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195 <br /> runoff that can exert significant impacts on stream morphology. This will cause further degradation of <br /> aquatic habitat through accelerated stream bank erosion, channel and bedload changes, altered substrates, <br /> and scouring of the stream channel. In addition,pollutants(e.g., sediment,heavy metals,pesticides, and <br /> fertilizers)washed from developed landscapes can adversely affect and extirpate species downstream. We <br /> offer the following preliminary recommendations to minimize impacts to aquatic and terrestrial wildlife <br /> resources. <br /> 1. Since Watery Fork and Hudson creeks occur on site,we highly recommend maintain a minimum <br /> 100-foot undisturbed,native, forested buffer along perennial streams, and a minimum 50-foot <br /> buffer along intermittent streams and wetlands. Maintaining undisturbed, forested buffers along <br /> these areas will minimize impacts to aquatic and terrestrial wildlife resources,water quality,and <br /> aquatic habitat both within and downstream of the project area. Also,wide riparian buffers are <br /> helpful in maintaining stability of stream banks and for treatment of pollutants associated with <br /> urban stormwater. <br /> 2. We recommend designing the subdivision with the lots located in previously cleared and <br /> disturbed areas(pasture) and minimizing the amount of trees and other native vegetation that will <br /> be cleared for the development. <br /> 3. Avoid tree clearing activities during the maternity roosting season for bats(May 15 —August 15) <br /> because of the decline in populations of several bat species, including the proposed endangered <br /> tricolored bat. <br /> 4. NCWRC may request surveys for the presence of state protected mussel species if streams are <br /> impacted. <br /> 5. Use non-invasive native species and Low Impact Development(LID)technology in landscaping. <br /> Using LID technology in landscaping will not only help maintain the predevelopment hydrologic <br /> regime,but also enhance the aesthetic and habitat value of the site. LID techniques include <br /> permeable pavement,narrower roads, and bioretention areas(ex. rain gardens)that can collect <br /> stormwater from driveways and parking areas. Additional information on LID can be found at the <br /> NC State University LID guide: https://www.uni-grououpusa.org/PDF/NC_LID_Guidebook.pdf. <br /> Consider constructing the subdivision as a wildlife friendly development <br /> (https://www.ncwildcertify.org_/).Also,NCWRC's Green Growth Toolbox provides information <br /> on nature-friendly planning <br /> (http://www.ncwildlife.org/Conservin /ograms/GreenGrowthToolbox.aspx). <br /> 6. Re-seed disturbed areas with seed mixtures or native plants that are beneficial to wildlife. Avoid <br /> using invasive,non-native plants(i.e.,tall fescue,lespedeza,nadina, and Bermudagrass)in seed <br /> mixtures or landscaping plants(http://www.ncwildflower.oriz/plant galleries/invasives list). In <br /> open areas, consider planting native,wildflower seed mixes that will create pollinator habitat <br /> within the project boundary. <br /> 7. We recommend using green construction techniques to improve water,waste, and energy <br /> efficiency. Consider using wildlife friendly outdoor lighting since light pollution can impact the <br /> circadian rhythms of animals,disrupt behavior,cause injury, or death. Lights should only be on <br /> when needed;use lights only where necessary; lights should have wavelength greater than 560 <br /> nm emissions(i.e.,narrow-spectrum LEDs or low-pressure sodium);mount the fixture as low as <br /> possible;use the lowest wattage necessary; and lights should be fully shielded. <br /> 8. Erosion and sediment control measures should conform to the High Quality Water Zones <br /> standards stipulated in the NC Department of Environmental Quality Erosion and Sediment <br /> Control Plan(htips:Hdeq.nc.gov/about/divisions/energy-mineral-land-resources/energy-mineral- <br /> land-permit-guidance/erosion-sediment-control-planning design-manual). Sediment and erosion <br /> control measures should use advanced methods and installed prior to any land-disturbing activity. <br /> 9. The use of biodegradable and wildlife-friendly sediment and erosion control devices is strongly <br /> recommended throughout the site.Matting used for stabilization should be free of nylon or plastic <br /> mesh, as it frequently entangles wildlife and it is slow to degrades,resulting in a hazard that may <br />