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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSP202200021 Narrative 2022-07-18 (2)gaiconsultants.com I transforming ideas into reality® Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855 Albemarle County, Virginia GAI Project Number: R220236.00, Task 006 June 2022 Dominion Energy - Prepared by: Prepared for: GAI Consultants, Inc. Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Pittsburgh Office 2400 Grayland Avenue 385 East Waterfront Drive Glen Allen, Virginia 23220-5213 Homestead, Pennsylvania 15120-5005 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855 Albemarle County, Virginia GAI Project Number: R220236.00, Task 006 June 2022 Prepared for: Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. 2400 Grayland Avenue Glen Allen, Virginia 23220-5213 Prepared by: GAI Consultants, Inc. Pittsburgh Office 385 East Waterfront Drive Homestead, Pennsylvania 15120-5005 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia Table of Contents 1.0 Introduction......................................................................................................................................1 2.0 Regulatory Discussion.....................................................................................................................1 2.1 Wetlands..............................................................................................................................1 2.2 Waterbodies.........................................................................................................................2 5.0 Conclusions.....................................................................................................................................7 6.0 References......................................................................................................................................8 Table 1 Wetland Identified Within the Project Study Area Figure 1 Project Location Map Figure 2 Resource Location/Soil Map Appendix A Wetland Photograph Appendix B Wetland Determination Data Forms Appendix C Resume of the Individual Conducting the Wetland Delineations © 2022 GAI CONSULTANTS Page gai consultants aensro.mmq iaeaz mro �eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia 1.0 Introduction GAI Consultants, Inc. (GAI), on behalf of Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. (Dominion), has completed wetland delineation and stream identification for the Hollymeade Substation Expansion Project # 99-2855 (Project). The Project involves the expansion of the existing Hollymeade Substation by approximately two acres in Albemarle County, Virginia (VA). Wetland delineations and stream identifications for the Project were initiated in April 2022. The study area consisted of approximately two acres of proposed substation expansion and the associated existing access road. The Project area is shown on the Project Location Map (Figure 1). The Project is in the South Fork Rivanna River [United States Geological Survey (USGS) Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC) #020802040203]. This report provides a discussion of applicable regulations and the methods and results of the wetland delineation and stream identification. United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Wetland Determination Data Forms are included in Appendix B. The resume of the individual conducting the wetland delineations is provided in Appendix C. 2.0 Regulatory Discussion 2.1 Wetlands The regulation of wetlands in VA occurs primarily through the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA) Sections 404 and 401. Section 401 water quality certifications are issued by the VA Department of Environmental Quality (VADEQ) through the VA Water Protection Program. All features that meet the guidelines contained in the Wetlands Delineation Manual and Regional Supplement are subject to regulation by the VADEQ but may be subject to regulation and guidance from other local and state agencies that include, but are not limited to, the VA Marine Resources Commission and Local Wetland Boards. Most features are subject to regulation by the USACE. The jurisdiction of the USACE over wetland features has been interpreted and modified by court decisions (most notably including Rapanos versus United States, Carabell versus United States, and Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County versus U.S. Army Corps of Engineers). Generally, the USACE considers wetlands that are isolated, not associated with other surface water features, as non - jurisdictional. Wetlands that abut (bordering on or directly connected to the waterbody) or are adjacent to (in the immediate vicinity of the waterbody and connected or associated through hydrology) Traditionally Navigable Waters (TNWs) are jurisdictional (USAGE, 2007). Wetlands that abut Relatively Permanent Waterbodies (RPWs) are jurisdictional (USACE, 2007). Wetlands that are adjacent to RPWs and wetlands that abut or are adjacent to Non -Relatively Permanent Waters (non-RPWs) are subject to further examination by the USACE. For this Project, TNWs were based on the list of Section 10 streams within VA as identified within Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C. 403) within the Norfolk District of the USACE. Wetlands that do not exhibit an association with surface water are categorized as "isolated wetlands' under present USACE guidance and policy. These wetlands are not subject to USACE regulation but are jurisdictional under state regulations. The USACE jurisdictional status of wetlands and their abutting or adjacent streams identified in this report are the opinion of GAI. The jurisdictional status of wetlands must be confirmed by USACE Justice Department (JD). Additional information on the process the jurisdictional status of wetlands is determined and given in the next section of this report. Page 1 gai consultants benNonnmq iaeaz mro ,eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia 2.2 Waterbodies As with wetlands, Sections 404 and 401 of the United States CWA and various state and local regulations in VA protect waterbodies at the Project location. Generally, waterbodies are defined as environmental features with defined beds and banks and contain flowing or standing water for at least a portion of the year. Waterbodies under the regulatory jurisdiction of the USACE are identified by applying guidance issued after court decisions. The USACE guidance divides waterbodies into three groups: TNWs, non - navigable RPWs, and non -navigable non-RPWs. However, the relevant characteristic of waterbodies used to determine regulatory status under Section 404 regulations is their relation to TNWs, which are waterbodies that have been, are, or may be susceptible to use in interstate commerce. In this case, interstate commerce includes recreational use of the waterbody. Thus, the relevant test for waterbodies that do not have a documented history of commercial navigation is whether the possibility of navigation exists year-round via boat or watercraft. RPWs are waterbodies that flow year-round, or at a minimum seasonally, by exhibiting continuous flow for at least three consecutive months, but are not TNWs (USAGE, 2007). Non-RPWs are waterbodies that do not flow continuously for at least three consecutive months, are not TNWs or RPWs, but exhibit characteristic beds, banks, and ordinary high-water marks (USACE, 2007). Due to the climate characteristics of the Project area, virtually all TNWs under Section 404 will be perennial waterbodies. RPWs under Section 404 will include smaller perennial waterbodies and most intermittent waterbodies. Non-RPWs under Section 404 will include smaller intermittent and ephemeral streams. As with wetlands, present USACE guidance and policy determines the jurisdictional status of waterbodies identified during the Project. TNWs and RPWs are jurisdictional. Non-RPWs are subject to USACE determination. 3.0 Methods 3.1 Wetlands The 1987 USACE Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Wetlands Delineation Manual) (Environmental Laboratory, 1987) and the applicable Regional Supplements to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (Regional Supplements) (USACE, 2010) describe the methods used to identify and delineate wetlands that fall under the jurisdiction of the USACE and the VADEQ. In conducting the wetland investigation, GAI completed preliminary data gathering and an onsite inspection in accordance with the Wetland Delineation Manual. 3.1.1 Preliminary Data Gathering The preliminary data gathering was used to compile and review information that may be helpful in identifying wetlands and/or areas that warrant further inspection during the investigation. The preliminary data gathering included a review of the following: ► USGS 7.5-minute Topographic Mapping (USGS, 1982) (Figure 1). ► United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) mapping (USFWS, 2020) (Figure 2). ► United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS, 2022) Soil Mapping (Figure 2). 3.1.2 Onsite Inspection The methodology described in the Wetlands Delineation Manual identifies areas meeting the definition of jurisdictional wetland by evaluating three parameters: hydrology, vegetation, and soil. During the onsite inspection, GAI staff trained in the USACE Method traversed the Project Page 2 gai consultants benNonnmq iaeaz mro ,eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia study area on foot to determine if indicators of wetlands were present, including wetland hydrology, hydrophytic vegetation, and/or hydric soils. Observation points were established in potential wetlands and corresponding upland points. Wetland Determination Data Forms were completed at each observation location to determine if wetland indicators were present. The presence of wetland hydrology was determined by examining the observation point for primary and secondary indicators of wetland hydrology. The presence of a primary indicator signified the presence of wetland hydrology, and the presence of two or more secondary indicators signified the presence of wetland hydrology. Vegetation was characterized by five strata. This includes trees [more than three inches in diameter at breast height (DBH)], saplings (less than three inches DBH and more than 3.28 feet tall), shrubs (less than three inches DBH and more