AUGUSTA CANAL AUTHORITY AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

KING MILL HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT (FERC NO. 9988)

INITIAL CONSULTATION DOCUMENT

VOLUME I OF II

JULY 2006

Prepared by:

Photo Credit: Library of Congress HAER GA, 123-Aug, 46029

AUGUSTA CANAL AUTHORITY AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

KING MILL HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT (FERC NO. 9988)

INITIAL CONSULTATION DOCUMENT

VOLUME I OF II

JULY 2006

Prepared by:

King Mill Project Initial Consultation Document

AUGUSTA CANAL AUTHORITY AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

INITIAL CONSULTATION DOCUMENT FOR THE KING MILL PROJECT (FERC PROJECT NO. 9988)

VOLUME I OF II

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... ES-1

DEFINITIONS OF TERMS, ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS...... 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 General Description of the Project Area...... 2 1.2 Plans, Schedule, and Protocols ...... 3 1.2.1 Process Plan and Schedule through Filing of License Application ...... 3 1.3 Proposed Communications Protocol...... 3 1.3.1 Mailing Lists ...... 4 1.3.2 Relicensing Files...... 5 1.3.3 Restricted Documents ...... 5 1.3.4 Communications Protocols ...... 6 1.3.4.1 Document Distribution...... 6 1.3.4.2 Providing Documents to Augusta Canal Authority ...... 7 1.3.4.3 Meetings...... 7 1.3.4.4 Study Requests...... 8 1.4 Licensing Process Flow Chart ...... 9

2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION ...... 11 2.1 Generators...... 11 2.1.1 Number and Capacity ...... 11 2.1.2 Provisions for Future Units...... 12 2.2 Turbines ...... 12 2.3 Project Operation ...... 12 2.4 Average Annual Energy Production ...... 13 2.5 Estimated Average Net Head...... 13 2.6 Impoundment Surface Area and Storage Capacity...... 13 2.7 Project Structures...... 14 2.7.1 Intake ...... 14 2.7.2 Headrace ...... 14 2.7.3 Powerhouse...... 14 2.7.4 Transmission Facilities ...... 14 2.7.5 Appurtenant Facilities...... 14 2.8 Project Boundary ...... 15

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3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES...... 16 3.1 Environmental Setting ...... 16 3.2 Botanical Resources...... 18 3.3 Wetlands and Riparian Habitats...... 19 3.4 Aquatic Resources ...... 21 3.4.1 Fish Habitat...... 21 3.4.2 Resident Fish Species ...... 22 3.5 Wildlife Resources...... 26 3.6 Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species...... 27 3.6.1 Fish and Aquatic Species...... 27 3.6.2 Plants ...... 29 3.6.3 Wildlife ...... 30 3.7 Water Resources ...... 31 3.7.1 Water Quality...... 31 3.7.2 Water Quantity...... 33 3.8 Land Use ...... 36 3.8.1 Augusta-Richmond County Zoning Regulations...... 37 3.9 Recreation ...... 39 3.9.1 Recreation Opportunities ...... 40 3.9.1.1 Recreation Management Plans...... 43 3.9.1.2 Georgia Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.43 3.9.1.3 Augusta Canal Master Plan...... 44 3.10 Cultural Resources...... 46 3.10.1 Historic Period Resources...... 46 3.10.2 Historic Properties within the Area of Potential Effect ...... 48 3.11 Aesthetics...... 49 3.12 Environmental Protection, Mitigation and Enhancement Plans ...... 50

4.0 FLOW REGIME INFORMATION...... 51

5.0 EXISTING DATA OR STUDIES...... 65

6.0 IMPACTS, ISSUES AND PROPOSED STUDIES ...... 66

7.0 LITERATURE CITED ...... 67

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1.2-1: TLP Process Plan for King Mill Project ...... 3 Table 1.3-1: Document Distribution for the King Mill Relicensing ...... 6 Table 3.4-1: Common Fish Species Found in the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal...... 25 Table 3.7-1: Monthly and Annual Flow in the Savannah River at the Augusta Diversion Dam...... 35 Table 3.7-2: Nonconsumptive Water Users on the Augusta Canal...... 36

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.4-1: Traditional Licensing Process Flow Chart...... 10 Figure 3.1-1: King Mill Project Location ...... 17 Figure 3.3-1: National Wetlands Inventory Map for King Mill and Environs...... 20 Figure 4.0-1: January Flow Duration Curve...... 52 Figure 4.0-2: February Flow Duration Curve...... 53 Figure 4.0-3: March Flow Duration Curve...... 54 Figure 4.0-4: April Flow Duration Curve...... 55 Figure 4.0-5: May Flow Duration Curve...... 56 Figure 4.0-6: June Flow Duration Curve...... 57 Figure 4.0-7: July Flow Duration Curve...... 58 Figure 4.0-8: August Flow Duration Curve...... 59 Figure 4.0-9: September Flow Duration Curve ...... 60 Figure 4.0-10: October Flow Duration Curve ...... 61 Figure 4.0-11: November Flow Duration Curve ...... 62 Figure 4.0-12: December Flow Duration Curve...... 63 Figure 4.0-13: Annual Flow Duration Curve...... 64

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A: Distribution List...... A-1 Appendix B: Consultation Record...... B-1 Appendix C: Project Photos ...... C-1

VOLUME II (under separate cover)

Exhibit F: Project Structures Contains CEII – Do Not Release (Being Filed with FERC Only)

06/30/06 – CLB 1438-001-90-02 J:\1438\001\Docs\ICD\King Mill ICD Volume I 2006-06-30.doc

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AUGUSTA CANAL AUTHORITY AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

INITIAL CONSULTATION DOCUMENT FOR THE KING MILL PROJECT (FERC PROJECT NO. 9988)

VOLUME I OF II

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This Initial Consultation Document has been prepared in accordance with Section 16.8 of FERC’s regulations and is designed to present all existing project data, resource descriptions, and plans to conduct studies for the consideration of federal, state, and local resource agencies, as well as other interested parties. This document is the first step in a three step process required to obtain a new operating license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. After reviewing the document, agencies and other interested parties will be requested to provide the Augusta Canal Authority with a list of additional studies that should be conducted during the following second phase of consultation. The results of these studies are then typically presented to agencies and interested parties in the Draft Application (Second Stage Consultation) for review and comment. The third stage of consultation is typically reserved for performing any additional follow-up studies and revisions to the license application based upon comments provided by agencies and interested parties on the draft application. The final application has to be filed with FERC and agencies at least two years prior to expiration of the existing license.

The King Mill Project is licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as Project Number 9988. It is an existing, licensed facility owned the Augusta Canal Authority (Authority) and operated by Standard Textile Augusta under an Operations Agreement with the Authority dated May 30, 2001. The project is located wholly within Richmond County, Augusta, Georgia.

On June 29, 1989, the FERC issued a major license for the continued operation and maintenance of the King Mill Project to Spartan Mills, then owner of the Project. The license expires on May 31, 2009. The license was transferred to the Augusta Canal Authority on February 15, 2002. On April 30, 2004, the Authority filed a Notice of Intent (NOI) to file an

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application for a new license, pursuant to Section 15(b) (1) of the Federal Power Act (FPA). The Authority intends to use the Traditional Licensing Process (TLP) as described above, for this effort.

King Mill was constructed between 1882 and 1884, and is located on the Augusta Canal in the City of Augusta, Georgia. It is surrounded by industrial development and in close proximity to three additional FERC projects on the Canal: Augusta Canal Project (FERC No. 11910); Sibley Mill Project (FERC No. 5044), and Enterprise Mill Project (FERC No. 2935).

In 1945, the existing hydromechanical power was converted to hydroelectrical power and the King Mill was electrified. The King Mill Project is a run of river facility using approximately 890 cfs of water from the Augusta Canal. There are two hydroelectric generating units with a combined rated capacity of 2.25 MW and an average annual generation of 13.5 million kWh. The powerhouse contains two Morgan Smith Units with a total head of 32 feet. No dam, dike or reservoir exists at this project. The project withdraws water directly from the Augusta Canal and discharges it into the Savannah River. Water withdrawal from the Augusta Canal is coordinated with the City of Augusta’s Diversion Dam (FERC No. 11810).

The project encompasses less than one acre of land. Almost 100 percent of project lands are occupied by project works. The tailrace area is the only landscape within the project boundary that is watered. The tailrace is approximately 435 feet long.

The project operates within the constraints of the existing license in order to produce power, as well as for the protection of environmental resources and recreational use. The power generated by the King Mill Project is utilized at the mill for ongoing textile operations.

Recently, the Augusta Canal, Sibley Mill, and Enterprise Mill Projects are located in close proximity to the King Mill Project and have recently undergone relicensing efforts. Much of the material presented here is a result of those efforts.

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DEFINITIONS OF TERMS, ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

ADD Augusta Diversion Dam APE Area of Potential Effect Authority Augusta Canal Authority BMI Benthic macroinvertebrate CFR Code of Federal Regulations cfs Cubic feet per second Commission Federal Energy Regulatory Commission CWA Clean Water Act DEA Draft Environmental Assessment DO Dissolved oxygen DOE U.S. Department of Energy DOI U.S. Department of Interior EA Environmental Assessment EL Elevation EPACT Energy Policy Act of 2005 ESA Endangered Species Act FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission FOIA Freedom of Information Act FPA Federal Power Act FWCA Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act GA Georgia GADNR Georgia Department of Natural Resources GAEPD Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division GIS Geographic Information Systems HPMP Historic Properties Management Plan HUC Hydrologic Assessment Unit ICD Initial Consultation Document Interested Entities The broad group of individuals and entities that have an interest in a proceeding JST Project J. Strom Thurmond Project kW Kilowatt kWh Kilowatt hour License Application Application for New License submitted to FERC no less than two years in advance of expiration of an existing license. Licensee Augusta Canal Authority MW Megawatt MWh Megawatt hour NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NGO Non-governmental organization NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NOAA Fisheries National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration National Marine Fisheries Service NOI Notice of Intent NPS National Park Service NRHP National Historic Preservation Act NWI National Wetlands Inventory PM&E Protection, Mitigation and Enhancement Measures PRF Public Reference File Project FERC Project No. 9988, King Mill Project Area The area within the FERC Project Boundary.

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DEFINITIONS OF TERMS, ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Project Vicinity The general area in which the Project is located. RCUSFWS Richmond County Ecological Services Office of the USFWS Relicensing The process of acquiring a new FERC license for an existing hydroelectric project prior to expiration of the existing FERC license. Relicensing Participants Individuals and entities that are actively participating in a proceeding RM River Mile RTE Species Rare, threatened, endangered and special status species, which for purposes of this ICD is defined to include all species (plant and animal) listed, proposed for listing, or candidates for listing under the Federal and state Endangered Species Acts and those listed by the USFWS as sensitive, special status or watch list. Run-of-the-river A hydroelectric project that uses the flow of a stream with little or no reservoir capacity for storing water. SCDEHEC South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control SCDNR South Carolina Department of Natural Resources SCORP State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan SD Scoping Document. A document prepared by FERC as part of NEPA environmental review that initially identifies issues pertinent to FERC’s review of a project. Service List A list maintained by FERC of parties who have formally intervened in a proceeding. Once FERC establishes a Service List, any documents filed with FERC must also be sent to the Service List. SHPO State Historic Preservation Officer TCP Traditional Cultural Property THPO Tribal Historic Preservation Officer TLP Traditional Licensing Process USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture USEPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency USFS U.S. Forest Service USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service USGS U.S. Geological Survey WQC Water Quality Certificate

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AUGUSTA CANAL AUTHORITY AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

INITIAL CONSULTATION DOCUMENT FOR THE KING MILL PROJECT (FERC PROJECT NO. 9988)

VOLUME I

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The King Mill Project (FERC No. 9988) is an existing, licensed facility owned by the Augusta Canal Authority (Authority or Licensee) and operated by Standard Textile. The project is located wholly within Richmond County, Augusta Georgia.

