EXHIBIT E
ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
MARTIN DAM PROJECT FERC NO. 349
APPLICATION FOR NEW LICENSE FOR MAJOR WATER POWER PROJECT – EXISTING DAM
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
EXHIBIT E
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ...... 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... E-1 1.1 CONTENTS OF EXHIBIT E ...... E-1 1.2 COMMONLY USED TERMS IN EXHIBIT E ...... E-2
2.0 RIVER BASIN AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... E-4 2.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE RIVER BASIN ...... E-4 2.1.1 PROJECT FACILITIES...... E-9 2.1.2 PROJECT LANDS AND WATERS ...... E-11 2.1.3 EXISTING PROJECT OPERATION ...... E-24 2.1.3.1 SUMMARY OF PROJECT GENERATION AND OUTFLOW RECORDS ...... E-28
3.0 PROPOSED ACTION ...... E-29 3.1 SUMMARY OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSED ACTION ...... E-29 3.2 PROPOSED PROJECT OPERATION ...... E-33 3.2.1 PROPOSED ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURES ...... E-35 3.2.1.1 PME MEASURE TIMELINE ...... E-42 3.3 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-45 3.3.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-45 3.3.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-45
4.0 GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE, CUMULATIVE EFFECTS AND APPLICABLE LAWS ...... E-46 4.1 GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE OF FERC APPROVED STUDIES ...... E-46 4.2 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS...... E-49 4.2.1 TEMPORAL SCOPE ...... E-50 4.3 APPLICABLE LAWS ...... E-50 4.3.1 SECTION 401 OF THE CLEAN WATER ACT ...... E-50 4.3.2 ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT/NATIONAL BALD EAGLE MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES ...... E-51 4.3.3 COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT...... E-51
E-i TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D.)
4.3.4 MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT ACT ...... E-52 4.3.5 NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT ...... E-52 4.3.6 WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS AND WILDERNESS ACTS ...... E-53
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS OF PROPOSED ACTION AND OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-54 5.1 GEOLOGY AND SOILS ...... E-54 5.1.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-54 5.1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-68 5.1.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-68 5.1.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-73 5.1.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-73 5.1.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-75 5.1.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-78 5.1.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-81 5.1.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS ...... E-81 5.2 WATER RESOURCES ...... E-82 5.2.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-82 5.2.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-101 5.2.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-101 5.2.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-106 5.2.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-106 5.2.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-108 5.2.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-110 5.2.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-113 5.2.2.5 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS...... E-114 5.2.2.6 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS ...... E-114 5.3 FISH AND AQUATIC RESOURCES ...... E-114 5.3.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-114 5.3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-145 5.3.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-146 5.3.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-149 5.3.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-149 5.3.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-151 5.3.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-154 5.3.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-157 5.3.2.5 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS...... E-157 5.3.2.5.1 HISTORICAL ...... E-158 5.3.2.5.2 FUTURE ...... E-158 5.3.2.6 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS ...... E-158 5.4 TERRESTRIAL RESOURCES ...... E-159 5.4.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-159 5.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-167
E-ii TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D.)
5.4.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-167 5.4.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-168 5.4.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-168 5.4.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-168 5.4.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-169 5.4.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-173 5.4.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS ...... E-173 5.5 RARE, THREATENED, AND ENDANGERED SPECIES ...... E-173 5.5.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-173 5.5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-174 5.5.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-175 5.5.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-175 5.5.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-175 5.5.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-176 5.5.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-176 5.5.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-178 5.5.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS ...... E-178 5.6 RECREATION RESOURCES ...... E-178 5.6.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-178 5.6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-190 5.6.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-193 5.6.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-196 5.6.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-196 5.6.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-199 5.6.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-202 5.6.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-205 5.6.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS ...... E-206 5.7 CULTURAL RESOURCES ...... E-206 5.7.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-206 5.7.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-211 5.7.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-212 5.7.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-213 5.7.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-213 5.7.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-213 5.7.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-214 5.7.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-218 5.7.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS ...... E-218 5.8 LAND USE AND AESTHETIC RESOURCES ...... E-218 5.8.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-218 5.8.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-226 5.8.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-227 5.8.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-228 5.8.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-228
E-iii TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D.)
5.8.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-229 5.8.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-231 5.8.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-236 5.8.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS ...... E-236 5.9 SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES ...... E-237 5.9.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... E-237 5.9.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ...... E-248 5.9.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-249 5.9.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-254 5.9.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-254 5.9.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-259 5.9.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES ...... E-265 5.9.2.4 NO ACTION ...... E-267 5.9.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS ...... E-267
6.0 DEVELOPMENTAL ANALYSIS ...... E-268 6.1 POWER AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS ...... E-268 6.2 COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES ...... E-268 6.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-269 6.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ...... E-269 6.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL ...... E-269 6.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION ...... E-270 6.2.3 NO ACTION ...... E-270 6.2.4 COST OF ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURES ...... E-270
7.0 REFERENCES ...... E-272
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE E-1 LOCATION OF THE LAKE MARTIN HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER, ALABAMA ...... E-5 FIGURE E-2 MAJOR CREEKS AND STREAMS IN THE PROJECT AREA ...... E-7 FIGURE E-3 LOCATION OF ALABAMA POWER PROJECTS ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER ...... E-8 FIGURE E-4 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY ...... E-12 FIGURE E-5 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-13 FIGURE E-6 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-14 FIGURE E-7 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-15 FIGURE E-8 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-16 FIGURE E-9 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-17 FIGURE E-10 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-18 FIGURE E-11 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-19 FIGURE E-12 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-20 FIGURE E-13 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-21 FIGURE E-14 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-22 FIGURE E-15 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED ...... E-23
E-iv TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D.)
FIGURE E-16 MARTIN RULE CURVE ...... E-26 FIGURE E-17 FLOOD CONTROL GUIDE CURVE ALTERNATIVES ...... E-31 FIGURE E-18 PROPOSED MARTIN RESERVOIR GUIDELINES ...... E-34 FIGURE E-19 CONDITIONAL FALL EXTENSION ENHANCEMENT MEASURE ...... E-36 FIGURE E-20 TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OF THE PROJECT VICINITY ...... E-56 FIGURE E-21 GENERAL PHYSIOGRAPHY OF ALABAMA ...... E-59 FIGURE E-22 SURFICIAL GEOLOGY OF THE PROJECT VICINITY ...... E-60 FIGURE E-23 SOIL TYPES OF THE PROJECT VICINITY ...... E-63 FIGURE E-24 THURLOW EROSION STUDY SITES ...... E-66 FIGURE E-25 CARLSONS TSI INDICES FOR LAKE MARTIN ...... E-89 FIGURE E-26 WATER QUALITY PROFILES COLLECTED AT MARTIN FOREBAY (MAY THROUGH JULY, 1993-2009) ...... E-93 FIGURE E-27 WATER QUALITY PROFILES COLLECTED AT MARTIN FOREBAY (AUGUST THROUGH NOVEMBER, 1993-2009) ...... E-94 FIGURE E-28 WATER QUALITY SAMPLING LOCATIONS FOR NUTRIENT STUDY (APRIL 2009-MARCH 2010) ...... E-99 FIGURE E-29 EFFECTS OF VARIOUS CHANGES TO THE FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE CHANGE 1986-1988 ...... E-102 FIGURE E-30 VOLUMES OF STRIPED BASS HABITAT PRESENT IN LAKE MARTIN, ALABAMA OVER A SIX-MONTH PERIOD IN 2009 ...... E-121 FIGURE E-31 COMPARISON OF TURBINE HOURS AND STRIPED BASS QUALITY HABITAT DURING 2009 ...... E-123 FIGURE E-32 COMPARISON OF TURBINE HOURS AND STRIPED BASS TOTAL HABITAT DURING 2009 ...... E-124 FIGURE E-33 COMPARISON OF TURBINE HOURS AND STRIPED BASS QUALITY HABITAT DURING 2010 ...... E-125 FIGURE E-34 COMPARISON OF TURBINE HOURS AND STRIPED BASS TOTAL HABITAT DURING 2010 ...... E-126 FIGURE E-35 GRAPH OF MEAN SEASONAL FOREBAY DENSITIES FOR DAY AND NIGHT MOBILE SURVEYS ESTIMATED DURING SEASONAL MOBILE SURVEYS IN THE MARTIN FOREBAY FROM APRIL, 2009 TO MARCH, 2010 ...... E-133 FIGURE E-36 GRAPH OF SEASONAL FOREBAY DENSITIES (LOG SCALE) BY 5 METER DEPTH INTERVALS FOR DAY AND NIGHT MOBILE SURVEYS ESTIMATED DURING SEASONAL MOBILE SURVEYS IN THE MARTIN FOREBAY FROM APRIL, 2009 TO MARCH, 2010 ...... E-134 FIGURE E-37 MARTIN SMALL GAME HUNTING AREA ...... E-172 FIGURE E-38 RECREATIONAL USE OF LAKE MARTIN BY RESIDENCY OF USERS ...... E-185 FIGURE E-39 RECREATIONAL USE OF LAKE MARTIN BY MONTH AND DAY TYPE ...... E-186 FIGURE E-40 ACTIVITIES OBSERVED AT LAKE MARTIN (JUNE 2009 THROUGH MAY 2010) .. E-186 FIGURE E-41 LOCATION OF ALL BUSINESSES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION IN 2009 ...... E-239
LIST OF PHOTOS
PHOTO E-1 GIANT CUT GRASS (MILLET) ON THE SHORELINE OF LAKE MARTIN ...... E-161 PHOTO E-2 AERIAL VIEW OF MARTIN DAM AND POWERHOUSE ...... E-223 PHOTO E-3 DOWNSTREAM VIEW OF MARTIN DAM ...... E-224 PHOTO E-4 MARTIN POWERHOUSE, AS VIEWED FROM EAST SIDE OF DAM ...... E-224
E-v TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D.)
PHOTO E-5 DOWNSTREAM VIEW OF TAILRACE ...... E-225 PHOTO E-6 VIEW OF LAKE MARTIN FROM SCENIC OVERLOOK ...... E-225
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE E-1 MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM HYDRAULIC CAPACITY FOR THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-10 TABLE E-2 MARTIN DAM PROJECT AVERAGE MONTHLY ACTUAL GENERATION FROM 2001 TO 2010 ...... E-28 TABLE E-3 ALTERNATIVES (INCLUDING BASELINE) FOR CHANGING THE FLOOD CONTROL GUIDE LINE AT THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-32 TABLE E-4 PME MEASURES AND IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE ...... E-43 TABLE E-5 STUDY PLANS AND GEOGRAPHIC SCOPES ...... E-46 TABLE E-6 LEGEND FOR THE SURFICIAL GEOLOGY OF THE PROJECT VICINITY SHOWN IN FIGURE E-22 ...... E-61 TABLE E-7 LEGEND FOR THE SOIL TYPES IN THE PROJECT VICINITY SHOWN IN FIGURE E-23 ...... E-64 TABLE E-8 INCREASE IN ANNUAL RECREATION BOATING DAYS ASSOCIATED WITH A CHANGE IN THE FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE OF LAKE MARTIN...... E-69 TABLE E-9 ESTIMATED ACRES OF SUBMERGED VEGETATION EXPANSION FOR EACH ELEVATION CHANGE IN THE WINTER FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE ...... E-70 TABLE E-10 POTENTIAL INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF DAYS OF HIGHER THAN HISTORICAL SPILL OVER 67-YEAR PERIOD AT MARTIN DAM ...... E-72 TABLE E-11 MEAN, MAXIMUM, AND MINIMUM MONTHLY FLOW STATISTICS FOR THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER IN THE PROJECT AREA AS REGULATED BY HARRIS DAM...... E-83 TABLE E-12 APPROVED WATER WITHDRAWALS FROM LAKE MARTIN, TALLAPOOSA RIVER ...... E-85 TABLE E-13 SPECIFIC WATER QUALITY CRITERIA FOR STATE OF ALABAMA WATERS WITH DESIGNATION AS PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY, FISH AND WILDLIFE/SWIMMING APPLICABLE TO THE MARTIN PROJECT* ...... E-87 TABLE E-14 SUMMARY OF WATER TEMPERATURE AND DISSOLVED OXYGEN DATA (AT DEPTH OF 5 FT) AT THE PROJECT, 1993-2009 ...... E-90 TABLE E-15 SUMMARY DATA FOR WATER CHEMISTRY VARIABLES MEASURED AT THE PROJECT DURING THE PERIOD 1993-2009 BY ALABAMA POWER COMPANY* ..... E-90 TABLE E-16 SUMMARY OF TAILRACE SAMPLING DATA CONDUCTED BY ALABAMA POWER ...... E-92 TABLE E-17 SUMMARY OF ALL WATER TEMPERATURE AND DO DATA COLLECTED ON LAKE MARTIN BY ALABAMA POWER DURING THE PERIOD 2007-2008 ...... E-95 TABLE E-18 SUMMARY OF ALL WATER CHEMISTRY DATA COLLECTED BY ALABAMA POWER DURING THE PERIOD 2007-2008 IN THE PROJECT AREA ...... E-96 TABLE E-19 SUMMARY OF ALL WATER TEMPERATURE AND DO DATA COLLECTED ON LAKE MARTIN BY ADEM DURING THE PERIOD 1994-2008 ...... E-97 TABLE E-20 SUMMARY OF ALL WATER CHEMISTRY DATA COLLECTED ON LAKE MARTIN BY ADEM DURING THE PERIOD 1994-2005 ...... E-98 TABLE E-21 RELATIVE POTENTIAL IMPACT TO WATER QUALITY IN LAKE MARTIN WITH 1 A CHANGE IN THE FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE ...... E-104
E-vi TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D.)
TABLE E-22 POTENTIAL INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF DAYS OF HIGHER THAN HISTORICAL SPILL OVER 67 YEAR PERIOD AT MARTIN DAM ...... E-105 TABLE E-23 FISHES KNOWN OR EXPECTED TO OCCUR IN THE VICINITY OF THE PROJECT .... E-116 TABLE E-24 STRIPED BASS HABITAT AND TURBINE GENERATION HOURS ...... E-127 TABLE E-25 TOTAL SEASONAL ENTRAINMENT OF FISH FOR BOTH METHODS OF ESTIMATION ...... E-129 TABLE E-26 SEASONAL PERCENT COMPOSITION OF EACH FAMILY GROUP USED FOR THE MARTIN PROJECT ENTRAINMENT...... E-130 TABLE E-27 ESTIMATED SEASONAL NUMBER OF FISH ENTRAINED, BY FAMILY/GENUS GROUP AT THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-131 TABLE E-28 ESTIMATED SEASONAL NUMBER OF FISH ENTRAINED, BY FAMILY/GENUS GROUP FOR LENGTH FREQUENCY GROUPS OF SMALL AND LARGE FISH AT THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-131 TABLE E-29 TABLE OF PERCENT RELATIVE ABUNDANCE (PRA) AND CUMULATIVE PRA ESTIMATES OF ENTRAINED FISH AT MARTIN DAM FROM APRIL, 2009 TO MARCH, 2010 ...... E-132 TABLE E-30 MEAN TURBINE MORTALITY RATES FOR FAMILY AND SIZE GROUPS AT THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-135 TABLE E-31 SUMMARY OF ESTIMATED TOTAL ENTRAINMENT FISH LOSS BY SEASON, AND FAMILY GROUP FOR THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-136 TABLE E-32 ESTIMATED TOTAL ENTRAINMENT FISH LOSS FOR SEASONAL LENGTH FREQUENCY BY FAMILY GROUPS FOR THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-136 TABLE E-33 FISH COLLECTED IN THE MARTIN TAILRACE DURING SURVEYS IN 2009 ...... E-137 TABLE E-34 SPECIES COLLECTED BY ALABAMA POWER IN THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER DOWNSTREAM OF THURLOW DAM ...... E-139 1 TABLE E-35 FRESHWATER MOLLUSKS (SNAILS, MUSSELS, AND CLAMS) SUMMARY OF FIELD COLLECTIONS ...... E-143 TABLE E-36 ESTIMATED ACRES FOR SUBMERGED VEGETATION EXPANSION FOR EACH PROPOSED CHANGE IN THE WINTER FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE ...... E-146 TABLE E-37 PADDLEFISH SPAWNING FLOWS DOWNSTREAM OF THURLOW DAM – INCREASE IN NUMBER OF DAYS ABOVE 6,000 CFS (DAILY AVERAGE FLOW) MODELED WITH HEC-RESSIM FROM HYDROLOGIC DATA 1992-2007 ...... E-148 TABLE E-38 TIMBER STAND COMPOSITION ON MARTIN PROJECT LANDS ...... E-159 TABLE E-39 NOXIOUS WEEDS AND INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING IN THE PROJECT AREA ...... E-161 TABLE E-40 ACRES AND PERCENTAGES OF WETLAND TYPES IN THE PROJECT AREA ...... E-163 TABLE E-41 SPECIES OBSERVATIONS BY ASSESSMENT SITE ...... E-166 TABLE E-42 THREATENED, ENDANGERED AND STATE PRIORITY SPECIES OF INTEREST ...... E-174 TABLE E-43 NUMBER OF RECREATION SITES WITHIN THE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY AND IN THE PROJECT AREA ...... E-181 TABLE E-44 RECREATION SITES ASSOCIATED WITH THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-182 TABLE E-45 RECREATION FACILITIES SUPPORTED AT RECREATION SITES AROUND LAKE MARTIN ...... E-184 TABLE E-46 PUBLIC RECREATION ACCESS SITES ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER BELOW MARTIN DAM AND THE NUMBER OF DAYS SITE IS UNUSABLE DUE TO CURRENT OPERATIONS AT THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-187
E-vii TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D.)
TABLE E-47 CLASSIFICATION OF FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM ACCORDING TO WHITEWATER BOATING USABILITY AT VARIOUS WHITEWATER FEATURES IN THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER ...... E-188 TABLE E-48 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF DAYS OF SPECIFIED FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM (AS MEASURED AT THE THURLOW DAM) UNDER CURRENT OPERATION AT THE MARTIN PROJECT ...... E-189 TABLE E-49 WATER-LEVEL WHEN IT BECOMES IMPRACTICAL FOR SHORELINE PROPERTY OWNERS TO MOOR THEIR BOAT(S) AT THEIR DOCK ...... E-192 TABLE E-50 MONTH AND WATER-LEVEL WHEN SHORELINE PROPERTY OWNERS’ DOCK IS COMPLETELY OUT OF THE WATER ...... E-192 TABLE E-51 ESTIMATED PERCENT CHANGES IN ANNUAL RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-193 TABLE E-52 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER CURRENT OPERATIONS AND ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-193 TABLE E-53 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF DAYS OF SPECIFIED FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM (AS MEASURED AT THE THURLOW DAM) UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (CHANGES FROM BASELINE ARE INDICATED IN PARENTHESES) ...... E-195 TABLE E-54 ESTIMATED PERCENT CHANGES IN ANNUAL RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION ...... E-196 TABLE E-55 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER CURRENT/BASELINE OPERATIONS AND THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION...... E-197 TABLE E-56 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF DAYS OF SPECIFIED FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM (AS MEASURED AT THE THURLOW DAM) UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (CHANGES FROM BASELINE ARE INDICATED IN PARENTHESES) ...... E-198 TABLE E-57 ESTIMATED PERCENT CHANGES IN ANNUAL RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION ...... E-199 TABLE E-58 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER CURRENT OPERATIONS AND THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION ...... E-200 TABLE E-59 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF DAYS OF SPECIFIED FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM (AS MEASURED AT THE THURLOW DAM) UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (CHANGES FROM BASELINE ARE INDICATED IN PARENTHESES) ...... E-201 TABLE E-60 MARTIN DAM PROJECT EXISTING AND PROPOSED RECREATION SITES AND ASSOCIATED ACREAGE ...... E-204 TABLE E-61 CULTURAL RESOURCES CONSULTATION RECORD ...... E-211 TABLE E-62 PERCENTAGE OF LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE COUNTIES SURROUNDING LAKE MARTIN AND THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER DOWNSTREAM OF THE MARTIN DAM ...... E-220 TABLE E-63 EXISTING ACREAGE AND SHORELINE MILES OF MARTIN PROJECT LANDS BY PROJECT LAND CLASSIFICATION ...... E-221 TABLE E-64 APPROXIMATE TOTAL INUNDATED AREA ASSOCIATED WITH A 100 YEAR DESIGN FLOOD INTO THE MARTIN PROJECT FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RIVER MILE 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER ...... E-228
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TABLE E-65 APPROXIMATE TOTAL INUNDATED AREA ASSOCIATED WITH A 100 YEAR DESIGN FLOOD INTO THE MARTIN PROJECT FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RIVER MILE 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER ...... E-229 TABLE E-66 APPROXIMATE TOTAL INUNDATED AREA ASSOCIATED WITH A 100 YEAR DESIGN FLOOD INTO THE MARTIN PROJECT FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RIVER MILE 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER ...... E-230 TABLE E-67 EXISTING, RECLASSIFIED, AND ADDITIONAL ACREAGE AND SHORELINE MILES OF MARTIN PROJECT LANDS BY PROPOSED SHORELINE CLASSIFICATION ...... E-233 TABLE E-68 POPULATION BY COUNTY, 2000 AND 2009 ...... E-237 TABLE E-69 HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS ...... E-238 TABLE E-70 NUMBER OF BUSINESSES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN 2009 ...... E-240 TABLE E-71 NUMBER OF BUSINESSES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY SALES VOLUME IN 2009 ...... E-241 TABLE E-72 DISTRIBUTION OF SALES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY COUNTY AND BY INDUSTRY IN 2009 ...... E-241 TABLE E-73 NUMBER OF BUSINESSES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY AGE OF BUSINESS IN 2009 ...... E-242 TABLE E-74 TOTAL SALES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY INDUSTRY SECTOR IN 2009 .. E-242 TABLE E-75 TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES PER PERSON, PER DAY ...... E-243 TABLE E-76 ANNUAL TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY RESIDENCY ...... E-244 TABLE E-77 ANNUAL EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION FOR RECREATIONAL EQUIPMENT ...... E-244 TABLE E-78 ANNUAL EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION FOR REAL ESTATE AND RELATED ITEMS ...... E-245 TABLE E-79 CURRENT ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF COMBINED TRIP, EQUIPMENT, AND REAL ESTATE SPENDING TO THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY ...... E-246 TABLE E-80 CURRENT ESTIMATED STATE/LOCAL AND FEDERAL TAX REVENUES ASSOCIATED WITH COMBINED TRIP, EQUIPMENT, AND REAL ESTATE SPENDING IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION ECONOMY ...... E-246 TABLE E-81 POPULATION BY COUNTY, 2000 AND 2009 ...... E-247 TABLE E-82 HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS ...... E-248 TABLE E-83 TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-249 TABLE E-84 PERCENT OF VISITORS AND SEASONAL LANDOWNERS WHO EXPECTED TO DECREASE, INCREASE, OR NOT CHANGE THEIR EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-250 TABLE E-85 PERCENT OF PERMANENT RESIDENTS WHO REPORTED A DECREASE, INCREASE OR NO CHANGE IN EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-251 TABLE E-86 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF CURRENT TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION ON THE LOCAL ECONOMY ...... E-252 TABLE E-87 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF ALL TRIP-RELATED SPENDING IN THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-252 TABLE E-88 PROJECTED CHANGES IN SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-253
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TABLE E-89 TOTAL ESTIMATED SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-253 TABLE E-90 NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY EFFECTED STRUCTURES FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RM 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL ...... E-254 TABLE E-91 TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION ...... E-254 TABLE E-92 PERCENT OF VISITORS AND SEASONAL LANDOWNERS WHO EXPECTED TO DECREASE, INCREASE, OR NOT CHANGE THEIR EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION ...... E-255 TABLE E-93 PERCENT OF PERMANENT RESIDENTS WHO REPORTED A DECREASE, INCREASE OR NO CHANGE IN EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION ...... E-256 TABLE E-94 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF ALL TRIP-RELATED SPENDING IN THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION...... E-257 TABLE E-95 PROJECTED CHANGES IN SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION ...... E-258 TABLE E-96 TOTAL ESTIMATED SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION ...... E-258 TABLE E-97 NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY EFFECTED STRUCTURES FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RM 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION ...... E-259 TABLE E-98 TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION...... E-260 TABLE E-99 PERCENT OF VISITORS AND SEASONAL LANDOWNERS WHO EXPECTED TO DECREASE, INCREASE, OR NOT CHANGE THEIR EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION...... E-260 TABLE E-100 PERCENT OF PERMANENT RESIDENTS WHO REPORTED A DECREASE, INCREASE OR NO CHANGE IN EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION...... E-261 TABLE E-101 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF ALL TRIP-RELATED SPENDING IN THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY WITH A FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL ...... E-263 TABLE E-102 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF ALL TRIP-RELATED SPENDING IN THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY WITH A FALL EXTENSION ...... E-263 TABLE E-103 PROJECTED CHANGES IN SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION...... 264 TABLE E-104 TOTAL ESTIMATED SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION...... 264 TABLE E-105 NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY EFFECTED STRUCTURES FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RM 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION...... E-265
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TABLE E-106 SUMMARY OF ANNUAL BENEFITS AND COSTS (BASED ON 30 YEAR COST ANALYSIS, LEVELIZED) ...... E-269 TABLE E-107 SUMMARY OF THE ESTIMATED CAPITAL AND ANNUAL O&M COSTS FOR THE MARTIN DAM PROJECT ...... E-271
J:\535\008\Docs\FINAL LICENSE APPLICATION\001 FINAL Martin Exhibit E 06-06-11.docx
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ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
MARTIN DAM PROJECT EXHIBIT E A ac Acre ACAMP Alabama Coastal Area Management Program ACT Alabama – Coosa – Tallapoosa ADCNR Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources ADEM Alabama Department of Environmental Management af Acre-feet AL Alabama APE Area of Potential Effect B BMP Best Management Practices C C Celsius CFR Code of Federal Regulations cfs Cubic feet per second Commission Federal Energy Regulatory Commission CRP Comprehensive recreation plan CWA Clean Water Act CZMA Coastal Zone Management Act D DO Dissolved oxygen DRP Dissolved Reactive Phosphorus E EFH Essential Fish Habitat EPA Environmental Protection Agency ESA Endangered Species Act F F Fahrenheit F&W Fish and Wildlife FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission FLA Final License Application Ft Foot/Feet G GA Georgia GIS Geographic Information System H HPMP Historic Properties Management Plan
Acronyms and Abbreviations - 1 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS (CONT’D.)
MARTIN DAM PROJECT EXHIBIT E hp Horsepower I ILP Integrated Licensing Process K Kva Kilovolt ampere kWh Kilowatt-hour L LIDAR Light Detection and Ranging LMHOBO Lake Martin Home Owners and Boat Owners Association LMRA Lake Martin Resource Association M Mcf Million cubic feet MD Martin Datum mgd Million gallons per day mi Miles MIG Martin Issue Group ml Milliliters mg/l Milligrams per liter msl Mean sea level MW Megawatt MWh Megawatt-hour N NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NGO Non-governmental organization NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NRHP National Register of Historic Places NTU Measure of turbidity NWS National Weather Service O OAR Office of Archaeological Research OWR Office of Water Resources P PA Programmatic Agreement PAD Pre-Application Document pH Measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution PLP Preliminary License Proposal PME Protection, Mitigation, and Enhancement
Acronyms and Abbreviations - 2 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS (CONT’D.)
MARTIN DAM PROJECT EXHIBIT E PRA Cumulative Percent Relative Abundance PWS Public water supply R RCW Redcockaded woodpecker RM River miles RTE Rare, Threatened, and Endangered S S Swimming SERFC Southeast River Forecast Center SCORP Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan SHPO State Historic Preservation Officer SMP Shoreline Management Plan T TMDLs Total maximum daily loads TSI Trophic State Index U ug/l Micrograms per liter (one millionth of a gram per liter) USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers USDA United States Department of Agriculture USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS United States Geological Survey
Acronyms and Abbreviations - 3
ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
MARTIN DAM PROJECT FERC NO. 349
APPLICATION FOR NEW LICENSE FOR MAJOR WATER POWER PROJECT – EXISTING DAM
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
EXHIBIT E
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Martin Dam Hydroelectric Project (Project) is an existing hydropower facility owned and operated by Alabama Power Company (Alabama Power) and licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) as Project Number 349. Completed in 1926, the Project is located on the Tallapoosa River in eastern Alabama and is operated as a peaking facility to provide power to the grid, supporting the power needs of Alabama and surrounding states.
The existing Project license expires on June 8, 2013.
Alabama Power submits this Exhibit E in concurrence with the process requirements determined under the Commission’s Integrated Licensing Process (ILP) and pursuant to 18 C.F.R Sections 5.18 and 4.51.
1.1 CONTENTS OF EXHIBIT E
The Exhibit E is also referred to as the “Environmental Exhibit” and must address the resources included in the Pre-Application Document (PAD) that Alabama Power prepared and distributed in 2008. This Exhibit E includes:
• A general description of the River Basin; • A discussion of cumulative effects; • A discussion of applicable laws; • A description of Project facilities and operation; • The licensee’s proposed action and action alternatives; • A description of the affected environment;
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• An environmental analysis; • The proposed environmental measures; • An economic analysis; • A discussion of comprehensive plans applicable to the Project; • Documentation of consultation; and • Literature cited.
In consultation with participating federal, state and local agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Native American tribes, and the public, Alabama Power developed study plans, which were filed with the Commission and approved under the Commission’s Study Plan Determination in a letter dated April 17, 2009 (contained in the “Study Plans” folder on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD). These studies were completed in 2009 and 2010, and the results of these studies have been incorporated into the associated analysis of resources in this Exhibit E. Copies of all final reports are available on Alabama Power’s website at http://www.alabamapower.com/hydro/m_migs.asp and in the “Final Study Reports” folders on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
This Exhibit E contains an environmental and economic analysis of Alabama Power’s proposed action, other operational recommendations (including the Early Spring Fall and 5 foot (ft) increase in winter pool and Fall Extension), and Alabama Power’s proposed Protection, Mitigation, and Enhancement (PME) measures for the Martin Project. For this Exhibit E, Alabama Power assumes that the proposed PME measures would occur with any of the other operational recommendations.
1.2 COMMONLY USED TERMS IN EXHIBIT E
There are a few terms in Exhibit E used to discuss the Project and proposed action, other operational recommendations, and PME measures. Those terms and definitions are listed below for the reader’s reference.
1. Licensee – this term refers to Alabama Power, the entity that holds the operating license for the Martin Dam Project. 2. Project Boundary – this term refers to the land and water contained in the area defined by the FERC as the lands and waters necessary to operate the Project. 3. Project Area – this term refers to the land and water in the immediate geographic area adjacent to the Project Boundary.
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4. Project Vicinity – this term refers to a larger geographic area near the Project, for example, a county. 5. Reservoir, Pool, Lake – these terms all refer to the Project Reservoir, Lake Martin 6. Flood Control Guide Curve/Guideline – the maximum elevation at which the Lake is normally maintained in the interest of limited seasonal flood control. “Curve” and “Guide” are used synonymously throughout Exhibit E. 7. Other Operational Recommendations – refers to the “Early Spring Fill” and the “5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension”, which are two additional operational recommendations that were developed from the stakeholder comments on the Preliminary Licensing Proposal (PLP). 8. Protection, Mitigation, and Enhancement Measures – this term refers to a “package” or “suite” of environmental, recreational, and cultural resources measures that the Licensee might propose to protect Project resources, mitigate for Project effects, and/or enhance various aspects of the Project resources.
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2.0 RIVER BASIN AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE RIVER BASIN
The Tallapoosa River Basin begins in western Georgia and flows southwesterly through east central Alabama. Lake Martin is a 31 mile long impoundment located in Coosa, Elmore, and Tallapoosa counties, on the Tallapoosa River, near Dadeville, in east central Alabama. Martin Dam is located approximately 60.6 river miles (RM) upstream of the junction of the Tallapoosa and Coosa Rivers, which forms the Alabama River (Figure E-1). The Lake has 880 miles (mi) of shoreline and a surface area of nearly 41,150 acres (ac). The Basin is approximately 4,675 square miles, of which approximately 3,000 exist upstream of the Project. Approximately 15% of the Basin’s drainage area lies in Georgia, where the River’s headwaters originate (CH2MHILL, 2005). The headwaters of the Tallapoosa and Little Tallapoosa Rivers begin in Paulding and Carroll counties, Georgia, and enter Alabama in Randolph County southwest of the City of Atlanta to form the main stem of the Tallapoosa River. From this point, the Tallapoosa meanders southwesterly through four Alabama Power hydroelectric projects (R. L. Harris Dam, Martin Dam, Yates Dam, and Thurlow Dam) before joining the Coosa River to create the Alabama River (at approximately 113 feet mean sea level (msl). The Alabama portion of the Basin drains 3,975 square miles of land.
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FIGURE E-1 LOCATION OF THE LAKE MARTIN HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER, ALABAMA
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Almost 70% of the Basin is covered by forests, and forestry-related activities account for a major part of the Basin’s economy. Agriculture is also a significant land use activity supporting a variety of animal operations and commodity production. Although the total farmland in the basin is declining, livestock and poultry production is strong. The trend is toward larger commercial- type farms with increased use of machinery. Despite a strong agricultural presence, approximately one-half of the working population is employed in manufacturing industries.
Although the nearby Alabama River is considered a critical navigation route for commercial barge traffic, the Tallapoosa River does not contain locks on any of the dams that would allow passage for motorized boats of any kind. There are no large metropolitan centers within this Basin.
The major tributaries of the Tallapoosa River include the Little Tallapoosa River, which has a drainage area of 605 square miles in Georgia and Alabama, and Sougahatchee, Sandy, Uphapee, and Hillabee Creeks in Alabama. The confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa Rivers form the Alabama River near Wetumpka, Alabama (Georgia Department of Natural Resources, 1998). Figure E-2 shows the major tributary streams and creeks at the Project.
The Basin has a mild and uniform temperate climate with warm summers and usually mild winters. Snowfall accumulation is infrequent. During the month of July, temperatures vary between 92°Farenheit (F) and 67°F. Although the monthly average highs in June, July, and August exceed 90°F, this temperature range generally occurs, on average, only 87 days per year. Temperatures above 100°F are unusual. The winter extremes of 32°F and lower occur on an average of 64 times per year. The frost-free season varies from 205 days in the north portion to 256 days in the south portion of the Basin. Annual rainfall amounts typically range between 46 to 64 inches. The average growing season is approximately 209 days (CH2MHILL, 2005).
The Project is located approximately 60.6 RM upstream of the junction of the Tallapoosa and Coosa River, which forms the Alabama River. The Project is located between the R.L. Harris Dam, which is approximately 78.5 RM upstream, and the Yates and Thurlow Dams located approximately 7.9 and 10.9 RM downstream, respectively. All four dams are owned and operated by Alabama Power. Figure E-3 shows the Project location in the state and its proximity to the Harris, Yates, and Thurlow developments.
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FIGURE E-2 MAJOR CREEKS AND STREAMS IN THE PROJECT AREA
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FIGURE E-3 LOCATION OF ALABAMA POWER PROJECTS ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER
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2.1.1 PROJECT FACILITIES
Alabama Power began construction on the Martin Project in 1923 and it was placed in service in 1926. In the 1920s, when land was being purchased for construction of the Project, a locally established reference point known as Martin Datum (MD) was used for determining elevations. Today, most figures, drawings, and general references are shown in msl, which FERC also uses as its standard. An elevation listed as “mean sea level” is equivalent to 1 foot greater than Martin Datum Elevation, which means that elevation 490 MD is equivalent to 491 msl. Throughout this exhibit, elevations are presented in msl rather than MD.
The Project consists of a concrete gravity dam with an earth dike section, about 2,000 ft in length and with a maximum height of 168 ft. The dam contains a 720 foot long arched concrete gravity gated spillway with 20 vertical lift steel spillway gates measuring 30 ft wide by 16 ft high. The spillway gates are used to pass floodwaters in excess of turbine capacity. The deck elevation above the spillway is 501 ft msl.
There is a 255 ft concrete gravity non-overflow section on the right abutment, and an approximately 1,000 ft compacted homogeneous earth embankment on the east (left) abutment (Finlay Engineering, 2005). Project headworks include a 280 ft concrete gravity intake structure with 12 intake gates (3 per unit) measuring 9 ft wide by 24 ft high. Each intake is fitted with a trash rack, and there are four steel penstocks (Alabama Power Company, 2005a).
The Project powerhouse is a brick, steel, and concrete structure standing 99 ft above the generator floor and is integral with the intake facilities. It houses four vertical flow units totaling 182.5 megawatts (MW). The building measures 307.9 ft long by 58 ft wide by 99 ft high. It contains an overhead crane with a capacity of 200 tons. The crane is used to perform maintenance on the units. Generators 1, 2, and 3, installed in 1926, were upgraded between 2001and 2004 and have ratings of 40.5 to 45.8 MW. Each is driven by a vertical type Francis turbine with 54,251 to 60,988 horsepower (hp). The fourth generator, installed in 1952, has a rating of 55.0 MW and is driven by a 74,024 hp vertical type Francis turbine (Alabama Power Company, 2005b). Unit 1 refurbishment was completed and put into service on March 10, 2002, with an increase in capacity from 33.0 to 45.8 MW. Unit 2 was refurbished and placed into service on February 4, 2004 with an increase in capacity from 33.0 to 41.0 MW. Unit 3 was
E-9 refurbished and placed back into service on March 28, 2003 with an increase in capacity from 33.0 to 40.5 MW. Unit 4 has not been upgraded since its installation in 1952 (Alabama Power Company, 2005b). The Project also includes two short (450 ft long) 115 kilovolt transmission lines and appurtenant facilities (FERC, 2005).
The Project intake structures’ inverts are located 68 ft below normal full pool elevation. During the 2007 drought, Alabama Power asked General Electric to investigate the minimum operational elevation at which water could be released through the turbines without causing damage to the equipment. It was determined that elevation 445.5 msl was the lowest elevation the Project could safely operate the turbines.
Table E-1 contains a list of minimum and maximum hydraulic capacities along with the installed capacity. Alabama Power has no operating experience with discharges less than best gate on all units (minimum hydraulic capacity). Because of the unknown consequences, operating points lower than best gate cannot be used for long periods of discharge.
TABLE E-1 MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM HYDRAULIC CAPACITY FOR THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: pers. comm., Andy Sheppard, Alabama Power Company, 2008)
CFS MW MIN HYDRAULIC MAX HYDRAULIC AUTHORIZED / UNIT CAPACITY CAPACITY INSTALLED (BEST GATE) (FULL GATE) CAPACITY 1 4,024 4,631 45.8 2 3,653 3,951 41.0 3 3,563 3,968 40.5 4 4,464 5,616 55.2
Alabama Power supplies electric power throughout a large part of Alabama and exchanges electric power with other operating subsidiaries of Southern Company in Florida, Mississippi, and Georgia, and with the Tennessee Valley Authority by means of physical connections of the transmission systems of each.
Units 1, 2, and 3 are connected through a dedicated three phase 12/115 kilovolt step-up transformers rated at 55 kilovolt amperes (Kva) each. Unit 4 is connected through a bank of 3, single phase 12/115 kilovolt step-up transformers, rated 23,333 Kva each. These transformers are
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located on the downstream side of the headworks, immediately behind the powerhouse, and are connected to a switching station located at the west end of the dam.
A single line diagram for the Project is included in Exhibit A of the Final License Application (FLA) and on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
2.1.2 PROJECT LANDS AND WATERS
Lands, waters, and structures needed to operate the Project are required by FERC to be enclosed by a Project Boundary. Figures E-4 through E-15 depict the Martin Project Boundary. Alabama Power is responsible for managing activities within the FERC Project Boundary, which also includes a 30-ft control strip (measured horizontally from elevation 491 msl) located in some areas of the Martin Project.1
The Martin reservoir, commonly referred to as Lake Martin, extends up the river for approximately 31 mi with approximately 880 mi of shoreline. The reservoir surface area is about 41,150 ac at the normal full pool elevation of 491 ft msl and has a mandatory drawdown of 10 ft in the winter months (Finlay Engineering, 2005). The normal tailwater elevation is 345 ft msl. The gross storage capacity of Lake Martin is 1,628,000 acre-feet (af); active storage in the available 45.5 ft drawdown is 1,202,000 af (FERC, 1978; modifications from personal communication, Ashley McVicar, Alabama Power Company).
1 Lands included in the 30-Foot Control Strip classification include Project lands located within a control strip of land along the shoreline in certain areas of the reservoir. These easements are located on properties once owned by Alabama Power. When sold, Alabama Power retained an easement on a 30-ft control strip and prohibits certain activities (e.g., habitable structures) within this land classification.
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FIGURE E-4 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY
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FIGURE E-5 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-6 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-7 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-8 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-9 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-10 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-11 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-12 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-13 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-14 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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FIGURE E-15 LAKE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY, CONTINUED
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2.1.3 EXISTING PROJECT OPERATION
The Project is a multipurpose storage reservoir. This means the Lake level fluctuates seasonally to provide many of the Project’s benefits. These purposes include hydroelectric power, limited seasonal flood control when the reservoir is in drawdown condition, recreation, municipal and industrial water supply, water quality enhancement, aquatic flow maintenance, and navigation flow support. Some of these operational purposes enhance uses upstream of the dam, some support resources and interests downstream of the dam, and others, like hydroelectric power generation, directly benefit many people throughout the state.
Alabama Power uses three different guidelines in its operations of the Project: the Flood Control Guideline, the Operating Guideline, and the Drought Contingency Curve. These curves are illustrated on Figure E-16.
The Flood Control Guideline is the upper curve on Figure E-16. It reflects the maximum elevation at which the lake is normally maintained in the interest of flood control. Beginning in January, the curve is at elevation 481 ft msl and remains constant until February 17. On this date, the curve begins rising until it reaches 491 ft msl on April 28. The curve remains at this elevation until August 30, when it begins to lower. The curve lowers 10 ft to 481 ft msl by December 31 and remains constant until filling begins on the following February 17. At times when the reservoir is below 491 ft, Alabama Power has the ability to store floodwater to help control high river flow events. After peak flood flows recede, Alabama Power lowers the lake elevation to or below the Flood Control Guideline elevation (Figure E-16).
When the inflow to the reservoir causes the reservoir elevation to exceed the Flood Control Guideline the plant is operated in the following manner:
1. Between elevation 481 msl and 486 msl, turbines at Martin Dam are operated to provide continuous outflow from Thurlow Dam of at least the equivalent of the hydraulic capacity of the turbines at Yates Dam. 2. Between elevation 486 msl and 489 msl, turbines at Martin Dam are operated to provide continuous outflow from Thurlow Dam of at least the plant capacity at that dam. 3. Above elevation 489 msl, turbines at Martin Dam are operated as in #2 above and further, if required to avoid rising above elevation 491 msl, will be operated to provide an outflow from Martin Dam at least equivalent to all turbine units available operating at full gate and spillway gates will be raised so that the reservoir will not exceed elevation 491 msl except after all gates are raised and inflow exceeds the gate capacity. At elevation
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491 msl the spillway will have a discharge capacity of 133,000 cubic feet per second (cfs). {Note: Elevation 491 msl equals 490 Martin Datum (MD)}.
In addition, during periods when inflow to the reservoirs on the Tallapoosa River exceeds the water capacities of hydraulic turbines, rates of outflow from the reservoirs shall not exceed concurrent rates of inflow except to evacuate accumulated surcharge storage subsequent to the time of peak inflow.
Alabama Power notifies the Birmingham office of the National Weather Service (NWS) when spillway gate operation is planned at the Project. In addition, Alabama Power shares data with the NWS, Southeast River Forecast Center (SERFC), and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
The middle curve reflected on Figure E-16 is the Operating Guideline. This curve was developed in the 1970s through discussions with stakeholders who desired a higher pool elevation with less seasonal fluctuation than had been experienced historically. Under the original federal operating license issued in 1923, Alabama Power often operated the Project in a manner that lowered the lake twenty or more ft below 491 ft msl. During relicensing in the 1970s, Alabama Power and certain stakeholders agreed to change the operation of the Project so that a higher pool elevation could be maintained for normal Project operations. The area between the Flood Control Guideline and the Operating Guideline represents the range in which Alabama Power operates Lake Martin under normal conditions. Alabama Power attempts to maintain Lake Martin at or near the upper end of this operating range as often as possible. By operating the Project at or near the Flood Control Guideline, Alabama Power optimizes Project benefits and is better able to refill the Lake to near full pool each summer. Under the existing license, when the Lake elevation drops below certain levels on the Operating Guideline and remains there for seven days, Alabama Power reports this occurrence, by letter, to FERC and the Lake Martin Resource Association (LMRA). During this period, discharges are restricted to those that are necessary to fulfill requirements that include critical electrical system needs, downstream flow augmentation for navigation, water quality, fish and wildlife, and municipal/industrial water supply purposes.
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FIGURE E-16 MARTIN RULE CURVE
Martin Reservoir 495
493
491
489
487
485
483 Elevation msl) (ft 481
479 Flood Control Guide
Operating Guide 477 Drought Contingency Curve 475 JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
The lower curve on Figure E-16 is the Drought Contingency Curve. This curve provides an indication of impending hydrologic drought conditions. During the 1990s, Alabama Power developed drought contingency curves for each of its hydroelectric projects, including the Martin Dam Project. This action was prompted by a comprehensive study of the Alabama-Coosa- Tallapoosa River (ACT) Basin, which was being conducted by the states of Alabama, Georgia, and Florida as part of an ongoing water rights dispute among the three states. As part of the study, reservoir simulation models were developed for USACE and Alabama Power projects in the ACT Basin. These simulation models needed criteria for decision logic on how and when releases would be made from reservoirs under drought conditions.
Alabama Power prepared the drought contingency curves for Alabama Power’s projects as part of the simulation modeling effort. The intent of the curves is to flag conditions when reservoirs are in drought conditions. The Martin Drought Contingency Curve is not intended to dictate operations of the Project. Rather, the curve is used as one of several factors in evaluating drought
E-26 reservoir operations. The curve was developed to reflect drought operations that occurred in 1986 and in 1988. In the recent droughts of 2000 and 2007, reservoir operations did not change at the instant when Lake Martin fell below the Drought Contingency Curve; however, this indication was one of several factors used in planning reservoir operations in coordination with Alabama Power’s other reservoirs in the ACT Basin during these past two droughts.
The Project is a peaking project that usually operates Monday through Friday to meet peak power demands (CH2MHILL, 2005). During generation, the Project’s four turbines release up to 18,200 cfs. Hours of generation each day depend principally on reservoir inflows which can vary significantly between wet and dry periods of the year. During the wetter periods (December through April), the Project usually operates eight to twelve hours daily on weekdays and for five to seven hours on Saturday. The Project would not typically operate on Sunday. During the drier periods (May through November), the Project usually experiences reduced inflows. Daily operation then becomes four to six hours Monday through Saturday and little or no operation on Sundays.
Releases from the Project flow directly into the Yates development’s 2,000 ac reservoir and 45.5 MW powerhouse with a hydraulic capacity of approximately 12,400 cfs. Releases from Yates flow directly into the Thurlow development’s 574 ac reservoir and 85.0 MW powerhouse with a hydraulic capacity of approximately 13,200 cfs (the Yates and Thurlow developments are licensed to Alabama Power as FERC Project No. 2407). Thus, the entire River segment from the Project to Thurlow Dam is impounded. Downstream of Thurlow Dam, the Tallapoosa River flows unimpeded for 45 mi (FERC, 1994).
Flows downstream of the Project typically range from leakage (from the Dam) to approximately 18,200 cfs (maximum hydraulic capacity of the power plant). Alabama Power operates the Yates-Thurlow Project as run-of-river projects that take advantage of peaking releases from Martin. Since 1991, Alabama Power has provided a continuous 1,200 cfs minimum release from Thurlow powerhouse, with the exception of periods of extreme drought. On many occasions, releases from Martin Dam are necessary to meet this requirement. There are currently procedures in the Yates-Thurlow license that reduce the release requirement at Thurlow Dam whenever inflows to the Yates-Thurlow Project are abnormally low. Thus, normal flows downstream of Thurlow Dam typically vary from 1,200 cfs to approximately 18,200 cfs. Flow in the Tallapoosa
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River, as measured ten mi downstream of the Project at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Milstead gage, average 4,822 cfs (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/al/nwis/ uv?02419500 Accessed May 14, 2008).
2.1.3.1 SUMMARY OF PROJECT GENERATION AND OUTFLOW RECORDS
Alabama Power’s operation of its Tallapoosa hydroelectric projects has many purposes. Alabama Power operates its four reservoirs on the Tallapoosa River to, among other things, meet a minimum release of 1,200 cfs below Thurlow Dam at Tallassee, Alabama and to maintain a flow of 4,640 cfs at Montgomery, Alabama as part of the ACT Basin system-wide commitment.
On average, the Project generates about 40% of the electricity of Alabama Power’s Tallapoosa River fleet of dams. The 10 year average annual generation from the Project is about 301,096,000 Kilowatt-hours (kWh) (Table E-2). In addition, Lake Martin contributes to the energy that is generated at Yates and Thurlow dams because of its ability to store and release water that would otherwise be spilled. Furthermore, because of Martin Dam’s operational flexibility, it is able to store water during low electrical usage periods and then generate with the same water during periods of high electrical use when production costs would normally be higher. This results in lower production costs to Alabama Power and a savings for its customers. All of the electric energy generated at the Project is used in the interconnected system of Alabama Power for public utility purposes.
TABLE E-2 MARTIN DAM PROJECT AVERAGE MONTHLY ACTUAL GENERATION FROM 2001 TO 2010 (Source: personal communication with Andy Sheppard, HOMS data, Alabama Power Company, 2011)
KILOWATT-HOUR MONTH (KWH) January 31,120,000 February 24,627,000 March 27,480,000 April 21,709,000 May 27,474,000 June 21,849,000 July 21,402,000 August 16,192,000 September 19,300,000 October 21,175,000 November 32,646,000 December 36,122,000 YEAR 301,096,000
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3.0 PROPOSED ACTION
This section contains: 1) Alabama Power’s proposal for the continued operation of the Project; 2) other operational recommendations (Early Spring Fill and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension); and 3) a description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measures. A complete analysis of the proposed action, other operational recommendations, and Alabama Power’s proposed PME measures are provided in the Environmental Analysis, Section 5.0. The proposed PME measures would likely go along with the other operational recommendations.
3.1 SUMMARY OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSED ACTION
As part of the relicensing process, stakeholders requested that Alabama Power investigate the feasibility of changing the Flood Control Guideline (raising the winter pool elevation) for the Martin reservoir, extending the summer pool elevation into the fall, and filling the reservoir earlier in the spring. In response to these requests, and to quantify existing effects of continued operation of the Project, Alabama Power—in consultation with stakeholders—developed 22 study plans, 8 of which addressed the effects of a change in the Flood Control Guideline on Project resources (referred to as the “12 series” studies). Specifically, Alabama Power proposed to analyze the effects of an increase in the winter pool elevation in increments of 1 ft to 5 ft msl (i.e., 482, 483, 484, 485, and 486 ft msl) as well as extending the summer pool level in the shoulder seasons (raise Lake Martin to full pool earlier in the spring and maintain full pool into the early/mid fall) (Figure E-17). On April 17, 2009, FERC approved the 22 study plans, and Alabama Power implemented these studies in 2009 and 2010.
During late 2009 and throughout 2010, Alabama Power distributed the study results in the form of Draft and Final Study Reports to stakeholders (see Final Study Reports on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD). Stakeholders were provided opportunity to participate in some of the studies and review and comment on draft study reports. Final study reports were distributed to stakeholders in the various Martin Issue Groups (MIGs) and were available on Alabama Power’s relicensing website.2
2 The Final Recreation Plan (MIG 5) and Final Shoreline Management Plan (MIG 4) are being filed with the Final License Application. Stakeholders in MIGs 4 and 5 had opportunity to review a Draft of both plans.
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Once study results were available, Alabama Power determined that an internal process or tool was needed to evaluate the substantial amount of data relative to existing operations and the operational changes. This effort was initiated with the purpose of developing Alabama Power’s proposed action for the PLP and FLA.
Alabama Power chose to use the “Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis” (MCDA) to evaluate and aid in the selection of a preferred course of action among the numerous alternatives based on multiple criteria. The MCDA is a mathematical tool that provides a systematic approach for the comparison of alternatives involving both quantitative (e.g., number of days, costs, etc.) and qualitative data (e.g., “good” or “bad”). The MCDA process used at the Project relied heavily on the pertinent data from the 22 FERC approved study plans and subsequent reports, especially the “12 series” studies. Use of the MCDA resulted in a matrix of 24 distinct alternatives (Table E-3) where the study results demonstrated the incremental effects of each alternative on specific resources.
