEC 2000). Noise levels averaged 65 dB(A) within the Elmira Rd. right-of-way. At the Southwest Site tree line, noise levels averaged 36.8 dB(A). Noise levels were measured at interior parcels in 1994, as part of the DEIS for the SW Area Land Use Plan. Monitoring along the levees by Clark Patterson Associates demonstrated noise levels in this area averaging 55 dB(A) (range 68-76).

Although these noise levels might not reflect current conditions, due to the additional commercial development that has occurred in this area since 2000, they are consistent with general noise levels for this land use. As reported in NYSDEC (2000), ambient noise levels will vary from approximately 35 dB(A) in a wilderness area to approximately 87 dB(A) in a highly industrial setting. A quiet seemingly serene setting such as rural farm land will be at the lower end of the scale at about 45 dB(A), whereas an urban industrial area will be at the high end of this scale at around 79 dB(A). Therefore, ambient noise levels under existing conditions are estimated at 60 dB(A).

Odor: Current site conditions do not produce odors. There are no exposed sources of organic material.

4.9.2 Potential Impacts Noise: Noise levels at the site of the SMF will increase, during both construction and operation, as a consequence of the operation of heavy machinery and pumps. As displayed in Figure 4-5, there are no sensitive receptors (defined as schools, hospitals, nursing homes, day care centers, etc.) in close proximity to the site that would be affected by the SMF; the nearest sites are close to the boundary of one-half mile of the planned SMF. Noise rating of the equipment anticipated to be used during construction and/or operation of the SMF is summarized in Table 4-8.

76 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

According to NYSDEC (2000), every doubling of distance from 50 ft. results in a diminution of noise by 6 db(A). The closest residential receptors live at the manufactured housing park, Nate’s Floral Estates; units are approximately 900 ft. from the northern boundary of the proposed construction. The estimated noise level at this distance is displayed in the table. This, however, will be reduced by the presence of vegetation which serves as a physical and a noise barrier between the site and the mobile home park. It is important to note that the noise levels are not additive, so using several pieces of the equipment results on only slightly higher sound levels to receptors. The NYSDEC policy document provides guidance on the cumulative impacts; the maximum impact is to add 3 dB(A) units to the lower noise level to account for the impact of a second source that is 10 dB(A) or more units louder (NYSDEC 2000).

Table 4‐8. Noise rating of equipment anticipated for use during SMF construction and use

Equipment Noise Rating Noise at 900 ft. at 50 ft., dB(A) (residential boundary), dB(A) Backhoe, Rubber Tired 83‐86 32 (based on 86) Bulldozer 80 26 dB(A) Dump Truck, 10‐Wheel and Off‐Road 91 37 Excavator, Track Mounted 86 32 Front End Loader 86 32 Rock Crusher and Screen 89 35 Scraper (Off‐Road Pan) 83 29 Semi‐Truck, 18‐Wheel 83 29 Wood Chipper, Truck or Trailer Mounted 89 35 Diesel pump (on dredge) 70 N/A Booster pump 85 N/A

77 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Figure 4-5. Sensitive Receptors

78 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Odor: Exhaust fumes from heavy equipment will produce odor during construction of the SMF. It is possible that the earth moving activities may uncover areas that produce odors, due to the site history. Based on previous site characterization, these impacts are anticipated to be minor and temporary.

The dewatering operation is not anticipated to create offensive odors. Sediments to be removed from the stream channels are low in organic matter.

4.9.3 Mitigation Measures The City has a noise ordinance in effect. Noise from the booster pump can be mitigated by placement away from residential areas, enclosures, or use of an electric pump in place of a diesel unit.

79 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 5. Construction Impacts

5.1 Description of Construction Activities Existing planimetric and topographic conditions within the City-owned Southwest Site were surveyed and mapped in November 2007. Computer software was utilized to create from the original survey data a digital model of the existing conditions of the site terrain. A conceptual grading plan for the SMF basins, as illustrated in Figure 2.3, was developed for the useable land area within the City-owned parcels. The presence of NYSEG overhead electric transmission lines and jurisdictional wetlands influenced the allocation of useable land for the proposed primary and secondary settling basins. The basin berms are expected to be constructed from existing on- site soils. Embankment slopes will not exceed a horizontal to vertical ratio of 2 to 1. Access lanes and haul roads have been incorporated into the berm geometry. The invert elevations of the basins have been established to allow gravity flow through the basins and into the Flood Relief Channel using existing open channel conveyances. It is assumed that at least 1 foot of existing surface debris, including vegetation and other organic matter, will have to be grubbed and cleared from areas to be further excavated or filled.

