SCOPES of WORK - FEBRUARY 2004

This document provides background and board action on grant requests before the Clean Water Management Trust Fund Board of Trustees at its February 2004 meeting, including staff recommendations, board committee recommendations and any previous actions taken by the board. Grant approvals made at the February meeting are tentative;final votes will likely be taken later in the year.

ACQUISITIONS

Current Applications

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Deferred Applications

Projects Deferred due to EEP consideration:
2001-B-020; 2002B-019; 2003A-007; 2003A-016; 2003:018; 2003A-021; 2003A-022;
2003A-034; 2003A-041

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04
Committee recommends deferral.

Board Decision 2/9/04
McMillan recuses himself. Board accepts Committee recommendation.

Projects Deferred For Additional Information:
2003A-013, 2003A-014, 2003A-020, 2003A-032, 2004A-001, 2004A-005, 2004A-006, 2004A-011, 2004A-012, 2004A-023, 2004A-025.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04
Committee recommends deferral

Board Decision 2/9/04
McMillan recuses himself. Board accepts Committee recommendation.

Projects Deferred due to expected changes for re-evaluation:

2001A-705 Plymouth (Constructed Wetlands & Greenway), Washington County, Coastal Plain Region

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04
Staff recommends deferral until appraisal work is done and previous grant completed.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04
Motion by Cragnolin, 2nd by Wright, to accept Town’s request for withdrawal. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04
Board accepts Committee recommendation.

2003A-014 Green Trust Alliance - Acq/ Flat Swamp Cr., Craven, Coastal Plain Region
Summary

The Green Trust Alliance requests $1,036,500 of a $2,286,250 (55% match) effort to protect and restore wetlands of Flat Swamp Creek in the Neuse River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple 365 acres of ditched prior-converted wetland farmland. 120 acres (33%) is within 300 ft. of the creek, but the entire tract is prior converted wetlands. The matching funds are for wetland and stream restoration of the property. The acquisition cost of the property is $1,022,000 (a recent appraisal values it at $1,200,000), at $2,800 per acre. The tract is adjacent to the 3,700 acre Dover Bay Pocosin Natural Heritage Area (with 236 acre CE) and upstream of the NCCLT Core Creek tract (1999B-009). The applicant has received nearly $500,000 from Attorney General’s Smithfield Foods Settlement Fund for the restoration portion.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04
Staff recommends deferral until State Property Office is satisfied with an appraisal of the property.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Committee votes to approve staff recommendation to defer.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2003A-032 NC Wildlife Resources Commission-Acq/ GMS Tract, Alligator R., Tyrrell County, Coastal Plain

Summary

The NC Wildlife Resources Commission requests $6,252,904 of a $10,806,160 (42% match) effort to protect the Alligator River in the Pasquotank River Basin. The project will purchase fee simple 8,476 acres, with 4,860 (57%) riparian and wetland acres. Most of the 4,860 acres is heavily ditched prior-converted wetland. The entire tract is valued at $10,000,000 or $1,180 per acre. This property will complete WRC management of the entire shoreline of Second Creek, protecting all of the south shore, with the 5,303 acre 2000B-013 tract on the north shore, and affects the drainage to the Little Alligator and Alligator River. The applicant ranks this project as #3 of 4.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04
Staff recommends deferral until a new timber inventory is completed for appropriate appraisal of the tract.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Committee votes to approve staff recomendation to defer.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2003A-020 Nature Conservancy- Acq./ IP Tract, Juniper Creek, Columbus & Brunswick Counties, Coastal Plain Region

Summary

The Nature Conservancy requests $19,848,538 to protect Juniper Creek in the Lumber River Basin through fee simple purchase of 19,812 acres most of which is floodplain/wetlands. The International Paper tract is valued at $18,155,894 or $916 per acre. It is within the nationally significant aquatic habitat Waccamaw Natural Heritage Area, and adjoins the 35,550-acres TNC Green Swamp Preserve. There are 15-yr timber holdings that require some ditch maintenance. The ditches would be dammed when the contracts are terminated. The total project cost represents $32.60 per foot of buffer. The Ecosystem Enhancement Program will likely purchase the Brunswick County portion, which entails 14,807 acres (75%), leaving CWMTF to fund the remaining 4,770 acres (25%). This is the applicant’s #1 of 2 projects, and is a high priority in the Waccamaw River Riparian Corridor Plan.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 15,142 acres of riparian buffers and non-riverine wetlands on 610,00 feet of Juniper Creek (C, Sw) and tributaries.

Scope of Work

Purchase 19,812 acres and place under permanent conservation easement.

Conditions

  • EEP to purchase Brunswick County portion of tract.
  • CE to conform to CWMTF standard easement.
  • Monitor easement in perpetuity.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application.

Staff Recommendations 9/21/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $4,963,000.

Committee Recommendation 9/21/03

Motion by Baddour, 2nd by McLean, to accept staff recommendation and to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $4,963,000. Motion carries.