Alabama Power presented the MCDA process to Martin stakeholders on October 13, 2010 and October 26, 2010. These meetings were designed to familiarize stakeholders with the MCDA process, allow them to provide input and allow them time to study the results. The first round of analysis showed Alternatives 2-6 (winter pool elevation changes of 1-5 ft) were the most “favorable”, based on the quantitative and qualitative study data. The early spring fill, fall extension, and the early spring/fall extension combination scored lower than the increased winter pool elevations from 1-5 ft (based on the data). Some stakeholders continue to prefer these alternatives based somewhat on their groups preferred outcome for this relicensing. At the October 26, 2010 meeting, Alabama Power presented another round of analysis which confirmed that the top five highest ranking alternatives were the 1-5 foot winter pool increases. Alabama Power elected to further evaluate those alternatives (renamed Alternative 1- Alternative 5) in the PLP, which was distributed for stakeholder review and comment on January 7, 2011.
Comments received on the PLP showed stakeholder dissatisfaction and misunderstanding of Alabama Power’s use of the MCDA as a screening tool, despite the unequivocal fact that the MCDA heavily relied on the study results. As noted, Alabama Power did present the MCDA to stakeholders and attempt to address their comments and questions during the October 2010 meetings.
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Alabama Power is required under 18 C.F.R. Section 5.18 (c) to address recommendations from stakeholders commenting on the PLP. Alabama Power reviewed all comments and found certain stakeholders firmly believe that the: 1) Early Spring Fill and 2) a 5 ft increase in winter pool with a Fall Extension of higher pool levels, are operating recommendations that should be evaluated in the Martin Project FLA. Alabama Power defends its use of the MCDA process as a useful tool to screen the 24 alternatives and select a proposed action; however, for the purposes of this FLA and Exhibit E Environmental Analysis, Alabama Power will rely solely on the study results when analyzing the effects of its proposed action and other operational recommendations on Project resources. Alabama Power does not endorse these stakeholders’ operational recommendations but has included these for FERC’s review and analysis (see Section 3.3).
FIGURE E-17 FLOOD CONTROL GUIDE CURVE ALTERNATIVES
Martin Reservoir 495
493
Early Fall Extension 491 Spring Fill
489
487
485 Higher Winter Pool
483 Elevation (MD) ft
481
479 Flood Control Guide
477
475 JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
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TABLE E-3 ALTERNATIVES (INCLUDING BASELINE) FOR CHANGING THE FLOOD CONTROL GUIDE LINE AT THE MARTIN PROJECT
ALTERNATIVES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 EARLY X X X X X X X X X X X X SPRING
EXISTING X X X X BASE OOL
P 1 X X X X 2 X X X X IGHER 3 X X X X H INTER 4 X X X X W 5 X X X X FALL X X X X X X X X X X X X EXTENSION
1 Baseline 13 fall extend 2 1 ft winter 14 fall extend – 1 ft winter 3 2 ft winter 15 fall extend – 2 ft winter 4 3 ft winter 16 fall extend – 3 ft winter 5 4 ft winter 17 fall extend – 4 ft winter 6 5 ft winter 18 fall extend – 5 ft winter 7 early spring 19 early spring & fall extend 8 early spring – 1 ft winter 20 early spring & fall extend – 1 ft winter 9 early spring – 2 ft winter 21 early spring & fall extend – 2 ft winter 10 early spring – 3 ft winter 22 early spring & fall extend – 3 ft winter 11 early spring – 4 ft winter 23 early spring & fall extend – 4 ft winter 12 early spring – 5 ft winter 24 early spring & fall extend – 5 ft winter
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3.2 PROPOSED PROJECT OPERATION
Alabama Power is proposing to change the Flood Control Guideline elevation by implementing a 3 ft increase in the winter pool (484 ft msl) during the winter months and change the Operating Guideline and Drought Contingency Curve proportionately during the same timeframe. These proposed guide curves/lines are illustrated on Figure E-18. Project operation during high flow events is described below.
Proposed Martin Operation for Seasonal Flood Control
The Project will be operated in the following manner for Seasonal Flood Control:
1. When the reservoir is above the Flood Control Guideline and between elevations 484 and 486 msl3, turbines at Martin Dam will be operated to provide for an outflow from Thurlow Dam of at least the equivalent of the hydraulic capacity of the turbines at Yates Dam. 2. When the reservoir is above the Flood Control Guideline and between elevations 486 and 489 msl: a. with increasing inflows, turbines at Martin Dam will be operated to provide for an outflow from Thurlow Dam of at least the equivalent of the hydraulic capacity of the turbines at that dam. b. with decreasing inflows, turbines at Martin Dam will be operated to provide for an outflow from Thurlow Dam of at least the equivalent of the hydraulic capacity of the turbines at Yates Dam. 3. When the reservoir is above the Flood Control Guideline and above elevation 489 msl, turbines at Martin Dam will be operated as in 2A above and further, if required to avoid rising above elevation 491 msl. Turbines will be operated to provide an outflow from Martin reservoir at least equivalent to all turbine units available operating at full gate and spillway gates will be raised so that the reservoir will not exceed elevation 491 msl except after all gates are raised and inflow exceeds gate capacity.
When the Flood Control Guideline allows for elevations between 489 msl and 491 msl (generally from the late spring to fall months), in an effort to prevent the Martin reservoir elevation from rising above elevation 491 msl, Martin Dam will be operated for flood control as necessary to provide an outflow from Martin Dam up to the amount equivalent to all turbine units available operating at full gate. As necessary, spillway gates may be raised to prevent the
3 Elevation 496 msl is equal to 485 Martin Datum.
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reservoir from exceeding elevation 491 msl, except after all gates are raised and inflow exceeds gate capacity.
Note: At elevation 491 msl, the spillway will have an outflow capacity of approximately 133,000 cfs. In addition, during periods when inflow exceeds the water capacities of hydraulic turbines, rates of three hour average outflow from the reservoir shall not exceed concurrent rates of three hour average inflow except to evacuate accumulated surcharge storage subsequent to the time of peak inflow.
Alabama Power will continue to notify the NWS when spillway gate operation is used in flood control operations as well as continue to share data with the NWS, SERFC, and the USACE.
FIGURE E-18 PROPOSED MARTIN RESERVOIR GUIDELINES
495
493
491
489
487
485
483 Elevation (ft msl) 481 Proposed Flood 479 Control Guideline Proposed Operating Guideline 477 Proposed Drought Contingency Curve
475
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3.2.1 PROPOSED ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURES
In addition to the proposed operational changes, Alabama Power proposes to implement a number of PME measures at the Project to address continuing and anticipated effects from a change in Project operation. In the January 2011 PLP, Alabama Power committed to evaluate the Lake Martin Resource Association’s (LMRA) recommendation to implement a fall extension of the Martin pool elevation as a PME measure. Alabama Power analyzed this recommendation and has developed a conditional fall extension measure that it proposes to include in the new Martin license.
Alabama Power’s proposed PME are listed below and on the following pages and Table E-4 lists the PME measures and anticipated schedule for implementation.
Conditional Fall Extension
Alabama Power proposes to evaluate the opportunity for higher pool levels during the September 1 to October 15 time frame annually during the term of the license. During the month of September in each year of the license, Alabama Power will conduct an evaluation each day to determine the feasibility of implementing higher pool levels, which will be based on the following conditions:
1. The elevation at Lake Martin is above its operating guideline, which ranges from 487 to 488.5 msl during September; 2. The rolling 7 day average total basin inflow on the Tallapoosa, calculated at Thurlow, is at or higher than the 50th percentile (median) flows; 3. The rolling 7 day average total basin inflow on the Coosa, calculated at Jordan, is at or higher than the 50th percentile (median) flows; and 4. Elevations at the Weiss, Neely Henry, and Logan Martin Developments on the Coosa and the Harris Project on the Tallapoosa must all be within 1 ft of their rule curves.
If all above conditions are met, Alabama Power will operate the Project targeting an elevation above the Flood Control Guideline but no greater than elevation 491’ msl for a period not to exceed October 15th (i.e., the “green zone” on Figure E-19), at which point drawdown will resume to meet the FERC approved winter pool elevation. Once the conditional fall extension is
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initiated, Alabama Power will continue to monitor the Coosa and Tallapoosa River systems to determine if any change in conditions would affect continuation of the conditional fall extension.
At the end of September, if all the above conditions were NOT met and the conditional fall extension was not implemented, Alabama Power will file results of the evaluation with FERC.
Regardless of the outcome of the evaluation, Alabama Power will provide notice to the LMRA and post up-to-date status notifications to the Alabama Power external Lakes and Recreation website.
At all times during the conditional fall extension, all downstream minimum flow commitments will continue to be met as well as any electric system stability or emergency needs that may arise. Step 3 of the proposed seasonal flood control operations will dictate during high flow events.
FIGURE E-19 CONDITIONAL FALL EXTENSION ENHANCEMENT MEASURE
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Land Changes
Remove 499 ac of Project land, reclassify 1,295 ac, and add 991 ac to the Project Boundary for a net sum of 492 ac. Project Boundary total acreage will be 9,094 ac.
Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program
Upon license issuance, Alabama Power will implement the Final Shoreline Management Program (SMP) filed on June 8, 2011, with the FLA. The SMP contains the following provisions:
• Redefining Project land classifications and ensuring allowable uses of Project land by classification; • Implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) on Project lands and providing education of BMPs to private landowners; • Implementing riprap guidelines and specifications for seawalls as part of Alabama Power’s permitting program; • Continuing Alabama Power’s policy to retain a 30-foot Control Strip on any Project lands removed from the Project Boundary; • Encourage private land owners to establish or maintain a 15 ft naturally vegetated buffer on privately owned shoreline lands; • Revise the Shoreline Permitting process at the Project to include the LMRA and Lake Martin Home Owner and Boat Owner (LMHOBO) as consulting entities on any application for bridge construction at Martin; • A review process to update the SMP every six years during the term of the new license; and • Within one year of license issuance, Alabama Power will file a sensitive resources Geographic Information System (GIS) layer that identifies sensitive resources in the Project Boundary—specifically wetlands areas, cultural resources, and rare, threatened and endangered species (RTE).
Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan
Within one year of license issuance, Alabama Power will develop a Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan for FERC approval. The Plan will contain, at minimum, the following items:
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• Describe current public education efforts conducted by Alabama Power, including Shorelines, Renew Our Rivers, annual information meetings, the Reservoir Information System, the Water Course, an updated website; and funding to the Alabama Marine Police; • Develop a brochure and publish in Shorelines and submit for publication in Lake Magazine, articles, within 180 days of FERC approval of the Plan, regarding BMPs and techniques that homeowners could use to keep the shorelines in a more natural state and/or establish a natural buffer; • Publish in Shorelines and submit for publication in Lake Magazine an article, within one year of license issuance, that provides results of the striped bass hooking mortality study; • Consult with appropriate regulatory agency(ies) to develop avenues for informing and educating boaters and homeowners on methods to prevent shoreline erosion and sedimentation; • Publish periodic articles (once every other year for five years) in Shorelines newsletter and/or Lake Magazine regarding nuisance aquatic vegetation; • Develop an “Adopt an Island” program to address litter control on Alabama Power owned islands; and • Provide for filing updates/revisions to the Public Education and Outreach Program Plan.
Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program
Upon license issuance, Alabama Power shall continue to implement the Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program (Alabama Power, 2011).
Martin Dam Project Aquatic Vegetation Monitoring
Within 6 months of license issuance and prior to implementation of Alabama Power’s proposal to implement a 3 ft increase in winter pool, Alabama Power will file for FERC approval, a plan to monitor potential increases in nuisance aquatic vegetation in Lake Martin resulting from a FERC-approved 3 ft increase in winter pool.
Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program
Within 180 days of license issuance, Alabama Power will implement a Wildlife Management Program for Project lands to include the following provisions:
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• Forest management of a Primary and Secondary areas of Natural/Undeveloped Lands; • Implement a rotation period of 80 years on longleaf pine; • Implement a 35 ft streamside management zone consistent with Alabama’s Best Management Practices for Forestry; • Increase the amount of acres of longleaf pine to enhance redcockaded woodpecker (RCW) habitat; • Provide for management of the 528 ac Martin Small Game Hunting Area including a parking lot and signage (that will contain a map and permit info); • Continue conducting bald eagle surveys at Martin; • Meet with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR)/United States Fish and Wildlife (USFWS) annually to discuss activities; and • Prepare an annual memo and six year update report of activities.
American Eel Study
In consultation with the USFWS, Alabama Power will begin a three-phased American eel sampling study beginning in 2011 that will be conducted in the Tallapoosa River from the Project tailrace to RM 12.9 over a six year period. The study plan, to be developed in consultation with the USFWS, shall consist of:
• A reconnaissance period for developing sampling plans, methods, and refining collection/tagging techniques; • Conduct sampling/tagging in the Tallapoosa River; and • Summarize results of efforts.
Results of the study will be transmitted to USFWS for review and 30 day comment. Within 90 days of transmittal of the study results to the USFWS, Alabama Power will file with FERC, the study results and agency comments, including how Alabama Power addressed agency comments.
Martin Dam Project Water Quality Monitoring
Alabama Power will implement the requirements of the 401 Water Quality Certification issued by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) on May 9, 2011, and (as specified in the 401 Certification) will collect water temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO)
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levels in the Martin tailrace. Alabama Power will develop a Reservoir Water Quality Monitoring Plan in consultation with ADEM within 12 months of license issuance and prior to implementation of the FERC approved 3 ft increase in winter pool.
Periodic Drawdown to 481 msl
Every six years following FERC approval of Alabama Power’s proposal to implement a 3 ft
increase in the winter pool (484 msl), Alabama Power will lower the reservoir elevation to at least 481 msl to facilitate seawall and boat dock construction and maintenance and other activities benefiting from lower Lake levels.
The periodic drawdown will be delayed if the Licensee determines that its ability to refill to summer pool level could be jeopardized by impending weather conditions based on National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center forecasts and/or other reliable sources, or other environmental factors.
Flood control operations consistent with the proposed Martin operation for flood control will dictate during high flow events.
Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan
Upon license issuance, Alabama Power will implement the approved Final Recreation Plan to include the following provisions:
• Retain 12 existing Project recreation sites; • Include six new Project recreation sites and one future Project recreation site; • At Jaybird Landing, replace the existing boat ramp, construct two bank fishing sites, and construct a gravel parking area; • Expand the parking areas at Madwind Creek and Smith Landing; • Annual review of signage at Project recreation sites; • Recreation related improvements on non-Recreation Project land, including a canoe portage, hiking trails, and the Martin Small Game Hunting Area; • Annual consultation with the ADCNR on the need for additional recreation improvements at the Project; and
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• Within one year of license issuance, consultation with the ADCNR on the need for additional bank/pier fishing sites at the Project.
Martin Dam Project Historic Properties Management Plan
Upon license issuance, Alabama Power will implement the “Programmatic Agreement Between the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Alabama State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) for Managing Historic Properties that May be Affected by Issuing a New License to Alabama Power for the Continued Operation and Maintenance of the Martin Dam Project in Alabama (FERC No.349),” including but not limited to the Historic Properties Management Plan (HPMP) for the Project. The HPMP will include the following provisions:
• Conduct a cultural resources survey prior to any Alabama Power related ground disturbing construction activities within the Project’s Area of Potential Effect (APE) which have not been subjected to an archaeological survey, including, but not limited to recreation developments and any Project enhancements that may be required by state or federal agencies, after consultation with the Alabama SHPO, the Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma, and the Kialegee Tribal Town of the Muscogee Creek Nation; • Completion, if necessary, of identifying historic properties, within the Project's APE; • Cultural resource surveys of selected survey sites (894 ac); • Document the Martin Construction Camp/Village; • Continued use and maintenance of historic properties; • Treatment of historic properties threatened by Project-induced shoreline erosion4, Alabama Power related ground disturbing construction activities, including, but not limited to recreation developments and any Project enhancements that may be required by state or federal agencies, and vandalism; • Identify and evaluate historic properties, determine effects, and identify ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects; • Consider and implement appropriate treatment that would minimize or mitigate unavoidable adverse effects on historic properties; • Treatment and disposition of any human remains that may be discovered, taking into account any applicable state laws and the Advisory Council's "Policy Statement Regarding Treatment of Burial Sites, Human Remains, and Funerary Objects”, dated
4 Project-induced shoreline erosion does not include shoreline erosion attributable to flood flows or phenomena, such as wind driven wave action, erodible soils, and loss of vegetation due to natural causes.
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February 23, 2007; and compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (25 U.S.C. section 3001), if tribal or federal lands are within the Project Boundary; • Discovery of previously unidentified properties during Project operations; • Public interpretation of the historic and cultural values at the Project; • A list of activities (i.e., routine repair, maintenance, and replacement in kind at the Project) not requiring consultation with the Alabama SHPO; since these activities would have little or no potential to affect historic properties; • Procedures to address effects during Project emergencies; and • Review the HPMP by the Licensee, the Alabama SHPO, the Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma, and the Kialegee Tribal Town of the Muscogee Creek Nation every six years to ensure that the information continues to assist the licensee in managing historic properties and updating the HPMP based on agency and tribal consultations.
In the event that the Programmatic Agreement (PA) is terminated, Alabama Power will continue to implement the provisions of its approved HPMP.
Off License Funding Agreement for Fishery Enhancements
Alabama Power will, upon license issuance, provide funding to the ADCNR’s youth fishery automobile license plate program to mitigate potential entrainment of ADCNR stocked fish in Lake Martin. The funds will be used to provide financial support for fisheries enhancements at Lake Martin. Alabama Power is pursuing this funding agreement as an off-license enhancement.
3.2.1.1 PME MEASURE TIMELINE
Table E-4 provides a summary of the PME measures and anticipated timeline for implementation.
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TABLE E-4 PME MEASURES AND IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
PME MEASURE IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE Conditional Fall Extension Upon license issuance, Alabama Power proposes to evaluate the opportunity for higher pool levels during the September 1 to October 15 time frame annually during the term of the license (see details above). Land Changes Within 60 days of license issuance, Alabama Power will remove 499 ac of Project land, reclassify 1,295 acres, and add 991 ac to the Project Boundary for a net sum of 492 ac; Project Boundary total acreage will be 9,094 ac. Shoreline Management Plan Upon license issuance, Alabama Power will implement the Final Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) filed on June 8, 2011, with the Final License Application. Public Education and Outreach Within one year of license issuance, Alabama Power will develop a Martin Dam Project Public Education and Program Plan Outreach Program Plan for FERC approval. Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Upon license issuance, Alabama Power shall continue to implement the Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Vector Control Management Plan Control Management Program (Alabama Power, 2011). Martin Aquatic Vegetation Within 6 months of license issuance and prior to implementation of Alabama Power’s proposal to implement a 3 ft Monitoring Plan increase in winter pool, Alabama Power will file for FERC approval, a plan to monitor potential increases in nuisance aquatic vegetation in Lake Martin resulting from a FERC-approved 3 ft increase in winter pool. Wildlife Management Plan Within 180 days of license issuance, Alabama Power will implement a Wildlife Management Plan for Project lands. American Eel Sampling Program In consultation with the USFWS, Alabama Power will begin a three-phased American eel sampling study beginning in 2011 that will be conducted in the Tallapoosa River from the Project tailrace to RM 12.9 over a six-year period. The study plan will be developed in consultation with the USFWS. Water Quality Monitoring Upon license issuance, Alabama Power will implement the requirements of the 401 Water Quality Certification issued by Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) on May 9, 2011, and (as specified in the 401) will collect water temperature and DO levels in the Martin tailrace. Alabama Power will develop a Reservoir Water Quality Monitoring Plan in consultation with ADEM within 12 months of license issuance and prior to implementation of the FERC approved 3 ft increase in winter pool.
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PME MEASURE IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE Periodic Drawdown to Elevation 481 Every 6 years following FERC approval of Alabama Power’s proposal to implement a 3 ft increase in the winter pool Foot msl (484 msl), Alabama Power will lower the reservoir elevation to at least 481 msl to facilitate seawall and boat dock construction and maintenance and other activities benefiting from lower Lake levels.
The periodic drawdown will be delayed if the Licensee determines that its ability to refill to summer pool level could be jeopardized by impending weather conditions based on National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center forecasts and/or other reliable sources, or other environmental factors.
Flood control operations consistent with the proposed Martin operation for flood control will dictate during high flow events. Recreation Plan Upon license issuance, Alabama Power will implement the approved Final Recreation Plan. Historic Properties Management Plan Upon license issuance, Alabama Power will implement the “Programmatic Agreement Among the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Alabama State Historic Preservation Officer for Managing Historic Properties that May be Affected by a License Issuing to Alabama Power Company for the Continued Operation of the Martin Dam Project in Alabama (FERC No.349),” including but not limited to the Historic Properties Management Plan (HPMP) for the Project. Funding for Fish Enhancements Alabama Power will, upon license issuance, provide funding to the ADCNR’s youth fishery automobile license plate program to mitigate potential entrainment of ADCNR stocked fish in Lake Martin. The funds will be used to provide financial support for fisheries enhancements at Lake Martin. Alabama Power is pursuing this funding agreement as an off-license enhancement.
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3.3 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
As described in Section 3.1, Alabama Power is analyzing two other operational recommendations: 1) Early Spring Fill and 2) 5 ft increase in winter pool combined with a Fall Extension of higher pool levels.
3.3.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
The Early Spring Fill recommendation includes a change to the Flood Control Guideline to begin filling the Martin reservoir on January 15 and to be at full pool by April 1, annually.
3.3.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
This operational recommendation includes a change in the Flood Control Guideline elevation by implementing a 5 ft increase (486' msl) in the winter pool and a Fall Extension of higher pool levels to October 15 at which time the pool would then be drawn down to reach winter pool (486'msl) by November 7, annually.
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4.0 GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE, CUMULATIVE EFFECTS AND APPLICABLE LAWS
4.1 GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE OF FERC APPROVED STUDIES
The geographic scope is defined by the physical limits or boundaries of the proposed actions' effect on the resources. Defining those physical limits or boundaries is critical when developing the scope of each relicensing study. Alabama Power, in consultation with the stakeholders, developed a geographic scope for each of the 22 FERC-approved study plans for the Project. Table E-5 provides a list of the FERC-approved studies including the study report number, name, geographic scope, and citation (based on the order of the Final Study Report distribution). Hereinafter, the studies are referred to by the Study Report name and/or number.
TABLE E-5 STUDY PLANS AND GEOGRAPHIC SCOPES STUDY STUDY REPORT REPORT GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE AUTHOR REPORT CITATION NAME NUMBER Study Report 1 Tallapoosa River Tallapoosa River Alabama (Alabama Power, Fish Passage downstream from Martin Power 2010a) Information Dam to River Mile 0 Company Document Study Report Assessment of the Shoreline areas in the Mark A. (Bailey, 2009) 2(a) Influence of Blue Creek arm of Lake Bailey Shoreline Martin Modifications on Aquatic and Semi- Aquatic Species’ Use of Modified Areas Study Report The Relationship Shoreline areas in the Thomas A. (Purcell et al., 2011) 2(b) Between Shoreline Blue Creek arm of Lake Purcell, Development and Martin Dennis R. Resident Fish DeVries and Communities in Russell A. Lake Martin, AL Wright Study Report 3 Evaluation of Martin Dam tailrace – Alabama (Alabama Power, Minimum Flows Tallapoosa River from Power 2010l) Downstream of Thurlow Dam Company Martin Dam downstream to River Mile 12.9 Montgomery Water Works river gauge (RM 12.9)
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STUDY STUDY REPORT REPORT GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE AUTHOR REPORT CITATION NAME NUMBER Study Report 4 Fish Entrainment Forebay and intake area Alabama (Alabama Power, and Turbine of Martin Project Power 2011b) Mortality Analysis Company Study Report 5 Rare, Threatened, Lake Martin; Tallapoosa Alabama (Alabama Power, and Endangered River from Thurlow Power 2010j) Species Surveys Dam downstream to Company River Mile 12.9 Study Report 6 Adult Striped Bass Lake Martin Steven M. (Sammons, 2010) Habitat Use and Sammons the Effects of Catch and Release Angling during the Summer in Lake Martin, Alabama Study Report 7 Martin Wildlife All Alabama Power Alabama (Alabama Power, Management owned Power 2011c) Program “Natural/Undeveloped” Company land in Martin Project Boundary Study Report 8 Baseline Water Lake Martin and Alabama (Alabama Power, Quality Tailrace Power 2010k) Company Study Report 9 Location of Lake Martin, Alabama Alabama (Alabama Power, Permitted Power owned land, and Power 2010e) Discharges on significant points in Company Lake Martin tributaries5 Study Report Erosion and Lake Martin; Tallapoosa Alabama (Alabama Power, 10 Sedimentation River from Thurlow Power 2010h) Dam downstream to Company River Mile 12.9 Study Report Water Quantity, Lake Martin Alabama (Alabama Power, 11 Water Use, and Power 2010c) Water Company Withdrawals Study Report Flood Control Harris Dam to Martin Alabama (Alabama Power, 12(a) Guideline Change Pool, Martin Dam and Power 2010b) Modeling the Tallapoosa River Company Analysis from the Project to the Montgomery Water Works river gauge (RM 12.9)
5 Report includes NPDES permits in the Tallapoosa Basin between Harris and Martin Dam.
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STUDY STUDY REPORT REPORT GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE AUTHOR REPORT CITATION NAME NUMBER Study Report Effects of a Rule Lake Martin Alabama (Alabama Power, 12(b) Curve Change on Power 2010d) Sedimentation Company Rates and Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation Study Report Effects of a Rule Lake Martin and Alabama (Alabama Power, 12(c) Curve Change on Tailrace Power 2011a) Water Quality Company Study Report Effects of a Rule Lake Martin; Tallapoosa Alabama (Alabama Power, 12(d) Curve Change on River from Thurlow Power 2010i) Lake and Dam downstream to Company Downstream River Mile 12.9 Erosion Study Report Effects of a Rule Lake Martin; Tallapoosa Alabama (Alabama Power, 12(e) Curve Change on River from Thurlow Power 2010f) Federally Dam downstream to Company Threatened and River Mile 12.9 Endangered Species at the Martin Project and Tallapoosa River below Thurlow Dam Study Report Effects of a Rule Tallapoosa River from Alabama (Alabama Power, 12(f) Curve Change on Thurlow Dam Power 2010g) Downstream downstream to River Company Recreation Mile 12.9 Study Report Effects of Lake Martin Southwick (Southwick, 2010) 12(g) Increasing Associates Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama
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STUDY STUDY REPORT REPORT GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE AUTHOR REPORT CITATION NAME NUMBER Study Report Effects of Lake Martin Southwick (Southwick, 2010) 12(h) Increasing Associates Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama Study Report Martin Dam Alabama Power-owned Alabama (Alabama Power, 13 Project Shoreline lands within the Martin Power 2011d) Management Dam FERC Project Company Program Boundary Study Report Martin Dam Lake Martin, its Alabama (Alabama Power, 14 Project Recreation tributaries, and lands and Power 2011e) Plan water within the FERC Company Project Boundary Study Report Martin Dam Alabama Power-owned Alabama (Alabama Power, 15 Project Historic lands within the Martin Power 2011f) Properties Dam FERC Project Company Management Plan Boundary (Draft)
4.2 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
According to the Council on Environmental Quality's regulations for implementing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 1508.7), a cumulative effect is an impact on the environment resulting from the incremental impacts of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of what agency or person undertakes such other actions. Cumulative effects can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions taking place over a period of time, including hydropower and other land and water development activities.
In the August 5, 2008 Scoping Document, FERC identified the fishery and water resources as those resources that could be cumulatively affected by the proposed relicensing of the Project. For fishery resources, FERC defined the Tallapoosa River from the upstream end of the Project Boundary extending downstream to Project-affected waters below the Thurlow Development as
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the geographic scope. FERC chose this geographic scope because the presence and operation of the Project, along with the Yates and Thurlow hydroelectric projects, could affect the movements of fish and fish populations in the Tallapoosa River. The geographic scope for water resources includes the Tallapoosa River from the Project Boundary within Lake Martin, downstream to Project-affected stream reaches affected by operational flow releases downstream from the Thurlow Dam. This geographic boundary was selected because of the direct interaction between the Project and the Yates and Thurlow Project and because of the indirect association with other water users (e.g., both consumptive and wastewater releases into Lake Martin) in the area (FERC, Scoping Document, August 5, 2008).
4.2.1 TEMPORAL SCOPE
The temporal scope of the cumulative effects analysis in FERC’s environmental assessment will include a discussion of past, present, and future actions and their respective effects on each resource that could be cumulatively affected, primarily fisheries and water resources as defined by FERC (Scoping Document, August 5, 2008). Based on the potential term of a new license, the temporal scope will look 30-50 years into the future, concentrating on the effect on the resources from reasonably foreseeable future actions. The historical discussion will be limited, by necessity, to the amount of available information for each resource. Alabama Power identified the present resource conditions based on personal observation, study results, agency/stakeholder comments, and comprehensive plans.
4.3 APPLICABLE LAWS
4.3.1 SECTION 401 OF THE CLEAN WATER ACT
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) requires that any applicant for a federal license, that may conduct any activity which may result in any discharge into the navigable waters, provide to the licensing agency a certification from the state in which the discharge originates that the discharge will comply with state water quality standards adopted under the CWA. See 33. U.S.C § 1341 (a). Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations implementing section 401 require that the certification issued by the state certifying agency contain a statement that there is
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“reasonable assurance that the activity will be conducted in a manner which will not violate applicable water quality standards.” 40 C.F.R. § 121.2(a)(3).
Therefore, pursuant to section 401, Alabama Power filed an Application for a 401 Water Quality Certification to the ADEM on May 10, 2010. The ADEM issued a 401 water quality certification to Alabama Power on May 9, 2011 which is contained on the “Martin Project Final Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
4.3.2 ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT/NATIONAL BALD EAGLE MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES
Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), §16 U.S.C. 1536(a), requires federal agencies to ensure that their actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of federally listed endangered or threatened species, or result in the destruction or adverse modification of the critical habitat of such species. Federal agencies are required to consult with the USFWS when a proposed action may adversely affect listed species. By letter dated August 5, 2008, FERC designated Alabama Power as the Commission’s non-federal representative for carrying out informal consultation, pursuant to Section 7 of the ESA.
Surveys performed during the relicensing process found no federally listed species at any of Alabama Power’s sampling sites. Bald eagle nests have been observed over several years during the annual bald eagle survey on Martin Reservoir. The locations of the currently active nests are well-documented and in the ADCNR database. Although the bald eagle was de-listed from the Federal Endangered Species List effective July 2007 (72 FR 37345-37372), it remains protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C.668- 668d). None of the proposed relicensing actions are likely to result in adverse effects to such species.
4.3.3 COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT
The Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) of 1972, as amended, requires review of the Project’s consistency with the state’s coastal management program. The State of Alabama has a Coastal Area Management Program (ACAMP) that applies to the coastal lands and waters seaward of the continuous 10 ft contour in Baldwin and Mobile Counties. Implementation of the
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ACAMP is shared by the ADCNR and the ADEM. Due to the location of this Project, the CZMA does not apply. By letter dated February 10, 2011, the ADEM noted that the Martin Project is “outside of Alabama’s Coastal Area and is therefore not subject to ADEM’s Division 8 Regulations” (ADEM, 2011) (see letter on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD).
4.3.4 MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT ACT
The purpose of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act is to provide for the conservation and management of the fisheries, and for other purposes (http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/magact/ accessed May 3, 2011). The National Marine Fisheries Services (NMFS) is the primary manager of activities covered under this act. FERC’s regulations at 18 C.F.R. Section 5.18 (3) (iii) require a licensee to document any essential fish habitat (EFH) that may be affected by the Project. To date, no EFH was documented at the Project nor has the issue of EFH been raised by any stakeholder.
4.3.5 NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966, as amended, requires that every federal agency “take into account” how each of its undertakings could affect historic properties. Historic properties are districts, sites, buildings, structures, traditional cultural properties, and objects significant in American history, architecture, engineering, and culture that are listed in, or eligible for, inclusion in the National Register. By letter dated August 5, 2008, FERC designated Alabama Power as the Commission’s non-federal representative for carrying out informal consultation, pursuant to Section 106 of the NHPA.
As described further in Section 5.7, Alabama Power consulted with the SHPO and federally recognized Native American tribes from 2008 – 2011. Alabama Power intends to file a Draft HPMP following the filing of the FLA. An outline of the HPMP is included on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
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4.3.6 WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS AND WILDERNESS ACTS
There are no river segments designated as Wild and Scenic under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act within the Project Boundary. There is also no wilderness designation at or in the Project Vicinity. The only Wild and Scenic Rivers in Alabama are associated with the Bankhead National Forest located in the northwestern part of Alabama in Lawrence, Winston, and Franklin Counties. There is also the Sipsey Wilderness area located in Bankhead National Forest and the Cheaha Wilderness located within the Talladega National Forest near Talladega, Alabama.
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5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS OF PROPOSED ACTION AND OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 GEOLOGY AND SOILS
5.1.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
TOPOGRAPHY
Lake Martin is predominantly located in Tallapoosa County. The extreme southwestern portion is located in Elmore County and a small part of the western portion lies in Coosa County. The region is characterized by well-dissected uplands developed over metamorphic and igneous rocks. In the northern portion, elevations generally range from 500 to 1,100 ft msl. Cheaha Mountain, Alabama’s highest point at 2,407 ft is on the northeastern end of a prominent northeast-trending ridge that occurs in this district. Shoreline steepness around the Lake varies greatly. While some areas have less than 15% slope, others associated with rocky outcrops have a vertical drop off of 90% (Figure E-20).
GEOLOGY
The Project is underlain by igneous and metamorphosed rocks of late Proterozoic to Paleozoic in age (570 to 240 million years ago). Lake Martin and surrounding Project lands are located within the Piedmont Upland region (Figure E-21). Figure E-22 shows the bedrock geology of the lands in the Project Vicinity and Table E-6 provides the legend for the bedrock geology. The dominant features in the area, the Piedmont, are northeast-trending ridges that are underlain by resistant quartzite and quartz-rich schists. The linear ridges to the northwest and northeast of the Martin Dam site are a result of tectonic movement about 500 million years ago. Triassic dikes were intruded into the area approximately 200 million years ago and show no sign of any movement since that time. Neither the Project Area nor the surrounding area has been affected by glaciations.
This region is divided into the Northern, Inner, and Southern Piedmont Upland districts. The Northern and Inner Piedmont Upland districts are separated by the Brevard zone, a narrow zone of intensely sheared rocks. The Inner Piedmont Upland district is separated from the Southern
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Piedmont Upland district by the Towaliga fault. The Project lands fall within the Northern and Inner Piedmont Upland districts (Sapp and Emplainment, 1975).
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FIGURE E-20 TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OF THE PROJECT VICINITY
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THE NORTHERN PIEDMONT
The Northern Piedmont region, which includes most of the western shores of the Project lands in Tallapoosa, Coosa, and Elmore counties, is separated into three sections called blocks: the Tallapoosa block, the Coosa block, and the Talladega block. The entire Project Area is within the Tallapoosa block. This block includes all of Tallapoosa County and the portions of Coosa and Elmore counties that are within the Project Area. The Tallapoosa block contains rocks of the Wedowee Group, the Hackneyville schist, the Cornhouse schist, and the Emuckfaw Formation. The Wedowee Group consists of a wide range of sericite phyllites, feldspathic-biotite-quartz gneiss, and quartzite. The Hackneyville schist is composed of muscovite and biotite schist, and biotite quartz schist with occasional kyanite. The Cornhouse schist consists of interlayered chlorite-biotite-garnet schist and muscovite-biotite-garnet-quartz-plagioclase schist. Quartzite and layered amphibolites are also present. The Emuckfaw Formation is interlayered metagraywacke and muscovite-garnet-biotite-schist with local occurrences of quartzite and amphibolite (Sapp and Emplainment, 1975).
In addition to the regionally metamorphosed rocks of the Tallapoosa block, granitoid plutons composed of the Elkahatchee quartz diorite gneiss, the Zana granite, and Kowaliga gneiss occur in the Tallapoosa block.
THE INNER PIEDMONT
The Inner Piedmont Upland district is developed on metamorphic rock with no prominent topographic features. Tributaries of the River incise the upland surfaces (Sapp and Emplainment, 1975).
The rocks of the Inner Piedmont belong to the Dadeville Complex, a major synformal structure, which is composed of the Agricola schist, Ropes Creek amphibolite, Waresville schist, and Waverly gneiss. The mineral assemblages of the Agricola schist consist of biotite/ garnet/ sillimanite-feldspar quartz. Thinly bedded layers of dark brown hornblends occur throughout the schist as well as pegmatite pods and veins. The Waresville schist is a metavolcanic unit of interlayered amphibolites, chlorite-actinolite schist, and actinolite-feldspathic quartzite along the
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southeastern border of the Brevard zone. The Ropes Creek amphibolite, the most common rock of the southern Dadeville Complex, is massive hornblend gneiss with numerous accessory minerals. The underlying Waverly gneiss is feldspathic gneiss locally rich in manganese. Thin layers of amphibolite, calc-silicate rock, garnet quartzite, and muscovite schist occur as thin layers. Mafic rocks are infolded with the Agricola schist and Ropes Creek amphibolite (Beg, 1988).
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FIGURE E-21 GENERAL PHYSIOGRAPHY OF ALABAMA
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FIGURE E-22 SURFICIAL GEOLOGY OF THE PROJECT VICINITY (See Table E-6 below for key)
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TABLE E-6 LEGEND FOR THE SURFICIAL GEOLOGY OF THE PROJECT VICINITY SHOWN IN FIGURE E-22
SYMBOL NAME da Agricola Schist dch Camp Hill Granite Gneiss dmum Mafic and Ultramafic Rock drc Ropes Creek Amphibolite dwgn Waverly Gneiss drm Rock Mills Granite Gneiss dws Waresville Schist egn Elkahatchee Quartz Diorite Gneiss em Emuckfaw Group Undifferentiated hcp Pinchoulee Gneiss hg Hissop Granite jg Jackson Gap Group jgc Jackson Gap Group Sericite and Chlorite Phyllite Unit jgt Tallassee Metaquartzite Kck Coker Formation Kgn Kowaliga Gneiss my Mylonite and Blastomylonite Qt High Terrace Deposits um Ultramafic Rock we Wedowee Group Undifferentiated wec Cornhouse Schist weh Hackneyville Schist zg Zana Granite
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SOILS
On a broad scale, Project soils consist of soils derived from weathered metamorphic and igneous rock including granite, schist, and gneiss (Figure E-23). Predominant associations adjacent to the Project include Tallapoosa-Madison-Louisburg-Louisa (s128), Vance-Pacolet-Louisburg-Cecil- Appling (s74), Tallapoosa-Madison-Louisburg-Cecil (s82), and less commonly Tatum-Madison- Louisa (s78). The vast majority of the soils present within the region formed in residuum from weathered rock. Slopes are variable with textures ranging from fine (clay) to coarse (sand and gravel). In general, soil productivity has been greatly decreased over much of the area due to poor farming practices in the 1800s and early 1900s. Many areas of depleted soils have reverted to forest, but productivity is often low.
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FIGURE E-23 SOIL TYPES OF THE PROJECT VICINITY (See Table E-7 below for key)
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TABLE E-7 LEGEND FOR THE SOIL TYPES IN THE PROJECT VICINITY SHOWN IN FIGURE E- 23
SYMBOL SOIL NAME s124 Wickham-Roanoke-Congaree-Bibb s126 Uchee-Troup-Marvyn-Luverne-Cowarts s128 Tallapoosa-Madison-Louisburg-Louisa s130 Marvyn-Luverne-Cowarts s131 Lurverne-Lucedale-Jones-Boswell-Bama s74 Vance-Pacolet-Louisburg-Cecil-Appling s76 Tatum-Tallapoosa-Louisburg-Gwinnett-Cecil s78 Tatum-Madison-Louisa s82 Tallapoosa-Madison-Louisburg-Cecil s84 Madison-Gwinnett-Cecil-Appling s8369 Water
EROSION
Erosion in reservoirs or riverine systems falls into two broad categories: 1) natural erosion and 2) erosion due to human influence. The degree of natural, or typical, erosion along a riverine system is highly variable. Flood frequency, topography, and soil types are all dynamic factors that influence natural erosion. Natural erosion in riverine systems is typically associated with high flow events and overbank flooding. Natural erosion processes also include bank scour and piping (Rosgen, 1996; Simons et al., 1979). Nearly all reservoirs experience some level of natural erosion associated with wind and wave action. The Project experiences all of these natural phenomena and, in some cases, these erosive forces have been accelerated by man’s activities through land use activities, recreation on the water, and hydropower operations.
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The land within the Project Boundary is dominated by loamy soils identified as having moderate to high potential for soil erosion. Alabama Power identified and examined 15 erosion sites (15
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sites on Lake Martin and 0 sites in the Martin tailrace) to document the current level and source of erosion (Alabama Power, 2010h). During data collection, all sites were determined to have some level of atypical erosion, although all sites appeared to exhibit conditions that would be expected on a reservoir. For all study locations, erosion appeared to be the result of wave action or land use (boating, shoreline clearing, home building, etc.). In some instances, land use was the initiating factor with other factors accelerating the process. Soil conditions were a contributing factor at all sites. While erosion was observed at all of the study sites, atypical erosion was not widespread on the Lake and was relatively uncommon in relation to the total length of shoreline of the Project (Alabama Power Company, 2010h).
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Erosion on the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam is an ongoing process. The land in this area is dominated by loamy soils with a moderate to high potential for soil erosion. Alabama Power has performed erosion monitoring downstream of Thurlow Dam south to the Hwy 229 Bridge (first ten mi of shoreline along the Tallapoosa) as part of the Thurlow Project license (FERC No. 2407). The monitoring report states that three sites were monitored twice annually during 2006 and 2007 and once during 2009 (Figure E-24) (Alabama Power, 2010h; Alabama Power, 2010i). An additional 14 sites were visually monitored on the same frequency during the study. Information gathered by Alabama Power indicates that the shorelines along the Tallapoosa River are not affected by the minimum flow (1,200 cfs) or by typical generation flows (up to 18,200 cfs). This was most evident during the 2007 drought, which allowed for generation but did not include any spill events. The monitoring period was extended through the spring of 2009 to include a single spill event, which was documented as reinitiating erosion at the monitoring sites. The study determined that the erosion sites are most active and affected by river flow events above 18,200 cfs, which are deemed to be a “flood event”. The magnitude and duration of these events also has an impact on the degree of erosion that occurs, but these were not measured during the study.
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FIGURE E-24 THURLOW EROSION STUDY SITES
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SEDIMENTATION AND AQUATIC VEGETATION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Alabama Power identified 19 sedimentation sites in the Project Boundary. Based on the location of the sedimentation areas (tributary creek mouths), the study determined that Lake sedimentation is caused predominately by off-Lake activities resulting in silt moving into the Lake and depositing as water velocity decreases, thus forming a delta at the mouth of the creek (Alabama Power, 2010h).
Alabama Power identified 20 sites that had a high probability for establishment of aquatic vegetation (Alabama Power, 2010d). Each of these areas was ranked for “risk” based on several factors, and some areas had a higher risk than others. None of the areas included in this evaluation were armored or had hard packed substrates that would provide low suitability for aquatic vegetation. All sites had substrates with good suitability for expansion or establishment of aquatic vegetation. Under current conditions, there are 858 ac of high probability areas for establishment of submerged vegetation (Alabama Power, 2010d). The total possible area around the entire shoreline perimeter of Lake Martin that could support emergent vegetation was not measured. The study focused on areas that have been problematic in the past or are likely to support submerged invasive aquatic vegetation as the baseline.
Currently, there are three species of nuisance aquatic vegetation on Lake Martin that receive some level of control (Alabama Power, 2010d). They are:
• giant cutgrass (Zizaniopsis miliacea) • torpedo grass (Panicum repens) • brittle / spiny leaf naiad (Najas minor)
In addition, each of the following species has occurred in the Tallapoosa basin and are therefore a concern for expansion in Lake Martin (Alabama Power, 2010d):
• Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) • torpedo grass (Panicum repens) • Eurasian milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) • milfoil (Myriophyllum spp.)
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• brittle / spiny leaf naiad (Najas minor) • naiads (Najas spp.) • creeping water primrose (Ludwigia spp.) • alligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) • coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum) • pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.) • Canadian elodea (Elodea canadensis) • Brazilian elodea (Egeria densa) • Fanwort (Cabomba caroliniana) • Bladderwort (Utricularia spp.)
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
No sedimentation data or aquatic vegetation information were required by FERC to be collected for the area downstream of Thurlow Dam.
5.1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on geology and soils, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports:
• Study Report 10 – Erosion and Sedimentation (Alabama Power, 2010h); • Study Report 12b – Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Sedimentation and Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation (Alabama Power, 2010d); and • Study Report 12d – Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Lake and Downstream Erosion (Alabama Power, 2010i).
The complete reports used in this analysis are provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
5.1.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
EROSION
Alabama Power evaluated the potential for increased or decreased erosion on Lake Martin associated with the 3 ft increase in winter pool. Wave action (from boats and wind) and land use
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were the biggest causes of erosion on the Lake. In general, the changes in shoreline erosion associated with the 3 ft change were predicted to have a negligible effect on 15 erosion sites on Lake Martin (Alabama Power, 2010i). However, wave action will likely increase as the number of recreation user-days increase. To evaluate potential erosion impacts associated with future increased use, Alabama Power used the estimated increase in boating days associated with each Flood Control Guideline recommendation provided in Study Report 12(g) - Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use in Lake Martin (Southwick, 2010). The estimated number of recreation boating days is predicted to increase by 21,758 with a 3 ft increase in the winter pool (Southwick, 2010) (Table E-8). This increase in recreation days will likely result in additional erosion at each of the identified sites and potentially create more erosion sites on the Lake.
TABLE E-8 INCREASE IN ANNUAL RECREATION BOATING DAYS ASSOCIATED WITH A CHANGE IN THE FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE OF LAKE MARTIN (Source: Southwick, 2010) ALTERNATIVE BASELINE 3 FT 5 FT Winter Pool Level 0 21,758 27,198 Early Spring Fill 19,038 40,796 46,236 Fall Extension 29,917 51,676 57,115
SEDIMENTATION
Alabama Power identified the location of 19 sedimentation sites currently present on Lake Martin (Alabama Power, 2010d). Based on the location of the areas, sedimentation is caused predominately by off-Lake activities resulting in silt moving into the Lake. Therefore, a 3 ft increase in the winter pool should not affect the rate of sedimentation, but sediment plumes will likely change in size, shape, and depth. Alabama Power did not attempt to determine the exact sediment plume changes that will take place, but assumed that these changes will likely result as additional sediments become deposited in tributary creek mouths around the Lake (Alabama Power, 2010d). The overall effect of a 3 ft increase in winter pool on sedimentation in Lake Martin is somewhat negative as it will affect aquatic habitats in tributary creek mouths around the Lake by increasing silt build up and shallowing in those areas.
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AQUATIC VEGETATION
In the southeast, winter drawdowns are often used in conjunction with herbicide treatments to provide an additional level of control or prevention of aquatic vegetation. Leaving substrate areas inundated for a longer period of time will allow shoreline/emergent vegetation time to store nutrients before winter, thereby exponentially increasing the amount of vegetation that overwinters (Alabama Power, 2010d). Winter drawdowns are especially helpful in treating hydrilla, which is an aggressive non-native species. Unlike other species, hydrilla also produces turions and tubers which can survive freezing and dry conditions. Once it is established, drawdown conditions only help spread hydrilla into deeper water. In addition, emergent vegetation in areas with a gradual slope will likely expand if soils aren’t completely de-watered. Alabama Power is especially concerned about the establishment of hydrilla in Lake Martin due to the Lake’s high level of light penetration in the water column (Langeland, 1996). For example, secchi depth in the photic zone of the Lake ranged from 1.5 to 14.8 ft (average 8.5 ft) during 2007-2008 (Alabama Power, 2010k).
Alabama Power identified 20 sites that have a high probability of establishing aquatic vegetation and the amount of additional area that would be inundated at each site during the winter with an increase in winter pool (Alabama Power, 2010d) (Table E-9). For this analysis, the increase in ac inundated during the winter was used as an indicator of potential increase in submerged (and in part, emergent) aquatic vegetation in the Lake. These areas will receive less exposure to desiccation and freezing and provide areas for potential expansion of invasive aquatic vegetation. The 20 areas identified in this study are generally shallower than 6 ft deep so they are completely dewatered and exposed during the current winter drawdown conditions (Alabama Power, 2010d).
TABLE E-9 ESTIMATED ACRES OF SUBMERGED VEGETATION EXPANSION FOR EACH ELEVATION CHANGE IN THE WINTER FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE (Alabama Power, 2010d) BASELINE 3 FT 5 FT 858 1271 1489
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Alabama Power did not measure the total possible increase in emergent vegetation around the entire shoreline perimeter of Lake Martin, only those areas that were most likely to have an increase or have been problematic in the past. There may still be other suitable areas that were not evaluated. Therefore, the estimates presented in Alabama Power (2010d) are very conservative for evaluating “the risk” for total increases in emergent vegetation. In addition, the potential change in sedimentation areas with an increase in the winter pool is not quantified in this analysis. Finally, an increase in nutrient availability may lead to an increase in submerged and emergent aquatic vegetation, but this effect was not quantifiable (Alabama Power, 2010d).
Alabama Power’s proposal to implement the 3 ft increase in winter pool would add an additional 413 ac of high probability aquatic vegetation habitat to the current baseline levels. This change should also increase the ability of shoreline vegetation to survive the winter months. In addition, the water table will remain higher reducing the total area of soils exposed to compaction and desiccation (Alabama Power, 2010d).
An increase in aquatic vegetation has the potential to have an effect on nutrient cycles in the Lake. Phosphorus, for example, is removed from sediments and incorporated into plant biomass. As plant tissues die, phosphorous is then released into the water column. Once this cycle begins, increased plant growth releases additional nutrients from the soil which in turn increases plant growth (Cooke, 2005). The 3 ft increase in winter pool could have limited effects on nutrient levels in the Lake, but this was not quantifiable.
Positive factors associated with aquatic vegetation can include bank stability, reduction of water turbidity, and increased aquatic habitat for fish and macroinvertebrates. The negative factors may include interference with flood control and hydropower operations, drinking water and irrigation intakes, recreation, navigation, water quality issues such as low DO, reduced tourism and property values, and scenic resources if vegetation becomes too dense – especially with hydrilla. Higher survival rates of shoreline vegetation will also likely lead to an increase in requests for treatment of submerged and emergent species. If this occurs, Alabama Power would likely increase their treatment of problematic areas with aquatic herbicides. The average cost for
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treating selected sites for vegetation can range from $100 to $300 per acre (Alabama Power, 2010d ), which could result in an increase of $41,000 to $124,000 per year.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
EROSION
Erosion downstream of Thurlow Dam is an on-going natural activity; however, it is exacerbated significantly by spill events above 18,200 cfs. Alabama Power considered the potential for increased or decreased erosion on the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam based on Alabama Power’s proposal and other operational recommendations (Alabama Power, 2010i). The potential increase in the number of days with higher than historical spill (flows above 18,200 cfs) for the entire 67 years of record was studied. Increasing spill events would have an overall negative impact on downstream erosion. The HydroBudget model estimated that a 3 ft increase in winter pool would increase the number of days of spill (from Martin and subsequently passed down through Thurlow) by 23 days over 67 years of record (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Table E- 10). This indicates that a 3 ft increase in the winter pool would result in an increase in the number of spill days at Thurlow and would increase erosion in the Tallapoosa River over the existing levels. This increase in number of spill days could have some negative effects associated with increased water turbidity and erosion of shoreline areas. This is an increase over a 67 year period; therefore, the anticipated increase may not be significant compared to the existing condition.
TABLE E-10 POTENTIAL INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF DAYS OF HIGHER THAN HISTORICAL SPILL OVER 67-YEAR PERIOD AT MARTIN DAM (Source: Alabama Power, 2010b) ALTERNATIVE BASELINE 3 FT 5 FT Winter Pool Level 0 23 52 Early Spring Fill 116 147 176 Fall Extension 6 29 58
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5.1.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
EROSION
Wave action (from boats and wind) and land use are the biggest causes of erosion on the Lake (Alabama Power, 2010h; Alabama Power, 2010i). Wave action will likely increase as the number of recreation user-days increases with any of the changes in the Flood Control Guideline. To evaluate potential erosion impacts associated with future increased use, Alabama Power used the estimated increase in boating days associated with each Flood Control Guideline recommendation provided in Southwick (2010). Under the Early Spring Fill recommendation, the estimated number of recreation boating days increased by 19,038 (Southwick, 2010) (Table E-8). These increases in recreation days will likely result in some level of additional erosion at each of the 15 sites and potentially create more erosion sites on the Lake.
SEDIMENTATION
Nineteen sedimentation sites currently exist on Lake Martin. Based on the location of the areas, sedimentation is caused predominately by off-Lake activities resulting in silt moving into the Lake (Alabama Power, 2010d). Therefore, an Early Spring Fill should not affect the rate of sedimentation, but sediment plumes will likely change in size, shape, and depth with an increase in the winter pool. These changes in sediment plumes will likely result in additional sediments being deposited in tributary creek mouths around the Lake (Alabama Power, 2010d). Filling the Lake earlier in the year would likely reduce the overall flushing of sediments from creek mouths during rainy spring periods (Alabama Power, 2011a). This would likely produce a negative effect by allowing sediments to accumulate in creek mouth areas, which would degrade the quality of habitat for fish spawning during the spring.
