Biological Evaluation

BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION

TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM AND RELATED RECREATION MANAGEMENT ACTIONS FOR THE UPPER TELLICO OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE SYSTEM

NANTAHALA NATIONAL FOREST

TUSQUITEE RANGER DISTRICT

CHEROKEE COUNTY

NORTH CAROLINA

Jason K. Farmer Fisheries Biologist, Nantahala National Forest Cheoah Ranger District 1070 Massey Branch Road Robbinsville, NC 28771

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 1 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation 1.0 Project Description

1.1 Alternative C Alternative C eliminates the OHV System. This alternative was developed to achieve a very low level of risk of sedimentation from the trail system and low long-term maintenance costs. Trails would be either converted for other use or closed and rehabilitated. The area remains completely open for foot travel. In this alternative:  Trail 1 would be paved and kept open as a through route for highway legal vehicles;  Most of Trail 2, all of Trail 6, and parts of Trails 4, 5, and 7 become forest roads for various uses;  Portions of Trails 4, 5, and 6 would be open seasonally for public access  Requires a Forest Plan amendment to de-list Tellico as one of the OHV trail systems.

A trail by trail summary of this alternative is in the table below:

ALTERNATIVE C: Trail # Trail Name and Action OHV Challenge Miles Areas on Trail as Proposed? 1 Tipton Creek – Same as Alternative B. 0 NA 2 Tipton Knob – Same as Alternative B 0 Closed 3 Bearpen – Close and Rehabilitate (decommission). Remove 0 NA culverts and bridges. Restore hydrology. Remove pressure treated material; leave native material. Seeding and mulching of bare soil. Minor recontouring to put fill slope back in road. Replant. 4 Fain Ford – From intersection with Trail 1 to intersection with 0 NA Trail 3 (2.63 miles), this portion would remain on the Forest Road System as a seasonally-open road available for resource management and public access. The road would be open to public access for up to four months each year, September-December. Improve and maintain for high- clearance 4WD highway-legal vehicles. Cancel Fain Ford Bridge. Close and rehabilitate (decommission) remainder of road similar to Trail 3. 5 Tellico River - Leave and fix portion through Rough Crossing 0 NA Bridge (1.01 mile). Construct turn-around across bridge and leave this section available for motorized access, fishing access, and resource management access. Implement a winter seasonal closure. Eliminate fish passage barriers for this section. Close and rehabilitate (decommission) remainder of road similar to Trail 3. 6 to 5 New Connector would not be built 0 NA connector 6 State Line Loop - Right-of-way prevents closeout. Gate. 0 NA Retain on the Forest Road System as a seasonally-open road (2.25 miles) available for resource management, private and public access. The road would be open to public access for up to four months each year, September-December. Improve and maintain for high-clearance 4WD highway-legal vehicles Improve existing turnaround at intersection with Trail 7.

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 2 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Decommission (close and rehabilitate) parking area. 7 Peckerwood Connector – A short section of 7 that connects 0 Closed Trail 6 to a closed road that provides access to private property would remain available to the private landowner. Gate. Minimally maintain and monitor. Close and rehabilitate (decommission) remainder of road similar to Trail 3. 8 Bob Creek – Close and rehabilitate (decommission). Remove 0 NA culverts and bridges. Restore hydrology. Remove pressure treated material; leave native material. Seeding and mulch bare soil. Minor recontouring to put fill slope back in road. Replant. 9 Mistletoe Connector - Same as Trail 8 0 Closed 10 Round Mountain – Same as Trail 8 0 Closed 10A Round Mountain Spur – Same as Trail 8 0 NA 11 Chestnut Mountain – Same as Trail 8 0 Closed 12 Hawk Knob – Close and rehabilitate (decommission). 0 Closed Intensive recontouring and intensive planting.

The table below describes the plan amendment associated with Alternative C:

Current Forest Plan Language New Forest Plan Language Pg. III-11: General Direction #5. Provide Pg. III-11: General Direction #5. Provide recreational riding opportunities for use by recreational riding opportunities for use by vehicles commonly classified as off-road vehicles commonly classified as off-road vehicles (ORV’s) on designated routes vehicles (ORV’s) on designated routes within established ORV areas. This within established ORV areas. This includes Upper Tellico, Brown Mountain, includes Brown Mountain and Wayehutta. and Wayehutta. Permit no cross-country Permit no cross-country travel in travel in Management Areas 1 through 18. Management Areas 1 through 18.

2.0 Aquatic Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Species

2.1 Boundaries of Aquatic Analysis Areas

The aquatic analysis area for this project consists of the entire Upper Tellico River watershed downstream to the confluence with Rough Ridge Creek. This includes those waters in the area of potential site-specific impacts on aquatic habitat and populations, and encompasses waters downstream that potentially could be impacted by project activities.

Data for aquatic resources exist in two forms: general inventory and monitoring of forest resources and data provided by cooperating resource agencies from resources on or flowing through the forest. Both of these sources are accurate back to approximately 1980 and are used regularly in project analyses. Data collected prior to 1980 are used primarily as historical data.

Additional information specifically addressing aquatic PETS species was obtained from NCWRC biologists, North Carolina Natural Heritage Program records, and US Fish and Wildlife Service biologists.

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 3 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation

2.2 Species Evaluated and Rationale

Information specifically addressing aquatic PETS species was obtained from North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) biologists, North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) records, US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) biologists, and Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) biologists.

Proposed, endangered, and threatened species considered in this analysis are those included in the National Forests in North Carolina (TES) species list (January 2002). All PET species that might occur on the Nantahala National Forest were considered. Potentially affected species were identified from information on habitat relationships, element occurrence records of PET species as maintained by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program and field data on the project area.

2.2.1 Previous Survey Information

Upper Tellico River watershed trout populations were monitored from 1994-2006 by the NCWRC (Besler et al. 2007). In addition to the trout monitoring, the non-game fish community was also monitored during this period. The non-game fish community within the analysis area is greatly limited by the physical barriers located on the North Carolina portion of the Tellico River. Blacknose dace, creek chubs, and northern hogsuckers occupy a portion of the Tellico River downstream of the cascade on the Upper Tellico River. The North Carolina portion of the Tellico River is the uppermost reach of suitable habitat for these species. No suitable habitats exist for these species within the tributaries. No threatened, endangered, or sensitive fish were located during any of the trout monitoring efforts.

The aquatic insect community within the Upper Tellico River watershed has been monitored since May 2007 by Western Carolina University. No sensitive aquatic macroinvertebrates were located during these surveys (Ferrell 2009). The upper Tellico River watershed does not provide habitat for the sensitive crayfish, Cambarus georgiae (Nature Serve 2009), nor does the upper Tellico River provide habitat for any freshwater mussels.

The federally threatened species yellowfin madtom and spotfin chub, and the federally endangered species duskytail darter and smoky madtom have been reintroduced to the Tellico River near Mile 33 in Tennessee. These populations, listed as non-essential experimental populations by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, are located approximately 15 river miles downstream of the aquatic analysis area. The Upper Tellico River and its tributaries are isolated from any downstream threatened, endangered, or sensitive aquatic species because numerous physical barriers are located within the Tellico River downstream of the North Carolina state line. Furthermore, any effects of the alternatives would dissipate prior to reaching these species or their habitats because numerous tributaries enter the Tellico River between the aquatic analysis area and the occupied habitats.