Board Decision 9/22/03

McMillan abstains from vote. Board accepts Committee recommendation.

Staff Recommendations 2/8/04

Staff recommends continuation of deferral: EEP is not likely to participate. Applicant is working with IP to prioritize and phase into manageable tracts CWMTF.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Committee votes to accept staff recommendation to continue deferral.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts committee recommendation.

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2003A-037 Piedmont Land Conservancy- Acq./ Glencoe Village, Haw River, Alamance County, Piedmont Region

Summary

The Piedmont Land Conservancy requests $574,925 of a $641,925 (10% match) to protect the Haw River and tributary in the Cape Fear River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple 61.7 acres, 29% (17.7 acres) of which is riparian. The goal is to convert the area to historic protection of the dam and Glencoe Mill Village, establish a low-impact community park, construct a recreational center on the uplands with parking lot and associated support structures (not to exceed 6 acres or 10%impervious surface), and re-establish the historic baseball field. DOT has a right of way for a bike path within the riparian area, and there are electric and gas utility easements on the property. The tract is valued at $610,000 or $9,887 per acre. Stewardship costs are at 3%. The total project costs represent $107 per foot of buffer (including the island).

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 17.7 acres of riparian buffers on 2,380 feet of the Haw River (303(d)) and tributary, with 3,600 feet of island shoreline.

Scope of Work

Purchase 61.7 acres and place under permanent conservation easement.

Conditions

  • Staff supports either the repair or removal of the dam within 5 years.
  • CE to conform to CWMTF standard easement, with exceptions as noted in summary.
  • Monitor easement in perpetuity.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application.

Staff Recommendations 9/21/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $195,000 for acquisition of the riparian area ($175,000), which includes dam site, and associated transactional and stewardship ($19,925) costs. Concerns regarding actual dam ownership and liability need to be addressed prior to finalizing contract.

Committee Recommendation 9/21/03

Motion by Baddour, 2nd by McLean, to defer for more information. Motion carries.

Board Decision 9/22/03

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $195,000 for acquisition of the riparian area ($175,000), associated transactional and stewardship ($19,925) costs. The grant agreement will not include ownership or liability by CWMTF for the dam. Applicant is encouraged to maintain public canoe/kayak access.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Cragnolin, 2nd by Maguire, to accept staff recommendation and require Town to permit a public canoe access. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A APPLICATIONS

2004A-001 Apex, Town of – Beaver Creek, Wake County, Piedmont Region

Summary

The Town of Apex is requesting $612,000 of a $1,608,000 (62% match) effort to protect Beaver Creek in the Cape Fear River Basin. The project will protect 160.6 acres by establishing, through fee simple purchase, a nature park to be combined with an existing 100.3 acres and an underway purchase of 36.2 acres. CWMTF will be funding the 24.1 riparian acres of the Seymour tract. The ultimate objective is to establish a protective zone and interpretive greenway trail from Apex to the Everette B. Jordan Lake State Park and the American Tobacco Trail. The site is within a WRP Targeted Local Watershed and in a Priority Subbasin. An appraisal has been conducted. The property is valued at $602,500 ($25,000 per acre), and represents a total cost to CWMTF of $51 per linear foot of buffer. The upland 136.5 acres will become a nature center / greenway trail area.

Water Quality Benefits

  • Establish 24.1 acres of riparian buffer on 12,054 feet of Beaver Creek (WS IV, NSW).
  • The 160.6-acre project acts as buffer for surface waters otherwise impacted sediment and nutrient contamination by stormwater runoff from 5,900 highly urbanized acres.
  • The site is upstream of Jordan Lake, a water supply reservoir.

Scope of Work

  • Purchase approximately 24 acres of riparian buffers in the Seymour Tract and place under a permanent conservation easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • Establish buffers ranging from 300 to 800 ft (all within the floodplain).
  • Maintain or establish forest within the buffers except for greenway trails.
  • Monitor the CE in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The permanent CE on the approximately 24 acres shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement and shall be held by the State of North Carolina.
  • Any greenway trail shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from the top of stream bank.
  • The upland 136.5 acres shall not have greater the 3% impervious surfaces, including structures, trails, parking, etc. Any structures shall be located at least 300 feet from surface waters.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes
Match as described in the application.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $612,000. Staff encourages the Town to consider an easement to the State for the entire 160.6 acres, with same allowances for the project.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Cragnolin, 2nd by Wright, to defer and request revised budget for comprehensive project. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board votes to approve committee's recommendation to defer.

