Scopes of Work on Grant Requests Before the CWMTF Board of Trustees, November 2002

SCOPES of WORK - FEBRUARY 2003

This document provides background and board action on grant requests before the Clean Water Management Trust Fund Board of Trustees at its February 2003 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

Deferred Applications
2001A-705 Plymouth (Constructed Wetlands & Greenway)
2001B-020 Nature Conservancy-Great Coharie Creek
2001B-028 NC Coastal Land Trust-Weyerhaeuser Tracts
2001B-033 NC Wildlife Resources Commission – Acq./Chowan River
2002A-001 Bryson City – Lands Creek
2002A-005 Conservation Fund – Scott Creek, Balsam Gap
2002A-026 Piedmont Land Conservancy – Upper Mitchell R. - Winebarger Tract

Current Applications

2002B-001 Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust – Acq./Brushy Mts. - Moravian & Big Warrior Creeks
2002B-002 Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust – Acq./Beech Cr. Bog
2002B-003 Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust – Acq./Fr. Broad Tracts
2002B-004 Catawba Lands Conservancy – Acq./Aderholt Tract, S. Fork Catawba R.
2002B-005 Catawba Lands Conservancy – Acq./Wilson Farm, Rocky R.
2002B-006 Charlotte, City of – Acq./Mt. Island Lake, Gar Cr. Cove
2002B-007 Foothills Conservancy – Acq./Adams Tract, Left Prong Catawba R.
2002B-008 Granite Falls – Acq./Lake Rhodhiss
2002B-009 National Committee for the New River. – Acq./ Blackburn Tract, Todd S. Fork Greenway
2002B-010 The Nature Conservaqncy – Acq./Angola Bay
2002B-011 NC Coastal Federation – Acq./Stump Sound 85
2002B-012 NC Coastal Land Trust – Acq./IP Realty, Town Cr.
2002B-013 NC Coastal Land Trust – Acq./Pettiford Cr. II
2002B-014 NC Forest Resources – Acq./Clemmons State Educational State Forest, Strickland Cr.
2002B-015 NC Parks and Recreation – Acq./Eno R. State Park
2002B-016 NC WRC – Acq./Needmore Tract
2002B-017 NC WRC- Acq./Risky Business
2002B-018 Pitt SWCD – Acq./Little Contentnea Creek
2002B-019 Tar River Land Conservancy – Acq./Allen Tract, Sandy Creek
2002B-020 Tar River Land Conservancy – Acq./Harris Tract, Jumping Run Creek
2002B-021 Troy, Town of – Acq./ Denson’s Cr. Phase 4
2002B-022 Trust for Public Land-Acq./Regent Tract, Little Sugar Cr

2002B Cycle - Acquisitions
Deferred Applications

2001A-705 Plymouth (Constructed Wetlands & Greenway) 74

Summary

The Town of Plymouth has requested a revised amount of $725,000 of a $1,250,000 effort to build a constructed wetland on an unnamed tributary that drains to the Roanoke River. The wetland would treat runoff from a residential development and school complex and be built on a former Superfund site that has been cleared by EPA. The site is adjacent to an earlier funded wetland and planned greenway project (1998B-704) which is expected to begin construction this fall. CWMTF funds would be used to acquire the property and the Town would pay to construct a 9-acre created wetland.

Water Quality Benefits

- Acquire a 24 acre parcel for construction of a 9 acre stormwater wetland in the stream channel to treat runoff from 229 acres (16 acres impervious surfaces) that would provide some pollutant loading reduction to the Roanoke River (Class C Sw and anadromous fish spawning area).
- Establish vegetated buffer and greenway along 1,170 feet of the tract
- Utilize the site as an environmental and educational area with ECU and Washington County

Scope of Work

- Acquire 24 acre tract and place under permanent conservation easement.
Conditions
- Easement to conform to CWMTF model.
- Wetland design must be in accordance with DWQ’s Technical Guidelines
- Construction funds to be released only upon CWMTF review and approval of plans and specs and approval of 401 Water Quality Certification.
- Match as described, including donation of permanent conservation easement.

Budget Notes

As described in revised application.

Staff Recommendation

Staff recommends that the Board defer a decision on this project until the applicant has had an initial preapplication meeting with DWQ 401 and Corps 404 staff to discuss the permitting aspects of the project, and shared the results of the initial permit review with CWMTF staff.

Committee Recommendation 9/23/01

Most of the1999 Grant to Plymouth has not been spent. Committee recommends that the project be deferred.

Board Decision 9/24/01

An appraisal has been completed for the property. Board supports the Committee’s recommendation.

Staff Recommendation 3/17/02

Staff recommends that funding of this project be deferred until permit decisions has been made and communicated to staff

Committee Recommendation 3/17/02

Committee agrees to continue to defer.

Board Action 3/18/02

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

Staff Recommendation 9/15/02

Staff recommends deferring this project, as the permitting meetings are to take place September 5, 2002. The results of that meeting should be known at the time of the CWMTF Committee meeting on September 15, 2002. The 1999 grant has still not been completed.

Committee Recommendation 9/15/02

Committee votes to defer project and refer to the Acquisition Committee

Board Action 9/16/02

Board accepts Committee recommendation to defer project and refer to Acquisition Committee.

Staff Recommendation 2/16/03

Staff recommends deferring the project until an update of progress made on previous grant 1998-704 is received

2001B-020 Nature Conservancy-Great Coharie Creek 90

Summary

The Nature Conservancy requests $3,234,697 for total funding to protect 4,858 acres of floodplain along the Great Coharie in the Cape Fear River Basin through fee simple purchase. Is part of overall effort to protect the Black River watershed.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 4,189 acres on 30,319 linear feet of Great Coharie Creek (C, Sw), which drains to the Black River (ORW)

Scope of Work

· Purchase 4,858 acres and place under permanent conservation easement
· Monitor easement for perpetuity

Budget Notes

Budget as described in application.

