TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The Jacksonville District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) has received an application for a Department of the Army permit pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. §1344) as described below:
APPLICANT: Ms. Virginia Creighton
Florida Department of Transportation – District 7
11201 North McKinley Drive
Tampa, Florida 33612
WATERWAY AND LOCATION: The project would affect waters of the United States (surface waters and wetlands) associated with the Pithlachascotee River. The project site is located on State Road (SR) 52 (Schrader Highway) and would extend from the Suncoast Parkway to east of U.S. 41 (SR 45), approximately 3.9 miles, and would include approximately 1 mile of U.S. 41. The project is located in Section 12, Township 25 South, Range 17 East; and Sections 7, 8, 9, 10, 16, Township 25 South, Range 18 East, Pasco County, Florida.
Directions to the site are as follows: The project is located on SR 52 (Schrader Highway) and will extend from the Suncoast Parkway to east of US 41 (SR 45). From I-75 exit at SR 52 head west approximately 12 miles.
APPROXIMATE CENTRAL COORDINATES:
Latitude 28.32669°
Longitude -82.52808°
PROJECT PURPOSE:
Basic: Road improvements.
Overall: The overall project purpose is to improve an existing roadway in order to increase vehicle capacity and improve safety of the major east-west arterial in response to projected traffic increases within the eastern/central corridor of Pasco County, Florida.
EXISTING CONDITIONS: The project area, which is approximately 300.8 acres in size, consists of a mixture of transportation, commercial, and residential property interspersed with undeveloped areas. The undeveloped lands consist of upland forests, forested wetlands, non-forested wetlands, tree plantation, and pastures; a large majority of the upland habitat is used as grazing land for cattle. Wetlands and surface waters that fall within the proposed roadway alignment include the portions of these fringes of forested and herbaceous systems, and some isolated wetland communities that developed within the existing FDOT right-of-way (ROW) following the original roadway construction. None of the wetland or surface water systems within the project area are located within Outstanding Florida Waters or Aquatic Preserves, Class I or II Waters, or sovereign submerged lands. There are 10 drainage basins and 11 stormwater management facility sites within the project limits. Basins A and B are within the Bear Creek Watershed. Basins C through J are within the Pithlachascotee River Watershed. Each of these watersheds ultimately discharges to the Gulf of Mexico. The existing roadway is typically a two-lane, undivided rural facility with one 12-foot lane in each direction, and 12-foot shoulders (4 feet paved). Land use/land cover types in and around the roadway corridor were classified using the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Florida Land Use, Cover and Forms Classification System (FLUCFCS, 1999) and the USFWS Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States (Cowardin, 1979). The following paragraphs further describe the wetlands identified according to classifications and the approximate acreages of each wetland classification within the project area:
Wetland 3R: USFWS Classification: PFO6/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and lake swamps
Wetland 3R is classified as a palustrine, forested system with deciduous trees (PFO6). Wetland 3R is a small, forested wetland that was historically part of a large system to the north and south. However, the gas pipeline installation created a break in the forested community. This wetland appears to still be hydrologically connected to the south and is adjacent to SR 52 to the north. This wetland has a small stream component connecting to wetland 18N on the north side of the road. Vegetative species include red maple (Acer rubrum), bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), American elm (Ulmus americana), sweetbay (Magnolia virginiana), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera), Carolina willow (Salix virginiana), lizard’s tail (Saururus cernuus), and duckweed (Lemna spp.). Surface water was observed and vegetation does not exhibit signs of hydrologic stress. This forested system contains a low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation.
Wetland 4R: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and lake swamps
Wetland 4R abuts the south side of SR 52 and was historically part of a large system to the south; other surrounding land use is primarily composed of improved pasture and nearby wetlands. This system is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broadleaved deciduous trees (PFO1). Wetland 4R is a forested wetland comprised of red maple. This wetland contains a low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation. No standing water or hydric indicators were observed. Additionally, there is a break in the forested community where the gas pipeline was installed.
Wetland 5R: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and lake swamps
Wetland 5R is located immediately east of Wetland 4R and was historically connected a large system to the south; other surrounding land use is primarily composed of transportation and nearby wetlands. This system is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broad-leaved deciduous trees (PFO1). Red maple and bald cypress are the dominant species in this wetland. The gas pipeline has created a break in the forested community. This wetland contains a low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation. No standing water or hydric indicators were observed.