On June 29, 1989, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a major license for continued operation and maintenance of the King Mill Project to Spartan Mills, former owner of the project. The license expires on May 31, 2009. On February 15, 2002, the license was transferred to the Augusta Canal Authority. On April 30, 2004, the Authority filed a Notice of Intent (NOI) to file an application for a new license, pursuant to section 15(b) (1) of the Federal Power Act (FPA). The Licensee intends to use the Traditional Licensing Process (TLP) for this effort.

The Authority distributed this Initial Consultation Document (ICD) to Federal and state resource agencies, local governments, Native American tribes, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and others likely to be interested in the licensing of the Project. The distribution list for the ICD is contained in Appendix A.

The purpose of the ICD is to provide participants in this relicensing proceeding a summary of the available information necessary to identify project issues and related information needs; develop study requests and study plans to address project related issues; and prepare documents analyzing the Authority’s Application for New License (License Application) that will be filed with FERC on or before May 31, 2009. The ICD is a precursor to the environmental analysis sections of the License Application and to FERC’s Scoping documents and Environmental Assessment (EA) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

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The ICD provides the Relicensing Participants and Interested Entities with summaries of existing, relevant, and reasonably available information related to the project that is in the Licensee’s possession or that the Licensee obtained through the exercise of due diligence of publicly available information. The Authority exercised due diligence in obtaining existing, relevant, and reasonably available information by contacting appropriate resource agencies and others potentially having relevant information. No tribal interests have been identified.

The Authority also conducted searches of publicly available databases and its own records. The list of information on which the Licensee has relied to prepare the ICD is provided in Section 7.0. Should reviewers of this document know of additional existing, relevant, and reasonably available information, they are asked to provide the Licensee with that information or inform the Licensee of how to obtain it. The Authority will provide any entity so requesting with an electronic copy of the sources of information listed in Section 7.0, if available, within 20 days from the receipt of the request. Hard copies of documents are also available upon request. However, electronic copies are the preferred method of information dissemination.

Various entities have collected recent resource data in the Project Area and/or Project Vicinity in support of other nearby relicensings. The Authority believes the existing information to be sufficient for this relicensing and has not identified additional or more recent data to be necessary (Section 6.0).

1.1 General Description of the Project Area

The King Mill Project is a run of river facility utilizing approximately 890 cfs of water from the adjacent Augusta Canal. The facility consists of two hydroelectric generating units with a combined rated capacity of 2,250 KW and an annual average generation of 13.5 million kWh. The reinforced concrete powerhouse contains two Morgan Smith units, installed in 1922. The total head for the units is 32 feet. No dam, dike or reservoir exists at this project. The dam on the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal are owned, operated and maintained by the City of Augusta and are not covered by this project.

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1.2 Plans, Schedule, and Protocols

1.2.1 Process Plan and Schedule through Filing of License Application

The Authority developed the Process Plan and Schedule in accordance with the timeframes set forth in 18 CFR Part 5, Part 16.8, and an NOI filing date of April 30, 2004. The Process Plan and Schedule outlines principle actions in the relicensing process through filing of the License Application. As noted, the Authority intends to use the TLP. A Process Plan and Schedule is described in Table 1.2-1.

Table 1.2-1: TLP Process Plan for King Mill Project

ACTIVITY WEEK OF Submit ICD for Agency Review July 10, 2006 Joint Agency/Public Meeting August 14, 2006 Resource Agency Study Requests Due October 23, 2006 Draft License Application for Agency Review December 16, 2006 Deadline for Agency Comments on Draft Application March 17, 2007 Final License Application for Filing May 29, 2007 Filing of License Application with FERC May 31, 2007

1.3 Proposed Communications Protocol

The Authority will maintain a record of the entire relicensing process including any information received from the interested entities as well as records of communications. Meeting minutes will be available to all participants of said meetings, and available upon request for review and copying to other parties. Mr. Dayton Sherrouse, Executive Director for the Authority will be the lead contact for the relicensing. Mr. Dayton Sherrouse, Executive Director, 1450 Greene Street, Suite 400, Augusta, GA 30901.

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1.3.1 Mailing Lists

There are two categories of participation in the FERC relicensing process and each requires a different notification procedure or a variation in frequency and type of communication. Interested Entities can represent a broad group of individuals and governmental and non-governmental entities that have an interest in the relicensing process. The Authority will maintain a King Mill Relicensing Mailing List of all Interested Entities. The list will include both standard Post Office addresses and available email addresses for distributing notices and documents for public review. Table 1.3-1 provides a list of the information that will be distributed to Interested Entities.

Relicensing Participants are a subset of Interested Entities. Relicensing Participants are the individuals and entities that are actively participating in all phases of the relicensing proceeding. Any Interested Party may choose to be a Relicensing Participant. Relicensing Participants generally receive additional communications relative to the specific activity or function. Table 1.3-1 also indicates the additional information that will be distributed to Relicensing Participants.

After the Authority files its License Application on May 31, 2007, FERC will establish an official Service List for parties who have formally intervened in the proceeding. Intervention is a formal legal process in the FERC regulations, which preserves an individual or entity’s ability to participate in reconsideration or appeals of a Commission decision on the license application. Once the License Application has been filed, FERC will publish a notice with regard to the deadline for filing a motion to intervene. Additional information maybe found on FERC’s Website at www.ferc.gov. Once FERC establishes a Service List, any written documents filed with FERC by any entity must also be sent to everyone on the Service List. A Certificate of Service must be included with the document filed with FERC.

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1.3.2 Relicensing Files

The Authority will maintain a Public Reference File (PRF) of all relicensing material at its offices at 1450 Greene Street, Suite 400, Augusta, GA, 30901. Requests to review relicensing materials should be directed to the attention of Mr. Dayton Sherrouse, Executive Director, at the address above.

The files will contain a listing of important materials pertaining to the relicensing process. This includes background reference material as well as the consultation record, all relevant studies and data collected during the development of the Initial Consultation Document, meeting summaries, notices, reports, and other pertinent project documents such as the current FERC license. Hard copies of all documents are available for review and copying upon request as described above. Unless exempted by regulation (e.g., certain natural resource agencies or relevant documents), a per page service fee of $0.25 will be applicable for paper copies. Postage and/or shipping charges are also applicable.

1.3.3 Restricted Documents

As a result of security regulations enacted after September 11, 2001, project documents related to the design and safety of dams and appurtenant facilities, and that are necessary to protect national security and public safety (“Critical Energy Infrastructure Information” or “CEII”), are restricted from public distribution or viewing (see 18 CFR §388.113). Anyone seeking to view CEII must file a CEII request with FERC. FERC’s website at www.ferc.gov/help/how-to/file-ceii.asp contains additional details related to CEII.

Information related to the location of significant historic and archaeological resources is also protected under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NRHP). Anyone seeking to view protected historic and archaeological information must file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with FERC. Instructions for FOIA are available on FERC’s website at http://www.ferc.gov/help/how-to/foia-request.asp.

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1.3.4 Communications Protocols

1.3.4.1 Document Distribution

The Authority will distribute, whenever possible, all documents electronically in standard MS Word format or PDF. The Authority may distribute hard copies of some documents for convenience or by request as outlined above. Distribution of information will follow the guidelines presented below (Table 1.3-1).

Table 1.3-1: Document Distribution for the King Mill Relicensing

DOCUMENT METHOD DISTRIBUTION Public Meeting Notices Initial meetings by U.S. Public and all Interested Mail, Newspapers. Entities Thereafter by email, and/or newspaper Meeting Agendas Email Interested Entities Meeting Summaries Email Attending Interested Entities

Process Plan & Schedule Email Interested Entities Major Documents: ICD, FERC Scoping Email and/or CD-ROM Notice of availability by Documents, Proposed Study Plans, email to Interested Study Reports, Draft license Entities Application, etc. Draft Documents: Draft Study Plans, Draft Email and/or CD-ROM Relicensing Participants Study Reports, etc. only ICD support documents Email Notice of availability by email to Interested Entities FERC License and related documents Email Notice of availability by email to Interested Entities Written Communications Email Notice of availability by email to Interested Entities

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1.3.4.2 Providing Documents to Augusta Canal Authority

The Authority prefers to receive all documents electronically in either PDF or an appropriate MS Office format. Electronic documents may be sent to Mr. Dayton Sherrouse at [email protected] and copied to [email protected]. Hard copy documents may be mailed to Mr. Dayton Sherrouse, Executive Director, Augusta Canal Authority, 1450 Greene Street, Suite 400, Augusta, GA 30901, and copies mailed to Alan Stuart, Project Manager, Kleinschmidt Associates, 101 Trade Zone Drive, Suite 21A, West Columbia, SC, 29170. In either case, all documents received will become part of the consultation record for the relicensing process and will be included in the Public Reference File. As noted above, such documents are available for distribution to the public.

1.3.4.3 Meetings

The Authority recognizes that there are a number of individuals or groups that may want to participate in the process, including agencies, NGOs, and other individuals. The Authority will work with local Relicensing Participants and, where appropriate, Interested Entities to develop schedules and to hold meetings at convenient locations and times. In general, the Authority will schedule meetings between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at their facilities in Augusta.

In most cases, Authority will notify Interested Entities by electronic mail at least two weeks in advance of any meetings. Notices of meetings also will include a meeting agenda. The Authority also will distribute any documents, summaries or other information that will be the subject of meeting discussions. There may be some circumstances in which it will be necessary to schedule a meeting upon short notice. In those cases, the Authority will provide as much notice as practical.

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1.3.4.4 Study Requests

A number of studies at nearby hydroelectric projects on the canal have recently been conducted. The Authority believes that for the most part the results of those studies comprehensively address the impacts of continued project operation on all potentially affected power and non- power resources.

1. The Commission’s regulations provide participants with an opportunity to file information gathering and study requests; however, the regulations are very specific in that they require any such requests address seven criteria. See 18 C.F.R. §5.9.

A copy of completed draft study requests submitted to FERC may be emailed in MS Word or PDF format to [email protected] or mailed to Mr. Dayton Sherrouse, Executive Director, Augusta Canal Authority, 1450 Greene Street, Suite 400, Augusta, GA 30901 with copies to Alan Stuart, Project Manager, Kleinschmidt Associates, 101Trade Zone Drive, Suite 21A, West Columbia, SC, 29170.