Staff Recommendation

Staff recommends to defer to see if a match can be obtained

Committee Recommendation

Staff also had concerns about who would manage the property. Ranked #2 of 7 by TNC. Motion by Wright, 2nd by Cragnolin to accept staff’s recommendation to defer. Amended motion (Wright/Cragnolin) carried. Ask staff to discuss with AG’s office possible match from Smithfields Foods settlement.

Board Action

Board approves Committee’s recommendation to defer.

Staff Recommendation 4/21/02

Staff recommends funding request up to $1,617,000 and asking the Attorney General’s office that the remainder come from the Smithfield Foods, Inc. settlement. Holman met with J.B. Kelly of the Attorney General’s Office to discuss a partnership between AG & CWMTF on April 15, 2002.

Committee Recommendation 4/21/02

McLean moves to accept staff recommendation contingent upon a match from the Smithfield Foods settlement funds. Wright 2nd. Motion carries.

Board Action 4/22/02

McMillan abstains. Committee moves to approve up to $1,617,000 contingent upon a match from the Smithfield Foods settlement funds (Half of the $3.2 M cost). Motion carries.

Revised Summary 02/16/03 New Score: 100

At the January Board meeting, the application was removed from funded ($1,600,000) status and deferred, to be considered with the 2002B grant cycle. The revised request is for $1,800,000 of a total $3,422,691 (47% match) project. The applicant is seeking matching funds of $1,000,000 from the Smithfield agreement and $622,691 from sale of property to a conservation buyer. The entire tract will be placed under permanent state easement under standard conditions with the exception of continued harvesting of 215 acres (4% of the 4,858 acres) of pine plantation. 86% of the tract is floodplain, with 669 upland acres (454 natural forest, 215 pine plantation). The floodplain width ranges from .09 to 1.25 miles, with 30,319 linear feet of riparian buffers. At the requested amount, cost to CWMTF is $59 per linear foot. New scoring based upon match.

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends deferring the project to investigate additional matching resources. Matching funds from the Smithfield agreement may not exceed $500,000; Recommend inquiring as to possible interest from NC DOT for preservation.

Summary

The NC Coastal Land Trust has requested $1,375,358 of total $3,324,150 effort to protect 2,633 acres on Swift Creek and the Neuse River in the Neuse River Basin through purchase of conservation easements. The CWMTF portion would apply to 785 riparian acres within a 1,684 acre tract. An additional donated easement would come from Weyerhaeuser on 949 acres.

Water Quality Benefits

- Establish riparian buffers for 51,744 linear feet along Swift Creek and the Neuse River (SC, SW, NSW-PS)

Scope of Work

- Purchase permanent conservation easement on 785 acres
- Monitor easement for perpetuity

Staff Recommendation

Staff recommends to defer. Not ready to go and need confirmation on mineral rights expectations from Weyerhaeuser

Committee Recommendation

Motion by Cragnolin, 2nd by Simmons to accept staff’s recommendation to defer. Motion carries.

Board Action

Board approves Committee’s recommendation to defer.

Staff Recommendation 10/27/02

Staff recommends funding this project up to $1,376,000.

Committee Recommendation 10/27/02

Cragnolin – mineral rights issue? Holman – will be handled similarly to the Gum Thicket project; Weyerhaeuser reserves mineral rights but must have consent of easement owner (the State) to mine, and State Property Office handles routinely; it is not a problem for State Property Office.

Motion by Cragnolin to accept staff recommendation. Second by Simmons. Motion carries.

Board Action 10/28/02

Board accepts Committee recommendation.

Board Action 11/ / 02?

Board defers the project during the final funding prioritization deliberations, allowing funding of other projects of a more time-sensitive nature.

Staff recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends continued funding the requested amount up to $1,376,000.

Summary
The NC Wildlfe Resources Commission requests $3,308,000 of a 3,933,000 effort to protect 6,466 ACRES (19 tracts) through fee simple purchase along the Chowan R., Buckhorn, Barnes, Sarem, Cole, Catherine, Warwick & Keel Creeks in the Chowan River Basin. There are already 10,743 acres protected in area, and Phase II will seek to protect an additional 6,000 acres. Partners include PTRF, NCCF, NCEF contributing $625,000 (partial settlement from NUCOR litigation)

Water Quality Benefits

- Establish 6,466 acres of riparian buffers and 149,160 linear feet along the Chowan R., Buckhorn, Barnes, Sarem, Cole, Catherine, Warwick & Keel Creeks (NSW –PS)
- 10,743 additional acres are protected in area
- Identified in BWP & Coastal Habitat Protection plan
- NHP area of significance
Scope of Work
- Purchase 6,466 acres & place under permanent conservation easement
- Monitor easementfor perpetuity

Budget Notes

Budget as described in application.

Staff Recommendation

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $3,308,000.

Committee Recommendation

Motion by Wright, 2nd by McLean to accept staff’s recommendation. Motion carries.

Board Action

McMillan abstained from vote. Board approves Committee’s recommendation

Board Action November 2002

Project was moved to the deferred list due to prioritization needs

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $3,308,000. Encourage applicant to prioritize tracts within the project.

