C-10-L-1 Proposal Narrative with Segment 1

APPLICATION FOR Version 7/03 FEDERAL ASSISTANCE 2. DATE SUBMITTED August 14, 2008 Applicant Identifier 1. TYPE OF SUBMISSION: 3. DATE RECEIVED BY STATE State Application Identifier Application : Pre-application Michigan Construction Construction 4. DATE RECEIVED BY FEDERAL AGENCY Federal Identifier Non-Construction Non-Construction C-10-L-1 5. APPLICANT INFORMATION Legal Name: MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Organizational Unit: Department: Michigan Department of Natural Resources Organizational DUNS: 805339991 Division: Wildlife Address: Name and telephone number of person to be contacted on matters involving this Street: PO BOX 30028 application (give area code) Prefix: Mr. First Name: Eric City: LANSING Middle Name: County: INGHAM Last Name: Sink State: MI Zip Code: 48909-7528 Suffix: Country: USA Email: [email protected] 6. EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (EIN): Phone Number (give area code) Fax Number (give area code) 38-6000134 (517) 335-1064 (517) 335-4242 8. TYPE OF APPLICATION: 7. TYPE OF APPLICANT: (See back of form for Application Types) New If Revision, enter appropriate letter(s) in box(es) A. State Government (See back of form for description of letters.) Other (specify): None None Other (specify): 9. NAME OF FEDERAL AGENCY: U.S. DOI - Fish & Wildlife Service 10. CATALOG OF FEDERAL DOMESTIC ASSISTANCE NUMBER: 11. DESCRIPTIVE TITLE OF APPLICANT’S PROJECT: 15.614 Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection and Restoration Act Saint Mary's River Coastal Wetland Acquisition Other (specify): 12. AREAS AFFECTED BY PROJECT (Cities, Counties, States, etc.): Bruce Township, Chippewa County, Michigan 13. PROPOSED PROJECT 14. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS OF: Start Date:09/15/2008 Ending Date: 09/30/2009 a. Applicant: Eighth b. Project: First 15. ESTIMATED FUNDING: 16. IS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY STATE EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372 PROCESS? a. Federal $366,667.13 a. YES THIS PREAPPLICATION/APPLICATION WAS MADE AVAILABLE TO THE STATE EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372 PROCESS FOR REVIEW ON b. Applicant $ 0.00 c. State $ 166,666.37 DATE: d. Local $0.00 b. NO PROGRAM IS NOT COVERED BY E. O. 12372 e. Other $ 0.00 OR PROGRAM HAS NOT BEEN SELECTED BY STATE FOR REVIEW f. Program Income $ 0.00 17. IS THE APPLICANT DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT? g. TOTAL $ 533,333.50 YesIf “Yes” attach an explanation. No 18. TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND BELIEF, ALL DATA IN THIS APPLICATION/PREAPPLICATION ARE TRUE AND CORRECT. THE DOCUMENT HAS BEEN DULY AUTHORIZED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE APPLICANT AND THE APPLICANT WILL COMPLY WITH THE ATTACHED ASSURANCES. a. Authorized Representative Prefix: Ms. First Name: Mindy Middle Name: S. Last Name: Koch Suffix: b. Title: c. Telephone Number (give area code) Resource Management Deputy (517) 373-0046 Email: Fax Number (give area code) (517) 375-4242 d. Signature of Authorized Representative e. Date Signed: August 14, 2008

Previous Edition Usable Standard Form 424 (Rev. 9-2003) Authorized for Local Reproduction Prescribed by OMB Circular A-102 BUDGET INFORMATION - Non-Construction Programs OMB Approval No. 3048-0044 SECTION A - BUDGET SUMMARY Grant Program Catalog of Federal Estimated Unobligated Funds New or Revised Budget Function Domestic Assistance or Activity Number Federal Non-Federal Federal Non-Federal Total (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g)

1. NCWC 15.614 $366,667.13 $166,666.87 $533,334.00

2. 0.00

3. 0.00

4. 0.00

5. Totals $0.00 $0.00 $366,667.13 $166,666.87 $533,334.00 SECTION B - BUDGET CATEGORIES GRANT SEGMENT BUDGET DETAILS Total 6. Object Class Categories (Segment 1) (Segment 2) (Segment 3) (Segment 4) (5)

a. Personnel $3,721.05 $3,721.05

b. Fringe Benefits 1,414.00 1,414.00

c. Travel 250.00 250.00

d. Equipment 0.00 0.00

e. Supplies 0.00 0.00

f. Contractual 525,000.00 525,000.00

g. Construction 0.00 0.00

h. Other - Audit - 0.0038 2,019.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2,019.00

i. Total Direct Charges (sum of 6a-6h) 532,404.04 0.00 0.00 0.00 532,404.04

j. Indirect Charges - 0.1811 929.96 0.00 0.00 0.00 929.96

k. TOTALS (sum of 6i-6j) $533,334.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $533,334.00

7. Program Income $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Previous Edition Usable Authorized for Local Reproduction Standard Form 424A (Rev. 7-97) SECTION C - NON-FEDERAL RESOURCES (a) Grant Program (b) Applicant (c) State (d) Other Sources (e) TOTALS

8. 15.614 NCWC $166,666.87 $166,666.87

9. 0.00

10. 0.00

11. 0.00

12. TOTAL (sum of lines 8-11) $0.00 $166,666.87 $0.00 $166,666.87 SECTION D - FORECASTED CASH NEEDS Total for 1st Year 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter

13. Federal $3,666.67 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $3,666.67

14. Non-Federal $1,666.67 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1,666.67

15. TOTAL (sum of lines 13 and 14) $5,333.34 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $5,333.34 SECTION E - BUDGET ESTIMATES OF FEDERAL FUNDS NEEDED FOR BALANCE OF THE PROJECT FUTURE FUNDING PERIODS (Years) (a) Grant Program (b) First (c) Second (d) Third (e) Fourth

16. 15.614 NCWC $363,000.46 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00

17.

18.

19.