than 3.28 feet tall), herbs (less than 3.28 feet tall), and woody vines. The area vegetation sampled varied for each stratum. Trees and woody vines were sampled within a 30-foot radius. Saplings and shrubs were sampled within a 15-foot radius. Herbs were sampled within a five-foot radius. When evaluating an area for the presence of hydrophytes, classification of the indicator status of vegetation is based on the Final Protocol for Assigning Wetland Indicator Status Ratings during National Wetland Plant List Update (Lichvar and Kartesz, 2013). The list of possible indicator statuses for plants is as follows: ► Obligate Wetland (OBL) - Obligate wetland plants occur in standing water or in saturated soils. ► Facultative Wetland (FACW) - Facultative wetland plants nearly always occur in areas of prolonged flooding or require standing water or saturated soils but may on rare occasions, occur in non -wetlands. ► Facultative (FAC) - Facultative plants occur in a variety of habitats, including wetland and mesic to xeric non -wetland habitats but often occur in standing water or saturated soils. ► Facultative Upland (FACU) - Facultative upland plants typically occur in xeric or mesic non -wetland habitats but may frequently occur in standing water or saturated soils. ► Obligate Upland (UPL) - Obligate upland plants almost never occur in water or saturated soils. The presence of hydrophytic vegetation is determined by using a Dominance Test or Prevalence Index. Hydrophytic vegetation is present based on the Dominance Test if over 50 percent of present species are FAC, FACW, and/or OBL. The Prevalence Index weighs the total percent of vegetation cover based on the indicator status of each plant. Hydrophytic vegetation is considered present when the Prevalence Index is less than or equal to 3.0. To determine the presence of hydric soils, soil data was collected by digging a 16-inch soil pit. The soil profile was studied and described, while possible hydric indicators were examined. Soil indicators described in the Wetlands Delineation Manual and Regional Supplements were used to determine the presence of hydric soils. The presence of these indicators signified hydric soil. If all parameters including wetland hydrology, a dominance of hydrophytic vegetation, and hydric soils were identified at a single observation point, the area was determined to be a wetland. Once a wetland was identified, the boundary was delineated. Wetland boundaries were determined by looking for locations that one of the wetland indicators would transition into an upland characteristic. When the transition was identified, a Wetland Determination Data Form was completed in the Upland Area. Wetland boundaries were marked in the field using pink flagging labeled "WETLAND BOUNDARY." The locations of the Page 3 gai consultants benNonnmq iaeaz mro ,eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia flags were recorded using a Global Positioning System (GPS) system. Each wetland was codified with a unique identifier indicating the type of feature (W), state where the feature is located (VA), initials of the field personnel (NGP), and number. An example wetland coded is WVA-NGP-001. Wetlands were classified using the Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States (Cowardin et al., 1979) as modified for NWI Mapping Convention. This system classifies wetlands based on topographic position and vegetation type. Palustrine system wetlands found in the study area are classified as Palustrine Emergent (PEM), Palustrine Forested (PFO), Palustrine Scrub -Shrub (PSS), and Palustrine Unconsolidated Bottom (PUB) based on aerial coverage of the vegetative community across the extent of the wetland within the study area (Cowardin et al., 1979). 3.2 Waterbodies As with wetlands, Section 404 of the CWA and state regulations protect waterbodies in VA. Generally, waterbodies are defined as environmental features that have defined beds and banks, ordinary high- water mark, and contain flowing or standing water for at least a portion of the year. 3.2.1 Preliminary Data Gathering During the preliminary data gathering, the USGS 7.5-minute topographic mapping (USGS, 1982) was examined for the presence of mapped waterbodies including perennial and intermittent streams. In addition, the topographic mapping was used to identify areas likely to contain unmapped waterbodies including ephemeral streams. 3.2.2 Onsite Inspection During the onsite inspection, the study area was traversed, concurrently with wetland inspection, and waterbodies were identified. Waterbodies were identified based on the morphological and hydrologic characteristics of the channel and the presence of aquatic macroinvertebrates. When a waterbody was identified, field measurements were collected. The measurements included bank -to -bank width, bottom width, wetted width, water depth, channel depth, and depth of ordinary high-water mark, when apparent. Waterbodies were delineated using white flagging marked with the GAI stream code (such as SVA-NGP-001). The top of banks for streams wider than 10 feet were delineated and the centerline of smaller streams were delineated. The locations of the flags were recorded using a GPS. 4.0 Results 4.1 Wetlands 4.1.1 Preliminary Data Gathering No wetlands were indicated on the USFWS NWI mapping (Figure 2) within the Project study area. According to the USDA-NRCS soil mapping, three soil mapping units are within the study area (Figure 2). The mapping units include: ► Elioak loam, two to seven percent slopes (27B), nonhydric. ► Elioak clay loam, seven to 15 percent slopes, severely eroded (28C3), nonhydric. ► Glenelg loam, seven to 15 percent slopes (34C), nonhydric. A soil is considered "Hydric" if 100 percent of the components listed for the map unit are rated as hydric. 