2.2.2 New Surveys or Inventories Conducted

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 4 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation The need for additional surveys was considered using the 1989 Vegetation Management Standard for PETS Species Inventory, as interpreted by the Interim Guidance for National Forests in Texas (November 1, 2005). No additional surveys were deemed necessary for this project because previous surveys failed to yield any populations of, or potential habitats for, endangered, threatened or sensitive aquatic species in the immediate vicinity of the proposed project.

2.2.3 Species Undergoing Analysis for Effects

Thirteen aquatic PETS species are either known to occur or may occur on the Nantahala National Forest. The North Carolina Natural Heritage Database was queried for occurrences of PETS species in Cherokee County. Additionally, species known to occur within the Little Tennessee River system were included since the Tellico River is within this basin. These species were then filtered using their habitat information and the availability of these habitats within the aquatic analysis area. Species that do not have suitable habitat within the project or analysis areas were eliminated from further analysis. Based upon the results of this filtering process no proposed, endangered, threatened, or sensitive aquatic species were evaluated for this analysis. A complete list of species considered is available from the project record.

Table 2.2.3: Summary of endangered, threatened and sensitive aquatic species undergoing effects analysis for the Upper Tellico OHV System Project.

Status Species Habitat Reason for Effects Analysis

Endangered None present Threatened None present Sensitive None present

2.3 Effects of Alternatives on Aquatic Species

2.3.1 Endangered and Threatened Species

Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects:

There are no known proposed, threatened, or endangered species in the project area. The affected areas of the proposed project are outside the range of the species and these areas currently contain no habitat for any proposed, endangered, threatened aquatic species. As such, there will be no direct or indirect effects to any federally listed species or habitats. In the absence of direct and indirect effects of the proposed action, there would be no cumulative effects to any proposed, endangered, threatened, or sensitive aquatic species.

2.3.2 Sensitive Species

Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects:

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 5 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation There are no known sensitive aquatic species in the project area. The affected areas of the proposed project are outside the range of any sensitive aquatic species and these areas currently contain no habitat for any sensitive aquatic species. As such, there will be no direct or indirect effects to any sensitive aquatic species or habitats. In the absence of direct and indirect effects of the proposed action, there would be no cumulative effects to any sensitive aquatic species.

2.4 Determination of Effect for Aquatic Species

The Upper Tellico OHV System Project would have no effect to any aquatic threatened, endangered, or proposed species because none occur within the project area and the effects of the proposed project would dissipate prior to reaching suitable habitats for any federally listed species. Consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is not required for aquatic resources. The Upper Tellico OHV System Project would have no effect on any sensitive aquatic species or habitats because no sensitive aquatic species occur within the project area and the effects of the proposed project would dissipate prior to reaching suitable habiats for any sensitive aquatic species.

Table 2.4: Determination of effect of the Upper Tellico OHV System Project on the evaluated proposed, endangered, threatened and sensitive aquatic species.

USFS Species Alternative C Status Endangered None Present No effect. Threatened None Present No effect. Proposed None Present No effect. Sensitive None Present No impact.

3.0 Botanical Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Species

3.1 Boundaries of Botanical Analysis Areas

Because plants are rooted species that must be present in the proposed treatment areas to undergo effects, the analysis area for endangered, threatened and sensitive species was confined to the expected impact zones surrounding the proposed treatment areas of the project. The expected impact zone is typically slightly larger than the proposed treatment area because impacts such as increased sunlight, decreased humidity, sedimentation and pollution may extend beyond the areas undergoing active management.

Because each plant species has a unique life history, the temporal response to management activities must be evaluated on a species-by-species basis.

3.2 Species Evaluated and Rationale

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 6 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation All endangered and threatened plant species listed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the Nantahala National Forest were considered for this analysis (Attachment B1). No candidate plant species occur on the Nantahala National Forest, and therefore were not considered further. All sensitive species listed by the Regional Forester (USFS, 2001) were also considered for this analysis. Only species located inside, or adjacent to, expected impact zones during the field surveys, or with previous collection data inside these zones, were analyzed in detail.

3.2.1 Previous Survey Information

The Biotics Database was queried for endangered, threatened and sensitive plant species growing in, or immediately adjacent to, the proposed treatment areas. It contained three records for the Tusquitee hornwort (Megaceros aenigmaticus) within one mile of the Tellico OHV trail system: one in the Peckerwood Creek area, one on private land in the Tipton Creek area, and one in the Oak Cove Creek area of Tennessee. None of the three records was located in an expected impact zone. The database contained no other records for any endangered, threatened or sensitive plant species in or near the proposed treatment areas.

3.2.2 New Surveys or Inventories Conducted

The need for additional surveys was considered using the 1989 Vegetation Management Standard for PETS Species Inventory, as interpreted by the Interim Guidance for National Forests in Texas (November 1, 2005). Additional surveys were deemed necessary for this project because the area contained suitable habitat for sensitive species associated with the rich cove, northern hardwood and oak-hickory forest communities found in the proposed treatment areas. For many of the expected species, no adequate population inventory data are available to assure a secure, well-distributed population of the species on the national forest.

Wilson T. Rankin, Botanist for the Nantahala National Forest, surveyed the proposed treatment areas in August, 2008. The survey located three additional populations of the Tusquitee hornwort (Megaceros aenigmaticus) in expected impact zones at stream crossings in the upper Tellico River watershed: one population each on Trails 4, 8 and 10A, at either stream crossings or large seeps next to the trail. The species was most common in small, blue-line streams and tributaries containing shallow, clean water with moderate flows. Because the species was found in expected impact zones, Megaceros aenigmaticus underwent further analysis for effects (Table 3.2.1).

Field surveys failed to locate any other populations of endangered, threatened or sensitive plant species. Because no other endangered, threatened or sensitive plant species were located in the proposed treatment areas, none of these species underwent further analysis for potential effects.

3.2.3 Species Undergoing Analysis for Effects

Table 3.2.1: Summary of endangered, threatened and sensitive plant species undergoing effects analysis for the Tellico OHV Project (see Attachment B1 for a complete list of the species evaluated).

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 7 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Status Species Habitat Reason for Effects Analysis

Endangered None Not applicable Not applicable

Threatened None Not applicable Not applicable

Sensitive Megaceros Shallow, shaded streams Located inside proposed aenigmaticus in the southern treatment areas during field Appalachians surveys

3.3 Effects of Alternatives on Botanical Species

3.3.1 Endangered and Threatened Species

Direct and Indirect Effects

Because the expected impact zones contain no populations of endangered or threatened plant species, there will be no direct, indirect or cumulative effects to any endangered or threatened plant species. Consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is not required for plant species.

Cumulative Effects

In the absence of any direct or indirect effects to any endangered or threatened species, there will be no cumulative effects to any endangered or threatened species.

