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11 April 2024 Page 2 NCWRC Comments
<br />The Woods and Woodsedge Project
<br />Orange County
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<br />recommend increasing the buffer around the two streams to 100 feet on both sides of the streams.
<br />The open space should be undisturbed, forested areas that are clearly marked during construction.
<br />We appreciate that these open areas will be preserved as permanent conservation easements.
<br />2. The project footprint should be surveyed for wetlands and streams to ensure there is no impact to
<br />surface waters. In addition to providing wildlife habitat, wetland areas and streams aid in flood
<br />control and water quality protection. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 Permits and
<br />NCDWR Section 401 Certifications are required for any impacts to jurisdictional streams or
<br />wetlands.
<br />3. We recommend minimize clearing of living, dying, or dead mature trees, particularly if they are
<br />hardwoods, and avoid tree clearing activities during the activity period for tricolored bats (April 1
<br />– November 14).
<br />4. Incorporate the following elements into erosion and sediment control plans: minimize clearing
<br />and grading, protect waterways, phase construction for larger construction sites (>25 acres),
<br />stabilize soils as rapidly as possible (<2 weeks), protect steep slopes, establish appropriate
<br />perimeter controls, employ advanced settling devices, implement a certified contractors program,
<br />and regularly inspect erosion control measures.
<br />5. We recommend using native plants for seeding disturbed areas. Avoid using non-native and/or
<br />invasive species such as Bermudagrass, redtop, fescue, and lespedeza. Alternatively, use grains,
<br />such as oats, wheat, or rye for temporary cover and native seed mixes for permeant seeding. A list
<br />of alternatives to non-native species has been attached. We recommend planting native,
<br />wildflower seed mixes that will create pollinator habitat within the project boundary as well as
<br />planting native trees and shrubs in landscaping. Avoid using invasive, non-native plants in seed
<br />mixtures or landscaping plants (http://www.ncwildflower.org/plant_galleries/invasives_list), such
<br />as nadina, privet, barberry, or Japanese holly.
<br />6. 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 and bioretention areas that can collect stormwater from driveways and
<br />parking areas. Additional alternatives include narrower roads, swales versus curbs/gutters and
<br />permeable surfaces such as turf stone, brick, and cobblestone. Compared to conventional
<br />developments, implementing appropriate LID techniques can be more cost-effective, increase
<br />property values, provide space-saving advantages, reduce runoff, and protect water quality
<br />(Roseen et al. 2011).
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<br />Also, additional information on LID can be found at the NC State University LID guide:
<br />LID_Guidebook. NCWRC’s Green Growth Toolbox provides information on nature-friendly
<br />planning (Green Growth Toolbox).
<br />7. We recommend using green construction techniques to improve water, waste, and energy
<br />efficiency, such as environmental-friendly building techniques, construction waste management,
<br />energy efficient building materials, and rain gardens.
<br />8. Consider using wildlife friendly outdoor lighting since light pollution can impact the circadian
<br />rhythms of animals, disrupt behavior, cause injury, or death. Lights should only be on when
<br />needed; use lights only where necessary; lights should have wavelength greater than 560 nm
<br />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 />9. Erosion control matting made of plastic mesh or twine should not be used within the project area
<br />because it can injure or kill wildlife.
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