Wetland 7A: USFWS Classification: PEM1x/FLUCFCS Code: 641 – Freshwater marsh This is a ditch located just south of SR 52 in close proximity to a cypress dome (W7B). Pine flatwoods are located to the south. This is a small ditch with vegetation along its edge comprised of red maple, water oak (Quercus nigra), and saw palmetto (Serenoa repens). The interior of the ditch did not contain any vegetation. No standing water or saturated soils observed during the assessment but hydrologic evidence from stain lines that water reaches top of bank.
Wetland 7B: USFWS Classification: PFO2/FLUCFCS Code: 621 – Cypress
Wetland 7B continues outside the project to the south and is located on the south side of SR 52; other surrounding land uses include disturbed pine flatwoods, improved pasture and nearby wetlands. This system is classified as palustrine forested with deciduous needle-leaves and is dominated by bald cypress and red maple with an understory of royal fern (Osmunda regalis), day flower (Commelina diffusa), and swamp fern (Blechnum serrulatum); subdominant species include sweetbay and wax myrtle. This wetland contains a low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation. Standing water and stain lines were observed.
Wetland 8B: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 617 – Mixed Wetland Hardwoods
This system is located west of the US 41 and SR 52 intersection and south of SR 52. Surrounding land use includes disturbed land, industrial area, hardwood forest and adjacent wetlands. This wetland is comprised of red maple, water oak, laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia), and cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) with a shrub layer of wax myrtle, elderberry (Sambucus nigra) and groundcover comprised of blackberry (Rubus sp.), caesarweed (Urena lobata),and catbrier (Smilax sp.). Low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation was observed. No standing water was observed but hydric indicators (stain lines) were present.
Wetland 8R: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 617 – Mixed Wetland Hardwoods
Wetland 8R is located on the south side of SR 52; it is connected to Wetland 19N to the north through a culvert and is surrounded by pine flatwoods. This system is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broad-leaved deciduous trees. The canopy is dominated by bald cypress and red maple with a mid-story of dahoon holly (Ilex cassine), bald cypress and red maple and an herbaceous layer dominated by sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense) and swamp fern. Low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation was observed during the evaluation. No standing water or saturated soils was observed. Hydric indicators observed include moss lines and cypress knees; however, hydrology has been altered.
Wetland 9N: USFWS Classification: PFO2/PEM1/FLUCFCS Code: 621 – Cypress/641 – Freshwater Marsh
Wetland 9N is located on the north side of SR 52; surrounding land use includes disturbed hardwood forest, residential, commercial and nearby wetlands. This system is classified as palustrine forested with deciduous needle-leaves/palustrine emergent with persistent vegetation. The forested portion of this wetland is comprised of bald cypress, red maple, sweetbay, and swamp bay (Persea palustris); the sub-canopy contains royal fern, blackberry, and wax myrtle. The herbaceous portion of this system is comprised of cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), blackberry, softrush (Juncus effusus), beakrushes (Rhynchospora spp.), and starrush (Rhynchospora colorata). Low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation was observed and the portion of the wetland within the ROW has been mowed. Standing water and hydric indicators were observed.
Wetland 11N: USFWS Classification: PEM1/FLUCFCS Code: 510 – Streams and Waterways
Wetland 11N is an open water wetland system with a forested bank and is classified as a palustrine emergent marsh with persistent vegetation. Surrounding land use includes commercial property and pasture to the west, SR 52 to the south, and residential land use to the east. W11N connects to a larger system to the north and a culvert under SR 52. The edge of the wetland contains red maple, elderberry (Sambucus nigra), and blackberry. Low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation was observed. Standing water with a layer of duckweed and floating garbage.
Wetland 12N: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 617 – Mixed Wetland Hardwoods
Wetland 12N is located on the north side of SR 52; it continues offsite to the northwest and is surrounded by residential development, industrial development and upland forest. This system is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broad-leaved deciduous trees. The canopy is comprised of water oak, laurel oak, sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and swamp bay and groundcover comprised of maidencane (Panicum hemitomon). Low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation was observed during the evaluation. Standing water was observed in the deepest portions of the wetland (outside the assessment area). Other signs of hydrology include stain lines on vegetation.