20. TOTAL (sum of lines 16-19) $363,000.46 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 SECTION F - OTHER BUDGET INFORMATION

21. Direct Charges: 22. Indirect Charges: 18.11% on Personnel and Fringe Benefits 23. Remarks:

Authorized for Local Reproduction Standard Form 424A (Rev. 7-97) Page 2

Michigan Department of Natural Resources Findings of NEPA Compliance for Federal Assistance August 13, 2008 Grant Approval Action

Dear Mr. Bryant:

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) is requesting approval of the AFA and Grant Proposal Narrative including Segment 1 for the following Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program grant:

Federal ID: C-10-L-1 Amendment Number:

Grant Name: Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project

This document has been prepared to serve as part of the administrative record for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Concerning the federal action requested above, I have reviewed the actions included in this grant for NEPA compliance and have found that the activities supported by this grant:

Will not have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment and are completely covered by the following categorical exclusion(s) 1.3 in Appendix 1 to 516 DM Chapter 2 and/or 1.4A(4) in 516 DM Chapter 8.5. The definitions of the categorical exclusions used are as follows:

516 DM 2, Appendix 1 – Department of the Interior Categorical Exclusions revised in the Federal Register: March 8, 2004 (Volume 69, Number 45)

1.3 Routine financial transactions including such things as salaries and expenses, procurement contracts (in accordance with applicable procedures and Executive Orders for sustainable or green procurement), guarantees, financial assistance, income transfers, audits, fees, bonds, and royalties.

516 DM 8.5 – US Fish and Wildlife Service Categorical Exclusions – Effective Date 5/27/2004

1.4A(4) The acquisition of real property obtained either through discretionary acts or when acquired by law, whether by way of condemnation, donation, escheat, right-of-entry, escrow, exchange, lapses, purchase, or transfer and that will be under the jurisdiction or control of the United States. Such acquisition of real property shall be in accordance with 602 DM 2 and the Service's procedures, when the acquisition is from a willing seller, continuance of or minor modification to the existing land use is planned, and the acquisition planning process has been performed in coordination with the affected public.

Additionally, none of the following extraordinary circumstances applies that would disallow the use of the Categorical Exclusions listed above:

1. Have significant impacts on public health or safety.

C-10-L-1 MDNR NEPA Compliance Documentation Page 1 of 3 2. Have significant impacts on such natural resources and unique geographic characteristics as historic or cultural resources; park, recreation or refuge lands; wilderness areas; wild or scenic rivers; national natural landmarks; sole or principal drinking water aquifers; prime farmlands; wetlands (Executive Order 11990); floodplains (Executive Order 11988); national monuments; migratory birds; and other ecologically significant or critical areas. 3. Have highly controversial environmental effects or involve unresolved conflicts concerning alternative uses of available resources [NEPA Section 102(2)(E)]. 4. Have highly uncertain and potentially significant environmental effects or involve unique or unknown environmental risks. 5. Establish a precedent for future action or represent a decision in principle about future actions with potentially significant environmental effects. 6. Have a direct relationship to other actions with individually insignificant but cumulatively significant environmental effects. 7. Have significant impacts on properties listed, or eligible for listing, on the National Register of Historic Places as determined by either the bureau or office. 8. Have significant impacts on species listed, or proposed to be listed, on the List of Endangered or Threatened Species, or have significant impacts on designated Critical Habitat for these species. 9. Violate a Federal law, or a State, local, or tribal law or requirement imposed for the protection of the environment. 10. Have a disproportionately high and adverse effect on low income or minority populations (Executive Order 12898). 11. Limit access to and ceremonial use of Indian sacred sites on federal lands by Indian religious practitioners or significantly adversely affect the physical integrity of such sacred sites (Executive Order 13007). 12. Contribute to the introduction, continued existence, or spread of noxious weeds or non-native invasive species known to occur in the area or actions that may promote the introduction, growth, or expansion of the range of such species (Federal Noxious Weed Control Act and Executive Order 13112).

However, one or more Extraordinary Circumstances applies and consequently an EA/EIS will be completed.

Are not completely covered by Categorical Exclusions and an EA/EIS will be completed.

Are completely covered by and will be conducted in accordance with the selected alternative of the following approved and published Environmental Assessment with a corresponding Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI):

Are completely covered by and will be conducted in accordance with the selected alternative approved and published in the following EIS:

MDNR requests concurrence with our finding and recommends USFWS adopt this finding to serve as the administrative record of compliance with the spirit and intent of NEPA.

C-10-L-1 MDNR NEPA Compliance Documentation Page 2 of 3

Prepared by: Date: 08/13/2008 Stephen Beyer, Wildlife Division Federal Aid Coordinator

Date: USFWS Federal Assistance Program Staff Federal Assistance Concurrence Date: Federal Assistance Chief

C-10-L-1 MDNR NEPA Compliance Documentation Page 3 of 3 REGION 3 FEDERAL ASSISTANCE SECTION 7 DOCUMENTATION

PHASE I: COMPLETED BY GRANTEE (See Phase I Instructions for completing this form) For federal assistance programs administered by the USFWS (Division of Federal Assistance)

State: Michigan Grantee: Natural Resources

Grant Program(s): National Coastal Wetland Conservation

Grant Proposal (GP), GP Amendment, Grant Segment (GS), GS Amendment

Title and Number (add amendment no.): C-10-L-1 Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project

I. Species/Critical Habitat: List species or critical habitat (or attach list) that are and/or may be present within the action area.

There are 22 species in Michigan on the Federal List of Threatened and Endangered Species (see attached table). These include 14 animal species and 8 plant species. In addition, the eastern massasauga rattlesnake and rayed bean mussel are candidates for listing and will be taken into consideration during the proposed implementation activities. This form also considers potential impacts to gray wolf in the event it is relisted as threatened or endangered. The only designated critical habitat in Michigan is for piping plover (see attached figure), Hine’s emerald dragonfly and gray wolf on Isle Royale (if gray wolf is relisted).

Bald Eagles are known to occur within the project area. An active nesting site occurs nearly directly opposite from the Bond Parcel on the eastern shore of Lake Nicolet on Sugar Island. Eagles are known from the St. Mary’s River year round, using these waters for foraging when other water bodies are frozen. Houghton’s Goldenrod, Dwarf Lake Iris and Pitcher’s Thistle are all known from the lower St. Mary’s River and suitable habitat exists for all on the included parcels, although surveys for these species have not been conducted.

Designated critical habitat does not occur in the project area.

II. Description of Proposed Action: Describe the action(s) in sufficient detail so that the potential effects of the action can be identified and fully evaluated.

This proposal will support the acquisition and protection of 359 acres in perpetuity along the lower St. Mary’s River in Chippewa County, Michigan. The privately owned 217-acre Bond parcel will be acquired in fee simple from a willing seller to protect and enhance coastal wetlands. The parcel will be managed as part of MDNR’s Munuscong Wildlife Management Area. The acquisition will be partially matched with in-kind land value of 142 acres already owned by MDNR and managed as part of MDNR’s Munuscong Wildlife Management Area. Both the Bond and match parcels will be protected and managed in perpetuity for the purpose of providing and enhancing coastal wetlands.

The Bond Parcel is located in Section 30 of Bruce Township (T46N-R2E), Chippewa County. The match is located in Section 4 of Pickford Township (T44N-R2E) Chippewa County.

