Agenda - 11-18-2008 - 6g - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

26 Attachment 5 ORANGE GOUNTY . ENV[RONMENT AND RESOURCE CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT MEIVIORANDVi~ TO: Eddie iGric, Planner From: Rich Shaw, ERCD Land Conservation Manager Date: ~ August 7, 2408 . Su~jeCt: Proposed Lucas Farm at New Hope Subdivision Thank you for the opportun""ity to niview Preliminary Pian for the proposed Lucas Farm at New Hope subdivision (formerly "New Hope Church Rd Property") located northeast of the intersection of Old NC 86 and New Hope Church Road. ERCD commented on two conceptual plans for this project in a memo dated Apn'I 22, 2008. In that memo ERCD suggested a preference for~the conventional plan, which would set aside 21 acres of Open Space for wildlife habitat and low-impact public recreational use. ERCD identified the following "conservation values" for the subject property: 1. The property is adjacent th a section of New Hope Creek that is recognized by the State of NC as providing habitat for aquatic spedes of state and regional significance. 2. The Orange County Comprehensive Plan recommends that this segment of New Hope Creek be protected as a permanent "Wildlife Corridor"' (330' on both sides of Creek). 3. Much of the proposed open space is within the 100-year floodplain 4. The northern 2/3 of the properly is identified in a 1999 inventory of prime forests suitable for native wildlife habitat (Triangle Land Conservancy). This hardwood Prime 1=crest has high conservation value, consistent with the proposed Wiidliife Coridor. 5. The existing Stanfield subdivision .(located north of New Hope Creek; across from the subject properly} has. a public trait easement along north side of New Hope Creek. The new Preliminary Plan (dated 7/9/08) appears tp.be consistent with the eaHier corcve~onal plan that proposed dedicating 21 acres of open space for public recreation/open spade pursuant to Section IV-B-7-b of the Subdivision Ordinance. The protection of this open space would heap iba implement the County's goals of pro'becting floodplains, wetlands, significant natural areas, and prime wildlife habitat. If the County were fio acquire this site, ERCD would recommend that only minimal (if arty) public faatities be constructed, such as a natural trail with interpretive signage and berxhes along New Hope Creek. signage would also be needed to help satisfy the notation on the Preliminary Plan stating that "Public access prohibited south of this line." Let me know if there are any questions. oc: David Stanch, Lori Taft Environment and Resource Conservation PO Box 8981 /306-A Revere Road Hillsborough, NC 27278 (999) 245-2590