Wetland 12NA: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 617 – Mixed Wetland Hardwoods
Wetland 12NA is located on the north side of SR 52; it continues offsite to the north and is surrounded by residential development, industrial development, upland forest and abuts railroad and Giddens Road to the east. This system is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broad-leaved deciduous trees. The canopy is comprised of water oak, laurel oak, American elm, and red maple with a shrub layer of wax myrtle, elderberry and groundcover comprised of blackberry, caesarweed, and catbrier. Low cover of nuisance/exotic vegetation was observed during the evaluation. Standing water was observed in the deepest portions of the wetland (outside the assessment area). Other signs of hydrology include stain lines on vegetation. Additionally, it appears raised railroad to the east has impounded water.
Wetland 13N: USFWS Classification: PFO1/PEM1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp/641 – Freshwater Marsh
Wetland 13N is adjacent to the north side of SR 52 and continues to the north outside the project limits. Surrounding land use includes forested uplands and residential development. This system is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broad-leaved deciduous trees/palustrine emergent with persistent vegetation. The forested portion of Wetland 13N includes bald cypress, red maple, and sweet bay with a sub-canopy of wax myrtle. Peelbark St. John’s wort (Hypericum fasciculatum), blackberry, and cinnamon fern were the present ground cover. The herbaceous portion of Wetland 13N is a fairly dry, small emergent wetland system comprised of elderberry, lizard's tail, fetterbush (Lyonia lucida), sawgrass, wax myrtle, dog fennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), and blackberry. Nuisance/exotic species were not observed. Hydrologic indicators present and natural flow channels present but system was dry.
Wetland 14N: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp
Wetland 14N is a forested system that continues to the north (outside the project limits) with SR 52 to the south and commercial development to the west and east. This system is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broad-leaved deciduous trees. Canopy species include bald cypress, red maple, sweetbay, and laurel oak. Sub-canopy species include Carolina willow, elderberry along the edge and scattered saw palmetto. Royal fern, Virginia chain fern (Woodwardia virginica), and cinnamon fern were the present ground cover. No nuisance/exotic species were observed. Hydrologic indicators include stain lines and some hummocking. No standing water was observed, but some scattered pockets of low-lying saturated areas were observed.
Wetland 15N: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp
Wetland 15N is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broad-leaved deciduous trees with SR 52 to the south, commercial development to the west, and open agricultural/forested lands to the east and north. This area is a forested wetland system extending from a larger system to the north. Canopy species include bald cypress, red maple, sweetbay, and laurel oak. Sub-canopy species include Carolina willow, elderberry and scattered saw palmetto (on edge of wetland). The system contains less than five percent nuisance/exotic species.
Wetland 16N: USFWS Classification: PEM1/FLUCFCS Code: 520 – Lakes
Wetland 16N is an emergent system with a roadway to the south and west, commercial development to the east, and pine flatwoods to the north. This system is surrounded by a ring of saw palmetto. Dominant vegetation within the system includes peelbark St. John's wort, frog fruit (Phyla nodiflora), bahia grass (Paspalum notatum), scattered young bald cypress and red maple. The core of the system is a monoculture of cattail (Typha sp.), a nuisance species. Water levels appeared appropriate with standing water in the center. A weir structure appears to stabilize water levels within the wetland.
Wetland 17N: USFWS Classification: PFO6/FLUCFCS Code: 630 – Wetland Forested Mix
Wetland 17N is a forested system with SR 52 to the south, commercial development to the east, open agricultural/forested lands to the west and north, and a lake to the north. This area contains a canopy dominated by red maple. Subcanopy species consist of wax myrtle and recruiting red maple. Groundcover species include sawgrass, cinnamon fern, Virginia chain fern, and swamp fern. No exotics were noted. No standing water was observed but hydrology of the system appeared healthy.
Wetland 17S: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp:
Wetland 17S is classified as a palustrine, forested system with broad-leaved deciduous trees with SR 52 to the north, open agricultural/forested lands to the east, west and south. Canopy species include red maple. The system contains less than five percent nuisance/exotic species and has been severely disturbed by gas pipeline to the south.
Wetland 18NA: USFWS Classification: PSS1/FLUCFCS Code: 618 – Willow and Elderberry
This small shrub system is surrounded by pine plantation to the north, east, and west; SR 52 is to the south. Shady Hills road is located approximately 200 feet to the west. This system is dominated by Carolina willow with an open water core containing duckweed and an edge comprised of laurel oak. Subdominant species include Virginia chain fern and maiden fern (Thelypteris sp.). The system contains less than 5 percent nuisance/exotic species and a 24 inch culvert is located on the east side of the wetland. Standing water was observed in the core of the wetland. Other signs of hydrology include stain lines and adventitious rooting on vegetation and soils appeared hydric. The culvert on the east side of the wetland may contribute to water elevations.