3.3.2 Sensitive Species

Megaceros aenigmaticus (Tusquitee Hornwort)

Direct and Indirect Effects

By decommissioning Trails 8 and 10A, Alternative C would reduce the current impacts to two of the three populations of Megaceros located during the field surveys for this project. Current impacts would continue on the population next to Trail 4, which, although closed to OHV traffice, would remain as a system road.

Alternative C will also decrease the number of blue line stream crossing in the OHV trail system from 25 crossings to 3 crossings. Because impacts are considered proportional to the number of blue line crossings, Alternative C should reduce the impacts to Megaceros habitat in the upper Tellico watershed by 88 %, in comparison to the no action alternative, Alternative A.

Cumulative Effects

Cumulative effects are the combined total of past, ongoing and future management actions. According to previous NEPA analyses, ten past actions on the Nantahala National Forest have impacted populations of Megaceros since 1997 (Table 3.3.1). One of the projects may have

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 8 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation improved habitat for the species by reducing stream sedimentation. As a result, only nine of the projects may have negatively impacted populations of Megaceros, primarily by indirect impacts associated with sedimentation from road construction.

Table 3.3.1. Past projects on the Nantahala National Forest impacting populations of Megaceros aenigmaticus. District Project Year Determination of Effect

Cheoah Stecoah Timber Sale 2005 May impact individuals but no trend towards federal listing Cheoah A9 Stecoah Gap Road 2003 May impact individuals but no trend towards Reconstruction federal listing Tusquitee Ritz Easement 2002 May impact individuals but no trend towards federal listing Cheoah Old Field Gap Road (SR 2001 May impact inviduals but no trend towards 1249) federal listing Tusquitee FY2002 Prescribed Burn 2001 May impact individuals but no trend towards federal listing Cheoah Lovingood Road 2000 Possible positive indirect effects from Reconstruction decreased sedimentation Tusquitee Buck Creek DOT 2000 May impact individuals but no trend towards federal listing Wayah Thrash Land Exchange 2000 May impact individuals but no trend towards federal listing Tusquitee Tuni Gap Road 1999 May impact individuals but no trend towards federal listing Cheoah Fontana Village Horse Trail 1998 May impact individuals but no trend towards federal listing

The Tellico OHV analysis area contains no ongoing Forest Service or private projects that may impact Megaceros. The analysis area contains two future Forest Service projects, however, that could impact Megaceros. The Davis Creek Road Paving project will realign and pave approximately 0.5 miles between the Tennessee state line and Trail 5. The Fain Ford Bridge Project will construct a bridge across the Tellico River, realigning the Trail 4 crossing, an estimated impact of 0.1 miles. No Megaceros plants, however, were located in the expected impact zones of either project. As a result, the projects will produce no direct, indirect or cumulative effects for Megaceros. The analysis area contains no other foreseeable USFS or private projects that would impact populations of Megaceros.

The cumulative effects of Alternative C represent negative impacts to 11 of the 35 populations of Megaceros documented in western North Carolina. On the other hand, undisturbed populations of Megaceros are common in the region, and the upper Tellico watershed may contain additional, undocumented populations. Many of the documented populations are quite extensive, and unlikely to be extirpated by current Forest Service direction for stream habitats. As a result, Alternative C may impact individuals of Megaceros, but is unlikely to cause a trend towards federal listing or a loss of viability for the species.

3.4 Determination of Effect for Botanical Species

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 9 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Because no endangered or threatened plant species were found in any of the proposed treatment areas, there should be no direct, indirect or cumulative effects to any endangered or threatened plant species. Consultation with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service is not necessary for plant species.

Alternative C may impact individuals of the sensitive species Megaceros aenigmaticus, but it is not likely to cause a trend towards federal listing or a loss of viability for the species. Because no other sensitive plant species were found in the proposed treatment areas, there should be no direct, indirect or cumulative effects to any other sensitive plant species.

4.0 Terrestrial Wildlife Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Species

4.1 Boundaries of Terrestrial Wildlfie Analysis Area

The terrestrial wildlife analysis area for this project consists of the acreage currently managed as the Upper Tellico OHV system. This area is a landscape with steep mountains covered predominantly by mature hardwood forests. The area receives abundant moisture and is riddled with seeps and springs that feed into larger streams and eventually the Tellico River itself. It also contains drier upland sites, moist rocky areas, and a small area of boulderfield forest.

None of the proposed alternatives contain activities that will alter forest stand composition or age class structure. Therefore, the primary effect from any proposed changes to the trail system involves increases or decreases in the amount of noise and disturbance associated with use of the trail system.

4.2 Species Evaluated and Rationale

The project area is in the Unicoi Mountains, which supports several endemic species, including a ground beetle (Trechus luculentus unicoi), a nesticid spider (Nesticus sheari), and the Tellico salamander (Plethodon aureolus).

Terrestrial wildlife proposed, endangered, and threatened (PET) species initially considered in this analysis are those currently listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and are included on the National Forests in North Carolina species list (Attachment W1). Sensitive species (S) considered in this analysis are those identified by the Regional Forester for which population viability is a concern (August 2001). These species are also listed in Attachment W1.

Eight federally-listed terrestrial animal species were evaluated for the species’ likelihood of occurrence within the Tellico OHV area (Attachment W1). Species which are known to occur or are likely to occur were identified from this list using known habitat relationships, element occurrence records maintained by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and field data from the activity areas. This process resulted in one federally-listed species, the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) being identified as likely to occur based on know records of the species in Cherokee and Graham

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 10 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Counties (although no Indiana bats have been found within the immediate Tellico OHV area). Therefore, the Indiana bat will be included in this effects analysis (Table 4.2.1).

Twenty-six sensitive terrestrial wildlife species were evaluated for the species’ likelihood of occurrence within the Tellico OHV area (Attachment W1). Species which are known to occur or are likely to occur were identified from this list using known habitat relationships, element occurrence records maintained by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, the NatureServe database (NatureServe 2008), and field data from the activity areas. This process resulted in nine sensitive species being identified as likely to occur within the Tellico OHV area, which will be included in this effects analysis (Table 4.2.1).

Table 4.1.1: Terrestrial PETS species included in this effects analysis.

USFS Species Type Habitat Description Status Indiana bat Mammal Endangered Hardwood forests, snags (Myotis sodalis) Endemic to Unicoi Mountains, A ground beetle Insect Sensitive Beneath rocks and moss in wet (Trechus luculentus Unicoi) ravines Rock-loving grasshopper Insect Sensitive Lichen covered rock outcrops (Trimerotropis saxatilis) Endemic to Unicoi Mtns: north- A nesticid spider Arachnid Sensitive facing rocky slopes in rich cove (Nesticus sheari) forest Santeetlah dusky salamander Amphibian Sensitive Stream headwaters and wet seeps (Desmognathus santeetlah) Tellico salamander Endemic to hardwood forests in Amphibian Sensitive (Plethodon aureolus) the Unicoi Mountains S. Appalachian salamander Amphibian Sensitive Moist forests at all elevations (Plethodon teyahalee) Southern rock vole Moist rocky areas in spruce & (Microtus chrotorrhinus Mammal Sensitive hardwood forests at high carolinensis) elevations Eastern small-footed bat Mammal Sensitive Roosts in hollow trees in summer (Myotis leibii) Southern water shrew Small, high elevation (>3000’) Mammal Sensitive (Sorex palustris punctulatus) streams 12-15' wide

4.2.1 Previous Survey Information

Proposed activity areas were surveyed for the presence of special habitats, such as wetlands, boulderfields, caves or mines that could be adversely affected by project activities. No special habitats except boulderfields were located. No Terrestrial wildlife PET species are associated with boulderfields. One sensitive terrestrial wildlife species, the rock-loving grasshopper (Trimerotropis saxatilis), is associated with drier rocky habitats such as boulderfields. There are no known occurrences of this species in Cherokee County, therefore no additional surveys were conducted.