Summary

Bryson City requests $1,232,166 of a total $1,964,066 (37% match) effort to sell a “working forest conservation easement” on 860 acres of city property in the Lands Creek watershed within the Little Tennessee River Basin. CWMTF would purchase these easements on 178 acres of 100 ft. buffers for $498,400 (80% fair market value, $2,800 per acre) and 284 acres of the 100 ft. to 300 ft. buffer portion for $497,000 (50% at fair market value, $1,750 per acre). Bryson City would donate an easement on the remaining 398 ac. valued at 696,500. The total property value is estimated at $3,500 per acre with a timber value of $1 – $1.5 million. The CWMTF riparian easement would cost an average of $1,247 $2,252 per acre. The project represents riparian protection at a cost of $14.70 per linear foot. The project would allow “sustainable” harvesting within the outer 200 ft. of the 300-foot buffer, and on the upland portion. No new roads or stream crossings will be built. The property is adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains. Standard forestry BMPs will be exceeded with sustainable practices.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 576 462 acres (178 acres no-cut) on 83,635 linear feet of Lands Creek (WS I; HQW-FS).

Scope of Work

· Establish easement on 860 acres
· Develop model for sustainable forest practices for a working forest conservation easement
· Monitor conservation easement for perpetuity

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application

Conditions

Establish 100 ft. no-cut zone adjacent to intermittent and perennial waters
· Forest management plan to be reviewed and approved by CWMTF prior to release of funds
· Easement to conform to the CWMTF standard model
· Bryson City to retains the right to use as emergency water supply.

Staff Recommendation 11/12/02

Staff recommends funding up to $1,233,000 under the above conditions

Committee Recommendation 11/12/02

Motion by Hollan to defer until the Board can hear more about what types of timber harvesting would be allowed and the BMPs that would be required. Motion passes.

Board Decision 11/13/02

Board supports Committee recommendation

Revised Scope of Work 02/16/03

Purchase conservation easement on 462 acres to conform to the standard CWMTF model
Monitor CE in perpetuity

Conditions 02/16/03

· No timber harvesting within the 300 foot riparian area

Staff Recommendation 2/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $1,531,000, which includes $1,293,600 for acquisition of the entire 462-acre, 300-foot riparian area (at 80%-of-value offered for the no-cut area) plus the $236,766 supporting costs for: transaction ($68,000) stewardship endowment $143,812 (4.8% of estimated value), and project administration ($24,954). No timber harvest would occur within this 300-foot, 462-acre riparian area.

2002A-005 Conservation Fund – Scott Creek, Balsam Gap 95

Summary

The Conservation Fund requests $4,057,000 of a $7,699,000 (47% match) effort to protect riparian areas along tributaries to the South Fork New River in the New River Basin. The property is 4,931 total acres between the Balsam Mt. Preserve and the Blue Ridge Parkway, with CWMTF funds for the easement purchase on 2,000 acres (300 ft. riparian area). The project is a bargain sale conservation easement appraised $15,000,000 for sale for $13,800,000 (difference $1.2 M). CWMTF pays 80% fair market value on first 150 no-cut zone (1,062 acres) and 40% on next 150 feet (938 acres) with sustainable forestry practices (working forest easement). This represents a cost to the CWMTF for riparian acreage of $2,000 per acre and less than $13.00/linear foot. The owners wish to retain area for 10 home sites on the property.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish 2,000 acres a riparian buffer along 308,405 linear feet of tributaries to Scott Creek (C, Trout).

Scope of Work

· Acquire conservation easement on 4,931 acres.
· Monitor conservation easement for perpetuity

Budget Notes

· Match modified from the original application

Conditions

· Forest management plan to be reviewed and approved by CWMTF prior to release of funds
· No timber harvesting within 150 ft. of intermittent and perennial waters
· Homesite locations to be identified prior to release of funds
· Conservation easement on the entire tract to go to the state
· Easement to conform to the CWMTF standard model

Staff Recommendation 11/12/02

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $4,057.000 under the above conditions.

Committee Recommendation 11/12/02

Motion by McLean to defer until February 2003 until the Board can hear more about what types of timber harvesting would be allowed and the BMPs that would be required.

Board Action 11/13/02

Board supports Committee recommendation

Staff Recommendation 2/16/03

Staff recommends continued deferral until policy towards working conservation easements is addressed. Forest Legacy matching funds are not secured as of this date.

2002A-026 Piedmont Land Conservancy – Upper Mitchell R. - Winebarger Tract 97

Summary

The Piedmont Land Conservancy is requesting $3,397,221 of a 3,438,098 (1% match) effort to protect riparian areas of the Upper and South Fork Mitchell Rivers in the Yadkin River Basin. The project will purchase fee simple 811 acres (Winebarger and Tuell tracts) and conservation easements on 118 acres on five additional tracts). The Winebarger tract is identified as a high priority in the CWMTF funded riparian corridor plan. Costs represent $3,656/acre and $119.52/linear foot.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish approximately 900 acres of riparian buffer along 28,424 linear feet of the South Fork and Upper Mitchell Rivers and three tributaries (C, B, Tr, ORW-S)

Scope of Work

· Purchase 811 acres and place under permanent easement
· Purchase conservation easements on 118 acres
· Monitor conservation easement for perpetuity

Budget Notes

· Match as described in the application

Staff Recommendation 11/12/02

Staff recommends deferment of this application. The Winebarger tract is not ready to move, and the PLC received a minigrant from CWMTF to acquire options on the other six tracts. The PLC has requested that the application be deferred until options are secured and the project is ready to move forward.

Committee Recommendation 11/12/02

Motion by Hollan to accept staff recommendation. Motion carries.