'Predominantly hydric" means components that comprise 66 to 99 percent of the Page 4 gai consultants benNonnmq iaeaz mro ,eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Mbemade, Virginia map unit are rated as hydric. 'Partially hydric" means components that comprise 33 to 66 percent of the map unit are rated as hydric. 'Predominantly nonhydric" means components that comprise up to 33 percent of the map unit are rated as hydric. "Nonhydric" means that none of the components are rated as hydric. 4.1.2 Onsite Inspection The Project is north of the city of Charlottesville, adjacent to US Route-26, and directly adjacent of the existing Hollymeade Substation. Part of the study area is in an existing cleared ROW, and the other part is forested. One PEM wetland was identified and delineated within the study area. The wetland name is WVA-NGP-001. Further information on the delineated wetland is provided in Table 1. The points where data was collected are shown on Figure 2. Photographs of the delineated wetlands are provided in Appendix A and the Wetland Determination Data Forms are included in Appendix B. 4.1.3 Wetland Summary Wetland WVA-KLV-001 is a non -tidal adjacent PEM wetland. It is in plain landform and has a concave local relief. Hydrology indicators include high water table, saturation, surface water, and water -stained leaves. The dominant vegetation includes dark green bulrush (Scirpus atrovirens) and soft rush (Juncus effusus). Hydric soil indicators include a depleted matrix. Page 5 gai consultants benNonnmq iaeaz mro ,eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia Table 4.1.3 Wetland Identified Within the Project Study Area WVA-NGP-001 38.127894°-78.434917° N/A PEM No Non -Jurisdictional; Isolated 0.01 No Notes: 1 GAI map designation. 2 North American Datum, 1983. 3 PEM - Palustrine Emergent. 4 Wetlands in the Tidewater area whose hydrology is affected by the tides. hftps://www.deq.virginia.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/4078. Accessed June 2022. 5 Jurisdictional status is the opinion of GAI and must be confirmed through the JD process. 6 Total wetland size as delineated during the environmental field review. Page 6 gal consultants R220236.00, Task 006 1 June 2022 �•.�m•m,�, Navas mro ,e.up, Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Mbemade, Virginia 4.2 Waterbodies 4.2.1 Preliminary Data Gathering USGS topographic maps (1982) and National Hydrography Dataset (NHD) flow lines (2020) indicated no flowlines are within the study area (Figures 1 and 2). 4.2.2 Onsite Inspection No streams were identified and delineated during the onsite inspection. However, an erosional feature was identified as a riprap channel and is depicted on Figure 2. 5.0 Conclusions Wetland and stream identifications and delineations were conducted within the Project study area. One wetland and no streams were identified and delineated. A summary of the delineated wetland provided Table 1; and a map of its location is provided on Figure 2. Photographs of the features are provided in Appendix A. Data forms documenting the investigation are provided in Appendix B. The resume of the individual conducting the wetland delineations and stream identifications is provided in Appendix C. All statements in this document pertaining to the jurisdictional status of wetlands regarding USACE and state regulations represent the opinion of GAI and are based on present USACE guidance. The jurisdictional status of these features may be confirmed a USACE JD and/or by state agencies. Page 7 gai consultants aensro.mmq iaeaz mro �eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia 6.0 References Cowardin, D. M., V. Carter, F. C. Golet, and E. T. La Roe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. United States Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Publication No. FWS/OBS 79/31. Washington, D.C. Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. United States Department of the Army, United States Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. Technical Report Y-87-1. Vicksburg, Mississippi. Lichvar, Robert W. and John T. Kartesz. 2013. North American Digital Flora: National Wetland Plant List, Version 3.1 (https://wetland_plants.usace.army.mil). United States Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory, Hanover, New Hampshire, and BONAP, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) Database forAlbemarte County, Virginia. Available online at hftp://soils.usda.gov/survey. United States Army Corps of Engineers. 2012. Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual., Eastern Mountains and Piedmont Region, Version 2.0. Editors: J. F. Berkowitz, J. S. Wakeley, R. W. Lichvar, and C. V. Noble. ERDC/EL TR-12-9. Vicksburg, Mississippi: United States Army Engineer Research and Development Center. United States Army Corps of Engineers. 2011. Final Protocol for Assigning Wetland Indicator Status Ratings during National Wetland Plant List Update. Editors: R. W. Lichvar and J. J. Gillrich. ERDC/CRREL TN-11-1. Vicksburg, Mississippi: United States Army Engineer Research and Development Center. United States Army Corps of Engineers. 2007. Jurisdictional Determination Form Instructional Guidebook. Available from www.usace.army.mil/cw/cecwo/reg/ewa_guidefjd_guidebook_ 051207final.pdf. United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2020. National Wetlands Inventory for Virginia Washington, D.C.: United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Habitat and Resource Conservation. Available from http://www.pasda.psu.edu/. United States Geological Survey. 2020. National Hydrography Dataset, High Resolution Flowline Feature. United States Geological Survey. 1982. Earlysville, Virginia 7.5-Minute Quadrangle (1:24,000). Page 8 gai consultants benNonnmq iaeaz mro ,eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Mbemade, Virginia FIGURES gai consultants aensro.mmq iaeaz mro �eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 -IV�.� � ;�� s Jl/i.��_---1�, �,��JJ .� � �'\ ��fi_\: ' i• S' .��/A` �. 'Il�t4`%� � j\. ✓ �h r���.\ '. i � J�I a v•� "- � � i �'� � .•..r ty oe 1 � �' � � , \�1A �. ' rah �� � �.. ���� ��� �i �', �1�: - -_—� ����rylJ�, _ r�\'✓ A.. P�` `// \�' - e / (`) ,/ �'p ark / -'t �� /��� ,s• ) l� '(�- � / �� /f� F\ / J CHARL / E 1.'86SMi�LE\J���i T/�\ 1 - � �I/ .Waur, :' i/�/ � / � l M9 - a ` >j / \S `l - ��s �•l�; � - ✓ � ��.,� �� Tank.'// �-�� \. �� //` n `� ,/ ��..�� \ •,(� ti .BM�63z- _� . -�- • := .. � - /�,� J /j\ ; �'y) m� � •. 9 �, /_� ;�.) / ) �i� l� _`\ �' ✓ ,�. 'i '�� - .a� `�,,���,•"«� �! . =� �� ,,, � v �6 [�J1 D'&��,�✓� � �,,1 �r'`j.()p��'. �`�r� •�`\\�.=.`�—_��• g`0r �: i• .. . c\ =-�\�r�J��: �i. ",���\' .._;� '�'�r'�`. /�� _ �� t�'� L'1n �� �� S `� /l' h;�//7/1���/. I lam.!// f�-� _ 1 /L.\ ff,�r 'ROJECT LOCATION ALBEMARLE COUNTY, VIRGINIA REFERENCE: USGS 7.5' TOPOGRAPHIC QUADRANGLES: EARLYSVILLE (1982) AND CHARLOTTESVILLE (1982), VIRGINIA, OBTAINED THROUGH ESRI USATOPO MAPS, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TOPO AND USGS, ACCESSED 0612022. 7 ;<» LEGEND r-�::] Study Area i x,� FIGURE 1 PROJECT LOCATION MAP A, HOLLYMEADE SUBSTATION EXPANSION PROJECT DOMINION ENERGY p Daminion TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC. / rev 0 1,000 2,000 4,000 DRAWN BY: KJT DATE: 6(3/2022 Feet CHECKED: EFJ APPROVED:AFK G:U2220236.00-GIS\MXD\WDSIR\Fiat Proiect Location 2022 06 02.mxd N�I Pmftit,go REFERENCE: WORLD IMAGERY (CLARITY), ESRI, ARCGIS ONLINE, ACCESSED 0612022. WORLD TRANSPORTATION, ESRI, ARCGIS ONLINE, ACCESSED 0612022. NATIONAL HYDROGRAPHY DATASET (NHD) STREAMS, USGS, 2020. NATIONAL WETLAND INVENTORY(NWI) WETLANDS, USFWS, 2020. SOIL SURVEY GEOGRAPHIC (SSURGO) DATABASE, USDAINRCS, 2020. FLOODPLAINS, FEMA, 2020. CONTOUR DATA, DERIVED FROM USGS DEMs, DOWNLOADED 2022. 'a1 LEGEND w. rrz��vr�..e3'fa11iC� 1 _ :'r s ♦ Upland Data Point Q Study Area Soil Type Boundary ♦ Wetland Data Point — — — NHD Stream 1 NWI Wetland Stormwater Erosion 2-F1 Contour FEMA Floodplain Q Wetland 0 50 100 200 Feet El FIGURE 2 RESOURCE LOCATION MAP HOLLYMEADE SUBSTATION EXPANSION PROJECT DOMINION ENERGY i Dam_n.on TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC. Eneyy DRAWN BY: KJT DATE: 6/3/2022 CHECKED: EFJ APPROVED:AFK 20236.00- GIS\MXD\WDSIR%Fia2 Resource Location 2022 06 02.mxd Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Mbemade, Virginia APPENDIX A Wetland Photographs gai consultants R220236.00, Task 006 1 June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion Project # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia Photograph 1. Wetland WVA-NGP-001, Facing West Northwest Page B-1 gai consultants aensro.mmq iaeaz mro �eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Mbemade, Virginia /_1» =1 I Q KA:1 Wetland Determination Data Forms gai consultants aensro.mmq iaeaz mro �eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM — Eastern Mountains and Piedmont ProjecVSite: Hollymeade Substation Applicant/Owner: Dominion Investigator(s): NGP _ City/County: Charlottesville VA Sampling Date: 4/11/2022 State: VA Sampling Point: WVA-NGP-001 _ Section, Township, Range: VA not divided under PLSS Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.): Plain Local relief (concave, convex, none): Concave Slope (%): 3 Subregion (LRR or MLRA): LRR N Let: 38.127894 Long: -78.434917 Datum: NAD 83 Soil Map Unit Name: 28C3: Elioak clay loam, 7 to 15 percent slopes, severely eroded NWI classification: N/A Are climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes ✓ No (If no, explain in Remarks.) Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology significantly disturbed? Are "Normal Circumstances" present? Yes No Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology naturally problematic? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS — Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes No Is the Sampled Area Hydric Soil Present? Yes No within a Wetland? Yes No Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No Remarks: Wetland data point for WVA-NGP-001 PEM Isolated HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required) Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required: check all that apply) _ Surface Soil Cracks (B6) Surface Water (Al) True Aquatic Plants (B14) Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8) High Water Table (A2) _ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) Drainage Patterns (B10) Saturation (A3) _ Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) Moss Trim Lines (B16) _ Water Marks (B1) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) Dry -Season Water Table (C2) _ Sediment Deposits (1212) _ Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8) _ Drift Deposits (B3) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9) _ Algal Mat or Crust (134) Other (Explain in Remarks) _ Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) _ Iron Deposits (B5) _ Geomorphic Position (132) _ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (1217) Shallow Aquitard (133) Water -Stained Leaves (B9) _ Microtopographic Relief (D4) Aquatic Fauna (B13) _ FAC-Neutral Test (135) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes '� No Depth (inches): 1 Water Table Present? Yes No Depth (inches): 0 Saturation Present? Yes '� No Depth (inches): 0 Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No includes ca illa fringe) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available: N/A Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers Eastern Mountains and Piedmont— Version 2.0 VEGETATION (Four Strata) - Use scientific names of plants. Sampling Point: WVA-NGP-001 Tree Stratum (Plot size: ' 1 Absent 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Sapling/Shrub Stratum (Plot size: _ 1 Absent 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Herb Stratum (Plot size: 5 1 Scirrlus atmirens 2 Junws effusus 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: 1 Absent 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Absolute Dominant Indicator I % Cover Species? Status 0 = Total Cover 0 = Total Cover 35 YES OBL 15 YES FACW 50 = Total Cover t 0 = Total Cover Remarks: (Include photo numbers here or on a *Limited to wetland boundary Dominance Test worksheet: Number of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: 2 (A) Total Number of Dominant Species Across All Strata: 2 (B) Percent of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: 100 (A(B) Prevalence Index worksheet: Total % Cover of: Multiply bv: OBL species x 1 = FACW species x 2 = FAC species x 3 = FACU species x 4 = UPL species x 5 = Column Totals: 0 (A) 0 (B) Prevalence Index = B/A = 0 Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators: 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation 2 - Dominance Test is >50% 3 - Prevalence Index is s3.0' 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting data in Remarks or on a separate sheet) Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain) 'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic. Definitions of Four Vegetation Strata: Tree -Woody plants, excluding vines, 3 in. (7.6 cm) or more in diameter at breast height (DBH), regardless of height. Sapling/Shrub - Woody plants, excluding vines, less than 3 in. DBH and greater than 3.28 ft (1 m) tall. Herb -All herbaceous (non -woody) plants, regardless of size, and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall. Woody vine - All woody vines greater than 3.28 ft in height. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes No US Army Corps of Engineers Eastern Mountains and Piedmont- Version 2.0 SOIL Sampling Point: VJVA-NGP-001 Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.) Depth Matrix Redox Features (inches) Color (moist) % Color (moist) % Type' Loe Texture Remarks 0-16 7.5YR 4/2 85 7.5YR 5/6 15 C M Sandy SiCL 'Type: C=Concentration, D=De letion, RM=Reduced Matrix, MS=Masked Sand Grains. 'Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix. Hydric Soil Indicators: Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils': _ Histosol (Al) _ Dark Surface (S7) 2 cm Muck (At 0) (MLRA 147) _ Histic Epipedon (A2) _ Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (MLRA 147, 148) _ Coast Prairie Redox (A16) Black Histic (A3) _ Thin Dark Surface (S9) (MLRA 147, 148) (MLRA 147, 148) Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) _ Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) _ Stratified Layers (A5) Depleted Matrix (F3) (MLRA 136, 147) 2 cm Muck (At 0) (LRR N) Redox Dark Surface (F6) Depleted Below Dark Surface (At 1) _ Depleted Dark Surface (F7) _ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) Thick Dark Surface (Al2) _ Redox Depressions (F8) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) (LRR N, _ Iron -Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR N, MLRA 147, 148) MLRA 136) _ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) _ Umbric Surface (F13) (MLRA 136, 122) 3Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and