Wetland 18N: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp
Wetland 18N is a cypress dome that was historically part of a larger system that continues to the north and south but has been altered over time. A culvert under the roadway connects this system toWetland 3R the south. Wetland 18N is a cypress system with SR 52 to the south, continuous wetland to the north, upland forest to the east, and residential land use to the west. The canopy is dominated by cypress and red maple. The subcanopy shows recruitment of cypress, red maple and fetterbush. Wild taro (Colocasia esculenta), a nuisance/exotic species, was observed in the understory along with royal fern, Virginia chain fern, and cinnamon fern. Surface water was present and vegetation did not exhibit signs of hydrologic stress.
Wetland 19N: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 617 – Mixed Wetland Hardwoods: Wetland 19N is a large system that connects under US 41. It is located west and east of US 41, north of the intersection between SR 52 and US 41. It connects to Wetland 8R south of SR 52 via a culvert. This forested wetland system includes a canopy of red maple and sweetbay; subcanopy species consisted of elderberry and sawgrass with groundcover of royal fern, sword fern (Nephrolepis sp.), and pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata). No exotics were present on this site. Hydric indicators were evident, however hydrology appeared impacted due to proximity to US 41.
Wetland 21N: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 617 – Mixed Wetland Hardwoods
Wetland 21N is a small isolated system that continues offsite to the north and is surrounded by pine plantation to the east, SR 52 to the south and hardwood forest to the north and west. Shady hills road is located approximately 200 feet to the east. This depression abuts SR 52 to the south and continues north and contains a canopy of red maple in the core with an edge comprised of live oak, saw palmetto, catbriar, and misc. grasses. This system contains less than 5 percent nuisance/exotic species and the eastern portion appears to have been excavated.
Wetland 22: USFWS Classification: PEM1/FLUCFCS Code: 643 – Wet Prairie
This system is part of a larger system that continues to the north. The wetland is surrounded by commercial development, SR 52 and hardwood forest. This wet prairie abuts SR 52 to the south and continues north. Commercial development is located to the west and hardwood forest is located to the north and east of the system. Appropriate vegetation was observed but recreational use has resulted in impacts to vegetative structure. This system contains a large open water area in the core with a midzone of dahoon holly, peelbark St. John's wort, blue maidencane (Amphicarpum muhlenbergianum), broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus) with scattered Melaleuca (Melaleuca quinquenervia) and an edge comprised of fetterbush and longleaf pine (Pinus palustris). The system contains less than 5 percent nuisance/exotic species and some ATV damage was observed.
Wetland B3: USFWS Classification: PEM1x/FLUCFCS Code: 641 – Freshwater Marsh
This herbaceous system is located just east of SR 589 and south of SR 52. Surrounding land use includes longleaf pine and xeric oaks and a few developed areas. This wetland is dominated by cattail, softstem bulrush (Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani), and blue maidencane. The fringe of the wetland contained saw palmetto, wax myrtle, and saltbush, while the interior was comprised of mostly open water. Other ground cover species included royal fern, Virginia chain fern, and cinnamon fern. Standing water was observed and vegetation did not exhibit signs of hydrologic stress.
Wetland BC1: USFWS Classification: PFO2/FLUCFCS Code: 621 – Cypress
This cypress system is located east of SR 589 and south of SR 52. This area appears to connected to a cypress forest to the west via a culvert under SR 589. Surrounding land use includes upland forest and adjacent wetlands. This wetland is dominated by cypress and some red maple. Subcanopy showed recruiting cypress, red maple and fetterbush. Some wild taro present. Other ground cover species included royal fern, Virginia chain fern, and cinnamon fern. Standing water was observed and vegetation did not exhibit signs of hydrology.