This grant is for the acquisition of lands only; no management activities or changes to the current land use will be conducted except to allow public foot access.

C-10-L-1 Phase I Section 7 Evaluation Form Page 1 of 5 III. Description of Effects: Describe the effects, including beneficial, of the project actions on Species/Critical Habitat.

This land acquisition will not have any negative effects on any threatened, endangered or candidate species or critical habitat. No land management activities will be conducted as part of this grant. Because the land is currently undeveloped, management of the area will be minimal and primarily consist of controlling public use to ensure compatibility and protecting the area from habitat encroachment. Ultimately, this acquisition may be beneficial to listed species and other wildlife, because it will protect habitat from development. In particular, the Bald Eagle will benefit from having foraging, resting and potential nesting habitat protected from development.

IV. Recommended Determination(s) of Effect(s): For all species and critical habitat identified in Section I, mark (X) the appropriate determinations.

A. Listed, Proposed and Candidate Species

a) “No Effect” List species for which this recommendation is applicable (or attach list): All species except Bald Eagle, Houghton’s Goldenrod, Dwarf Lake Iris and Pitcher’s Thistle.

b) “May Affect, but is Not Likely to Adversely Affect” List species for which this recommendation is applicable (or attach list): Bald Eagle, Houghton’s Goldenrod, Dwarf Lake Iris and Pitcher’s Thistle.

c) “May Affect, and is Likely to Adversely Affect” List species for which this recommendation is applicable (or attach list):

B. Designated and Proposed Critical Habitat

a) “No Effect” to Critical Habitat List critical habitat(s) for which the recommendation is applied. No designated critical habitat occurs in the project area.

b) “May Affect, but is Not Likely to Adversely Affect” Critical Habitat List critical habitat(s) for which the recommendation is applied.

c) “May Affect, and is Likely to Adversely Affect” Critical Habitat List critical habitat(s) for which the recommendation is applied.

C-10-L-1 Phase I Section 7 Evaluation Form Page 2 of 5

FEDERALLY LISTED THREATENED, ENDANGERED AND CANDIDATE SPECIES IN MICHIGAN

Scientific Name Common Name Federal Status Plants Asplenium scolopendrium americanum American Hart's-tongue Threatened Cirsium pitcheri Pitcher's Thistle Threatened Hymenoxys herbacea Lakeside Daisy Threatened Iris lacustris Dwarf Lake Iris Threatened Isotria medeoloides Small Whorled Pogonia Threatened Mimulus glabratus michiganensis Michigan Monkey-flower Endangered Platanthera leucophaea Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid Threatened Solidago houghtonii Houghton's Goldenrod Threatened

Animals Myotis sodalis Indiana Bat Endangered Lynx canadensis Canada Lynx Threatened Puma [Felis] concolor Eastern Puma Endangered Canis lupus Gray Wolf Endangered Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald Eagle Threatened Charadrius melodus Piping Plover Endangered Dendroica kirtlandii Kirtland's Warbler Endangered Epioblasma obliquata perobliqua White Catspaw Mussel Endangered Pleurobema clava Clubshell Mussel Endangered Epioblasma torulosa rangiana Northern Riffleshell Endangered Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta Copperbelly Water Snake Threatened Sistrurus catenatus catenatus Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Candidate Somatochlora hineana Hine's Emerald Dragonfly Endangered Nicophorus americanus American Burying Beetle Endangered Brychius hungerfordi Hungerford's Crawling Water Beetle Endangered Lycaeides melissa samuelis Karner Blue Butterfly Endangered Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii Mitchell's Satyr Butterfly Endangered Villosa fabalis Rayed Bean Candidate

C-10-L-1 Phase I Section 7 Evaluation Form Page 4 of 5 Figure 1: Piping Plover designated critical habitat in Michigan.

C-10-L-1 Phase I Section 7 Evaluation Form Page 5 of 5 LOWER ST. MARY’S RIVER/MUNUSCONG COASTAL WETLANDS PROJECT C-10-L-1

NATIONAL COASTAL WETLAND CONSERVATION

GRANT PROPOSAL AND SEGMENT 1 FOR THE PERIOD: SEPTEMBER 15, 2008–SEPTEMBER 30, 2009

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Northern Great Lakes Marsh, photo by Dennis Albert

SUBMITTED: WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2008 TABLE OF CONTENTS

PROJECT STATEMENT: Acquisition and protection of coastal wetlands as part of the Munuscong Wildlife Management Area...... 4

SUMMARY:...... 4

PROJECT AREA:...... 5

NEED:...... 6

OBJECTIVES:...... 7 Objective 1. Land Acquisition...... 7 Objective 2. Matching Land...... 7

EXPECTED RESULTS OR BENEFITS: ...... 8 1. Wetlands conservation...... 8 2. Maritime forests on coastal barriers ...... 9 3. Long-term conservation...... 10 4. Coastal watershed management ...... 10 5. Conservation of threatened and endangered species ...... 13 6. Benefits to fish...... 13 7. Benefits to coastal-dependent or migratory birds ...... 14 8. Prevent or reduce contamination...... 15 9. Catalyst for future conservation ...... 15 10. Partners in conservation...... 16 11. Federal share reduced ...... 16 12. Education/outreach program or wildlife-oriented recreation...... 16 13. Other factors ...... 16

APPROACH: ...... 17 Approach 1. Land Acquisition...... 17 Approach 2. Matching Land...... 18

LOCATION:...... 19

ESTIMATED COST:...... 19

COMPLIANCE: ...... 20 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)...... 20 Section 7, Endangered Species Act (ESA) ...... 20 National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) ...... 20 Other Federal Compliance Issues ...... 21

PROJECT PERSONNEL: ...... 21

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 2 of 23 APPENDIX A: Segment 1 Accomplishment and Budget Detail for the Expenditure Period 15 September 2008 through 30 September 2009...... 22

SUMMARY:...... 22

PLANNED ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ESTIMATED COSTS BY PROJECT STATEMENT OBJECTIVES: ...... 22

BUDGET SUMMARY: Expenditure Period: 15 September 2008 – 30 September 2009 ..... 23

SEGMENT CONDITIONS REQUEST ...... 23

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 3 of 23 PROJECT STATEMENT: Acquisition and protection of coastal wetlands as part of the Munuscong Wildlife Management Area.

SUMMARY:

This proposal is to acquire a 217 acre parcel along the lower St. Mary’s River to be managed as part of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Munuscong Wildlife Management Area. The acquisition will be partially matched with the in-kind land values of an important coastal wetland parcel of 142 acres already owned by MDNR. Together, this project will protect 359 acres covered by 58% nationally declining coastal wetland types in perpetuity.

