Agenda - 07-05-1988 - Laserfiche WebLink

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098 natural and physical characteristics that are of great value. The value is not necessarily monetary. It may be historical, biological, spiritual, or of value to the planning process. First and foremost among these resources is Eno River State Park, which stretches along the Eno River in Orange and Durham Counties. Its natural and historical resources and recreational opportunities are a tremendous asset to the entire region. State Park lands in Orange County for which the State either has easements or fee simple ownership lie in one of three general areas, Cate's Ford access, Cole Mill access, and Cabe's Mill (also known as Cabesland) access. The largest of the three areas, Cate's Ford, has one of the best natural exposures of the pyroclastic rock that is widespread throughout the Piedmont. Pyroclastic refers to being volcanic in origin. Populations of Neuse River Waterdogs, a salamander, and Roanoke Bass have been noted at Cate's Ford. Both are classified as species of special concern by the State. This designation applies when the species exists in Orange County in small populations, is faced with major habitat loss, or are targets of exploitation. Another fish species of special concern, the Carolina Darter, has been identified in the Cabe's Mill portion of the Park. Flora in the Park is also of great biological significance. Exemplary plant communities in Eno River State Park range from xeric pine/heath stands, more common in the western mountains of North Carolina, to bottom land hardwood forests along the river. Ginseng, a threatened species, has been identified in the Cabe's Mill access area. A classification of threatened indicates a threat to species survival even greater than of a special status classification. The Eno River State Park Master Plan calls for the development of the Park in two phases. In Orange County, the first phase called for the development of the Cate's Ford and Cabe's Mill access area to provide primitive camping, picnicing and hiking. The second phase of the development plan calls for completing the linear character of the park by purchasing land and easements for connecting pieces along the river. Phase two also calls for additional access points with canoe launches at Lawrence Road and Pleasant Green Road and expansion of Cate's Ford. Populations of species of special concern have been noted in areas of Eno Township outside the existing Park boundaries. Three species in particular, the Alewife Floater, Neuse River Waterdog, and Carolina Darter, all require 113.e river to sustain life and reinforces the importance of the Eno River to the natural environment of Orange County. 3.10-7