Board Action 11/13/02

Board supports Committee recommendation

Summary 02/16/03

Winebarger Tract: The 766 acre headwaters portion of the project (Winebarger tract) was not ready to go as the PLC is attempting was secure funds for the upland areas (513 acres). 253 acres (33%) of the Winebarger tract is within 300 feet of surface waters. The tract is valued at $3,000,000 ($3,916 per acre), with cost to CWMTF of $990,748 for buffer acquisition, project facilitation of $45,000, Stewardship endowment of $35,250 (1% of value), $33,500 transaction and $2,700 trail restoration (over 1 mile @ $0.50 per foot). Recent events have made it likely that donation of upland portions by the landowner will occur.

Tuell Tract/Mitchell River Corridor: project at a total of $293,419 (fee simple purchase of 45-acre Tuell tract for $90,000, conservation easements on the five tracts (118 acres) of $141,600, stewardship endowment of $33,600 [14.5% of purchase value], project facilitation of $6,948 and transaction costs of $52,500. This totals $324,648, but PLC received $25,000 from previous CWMTF minigrant to apply towards the project, and plans to use 6,229 from previous grant.

Revised Scope of Work 02/16/03

· Purchase fee simple 298 acres (Tuell & Winebarger tracts) and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Purchase conservation easement on 118 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor CE in perpetuity

Budget Note

· Do not apply $6,229 from previous grant to this project; increase request by same and apply to Tuell tract.

Staff recommendation 02/16/03

Fund the requested amount up to $1,408,000 for both project components ($300,000 for Tuell/Corridor tracts; $1,108,000 for Winebarger tract).

2002B Cycle – ACQUISITIONS:
Current Applications

2002B-001 Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust – Acq./Brushy Mts. - Moravian & Big Warrior Creeks 85

Summary

Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust requests $276,000 of total $2,976,000 (91% match) effort to protect Moravian and Big Warrior Creeks in the Yadkin River Basin, Wilkes and Alexander Counties in the Western Piedmont Region. The project involves partial funding for a conservation easement and all transaction and stewardship costs of the Perry Lowe tract at a bargain sale, and only the transaction and stewardship costs of a donated easement on the Broyhill tract.

Perry Lowe Tract: 600 acres with 150 acres as apple orchard, 450 acres woodland along approximately 8,850 linear feet of Moravian Creek, 20% (122 acres) within 300 feet of stream. Easement is provided at $400,000 (estimated value of $1,200,000), resulting in actual easement cost of $667/acre. The CWMTF costs are $184,000: $100,000 for easement, $48,000 transaction and $36,000 stewardship (3% of estimated easement value). Anticipated match for the easement purchase are from DOT ($75,000), USDA Farmland Protection Program ($200,000) and NC Farmland Preservation ($25,000). The orchard will remain in operation. At the requested amount, CWMTF acquires the estimated 122 acres of buffer for $21 per linear foot.

Broyhill Tract: The Broyhills will donate an easement on their 820 acres (est. value of $1,600,000), adjacent to 1,400 acres of YMCA land. There are an estimated 179 acres of riparian area along 13,000 linear feet of Big Warrior Creek and tributaries. CWMTF costs are $92,000: $44,000 transactional and $48,000 stewardship (3% of estimated value). YMCA has an option on the property, but cannot afford it at fair market value. They will purchase fee simple at the reduced amount. The property is within a WRP targeted area. The YMCA is using the area as an environmental education facility. The conservation easement will be held by BRRLT. The overall project will result in a cost to CWMTF of approximately $13 per linear foot and $920 per acre of protection. BRRLT has a good history of project implementation with CWMTF, and has $128,000 currently under contract, and an additional $206,000 approved for funding.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish approximately 300 acres along 21,850 linear feet of Moravian Cr (C-S), Big Warrior Creek (C-S), and tributaries.

Scope of Work

· Purchase easement on 120 acres of Lowe tract and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity
· BRRLT to hold easement on upland portions of Lowe tract and all of Broyhill

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application

Conditions

· 300 foot no-cut riparian buffer to be placed under standard CWMTF easement on the Lowe tract

Staff Recommendation 2/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $276,000. Strongly encourage YMCA to donate a conservation easement on their adjacent 1400 acres.

2002B-002 Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust – Acq./Beech Cr. Bog 99

Summary

The Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust requests $57,497 of a total $706,839 (91% match) effort in Watauga and Avery Counties, Mountain Region, to protect Beech Creek Bog in the Watauga River Basin. The 120 acre tract (40 acres wetlands, 80 acres uplands) has been acquired and transferred to State Property, but BRRLT is asking for assistance in retiring the $100,000 loan received from CTNC. The property was valued at $5,682 per acre. BRRLT had received a CWMTF minigrant towards this project. Beech Creek Bog was identified as the highest priority in the CWMTF Riparian Corridor Plan, and was identified as “nationally significant” by the Natural Heritage Program, which has contributed $549,000 via the Natural Heritage Foundation. Additional Partners include Lyndhurst, Hanes and Blue Ridge RC&D. Cost to CWMTF for wetlands and buffers (including minigrant) is $1,447 per acre and $33 per linear foot.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish 17 acres of riparian buffers along 2,500 linear feet of Beech Cr (C, Tr-S)
· NHP area of significance
· Protect 40 acres of Beech Creek Bog with numerous endangered and protected plant and animal species.

Scope of Work

· Retire the CTNC loan

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application

Staff Recommendation 2/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $57,497.

2002B-003 Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust – Acq./Fr. Broad Tracts 84

Summary

The Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust requests $127,200 of a total $1,507,200 (91% match) effort in Avery& Yancey Counties, Mountain Region to protect the North and South Toe Rivers and Isaac’s Branch in the French Broad River Basin. The project involves transactional costs only for donated conservation easements on three tracts.

Fergus Pope Farm: a working organic and Christmas tree farm of 230 acres containing 8,780 linear feet of potential buffers on the South Toe and tributary. The owners wish to continue operations, and will implement at least 50 foot riparian buffers along the streams. The donated easement is valued at $690,000 ($3,000 per acre).