This project will provide critical habitat for Bald Eagle, Osprey, migratory songbirds, waterfowl, shorebirds, river otter, bobcat, white-tailed deer, moose and gray wolf. The adjacent upland forests provide protection to the wetlands from erosion and provide water filtration and important habitat to both migratory and resident wildlife. Major migratory bird corridors exist along the extreme eastern portion of upper Michigan, including the St. Mary’s River, due to its close proximity to the Canadian mainland.

Important fisheries and aquatic resources are also being threatened by residential development within the St. Mary’s River watershed. Conservation of this shoreline and associated coastal wetlands will protect these critical habitats from disturbance, maintain water quality and provide reliable sources of high quality habitat.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 4 of 23 PROJECT AREA:

The Munuscong Wildlife Management Area is contained within MDNR’s Sault Ste. Marie Unit of the State Forest. This area is specifically dedicated to be managed for wildlife restoration purposes. The project boundary for the area lies primarily along the north and west side of Munuscong Lake. This lake, however, is not actually a lake, but part of the water course known as the Saint Mary’s River. The river in turn is more of a connecting body of water between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Recognizing the importance of wetlands all along the St. Mary’s waterway, MDNR in partnership with Ducks Unlimited (DU) acquired the 10 Mile Marsh parcel approximately eight miles north of Munuscong Lake along the Lake Nicolet area of the St. Mary’s River (Figure 1). This marshland has now been incorporated into the Munuscong WMA and is being managed for its coastal wetland values for waterfowl and other wetland dependant species.

Figure 1: Locator map of the Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Project Area, Chippewa County, Michigan.

The project area for this grant encompasses the project boundaries of the Munuscong which now takes in the lower St. Mary’s river, basically an extension of Lake Huron. Although increasingly popular as a vacation destination, this area historically has been important for shipping. Locks

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 5 of 23 and dams have been constructed along the St. Mary’s River to facilitate the passage of large ore freighters sailing from ports in Lake Superior. While much of the coast in the project area retains a relatively pristine condition and land values are relatively low for Great Lakes frontage, pressure from increased development is altering this ecosystem.

NEED:

This proposal is to acquire the 217 acre Bond Parcel to become part of the Munuscong WMA. As part of this proposal, the Camp Connely addition in 2002 to the WMA will be used as in-kind match. Recognizing the importance of coastal wetlands Proposed Parcel along the lower St. Mary’s River, Acquisition MDNR expanded the project boundary of the Munuscong WMA and acquired the 10 Mile Marsh parcel adjacent to Lake Nicolet Lake (Figure 2). The acquisition was Nicolet made possible through a cooperative effort with DU and the Little Traverse Conservancy (LTC) and was used to meet the objectives of a North America Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant. Munuscong Wildlife Management Area The Bond Parcel is adjacent to the 10 Mile Marsh and its acquisition is needed to prevent extensive 101Miles development in this sensitive N coastal area. The current owners have expressed a willingness to

# sell the parcel to the State. If not acquired, however, they are preparing to develop the parcel for multiple waterfront vacation Match Parcel homes. The owners have already begun clearing access lanes for future development that are visible in aerial imagery (Figure 3). Munuscong Lake This project will also add additional protection to the Camp Figure 2: Location map with false color, infrared aerial Connely acquisition to the imagery of parcel proposed for acquisition and match parcel with adjacent Munuscong Wildlife Management Area. Munuscong WMA. Even though Imagery taken during leaf-off conditions in spring 1999. this parcel is disjunct from the WMA, it was acquired in 2002

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 6 of 23 Ten Mile Marsh Area of Munuscong WMA

Lake Nicolet

Proposed Parcel Acquisition 216 Acres

0.25 0 0.25 Miles N

Figure 3: Location map with false color, infrared aerial imagery of parcel proposed for acquisition and the adjacent 10 Mile Marsh portion of the Munuscong Wildlife Management Area. Imagery taken during leaf-off conditions in spring 1999. because of the sensitive nature of wetland habitats and encroaching development (Figure 4). A subdivision already exists on the east side of the parcel with another encroaching on the west. This parcel is an important stopover spot for migrating birds crossing Munuscong Lake. By using the value of this parcel as match, it will be further protected from uses that conflict with coastal wetland benefits.

OBJECTIVES:

Objective 1. Land Acquisition

Acquire in fee simple one parcel of land totaling approximately 217 acres from a willing seller by the end of the grant period.

Objective 2. Matching Land

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 7 of 23 Use an existing MDNR owned 141 acre parcel as in-kind match by placing a federal interest and adopting an intended use of protecting and enhancing coastal wetlands in perpetuity within the first year of the grant.

Fowler's Bay

MDNR Match Parcel 140.9 Acres

Munuscong WMA Connely's Point

Lake Munuscong

0.25 0 0.25 Miles N

Figure 4: Location map with false color, infrared aerial imagery of MDNR match parcel at the Munuscong Wildlife Management Area. Imagery taken during leaf-off conditions in spring 1999.

EXPECTED RESULTS OR BENEFITS:

An explanation of how this project addresses the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program’s fourteen ranking criteria established in 50 CFR 84 is provided as follows:

1. Wetlands conservation

The acquisition of the Bond Parcel will protect in perpetuity a significant acreage of nationally declining wetland types. Approximately 30% of the parcel contains Palustrine-Scrub-Shrub wetlands while approximately 20% contain Palustrine-Emergent wetlands as delineated by the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). Both of these wetland types are nationally declining and account for approximately 109 acres of the 217 acre parcel (Table 1). Additionally, this parcel is adjacent to the 10 Mile Marsh that is dominated by coastal wetlands, including Palustrine- Forested wetlands, another nationally declining type (Figure 5).

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 8 of 23 Similarly, the Camp Connely Parcel that is being used as in-kind match in this proposal is dominated by coastal wetlands (Figure 6). Sixty-nine percent of this parcel is in nationally declining wetland types of Palustrine-Emergent, Palustrine-Scrub-Shrub and Palustrine-Forested. Nearly half of the parcel contains emergent wetlands.

Table 1: National Wetland Inventory Classification of wetland types by acre and percent for each parcel.