Sandy Redox (S5) _ Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 148) wetland hydrology must be present, _ Stripped Matrix (S6) Red Parent Material (F21) (MLRA 127, 147) unless disturbed or problematic. Restrictive Layer (if observed): Type: Depth (inches): Hydric Soil Present? Yes No Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers Eastern Mountains and Piedmont— Version 2.0 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM — Eastern Mountains and Piedmont ProjecVSite: Hollymeade Substation Applicant/Owner: Dominion Investigator(s): NGP _ City/County: Charlottesville VA Sampling Date: 4/11/2022 State: VA Sampling Point: WVA-NGP-001 _ Section, Township, Range: VA not divided under PLSS Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.): Hlllslope Local relief (concave, convex, none): No Relief Slope (%): 5 Subregion (LRR or MLRA): LRR N Let: 38.127731 Long:-78.434652 Datum: NAD 83 Soil Map Unit Name: 28C3: Elioak clay loam, 7 to 15 percent slopes, severely eroded NWI classification: N/A Are climatic / hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes ✓ No (If no, explain in Remarks.) Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology significantly disturbed? Are "Normal Circumstances" present? Yes No Are Vegetation , Soil , or Hydrology naturally problematic? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS — Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes No � Is the Sampled Area Hydric Soil Present? Yes No within a Wetland? Yes No Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No Remarks: Upland data point for WVA-NGP-001 HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required) Primary Indicators (minimum of one is required: check all that apply) _ Surface Soil Cracks (B6) _ Surface Water (Al) True Aquatic Plants (B14) Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8) High Water Table (A2) _ Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) Drainage Patterns (B10) Saturation (A3) _ Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3) Moss Trim Lines (B16) _ Water Marks (B1) _ Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) Dry -Season Water Table (C2) _ Sediment Deposits (1212) _ Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) _ Crayfish Burrows (C8) _ Drift Deposits (B3) _ Thin Muck Surface (C7) Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9) _ Algal Mat or Crust (134) Other (Explain in Remarks) _ Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) _ Iron Deposits (B5) _ Geomorphic Position (D2) _ Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (1217) Shallow Aquitard (D3) Water -Stained Leaves (B9) _ Microtopographic Relief (D4) Aquatic Fauna (B13) _ FAC-Neutral Test (135) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes No '� Depth (inches): Water Table Present? Yes No 'k Depth (inches): Saturation Present? Yes No '� Depth (inches): Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes No includes ca illa fringe) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available: N/A Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers Eastern Mountains and Piedmont— Version 2.0 VEGETATION (Four Strata) - Use scientific names of plants. Sampling Point: VJVA-NGP-001 Tree Stratum (Plot size: 30' 1 Pinus resinosa 2 Prunus serotina 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Sapling/Shrub Stratum (Plot size: 15. 1 Absent 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Herb Stratum (Plot size: 5 1 Andropogon mrginiws 2 Dactuis glomemta 3 Glechoma hederama 4 Plantago lanmolata 5 Holcus lanalus 6 AMhoxanthum odomtum 7 Polenglla simplex 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Woody Vine Stratum (Plot size: 30, 1 Abwnt 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Absolute % Cover 10 Dominant Indicator Species? Status YES FACU Dominance Test worksheet: Number of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: 0 (A) Total Number of Dominant Species Across AII Strata: 4 (B) Percent of Dominant Species That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC: 0 (A(B) 5 YES FACU - - Prevalence Index worksheet: Total % Cover of: Multiply bv: OBL species x 1 = FACW species x 2 = FAC species 10 x 3 = 30 FACU species 95 x 4 = 3e0 UPL species 10 x 5 = 50 Column Totals: 115 (A) 460 (B) Prevalence Index = B/A= 4.00 15 = Total Cover - - - - - - - - Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators: 1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation 2 - Dominance Test is >50% _ 3 - Prevalence Index is s3.0' - 4 - Morphological Adaptations' (Provide supporting data in Remarks or on a separate sheet) - Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation' (Explain) 'Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or problematic. 0 Total Cover 35 YES FACU 25 YES FACU 10 NO FACU 10 NO UPL Definitions of Four Vegetation Strata: Tree -Woody plants, excluding vines, 3 in. (7.6 cm) or more in diameter at breast height (DBH), regardless of height. Sapling/Shrub - Woody plants, excluding vines, less than 3 in. DBH and greater than 3.28 ft (1 m) tall. Herb -All herbaceous (non -woody) plants, regardless of size, and woody plants less than 3.28 ft tall. Woody vine - All woody vines greater than 3.28 ft in height. 