James Pitts Farm (Sugarplum): a 60-acre working Christmas tree farm, with potentially 3,000 linear feet of buffer on Isaac’s Branch. Owners wish to continue operations and will implement at least 50 foot riparian buffer along the stream. The donated easement is valued at $210,000 ($3,500 per acre).

Kay Nunez Farm: 128 acres with 5,280 linear feet of buffers to be provided. This will have a restrictive conservation easement on the tract. There is already some greenway constructed on the site, with plans to become a part of the Newland Greenway system. The donated easement is valued at $480,000 ($3,750 per acre). CWMTF will achieve some stream protection for $7.46 per linear foot of buffer.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 17,060 linear feet on the North Toe River (WS V, Tr-S), Isaacs Branch (WS V-S) and the South Toe River (B, Tr, ORW).

Scope of Work

· Transaction costs for placement of 418 acres under conservation easements to be held by BRRLT

Conditions

· Establish minimum 50 feet of riparian buffer along all surface waters on agricultural operations
· Implement agricultural BMPs on agricultural operations

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application: donated easements

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $128,000

2002B-004 Catawba Lands Conservancy – Acq./Aderholt Tract, S. Fork Catawba R. 86

Summary

The Catawba Lands Conservancy requests $346,000 of a total $350,000 (1% match) effort in Gaston County, Western Piedmont Region, to protect the South Fork Catawba River in the Catawba River Basin. The project is for fee simple purchase of 75 acres (8,188 linear feet) of riparian buffers of the 219 acre Aderholt tract. The tract is identified as a priority in the riparian corridor plan and is within a WRP targeted watershed. The landowners have committed to granting an option on the riparian area and are considering donating a conservation easement on a portion of the upland area. The tract has an old rail bed that could be used for a greenway trail to link to other protected areas. CWMTF costs are: $300,000 for acquisition ($4,000/acre), $26,500 transactional, $12,000 stewardship (4% estimated land value), $3,500 baseline inventory, $4,000 project planning, and represents a cost of $42 per linear foot. CLC project implementation history is very good. CLC has successfully completed $1,225,292 worth of projects, have $828,000 in open contract, and $409,900 in approved grants

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish 75 acres of riparian buffer along 8,188 linear feet of S. Fork Catawba (WS IV-FS).

Scope of Work

· Purchase fee simple 75 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity

Budget Notes

· Match as described in application
· Recommend not funding of hydrologic and biologic baseline component of $3,500

Condition

· Applicant to acquire conservation easement on upland portions, particularly along any surface waters

Staff Recommendations 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $332,000. Staff supports the rail bed greenway trail concept.

2002B-005 Catawba Lands Conservancy – Acq./Wilson Farm, Rocky R. 92

Summary

The Catawba Lands Conservancy requests $247,700 of total $971,500 (75% match) effort in Iredell and Mecklenburg Counties, Western Piedmont Region, to protect the Rocky River in the Yadkin River Basin. CWMTF would acquire a conservation easement on the 48.8 acre riparian, floodplain portion of a 135 acre tract along 4,896 linear feet of stream. The entire tract will be sold fee simple to a conservation buyer, with a restrictive CLC conservation easement on the upland portion. The property has been appraised at $6,777 per acre, with the CE value of the riparian area (CWMTF) of $4,000 per acre. The CLC has acquired approximately 500 acres to date in the watershed. At total request, riparian protection is achieved for approximately $51 per linear foot. CWMTF costs: $195,200 for acquisition, $25,000 for transaction, $20,000 for stewardship (3% appraised value), $4,000 for project planning and $3,500 for hydrologic and biologic monitoring.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish 48.8 acres of riparian buffer along 4,896 linear feet of Rocky R. (C-I; 303(d) for turbidity, fecal coliform) and tributary

Scope of Work

· Purchase easement on 48.8 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor CE in perpetuity

Budget Notes

· Match as described in the application
· Recommend not funding of hydrologic and biologic baseline component of $3,500

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $245,000.

Summary

The City of Charlotte requests $500,000 of a total $1,000,000 (50% match) effort in Mecklenburg County, Western Piedmont Region, to protect Mt. Island Lake in the Catawba River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple 13 acres, with CWMTF funding the riparian 7 acres ($71,429 per acre) with 1,000 linear feet along the lake shoreline. Transaction and stewardship costs are not requested, representing a cost to CWMTF of $500 per linear foot of buffer. The project supports the goals of the Mt. Island Lake Initiative. Charlotte currently has $200,000 under contract, which expires in June, 2003.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 7 acres on 1,000 linear feet of Gar Cr. Cove of Mt. Island Lake (WS IV, B-FS)

Scope of Work

· Purchase 7 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity

Budget Note

· Match as described in application

Condition

· Place upland portion under state permanent easement except for the structure

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $500,000.

The Foothills Conservancy requests a revised amount of $821,000 of a revised total of $1,818,200 (55% match) effort to protect 771 acres along the Left Prong Catawba River in McDowell County, Mountain Region, in the Catawba River Basin. The CWMTF funds are for fee simple purchase of 320 riparian acres at $2,200 per acre. The landowner is donating fee simple 386 upland acres (50%) and 65 acres to be purchased by others. Total value is $1,696,200. Received highest priority in the Catawba Headwaters Riparian Conservation Design. The project is near the SAHC Hemphill tract (2001B-048). Costs to CWMTF are $704,000 for buffer acquisition; $65,000 transaction, $42,000 for stewardship (2.5% of estimated value), $5,000 (50%) project negotiation/administration and $5,000 for baseline inventory. The project represents a cost to CWMTF of $27 per linear foot of buffer. FC currently has $156,000 in open contracts and $191,000 approved for funding.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish 320 acres on 30,096 linear feet along headwater tributaries of the Left Prong Catawba R. (C, Tr -FS)

Scope of Work

· Purchase 320 acres and place under standard permanent easement
· Monitor CE in perpetuity

Budget Notes

· Application request as revised in above summary, matching resources as described in the application
· Majority of match as bargain sale donation

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $821,000.