Wetland E2: USFWS Classification: PEM1/FLUCFCS Code: 641 – Freshwater Marsh
This freshwater marsh is located in the central portion of the project on the south side of
SR 52 and is part of a larger system that continues to the south known as Pierce Lake. Wetland E2 is surrounded by low density residential development, SR 52, and hardwood and conifer mixed forest. This system is part of a large lake known as Pierce Lake. The assessment area contains a canopy along the edge of the wetland comprised of swamp bay, red maple, and laurel oak with an understory of royal fern, cinnamon fern, and scattered saw palmetto. The majority of the wetland is herbaceous and is comprised of blue maidencane, water lily (Nymphaea odorata), maidencane, marsh pinks (Sabatia grandiflora). The system contains less than 5 percent nuisance/exotic species.
Wetland E100
USFWS Classification: PFO1/2/ FLUCFCS Code: 621 – Cypress
This wetland system is located west of US 41 and north of SR 52. This disturbed system is surrounded by residential development to the north and US 41 to the east. It is connected via culvert to Wetland E101 to the south. This forested system contains a large excavated rim-ditch along most of the edge, consisting of mostly open water. The majority of the interior wetland is dominated by cypress. The southern and western portion of the wetland consists of a canopy of red maple, dahoon holly, and swamp bay. Shrub species throughout the wetland include buttonbush and Virginia willow, with an edge comprised of fetterbush and wax myrtle. The herbaceous layer consists of royal fern and cinnamon fern with duckweed in the areas of open water. The edge of the wetland contains areas with dense green briar, grapevine and blackberry. Standing water was observed throughout the wetland.
Wetland E101
USFWS Classification: PFO2 / FLUCFCS Code: 621 – Cypress
This wetland system is located west of US 41 and north of SR 52. This disturbed system is surrounded by residential development to the north and US 41 to the east. It is connected via culvert to Wetland E100 to the north. This forested system contains a large excavated rim-ditch along most of the edge, consisting of mostly open water. The majority of the interior wetland is dominated by cypress. The southern and western portion of the wetland consists of a canopy of red maple, dahoon holly, and swamp bay. Shrub species throughout the wetland include buttonbush and Virginia willow, with an edge comprised of fetterbush and wax myrtle. The herbaceous layer consists of royal fern and cinnamon fern with duckweed in the areas of open water. The edge of the wetland contains areas with dense green briar, grapevine and blackberry. Standing water was observed throughout the wetland.
Wetland J1: USFWS Classification: PEM1x/FLUCFCS Code: 510 – Streams and waterways
This wetland system is located 670 feet south of the SR 52 / US 41 intersection and is 165 feet east of US 41. WJ1 is an excavated system connecting to Green Lake located to the south. Wetland J1 is bordered by US 41 to the west, SR 52 to the north, and residential properties to the east. This excavated wetland system connects to Green Lake. The edge of the assessment area consists of swamp bay, pond cypress (Taxodium ascendens), laurel oak, and water oak. Herbaceous vegetation extends from the wetland edge and further past the herbaceous vegetation was an open water area allowing for residential boat traffic to Green Lake. Herbaceous vegetation consisted of cinnamon fern, royal fern, broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia), and Peruvian primrose willow (Ludwigia peruviana). The system contains approximately 10% nuisance/exotic species (Peruvian primrose willow).
Wetland P: USFWS Classification: PEM1x/FLUCFCS Code: 641 – Freshwater Marsh
Wetland P is located south of the SR 52 and east of the CSX railroad tracks. This system is connected to Pierce Lake to the east and surrounding land use is primarily low density residential development. Standing water was observed in the open portion of the wetland but not in the assessment area. This system was likely a historic cypress dome, currently the assessment area is dominated by cattail with an occasional cypress. The system is disturbed due to clearing and mowing.
Wetland D1A: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp
Wetland D1A is part of Wetland 14N and15N. This wetland system extends from a large system to the north. A culvert under the roadway connects this system to Wetland 6R to the south. Surrounding land uses include SR 52 to the south, commercial development to the west, open agricultural/forested lands to the east and north. Canopy species include cypress trees, red maples, sweet bay, and laurel oak. Sub-canopy species include Carolina willow, elderberry (on edge of wetland) and scattered saw palmetto. Swamp ferns were the present ground cover. Surface water was present and vegetation did not exhibit signs of hydrologic stress.
Wetland D1B: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp
Wetland D1B is part of Wetland 13N. This wetland system extends to the north and east, surrounding landuses include SR 52 to the south and additional forested wetland to the north, east and west. Canopy species include cypress trees, red maples, sweet bay. Subcanopy species include wax myrtle. St. John's wort, blackberry, and cinnamon ferns were the present ground cover. Surface water was present and vegetation did not exhibit signs of hydrologic stress.