Based on the footprint and proposed grading for the SMF basins, the quantities of earthwork have been estimated as follows (Table 5.1).

Table 5-1. Earthwork Quantities

Earthwork Activity Volume (cubic yard)

Grub and Clear Basin Footprints 48,500

Excavation to Final Grade (cut) 129,400

Embankment to Final Grade (fill) 124,500

5.2 Drainage The SMF will permanently change the site drainage patterns. The site topography will be altered to allow water to flow through the SMF toward the relief channel.

Standard best management practices will be employed during construction of the SMF. The creation of impervious surfaces will be minimal. The volume of stormwater runoff from the site will not increase from pre-development conditions.

5.3 Air Quality Exhaust fumes from combustion of fossil fuels during construction activities will have a temporary impact on local air quality. In addition, the site work will generate dust. As sediments are dried,

80 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging winds may suspend and transport particles from the SMF. No exceedances of ambient air quality standards are anticipated.

5.4 Noise Noise impacts are described in Section 4.9.2. Noise during construction of the SMF is unavoidable. Impacts are projected to be minor at the closest residential receptors.

5.5 Traffic Traffic impacts are discussed in Section 4.4. Impacts of transport of the dried sediment from the SMF are projected to be minor, and not create a perceptible increase in traffic on Elmira Rd. The level of service at affected intersections is not projected to be downgraded.

5.6 Land The topography and use of 23 acres of the City-owned Southwest Site will be permanently transformed by creation of the SMF.

5.7 Public Health & Safety The SMF will not have public access, to minimize the potential for accidental injury. The berms will be designed and constructed using approved design criteria and materials. It is anticipated that professional engineers from the ACOE and/or the NYSCC will provide design review. The SMF will be inspected during construction, to verify compliance with approved plans.

Creation of an SMF will eventually improve the community’s public health and safety, by removing a long-term impediment to maintenance dredging. Removal of sediment from the waterways will result in enhanced protection against damaging floods in the City of Ithaca.

81 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 6. Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources

6.1 Land Resources Approximately 23 acres of land at the City-owned Southwest Site will be committed to long-term use of the SMF for dewatering dredged material removed from the southern tributaries to Cayuga Lake and the Flood Control Works.

6.2 Materials Natural and man-made materials will be used for construction and operation of the facility. The site topography will be modified to create berms and direct the flow of water through swales. Truck access roads on site may include crushed stone tracking pads to minimize dust.

6.3 Energy resources Energy resources will be consumed during construction and operation of the SMF. The construction phase will require petroleum (gasoline and diesel fuel) to fuel the heavy equipment and construction vehicles. During operation of the SMF, energy will be consumed to operate the dredging equipment, including booster pump(s). Once the sediment is dewatered, additional energy resources will be consumed to work the material and ultimately to remove it from the SMF and transport it off-site for ultimate disposal/beneficial reuse.

6.4 Financial resources A combination of state (primarily), local, and federal (potential) funds are required to complete construction of the SMF, restore the capacity of the stream channels, and continue long-term maintenance dredging operations.

82 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 7. Adverse Impacts that Cannot be Avoided 7.1 Land Resources The SMF will permanently remove approximately 23 acres from the City-owned Southwest Site for a dedicated SMF.

7.2 Dust Intermittent adverse impact is possible from dust arising from two conditions: (1) when dried sediments are excavated from the SMF and loaded into trucks for off-site transport, and (2) when truck traffic stirs up dust when arriving and departing the facility during construction and during off-site transportation of dewatered sediments. Adverse impacts from dust will be mitigated as much as possible (described in Section 4.5.3)

7.3 Infrastructure and services There will be unavoidable, temporary recreational impediments during dredging activities. Public access to areas being dredged will be limited for safety reasons. These unavoidable impediments will be mitigated by on-going communication with the public, and scheduling the dredging activity to maximize public access during peak periods such as weekends (described in Section 4.7.4).