AQUATIC VEGETATION
As previously described, an increase in time that substrates are covered or the winter drawdown period is reduced could result in an increase in submerged aquatic vegetation. Even though an
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Early Spring Fill will not increase the number of acres that will be inundated, it will increase the growing season by 30 days. A longer growing season would provide additional opportunity for aquatic vegetation to establish root systems and store nutrients for the non-growth season (Alabama Power, 2010d). Therefore, an Early Spring Fill increases the probability of expansion of existing vegetation.
An increase in aquatic vegetation has the potential to affect nutrient cycles in the Lake. Phosphorus, for example, is removed from sediments and incorporated into plant biomass. As plant tissues die, phosphorous is then released into the water column. Once this cycle begins, increased plant growth releases additional nutrients from the soil which in turn increases plant growth (Cooke, 2005). The Early Spring Fill could have limited effects on nutrient levels in the Lake, but this was not quantifiable.
Positive factors associated with aquatic vegetation can include bank stability, reduction of water turbidity, and increased aquatic habitat for fish and macroinvertebrates. The negative factors may include interference with flood control and hydropower operations, drinking water and irrigation intakes, recreation, navigation, water quality issues such as low DO, reduced tourism and property values and scenic resources if vegetation becomes too dense – especially with hydrilla. Higher survival rates of shoreline vegetation will also likely lead to an increase in requests for treatment of submerged and emergent species. If this happens, Alabama Power would likely increase their treatment of problematic areas with aquatic herbicides. The treatment costs will increase with additional requests (Alabama Power, 2010d).
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
EROSION
Erosion downstream of Thurlow Dam is an on-going natural activity; however, it is exacerbated significantly by spill events above 18,200 cfs (Alabama Power, 2010i). Alabama Power considered the potential for increased or decreased erosion on the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam based on Alabama Power’s proposal and other operational recommendations. The potential increase in the number of days with higher than historical spill (flows above 18,200 cfs) for the entire 67 years of record was studied. Increasing spill events would have an overall
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negative impact on downstream erosion (Alabama Power, 2010i). The HydroBudget model estimated that Early Spring Fill would increase the number of days with spill (from Martin and subsequently passed down through Thurlow) by 116 days over 67 years of record (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Table E-10). This indicates that the Early Spring Fill would result in an increase in the number of spill days at Thurlow and would increase erosion in the Tallapoosa River over the existing levels. According to professional judgment, this increased erosion could have some negative effects associated with increased water turbidity and erosion of shoreline areas. The anticipated increase is expected to cause more flooding downstream than the current condition.
5.1.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
EROSION
Alabama Power evaluated the potential for increased or decreased erosion on the Lake Martin associated with the 5 ft increase in the winter pool. An increase in the winter pool to an elevation of 486’ may increase erosion at approximately 30% of the sites based upon a small variation in bedrock location (Alabama Power, 2010i). Alabama Power did not evaluate the effects of a Fall Extension on erosion. However, Alabama Power did note that wave action from boat and wind, and land use were the biggest causes of erosion on the Lake (2010i). Wave action on the Lake will likely increase as the number of recreation user-days increase with a change to the Flood Control Guideline. To evaluate potential erosion impacts associated with future increased use, Alabama Power used the estimated increase in boating days associated with each Flood Control Guideline recommendation provided in Southwick (2010). The estimated number of recreation boating days are predicted to increase by 27,198 with a 5 ft increase in winter pool and by 29,917 for the Fall Extension (Southwick, 2010)(Table E-8). These two combined would yield 57,115 more recreation boating days on the Lake, which is likely to create significant increases in additional erosion at each of the identified sites and likely create more erosion sites on the Lake.
SEDIMENTATION
Alabama Power identified the location of 19 sedimentation sites currently present on Lake Martin. Based on the location of the areas, sedimentation is caused predominately by off-Lake
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activities resulting in silt moving into the Lake (Alabama Power, 2010d). Therefore, a 5 ft increase in the winter pool should not affect the rate of sedimentation, but sediment plumes will likely change in size, shape, and depth. Alabama Power did not attempt to determine the exact sediment plume changes that will take place, but assumed that these changes will likely result as additional sediments become deposited in tributary creek mouths around the Lake (2010i). The overall effect of a 5 ft increase in winter pool on sedimentation in Lake Martin is somewhat negative as it will affect aquatic habitats in tributary creek mouths around the Lake (Alabama Power, 2011a). The Fall Extension is not anticipated to have a significant increase in sedimentation in Lake Martin (Alabama Power 2011a).
AQUATIC VEGETATION
In the southeast, winter drawdowns are often used in conjunction with herbicide treatments to provide an additional level of control or prevention of aquatic vegetation. Leaving substrate areas inundated for a longer period of time will allow shoreline/emergent vegetation time to store nutrients before winter, thereby exponentially increasing the amount of vegetation that overwinters (Alabama Power, 2010d). Winter drawdowns are especially helpful in treating hydrilla, which is an aggressive non-native species. Unlike other species, hydrilla also produces turions and tubers which can survive freezing and dry conditions. Once it is established, drawdown conditions only help spread hydrilla into deeper water. In addition, emergent vegetation in areas with a gradual slope will likely expand if soils aren’t completely de-watered. Alabama Power is especially concerned about the establishment of hydrilla in Lake Martin due to the Lake’s high level of light penetration in the water column (Langeland, 1996). For example, secchi depth in the photic zone of the Lake ranged from 1.5 to 14.8 ft (average 8.5 ft) during 2007-2008 (Alabama Power, 2010k).
Alabama Power identified 20 sites that have a high probability of establishing aquatic vegetation and the amount of additional area that would be inundated at each site during the winter with an increase in winter pool (Alabama Power, 2010d) (Table E-9). For this analysis, the increase in acres inundated during the winter was used as an indicator of potential increase in submerged (and in part, emergent) aquatic vegetation in the Lake. These areas will receive less exposure to desiccation and freezing and provide areas for potential expansion of invasive aquatic vegetation.
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The 20 areas identified in this study are generally shallower than 6 ft deep so they are completely dewatered and exposed during the current winter drawdown conditions (Alabama Power, 2010d).
The 5 ft increase in winter pool would add an additional 631 ac of high probability habitat when compared to the current baseline levels. This change would also increase the ability of shoreline vegetation to survive the winter months. In addition, the water table will remain higher reducing the total area of soils exposed to compaction and desiccation (Alabama Power, 2010d).
As previously described, an increase in time that substrates are covered or the winter drawdown period is reduced could result in an increase of submerged aquatic vegetation. Even though a Fall Extension will not increase the number of ac that will be inundated, it will increase the number of days in the growing season by 45 days. A longer growing season would provide a greater ability for aquatic vegetation to establish root systems and store nutrients for the non-growth season. Also, storage of energy in the fall period would allow aquatic vegetation to enter the stressful winter period with higher energy reserves (Alabama Power, 2010d). Therefore, a Fall Extension has a very high probability for the expansion of existing aquatic vegetation.
An increase in aquatic vegetation has the potential to have an effect on nutrient cycles in the Lake. Phosphorus, for example, is removed from sediments and incorporated into plant biomass. As plant tissues die, phosphorous is then released into the water column. Once this cycle begins, increased plant growth releases additional nutrients from the soil which in turn increases plant growth (Cooke, 2005). The 5 ft increase in the winter pool and Fall Extension combined could have measureable effects on nutrient levels in the lake, but this was not quantifiable with the existing information.
Positive factors associated with aquatic vegetation can include bank stability, reduction of water turbidity, and increased aquatic habitat for fish and macroinvertebrates. The negative factors may include interference with flood control and hydropower operations, drinking water and irrigation intakes, recreation, navigation, water quality issues such as low DO, reduced tourism and property values, and scenic resources if vegetation becomes too dense – especially with
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hydrilla. Higher survival rates of shoreline vegetation will also likely lead to an increase in requests for treatment of submerged and emergent species. If this happens, Alabama Power would likely increase their treatment of problematic areas with aquatic herbicides. The average cost for treating selected sites for vegetation can range from $100 to $300 per acre (Alabama Power, 2010d), which could result in an increase of $63,000 to $189,000 per year.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
EROSION
Erosion downstream of Thurlow Dam is an on-going natural activity; however, it is exacerbated significantly by spill events above 18,200 cfs. Alabama Power considered the potential for increased or decreased erosion on the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam based on Alabama Power’s proposal and other operational recommendations (Alabama Power, 2010i). The potential increase in the number of days with higher than historical spill (flows above 18,200 cfs) for the entire 67 years of record was studied. Increasing spill events would have an overall negative impact on downstream erosion. The HydroBudget model estimated that a 5 ft increase in winter pool would increase the number of days with spill (from Martin and subsequently passed down through Thurlow) by 58 days over 67 years of record (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Table E-10); resulting in an increase in the number of spill days at Thurlow and could increase erosion in the Tallapoosa River, potentially having negative effects associated with increased water turbidity and erosion of shoreline areas.
5.1.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
A complete description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measures is located in Section 3.2.1. Proposed PME measures that may affect geology and soils resources include the following, and effects are analyzed below:
• Conditional fall extension; • Land changes; • Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan; • Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program;
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• Martin Dam Project aquatic vegetation monitoring; • Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program; • Periodic drawdown to 481 msl; • Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan; and • Martin Dam Project Historic Properties Management Plan.
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The effects of a conditional fall extension are similar to the Fall Extension in that it could result in expansion of aquatic vegetation; however, the effects should be reduced because the PME will not occur every year of the license term. An infrequent extension in fall water levels should produce limited negative impacts on aquatic vegetation.
With the proposed land changes, Alabama Power proposes to reclassify and add lands to the Project Boundary. The addition of more Natural/Undeveloped shoreline should reduce land based atypical erosion.
As part of the SMP, Alabama Power will also implement and promote the use of BMPs. Promoting the benefits of existing soil conservation and protection programs and BMPs should increase stakeholder awareness, which may result in a reduction in stakeholder practices and land management uses that contribute to excessive levels of soil erosion and deposition into Lake Martin. The SMP also includes guidelines for implementing riprap. The placement of riprap in front of all newly constructed seawalls should absorb soil-eroding wave forces and help to decrease their effects. The placement of riprap should also improve the integrity of the shoreline as well as shoreline habitats.
Alabama Power’s proposed Public Education and Outreach Program Plan will contain information to educate landowners and developers on the importance of implementing BMPs on private property. Alabama Power will develop a brochure and publish articles on BMPs and techniques to keep shorelines natural and prevent and/or curtail shoreline erosion and sedimentation.
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Continuation of Alabama Power’s Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program will result in no change over baseline conditions. However, Alabama Power may have to increase the treatment of aquatic vegetation on the Lake if aquatic vegetation increases as a result of Alabama Power’s proposal or the other operating recommendations. This Program has the potential to introduce increased levels of herbicides into the waters of the Project.
In response to an increase in the winter pool, Alabama Power would implement an aquatic vegetation monitoring program. This plan will identify areas that may have an increase in invasive aquatic vegetation, outline a process for identifying the cause of increased vegetation (i.e., increase in sediments), and provide guidelines for the treatment or removal of vegetation. In some cases, established aquatic vegetation may provide some stability to soils and Alabama Power may decide to leave native vegetation in place to enhance aquatic habitats.
Aspects of the Wildlife Management Program may have a positive effect on erosion, sedimentation, and aquatic vegetation by reducing land disturbance activities in the management areas. Alabama Power will implement a longer rotation period of 80 years on longleaf pine, which means fewer disturbances of soils upstream of the water source. This will also reduce silviculture operations, potentially reducing soil, petroleum, and road run off.
Alabama Power is proposing to periodically drawdown the Lake to 481 msl, which could have a positive effect on sediments by periodically flushing out sediment buildup in tributary creek mouth areas (Alabama Power, 2011a).
Aspects of the Martin Recreation Plan may have a short term negative impact on erosion, sedimentation, and aquatic vegetation. The six “new” recreation sites are existing sites, so there will be no effect on water quality. If the new proposed recreation site is built, there may be the potential short term negative effects on soils/erosion but Alabama Power will mitigate these effects through the use of construction erosion control measures. In addition, Alabama Power proposes to replace the existing boat ramp, construct two bank fishing sites, and construct a gravel parking area at Jaybird landing; consult with the ADCNR on additional bank /pier fishing
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at Martin; and expand the parking area at Madwind Creek and Smith Landing. By improving existing recreation sites, potential environmental effects of increased recreation access (i.e., trampling vegetation, overuse, erosion, etc.) are minimized. The implementation of these improvements would likely result in minor short-term impacts resulting from initial construction including minor amounts of erosion and siltation; these effects can be mitigated by the implementation of construction BMPs, and their long term effect should be negligible. The Recreation Plan contains appropriate erosion control measures to mitigate any potential adverse effect.
Alabama Power also proposes to implement a HPMP to manage Project cultural resources. The shovel tests of cultural resource surveys may disturb soils temporarily but are not expected to have soil loss or effect shoreline erosion. Appropriate erosion control techniques would be used during Phase I and Phase II archaeological testing.
5.1.2.4 NO ACTION
Under the No Action Alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner it is presently operated. Alabama Power would not implement any increases in the winter pool or implement PME measures. Under the No Action alternative, it is likely that soil erosion and siltation would continue at their current levels at the 15 erosion sites or increase as a result of basin activities and shoreline development. There would continue to be localized siltation of coves and/or creek mouths with increased sedimentation and shoreline property owners would not benefit from additional education as a result of implementing a SMP and Public Education and Outreach Program Plan. The No Action Alternative would require Alabama Power to manage aquatic vegetation consistent with existing practices and/or policies.
5.1.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS
Land use practices outside the Project Boundary and wave and wind action may continue to have adverse impacts on erodible soils around Lake Martin and the tailrace area; thus, erosion and sedimentation in the Lake are unavoidable. Implementing Alabama Power’s proposed measures would likely reduce the extent of these adverse impacts. There would likely be continued erosion
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downstream of the Project, even without the presence of the Project, due to natural erosion processes.
5.2 WATER RESOURCES
5.2.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
WATER QUANTITY
Lake Martin is 31 mi long with approximately 880 mi of shoreline. The Lake’s surface area is 41,150 ac, with a gross storage capacity of 1.6 million af, or nearly 530 billion gallons. Maximum depth in the Lake is 155 ft, making it is the second deepest lake in Alabama. The flushing rate for the Lake is 194 days (personal communication, Angie Anderegg, Alabama Power Company, March 26, 2008).
Project waters are currently used for public water supply, swimming, power production, active recreation, and to support a diverse array of aquatic and wildlife habitat as well as associated biota. During the early to late spring, summer and early fall weekends, Lake Martin is used heavily for recreational fishing and boating, as well as hiking, picnicking, and various other outdoor activities.
Existing and proposed operations are described in Section 3.1. Releases from the Project flow directly into the Yates development’s 2,000 ac reservoir. Discharge from the Project typically ranges from dam leakage to approximately 18,200 cfs at maximum generation.
FLOW STATISTICS
The USGS operates several stream gauging stations on the River in the Project Area. The closest to Lake Martin include Gage No. 02414715, located approximately five mi upstream of Lake Martin at Horseshoe Bend, and Gage No. 02419500, located downstream of Lake Martin near Milstead, Alabama. The Horseshoe Bend gage is operated by the USGS in conjunction with Alabama Power. USGS operates the Milstead gage in conjunction with the USACE; this gage records stream gage height only (USGS, 2010). Plant inflow records from the period 1984
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through 2010 were used to develop annual and monthly flow duration exceedance curves for the River in the Project Area (Alabama Power, 2010b), which are located on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
Maximum monthly flow in the Tallapoosa River has historically occurred in May, while the minimum monthly flow has historically occurred in October. Mean, maximum, and minimum monthly flow statistics for the Project, as recorded at the Horseshoe Bend gage, are presented in Table E-11. The peak instantaneous daily flow at the Horseshoe Bend gage was 132,000 cfs on May 9, 2003 (USGS, 2010).
TABLE E-11 MEAN, MAXIMUM, AND MINIMUM MONTHLY FLOW STATISTICS FOR THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER IN THE PROJECT AREA AS REGULATED BY HARRIS DAM (Source: USGS Gage No. 02414715 – Horseshoe Bend (Period of Record: 1985-2009), 2010) MEAN DISCHARGE MAXIMUM MINIMUM MONTH (CFS) DISCHARGE (CFS) DISCHARGE (CFS) January 3,980 8,191 550 February 5,160 12,880 2,270 March 6,090 16,230 1,785 April 3,500 7,210 800 May 3,130 16,870 549 June 2,420 6,704 545 July 2,480 8,755 600 August 1,620 3,886 427 September 1,440 3,636 377 October 1,610 7,270 266 November 2,630 7,601 216 December 2,970 7,959 349
WATER RIGHTS AND WITHDRAWALS
Alabama Power impounds a substantial amount of water in its project reservoirs and, as a result, various entities seek permission to utilize these reservoirs to meet municipal, industrial, and agricultural water supply needs. Since these withdrawals require the use of Alabama Power's project lands and waters, FERC has jurisdiction over these "joint uses." For this reason, FERC has included provisions in Alabama Power's license that require Alabama Power to have FERC authorization before permitting a water withdrawal from a project reservoir. Further, the license
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states that Alabama Power may receive reasonable compensation to make Alabama Power whole for the impacts caused by the withdrawal of water from a project. Consistent with these license provisions, Alabama Power has approved numerous water withdrawals from its project reservoirs and has charged withdrawers reasonable compensation for the impacts to Alabama Power's hydroelectric operations caused by the withdrawal. The compensation policy is intended to encourage water use conservation and highlight the impending need for additional water storage facilities in Alabama. Alabama Power’s water withdrawal policy is as follows:
It is the policy of Alabama Power to evaluate each application for permission to withdraw water from its project reservoirs, and, in appropriate circumstances, seek FERC authorization to permit water withdrawals on project lands. In accordance with the provisions of its licenses, Alabama Power will charge reasonable compensation for water withdrawals. This reasonable compensation is based on the replacement cost of the energy lost as a result of the withdrawal and the replacement cost of the storage in the reservoir allocated to the withdrawer. Adjacent single family home uses, such as lawn/garden watering or other similar de minimus uses, are excluded from this policy.
In 2010, Alabama Power produced a detailed report on the water withdrawal policy that contained current known municipal, commercial, industrial, and agricultural water withdrawals from the Martin Project; ecological and navigational flow requirements in the Tallapoosa River Basin that affect the Project; and drought considerations at the Project (Alabama Power, 2010c).
Currently, Alabama Power has approved withdrawal of approximately 36 million gallons per day (mgd) (Alabama Power, 2010c). Of this amount, just over an average 18 mgd is actually withdrawn from Lake Martin. Table E-12 shows the approved and actual water withdrawals from Lake Martin.
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TABLE E-12 APPROVED WATER WITHDRAWALS FROM LAKE MARTIN, TALLAPOOSA RIVER (Source: Alabama Power, 2010c) AVERAGE DAILY APC FACILITY OWNER SOURCE WITHDRAWAL PERMIT NAME (MGD) (MGD) Willow Point Russell Lands, Inc. Golf & Country Lake Martin 0.85 <1 Club Adams Water City of Alexander City Lake Martin 10.6 24 Treatment Plant CEW&SA Central Elmore Water Water Lake Martin 6.7 10 and Sewer Authority Treatment Plant Beaver Lake Still Waters Resort Replenishment Lake Martin <0.1 <1 Pump Station
INTAKE VELOCITIES
Intake designs for Martin Dam reflect the engineering standards of the 1920s, and are generally conservative by modern standards. The intake design originally included a large trash rack structure that produced low intake velocities; estimated velocities would range between 1.0 - 2.0 ft/sec.
WATER QUALITY
Federally-Approved Water Quality Standards
Water quality standards for the State of Alabama are guided through implementation of the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA), which directs individual states to monitor and report on the condition of their water resources. Protection and management of Alabama’s water quality consists of three components: an anti-degradation policy, designated uses, and numeric and narrative criteria (ADEM, 2010). The State’s antidegradation policy, defined in Alabama State Code 335-6-10-.04, provides for the prevention of further exacerbation of water quality issues in State waters.
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Alabama employs a designated use classification system to identify the best uses of individual waterways. Best uses generally include recreation, municipal and industrial water supply, and habitat for fish and wildlife. Best uses for Lake Martin are swimming (S) and fish and wildlife (F&W) (Ala. Admin Code r. 335-6-11-.02(11)). Upstream of the U.S. Highway 280 crossing and in Little Kowaliga Creek, Lake Martin has the additional classification of public water supply (PWS). The Martin tailrace is classified as PWS, S, and F&W.
Alabama’s assessment and listing methodology establishes a process to assess the status of surface waters relative to their designated uses. Pursuant to Section 305(b) of the CWA, the State of Alabama provides biennial reports to Congress on the condition and status of statewide water quality. The Alabama Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report is developed biennially and includes a list of water bodies, per CWA section 303(d), that fail to attain set standards. Impaired waters are placed in a program to develop mitigative actions and achieve total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) to bring water quality to within set criteria. The most recent Integrated Report is dated 2010 and covers monitoring conducted between 2008 and 2009 (ADEM, 2010).
Numerical water quality standards and criteria are established in the Alabama State Code 335-6- 10-.09, and form the basis for determining if water bodies meet their intended uses or are impaired. Numeric criteria applicable to the Project are illustrated in Table E-13. Criteria for metal concentrations can be calculated using formulas provided by the State of Alabama (Alabama State Code 335-6-10-.09, Specific Water Quality Criteria).
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TABLE E-13 SPECIFIC WATER QUALITY CRITERIA FOR STATE OF ALABAMA WATERS WITH DESIGNATION AS PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY, FISH AND WILDLIFE/SWIMMING APPLICABLE TO THE MARTIN PROJECT* (Source: ADEM, 2010)
STANDARD FOR FISH, WILDLIFE, STANDARD FOR PUBLIC VARIABLE AND SWIMMING WATER SUPPLY pH Between 6.5 and 8.5 Between 6.0 and 8.5 Not less than 5.0 milligrams per Not less than 5.0 mg/l at a liter (mg/l) at a depth of 5 ft depth of 5 ft. Not less than 4.0 DO Not less than 4.0 mg/l for mg/l for hydroelectric turbine hydroelectric turbine discharges. discharges. Water Temperature Not greater than 90ºF Not greater than 90ºF Turbidity Not greater than 50 NTUs Not greater than 50 NTUs Not more than 1,000 colonies/100 milliliters (ml) (for fish & wildlife) Not more than 1,000 Bacteria or 200 colonies/100 ml (for colonies/100 ml swimming) Not greater than 5 micrograms per Chlorophyll-a Not greater than 5 ug/l liter (ug/l) *specific metal standards are calculated through various concentration formulas as specified by Alabama State Code (see ADEM, 2010).
Section 314(a)(2) of the CWA requires states to assess the water quality of publicly-owned lakes and report the findings as part of the biennial 305(b) report to Congress. The State of Alabama classifies publicly-owned lakes (including reservoirs) as water bodies that are managed for multiple uses, are publicly accessible, and exhibit physical and chemical characteristics typical of impounded waters (ADEM, 2010). To assess lake water quality, ADEM uses Carlson’s trophic state index (TSI) to classify the trophic status of Alabama lakes. The TSI uses chlorophyll-a concentrations during the summer, when phytoplankton is the dominant plant community, as an estimate of the biotic response of lakes to nutrient enrichment. Values for TSI are low for nutrient deficient systems and increase as nutrient levels increase. Alabama uses the following categories of TSI values to classify lake conditions: <40 = oligotrophic; 40 to 50 = mesotrophic; 50 to 70 eutrophic; >70 = hyper-eutrophic and in need of regulatory action (ADEM, 2010).
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National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
The CWA authorizes the State of Alabama, via ADEM, to implement the NPDES permit program, which regulates point and nonpoint sources of discharge to waters of the United States in order to control water pollution. Point discharges originate at a discrete point, such as a pipe. Non-point source pollution occurs when precipitation captures pollutants such as pesticides, fertilizers, and chemicals, and transports them to receiving waters, for example, Lake Martin. There are numerous active point and non-point NPDES permits at and near the Project. In February of 2011, Alabama Power secured a new NPDES permit required for continued operation of the Project, which covers the eight existing point discharges at the powerhouse - four cooling water discharges, two sumps/drains, one uncontaminated stormwater source, and one oil/water separator wastewater source (ADEM, 2011).
Concern about additional discharges into Lake Martin has spurred collaborative investigation into both point and non-point source pollution in the Tallapoosa basin that may affect Lake Martin. Alabama Power compiled information (Alabama Power, 2010e) that included data from the ADEM and the Alabama Department of Public Health.
Results of the study identified 1,112 active NPDES permits in the Tallapoosa Basin between Harris and Martin Dams that include general, mining, storm water, and animal feeding permits. A map and spreadsheet with permit locations and other details is included on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
305(b)/303(d) Water Quality Assessment Integrated Report
Alabama’s 2010 303(d) list does not include Lake Martin or any waters in the sub-basin as impaired (ADEM, 2010). The Tallapoosa River from the Yates Dam to the Martin Dam is listed under Category 2B, which indicates that available data do not satisfy minimum data requirements but that there is a low potential for use impairment based on the limited data.
According to the 2010 305(b) report, long-term monitoring of Lake Martin reflects mesotrophic conditions although a reduction in TSI occurred from 2007 to 2008 reflecting oligotrophic conditions at Lake Martin (Figure E-25) (ADEM, 2010). Mesotrophic and oligotrophic
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classifications indicate that excessive nutrient loading is not an issue in the Lake. In support of Project relicensing, additional information was gathered on nutrient levels in Lake Martin, as described in the following section.
FIGURE E-25 CARLSONS TSI INDICES FOR LAKE MARTIN (ADEM, 2010)
EXISTING WATER QUALITY DATA
In 2010, Alabama Power conducted a Baseline Water Quality Study (Alabama Power, 2010k) designed to compile and synthesize historic and current data to characterize water quality in the Project. A summary of the Baseline Water Quality Study is presented in this section and the full report is included for reference on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
To demonstrate compliance with State of Alabama standards, Alabama Power performed extensive water quality monitoring of Lake Martin and the Project tailrace since the early1990s. Table E-14 and Table E-15 summarize Alabama Power’s DO and temperature sampling, and chemical measurements collected from 1993-2009 (Alabama Power, 2010k).
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TABLE E-14 SUMMARY OF WATER TEMPERATURE AND DISSOLVED OXYGEN DATA (AT DEPTH OF 5 FT) AT THE PROJECT, 1993-2009 (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k) DISSOLVED OXYGEN (MG/L) LOCATION COUNT MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE Martin Forebay 140 3.81 10.7 7.83 4 Mi. Upstream 11 7.0 10.9 8.75 12 Mi. Upstream 12 7.0 11.6 8.91 16 Mi. Upstream 12 7.2 11.4 9.05 20 Mi. Upstream 12 7.0 10.5 8.67 24 Mi. Upstream 12 7.2 10.8 8.80 TEMPERATURE (°CELSIUS(C)) LOCATION COUNT MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE Martin Forebay 140 10.5 31.6 25.57 4 Mi. Upstream 11 10.5 29.1 20.58 12 Mi. Upstream 12 10.2 29.0 20.61 16 Mi. Upstream 11 10.4 27.8 19.86 20 Mi. Upstream 12 10.7 29.2 19.74 24 Mi. Upstream 12 10.8 28.5 19.22 1 There was only 1 day in which the DO concentration was less than 5.3 mg/l and it occurred on September 22, 2004.
TABLE E-15 SUMMARY DATA FOR WATER CHEMISTRY VARIABLES MEASURED AT THE PROJECT DURING THE PERIOD 1993-2009 BY ALABAMA POWER COMPANY* (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k)
VARIABLE TESTED COUNT MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE Alkalinity, Bicarbonate (as CaCO3) 316 1.50 83.9 24.93 Alkalinity, Carbonate (as CaCO3) 316 0.00 3.6 0.07 Alkalinity, Hydroxide (as CaCO3) 316 0.00 0.3 0.01 Alkalinity, Total (as CaCO3) 332 1.51 84.2 24.78 Aluminum, Total 332 0.00 2.20 0.37 Arsenic, Total 332 0.00 0.07 0.00 Barium, Total 332 0.00 4.49 0.03 Biochemical Oxygen Demand, 5 Day 55 0.00 2.00 0.22 Cadmium, Total 332 0.00 0.01 0.00 Calcium, Total 332 0.00 22.6 2.81 Carbon Dioxide, Free 316 0.10 91.4 5.06 Carbon Dioxide, Total 316 1.6 109.8 27.02 Chloride, Total 332 1.67 21.48 3.54 Chromium, Total 332 0.00 1.00 0.00 Color 53 1.00 38.0 8.97 Conductivity 383 5.00 242 48.59 Copper, Total 332 0.00 0.02 0.00
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VARIABLE TESTED COUNT MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE Field pH 304 5.66 8.37 6.81 Fluoride 332 0.00 0.53 0.03 Hardness, Total (as CACO3) 332 0.00 83.9 12.62 Iron, Total 332 0.00 18.70 0.70 Lead, Total 332 0.00 0.02 0.00 Magnesium, Total 332 0.00 6.67 1.34 Manganese, Total 332 0.00 1.33 0.10 Mercury, Total 53 0.00 0.00 0.00 Nickel, Total 332 0.00 0.09 0.00 Nitrogen, Ammonia 332 0.00 0.16 0.05 Nitrogen, Nitrate 332 0.00 0.60 0.16 Nitrogen, Nitrite 332 0.00 0.4 0.01 Nitrogen, Total Kjeldahl 289 0.00 3.00 0.35 Oil and Grease 28 0 11.1 2.45 Organic Carbon, Total 332 0.00 3.47 1.92 Oxygen, Dissolved 69 4.1 11.1 7.29 pH 243 6.10 8.74 7.11 Phosphate, Ortho (as P) 332 0.00 0.20 0.01 Phosphorus, Total 318 0.00 0.15 0.02 Potassium, Total 332 0.00 2.43 1.06 Selenium, Total 332 0.00 0.01 0.00 Silicon, Total 274 1.65 6.39 4.55 Sodium, Total 332 0.28 19.30 3.13 Solids, Total 332 0.00 123.0 43.93 Solids, Total Dissolved 26 23.00 56.0 35.70 Solids, Total Suspended 332 0.00 29.0 5.66 Sulfate 332 0.00 14.40 2.48 Temperature 70 12.3 31.90 22.20 Turbidity 332 0.50 20.00 4.86 Vanadium, Total 332 0.00 0.01 0.00 Zinc, Total 332 0.00 0.10 0.00 *Measurements were taken at a depth of 5 ft at seven stations in the Project Area, including the tailrace, forebay, and in locations 4, 12, 16, 20, and 24 mi. upstream of the Project Dam
To demonstrate compliance with water quality standards prior to and subsequent to issuance of a 401 water quality certification for the Martin Project issued on August 8, 2003, Alabama Power performed extensive monitoring of the water quality of Lake Martin and tailrace. As part of this monitoring program, from 2002-2005 (June 1 through October 31 of each year), Alabama Power collected 30-minute DO and temperature data in the tailrace. On two occasions, the DO dropped below 4.0 mg/l. On October 28, 2002, when Unit 4 experienced a scheduled outage to dry out the generator, the deviation from the state standard lasted 2.5 hours. On July 8, 2005, DO dropped below 4.0 mg/l during a flood event, which raised the tailrace elevation such that the instrument
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reading DO levels was not representative of actual concentrations of DO in the discharge. In 2006, FERC issued, with ADEM’s concurrence, a long-term water quality monitoring plan order for the Martin Project. Since that time, Alabama Power has collected hourly DO and temperature values in the tailrace during generation from June 1st through October 31st of each year. DO has been maintained above 4.0 mg/l 100% of the time with an average of 5.72 mg/l (Alabama Power Company, 2010k) (see Table E-16).
TABLE E-16 SUMMARY OF TAILRACE SAMPLING DATA CONDUCTED BY ALABAMA POWER (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k)
TEMPERATURE (°C) DO SAMPLING PERIOD 2002-2005 2006-2009 2002-2005 2006-2009 Min 12.06 12.7 3.46 4.17 Max 25.44 31.1 9.78 9.54 Average 19.11 18.05 5.91 5.72 # Points 7795 2529 7795 2529 % time > 4 mg/L n/a n/a 99.9 100
In addition to tailrace sampling, Alabama Power has collected DO and temperature profiles at multiple locations throughout the Lake. Forebay profiles have been collected from 1990 continuing to the present, mostly during the critical summer months. In 1995, Alabama Power, in conjunction with ADCNR, collected water quality profiles at two locations in Kowaliga Creek and seven locations on the Tallapoosa River upstream of Martin Dam as part of a special fisheries study. For one year from 2004 to 2005, water quality profiles were collected throughout the Lake and 4 mi, 12 mi, 16 mi, 20 mi, and 24 mi upstream of Martin Dam (Alabama Power, 2010k).
Long-term monitoring of profile data show Lake Martin experiences seasonal stratification. Figure E-26 and Figure E-27 depict water quality profiles collected in the Project forebay between 1993 and 2009. During the summer months, Lake Martin undergoes thermal stratification that creates a top layer of well-mixed, warm, higher DO water and a bottom layer consisting of cold, dense, low DO water. Separating the two is a zone called the thermocline where temperature drops off rapidly with depth. As seen in figures below, Lake Martin typically
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stratifies in late June or early July and turns over (or destratifies) in the fall, usually in late October or November.
FIGURE E-26 WATER QUALITY PROFILES COLLECTED AT MARTIN FOREBAY (MAY THROUGH JULY, 1993-2009) (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k)
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FIGURE E-27 WATER QUALITY PROFILES COLLECTED AT MARTIN FOREBAY (AUGUST THROUGH NOVEMBER, 1993-2009) (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k)
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In October 2007, Alabama Power requested a variance from FERC to temporarily change the operating rule curve at Lake Martin that would allow for filling of the Lake to begin earlier and a higher winter pool level. This was done in an attempt to mitigate the effects of the extreme drought that began in 2006. In conjunction with the temporary variance, from late 2007 through early 2008, Alabama Power conducted a study to evaluate the impact of changes to the Lake Martin operating guideline on water quality. Sample sites historically used by ADEM were used in the 2007-2008 study (see Table E-17 and Table E-18) (Alabama Power, 2010k). These data indicate that the filling the Lake earlier in the spring for a single year did not result in any measurable change in the water quality parameters measured.
TABLE E-17 SUMMARY OF ALL WATER TEMPERATURE AND DO DATA COLLECTED ON LAKE MARTIN BY ALABAMA POWER DURING THE PERIOD 2007-2008 (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k)
DISSOLVED OXYGEN (MG/L) STATION ID* COUNT MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE MARE-1 9 8.50 10.40 9.39 MARE-2 9 8.30 10.20 9.32 MARE-3 9 8.40 10.50 9.47 MARE-4 9 7.60 10.30 9.12 MARE-5A 9 7.30 11.50 9.10 MARE-7 9 6.80 11.70 8.43 MARE-8 9 8.00 10.90 9.38 MARE-10 9 8.40 10.30 9.38 MARE-11 9 8.30 10.20 9.33 WATER TEMPERATURE (C) STATION ID* COUNT MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE MARE-1 9 10.70 26.10 16.83 MARE-2 9 10.60 26.40 17.06 MARE-3 9 10.20 26.90 17.08 MARE-4 9 9.80 26.80 17.17 MARE-5A 9 6.00 26.70 16.43 MARE-7 9 11.20 26.80 19.13 MARE-8 9 9.20 27.20 17.40 MARE-10 9 10.50 27.00 17.29 MARE-11 9 10.40 26.60 17.07 * Monitoring Stations in Lake Martin (MARE): MARE1 = lower Lake; MARE2 = mid Lake, immediately upstream of the Blue Creek embayment; MARE3 = immediately upstream of Alabama Highway 63 bridge; MARE4 = upstream of Wind Creek State Park; MARE5 = 0.5 mi upstream of Coley Creek embayment; MARE6 = 0.5 mi upstream of the Lake confluence in the Hillabee Creek embayment; MARE7 = 0.5 mi upstream of the Lake confluence in the Coley Creek embayment; MARE8 = 0.5 mi of the Elkahatchee/Sugar Creek confluence; MARE9 = 1.0 mi upstream of the Lake confluence and Manoy Creek embayment; MARE10 =1.0 mi upstream of the Lake confluence in the Sandy Creek embayment; and MARE11 = 2.0 mi upstream in Blue Creek embayment.
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TABLE E-18 SUMMARY OF ALL WATER CHEMISTRY DATA COLLECTED BY ALABAMA POWER DURING THE PERIOD 2007-2008 IN THE PROJECT AREA (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k)
VARIABLE MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE Chlorophyll a (ug/l) 0.50 55.00 5.00 Dissolved Reactive Phosphorus (DRP) (mg/l) 0.00 0.00 0.00 Nitrite + Nitrate (NO2+NO3 – N) (mg/l) 0.00 0.30 0.10 Nitrogen, Ammonia (mg/l) 0.00 0.10 0.00 Nitrogen, Total Kjeldahl (mg/l) 0.00 0.5 0.20 pH 6.90 8.80 7.51 Phosphorus 0.00 0.20 0.00 Photic zone (ft) 5.50 49.9 24.8 Secchi (ft) 1.50 16.00 8.50 Solids, Total Dissolved (mg/l) 1.00 60.00 33.00 Solids, Total Suspended 1.00 19.00 4.30 Turbidity (NTU) 0.90 27.10 3.80
ADEM AND OTHER PROJECT RELATED MONITORING DATA
In addition to the monitoring done by Alabama Power, water quality information in the Project Area has also been collected by ADEM and Alabama Water Watch. ADEM collected data from 1994 through 2008 including DO and water temperature point sampling and profiles, and water chemistry analyses (Table E-19 and Table E-20) (Alabama Power Company, 2010k). ADEM monitored five stations in Lake Martin and six in Lake Martin tributary waters (Hillabee Creek, Coley Creek, Elkahatchee Creek, Manoy Creek, Sandy Creek, and Blue Creek).
In general, ADEM’s data indicated that the water temperature in the Martin forebay ranged from 15.8°C to 32.0°C during the monitoring period. DO levels varied throughout the year, principally between 6.03 mg/l and 10.03 mg/l at the 5 ft depth in the forebay and between 6.03 mg/l and 13.13 mg/l in the Lake. The DO averaged 8.07 mg/l at the 5 ft depth in the forebay, and 8.47 mg/l throughout the Lake. The pH of the water in the Martin forebay ranges from 6.14 to 8.20, typically averaging approximately 7.18. The data collected by Alabama Power (Table-9 through Table E-13) is similar to ADEM’s findings. The water temperature in the forebay ranged from 10.5°C to 31.6°C and the average DO in the forebay was 7.83 mg/l, ranging from 3.8 to 10.7 mg/l. The average pH in forebay was 7.3. ADEM and Alabama Power’s water chemistry data
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were also comparable (Alabama Power, 2010k). The sample frequencies associated with ADEM’s monitoring program, along with a statistical analysis of the water quality and water chemistry data collected, is presented in the Baseline Water Quality Report (Alabama Power, 2010k) on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
TABLE E-19 SUMMARY OF ALL WATER TEMPERATURE AND DO DATA COLLECTED ON LAKE MARTIN BY ADEM DURING THE PERIOD 1994-2008 (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k)
DISSOLVED OXYGEN (MG/L) STATION ID* COUNT MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE MARE-1 53 6.03 10.03 8.07 MARE-2 58 6.70 11.18 8.26 MARE-3 50 6.65 9.61 8.04 MARE-4 49 6.20 10.61 8.46 MARE-5 36 6.41 9.93 8.07 MARE-6 10 6.13 9.83 7.76 MARE-7 9 7.17 13.13 9.82 MARE-8 9 7.00 12.14 9.63 MARE-9 9 6.04 10.71 8.57 MARE-10 9 6.51 9.95 8.25 MARE-11 10 6.56 9.98 8.19 WATER TEMPERATURE (C) STATION ID* COUNT MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE MARE-1 53 15.83 32.01 26.05 MARE-2 58 17.61 31.70 26.37 MARE-3 50 16.76 31.64 26.36 MARE-4 49 17.18 31.53 26.24 MARE-5 36 14.79 31.45 24.75 MARE-6 10 13.91 29.03 22.30 MARE-7 9 15.10 29.94 23.95 MARE-8 9 18.26 31.36 26.18 MARE-9 9 18.67 31.78 26.38 MARE-10 9 19.47 31.58 27.37 MARE-11 10 18.10 31.37 26.31 * Monitoring Stations: MARE1 = lower Lake; MARE2 = mid Lake, immediately upstream of the Blue Creek embayment; MARE3 = immediately upstream of Alabama Highway 63 bridge; MARE4 = upstream of Wind Creek State Park; MARE5 = 0.5 mi upstream of Coley Creek embayment; MARE6 = 0.5 mi upstream of the Lake confluence in the Hillabee Creek embayment; MARE7 = 0.5 mi upstream of the Lake confluence in the Coley Creek embayment; MARE8 = 0.5 mi of the Elkahatchee/Sugar Creek confluence; MARE9 = 1.0 mi upstream of the Lake confluence and Manoy Creek embayment; MARE10 =1.0 mi upstream of the Lake confluence in the Sandy Creek embayment; and MARE11 = 2.0 mi upstream in Blue Creek embayment.
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TABLE E-20 SUMMARY OF ALL WATER CHEMISTRY DATA COLLECTED ON LAKE MARTIN BY ADEM DURING THE PERIOD 1994-2005 (Source: Alabama Power Company, 2010k)
VARIABLE MINIMUM MAXIMUM AVERAGE Alkalinity (mg/l) 2.00 90.20 14.76 Chlorophyll a (ug/l) 0.05 98.41 8.52 Coliform per 100 ml 1.00 33.00 4.09 Dissolved Reactive Phosphorus (DRP) (mg/l) 0.00 0.09 0.01 Hardness, Total (as CACO3) (mg/l) 5.08 47.00 10.81 Nitrite + Nitrate (NO2+NO3 – N) (mg/l) 0.00 0.63 0.08 Nitrogen, Ammonia (mg/l) 0.02 0.56 0.03 Nitrogen, Total Kjeldahl (mg/l) 0.00 1.30 0.23 Organic Carbon, Total (mg/l) 0.40 27.77 2.59 pH 6.80 8.24 7.43 Phosphorus 0.01 1.77 0.04 Photic zone (m) 1.60 17.86 6.45 Secchi (m) 0.68 44.05 3.00 Solids, Total Dissolved (mg/l) 4.00 504.00 52.46 Solids, Total Suspended 1.00 61.00 7.24 Specific Conductance (mS/cm) 0.03 0.13 0.05 Trophic State Index (TSI) 1.00 68.00 44.23 Turbidity (NTU) 0.88 31.10 5.09
NUTRIENT STUDY
As mentioned previously, nutrient data were collected over the last several years by Lake Watch of Lake Martin and are available through the Alabama Water Watch Program. These data suggest nutrient levels in portions of the Lake and embayments may be increasing over time, particularly Coley Creek, Sandy Creek, Elkahatchee Creek, Upper Blue Creek, and the Upper Tallapoosa near Irwin Shoals. Data collected during the Alabama Power 2007-2008 Rule Curve Variance Water Quality Study suggested that Lake phytoplankton productivity does not cease with the onset of the fall and winter months, as the chlorophyll a values measured during the winter months were relatively high in several embayments (Alabama Power, 2010k).
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To develop a better understanding of existing nutrient levels and to assess potential impacts of a Flood Control Guideline Change (i.e., increase in winter pool elevation) at the Project, Alabama Power coordinated with Auburn University, Department of Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures, Lake Watch of Lake Martin, and Alabama Water Watch to perform a “nutrient study” during 2009 and 2010. Nutrient and basic water quality parameters were collected monthly at 16 sites from April 2009 to October 2009 and at 8 stations during the winter months from November 2009 to March 2010, in order to capture data from all four seasons. The intent of the study was to collect baseline water quality/nutrient data for Lake Martin in areas where historic sampling efforts have been less intensive, particularly at tributary inlets. Figure E-28 depicts the monitoring locations for the 2009-2010 nutrient study. A copy of the Final Nutrient Study Report is included as an Addendum to the Baseline Water Quality Report included on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
FIGURE E-28 WATER QUALITY SAMPLING LOCATIONS FOR NUTRIENT STUDY (APRIL 2009- MARCH 2010) (Source: Alabama Power, 2010k)
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The nutrient study documented differences in water quality between upstream and downstream sites. Mean chlorophyll a values measured during the 2009 growing season were lowest in the Kowaliga Creek arm, which was the most nutrient poor arm. Chlorophyll a values were highest in the Coley Creek arm, which exhibited significant nutrient enrichment. The most elevated chlorophyll a values occurred in the embayments sampled, particularly at station 15 on Coley Creek; however, a mean value of 7.5 ug/l was also calculated from station 14, the main stem Coley Creek station at the Highway 280 bridge. Elkahatchee Creek embayment (station 13) also exhibited nutrient enrichment. Statistically, Stations 14 and 15 (Coley Creek) and Station 13 (Elkahatchee Creek) showed significantly higher chlorophyll a levels than other stations. Additionally, station 15 had statistically higher total phosphorus values than other sites (Alabama Power, 2010k).
Comparison between the 2004 and 2009 growing seasons revealed an increase in TSI in 2009 at all stations except at station 10, although the differences were not tested for statistical significance. Most values in the lower end of Lake Martin (stations 1-6) fell within the oligotrophic range during both years; however, stations 7-12 fell within the mesotrophic range for both growing seasons. TSI values above 50 for stations 13, 14 (2009) and 15 reflect eutrophic conditions at these sites. Station 16 had a TSI in the mesotrophic range for 2009 only (Alabama Power, 2010k).
The 2009-2010 data also detected differences in nutrient loading during the winter versus the summer. During the winter, loading was higher and there was phytoplankton production at all stations. Mean chlorophyll a values measured during the winter were not higher than during the growing season for each station; however, some stations had winter mean values that exceeded growing season means at other stations. Embayment stations 9, 11, 13 and 15 had winter season means that exceeded growing season mean values at stations 1-6. A potential explanation for this is that the embayment stations may retain more nutrients and higher mean temperatures during the winter months than the mainstem stations due to longer retention times and reduced wave action (Alabama Power, 2010k).
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5.2.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on water resources, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports:
• Study Report 8 – Study Report Baseline Water Quality (Alabama Power, 2010k) • Study Report 11 – Water Quantity, Water Use and Water Withdrawals (Alabama Power, 2010c), • Study Report 12(c) – Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Water Quality-Water Quality Expert Panel (Alabama Power, 2011a)
The final Study Reports are provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
5.2.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
WATER QUANTITY
Alabama Power has developed policies for the permitting of water withdrawals from their reservoirs in an attempt to address the increasing demand for consumptive water uses over the past three decades. These policies include coordination with the Alabama Office of Water Resources (OWR) and with FERC as part of their operating license.
Lake Martin has very little industrial and agricultural use in the area, and most of the demand for water comes from municipal use. There are currently two municipal withdrawers on Lake Martin (Alabama Power, 2010c). Both of these withdrawers currently have permitted withdrawal amounts that should address both current demand and future increased demand associated with growth projections. There is the possibility that an increase in withdrawal amounts could be requested to help meet new unidentified demands. However, Alabama Power will continue to implement their water withdrawal policy and program in the new license. The continued review from FERC and OWR should provide the necessary guidelines for reducing environmental impacts associated with water withdrawals.
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Alabama Power determined that increasing the winter pool elevations did not affect the amount of time on average that the Project was at full pool, but did increase the peak elevation seen in low flow years (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Figure E-29). The proposed 3 ft increase in the winter pool should not have any impact on Alabama Power’s water withdrawal program, but the 3 ft increase in winter pool should improve the chances for Alabama Power to reach the full pool each year. Alabama Power has also developed a drought management plan for their reservoirs that is described in Exhibit H of the FLA. This plan should also assist Alabama Power in managing water resources during drought periods, which would produce a positive effect.
FIGURE E-29 EFFECTS OF VARIOUS CHANGES TO THE FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE CHANGE 1986-1988 (Alabama Power, 2010b) 480 Elev = Baseline; 480 JanElev = Early Spring Fill; 483Elev = 3ft winter pool; 485 OctElev = 5ft winter pool and Fall Extension; 480 ConCurveElev = Current Flood Curve Guideline
WATER QUALITY
At the December 3, 2009 Initial Study Report Meeting in Alexander City, Alabama Power proposed a Water Quality Expert Panel (Panel) review of the baseline water quality in order to better understand how the proposed Lake level changes may influence water quality in Lake
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Martin. Alabama Power conducted a Delphi-type Water Quality Expert Panel review by panel members with experience with water quality issues and/or familiarity with the Project. The Panel members reviewed physical and chemical information available for Lake Martin and responded to a set of questions. A Panel discussion was held on July 27, 2010 in Alexander City, Alabama (Alabama Power, 2011a).
The Panel indicated that maintaining higher than baseline pool elevations throughout the year will expand the photic zone and add to the amount of linear shoreline. The decrease in the amount of shallow areas that are dewatered under the current Flood Control Guideline could increase nutrient levels on the Lake. In addition, hydraulic retention time will increase when the volume of Lake Martin changes without changing inflow to the Lake (Alabama Power, 2011a).
The Panel determined that with a 3 ft increase in winter pool there would be little change in the temperature on Lake Martin and little to no change in DO concentrations. In their analysis, they determined that retention time, time of year, and water depth are key variables affecting the DO level and water temperature in the Martin forebay. Although retention time and water depth will increase, the change in Lake volume will have little effect on DO and temperature as the large size of Lake Martin and intra-year fluctuations in lake levels will buffer any significant trends (Alabama Power, 2011a).
Alabama Power used the input from the Panel members to determine positive and negative changes associated with the various Flood Control Guideline alternatives and ranked them on the scale Good/Positive, Somewhat Good, No Effect, Somewhat Bad, and Bad/Negative. Overall, water quality in the Lake will not likely be affected by a 3 ft increase in winter pool (Table E- 21).
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TABLE E-21 RELATIVE POTENTIAL IMPACT TO WATER QUALITY IN LAKE MARTIN WITH A 1 CHANGE IN THE FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE
ALTERNATIVE BASELINE 3 FT 5 FT WINTER POOL LEVEL NE NE NE
EARLY SPRING FILL SB SB SB
FALL EXTENSION SB SB SB 1 Ranked on the scale Good/Positive (GP), Somewhat Good (SG), No Effect (NE), Somewhat Bad (SB), and Bad/Negative (BN).
Alabama Power’s monitoring programs demonstrate that Lake Martin currently complies with state water quality standards. On May 9, 2011 ADEM issued the Martin water quality certification required by Section 401 (a)(1) of the Clean Water Act (see “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD). Alabama Power is required to maintain the 4.0 mg/l minimum DO in the turbine discharge of the Project. Alabama Power is required to monitor downstream of Martin Dam in the tailrace at 30-minute intervals during periods of generation from June 1- October 31 for three years. As stated in the water quality certification issued by ADEM on May 9, 2011, there is reasonable assurance that the continued operation of the Project will not violate applicable state water quality standards. Although Alabama Power does not anticipate any significant changes to water quality, they are proposing additional water quality monitoring in Lake Martin as discussed in the PME measures. Alabama Power will work with ADEM to determine the extent of monitoring necessary in the Lake.
The Panel concluded that Martin Dam tailrace water quality is directly linked to the forebay water quality (Alabama Power, 2011a). Because little to no effects are expected for the DO and temperature of the forebay in the Lake (Table E-21) with a 3 ft increase in winter pool level, no effects to DO or temperature are expected downstream.
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
WATER QUANTITY
Increasing the winter pool elevations did not affect the amount of time on average that the Project was at full pool, but did increase the peak elevation seen in low flow years (Figure E-29) (Alabama Power, 2010b). The 3 ft increase in winter pool was considered positive from a water supply and drought management perspective as the Lake will be storing more water during the winter. Also, because the Lake will begin at a higher level during the spring fill period, the 3 ft increase in winter pool should improve the chances for Alabama Power to reach the full pool each year. Alabama Power has also developed a drought management plan for their reservoirs that is included in Exhibit H in the FLA. These two changes (increase in winter pool and a drought management plan) should assist Alabama Power in managing water resources and slightly increase the ability to meet downstream flows during periods of drought.
WATER QUALITY
Alabama Power (2010b) used the HydroBudget model (which closely replicated historical spill) to determine the increase to frequency of spill events for the 67 year period of record. The result is an increase in the amount of days that spill occurs for Alabama Power’s proposal and the other operating recommendations (Table E-22). Alabama Power determined that the increase in spill with a 3 ft increase in winter pool (23 days over 67 years) could increase erosion downstream and increase water turbidity downstream of Martin on a more frequent basis.
TABLE E-22 POTENTIAL INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF DAYS OF HIGHER THAN HISTORICAL SPILL OVER 67 YEAR PERIOD AT MARTIN DAM (Alabama Power, 2010b)
ALTERNATIVE BASELINE 3 FT 5 FT Winter Pool Level 0 23 52 Early Spring Fill 116 147 176 Fall Extension 6 29 58
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5.2.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.2.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
WATER QUANTITY
Alabama Power will continue to implement their water withdrawal policy and program in the new license. The continued review from FERC and OWR should provide the necessary guidelines for reducing environmental impacts associated with water withdrawals. The Early Spring Fill resulted in an increase in time that the Project elevation was at or above 489.5 MD (490.5 msl) (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Figure E-29). The Early Spring Fill was considered positive from a water supply and drought management perspective as the Lake will be storing more water earlier in the year and has a somewhat greater chance of reaching full pool in the summer. Alabama Power has also developed a drought management plan for their reservoirs that is included in Exhibit H of the FLA. These two changes should assist Alabama Power in managing water resources and slightly increase the ability to meet downstream flows.