Wetland D2B: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp
Wetland D2B is also part of Wetland 13N. This wetland system extends to the north and east, surrounding landuses include SR 52 to the south and additional forested wetland to the north, east and west. Canopy species include cypress trees, red maples, sweet bay. Sub-canopy species include wax myrtle. St. John's wort, blackberry, and cinnamon ferns were the present ground cover. Surface water was present and vegetation did not exhibit signs of hydrologic stress.
Wetland D3B: USFWS Classification: PFO1/FLUCFCS Code: 615 – Stream and Lake swamp
Wetland D3B is part of Wetland 14N. This wetland system extends from a large system to the north. Surrounding land uses include SR 52 to the south, commercial development to the west, open agricultural/forested lands to the east and north. Canopy species include cypress trees, red maples, sweet bay, and laurel oak. Sub-canopy species include Carolina willow, elderberry (on edge of wetland) and scattered saw palmetto. Swamp ferns were the present ground cover. Surface water was present and vegetation did not exhibit signs of hydrologic stress.
Wetland BC2: USFWS Classification: PEM1/FLUCFCS Code: 643 – Wet Prairie
This system is part of a larger system that continues to the east that is surrounded by upland forest. SR 589 is located to the west and SR 52 is located to the north. This system contains a large open water area in the core with a midzone of St. John's wort (Hypericum fasciculatum), blue maidencane (Amphicarpum muhlenbergianum), and broomsedge and an edge comprised of fetterbush and saw palmetto. The system contains less than 5 percent nuisance/exotic species. Standing water was observed and vegetation did not exhibit signs of hydrologic stress.
Surface Waters: There are a total of four surface water features (SW 10, SW 12, SW 13, SW 14) identified along the project corridor. These man-made, drainage conveyances are classified as upland excavated (created) palustrine wetlands with persistent, emergent vegetation (PEM1x). These linear cut ditches are of varying lengths and widths within the project ROW. All surface waters appear to undergo routine mowing and or trimming of vegetation. Dominant vegetation observed included red maple, cattail, Peruvian primrose willow, torpedo grass (Panicum repens), Carolina willow, paragrass (Urochloa mutica), and bahia grass. These features appear to provide suitable foraging habitat for the wood stork (Mycteria americana).
PROPOSED WORK: The applicant seeks authorization to permanently fill approximately 18.2 acres of wetlands in order to widen and improve SR 52 from west of Suncoast Parkway to east of US 41 for approximately 3.9 miles. Additionally, the project would include approximately 1 mile of US 41. A six-lane, divided urban typical section is proposed for SR 52 from the Suncoast Parkway to Shady Hills Road, and a six-lane, divided rural typical section is proposed for the remainder of the project. Both the urban and rural sections include considerations for a 12-foot multi-use (bicycle/pedestrian) trail located along the north side of the roadway. The stormwater management system would utilize ponds to meet the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) permitting requirements for open basins. Runoff would be conveyed to these Stormwater Management Facilities (SMFs) primarily by roadway ditches. Because of the high groundwater table in the area, most of the SMF alternates would treat, attenuate and recover the required volumes through wet detention. The total amount of impact, i.e. 18.2 acres, includes 13.88 acres of permanent impacts to palustrine forested wetlands, 0.14 acre of permanent palustrine scrub shrub wetland impacts, and 4.18 acres of permanent palustrine emergent wetland impacts. The secondary impacts proposed total 5.06 acres to include 3.85 acres of palustrine forested wetland and 1.21 acres of palustrine emergent wetland. Best management practices would be utilized.
AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION INFORMATION – The applicant has provided the following information in support of efforts to avoid and/or minimize impacts to the aquatic environment:
Consideration was given to avoiding and/or minimizing wetland impacts. During field investigations for the SR 52 Project Development and Environment Study completed in 1988, project environmental data was used to develop the current alignment that provides the necessary roadway improvements, satisfies acceptable traffic engineering design standards, and avoids/minimizes impacts to significant environmental features to the greatest extent possible. It was determined the proposed design represents the minimum amount of fill required in order to achieve the project purpose and meet the FDOT’s safety criteria and drainage requirements. The project would be constructed in accordance with the 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) and best management practices during construction would be implemented to avoid water quality degradation. SMFs would be improved and upgraded to fully treat and attenuate all anticipated stormwater. In accordance with the latest edition of FDOT's Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction, the adjacent offsite waters would be protected by erosion control measures including staked turbidity barriers, floating turbidity barriers, geotextile hay bales, or a combination thereof, as well as sediment monitoring.