7.4 Energy Fuel consumption is an unavoidable, adverse impact. In the short term, construction equipment used to build the SMF will require fuel. In the long term, dredging equipment and trucks transporting dewatered sediment off-site will use fuel. This unavoidable impact will be mitigated to the extent practicable using biofuels, or by transporting dewatered sediment by rail instead of by truck (described in Section 4.5.3)

83 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Chapter 8. Effects on the Use and Conservation of Energy Energy will be needed to fuel equipment used for construction, dredging and for transporting dredge spoils. Energy conservation measures, such as biofuels for trucks and equipment, or use of rail to transport spoils instead of trucks, will be implemented to conserve energy. Energy-efficient equipment may also be used to conserve energy.

84 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

References

Bryan, M. B., D. Zalinski, K. B. Filcek, S. Libants, W. Li, and K. T. Scribner. 2005. Patterns of invasion and colonization of the sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in North America as revealed by microsatellite genotypes. Molecular Ecology 14:3757-3773.

CJFAS (Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences). 1980. Proceedings of the Sea Lamprey International Symposium, Marquette, Michigan, July 30 1979 (series of articles by various authors). Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences 30(11):1585-2214.

The Chazen Companies, 2000. Final Generic Environmental Impact Statement, Southwest Area Land Use Plan. Prepared for the City of Ithaca, New York.

Chiotti. T. L., 1980. A Strategic Fisheries Management Plan for Cayuga Lake. FW-P194 MYSDEC, Albany NY.

Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council and EcoLogic LLC. 2001. Cayuga Lake Watershed Restoration and Protection Plan. Prepared for the Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Council and the Town of Ledyard, NY.

Isachsen, Y.W., Landing, E., Lauber, J.M., Rickard, L.V., Rogers, W.B., [eds.]. 2000, Geology of New York: A Simplified Account, 2nd edition: New York State Museum Educational Leaflet 28, SUNY Albany, NY, 300 p.

Karig, D. et al. 2007. Sixmile Creek: a status report. Report prepared by the Sixmile Creek Partnership. http://ecommons.library.cornell.edu/bitstream/1813/8354/1/Sixmile_status_rpt.pdf

LeCain Environmental Services, Inc. 2009. Draft report of findings and delineation of waters of the U.S. including special aquatic sites and jurisdictional wetlands, Southwest Park, Ithaca, NY. Prepared for City of Ithaca, Department of Planning and Development. Ithaca, NY.

Manion P. J. and L. H. Hanson. 1980. Spawning behavior and fecundity of lampreys from the upper three Great Lakes. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences 30(11):1635-1640.

Milone & MacBroom, Inc. 2005. Flood mitigation needs assessment: Sixmile Creek, Salmon Creek, Fall Creek and Cayuga Inlet. Tompkins County, NY. Prepared for Tompkins County Planning Dept. Ithaca NY.

Netherland M. D. 1997. Turion Ecology of Hydrilla. J. Aquatic Plant Management.35: 1-10.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. 2000. Assessing and Mitigating Noise Impacts. Program Policy Document DEP 00-1. http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/permits_ej_operations_pdf/noise2000.pdf

85 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Smith, B. R. and J. J. Tibbles. 1980. Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in Lakes Huron, Michigan, and Superior: history of invasion and control, 1936-78. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences 30(11):1780-1801.

Smith, C. L. 1985. The inland fishes of New York State. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Albany, NY. 522 pp.

Stearns & Wheler 1997. Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Lake Source Cooling. Prepared for Cornell University, Ithaca NY.

TetraTech EC, Inc. 2008. Environmental Site Assessment: Southwest Site. Prepared for City of Ithaca NY.

TetraTech EC, Inc. 2009. Site Characterization Report of the Southwest Site. Prepared for McCormack Baron Salazar, St. Louis MO.

86 Draft Environmental Impact Statement – Ithaca Dredging

Appendices Appendix A. Relevant Correspondence (scoping comments, placeholder for DEIS comments)

Appendix B. SEQRA Documents (Environmental Assessment Form, Positive Declaration)

Appendix C. Water Quality Certification for Canal Corporation Dredging

Appendix D. Beneficial Use Determination (BUD)

Appendix E. Site Reconnaissance Report, including appendices (EcoLogic 2010)

Appendix F. Legal Analysis (NYSDOS, 2009)

Appendix G. SW Site Characterization Report (TTEC, Inc., 2009)

Appendix H. Wetlands Delineation Report (LeCain, 2009)

Appendix I. Jurisdictional Determination (ACOE, 2010)

Appendix J. Traffic Report (Tim Logue, 2011)

Appendix K. Habitat Survey Report (EcoLogic, 2008)

87