WATER QUALITY
The Panel determined that the Early Spring Fill recommendation may have some detrimental effect on water quality, including an increase in chlorophyll a and nutrient concentrations. Several panel members mentioned the possibility of an increase in nutrient concentrations if aquatic vegetation becomes more established in Lake Martin as the result of an extended growing season. Aquatic vegetation may become more established with an extended growing season and longer retention time, increased photic and littoral zones, and increased stabilization of Lake Martin (Alabama Power, 2011a). Effects to aquatic vegetation as a result of Alabama Power’s proposal and other operating recommendations are addressed in more detail in Section 5.1.
The Panel determined that with an Early Spring Fill there would be little change in the temperature on Lake Martin and little to no change in DO concentrations. Retention time, time of year, and water depth are key variables affecting DO and water temperature in the Martin
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forebay. Although retention time and water depth will increase, the change in Lake volume will have little effect on DO and temperature as the large size of the Lake and intra-year lake level fluctuations will buffer any significant trends (Alabama Power, 2011a).
Although an Early Spring Fill should not impact DO and temperature, it could increase sedimentation in shallow areas (see Section 5.1) and increase chlorophyll a and nutrient production through an increase in aquatic vegetation due to an extended growing season. Because of this potential increase, input from the Panel indicated that the Early Spring Fill could have a somewhat negative effect on water quality in the Lake (Table E-16) (Alabama Power, 2011a).
The Panel also concluded that tailrace water quality is directly linked to the forebay water quality (Alabama Power, 2011a). Because little to no effects are expected for the DO and temperature in the Lake forebay with an Early Spring Fill, no effects to DO and temperature are expected downstream.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
WATER QUANTITY
The Early Spring Fill resulted in an increase in time that the Project elevation was at or above 489.5 MD (490.5 msl) (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Figure E-29). The Early Spring Fill was considered positive from a water supply and drought management perspective as the Lake will be storing more water earlier in the year and has a somewhat greater probability of reaching full pool in the summer. Alabama Power has also developed a drought management plan for their reservoirs that is included in Exhibit H of the FLA. These two changes should assist Alabama Power in managing water resources and slightly increase the ability to meet downstream flows.
WATER QUALITY
Alabama Power used the HydroBudget model (which closely replicated historical spill) to determine the increase to frequency of spill events for the 67 year period of record. The result is an increase in the amount of days that spill occurs under Alabama Power’s proposal and the
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other operating recommendations (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Table E-22). Alabama Power determined that the increase in spill with an Early Spring Fill (116 days over 67 years) would increase erosion downstream and increase water turbidity downstream of the Project on a more frequent basis.
5.2.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
WATER QUANTITY
Alabama Power will continue to implement their water withdrawal policy and program in the new license. The continued review from FERC and OWR should provide the necessary guidelines for reducing environmental impacts associated with water withdrawals. Increasing the winter pool elevations did not affect the amount of time on average that the Project was at full pool, but did increase the peak elevation seen in low flow years (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Figure E-29). The 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension was considered positive from a water supply and drought management perspective as the Lake will be storing more water during the winter and later into the fall. The 5 ft winter increase could increase the chances of reaching full pool in the summer. The Fall Extension would shift generation to later in the fall, thus storing more water into the dry season. Both of these actions are considered positive from a water supply and drought management perspective. Alabama Power has also developed a drought management plan for their reservoirs that is included in Exhibit H of the FLA. These changes should assist Alabama Power in managing water resources and slightly increase the ability to meet downstream flows.
WATER QUALITY
The Panel determined that with a 5 ft increase in winter pool and a Fall Extension there would be little change in the temperature on Lake Martin and little to no change in DO concentrations. In their analysis, they determined that retention time, time of year, and water depth are key variables affecting the DO level and water temperature in the Martin forebay. Although retention time and water depth will increase with a 5 ft increase in winter pool and a Fall Extension, the
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change in Lake volume will have little effect on DO and temperature as the large size of the reservoir and intra-year lake level fluctuations will buffer any significant trends (Alabama Power, 2011a).
Several Panel members mentioned the possibility of an increase in nutrient concentrations if aquatic vegetation becomes more established in Lake Martin as part of an extended growing season associated with a Fall Extension (Alabama Power, 2011a). Aquatic vegetation may become more established due to the longer retention time, increased photic and littoral zones, and stabilization of the Lake. Effects to aquatic vegetation as a result of changes to the Flood Control Guideline are addressed in more detail in Section 5. 1. Higher than baseline pool elevations maintained throughout the year due to a 5 ft increase in winter pool will expand the photic zone and add to the amount of linear shoreline. This decrease in the amount of shallow areas that are dewatered under the current Flood Control Guideline could increase nutrient levels on the Lake.
Although the increase in winter pool and a Fall Extension should not impact DO and temperature, it could increase sedimentation in shallow areas (see Section 5.1) and increase nutrient levels due to a decrease in dewatered areas and increase aquatic vegetation due to an extended growing season. Overall, input from the Panel indicated that a combination of a 5 ft increase in winter pool and a Fall Extension could have a somewhat negative effect on water quality in the Lake (Alabama Power, 2011a) (Table E-21).
The Panel concluded that tailrace water quality is directly linked to the forebay water quality (Alabama Power, 2011a). Because little to no effects are expected for DO and temperature in the Lake forebay with a 5 ft increase in winter pool and the Fall Extension combined, no effects to DO and temperature are expected downstream.
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
WATER QUANTITY
Increasing the winter pool elevations did not affect the amount of time on average that the Project was at full pool, but did increase the peak elevation seen in low flow years (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Figure E-29). The 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension was considered positive from a water supply and drought management perspective as the Lake will be storing more water during the winter and later into the fall. The 5 ft increase in winter pool could increase the chances of reaching full pool in the summer. The Fall Extension would shift generation to later in the fall, thus storing more water into the dry season. Both of these actions are considered positive from a water supply and drought management perspective. Alabama Power has also developed a drought management plan for their reservoirs that is included in Exhibit H of the FLA. These changes should assist Alabama Power in managing water resources and slightly increase the ability to meet downstream flows.
WATER QUALITY
Alabama Power used the HydroBudget model (which closely replicated historical spill) to determine the increase to frequency of spill events for the 67 year period of record. The result is an increase in the amount of days that spill occurs under Alabama Power’s proposal and the other operating recommendations (Alabama Power, 2010b) (Table E-22). Alabama Power determined that the increase in spill with a 5 ft increase in winter pool level and the Fall Extension combined (58 days over 67 years) could increase erosion downstream and increase water turbidity downstream of Martin on a more frequent basis.
5.2.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
WATER QUANTITY
The only PME measure that may affect water quantity is Alabama Power’s Water Withdrawal Policy (included in the SMP) which takes into account use, need, and drought (Alabama Power, 2010c). Each application for a water withdrawal undergoes a NEPA analysis. Alabama Power will not allocate more water than necessary.
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Proposed PME measures that may affect water quality include the following, and effects are analyzed below.
• Conditional fall extension; • Land changes; • Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan; • Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Aquatic Vegetation Monitoring; • Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Water Quality Monitoring; • Periodic Drawdown to 481 msl; • Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan; and • Martin Dam Project Historic Properties Management Plan.
Effects of the conditional fall extension are similar to the Fall Extension but the effects will be reduced because the frequency that Alabama Power will be able to implement the conditional fall extension will be less.
The proposed SMP includes the following BMPs that will be adopted to preserve and improve the water quality of Lake Martin. These BMPs will provide additional protection for Lake Martin water quality.
1. Use permeable paving materials and reduce the amount of impervious surfaces, particularly driveways, sideways, walkways, and parking areas. 2. Avoid or minimize the use of pesticides, insecticides, and herbicides whenever possible. 3. Dispose of vehicle fluids, paints, or household chemicals as indicated on their respective labels and do not deposit these products into storm drains, Project waters, or onto the ground. 4. Use soap sparingly when washing your car and wash your car on a grassy area so the ground can filter the water naturally. Use a hose nozzle with a trigger to save water and pour your bucket of used soapy water down the sink and not in the street. 5. Avoid applying any fertilizer. Apply fertilizers and pesticides according to the label and never just before a precipitation event. Fertilizer use can also be avoided by using native vegetation in a landscape. 6. Maintain septic tanks and drain fields according to the guidelines and/or regulations established by the appropriate regulatory authority. 7. Discourage livestock from entering Project waters or tributaries. 8. Create and maintain a rain garden in the landscape to naturally filter runoff.
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Alabama Power’s proposed Public Education and Outreach Program Plan will continue current public education efforts and educate the public on the benefits of clean water. Alabama Power will also educate landowners and developers on the importance of implementing BMPs on private property by developing a brochure and publishing articles on BMPs and techniques of keeping shorelines natural and by developing methods and venues for informing and educating HOBOs on preventing shoreline erosion and sedimentation. In addition, Alabama Power will publish periodic articles regarding nuisance aquatic vegetation.
Alabama Power proposes to implement the Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program (Alabama Power, 2010d), which helps to control aquatic vegetation growth and thus protects water quality.
In response to an increase in the winter pool, Alabama Power would implement an aquatic vegetation monitoring program. This plan would identify areas that may have an increase in vegetation and a process for identifying the cause of increased vegetation (i.e., increase in sediments). Aquatic plants may increase nutrients and degrade water quality (Cooke, 2005). This vegetation monitoring will help control aquatic vegetation growth which protects water quality; however, an increase in vegetation may result in an increase in herbicides which has the potential to introduce increased levels of herbicides into the waters of the Project.
Aspects of the Wildlife Management Program may have a positive effect on water quality. Alabama Power will implement a longer rotation period of 80 years on longleaf pine, which means fewer disturbances of soils upstream of the water source. This will also reduce silviculture operations, potentially reducing soil, petroleum and road run off, reducing water turbidity and sedimentation.
Alabama Power proposes to implement a reservoir water quality monitoring plan to include the requirements outlined in the 401 Water Quality Certification issued on May 9, 2011, to measure any changes that might occur in water quality as a result of implementing Alabama Power’s proposal.
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Alabama Power is proposing to periodically draw down the Lake to 481 msl which could have a positive effect on water quality by flushing nutrients and sediments out of creek mouths and moving them further downstream (Alabama Power, 2011a).
Aspects of the Martin Recreation Plan may have a short term negative impact on erosion, sedimentation, and aquatic vegetation. The six “new” recreation sites are existing sites, so there will be no effect on water quality. If the new proposed recreation site is built, there may be the potential short term negative effects on soils/erosion but Alabama Power will mitigate these effects through the use of construction erosion control measures. In addition, Alabama Power proposes to replace the existing boat ramp, construct two bank fishing sites, and construct a gravel parking area at Jaybird landing; consult with the ADCNR on additional bank /pier fishing at Martin; and expand the parking area at Madwind Creek and Smith Landing. By improving existing recreation sites, potential environmental effects of increased recreation access (i.e., trampling vegetation, overuse, erosion, etc.) are minimized. The implementation of these improvements would likely result in minor short-term impacts resulting from initial construction including minor amounts of erosion and siltation; these effects can be mitigated by the implementation of construction BMPs, and their long term effect should be negligible. The Recreation Plan contains appropriate erosion control measures to mitigate any potential adverse effect.
Alabama Power would also implement a HPMP to manage cultural resources at the Project. The cultural resource surveys (prior to construction activities and approximately 894 ac of Project lands) may disturb soils temporarily but are not expected to have soil loss or effect shoreline erosion. Appropriate erosion control techniques would be used during Phase I and Phase II testing.
5.2.2.4 NO ACTION
Under the No Action Alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project under the existing license conditions. Alabama Power would not implement the 3 ft increase in winter pool or the PME measures and existing water quality conditions would be maintained. Water
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withdrawals would continue under the existing policy and procedures that Alabama Power has implemented since 1989, with modifications in 2002. Under the No Action alternative, continued localized, limited negative effects on water quality would occur due to nutrient loading. Alabama Power would continue to meet applicable state standards in the Project tailrace, as required in its 2003 Water Quality Certification issued by ADEM and 2006 long-term water quality monitoring plan issued by FERC.
5.2.2.5 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Continued operation of the Project, as proposed by Alabama Power, would meet state water quality standards in Lake Martin and tailwater. Thus, waters released from the Project would be of good quality and not cumulatively add to any collective reduction in water quality downstream on the Tallapoosa River. The Project would provide an overall beneficial cumulative effect on water quality.
5.2.2.6 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS
Any Flood Control Guideline Change that results in a longer pool or higher elevations throughout the year could result in some unavoidable adverse effects on water resources by potentially increasing nutrients in the Lake. There is the potential that inflows to the Project will not always be able to meet both Project and downstream water demands/requirements, specifically during low flow and/or drought periods. Management under these conditions may require variances in the Lake levels to meet downstream water needs. The proposed PME measures would not likely have any adverse impacts to water quality.
5.3 FISH AND AQUATIC RESOURCES
5.3.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
HABITAT
Lake Martin is a monomictic lake which typically do not drop below 39.2°F (4°C) during the winter, circulate freely at or above 39.2°F, and stratify directly during the warmer summer months. As discussed in Section 5.2 (Water Resources), the waters of Lake Martin are very clear
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and low in productivity. Due to the deep nature (maximum depth of 155 ft) and relatively long retention time of the Lake, thermal and chemical stratification occur annually. The majority of Lake substrates are composed of clays and exposed rock except for the areas where tributaries enter the Lake and sediments of sand and clay have collected.
An interesting feature of the Lake is its dendritic shape and extensive length of shoreline, approximately 880 mi. There are three major arms of the Lake: 1) the Kowaliga arm located on the southwest side of the Lake, 2) the Blue Creek arm located on the southeast side of the Lake, and 3) the Tallapoosa main channel, which extends northward from Martin Dam. These arms were created when the original creeks and valleys were inundated during construction of the Project. The extensive amount of shoreline and creek mouth areas provide excellent habitat for warmwater species such as bass and sunfish. The deep open water areas of the Lake also provide excellent habitat for pelagic species such as striped bass and shad (Greene et al., 2005).
Releases from the Project discharge directly into the Yates Development. The releases are relatively cool (hypolimnetic discharge) and infertile, which result in slow growth for the downstream fishery. The banks of the tailrace area are naturally armored with exposed bedrock and lined with riprap in several areas to prevent erosion. The tailrace provides habitat for both warmwater and cool water species. There is no bypassed reach associated with the Project (ADCNR, 2006).
LAKE MARTIN FISHERY RESOURCES AND FISHERIES MANAGEMENT
A diverse community of fish species populates Lake Martin. The documented species, native and non-native, within the Project are presented in Table E-23. Although Lake Martin has low fertility and relatively low levels of nutrients, the fishery resources are healthy and extremely popular with anglers. Dominant recreational fish species include spotted and largemouth bass, striped bass, white bass, black crappie, and bluegill (Greene et al., 2004). Fish surveys conducted by Alabama Power in the tributaries of Lake Martin during 2009 and 2010 also noted additional species (Alabama Power, 2010j). There are currently no fish consumption advisories for Lake Martin or the tailrace area (ADPH, 2010).
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TABLE E-23 FISHES KNOWN OR EXPECTED TO OCCUR IN THE VICINITY OF THE PROJECT (Source: Boschung and Mayden, 2004; Mettee et al., 1996; Alabama Power, 2010a)
FAMILY SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME NOTES Petromyzontidae Ichthyomyzon castaneus chestnut lamprey (Lampreys) Ichthyomyzon gagei southern brook lamprey Clupeidae Dorosoma cepedianum gizzard shad (Herrings and Dorosoma petenense threadfin shad probably non-native to Shads) Tallapoosa drainage yprinidae Campostoma oligolepis largescale stoneroller (Minnows and Cyprinella callistia Alabama shiner Carps) Cyprinella gibbsi Tallapoosa shiner Cyprinella venusta blacktail shiner Cyprinus carpio common carp introduced/non-native Hybopsis lineapunctata lined chub Luxilus chrysocephalus striped shiner Lythrurus bellus pretty shiner Macrhybopsis sp. cf. M. Coosa chub aestivalis Nocomisleptocephalus bluehead chub Notemigonus golden shiner crysoleucas Notropis ammophilus orangefin shiner Notropis amplamala longjaw minnow Notropis asperifrons burrhead shiner Notropis atherinoides emerald shiner Notropis baileyi rough shiner Notropis stilbius silverstripe shiner Notropis texanus weed shiner Notropis xaenocephalus Coosa shiner Opsopoeodus emiliae pugnose minnow
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FAMILY SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME NOTES Phenacobius riffle minnow catostomus Pimephales vigilax bullhead minnow Semotilus creek chub atromaculatus Erimyzon oblongus creek chubsucker Catostomidae Hypentelium etowanum Alabama hogsucker (Suckers) Ictiobus bubalus smallmouth buffalo Minytrema melanops spotted sucker Moxostoma carinatum river redhorse Moxostoma duquesnei black redhorse Moxostoma erythrurum golden redhorse Moxostoma poecilurum blacktail redhorse Ameiurus catus white catfish introduced/non-native Ictaluridae Ameiurus melas black bullhead (Catfishes) Ameiurus natalis yellow bullhead Ameiurus nebulosus brown bullhead Ictalurus furcatus blue catfish Ictalurus punctatus channel catfish Noturus funebris black madtom Noturus leptacanthus speckled madtom Pylodictis olivaris flathead catfish Esox niger chain pickerel Esocidae Fundulus bifax stippled studfish (Pikes and Pickerels) Fundulidae Fundulus olivaceus blackspotted topminnow (Topminnows and Gambusia affinis western mosquitofish Killifishes) Poeciliidae Cottus sp. cf. C. bairdi Tallapoosa sculpin (Livebearers)
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FAMILY SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME NOTES Cottidae Morone chrysops white bass introduced/non-native (Sculpins) Moronidae Morone saxatilis striped bass (Temperate Basses) Morone chrysops x palmetto bass also called hybrid saxatilis bass; introduced Ambloplites ariommus shadow bass Centrarchidae Lepomis auritus redbreast sunfish (Sunfishes) Lepomis cyanellus green sunfish Lepomis gulosus warmouth Lepomis macrochirus bluegill Lepomis megalotis longear sunfish Lepomis microlophus redear sunfish Lepomis miniatus redspotted sunfish Micropterus coosae redeye bass Micropterus punctulatus spotted bass Micropterus salmoides largemouth bass Pomoxis annularis white crappie Pomoxis black crappie nigromaculatus Etheostoma lipstick darter chuckwachatte Percidae Etheostoma stigmaeum speckled darter (Perches) Etheostoma swaini gulf darter Etheostoma tallapoosae Tallapoosa darter Percina kathae Mobile logperch Percina nigrofasciata blackbanded darter Percina palmaris bronze darter Percina smithvani muscadine darter Perca flavescens yellow perch introduced/non-native Elassomatidae Elassoma zonatum banded pygmy sunfish (Pygmy Sunfishes)
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The ADCNR has monitored the Lake Martin fishery over several years, the most recent being 2004, 2005, and 2008. These fishery surveys were used to describe the current baseline fishery. The black bass fishery is comprised of both largemouth and spotted bass. ADCNR collections indicated that spotted bass are more abundant than largemouth bass. Analysis of bass collected on the Lake indicates good reproduction and survival but slow growth. The slower growth experienced on Lake Martin is related to its nutrient-poor water. Black crappie populations in the Lake have increased in recent years, and continue to provide excellent fishing opportunities. Annual mortality for black crappie remains high and is primarily related to heavy exploitation by recreational anglers. Collections of bluegill indicate a good population dominated by small individuals. Striped bass collections were relatively low and collected fish exhibited low growth rates; however, ADCNR continues to stock striped bass in the Lake at a rate of three fish per ac to maintain this recreational fishery. White bass densities indicate an excellent and stable white bass fishery. Gizzard and threadfin shad collections indicate a good forage base for the fishery (Greene et al., 2004; Greene et al., 2005; Greene et al., 2008).
The ADCNR regulates the recreational fishery on the Lake using fish stocking and fishing regulations that are adjusted periodically to enhance the fishery. For example, the ADCNR has periodically stocked Florida strain largemouth bass in the Lake since 1983. A nine-inch statewide minimum length limit on crappie was instituted by the ADCNR to guard against over harvest by anglers and to improve the population size structure of crappie within the Lake (Greene et al., 2004; Greene et al., 2008).
A study performed by Auburn University during 2009 and 2010 noted that the shoreline aquatic habitat on Lake Martin is impacted by shoreline development using seawalls and riprap shoreline stabilization. Results indicated that areas with riprap have higher densities of fish, natural shorelines typically result in higher fish species diversity, and seawalls result in lower densities and species diversity (Purcell et al., 2011).
The “Gulf-strain” striped bass population in Lake Martin was established through stocking efforts by the ADCNR beginning in 1980. During the summer when Lake stratification occurs, striped bass are restricted to the cooler water deeper in the Lake. Due to low levels of DO in
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these deep water levels, fish kills of striped bass have been periodically observed by ADCNR during the late summer. A water quality study was performed during 1995 by ADCNR and Alabama Power to better understand this phenomenon; but to date, no specific measures have been identified or implemented. Hybrid striped bass were also stocked in the Lake from 1982 through 1988 (Greene et al., 2004; Greene et al., 2008; McHugh et al., 1996).
A striped bass telemetry study was performed during 2009 and 2010 using radio tagged fish to monitor movements during the spring, summer, and fall periods of each year as “quality habitat” diminished in the hypolimnion. Auburn University determined that striped bass move to different areas of the Lake to find the best water quality available during the late summer and early fall until Lake turnover (during the fall) restores abundant “quality habitat”. Auburn University also noted that a reduction in “quality habitat” stresses striped bass (Sammons, 2010).
A secondary part of the striped bass telemetry study involved a “hooking mortality” analysis, which determined that adult striped bass angled during the summer and fall stressful periods exhibited high mortalities. Field collections were performed to determine the depths, temperatures, and DO concentrations used by adult striped bass in Lake Martin during spring to fall and to determine the approximate volume of suitable striped bass habitat present in Lake Martin during the spring, summer, and fall periods (Sammons, 2010).
Temperature and DO profiles were collected every two weeks from July through September (during 2009 and portions of 2010) at 2 km intervals in the main river channels of the Tallapoosa River, Kowaliga Creek, and Blue Creek arms of Lake Martin to provide an estimate of striped bass habitat availability. Two types of striped bass habitat were defined:
• Quality Habitat – defined as water with temperatures less than 21.3oC and DO concentrations greater than 2.6 mg/L; and • Total Habitat – defined as water with temperatures less than 25oC and DO concentrations greater than 1.7 mg/L.
The water quality data and information from a digitized map of Lake Martin were then used to create a hypsographic curve for the Lake (Figure E-30). Volumes were calculated for every 1 m strata of water in the water column, which were then used to estimate volumes of striped bass
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habitat during the sampling period (Sammons, 2010).
Alabama Power compared the water quality data provided by Auburn and the turbine machine hours calculated for each year and time period to determine if a relationship could be developed and used to establish current and/or historic striped bass die-offs recorded by Alabama Power or ADCNR.
FIGURE E-30 VOLUMES OF STRIPED BASS HABITAT PRESENT IN LAKE MARTIN, ALABAMA OVER A SIX-MONTH PERIOD IN 2009 (Source: Sammons, 2010) (Quality habitat was defined as water with temperatures < 21.3 degrees C and DO concentrations > 2.6 mg/L. Total habitat was defined as water with temperatures < 25 degrees C and DO concentrations > 1.7 mg/L)
250000
TOTAL HABITAT QUALITY HABITAT
200000
150000
Lake Volume (ha-m) Volume Lake 100000
50000
0
MAY
SEP 2 SEP
APRIL
OCT 1 OCT
AUG 3 AUG
SEP 16 SEP
JUNE 6 JUNE
AUG 18 AUG
JULY 10 JULY JULY 24 JULY JUNE 25 JUNE
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Striped bass quality habitat, total habitat, and machine hours for 2009 and 2010 are presented in Table E-24. The total number of machine hours of generation between sample dates is compared to the total habitat and total quality habitat in Figure E-31 through Figure E-34. For example, between April 1, 2009 and May 1, 2009, there were 1,082 machines hours of generation.
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FIGURE E-31 COMPARISON OF TURBINE HOURS AND STRIPED BASS QUALITY HABITAT DURING 2009
2009 Lake Martin - Quality Striped Bass Habitat VS Turbine Machine Hours 250000 1400
1200 200000
1000
m) (blue) 150000 - 800
600 100000
400 Quality Habitat (ha
50000 200 Turbnie hours betweensampleTurbnie dates (pink)
0 0 2/6 3/28 5/17 7/6 8/25 10/14 12/3 DATE
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FIGURE E-32 COMPARISON OF TURBINE HOURS AND STRIPED BASS TOTAL HABITAT DURING 2009
2009 Martin - Striped Bass Total Habitat VS. Turbine Machine Hours 250000 1400
1200 200000
1000
150000 m) (blue)
- 800
600 100000
Total Habitat (ha Total 400
50000 200 Turbine Hours between sample dates (pink) dates sample Hours between Turbine
0 0 2/6 3/28 5/17 7/6 8/25 10/14 12/3
DATE
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FIGURE E-33 COMPARISON OF TURBINE HOURS AND STRIPED BASS QUALITY HABITAT DURING 2010
2010 Martin - Total Striped Bass Habitat VS Turbine Machine Hours 250000 1400
1200 200000
1000
150000 m) (blue)
- 800
600 100000
Total Habitat (ha Total 400
50000
200 hoursbetweensampleTurbine dates (pink)
0 0 7/1 9/9 7/11 7/21 7/31 8/10 8/20 8/30 9/19 9/29 10/9 DATE 10/19
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FIGURE E-34 COMPARISON OF TURBINE HOURS AND STRIPED BASS TOTAL HABITAT DURING 2010
2010 Martin - Striped Bass Quality Habitat VS Turbine Machine Hours 250000 1400
1200 200000
1000 m) (blue)
- 150000 800
600 100000
400 Quality Habitat (ha 50000 200 Turbine hours betweensampleTurbine dates (pink)
0 0 7/1 9/9 7/11 7/21 7/31 8/10 8/20 8/30 9/19 9/29 10/9 DATE 10/19
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No clear relationships were observed in the comparisons. One observation noted in the field study is the variation between years in the amount of available habitat that resulted from changes in the environment, such as hydrology and temperature (Sammons, 2010). Also observed is the low number of machine hours currently used by Alabama Power during the summer period. Generation provided at Martin during the summer balances resources between downstream flow requirements, recreation, and power generation. Barring any significant hydrological event, generation hours do not increase until the Lake is lowered beginning on September 1 under the current Flood Control Guideline.
Currently, there is no predictive evaluation of impacts from generation to striped bass habitat that can be performed. Adequate historical data are not available to quantify habitat. Regardless of the amount of data available, there is too much natural variability in the Lake Martin environment from one year to the next to be able to predict impacts to striped bass habitat from generation in any given year. Additional information on the impacts to striped bass are included on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
TABLE E-24 STRIPED BASS HABITAT AND TURBINE GENERATION HOURS (Source: Alabama Power, 2010b and Sammons, 2010)
TURBINE QUALITY HABITAT TOTAL HABITAT GENERATION HOURS SAMPLE DATE (HA-M) (HA-M) BETWEEN SAMPLE DATES 4/1/2009 208947 208947 5/1/2009 115756 208947 1082 6/6/2009 84935 137717 1297 6/25/2009 79014 114896 272 7/10/2009 80518 105936 164 7/24/2009 22033 96774 157 8/3/2009 7126 37837 137 8/18/2009 0 30481 268 9/2/2009 0 10766 213 9/16/2009 0 0 135 10/21/2009 0 80722 964 7/8/2010 39347 60218 7/28/2010 29175 39347 165 8/6/2010 25595 35034 82 8/19/2010 221 31032 112 8/31/2010 0 25595 142 9/15/2010 0 18058 157 9/20/2010 0 19657 56 9/29/2010 0 14272 126 10/6/2010 0 154546 120
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Alabama Power performed a fish entrainment and turbine mortality study at the Project during 2009 and part of 2010 (Alabama Power, 2011b). During development of the study plan, the ADCNR expressed concerns about the impacts of fish entrainment on the striped bass (Morone saxatilis) and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) populations in Lake Martin. Because ADCNR stocks these species, information on entrainment impacts will help them in developing stocking strategies for the Lake.
Alabama Power utilized results of fish entrainment from similar hydroelectric projects and onsite hydroacoustics collections to determine the magnitude of fish entrainment that potentially occurs at the Project. The desktop entrainment (Phase I) information predicted that the Project would entrain approximately 626,000 fish annually. The field study (Phase II) estimated that approximately 7.4 million targets entered into the penstock area during the year of collection. The year studied was a very high hydrologic flow year and not typical for the Project. Therefore, average flow data were used to adjust the hydroacoustic entrainment estimate to approximately 3.6 million fish, which would be more representative of a normal hydrologic year. Highest entrainment rates were observed during the winter and fall, and 90% of the observed fish targets were less than 10 inches long. High entrainment rates observed during the winter were likely due to entrainment of shad that experienced cold lethargy during the very cold winter of the sampling year (Alabama Power, 2011b).
Both the Phase I and Phase II studies compared the total seasonal entrainment of fish from the spring of 2009 through the winter of 2010. Due to higher than average rainfall in the Tallapoosa Basin during the winter of 2010, the Phase II report also included a historical seasonal entrainment estimate based on normal flow. Results of the two studies are presented in Table E- 25. In all three estimates, the majority of entrainment was predicted or occurred during the winter period. Although the actual entrainment estimates varied greatly between the desktop and the field estimate (542, 613 and 6,569,043, respectively), the percentage of the winter entrainment with respect to the annual entrainment estimate was very similar for the two estimates (86% and 89%). In addition, all three estimates predicted that fall was the second most abundant seasonal period of fish entrainment (5%, 8%, and 11%) (Alabama Power, 2011b).
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TABLE E-25 TOTAL SEASONAL ENTRAINMENT OF FISH FOR BOTH METHODS OF ESTIMATION (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b) TOTAL SEASONAL TOTAL OBSERVED TOTAL SEASONAL ENTRAINMENT SEASONAL ENTRAINMENT ESTIMATE ENTRAINMENT ESTIMATE SEASONS (FIELD REPORT) (FIELD REPORT) (DESKTOP REPORT) ADJ. HISTORICAL FLOWS (% ANNUAL (%ANNUAL (%ANNUAL ENTRAINMENT) ENTRAINMENT) ENTRAINMENT) Spring 18,878 (.2%) 19,022 (.5%) 32,591 (5%) 2009 Summer 14,647 (<.2%) 15,319 (.4%) 17,535 (3%) 2009 Fall 779,484 (11%) 280,907 (8%) 33, 245 (5%) 2009 Winter 6,569,043 (89%) 3,319,638 (91%) 542,613 (86%) 2010
The Desktop Report estimate of the seasonal percent entrainment composition and seasonal number of fish entrained for each family/genus group is presented in Table E-26 and Table E-27. For the Martin Project, Clupeids were the most numerically abundant in entrainment; Percids were the second most entrained family; Ictalurids were the third most entrained family, followed by sunfish and Cyprinids. Collectively, these families comprise approximately 100% of all entrainment estimates (Alabama Power, 2011b).
The estimated seasonal fish entrainment for family/genus group by length (Small – 1 to 150 MM and Large – greater than 151 MM) is presented in Table E-28. The total number of small and large fish estimated to be annually entrained at the Project was 512,323 and 113,576 fish, respectively. For the Project, most Clupeids, Percids, Ictalurids, sunfish, and Cyprinids estimated to be entrained were small and most catostomids and bass were large, indicating that mostly juvenile fish are potentially susceptible to entrainment at the Project. It is also likely that based on the estimates, largemouth bass comprise a very small percentage and total number of fish entrained at the Project. In addition, Table E-28 shows that large bass (67) were estimated to be entrained more often than small bass (19). Entrainment estimates for striped bass and white bass
E-129 predict that these two species account for less than 0.5% of the annual entrainment (Alabama Power, 2011b).
Species identification using a DIDSON® acoustic system was inconclusive and species of fish entrained could not be reliably determined. However, the Biosonics Acoustic System was able to estimate the size of fishes entrained. Percent relative abundance of fish in the 2-4 inch length classes (Cumulative Percent Relative Abundance (PRA)) was similar during the spring and summer monitoring periods (74.4% and 76.4%, respectively; Table E-29) but declined slightly in the fall (57.2%). However, during the winter, 98% of the fish entrained comprised the 2-4 inch length class. In addition, the percentage of larger fish (> 12 inches) entrained was extremely low among all seasons. The relative composition of these larger fish was 2.81%, 1.22%, 3.04%, and 0.03% during the spring, summer, fall, and winter, respectively. Data from the winter quarter monitoring period were collected during a continuous 120 hour generation period. Therefore, no observations could be made concerning fish activity before generation and after generation. Large and medium sized fish were absent and relatively few smaller fish (less than 12 inches) were present during the monitoring period. Overall, these data show that for each sample season, over 90% of the fish entrained at the Martin Project were less than 9 inches in length (Alabama Power, 2011b).
TABLE E-26 SEASONAL PERCENT COMPOSITION OF EACH FAMILY GROUP USED FOR THE MARTIN PROJECT ENTRAINMENT (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b)
FAMILY/GENUS GROUP WINTER SPRING SUMMER FALL
Catostomidae 0.01 0.03 0.02 0.00 Sunfish 0.17 4.62 10.53 1.40 Bass 0.00 0.16 0.05 0.05 Clupeidae 93.58 42.59 70.05 77.35 Cyprinidae 0.11 0.48 0.49 0.60 Ictaluridae 3.44 0.72 2.54 18.52 Percidae 2.68 51.34 16.26 2.08 Total 100.00 99.94 99.95 100.00
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TABLE E-27 ESTIMATED SEASONAL NUMBER OF FISH ENTRAINED, BY FAMILY/GENUS GROUP AT THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b)
FAMILY/GENUS GROUP WINTER SPRING SUMMER FALL TOTAL Catostomidae 36 9 4 0 49 Sunfish 918 1,505 1,847 465 4,736 Bass 10 51 9 16 86 Clupeidae 507,797 13,881 12,283 25,716 559,678 Cyprinidae 591 157 86 199 1,032 Ictaluridae 18,674 235 446 6,158 25,514 Percidae 14,565 16,733 2,851 691 34,840 Total 542,591 32,571 17,527 33,245 625,935 *Annual totals differ due to rounding
TABLE E-28 ESTIMATED SEASONAL NUMBER OF FISH ENTRAINED, BY FAMILY/GENUS GROUP FOR LENGTH FREQUENCY GROUPS OF SMALL AND LARGE FISH AT THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b)
FAMILY/GENUS GROUP WINTER SPRING SUMMER FALL TOTAL Catostomidae Small (0-150mm) 5 0 2 0 7 Catostomidae Large (151-900mm) 32 8 2 0 42 Sunfish Small (0-150mm) 629 1,370 1,669 270 3,939 Sunfish Large (151-900mm) 289 136 178 195 797 Bass Small (0-150mm) 1 11 5 1 19 Bass Large (151-900mm) 9 40 4 14 67 Clupeidae Small (0-150mm) 428,581 11,114 8,496 14,861 463,053 Clupeidae Large (151-900mm) 79,183 2,767 3,787 10,851 96,588 Cyprinidae Small (0-150mm) 515 143 57 149 864 Cyprinidae Large (151-900mm) 76 14 29 49 169 Ictaluridae Small (0-150mm) 10,339 84 226 4,445 15,094 Ictaluridae Large (151-900mm) 8,335 152 220 1,713 10,420 Percidae Small (0-150mm) 11,384 14,783 2,834 345 29,346 Percidae Large (151-900mm) 3,180 1,951 18 345 5,493 Total 542,557 32,572 17,528 33,242 625,898 *Annual totals differ due to rounding
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TABLE E-29 TABLE OF PERCENT RELATIVE ABUNDANCE (PRA) AND CUMULATIVE PRA ESTIMATES OF ENTRAINED FISH AT MARTIN DAM FROM APRIL, 2009 TO MARCH, 2010 (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b)
SEASON SPRING 2009 SUMMER 2009 FALL 2009 WINTER 2010 FISH LENGTH (IN) PRA PRA PRA PRA PRA PRA PRA PRA UMULATIVE UMULATIVE UMULATIVE UMULATIVE C C C C 2 34.05% 34.05% 28.23% 28.23% 23.75% 23.75% 72.76% 72.76% 3 26.40% 60.46% 26.42% 54.65% 19.42% 43.17% 22.29% 95.06% 4 13.93% 74.38% 21.75% 76.40% 14.00% 57.17% 3.56% 98.62% 5 9.15% 83.53% 13.02% 89.42% 11.55% 68.72% .84% 99.46% 6 5.01% 88.54% 3.46% 92.87% 9.15% 77.88% .26% 99.71% 7 2.35% 90.90% 2.43% 95.30% 6.67% 84.55% .07% 99.78% 8 2.33% 93.23% 2.41% 97.71% 4.74% 89.29% .05% 99.83% 9 2.74% 95.97% 0.72% 98.43% 2.62% 91.91% .05% 99.88% 10 0.00% 95.97% 0.00% 98.43% 2.23% 94.14% .04% 99.91% 11 0.91% 96.87% 0.36% 98.78% 2.00% 96.13% .02% 99.93% 12 0.31% 97.19% 0.00% 98.78% 0.83% 96.96% .04% 99.97% 13 0.81% 97.99% 0.41% 99.20% 0.87% 97.82% .00% 99.98% 14 0.61% 98.60% 0.41% 99.60% 0.32% 98.14% .01% 99.99% 15 0.00% 98.60% 0.00% 99.60% 0.42% 98.56% .00% 99.99% 16 0.00% 98.60% 0.40% 100.00% 0.40% 98.97% .00% 99.99% 17 0.00% 98.60% 0.00% 100.00% 0.19% 99.16% .00% 99.99% 18 0.72% 99.31% 0.00% 100.00% 0.16% 99.32% .00% 99.99% 19 0.00% 99.31% 0.00% 100.00% 0.16% 99.48% .01% 100.00% 20 0.00% 99.31% 0.00% 100.00% 0.11% 99.60% .00% 100.00% 21 0.00% 99.31% 0.00% 100.00% 0.06% 99.66% .00% 100.00% 22 0.46% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.06% 99.72% .00% 100.00% 23 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.12% 99.83% .00% 100.00% 24 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.83% .00% 100.00% 25 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.83% .00% 100.00% 26 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.06% 99.89% .00% 100.00% 27 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.04% 99.94% .00% 100.00% 28 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.94% .00% 100.00% 29 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.94% .00% 100.00% 30 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.94% .00% 100.00% 31 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.94% .00% 100.00% 32 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.94% .00% 100.00% 33 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.03% 99.96% .00% 100.00% 34 0.00% 99.77% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.96% .00% 100.00% 35 0.23% 100.00% 0.00% 100.00% 0.02% 99.98% .00% 100.00% 36 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 99.98% .00% 100.00% 37 0.00% 100.00% 0.00% 100.00% 0.02% 100.00% .00% 100.00% Total 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
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Mobile forebay monitoring results from the Phase II Field Report are illustrated in Figure E-35 and Figure E-36. Fish densities in the forebay were most dense in the winter during the day and the summer at night. For most of the year, fish seemed to be distributed throughout the forebay depths for both day and night time surveys equally and fish densities were higher near the surface and decreased with depth. Mean day time forebay densities were similar during spring (2,169 fish/million cubic feet (mcf)), summer (2,453 fish/mcf), and fall (2,950 fish/mcf) but increased during the winter (4,737 fish/mcf). However, mean night time forebay densities during the spring (2,933 fish/mcf) increased and reached a maximum during the summer (5,872 fish/mcf) but, declined during the fall (2,349 fish/mcf) and winter (1,392 fish/mcf) (Alabama Power, 2011b).
FIGURE E-35 GRAPH OF MEAN SEASONAL FOREBAY DENSITIES FOR DAY AND NIGHT MOBILE SURVEYS ESTIMATED DURING SEASONAL MOBILE SURVEYS IN THE MARTIN FOREBAY FROM APRIL, 2009 TO MARCH, 2010 (Error bars represent 95% confidence intervals of the mean) (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b)
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FIGURE E-36 GRAPH OF SEASONAL FOREBAY DENSITIES (LOG SCALE) BY 5 METER DEPTH INTERVALS FOR DAY AND NIGHT MOBILE SURVEYS ESTIMATED DURING SEASONAL MOBILE SURVEYS IN THE MARTIN FOREBAY FROM APRIL, 2009 TO MARCH, 2010 Circle indicates mean and bars represent minimum and maximum (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b)
As expected, fish densities (by 5 meter depth strata) were the highest near the surface and generally decreased with depth for spring, fall, and winter. The one exception was summer, where fish densities at deeper depths were drastically lower during the day time survey as compared to the night time survey. During the daytime hours of the summer, fish appeared to migrate out of the deeper depths of the river channel to other areas of the Lake to possibly avoid
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the less desirable water quality in those depths. Then after dusk, fish moved back to the deeper depths in the channel (Alabama Power, 2011b) (Figure E-25).
Turbine mortality rates were estimated based on field studies from similar hydroelectric turbines and are presented by fish species and size in Table E-30. Although literature was not available to estimate turbine mortality for one family (Ictaluridae) these fish were a very small component of estimated fish entrainment composition. Consistent with other studies, representative mortality data were matched to these two family groups based primarily on similar physical characteristics, such as skeletal structure and body shape (FERC, 1995). The Catostomid family group was used as a surrogate for the Ictalurid group.
Total entrainment fish loss by season and family group for the Project (Table E-31) and total entrainment fish loss for seasonal length frequency by family groups (Table E-32) show that a total of 47,883 fish are estimated to be killed annually by turbine entrainment at the Project. Estimated fish lost were greatest for the small Clupeids, small Percids, and small Ictalurids relative to the other family size groups. An estimated 19.95% turbine mortality for small bass and 33.30% turbine mortality for large bass yielded 26 total fish lost, with the most loss occurring in the spring among the large bass group. Turbine mortalities applied to the Phase II Field Report entrainment estimates would result in higher entrainment losses for the Project. However, the ratio of fish mortalities by family is not expected to change based on Phase II Field Report (Alabama Power, 2011b).
TABLE E-30 MEAN TURBINE MORTALITY RATES FOR FAMILY AND SIZE GROUPS AT THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b) SPECIES MORTALITY (%) Small Sunfish 34.00 Large Sunfish 19.64 Average Sunfish 26.82 Small Percidae 44.45 Large Percidae 42.98 Average Percidae 43.71 Small Cyprinidae 17.36 Large Cyprinidae 4.55 Average Cyprinidae 10.95 Small Bass 19.95 Large Bass 33.30 Average Bass 26.63
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SPECIES MORTALITY (%) Small Catostomidae 25.61 Large Catostomidae 22.85 Average Catostomidae 24.23 Small Ictaluridae* 25.61 Large Ictaluridae* 22.85 Average Ictaluridae* 24.23 Small Clupeidae 5.30 Large Clupeidae 0.00 Average Clupeidae 2.65
TABLE E-31 SUMMARY OF ESTIMATED TOTAL ENTRAINMENT FISH LOSS BY SEASON, AND FAMILY GROUP FOR THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b)
FAMILY/GENUS GROUP WINTER SPRING SUMMER FALL TOTAL Catostomidae 8 2 1 0 11 Sunfish 271 492 602 130 1,496 Bass 3 15 2 5 26 Clupeidae 22,715 589 450 788 24,542 Cyprinidae 93 25 11 28 158 Percidae 6,426 7,409 1,267 302 15,404 Ictaluridae 4,552 56 108 1,530 6,246 Total 34,069 8,589 2,442 2,783 47,883
TABLE E-32 ESTIMATED TOTAL ENTRAINMENT FISH LOSS FOR SEASONAL LENGTH FREQUENCY BY FAMILY GROUPS FOR THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: Alabama Power, 2011b) FAMILY/GENUS GROUP WINTER SPRING SUMMER FALL TOTAL Catostomidae Small (0-150mm) 1 0 0 0 2 Catostomidae Large (151-900mm) 7 2 1 0 10 Sunfish Small (0-150mm) 214 466 567 92 1,339 Sunfish Large (151-900mm) 57 27 35 38 157 Bass Small (0-150mm) 0 2 1 0 4 Bass Large (151-900mm) 3 13 1 5 22 Clupeidae Small (0-150mm) 22,715 589 450 788 24,542 Clupeidae Large (151-900mm) 0 0 0 0 0 Cyprinidae Small (0-150mm) 89 25 10 26 150 Cyprinidae Large (151-900mm) 3 1 1 2 8 Ictaluridae Small (0-150mm) 2,648 21 58 1,138 3,865 Ictaluridae Large (151-900mm) 1,905 35 50 392 2,381 Percidae Small (0-150mm) 5,060 6,570 1,259 154 13,043 Percidae Large (151-900mm) 1,367 838 8 148 2,361 Total 34,069 8,589 2,442 2,783 47,883 *Differences in annual mortality of length frequency groups and annual mortality estimates are due to specific size mortality rates were applied to each family/genus length frequency, where as average mortality rates were applied to seasonal family genus groups.
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A total of 47,883 fish were estimated to be killed annually by turbine entrainment at the Martin Project. Estimated fish entrainment loss was highest for Ictalurids and Clupeids. These two families represent 94% of the projected fish loss at the Project, where the Sunfish group accounted for approximately 6% of the entrainment loss. Data collected during this study indicates that there is fish entrainment at the Project. Although Desktop and Field studies did not agree completely, they do complement each other in depicting the impacts of entrainment at the Project. The highest impacts of entrainment appear to be associated with the Clupeid family and with fish smaller than nine inches. The entrainment impacts predicted for largemouth bass and striped bass reported in these two studies is fairly low (Alabama Power, 2011b). More detailed information on fish entrainment and turbine mortality is presented on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
TAILRACE FISHERY RESOURCES
The Project tailrace is the headwaters of the Yates Reservoir. The fishery immediately downstream of the Martin Dam includes spotted and largemouth bass, striped bass, white bass, black crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and yellow perch. The cool water associated with the tailrace area often attracts striped bass exceeding 40 pounds (Greene et al., 2005). Fish species collected in the immediate tailrace by the ADCNR (Greene et al., 2005) and Alabama Power during 2009 (Alabama Power, 2010l) are presented in Table E-33. The fishery composition is typical of a reservoir fish community.
TABLE E-33 FISH COLLECTED IN THE MARTIN TAILRACE DURING SURVEYS IN 2009 (Source: Greene et al., 2005; Alabama Power, 2010a)
SPECIES COLLECTED NUMBER COLLECTED Clupeidae Dorosoma cepedianum (gizzard shad) 1 Dorosoma petenense (threadfin shad) 76 Cyprinidae Cyprinus carpio (common carp) 2 Hybopsis lineapunctata (lined chub) 4 Notropis atherinoides (emerald shiner) 1 Notropis texanus (weed shiner) 1 Catostomidae Minytrema melanops (spotted sucker) 1 Moxostoma duquesnei (black redhorse) 7 Moxostoma poecilurum (blacktail redhorse) 15
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SPECIES COLLECTED NUMBER COLLECTED
Cottidae Cottus sp. cf. C. bairdii ("Tallapoosa sculpin") 1 Moronidae Morone saxatilis (striped bass) 5 Centrarchidae Lepomis auritus (redbreast sunfish) 7 Lepomis cyanellus (green sunfish) 18 Lepomis gulosus (warmouth) 1 Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill) 66 Lepomis microlophus (redear sunfish) 3 Micropterus punctulatus (spotted bass) 11 Micropterus salmoides (largemouth bass) 9 TOTAL SPECIES 18 TOTAL INDIVIDUALS 229
TALLAPOOSA RIVER FISHERY DOWNSTREAM OF THURLOW DAM
The Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam was also identified in the geographic scope for analysis, even though this area is outside of the Project Boundary. The fishery in this area has been monitored periodically from 1993 to 2009 as part of the Yates and Thurlow license and the implementation of a 1,200 cfs minimum flow downstream of Thurlow Dam. Species collected by Alabama Power in the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam are presented in Table E- 34 (Alabama Power, 2010l). The fish species detected in this area represent a diverse riverine fishery.
Of the species detected, paddlefish was identified as a specific concern for the ADCNR, (Alabama Power, 2010l). The review of existing paddlefish information and published literature specific to the species and area identified that paddlefish spawn in the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam annually during March and April. Upstream spawning movements are linked to an increase in water temperature and spawning is triggered by higher flow events. The information reviewed suggests that a rise in stage in general, and river flows above 6,000 cfs on the Tallapoosa River, are specifically significant in triggering spawning events (Alabama Power, 2010l).
A review of Project operations from 1992 to 2009 showed that existing hydropower operations from Martin, and subsequently Yates and Thurlow, provide flows that meet some level of basic spawning flow needs for the paddlefish populations in the Tallapoosa River (Alabama Power,
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2010l). Current hydropower operations in non-drought years provide the elevated flows (greater than 6,000 cfs) and pulses that trigger paddlefish to spawn. On average, flows from Thurlow Dam during 1992-2007 (including drought years) reached or exceeded 6,000 cfs 19 days during March and April combined. In addition, pulsing of flows well above 6,000 cfs occurred 2.6 times (on average) for the same time period. The major limiting factor for providing elevated flows was, and will continue to be, low rainfall or drought years, which reoccur as part of the natural hydrologic cycle (Alabama Power, 2010l).
TABLE E-34 SPECIES COLLECTED BY ALABAMA POWER IN THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER DOWNSTREAM OF THURLOW DAM (Source: Alabama Power, 2010l) SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME Ichthyomyzon gagei southern brook lamprey Polyodon spathula paddlefish Lepisosteus oculatus spotted gar Lepisosteus osseus longnose gar Amia calva bowfin Anguilla rostrata American eel Alosa chrysochloris skipjack herring Dorosoma cepedianum gizzard shad Dorosoma petenense threadfin shad Hiodon tergisus mooneye Esox americanus redfin pickerel Esox niger chain pickerel Campostoma oligolepis largescale stoneroller Ctenopharyngodon idella grass carp Cyprinella venusta blacktail shiner Cyprinus carpio common carp Hybopsis winchelli clear chub Macrhybopsis aestivalis speckled chub Macrhybopsis storeriana silver chub Notropis ammophilus orangefin shiner Notropis amplamala longjaw minnow Notropis atherinoides emerald shiner Notropis edwardraneyi fluvial shiner Notropis texanus weed shiner Notropis uranoscopus skygazer shiner Notropis volucellus mimic shiner Pimephales vigilax bullhead minnow Carpiodes cyprinus quillback Carpiodes velifer highfin carpsucker Cycleptus meridionalis southeastern blue sucker Hypentelium etowanum Alabama hog sucker Ictiobus bubalus smallmouth buffalo
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SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME Minytrema melanops spotted sucker Moxostoma carinatum river redhorse Moxostoma duquesnei black redhorse Moxostoma poecilurum blacktail redhorse Ictalurus furcatus blue catfish Ictalurus punctatus channel catfish Noturus leptacanthus speckled madtom Pylodictis olivaris flathead catfish Fundulus olivaceus blackspotted topminnow Gambusia affinis western mosquitofish Cottus carolinae banded sculpin Morone chrysops white bass Morone saxatilis striped bass Morone chrysops/saxatilis palmetto bass Ambloplites ariommus shadow bass Lepomis auritus redbreast sunfish Lepomis cyanellus green sunfish Lepomis gulosus warmouth Lepomis macrochirus bluegill Lepomis megalotis longear sunfish Lepomis microlophus redear sunfish Micropterus punctulatus spotted bass Micropterus salmoides largemouth bass Pomoxis annularis white crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus black crappie Ammocrypta beani naked sand darter Crystallaria asprella crystal darter Etheostoma jordani greenbreast darter Etheostoma stigmaeum speckled darter Perca flavescens yellow perch Percina nigrofasciata blackbanded darter Percina shumardi river darter Percina vigil saddleback darter Aplodinotus grunniens freshwater drum
ANADROMOUS FISH
Anadromous fish are species that upon maturity migrate from the ocean into freshwater environments to spawn. Historically, there were several species that migrated from Gulf Coast waters to inland Alabama rivers (including the Tallapoosa River) to spawn. Currently, no anadromous species occur in the Tallapoosa River immediately downstream of the Martin Project, as upstream passage on the Tallapoosa River to this area is blocked by the downstream Yates and Thurlow dams and upstream passage on the Alabama River is blocked by three USACE dams. Two anadromous species, the Alabama shad and striped bass, are thought to
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occur downstream of Thurlow Dam, although the Alabama shad was not documented by Alabama Power during sampling conducted from 1990 through 2009 as part the Thurlow license requirements (Alabama Power, 2010a). Striped bass may be present downstream of Thurlow, but it is not clear whether these fish are a result of upstream striped bass stocking or fish that have migrated successfully upstream from the Gulf Coast (Alabama Power, 2010a).