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2004A-002 Caldwell County – Donahue Creek, Piedmont Region

Summary

Caldwell County requests $1,912,000 of a $2,902,000 (34% match) effort to protect Donahue Creek and a proposed reservoir in the Yadkin River Basin. The entire 724 acre project will be protected through fee simple (439 acres) and conservation easement (285) purchase, with a total value estimated at 2,340,000 ($3,233 per acre), representing a total cost to CWMTF of $24 per linear foot of buffer. The Caldwell Realty tract contains the reservoir: Caldwell County will fund the reservoir footprint and the inner 100 foot buffer and part of the upland. CWMTF will fund the outer 200-ft. buffer of the reservoir, part of the upland and riparian buffers of Donahue Creek and tributaries upstream and downstream of the reservoir to the Yadkin River, along with post-implementation buffer restoration. The upstream creek reaches almost to the Mingo Tribal / Buffalo Cove tract (2003A-035). The County is actively seeking reclassification of Donahue Creek to WS II or WS II, which would afford more stringent controls of development in the watershed. Action by the DWQ/EMC may occur as early as May 2004. The County is also seeking an ordinance requiring 50-ft. buffers on perennial stream countywide.

Water Quality Benefits

  • Establish 422 acres of riparian buffer of 79,000 linear feet on Donahue Creek, proposed reservoir and tributaries.
  • Achieve more stringent controls of development in the watershed.

Scope of Work

  • Purchase 439 acres fee simple (lake outer 200 ft., upstream buffers and small amount of upland) and place under permanent conservation easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • Purchase conservation easements on 285 acres of upstream buffers and place under permanent conservation easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • Restore 12 riparian acres.
  • Monitor in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The permanent CE on the approximately 724 acres shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement and shall be held by the State of North Carolina.
  • The proposed Jones Farm tract to be acquired by Caldwell County.
  • Stream buffers to be restored.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application: CWMTF to grant $1,912,00 (66%); Caldwell County to match with $990,000.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding up to $1,438,000 for the Caldwell Realty tract portions (reservoir outer 200-ft. buffer), the upstream riparian conservation easements, stewardship and transaction costs. Staff does not recommend the Jones tract or restoration costs. Results in 348 acres and 55,250 linear feet of riparian buffer. Total purchase of 400 acres fee simple and 238 acres conservation easements ($888,000 for the extra 200’ riparian area and uplands around the reservoir on Caldwell Realty tract; $471,200 for upstream riparian easements; 78,000 transactional, stewardship and baseline inventory costs). Prior to final Board consideration, staff will need the County to provide the status of the upstream tracts and the need for funding there. Staff is highly supportive of the County’s proactive stance on seeking reclassification and stream buffering ordinances.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Cragnolin, 2nd by Wright, to accept staff recommendation to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $1,438,000, with the condition that when the Board reviews for final approval, there has been substantial progress on the part of the local government. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-003 Cary, Town of – White Oak Creek, Phase III Wake County, Piedmont Region

Summary

The Town of Cary requests $1,217,300 of a $2,434,600 (50% match) to protect, through both fee simple and conservation easement purchase, the White Oak Creek in the Cape Fear River Basin. The project will expand protection along the White Oak and tributaries of Batchelor, Jack and Clark Branches underway through CWMTF ($1.084 million) 2001B-004, and is a result of a CWMTF planning grant ($86,000) 2000A-002. The Town has received $600,000 from Wake County towards the project. This will also provide greenway space, ultimately extending from Cary to the American Tobacco Trail and Jordan Lake State Park.
There are 12 tracts involved: 6 are fee simple acquisitions of 117.78 acres, 6 are conservation easement purchases of 311.98 acres. The CWMTF easement will be placed on the riparian areas of 175.22 acres (41%). This project represents a cost to CWMTF of about $6,934 per acre in a prime development area. Total request includes transactional costs. The project cost represents $125 per foot of buffer, with a cost to CWMTF of about $62 per foot of buffer. Appraisals have been acquired, and Cary will manage the property. The Town has passed a 100-foot riparian protection requirement on all perennial and intermittent streams within its jurisdiction.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 175.22 acres of riparian buffer of approximately 19,700 linear feet on White Oak Creek, Clark and Jack Branch (WS IV, NSW)

Scope of Work

  • Purchase 87.18 acres and place under permanent easement.
  • Purchase permanent conservation easement on 88.04 acres.
  • Monitor conservation easements in perpetuity.
  • The Town of Cary to purchase 311.98 acres of non-riparian tract portions.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement on the 175.22 acres, 12 tracts, shall be placed under conservation easement with the State of North Carolina, and shall conform to a previously negotiated easement (Beaverdam Creek Project). These negotiations resulted in a modified easement that will allow an appropriately implemented sewer crossing and will allow the US Army Corps of Engineers to complete a stream restoration project.
  • Any greenway trail shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from the top of stream bank.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application: $1,217,300 from the Town of Cary

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $1,218,000.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Baddour, 2nd by Cragnolin, to accept staff recommendation to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $1,218,000 contingent upon Town obtaining options on the properties. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-004 Catawba Lands Conservancy – Pott Creek, Cole Tract, Lincoln County, Piedmont Region

Summary

The Catawba Lands Conservancy requests a revised amount of $372,722 of a $374,722 (1% match) effort to protect floodplain and 300-ft. buffer along Pott Creek in the Catawba River Basin through fee simple purchase of 67 acres. The Cole tract is 82% (55 acres) riparian, and is valued at $335,000 ($5,000 per acre) representing a total cost to CWMTF of $36 per linear foot of buffer. This tract is a continuation of efforts on the part of the applicant to protect the South Fork Catawba River and its tributaries, along with CWMTF grants (1999B-002; 2000B-001). There is documented occurrence of the State rare and endangered Santee Chubb.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 55 acres of riparian buffer of 10,236 linear feet on Pott Creek (WS IV) and tributary.