As noted above, a significant amount of information regarding the Project’s effects on potentially affected resources already has been obtained or developed and that information is described herein. The Authority believes that the information already gathered combined with its proposals to collect additional information in certain instances will provide FERC with sufficient information to inform the development of license requirements and allow FERC to meet its obligations under the FPA and the NEPA.

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1.4 Licensing Process Flow Chart

The following flow chart details the TLP. The following chart is publicly available on the FERC website and has not been updated since passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPACT). If reviewers of this document would like additional details relative to this process please see http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h109-6.

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Figure 1.4-1: Traditional Licensing Process Flow Chart

(Source: FERC Relicensing Handbook, 2005)

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2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

The King Mill Project (Project) is a 2.25 MW licensed hydroelectric facility located on the Augusta Canal in Augusta, Georgia. The project occupies lands in Richmond County and is owned by the Augusta Canal Authority (Authority or Licensee) and operated by Standard Textile. The Project is currently licensed by the FERC as Project No. 9988 and the present license is due to expire May 31, 2009.

The King Mill Project consists of the headrace, the powerhouse and the tailrace. It was constructed in 1881 and originally utilized hydro mechanical power to manufacture textiles. Generators were added at a later date and the project was converted to hydroelectric power. It has been in continuous operation except for a two-month period in May-June 2001, when creditors closed down owner Spartan International on May 4, 2001. The Augusta Canal Authority purchased the property and project on May 30, 2001 and simultaneously executed a lease of the property and an operations agreement for the hydroelectric project with Standard Textile of Augusta. Standard reopened the mill and resumed production of textiles and operation of the hydroelectric plant. The license for the project was transferred to the Augusta Canal Authority by FERC Order on February 15, 2002.

2.1 Generators

2.1.1 Number and Capacity

The facility consists of two hydroelectric generating units with a combined rated capacity of 2.25 MW and the description of each unit is as follows:

Generator 1 (Large Unit):

• GE generator (1944), horizontally mounted • 600 volts, 1500 KVA, 200 rpm, DC excitation with belt drive to manual rheostat

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Generator 2 (Small Unit):

• GE generator (1944), horizontally mounted • 600 volts, 750 KVA, 200 rpm, DC excitation with belt drive to manual rheostat

2.1.2 Provisions for Future Units

The stator for Unit #2 has recently been reconfigured to bring it back to its nameplate capacity (750kW). Additionally the necessary improvements required by Georgia Power for connection to the grid are being completed. Anticipated completion date of these improvements is May 1, 2007.

2.2 Turbines

The Project powerhouse contains two turbines manufactured by S. M. Smith. The turbines operate with a 32 foot net head, drawing approximately 881 cfs of water from the Augusta Canal. Nameplate data for each unit is as follows:

Turbine 1 (Large Unit):

• S.M. Smith horizontally mounted turbine, installed in 1922 • 43 inch type Q, double runner rated at 1,835 hp

Turbine 2 (Small Unit):

• S.M. Smith horizontally mounted turbine, installed in 1922 • 43 inch type Q, single runner rated at 917 hp

2.3 Project Operation

The Project withdraws water directly from the Augusta Canal, which is coordinated with the City of Augusta (FERC No. 11810), and discharges it directly into the Savannah River. The City controls the amount of flow into the Augusta Canal and therefore the amount of water delivered to the King Mill Project, however river flow on

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the Savannah River that is available for the canal is controlled by releases from three United States Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) projects located upstream. of the Augusta Diversion Dam (ADD). Currently all of the power generated by the King Mill Project is used in manufacturing. This hydroelectric facility utilizes flows up to approximately 890 cfs from the Augusta Canal as its primary energy source. The project is presently in operation generating power for the manufacture of textiles Monday through Friday. The project is currently not in operation on weekends.

The current plan is to maximize the hydroelectric generation by operating the hydroelectric plant seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day and sell the excess generated power to the Georgia Power Company.

2.4 Average Annual Energy Production

The nameplate capacity of the King Mill Project is 2.25 MW. Maximum gross production would be 19,710,000 kWh. However, because Standard Textile does not currently operate on weekends or during shutdowns, annual production is based on 6,000 hours per year and is approximately 13.5 million kWh.

2.5 Estimated Average Net Head

Water is withdrawn from the Augusta Canal and released to the Savannah River via the project tailrace. The normal net head is 32 feet at a design flow of 881 cfs.

2.6 Impoundment Surface Area and Storage Capacity

The King Mill Project has no dam or impoundment or storage capacity. Water is withdrawn from the Augusta Canal.

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2.7 Project Structures

2.7.1 Intake

The project works consist of a headgate and intake structure approximately 50 feet long and 15 feet high, located on the east bank of the City-owned Augusta Canal. The intake structure is of brick masonry construction and is located on the north side of the Augusta Canal. Water from the Augusta Canal is conveyed to the project through an open intake structure of approximately 250 feet in length. The water is returned to the Savannah River through an open tailrace.

2.7.2 Headrace

The project supports a concrete lined, masonry open flume headrace, approximately 200 feet long and 40 feet wide.

2.7.3 Powerhouse

The powerhouse is of brick and masonry construction containing the two generating units and a tailrace excavated in rock approximately 435 feet long and 30 feet wide. 2.7.4 Transmission Facilities

The Project transmission facilities include generator leads for each of the units. Georgia Power Company maintains a small substation on-site..

2.7.5 Appurtenant Facilities

Appurtenant facilities at the King Mill Project are limited to that electrical equipment needed to safely operate the project.

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2.8 Project Boundary

Under the current license, no project boundary exists (FERC 2005).

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3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

3.1 Environmental Setting

The King Mill Project (FERC No. 9988) is located on the Augusta Canal and the Savannah River in the city of Augusta, Georgia (Figure 3.1-1).

The Savannah River Basin is located in the southeastern United States and has a total area of 10,577 square miles, including 5,821 square miles in eastern Georgia. The River forms the border between South Carolina and Georgia and begins at the confluence of the Seneca and Tugaloo Rivers. It flows southeast approximately 300 miles to the Atlantic Ocean at Savannah, Georgia. The King Mill Project is located in the lower portion of the Savannah River Basin (FERC, 2005).

The Savannah River is fed by many moderate-sized tributaries including the three major tributaries to the Savannah River in Georgia: the Broad and Little Rivers and Brier Creek. The major impoundments in the Savannah River Basin are the ACOE’s Hartwell Project (56,000 acres), Richard B. Russell Project (26,000 acres), and J. Strom Thurmond Project (70,000 acres).

A portion of the Savannah River is diverted at the Augusta Diversion Dam into the Augusta Canal. The Augusta Canal is approximately ten miles long, runs parallel to the Savannah River, and has three levels. The first level of the Canal, the only level still used for power generation, is approximately seven miles long and extends from the Canal Headgates to the Thirteenth Street Gatehouse, near downtown Augusta (FERC, 2005). The second and third levels of the Canal comprise approximately three miles but are not navigable (Augusta Canal, 2006). Water is returned to the Savannah River at various points along the length of the Canal, including the Augusta Raw Water Pumping Station, which has the single largest return; Long Gate Spillway and Tin House Gates via Rae’s Creek; and at the King, Sibley (FERC No. 5044), and Enterprise (FERC No. 2935) Mills (FERC, 2005).

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Figure 3.1-1: King Mill Project Location

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3.2 Botanical Resources

A variety of vegetative types, terrestrial habitats, and land uses exist in the vicinity of the Project, comprised of the Augusta Canal National Historic Area, including hardwood forests, pine stands, pasture/maintained areas, and wetlands, primarily located upstream of the project on the shores of the Augusta Canal and the Savannah River. Urbanized development occurs within the immediate vicinity of the Project, including residences, industries, municipal facilities, and commercial properties (FERC, 2005). This development limits the diversity and prevalence of botanical resources at the Project (Avondale, 2001). The Augusta, Georgia metropolitan area is the dominant influence upon land use and habitat availability in the Project area (FERC, 2005).

In general, a forested area to the northeast, bordering the Savannah River, consists of bottomland and riparian species such as river birch, water oak, sycamore, and red maple, with several isolated areas of bald cypress. Also present in the area is a mixed hardwood forest considered within the bluff community type, including red mulberry, sweetgum, yellow poplar, various oaks and hickories, American holly, hophornbeam, ironwood, sugarberry, and swamp chestnut oak (FERC, 2005).

Within the vicinity of the Project, the Canal levee bordering the Savannah River is the most heavily vegetated area. Mixed bottomland hardwoods in the area are composed of cottonwood, sycamore, willow, river birch, American elm, white oak and water oak. Common sub-canopy species include yellow Jessamine, dogwood and cane. Lands at the Project are limited to disturbed areas containing various grasses, shrubs, vines and other herbaceous species (Avondale, 2001).

Aquatic plant species occurring in the Augusta Canal include elodea, Eurasian milfoil and pondweed (Avondale, 2001).

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3.3 Wetlands and Riparian Habitats

National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps were consulted to verify that no wetlands were present within or adjacent to the King Mill Project (See Figure 3.3-1). NWI maps indicate several wetlands in the Project Vicinity, however (USFWS, 2004b). Wetlands in the Project Vicinity are predominantly emergent, shrub/scrub, and forested wetlands. Wetland areas are more numerous along the upper portion of the western side of the Canal, upstream of the Project, but are less common along other portions of the Canal, including adjacent to the Project and adjacent to the Savannah River Shoals, to which the Project discharges (FERC, 2005). The riparian areas immediately adjacent to the Augusta Canal are typically forested downstream of the Augusta Raw Water Pumping Station but transition to maintained, grassy areas downstream of the Eve Street Bridge, which is located just upstream of the Project (FERC, 2005).

However, according to the USFWS, projects along the Augusta Canal are integrally linked and the cumulative withdrawal of water by these projects has effects on instream flows within the Canal and bypassed reaches of the Savannah River. Low flows can adversely affect the aquatic, riparian and floodplain resources of the Canal (USFWS, 2004a).

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Figure 3.3-1: National Wetlands Inventory Map for King Mill and Environs Source: USFWS, 2004b

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3.4 Aquatic Resources

The fisheries resources of the Project Vicinity consist of warm-water and diadromous species. The Augusta Canal, having a more lacustrine or lake-like habitat is home to warm-water, non-migrating species such as largemouth bass and sunfishes. The Savannah River, having a more riverine habitat, is home to several anadromous (salt water dwelling, fresh water spawning), and one catadroumous (fresh water dwelling, salt water spawning) fish species. This section discusses the available aquatic habitats and species present in the Project Vicinity.

3.4.1 Fish Habitat

The Augusta Canal offers a unique aquatic lacustrine-like habitat for warmwater species. The Canal has steep sloped banks with widths up to 150 feet, and water depths up to 11 feet (FERC, 2005). Between 2,400 cfs and 3,500 cfs is diverted from the Savannah River into the Augusta Canal by the Augusta Diversion Dam (Duncan and Eudaly, 2003). The maximum summer flow of the Augusta Diversion Dam is 3,656 cfs (FERC, 2005). Multiple projects further divert water from the Augusta Canal back to the Savannah River. The King Mill Project uses 881 cfs for hydroelectric power generation, from the first level of the Augusta Canal, and releases back into the Savannah River at RM 201.5 (FERC, 2005).