Additional information (Alabama Power, 2010a) regarding the status of migratory fish, including any anadromous species, downstream of the Project, is provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
CATADROMOUS FISH Catadromous fish are species that live most of their lives in freshwater environments and, upon reaching sexual maturity, migrate to the ocean to spawn. The juvenile offspring of catadromous fish migrate through the ocean to the mouths of rivers and move upstream to various habitats to live until adulthood. The American eel (Anguilla rostrata) is the only catadromous species native to the Tallapoosa River system (Mettee et al., 1996). American eel have not been documented immediately downstream in the Project tailrace, but have been documented downstream of the Thurlow Dam (Alabama Power, 2010a). No specific studies were performed during relicensing to determine if American eels are present in the Martin Dam tailrace area. Additional detail (Alabama Power, 2010a) regarding catadromous species in the Project Vicinity is provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
FRESHWATER MOLLUSKS (MUSSELS AND SNAILS) Alabama Power performed extensive surveys between 2006 and 2010 to determine the status of mollusk populations (freshwater mussels and snails) in the Project Boundary and Project Vicinity. Surveys focused on Lake Martin, its tributaries, the Project tailrace, and the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam (Alabama Power, 2006; 2010j).
A total of six taxa of freshwater mussels were observed during surveys in Lake Martin and its tributaries. A small number of mussel shell material was found at three tributary sites above the Lake summer pool elevation (Oakachoy, Elkahatchee, and Wind creeks). Villosa lienosa (little spectaclecase) was the only live species encountered in these areas. This is a common, hardy species that is known to occur in Lake Martin. Deepwater surveys of the Manoy, Blue, and
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Sandy creek areas of Lake Martin yielded five additional native freshwater mussel species: Anodonta suborbiculata (flat floater), Pyganodon grandis (giant floater), Lampsilis teres (yellow sandshell), Utterbackia imbecillis (paper pondshell) and Leptodea fragilis (fragile papershell). The non-native Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) was commonly collected at most tributary sites within and upstream of the Lake, as well as in the Project tailrace (Table E-35). No unionid mussels were found in the Martin tailrace (Alabama Power, 2010f; 2010j). Each of the taxa collected during the surveys occur commonly in Alabama, and all are listed as being of low conservation concern by Mirarchi et al. (2004).
Sampling in the lower Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam resulted in the collection of nine species of unionid mussels, either as live or freshly dead individuals or as older, relict shell material (Table E-35). The most commonly encountered mussel species was Quadrula asperata (Alabama orb), which was present and common both as juvenile and adult individuals. Other species collected as living or freshly dead individuals included Lampsilis ornata (southern pocketbook), Lasmigona alabamensis (Alabama heelsplitter), Obliquaria reflexa (threehorn wartyback), Potamilus purpuratus (bleufer), and Quadrula verrucosa (pistolgrip). Relict shell material provided evidence of the presence of Lampsilis teres, Leptodea fragilis, and Pyganodon grandis in the area. All the above species are common throughout their range (see Table E-35) (Alabama Power, 2010f; 2010j).
In addition to freshwater mussels, five species of freshwater snails were collected. The most commonly encountered snail in Lake Martin or its tributaries was the pleurocerid Elimia flava (yellow elimia), which occurred at most survey sites and was very common at several. In addition, live specimens of Campeloma regulare (cylinder campeloma) were documented at three Lake Martin tributaries (Elkahatchee Creek, Sandy Creek, and Irwin Shoals), and shell material was found at several other sites. Five species of snails were collected in the Project tailrace: Elimia flava, Campeloma regulare, Physella sp., Planorbella trivolvis (marsh rams- horn), and Helisoma anceps (two-ridge rams-horn) (Alabama Power, 2010f; 2010j). All taxa of freshwater snails detected during these surveys are listed as common and of low conservation concern in Alabama by Mirarchi et al. (2004).
Sampling conducted by Alabama Power in support of minimum flow requirements at Thurlow Dam has documented the presence of Somatogyrus pilsbryanus (Tallapoosa pebblesnail) at a site
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1 TABLE E-35 FRESHWATER MOLLUSKS (SNAILS, MUSSELS, AND CLAMS) SUMMARY OF FIELD COLLECTIONS (Source: Alabama Power, 2010f; 2010j)
SITE NAME SNAIL SPECIES FOUND MUSSEL AND CLAM SPECIES FOUND Irwin Shoals Campeloma regulare Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) (cylinder campeloma) Oakachoy Creek Villosa lienosa (little spectaclecase); Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) Elkahatchee Campeloma regulare Villosa lienosa (little spectaclecase); Creek (cylinder campeloma) Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) Wind Creek Villosa lienosa (little spectaclecase); Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) Manoy Creek Anodonta suborbiculata (flat floater); Pyganondon grandis (giant floater); Lampsilis teres (yellow sandshell); Utterbackia imbecillis (paper pondshell); Leptodea fragilis (fragile papershell); and Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) Blue Creek Anodonta suborbiculata (flat floater); Pyganondon grandis (giant floater); Lampsilis teres (yellow sandshell); Utterbackia imbecillis (paper pondshell); Leptodea fragilis (fragile papershell); and Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) Sandy Creek Campeloma regulare Anodonta suborbiculata (flat floater); (cylinder campeloma) Pyganondon grandis (giant floater); Lampsilis teres (yellow sandshell); Utterbackia imbecillis (paper pondshell); Leptodea fragilis (fragile papershell); and Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) Project tailrace Elimia flava, Campeloma regulare, Physella sp., Planorbella trivolvis, and Helisoma anceps Tallapoosa River Somatogyrus pilsbryanus Quadrula asperata (Alabama orb)-most common; downstream of (Tallapoosa pebblesnail) Lampsilis ornate (southern pocketbook); Thurlow (part of Thurlow Lasmigona alabamensis (Alabama heelspitter); minimum flow studies) Obliquaria reflexa (threehorn wartyback); Potamilus purpuratus (bleufer); Quadrula verrucosa (pistolgrip); and Asiatic clam (Corbicula sp.) 1- Note: Each of the taxa collected during the surveys occur commonly in Alabama, and all are listed as being of low conservation concern by Mirarchi et al. (2004).
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BENTHIC MACROINVERTEBRATE SPECIES COMMUNITIES Studies conducted by Bayne et al. (1995) in Lake Martin tend to support the premise that macroinvertebrate populations found in storage reservoirs are typically composed largely of taxa that are tolerant of numerous impoundment-associated factors, including water level fluctuations, reduced hypolimnetic DO levels, flow reduction, and siltation; these taxa tend to be habitat and trophic “generalists.” Benthic macroinvertebrates were collected at four sites in the upstream portion of Lake Martin between May and October 1994. Sampling methods employed included both petite ponar dredge samples (to sample the inhabitants of the benthic sediments) and Hester- Dendy multiplate samplers (to sample the “aufwuchs” community, those organisms that colonize various hard substrates such as logs, rocks, etc.).
A total of 43 taxa were collected from the dredge samples. The benthic community was dominated by aquatic midge larvae (Diptera:Chironomidae, 24 taxa), with fewer numbers of mayflies (Ephemeroptera, one taxa), caddisflies (Trichoptera, one taxa), and dragonflies (Odonata, one taxa). Fifteen non-insect taxa were also collected including snails, water mites, and aquatic worms. The samples were usually dominated numerically by larvae of the phantom midge, Chaoborus, which is a common inhabitant of lakes and is often collected in dredge samples. Community structure and diversity tended to be similar among all sites, and the community was dominated functionally by “predators”.
A total of 52 taxa were collected from the multiplate samples, with aquatic midge larvae (22 taxa) also dominating the aufwuchs community. Other insect groups represented included mayflies (five taxa); caddisflies (six taxa); aquatic beetles (Coleoptera, one taxa); alderflies/dobsonflies (Megaloptera, one taxa); and dragonflies (one taxa). Additionally, 14 non- insect taxa were collected; these consisted mainly of snails and aquatic worms. The midge community collected from the plate samplers was dominated by genera tolerant of some organic enrichment, such as Dicrotendipes and Glyptotendipes. Most of the taxa occurring on the multi- plate samplers were functionally “filtering collectors” or “collector-gatherers.” Diversity values were similar among all sites.
Macroinvertebrate data reported in Purcell et al. (2011) generally support the findings of the survey information collected during the 1990s. These collections documented that the aquatic macroinvertebrate fauna of Lake Martin is dominated by tolerant taxa such as midge larvae,
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snails, and aquatic worms, and with lower numbers of less tolerant groups such as mayflies and caddisflies, which is typical of a storage reservoir in the southeastern United States (Purcell et al., 2011).
ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT AS DEFINED UNDER MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT ACT Alabama Power is not aware of any essential fish habitat in the Project Boundary and did not locate any current records of federally managed fish habitat within the Project Area. Alabama Power has invited the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to participate in the relicensing effort and has provided them with meeting notes and Martin Project relicensing reports. Alabama Power will continue to consult with NMFS as required by its 1999 Fish Habitat Conservation Mandate (NMFS, 2000).
5.3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on fish and aquatic resources, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports:
• Study Report 1 – Tallapoosa River Fish Passage Information Document (Alabama Power, 2010a) • Study Report 2a – Assessment of the Influence of Shoreline Modifications on Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Species’ Use of Modified Areas ( Bailey, 2009) • Study Report 2b – The Relationship Between Shoreline Development and Resident Fish Communities in Lake Martin, Alabama (Purcell et al., 2011) • Study Report 3 - Evaluation of Minimum Flows Downstream of Martin Dam (Alabama Power, 2010l) • Study Report 4 – Fish Entrainment and Turbine Mortality Analysis (Alabama Power, 2011b) • Study Report 6 – Adult Striped Bass Habitat Use and the Effects of Catch and Release Angling During the Summer in Lake Martin, Alabama (Sammons, 2010)
The final Study Reports are provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
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5.3.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
GENERAL FISH COMMUNITY AND HABITAT The species identified in Lake Martin primarily are typical warm water species that spawn in the spring period of the year. The 3 ft increase in winter pool should have limited effects on the availability or quality of spawning habitat. Effects would be limited to spawning areas of tributary creek mouths that could accumulate additional sediments with the increase in winter water level (Alabama Power, 2010i). The siltation in these areas as described in Section 5.1 should be limited and have only localized effects on degradation of fish habitat. The increased siltation in these tributary areas could also have a slight negative impact on mussels and snails currently inhabiting these areas (Williams et al., 2008). However, no endangered or threatened species were detected in the Project Boundary and the species present are tolerant of lacustrine conditions.
Alabama Power studied the potential increase for aquatic invasive vegetation to expand in Lake Martin with a proposed 3 ft increase in winter pool. There would be an increase in the amount of lake substrate that would not receive desiccation and/or freezing during the winter as part of an increase in winter pool elevation (Alabama Power, 2010d). The 3 ft increase in winter pool would result in an increase of 413 ac (from baseline or existing conditions) of Lake bottom that would be inundated year round. This change could result in an increase in submerged (and in part, emergent) invasive aquatic vegetation in the Lake (Alabama Power, 2010d). The increase in substrate area that could potentially support invasive aquatic vegetation could result in an increase control measures by Alabama Power’s current Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Program for Lake Martin.
TABLE E-36 ESTIMATED ACRES FOR SUBMERGED VEGETATION EXPANSION FOR EACH PROPOSED CHANGE IN THE WINTER FLOOD CONTROL GUIDELINE (Source: Alabama Power, 2010d)
ELEVATION CHANGE BASELINE 3 FT 5 FT 858 1271 1489
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An increase in aquatic vegetation could have a positive effect on the Lake Martin fishery as has been observed in other studies (Durocher et al., 1984; Betolli et al., 2003), by adding spawning areas for fish, structure for young-of-year fish, and structure for benthic invertebrates. However, the establishment of exotic or invasive species could result in negative changes in the game fish population and hinder sport fishing (Spencer, 2003). Increases in invasive species would also result in higher use of herbicide controls.
The 3 ft increase in winter pool should have little to no effect on Lake water quality (Alabama Power, 2011a); however, an increase in aquatic vegetation could result in localized additions of nutrients and increases in chlorophyll a concentrations in areas of the Lake (Alabama Power 2010d).
STRIPED BASS
Striped bass habitat availability in Lake Martin can experience rapid seasonal changes during the spring through late summer period, which results in changes in striped bass behavior, movement, and habitat use. During the striped bass telemetry study, fish ranged widely throughout Lake Martin in spring and early summer. As habitat became depleted, they began congregating downstream. This downstream shift was associated with reduced movement and use of water with higher temperatures and lower DO concentrations. However, once striped bass habitat was eliminated in September, the fish moved above the thermocline and again ranged widely, exhibiting the highest movement rates observed during the study. The Lake destratified during September with the onset of late summer rain events and cooler daily temperatures. Lake destratification and water column mixing expanded striped bass habitats during late September to early October (Sammons, 2010). Because the 3 ft increase in the winter pool would occur during the winter after Lake destratification, it should have no effect on striped bass habitat.
ENTRAINMENT
Fish entrainment and turbine mortality associated with the Project do not appear to have a significant impact to the Lake Martin fishery. Recreational fish species (bass, sunfish, and striped bass) and forage species (shad) are relatively prolific in the Lake. Additionally, ADCNR management reports indicate that the Lake fishery is in relatively good condition in terms of fish densities, size distribution, stock structure, fish condition, and growth rate (Greene et al. 2004;
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2005; and 2008). A 3 ft increase in the winter pool should not result in any change to the current levels of fish entrainment or turbine mortality at the Project.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
PADDLEFISH
The 3 ft increase in winter pool could change the delivery of water downstream to the Tallapoosa River. Flows in excess of 6,000 cfs during March and April are beneficial to paddlefish spawning (Alabama Power, 2010l). Alabama Power determined the number of paddlefish spawning days that occurred under several operational scenarios (Table E-37). The data showed that days with flows over 6,000 cfs increased by 5 days (averaged over 17 years) over baseline with a 3 ft increase of winter pool (Alabama Power, 2010b). Therefore this change should result in a minor positive effect on paddlefish spawning in the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam.
TABLE E-37 PADDLEFISH SPAWNING FLOWS DOWNSTREAM OF THURLOW DAM – INCREASE IN NUMBER OF DAYS ABOVE 6,000 CFS (DAILY AVERAGE FLOW) MODELED WITH HEC-RESSIM FROM HYDROLOGIC DATA 1992-2007 (Source: Alabama Power, 2010b)
ALTERNATIVE BASELINE 3 FT 5 FT WINTER POOL LEVEL 0 5 53
EARLY SPRING FILL 52 71 96
1 FALL EXTENSION 0 5 53 1 Values for fall extension are equal to the values for winter pool level for this evaluation as the fall extension does not have an impact on March or April flow amounts.
The Water Quality Expert Panel determined that there would be little change in the temperature on Lake Martin and little to no change in DO concentrations with 3 ft increase in winter pool. Retention time, day of the year, and water depth are key variables affecting DO and water temperature in the Martin forebay. Although retention time and water depth will increase, the change in Lake volume has little effect on DO and temperature as the size of the Lake and intra- year fluctuations in lake levels will buffer any significant trends. Because the tailrace water quality is directly linked to the forebay water quality, there would be no change downstream (Alabama Power, 2011a). Therefore the increased flows during the spring should not change downstream water temperatures or negatively affect paddlefish spawning.
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5.3.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.3.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
GENERAL FISH COMMUNITY AND HABITAT
The fish species identified in Lake Martin typically spawn in the spring period of the year. The Early Spring Fill should positively affect availability of spawning habitat in that filling the Lake earlier in the year provides more availability of spawning habitats along the shorelines and in tributary areas (Maceina and Stimpert, 1998). The Early Spring Fill is not expected to result in any negative effects to the current populations of snails or mussels in the Project Boundary.
Alabama Power also studied the potential for aquatic invasive vegetation to expand in Lake Martin as a result of changes to the Flood Control Guideline (Alabama Power, 2010d). The Early Spring Fill would result in an additional 30 days of inundation of Lake substrates over current operations, resulting in a longer growing season and greater ability for plants to establish root systems and store nutrients for the non-growth season. This change could increase submerged (and in part, emergent) invasive aquatic vegetation in the Lake, resulting in increased use of herbicide controls. Establishment of exotic or invasive species could also result in negative impacts to game fish populations and hinder sport fishing (Spencer, 2003). An increase in aquatic vegetation could also have a positive effect on the Lake Martin fishery as has been observed in other studies (Durocher et al., 1984; Betolli et al., 2003), such as additional spawning areas for fish and additional structure for young-of-year and benthic invertebrates.
The Early Spring Fill should have little to no effect on DO and temperature in the Lake (Alabama Power, 2011a). However, any increase in aquatic vegetation associated with a longer growing season due to the Early Spring Fill could result in localized additions of nutrients and increases in chlorophyll a concentrations in the Lake (Alabama Power, 2010d).
STRIPED BASS
Striped bass habitat availability in Lake Martin was characterized by rapid seasonal changes during the spring through late summer period, which resulted in changes in striped bass behavior, movement, and habitat use. Fish ranged widely throughout Lake Martin in spring and early
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summer. As habitat became depleted, they began congregating downstream. This downstream shift was associated with reduced movement and use of water with higher temperatures and lower DO concentrations. However, once striped bass habitat was eliminated in September, the fish moved above the thermocline and again ranged widely, exhibiting the highest movement rates observed during the study. The Lake destratified during the later part of September with the onset of summer rain events and cooler daily temperatures. Lake destratification and water column mixing expanded striped bass habitats during late September to early October (Sammons, 2010). Because the Early Spring Fill occurs before the Lake begins to stratify, it should have no measurable effect on striped bass habitat during the crucial periods in late summer and early fall.
ENTRAINMENT
Fish entrainment and turbine mortality associated with the Project does not appear to have a significant impact to the Lake fishery. Recreational fish species (bass, sunfish, and striped bass) and forage species (shad) are relatively prolific in the Lake. Additionally, ADCNR management reports indicate that the Lake fishery is in relatively good condition in terms of fish densities, size distribution, stock structure, fish condition, and growth rate (Greene et al,. 2004; 2005; and 2008). The Early Spring Fill should not result in any changes to the current levels of fish entrainment or turbine mortality at the Project.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
PADDLEFISH
The Early Spring Fill recommendation will result in a change in the delivery of water downstream to the Tallapoosa River. Flows in excess of 6,000 cfs during March and April are beneficial to paddlefish spawning (Alabama Power, 2010l). Alabama Power determined the number of paddlefish spawning days that occurred under several operational scenarios (Table E- 37). The data showed those days with flows over 6,000 cfs increased by 52 days (averaged over 17 years) over baseline with the Early Spring Fill (Alabama Power, 2010b). This should result in a positive effect for paddlefish spawning in the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam.
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Water temperatures should not be affected by the increased flows associated with an Early Spring Fill and therefore will not influence paddlefish spawning. The Panel determined that there would be little change in the temperature on Lake Martin and little to no change in DO concentrations with an Early Spring Fill. Retention time, time of the year, and water depth are key variables affecting DO and water temperature in the Martin forebay. Although retention time and water depth will increase, the change in Lake volume has little effect on DO and temperature as the large size of the Lake and intra-year fluctuations in lake levels will buffer any significant trends. Because the tailrace water quality is directly linked to the forebay water quality, there would be no change to water quality downstream (Alabama Power, 2011a).
5.3.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
GENERAL FISH COMMUNITY AND HABITAT
The species identified in Lake Martin primarily are typical warm water species that spawn in the spring period of the year. The 5 ft increase in winter pool should have limited effects on the availability or quality of spawning habitat. Effects would be most evident in spawning areas of tributary creek mouths that would likely accumulate additional sediments with the increase in winter water elevation (Alabama Power, 2011a). The siltation in these areas should be limited and have only localized effects on degradation of fish habitat see Section 5.1. The increased siltation in these tributary areas would also negatively affect mussels and snails currently inhabiting these areas (Williams et al., 2008). However, no endangered or threatened species were detected in the Project Boundary and the species detected are tolerant of lacustrine conditions.
Alabama Power studied the potential for aquatic invasive vegetation to expand in Lake Martin as a result of changes to the Flood Control Guideline. The study results indicated that with an increase in the winter pool level there would be an increased amount of Lake substrate that would not freeze and/or experience desiccation during the winter (Alabama Power, 2010d).
The 5 ft increase in winter pool would result in an additional 631 ac (from baseline) of Lake bottom that would be inundated year round. The Fall Extension would also result in 45 additional days of inundation of lake substrates from the current conditions, resulting in a longer growing
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An increase in aquatic vegetation could have a positive effect on the Lake Martin fishery as has been observed in other studies (Durocher et al., 1984; Betolli et al., 2003), such as additional spawning areas for fish and additional structure for young-of-year and benthic invertebrates.
The 5 ft increase in winter pool combined with the Fall Extension could have a somewhat negative effect on specific Lake water quality parameters through increases in nutrient and chlorophyll a levels (Alabama Power, 2011a). Any increases in aquatic vegetation associated with the changes could result in localized additions of nutrients and increases in chlorophyll a concentrations in the Lake (Alabama Power, 2010d). Therefore it is likely that these two operational changes to the Flood Control Guideline would have a somewhat negative effect on water quality.
STRIPED BASS
Striped bass habitat availability in Lake Martin was characterized by rapid seasonal changes during the spring through late summer period, which resulted in changes in striped bass behavior, movement, and habitat use. Fish ranged widely throughout Lake Martin in spring and early summer. As habitat became depleted, they began congregating downstream. This downstream shift was associated with reduced movement and use of water with higher temperatures and lower DO concentrations. However, once striped bass habitat was eliminated in September, the fish moved above the thermocline and again ranged widely, exhibiting the highest movement rates observed during the study. The Lake destratified during September with the onset of late summer rain events and cooler daily temperatures. Lake destratification and water column mixing expanded striped bass habitats during late September to early October (Sammons, 2010). Because the 5 ft increase in winter pool would occur in the winter period after the Lake destratifies, it should have no measurable effect on striped bass habitat during the crucial periods in late summer and early fall. However, the Fall Extension would require a reduced amount of
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turbine operation at the Project to hold the Lake higher for the 45 day period. This reduced operation could result in reduced striped bass habitat depletion during the late summer and early fall months when the Lake is still stratified.
Periodic rain events can flush nutrients downstream and off shoreline habitats such as lawns and flower beds from lakeside homes, which can artificially increase nutrient levels and primary production in the Lake, causing more rapid depletion of oxygen through decomposition. During summers with average or below rainfall, striped bass habitat availability in Lake Martin is likely more stable, reducing the chances of large mortality events of striped bass. Given the irregular history of striped bass die-offs in Lake Martin, it seems that they may be associated with a rare combination of high rainfall events followed by long periods of above-average temperatures (Sammons, 2010). Because additional turbine operations in the late fall may be associated with the reduction in suitable striped bass habitat, a Fall Extension in years with higher than normal rainfall during August or September may help to maintain more volumes of striped bass habitat. Therefore, the Fall Extension could have a positive effect on the striped bass fishery. The Fall Extension may not be possible in low flow years due to Alabama Power’s requirement to meet downstream flows targets in the Tallapoosa and Alabama Rivers. However, as noted previously, these type of flow years likely provide more stable striped bass habitat.
ENTRAINMENT
Fish entrainment and turbine mortality associated with the Project does not appear to have a significant impact to the Lake fishery. Recreational fish species (bass, sunfish, and striped bass) and forage species (shad) are relatively prolific in the Lake. Additionally, ADCNR management reports indicate that the Lake fishery is in relatively good condition in terms of fish densities, size distribution, stock structure, fish condition, and growth rate (Greene et al., 2004; 2005; and 2008). A 5 ft increase in the winter pool and/or the Fall Extension is not expected to result in any changes to the current levels of fish entrainment or turbine mortality at the Project.
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
PADDLEFISH
The 5 ft increase in winter pool and the Fall Extension will result in a change in the delivery of water downstream to the Tallapoosa River. Flows in excess of 6,000 cfs during March and April are beneficial to paddlefish spawning (Alabama Power, 2010l). Alabama Power determined the number of paddlefish spawning days that occurred under several operational options (Table E- 37). The data showed that days with flows over 6,000 cfs increased by 53 days (averaged over 17 years) over baseline with the two changes to the Flood Control Guideline (Alabama Power, 2010b). Therefore this change should result in a positive effect for paddlefish spawning in the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam.
The Panel determined that there would be little change in the temperature on Lake Martin and little to no change in DO concentrations with a 5 ft change in winter and a Fall Extension. Retention time, time of the year, and water depth are key variables affecting DO and water temperature in the Martin forebay. Although retention time and water depth will increase, the change in Lake volume has little effect on DO and temperature as the large size of the Lake and intra-year fluctuations in lake levels will buffer any significant trends. Because the tailrace water quality is directly linked to the forebay water quality, there would be no change to water quality downstream and therefore would not impact the paddlefish spawning period (Alabama Power, 2011a).
5.3.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
A complete description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measures is located in Section 3.1. Proposed PME measures that may affect fish and aquatic resources include the following, and effects are analyzed below:
• Conditional Fall Extension; • Land changes; • Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan; • Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Aquatic Vegetation Monitoring; • Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program;
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• American Eel Study; • Martin Dam Project Water Quality Monitoring; • Periodic Drawdown to 481 msl; and • Off-License Funding Agreement for Fisheries Enhancements.
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Effects of the conditional fall extension are similar to the Fall Extension recommendation, but reduced because the frequency of occurrence will be less. The primary benefit of this PME would be to striped bass habitat in the fall. Because the conditional fall extension is based on high flow years and/or on late summer/fall rain events, implementation of this PME would benefit Lake Martin striped bass habitat in years when that habitat is most vulnerable (high flow during the fall season) by keeping the Lake level at full pool elevation rather than reducing the pool level beginning in September.
Alabama Power is proposing to reclassify and add lands to the Project Boundary. Adding Natural/Undeveloped shoreline may have a slight positive effect by not converting natural shoreline to seawalls and other unnatural structures.
As part of the Shoreline Management Program, Alabama Power is proposing to implement BMPs and riprap guidelines as part of their Lake Shore Use Permitting process. BMPs and riprap guidelines should help improve water quality and aquatic habitat. Riprap was found to be a better alternative to seawalls for fish densities as it provides more structure and interstitial spaces (Purcell et al., 2011).
Alabama Power’s Public Education and Outreach Program Plan will educate landowners and developers on the importance of implementing BMPs on private property. Alabama Power will develop a brochure and publish articles on BMPs and techniques of keeping shorelines natural and educate HOBOs on preventing shoreline erosion and sedimentation. These should have a positive effect on water quality and indirectly on fisheries. In addition, Alabama Power will publish an article on the results of the striped bass hooking mortality study. This article should positively affect the Lake fishery by educating and potentially changing recreation fishing behaviors and reducing the hooking mortality of striped bass. Finally, Alabama Power will publish periodic articles to educate shoreline owners and boat owners on nuisance aquatic
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vegetation, which will positively affect aquatic resources by reducing the introduction of nuisance, or invasive aquatic vegetation, and promoting native shoreline species of vegetation.
The Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Project is a continuation of Alabama Power’s current program and there will be no change over the baseline. The continued sporadic use of herbicides to control vegetation at the current levels has little effect on water quality or fish and aquatic resources.
In response to Alabama Power’s proposal, Alabama Power would implement an aquatic vegetation monitoring program. This plan would identify areas that have an increase in vegetation and a process for identifying the cause of increased levels of vegetation (i.e., increase in sediments, introduction from marina, etc.). This should have a positive impact on the aquatic resources by reducing the chances of invasive nuisance aquatic vegetation from becoming established in the Lake, and reducing their expansion if they do become established.
Aspects of the Wildlife Management Program may have a positive effect on water quality and thus indirectly affect fisheries. Alabama Power will implement a 35 ft streamside zone consistent with Alabama BMPs for forestry management, which will continue to stabilize shorelines and help prevent erosion and increased water turbidity and sedimentation.
The American eel Study will possibly benefit the catadromous American eel fishery by providing additional information on current populations and identifying potential restoration activities.
If reservoir water quality monitoring detects negative changes in the Lake water quality (potential adverse impacts), Alabama Power will determine if those changes will impact aquatic resources.
Alabama Power is proposing to periodically draw down the Lake to 481 msl. This could have a positive effect on aquatic habitat in tributary creek mouths by flushing nutrients and sediments out of creek mouths and moving them further downstream (Cooke et al., 2005).
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The funding for fisheries enhancement would provide an indirect beneficial effect to fisheries in Alabama.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
The American eel study will possibly benefit the catadromous American eel fishery by providing additional information on current populations and identifying potential restoration activities.
There is a slight chance that if aquatic vegetation becomes well established in Martin it could expand downstream through the Yates and Thurlow Projects and into the Tallapoosa River. Alabama Power would increase the use of herbicides to control expansion in the Yates and Thurlow Projects, but aquatic vegetation could also improve aquatic habitats in both lakes and in the Tallapoosa River.
5.3.2.4 NO ACTION
Under the No Action Alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner it is presently operated. Alabama Power would not implement any Flood Control Guideline changes or proposed PME measures. None of the positive benefits or negative effects discussed in the previous analysis would occur for aquatic resources in the Project Boundary (Lake Martin) or the Project Vicinity (Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam). The Project would continue to provide a good fishery resource for the area.
5.3.2.5 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
The continued operation of the Martin Project would have some continuing impacts on the aquatic resources of the Tallapoosa Basin. Periodic entrainment and mortality of fish will continue to occur but should not significantly impact the structure of the Lake Martin fishery. Flow alterations will continue to influence the dominance and distribution of aquatic species within the lakes. Alabama Power’s proposal to ensure that the Project’s tailwaters continue to meet state water quality standards would benefit fish and aquatic resources. Overall, there would be negligible cumulative effects on fish and aquatic resources in the Tallapoosa River.
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5.3.2.5.1 HISTORICAL
Populations of mollusks and fishes in the Tallapoosa River and Alabama River basins have been cumulatively impacted by a variety of factors over the past century. The construction and operation of dams in these basins is one of many impacts that have affected aquatic resources in the basin. The Tallapoosa River has been extensively modified through construction of four dams (Harris, Martin, Yates, and Thurlow) and the Alabama River modified by construction of three USACE dams in the 1960s and 1970s. The construction of these dams has converted most of the Tallapoosa and Alabama Rivers into a series of large riverine reservoirs. Portions of these drainages not affected by impoundment have been impacted by siltation due to poor land use practices and numerous other non-point sources of pollution.
5.3.2.5.2 FUTURE
Shoreline development, land use, designation of critical habitat, and continued Project operation are all factors that may contribute to cumulative effects on aquatic resources. Continued operation of the Martin Project will result in the entrainment and mortality of some fish as they pass through Project turbines; however, fish populations in the area are in relatively good condition (Alabama Power, 2011b) and it is not expected that entrainment mortality would contribute to a significant adverse cumulative effect on resident fish populations.
Continued presence of the dam will continue to fragment the river and prevent upstream fish passage. Land use within the drainage and shoreline development around the Lake have several potential cumulative effects, including siltation, polluted/nutrient-enriched runoff, and reduction of shallow-water fish habitat. Efforts by ADEM to reduce non-point source pollution, if successful, would reduce any potential future effects. Also, the Licensee’s proposed SMP includes provisions that would provide safeguards against potential impacts resulting from shoreline development.
5.3.2.6 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS
Under any of the proposed operating alternatives, including existing operations (No Action), there would continue to be some level of entrainment and potential mortality as a result of
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entrainment during Project operation. There is also the risk that continued shoreline development could adversely affect fishery habitat.
5.4 TERRESTRIAL RESOURCES
5.4.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
PROJECT BOUNDARY
UPLAND BOTANICAL COMMUNITIES
Potential natural vegetation for the Project Area is Oak – Hickory forests which dominate along dry-mesic ridges and slopes. First terraces have potential natural vegetation of mixed hardwoods. Land use for agriculture (primarily forestry, cattle, and row crops), as well as for homes and businesses, has resulted in removal of most original vegetation, resulting in a patchwork of mostly second growth forests, cleared land, and various stages of ecologic succession from primary to climax communities. Table E-38, which presents general forest composition based on Alabama Power’s timber stand data, demonstrate the patchwork nature of natural vegetation and silvicultural areas on Project lands. Few old growth stages are present within the Project Area. Botanical species typical of the Project Area, including their common and scientific names, are listed in on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
TABLE E-38 TIMBER STAND COMPOSITION ON MARTIN PROJECT LANDS (Source: Alabama Power, 2011c)
STAND TYPE PERCENT COVER ACREAGE Mixed Pine-Hardwood 36 3249 Natural Longleaf Pine 15 1381 Natural Pine 14 1243 Upland Hardwood 16 1443 Planted Pines 8 741 Other 11 1037 Total 100 9094
Tree canopy in the older second-growth forests in the Project Area is dominated by upland oaks, hickories, and pines (Whetstone, 2009). Oaks commonly abundant in this area include white, black, southern red, rock chestnut, post, scarlet, blackjack, and willow oaks. Hickories tend to be less important, though sand and mockernut hickories are frequently found. Loblolly, scrub,
E-159 shortleaf, and longleaf pines are also common. Other canopy and subcanopy species that are locally important include sweetgum, black cherry, blackgum, persimmon, sourwood, black locust, hop hornbeam, hornbeam, hackberry, cucumber magnolia, sassafras, possum haw, box elder, hawthorn, crabapple, flowering dogwood, sumac, chalk maple, devil’s walking stick, and fringe-tree. Among the primary components of the shrub/small tree stratum are lowbush blueberry, sparkleberry, deerberry, mountain laurel, St. John’s-wort, wax myrtle, sweet shrub, oakleaf hydrangea, witch-hazel, and blackberry. Lianas in these sites are variable though poison ivy, catbrier, Virginia creeper, muscadine, fox grape, yellow jessamine, cross vine, and cow-itch vine are common. Herbs common to the area are extensive. Along ridges and upper slopes, bracken fern, Christmas fern, resurrection fern, needle grass, spike grass, fragrant goldenrod, goldenrod, sweet Betsy, and other aster species are abundant among a host of other taxa that also may have locally extensive populations. There are no known species in the Project Area that are of cultural significance. The managed pine forests are of commercial value through periodic harvest.
More detailed information regarding the botanical resources occurring on the Project is provided in the Lake Martin Vegetation Report on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
NOXIOUS WEEDS AND INVASIVE PLANTS Whetstone (2006) identified seven species as being the primary invasive flora potentially occurring in the Project Area: silk tree (mimosa), Japanese honeysuckle, kudzu, Chinese privet, giant cut grass (millet), torpedo grass, and golden bamboo. Giant cutgrass has proven especially invasive in littoral habitats in the upper portion of Lake Martin, primarily in cove backwaters between Hillabee Creek and the Lake Martin headwaters (Photo E-1). Measures have been undertaken to control these populations as part of Alabama Power’s Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program. Additional detail regarding these species, including scientific and common names and invasive characteristics, is provided in Table E-39. See Section 5.1 for more information on Aquatic Vegetation.
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PHOTO E-1 GIANT CUT GRASS (MILLET) ON THE SHORELINE OF LAKE MARTIN
TABLE E-39 NOXIOUS WEEDS AND INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING IN THE PROJECT AREA (Source: Whetstone, 2006)
COMMON SCIENTIFIC GROWTH HABITAT/INVASIVE CHARACTERISTICS NAME NAME PATTERN Silk Albizia julibrissin Small tree Invasive in an array of disturbed habitats including Tree/Mimosa old fields, stream banks, roadsides, flower gardens, rail yards, abandoned home sites, and rights-of-way; mostly occurs in full sunlight but widely dispersed in shaded areas; is difficult to control once established due to the aggressive suckering and long-lived seeds. Chinese privet Ligustrum Shrub/small Forms dense thickets along roadsides, fence rows, sinense tree fields, rights-of-way, and in bottomland forests; high fruit productivity and aggressive suckering often results in elimination of the herb layer in multi- storied communities. Japanese Lonicera Vine Primarily occurs in disturbed habitats such as fence honeysuckle japonica rows, old home sites, roadsides, and abandoned fields; may persist for long periods in mature forests, invading rapidly after disturbances (i.e., windstorms, logging) through fruit dispersal as well as aggressive growth in the herb layer and on small shrubs and trees.
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COMMON SCIENTIFIC GROWTH HABITAT/INVASIVE CHARACTERISTICS NAME NAME PATTERN Torpedo grass Panicum repens Perennial Occurs in ditches, along marshy shores and canals, herb and other poorly drained habitats; occurs in water up to 6 ft deep forming a thick dense floating mat; cold- intolerant and thus is killed back to the ground by frost; once established, is difficult to eradicate due to rhizomatous growth. Golden Phyllostachys Bamboo Forms dense, nearly impenetrable stands from bamboo aurea underground rhizomes; mostly occupies old home sites and was widely planted for fishing canes. Kudzu Pueraria lobata Vine Ornamental use is suggested by the large number of abandoned home sites that are overgrown with this aggressive species. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other agencies used the species for erosion control. Few species can tolerate the competition by kudzu. Forms a dense blanket of leaves and stems that limits light penetration below. Limited spread by seeds means most infestations result from persistence rather than new introductions. Giant cut Zizaniopsis Large Native grass that grows to about 9 ft, typically in grass miliacea emergent or fresh or brackish shallow water of ponds, sloughs, terrestrial and ditches; reproduction occurs from rhizomes, grass grains, and from aerial stems that fall over and root at the nodes; forms dense, nearly impenetrable colonies that limit other native species through competition; is frequently controlled to protect habitat or to enhance recreation and/or navigation.
WETLANDS According to the National Wetland Inventory maps, there are approximately 444 ac of wetlands within the Project Boundary, which can be broadly classified into palustrine, lacustrine, and riverine wetland types (Alabama Power, 2006) (Table E-40). The dominant wetland types within the Project Boundary are palustrine forest, lacustrine littoral unconsolidated shore, and palustrine emergent wetlands, which account for approximately 45.3%, 27.3%, and 10.3%, respectively, of the total wetland acreage. The remaining 75.9 ac are composed of a mix of various palustrine, lacustrine and riverine wetland types accounting for approximately 9.6%, 7.1%, and 0.4%, respectively (Table E-40). Seasonal changes in Lake elevation likely result in little variability in the quantity of wetlands surrounding the Project due to the steeply-banked nature of the Project Area.
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TABLE E-40 ACRES AND PERCENTAGES OF WETLAND TYPES IN THE PROJECT AREA (Source: Alabama Power, 2006)1 WETLAND TYPE ACRES PERCENT OF TOTAL Lacustrine Littoral Rock Bottom 30.7 6.9% Lacustrine Littoral Rocky Shore 0.7 0.16% Lacustrine Littoral Unconsolidated Shore 121.6 27.34% Palustrine Emergent 45.8 10.32% Palustrine Forest 201.4 45.28% Palustrine Scrub-Shrub 42.5 9.55% Palustrine Unconsolidated Bottom 0.2 0.04% Riverine Lower Perennial Rock Bottom 1.8 0.40% TOTAL 444.7 100.0% Lacustrine 153.0 34.4% Palustrine 289.9 65.2% Riverine 1.8 0.4% TOTAL 444.7 100.0% 1 Based on National Wetlands Inventory data for the following USGS 1:24,000 Quadrangles: Brassell, AL; La Place, AL; Shorter, AL; Tallassee, AL; Willow Springs, AL; Red Hill, AL; Alexander City, AL; Buchanan, GA; Buttson, AL; Dadeville, AL; Draketown, GA; Dudleyville, AL; Fruithurst, AL; Hightower, AL; Jacksons Gap, AL; Micaville, AL; Our Town, AL; Ofelia, AL; Ponders, AL; Rockmart South, GA; Ross Mountain, AL; Tallapoosa North, GA; Tallapoosa South, GA; Wadley North, AL; Wadley South, AL.
Palustrine forested wetlands, which account for almost half of Project wetlands, encompass what are commonly referred to as “hardwood bottomlands” (Cowardin et al., 1979). These bottomlands likely represent the most diverse and productive wildlife habitat on the Project, harboring a wide range of species including barred owl, red-shouldered hawk, white-tailed deer, fox squirrel, and red and gray fox (Mirarchi et al., 2004). Bottomlands are of particular value as stopover habitat for warblers and other migrating songbirds and for cavity nesting species such as prothonotary warbler, wood duck, and red-bellied woodpecker. The emergent and lacustrine littoral habitats provide important amphibian breeding areas; spawning and rearing habitat for fish; habitat for semi-aquatic mammals such as river otter, mink, and beaver; and refuge and feeding areas for resident and migratory waterfowl and wading birds including mallard, hooded merganser, common loon, great blue heron, green heron, and great egret.
RIPARIAN AND LITTORAL HABITATS
Riparian zone and lowland vegetation include representatives of the upland forests as well as more wet-mesic to hydric taxa (Whetstone, 2006). Trees that are locally abundant in these habitats are elderberry, catalpa, black willow, alder, river birch, sycamore, and winterberry. Common shrubs include sweetspire, button bush, lead plant, swamp dogwood, silverbell, and
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blueberry. Frequently encountered lianas along the riparian zones and other lowlands are pepper- vine, American buckwheat vine, rattan-vine, and moonseed, among other taxa. In littoral areas, emergent grasses, such as giant cut grass and torpedo grass, as well as woody species, such as button bush, are common. Riparian and littoral vegetative species known to occur in the Project Area are listed on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
WILDLIFE RESOURCES
The Project lies within the Piedmont physiographic region of Alabama, an area with less wildlife diversity than some of the other physiographic regions of Alabama, such as the Coastal Plain and Lower Coastal Plain (Causey, 2006). The Project impoundment and surrounding woodland, agricultural, and residential areas nonetheless provide high quality habitat for a variety of upland and semi-aquatic wildlife species.
In addition to typical southeastern species, such as gray fox, white-tailed deer, Virginia opossum, and gray squirrel, the area supports species characteristic of the Piedmont region, such as the wood frog and copperhead (Skeen et al., 1993). Birdlife typical of Project uplands includes game species such as bobwhite quail, wild turkey, and mourning dove. Resident songbirds include downy woodpecker, American robin, eastern bluebird, and eastern meadowlark. An abundance of Neotropical migrants including numerous warblers, vireos, and hummingbirds also occurs in the Project Area (Mirarchi et al., 2004; Causey, 2006). Raptors known to occur in the Project Area include osprey, American kestrel, broad-winged and red-tail hawks, bald eagle, and barred, great horned, and screech owls. Typical small mammals of Project uplands include least and short-tailed shrews, southern flying squirrel, eastern woodrat, and eastern red and big brown bats (Mirarchi et al., 2004; Causey, 2006). Reptiles and amphibians found on Project uplands include American and eastern spadefoot toads, marbled and slimy salamanders, green anole, southern fence lizard, five-lined and broad-headed skinks, copperhead, black racer, gray ratsnake, and eastern box turtle (Causey, 2006). Representative wildlife species (mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and exotic/invasive species) found in the Project Area, including their common and scientific names, are listed on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
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Although limited, Lake Martin’s littoral zone provides habitat for river otter, mink, muskrat, and beaver, as well as seasonal and year-round habitat for a number of waterfowl and wading birds including mallard, gadwall, wood duck, hooded merganser, common loon, great blue heron, green heron, and great egret (Mirarchi et al., 2004; Causey, 2006). Birds such as ring-billed gull, osprey, purple martin, and belted kingfisher are also common in areas of open water. Littoral areas also provide potential breeding habitat for a number of aquatic and semi-aquatic amphibian species including red-spotted and central newts, northern red and northern dusky salamanders, bullfrog, southern cricket frog, spring peeper, and southern leopard frog (Causey, 2006). Reptile species typical of the littoral zone include eastern cottonmouth and red- and yellow-bellied water snakes, snapping turtle; Alabama map turtle, river cooter, and red-eared pond slider. Species represented in the littoral zone are found on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
A number of exotic wildlife species are known to occur in the Project Area. These include bird species such as rock pigeon, Eurasian collared-dove, European starling, and house sparrow. Exotic mammals including Norway rat, black rat, house mouse, and wild hog (feral swine) also occur (Causey, 2006). Most of these are habitat generalists and would be expected to occur throughout the Project Area where suitable habitat occurs.
Alabama Power commissioned Mark Bailey of Conservation Southeast, Inc. to investigate the effect of four shoreline treatments (undeveloped, shoreline with seawall, shoreline with both seawall and riprap, and shoreline reinforced with large stone or rock) on terrestrial and semi- aquatic wildlife (Bailey, 2009).
The direct detection rate of wildlife at all sites was low, with detections at only seven (39%) of the sites. Evidence of only six common vertebrate species was found. Mammals, birds, and amphibians were represented by two species each. No reptiles were observed (Table E-41).
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TABLE E-41 SPECIES OBSERVATIONS BY ASSESSMENT SITE (Source: Bailey, 2009)
SEAWALL AND SHORELINE TYPE SEAWALL RIPRAP UNDEVELOPED RIPRAP SITE NUMBER 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 5* 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 American beaver X Castor canadensis Eastern chipmunk X Tamias striatus Great blue heron X Ardea herodias Belted kingfisher X Ceryle alcyon Fowler’s toad X X Bufo fowleri Northern cricket frog X X Acris crepitans * Site 5 was provided as a seawall-only site, but riprap was present at the time of inspection.
Unaltered shorelines backed by natural forest are the only significant terrestrial wildlife habitat along the Lake margin. These were never found to be associated with developed areas, although it is possible that some such areas may exist on the Lake where homes are set back from the water. No turtles were observed. Although sloping shorelines allow turtles to access upland nesting habitat, in some areas even undeveloped shorelines are undercut from erosion so that turtles cannot exit the water. Northern cricket frogs were found exclusively along undeveloped shorelines and Fowler’s toads were primarily associated with these areas. Undeveloped shorelines offered the only water depths observed where wading birds such as egrets and herons could forage. The only wading bird observed during the surveys was a great blue heron at one of the undeveloped sites (Bailey, 2009).
Seawalls (or bulkheads) and riprap both have very low wildlife habitat value. Riprap probably provides limited habitat for some species, such as lizards, snakes, and small mammals that utilize crevices, and an eastern chipmunk was observed on riprap. Neither seawalls nor riprap afford turtles opportunities for leaving the water for nesting, and the typical lack of shallow water at these structures is unsuitable for wading birds (Bailey, 2009).
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5.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on terrestrial resources, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports:
• Study Report 2a – Assessment of the Influence of Shoreline Modifications on Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Species’ Use of Modified Areas ( Bailey, 2009) • Study Report 7 – Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program (Alabama Power, 2011c) The final Study Reports are provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
5.4.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
Terrestrial vegetative communities, as well as terrestrial wildlife and their habitats, would likely not be measurably affected by Alabama Power’s proposal to implement a 3 ft increase in the winter pool. With higher lake levels, littoral zones will potentially experience increases in occurrence and/or abundance of invasive aquatic species due to reduced exposure of mudflats to freezing temperatures during drawdown periods. Conversely, a few native riparian and littoral species could potentially experience enhanced growth due to greater water availability associated with the higher winter pool. However, this will likely be of minimal benefit since the higher pool levels will occur primarily in the non-growing season (Alabama Power, 2011a).
The 3 ft increase in the winter pool may result in increased availability of shallow littoral habitats in coves and sloughs, which may increase availability of cover and feeding sites for overwintering resident and migratory waterfowl. The higher winter pool may similarly increase winter foraging habitat for wading birds. Finally, increased wetted area in coves and sloughs during the winter months may result in marginal increases in availability of shallow breeding sites for early spring breeding amphibians, such as southern leopard frog, bullfrog, and spotted salamander (Mirarchi et al., 2004).
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5.4.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.4.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
Terrestrial vegetative communities, as well as terrestrial wildlife and their habitats, would not likely be measurably affected by an Early Spring Fill. Conversely, a few native riparian and littoral species could potentially experience enhanced growth due to greater water availability associated with the higher lake levels. The Early Spring Fill may increase availability of shallow littoral habitats in coves and sloughs, which in turn may increase availability of cover and feeding sites for overwintering resident and migratory waterfowl. Finally, increased wetted area in coves and sloughs during early spring may marginally increase availability of shallow breeding sites for early spring breeding amphibians, such as southern leopard frog, bullfrog, and spotted salamander (Mirarchi et al., 2004).
5.4.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
Terrestrial vegetative communities, as well as terrestrial wildlife and their habitats, would not likely be measurably affected by a 5 ft increase in the winter pool level and the Fall Extension. Littoral zones of the Lake will potentially experience increases in occurrence and/or abundance of invasive aquatic species due to reduced exposure of mudflats to freezing temperatures during drawdown periods with higher lake levels (Alabama Power, 2011a). Conversely, a few native riparian and littoral species could potentially experience enhanced growth due to greater water availability associated with the higher winter pool. However, this will likely be of minimal benefit since the higher pool levels will occur primarily during the winter months (i.e., non- growing season).
The 5 ft increase in the winter pool and Fall Extension may increase availability of shallow littoral habitats in coves and sloughs, which in turn may increase availability of cover and feeding sites for overwintering resident and migratory waterfowl. The higher winter pool may similarly increase winter foraging habitat for wading birds. Finally, increased wetted area in coves and sloughs during the winter months may result in marginal increases in availability of shallow breeding sites for early-spring breeding amphibians, such as southern leopard frog, bullfrog, and spotted salamander (Mirarchi et al., 2004).
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5.4.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
A complete description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measures in Section 3.2.1. Proposed PME measures that may affect terrestrial resources include the following, and effects are analyzed below:
• Land changes; • Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program; and • Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program.
Alabama Power’s proposed land changes would increase the number of acres of Natural/Undeveloped land within the Project Boundary subject to forestry management potentially having a beneficial effect on terrestrial resources.
Implementation of a SMP that encourages natural shorelines and BMPs that minimize effects on shoreline areas will have positive effects on the wildlife species that inhabit the Project shoreline areas.
The proposed Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program, which was developed in consultation with ADCNR and USFWS, designates two management areas on Project lands: a longleaf pine “Primary Management Area” along the eastern shore of Lake Martin and a “Secondary Management Area” near the Lake Martin headwaters. Wildlife management activities would occur primarily on the Primary Management Area, an approximately 3166 ac tract that contains the majority of longleaf pine-dominated forestlands on the Project. Under the proposed program, the Primary Management Area would be managed towards a desired forest condition consistent with “good quality foraging habitat” for the federally endangered redcockaded woodpecker (RCW). Although there are currently no RCWs on Project lands, the RCW “good quality foraging habitat” criteria were identified by ADCNR and USFWS staff during relicensing as being representative of a healthy longleaf pine ecosystem. The proposed program includes a number of measures aimed at enhancing longleaf pine ecosystems on the Primary Management Area, including:
• Controlled burns on approximately 350 ac annually (1/3 of the area), resulting in a three year burn rotation; • Selected harvest to reduce basal area to the open, park-like conditions preferred by RCW; and
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• An increase in rotation age for longleaf pine to 80-100 years (Alabama Power, 2011c).
The proposed implementation of a controlled burning regime on the Primary Management Area should significantly enhance the longleaf pine ecosystems on Project lands. Removal of excess forest duff will result in exposure of seeds and insects on the forest floor, enhancing wildlife food sources. Fire will promote germination and flowering of grasses, legumes and other herbaceous species, providing food sources for species such as bobwhite quail, wild turkey, and songbirds. In addition, burning releases nutrients and generally lowers soil acidity, making nitrogen fixing legumes more abundant. Burning will also aid in controlling hardwood midstory intrusion as well as other species that compete with longleaf pine and other desirable species. Finally, the lush cover that grows following controlled burns will enhance cover for small mammals, young turkey, and bobwhite quail.
Transition to a timber rotation age of at least 80 years for longleaf pines on the Primary Management Area will enhance potential nesting habitat for RCW. Specifically, transition to older age structure will increase the number of trees large enough for cavity excavation, particularly trees old enough to have been infested with fungal heart rot. Presence of heart rot has been shown to enhance RCW nesting by making living trees easier to excavate and preventing excess resin in nest cavities (USFWS, 2003). Finally, reduction in basal area for smaller pines will reduce midstory intrusion, which has been shown to cause RCW cluster abandonment (USFWS, 2003).
The Wildlife Management Program also proposes planting of an approximately 98 ac tract, which was clearcut in 2010 as part of a timber sale, with containerized (mountain variety) longleaf pine seedlings. This area is currently non-project land, but is included in the approximately 367.8 ac proposed for inclusion in the Project Boundary as part of the Martin Small Game Hunting Area (Figure E-37). Once established, longleaf pines on this site will be managed similarly to longleaf stands located on the longleaf “primary” management area. Specifically, an uneven-aged management scheme with a cutting cycle of 25 years and an overall forest rotation of at least 80 years or more will be employed. After the 98 ac longleaf stand reaches at least 3 years of age, a burning program will be implemented to maintain the longleaf habitat, with the entirety of the 98 ac burned a minimum of every 5 years. Replanting of this area
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as part of the Wildlife Management Program will enhance habitat for longleaf pine system- dependent wildlife species.
Implementation of the measures proposed in the Wildlife Management Program should significantly enhance longleaf pine ecosystems on Project lands, as well as provide potential habitat for the RCW and other longleaf-associated species, such as pine snake, fox squirrel, bobwhite quail, and wild turkey. No negative effects to terrestrial resources from implementation of the proposed Wildlife Management Program were identified during relicensing.
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FIGURE E-37 MARTIN SMALL GAME HUNTING AREA
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5.4.2.4 NO ACTION
Under the No Action Alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner it in which it is presently operated. Alabama Power would not implement a 3 ft increase in winter pool or the proposed PME measures. The existing habitat types appear to be stable under existing operations and would not be expected to change.
