Permitting Update in Potential Rough Hornsnail Habitat on Lake Mitchell & Lay Lake The rough hornsnail (Pleurocera foremani) What does this mean? The sensitive area (RHS) is a species of snail that is federally of Lay Lake has not changed. However, listed under the Endangered Species Act additional shoreline on Lake Mitchell has been (ESA). It was identified by federal authorities designated as sensitive and subject to the during the relicensing of the Coosa River measures that are protective of the RHS. If it Hydroelectric Project and is located along is determined that the proposed activity could certain stretches of the Coosa River and impact the RHS or its habitat, the applicant its tributaries. Specifically, the species is will be required to conduct a survey & found in the upper reaches of Lay Lake and relocation of the RHS by a qualified contractor significant portions of Lake Mitchell. In 2016, prior to beginning any project work. Alabama Power Company (APC) and the U. Applicants can expect a lengthier process for S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) came permit approval and additional expense for to an agreement on measures that must be the survey and relocation. No permits will taken to protect the snail. These measures be issued by APC’s Shoreline Management apply to certain lakeshore activities such in sensitive areas on Lake Mitchell or Lay as dredging; construction of sea walls; Lake for activities potentially impacting the installation of rip rap; and construction RHS without the appropriate review and and maintenance of piers, boathouses, and USACE authorization. If the applicant decides boat ramps where they pose a risk to the to proceed without a permit, the shoreline snail and/or its habitat. These protective office will not issue an after-the-fact permit. measures allow shoreline projects to take Potential violations could be subject to place while minimizing impacts to the RHS. the laws and regulations of the ESA fines As part of the agreement with USFWS, and penalties section. When applying for a surveys for additional populations of the Lakeshore Use Permit, following the guidance snail took place during the drawdown provided by APC’s Shoreline Management will in 2018. While no new areas have been help to expedite the permitting of shoreline identified on Lay Lake, additional shoreline structures and activities. of Lake Mitchell now falls within the sensitive area for lakeshore activities If you have any questions, please contact potentially impacting the RHS. APC’s Shoreline Management office at 205-755-4420. d  R r

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*This map is intended to be used as guidance only. Individual populations  may be located outside of these areas, and individual properties will be evaluated when permit applications are received.

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