The Savannah River provides a riverine environment for diadromous fish. The Savannah River in the Shoals area, upstream of the Project is the only remaining shoal habitat in the Savannah River with the remainder of the river either impounded or semi-impounded. This area is characterized by pools, runs, and rock outcroppings with a substrate of bedrock boulders and cobbles with some areas of gravels, sand and silt. The section of the Savannah River in the Project vicinity is generally wide, approximately 1,600 feet and shallow, with the Shoals area occupying about 4.5 miles of a nine mile segment between the Augusta Diversion Dam and the downstream New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam

- 21 - King Mill Project Initial Consultation Document headpond (FERC, 2005).

Flows in the Savannah River in the Project vicinity, including the Shoals area, is largely controlled by flow releases from the USACE’s J. Strom Thurmond and Stevens Creek Dams and the diversion of water into the Augusta canal by the Augusta Diversion Dam. Thurmond Dam is operated as a peaking facility having highly variable flow releases on an hourly basis that can range from less than 100 cfs to just over 30,000 cfs. There are typically one or two periods of generation per day on weekdays. Flow releases from the Thurmond Dam are re-regulated in part by the SCE&G Stevens Creek Project, located approximately one mile upstream of the Augusta Diversion Dam (FERC, 2005). Flows ranging from an estimated 2,000 cfs in September and October to 3,500 cfs in March, on average, are released into the Savannah River at the Augusta Diversion Dam (Duncan and Eudaly, 2003). Flows in the Augusta Canal are further diverted back into the Savannah River through various projects along the canal, including the King Mill Project (FERC, 2005).

3.4.2 Resident Fish Species

The Savannah River supports at least 71 fish species representing 17 families including gamefish, panfish, suckers, minnows, and catfish. The fishery of the Canal is somewhat less diverse than the Savannah River, supporting 51 species representing 13 families and exhibits trends similar to those found in the Savannah River (FERC, 2005 and Avondale, 2001). Common fish species found in the Project vicinity include bluegill, yellow perch, largemouth bass, redbreast sunfish, threadfin shad, golden shiner, longnose gar, striped bass, American eel, gizzard shad, chain pickerel, white bass, pickerel, northern hogsucker, brown bullhead, yellow bullhead, redeye bass, white crappie and black crappie. A complete listing of the fish species which occur in the Savannah River and Augusta Canal can be found in Table 3.4-1.

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Anadromous and Catadromous Fish Species

Historically, diadromous fish species have inhabited the Savannah River (Avondale, 2001). The presence of dams on the Savannah River has limited migration of these species. With respect to anadromous species, a study conducted in 1984 reported the presence of a spawning population of blueback herring in the Savannah River and Augusta Canal. Spawning populations of American shad were also reported in the Savannah River upstream to the Augusta Diversion Dam. Small populations of striped bass were found in the Savannah River and a few individual striped bass were discovered in the Augusta Canal, believed to be the result of stocking efforts in upstream reservoirs. The American eel was the only catadromous species reported to be present in the Augusta Canal and the Savannah River (Avondale, 2001).

As stated previously, dams impede the migration of diadromous fish species on the Savannah River. There are three dams which form a full or partial barrier to fish passage up to Thurmond Dam, upstream of the Project. These include the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam, located downstream of the Project, and the Augusta Diversion and Stevens Creek Dams, both of which are located upstream of the Project. However, anadromous fish may pass the downstream New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam through special flow releases from Thurmond dam and operational modifications at the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam (FERC, 2005).

Entrainment

A fish entrainment study was conducted in 1992 for the King Mill Project (Normandeau, 1992). Data was collected at the Project for 36 days between March and November, 1991. Approximately 1,500 fish were collected by entrainment nets during the study period. Based on this, it was estimated that a total 12,606 fish were entrained during the study period. Daily estimates ranged from a low of 186 fish to a high of 615 fish and averaged approximately 350 fish

- 23 - King Mill Project Initial Consultation Document per day, though no obvious trends were noted. Among the species entrained were American, gizzard and threadfin shad, of which the latter constituted the majority of the fish captured by entrainment nets (approximately 35 percent of the total). American shad collected during August, 1991 were not associated with turbine entrainment but were the result of incidental catch. Spottail shiner and other shiners comprised approximately 14 percent of the total. Blueback herring and bluegill comprised approximately 9 percent each of the total catch. Other species collected included darters, bass, sunfish, pickerel, bullhead, and madtoms (Normandeau, 1992).

Because the King Mill operations vary from day to day, depending on gravity flow and water levels in the Augusta Canal and Savannah River, fish entrainment did not appear to be affected by variations in intake discharge. The size of the fish entrained shows that primarily juvenile fish are affected due to the existence of bar screens over the intake. Overall, fish entrainment appeared to primarily be a function of the temporal and spatial distribution of fish in the Augusta Canal rather than plant operations (Normandeau, 1992).

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Table 3.4-1: Common Fish Species Found in the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal (Source: Environmental and Chemical Sciences, 1984, as modified by Kleinschmidt)

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3.5 Wildlife Resources

The Project vicinity provides a variety of wildlife habitats, including pine and hardwood forested areas, open fields, dense undergrowth, and wetlands, primarily upstream of the Project in undeveloped areas of the Augusta Canal and Savannah River (FERC, 2005). Wildlife habitat on project lands is limited by both area and type. The Project lies within the heavily populated Augusta metropolitan area, and wildlife habitats are very limited, primarily industrial, commercial, and residential areas at and adjacent to the Project (FERC, 2005).

Wildlife species in the project area are typical of those that are suited to or are able to adapt to the influence of man upon the environment. Mammals found near the Augusta Canal include white-tailed deer, raccoon, opossum, gray squirrel, cottontail rabbit, and various species of small rodents and bats (Avondale, 2001). Muskrats, otters,

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and the occasional bobcat and alligator have been known to call the Augusta Canal home (Uhles, 2002). Many species of amphibians and reptiles including green tree frogs, bullfrogs, yellow-bellied turtles, musk turtles, pond sliders, fence lizards, green anoles and a variety of snakes, including venomous cottonmouths, can be found near the Canal and the Savannah River (Uhles, 2002; FERC, 2005; Avondale, 2001), Waterfowl and wading birds in the Project Vicinity includes mallards, wood ducks, widgeons, ring- necked ducks, great blue herons, and egrets (Avondale, 2001). Other bird species found in the Project Vicinity include cormorants, field sparrows, chimney swifts, blue jays, mourning doves, purple martins, mockingbirds, kingfishers, woodpeckers, and crows (Avondale, 2001).

Game animals such as white-tailed deer and wild turkey occur within the Project Vicinity, but various City and County ordinances prohibit hunting near populated areas. Likewise, hunting, or any public access, is not allowed at the Project. There are no specific state wildlife management plans or activities (excluding protected species) affecting the lands within the Project vicinity (FERC, 2005).

3.6 Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage Program, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Heritage Trust, and the USFWS have listed several species within Richmond County, Georgia and Aiken County, South Carolina as rare, threatened or endangered or as species (RT&E) of concern at the state and/or federal level. The following primarily discusses those species identified for Richmond County, in which the Project is located.

3.6.1 Fish and Aquatic Species

According to the Richmond County Ecological Services Office of the USFWS (RCUSFWS) and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (GADNR), there are a total of four fish/aquatic species identified as rare, threatened or endangered or as species of concern in

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Richmond County (RCUSFWS, 2004 and GADNR, 2002). None of the species are listed at the federal level. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) also identified two fish species as occurring in the Savannah River. The shortnose sturgeon is listed both at the state level and as a federally endangered species (SCDNR, 2006a). The robust redhorse carries no legal status in South Carolina, but is listed as endangered in Georgia and as a candidate species at the federal level (SCDNR, 2006b).

During consultation for the adjacent Sibley Mill Project, the USFWS confirmed two fish species that could potentially be affected in the vicinity of the Project: shortnose sturgeon and robust redhorse (Avondale, 2001). The shortnose sturgeon is a federally listed species and has not been recently collected upstream of New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam, although this species does occur in the lower Savannah River. Shortnose sturgeon are in the lower Savannah River October through March and spawn mostly in the spring, preferring strong currents over hard substrates upstream of gravel or other river-bed structure. Higher spring flows allow sturgeon access to suitable conditions in river bends and shoals. Sturgeon eggs are adhesive and attach best to gravel but also to other structure of the river bed. After hatching, larval sturgeon float downstream for a day or two before settling back to the bottom and occupying habitats with low flow velocities (FERC, 2005).

A study conducted in support of licensing for the Sibley Mill Project, adjacent to the King Mill Project, determined that although habitat for shortnose sturgeon may be available in the Savannah River near the Project, occurrence in that area is not likely. The New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam has generally impeded potential upstream spawning migration since its construction in 1937 (Avondale, 2001) except during flow conditions in excess of 16,000 cfs (Pers. Correspondence, Prescott Brownell, NOAA Fisheries, March 23, 2004). However, passage for all anadromous species is presently blocked by the Augusta Diversion Dam (Personal Correspondence, Prescott Brownell, NOAA Fisheries, March 23, 2004). As a result, the potential for shortnose sturgeon adults, young

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of year and/or larvae to enter the canal (where they could potentially be impacted by the project through entrainment or impingement) is considered to be unlikely at this time.

The robust redhorse is a federal species of concern and is currently listed as endangered by the state of Georgia. This species was rediscovered in the Savannah River in 1997, and individuals have been periodically collected in the Shoals area of the Savannah River and in the lower Savannah River, downstream of the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam. Robust redhorse spawn over medium-coarse gravel bed sediments from April through June. Persistent low- velocity habitats are essential to enhance survival of early life history stages of robust redhorse, especially during May and June (FERC, 2005).

A study conducted by the Robust Redhorse Conservation Committee in 1995 concluded that the habitat for the robust redhorse is present in the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal. The presence of this species has been documented in the Savannah River between the Augusta Diversion Dam and the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam (Avondale, 2001). An on-site reconnaissance survey of the Augusta Canal was conducted in 2000 (Avondale, 2001). No robust redhorses were discovered and it was determined that the likelihood of the robust redhorse passing from the Savannah River through the Canal levee floodgates was small.

3.6.2 Plants

The GADNR and RCUSFWS listed approximately 11 rare, threatened, or endangered plant species residing in Richmond County, including two federally listed species, the Georgia aster and the sandhill milkvetch (RCUSFWS, 2004 and GADNR, 2004). There are over 50 rare, threatened, or endangered plant species identified as being present in Aiken County, SC. Among these are the federally listed smooth coneflower and relict trillium and the rocky shoals spider lily, which is a candidate species for federal listing (SCDNR, 2006a).

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During relicensing efforts for the Sibley Mill Project, the GADNR and the USFWS identified two listed plant species as having the potential to occur in the vicinity of the Project: the relict trillium and rocky shoals spider lily (Avondale, 2001). The relict trillium is a perennially herb that is typically found in mature, undisturbed hardwood forests with moist soils. The rocky shoals spider lily, also known as the Cahaba lily, is found in large stream and rivers along rocky shoals and bedrock outcroppings which provide anchor points for the plant. It grows best in constantly flowing, clear, shallow waters (Avondale, 2001).