There would be no revised Shoreline Management Program or Revised Wildlife Management Program, reducing the potential beneficial effects discussed previously.
5.4.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS
Shoreline development will likely continue to fragment the terrestrial habitats around the Project and result in impacts to the wildlife resources in the Project Area. The proposed SMP may mitigate some of the impacts through public education and recommending the use of BMPs on private shoreline property.
5.5 RARE, THREATENED, AND ENDANGERED SPECIES
5.5.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
Alabama Power conducted extensive surveys for federally listed and State Priority species in support of relicensing. Target species, sampling locations, and methods for these surveys were identified in consultation with the USFWS and ADCNR (Table E-42). Surveys did not detect any federally listed species at any of the sampling sites. One State Priority fish species of interest, Etheostoma chuckwachatte (lipstick darter) was collected at two sites (Little Kowaliga and Timbergut creeks). In addition, there are no Critical Habitats listed within the Project Boundary or downstream of Thurlow Dam (Alabama Power, 2010j).
Bald eagle nests have been observed over several years during the annual bald eagle survey on Lake Martin. The locations of the currently active nests are well-documented and in the ADCNR database. Although the bald eagle was de-listed from the Federal Endangered Species List effective July 2007 (72 FR 37345-37372), it remains protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C.668-668d).
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Additional information regarding the life history and methods used to survey for rare, threatened and endangered species can be found on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
TABLE E-42 THREATENED, ENDANGERED AND STATE PRIORITY SPECIES OF INTEREST (Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, personal communication, Feb. 17, 2009)
COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME STATUS Mussels delicate spike Elliptio arctata P1 ovate clubshell Pleurobema perovatum P1, E rayed creekshell Anodontoides radiatus N/A finelined pocketbook Hamiota altilis P2, E black sandshell Ligumia recta P2 southern clubshell Pleurobema decisum P2, E Alabama heelsplitter Lasmigona alabamensis P2 Alabama creekmussel Strophitus connasaugaensis P2 Alabama spike Elliptio arca P1 Alabama moccasinshell Medionidus acutissimus P2, T Crayfish Tallapoosa crayfish Cambarus englishi P2 slackwater crayfish Cambarus halli P2 Chattahoochee crayfish Cambarus cracens P2 Fish Alabama sturgeon Scaphirhynchus suttkusi P1 Gulf sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus desotoi P2 Alabama shad Alosa alabamae P2 lipstick darter Etheostoma chuckwachatte P2 Reptiles alligator snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina P2 Plants little amphianthus (pool Amphianthus pusillus T sprite) Alabama canebrake Sarracenia rubra E pitcher plant alabamensis Georgia rockcress Arabis georgiana T Birds red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis T bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus N/A P1: Priority 1 – Highest Conservation Concern P2: Priority 2 – High Conservation Concern T: Federally listed as Threatened E: Federally listed as Endangered
5.5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on RTE species, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports:
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• Study Report 5 – Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species Surveys (Alabama Power, 2010j) • Study Report 12e – Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Federally Threatened and Endangered Species at the Martin Project and the Tallapoosa River Below Thurlow Dam (Alabama Power, 2010f) The final Study Reports are provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
5.5.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The 3 ft increase in the winter pool should have limited effects on the availability or quality of habitat for aquatic species in Lake Martin. Effects would be limited to tributary creek mouths that could accumulate additional sediments with the increase in winter pool level. The siltation in these areas, as described in Section 5.1 (Geology and Soils), should be limited and have only localized effects on degradation of aquatic habitat (Alabama Power, 2011a). There were no RTE species collected in the Project Boundary; therefore this proposal would not have any effect.
DOWNSTREAM OF THE PROJECT BOUNDARY
As described in Section 5.1 (Geology and Soils), a 3 ft increase in the winter pool could increase high flow events downstream of Thurlow Dam by 23 days over 67 years (Alabama Power, 2010b), potentially creating additional erosion sites in the Tallapoosa River. No RTE species were detected in the study area so Alabama Power’s proposal would not likely have any impact on RTE species.
5.5.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.5.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The Early Spring Fill could have limited positive effects on the availability of fish spawning habitat. The earlier lake filling would likely result in more availability of spawning habitats along the shorelines and in tributary areas (Alabama Power, 2011a). There were no RTE species
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
As described in Section 5.1 (Geology and Soils), an Early Spring Fill has a very high probability to increase high flow events downstream of Thurlow Dam by 116 days over 67 years (Alabama Power, 2010b), potentially creating additional erosion sites in the Tallapoosa River. However, no RTE species were detected in that area so there should be no effect.
5.5.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The 5 ft increase in the winter pool should have limited effects on the availability or quality of habitat. Effects would be most evident in the tributary creek mouths that may accumulate additional sediments with the increase in the winter pool level. The siltation in these areas, as described in Section 5.1 (Geology and Soils) should be limited and have only localized effects on degradation of fish habitat (Alabama Power, 2011a). The Fall Extension in combination with the 5 ft increase in winter pool could increase the persistence of aquatic vegetation in the Lake and in the tributary creek mouths as siltation accumulates (Alabama Power, 2011a). However, no RTE species were detected in the Project Boundary so there should be no effect.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
As described in Section 5.1 (Geology and Soils), a 5 ft increase in the winter pool and a Fall Extension could increase high flow events downstream of Thurlow Dam by 52 days over 67 years (Alabama Power, 2010b). This could potentially create more erosion sites in the Tallapoosa River and degrade aquatic habitat; however, no RTE species were detected in the study area so there would be no effect from a 5 ft and Fall Extension recommendation.
5.5.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
A complete description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measures is located in Section 3.2.1. Proposed PME measures that may affect rare, threatened, and endangered resources include the following, and effects are analyzed below:
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• Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program; and • Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program.
Alabama Power has proposed to implement a Wildlife Management Program on Project lands, which could result in positive effects on the federally endangered RCW. Under the proposed program, an approximate 3166 ac tract identified as the “Primary Management Area” would be managed towards a desired forest condition consistent with “good quality foraging habitat” for RCW. Although there are currently no RCWs on Project lands, the RCW “good quality foraging habitat” criteria were identified by ADCNR and USFWS staff during relicensing as being representative of a healthy longleaf pine ecosystem. The proposed program includes a number of measures aimed at enhancing long-leaf pine ecosystems on the Primary Management Area, including:
• Controlled burns on approximately 350 ac; • Increase the acreage of longleaf pine; • Selected harvest to significantly reduce basal area of small pines; and • An increase in rotation age for longleaf pine to 80 years.
Implementation of these measures will likely increase availability of suitable RCW habitat in the Primary Management Area and could result in recruitment of the species onto Project lands (Alabama Power, 2011c).
Nesting bald eagles are periodically observed along the Lake Martin shoreline. The proposed Wildlife Management Program also includes a provision to manage active bald eagle nests occurring within the Project Area in accordance with the National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines (USFWS, 2007). While restrictions vary according to the type of disturbance, the guidelines generally prohibit potential disturbance within 660 ft of an active nest during the nesting season (September through May) and 330 ft during the non-nesting season. Inclusion of the Bald Eagle Management guidelines in the Wildlife Management Program will assist in adherence to the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Alabama Power also proposes to continue to perform an annual survey of bald eagle use in the Project Boundary.
Land changes (adding lands to the Natural/Undeveloped land classification) would have a positive effect on potential expansion of RCW habitat.
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Finally, Alabama Power is proposing to reclassify and expand Natural/Undeveloped lands in the Project Boundary. This may have a slight positive impact on tributary creeks by reducing the amount of land disturbance and siltation that enters the creeks within the Project Boundary. In addition, developing a sensitive resources GIS layer for managing shoreline areas that contain RTE species and/or their designated critical habitat, would have a positive effect on RTE species that may move into the Project Boundary in the future.
5.5.2.4 NO ACTION
Under the No Action Alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner in which it is presently operated. Alabama Power would not implement any of the Flood Control Guideline changes or proposed PME measures. The Project would continue to operate under existing license conditions with no anticipated adverse impacts to bald eagles. Alabama Power would continue to manage the pine forests for timbering only and there would be no addition of hunting lands and no modifications to the SMP. Alabama Power would not specifically manage timber to support long-leaf pine and would not realize the potential benefits to the federally listed red cockaded woodpecker.
5.5.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS
Development of the Lake will continue and conversion of shoreline property in the Project area may result in a loss of species’ habitats. Implementation of the Wildlife Management Program and SMP should mitigate any adverse impacts.
5.6 RECREATION RESOURCES
5.6.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
Lake Martin has a very distinguishing outline when viewed from above. Many of the “arms” of this large lake, including Kowaliga, Manoy, Wind Creek, Sandy Creek, and Blue Creek, have different characteristics such that the Lake as a whole seems to be made up of different bodies of water. This adds to its interest and provides a great variety of recreational experiences such as boating, water skiing, swimming, jet skiing, and boat and bank fishing. The extensive amount of shoreline and creek mouth areas provide excellent habitat for warmwater species such as bass
E-178 and sunfish. The deep open water areas of the Lake also provide excellent habitat for pelagic species such as striped bass and shad (Greene et al., 2005). The region surrounding the Project is predominantly rural in nature and has characteristics similar to other rural areas in the state. The typical character of the region around Lake Martin includes large areas of forest and agricultural land interspersed with single family residences and small towns. Alexander City is typical of many small Alabama towns and includes basic amenities one would expect to find in a city, such as restaurants, businesses, hospitals, and manufacturing sectors.
Although development is somewhat sparse, there is typical development along the shoreline including single family houses, condominiums, marinas, and recreation areas. The natural/ undeveloped areas of the Lake provide breathtaking views and the contiguity of these lands adds to the natural characteristics of the Lake. There are many overlooks and high bluffs along the shoreline.
There are several attractions in the region surrounding the Project. These include several other reservoirs including Lake Walter F. George, Lake Harding, the Harris Project Reservoir (Lake Wedowee), Lake Jordan/Bouldin, Lay Lake, Logan Martin, Mitchell Lake, Neely Henry Lake, and West Point Lake. The majority of these reservoirs provide basic recreational amenities including boat ramps, marinas, restaurants, and camping sites.
Besides water-based attractions in the Project region, several areas of interest provide a variety of recreational opportunities. Cheaha State Park is located on Cheaha Mountain, Alabama’s highest point at 2,407 ft msl, about 40 mi. north of Lake Martin. The park offers outstanding views of the Talladega National Forest. Cheaha State Park offers cabins, fishing, formal camping sites, primitive camping, a motel, a restaurant, picnic areas, non-motorized boating, a gift shop, and approximately 8 mi of hiking trails. One other national forest, the Tuskegee National Forest, is located 40 mi southeast of the Project. Tuskegee National Forest offers fishing opportunities, primitive camping, approximately 29 miles of hiking and biking trails (including 8.5 mi of the Bartram National Recreation Trail), picnicking, and a shooting range. Chewacla State Park is about 40 mi southeast of the Project and provides a lake as well as cabins dating from the Civilian Conservation Corps. Chewacla State Park also offers fishing, formal camping sites,
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primitive camping, picnic areas, swimming, approximately 6 mi of trails, and non-motorized boating.
One other recreation facility near the Project is the Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, located approximately 10 mi upriver from the Project, and administered by the National Park Service. The park is the site of the battle with the Creek Indian Nation and offers an overlook of the battlefield, a visitor center, and approximately 3 mi of walking trails. The land on which the Park is located was originally owned by Alabama Power, but donated to the U.S. government.
Wind Creek State Park is located on Lake Martin (but outside the Project Boundary) on 1,445 ac of land near Alexander City, AL. The park is operated by the State of Alabama and offers the largest state operated campground in the United States with 626 sites. Other facilities include a marina, camp store, fishing pier, approximately 5 mi of hiking trails, playground and picnic areas with tables, grills, and shelters.
PROJECT BOUNDARY
EXISTING RECREATION SITES
Recreation opportunities at the Project are numerous and varied. Study Report 14 – Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan (Alabama Power, 2011e) estimates there are currently 58 sites along the Project shorelines providing public, private, and commercial access to Project lands and waters. Of these, 21 locations are open to the public as recreation sites and 14 are operated as public marinas, while the remainder are considered quasi-public or private (Table E-43).
Twenty-six sites are located partially or entirely within the Project Boundary and are Project- related (Table E-43 and Table E-44). These sites support boat access to Lake Martin through launches and docking areas and also include land-based facilities that support swimming, picnicking, and camping (Table E-45).
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TABLE E-43 NUMBER OF RECREATION SITES WITHIN THE MARTIN PROJECT BOUNDARY AND IN THE PROJECT AREA (Source: Alabama Power, 2011e)
QUASI LOCATION PUBLIC COMMERCIAL PRIVATE TOTAL PUBLIC Entirely or partially within 12 6 5 3 26 Project Boundary Outside Project Boundary 9 0 9 14 32 TOTAL 21 6 14 17 58
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TABLE E-44 RECREATION SITES ASSOCIATED WITH THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: Alabama Power, 2011e)
RELATIONSHIP TO RECREATION SITE FACILITY TYPE OWNER OPERATOR PROJECT BOUNDARY PUBLIC Bakers Bottom Landing day use Alabama Power Unmanaged Inside DARE Boat Landing day use Alabama Power Alabama Power and State Inside of Alabama DARE Power Park day use Alabama Power Alabama Power Inside General Public Use Area Alabama Power Unmanaged Inside #2 Jaybird Landing day use Alabama Power Unmanaged Inside Johnson Creek Boat day use Right-of-way Unmanaged Inside (Partial) Ramp Pace Point Ramp day use Alabama Power Alabama Power and State Inside of Alabama Paces Trail camping and day use Alabama Power Alabama Power Inside Scenic Overlook day use Alabama Power Alabama Power and Inside Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Assoc. Sturdivant Creek Ramp day use Alabama Power Unmanaged Inside (Partial) Timbergut Landing day use Alabama Power Unmanaged Inside Union Ramp day use Alabama Power Alabama Power Inside (Partial)
QUASI-PUBLIC Camp Alamisco camping Alabama Power Gulf States Conference of Inside Seventh Day Adventist Camp ASCCA (Dadeville camping Alabama Power Alabama's Special Camp Inside
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RELATIONSHIP TO RECREATION SITE FACILITY TYPE OWNER OPERATOR PROJECT BOUNDARY Campus) for Children and Adults Camp ASCCA (Easter camping Camp ASCCA Alabama's Special Camp Inside (Partial) Seal) for Children and Adults Kamp Kiwanis camping Alabama Power Girl Scouts of Southern Inside Alabama Lake View Park day use Alabama Power Lake View Park Inside Maxwell Gunter AFB camping Alabama Power U.S. Department of Inside Recreation Area Defense COMMERCIAL Anchor Bay Marina day use Alabama Power Vinings Marine Group Inside Harbor Pointe Marina day use Harbor Pointe, LLC Harbor Pointe Marina, Inside (Partial) LLC Parker Creek Marina day use Alabama Power Singleton Marine Group Inside Pleasure Point Park and camping Alabama Power Pleasure Point Park and Inside Marina Marina, Inc. Real Island Marina and day use Alabama Power Russell Marine Inside Campground PRIVATE Central Elmore Water and day use Elizabeth Faircloth Central Alabama Water Inside (Partial) Sewer Authority and Sewer Authority Emerald Shores Boat day use Emerald Shores Homeowner's Emerald Shores Inside (Partial) Ramp Assoc. Homeowner's Assoc. Shady Bay day use Shady Bay Subdivision Shady Bay Subdivision Inside (Partial) Assoc. Assoc.
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TABLE E-45 RECREATION FACILITIES SUPPORTED AT RECREATION SITES AROUND LAKE MARTIN (Source: Alabama Power, 2011e)
NUMBER OF FACILITIES ENTIRELY OR PARTIALLY OUTSIDE WITHIN PROJECT TOTAL PROJECT BOUNDARY BOUNDARY PICNIC FACILITIES picnic tables 195 863 1,058 grills 110 858 968 fire pits 27 851 878 Swimming areas 6 6 12 BOAT SLIPS wet slips 208 482 690 dry storage slips 819 1,674 2,493 jet-ski pads 30 24 54 BOAT LAUNCHES hard surface launches 17 31 48 hard surface lanes 24 41 65 gravel / carry-in 2 4 6 CAMPSITES RV sites 120 745 865 cabins 40 4 44 tent sites 23 6 29 primitive sites 6 - 6
RECREATION USE
Recreational use at the Project occurs both on the water and on land. On-water activities include power boating, sailing, fishing, jet skiing, waterskiing, swimming, and tubing. Selected areas of the Lake are popular with power boaters, who “raft” together for social events; special occasions periodically draw large crowds of boaters and anglers for fishing tournaments, concerts, sailing regattas, holiday events (e.g., Independence Day boat parades), and river cleanups. Land based activity tends to occur around the shoreline at private residences and public access areas. Popular land based activities include hiking, camping, and picnicking.
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Study Report 12(g) – Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama (Southwick, 2010) estimated recreational use of the Lake during the 12-month period from June 2009 through May 2010 at 370,359 user days, with close to two-thirds of estimated use being attributed to Lake visitors and seasonal property owners, and the remainder attributed to year-round residents (Figure E-38). This includes activity on the Lake and on the shore in close proximity to the Lake. Most activity occurred during the warmer months of April through August, with a significant spike in use observed during July (Figure E-39). The volume of use on weekdays and weekends is roughly equal, in total, with a majority of people observed power boating (Figure E-39 and Figure E-40).
FIGURE E-38 RECREATIONAL USE OF LAKE MARTIN BY RESIDENCY OF USERS (Source: Southwick, 2010, as modified by Kleinschmidt)
300,000
250,000
200,000 Visitors and Seasonal Landowners 150,000 Permanent Residents User Days User 100,000
50,000
-
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FIGURE E-39 RECREATIONAL USE OF LAKE MARTIN BY MONTH AND DAY TYPE (Source: Southwick, 2010, as modified by Kleinschmidt)
FIGURE E-40 ACTIVITIES OBSERVED AT LAKE MARTIN (JUNE 2009 THROUGH MAY 2010) (Source: Southwick, 2010, as modified by Kleinschmidt)
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%
Pleasure boating Water-skiing/tubing/other tow Swimming/beach use Fishing (from boat) Jet skiing Fishing (from shore) Canoeing/kayaking Sailing Tent or vehicle camping Sightseeing Tailwater activity Wildlife Observation Hunting Windsurfing Picnicking Other No primary activity
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
In order to assess the effects of possible changes in the Flood Control Guideline, recreation sites were identified on the Tallapoosa River downstream of Martin Dam to RM 12.9 on the Tallapoosa River. These sites, with their respective river mile, are identified in Table E-46. All these sites are outside the Project Boundary. Three sites provide access to Yates Reservoir, one site to Thurlow Reservoir, and two sites provide access to the Tallapoosa River downstream of Thurlow Dam. In order to determine possible changes in usability of five of the identified sites, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data were used to estimate the elevation at which amenities (e.g., boat ramp) became unusable as well as the elevation at which the site became completely inaccessible. These elevations were then examined based on results of the HydroBudget (Alabama Power, 2010b) to determine changes to the frequency of reaching these elevations under the various alternatives over the baseline operation. For one site (Tallapoosa Take Out), results from the mapping exercise conducted by AMEC for Study 12(a) were used to determine changes in flooding elevations associated with the various alternatives. The number of days each site was unusable under current operations was determined by the model and presented in Table E-46.
TABLE E-46 PUBLIC RECREATION ACCESS SITES ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER BELOW MARTIN DAM AND THE NUMBER OF DAYS SITE IS UNUSABLE DUE TO CURRENT OPERATIONS AT THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: Alabama Power, 2010g) RIVER # OF DAYS SITE IS UNUSABLE DUE NAME OF SITE LOCATION 1 MILE TO FLOODING Gold Mine Road (Martin Yates Reservoir 59.5 32 tailrace) Coon Creek Ramp Yates Reservoir 53.7 18 Yates Dam Boat Ramp Yates Reservoir 52.4 1 Tallassee Park Thurlow 50.2 1 Reservoir Thurlow Dam Put-in Tallapoosa 49.5 8 River Tallapoosa Take Out Tallapoosa 48.0 0 River 1 The number of days is for the 67 year period of record used in the modeling analysis (i.e., these are not annual occurrences).
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The 1.5 mile stretch of the Tallapoosa River below Thurlow Dam contains whitewater boating opportunities rated as Class II to Class IV on the International Scale of River Difficulty. The put- in is downstream of Thurlow Dam at RM 49.5 and the take-out is the downstream at RM 48.0.
Preferred flows for whitewater boating were provided by the Alabama Whitewater Paddling Guide. These flows range from the minimum flow at the Thurlow development (1,200 cfs) to the flows at which all whitewater features were deemed unusable (washed out). Classification of the flows at the various river features are provided in Table E-47.
TABLE E-47 CLASSIFICATION OF FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM ACCORDING TO WHITEWATER BOATING USABILITY AT VARIOUS WHITEWATER FEATURES IN THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER (Source: http://www.alabamawhitewater.com/guide/guide_files2/tallapoosa.htm) TWO BREAKING STICKY THE BIONIC CFS CLASS I WAVE BIG O HOLE FALLS WAVE SHOALS HOLES Minimum 1,200 Scrape Fun Extra Low 5,000 Good caution Good 10,500 Good Great Awesome 11,500- Great Great Great Great Awesome 13,000 Washed Washed 18,000 Good out out Washed Washed Washed Washed Washed 50,000 Good out out out out out
Alabama Power used HEC-ResSim and HydroBudget models to estimate flows for the Tallapoosa River as measured at the Thurlow Dam in terms of “days second feet” or the average flow for a 24-hour period (Alabama Power, 2010g). This provides estimates of the increases or decreases in the amount of flow averaged over an entire day. Hourly flows may be different, but at this time the models are not calibrated to estimate hourly flows. Nevertheless, results should indicate how changes in Martin operations would affect available flow for recreation activities in the Tallapoosa River. Under current operations at the Martin Project, the model indicated 8 days of daily average flow of 1,200 cfs, or the minimum flow, and 357 days of flow above 1,200 cfs (Table E-48).
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TABLE E-48 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF DAYS OF SPECIFIED FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM (AS MEASURED AT THE THURLOW DAM) UNDER CURRENT OPERATION AT THE MARTIN PROJECT (Source: Alabama Power, 2010g)
CFS JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC TOTAL 1200 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 1201-5000 31 16 23 22 31 22 8 22 27 19 5 11 237 5001-10000 0 8 4 3 0 0 14 9 3 12 23 16 92 10001-13000 0 3 4 1 0 0 8 0 0 0 2 4 22 13001-18000 0 1 0 4 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 6 >180001 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 Flows greater than 18,000 cfs were estimated using the HydroBudget model rather than the HEC-ResSim model to account for flood control operations at Martin Dam. Therefore, the total number of days in each year type may not equal 365.
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ALABAMA SCORP
The Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) was last completed for the period of 2008 through 2012. The SCORP breaks down the state into distinct planning regions; Lake Martin falls on the border between Region 4 (East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission) and Region 9 (Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission). The majority of residents in these two regions (78% and 74%, respectively) identified the value of recreation as “Very Important” or “Important.” In Region 4 and Region 9, “walking for pleasure” was the most participated in recreation activity, followed by “freshwater beach” in Region 4 and “pool swimming” in Region 9. The SCORP also reports the public’s perceived needs for outdoor recreation activities. Region 4 respondents identified “parks” as the number one greatest need in their region, followed by “picnic areas/tables,” “playgrounds,” “soccer fields,” and “softball fields.” Region 9 respondents identified “parks” as the number one greatest need in their region, followed by “walking/jogging trails,” “swimming pools,” “playgrounds,” and “softball fields.” Finally, the SCORP identifies the following priorities for 2008 to 2012:
• Explore Alabama’s outdoor resources; • Provide quality of life opportunities; • Promote healthy lifestyles; • Develop active and passive recreational facilities; • Ensure accessibility of outdoor recreation facilities to all citizens; and • Recognize and promote the economic impact of recreation in Alabama.
5.6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on recreation resources, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports: • Study Report 12f - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Downstream Recreation (Alabama Power, 2010g) • Study Report 12g and 12h – Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama (Southwick, 2010) • Study Report 14 – Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan (Alabama Power, 2011e)
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The final Study Reports are provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
Changes in the Flood Control Guideline that govern the current management of Lake elevations on Lake Martin over the course of the year are likely to affect the use of the Lake for recreation. The effects are largely driven by overall use of the Lake, as measured by user days; therefore, the greatest effects are likely to be associated with the flood control guideline alternatives that affect the greatest number of recreational Lake users. However, some Lake users are likely to experience unique impacts. For example, most shoreline property owners maintain docks on their waterfronts and Alabama Power’s proposal and the other operational recommendations could have different effects on the usability of their docks for mooring boats. Data from Southwick (2010) concerning usability of docks are presented in Table E-49 and Table E-50. Specific impacts of Alabama Power’s proposal and other operational recommendations are examined below.
Under baseline conditions, it becomes impractical for almost half of shoreline property owners to moor their boats at their particular dock during the late fall/early winter at a Lake level of roughly 485 ft msl. When water levels normally begin to decline beginning generally on September 1, approximately 8% of property owners find it impractical to moor their boats at their dock by the end of the month (approximately 487 ft msl, on average). By the end of October (approximately 485 ft msl, on average), the number of property owners that find it impractical to moor their boats rises substantially to over one-half (56%) of property owners (Table E-49).
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TABLE E-49 WATER-LEVEL WHEN IT BECOMES IMPRACTICAL FOR SHORELINE PROPERTY OWNERS TO MOOR THEIR BOAT(S) AT THEIR DOCK (Source: Southwick, 2010)
WATER LEVEL CUMULATIVE % % (FEET MSL) THAT CAN MOOR BOAT(S) 491 0% 100% 488 4% 96% 487 4% 92% 486 16% 76% 485 32% 44% 484 15% 29% 483 11% 18% 482 9% 9% 481 1% 8% <481 8% 5% MEDIAN (FEET MSL) 485
Shoreline property owners were also asked when and at what water level the Lake has receded to the point that their dock is completely out of the water. Again, under baseline conditions, most residents’ docks are out of water in late fall/early winter. By the end of November (approximately 483 ft msl, on average), 41% of Lake users have docks that are no longer in water (Table E-50).
TABLE E-50 MONTH AND WATER-LEVEL WHEN SHORELINE PROPERTY OWNERS’ DOCK IS COMPLETELY OUT OF THE WATER (Source: Southwick, 2010) WATER LEVEL CUMULATIVE % % (FEET MSL) OF DOCKS IN THE WATER 491 0% 100% 488 1% 99% 487 1% 98% 486 5% 93% 485 8% 85% 484 12% 73% 483 14% 59% 482 15% 44% 481 11% 33% <481 33% 28% MEDIAN (FEET MSL) 482
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5.6.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Changes in recreational use of Lake Martin under Alabama Power’s proposal were estimated using the FERC approved methodology described in Southwick (2010). The estimated changes compared to current use are shown in Table E-51. The changes were estimated separately for visitors (including non-landowners and seasonal landowners) and permanent residents of the region.
TABLE E-51 ESTIMATED PERCENT CHANGES IN ANNUAL RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Southwick, 2010) * VISITORS PERMANENT MANAGEMENT ** (% CHANGE RESIDENTS SCENARIO IN TRIPS) (% IN DAYS) Alabama Power’s 9% 6% Proposal *Includes non-property owner visitors, and seasonal and weekend property owner visitors. **Includes only permanent residents residing in one of the three counties adjacent to Lake Martin.
Table E-52 presents the projected levels of recreation use under Alabama Power’s proposal. The estimated changes in Lake use shown in Table E-51 are the projected percent increases in use compared to current Lake management operations. Therefore, the use estimates in Table E-52 were calculated by applying the estimated percentage increase in recreational use to the baseline level of recreation days.
TABLE E-52 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER CURRENT OPERATIONS AND ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Southwick, 2010) PERMANENT * ** VISITORS RESIDENTS ALL USERS SCENARIO RECREATION DAYS BASELINE 264,750 105,789 370,539 Alabama Power’s Proposal 288,578 112,136 400,714 *Includes non-property owner visitors, and seasonal and weekend property owner visitors. **Includes only permanent residents residing in one of the three counties adjacent to Lake Martin.
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Under Alabama Power’s proposal, recreation use would be expected to increase by 8.1% over baseline, or an increase of 30,175 recreation days. Also, an additional 21% of shoreline property owners would be able to moor their boat at their dock year round (Table E-49).
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Alabama Power’s proposal would not affect usability (i.e., no increases in flooding that would cause the site to become unusable) at 4 of the recreation sites identified in Table E-46. At two sites (Gold Mine Road and Coon Creek Ramp), there would be an additional 2 days (over the 67 year period of record used in the analysis) that these 2 sites would be unusable (Alabama Power, 2010g).
Alabama Power’s proposal would have some effects on the preferred flow ranges for whitewater boating by reducing the number of days in the preferred flow range of 5,000 cfs to 18,000 cfs (Table E-53). However, these effects would occur in the winter months when recreation use on the Tallapoosa River below Thurlow Dam is likely low (Alabama Power, 2010g).
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TABLE E-53 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF DAYS OF SPECIFIED FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM (AS MEASURED AT THE THURLOW DAM) UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (CHANGES FROM BASELINE ARE INDICATED IN PARENTHESES) (Source: Alabama Power, 2010g)
CFS JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC TOTAL 1200 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (0) 1201-5000 31 (0) 13 (-3) 21 (-2) 22 (0) 31 (0) 22 (0) 8 (0) 22 (0) 27 (0) 19 (0) 9 (4) 20 (9) 245 (8) 5001-10000 0 (0) 11 (3) 5 (1) 3 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 14 (0) 9 (0) 3 (0) 12 (0) 21 (-2) 9 (-7) 87 (-5) 10001-13000 0 (0) 2 (-1) 3 (-1) 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (-2) 1 (-3) 15 (-8) 13001-18000 0 (0) 2 (1) 2 (2) 4 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (1) 10 (4) >180001 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 2 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 3 (0) 1 Flows greater than 18,000 cfs were estimated using the HydroBudget model rather than the HEC-ResSim model to account for flood control operations at Martin Dam. Therefore, the total number of days in each year type may not equal 365.
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5.6.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.6.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Changes in recreational use of Lake Martin under the Early Spring Fill recommendation were estimated using the FERC approved methodology described in Southwick (2010). The estimated changes compared to current use are shown in Table E-54. The changes were estimated separately for visitors (including non-landowners and seasonal landowners) and permanent residents of the region.
TABLE E-54 ESTIMATED PERCENT CHANGES IN ANNUAL RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) * VISITORS PERMANENT MANAGEMENT ** (% CHANGE RESIDENTS SCENARIO IN TRIPS) (% IN DAYS) Early Spring Fill 8% 5% Recommendation *Includes non-property owner visitors, and seasonal and weekend property owner visitors. **Includes only permanent residents residing in one of the three counties adjacent to Lake Martin.
Table E-55 presents the projected levels of recreation use under the Early Spring Fill recommendation. The estimated changes in Lake use shown in Table E-54 are the projected percentage increases in use compared with current Lake management operations. Therefore, the use estimates in Table E-55 were calculated by applying the estimated percentage increase in recreational use to the baseline level of recreation days.
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TABLE E-55 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER CURRENT/BASELINE OPERATIONS AND THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) PERMANENT * ** VISITORS RESIDENTS ALL USERS SCENARIO RECREATION DAYS BASELINE 264,750 105,789 370,539 Early Spring Fill Recommendation 285,930 111,078 397,008 *Includes non-property owner visitors, and seasonal and weekend property owner visitors. **Includes only permanent residents residing in one of the three counties adjacent to Lake Martin.
Under the Early Spring Fill recommendation, recreation use would be expected to increase by 7.1% over baseline, or an increase of 26,469 recreation days. Further, an additional 21% of shoreline property owners would be able to moor their boat at their dock for an additional month in the Spring and up to 92% would be able to moor their boats an additional ½ month (Table E- 49).
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
The Early Spring Fill recommendation would not affect usability (i.e., no increases in flooding that would cause the site to become unusable) at 3 of the recreation sites identified in Table E-46. At Gold Mine Road there would be an additional 10 days the site would be unusable (over the 67 year period of record used in the analysis). At Coon Creek Ramp, there would be an additional 2 days the site would be unusable (over the 67 year period of record used in the analysis) and at Thurlow Dam Put-in there would be an additional 1 day the site would be unusable (over the 67 year period of record used in the analysis) (Alabama Power, 2010g).
The Early Spring Fill recommendation would have some effect on the preferred flow ranges for whitewater boating by increasing the number of days in the preferred flow range of 5,000 cfs to 18,000 cfs (Table E-56). These changes were modeled to be in the month of April, providing some additional benefit to whitewater boating in a warmer month (Alabama Power, 2010g).
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TABLE E-56 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF DAYS OF SPECIFIED FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM (AS MEASURED AT THE THURLOW DAM) UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (CHANGES FROM BASELINE ARE INDICATED IN PARENTHESES) (Source: Alabama Power, 2010g)
CFS JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC TOTAL 1200 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (0) 1201-5000 31 (0) 24 (8) 20 (-3) 14 (-8) 31 (0) 22 (0) 8 (0) 22 (0) 27 (0) 19 (0) 5 (0) 11 (0) 234 (-3) 5001-10000 0 (0) 3 (-5) 5 (1) 10 (7) 0 (0) 0 (0) 14 (0) 9 (0) 3 (0) 12 (0) 23 (0) 16 (0) 95 (3) 10001-13000 0 (0) 0 (-3) 4 (0) 2 (1) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 2 (0) 4 (0) 20 (-2) 13001-18000 0 (0) 1 (0) 2 (2) 4 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (2) >180001 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 2 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 3 (0) 1 Flows greater than 18,000 cfs were estimated using the HydroBudget model rather than the HEC-ResSim model to account for flood control operations at Martin Dam. Therefore, the total number of days in each year type may not equal 365.
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5.6.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Changes in recreational use of Lake Martin under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation were estimated using the FERC approved methodology described in Southwick (2010). Although Southwick (2010) did not directly estimate changes in recreation use associated with a combination of a 5 ft increase in winter pool and a Fall Extension, they indicate “Because several of the study scenarios occur at mutually exclusive times of the year, their effects on Lake usage are largely additive.” Therefore, the estimated changes of both the 5 ft increase in winter pool and the Fall Extension are shown in Table E-57. The changes were estimated separately for visitors (including non-landowners and seasonal landowners) and permanent residents of the region and then combined to estimate total estimated changes in recreation use for this recommendation.
TABLE E-57 ESTIMATED PERCENT CHANGES IN ANNUAL RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) * VISITORS PERMANENT MANAGEMENT ** (% CHANGE RESIDENTS SCENARIO IN TRIPS) (% IN DAYS) Five Foot Increase in 11% 8% Winter Pool Fall Extension 13% 5% 5 Ft Increase in Winter Pool and Fall Extension 24% 13% Recommendation *Includes non-property owner visitors, and seasonal and weekend property owner visitors. **Includes only permanent residents residing in one of the three counties adjacent to Lake Martin.
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Table E-58 presents the projected levels of recreation use under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation. The estimated changes in Lake use shown in Table E-57 are the projected percentage increases in use compared with current Lake management operations. Therefore, the use estimates in Table E-58 were calculated by applying the estimated percentage increase in recreational use to the baseline level of recreation days.
TABLE E-58 TOTAL ESTIMATED RECREATION DAYS AT LAKE MARTIN UNDER CURRENT OPERATIONS AND THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) PERMANENT * ** VISITORS RESIDENTS ALL USERS SCENARIO RECREATION DAYS BASELINE 264,750 105,789 370,539 5 Ft Increase in Winter Pool and Fall Extension Recommendation 328,290 119,542 447,832 *Includes non-property owner visitors, and seasonal and weekend property owner visitors. **Includes only permanent residents residing in one of the three counties adjacent to Lake Martin.
Under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation, recreation use would be expected to increase by 20.8% over baseline, or an increase of approximately 77,293 recreation days. Also, an additional 68% of shoreline property owners would be able to moor their boat at their dock year round and 8% would be able to moor their boats at their dock for up to an additional ½ month (Table E-49).
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
The 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation would not affect usability (i.e., no increases in flooding that would cause the site to become unusable) at any of the recreation sites identified in Table E-46 (Alabama Power, 2010g).
The 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation would have some effects on the preferred flow ranges for whitewater boating by reducing the number of days in the preferred flow range of 5,000 cfs to 18,000 cfs (Table E-59); however, most of these days would occur during the colder months. There would be an estimated three fewer days in the preferred flow range during September and four additional days in the months of October, when recreation use of this stretch of river is likely higher (Alabama Power, 2010g).
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TABLE E-59 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF DAYS OF SPECIFIED FLOWS BELOW THURLOW DAM (AS MEASURED AT THE THURLOW DAM) UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (CHANGES FROM BASELINE ARE INDICATED IN PARENTHESES) (Source: Alabama Power, 2010g)
CFS JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC TOTAL 1200 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 3 (3) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 11 (3) 1201-5000 31 (0) 15 (-1) 14 (-9) 22 (0) 31 (0) 22 (0) 8 (0) 22 (0) 27 (0) 15 (-4) 23 (18) 20 (9) 250 (13) 5001-10000 0 (0) 9 (1) 11 (7) 3 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 14 (0) 9 (0) 0 (-3) 14 (2) 7 (-16) 9 (-7) 76 (-16) 10001-13000 0 (0) 2 (-1) 3 (-1) 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 8 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 2 (2) 0 (-2) 1 (-3) 17 (-5) 13001-18000 0 (0) 2 (1) 3 (3) 4 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (1) 11 (5) >180001 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 2 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 3 (0) 1 Flows greater than 18,000 cfs were estimated using the HydroBudget model rather than the HEC-ResSim model to account for flood control operations at Martin Dam. Therefore, the total number of days in each year type may not equal 365.
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5.6.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
A complete description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measure is located in Section 3.1. Proposed PME measures that may affect recreation resources include the following, and effects are analyzed below:
• Conditional Fall Extension; • Land Changes; • Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan; • Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program; • Periodic Drawdown to 481 ft msl; and • Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan.
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The conditional fall extension will likely have some of the effects described above related to the fall extension. However, the difference between this PME measure and the Fall Extension operating recommendation means that all of the estimated increases in recreation use described above would not be realized in every year. In the years where the conditions to implement the conditional fall extension are met, there would likely be increased recreational use in August, September, and October due to higher water levels during this time of year.
The Martin Dam Project SMP should generally help protect the Project shoreline. Many of Alabama Power’s recommended BMPs included in the SMP should maintain the integrity of a natural shoreline and help maintain the good water quality in Lake Martin. These effects should generally be positive for recreation users by making the Lake more appealing. Furthermore, the 7,596 ac of Project lands classified as Recreation, Commercial Recreation, Quasi-Public Recreation, and Natural/Undeveloped should provide for more and various recreation opportunities at the Project.
Provisions recommended for inclusion in the Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan should generally help protect the Project shorelines by educating property owners
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on the best practices to develop and/or maintain their property, providing an indirect positive effect to the recreation experience. Furthermore, continuing the Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program should have an indirect positive effect on the recreation experience by keeping nuisance aquatic vegetation controlled and managing vectors when they become problematic.
The Martin Small Game Hunting Area, as described in the Martin Wildlife Management Plan, provides additional recreation resources at the Project that currently do not exist on Project lands and has the potential to attract hunters to the Project area.
Finally, the Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan should continue to provide adequate public access to Project lands and waters over the life of the license and should help alleviate congestion at the most heavily used boat ramps. The Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan identifies 12 existing Project recreation sites, proposes 6 existing recreation sites be recognized as Project recreation sites, and proposes 1 site to be held by Alabama Power for a future Project recreation site (Table E-60).
In addition to adding Project recreation sites, Alabama Power is proposing to replace the existing boat ramp, construct two bank fishing sites, and construct a gravel parking lot at Jaybird Landing. Alabama Power has also proposed expanding the parking lots at Madwind Creek Ramp and Smith Landing and construction of a paved road, single lane boat ramp, parking lot, and courtesy pier at Ponder Camp at some point during the term of the new license. Furthermore, Alabama Power is proposing to consult with the ADCNR on the need and location of additional bank fishing sites at the Project and assess Project recreation signage yearly. Finally, Alabama Power is proposing additional actions on Project lands to increase recreation opportunities at the Project. This includes the creating of a Martin Dam Portage Trail for canoes/kayaks in the vicinity of Martin Dam, reclassifying or adding 1,520 ac of Natural/Undeveloped land for passive recreation opportunities (including the Smith Mountain Hiking Trails), and the aforementioned Martin Small Game Hunting Area. These actions should generally increase recreation opportunities at the Project and ensure there is sufficient capacity at Project recreation sites to accommodate future use.
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TABLE E-60 MARTIN DAM PROJECT EXISTING AND PROPOSED RECREATION SITES AND ASSOCIATED ACREAGE
NAME OWNERSHIP MANAGEMENT ACRES EXISTING PROPOSED Anchor Bay Marina Alabama Power Company Vinings Marine Group 9.4 X Bakers Bottom Landing Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company 1.9 X Camp Alamisco Alabama Power Company Gulf States Conference of Seventh day 51.5 X Adventist Camp ASCCA (Dadeville Alabama Power Company Alabama's Special Camp for Children 22.8 X Campus) and Adults DARE Boat Landing Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company and State of 2.5 X Alabama DARE Power Park (GPU #1) Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company 218.2 X Jaybird Landing Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company 19.9 X Kamp Kiwanis Alabama Power Company Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama 90.5 X Madwind Creek Ramp Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company and State of 5.8 X Alabama Maxwell Gunter AFB Alabama Power Company U.S. Department of Defense 45.3 X Recreation Area Pace Point Ramp Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company and State of 8.7 X Alabama Paces Trail Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company 24.1 X Parker Creek Marina Alabama Power Company Singleton Marine Group 9.7 X Pleasure Point Park and Alabama Power Company Pleasure Point Park and Marina, Inc. 6.6 X Marina Ponder Camp (Stillwaters Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company 36.4 X Area Boat Ramp) Real Island Marina and Alabama Power Company Russell Marine 9.6 X Campground Scenic Overlook Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company and Cherokee 1.5 X Ridge Alpine Trail Association Smith Landing Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company and State of 4.2 X Alabama Union Ramp Alabama Power Company Alabama Power Company 11.4 X
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Although these actions will improve recreation access in the short term, long term planning of recreation access is difficult given the unknown, but estimated, effects of increasing population growth around the Project and increased use of the Lake due to Alabama Power’s proposal. Alabama Power is proposing yearly consultation with the ADCNR to account for the difficulty of long term recreation planning by allowing future recreation use estimates and actual population growth to be considered. This process will ensure recreation access at the Project is adequate for the life of the license.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
There are no PME measures that will have an effect on recreation resources downstream of the Project Boundary.
5.6.2.4 NO ACTION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Under the No Action alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner it is operated presently. Alabama Power would not implement any Flood Control Guideline changes or proposed PME measures. None of the recreation benefits associated with a higher winter pool elevation would occur. While recreation would continue to occur at the Project (estimated 370,539 recreation days annually), the increase in available recreation opportunities associated with higher water levels would not be realized. In addition, the No Action alternative would maintain recreation sites in their existing condition and under their current maintenance schedules. There would most likely be no short-term effects of implementing this alternative; however, over the long-term, recreation resources may deteriorate, which could lead to an increase in crowding pressures, creating user conflicts between boaters and non-boaters, and parking and vehicle congestion and traffic. Long-term effects of maintaining these sites in their existing condition could result in an increase in erosion and siltation, a decrease in overall water quality, a reduction in the quality of shoreline terrestrial and aquatic habitats, and an overall decline in the recreation experience.
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Under the No Action alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner it is operated presently. Alabama Power would not implement any Flood Control Guideline changes or proposed PME measures. The estimated number of days in the preferred flow range for whitewater boating would remain as shown in Table E-48.
5.6.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
During any ground disturbing activities associated with the construction of additional facilities and access, there is the possibility of an increase in erosion and water turbidity during development. These issues can be addressed in Alabama Power’s SMP and permitting program. In addition, some noise from recreational users may impact terrestrial species and bald eagles. Implementing the Recreation Plan with appropriate environmental oversight will assist in mitigating any potential issues. Furthermore, there will likely be continuing erosion impacts from recreational boating use on the Lake due to wave action caused by boat wakes.
5.7 CULTURAL RESOURCES
5.7.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
PREHISTORIC OVERVIEW
The area surrounding the Martin Project has been subject to dramatic shifts in climate over the past 15,000 years that have affected the nature and presence of aboriginal peoples; in particular, the climate has become gradually warmer and wetter in the past 10,000 years (Southerlin et al., 1998).
The Project lies in the Tallapoosa River Valley in eastern Alabama, near the border with Georgia. Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have occupied the area for approximately 10,000 years, since the late Paleoindian stage of prehistory. The following summary of the prehistory and history of the Basin is drawn largely from Alabama Power (2006).
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The earliest stage of human history in the southeastern United States is identified as the Paleoindian stage, which began in approximately 10,000 B.C. While there are several early Paleoindian sites within the Tennessee Valley Region of northern Alabama, currently there is no evidence of early Paleoindian occupation in the Basin. Based on current records, prehistoric populations did not reach the Basin until the middle Paleoindian stage, with only one site identified as having a Cumberland component. The archaeological record thus far indicates a larger influx of prehistoric peoples to the Basin during the late Paleoindian period (c. 8,500- 8,000 B.C.).
During the Archaic stage (c. 8,000-1,200 B.C.), climate trends progressively transitioned toward that of modern weather patterns. Hunting and gathering remained the primary subsistence strategy throughout the Archaic stage. The early Archaic period toolkit expanded to include knives, adzes, end scrapers, and celts, while the invention of the atlatl (spear thrower) was an important technological advancement during this period. There is also evidence of woven fiber used to make baskets and netting during this period. Archaeological research on the Middle Archaic suggests increased sedentism and greater exploitation of riverine environments during this period. While most middle Archaic sites are smaller camp sites, many larger riverine sites contain hearths, storage pits, and large shell middens. Technological advances during the middle Archaic period include ground and polished stone, such as atlatl weights, grooved axes, and net- sinker weights; and tools made of bone and shell such as awls, needles, atlatl hooks, and more. Late Archaic sites occur with greater frequency and have a wider physiographic dispersion than earlier periods. Sedentism also appears to increase, as flood plain base camps grow in size, and archaeological excavations of late Archaic sites encounter house floors, hearths, and pit features in higher densities. Extensive trade networks of raw materials appear, yet late Archaic artifacts demonstrate increasing regional variation of stylistic and technologic traits. Burial mounds, exotic ornamental grave goods, commodity trading of raw materials, and increasingly specialized craftsmanship indicate a growing social hierarchy.
Spanning from c. 1,200 B.C. to 300 B.C., the Gulf Formational stage is contemporaneous with the early Woodland period in other parts of North America. Early fired clay pottery was tempered with organic fibers as a strengthening agent. Few recorded sites within the Basin are associated with the Gulf Formational stage.
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The Woodland stage (c. 300 B.C. - A.D. 1,200) is typically associated with an increased reliance on agriculture for subsistence. The introduction of the bow and arrow occurred during this stage, as reflected in the discovery of smaller triangular projectile points. Populations continued to grow, as did the size of village sites. Decorative techniques and patterns for ceramics grew increasingly complex and distinctive to a particular time and space, as diagnostic pottery replaced projectile points as cultural markers in the archaeological record.
The Mississippian stage (c. AD 1000-1450) represents the height of Native American culture up until contact with the first European settlers. Mississippian societies were based on an agrarian economy and were densely populated in fertile river valleys. Mississippian settlements include large village sites, many of which contain large earthen mounds. These mound sites are considered to have been cultural hubs with extensive political, religious, and socio-economic influence. Mississippian cultures witnessed a high degree of social stratification with evidence of a ruling elite, extensive trade networks for exotic goods, specialized craftsmen, and artisans. Mississippian sites are not particularly well represented in the Basin.
HISTORIC OVERVIEW
The Spanish explorers of the early sixteenth century were the first Europeans to contact the Native Americans in present day Alabama, and Hernando de Soto’s entrance through the southeast was the most prominent Spanish presence in Alabama during this time. The French were the first Europeans to establish long-term contact with native groups of the area. After settling at what is now Biloxi in 1699, the French, in 1717, established Fort Toulouse at the point where the Coosa and Tallapoosa Rivers meet to form the Alabama River. By the early eighteenth century, English traders had established a presence in the region. The Creek presence in the interior of Alabama slowed the advance of settlers but despite this, American settlers continued to venture into the area after the Treaty of Paris in 1783.
The new American government established the Mississippi Territory in 1798 under the provisions of the Northwest Ordinance. The strong presence of native Creeks in the interior of Alabama slowed American expansion into the area. The newly formed Mississippi Territory became unstable after the creation of a Federal Road from Washington D.C. to New Orleans brought new American settlers to the region. In 1813, a series of attacks and counterattacks
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between Americans and Creeks blossomed into a war throughout the territory, including the Lake Martin area. The war came to a formal, and violent, end in 1814 when Andrew Jackson defeated the Creeks at Horseshoe Bend on the Tallapoosa River. This forced the secession of all Creek land east of the Mississippi River, including Lake Martin and surrounding areas (Southerlin et al., 1998). American settlers then quickly settled the area after the Native Americans were sent to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears.
Early American settlers in the new Alabama Territory rapidly developed the area, as the power of small streams was harnessed for the machinery that operated grist, flour, and saw mills. The east central part of Alabama saw relatively slow development, however, through the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861. Stagnation of industry and agriculture existed throughout the state of Alabama until 1885. After 1885, the coal, iron, steel, and textile industries experienced rapid growth. The area around Lake Martin remained primarily agricultural.
Throughout the nineteenth century, power development in Alabama was confined almost entirely to streams. By the early twentieth century, however, prospective water power sites along the Alabama rivers began to attract the attention of hydraulic engineers. In 1907, the founding president of Alabama Power, Captain William Patrick Lay, received congressional approval to construct the company’s first dam and electric generating plant on the Coosa River (Lay Hydroelectric Development, now a part of the Coosa River Project). Construction of this dam was initiated in 1910 and was completed in April 1914.
Interest in development of a dam at Cherokee Bluffs on the Tallapoosa River continued until construction was initiated on July 24, 1923 and was completed on December 31, 1926. First known as Cherokee Bluffs, the dam was dedicated in 1926 in honor of Thomas Martin, President of Alabama Power from 1920 to 1949 and Chief Executive Officer from 1949 to 1963. Martin was instrumental in the development of Alabama Power and a pioneer in the development of the electric system throughout Alabama and the Southeast. The Project was one of four dams constructed on the Tallapoosa River. Three generating units were installed initially, while a fourth unit was installed in 1952.
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HISTORIC PROPERTIES
No systematic cultural resources survey of the entire Project has occurred. However, a recent review of the Alabama Archaeological Site Files identified 18 sites within the Martin Project boundary (The University of Alabama, 2006). In 1995, Alabama Power contracted for Phase I and Phase II archaeological surveys of eight areas that were the sites of proposed new recreation areas (Alabama Power, 1996). The University of Alabama – Museum of Natural History – Office of Archaeological Research (OAR) conducted the surveys in 1995 and 1996, and identified eleven archaeological sites. The eligibility for two of these sites, in terms of inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), is undetermined at this time (Sites 1CS152 and 1CS153). Site 1TP35, Smith Mountain Fire Tower Complex, was determined to be eligible for inclusion on the NRHP, but is not within the Martin Project Boundary.
In addition to 11 sites identified by the University of Alabama survey, the University of Alabama (2006) indicates that seven other sites have been identified within the Project Boundary. Six are archaeological sites (1CS93, 1EE33, 1TP3, 1TP4, 1TP38, and 1TP86) whose NRHP eligibility is undetermined at this time. The seventh (1TP125) is the Umphress Family Cemetery. According to information presented in the University of Alabama (2006) Report and subsequent follow up, this cemetery was relocated in anticipation of a construction project.
The Project facilities, including the powerhouse, dam, and appurtenant facilities were built in 1926, representing an important engineering development for the State of Alabama at that time.
Despite the lack of a comprehensive cultural resources survey, eight potentially NRHP eligible archaeological sites are known to exist at the Project. In addition, the Project facilities, although not yet evaluated, are likely eligible for the NRHP.
Alabama Power consulted with FERC, the SHPO, and the tribes to develop a Programmatic Agreement (PA). Alabama Power, the SHPO, FERC and the tribes anticipate that issuing a new license to continue operating and maintaining the existing Project may pose adverse effects to historic properties. Adverse effects can be mitigated by executing a PA that requires Alabama Power to develop and implement a Historic Properties Management Plan (HPMP). The HPMP
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In the PA, Alabama Power described the APE for the Project as the lands above 491 ft msl enclosed by the Project Boundary which encompass the powerhouse, a dam, the 41,150 ac reservoir (Lake Martin), a spillway, tailrace, two 450-foot-long transmission lines, and appurtenant facilities. FERC will prepare the Final PA and distribute to the Alabama SHPO and participating federally-recognized tribes for signature.
Alabama Power has consulted with the Alabama SHPO and the appropriate federally recognized Native American tribes (Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma, and the Kialegee Tribal Town of the Muscogee Creek Nation) pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (see Table E-61 for Consultation Record).
A list of dates of all Cultural Resource meetings to date is presented in Table E-61.