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 11 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation 4.2.2 New Surveys or Inventories Conducted

Project-specific surveys were not conducted for the Indiana bat. Indiana bat activity within Graham and Cherokee Counties has been and continues to be intensively monitored by the USFS, UWFWS, and other cooperators. This extensive survey data is relied on for this analysis.

Project-specific surveys for the eight sensitive species were not conducted. Habitat for these species is not limited across the forest, and wildlife habitats within Tellico OHV area is identified as general habitat, not necessarily as having a high potential for occupancy for any sensitive species. Additionally, actual presence or absence of the species would not change the assessment of effects to viability of the population.

4.3 Effects of Alternatives on Terrestrial Wildlife Species

4.3.1 Endangered and Threatened Species

Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalist)

Direct and Indirect Effects – Values in Table 4.3.1 summarize net habitat affected (acres gained or lost) for the terrestrial wildlife PETS species considered in this analysis. These values were calculated on the parameters described above using the formula below.

Net habitat affected = total habitat available (i.e. existing condition for the appropriate parameter, as described above) - habitat lost from new trail construction + habitat gained from trail decommissioning

Table 4.3.1: Acres of habitat affected by alternative for terrestrial wildife PETS species.

Species Alt. C No Indiana bat Effect

Effects of Past, Ongoing and Future Projects –

While many of the OHV trails that existed prior to federal ownership were closed out years ago (and have been largely restored to productivity), much of the area remains undesirable as habitat for a number of wildlife species due to the high level of human disturbance.

Other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions with potentially overlapping impacts to wildlife habitat in the Upper Tellico area include:

1. The Jenks Branch Project regenerated 38 acres of timber in the MA 4D portions of the Tellico OHV area, supplemented natural regeneration by planting oak seedlings, and established approximately 0.6 acres of grass/forb habitat (totaling 0.48% of the area).

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 12 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation 2. Approximately 1,918 acres are scheduled for prescribed burning within the Tellico OHV area during the next five years (approximately 24.25% of the area). Potential effects include reduced fuel loading from downed woody material. It will also stimulate herbaceous growth and soft mast production.

Cumulative Effects – Past activities have removed potential habitat from approximately 48 acres of mature forest. No other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions in the area are known that would have overlapping effects with this project.

While potential effects do vary by alternative, the numbers represent only a tiny fraction of the habitats available within the Tellico OHV area and across the Forests, and would likely not be measurable on the ground. Generally speaking, for the terrestrial wildlife PETS species considered in this analysis, Alternative C may result in improved habitat conditions.

Determination of Effect –

Activities proposed under all Alternative C may affect the Indiana bat, but these effects are not likely to adversely affect the species because no suitable snags would be cut between April 15 and October 15, and all standards and guides for the protection of this species, as listed in Amendment 10 of the LRMP would be followed. Additionally, all Terms and Conditions contained within the Biological Opinion issued for the Indiana bat by the USFWS (April 5, 2005) would be followed. Consultation is not required for this project.

4.3.2 Sensitive Species

Direct and Indirect Effects – The ground beetle, Trechus luculentus unicoi, is found under moss covered rocks in wet ravines and near seeps and springs above 3000'. This species is thought to be endemic to the Unicoi Mountains. Effects of the alternatives on this species were estimated according to the loss of this habitat, as reflected by the new culverts installed that would cause a disruption of the habitat in the area of the culvert. Where culverts are removed during the decommissioning process, this habitat would be restored. These results are summarized in Table 4.3.2.

The rock-loving grasshopper utilizes lichen-covered rock outcrops and boulders. Effects of the alternatives on this species were estimated according to the loss of this habitat (boulderfield forest). These results are summarized in Table 4.3.2.

The cave spider, Nesticus sheari, utilizes moist rocky areas in rice cove forests on north-facing slopes. The species is thought to be endemic to the Unicoi Mountains. Effects of the alternatives on this species were estimated according to the loss of this habitat, as reflected by the new culverts installed that would cause a disruption of rocky habitats in the areaa of the culvert. Where culverts are removed during the decommissioning process, this habitat would be restored. These results are summarized in Table 4.3.2.

The Santeetlah dusky salamander is found in stream headwaters and seepage areas in the Great Smoky, Unicoi, Cheoah and Great Balsam Mountains. Effects of the alternatives on this species

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 13 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation were estimated according to the loss of this habitat reflected as a measure of new culvert installations. Where culverts are removed during the decommissioning process, this habitat would be restored. These results are summarized in Table 4.3.2.

The Tellico salamander occurs in hardwood forests, and is thought to be endemic to the Unicoi Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina. The southern Appalachian salamander is found in moist forests in the southwestern mountains at all elevations. Effects of the alternatives on these species were estimated according to the loss of this habitat from trail construction and trails remaining open. Habitat for this species would be restored in alternatives where trails or segments of trails will be decommissioned.

The southern rock vole utilizes moist rocky areas in spruce and high elevation hardwood forests. Effects of the alternatives on this species were estimated according to the loss of this habitat, as reflected by the new culverts installed that would cause a disruption of the habitat in the area of the culvert. Where culverts are removed during the decommissioning process, this habitat would be restored. These results are summarized in Table 4.3.2.

The southern water shrew is known to occur on small first order streams up to 12-15' wide, with rhododendron cover across Macon, Swain and Clay counties. There is approximately 45 acres of suitable habitat in the upper Tellico watershed. Effects of the alternatives on this species were estimated according to the loss of this habitat, reflected as a measure of the number of fords or culverts crossing perennial streams (bridge crossings would not impact habitat). No new non- bridge crossings are proposed for any alternatives. Impacts would be reduced if a non-bridge crossing is eliminated the trail system. These results are summarized in Table 4.3.2.

The eastern small-footed bat is known to occur in a variety of habitats across the Forest. They can benefit from small openings which they use as feeding areas at night. Effects of the alternatives on this species were estimated to be beneficial where new openings in the canopy are created through road or trail construction. Where trails are decommissioned, this habitat would be lost. These results are summarized in Table 4.3.2.

Values in Table 4.3.2 summarize net habitat affected (acres gained or lost) for the terrestrial wildlife PETS species considered in this analysis. These values were calculated on the parameters described above using the formula below, except for the Eastern small-footed bat, where existing trail area and new trail area represent habitat gained and trail decommissioning represents habitat lost (the inverse of the other PETS species).

Table 4.3.2: Acres of habitat affected by alternative for terrestrial wildife PETS species.