A study of the habitat availability for these species in the Sibley Mill Project area was conducted in 2000. It was determined that the limited lands at the Project and the degree of development within and adjacent to the Project significantly impedes the ability of vegetative species to successfully colonize. Because of the similarities between the Sibley Mill and King Mill Project, it is expected that the habitat suitability for these species at the King Mill Project is similarly not favorable. Furthermore, the depth and velocities of the Sibley Mill Project tailrace are not likely suitable habitat for the rocky shoals spider lily (Avondale, 2001), as would be expected of the King Mill Project. It was concluded that because specific habitat requirements are not present at the Sibley Mill Project, these species are not likely to inhabit Project lands (FERC, 2005). The same is assumed for the King Mill Project.

3.6.3 Wildlife

The GADNR and SCDNR list a total of 23 species of rare, threatened, or endangered wildlife and species of concern as potentially occurring in counties surrounding the project, Richmond and Aiken, including the federally listed bald eagle, red-cockaded woodpecker, and wood stork. Wildlife species were not identified as having the potential to inhabit the Project area (Avondale, 2001). No wildlife species are thought to occupy any of the project lands due to the lack of specialized habitat required by these species, a lack of overall contiguous habitat lands, and the amount of development present within and adjacent to the Project

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(Avondale, 2001). During the relicensing of the Sibley Mill Project, no species were listed by the USFWS or GADNR as potentially or likely impacted by operation of the Project. As such, it is assumed that no rare, threatened, or endangered wildlife or species of concern inhabit the King Mill Project area.

3.7 Water Resources

3.7.1 Water Quality

In Augusta, the Savannah River forms the border between South Carolina and Georgia. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) classifies the Savannah River as “freshwater”, which it defines as (SCDHEC, 1996):

“Suitable for primary and secondary contact recreation, fishing and propagation of balanced biological community of flora and fauna, industrial agricultural uses and a source of potable water supply after conventional treatment.”

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) classifies the Savannah River at Augusta as “drinking water supplies”, which it defines as (GAEPD, 1998):

“Those waters approved as a source for public drinking water systems permitted or to be permitted by the Environmental Protection Division. Waters classified for drinking water supplies will also support the fishing use and any other use requiring water of a lower quality.”

SCDHEC’s 1996 305(b) report, submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that use standards for this portion of the river are generally maintained. GAEPD’s 1998 305(b) report indicates that the Savannah River in Augusta partially supports designated uses, due to the low

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levels of dissolved oxygen and the presence of fish consumption advisories. According to this report, the low DO levels are due primarily to the operation of the JST Project, and fish consumption advisories are due in part to natural occurrences of mercury.

The most recent water quality information available for the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal is summarized in the License Application for the Sibley Mill Project (Kleinschmidt, 2001, page E-6):

“Water quality in the Savannah River near the Sibley Mill Project is greatly affected by operation of the upstream ACOE’s J. Strom Thurmond Project (JST). Several studies have attributed seasonal low dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in the Savannah River to hypolimnetic (deep-water) releases from JST (SCE&G, 1991; FERC, 1996; GAEPD, 1998; GADNR, 1998b). During summer months, DO levels in waters discharged from JST into the Savannah River can be as low as < 0.5 mg/l. As the waters flow downstream, air is naturally entrained and DO levels rise, but DO levels are often below state standards during the summer months. The ACOE is investigating the potential to install and operate a DO injection system in the lower portion of JST Lake to increase the amount of available fisheries habitat in the lake (ACOE, 2000). The ACOE indicated that operation of the injection system would potentially increase DO levels in the Savannah River below JST by approximately 3 mg/l

Water from the Savannah River is diverted by the ADD to the Augusta Canal. Water quality data for the Canal is available from previous fish composition and entrainment studies performed on the Canal (ECS 1984 and NAI 1992) and from a more recent 1996-1997 GADNR study (GADNR, 1998b). Data obtained from these sources indicates that DO levels in the Canal occasionally fall below the state standards of 4.0

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mg/L (instantaneous) and 5.0 mg/L (daily average). As mentioned above, these seasonally low DO levels are attributed to releases from Thurmond Dam.”

3.7.2 Water Quantity

Water flow in the Augusta Canal is controlled by the Augusta Diversion Dam (ADD), which regulates flow from the Savannah River to the Augusta Canal. Flow on the Savannah River is, in turn, controlled by three ACOE projects upstream: JST Project, Hartwell Project, and Russell Project. The ACOE projects were constructed to provide flood control, recreation and hydroelectric power. These projects are operated to hold high runoff in the springtime and release it more uniformly over the year, thereby significantly altering the natural seasonal flow of the Savannah River. As a result, flows on the River downstream of the projects are more uniform on a seasonal basis, but vary widely on an hourly and daily basis.

Water flow in the Augusta Canal is determined primarily by the operation of the J. Strom Thurmond Project and reregulation by SCE&G’s Stevens Creek Project (FERC No. 2535). Flow releases from the J. Strom Thurmond Project are planned on a week to week basis, determined by reservoir levels, hydrologic forecast, power generation needs, sales agreements, and other factors. Flows vary hourly and can range from roughly 100 to 30,000 cfs. Typically, there are one to two generation periods per weekday.

Flow releases from the J. Strom Thurmond Project are modified somewhat by the SCE&G Stevens Creek Project, located approximately one mile upstream of the Augusta Diversion Dam. The Stevens Creek Project operates to minimize pool fluctuations in its reservoir, and to discharge a continuous flow in response to the weekly release projections of the J. Strom Thurmond Project.

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The reach of the Savannah River that is bypassed by the Augusta Canal begins at the ADD and extends to the tailrace of the Enterprise Mill. The Shoals and the navigation pool of the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam are contained within this reach. Flows in the bypassed reach are influenced largely by upstream reservoir operations, diversions into the Augusta Canal, and low-flow conditions.

Water that is diverted into the Augusta Canal at the Augusta Diversion Dam is returned to the Savannah River at various locations along the canal, including the Augusta Raw Water Pumping Station, Long Gate Spillway and Tin House Gates via Rae’s Creek, and at the Sibley, King and Enterprise Mills. The raw water intakes for the Augusta-Richmond County Water System are located in the canal approximately 3.5 miles downstream of the Diversion Dam. During peak summer demand, up to 1,221 cfs are diverted to power hydromechanical turbine pumps, and then is returned to the Savannah River through the plant’s tailrace.1

FERC (2005, pg 38), provides a summary of remaining water diversions from the Canal:

“Sibley Mill diverts 1,024 cfs from the First Level Canal into the turbine-generators and releases the flow into the Savannah River at RM 201.7. King Mill uses 881 cfs for hydroelectric power generation, also from the First Level Canal, and releases into the Savannah River at RM 201.5. Finally, Enterprise Mill diverts approximately 560 cfs from the First Level Canal, generates hydroelectric power, and releases the flow into the Third Level Canal. The flow remaining in the Canal after the Enterprise Mill intakes passes into the Second Level Canal at Walton Way and Thirteenth Street. The Second Level Canal flow then passes into the Third Level Canal. The entire flow from the

1 The City of Augusta plans to upgrade its existing hydromechanical units, which would increase peak summer water intake from 1,221 cfs to 1,628 cfs in 2015 (FERC, 2005).

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Third Level Canal then crosses under Broad Street at 15th Street and discharges through the Hawks Gully gates into the Savannah River at RM 201.1.”

Monthly flow data for the Augusta Canal Project at the Diversion Dam is provided in Table 3.7-1.

Table 3.7-1: Monthly and Annual Flow in the Savannah River at the Augusta Diversion Dam

Reproduced from FERC (2005, pg 36)

During peak usage, the Canal historically operated with a maximum flow of 6,000 cfs, serving 14 entities. Today, the Canal operates with a maximum summer flow of approximately 3,656 cfs and serves three hydropower projects (Table 3.7-2) and the Augusta-Richmond County Water System.

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Table 3.7-2: Nonconsumptive Water Users on the Augusta Canal

WATER INSTALLED ANNUAL RETURN TURBINE OPERATING FACILITY CAPACITY PRODUCTION LOCATION FLOW TIME (%) (KW) (MW) (RM) Sibley Mill 201.7 1,024 2,475 80 17,345 FERC #5044 King Mill 201.5 881 2,050 80 14,366 FERC #9988 201.0 Enterprise Mill (via Hawk’s 560 1,200 80 8,410 FERC #2935 Gully) Reproduced from FERC (2005, page 37)

The City of Augusta, which owns and operates the Augusta Diversion Dam, is currently in the process of licensing the canal including the Diversion Dam. The current flow regime for the Dam and the Augusta Canal may be modified pending the outcome of that relicensing effort. Currently, the City of Augusta and the resource agencies have reached a tentative settlement agreement that will specify minimum flow releases within the bypassed reach. 3.8 Land Use

The Project encompasses less than one acre of land, most of which is developed with project-related structures supporting mill and hydropower operations. There are no public access sites or recreational facilities at the Project. Project operations and maintenance are the primary activities that occur on Project land.

The Project lies wholly within the city of Augusta in Richmond County, Georgia, which is approximately 324 square miles. The Project Vicinity includes Aiken County, South Carolina, which is located across the Savannah River from the Project and encompasses approximately 1,073 square miles. Based on the 2000 US Census, Richmond County ranked 7th out of 159 Georgia Counties for population (U.S. Census, 2006a). An estimated 196,265 individuals resided within Richmond County in 2004, resulting in a population density of 617 individuals per square mile (U.S. Census, 2006).

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The peninsula between the Augusta Canal and Savannah River, on which the Project is located, is largely forested upstream of the Project to the Augusta Raw Water Pumping Station. This area is bisected by the Riverwatch Parkway transportation corridor. Downstream from the Project to the 13th Street Headgates, land use along the Canal changes to urban land consisting of industrial and commercial developments and residential areas (FERC, 2005).

Generalized land use along the western side of the Canal, across from the Project, is primarily urban, transitioning from primarily residential areas near the Augusta Raw Water Pumping Station to a mix of commercial, industrial, and residential areas at the 13th Street Headgates (FERC, 2005).

As discussed in Section 3.11, Historic Period Resources, the Project is located within two overlapping historic districts, the Augusta Canal Industrial District, which is listed on the NRHP, and designated as a National Historic Landmark.

3.8.1 Augusta-Richmond County Zoning Regulations

Richmond County established zoning regulations to “provide for the preparation and amendment of overall plans for the orderly growth and development of municipalities and counties; provide for the regulation of structures on mapped streets, public building sites, and public open spaces; repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes” (Augusta-Richmond County, 2004). To this end, the County has designated the following zoning districts or zones:

• Agricultural Districts, allowing single family residential buildings and structures, lands and associated buildings for agriculture, dairying and ranching, and non-commercial boating facilities.

• Residential Districts for single family, mobile-home, and multi- family zoning provide for private dwellings and limited commercial development such as day care centers, nursing homes, and bed and breakfasts.