Scope of Work

  • Purchase 67 acres and place under permanent conservation easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • Monitor the easement in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement on the 67 acres shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement, and shall be placed under conservation easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

Budget as described in the revised budget: CWMTF to grant up to $372,722; applicant to match with $2,000 in-kind.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $373,000.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Cragnolin, 2nd by Garrett, to accept staff recommendation to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $373,000. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-005 Fair Bluff, Town of – Lumber River Welcome Center, Columbus County, Coastal Plain Region

Summary

The Town of Fair Bluff requests $163,000 of a $275,000 (41% match) effort to protect the Lumber River through the purchase fee simple 1.25 acres on the river to establish a Welcome Center, providing public access and educational opportunities for visitors and citizens. The tract has 330 feet of river frontage, zoned commercial. A majority is currently under concrete from pre-existing commercial enterprises. An existing outfitter company trailer will be moved away from the river and used as the Center. There are sewer, electric and water utilities within the tract, with no new crossings proposed. The site is adjacent to an extensive public boardwalk along the river and through the floodplain swamps. While 100% of the tract is within 300 feet of the river, the Town proposes a 100-foot buffer on the tract. CWMTF will acquire easement on 54% (0.675 acre). The costs represent land ($150,000 value) and activities associated with concrete removal and setup/construction of the Center. An appraisal has been done, with the land valued at $120,000 per acre. The project represents a total cost of $833 per linear foot of buffer, with a cost to CWMTF of $494 per linear foot.

Water Quality Benefits

  • Establish approximately .675 acre of riparian buffer of 330 linear feet on the Lumber River (B, Sw).
  • The project is adjacent to the Big Sandy Ridge Natural Heritage Area.
  • Potentially provide water quality education opportunities for the public.

Scope of Work

  • Purchase 1.25 acres.
  • Place 0.675 acres under permanent easement.
  • Monitor conservation easements in perpetuity.
  • Remove concrete and move trailer outside of 250-foot buffer.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement on the 0.675 acres shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement, and shall be placed under conservation easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • Any greenway trail shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from the top of stream bank.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application: Fair Bluff to provide $112,000; CWMTF up to $163,000

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff does not recommend funding the project at this time. The Town is to be commended for the project concept, as it would be a valuable and attractive addition to the community, providing recreation and education to visitors and citizens. The project is very expensive with relatively small water quality impact.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by McLean, 2nd by Wright, to defer for additional information. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board votes to accept the committee's recommendation to defer.

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2004A-006 Foothills Conservancy – Catawba River Watermill Tract, Burke County, Mountain Region

Summary

The Foothills Conservancy requests $793,200 of a $1,673,200 (53% match) effort to protect, through fee simple purchase, the Catawba River and tributaries. The 338-acre tract contains 168 acres (50%) of riparian area and will protect 12,300 linear feet on one side of the Catawba River, 2,300 linear feet on one side of a mapped tributary, and 6,600 (both sides) linear feet of three streams identified in field and county soil survey. A $25,000 mini-grant (included in the above match amount) was awarded to FC to acquire an option on the property, which has not occurred at the time of application. The applicant is requesting the total project amount, with a future reimbursement of $855,000 to CWMTF. The tract will ultimately be transferred to the Wildlife Resources Commission, which has expressed an interest in the site. The property is valued at $1,611,000 ($4,766 per acre) for $76 per linear foot of buffer, or a cost to CWMTF (ultimately) of $38 per linear foot.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 158 acres of riparian buffer of 21,200 linear feet along one side of the Catawba River (WS IV) and unnamed tributaries.

Scope of Work

  • Acquire 388 acres fee simple and place under a permanent conservation easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • The Foothills Conservancy to monitor the easement until transfer of the property to the Wildlife Resources Commission.
  • The Foothills Conservancy shall assure that the WRC works with the Natural Heritage Program for designation of the tract as in the conditions below.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement and shall be held by the State of North Carolina.
  • Upon transfer to the WRC, Foothills Conservancy shall assure that the WRC works with the Natural Heritage Program to designate areas of the tract that are located a minimum of 100 feet from top of bank of perennial and intermittent streams as Primary Areas under the Nature Preserve dedication process.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application: CWMTF to provide $1,648,200, with reimbursement by FC of $855,000.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff does not recommend funding the project at this time. The applicant is encouraged to reapply when an option is acquired and matching resources are confirmed. Revised staff recommendation- to defer until the March 2004 Board meeting, when should have information on WRC’s participation in the project.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Wright, 2nd by Cragnolin, to accept staff recommendation to defer for additional information. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

The board votes to accept the committee's recommendation to defer.