Species Alt. C 0.36 A ground beetle acres gained Upper Tellico OHV System Project 14 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Species Alt. C Rock-loving No Effect grasshopper 0.36 A nesticid spider acres gained 0.36 Santeetlah dusky acres salamander gained 25.12 Tellico acres salamander lost Southern 25.12 Appalachian acres salamander lost 0.36 Southern rock acres vole gained 0.03 Southern water acres shrew gained 25.12 Eastern small- acres footed bat gained

4.3.3 Consultation History

None.

4.4 Determination of Effect for Terrestrial Wildlife

Activities proposed under Alternative C may affect the Indiana bat, but are not likely to adversely affect the species because no suitable snags would be cut between April 15 and October 15, and all standards and guides for the protection of this species, as listed in Amendment 10 of the LRMP would be followed. Additionally, all Terms and Conditions contained within the Biological Opinion issued for the Indiana bat by the USFWS (April 5, 2005) would be followed. Consultation is not required for this project. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has concurred with this determination in their Biological Opinion for Amendment 10. This project will have no effect on any other federally proposed or listed terrestrial animal species. Consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has been completed.

Table 4.4.1 summarizes the determination of effect of each alternative on the sensitive terrestrial wildlife species considered in this analysis. Generally speaking, implementation of Alternative C may impact individuals of the species but will not impact the species viability across the Forests or its range, nor lead to a trend towards listing.

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 15 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Table 4.4.1: Determination of effect of each alternative on the evaluated sensitive terrestrial wildlife species.

Species Alt. C A ground beetle May impact (Trechus luculentus Individuals unicoi) (positive) Rock-loving grasshopper No Impact (Trimerotropis saxatilis) May impact A nesticid spider Individuals (Nesticus sheari) (positive) Santeetlah dusky May impact salamander Individuals (Desmognathus santeetlah) (positive) May impact Tellico salamander individuals* (Plethodon aureolus) (negative) Southern App. May impact salamander individuals* (Plethodon teyahalee) (negative) Southern rock vole May impact (Microtus chrotorrhinus Individuals carolinensis) (positive) Southern water May impact shrew (Sorex palustris Individuals punctulatus) (positive) Eastern small-footed May impact bat Individuals (Myotis leibii) (positive) *May impact individuals but is not likely to cause a trend to federal listing or a loss of viability across the forest

5.0 Determination of Effects

5.1 Aquatic Endangered, Threatened and Sensitive Species

5.2 Botanical Endangered, Threatened and Sensitive Species

Because no endangered or threatened plant species were found in any of the proposed treatment areas, there should be no direct, indirect or cumulative effects to any endangered or threatened

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 16 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation plant species. Consultation with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service is not necessary for plant species.

Alternative C may impact individuals of the sensitive species Megaceros aenigmaticus, but it is not likely to cause a trend towards federal listing or a loss of viability for the species. Because no other sensitive plant species were found in the proposed treatment areas, there should be no direct, indirect or cumulative effects to any other sensitive plant species.

5.3 Terrestrial Wildlife Endangered, Threatened and Sensitive Species

Implementation of Alternative C may impact individuals of the species but will not impact the species viability across the Forests or its range, nor lead to a trend towards listing.

Consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has been completed.

5.4 Summary of Effects Determination

The Upper Tellico OHV System Project would have no effect to any other threatened, endangered, or proposed species because none occur within the project area and the effects of the proposed project would dissipate prior to reaching suitable habitats for any federally listed species. Consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is not required for this project.

Alternative C may impact individuals of the sensitive species Megaceros aenigmaticus, but it is not likely to cause a trend towards federal listing or a loss of viability for the species. Implementation of Alternative C may impact individuals of the nine sensitive wildlife species but will not impact the species viability across the Forests or its range, nor lead to a trend towards listing. Because no other sensitive species were found in the proposed treatment areas, there should be no direct, indirect or cumulative effects to any other sensitive species.

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 17 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation

/s/ Jason K. Farmer Fisheries Biologist, Nantahala National Forest June 18, 2009

Contributing Biologists:

Wilson Rankin Botanist, Nantahala National Forest

Doreen Miller Wildlife Biologist, Nantahala National Forest

6.0 References and Data Sources

Aquatics: Besler, D. A., A.P. Wheeler, M.G. Martin. 2007. A summary of wild trout population monitoring in the Tellico River watershed, 1994 – 2006. North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Raleigh.

Ferrell, S.L. 2009. A comparison of macroinvertebrate and meiofauna biomonitoring metrics for streams potentially affected by the Upper Tellico OHV Area, Nantahala National Forest, NC. Masters Thesis. Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina. 61 pages.

NatureServe. 2009. Collective species database maintained by the Nature Conservancy, located at www.natureserve.org. Accessed June 2009.

Wildlife: Brody, A.J. and M.R. Pelton. 1989. Effects of roads on black bear movements in western North Carolina. Wildlife Society Bulletin. 17(1):5-10.

Handley, C. O., Jr. 1991. Mammals. Pages 539-616 in K. Terwilliger, coordinator. Virginia's endangered species:proceedings of a symposium. McDonald and Woodward Publishing Company, Blacksburg, Virginia.

Larson, M.A., W.D. Dijak, F.R. Thompson III, and J.J. Millspaugh. 2003. Landscape-level habitat suitability models for twelve wildlife species in southern Missouri. General Technical Report NC-233. Saint Paul, MN: USDA-FS North Central Research Station. 51 pages.

Merritt, J. F. 1987. Guide to the mammals of Pennsylvania. University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh,

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 18 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation PA.

Mitchell, M.S. , J.W. Zimmerman, and R.A. Powell. 2002. Test of a habitat suitability index for black bears in the southern Appalachians. Wildlife Socirty Bulletin. 30(3):794-808.

Mitchell, M.S. and R.A. Powell. 2003. Response of black bears to forest management. Journal of Wildlife Management. 67(4): 692-705.

NatureServe. 2008. Collective species database maintained by the Nature Conservancy, located at www.natureserve.org.

Van Horn, M.A., R.M. Gentry, and J. Faaborg. 1995. Patterns of ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus) pairing success in Missouri forest tracts. The Auk. 112(1):98-106.

7.0 Attachments

Attachment A1: Endangered, threatened and sensitive aquatic species, Nantahala National Forest.

USFS Status Type Species Habitat/Distribution

Endangered/ Bivalve Alasmidonta raveneliana Little Tennessee River drainage and Threatened Tuckaseegee River; Nolichucky River Bivalve Pegias fabula Lower Little Tennessee River; historic record from Valley River, Cherokee Co. Fish Cyprinella monacha Little TN River; French Broad River system

Sensitive Bivalve Alasmidonta varicose Little Tennessee River, Macon and Swain Co. Bivalve Fusconaia barnesiana Lower Little TN River and Hiwassee River Bivalve Lasmigona holstonia Valley River, Historic Record, Cherokee Co. Crustacean Cambarus georgiae Streams in Little TN River, Macon Co.