Bond Parcel NWI Classification Percent Acres Status Uplands 49.8% 107.9 Stable or Other Palustrine-Scrub-Shrub 29.4% 63.7 Nationally Declining Palustrine-Emergent 20.8% 45.2 Nationally Declining Totals 100.0% 216.8 Munuscong Wildlife Management Area Match Parcel NWI Classification Percent Acres Status Palustrine-Emergent 46.1% 65.4 Nationally Declining Uplands 26.1% 37.0 Stable or Other Palustrine-Forested 14.8% 21.0 Nationally Declining Palustrine-Scrub-Shrub 8.3% 11.8 Nationally Declining Open Water 4.7% 6.7 Stable or Other Totals 100.0% 141.9 Status Summary Percent Acres Nationally Declining 57.7% 207.0 Stable or Other 42.3% 151.6 Totals 100.0% 358.6

Both parcels contain Northern Great Lakes marsh habitat, a globally significant herbaceous wetland community restricted to the shoreline of the Great Lakes (Michigan Natural Features Inventory). The open emergent zone within these wetlands features Schoenoplectus acutus (hardstem bulrush), Eleocharis smallii (spike-rush), Schoenoplectus subterminalis, Equisetum fluviatile (water horsetail), Najas flexilis (slender naiad), and Sparganium eurycarpum (common bur-reed), along with the submergent pondweeds Potamageton gramineus and P. natans. The herbaceous zone contains the northern wet meadow type dominated by Calamagrostis canadensis (blue-joint grass), and the sedges Carex stricta and C. lacustris; key forbs include Campanula aparinoides (marsh bell-flower) and Potentilla palustris (marsh cinquefoil). A narrow band of shrubs includes Spiraea alba (meadowsweet), Salix petiolaris (meadow willow), Alnus rugosa (speckled alder) and Myrica gale.

2. Maritime forests on coastal barriers

This proposal does not contain maritime forests on coastal barriers.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 9 of 23 NWI Wetland Types Palustrine-Emergent Ten Mile Palustrine-Forested Marsh Area of Palustrine-Scrub-Shrub Munuscong WMA Uplands Open Water Lake Nicolet

Proposed Parcel Acquisition 216 Acres

0.25 0 0.25 Miles N

Figure 5: National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) classification of parcel proposed for acquisition and the adjacent 10 Mile Marsh portion of the Munuscong Wildlife Management Area

3. Long-term conservation

The purchase of the Bond Parcel will insure the conservation of coastal wetlands on the parcel in perpetuity. Additionally, it will add to the acreage of the Munuscong WMA while protecting the sensitive 10 Mile Marsh from encroaching development. By using the Camp Connely Parcel as a match, the protection of coastal wetlands on the WMA will be strengthened. These protections will help reaffirm MDNR’s commitment to managing the WMA for coastal wetland benefits and dependent species. This WMA in its entirety must continue to serve its intended purpose in perpetuity. No activities that would interfere with this intended use will be allowed.

4. Coastal watershed management

The eastern Upper Peninsula is a vital Great Lakes avian staging area and provides migratory habitat for tens of thousands of waterbirds, passerines and raptors during seasonal migrations. Coastal wetlands along Lake Huron and the St. Mary’s River are critical stopover points for migrating waterfowl.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 10 of 23 NWI Wetland Types Palustrine-Emergent Palustrine-Forested Palustrine-Scrub-Shrub Fowler's Bay Uplands Open Water MDNR Match Parcel 140.9 Acres

Munuscong WMA Connely's Point

Lake Munuscong

0.25 0 0.25 Miles N

Figure 6: National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) classification of MDNR match parcel at the Munuscong Wildlife Management Area.

Intense human activities are occurring with increasing frequency in the Upper Peninsula, including residential development, which is beginning to encroach on these formerly undisturbed areas. Timely acquisition of sensitive parcels will ensure that habitats will be protected in perpetuity. Land prices in the project area will increase with demand but are still relatively low. Taking these lands out of development through acquisition now is a wise use of funds and will guarantee our ability to provide necessary habitats in the future.

Several conservation plans have recognized that coastal wetlands and shorelines in the eastern Upper Peninsula have a significant impact on fish and wildlife. Successful protection of the Bond property will benefit populations of migratory birds, rare species, as well as rare and unique habitats, in alignment with the conservation plans listed below.

North American Waterfowl Management Plan: The Bond property is found within the Rudyard Clay Plain, the only Primary Focus designation made for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula by the North American Waterfowl Management Plan for the Michigan Implementation Strategy (1998-2013) of the Upper Mississippi River and Great Lakes Region Joint Venture. Most of

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 11 of 23 Eastern Chippewa County is designated a High Priority in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan.

Partners in Flight: Direct land conservation is called for in the Partners in Flight’s “Conservation Recommendations and Needs” for BCR 20: “Also, although they are limited in area in comparison to forest, wetland and grassland habitats are in need of conservation attention.” Several bird species recognized within the Partners in Flight plan for this region are likely to be found on or near the Bond property (see below).

US Shorebird Conservation Plan: A primary goal of the U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan for the Upper Mississippi Valley/Great Lakes Regional Shorebird Conservation Plan is “to ensure the availability of shorebird foraging and nesting sites over a range of climatic conditions by protecting, restoring, and managing a variety of habitat types throughout the Upper Mississippi Valley/Great Lakes region.”

North American Waterbird Conservation Plan: Chapter Six of the draft plan for the Upper Mississippi Valley/Great Lakes Waterbird Conservation Plan refers to “Regions of Concern.” One of the Regions of Concern listed is a portion of the St. Mary’s River as described below.

Lake Superior Binational Program: The St. Mary’s River has been identified as an “Area of Concern” by the Lake Superior Binational Program in their Lake Superior Lakewide Management Plan (LaMP) 2000. The St. Mary’s River is the 112 km connecting channel from Lake Superior to Lake Huron. The Area of Concern extends from the head of the river at Whitefish Bay (Point Iroquois - Gros Cap), downstream through the St. Joseph Channel to Humburg Point on the Ontario side, and to the straits of Detour on the Michigan side. According to the Plan, this area was listed as an area of concern for several environmental issues, including loss of fish and wildlife habitat. In addition, severe impairment of water quality, sediment and biota remain on the Ontario shoreline due to major point source discharges. The protection of the Bond property’s wetlands and shoreline directly help address these concerns.

Michigan Chapter of The Nature Conservancy (TNC): The Great Lakes Ecoregional Plan has identified the Northern Lake Huron Conservation Area as a TNC Action Area. The Northern Lake Huron Conservation Area is one of the richest and most productive biological areas in the country. The conservation area was identified as a priority area for biodiversity in the Conservancy’s report “Conservation of Biological Diversity” and was identified as a critical Biodiversity Investment Area by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The entire landscape area of Northern Lake Huron serves as a landscape project initiative for the Michigan Chapter. This remarkably diverse and large undeveloped stretch of stunning rock and Great Lakes shore is significant because of its intact nature. The conservation area features 9 globally rare nature communities, including Great Lakes marsh, cobble beach, wooded dune and swale complex, northern fen and alvar; 13 federally listed, threatened or endangered species including Bald Eagle, gray wolf, Houghton’s goldenrod, Hart’s-tongue fern, Hine’s emerald dragonfly and dwarf lake iris; 21 globally rare species of plants and animals; and 60 state-rare species. The shoreline areas also provide critical habitat for over 250 species of migratory songbirds and waterfowl who use the shoreline forests as resting and feeding stopovers.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 12 of 23 Michigan Department of Natural Resources: The DNR considers the land along the St. Mary’s River to be high priority wildlife habitat for acquisition. The St. Mary’s River lies within the Rudyard Clay Plain which is a Primary Focus Area of the Upper Mississippi Valley/Great Lakes Region Joint Venture of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (Bloomer, Dunn tracts). It has been MDNR’s long-term plan to attempt to acquire other waterfront parcels in this vicinity as they become available. The acquisition and protection of shoreline is an important step towards implementing this plan. The best means to ensure perpetual protection of critical waterbird and shorebird habitat is through fee title or easement acquisition of these properties by government agencies and conservation organizations.