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2004A-007 Goldsboro, City of / Wayne County – Stoney Creek, Seymour Johnson AFB, Coastal Plain Region

Summary

The City of Goldsboro and Wayne County request $1,737,000 of a $2,337,000 (26% match) To protect Stoney and Walnut Creeks in the Neuse River Basin. The project would acquire 499.48 acres, through fee simple and possibly easement purchase, involving 31 parcels and 25 landowners. Six of the landowners have timber deeds that expire in 2005. The City may be unable to acquire the timber deeds on all tracts. All tracts acquired by CWMTF less the timber deed will be required to be reforested. The land is in agricultural production and forestland, and is primarily prior-converted wetlands with extensive ditching. The proposal is to restore these wetlands. This is phase I of an effort to preserve lands adjacent to protected lands of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, with these tracts also being in the USAF priority area in the Accident Potential Zone 5,000 beyond the runway. Two additional areas have been identified for future efforts. The tracts’ total value is estimated at $1,937,000 ($3,874 per acre), and represents a cost to CWMTF of $53 per linear foot. The City and County are providing the $600,000 matching funds, with restoration costs estimated at $150,000. NC Coastal Land Trust staff will be conducting landowner contact and negotiations. The City of Goldsboro has adopted a time-limited moratorium on development in these priority areas.

Water Quality Benefits

  • Establish 499.48 acres of riparian and wetland areas of 36,562 linear feet on streams and perennial drainage to Walnut Creek (C, NSW), and Stoney Creek (C, NSW, 303(d)).
  • Eliminate agricultural impacts to those surface waters.
  • Ultimately restore the Prior Converted wetlands.

Scope of Work

  • Purchase fee simple or conservation easement approximately 499.48 acres and place under permanent conservation easement to the State of North Carolina.
  • Submit, if possible, and electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.
  • Develop site restoration plan.
  • Restore the tracts as functioning wetlands, considering the spatial relation with a military landing area as well as soils and topography.
  • Monitor easement in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • Provide to CWMTF a prioritization of tract acquisition prior to disbursement of funds.
  • Develop and provide a restoration plan to CWMTF within one year of date of contract.
  • The properties will be restored as functioning wetlands, considering the spatial relation with a military landing area as well as soils and topography.
  • The permanent conservation easements shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement and shall be held by the State of North Carolina.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

Budget as described in the application: CWMTF to provide up to $1,737,000; Goldsboro and Wayne County to provide up to $600,000

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the request up to $1,737,000. Staff would like to see the establishment by the State for a funding process that would specifically address land planning and acquisitions regarding encroachment on military bases.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Wright, 2nd by Cragnolin, to accept staff recommendation to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $1,737,000. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.


2004A-008 Kinston, City of – Adkin Branch, Lenoir County, Coastal Plain Region

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

The application has been withdrawn. Staff recommends acceptance of the withdrawal.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Wright, 2nd by Cragnolin, to accept withdrawal. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-009 Lumberton, City of – Lumber River Greenway, Robeson County, Coastal Plain

Summary

The City of Lumberton requests $100,000 of a $192,000 effort to establish a greenway along the Lumber River. Conservation easements are to be purchased by CWMTF on approximately 19 acres, owned by the City of Lumberton, City-associated entities and the Lumber River Conservancy. These acres constitute the roughly 100-foot floodplain buffer between the levee and the Lumber River. The application describes the value of the tracts at 80% of the fair market value as $192,212 ($9,075 per acre). It further states that appraisals are not needed as the costs are based on tax value. The cost to CWMF is $20 per linear foot of 100-ft buffer (equivalent 300-ft buffer would be $60/ft.). The City will construct the greenway at a cost of $100,000.

Water Quality Benefits

  • Establish 19 acres of riparian buffers of 5,000 linear feet along the Lumber River (C,Sw), just downstream from HQW designation.
  • Establish a greenway for public use and edification.

Scope of Work

  • Purchase conservation easement on 19 acres.
  • Construct greenway.
  • Monitor easement in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement and shall be held by the State of North Carolina.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application: CWMTF to grant $100,000, the City to match with $92,000.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the request up to $100,000. Staff supports the project, and is clarifying that the properties are currently protected, and that the greenway construction is the project’s goal.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

McLean recused himself from discussion and vote. Motion by Cragnolin, 2nd by Garrett, to accept staff recommendation to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $100,000. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

McLean recuses himself. Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-010 Nature Conservancy, The – Shelter Swamp Creek, Wallace Deer Club, Pender County, Coastal Plain Region