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• Professional Districts provide for professional service buildings such as doctor’s offices, banks, and schools but not associated with retail trade.

• Business Districts provide for a range of business uses such as small, community retail operations such as gas stations and grocery stores, larger retail trade operations and services.

• Industrial Districts provides for industrial operations ranging from light industry such as wholesale, storage and warehouse facilities, light manufacturing and auto repair to heavy commercial uses such as manufacturing, chemical plants, petroleum refineries and storage, and tanneries.

The zoning ordinance also identifies as special district classification for the Savannah riverfront, called the Planned Development Riverfront Zone (PDR). The intent of this zone is to “recognizing the value of the Savannah Riverfront as an economic, historic, recreational, and visual resource of tremendous value to the citizens of Augusta and surrounding area and further recognizing it as an area of critical and sensitive environmental concern” (Augusta-Richmond County, 2004). As such, this designation dictates criteria guiding the development or redevelopment of the lands adjoining the Savannah River by (Augusta-Richmond County, 2004, pg. 25-A-1):

• Creating a special Riverfront Development Review Board comprised of persons with an interest or expertise in the orderly development of this resource.

• Limiting land uses to those which will provide the best utilization of the benefits afforded by a riverfront location.

• Insuring that the regulations applicable to the riverfront will be responsive to the dictates of the development economy at a given time.

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• Setting forth sufficient design and development standards and criteria to provide for maximum public benefit from the further development of the riverfront area through a mixture of land uses, the provision and maintenance of public access, elimination or mitigation of negative environmental impact from development, aesthetic controls, and the beneficial coordination of residential, recreational, and commercial utilization of the riverfront lands.

Criteria for development within this district includes specific setback requirements, provisions for public access, and building design and site planning standards. This district generally encompasses lands of the first level of the Augusta Canal, upstream of the Project.

The Augusta Canal is also designated (1996) as Regionally Important Resource (RIR) by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. This designation provides for a review and comment by the Augusta Canal Authority on any government action for property abutting the Augusta Canal. An example of the actions that would trigger the review would include: zoning changes, building permits, demolition permits, applications for land disturbing activities and approval of site plans.

3.9 Recreation

The King Mill Project includes some shoreline property along the Augusta Canal where the intake structure is located and along the Savannah River at the tailrace. It does not encompass any waters of the Augusta Canal or the Savannah River.

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The Augusta Canal is a three-level canal, built in 1845, which diverts water from the Savannah River into downtown Augusta, Georgia. It was designated as a National Heritage Area by the US Congress 1996 (Augusta Canal, 2006). Recreation activities that are popular on and along the Augusta Canal are fishing, wildlife watching, canoeing and kayaking, walking and jogging, historic guided tours aboard the replica Petersburg Boats and bicycling (Augusta Canal, 2006). Popular activities on and along the Savannah River include boating, angling, sightseeing and picnicking (FERC, 2005). The region surrounding the Project, referred to here as the Project Vicinity, includes the greater Augusta area, which had a population of approximately 195,183 in 2000 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2006b).

3.9.1 Recreation Opportunities

There are no recreation facilities on Project lands. As a result, there is no recreational use occurring at the Project. In 1990, FERC recognized that there is no potential for recreational use at the Project and determined that the Project is exempt from FERC Form 80 filings2 (FERC, 1990).

The closest recreation opportunities to the Project are provided by the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, including the Augusta Canal and the Canal Towpath Trail, which runs adjacent to the Canal and crosses over the Project intake structure. There is also an unpaved walking trail along the bank of the Canal, just downstream of the Project. Recreation activities in the immediate vicinity of the Project are very minimal but do include use of the Canal Towpath Trail for jogging, walking and biking, walking along the unpaved bank trail, canoeing and kayaking, and some angling along the dikes of the Canal adjacent to the Project (FERC, 2001).

2 The Licensed Hydropower Development Recreation Report, or FERC Form 80, is schedule describing the public use and access of recreation facilities at a hydroelectric project. Licensees must complete and file with FERC according to a schedule established by FERC, generally every 6 years. In a letter dated March 30, 1990, the FERC concluded that the John P. King Mill Project was exempt from further Form 80 filing as there are no recreational facilities provided at the Project and no potential for recreational use.

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Within the Project vicinity (the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, which includes the Augusta Canal and the Savannah River), there are a multitude of recreation opportunities including water-based activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, and land-based activities, such as hiking, biking, sightseeing, and picnicking.

Non-motorized boating and boats with electric motors are permitted on the Augusta Canal. Carry-in boating access on the canal is provided at Savannah Rapids Park, Riverwatch Parkway Bridge, and at the Augusta Canal Interpretive Center (Augusta Canal, 2006 and FERC, 2005). Approximately one mile upstream of the Project is Lake Olmstead which provides opportunities for boating (motorized and non-motorized), angling, picnicking, and sightseeing (Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2006). Boating access to the Canal is also provided via Lake Olmstead boat ramp which connects to the Canal (FERC, 2005). Swimming is prohibited in the Canal (Uhles, 2002).

Boating in the shoals area of the Savannah River is primarily restricted to non-motorized canoeing and kayaking, primarily due to the depth of the River in this area. Access for canoes and kayaks to the Savannah River is provided from the canal towpath near the Savannah River Pavilion. Motorized boating is available in the river below the shoals and access is provided at the North Augusta boat ramp at Riverview Park. Some Class II-III whitewater boating opportunities are available on the River between Steven’s Creek Dam (access at the Pavilion) and the North Augusta boat ramp at higher water levels, generally between 8,000 and 15,000 cfs (American Whitewater, 2006).

Angling activities on the Augusta Canal occur primarily from shore (FERC, 2001). Carp and other rough fish dominate, though some species of panfish and gamefish such as catfish, bullhead, perch, and pickerel are present (Avondale, 2001). Angling opportunities are also provided by the Savannah River, primarily occurring from shore, and include such species as perch, bass, shad, bullhead and crappie (FERC, 2005).

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There are a multitude of land-based recreational opportunities within the Project vicinity, as well. Opportunities for hiking, picnicking, sightseeing, biking, and other activities are provided by several state, county and municipal parks, historic sites, and trails. Savannah Rapids Park and Pavilion Area, which provides boating and angling access to the headgates of the Canal and the Savannah River, also has picnic tables, a playground, an outdoor pavilion, and is home to the historic canal headgates buildings (Columbia County, 2006). Eisenhower Park, also upstream of the Project approximately 2.5 miles, features playgrounds, sports fields, restrooms, and walking trails (Augusta, Georgia, 2006). Lake Olmstead Park, also known as Julian Smith Park and located on the southern shore of Lake Olmstead, provides athletic fields, trails, picnic facilities, playgrounds and a boat ramp on 113 acres. Chaffee Park, located across from to the King Mill Project, covers nine acres and is currently an open space area primarily used for passive recreation use. An older existing gymnasium that is in a poor state of repair is no longer used by for indoor activities by the Recreation Department (FERC, 2005). Riverview Park is located on the Savannah River in South Carolina and provides bicycling trails, a disc golf course, baseball/softball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, a gymnasium, and a boat ramp (Trail-O-Dex, 2006).

The Augusta Canal Towpath Trail covers approximately 8.5 miles adjacent to the Augusta Canal and also provides access to the Savannah River near the canal headgates (Augusta Canal, 2006). Non-motorized uses such as hiking, walking, jogging and biking are allowed on the trail, though horseback riding is not allowed. The trail also provides sightseeing opportunities and bank access along the Canal and to areas of the Savannah River. The Augusta Canal Mountain Bike Trail spurs off of the Augusta Canal Towpath Trail in the vicinity of Lake Olmstead and provides eight miles of looped, single track, dirt mountain biking trails (Mountain Bike Review, 2006). Camping is allowed along the Augusta Canal with permission from the Augusta Canal Authority (Uhles, 2002).

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The Augusta Canal Authority has recently received a transportation enhancement grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation in the amount of $825,000 that will allow the extension of the multiuse trail (New Bartram Trail) along the Savannah River from the entrance to Waters Edge Drive at 15th Street and connecting back to Lake Olmstead. This trail will cross the tailraces of both the King and Sibley Mill projects with new bridges. Engineering design of this project is nearing completion and should be under construction by late 2006.

3.9.1.1 Recreation Management Plans

Management plans that cover recreation resources within the Project Vicinity include the 2003-2007 Georgia Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) and the Augusta Canal Master Plan. The following summarizes the recreation needs identified in the plans applicable to the Project Vicinity.

3.9.1.2 Georgia Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan

The 2003-2007 SCORP provides an evaluation of existing outdoor recreation opportunities, identifies the outdoor recreation and conservation issues facing the state, and provides state and local government, outdoor recreation providers and the general public guidance with respect to the actions necessary to address these issues. The SCORP does not identify any recreation planning issues or related recommendations that would impact project lands, however, the SCORP has identified greenspace and linkages between greenspace and historic sites as a top priority, which could include the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area.

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3.9.1.3 Augusta Canal Master Plan

In 1993, the Augusta Canal Authority published the Augusta Canal Master Plan (ACMP) for use as a guide for long-term preservation and development of the Canal. The Plan identifies historic preservation, recreation, natural resource conservation, education, and development goals for the Savannah River Impoundment, lands adjacent to the Canal (including Lake Warren and Lake Olmstead) and between the Canal and Savannah River (except in downtown Augusta), and the islands in the Savannah River from Stevens Creek Dam to downtown Augusta. One goal of the Plan is to preserve the island area between the Canal and the Savannah River in a natural state, prohibit motorized access, and allow only low-impact trails, walkways, observation areas, and related support facilities and services (FERC, 2005).

Among the objectives set forth in the Plan are preserving natural settings and habitats such as through “greenway” designations, projects to renovate many of the historic structures associated within the Canal, improve and expand the Canal towpath, improve access to the Canal, and make the Canal a tourist destination. In addition, Plan identifies recreational measures such as carry-in boat launching facilities on the Canal accessible from the Savannah Rapids Pavilion parking lot and in the area of the Raw Water Pumping Station and a carry-over portage from the Canal to a river launch area for access to the Shoals area of the Savannah River.

Recommended projects from the Master Plan that have been completed by the Augusta Canal Authority include:

• Renovation of the 1875 gatehouse and locks; • Stablization of the 1845 lock and related structures; • Renovation of the four historic buildings (lock keepers

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cottage, dance pavilion, barbeque pit and dining shed) at the headgates; • Construction of two replicas of the original Petersburg Boats that are used for historic guided tour; • Constuction of two boat docks for the Petersburg Boats; • Improvements to the canal towpath trail, including extension to connect to the Savannah River at Riverwalk; • Construction of an Interpretive Center in Enterprise Mill; • Canoe and kayak dock launch in the canal at the headgates; and • Staircase from the canal towpath for canoe and kayak access to the river at the canal headgates.

Additional planned enhancements include (FERC, 2005):

• a pedestrian/bike bridge over the Canal (currently under construction); • a boat rental/storage facility, additional parking, walking trails, picnic shelters, public rest rooms, bike storage, a concession building, and information kiosk at the canal headgates; • extension of the Towpath Trail along the 3rd level of the canal; and • Construction of the New Bartram Trail along the Savannah River behind Sibley and King Mill.