5. Conservation of threatened and endangered species

The federally listed threatened Bald Eagle is known to nest within the project area. An active nesting site occurs nearly directly opposite from the Bond Parcel on the eastern shore of Lake Nicolet on Sugar Island. Eagles are known from the St. Mary’s River year round, using these waters for foraging when other water bodies are frozen. The federally listed threatened gray wolf and Canada lynx are not currently known from the area, however, the project area is in the historic range of these species. Certainly, these parcels provide suitable habitat for these species.

There have not been any recent botanical surveys of the parcels included in this proposal. The federally listed Houghton’s Goldenrod, Dwarf Lake Iris, and Pitcher’s Thistle are all known from the lower St. Mary’s River and suitable habitat exists for all on the included parcels.

Additionally, a number of state listed species occur within the project area. Suitable habitat exists on the proposed parcels for Common Loon, Osprey, Red-shouldered Hawk, Common Tern, Peregrine Falcon and Merlin, all state listed as threatened. Although all of these species can be found nesting and foraging during the spring and summer along the St. Mary’s River, the parcels in this proposal should be suitable as nesting habitat, particularly for Osprey, Red- shouldered Hawk and Common Loon.

The state listed threatened plant species know from the area include Lapland buttercup, calypso, walking fern, bulrush sedge, and Lake Huron tansey. Suitable habitat also exists for the state listed threatened moose and lake herring.

6. Benefits to fish

The coastal wetlands along the shoreline of the lower St. Mary’s River are important to a variety of anadramous and interjurisdictional fishes. About 90 percent of the 200 species in the Great Lakes use coastal wetlands for spawning, feeding, and other crucial activities (Rebecca Humphries, Director MDNR: AP Press release, March 21, 2006). Specifically, the trout and salmon species of the Great Lakes use waters adjacent to these areas for foraging in the juvenile stage. Zooplankton and macrophytes in these coastal wetlands provide nursery and forage habitat for juvenile forage and predator fish.

Salmonid species known to occur in the project area are chinook, atlantic, pink, coho, lake trout and steelhead. Conservation of these shoreline habitats will protect important juvenile rearing and foraging habitat for these species. As previously mentioned, lake herring are known from

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 13 of 23 the St. Mary’s River. The coastal wetlands are also crucial to a variety of other game fishes such as pike, perch, bass and bluegill.

7. Benefits to coastal-dependent or migratory birds

The St. Mary’s River is a major migration route for water birds with thousands of waterfowl and shore birds observed annually. The river provides high quality spring and fall staging areas for over 10,000 ducks including but not limited to Redhead, Canvasback, Pintail, Scaup, Green Winged Teal, Wigeon, Wood Duck, Bufflehead, Long-tailed Duck and Mallard.

The highest concentration of Osprey in Michigan occurs on the St. Mary’s River. These birds prefer to nest in tall trees adjacent to water with an abundant fishery. Likewise, with a preference for tall white pine, Bald Eagles nest along the river as well, requiring relatively undisturbed locations to rear their young. Peregrine Falcons nest in Sault Ste. Marie and are observed regularly hunting along the entire stretch of the river.

Common Loons depend upon large areas of unbroken shoreline to successfully rear their young. The decline of the Common Loon in Michigan has been attributed to shoreline development and recreational use of nesting and brood rearing areas. This project would prevent further loss of that habitat.

This project permanently protects significant shoreline habitat for a multitude of bird species which are likely to include the species listed below. Many of these species are identified in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. It is important to note that the Munuscong Wildlife Area is found within eight miles from the Bond property and is well known waterfowl habitat. Many waterfowl hunters schedule shooting trips to the Munuscong Wildlife Area to coincide with the abundant Scaup species migrations in the fall.

Waterfowl information is from Brewer et al. (1991), unpublished records of the Whitefish Point Bird Observatory (WPBO), survey records of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and personal observations of Dr. W.C. Scharf, who has resided on or near some of these properties.

High Priority and Priority Waterfowl Species from the North American Waterfowl Management Plan

Mallards Black Tern Lesser and Greater Scaup Sedge Wren Redheads and Canvasbacks Long-tailed Duck Common Eiders Wood Duck American Bittern (state species of special Hooded Merganser concern): Red-breasted Merganser Common Tern (state threatened species): Common Merganser Black Tern (state species of special American Woodcock concern): Ring-necked Ducks Le Conte’s Sparrow American Wigeon Common Goldeneye Other species: Trumpeter Swan (state threatened)

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 14 of 23 Other wetland dependent birds Greater Sandhill Crane Common Loon Saw-whet Owl Red-necked Grebe Long-eared Owl (state threatened species) Great Blue Heron Boreal Owls

Partners in Flight species: Partners in Flight (PIF) includes our proposal area within their “Boreal Hardwood Transition” designation. PIF’s primary goal is to direct resources toward the conservation of birds and their habitats through cooperative efforts in North America and the Neotropics. PIF’s focus is generally, but not exclusively, the conservation of landbirds; it is an initiative that complements similar efforts for waterfowl, shorebirds and colonial waterbirds. Accordingly, PIF joins the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, United States Shorebird Conservation Plan and the North American Waterbird Conservation Plan in protecting and managing all native bird species and associated ecosystems and habitats that maintain avifaunal communities.

In addition to those species listed above, the following species likely to be found using or migrating through the Bond property are included within Partners in Flight priorities (from draft plan supplied by Greg Butcher, Partners in Flight) and/or recognized in the North American Waterbird Plan.