Summary

The Nature Conservancy requests $8,707,063 (0% match) to protect Shelter Creek in the Cape Fear River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple 6,135 acres (12 tracts), 90% of which is either riparian or floodplain / wetlands. The tract includes a Significant Natural Heritage Area, is adjacent to WRC Holly Shelter Gamelands and DOT Haw Run mitigation bank, and is identified in the Onslow Bight Conservation Design Plan. Appraisals are underway, and there is no option. There are many landowners involved, and most or all of them desire to retain hunting rights to the property, as well as 10 acres of an existing area with cabin and dog pens. The property is estimated at a value of $6,364,281 ($1,037 per acre), representing a cost to CWMTF of $104 per linear foot of stream buffer. Possible matching resources are being searched for.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 5,522 acres of riparian or floodplain acres of 84,000 linear feet on Shelter Swamp Creek, Shaken Creek and tributaries (C, Sw).

Scope of Work

  • Purchase fee simple approximately 6,135 acres and place under permanent easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • No timber harvest allowed in the 300-ft. buffers; forest management (i.e. thinning, prescribed burning) for restoration or maintenance of the natural community allowed outside the 300 ft..
  • Monitor the easement in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement and shall be held by the State of North Carolina.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

CWMTF to grant 100% of total project cost.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff does not recommend funding the project at this time, although the site is desirable. The applicant is encouraged to reapply with alternative strategies, including confirmation of willing sellers, public access determination, matching resources or easement purchase as opposed to fee simple.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Wright, 2nd by Cragnolin, to accept staff recommendation. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-011 NC Coastal Federation – Quaternary Tract, White Oak River, Onslow County, Coastal Plain Region

Summary

The NC Coastal Federation, partnering with the NC Coastal Land Trust, requests $1,977,600 for a $3,354,600 (41% match) effort to protect the White Oak River through fee simple purchase of 1,443 acres. The tract is valued at $3,172,000 ($2,198 per acre), which includes the timber value of $672,372, which will be used to restore the site to natural conditions and serves as an additional match to the project. This is ideal waterfront property, with approximately 720 upland acres. USDA and US Forest Service cost-sharing will provide for longleaf pine habitat restoration. $600,000 has been secured from the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, and the landowners will contribute to the boundary survey. The tract is a part of the White Oak Marshes Natural Heritage Area and adjacent to the Croatan National Forest, resulting in protection of over 7 miles of both sides of the White Oak. The project represents a cost to CWMTF of about $40.35 per linear foot of buffer. CWMTF has contributed to prior extensive prioritization and protection of thousands of acres along the White Oak corridor (1998B-003; 2000A-008), the lower portion of which has open shellfish areas and is a designated Primary Nursery Area. NCCF plans to ask WRC to manage as gamelands.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 723 acres of riparian buffer or wetlands of 49,000 linear feet on the White Oak River (C), Mulberry and Starks Creeks. Significant Natural Heritage Area and leads to shellfish waters

Scope of Work

  • Purchase fee simple approximately 1,443 acres and place under permanent easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • Monitor the easement in perpetuity.
  • Restore uplands to longleaf pine community after timber harvest of pine plantation
    · If transferred to WRC, NCCF shall monitor the easement until such transfer.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement shall conform to the standard CWMTF model easement and shall be held by the State of North Carolina.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.
  • Timber harvest of pine plantation on uplands only; income to be used for site restoration.
  • NCCF shall inform the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) of the transfer to WRC management.
  • NCCF shall assure that the WRC works with NHP to seek to designate the tract as a NC Nature Preserve. The designation shall apply to an area at a minimum of 100 ft from the top of bank of all perennial and intermittent streams, as the NHP deems appropriate.

Budget Notes

Budget as described in the application.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $1,978,000. Staff will investigate status of income generation from other CWMTF projects in the Basin.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Wright requests firm timeline of when timber would be harvested, how long the hunting lease would be effective, who would hold the hunting rights, and when the parcel would be transferred to WRC. Motion by Wright, 2nd by Cragnolin, to defer until get more information on timelines for timber harvest and hunting rights. Question about how match is calculated with respect to timber value. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

The board accepts the committee's recommendation to defer.

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2004A-012 NC Coastal Land Trust – Fletcher Tract, Tranters Creek, Pitt County, Coastal Plain Region

Summary

The NC Coastal Land Trust requests a revised amount of $295,000 $286,874 of a $348, 560 (15% 16% match) to protect Tranters Creek in the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. The project would purchase a conservation easement on 210.2 acres of a 225-acre tract. The entire property is in the 100-year floodplain, with 178.6 of wetlands and 31.6 acres of upland to be placed under permanent easement. The remaining 15 acres of upland (not a part of, but interspersed throughout, the CWMTF purchased easement) will become a conservation development: that is, 8 homesites, along with an existing homesite with access to Tranters Creek, will be developed, interspersed with conservation easement tracts along the wetland fringe. The 8 homesites will not have access through the CWMTF-purchased wetlands to the creek. There will be a common pier/dock from land not in the easement. Additionally, the remaining upland easement (approx. 32 acres) will remain as pasture and have a 2,000 5,000 ft2 barn for 16 horses, 5-6 small horse walk-in sheds, an impervious driveway and riding trails. The above equestrian facility will result in less than 1% impervious surface. The wetland CE is valued at $350 per acre, and the upland at $7,600 per acre, for a total value of $303,660. The landowner will accept $250,000, for a bargain-sale match of $52,660. The tract is adjacent to a Significant Natural Heritage Area, and could potentially be developed with 48 homesites. The total cost to CWMTF is about $20 per linear foot of buffer.