While not directly related to nor impacting recreation use at the Project, improvements spear-headed by the Augusta Canal Authority could increase use of the area, thereby, potentially increasing recreational use of the Canal and trails in the vicinity of the Project.

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3.10 Cultural Resources

3.10.1 Historic Period Resources

The upper Savannah River had been the site for a flourishing Native American culture for many centuries prior to the arrival of the Europeans in the early eighteenth century, including the Creek, Chickasaw, and Cherokee tribes (FERC 2005). Augusta is located at the head of navigation for the Savannah River, and by the mid-eighteenth century it served as the point just below the fall line where land traffic could access the river for clear shipping down to Savannah. In the early nineteenth century, as the cultivation of cotton spread throughout the piedmont area of the South, Augusta was an important commercial center for the regional cotton trade. By the 1840s, however, the city was seeing signs of relative decay as a national depression and the western migration of citizens took a toll. With word of the industrial developments that were taking place as a result of the canals in Lowell, Massachusetts, the City of Augusta accepted the ideas of Henry Cumming to develop a seven-mile canal that would draw water from the Savannah River into the heart of the city to provide water power (New Georgia Encyclopedia, 2006).

The King Mill Project, constructed between 1882 and 1884, is intimately connected to and dependent upon this new canal. The Augusta Canal, which is parallel and adjacent to the Savannah River, was one of the few successful industrial canals in the South. Conceived in the early 1840s, the Canal was completed on three levels through the city in 1845. The purpose of the Canal was to provide water power that was suitable for the creation of a mill complex that would, in turn, make Augusta into “the Lowell of the South.” The first factories to be located along the Canal, and which drew its water for power from the Canal, included the Augusta Factory (a massive textile mill) and saw and grist mills completed in 1847. Because of its reputation as one of the South’s few manufacturing centers before the Civil War, the Confederate States of America selected the Augusta Canal as the site for its Powder Works. The Confederate

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Powder Works provided ammunition and materiel for the Confederacy throughout the Civil War.

After the War, during the early years of Reconstruction, the City of Augusta authorized a project to improve the Canal by making it both wider (from 40 to 150 feet) and deeper (from 5 to 11 feet). Engineers who had been associated with the improvements to the Erie Canal in New York State were hired to complete the improvements to the Augusta Canal. These improvements, which were completed in the mid 1870s, along with favorable tax incentives, opened the way for the construction of three new mills: Enterprise Mill (1877), Sibley Mill (1880), and John P. King Mill (1884) (New Georgia Encyclopedia, 2006).

Each of these factories was developed independently, and the John P. King Mill continues to operate independently. The King Mill had its origins in a group of Augusta-based investors, including a New York-based mayor of the city, who created a company and sold one million dollars in stock subscriptions to create the mill. The new mill was located on the first level of the canal adjacent to the Sibley Mill; construction began in 1882, and was completed in 1884, although production of cotton thread was begun in 1883, before the mill was completed. The original product line included unfinished white goods, sheetings, shirtings, and drills (Steiner 1977:2-3).

The mill was constructed with hydromechanical power, using only water from the Augusta Canal. The plant was constructed with headgates that allowed water through flume, using a 32-foot drop to power three vertical Geyelin-type turbines. These turbines powered a single main drive which transmitted power throughout the mill by way of pulleys, belts, shafts, and bevel gears. The plant initially drew 1,046 horsepower from the canal (Steiner 1977:10-11). With such an abundance of inexpensive water power, the King Mill had little incentive to make improvements to its power source, choosing instead to invest in improvements to its manufacturing equipment. Incentive to improve the power supply came not from cost, but first from the need to power an increased number

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of machines and second from the need to overcome the frequently inconsistent supply of power.

In 1896 the mill improved its efficiency by installing three McCormick- type vertical hydromechanical turbines in order to expand its production to a fourth building. In 1913, however, the mill’s owners tried to overcome the frequent work stoppages due to low water by adding an auxiliary steam power plant. Rather than a steam powered electric generator, however, the steam boilers applied the power directly to the jack shaft (Steiner 1977:12).

The mill’s owners only slowly electrified the plant, though they did so at first by using power which they purchased from the Augusta and Aiken Railway Company in 1925 (Steiner 1977:12). It was not until the 1940s that the mill’s directors opted to produce their own electricity. The mill’s hydroelectric equipment was installed in 1945, including a 1300-kVa Canadian General Electric generator (which it acquired used) and a 750-kVa General Electric generator, powered by three horizontal turbines. Two of the turbines, like the hydromechanical wheels which they replaced, were housed in a single casing, while a third was installed separately.

3.10.2 Historic Properties within the Area of Potential Effect

The John P. King Mill, which contains the integrated textile manufacturing plant and the hydroelectric plant, contributes to two distinct yet overlapping historic districts. In 1971, the Augusta Canal Industrial District, located along the west bank to the Savannah River from the Richmond-Columbia county line to 10th and Fenwick Streets in Augusta, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This historic district encompasses 2,250 acres with 15 contributing buildings and two contributing structures. It has multiple periods of significance, including 1825-1849, 1850-1874, 1875-1899, 1900-1924.

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In 1977, the National Park Service identified the Historic Augusta Canal and Industrial District as a National Historic Landmark (NHL). National Historic Landmark designation is reserved for those buildings, structures, and districts that are nationally significant in American history and culture. The NHL Statement of Significance describes the district’s importance as (National Park Service, 1977):

“Intact canal system and mills constructed from the 1840s to the 1880s representative of industrial aspects of the New South. The best surviving example of an engineering system singularly important to the southeastern United States.”

The John P. King Mill contributes to the significance of the Historic Augusta Canal and Industrial District.

3.11 Aesthetics

The King Mill Project is located within the City of Augusta, Georgia and is surrounded by a mixture of industrial, commercial, and residential development. Residential areas, small businesses and light industry are among the primary land uses in the project vicinity (Avondale, 2001).

As discussed in Section 3.11, Historic Period Resources, the Project is located within two overlapping historic districts, the Augusta Canal Industrial District, which is listed on the NRHP, and the Historic Augusta Canal and Industrial District, which is a National Historic Landmark.

Public roadways provide access to the Project. Goodrich Street runs between the Project and the August Canal and extends over the intake channel. Georgia Highway 104, also known as the Riverwatch Parkway, runs between the Project and the Savannah River and over the Project tailrace. Access to the Project Area across the Savannah River is provided by the 13th Street Bridge, connecting North Augusta, South Carolina with Augusta, Georgia. Additional river crossings are provided by Interstate 20, upstream of

- 49 - King Mill Project Initial Consultation Document the Project, and US Route 278 (Gordon Highway), downstream of the Project. Visibility of the Project from public travel ways, particularly Goodrich Street and Riverwatch Parkway, is very good. Likewise, the Project is visible from several vistas and vantage points along the Augusta Canal and Savannah River.

3.12 Environmental Protection, Mitigation and Enhancement Plans

At this time, the Augusta Canal Authority is proposing to continue to operate the King Mill as a run of river facility. Based on this proposal, additional environmental protection, mitigation and enhancement measures have not been determined at this time.

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4.0 FLOW REGIME INFORMATION

Monthly and annual flow duration curves of the Augusta Canal for the King Mill Project were generated using mean flow data for the project. Using USGS Gage #02196500, monthly and annual flow duration curves were developed for the period 1931-1992 and 1997-2001. Figures 4.0-1 through 4.0-13 illustrate the curves for each month. Based on the annual flow duration curve (Figure 4.0-13); 2,760 cfs is the median flow.

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January Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf

n 2,000 Flow i

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-1: January Flow Duration Curve

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February Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-2: February Flow Duration Curve

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March Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-3: March Flow Duration Curve

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April Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-4: April Flow Duration Curve

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May Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-5: May Flow Duration Curve

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June Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-6: June Flow Duration Curve

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July Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-7: July Flow Duration Curve

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August Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-8: August Flow Duration Curve

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September Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1957 & 1989-1992.

Figure 4.0-9: September Flow Duration Curve

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October Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1956 & 1988-1991.

Figure 4.0-10:October Flow Duration Curve

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November Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1956 & 1988-1991.

Figure 4.0-11:November Flow Duration Curve

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December Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1956 & 1988-1991.

Figure 4.0-12:December Flow Duration Curve

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Annual Flow Duration Curve Augusta Canal at Augusta (Lower) (USGS Gage #02196500)

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500 s cf n 2,000 ow i Fl

1,500

1,000

500

0 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% % of Time Flow is Equalled or Exceeded NOTE: Period of Record is 1931-1956 & 1989-1991.

Figure 4.0-13:Annual Flow Duration Curve

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5.0 EXISTING DATA OR STUDIES

The recent relicensing of the Augusta Canal Project (FERC No. 11910), the Sibley Mill Project (FERC No. 5044), and the Enterprise Mill Project (FERC No. 2935) has resulted in a substantial effort by the FERC and agencies to examine the potential effects of these projects on environmental resources in the vicinity of these projects, including the King Mill Project. The results of many of these documents, many of which also considered the King Mill Project, are summarized in FERC’s 2005 Multi-Project Draft Environmental Assessment.

Project specific documents include the Fish Entrainment Study (Normandeau Associates, 1992) and the historic documentation of the King Mill (Steiner, 1977).

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6.0 IMPACTS, ISSUES AND PROPOSED STUDIES

The Augusta Canal Authority believes that existing information relevant to the project is available and is sufficient and current enough to permit the FERC and interested agencies, as well as the public, to make informed decisions regarding relicensing of the project. As a result, the Authority proposes no additional studies.

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7.0 LITERATURE CITED

American Whitewater. 2006. Stevens Creek Dam to North Augusta Boat Ramp. [Online] URL: http://www.americanwhitewater.org/rivers/id/4087. Accessed May 10, 2006. Augusta Canal. 2006. Augusta Canal National Heritage Area. [Online] URL: http://www.augustacanal.com. Accessed May 10, 2006. Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau. 2006. Lake Olmstead/Julian Smith Park. [Online] URL: http://www.augustaga.org/listings/index.cfm?action=displayListing& listingID=135&catID=12&startrange=All&endrange=All&substart=M&subend=S&hit=1 Accessed May 10, 2006. Augusta, Georgia. 2006. Eisenhower Park. [Online] URL: http://www.augustaga.gov/maps /parks_detail.asp?partID=17. Accessed May 10, 2006. Augusta, Richmond County. 2004. Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance of Augusta-Richmond County. [Online] URL: http://www.augustaga.gov/departments /planning_zoning/docs/pdf/dev/zoning%20Ordinance.updatesept.04.pdf. October 2004. Accessed May 10, 2006. Avondale Mills. 2001. Final Application for New License, Sibley Mill Project (FERC No. 5044). Accession No: 20010405-0412. April 2, 2001. Columbia County. 2006. Savannah Rapids Park. [Online] URL: http://www.columbiacountyga .gov/home/index.asp?page=2951. Accessed May 10, 2006. Digital Library of Georgia. 2006. Picturing Augusta: Historic Postcards from the Collection of the East Central Georgia Regional Library. [Online} URL: http://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/picturingaugusta/aep002.php. (Accessed June 5, 2006). Duncan, William W. and Edwin M. EuDaly. 2003. Draft Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act Report on Savannah River Basin Comprehensive Study. Prepared for the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region. October, 2003. Environmental & Chemical Sciences, Inc. 1984. A survey of adult fish and ichthyoplankton of the Savannah River and Augusta Canal in the vicinity of a proposed hydroelectric plant. Prepared for the City of Augusta, Georgia. ECS, Aiken, South Carolina. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). 1990. FERC Form 8- Exemption Letter for the John P. King Mill Project (FERC No. 9988). Accession No. 19900416-0145. March 30, 1990. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). 2001. Environmental Inspection Report for the John P. King Mill Project (FERC No. 9988). Accession No: 20010627-9020. June 27, 2001. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). 2005. Multi-Project Draft Environmental Assessment for Hydropower License. Augusta Canal Project, P-11810-004. Sibley Mill Project, P-5044-008, Enterprise Mill Project, P-2935-015. Georgia, South Carolina. Office of Energy Projects, Division of Hydropower Licensing. Washington, DC. Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR). (2004a). Wildlife Resources Division.

