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<br /> 07 June 2024 Page 2 NCWRC Comments
<br /> Hart's Mill Ecovillage
<br /> Orange County
<br /> 2. Maintain a minimum 100-foot undisturbed,native,forested buffer along perennial streams, and a
<br /> minimum 50-foot buffer along intermittent streams and wetlands. Maintaining undisturbed,
<br /> forested buffers along these areas will minimize impacts to aquatic and terrestrial wildlife
<br /> resources,water quality, and aquatic habitat both within and downstream of the project area.
<br /> Also,wide riparian buffers are helpful in maintaining stability of stream banks and for treatment
<br /> of pollutants associated with urban stormwater.
<br /> 3. We recommend minimizing 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).
<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).
<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.
<br /> We have no concerns regarding the change to zoning if the applicant adheres to the Conservation Cluster
<br /> Framework and maintains at least 40%natural open space and land preservation.At this time,the
<br /> information provided is not sufficient for our staff to make definitive recommendations or conclusions
<br /> concerning this project.A site plan can help guide our recommendations. If I can be of additional
<br /> assistance,please call(336)269-0074 or email olivia.munzer@ncwildlife.org.
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