Crustacean Cambarus parrishi Streams in Hiwassee River drainage

Crustacean Cambarus reburrus Tributary to Horsepasture River, Transylvannia Co.; upper French Broad River

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 19 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation USFS Status Type Species Habitat/Distribution Crustacean Cambarus chaugaensis Streams in Savannah River drainage, Jackson, Macon, and Transylvannia Co.; SC and GA Dragonfly Macromia margarita Rivers, Macon, Swain, Transylvannia Co.; Caldwell Co. Fish Etheostoma vulneratum Large streams and rivers, Little TN River system, Jackson, Macon, Swain Co. Fish Percina squamata Higher gradient upland rivers, Tennessee River system, Cherokee, Jackson, Macon, Swain Co.

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 20 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Attachment A2: Endangered, threatened and sensitive aquatic species evaluated for the Upper Tellico OHV System Project. The analysis includes known and potentially occurring aquatic species from the Cherokee County, NC. Potential occurrence is based on known distributions of the species and the presence of suitable habitat.

USFS Type Species Likelihood of Occurrence in Status Analysis Area Endangered None Present Threatened None Present Sensitive None Present

Notes:

1 = Species not considered further in analysis because there is no suitable habitat present or vicinity records in the analysis area The project will not affect the species. 2 = Vicinity records, in or downstream of the analysis area, but not necessarily in project area. 3 = Suitable habitat present, but no vicinity records.

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 21 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Attachment B1: Endangered, threatened and sensitive plant species, Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests.

USFS Species Habitat/Distribution Status Endangered Geum radiatum High Elevation Rocky Summit Endangered Gymnoderma lineare High Elevation Rocky Summit, Moist Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove in Gorge Endangered Houstonia montana Grassy Bald, High Elevation Rocky Summit Endangered Isotria medeoloides White Pine Forest, Mesic Oak-Hickory Endangered Sagittaria fasciculata Southern Appalachian Bog, Streamside, Swamp Forest- Bog Complex Endangered Sarracenia jonesii Southern Appalachian Bog Endangered Sarracenia oreophila Southern Appalachian Bog Endangered Sisyrinchium dichotomum Montane Oak Woodland, Mafic Rock, Escarpment Threatened Helonias bullata Southern Appalachian Bog, Swamp Forest-Bog Complex Threatened Hexastylis naniflora Rich Cove Forest, Mesic Oak-Hickory Threatened Hudsonia montana High Elevation Rocky Summit, Pine-Oak/Heath Forest Threatened Liatris helleri High Elevation Rocky Summit, Montane Acidic Cliff Threatened Solidago spithamaea High Elevation Rocky Summit Threatened Spiraea virginiana Riverside Scour Zone Sensitive Aconitum reclinatum Northern Hardwood Forest, Boulderfield Forest, High Elevation Seep, Rich Cove Forest Sensitive Acrobolbus ciliatus Spruce-Fir Forest, Spray Cliff Sensitive Allium cuthbertii Low Elevation Granitic Dome Sensitive Aneura maxima Spray Cliff Sensitive Anzia americana Gorge, Acidic Cove Sensitive Arabis patens Montane Mafic Cliff, Montane Calcareous Cliff Sensitive Aspiromitus appalachianus Stream Sensitive Asplenium X ebenoides Montane Calcareous Cliff Sensitive Bartramidula wilsonii Spray Cliff, Moist Montane Acidic Cliff, Gorge Sensitive Bazzania nudicaulis Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Berberis canadensis Rich Cove Forest, Glade, Mafic Rock Sensitive Botrychium jenmanii Rich Cove Forest Sensitive Brachydontium trichodes Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Bryocrumia vivicolor Spray Cliff, Moist Montane Acidic Cliff, Gorge Sensitive Buckleya distichophylla Hemlock Hardwood Forest, Acidic Cove Forest, Sensitive Buxbaumia minakatae Rotting Logs Sensitive Calamagrostis cainii High Elevation Rocky Summit Sensitive Campylopus paradoxus High Elevation Rocky Summit Sensitive Cardamine clematitis Boulderfield Forest, Northern Hardwood Forest, Spruce- Fir Forest, High Elevation Seep Sensitive Carex biltmoreana High Elevation Granitic Dome, Montane Cedar-Hardwood Forest, Montane Acidic Cliff Sensitive Carex communis var. Rich Cove Forest, Mafic Rock amplisquama Sensitive Carex misera High Elevation Rocky Summit, Montane Acidic Cliff, High Elevation Granitic Dome

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 22 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Sensitive Carex radfordii Rich Cove Forest, Escarpment Gorge Sensitive Carex roanensis Rich Cove Forest, Montane Oak-Hickory Sensitive Carex schweinitzii Southern Appalachian Bog, Swamp Forest-Bog Complex Sensitive Cephalozia macrostachya ssp Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge australis Sensitive Cephaloziella massalongi High Elevation Rocky Summit Sensitive Cheilolejeunea evansii Acidic Cove, Oak-White Pine Forest, Escarpement Gorge Sensitive Chelone cuthbertii Southern Appalachian Bog Sensitive Cleistes bifaria Pine-Oak/Heath Forest, Pine-Oak Woodland Sensitive Coreopsis latifolia Rich Cove Forest, Northern Hardwood Forest Sensitive Danthonia epilis High Elevation Granitic Dome, Seep Sensitive Delphinium exaltatum Rich Cove Forest, Grassy Bald, Glade, Montane Oak- Hickory, Mafic Rock Sensitive Desmodium ochroleucum Openings, Xeric Woodlands Sensitive Diervilla rivularis Streamside, Acidic Cove Forest Sensitive Diplophyllum apiculatum var. Roadbank taxifolioides Sensitive Diplophyllum obtusatum Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Ditrichum ambiguum Acidic Cove Forest, High Elevation Red Oak Sensitive Drepanolejeunea Acidic Cove, Montane Oak-Hickory, Serpentine appalachiana Woodland, Serpentine Forest Sensitive Entodon concinnus Moist Montane Calcareous Cliff Sensitive Ephebe americana High Elevation Rocky Summit Sensitive Euphorbia purpurea Northern Hardwood Forest, Rich Cove Forest, Mesic Oak- Hickory Forest Sensitive Eurybia avita Rock Outcrops Sensitive Fissidens appalachiensis Streams at High Elevations Sensitive Fothergilla major Pine-Oak/Heath Forest, Montane Oak Woodland, Roadside Sensitive Frullania appalachiana Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Frullania oakesiana Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Gentiana austromontana Grassy Bald, High Elevation Red Oak Forest, Northern Hardwood Forest Sensitive Geum geniculatum Boulderfield Forest, High Elevation Seep Sensitive Glyceria nubigena Northern Hardwood Forest, Boulderfield Forest, High Elevation Seep, Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Grammitis nimbata Spray Cliff Sensitive Hasteola suaveolens Montane Alluvial Forest Sensitive Helianthus glaucophyllus Rich Cove Forest, Northern Hardwood Forest, High Elevation Red Oak Forest, Mesic Oak-Hickory Forest, Roadside Sensitive Heuchera longiflora var. Rock Outcrops in Rich Cove Forest, Mafic Rock aceroides Sensitive Hexastylis contracta Acidic Cove Forest Sensitive Hexastylis rhombiformis Acidic Cove Forest, Hemlock Hardwood Forest, Montane Alluvial Forest Sensitive Homaliadelphus sharpii Dry Montane Calcareous Cliff Sensitive Hydrothyria venosa Stream