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Locations of Special Concern Animals, Plants and Natural Communities in Richmond County, Georgia. [Online] URL: http://georgiawildlife.dnr. state.ga.us/content/specieslocationbycounty.asp?lstCounty=Richmond. October 22, 2004. Accessed May 11, 2006. Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR). 1998a. Georgia Rivers: An Initial Assessment. Atlanta, Georgia. Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR). 2006. Savannah River Basin Plan. [Online] URL: http://www.dnr.state.ga.us/environ/plans_files/plans/ savannah-pdf/sav2.pdf. (Accessed June 5, 2006.) Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD). 1998. Water Quality in Georgia 1996-1997. Atlanta, GA. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, State Parks and Historic Sites. 2006. Georgia Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). [Online] URL: http://gastateparks.org/net/content/item.aspx?s=7507. Accessed May 10, 2006. Kleinschmidt Associates. 2001. Final Application for New License for Major Water Power Project < 5 MW – Existing Dam. Prepared for Avondale Mills, Inc. Mountain Bike Review. 2006. Augusta Canal Trail. [Online] URL: http://trails.mtbr.com/cat/united-states-trails-georgia/trail/PRD_l67557_4541crx.aspx. Accessed May 10, 2006. National Parks Service (NPS). 1977. Historic Augusta Canal and Industrial District – Statement of Significance. National Historic Landmark Information System - http://tps.cr.nps.gov/nhl/detail.cfm?ResourceId=1087&ResourceType=District, viewed May 17, 2006. New Georgia Encyclopedia. 2006. Augusta Canal. http://www.georgiaencyclopedia .org/nge/Article.jsp?id=h-3039, accessed May 17, 2006. Normandeau Associates. 1992. Final Study Results and Recommendations, Fish Entrainment Study for the John P. King Mill Project (FERC No. 9988). August, 1992. South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC). 1996. The State of South Carolina Water Quality Assessment Pursuant to Section 305(b) of the Federal Clean Water Act. Bureau of Water Pollution Control, SCDHEC, Columbia, South Carolina. South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). 2006a. South Carolina Rare, Threatened, & Endangered Species Inventory - Species Found In Aiken County. [Online] URL: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/pls/heritage/county_species.list?pcounty=aiken. January 17, 2006. Accessed May 11, 2006. South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). 2006b. South Carolina Highest Conservation Priority – Big River Species. [Online] URL: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/wcp/pdfhigh/BigRiverSpecies.pdf. Accessed May 11, 2006. Steiner, Alan J. 1977. John P. King Manufacturing Company. HAER GA-15. 23pps. Historic American Engineering Record, Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20243. Available at the Library of Congress, http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=hhdatapage

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&fileName=ga/ga0200/ga0212/data/hhdatapage.db&recNum=0&itemLink=D?hh:11:./te mp/~ammem_l0iF:: Accessed May 12, 2006. Trail-O-Dex. 2006. North Augusta Greenway and Riverview Park. [Online] URL: http://sciway3.net/outdoors/park-riverview.html. Accessed May 10, 2006. U.S. Census Bureau. 2006a. Population by County. [Online] URL: http://www.census. gov/popest/counties/tables/CO-EST2004-01-13.xls. Accessed May 10, 2006. U.S. Census Bureau. 2006b. Augusta Georgia Quick Facts. [Online] URL: http://quickfacts.census,gov/qfd/states/13/l304204.html. Accessed May 10, 2006. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Richmond County Ecological Services Office. (RCUSFWS). 2004. Listed Species in Richmond County [Online] URL: http://www.fws.gov/athens/endangered/counties/richmond_county.html. May, 2004. Accessed May 11, 2006. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2004a. Letter from Edwin M. EuDaly, Acting Field Supervisor to Mr. Shane Boring, Kleinschmidt Associates on April 14, 2004. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2004b. National Wetlands Inventory Interactive Mapper. [Online] URL: www.usfws.gov. Accessed March 10, 2004. Uhles, Steven. 2002. Exploring Augusta Canal. The Augusta Chronicle. [Online] URL: http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/080902/app_canal.shtml. Accessed May 10, 2006.

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Appendix A: Distribution List

- Appendix A 1-

KING MILL PROJECT (FERC No. 9988) JULY 2006

Mr. Gerrit Jobsis Mr. Jerry Gotzmer Environmental Coordinator Regional Engineer American Rivers Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 2231 Devine Street Suite 100 3125 Presential Parkway Columbia, SC 29205 Suite 300 Parkridge 85, North Building Mr. Dayton Sherrouse Atlanta, GA 30340 Executive Director Augusta Canal Authority Mr. Tommy Irvin PO Box 2367 Commissioner Augusta, GA 30903-2367 Georgia Department of Agriculture Office of the Commissioner Mr. Max Hicks 19 Martin Luther King Jr Drive SW Director Atlanta, GA 30334 Augusta Utilities Department 360 Bay Street Suite 180 Mr. Alan W. Hallum Augusta, GA 30901 Chief Georgia Department of Natural Resources Mr. Charles R. Oliver 205 Butler Street SE Administrator Suite 1058 East Augusta-Richmond County Commission Environmental Protection Division 530 Greene Street Water Protection Branch Municipal Building Atlanta, GA 30334 Augusta, GA 30901 Mr. Ed Bettross Mr. Stephen Felker Jr. Georgia Department of Natural Resources Avondale Mills, Inc. 142 Bob Kirk Road 509 South Broad Street Wildlife Resources Division Monroe, GA 30655 Fisheries Management Section Thomson, GA 30824 Honorable Deke Copenhaver Mayor Mr. Richard Cloues City of Augusta Deputy Director and State Historic 803 Municipal Building Preservation Officer Office of the Mayor Georgia Department of Natural Resources 530 Greene Street 500 The Healey Building Augusta, GA 30911 57 Forsyth Street NW Historic Preservation Division Ms. Magalie Roman Salas Atlanta, GA 30303 Secretary Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Director - State Parks & Historic Sites Mail Code DLC, HL-11.2 Georgia Department of Natural Resources 888 1st Street NE Room 1A 205 Butler Street SE Washington, DC 20426 Atlanta, GA 30334

- Appendix A 2-

Mr. Russ England Mr. Roy E. Crabtree Assistant Chief of Fisheries National Oceanic & Atmospheric Georgia Department of Natural Resources Administration 2070 U.S. Highway 278 SE 9721 Executive Center Drive North DNR - Fisheries Management Section NOAA Fisheries Southeast Region Social Circle, GA 30279 St. Petersburg, FL 33702

Mr. Sam Booher Mr. Jerry Belson Chairman Regional Director Georgia Sierra Club National Park Service 4387 Roswell Drive 100 Alabama Street Augusta, GA 30907 1924 Building, Southeast Regional Office Atlanta, GA 30303 Mr. F. Graham Liles Executive Director Mr. Richard Roos-Collins Georgia State Soil & Water Conservation Director, Legal Services Commission Natural Heritage Institute 4310 Lexington Road 100 Pine Street PO Box 8024 Suite 1550 Athens State Office San Francisco, CA 94111 Athens, GA 30603 Ms. Gina Kirkland Mr. Alan W. Stuart Program Manager Kleinschmidt Associates South Carolina Department of Health & 101 Trade Zone Drive Environmental Control Suite 21A 2600 Bull Street West Columbia, SC 29170 Columbia, SC 29201

Mr. David H. Rackley Mr. Ed Duncan Fisheries Biologist South Carolina Department of Natural National Marine Fisheries Service Resources 219 Fort Johnson Road 1000 Assembly Street Habitat Conservation Division PO Box 167 Charleston, SC 29412 Columbia, SC 29202

Mr. Andreas Mager Jr. Mr. Randy Miller Assistant Director Branch Chief - EN-Hydrology National Marine Fisheries Service United States Army Corps of Engineers 9721 Executive Center Drive North PO Box 889 Southeast Regional Office Savannah District St. Petersburg, FL 33702 Savannah, GA 31402-0889

Mr. Prescott Brownell Ms. Elizabeth Estill National Marine Fisheries Service Regional Forester 219 Fort Johnson Road United States Department of Agriculture Southeast Region 1720 Peachtree Road NW Charleston, SC 29412 Atlanta, GA 30309

- Appendix A 3-

Mr. James H. Lee Ms. Amanda Hill Regional Environmental Officer United States Fish and Wildlife Service United States Department of the Interior 176 Croghan Spur Road Office of Environmental Policy & Compliance Suite 200 Richard B. Russell Federal Building Charleston SC 29407 Room 1144 75 Spring Street SW District Chief Atlanta, GA 30303 United States Geological Survey 3039 Amwiler Road Mr. John Hankinson Jr. Suite 130 United States Environmental Protection Georgia District Office Agency Atlanta, GA 30360 Region IV Atlanta Federal Center 61 Forsyth Street, SW Atlanta, GA 30303

- Appendix A 4-

Appendix B: Consultation Record

- Appendix B 1-

To Be Completed

- Appendix B 2-

Appendix C: Project Photos

LIST OF PHOTOS

King Mill Project and Intake Structure...... C-2 Walking Trail Along the Augusta Canal Downstream of the Project ...... C-2 John P. King Mill ...... C-3 Georgia Power Substation...... C-3 King Mill With Intake Structure Lower Left...... C-4 Project Headrace ...... C-4 Power Powerhouse (Close-Up View) ...... C-5 Project Powerhouse...... C-5 Project Tailrace ...... C-6 Trash Rack at Intake Structure...... C-6

- Appendix C 1-

King Mill Project and Intake Structure (Source: FERC, 2001)

Walking Trail Along the Augusta Canal Downstream of the Project (Source: FERC, 2001)

- Appendix C 2-

John P. King Mill

Georgia Power Substation

- Appendix C 3-

King Mill With Intake Structure Lower Left

Project Headrace

- Appendix C 4-

Power Powerhouse (Close-Up View)

Project Powerhouse

- Appendix C 5-

Project Tailrace

Trash Rack at Intake Structure

- Appendix C 6-