Black Tern Bald Eagle Common Tern Osprey American Bittern Red-shouldered Hawk American Woodcock Peregrine Falcon Marsh Wren Spruce Grouse Yellow-bellied Flycatcher Long-eared Owl Northern Harrier

8. Prevent or reduce contamination

Chapter Six of the draft plan for the Upper Mississippi Valley/Great Lakes Waterbird Conservation Plan refers to “Regions of Concern.” One of the Regions of Concern listed is a portion of the St. Mary’s River. The St. Mary’s River is the 112 km connecting channel from Lake Superior to Lake Huron. The Area of Concern (AOC) extends from the head of the river at Whitefish Bay downstream approximately two-thirds of the river and includes the Canadian and U.S. cities of Sault Ste. Marie. This area was listed as an area of concern for several environmental issues, one of which is loss of fish and wildlife habitat. The protection of wetlands and shoreline included within this project directly helps address this concern and several of the tracts included in this proposal are located along the St. Mary’s River.

This project will prevent erosion, sedimentation and nutrient runoff from residential landscapes and sewage treatment that would otherwise occur. The environmental impairments expected to be prevented are reduced water quality due to suspended materials and increased nutrient loading that would result in changes to the composition and quality of the existing flora and fauna.

9. Catalyst for future conservation

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 15 of 23 As previously noted, the acquisition of the Bond Parcel will protect lands adjacent to the 10 Mile Marsh from residential development. By adding this parcel with its wetlands and shoreline, MDNR will have greater flexibility in managing coastal wetlands on the Munuscong WMA. This will increase the options available for controlling exotic species and enhancing wetland hydrology.

The acquisition of the Bond Parcel, like the acquisition of the 10 Mile Marsh, is another step in expanding the Munuscong WMA from its traditional waterfowl focus along Munuscong Lake. The acquisition will continue to highlight the importance of coastal wetlands on a regional basis and provide greater ability to address ecosystem based issues and management.

10. Partners in conservation

Although there are no partners contributing monetarily to this proposal, MDNR has and continues to work cooperatively with conservation organizations in the area to achieve the coastal wetland protection goals of the Munuscong WMA. As previously noted, both the Michigan Chapter of Ducks Unlimited and Little Traverse Conservancy have been instrumental both monetarily and by providing local contacts in acquiring sensitive lands. Both the Camp Connely and 10 Mile Marsh acquisitions could not have been possible without the assistance of these groups. MDNR will continue to partner with these and other conservation organizations to continue to acquire and protect coastal wetlands in the project area.

11. Federal share reduced

The total project cost for this proposal is $533,334. The State of Michigan has a qualified program for land acquisition and protection, namely the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. Consequently, this proposal only requires a 25% non-federal match. MDNR is providing an additional $33,333 in cash in addition to the required $133,334 non-federal match. This results in an additional 25% increase over the required match being provided in cash for this proposal.

12. Education/outreach program or wildlife-oriented recreation

Although there is no educational component to this proposal, MDNR is committed to ensuring these lands are open to the public for use and enjoyment. The parcels will be signed and ultimately information about the importance of coastal wetlands will be provided. MDNR has long-standing relationships with area schools and universities and encourages the use of these areas as living classrooms. A number of cooperative monitoring and research projects occur on MDNR lands.

13. Other factors

According to the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, Great Lakes marsh is considered to be imperiled globally and within the State. This habitat type is being degraded by industrial development, residential and recreational uses, wetland fill and other factors. As previously noted, without state interest, the owners will proceed with developing the Bond Parcel. The acquisition of this parcel will not only complement other conservation efforts in the region, but it would also cause more focus on future conservation efforts along the St. Mary’s River.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 16 of 23 APPROACH:

Approach 1. Land Acquisition

The Bond Parcel will be acquired on a willing buyer/willing seller basis. The parcel will be purchased during calendar year 2008. MDNR will own the parcel in fee simple and maintain the land for the purpose of protecting and enhancing coastal wetlands in perpetuity. As a condition of this grant, MDNR will protect the Federal interest in the lands acquired by ensuring that a Notice of Property Restriction as described below is recorded separate from, but referencing, the title. The Notice of Property Restriction will:

1. Identify that the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (US FWS) has an interest in the real property to which the Notice of Property Restriction applies and where the title to this interest is recorded.

2. Identify this grant by the following identifying number and name: C-10-L-1 Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project.

3. State the purpose of the project is to protect, manage and enhance coastal wetlands in perpetuity.

4. State that MDNR will not convey or encumber the interest in real property, completely or in part, without US FWS’ consent and will manage the interest in real property for the project’s authorized purpose unless US FWS authorizes otherwise.

5. State that the Notice of Property Restriction runs with the interest in the real property and none of the items may be changed or cease to be applicable unless US FWS provides written authorization, which MDNR will also record with reference to the title to the real property.

The process for acquiring land will conform to the guidelines set forth in the Federal Aid Handbook, namely:

1. The land is currently vacant, no moving expenses under The Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 and the Government-wide regulations implementing this Act as published by the U.S. Department of Transportation in 49 CFR 24 will be required.

2. Minerals, oil, gas and grazing rights will be acquired with the land. Any use, sale or easements must be approved by US FWS in accordance with applicable federal regulations. Any income derived from these rights or sale of timber incidental to habitat management, will be used to manage and maintain the parcel for its intended use. If this option is not needed, funds will be treated as program income and used for similar operations and maintenance activities on MDNR projects as stipulated in MDNR’s W- 145-L Land Acquisition Grant.

3. The fair market value of the parcel will be estimated by a State-licensed or certified appraiser, as provided by the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 17 of 23 guidance provided in the “Yellow Book.” The appraisal must be reviewed by a certified Review Appraiser.

4. The acquisition planning process will be performed in coordination with any potentially affected public.

Once acquired, the parcel will become part of the Munuscong WMA and will be administered by local Wildlife Division staff. The parcel will be open to the public and its use will be included in the master plan for the area. No development is planned for the Bond or Connely match parcels.

Approach 2. Matching Land

Similar to the process for the Bond Parcel, MDNR will protect the Federal interest in the lands used as in-kind match by ensuring that a Notice of Property Restriction as described below is recorded separate from, but referencing, MDNR’s existing title. The Notice of Property Restriction will:

2. Identify this grant by the following identifying number and name: C-10-L-1 Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project.

3. State the purpose of the project is to protect, manage and enhance coastal wetlands in perpetuity.

The process for establishing the value of the match lands will conform to the guidelines set forth in the Federal Aid Handbook. Essentially, the match lands will be treated as if they were acquired with federal funds through this grant and will be subject to the following conditions:

1. Minerals, oil, gas and grazing rights were acquired with the land. Once used as in-kind match, any use, sale or easements must be approved by US FWS in accordance with applicable federal regulations. Any income derived from these rights or sale of timber incidental to habitat management, will be used to manage and maintain the parcel for its intended use. If this option is not needed, funds will be treated as program income and used for similar operations and maintenance activities on MDNR projects as stipulated in MDNR’s W-145-L Land Acquisition Grant.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 18 of 23 2. The fair market value of the match lands will be estimated by a State-licensed or certified appraiser, as provided by the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions guidance provided in the “Yellow Book.” The appraisal must be reviewed by a certified Review Appraiser.