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 23 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Sensitive Hygrohypnum closteri Stream Sensitive Hymenophyllum tayloriae Spray Cliff, Grotto, Gorge Sensitive Hypericum graveolens High Elevation Seep, Wet Meadow Sensitive Hypericum mitchellianum High Elevation Seep, Wet Meadow Sensitive Hypotrachyna virginica High Elevation Forest Sensitive Ilex collina Northern Hardwood Forest, Boulderfield Forest, Southern Appalachian Bog, Swamp Forest Bog Complex Sensitive Juglans cinerea Rich Cove Forest, Mesic Oak-Hickory, Montane Alluvial Forest Sensitive Juncus caesariensis Low Elevation Southern Appalachian Bog Sensitive Lejeunea blomquistii Spray Cliff Sensitive Leptodontium excelsum Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Leptohymenium sharpii Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Liatris turgida High Elevation Granitic Dome, Montane Oak Woodland Sensitive Lilium grayi Northern Hardwood Forest, High Elevation Seep, Grassy Bald, Wet Meadow Sensitive Lophocolea appalachiana Spray Cliffs, Wet Rocks Near Mountain Streams Sensitive Lysimachia fraseri Mesic Oak-Hickory, Rich Cove and Acidic Cove Forests, Roadsides Sensitive Malaxis bayardii Southern Appalachina Bog, Wet Meadows Sensitive Mannia californica Dry Montane Acidic Cliff Sensitive Marshallia grandiflora Southern Appalachian Bog Sensitive Marshallia trinervia Moist, Rocky Stream Banks Sensitive Marsupella emarginata var. Spray Cliff latiloba Sensitive Megaceros aenigmaticus Stream Sensitive Metzgeria fruticulosa High Elevation Forest Sensitive Metzgeria furcata var. Spruce-Fir Forest, Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge setigera Sensitive Metzgeria uncigera Acidic Cove Forest Sensitive Monotropsis odorata Rich Cove Forest, Mesic Oak-Hickory, Xeric Oak- Hickory, Pine-Oak/Heath Forest Sensitive Nardia lescurii Peaty Soil over Moist Rocks Sensitive Packera millefolia Rock Outcrops Sensitive Pellia X appalachiana Rock Outcrops Near Spray Cliffs Sensitive Penstemon smallii Rock Outcrops, Woodlands Sensitive Physcia pseudospeciosa High Elevation Granitic Dome Sensitive Plagiochasma intermedium Streamside Limestone Rock Sensitive Plagiochasma wrightii Streamside Limestone Rock Sensitive Plagiochila austinii Moist Montane Acidic Cliff Sensitive Plagiochila caduciloba Spray Cliff, Streamside, Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge Sensitive Plagiochila echinata Spray Cliff, Streamside, Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge Sensitive Plagiochila sharpii High Elevation Rocky Summit, Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge Sensitive Plagiochila sullivantii var Spray Cliff spinigera

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 24 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Sensitive Plagiochila sullivantii var Spray Cliff, Spruce-Fir Forest sullivantii Sensitive Plagiochila virginica var Spray Cliff, Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forestin Gorge caroliniana Sensitive Plagiochila virginica var Limestone Outcrops virginica Sensitive Plagiomnium carolinianum Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge, Streambank Sensitive Plantahera integrilabia Southern Appalachian Bog, Swamp Forest-Bog Complex Sensitive Platyhypnidium pringlei Spray Cliff, Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge Sensitive Poa paludigena Southern Appalachian Bog Sensitive Polytrichum appalachianum Rocky Summits, Mid to High Elevation Sensitive Porella japonica ssp Spray Cliff appalachiana Sensitive Porella wataugensis Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge Sensitive Porpidia diversa High Elevation Rocky Summit Sensitive Porpidia herteliana High Elevation Rocky Summit Sensitive Prenanthes roanensis Northern Hardwood Forest, Grassy Bald, Meadow, Roadside, High Elevation Red Oak Forest Sensitive Pycnanthemum beadlei Rock Outcrops, Woodlands Sensitive Pycnanthemum torrei Xeric Oak-Hickory, Glade Sensitive Radula sullivantii Spray Cliff, Rock Outcrop in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge Sensitive Radula voluta Spray Cliff Sensitive Rhachithecium perpusillum Hardwood Trees Sensitive Rhododendron vaseyi Northern Hardwood Forest, High Elevation Seep, Southern Appalachian Bog, Meadow, Roadside Sensitive Riccardia jugata Rotten Logs in Acidic Cove Forest in Gorge Sensitive Robinia viscosa High Elevation Granitic Dome Sensitive Robinia viscosa var. High Elevation Granitic Dome, Woodlands hartwegii Sensitive Rudbeckia triloba var Rich Cove Forest, Montane Mafic Cliff, Mafic Rock pinnatiloba Sensitive Rugelia nudicaulis Spruce-Fir Forest Sensitive Sabatia capitata Glade, Pine-Oak Woodlands Sensitive Saxifraga caroliniana Northern Hardwood Forest, Montane Acidic Cliff, High Elevation Rocky Summit Sensitive Schlotheimia lancifolia Oak-Hickory Forest, Acidic Cove Forest, Hemlock Hardwood Forest, Highlands Plateau, Gorge Sensitive Scopelophila cataractae Copper-rich Soils, Roadsides Sensitive Scutellaria altamaha Rock Outcrops, Woodlands Sensitive Scutellaria arguta Boulderfield Forest Sensitive Scutellaria pseudoserrata Rock Outcrops, Woodlands Sensitive Scutellaria saxatilis Northern Hardwood Forest, Boulderfield Forest, Rich Cove Forest Sensitive Shortia galacifolia var. Acidic Cove Forest, Streambank, Gorge brevistyla Sensitive Shortia galacifolia var. Acidic Cove Forest, Streambank, Gorge galacifolia Sensitive Silene ovata Rich Cove Forest, Mesic Oak-Hickory, Roadside, Upper Tellico OHV System Project 25 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Sensitive Solidago simulans High Elevation Granitic Dome Sensitive Sphagnum flavicomans Seeps on Rock or Spray Cliffs Sensitive Sphenolobopsis pearsonii Fraser-Fir Forest Sensitive Splachnum pennsylvanicum Southern Appalachian Bog Sensitive Stachys clingmanii Northern Hardwood Forest, Boulderfield Forest Sensitive Sticta limbata High Elevation Forest Sensitive Taxiphyllum alternans Spray Cliff, Mafic Rock Sensitive Thalictrum macrostylum Serpentine Woodland, Serpentine Forest Sensitive Thaspium pinnatifidum Southern Appalachian Bog Sensitive Thermopsis fraxinifolia Xeric Oak-Hickory Forest, Montane Oak Woodland, Pine- Oak/Heath Sensitive Tortula ammonsiana Moist Montane Mafic Cliff Sensitive Trillium pusillum var. Rich Cove Forest pusillum Sensitive Trillium rugelii Rich Cove Forest at Low Elevation Sensitive Trillium simile Rich Cove Forest Sensitive Tsuga caroliniana Carolina Hemlock Forest, Montane Acidic Cliff, Pine- Oak/Heath, High Elevation Rocky Summit Sensitive Viola appalachiensis Serpentine Woodland, Serpentine Forest, Rich Cove Forest, Mesic Oak-Hickory Sensitive Waldsteinia lobata Acidic Cove Forest, Mesic Oak-Hickory, Gorge Sensitive Xanthoparmelia monticola High Elevation Rocky Summit

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 26 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Attachment W1. Proposed, endangered, threatened, and sensitive species considered.