COMPENSATORY MITIGATION – The applicant has offered the following compensatory mitigation plan to offset unavoidable functional loss to the aquatic environment:
The applicant utilized the Uniform Mitigation Assessment Method (UMAM) to evaluate the ecological functions currently being provided by the aquatic resources proposed to be impacted by this project. Of the unavoidable impacts, the applicant has determined that 18.20 acres of the permanent wetlands impacts and 5.06 acres of the secondary wetlands impacts require mitigation. Using the UMAM, the applicant has determined that the project’s impacts would result in 11.84 UMAM units of functional loss. This includes 9.24 UMAM units of palustrine forested wetland loss and 2.60 UMAM units of palustrine herbaceous wetland loss. In order to offset the functional loss, the applicant proposes to purchase 11.84 credits (9.24 palustrine forested credits and 2.60 palustrine herbaceous credits) from the federally-approved Old Florida Mitigation Bank. The credit purchase would also offset impacts to wood stork suitable foraging habitat impacts.
CULTURAL RESOURCES: The Corps is not aware of any known historic properties within the permit area. By copy of this public notice, the Corps is providing information for review. Our final determination relative to historic resource impacts is subject to review by and coordination with the State Historic Preservation Officer and those federally recognized tribes with concerns in Florida and the Permit Area.
ENDANGERED SPECIES: The Corps has determined that the project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the wood stork (Mycteria americana) and Eastern Indigo snake (Drymarchon couperii corais). Additionally, the Corps has determined that the proposed project would have no effect on the Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens).
Wood Stork: The proposed project is located within the core foraging area (CFA) of 10 wood stork colonies (Northlakes, Cypress Creek, Greensbrooke, Seven Springs, Heron Island, Saddlebrooke Resort, Embassy- Shoppers Way, Heron Point, and Anclote River). This species typically inhabits freshwater and brackish wetlands, primarily nesting in cypress and mangrove swamps. They can be found foraging in shallow water in freshwater marshes, wet prairies, narrow tidal creeks, and flooded tidal pools, as well as roadside ditches and pasturelands. No wood storks were observed during the listed species surveys or other field recognizance conducted by the applicant. The project contains several freshwater marsh wetlands which offer suitable foraging habitat (SFH) for wood storks. Because greater than 0.5 acres of wetland impacts will occur to Suitable Foraging Habitat (SFH) within the CFA of a colony site the project proposes to provide SFH compensation within the CFA of enhancement, restoration and preservation in a project phased approach that provides an amount of habitat and foraging function equivalent to that of impacted SFH. It is anticipated the project will more than compensate for the SFH loss through credit purchase at Old Florida Mitigation Bank, to satisfy all mitigation requirements of Part IV, Chapter 373.4137 F.S., and U.S.C. 1344. Based upon review of the Wood Stork Key for South Florida dated May 18, 2010, the proposed project resulted in the following sequential determination: A > B > C > D > E = not likely to adversely affect the wood stork.
Eastern Indigo Snake: Eastern indigo snakes use a wide variety of habitats and may be expected to occupy almost any tract that contains potentially suitable habitat. The project area contains only suboptimal habitat for the species. During the general listed species surveys performed by the applicant, five potentially occupied burrows were observed in Pond D1A. Given that potential habitat occurs within the project limits; 90 days prior to construction, a 100 percent gopher tortoise survey should be conducted, and an application to relocate the affected tortoise(s), in accordance with the FWC Gopher Tortoise Permitting Guidelines (January 2017), would be required. Also, the applicant would adhere to the Standard Protection Measures for the Eastern Indigo Snake will be implemented during construction to minimize potential impacts during site clearing and construction. Based on the above information, the potential impacts to the endangered eastern indigo snake were evaluated using The Eastern Indigo Snake Programmatic Effect Determination Key, August 2013. Use of the Eastern Indigo snake key resulted in the following sequential determination: A > B > C > D > E = not likely to adversely affect the Eastern Indigo snake.