LOCATION:

The Bond Parcel is located in Section 30 of Bruce Township (T46N-R2E), Chippewa County. The Connely Parcel is located in Section 4 of Pickford Township (T44N-R2E) Chippewa County.

ESTIMATED COST:

The estimated total costs by objective are as follows:

Objectives Estimated Costs 1. Land Acquisition1 $375,000 2. Matching Land1 $158,334 Totals $533,334 1Includes appraisals, closing costs and surveys

The funding needs and sources of funds are as follows:

Bond Parcel Acquisition $350,000 DNR Land Match $133,334 Transaction costs $50,000 Project Total $533,334 Federal Share (NCWC) Requested $366,667

Project Funding Detail Federal Share (NCWC) $366,667 DNR Contribution Cash $33,333 Match Land $133,334 Total Project Funding $533,334

Project Funding Summary % of NCWC Grant Federal Share (NCWC) $366,667 68.75%1 Total Match $166,667 31.25% Total Project Funding $533,334 100.00% 1DNR is eligible for projects funded at the 75% federal rate as the state has a qualified program for land acquisition and protection, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 19 of 23 COMPLIANCE:

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

The activities supported by this grant are obtaining rights in lands through fee title. No changes in land use by these acquisitions are anticipated except that lands currently supporting coastal wetlands will be protected for coastal wetland values in perpetuity as opposed to other land uses that may or may not have occurred without these acquisitions. These activities will not significantly affect the quality of the human environment and are completely covered by categorical exclusions 1.3 in 516 DM 2, Appendix 1; and 1.4A(4) 516 DM 8.5, namely:

1.4A(4) The acquisition of real property obtained either through discretionary acts or when acquired by law, whether by way of condemnation, donation, escheat, right-of- entry, escrow, exchange, lapses, purchase, or transfer and that will be under the jurisdiction or control of the United States. Such acquisition of real property shall be in accordance with 602 DM 2 and the Service's procedures, when the acquisition is from a willing seller, continuance of or minor modification to the existing land use is planned, and the acquisition planning process has been performed in coordination with the affected public.

Section 7, Endangered Species Act (ESA)

This land acquisition will not have any direct effects, positive or negative, on any listed species or critical habitat. No land management activities will be conducted as part of this grant. Because the land is currently undeveloped, management of the area will be minimal and primarily consist of controlling public use to ensure compatibility and protecting the area from habitat encroachment. Ultimately, this acquisition should be beneficial to listed species, as it will be protecting habitat from development.

National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)

There are no buildings on the parcel to be acquired under this grant, nor is any aspect of the parcel known to be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, no land management activities will be conducted as part of this grant. Consequently, the acquisition activities supported by this grant do not have the potential to affect a site eligible for listing even if a site was present. Therefore, no Section 106 review with the State Historic Preservation Officer is necessary nor will be conducted at this time. If future management activities could affect a site, if a site was present, then a Section 106 review with the State Historic Preservation Officer will be conducted. Additionally, if subsequent information is gained through grant-supported activities that suggest the site is eligible for listing or may have other significant cultural resources, the State Historic Preservation Officer will be contacted and a Section 106 review will be conducted.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 20 of 23 Other Federal Compliance Issues

As previously noted, rights in land acquired under this grant shall comply with all aspects of The Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 and the Government-wide regulations implementing this Act as published by the U.S. Department of Transportation in 49 CFR 24. There are no other known federal compliance issues than those already stated. If necessary, however, MDNR will comply with all applicable Federal laws, regulations and policies including but not limited to the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, Executive Order 11987 Exotic Organisms, Floodplains and Wetlands Protection, Animal Welfare Act of 1985 and Coastal Barriers Resources Act of 1982.

PROJECT PERSONNEL:

Federal Aid Coordinator Eric Sink DNR Federal Aid Coordinator Financial Services Division (517) 373-1052

Grant Coordinator Stephen Beyer Wildlife Division Federal Aid Coordinator Wildlife Division (517) 241-3450

Project Leader Scott Whitcomb Public Lands Specialist Wildlife Division (517) 641-4903

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 21 of 23 APPENDIX A: Segment 1 Accomplishment and Budget Detail for the Expenditure Period 15 September 2008 through 30 September 2009

SUMMARY:

This proposal is to acquire a 217-acre parcel along the lower St. Mary’s River to be managed as part of MDNR’s Munuscong Wildlife Management Area. The acquisition will be partially matched with in-kind land value of an important coastal wetland parcel of 142 acres already owned by MDNR. Together, this project will protect 359 acres covered by 58% nationally declining coastal wetland types in perpetuity.

PLANNED ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ESTIMATED COSTS BY PROJECT STATEMENT OBJECTIVES:

Planned Reporting Estimated Project Statement and Objectives 1 Accomplishments Units Cost Acquisition and protection of coastal wetlands as part of the Munuscong Wildlife Management Area. 1. Land Acquisition. 217 Acres $375,000 2. Matching Land 142 Acres $158,334 Project Total $533,334 1The costs provided are for grant evaluation purposes only. These values will not be included in Financial Status Reports nor are they subject to financial audits. Actual grant expenditure tracking with supporting documentation necessary for audit purposes will not be maintained by MDNR at the objective level. All financial tracking and reporting for the purposes of audits is at the grant level only.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 22 of 23 BUDGET SUMMARY: Expenditure Period: 15 September 2008 – 30 September 2009

Salaries and Wages $3,721 Fringe Benefits (38%) $1,414 Salary Sub-total $5,135

Indirect Rate (18.11%) $ 930 Total Salaries $6,065

Contracts $525,000 Travel $250 Equipment $0 Supplies, Services, and Materials $0 Project Sub-total $531,315

Indirect for Audit (0.38%) $2,019 TOTAL COST $533,334

Federal Share: $366,667 Other Share: $0 State Share: $166,667

SEGMENT CONDITIONS REQUEST

1. MNDR requests that expenditures for Segment 1 not be subject to the prior written approval requirements of 43 CFR 12.70(c)(1)(ii), the “10 percent rule.”

2. The Department requests that pre-award costs covering those items necessary to acquire the lands once the grant has been finalized be allowed. These costs are to cover the necessary appraisals and surveys and will not exceed $15,000. MDNR needs to negotiate the final sale price with the landowner as soon as possible to ensure they remain a willing seller. The Department requests that these necessary expenditures be allowed as pre-award costs effective 1 July 2008.

C-10-L Lower St. Mary’s River/Munuscong Coastal Wetlands Project, MI MDNR Page 23 of 23