Likelihood of Group Designation Scientific Name Common Name Occurrence* (criteria)** Insect Endangered Microhexura montivaga Spruce-fir Moss Spider NL (1) Mammal Endangered Canis rufus Red Wolf M (3) Mammal Endangered Corynorhinus town. virginianus Virginia Big-eared Bat M (3) Mammal Endangered Felis concolor cougaur Eastern Cougar M (3) Mammal Endangered Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus Car. Northern Flying Squirrel M (3) Mammal Endangered Myotis sodalis Indiana Bat L (2) Bird Threatened Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald Eagle M (3) Mollusk Threatened Mesodon clarki nantahala Noonday Globe NL (1) Amphibian Sensitive Desmognathus santeetlah Santeetlah dusky salamander L(2) Amphibian Sensitive Eurycea junaluska Junaluska salamander M(3) Amphibian Sensitive Plethodon aureolus Tellico salamander L(2) Amphibian Sensitive Plethodon teyahalee Southern App. salamander L(2) Bird Sensitive Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon NL(1) Bird Sensitive Lanius ludovicia migrans Migrant loggerhead shrike NL(1) Bird Sensitive Thryomanes bewickii altus Appalachian Bewick's wren M(3) Insect Sensitive Callophrys irus Frosted elfin M(3) Insect Sensitive Cicindela ancocisconensis A tiger beetle M(3) Insect Sensitive Melanoplus divergens Divergent Melanoplus M(3) Insect Sensitive Melanoplus serrulatus Serrulate Melanoplus M(3) Insect Sensitive Nesticus cooperi Lost Nantahala Cave spider NL(1) Insect Sensitive Nesticus sheari Cave spider NL(1) Insect Sensitive Nesticus silvanus Cave spider NL(1) Insect Sensitive Scudderia septentrionalis Northern Bush Katydid M(3,4) Insect Sensitive Semiothisa fraserata Fraser Fir Angle NL(1) Insect Sensitive Speyeria diana Diana fritillary M(3) Insect Sensitive Speyeria idalia Regal fritillary M(3) Insect Sensitive Trechus luculentus unicoi A ground beetle L(2) Insect Sensitive Trechus rosenbergi A ground beetle M(3) Insect Sensitive Trimerotropis saxatilis Rock-loving grasshopper L(3) Mammal Sensitive Corynorhinus rafinesquii Rafinesque's big-eared bat NL(1) Mammal Sensitive Microtuschrotorrhinus carolinensis Southern rock vole L(3) Mammal Sensitive Myotis leibii Eastern small-footed bat L(2) Mammal Sensitive Sorex palustris puntculatus Southern water shrew L(2) Mollusk Sensitive Pallifera hemphilli Black mantleslug NL(1) Amphibian Locally rare Ambystoma talpoideum Mole salamander NL (3) Amphibian Locally rare Aneides aeneus Green salamander NL (3) Amphibian Locally rare Eurycea longicauda longicauda Long-tailed salamander NL (3) Amphibian Locally rare Pseudacris brachyphona Mountain chorus frog NL (3) Bird Locally rare Accipiter striatus Sharp-shinned hawk NL (4) Bird Locally rare Aegolius acadicus pop. 1 N. saw-whet owl - So. App.. NL (4) Bird Locally rare Catharus guttatus Hermit thrush NL (4) Bird Locally rare Coccyzus erythropthalmus Black-billed cuckoo NL (4) Bird Locally rare Dendroica cerulea Cerulean warbler NL (4)

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 27 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation Likelihood of Group Designation Scientific Name Common Name Occurrence* (criteria)** Bird Locally rare Dendroica magnolia Magnolia warbler NL (4) Bird Locally rare Epidonax alnorum Alder flycatcher NL (4) Bird Locally rare Sphyrapicus varius appalachiensis Appalachian yellow-bellied NL (4) Bird Locally rare Vermivora pinus Blue-winged warbler NL (4) Bird Locally rare Vireo gilvus Warblin vireo NL (4) Insect Locally rare Autochton cellus Golden banded skipper M(3) Insect Locally rare Celastrina nigra Dusky Azure M(3) Insect Locally rare Chlosyne gorgone Gorgone checkerspot M(3) Insect Locally rare Euphydryas phaeton Baltimore checkerspot M(3) Insect Locally rare Hepialus sciophanes A ghost moth M(3) Insect Locally rare Itame subcessaria Barred Itame M(3) Insect Locally rare Melanoplus cherokee Cherokee Melanoplus M(3) Insect Locally rare Melanoplus viridepes eurycerus Green-legged Melanoplus M(3) Insect Locally rare Nesticus species 1 An undescribed Nesticus spider M(3) Insect Locally rare Nesticus species 2 An undescribed Nesticus spider M(3) Insect Locally rare Phyciodes batesii maconensis Tawny crescent M(3) Insect Locally rare Polygonia progne Gray comma M(3) Insect Locally rare Satyrium edwardsii Edward's hairstreak M(3) Insect Locally rare Speyeria aphrodite cullasaja Cullasaja Aphrodite fritillary M(3) Mammal Locally rare Neotoma magister Allegheny woodrat L(3) Mammal Locally rare Sorex dispar Rock shrew L(2) Mollusk Locally rare Appalachina chilhoweensis Queen crater M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Fumonelix orestes Engraved covert M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Fuscinaia subrotunda long-solid M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Glyphyalinia junaluskana Dark glyph P(4) Mollusk Locally rare Glyphyalinia pentadephia Pink glyph P(4) Mollusk Locally rare Haplotrema kendeighi Blue-footed lancetooth M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Helicodiscus bonamicus Spiral coil M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Helicodiscus fimbriatus Fringed coil M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Inflectarius ferrissi Smokey mountain covert M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Paravitrea lacteodens Ramp cove supercoil M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Paravitrea lamellidens Lamellate supercoil M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Paravitriea umbilicaris Open supercoil L(3) Mollusk Locally rare Patera clarki Dwarf proud glove M(3) Mollusk Locally rare Zonitoides patuloides Appalachian gloss M(3) Reptile Locally rare Sternotherus minor Loggerhead musk turtle NL(1) * DN: does not occur NL: not likely to occur M: may occur L: likely to occur P: present

** 1 = No suitable habitat present or vicinity records in the analysis area, but the species may be present elsewhere in the county. 2 = Vicinity records in the analysis area, but not necessarily in project area. 3 = Suitable habitat present, but no vicinity records. 4 = Site-specific survey results or other survey records from the area.

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 28 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation

Upper Tellico OHV System Project 29 June 18, 2009 Biological Evaluation