10 NO FAC 5 NO FACU 5 NO FACU 100 = Total Cover or on a 0 = Total Cover Hydrophytic Vegetation ✓ Present? Yes No US Army Corps of Engineers Eastern Mountains and Piedmont- Version 2.0 SOIL Sampling Point: VJVA-NGP-001 Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.) Depth Matrix Redox Features (inches) Color (moist) % Color (moist) % Type' Loe Texture Remarks 0-3 7.5YR 4/4 100 Sandy L 3-16 7.5YR 5/8 100 Sandy CL 'Type: C=Concentration, D=De letion, RM=Reduced Matrix, MS=Masked Sand Grains. 'Location: PL=Pore Lining, M=Matrix. Hydric Soil Indicators: Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils': _ Histosol (Al) _ Dark Surface (S7) 2 cm Muck (At 0) (MLRA 147) _ Histic Epipedon (A2) _ Polyvalue Below Surface (S8) (MLRA 147, 148) _ Coast Prairie Redox (A16) Black Histic (A3) _ Thin Dark Surface (S9) (MLRA 147, 148) (MLRA 147, 148) Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) _ Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) _ Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) _ Stratified Layers (A5) _ Depleted Matrix (F3) (MLRA 136, 147) 2 cm Muck (At 0) (LRR N) Redox Dark Surface (F6) Depleted Below Dark Surface (At 1) _ Depleted Dark Surface (F7) _ Very Shallow Dark Surface (TF12) Thick Dark Surface (Al2) _ Redox Depressions (F8) _ Other (Explain in Remarks) _ Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) (LRR N, _ Iron -Manganese Masses (F12) (LRR N, MLRA 147, 148) MLRA 136) _ Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) _ Umbric Surface (F13) (MLRA 136, 122) 3Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and Sandy Redox (S5) _ Piedmont Floodplain Soils (F19) (MLRA 148) wetland hydrology must be present, _ Stripped Matrix (S6) Red Parent Material (F21) (MLRA 127, 147) unless disturbed or problematic. Restrictive Layer (if observed): Type: Depth (inches): Hydric Soil Present? Yes No ✓ Remarks: US Army Corps of Engineers Eastern Mountains and Piedmont— Version 2.0 Wetland Delineation and Stream Identification Report Dominion Energy Technical Services, Inc. Hollymeade Substation Expansion # 99-2855, Albemarle, Virginia APPENDIX C Resume of the Individual Conducting the Wetland Delineations gai consultants aensro.mmq iaeaz mro eaup, R220236.00, Task 006 1June 2022 Nicholas Paouncic Project Environmental Specialist Education Professional Summary BA, Environmental Studies, 2012, Mr. Paouncic has over five years of experience specializing in Washington & Jefferson College environmental investigations, wetland and stream delineations, and post -construction Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Skills wetland monitoring. He has served as a Senior Environmental Environmental Investigations Specialist with GAI on energy projects in Pennsylvania (PA) and Wetland and Stream Delineation New York (NY). Certifications/Training Professional Experience 36-Hour wetland Delineation Course • Senior Environmental Specialist for a Confidential Field Research Project. A Study of the River Continuum Concept. Assessed the Online Watershed Management Training impact of Marcellus Shale drilling, Long -Wall coal mining and Course agriculture on a watershed in Washington County, PA. Collected and analyzed aquatic macroinvertebrate, and water chemistry samples at Industry Experience five test sites throughout the watershed. Studied samples to GAI Consultants, Inc., 2013-Present determine if pollutants in the streams were impacting the macroinvertebrate assemblages within the streams. Project served as the basis for on -going watershed assessment. • Senior Environmental Specialist for an Environmental Permitting Project for a Confidential Client in McKean, Lawrence, Mercer, and Butler Counties, PA; Wetzel County, WV; and Fredrick County, VA. Permitting including rare, threatened, and endangered (RTE) species consultation, stream and wetland surveys, wetland and waterbody permits, road crossing and road entrance permits, NPDES permitting, cultural consultations, access road identification, and development of orthophoto drawings. Responsible for wetland and stream delineations. • Senior Environmental Specialist for a FERC Project located in Westmoreland County, PA, for a Confidential Client. Responsibilities included post- construction FERC wetland monitoring. • Senior Environmental Specialist for a Confidential Mitigation Project, located in Westmoreland County, PA. Responsibilities included wetland and stream delineations. • Senior Environmental Specialist for a Power Station located in Butler County, PA, for Energy Transfer. Responsibilities included wetland and stream delineations. Senior Environmental Specialist for Confidential Projects located in Washington and Greene Counties, PA. Responsibilities included wetland and stream delineations. gaiconsultants.com Nicholas Paouncic 1 2 • Senior Environmental Specialist for a Confidential Creek Restoration Project, located in Crawford County, PA. Responsibilities included wetland and stream delineations. • Senior Environmental Specialist for a Confidential Pipeline Project located in Erie County, NY. Responsibilities included wetland and stream delineations. Transforming Ideas Into Reality®