Water Quality Benefits

  • Establish 210 acres of riparian buffer (variable widths) of 14,868 linear feet along the Tar River and Tranters Creek (C, NSW).
  • Significant Natural Heritage Area.

Scope of Work

  • Place permanent conservation on 210.2 acres.
  • Monitor the easement in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement shall conform, with the exception of the horse facilities and pasture, to the standard CWMTF model easement, and shall be placed under conservation easement with the State of North Carolina.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.
  • Impervious surfaces on the upland horse facility to be less than 1%.
  • Homesite impervious surfaces will be less than 10%.
  • Horse trails to be a minimum of 15 feet from stream edge; stream crossings to comply with NC Agriculture Cost-Share Program livestock crossing BMPs.
  • Manure to either be disposed of offsite or land applied at agronomic rates to the pasture.
  • Plans for handling and treatment of drainage from horse-grooming facility to be provided to CWMTF and subsequently implemented.
  • Pasture may be maintained by appropriate pasture management practices, in keeping with water quality protection.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the revised budget, and is in the form of a bargain sale of $52,660.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff supports funding the requested amount up to $295,000, but wishes to make clear that this would be considered more of a conservation development project. CWMTF has not funded a project quite like this, and staff seeks additional guidance from the Board.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Wright, 2nd by Cragnolin, to defer until all new information is available for rescoring. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

The board votes to accept the committee's recommendation to defer.

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2004A-013 NC Coastal Land Trust – Shelter Creek, Pender County, Coastal Plain Region

Summary

The NC Coastal Land Trust requests $327,800 of a $582,800 (44% match) to protect Shelter Creek in the Cape Fear River Basin. The project would purchase a conservation easement on 34.3 acres of riparian buffer, with a landowner easement donation of 46.45 upland acres as the match (estimated at a value of $255,000, or $5,490 per acre). The riparian acres are valued at $282,400 ($8,233 per acre). The cost to CWMTF is about $10 $102 per linear foot of riparian buffer. The tract would add another segment of protection to Shelter Creek corridor already provided through CWMTF and other efforts (2001B-017, 025 & 026), and is identified as a second-tier priority in the Riparian Corridor Plan.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 34.3 acres of riparian buffer of 3,215 linear feet of Shelter Creek (C, Sw).

Scope of Work

  • Purchase a permanent conservation easement on 34.3 acres.
  • Place a permanent conservation easement on the entire 80.75 acres, with 34.3 riparian acres to be held by the State of North Carolina and the remaining 44.45 acres to be held by the NC Coastal Land Trust.
  • Monitor the easements in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The permanent conservation easement of 34.3 acres shall conform to the CWMTF model.
  • The NC Coastal Land Trust shall place a permanent conservation easement on the remaining 44.45 acres.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application: as a donated easement valued at $255,000.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $328,000.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by McLean, 2nd by Baddour, to accept staff recommendation to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $328,000. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-014 NC Forest Resources – Marshall Tract, Mt. Island Lake Gaston County, Piedmont Region

Summary

The NC Division of Forest Resources requests $114,675 (0% match) to purchase fee simple a 3.3-acre inholding within the Mt. Island Lake State Educational Forest. The tract is completely surrounded by tracts protected by CWMTF easement (1997B-004). The tract is estimated at a value of $105,325 ($31,917 per acre) for waterfront property zoned for 3 residences. The cost to CWMTF is $180 per linear foot of buffer. The application states that 3 of the 3.3 acres are within the Educational Forest’s riparian area: a 500-ft riparian area on perennial streams, 200 on intermittent and 50 on ephemeral. The easement would conform to the existing State Forest easement conditions. There is a Duke Power right-of-way on the property. The landowner wants to sell, but it is unclear if this particular offer will be accepted.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 3.3 acres of riparian buffer of 637.7 linear feet along Mt. Island Lake (WS IV, B).

Scope of Work

Purchase 3.3 acres and place under the State Educational Forest system and management.