TABLE E-61 CULTURAL RESOURCES CONSULTATION RECORD
May 21, 2008 November 16, 2010 March 12, 2009 January 3, 2011 (with FERC re: PA) April 22, 2009 February 23, 2011 June 16, 2009 February 24, 2011 July 23, 2009 March 10, 2011 October 22, 2009 March 30, 2011 May 6, 2010 October 13, 2010
5.7.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on cultural resources, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports:
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• Study Report 15 – Draft Historic Properties Management Plan Outline (Alabama Power, 2011f) • Study Report 12g and 12h – Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama (Southwick, 2010)
5.7.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
Effects on historic properties within the APE can result from Project-related activities such as reservoir operations and Project-related ground-disturbing activities. Effects also can result from other forces such as wind and water erosion, recreational activities, and vandalism. The type and level of effects on cultural resources can vary widely, depending upon the setting, size, and visibility of the resource, as well as whether there is public knowledge about the location of the resource. See Section 5.1 for additional information on the nature and causes of erosion.
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Alabama Power’s proposal to implement a 3 ft increase in winter pool would leave otherwise exposed historic properties and archeological sites inundated during the winter months and less susceptible to wind and water erosion, recreational activities, and looting (vandalism). Alabama Power’s proposal would provide long term protection of shoreline archaeological properties above the protection that currently exists.
Inundation provides an overall positive benefit for cultural resources but eroded soils and exposure from high flow events may have an adverse effect. These effects are located well outside of the APE for cultural resources and no further analysis is required.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Alabama Power’s proposal has the potential to affect an additional 2,119 ac of land when the starting elevation at Lake Martin is increased from 481 ft msl (baseline) to 484 ft msl, including 2,041 ac of agricultural land, 30 ac of industrial land, 23 ac of commercial land, 23 ac of residential land, and 2 ac of water. These effects, however, are located well outside of the APE for cultural resources (Alabama Power, 2010b).
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5.7.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.7.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The Early Spring Fill would have a generally positive effect on shoreline cultural resources as they would become inundated slightly earlier than existing operations. With an Early Spring Fill, the Lake would reach full pool by April 1 rather than May 1, providing one month more at full pool. Alabama Power would also begin filling Lake Martin on January 15 rather than February 1, as occurs under existing operations. The process of filling Lake Martin would occur earlier in the year, decreasing the time of potential exposed shoreline archaeological properties as the shoreline will become inundated earlier in the winter season. Inundation provides an overall positive benefit for cultural resources
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
The Early Spring Fill has the potential to affect an additional 2,576 ac of land when the starting elevation at Lake Martin is increased from 481 ft msl (baseline) to 485 ft msl (on February 15), including 2,364 ac of agricultural land, 43 ac of industrial land, 111 ac of commercial land, 56 ac of residential land, and 2 ac of water. On April 1, when Lake Martin elevation is currently at 489 ft msl, the Early Spring Fill recommendation has the potential to affect an additional 353 ac, including 256 ac of agricultural land, 19 ac of industrial land, 25 ac of commercial land, 16 acres of residential land, and 37 ac of water (Alabama Power, 2010b). These effects, however, are located well outside of the APE for cultural resources.
Increased potential for eroded soils and exposure from high flow events may have an adverse effect on archaeological resources in the Tallapoosa River. These effects are located well outside of the APE for cultural resources and no further analysis is required.
5.7.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER AND FALL EXTENSION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
A 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension would leave otherwise exposed historic properties and archeological sites inundated and less susceptible to wind and water erosion, recreational activities, and looting (vandalism) throughout the winter and into the fall. There is a
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possibility of increased erosion at 30% of the current erosion sites (Alabama Power, 2010h) with a 5 ft increase in winter pool, but these sites are not known to be of historic significance. This recommendation would generally provide additional positive effects over baseline. This recommendation would provide the greatest long term protection of shoreline archaeological properties because cultural properties would stay inundated for a longer period of time on an annual basis.
Inundation provides an overall positive benefit for cultural resources but eroded soils and exposure from high flow events may have an adverse effect. These effects are located well outside of the APE for cultural resources and no further analysis is required.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
The 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation has the potential to affect an additional 3,353 ac of land when the starting elevation at Lake Martin is increased from 481 ft msl (baseline) to 486 ft msl, including 3,019 ac of agricultural land, 133 ac of industrial land, 128 ac of commercial land, 71 ac of residential land, and 2 ac of water. Furthermore, on October 15, when Lake Martin elevation is at approximately 486 ft msl, the Fall Extension recommendation has the potential to affect an additional 1,429 ac, including 1,003 ac of agricultural land, 45 ac of industrial land, 72 ac of commercial land, 45 ac of residential land, and 264 ac of water (Alabama Power, 2010b).
Inundation provides an overall positive benefit for cultural resources but eroded soils and exposure from high flow events may have an adverse effect. These potential effects are likely to be located well outside of the APE for cultural resources and no further analysis is required.
5.7.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
A complete description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measures is located Section 3.1. Proposed PME measures that may affect cultural resources include the following and are analyzed below.
• Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan; • Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program;
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• Periodic drawdown to 481 msl; and • Martin Dam Project Historic Properties Management Plan.
The SMP has numerous elements that will likely have beneficial effects on cultural resources.
Alabama Power is proposing to implement a revised shoreline classification system that will describe the allowable uses for each classification. The Sensitive Resources designation will apply directly to cultural resources. This designation contains Project lands managed for protection and enhancement of sensitive resources. Sensitive resources include those resources protected by state and/or federal law, executive order, and other natural features considered important to the area or natural environment. This includes archaeological resources, sites/structures listed on or eligible for listing on the NRHP, wetlands, floodplains, RTE species and habitat protection areas, significant scenic areas, and other sensitive ecological areas. Permitted activities, if applicable, in these areas may be highly restrictive or prohibited in order to avoid potential impacts to sensitive resources. A GIS data layer that includes all known sensitive resource areas will be developed that provides information to Martin Shoreline Managers on the areas designated as “Sensitive Resources”. An environmental review by Alabama Power’s Environmental Affairs (EA) Department will be triggered in these areas prior to permitting. Although the sensitive resources GIS layer will be made available to the public when filed with the SMP, the reason for the designation in sensitive resource areas (i.e., cultural resources, T&E species, etc.) will not be made public due to federal and state laws and regulations and the confidential or proprietary nature of resource. Areas designated as Sensitive Resources are dynamic, meaning they may expand and contract as more information becomes available (e.g., T&E species habitat, areas identified under the HPMP that are surveyed, etc.). This designation and process established by Alabama Power will help in protecting cultural resources.
Alabama Power will also implement BMPs as part of the SMP that generally help protect the Project shorelines by educating property owners on the best practices to develop and/or maintain their property, providing an indirect positive effect on cultural resources.
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Provisions in the Wildlife Management Plan should have indirect positive effects on cultural resources. The 35 ft streamside management zone will protect any cultural resources in that 35 ft area as there would be limited silviculture activity in this area.
The periodic drawdown to 481 ft msl during the winter months will have a temporary negative effect on cultural resources by exposing additional shoreline similar to baseline conditions. Since this periodic drawdown will not occur frequently, any effects to cultural resources would be minor and temporary.
Alabama Power proposes to develop and implement a HPMP that would govern management of significant cultural resources in the Project’s APE over the term of a new license. The HPMP would contain policies and procedures for identifying effects of Project operations, over the term of the license, on historic properties, and for development and implementation, in consultation with the Alabama SHPO, of measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate any adverse effects. The HPMP contains the following measures:
1. Conducting a cultural resources survey prior to any Alabama Power related ground disturbing construction activities within the Project’s APE which have not been subjected to an archaeological survey, including, but not limited to recreation developments and any Project enhancements that may be required by state or federal agencies, after consultation with the Alabama SHPO, the Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma, and the Kialegee Tribal Town of the Muscogee Creek Nation; 2. Completion, if necessary, of identifying historic properties, within the Project's APE; 3. Cultural resource surveys of selected survey sites (894 ac); 4. Document the Martin Construction Camp/Village; 5. Continued use and maintenance of historic properties; 6. Treatment of historic properties threatened by Project-induced shoreline erosion6, Alabama Power related ground disturbing construction activities, including, but not limited to recreation developments and any Project enhancements that may be required by state or federal agencies, and vandalism; 7. Identifying and evaluating historic properties, determining effects, and identifying ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects; 8. Considering and implementing appropriate treatment that would minimize or mitigate unavoidable adverse effects on historic properties;
6 Project-induced shoreline erosion does not include shoreline erosion attributable to flood flows or phenomena, such as wind driven wave action, erodible soils, and loss of vegetation due to natural causes.
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9. Treatment and disposition of any human remains that may be discovered, taking into account any applicable state laws and the Advisory Council's "Policy Statement Regarding Treatment of Burial Sites, Human Remains, and Funerary Objects”, dated February 23, 2007; and compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (25 U.S.C. section 3001), if tribal or federal lands are within the Project Boundary; 10. Discovery of previously unidentified properties during Project operations; 11. Public interpretation of the historic and cultural values at the Project; 12. A list of activities (i.e., routine repair, maintenance, and replacement in kind at the Project) not requiring consultation with the Alabama SHPO; since these activities would have little or no potential to affect historic properties; 13. Procedures to address effects during Project emergencies; and 14. Reviewing the HPMP by the licensee, the Alabama SHPO, the Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma, and the Kialegee Tribal Town of the Muscogee Creek Nation every six years to ensure that the information continues to assist the licensee in managing historic properties and updating the HPMP based on agency and tribal consultations.
These measures will provide additional information on the presence or absence of cultural resources within the APE through evaluation of any discovered cultural resources and the survey of approximately 894 ac. The historical documentation of the Martin Construction Camp/ Village will provide the first-ever formal documentation of this area and its significance to hydroelectric power on the Tallapoosa River.
The HPMP would also provide for additional cultural resources surveys prior to any Alabama Power related ground disturbing construction activities within the Project’s APE which have not been subjected to an archaeological survey, including, but not limited to recreation developments and any Project enhancements that may be required by state or federal agencies. The shovel tests of cultural resource surveys (prior to construction activities and on approximately 894 ac of Project lands) may disturb soils temporarily but are not expected to have soil loss or effect shoreline erosion. Appropriate erosion control techniques would be used during Phase I and Phase II archaeological testing to limit or prevent any adverse effects.
Development and implementation of an HPMP in consultation with the SHPO will ensure that adverse effects on historic properties arising from Project operations or Project-related activities over the term of the new license would be avoided or satisfactorily resolved. The HPMP will
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include specific measures to resolve any potential adverse effects arising from license requirements.
5.7.2.4 NO ACTION
Under the No Action Alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner it is presently operated. Alabama Power would not implement its proposal or the proposed PME measures. Under the No Action alternative, Alabama Power would operate under the existing Flood Control Guideline (481 msl), leaving any cultural resources in that area exposed. No additional protection or enhancement would occur for cultural resources. Cultural resources sites would continue to be protected under existing license requirements but the provisions in the HPMP would not be implemented. Additionally, continuing minor erosion could potentially threaten cultural resources sites along the shoreline. Furthermore, those sites located along the shoreline would not receive the additional protection of being classified as “Sensitive Resource Lands” under the SMP.
5.7.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Even with the proposed measures to protect archaeological resources, some properties may still be exposed to looting and erosion. The HPMP addresses these issues but does not assure that adverse impacts to eligible or potentially eligible properties will not occur.
5.8 LAND USE AND AESTHETIC RESOURCES
5.8.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
The Martin Project is located in Coosa, Elmore, and Tallapoosa counties, on the Tallapoosa River, near Dadeville, in east central Alabama. Martin Dam is located approximately 60.6 mi upstream of the junction of the Tallapoosa and Coosa River, which forms the Alabama River. The Tallapoosa River Basin is approximately 4,675 mi2, 2,984 mi2 of which exists upstream of the Project. The headwaters of the Tallapoosa and Little Tallapoosa Rivers begin in the Georgia counties of Paulding and Carroll, respectively, and enter Alabama in Randolph County southwest of the City of Atlanta to form the main stem of the Tallapoosa River. From this point, the Tallapoosa meanders southwesterly through four Alabama Power hydroelectric projects (R. L.
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Harris Dam, Martin Dam, Yates Dam, and Thurlow Dam) before joining the Coosa River to create the Alabama River.
Land uses within the Tallapoosa River watershed can affect Project resources including water quality, recreational access, and fish and wildlife populations. While generally Alabama Power does not control land use outside the Project Boundary, an understanding of these land uses is important for identifying the nature of development around the Lake and potential effects downstream of the Martin Project. The portion of the Tallapoosa River Basin in Alabama is primarily forested (ADEM, 2002), with a very small percentage (<1.0%) classified as developed. The next highest land use percentages are for pasture/hay and row crops. These are also the three highest percentages of land use types in the portion of the basin in Georgia (Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division, 1998).
The three counties surrounding Lake Martin are predominantly rural in nature. According to the 2000 Census, the percentage of the population living in a rural area was 97% in Coosa County, 62% in Elmore County, and 75% in Tallapoosa County. All three counties are sparsely developed and have predominantly forested upland land cover, followed by planted/cultivated land. The land use percentages presented in Table E-62 are based on satellite images taken from 1999 to 2001 and were calculated based on a resolution of 30 meters. Therefore, only major land use categories are presented.
Downstream of the Martin Project is another FERC licensed Project owned by Alabama Power, the Yates and Thurlow Project (FERC No. 2407). This Project consists of two developments, the Yates Dam, located at RM 52.7 and the Thurlow Dam located at RM 49.7. Below the Martin Dam, the Tallapoosa River meanders through Elmore, Macon, Montgomery, and Tallapoosa counties. Macon County is also rural in nature (50% of the population lives in a rural area). Montgomery County is primarily urban, with only 12% of the population living in a rural area. Macon County is predominantly forested upland land cover; Montgomery County is predominantly planted/cultivated land and is also more developed (containing the capital of the state of Alabama) (Table E-62).
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TABLE E-62 PERCENTAGE OF LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE COUNTIES SURROUNDING LAKE MARTIN AND THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER DOWNSTREAM OF THE MARTIN DAM (Source: Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics Consortium, 2001, as modified by Kleinschmidt) COOSA ELMORE MACON MONTGOMERY TALLAPOOSA 1 DESCRIPTION COUNTY COUNTY COUNTY COUNTY COUNTY (%) (%) (%) (%) (%) Open Water 2.2 5.8 0.9% 2.1% 6.4 Developed, Open Space 4.1 4.7 4.4% 6.4% 4.8 Developed, Low Intensity 0.2 0.8 0.7% 4.2% 0.6 Developed, Medium 0.0 0.3 0.1% 2.0% 0.2 Intensity Developed, High Intensity 0.0 0.0 0.0% 0.6% 0.0 Barren Land 1.6 0.3 0.8% 0.3% 1.2 (Rock/Sand/Clay) Deciduous Forest 42.4 27.6 12.9% 8.0% 36.3 Evergreen Forest 33.5 16.0 17.9% 9.6% 29.2 Mixed Forest 1.1 10.2 14.9% 7.5% 1.4 Shrub/Scrub 1.6 8.2 14.1% 10.8% 2.1 Grassland/Herbaceous 8.3 2.4 1.7% 1.0% 8.7 Pasture/Hay 3.8 13.2 9.8% 19.5% 7.4 Cultivated Crops 0.1 7.0 5.1% 8.8% 0.3 Woody Wetlands 1.2 3.6 16.3% 18.3% 1.5 Emergent Herbaceous 0.0 0.0 0.3% 1.0% 0.0 Wetlands 2 1 For a description of land cover types, see http://www.mrlc.gov/nlcd_definitions.asp
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Alabama Power’s Comprehensive Recreation Plan (CRP), or Exhibit R of the current license, originally approved by the FERC in 1979, determines land uses within the Project Boundary. Alabama Power controls the entire length of the shoreline to the 491 ft msl contour; however, they do not control privately owned lands above the 491 ft msl contour.
Currently, Project lands are categorized into seven classifications:
• Prohibited Access – Areas where visitors are not allowed in order to protect them from hazardous areas and to prevent damage to operational facilities. • General Public Use – Areas reserved for the development of parks, boat ramps, concessionaires’ facilities and other recreational facilities open to the public. • Natural Undeveloped – Areas remaining in an undeveloped state to serve as buffer zones around public recreational areas, to protect environmentally sensitive shoreline
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areas, to prevent overcrowding of partially developed shoreline areas, to maintain the natural aesthetic qualities of certain highly visible areas, for nature study trails, and for primitive camping activities. • Potential Residential – Areas where lots for cottage construction can be developed by Alabama Power and made available to the public under highly restrictive lease provisions. • Quasi-Public Recreation – Lands leased to quasi-public organizations (e.g., Camp ASCCA, the U.S. Department of Defense [Maxwell Gunter AFB Recreation Area], Camp Alamisco, and Kamp Kiwanis [Girl Scouts]) as needed for public use facilities. • Existing Commercial Recreation – Existing concessionaire-operated public marinas and recreational areas that provide a wide variety of recreational services to the public on a fee basis. • 30 ft. Buffer – A control strip of land along the shoreline in certain areas of the reservoir. These buffers are located on properties once owned by Alabama Power. When sold, Alabama Power retained a 30-foot control strip to act as a buffer and prohibits certain activities (e.g., habitable structures) within this classification.
The acreage and shoreline miles of Project lands in respective Project land classifications are shown in Table E-63.
TABLE E-63 EXISTING ACREAGE AND SHORELINE MILES OF MARTIN PROJECT LANDS BY PROJECT LAND CLASSIFICATION
SHORELINE PROJECT LAND CLASSIFICATION ACREAGE MILES Prohibited Access 279.8 3.5a General Public Use 781.2 20.0 Natural Undeveloped 6,203.1 127.8 Potential Residential 329.6 16.1 Quasi-Public Recreation 261.6 6.3 Existing Commercial Recreation 62.9 3.9 30 ft. Buffer 683.8 193.3 Unclassified N/A1 510.1 TOTAL 8,602 879.5 1 There is no acreage associated with unclassified lands as this category represents the number of shoreline miles where Alabama Power has no Project lands above the 491 ft msl contour. a 1.5 miles of shoreline classified as Prohibited Access are located in the Martin tailrace and are not included in the total amount of reservoir shoreline miles (879.5 mi).
SHORELINE PERMITTING PROGRAM
Alabama Power’s Shoreline Permitting Program is separate from the CRP but integral to shoreline management. Lands adjacent to the Lake are subject to permitting by Alabama Power. Alabama Power maintains a Shoreline Permitting Program to manage all shoreline property within the Project Boundary. The program provides a proactive, ongoing plan for shoreline
E-221 development by private property owners, commercial developers, and local, state, and federal agencies who want to construct piers, boat ramps, seawalls, boathouses, boat slips, or other structures on lands within the Project Boundary. Alabama Power provides private and commercial owners with a copy of the general guidelines for recreational development and a copy of the permitting program and permit application. Alabama Power schedules on-site meetings with the property owner to review the placement of structures and specific issues that must be addressed prior to approval. The property owner gives Alabama Power a detailed drawing of the proposed structure, a copy of the deed to the property, and any other necessary permits or approvals from the appropriate state or local agency, where applicable. Commercial property owners must follow a more detailed procedure that includes review by Alabama Power’s departments of Corporate Real Estate, Hydro Services, and Environmental Affairs, as well as state and federal agencies, before final review and approval by FERC.
The USACE has given Alabama Power the authority to manage certain permitting on the Lake that ordinarily would be subject to USACE permitting. The objective of this management approach is to control all development activities and monitor the shoreline areas on a regular basis to preserve the scenic, recreational, and environmental attributes of the Lake. This management approach allows Alabama Power to quickly respond to shoreline owner permitting requests.
Upon FERC approval, Alabama Power issues a permit and monitors the construction of the project for compliance with the terms of the permit. The construction of the project must be completed within one year of issuance of the permit. After completion, Alabama Power marks the structures with metal tags depicting the Alabama Power permit number. These tags are displayed for Alabama Power’s reference during regular field inspections. Alabama Power maintains permit records and copies are sent to the USACE where applicable.
AESTHETIC RESOURCES
The area surrounding the Project is predominantly rural in nature and has characteristics similar to other rural areas in the state. The typical character of the area includes large areas of forest and agricultural land interspersed with single-family residences and small towns. Alexander City is
E-222 typical of many small Alabama towns and includes basic amenities one would expect to find in a city such as restaurants, businesses, hospitals, and manufacturing sectors.
Although development is somewhat sparse, there is typical development along the shoreline including single-family houses, condominiums, marinas, and recreation areas. The natural/undeveloped areas of the Lake provide breathtaking views and the contiguity of these lands adds to the natural characteristics of the Lake. There are many overlooks and high bluffs along the shoreline.
Perhaps the most spectacular views at the Project are of the dam and powerhouse (see Photo E-2, Photo E-3, Photo E-4, and Photo E-5). Scenic Overlook (a Project recreation site) provides outstanding views of Lake Martin in the vicinity of the dam (Photo E-6). During scheduled tours of the dam, the view downstream is equally stunning.
PHOTO E-2 AERIAL VIEW OF MARTIN DAM AND POWERHOUSE
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PHOTO E-3 DOWNSTREAM VIEW OF MARTIN DAM
PHOTO E-4 MARTIN POWERHOUSE, AS VIEWED FROM EAST SIDE OF DAM
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PHOTO E-5 DOWNSTREAM VIEW OF TAILRACE
PHOTO E-6 VIEW OF LAKE MARTIN FROM SCENIC OVERLOOK
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
The affected environment downstream of the Project Boundary includes the Tallapoosa River from the Project to the Montgomery Water Works river gauge located on the Tallapoosa River at RM 12.9.
The Yates and Thurlow Project dams impound the Tallapoosa River from River Mile 49.7 to 60, with the Yates pool backing up to the toe of Martin Dam. Thurlow Dam is the most downstream Alabama Power structure on the Tallapoosa River. Alabama Power built Yates Dam in 1928 creating a 1,980 ac reservoir that provides hydroelectric power generation and recreation. Thurlow reservoir was impounded in 1930. These dams are located at the base of the fall line of the Tallapoosa Basin. These reservoirs provide very minimal storage and simply generate power from releases at Martin Dam along with local inflows and are operated at constant levels, except during major floods. During some periods, the local inflows to these lakes are sufficient to satisfy downstream minimum flow requirements.
The reach of river below Thurlow Dam is a free flowing system that enters the alluvial plain with widening floodplains and much flatter slopes. This reach of the Tallapoosa River contains approximately 49 mi of stream and is crossed by at least three major road bridges. U.S. Highway 231 crosses the river at RM 9.8 and is a four lane highway; a county road bridge crosses the River at RM 18.5 and Alabama Highway 229 crosses at RM 39.8. Three USGS gage sites have data on this reach: the Tallassee (RM 47.98) gage, which is approximately one mile downstream of Thurlow Dam. The Milstead gage is located on the Alabama Highway 229 Bridge and the most downstream gage on the Tallapoosa River is located at the Montgomery Water Works plant at River Mile 12.9. A major pipeline crosses the River at RM 48.99 and the reach from the tailwater of Thurlow to just below the pipeline remains relatively steep.
5.8.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on land use and aesthetic resources, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports:
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• Study Report 13 – Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program (Alabama Power, 2011d) • Study Report 12a – Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis (Alabama Power, 2010b)
The final Study Reports are provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
5.8.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Alabama Power’s proposal to implement a 3 ft increase in winter pool will have a variety of effects on land use and aesthetic resources; however, these effects were not quantified during the ILP study process. Generally, a 3 ft increase in winter pool is expected to increase recreational use of the Project and shoreline property values (see Sections 5.6 and 5.9). These expected changes in recreation use and shoreline property values may have both positive and negative effects on land use and aesthetic resources. Increased recreation use may lead to increased access from private and public entities. Increased shoreline property values may lead to more development, changing the land use patterns outside the Project Boundary. A 3 ft increase in winter pool should have a generally positive effect on aesthetic resources by narrowing the “ring” around the reservoir when it is in drawdown condition.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Although there were no FERC required studies specifically designed to examine the effects of Project operations on land use and aesthetic resources downstream of the Project Boundary, Study 12(a) – Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis (Alabama Power, 2010b) does contain information on the effects of Flood Control Guideline changes associated with a 100 year design flood event into the Martin Project and the modeled inundation area from 1.5 mi below the Thurlow Dam to RM 12.9 on the Tallapoosa River. Study 12(a) indicates Alabama Power’s proposal has the potential to affect an additional 2,119 ac of land when the starting elevation at Lake Martin is increased from 481 ft msl (baseline) to 484 ft msl, including 2,041 ac of agricultural land, 30 ac of industrial land, 23 ac of commercial land, 23 ac of residential land, and 2 ac of water (Table E-64).
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TABLE E-64 APPROXIMATE TOTAL INUNDATED AREA ASSOCIATED WITH A 100 YEAR DESIGN FLOOD INTO THE MARTIN PROJECT FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RIVER MILE 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER (Source: Alabama Power, 2010b) APPROXIMATE INUNDATED AREA BY LAND USE CATEGORY (ACRES)
MARTIN RESERVOIR APPROXIMATE STARTING ELEVATION INUNDATED AREA
(FT MSL) (ACRES) ATER W ESIDENTIAL NDUSTRIAL OMMERCIAL I GRICULTURAL R C A 481 19,924 17,733 488 385 23 1,335 484 22,043 19,774 478 408 46 1,337
5.8.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.8.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The Early Spring Fill recommendation will have a variety of effects on land use and aesthetic resources; however, these effects were not quantified during the ILP study process. Generally, an Early Spring Fill is expected to increase recreational use of the Project and shoreline property values (see Sections 5.6 and 5.9). These expected changes in recreation use and shoreline property values may have both positive and negative effects on land use and aesthetic resources. Increased recreation use may lead to increased access both from private and public entities. Increased shoreline property values may lead to more development, changing the land use patterns outside the Project Boundary. An Early Spring Fill should have a generally positive effect on aesthetic resources by narrowing the “ring” around the reservoir during the months affected by the Early Spring Fill.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Although there were no FERC required studies specifically designed to examine the effects of Project operations on land use and aesthetic resources downstream of the Project Boundary, Study 12(a) does contain information on the effects of Flood Control Guideline changes associated with a 100 year design flood event into the Martin Project and the modeled inundation
E-228 area from 1.5 mi below the Thurlow Dam to RM 12.9 on the Tallapoosa River. The Early Spring Fill recommendation has the potential to affect an additional 2,576 ac of land when the starting elevation at Lake Martin is increased from 481 ft msl (baseline) to 485 ft msl (on February 15), including 2,364 ac of agricultural land, 43 ac of industrial land, 111 ac of commercial land, 56 ac of residential land, and 2 ac of water (Table E-65). Furthermore, on April 1, when Lake Martin’s elevation is currently at 489 ft msl, the Early Spring Fill recommendation has the potential to affect an additional 353 ac, including 256 ac of agricultural land, 19 ac of industrial land, 25 ac of commercial land, 16 ac of residential land, and 37 ac of water (Alabama Power, 2010b).
TABLE E-65 APPROXIMATE TOTAL INUNDATED AREA ASSOCIATED WITH A 100 YEAR DESIGN FLOOD INTO THE MARTIN PROJECT FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RIVER MILE 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER (Source: Alabama Power, 2010b) APPROXIMATE INUNDATED AREA BY LAND USE CATEGORY (ACRES)
MARTIN RESERVOIR APPROXIMATE
STARTING ELEVATION INUNDATED AREA
(FT MSL) (ACRES) ATER W ESIDENTIAL NDUSTRIAL OMMERCIAL I GRICULTURAL R C A
481 19,924 17,733 488 385 23 1,335 485 22,500 20,097 491 496 79 1,337 489 24,353 21,499 607 560 123 1,564 491 24,706 21,755 626 585 139 1,601
5.8.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation will have a variety of effects on land use and aesthetic resources; however, these effects were not quantified during the ILP study process. Generally, this recommendation is expected to increase recreational use of the Project and shoreline property values (see Section 5.6 and Section 5.9). These expected changes in recreation use and shoreline property values may have both positive and negative effects on land use and aesthetic resources. Increased recreation use may lead to increased access both from private and public entities. Increased shoreline property values may lead to more development, changing the land use patterns outside the Project Boundary. A 5 ft increase in winter pool
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should have a generally positive effect on aesthetic resources by narrowing the “ring” around the reservoir when it is in drawdown condition.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Although there were no FERC required studies specifically designed to examine the effects of Martin Dam Project operations on land use and aesthetic resources downstream of the Project Boundary, Study 12(a) does contain information on the effects of Flood Control Guideline changes associated with a 100 year design flood event into the Martin Project and the modeled inundation area from 1.5 mi below the Thurlow Dam to RM 12.9 on the Tallapoosa River. The 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation has the potential to affect an additional 3,353 ac of land when the starting elevation at Lake Martin is increased from 481 ft msl (baseline) to 486 ft msl, including 3,019 ac of agricultural land, 133 ac of industrial land, 128 ac of commercial land, 71 ac of residential land, and 2 ac of water (Table E-66). Furthermore, on October 15, when Lake Martin elevation is currently at approximately 486 ft msl, the Fall Extension recommendation has the potential to affect an additional 1,429 ac, including 1,003 ac of agricultural land, 45 ac of industrial land, 72 ac of commercial land, 45 ac of residential land, and 264 ac of water (Alabama Power, 2010b).
TABLE E-66 APPROXIMATE TOTAL INUNDATED AREA ASSOCIATED WITH A 100 YEAR DESIGN FLOOD INTO THE MARTIN PROJECT FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RIVER MILE 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER (Source: Alabama Power, 2010b) APPROXIMATE INUNDATED AREA BY LAND USE CATEGORY (ACRES)
MARTIN RESERVOIR APPROXIMATE
STARTING ELEVATION INUNDATED AREA
(FT MSL) (ACRES) ATER W ESIDENTIAL NDUSTRIAL OMMERCIAL I GRICULTURAL R C A 481 19,924 17,733 488 385 23 1,335 486 23,277 20,752 581 513 94 1,337 491 24,706 21,755 626 585 139 1,601
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5.8.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
A complete description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measure is located in Section 3.2.1. Proposed PME measures that may affect land use and aesthetic resources include the following, and effects are analyzed below:
• Conditional fall extension; • Land changes; • Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan; • Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program; • Periodic drawdown to 481 ft msl; and • Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan.
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The conditional fall extension will likely have some of the effects described above related to the Fall Extension. However, the difference between this PME measure and the Fall Extension operating recommendation means that the estimated effects (e.g., increased recreation use) described above related to the Fall Extension would not be realized in every year. Since the effects related to the Fall Extension described above are somewhat minimal to land use and aesthetic resources within the Project Boundary, no effects, or very minimal effects, are anticipated to land use and aesthetic resources within the Project Boundary.
Provisions recommended for inclusion in the Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan should generally help protect the Project shorelines by educating property owners on the best practices to develop and/or maintain their property, providing a direct positive effect to land use and aesthetic resources. Furthermore, continuing the Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program should have an indirect positive effect on aesthetics by keeping nuisance aquatic vegetation controlled.
Provisions in the Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program should have indirect positive effects on land use and aesthetic resources. The forest management activities described in the Wildlife Management Program should generally promote healthy forest, providing an indirect positive effect on aesthetics of these Project lands.
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The periodic drawdown to 481 ft msl during the winter months will have a temporary negative effect on aesthetic resources by increasing the “ring” effect at lower water levels. Land use resources may also be affected as more shoreline construction and shoreline structure maintenance will likely take place during this periodic drawdown; however, these effects will be temporary as well.
Provisions in the Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan will generally improve the aesthetics of Project recreation sites by formalizing parking at Jaybird Landing and the replacement of the boat ramp. Monitoring signage at Project recreation sites will also improve the aesthetics at these locations by replacing old signs.
Alabama Power is proposing to add, remove, or reclassify a total of 47 tracts of property either currently in the Project or adjacent to Project lands (effectively bringing in these properties into the Project Boundary). In general, the addition, removal, or reclassification of Project lands will increase the acreage and shoreline miles within the Project Boundary. Many of the reclassifications result in larger tracts of Natural/Undeveloped land by adding acreage or reclassifying shoreline property from Potential Residential to Natural/Undeveloped to be consistent with the property surrounding the reclassified tract. The removal of certain Project lands will allow consistent uses of Project property by taking those properties planned for private development (i.e., Potential Residential) out of the Project. Alabama Power will maintain a 30- Foot Control Strip on these properties which should have a positive effect on aesthetic resources by restricting habitable structures near the shoreline in these areas. The results of this process are summarized in Table E-67. A map of the property that is being changed is provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
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TABLE E-67 EXISTING, RECLASSIFIED, AND ADDITIONAL ACREAGE AND SHORELINE MILES OF MARTIN PROJECT LANDS BY PROPOSED SHORELINE CLASSIFICATION
RECLASSIFIED TOTAL EXISTING REMOVED FROM RECLASSIFIED ADDITIONAL TOTAL PROPOSED SHORELINE EXISTING SHORELINE REMOVED SHORELINE RECLASSIFIED SHORELINE RECLASSIFIED TO SHORELINE ADDITIONAL SHORELINE PROPOSED SHORELINE MILES CLASSIFICATION ACRES MILES ACRES MILES FROM ACRES MILES TO ACRES MILES ACRES MILES ACREAGE MILES SENSITIVE Project Operations1 279.8 3.5a 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 279.8 3.5a N/A Recreation2 781.2 20.0 0 0 673.0 17.8 208.9 6.0 16.9 0.3 334.0 8.5 N/A Quasi-Public Lands 261.6 6.3 24.4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 237.2 6.3 N/A Commercial 62.9 3.9 25.8 0 4.8 1.3 0 0 0 0 32.3 2.6 N/A Recreation Natural/Undeveloped 6,203.1 127.8 373.1 0 362.9 9.6 918.6 33.5 606.7 2.2 6,992.4 153.9 N/A Martin Small Game Hunting N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 160.4 3.5 367.8 0 528.2 3.5 N/A Area 30-Foot Control 683.8 193.3 0 0 0 0.1 6.5 1.9 0 0 690.2 195.1 N/A Strip3 Sensitive Resources4 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Potential Residential 329.6 16.1 75.9 0 253.7 16.1 0 0 0 0 0 0 N/A Unclassified5 N/A 510.1 N/A 2.4 N/A N/A 0 N/A N/A 0 N/A 507.6 N/A Total 8,602 879.5 499.2 2.4 1,294.4 44.9 1,294.4 44.9 991.4 2.5 9,094.1 879.5 1 These lands are identified as “Prohibited Access” in the existing Comprehensive Recreation Plan. 2 These lands are identified as “General Public Use” in the existing Comprehensive Recreation Plan. 3 These lands are identified as “30 ft. Buffer” in the existing Comprehensive Recreation Plan. 4 Alabama Power is proposing to develop the Sensitive Resources layer within 1 year of license issuance and will update this table upon FERC approval. 5 There is no acreage associated with unclassified lands as this category represents the number of shoreline miles where Alabama Power has no Project lands above the 491 ft msl contour. a 1.5 mi of shoreline classified as Project Operations are located in the Martin tailrace and are not included in the total amount of reservoir shoreline miles (879.5 mi).
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Finally, implementation of the Martin Dam Project SMP will have many and varied effects on land use and aesthetic resources within the Project Boundary. First, the implementation of shoreline management policies, including shoreline conservation, bank stabilization, dredging, channelization, water withdrawal, and causeways, should allow Alabama Power to better manage shoreline resources by providing guidance to shoreline management personnel in their decision making on proposed shoreline modifications.
Second, a revised shoreline classification system will allow Alabama Power to be consistent with classification schemes with their other FERC projects (Coosa Project [FERC No. 2146] and Warrior Project [FERC No. 2165]) while maintaining continuity from the existing Comprehensive Recreation Plan for the Martin Project. The classification system and allowable uses according to each classification is presented below.
• Project Operations: This classification includes Project lands reserved for current and potential future operational activities. This includes all Project lands used for hydroelectric generation, switchyards, transmission facilities, right-of-way areas, security lands, and other operational uses. These lands are owned by Alabama Power in fee title. The allowable uses in this classification are restricted for security purposes to Alabama Power personnel. There is no public access with the exception of special tours. There are 279.8 ac of land under the classification of Project Operations. • Recreation: This classification includes Project lands managed by Alabama Power for existing and/or potential future concentrated recreational activities. This includes land that is developed for public recreation, open space, water access, and future recreational development. These lands are typically owned by Alabama Power in fee title but may be operated under a lease agreement with Alabama Power. The allowable uses in the Recreation classification include public access and day and evening recreational use. This classification may also allow permitting of formal structures, such as a park with boat slips, beach area, etc. There are 334.0 ac of land under the classification of Recreation. • Quasi-Public Lands: These lands provide a natural, outdoor, recreational setting for the enjoyment of non-profit groups. These areas will provide an enriched outdoor experience that will contribute to the objectives of Licensee approved groups such as scouts, youth organizations, service clubs, and educational groups. Organizations interested in the use of these lands will be required to submit detailed plans for facilities they propose to construct and lease, along with details of how the proposed facilities would be maintained by that organization on a long-term basis. All development of these lands would be under the supervision of, and pre-approved by, the Licensee. There are 237.2 ac of lands within the Quasi-Public Lands classification. • Commercial Recreation: These lands contain existing concessionaire-operated public marinas and recreational areas that provide a wide variety of recreational services to the public on a fee basis. There are 32.3 ac of lands within the Commercial Recreation Lands classification. • Natural/Undeveloped: Lands included in the Natural/Undeveloped classification include Project lands to remain in an undeveloped state for specific purposes including: to protect
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environmentally sensitive areas; to maintain natural aesthetic qualities; to serve as buffer zones around public recreation areas; and to provide a means for preventing overcrowding of partially developed shoreline areas. This classification allows for public hiking trails, nature studies, primitive camping, wildlife management (excluding hunting), and normal forestry management practices. These Project lands are typically owned in fee by Alabama Power and are managed for effective protection of associated resource values. There are 6,992.4 ac of lands within the Natural/Undeveloped classification. • Martin Small Game Hunting Area: The Martin Small Game Hunting area is a sub- classification of Natural/Undeveloped lands. This area will be managed according to the Martin Wildlife Management Program and subject to state game laws. There are 528.2 ac of lands within the Martin Small Game Hunting Area. • 30-Foot Control Strip: Lands included in the 30-Foot Control Strip classification include Project lands located within a control strip of land along the shoreline in certain areas of the reservoir. These easements are located on properties once owned by Alabama Power. When sold, Alabama Power retained an easement on a 30-ft control strip and prohibits certain activities (e.g., habitable structures) within this classification. There are 690.2 ac of land within the 30-Foot Control Strip classification. • Sensitive Resources: “Sensitive Resources” is a designation that is used in conjunction with the other Project land classifications (e.g., Natural/Undeveloped, etc.). For example, a portion of an area that is classified as “Natural/Undeveloped” may also be designated as sensitive. This designation contains Project lands managed for protection and enhancement of sensitive resources. Sensitive resources include resources protected by state and/or federal law, executive order, and other natural features considered important to the area or natural environment. This includes archaeological resources, sites/structures listed on or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, wetlands, floodplains, RTE habitat protection areas, significant scenic areas, and other sensitive ecological areas. Permitted activities, if applicable, in these areas may be highly restrictive or prohibited in order to avoid potential impacts to sensitive resources. A GIS data layer that includes all known sensitive resource areas will be developed that provides information to Martin Shoreline Managers on the areas designated as “Sensitive Resources.” An environmental review by Alabama Power’s EA Department will be triggered in these areas prior to permitting. The sensitive resources designation will not be publicly identified due to federal and state laws and regulations that require such information to remain confidential or proprietary. Areas designated as Sensitive Resources are dynamic, meaning they may expand and contract as more information becomes available (e.g., RTE species habitat, areas identified under the HPMP that are surveyed, etc.).
Finally, the implementation of shoreline best management practices will contribute to the overall health of the Lake Martin shoreline. While Alabama Power is not able to control land use practices on privately owned property outside the Project Boundary, these BMPs, if implemented by the property owner, should generally have a positive effect on Project shorelines by providing guidance on property development. The commitment by Alabama Power to implement BMPs on Project Recreation and Natural/Undeveloped land will help with this effort.
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
There are no PME measures that will have an effect on land use and aesthetic resources downstream of the Project Boundary.
5.8.2.4 NO ACTION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Under the No Action alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner it is presently operated. Therefore, effects on land use and aesthetic resources within the Project Boundary would continue. This not only includes the effects of Martin operations, but the continuing benefit of Alabama Power’s shoreline permitting system. However, without an update to the classification system and associated Project land changes, Project resources will be negatively affected as these changes allow for the proposed management of Project land. For example, without the classification of the Martin Small Game Hunting Area, hunting would not be allowed on Project lands. Also, the 334 ac of Project Recreation land allows for expansion and/or addition of Project recreation sites, which would not happen without the proposed SMP.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Under the No-Action Alternative, there would still be the potential to affect areas below Thurlow Dam. The approximate total inundated area associated with a 100 year design flood changes depending on the starting elevation of Lake Martin, but there would be no additional effects since there would be no operational changes at the Project.
5.8.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
There are some unavoidable adverse impacts associated with aesthetic resources of Lake Martin during the winter months since under any operating alternative, there is some level of water drawdown, exposing land that is usually inundated. These impacts are minor and Alabama Power’s proposal would improve aesthetic values in the winter months over baseline conditions.
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5.9 SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES
5.9.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
PROJECT BOUNDARY
POPULATION AND HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS
Patterns of population growth differ substantially within the three counties encompassing the Project. In 2009, there were an estimated 10,556 people living in Coosa County, 79,233 in Elmore County, and 41,008 in Tallapoosa County (Table E-68). Between 2000 and 2009, the populations of Coosa and Elmore counties fluctuated rather dramatically. While Coosa County’s population shrank by 11%, Elmore County’s population increased by just over 20%. In contrast, the population of Tallapoosa County increased by a modest 2% over the same time period.
TABLE E-68 POPULATION BY COUNTY, 2000 AND 2009 (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010)
POPULATION PEOPLE PER LAND PERCENT SQUARE MILE 2000 2009 (SQ. MILES) CHANGE (2000) Alabama 4,447,382 4,708,708 5.9% 50,744.00 87.6 Coosa County 11,855 10,556 -11.0% 652.44 18.7 Elmore County 65,874 79,233 20.3% 621.26 106.1 Tallapoosa County 41,824 41,008 -2.0% 717.93 57.8
The most recent information available showing population density within each county is for 2000. At that time, records showed 18.7, 106.1, and 57.8 persons per square mile for Coosa, Elmore, and Tallapoosa counties, respectively. Interestingly, while Coosa and Elmore counties encompass roughly the same volume of land (652 and 621 square miles, respectively), their populations differ substantially, with Elmore County having a much greater population base than Coosa County in both 2000 and 2009.
Given the change in population between 2000 and 2009, it is probable that the population density for Coosa County has decreased since 2000, and has increased for Elmore and Tallapoosa counties.
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In 2000, there were 4,682 households in Coosa County, 22,737 households in Elmore County, and 16,656 households in Tallapoosa County (Table E-69). Each county had around 2.5 persons per household, which is approximately the national average. The median household income, in 2008, was $36,050, $53,296, and $35,293, respectively.
TABLE E-69 HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010) NUMBER OF PEOPLE PER MEDIAN HOUSEHOLDS HOUSEHOLD HOUSEHOLD (2000) (2000) INCOME (2008) Alabama 1,737,080 2.49 $42,586 Coosa County 4,682 2.52 $36,050 Elmore County 22,737 2.66 $53,296 Tallapoosa 16,656 2.44 $35,293
PROFILE OF THE LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY
As previously stated, Elmore County is the most populous with 79,233 residents in 2009, followed by Tallapoosa County (41,008 residents), and Coosa County (10,556 residents). The largest portion of Lake Martin is located within Tallapoosa County and the population centers and businesses of Elmore County are generally located further from the Lake than are those in Tallapoosa County. Over three thousand businesses are located within the Lake Martin region (Coosa, Elmore, and Tallapoosa Counties) (n=3,266l; Figure E-41). The majority of businesses are located north of Lake Martin in Tallapoosa County and within Elmore County. However, most of the businesses in Elmore County are located a considerable distance from the Lake. Although businesses anywhere in the region might have a connection to Lake-related recreation spending (e.g., boating equipment sold in department stores in Elmore County; gasoline purchased in Coosa County for a trip to the Lake), the map puts into perspective the large number of businesses in the region that likely have no connection to the Lake.
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FIGURE E-41 LOCATION OF ALL BUSINESSES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION IN 2009 (Source: Southwick, 2010)
Table E-70 shows the number of businesses in each county, by size of business. In each county, at least 65% of businesses employ fewer than five individuals. Seventy-four percent of businesses in Coosa County employ fewer than five individuals. Approximately one percent of all businesses in each of Elmore and Tallapoosa counties employ more than 100 individuals, while no businesses in Coosa County have more than 100 employees. On average, businesses in the Lake Martin region have 9.9 employees. Tallapoosa County businesses employ an average of 13.1 individuals, while Elmore and Coosa County businesses have considerably fewer employees on average (8.2 and 5.7 employees, respectively).
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TABLE E-70 NUMBER OF BUSINESSES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN 2009 (Source: Southwick, 2010)
COOSA ELMORE TALLAPOOSA TOTAL
# % # % # % # % 1 to 4 99 73.9% 1235 64.9% 806 65.6% 2140 65.5% 5 to 9 21 15.7% 357 18.8% 234 19.0% 612 18.7% 10 to 19 5 3.7% 188 9.9% 99 8.1% 292 8.9% 20 to 49 7 5.2% 75 3.9% 50 4.1% 132 4.0% 50 to 99 2 1.5% 23 1.2% 23 1.9% 48 1.5% 100 to 249 0 .0% 15 .8% 9 .7% 24 .7% 250 to 499 0 .0% 4 .2% 3 .2% 7 .2% 500 to 999 0 .0% 0 .0% 1 .1% 1 .0% 1000 to 4999 0 .0% 1 .1% 2 .2% 3 .1% Unknown 0 .0% 5 .3% 2 .2% 7 .2% TOTAL 134 100.0% 1903 100.0% 1229 100.0% 3266 100.0%
AVERAGE EMPLOYEES PER BUSINESS 5.7 8.2 13.1 9.9
In addition to having the highest average employment, Tallapoosa County has the highest average annual sales per business in the Lake Martin region at nearly $3.3 million (Table E-71). Approximately 40% of businesses in Elmore and Tallapoosa Counties have annual sales of less than $500,000. Seventy-three percent of the Lake Martin region’s businesses have annual sales totaling less than $2.5 million.
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TABLE E-71 NUMBER OF BUSINESSES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY SALES VOLUME IN 2009 (Source: Southwick, 2010)
COOSA ELMORE TALLAPOOSA TOTAL SALES # % # % # % # % Under $0.5 Million 38 28.4% 764 40.1% 504 41.0% 1306 40.0% $0.5 - 1 Million 23 17.2% 358 18.8% 230 18.7% 611 18.7% $1 - 2.5 Million 19 14.2% 276 14.5% 176 14.3% 471 14.4% $2.5 - 5 Million 8 6.0% 93 4.9% 65 5.3% 166 5.1% $5 - 10 Million 4 3.0% 37 1.9% 23 1.9% 64 2.0% $10 - 20 Million 2 1.5% 20 1.1% 16 1.3% 38 1.2% $20 - 50 Million 0 .0% 22 1.2% 8 .7% 30 .9% $50 - 100 Million 0 .0% 6 .3% 3 .2% 9 .3% $100 - 500 Million 0 .0% 3 .2% 3 .2% 5 .2% Unknown 40 29.9% 324 17.0% 201 16.4% 565 17.3% TOTAL 134 100.0% 1903 100.0% 1229 100.0% 3266 100.0%
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALES PER BUSINESS $1,427,053 $2,048,210 $3,296,087 $2,501,534
The largest sector, by sales, is retail and wholesale which account for approximately 40% of all sales in the region. The second largest sector is services (not including restaurants and lodging), with one-fourth of total sales. Across the entire region, restaurants and lodging make up only slightly more than 1% of total sales (Table E-72).
TABLE E-72 DISTRIBUTION OF SALES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY COUNTY AND BY INDUSTRY IN 2009 (Source: Southwick, 2010)
COUNTY INDUSTRY TOTAL COOSA ELMORE TALLAPOOSA Agriculture, Forestry, & Fishing 0.7% 0.5% 0.6% 0.6% Mining & Construction 7.9% 7.8% 6.6% 7.4% Manufacturing 21.8% 7.9% 17.5% 12.1% Transportation & Utilities 6.5% 4.3% 2.2% 3.6% Wholesale & Retail Trades 35.5% 47.0% 29.4% 39.9% Restaurants & Lodging 0.2% 1.2% 1.5% 1.2% Services 25.5% 23.6% 28.1% 25.3% Finance, Insurance, & Real Estate 1.7% 7.4% 14.0% 9.5% Public Administration 0.2% 0.4% 0.2% 0.3% TOTAL 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
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Only 16% of businesses in the Lake Martin region have been in business more than 25 years. Over one-third of business are less than five years old and more than one-half (52.2%) are less than 10 years old (Table E-73).
TABLE E-73 NUMBER OF BUSINESSES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY AGE OF BUSINESS IN 2009 (Source: Southwick, 2010)
COOSA ELMORE TALLAPOOSA TOTAL AGE # % # % # % # % Less than 5 years 43 32.1% 743 39.0% 401 32.6% 1187 36.3% 5 - 9 years 26 19.4% 312 16.4% 182 14.8% 520 15.9% 10 - 14 years 21 15.7% 249 13.1% 169 13.8% 439 13.4% 15 - 19 years 12 9.0% 187 9.8% 118 9.6% 317 9.7% 20 - 24 years 18 13.4% 135 7.1% 125 10.2% 278 8.5% 25+ years 14 10.4% 277 14.6% 234 19.0% 525 16.1% TOTAL 134 100.0% 1903 100.0% 1229 100.0% 3266 100.0%
While Lake Martin is a principal driver of outdoor recreation activity and associated spending in the region, the three-county region is home to a large number of non-recreation businesses across a variety of industries. Table E-74 shows the volume of sales for each county in the region, by broad industry sector. Elmore County has the largest business base with nearly $4.0 billion of sales in 2009, followed by Tallapoosa County with $2.5 billion of sales. Coosa County has the smallest business base with only $364.9 million of sales. As in most of the country, the largest volume of sales comes from the business in the services sector of the economy, followed by sales in the wholesale and retail trade.
TABLE E-74 TOTAL SALES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY INDUSTRY SECTOR IN 2009 (Source: Southwick, 2010) COUNTY TOTAL INDUSTRY SECTOR COOSA ELMORE TALLAPOOSA $ MILLIONS Agriculture, Forestry, And Fishing 2.5 21.5 14.9 38.9 Mining 4.1 3.7 8.7 16.5 Construction 24.8 307.7 155.5 488.0 Manufacturing 79.6 315.3 437.7 832.6 Transportation & Utilities 23.8 170.7 55.4 249.9 Wholesale Trade 81.5 946.9 266.7 1,295.0 Retail Trade 48.3 927.9 469.2 1,445.4 Finance, Insurance, And Real Estate 6.2 295.0 350.1 651.3 Services 94.0 986.9 740.8 1,821.7 TOTAL 364.9 3,975.6 2,498.9 6,839.4
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EXPENDITURES RELATED TO LAKE MARTIN
A particular focus of Southwick (2010) was an estimation of spending in the region that is tied directly to use of Lake Martin. Expenditure information was collected from Lake users in three main categories: 1) trip-related spending; 2) spending for recreational equipment; and, 3) real estate and related spending. The specific methods used to calculate the estimated spending in each category are explained in Southwick (2010).
Table E-75 presents the estimated expenditures per user-day for five major trip-related spending categories for visitors and permanent residents. The largest category of spending for both types of users is transportation, which includes fuel, oil and repairs for automobiles, boats or other vehicles associated with using Lake Martin for recreation. The second largest category is food and beverages, which includes food and drink purchased at restaurants, prepared foods purchased for consumption off premises, and groceries. Permanent residents were not asked to report lodging expenses since it is expected that they stay overnight in their own homes.
TABLE E-75 TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES PER PERSON, PER DAY (Source: Southwick, 2010) VISITORS PERMANENT RESIDENTS EXPENDITURE CATEGORY N MEAN N MEAN Transportation 617 $11.17 271 $14.08 Food & beverages 617 $8.76 270 $12.04 Trip-related gear and services 617 $1.18 270 $1.42 Lodging 621 $2.39 N/A Miscellaneous 617 $1.35 270 $2.52 TOTAL 617 $24.86 270 $30.06
The estimates of average spending per recreation day in Table E-75 were applied to the estimates of total recreation days (Section 5.6) to arrive at the total estimated trip-related spending estimates in Table E-76. It is estimated that recreationists spent $9.8 million on trip-related purchases associated with their recreational use of Lake Martin during the 12-month study period. Visitors and seasonal residents account for approximately two-thirds of trip-related spending.