2002B-008 Granite Falls – Acq./Lake Rhodhiss 67

Summary

The Town of Granite Falls is requesting $889,555 of a total $1,805,000 (51% match) effort in Caldwell County, Mountain Region, to protect Lake Rhodhiss in the Catawba River Basin through fee simple purchase of 166 acres from Crescent Resources. Granite Falls will purchase 25 upland acres of a 70 acres tract (at $11,990 per acre value), while Lenoir will purchase 61 upland acres of a 96 acre tract (at $10,000 per acre value). CWMTF funds would cover purchase of 80 acres of riparian area within 325 ft of surface waters, bordering 10,700 linear feet of the lake and tributaries. The properties will provide protection adjacent to drinking water intakes for both towns. Algae blooms are occurring on the lake, and there is development pressure. Granite Falls has plans for a greenway on the site. This represents a cost to CWMTF of $83 per linear foot.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffer of 80 acres on 10,700 linear feet along Lake Rhodhiss and tributaries Lake Rhodhiss (WS IV, B)
· Protects areas adjacent to public water supply intakes for two municipalities

Scope of Work

· Purchase 80 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $890,000. The individual sites are good, but strongly encourage applicant to consider regionalizing water intake facilities to include the town of Valdese with Lenoir and Granite City, and for local governments to adopt ordinances addressing development along the Lake. Project would score much higher if part of a more comprehensive protection strategy.

2002B-009 National Committee for the New River. – Acq./ Blackburn Tract, Todd S. Fork Greenway 91

Summary

The National Committee for the New River is requesting $152,350 of a total $161,500 (6% match) effort in Watauga County, Western Piedmont Region, to protect the South Fork New River in the New River Basin. The project is for a fee simple purchase of 7.6 acres of riparian buffer adjacent to 12 acres of the Green Valley Park. The entire tract is within 300 feet of the South Fork New River and tributary and borders 1,864 linear feet of streams. The property is valued at $18,000 per acre, and would represent a cost to CWMTF of $82 per linear foot. This project adds to an extensive protection effort, greatly supported in the past by CWMTF (2000A-006, 2001B-015). The tract will have an interpretive trail and become a part of the greenway system. CWMTF costs are $136,800 for acquisition, $10,050 transaction and $5,000 stewardship (4% of appraised value). NCNR has successfully completed $247,485 worth of projects, has $401,000 in open contracts, and has received approval for $484,000 in new grants.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish a riparian buffer of 7.6 acres on 1,864 linear feet along South Fork New R. (C, HQW-FS) and a tributary

Scope of Work

· Purchase 7.6 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity

Budget Notes

Match as described in application

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $152,000.

2002B-010 The Nature Conservaqncy – Acq./Angola Bay

Summary

The Nature Conservancy has withdrawn their request for $7196,594 of a total $9,446,584 (24% match) effort in Pender County, Southern Coastal Plain Region, to protect waters in the Cape Fear River Basin

2002B-011 NC Coastal Federation – Acq./Stump Sound 85

Summary

The NC Coastal Federation requests $971,540 of a total $1,011,540 (4% match) effort in Onslow County, Southern Coastal Plain Region, in the Cape Fear River Basin to protect Stump Sound. The project is in conjunction with the Div. Of Marine Fishery’s Oyster Rehabilitation program. The project will purchase fee simple 61.36 acres, 50% (30.68 acres) of which is within 300 feet of surface waters. The property borders 3,300 linear feet appraised at $889,040 ($14,000 per acre) and has an option that expires 12/31/03. The property is owned by the Old Hickory Boy Scouts Council, which was willing to split out this waterfront property from a much larger tract. CWMTF costs are $889,040 for acquisition, $19,000 transactional, $5,000 planning and $88,500 for stewardship (10% of appraised value). NCCF will contribute $20,000 for habitat restoration, DMF $10,000 for site improvements for oyster rehabilitation facility and Wallop-Breaux funds will provide $10,000 for public access/fishing dock. Not included in the budget is an estimated $25,000 annual cost to DMF for facility maintenance, and NCCF educational expenditures. The site is across the Sound from Permuda Island National Estuarine Reserve. At the requested amount this is a cost to CWMTF of $294 per linear foot of buffer. NCCF has successfully completed $1,249,997 worth of projects, and has $3,167,379 in open contracts.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffer of 30.68 acres on 3,300 linear feet of Stump Sound and Hardison Creek (SA, ORW)
· Waters are open to shellfishing

Scope of Work

· Purchase 61.36 acres and place under permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity

Budget Notes

Match as described in application

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding requested amount up to $972,000.