Florida Scrub Jay: The proposed project falls within the USFWS consultation area for the Florida scrub jay. This species typically inhabits fire-dominated, low-growing, oak scrub habitat found on well-drained sandy soils and may persist in areas with sparser oaks or scrub areas that are overgrown. Based on current distribution information for this species, the proposed project segment is more than three miles south of any known Florida scrub-jay territory or observation well beyond the typical dispersal range of this species. Additionally, no appropriate habitat for this species exists near the project area, and none were observed during listed species surveys or other field work conducted by the applicant. The project abuts the existing SR 52 which is surrounded by wetlands, agriculture, and developed lands severely restricting colonization by emigrating birds from outside colonies. Based on this information, the Corps has determined that the project will have no effect on this species.
ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT (EFH): This notice initiates consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service on EFH as required by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 1996. Our initial determination is that the proposed action would have a minor adverse impact on EFH or federally managed fisheries associated with the receiving waters of the Pithlachascotee River as a result of the best management practices proposed by the applicant. Our final determination relative to project impacts and the need for mitigation measures is subject to review by and coordination with the National Marine Fisheries Service.
NOTE: This public notice is being issued based on information furnished by the applicant. This information has not been verified or evaluated to ensure compliance with laws and regulation governing the regulatory program. The jurisdictional line has not been verified by Corps personnel.
AUTHORIZATION FROM OTHER AGENCIES: Water Quality Certification may be required from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and/or one of the state Water Management Districts.
COMMENTS regarding the potential authorization of the work proposed should be submitted in writing to the attention of the District Engineer through the Panama City Permits Section, 1002 West 23rd Street, Suite 350, Panama City, Florida 32405 within 21 days from the date of this notice.
The decision whether to issue or deny this permit application will be based on the information received from this public notice and the evaluation of the probable impact to the associated wetlands. This is based on an analysis of the applicant's avoidance and minimization efforts for the project, as well as the compensatory mitigation proposed.
QUESTIONS concerning this application should be directed to the project manager, Mrs. Lisa S. Lovvorn, in writing at the Panama city Permits Section, 1002 West 23rd Street, Suite 350, Panama City, Florida 32405; by electronic mail at lisa.s.lovvorn@usace.army.mil; or by telephone at (850) 784-4594.
IMPACT ON NATURAL RESOURCES: Coordination with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Marine Fisheries Services, and other Federal, State, and local agencies, environmental groups, and concerned citizens generally yields pertinent environmental information that is instrumental in determining the impact the proposed action will have on the natural resources of the area.
EVALUATION: The decision whether to issue a permit will be based on an evaluation of the probable impact including cumulative impacts of the proposed activity on the public interest. That decision will reflect the national concern for both protection and utilization of important resources. The benefits, which reasonably may be expected to accrue from the proposal, must be balanced against its reasonably foreseeable detriments. All factors which may be relevant to the proposal will be considered including cumulative impacts thereof; among these are conservation, economics, esthetics, general environmental concerns, wetlands, historical properties, fish and wildlife values, flood hazards, floodplain values, land use, navigation, shoreline erosion and accretion, recreation, water supply and conservation, water quality, energy needs, safety, food, and fiber production, mineral needs, considerations of property ownership, and in general, the needs and welfare of the people. Evaluation of the impact of the activity on the public interest will also include application of the guidelines promulgated by the Administrator, EPA, under authority of Section 404(b) of the Clean Water Act or the criteria established under authority of Section 102(a) of the Marine Protection Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972. A permit will be granted unless its issuance is found to be contrary to the public interest.
The Corps is soliciting comments from the public; Federal, State, and local agencies and officials; Indian Tribes; and other Interested parties in order to consider and evaluate the impacts of this proposed activity. Any comments received will be considered by the Corps to determine whether to issue, modify, condition, or deny a permit for this proposal. To make this determination, comments are used to assess impacts to endangered species, historic properties, water quality, general environmental effects, and the other public interest factors listed above. Comments are also used to determine the need for a public hearing and to determine the overall public interest of the proposed activity.
COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT CONSISTENCY: In Florida, the State approval constitutes compliance with the approved Coastal Zone Management Plan. In Puerto Rico, a Coastal Zone Management Consistency Concurrence is required from the Puerto Rico Planning Board. In the Virgin Islands, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources permit constitutes compliance with the Coastal Zone Management Plan.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC HEARING: Any person may request a public hearing. The request must be submitted in writing to the District Engineer within the designated comment period of the notice and must state the specific reasons for requesting the public hearing.