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TABLE E-76 ANNUAL TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION, BY RESIDENCY (Source: Southwick, 2010) VISITORS/SEASONAL PERMANENT EXPENDITURE CATEGORY ALL USERS RESIDENTS RESIDENTS Transportation $2,958,537 $1,489,476 $4,448,013 Food & beverages $2,319,597 $1,273,960 $3,593,558 Trip-related gear and services $311,829 $149,763 $461,592 Lodging $632,323 N/A $632,323 Miscellaneous $356,573 $266,609 $623,182 TOTAL $6,578,859 $3,179,808 $9,758,667
Expenditures for recreation-related equipment and real estate are shown in Table E-77 and Table E-78. By far the largest category of equipment expenditures is for boats and trailers ($27.9 million), which accounts for 84% of all equipment spending. Visitors and seasonal residents dominate the spending for equipment. While they account for approximately two-thirds of trip- related spending, they are responsible for 82% of all equipment expenditures (Table E-77).
TABLE E-77 ANNUAL EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION FOR RECREATIONAL EQUIPMENT (Source: Southwick, 2010) VISITORS/SEASONAL PERMANENT EXPENDITURE CATEGORY RESIDENTS RESIDENTS ALL USERS Boats & trailers $23,507,132 $4,374,588 $27,881,720 Boating accessories & repairs $3,252,893 $1,078,535 $4,331,428 Fishing equipment $491,244 $367,617 $858,862 TOTAL $27,251,270 $5,820,740 $33,072,010
Real estate and related spending includes purchases of land and buildings in the region, plus any expenditure for construction, maintenance, or improvement of homes, docks, or boat houses. Altogether, it is estimated that $258.6 million was spent on these items tied to recreation at Lake Martin, and three-fourths of the spending comes from visitors and seasonal residents (Table E- 78). Visitors and seasonal residents account for over 71% of recreational use of Lake Martin (see Section 5.6), although non-landowner visitors likely spend little on real estate and related items. However, nearly 65% of all shoreline property owners are seasonal and approximately one-half of all recreational Lake users who own land in the region are seasonal visitors (Southwick, 2010).
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TABLE E-78 ANNUAL EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION FOR REAL ESTATE AND RELATED ITEMS (Source: Southwick, 2010) VISITORS/SEASONAL PERMANENT EXPENDITURE CATEGORY RESIDENTS RESIDENTS ALL USERS Real estate $81,215,209 $36,967,130 $118,182,338 House and building construction $52,696,166 $14,018,986 $66,715,152 Boat docks and boathouses $4,774,004 $1,246,337 $6,020,341 Other equipment $1,323,068 $245,897 $1,568,966 TOTAL $194,510,987 $64,119,829 $258,630,816
ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF LAKE MARTIN ON THE LOCAL ECONOMY
Spending in the Lake Martin region for trip-related goods and services, equipment, and real estate ripples beyond the initial expenditure to generate economic activity for other businesses in the region. The mechanism by which this occurs and the definitions of terms used in impact analysis are explained in Southwick (2010). Reported here are the total economic contributions that occur in the Lake Martin economy.
Combined expenditures7 in the Lake Martin region generated $123.0 million of direct output by businesses in the local economy (Table E-79). Direct output includes only the retail margin for goods purchased through local retailers, and commissions and costs associated with purchases of real estate. It does not include manufacturing output for any goods produced outside of the region. Output is a measure of total economic activity that is captured in the local economy. Income is a component of output and those numbers should not be summed together.
Including the multiplier effects, expenditures associated with Lake Martin resulted in:
• $155.1 million of total output; • $38.1 million of wages, salaries and proprietors’ income; and • Support for 1,277 full- and part-time jobs.
7 Combined expenditures include trip-related, equipment and real estate spending.
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TABLE E-79 CURRENT ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF COMBINED TRIP, EQUIPMENT, AND REAL ESTATE SPENDING TO THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY (Source: Southwick, 2010) ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF COMBINED TRIP, EQUIPMENT AND BASELINE REAL ESTATE EXPENDITURES DIRECT INDIRECT INDUCED TOTAL VISITORS/SEASONAL RESIDENTS Output $96,765,288 $13,785,957 $11,403,248 $121,954,493 Income $21,952,294 $4,698,358 $3,326,748 $29,977,400 Employment 733 148 120 1,000 PERMANENT RESIDENTS Output $26,263,957 $3,761,593 $3,077,743 $33,103,293 Income $5,913,172 $1,278,739 $897,849 $8,089,760 Employment 205 40 32 277
TOTAL OUTPUT $123,029,245 $17,547,550 $14,480,991 $155,057,786 INCOME $27,865,466 $5,977,097 $4,224,597 $38,067,160 EMPLOYMENT 937 188 152 1,277
In addition to the contributions to private businesses and households in the Lake Martin region, expenditures related to Lake Martin generate tax and fee revenues for local, state, and federal governments. Altogether, this spending generated $4.7 million in taxes and fees for local and state governments and $7.6 million in federal taxes (Table E-80).
TABLE E-80 CURRENT ESTIMATED STATE/LOCAL AND FEDERAL TAX REVENUES ASSOCIATED WITH COMBINED TRIP, EQUIPMENT, AND REAL ESTATE SPENDING IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION ECONOMY (Source: Southwick, 2010) STATE AND LOCAL FEDERAL TAX TOTAL TAX
TAX REVENUES REVENUES REVENUES TRIP-RELATED SPENDING Visitors/Seasonal Residents $372,664 $330,224 $702,888 Permanent Residents $171,160 $146,428 $317,588 EQUIPMENT SPENDING Visitors/Seasonal Residents $910,279 $767,525 $1,677,804 Permanent Residents $196,463 $166,454 $362,917 REAL ESTATE SPENDING Visitors/Seasonal Residents $2,390,005 $4,848,574 $7,238,579 Permanent Residents $659,154 $1,301,579 $1,960,733 ALL RECREATIONAL SPENDING $4,699,725 $7,560,784 $12,260,509
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DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
The affected environment is the tri-county area surrounding the Tallapoosa River below Thurlow Dam (Elmore, Macon, and Montgomery counties). The following summary of demographic information for these counties is provided from the U.S. Census Bureau (2010). While there were no FERC required studies related specifically to these three counties, one county (Elmore) is situated both on Lake Martin and the Tallapoosa River, so some of the information presented in Figure E-41 and Table E-70 to Table E-74 is applicable to the affected environment downstream of the Project Boundary.
POPULATION AND HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS
Patterns of population growth differ substantially within the three counties encompassing the Tallapoosa River. In 2009, there were an estimated 79,233 people living in Elmore County, 21,789 in Macon County, and 224,119 in Montgomery County (Table E-81). Between 2000 and 2009, the populations of Elmore and Macon counties fluctuated rather dramatically. While Macon County’s population shrank by almost 10%, Elmore County’s population increased by just over 20%. In contrast, the population of Montgomery County increased by a modest 0.3% over the same time period.
TABLE E-81 POPULATION BY COUNTY, 2000 AND 2009 (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010)
POPULATION PEOPLE PER LAND PERCENT SQUARE MILE 2000 2009 (SQ. MILES) CHANGE (2000) Alabama 4,447,382 4,708,708 5.9% 50,744.00 87.6 Elmore County 65,874 79,233 20.3% 621.26 106.1 Macon County 24,105 21,789 -9.6% 610.52 39.5 Montgomery 223,510 224,119 0.3% 789.76 282.9 County
The most recent information available showing population density within each county is for 2000. At that time, records showed 106.1, 39.5, and 282.9 persons per square mile for Elmore, Macon, and Montgomery counties, respectively. Interestingly, while Elmore and Macon counties encompass roughly the same volume of land (621 and 610 square miles, respectively), their populations differ substantially, with Elmore County having a much greater population base than Macon County in both 2000 and 2009.
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Given the change in population between 2000 and 2009, it is probable that the population density for Macon County has decreased since 2000, and has increased for Elmore and Montgomery counties.
In 2000, there were 22,737 households in Elmore County, 8,950 households in Macon County, and 86,068 households in Montgomery County (Table E-82). Each county had around 2.5 persons per household, which is approximately the national average. The median household income, in 2008, was $53,296, $27,314, and $43,297, respectively.
TABLE E-82 HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010) NUMBER OF PEOPLE PER MEDIAN HOUSEHOLDS HOUSEHOLD HOUSEHOLD (2000) (2000) INCOME (2008) Alabama 1,737,080 2.49 $42,586 Elmore County 22,737 2.66 $53,296 Macon County 8,950 2.44 $27,314 Montgomery County 86,068 2.46 $43,297
5.9.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
To analyze the effects of Alabama Power’s proposal including PME measures, the Early Spring Fill, and 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendations on socioeconomics, Alabama Power used data and information from the following study reports:
• Study Report 12a – Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis (Alabama Power, 2010b) • Study Report 12g and 12h – Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama (Southwick, 2010) The final Study Reports are provided on the “Martin Project Final License Application and Supporting Documents” DVD.
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5.9.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
In accordance with the FERC approved methodology, Southwick (2010) estimated changes in the Lake Martin economy associated with Alabama Power’s proposal to operate with a 3 ft increase in the winter pool.
Total estimated trip related expenditures under Alabama Power’s proposal are presented in Table E-83. This estimate is based on the estimated spending reported in Table E-76 and the estimated changes in Lake use shown earlier (Table E-52).
TABLE E-83 TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Southwick, 2010) VISITORS/SEASONAL PERMANENT SCENARIO ALL USERS RESIDENTS RESIDENTS Baseline $6,578,859 $3,179,808 $9,758,667 Alabama Power’s Proposal $7,170,957 $3,370,596 $10,541,553
Table E-84 (visitors and seasonal landowners) and Table E-85 (permanent residents) show the reported percent change in equipment and real estate expenditures under Alabama Power’s proposal. On average, 22% of visitors and seasonal landowners reported they would increase their expenditures for recreation equipment (boat, boat accessory, and fishing equipment expenditures) and 14% reported they would increase their expenditures for real estate related items (real estate, construction, dock and boathouse, and other expenditures).
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TABLE E-84 PERCENT OF VISITORS AND SEASONAL LANDOWNERS WHO EXPECTED TO DECREASE, INCREASE, OR NOT CHANGE THEIR EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Southwick, 2010) ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL BOAT EXPENDITURES % Decrease 2.8 No change 80.6 Increase 16.7 BOAT ACCESSORY EXPENDITURES Decrease 2.8 No change 66.7 Increase 30.6 FISHING EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 80.6 Increase 19.5 REAL ESTATE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 100.0 Increase 0.0 CONSTRUCTION EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 72.2 Increase 27.8 DOCK & BOAT HOUSE EXPENDITURES Decrease 5.4 No change 75.7 Increase 18.9 OTHER EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 2.8 No change 88.9 Increase 8.3
On average, 30% of permanent residents (Table E-85) reported they would increase their expenditures for recreation equipment (boat, boat accessory, and fishing equipment expenditures) and 11% reported they would increase their expenditures for real estate related items (real estate, construction, dock and boathouse, and other expenditures).
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TABLE E-85 PERCENT OF PERMANENT RESIDENTS WHO REPORTED A DECREASE, INCREASE OR NO CHANGE IN EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Southwick, 2010) ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL BOAT EXPENDITURES % Decrease 4.4 No change 73.9 Increase 21.7 BOAT ACCESSORY EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 65.2 Increase 34.8 FISHING EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 65.2 Increase 34.8 REAL ESTATE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 95.7 Increase 4.4 CONSTRUCTION EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 82.6 Increase 17.4 DOCK & BOAT HOUSE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 82.6 Increase 17.4 OTHER EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 95.7 Increase 4.4
Southwick (2010) indicated it was not possible to generate reliable estimates of how equipment and real estate spending might change under Alabama Power’s proposal. Therefore, an analysis of the economic contributions to the local economy from equipment and real estate spending under Alabama Power’s proposal was not completed.
Estimated spending under Alabama Power’s proposal is expected to increase as a result of the expected increase in number of recreation visits to Lake Martin. Table E-86 and Table E-87 present the economic contributions to the Lake Martin economy associated only with trip-related
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spending under baseline conditions and under Alabama Power’s proposal, respectively. These numbers represent the economic contributions from all trip-related spending under Alabama Power’s proposal and not only the increase over current spending. Alabama Power’s proposal would be expected to increase the economic effects of trip related spending, resulting in an increase of approximately $725,500 in total output, $175,000 in income and generate an additional 8 jobs.
TABLE E-86 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF CURRENT TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION ON THE LOCAL ECONOMY (Source: Southwick, 2010) ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES BASELINE DIRECT INDIRECT INDUCED TOTAL VISITORS/SEASONAL RESIDENTS Output $5,035,716 $567,527 $566,437 $6,169,680 Income $1,148,708 $185,915 $165,663 $1,500,286 Employment 60.4 5.7 5.9 72.0 PERMANENT RESIDENTS Output $2,344,298 $241,231 $252,032 $2,837,561 Income $516,387 $77,267 $73,704 $667,358 Employment 28.0 2.3 2.6 32.9 TOTAL OUTPUT $7,380,014 $808,758 $818,469 $9,007,241 INCOME $1,665,095 $263,182 $239,367 $2,167,644 EMPLOYMENT 88 8 9 105
TABLE E-87 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF ALL TRIP-RELATED SPENDING IN THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Southwick, 2010) ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL DIRECT INDIRECT INDUCED TOTAL VISITORS/SEASONAL RESIDENTS Output $5,488,939 $618,606 $617,417 $6,724,962 Income $1,252,094 $202,648 $180,573 $1,635,315 Employment 65.8 6.2 6.5 78.5 PERMANENT RESIDENTS Output $2,484,948 $255,704 $267,153 $3,007,805 Income $547,369 $81,903 $78,126 $707,398 Employment 29.6 2.5 2.8 34.9 TOTAL OUTPUT $7,973,887 $874,310 $884,570 $9,732,767 INCOME $1,799,463 $284,551 $258,699 $2,342,713 EMPLOYMENT 95.4 8.7 9.3 113.4
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SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES
Southwick (2010) reported the current market values of shoreline properties and how much property value would change (increase or decrease) under Alabama Power’s proposal (Table E- 88). The results were expanded to all developed shoreline properties to estimate the total Lake- wide change in property values under Alabama Power’s proposal. Privately owned property (including improved and unimproved parcels) on the Lake Martin shoreline had a total market value of $2.87 billion (Table E-89). Based on the expected changes in property value under Alabama Power’s proposal, total property value would be approximately $3.15 billion, or an increase of $280 million over current reported property values.
TABLE E-88 PROJECTED CHANGES IN SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Southwick, 2010) % CHANGE ALL LAKE MANAGEMENT SCENARIO PERMANENT SEASONAL / PROPERTY RESIDENTS OCCASIONAL OWNERS Alabama Power’s Proposal 11.0% 8.7% 9.8%
TABLE E-89 TOTAL ESTIMATED SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Southwick, 2010)
TOTAL PROPERTY LAKE MANAGEMENT SCENARIO VALUE ($ BILLION) Baseline $2.87 Alabama Power’s Proposal $3.15
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Although there were no FERC required studies specifically designed to examine the effects of Project operations on socioeconomic resources downstream of the Project Boundary, Study 12(a) – Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis (Alabama Power, 201b) does contain information on the effects of Flood Control Guideline changes on structures within the inundation area under Alabama Power’s proposal. At a starting Lake Martin elevation of 481 ft msl (baseline), there is the potential to affect a total of 18 structures from 1.5 mi below Thurlow
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Dam to RM 12.9 on the Tallapoosa River. At a starting elevation of 484 ft msl, there is the potential to affect a total of 41 structures in this area (Table E-90).
TABLE E-90 NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY EFFECTED STRUCTURES FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RM 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER UNDER ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL (Source: Alabama Power, 2010b) MODEL SCENARIO EFFECTED EFFECTED STRUCTURES BY LAND USE (FT ABOVE MSL) STRUCTURES CATEGORY INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL 481 (Baseline) 18 3 11 4 484 (3 ft increase) 41 3 21 17
5.9.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
5.9.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Southwick Associates (2010) estimated changes in the Lake Martin economy associated with the Early Spring Fill operating recommendation.
Total estimated trip related expenditures under the Early Spring Fill recommendation are presented in Table E-91. This estimate is based on the estimated spending reported in Table E-76 and the estimated changes in Lake use shown earlier (Table E-54).
TABLE E-91 TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) VISITORS/SEASONAL PERMANENT SCENARIO ALL USERS RESIDENTS RESIDENTS Baseline $6,578,859 $3,179,808 $9,758,667 Early Spring Fill Recommendation $7,105,168 $3,338,798 $10,443,966
Table E-92 (visitors and seasonal landowners) and Table E-93 (permanent residents) show the percent change in equipment and real estate expenditures under the Early Spring Fill recommendation. On average, 23% of visitors and seasonal landowners reported they would increase their expenditures for recreation equipment (boat, boat accessory, and fishing equipment
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TABLE E-92 PERCENT OF VISITORS AND SEASONAL LANDOWNERS WHO EXPECTED TO DECREASE, INCREASE, OR NOT CHANGE THEIR EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION BOAT EXPENDITURES % Decrease 0.0 No change 80.8 Increase 19.2 BOAT ACCESSORY EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 69.2 Increase 30.8 FISHING EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 80.8 Increase 19.2 REAL ESTATE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 96.2 Increase 3.9 CONSTRUCTION EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 73.1 Increase 26.9 DOCK & BOAT HOUSE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 76.9 Increase 23.1 OTHER EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 88.5 Increase 11.5
On average, 33% of permanent residents reported they would increase their expenditures for recreation equipment (boat, boat accessory, and fishing equipment expenditures) and 8% reported they would increase their expenditures for real estate related items (real estate, construction, dock and boathouse, and other expenditures).
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TABLE E-93 PERCENT OF PERMANENT RESIDENTS WHO REPORTED A DECREASE, INCREASE OR NO CHANGE IN EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION BOAT EXPENDITURES % Decrease 0.0 No change 73.3 Increase 26.7 BOAT ACCESSORY EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 60.0 Increase 40.0 FISHING EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 66.7 Increase 33.3 REAL ESTATE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 100.0 Increase 0.0 CONSTRUCTION EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 93.3 Increase 6.7 DOCK & BOAT HOUSE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 86.7 Increase 13.3 OTHER EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 No change 86.7 Increase 13.3
Southwick (2010) indicated it was not possible to generate reliable estimates of how equipment and real estate spending might change under the Early Spring Fill recommendation. Therefore, an analysis of the economic contributions to the local economy from equipment and real estate spending under the Early Spring Fill recommendation was not completed.
Estimated spending under the Early Spring Fill recommendation is expected to increase as a result of the expected increase in number of recreation visits to Lake Martin. Table E-94 presents the economic contributions to the Lake Martin economy associated only with trip-related
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spending under the Early Spring Fill recommendation. These numbers represent the economic contributions from all trip-related spending under the Early Spring Fill recommendation and not only the increase over current spending. When compared to baseline conditions (Table E-86), the Early Spring Fill recommendation would be expected to increase the economic effects of trip related spending, resulting in an increase of approximately $635,000 in total output, $153,000 in income, and generate an additional 7 jobs.
TABLE E-94 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF ALL TRIP-RELATED SPENDING IN THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF TRIP-RELATED EARLY SPRING FILL EXPENDITURES RECOMMENDATION DIRECT INDIRECT INDUCED TOTAL VISITORS/SEASONAL RESIDENTS Output $5,438,592 $612,932 $611,754 $6,663,278 Income $1,240,609 $200,789 $178,916 $1,620,314 Employment 65.2 6.1 6.4 77.7 PERMANENT RESIDENTS Output $2,461,503 $253,292 $264,632 $2,979,427 Income $542,204 $81,130 $77,389 $700,723 Employment 29.4 2.5 2.8 34.7 TOTAL OUTPUT $7,900,095 $866,224 $876,386 $9,642,705 INCOME $1,782,813 $281,919 $256,305 $2,321,037 EMPLOYMENT 94.6 8.6 9.2 112.4
SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES
Southwick (2010) reported the current market values of shoreline properties and how much property value would change (increase or decrease) under the Early Spring Fill recommendation (Table E-95). The results were expanded to all developed shoreline properties to estimate the total Lake-wide change in property values under the Early Spring Fill recommendation. Privately owned property (including improved and unimproved parcels) on the Lake Martin shoreline had a total market value of $2.87 billion (Table E-96). Based on the expected changes in property value under the Early Spring Fill recommendation, total property value would be approximately $3.17 billion, or an increase of $300 million over current reported property values.
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TABLE E-95 PROJECTED CHANGES IN SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) % CHANGE LAKE MANAGEMENT SCENARIO PERMANENT SEASONAL / ALL PROPERTY RESIDENTS OCCASIONAL OWNERS Early Spring Fill Recommendation 0.9% 16.3% 10.4%
TABLE E-96 TOTAL ESTIMATED SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010)
TOTAL PROPERTY LAKE MANAGEMENT SCENARIO VALUE ($ BILLION) Baseline $2.87 Early Spring Fill Recommendation $3.17
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Although there were no FERC required studies specifically designed to examine the effects of Project operations on socioeconomic resources downstream of the Project Boundary, Study Report12 (a) (Alabama Power, 2010b) does contain information on the effects of Flood Control Guideline changes on structures within the inundation area under the Early Spring Fill recommendation (Table E-97). Currently on February 15, Lake Martin would typically be at 481 ft msl. Under the Early Spring Fill recommendation, Lake Martin would be at approximately 485 ft msl, resulting in the potential to effect 29 additional structures. In addition, on April 1, Lake Martin would typically be at 488 ft msl. Under the Early Spring Fill recommendation, Lake Martin would be at approximately 491 ft msl, resulting in the potential to effect 12 additional structures.
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TABLE E-97 NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY EFFECTED STRUCTURES FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RM 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER UNDER THE EARLY SPRING FILL RECOMMENDATION (Source: Alabama Power, 2010b) EFFECTED STRUCTURES BY LAND USE ELEVATION EFFECTED CATEGORY (FT ABOVE MSL) STRUCTURES INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL 481 18 3 11 4 485 47 4 22 21 488 63 5 25 33 491 75 5 25 45
5.9.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Southwick (2010) estimated changes in the Lake Martin economy associated with a 5 ft increase in winter pool and a Fall Extension. However, they did not provide estimates for combinations of the discrete alternatives included in the study. Therefore, estimates of a combination of a 5 ft increase in winter pool and a Fall Extension are reported separately. It is expected that the true estimated effect of this recommendation falls somewhere between the results reported below for each discrete alternative.
Total estimated trip related expenditures under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation are presented in Table E-98. This estimate is based on the estimated spending reported in Table E-76 and the estimated changes in Lake use shown in Table E-57.
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TABLE E-98 TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN THE LAKE MARTIN REGION UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) VISITORS/SEASONAL PERMANENT SCENARIO ALL USERS RESIDENTS RESIDENTS Baseline $6,578,859 $3,179,808 $9,758,667 5 Ft Increase in Winter Pool $7,302,534 $3,434,192 $10,736,726 Fall Extension $7,434,111 $3,338,798 $10,772,909
Table E-99 (visitors and seasonal landowners) and Table E-100 (permanent residents) show the percent change in equipment and real estate expenditures under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation. On average, 33% of visitors and seasonal landowners reported they would increase their expenditures for recreation equipment (boat, boat accessory, and fishing equipment expenditures) and 23% reported they would increase their expenditures for real estate related items (real estate, construction, dock and boathouse, and other expenditures).
TABLE E-99 PERCENT OF VISITORS AND SEASONAL LANDOWNERS WHO EXPECTED TO DECREASE, INCREASE, OR NOT CHANGE THEIR EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) 5 FT INCREASE
FALL EXTENSION IN WINTER POOL BOAT EXPENDITURES % % Decrease 3.1 0.0 No change 71.9 54.6 Increase 25.0 45.5 BOAT ACCESSORY EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 61.3 66.7 Increase 38.7 33.3 FISHING EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 75.0 66.7 Increase 25.0 33.3 REAL ESTATE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 90.6 100.0 Increase 9.4 0.0 CONSTRUCTION EXPENDITURES
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5 FT INCREASE
FALL EXTENSION IN WINTER POOL Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 59.4 63.6 Increase 40.6 36.4 DOCK & BOAT HOUSE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 68.8 57.6 Increase 31.3 42.4 OTHER EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 87.5 84.9 Increase 12.5 15.2
On average, 24% of permanent residents reported they would increase their expenditures for recreation equipment (boat, boat accessory, and fishing equipment expenditures) and 11% reported they would increase their expenditures for real estate related items (real estate, construction, dock and boathouse, and other expenditures).
TABLE E-100 PERCENT OF PERMANENT RESIDENTS WHO REPORTED A DECREASE, INCREASE OR NO CHANGE IN EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) 5 FT INCREASE
FALL EXTENSION IN WINTER POOL BOAT EXPENDITURES % % Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 85.7 70.0 Increase 14.3 30.0 BOAT ACCESSORY EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 78.6 73.7 Increase 21.4 26.3 FISHING EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 78.6 70.0 Increase 21.4 30.0 REAL ESTATE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 100.0 90.0 Increase 0.0 10.0 CONSTRUCTION EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 92.9 85.0
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5 FT INCREASE
FALL EXTENSION IN WINTER POOL Increase 7.1 15.0 DOCK & BOAT HOUSE EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 78.6 80.0 Increase 21.4 20.0 OTHER EQUIPMENT EXPENDITURES Decrease 0.0 0.0 No change 92.9 90.0 Increase 7.1 10.0
Southwick (2010) indicated it was not possible to generate reliable estimates of how equipment and real estate spending might change under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation. Therefore, an analysis of the economic contributions to the local economy from equipment and real estate spending under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation was not completed.
Estimated spending under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension is expected to increase as a result of the expected increase in number of recreation visits to Lake Martin. Table E-101 and Table E-102 present the economic contributions to the Lake Martin economy associated only with trip-related spending under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation. These numbers represent the economic contributions from all trip- related spending under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation and not only the increase over current spending. When compared to baseline conditions (Table E-86), a 5 ft increase in winter pool level would be expected to increase the economic effects of trip related spending, resulting in an increase of approximately $906,000 in total output, $218,000 in income, and generate an additional 10 jobs. When compared to baseline conditions (Table E-86), a Fall Extension would be expected to increase the economic effects of trip related spending, resulting in an increase of approximately $944,000 in total output, $228,000 in income, and generate an additional 11 jobs.
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TABLE E-101 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF ALL TRIP-RELATED SPENDING IN THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY WITH A FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL
5 FT INCREASE ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES IN WINTER POOL DIRECT INDIRECT INDUCED TOTAL VISITORS/SEASONAL RESIDENTS Output $5,589,654 $629,957 $628,746 $6,848,357 Income $1,275,068 $206,366 $183,886 $1,665,320 Employment 67.0 6.3 6.6 79.9 PERMANENT RESIDENTS Output $2,531,839 $260,529 $272,194 $3,064,562 Income $557,698 $83,448 $79,600 $720,746 Employment 30.2 2.5 2.8 35.5 TOTAL OUTPUT $8,121,493 $890,486 $900,940 $9,912,919 INCOME $1,832,766 $289,814 $263,486 $2,386,066 EMPLOYMENT 97.2 8.8 9.4 115.4
TABLE E-102 ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF ALL TRIP-RELATED SPENDING IN THE LOCAL LAKE MARTIN ECONOMY WITH A FALL EXTENSION (Source: Southwick, 2010) ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF TRIP-RELATED EXPENDITURES FALL EXTENSION DIRECT INDIRECT INDUCED TOTAL VISITORS/SEASONAL RESIDENTS Output $5,690,368 $641,307 $640,075 $6,971,750 Income $1,298,042 $210,085 $187,199 $1,695,326 Employment 68.2 6.4 6.7 81.3 PERMANENT RESIDENTS Output $2,461,503 $253,292 $264,632 $2,979,427 Income $542,204 $81,130 $77,389 $700,723 Employment 29.4 2.5 2.8 34.7 TOTAL OUTPUT $8,151,871 $894,599 $904,707 $9,951,177 INCOME $1,840,246 $291,215 $264,588 $2,396,049 EMPLOYMENT 97.6 8.9 9.5 116.0
SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES
Southwick (2010) reported the current market values of shoreline properties, and how property value would change (increase or decrease) under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation (Table E-103). Both of these changes may result in an increase in property values. The results were expanded to all developed shoreline properties to estimate the total Lake-wide change in property values under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation. Privately owned property (including improved and unimproved
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parcels) on the Lake Martin shoreline had a total market value of $2.87 billion (Table E-104). Based on the expected changes in property value under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation, total property value would range between $3.17 billion and $3.23 billion, or an increase of up to $360 million over current reported property values.
TABLE E-103 PROJECTED CHANGES IN SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) % CHANGE LAKE MANAGEMENT SCENARIOS PERMANENT SEASONAL / ALL PROPERTY RESIDENTS OCCASIONAL OWNERS Fall Extension 15.4% 8.9% 10.7% 5 ft Increase in Winter Pool 9.2% 15.9% 12.6%
TABLE E-104 TOTAL ESTIMATED SHORELINE PROPERTY VALUES UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010)
TOTAL PROPERTY LAKE MANAGEMENT SCENARIOS VALUE ($ BILLION) Baseline $2.87 Fall Extension $3.17 5 ft Increase in Winter Pool $3.23
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Although there were no FERC required studies specifically designed to examine the effects of Project operations on socioeconomic resources downstream of the Project Boundary, Study Report 12(a) (Alabama Power, 2010b) does contain information on the effects of Flood Control Guideline changes on structures within the inundation area under the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension recommendation (Table E-105). At the baseline Lake Martin elevation of 481 ft msl, there is the potential to affect a total of 18 structures from 1.5 mi below Thurlow Dam to RM 12.9 on the Tallapoosa River. At a starting elevation of 486 ft msl, there is the potential to affect a total of 50 structures in this area. Currently on October 15, Lake Martin would typically be at 488 ft msl. Under the Fall Extension recommendation, Lake Martin would be at approximately 491 ft msl, resulting in the potential to effect 12 additional structures.
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TABLE E-105 NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY EFFECTED STRUCTURES FROM 1.5 MILES BELOW THURLOW DAM TO RM 12.9 ON THE TALLAPOOSA RIVER UNDER THE FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION RECOMMENDATION (Source: Southwick, 2010) MODEL SCENARIO EFFECTED EFFECTED STRUCTURES BY LAND USE CATEGORY (FT ABOVE MSL) STRUCTURES INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL 481 18 3 11 4 486 50 4 24 22 488 63 5 25 33 491 75 5 25 45
5.9.2.3 PROPOSED PME MEASURES
A complete description of Alabama Power’s proposed PME measure is located in Section 3.1. Proposed PME measures that may affect socioeconomic resources include the following, and effects are analyzed below:
• Conditional fall extension; • Land changes; • Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan; • Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program; • Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Program; • Periodic drawdown to 481 ft msl; and • Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan.
PROJECT BOUNDARY
The conditional fall extension will likely have some of the effects described above associated with the Fall Extension. However, the difference between this conditional fall extension and the Fall Extension operating recommendation is that all of the positive effects on socioeconomic resources described above would not be realized in every year. In the years where the conditions to implement the conditional fall extension are met, there would likely be many of the positive economic benefits associated with increased recreational use. However, it is unlikely the full benefit to property values would be realized under the conditional fall extension.
The proposed land changes include additional Project land to be classified as Recreation and Natural/Undeveloped that should provide for more recreation opportunities at the Project and also provide an indirect positive effect on the Lake Martin economy.
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The proposed Martin Dam Project SMP should generally help protect the Project shorelines. Many of Alabama Power’s recommended BMPs incorporated in the Martin Dam Project SMP should maintain the integrity of a natural shoreline and help maintain the good water quality in Lake Martin. These effects should generally be positive by making shoreline property more appealing and environmentally friendly and also provide an indirect positive effect on shoreline property values.
Provisions recommended for inclusion in the Martin Dam Project Public Education and Outreach Program Plan should generally help protect Project shorelines by educating property owners on the best practices to develop and/or maintain their property, which would provide an indirect positive effect on shoreline property values. Furthermore, continuing the Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program should have an indirect positive effect on shoreline property values by keeping nuisance aquatic vegetation controlled and managing vectors when they become problematic.
The Martin Small Game Hunting Area, as described in the Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management Plan, has the potential to attract hunters to the area and provide an indirect positive effect on the local economy. Finally, the Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan will provide some short term benefits for the local economy in the way of construction dollars for improving the various recreation sites. In the long term, the improvements and expansion of public access to the reservoir should help the area absorb the increased recreation use associated with Alabama Power’s proposed operating alternative. This will help prevent crowding of key recreation sites that may occur due to heavier recreation use.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
There are no PME measures that will have an effect on socioeconomic resources downstream of the Project Boundary.
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5.9.2.4 NO ACTION
PROJECT BOUNDARY
Under the No Action alternative, Alabama Power would continue to operate the Project in the manner it is presently operated. The Project would not likely experience the socioeconomic and recreational benefits that would likely occur with Alabama Power’s proposal. Also, the PME measures described above, and their associated benefits, would not occur. However, the information provided above does show that the Project Area already receives significant socioeconomic benefits from the Project.
DOWNSTREAM OF PROJECT BOUNDARY
Under the No Action Alternative, there would still be the potential to affect areas below Thurlow Dam. The number of potentially affected structures changes depending on the starting elevation of Lake Martin, but there would be no additional effects over baseline since there would be no changes in Martin operations.
5.9.2.5 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
No unavoidable adverse impacts were identified for socioeconomic resources.
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6.0 DEVELOPMENTAL ANALYSIS
6.1 POWER AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS
The Project, as proposed by Alabama Power, would have an installed capacity of 182.5 MW and an expected average annual generation of approximately 377,161 MWh, an increase of 1,547 MWh over baseline. No new development has been proposed at the Project. Alabama Power proposes to change the Flood Control Guideline elevation by implementing a 3 ft increase in the winter pool (484 ft msl) during the winter months and change the Operating Guideline and Drought Contingency Curve proportionately during the same timeframe. Alabama Power also proposes to implement PME measures, as described in Section 3.2.1.
Alabama Power also analyzed two other operating recommendations in the FLA: 1) Early Spring Fill, and 2) 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension. The expected annual generation of these two operating recommendations is 374,234 MWh and 378,298 MWh, respectively. The 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendation would produce more energy than Alabama Power’s proposal, the No Action alternative, and the Early Spring Fill operating recommendation.
6.2 COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES
A summary of the overall economics of Alabama Power’s proposal, the No Action alternative, the Early Spring Fill, and a 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension are described below in Table E-106. All estimates are levelized on 2013 dollars, based on a 30 year period of analysis, and include annualized values for the cost of capital, taxes, depreciation, and O&M costs. The annual cost estimates associated with Alabama Power’s proposal may not include all final costs. Should cost estimates change, Alabama Power will supplement this FLA to include these final costs.
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TABLE E-106 SUMMARY OF ANNUAL BENEFITS AND COSTS (BASED ON 30 YEAR COST ANALYSIS, LEVELIZED)
5 FT INCREASE NO ACTION ALABAMA EARLY IN WINTER ALTERNATIVE POWER’S SPRING POOL AND (BASELINE) PROPOSAL FILL FALL EXTENSION Annual Generation (MWh) 375,614 377,161 374,235 378,298 Average Annual Project Cost ($)* $10.9mm $11.5mm $12.1mm $11.9mm Average Annual Project Cost ($/MWh) $29.0/MWh $30.5/MWh $32.4/MWh $31.5/MWh Annual Replacement Cost ($) $36.1 mm $36.2 mm $35.9 mm $36.3 mm Annual Replacement Cost ($/MWh) $96/MWh $96/MWh $96/MWh $96/MWh Estimated Annual Project Value (Avoided $25.1 mm $24.7 mm $23.8mm $24.4mm Cost in $) Estimated Annual Project Value (Avoided $67.0/MWh $65.5/MWh $63.6/MWh $64.5/MWh Cost in $/MWh)
6.2.1 ALABAMA POWER’S PROPOSAL
Under Alabama Power’s proposal the Project would generate an average of 377,100 MWh of electricity annually. Subsequently, it is estimated that the average annual Project cost of producing this power would be $11.9 million including debt service (about $30.5/MWh). This estimate includes annualized values for the cost of capital, taxes, depreciation, and operation and maintenance expenses. The estimated annual Project value is $24.7 million or $65.5 MWh.
6.2.2 OTHER OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
6.2.2.1 EARLY SPRING FILL
For the Early Spring Fill operating recommendation, total project costs would be approximately $12.1 million per year or $32.4 MWh. These estimates are levelized on 2013 dollars, based on a 30 year period of analysis, and include annualized values for the cost of capital, taxes, depreciation, and operation and maintenance expense. The estimated annual Project value for the Early Spring Fill is $23.8 million or $63.6 MWh, a slight decrease in value compared to Alabama Power’s proposal or the No Action alternative.
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6.2.2.2 FIVE FOOT INCREASE IN WINTER POOL AND FALL EXTENSION
With the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension operating recommendation, total Project costs would be approximately $11.9 million per year. These estimates are levelized on 2013 dollars, based on a 30 year period of analysis, and include annualized values for the cost of capital, taxes, depreciation, and operation and maintenance expense. The estimated annual Project value for the 5 ft increase in winter pool and Fall Extension is $24.4 million or $64.5 MWh, a slight increase in value over the Early Spring Fill recommendation but slightly lower than Alabama Power’s proposal or the No Action alternative.
6.2.3 NO ACTION
Alabama Power estimates the total annual energy production of the Project under the No Action alternative to be 375,614 MWh, and the average annual Project cost is $10.9 million or $29.0/MWh. The estimated annual Project value is $25 million or $67/MWh.
6.2.4 COST OF ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURES
Alabama Power proposes various PME measures to ensure that proposed operational changes and continued operation of the Project does not have adverse effects on Project resources. The costs of these measures need to be factored into the overall economic feasibility of the Project. A detailed description of the proposed PME measures is located in Section 3.2.1. Table E-107 provides the cost of the PME measures proposed for the Project.
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TABLE E-107 SUMMARY OF THE ESTIMATED CAPITAL AND ANNUAL O&M COSTS FOR THE MARTIN DAM PROJECT
CAPITAL O&M ENHANCEMENT/MITIGATION MEASURES COST ($) ($) Conditional Fall Extension $0 $5,000 annually Land Changes $0 $0 Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management $47,015 $176,219 annually Program Martin Dam Project Public Education and $45,000 $6,500 annually Outreach Program Plan Martin Dam Project Nuisance Aquatic $0 $9,265 annually Vegetation and Vector Control Management Project Martin Dam Project Aquatic Vegetation $0 $10,000 annually, for 6 years Monitoring Martin Dam Project Wildlife Management $145,000 $78,500 annually Program American Eel Study $0 $35,833 annually, for 6 years Martin Dam Project Water Quality Monitoring $0 $70,000 annually Periodic Drawdown to 481 msl $0 $0 Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan $800,000 $56,000 annually Martin Dam Project Historic Properties $0 $70,000 annually, for 5 years Management Plan Off License Funding Agreement for Fishery $ $50,000 annually, for 3 years Enhancements
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7.0 REFERENCES
SECTION 2.0
Alabama Power Company. 2005a. Revised Exhibit M. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2005b. Upgraded Turbine and Generator Nameplates. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. CH2MHILL. 2005. Tallapoosa River Basin Management Plan. Alabama Clean Water Partnership, Montgomery, AL. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division. 1998. Tallapoosa River Basin Management Plan 1998. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division, Atlanta, GA. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. 1994. Environmental Assessment: Amendment of Recreation Plan. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Washington, D.C. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. 2005. Environmental Assessment: Application for Non-Project Use of Project Lands and Waters. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Washington, D.C. Finlay Engineering, Inc. 2005. Potential Failure Modes Analysis Martin Hydroelectric Project. Finlay Engineering, Inc.
SECTION 3
Alabama Power Company. 2011. Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation and Vector Control Management Program. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL.
SECTION 4.1
Alabama Power Company. 2010a. Study Report 1 - Tallapoosa River Fish Passage Information Document. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010b. Study Report 12(a)- Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company, 2010c. Study Report 11-Water Quantity, Water Use, and Water Withdrawal. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company, 2010d. Study Report 12(b) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Sedimentation Rates and Aquatic Vegetation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010e. Study Report 9- Location of Permitted Discharges on Lake Martin. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2010f. Study Report 12(e) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Federally Threatened and Endangered Species at the Martin Project and in the Tallapoosa River Below Thurlow Dam. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power. 2010g. Study Report 12(f) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Downstream Recreation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010h. Study Report 10 - Erosion and Sedimentation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010i. Study Report 12(d) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Lake and Downstream Erosion. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL.
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Alabama Power Company 2010j. Study Report 5 - Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species Surveys. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010k. Study Report 8- Baseline Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2010l. Study Report 3 - Evaluation of Minimum Flows Downstream of Martin Dam Report. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2011a. Study Report 12(c) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2011b. Study Report 4 - Fish Entrainment and Turbine Mortality Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011c. Study Report 7 - Wildlife Management Program. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011d. Study Report 13 - Martin Dam Project Shoreline Management Program. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011e. Study Report 14 - Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011f. Study Report 15 - Martin Dam Project Historic Properties Management Plan (Draft). Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Bailey, M.A. 2009. Assessment of Influence of Shoreline Modifications on Aquatic and Semi- Aquatic Species. Purcell, T.A., D.R. DeVries, and R.A. Wright. 2011. The Relationship Between Shoreline Development and Resident Fish Communities in Lake Martin, AL. Auburn University. Sammons, S.M. 2010. Adult Striped Bass Habitat Use and the Effects of Catch and Release Angling During the Summer in Lake Martin, Alabama. Auburn University. Southwick Associates. 2011. Study Report 12(g) - Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama. Fernandina Beach, FL.
SECTION 4.2
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. 2008, Scoping of Environmental Issues for Relicensing the Martin Dam Project. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Washington D.C.
SECTION 4.3
Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). 2011. General NPDES Permit Number AQLG360014 Alabama Power Company-Martin Hydroelectric Plant – 2287 Martin Dam Drive – Tallassee, Alabama 36078.
SECTION 5.1
Alabama Power Company. 2010b. Study Report 12(a) - Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010d. Study Report 12(b) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Sedimentation and Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010h. Study Report 10 - Erosion and Sedimentation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL.
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Alabama Power Company. 2010i. Study Report 12(d) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Lake and Downstream Erosion. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010k. Study Report 8 - Baseline Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011a. Study Report 12(c) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Beg, M. 1988. Mineral Resources of Tallapoosa County, Alabama. Special Map 204. Geological Survey of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL. Cooke, D.G.; E.B. Welch; S.A. Peterson; S.A. Nichols. 2005. Restoration and Management of Lakes and Reservoirs – Third Edition. CRC Press – Taylor and Francis Group. Langeland, K.A. 1996. Hydrilla verticillata (L.F.) Royle (Hydrocharitaceae), "The Perfect Aquatic Weed". Castanea 61:293-304. Rosgen, D. 1996. Applied River Morphology. Wildland Hydrology: Pagosa Springs, CO. 390 pp. Sapp, D. and J. Emplainment. 1975. Physiographic Regions of Alabama. Map 168. Geological Survey of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL. Simons, D. B., J. W. Andrew, R. M. Li, and M. A. Alawady. 1979. Connecticut River Streambank Erosion Study: Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont. DACW 33- 78-C-0297. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, D.C. Southwick Associates. 2011. Study Report 12(g) - Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama. Fernandina Beach, FL.
SECTION 5.2
Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). 2010. 2010 Alabama Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report. [Online] URL: http://adem.alabama.gov/programs/water/waterforms/2010AL-IWQMAR.pdf. Accessed September 17, 2010. Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). 2011. General NPDES Permit Number AQLG360014 Alabama Power Company-Martin Hydroelectric Plant – 2287 Martin Dam Drive – Tallassee, Alabama 36078. Alabama Power Company. 2010b. Study Report 12(a) - Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010c. Study Report 11 -Water Quantity, Water Use, and Water Withdrawals. Martin Hydroelectric Project FERC NO. 349. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010d. Study Report 12(b) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Sedimentation Rates and Nuisance Aquatic Vegetation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010e. Study Report 9 - Location of Permitted Discharges on Lake Martin. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010k. Study Report 8 - Baseline Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011a. Study Report 12(c) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Cooke, D.G.; E.B. Welch; S.A. Peterson; S.A. Nichols. 2005. Restoration and Management of Lakes and Reservoirs – Third Edition. CRC Press – Taylor and Francis Group.
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United States Geological Survey. 2010. National Water Information System. [Online] URL: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/al/nwis/nwis. Accessed December 13, 2010.
SECTION 5.3
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources 2006. Fish and Fishing in Yates and Thurlow Reservoirs. [Online] URL: http://www.outdooralabama.com/fishing/freshwater/where/reservoirs/thurlowyates/. Accessed October 12, 2006. Alabama Department of Public Health. 2006. Alabama Fish Consumption Advisories. Alabama Department of Public Health, Montgomery, AL. Alabama Power Company 2006. Martin Lake Mussel and Snail Survey Draft Summary Report. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010a. Study Report 1 - Tallapoosa River Fish Passage Information Document. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010b. Study Report 12 (a) - Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company, 2010c. Study Report 11 -Water Quantity, Water Use, and Water Withdrawal. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company, 2010d. Study Report 12(b) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Sedimentation Rates and Aquatic Vegetation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2010f. Study Report 12(e) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Federally Threatened and Endangered Species at the Martin Project and in the Tallapoosa River Below Thurlow Dam. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2010j. Study Report 5 - Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species Surveys. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2010l. Study Report 3 - Evaluation of Minimum Flows Downstream of Martin Dam Report. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2011a. Study Report 12(c) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company 2011b. Study Report 4 - Fish Entrainment and Turbine Mortality Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Bayne, D. R., W. C. Seesock, E. C. Webber, and E. Reutebuch. 1995. Limnological Study of Selected Embayments of Lake Martin in Tallapoosa County, Alabama: 1994. Department of Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures, Auburn University, Auburn, AL. Bettoli, P.W., M.J. Maceina, R.L. Noble, and R.K. Betsill. 1993. Response of a reservoir fish community to aquatic vegetation removal. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 13: 110-124. Boschung, H. T., Jr. and R. L. Mayden 2004. Fishes of Alabama. Smithsonian Books: Washington, DC. Xviii + 736 pp. Cooke, D.G.; E.B. Welch; S.A. Peterson; S.A. Nichols. 2005. Restoration and Management of Lakes and Reservoirs – Third Edition. CRC Press – Taylor and Francis Group. Durocher, P.P., W.C. Provine, and J.E. Kraai. 1984. Relationship between abundance of largemouth bass and submerged vegetation in Texas reservoirs. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 4: 84-88. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). 1995. Preliminary assessment of fish entrainment at hydropower projects – volume 1 (Paper No. DPR-10). Office of Hydropower Licensing, FERC, Washington, DC.
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Greene, J. C., D. Abernethy, T. Powell, and R. McVay. 2004. Martin Reservoir Management Report 2003-2004. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Montgomery, AL. 42 pp. Greene, J. C., D. L. Abernethy, and R. A. McVay. 2005. Martin Reservoir Management Report 2005. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Montgomery, AL. Greene, J. C., R. G. Lovell, and R. A. McVay. 2008. Martin Reservoir Management Report 2008. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Montgomery, AL. 25 pp. Maceina M.J and M. R. Stimpert. 1998. Relations between reservoir hydrology and crappie recruitment in Alabama. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 18:104-113. McHugh, J. J., J. B. Jernigan, and T. Madigan. 1996. Martin Reservoir Management Report 1995. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Montgomery, AL. Mettee, M. F., P. E. O'Neil, and J. M. Pierson. 1996. Fishes of Alabama and the Mobile Basin. Oxmoor House, Inc.: Birmingham, AL. 820 pp. Mirarchi, R. E., J. T. Garner, M. F. Mettee, and P. E. O'Neil, (eds). 2004. Alabama Wildlife. Volume Two. Imperiled Aquatic Mollusks and Fishes. The University of Alabama Press: Tuscaloosa, AL. 255 pp. National Marine Fisheries Service. 2000. Essential Fish Habitat: New Marine Fish Habitat Conservation Mandate for Federal Agencies. National Marine Fisheries Service, Washington, D.C. Purcell, T.A., D.R. DeVries, and R.A. Wright. 2011. The Relationship Between Shoreline Development and Resident Fish Communities in Lake Martin, AL. Auburn University. Sammons, S.M. 2010. Adult Striped Bass Habitat Use and the Effects of Catch and Release Angling During the Summer in Lake Martin, Alabama. Auburn University. Spencer, D. F. 2003. Impacts of Aquatic Weeds in Water Use and Natural Systems. Proceedings of the California Weed Science Society (Vol. 55). Williams, J.D., A.E. Bogan, J.T. Garner. 2008. Freshwater Mussels of Alabama and the Mobile Basin in Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Univ. of Alabama Press.
SECTION 5.4
Alabama Power Company. 2006. Draft Wetlands Report. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011a. Study Report 12(c) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011c. Study Report 7- Wildlife Management Program. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Bailey, M.A. 2009. Assessment of Influence of Shoreline Modifications on Aquatic and Semi- Aquatic Species. Causey, M. K. 2006. Wildlife Resources Associated With Alabama Power Company Project Lands Surrounding Martin Reservoir In Tallapoosa, Coosa And Elmore Counties, Alabama. Auburn University, Auburn, AL. Cowardin, L. M., V. Carter, F. C. Golet, and E. T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. [Online] URL: http://www.fws.gov/nwi/Pubs_Reports/Class_Manual/class_titlepg.htm. Accessed May 29, 2008. Mirarchi, R. E., M. A. Bailey, T. M. Haggerty, and T. L. Best, (eds). 2004. Alabama Wildlife. Volume Three. Imperiled Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds, and Mammals. The University of Alabama Press: Tuscaloosa, AL. 225 pp.
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Skeen, J. N., P. D. Doerr, and D. H. Van Lear. 1993. Oak Hickory Pine Forests. In Biodiversity of the Southeastern United States: Upland Terrestrial Communities, edited by Martin, W. H., S. G. Boyce and A. C. Echternacht. John Wiley & Sons: New York. p. 133. United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2003. Recovery plan for the red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis): second revision. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Atlanta, GA. 296 pp. Whetstone, D. 2006. Plants And Plant Communities Of The Lake Martin Area. Whetstone Consulting, Inc. Whetstone, R.D. 2009. Lake Martin Vegetation Report Understory and Herbaceous Species Information for the Martin Wildlife Management Plan. Whetstone Consulting Inc., Anniston, AL. 71 pp.
SECTION 5.5
Alabama Power Company. 2010b. Study Report 12(a) - Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010f. Study Report 12(e) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Federally Threatened and Endangered Species at the Martin Project and Tallapoosa River below Thurlow Dam. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010j. Study Report 5 - Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species Surveys. December 2, 2010. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2011a. Study Report 12(c) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Water Quality. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company, 2011c. Study Report 7- Martin Wildlife Management Program. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2007. National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines. May 2007, 23 pp.
SECTION 5.6
Greene, J. C., D. L. Abernethy, and R. A. McVay. 2005. Martin Reservoir Management Report 2005. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Montgomery, AL. Alabama Power. 2010g. Study Report 12(f) - Effects of a Rule Curve Change on Downstream Recreation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Southwick Associates. 2010. Study Report 12(g) - Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama. Kleinschmidt Associates, Birmingham AL. Alabama Power. 2011e. Study Report 14 - Martin Dam Project Recreation Plan. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL.
SECTION 5.7
Alabama Power Company. 1996. Cultural Resources Summary Report for Alabama Power Company's Martin Project. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. 20 pp. Alabama Power Company. 2006. Alabama Power Company’s Martin Project Cultural Resources Overview. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Power Company. 2010b. Study Report 12(a)- Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL.
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Alabama Power Company. 2010h. Study Report 10 -Erosion and Sedimentation. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Southerlin, B., B. Harvey, J. Giliberti, D. Reid, T. Whitley, and E. K. Wright. 1998. Phase I Historic Resources Survey: Lowndes Wildlife Management Area: Lowndes County, Alabama. COESAM/PDER-98-007. Brockington Associates, Inc., Atlanta, GA. 4-106 The University of Alabama, Office of Archaeological Research. 2006. Alabama Power Company Martin Project Recorded Sites (Alabama State Site File). The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL.
SECTION 5.8
Alabama Power. 2010b. Study Report 12(a) - Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis. Alabama Power Company, Birmingham, AL. Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Water Quality Branch, Water Division. 2002. Final TMDL Development for Tallapoosa River, AL/Tallapoosa R_1: Low Dissolved Oxygen/Organic Loading. Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Montgomery, AL. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division. 1998. Tallapoosa River Basin Management Plan 1998. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division, Atlanta, GA. Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics Consortium. 2001. National Land Cover Database 2001 (NLCD 2001). [Online] URL: http://www.mrlc.gov/mrlc2k_nlcd.asp. Accessed November 28, 2006.
SECTION 5.9
Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP): 2008-2012. Montgomery, Alabama. Alabama Power. 2010b. Study Report 12(a) - Flood Control Guideline Change Modeling Analysis. Alabama Power, Birmingham, AL. Southwick Associates. 2010. Study Report 12(h) - Effects of Increasing Duration of Summer Pool and Level of Winter Pool on Recreation Use and Selected Economic Indicators at Lake Martin, Alabama. Kleinschmidt Associates, Birmingham, AL. United States Census Bureau. 2010. State and County QuickFacts. [Online] URL: http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/index.html. Accessed August 16, 2010.
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