2002B-012 NC Coastal Land Trust – Acq./IP Realty, Town Cr. 97

The NC Coastal Land trust requests $2,094,700 of a total $2,869,050 (27% match) effort in
Brunswick County, Southern Coastal Plain Region, to protect Town Creek in the Cape Fear River Basin. The project will purchase fee simple 911 acres, being offered at $2,200 per acre as a bargain sale (estimated FMV is $3,050 per acre). The total sale price is $2,004,200 and the estimated market value is $2,778,550. 638 acres (70%) is within 300 feet of surface waters (228 acres) or is wetland (410 acres). The purchase would establish 30,000 linear feet of buffers. CWMTF costs are $2,004,200 for acquisition, $27,500 transaction, $10,000 for property taxes, $45,500 for stewardship, $7,500 for video news release (1.6% of estimated FMV, 2.3% of offered value). The property is part of a comprehensive effort to protect Town Creek, is a Natural Heritage Program Area of Significance and is identified as priority in the Riparian Corridor Plan. At the requested amount this is a cost to CWMTF of $70 per linear foot of buffer. NCCLT has successfully completed $2,399,481 worth of projects, has $2,321,000 in open contracts, and has received $816,000 in new grant awards.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 638 acres on 30,000 linear feet of Town Cr. (C, Sw-FS)
· Includes protection of 410 acres of wetlands
· Natural Heritage Program area of significance

Scope of Work

· Purchase 911 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity

Budget Notes

· Match as described in the application: in the form of a bargain sale
· Deduct $10,000 from funding for property taxes

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $2,085,000.

2002B-013 NC Coastal Land Trust – Acq./Pettiford Cr. II 69

Summary

The NC Coastal Land Trust is requesting $2,779,000 of a $4,685,000 (41% match) effort in Carteret County, Northern Coastal Plain Region, on Pettiford Creek in the White Oak River Basin. The request is for fee simple purchase of the matching 466 acre portion of CWMTF grant 2001B-027, which purchased the riparian 374 acres along the creek.for $2,167,000. Approximately 23 acres (5%) is within 300 feet of surface waters. The match is in the form of a bargain sale: the property is appraised at $10,000 per acre ($4,660,000) and is offered for $5,910 per acre ($2,754,000), with closing expenses of $25,000. The site is a Natural Heritage Program area of state significance.

Forest Legacy Program is slated to fund up to $3,100,000, and the site is under intense threat of development. The NCCLT option on the property expires April 31, 2003. Availability of funds through Forest Legacy is suspended at the present time. The landowner is not willing to close on only the riparian portion already funded by CWMTF, but wants the entire tract closed together. The riparian portion is a very desirable and important acquisition. The fate of the Forest legacy funds is uncertain, but when funds are released, this project meets all criteria and funding is expected.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffer of 23 acres on 3,340 linear feet of tributaries to Pettiford Creek (SA-PS)

Scope of Work

· Purchase 466 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity

Budget Notes

· Match as described in budget
· Match in form of bargain sale

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends deferring the application until the status of Forest Legacy funding can be determined. Scoring reflects connectivity with the riparian portion previously funded

Summary

The NC Division of Forest Resources requests $3,520,000 of a total $3,683,098 (4% match) effort in Wake County, Eastern Piedmont Region, to protect an unnamed tributary (known locally as Strickland Creek) in the Neuse River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple 355 acres on two tracts: Moore tract of 102 acres for $900,000 (bargain sale from estimated value of $1,063,098) at $8,824 per acre, and the Watson tract of 253 acres for $2,600,000 at $10,177 per acre. The tracts are 78% (277 acres) within 300 linear feet of surface water, and would establish 47,361 linear feet of buffer. At the requested amount, this is a cost to CWMTF of $74 per linear foot of buffer.

DFR is currently in discussions with potential partners for matching funds, but has none at this time. The area is under threat of development. The property would become part of the Clemmons Educational Forest, which is active in its pursuit of public educational opportunities and projects.
NCDFR has successfully completed a $12,015,455 project, has $225,000 in open contracts, and has received $600,000 in new grant awards.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 277 acres on 47,361 linear feet on unnamed tributary to the Neuse River (NSW)

Scope of Work

· Purchase 355 acres and place under permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity
· Property to become part of State Forest

Budget Notes

· Match is in the form of a bargain sale

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding up to $2,751,000 for the riparian portion of the tracts and all transaction costs.

2002B-015 NC Parks and Recreation – Acq./Eno R. State Park 114

Summary

The NC Division of Parks and Recreation requests $2,318,400 of a revised total of a $6,887,000 effort (66% match) in Orange County, Eastern Piedmont Region, to protect the Eno River in the Neuse River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple 815 acres, with 276 acres within 300 linear feet of surface waters and 43,343 linear feet of buffers. The property value negotiated with State Property is $8,400 per acre: at full funding the cost to CWMTF is $53.50 per linear foot of buffer. This is an extension of a comprehensive effort by several partners to protect a 30 mile corridor of the Eno.

This is the largest remaining tract for inclusion in the of Eno River State Park, is a Natural heritage area of significance and is the largest undeveloped tract in Orange County outside of Duke Forest. Funding partners include the Parks and Recreation Fund, Natural Heritage Foundation, Eno River Association and the Land & Water Conservation Fund. The CWMTF had awarded $466,000 to the Division for a $1,300,000 acquisition for the Eno State Park (2001B-031), but withdrew their application and moved ahead to complete the effort without the grant due to the budget constraints. NC DPR has successfully completed $1,700,000 worth of projects, and has $141,000 in open contracts.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 276 acres on 43,343 linear feet on the Eno R. (WS IV, B, NSW)
· Natural Heritage Area of Significance

Scope of Work

· Purchase 276 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity
· Area to become part of State Park system

Budget Notes

· Match as described in the application, with revised total cost

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $2,319,000.