Conditions

  • The conservation easement on the 3.3 acres to conform to the DFR Educational Forest model.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

CWMTF to grant 100% of costs associated with the acquisition.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding the request up to $115,000, but encourages the applicant to acquire landowner acceptance of the proposed purchase amount, and to partner with another state or local agency to acquire additional funding.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Garrett, 2nd by McLean, to accept staff recommendation to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $115,000. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-015 NC Forest Resources – Mt. Island Lake, Sifford Tract, Lincoln County, Piedmont Region

Summary

The NC Division of Forest Resources requests $776,475 (0% match) to purchase fee simple 103.5 acres on Mt. Island Lake in the Catawba River Basin. The tract is adjacent to the Mt. Island Lake State Educational Forest and would become a part of it. Approximately 10 acres (10%) of the property is within 300 feet of an unmapped streams leading through the tract. The value is estimated at $763,000 ($7,372 per acre). The cost to CWMTF is $607 per linear foot of buffer.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 10 acres of riparian buffer of 1,279 linear feet on an unnamed tributary of the Catawba River / Mt. Island Lake

Scope of Work

Purchase 3.3 acres and place under the State Educational Forest system and management

Conditions

  • The conservation easement on the 103.5 acres to conform to the DFR Educational Forest model.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

CWMTF to grant 100% of costs associated with the acquisition.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff does not recommend funding the project at this time, but would support the purchase of the riparian area if the applicant can secure support for the upland portion.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Cragnolin, 2nd by Garrett, to accept staff recommendation. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-016 NC Wildlife Resources Commission – H&M Farms Tract, Stones Creek, Onslow County, Coastal Plain Region

Summary

The NC Wildlife Resources Commission requests $637,000 of a $1,137,000 (46 44% match) to purchase fee simple 250 acres on Stones Creek in the White Oak River Basin. Approximately 25% is riparian, and is adjacent to (with drainage to) the recent Beck Tract (2001B-036). Stones Creek is a tributary of the New River. Immediately downstream of the tract is designated Primary Nursery Area and shellfishing areas. The tract is valued at $1,000,000 ($4,000 per acre). The total cost to CWMTF is $183 $103 per linear foot of buffer. The U.S. Department of Defense will contribute 50% of the land value as a match.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish approximately 60 acres of riparian buffer of 6,189 linear feet on Stones Creek (SA), tributaries and drainageways.

Scope of Work

  • Purchase approximately 250 acres in fee simple for the purpose of conservation and protection.
  • Manage the tract as part of the Gamelands program.
  • Monitor the site in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The property shall be managed as part of the Game Land program.
  • The Wildlife Resources Commission shall notify the CWMTF that the Natural Heritage Program has been informed of this project, prior to the disbursement of any grant funds.
  • Working with the Natural Heritage Program, the Wildlife Resources Commission shall seek to designate the entire tract as a North Carolina Nature Preserve.
  • Working with the Natural Heritage Program, the Wildlife Resources Commission shall designate areas of the tract that are located at least 100-feet from the top of bank of all perennial and intermittent streams as Primary Area under the Nature Preserve dedication process.
  • If the Property is not deemed eligible for dedication as a North Carolina nature preserve, the Wildlife Resources Commission agrees that all future management strategies for the property will be designed to maximize protection of surface water quality.
  • Submit, if possible, an electronic survey of the properties that depicts the total length of stream buffered, indicating separately the segments buffered on both sides and those on one side.

Budget Notes

CWMTF to provide $637,000 (54%); DOD to provide $1,000,000.

Staff Recommendation 2/8/04

Staff recommends funding up to $637,000 (50% of the tract value plus transaction and TNC overhead costs). Staff would like to see the establishment by the State for a funding process that would specifically address land planning and acquisitions regarding encroachment on military bases.

Committee Recommendation 2/8/04

Motion by Wright, 2nd by Garrett, to accept staff recommendation to favorably act on project and make it eligible later this year for further review and funding up to $637,000. Motion carries.

Board Decision 2/9/04

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

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2004A-017 NC Wildlife Resources Commission – Johns River Tract, Burke County, Mountain Region

Summary

The Wildlife Resources Commission requests $2,624,500 (0% match) to protect the Johns River in the Catawba River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple 1,000 acres, 24% (240 acres) of which is riparian. The tract is valued at $2,610,000 ($2,608 per acre) and represents a cost to CWMTF of $114 per linear foot of buffer. The river is a significant endangered species habitat, and is just upstream of Lake Rhodhiss. An application has been made to the Ecosystem Enhancement Program (EEP) and the Natural Heritage Trust Fund as well, but the project was not recommended to the NHTF. The area is just outside of the Morganton city limits, and is being heavily impacted by development.

Water Quality Benefits

Establish 240 acres of riparian buffer of 23,019 linear feet on the Johns River (WS IV, HQW).

Scope of Work

  • Purchase approximately 1,000 acres in fee simple for the purpose of conservation and protection.
  • Manage the property as part of the Gamelands Program.
  • Monitor the easement in perpetuity.

Conditions

  • The property shall be managed as part of the Game Land program.
  • The Wildlife Resources Commission shall notify the CWMTF that the Natural Heritage Program has been informed of this project, prior to the disbursement of any grant funds.
  • Working with the Natural Heritage Program, the Wildlife Resources Commission shall seek to designate the entire tract as a North Carolina Nature Preserve.