2002B-016 NC WRC – Acq./Needmore Tract 107

Summary

The NC Wildlfe Resources Commission is requesting$13,338,456 of a total $17,550,600 (24% match) in Swain and Macon Counties, Mountain Region, to protect the Little Tennessee River and 21 tributaries in the Little Tennessee River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple, from Crescent Resources, 4,468 acres with 76% (3,400 acres) within 300 feet of surface waters. 4,058 acres lie in one tract, with 15 tracts comprising the remaining 410 acres. The properties would establish 142,560 linear feet of buffers on the Little Tennessee River and 83,850 linear feet on the tributaries (226,410 linear feet total, or almost 43 miles), for a total cost to CWMTF of $59 per linear foot. The cost of acquisition is $16,974,600 ($3,799 per acre). This is the highest priority for WRC, includes Natural Heritage Program areas of significance, containing endangered and protected species. The project includes 350 acres (8 %) of agricultural operations that the WRC would like to remain viable under leases, as requested by Swain and Macon counties. Agricultural BMPs would be required and a minimum of 50-foot buffers implemented on these tracts. Funding partners include NC DOT, TNC and US Fish and Wildlife Service. Property will be managed as Gamelands with public access. The project is adjacent to US Forest Service Gamelands and the Nantahala National Forest, and is under significant development pressure. WRC has successfully completed $13,949,533 worth of projects, has $17,202,234 in open contracts.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 3,400 acres on 142,560 linear feet along the Little Tennessee River (C–FS) and 21 tributaries (17 are C; 3 are C, Tr; 1 is B, Tr; all FS)
· Natural Heritage Program area of significance

Scope of Work

· Purchase 3,400 acres and place under permanent conservation easement
· Place additional 1,068 acres under permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity
· Designate property as Primary Area of Conservation

Budget Notes

· Match as described in the application
· Project total needs to be confirmed with appraisal review

Staff recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the project, pending determination of funding level after project review by the Appraisal Committee.

2002B-017 NC WRC- Acq./Risky Business 81

Summary

The NC Wildlife Resources Commission requests $375,000 of a total $375,000 (no match) effort in Dare County, Northern Coastal Plain Region, to protect the Roanoke Sound and tributaries in the Pasquotank River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple 250 acres on provisionally open shellfish waters. Application states 150 acres (60%) is within 300 feet of surface waters, but all of the tract is either within 300 feet or is marshland. Costs are $360,000 for acquisition ($1,440 per acre), and $15,000 transaction. The tract would be added to the existing WRC-protected 1,555 acre Midgette Marsh tract that received CWMTF funding ($620,00 awarded to 1998A-011). Project would establish 22,000 linear feet of riparian buffers. The tract is under threat of development, with 8 of 27 platted lots permitted for building. At the requested amount, this is a cost to CWMTF of $17 per linear foot of buffer. The project is supported by the Div. Of Marine Fisheries and Shellfish Sanitation.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 250 acres on 22,000 linear feet on Roanoke Sound, Johns, Sand Beach & Broad Creeks (SA)
· Natural Heritage area of significance

Scope of Work

· Purchase 250 acres and place under standard permanent conservation easement
· Transfer property to NC Wildlife resources Commission

Budget Notes

Match as described in application (none)

Condition

Acquisition to be completed within one year of receipt of funding, with no extensions available.

Staff recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $375,000 under the above condition.

Summary

The Pitt Soil and Water Conservation District requests $25,000 of a total $67,750 (63% match) effort in Pitt County, Central Coastal Plain Region, to protect the Little Contentnea Creek in the Neuse River Basin. The project would purchase fee simple a 3.03 acre tract that separates two county-owned tracts totaling 7 acres; their use is limited due to the separation. The 10 acre site will be used as an environmental education facility, including a greenway and boardwalk. The tract is valued at $8,251 per acre, and CWMTF is asked to fund only the purchase price. The project would establish 1,300 feet of riparian buffer at a cost to CWMTF of $19 per linear foot. Partners include Pitt County and the Foundation for Soil and Water. The project is in a WRP-targeted area.

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 3.03 acres on 1,300 linear feet of Little Contentnea Creek (C, Sw, NSW, 303(d) listed for low DO) and tributary.
· Educational effort to promote conservation in the future

Scope of Work

· Purchase 3.03 acres and place under permanent conservation easement
· Monitor in perpetuity

Budget Notes

Match as described in the application

Staff Recommendation 02/16/03

Staff recommends funding the requested amount up to $25,000.

2002B-019 Tar River Land Conservancy – Acq./Allen Tract, Sandy Creek 87

Summary

The Tar River Land Conservancy requests $367,500 of a total $1,245,000 (70% match) effort in Franklin County, Eastern Piedmont Region, to protect Sandy and Richland Creeks in the Tar-Pamlico River Basin. The project would purchase a conservation easement on 390 acres, valued at $1,170,000 ($3,000 per acre) with 70 acres (18%) of floodplain, ranging in depth from 40 to 450 feet, for 16,700 linear feet of buffer. The easement would cover the tract, allowing for farming to continue on 320 upland acres outside the floodplain. The tract is a priority in the Riparian Corridor Protection Plan. The applicant anticipates funding from the USDA Farmland Protection Program (FPP) and a 25% easement donation from the landowner. Project costs include $50,000 for transaction and $50,000 (4% estimated easement value). At requested amount, this is a cost to CWMTF of $22 per linear foot of buffer. Applicant is requesting funding for 30% of the tract, with 18% being floodplain.

Partnering with USDA FPP involves allowing agricultural/silvicultural operations to continue within the entire tract enrolled in the program, with a possible 50-foot no-cut zone, and requires a 50% match. This requires that operations would have to be allowed within any easement outside of that no-cut zone.

The project is in a WRP targeted area, a Natural Heritage Program area of significance, and contains rare and endangered species in the floodplain

Water Quality Benefits

· Establish riparian buffers of 70 acres on 16,700 linear feet of Sandy (B, NSW, 303(d) and Richland Creeks (C, NSW)